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ALUMNI IN THE NEWS
Air Force Airman Stephen Virbitsky graduated from basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Stephen completed an intensive eight-week program. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. He earned distinction as an honor graduate of the course. Stephen is a 2007 graduate of Penncrest.
Professor Mark Sfirri has taught fine woodworking at Buck County Community College since 1981, has been named one of only three Distinguished Educators by the James Renwick Alliance, a non-profit alliance which supports the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the nations showcase of contemporary American craft, where some of Mark’s work is displayed. He credits his high school art teacher Claude Falcone with instilling in him the work ethic and critical-thinking skills he needed to get in to the Rhode Island School of Design. Mark was inducted into the Rose Tree Media Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame in 2004.
Successful singer, actress, and vocal teacher Heidi Muller Star was interviewed for the Profile of the Week in the Town Talk and was featured in the Press Focus section of the County Press. She relates her journey through life remembering her audition for a solo part in a concert at Rose Tree Elementary School. Much of the credit for her path has been given to Judy Roman, retired Penncrest teacher. “She is one of the reasons I do what I do.” said Heidi. Heidi sings opera at Fellini’s Café in Media and has performed locally at Hedgeow Theatre.
Randy Bevan, owner of Bevan’s Own-Make Candies in Media, was included in the Delaware County Daily Times series The Ghosts of Christmas Past. Randy continues the family business that started more than five decades go with his grandfather. He is responsible for producing the delicious, award-winning candy that has become an institution in Media. “I’ve been here my whole life,” Randy said. “It’s good. I hope to be here another 50 years.”
Paul DiMeo of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is among the professional, celebrity experts appearing at the Annual Home Show at the Convention Center in Philadelphia. Paul was inducted into the Rose Tree Media Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame in May 2009.
Chelsea Miles, Class of '09, Elizabethtown College is in her first year as an assistant coach at her alma mater, after a distinguished four-year career as a member of the track and field team. As a student-athlete, Miles set school records in the long jump (indoor and outdoor), triple jump (indoor) and high jump (outdoor). She was team co-MVP in 2007, 2008 and 2009 and was a two-year captain. Miles was also the recipient of the Middle Atlantic Conference Sportsmanship Award in the 2008 indoor and 2009 outdoor seasons. In the fall of 2008, Miles was head cross country coach at Central Dauphin Middle School, and is a member of the Elizabethtown women's cross country team in the fall of 2009. Miles graduated cum laude from Elizabethtown in May 2009 with a bachelor of science degree in occupational therapy, and is currently completing work toward her master's degree. She is a 2005 graduate of Penncrest High School, where she was a state qualifier in both the long and triple jump.
Julani Thomas Ghana,
Penncrest graduate and member of the Rose Tree Media Distinguished Alumni Hall
of Fame, was a guest speaker at the meeting of the