by Shelby Bowman '26
For a group of Wilson College students, the start of the new year will mean more than just another semester; it will mean delivering healthcare to the sugarcane fields of the Dominican Republic. Sherri Stahl, RN, MHA, NEA-BC, instructor of nursing, and Wendell Smith, Ph.D., professor of Spanish, will lead the weeklong trip, scheduled for January 4-11, 2026. Together, they will guide students in providing essential medical services to residents of La Romana, a coastal town in the eastern Dominican Republic.
Medical missions trip, 2023
This marks the fourth time Smith has organized the trip. Since 2018, the program has combined service learning with language immersion, giving students the chance to apply both skills in real-world settings. “Speaking Spanish in a classroom is a practice game, and students really don't have confidence in their abilities until they've actually used the language in a real situation,” said Smith. “This experience helps students take responsibility for their own competence in the language and gives them confidence.”
For nursing students, the experience is equally transformative. Throughout the week, they will operate a medical clinic in the remote sugarcane fields, offering services such as blood pressure measurements, wound care, family planning, and even dentistry.
Many students return from the trip inspired to continue serving others. “There's a lot that ignites the need for a continued pathway—to continue to do service trips and serve—that becomes part of their nursing way of life,” said Stahl.
To help support the mission, Wilson College held a fundraiser in late September. The evening featured Christian merengue music performed by Revelación Maranatha, a Latin American orchestra from La Romana. The concert raised $1,000, and during the event organizers announced an additional $5,000 gift to Wilson’s Spanish Department to help cover the clinic costs.
This gift came from the estate of Louise Buttrick-Davies ‘53, whose memories of her Wilson years included a regularly hosted a Spanish conversation hour and special housing on campus in which students spoke only Spanish. “Her fond memories of Wilson College were connected to learning Spanish, and that's why she dedicated it to the Spanish department,” said Professor Smith.
In total, the fundraiser raised $6,000, further supporting the students’ efforts. The trip promises to make a meaningful difference in the community while empowering students to gain hands-on experience and make the world a better place.
Wilson College held the second event in its Strategic Seminar Series, focused on Conflict Management, on November 5, 2025, as part of its annual Career Week. The Q&A style session welcomed attendees from the Wilson campus and local community, offering an opportunity to engage with panelists from diverse professional backgrounds who shared insights on navigating workplace conflict.
“The purpose is to talk about leadership, not just in a business context but in your everyday life,” said Lance Cain, D.B.A, director of business and assistant professor of business. “We all experience conflict from time to time, so we want to have a discussion about what that looks like in everybody’s life.”
In spring 2025, Cain teamed up with Mindy Guinard, director of nursing and health sciences, to collaborate on the first Strategic Seminar. Their partnership highlighted the relevance of leadership and conflict resolution in every discipline.
Linda Boeckman, director of career development, joined Cain and Guinard in planning the seminar’s topic and selecting speakers, making sure to represent a variety of careers and majors. “We want to address challenges in the workplace that are relevant and help prepare students for the professional world,” said Boeckman.
Guinard added, “I think it’s a benefit to each department by showing we all have common threads in our areas of practice.”
The panelists for the conflict management discussion represented a range of industries, including health care, education, and law. Each speaker shared their perspectives on workplace conflict, including causes, and strategies on how to navigate these challenges.
Mike Cogliano, vice-president at WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Gettysburg, said “As a leader, it’s very important to practice empathy.” He stressed the importance of consistent, meaningful connection with your employees, adding, “Be empathetic, be understanding, and be sympathetic to whatever they're dealing with.” Building on that idea, Laura Stover, director of HR advisory services at SEK CPAs and Advisors and a board member for Habitat for Humanity of Franklin County, emphasized the role of the workplace environment when she said, “If you have a culture where people feel psychologically safe, which means they can be vulnerable, they can make mistakes, and they can ask for help, that’s when you have great discussion, creativity, and innovation.” When employees feel safe, she explained, they’re more likely to collaborate and less likely to experience conflict.
Guinard hopes insights such as these will encourage students to think critically about leadership and provide the skills they will need in the future. “It’s also a great way for community members to see how eager Wilson students are to learn and network,” she said.
Cain agreed and added that the seminars are great opportunities for students involved in leadership organizations on campus, like the Wilson College Government Association, to shine.
Another strategic seminar is being planned for spring 2026.
Wilson College invites the community to a vital and timely event focused on mental health and safety in today’s digital age. Join us for “Cyber and Digital Safety,” a free public forum addressing the growing concerns around online dangers, including malicious artificial intelligence, social media risks, and digital exploitation.
The event will take place on Monday, November 10, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Harry R. Brooks Complex for Science, Mathematics, and Technology at Wilson College. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.
Special guest FBI Special Agent Geoffrey Ford (Philadelphia Division) will provide expert insight into what can be accessed online and how these digital threats manifest. Tricia Maciejewski, President of the Live Like Levi Foundation, will share her powerful perspective on building resilience and awareness in our youth.
The event will include insights and actionable tools on the following topics:
Mental Health and Social Media Explore how platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat can impact young minds—contributing to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Online Dangers From cyberbullying and grooming to sextortion, fentanyl exposure, and extremist recruitment—learn how these threats are reaching out through the monitor screens.
Artificial Intelligence: The New Frontier of Risk Discover how deepfakes, voice spoofing, and AI-generated relationships are reshaping online interactions—and what that means for safety and trust.
Building Well-Being & Resilience Unpack the science of well-being: positive emotions, meaningful relationships, engagement, accomplishment, and physical health—tools for thriving in a digital world.
Spot the Warning Signs Learn to recognize red flags in behavior, appearance, and social connections that may signal deeper issues or online exploitation.
Tools & Resources for Families and Educators Walk away with practical strategies, vetted resources, and expert recommendations to help protect and empower students both online and offline.
Wilson College is committed to fostering a resilient and informed community by promoting digital safety and supporting the overall well-being of individuals across all age groups. This important event is made possible through the collaboration of several Wilson College offices and programs, including Alumni Relations, Technology and Library Services, Student Development, the Wilson College Government Association (WCGA), and the Sociology and Criminal Justice academic programs.
An exhibit featuring artwork by Wilson College students will open Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at the Coyle Free Library in Chambersburg. The exhibition is designed to inspire visitors with the creativity expressed by a unique group of students.
Visitors can expect to see more than 25 pieces of original artwork from Wilson students enrolled in Drawing I, Intro to Design, Digital Photography and Graphic Design courses. The show will highlight a variety of media, reflecting the diverse talents of students.
This is the third time Wilson College is collaborating with Coyle Free Library to display student work. The library is not only a cornerstone of the community, but it also shares a special connection with Wilson. Lou Cowles, a reference librarian with the Franklin County Library System, is a proud member of the Wilson College Class of 1964. Her support and involvement help to bring the two institutions together for this public showcase.
“The opportunity helps students develop their artistic voices, and the show allows Wilson the opportunity to share creative, scholarly endeavours with our community,” said Philip Lindsey, professor of fine arts at Wilson. “Community engagement is critical to the institutional mission and vision. Wilson College is a huge part of this community, and everyone benefits from these opportunities.”
Students also enjoy displaying their art publicly. “It makes them feel like professional artists,” Lindsey added.
The show runs through December 15, 2025. Admission is free and open to the public.
Conflict is an inevitable part of professional life, but it doesn’t have to hinder productivity, creativity, or relationships. Wilson College invites students, professionals, and community members to explore effective strategies for managing workplace conflict at the upcoming Strategic Seminar Series: Conflict Management on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in the auditorium of the Harry R. Brooks Complex for Science, Mathematics, and Technology at Wilson College. The event will start with a networking session at 4:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion at 5 p.m.
Hosted by Wilson’s Health Sciences and Business Programs, this free event features a panel of seasoned professionals from diverse industries, including healthcare, education, law, and human resources. Attendees will gain practical insights into navigating conflict in professional settings, with a focus on communication, resolution strategies, and leadership challenges.
Panelists Include:
The Strategic Seminar Series provides a platform for students and community members to engage directly with business leaders in candid conversations about leadership challenges. This fall’s theme, Conflict Management, aims to equip attendees with actionable tools and perspectives to handle workplace disputes constructively.
The event is open to the public and admission is free. Please register by November 4 at www.wilson.edu/leadership-seminar.
By Shelby Bowman '26
On a bright Wednesday in early October, Wilson students brought their pets and animals to the Main Green for the Blessing of the Animals. The event was an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate a variety of creatures on campus. The tradition was inspired by the life and work of St. Francis, who was known for his love of animals.
“It's a recognition of the animals within the kingdom of God, of the Creator, and to reflect on the beauty of creation, especially in the fall,” said Chaplain Andrew Hart. “The fall is such a gorgeous time to celebrate the beauty of creation.”
At Wilson, the tradition began in 1994 with former student Malinda Triller who suggested it to Susan Olsen, the chaplain at the time. Olsen promised to hold a blessing ceremony if Triller attended every chapel service that spring. The first Blessing of the Animals at Wilson took place in the science center.
“We didn’t have a formal program at that time,” Triller said. “No planned readings or prepared blessings. We just said whatever came to mind as we blessed each animal.”
Over time, the event moved outside, and students began bringing their horses from the barns and dogs from the kennels.
“Things became a little more formal and attracted a lot of attention from drivers passing by,” said Triller.
Beyond the Blessing of the Animals event, Wilson has had a long history of animals on campus. Before the equitation program was introduced in 1974, a riding club began in 1922. The campus began offering veterinary courses in 1981. Both programs have grown in popularity, helping shape Wilson’s pet-friendly identity.
“I think it's really cool that Wilson even does this,” said Drew Mules ’29, who came to Blessing of the Animals with her horse, Nacho. "The campus is so pet-friendly, even horse-friendly.”
Wilson’s pet-friendliness is a major pull to prospective students, bringing comfort to both students and their pets.
“I've had her since she was a kitten, and she gets really sad if I'm not there with her," said Grace Lillick ‘29 with her twelve-year-old cat, Angel. “That was part of the reason I decided to come, because I knew I'd be able to bring her.”
Because of the popularity of the tradition and the number of animals on campus, another Blessing of the Animals will be held in the spring.
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, Wilson College made history with its first-ever drone light show, celebrating the We Rise: United for Wilson’s Future campaign and Wilson Weekend. Hundreds gathered on campus to witness a breathtaking 15-minute display of synchronized drones illuminating the night sky with vibrant imagery honoring America, Franklin County, and Wilson College.
Titled “We Rise: Honoring History. Inspiring Tomorrow.” the show featured a symbolic flight of the phoenix, custom visuals, and a powerful soundtrack and narration accessible via smartphone. The event brought together community members of all ages for an unforgettable evening of light, sound, and storytelling.
This milestone celebration was made possible thanks to the generous support of Wilson College, the Gilmore-Hoerner Endowment, Cherry Knoll Farm, Explore Franklin County PA, and F&M Trust.
Missed the show or want to relive the magic? The full video of the drone show is posted below.
Wilson College proudly announces the successful completion of the We Rise: United for Wilson’s Future capital campaign, raising an extraordinary total of approximately $21.75 million over three years. This achievement reflects the deep generosity and enduring belief in Wilson’s mission shared by alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the College.
In May 2022, Wilson College launched the We Rise campaign, a transformative fundraising initiative designed to provide a strong foundation for Wilson’s future. The campaign responded directly to the challenges brought on by the pandemic and the rapidly changing higher education environment.
The We Rise campaign centered on five strategic priorities: Scholarships, Growth Initiatives, Faculty and Staff Support, Debt Reduction, and the Wilson Fund & Unrestricted Giving. These pillars directly aligned with the College’s five-year strategic plan, Future Wilson: The Phoenix Rises, reinforcing the institution’s core mission to provide a transformative and affordable education. By investing in these key areas, the campaign provided a platform for sustainable growth and institutional resilience. This vision was championed by Wilson’s leadership and Board of Trustees, who recognized that critical funding was essential to sustaining momentum and unlocking future potential for the College.
“Thanks to the strategic efforts of our dedicated faculty, staff, and administration, Wilson is well-positioned to thrive amid the evolving landscape of higher education,” said Jennifer Nickle Banzhof ’94, chair of the Wilson College Board of Trustees and member of the We Rise campaign committee. “Recognizing the importance of a strong investment in the strategic initiatives, the Trustees prioritized securing additional funding to enrich the academic curricula, attract and retain talented students, faculty, and staff, and ensure a Wilson education remains both accessible and transformational.”
Fueled by the campaign’s success, Wilson College achieved a historic milestone in Fall 2025 by reaching the highest-ever point-in-time enrollment, with a 38% increase over the past three years. This surge reflects the impact of the strategic plan and marks a defining moment in Wilson’s history.
President Wesley Fugate, Ph.D., captured the spirit of the campaign when he said, “This is our time—to steady this College, to rise above the noise, to prove that Wilson doesn’t just survive… she endures, she inspires, and she transforms.”
What made We Rise truly special was the breadth and depth of support—from young alumni making their first $1,000 gifts to longtime trustees doubling their commitments. This collective spirit of generosity and belief in Wilson’s future will be honored with a donor recognition display, to be unveiled this fall on the ground floor of John Stewart Memorial Library. The display will serve as a lasting reminder of what’s possible when a community rises together in pursuit of a bold and hopeful future.
The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) has awarded Wilson College a $6,000 grant to support scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year. This fall, three dedicated students pursuing careers in animal-related fields will benefit from TERF’s continued generosity.
The TERF scholarship provides vital financial support to students majoring in equine studies, equine-facilitated therapeutics, veterinary nursing, or animal studies. With a mission to promote Thoroughbred health and welfare, TERF funds scholarships, educational initiatives, and equine research, with a priority on making racing safer.
This year’s recipients are Olivia Ewing ’26, a veterinary nursing major with an Equi-assist concentration, Kendi Long '26, an equine studies major; and Regina Snyder '26, majoring in equine facilitated therapeutics.
Snyder, a two-time recipient, expressed her gratitude to the TERF organization. "This scholarship has been instrumental in helping me pursue my studies in equine facilitated therapeutics and equine studies. Receiving it again this year not only eases the financial burden of higher education but also reinforces my motivation to work hard toward my academic and professional goals," she said.
Since 2015, TERF generously awarded over $118,000 in scholarships to Wilson College students, including this year's grant. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, and demonstrated commitment to equine-related fields. Any student enrolled in equine studies, equine-facilitated therapeutics, veterinary nursing, or animal studies is eligible for these TERF scholarships and awards.
At Wilson College, the scholarship recipients benefit from expert instruction and mentorship through programs led by Janice Holland, Ph.D., associate professor and director of equine studies, and Tammy Ege, assistant professor and director of veterinary nursing and animal studies. Their leadership ensures the scholarship recipients receive a top-tier education in their respective fields.
To learn more about the TERF scholarships and awards visit https://www.terfusa.org/
On September 20th, Michelle Miller, a Master of Organizational Leadership candidate at Wilson College, hosted an educational clinic at the Wilson College Equestrian Center.
Michelle with one of our equine demonstrators, Sebastian
The event welcomed around 40 attendees, including students from the Equine Studies and Equine Facilitated Therapeutics (EFT) programs, alumni, local stable owners, and community members.
The clinic featured two guest presenters. Kendra Clarke led the first session, focusing on how different types of horse conformation can affect a rider. Wilson’s Director of Equestrian Teams, Kailey Vande Kamp, participated as a demonstration rider. Kendra also shared mounted and unmounted exercises designed to help horses improve their movement based on conformational challenges—physical traits or structural characteristics in the horse’s body that may affect its movement, performance, or comfort when doing tasks or being ridden.
The second session was led by Lisa Pulliam, who demonstrated how equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions are conducted. She also explained how horses can influence the human somatic nervous system.
Four of Wilson’s school horses—Sebastian, Potato, Jellybean, and Waffles—were part of the demonstrations and helped make the clinic a success.
The EFT Club, advised by Miller, supported the event by selling snacks and drinks and speaking with attendees about their experiences in the program.
Miiller shared, ""Wilson College's Master of Organizational Leadership program has been a transformational experience. Each class taught me something that I have already applied in my career, and the capstone experience provided me an opportunity to put all the concepts previous classes taught me into action in a meaningful way."
Thank you to everyone who helped make the clinic a valuable learning experience for all who attended.
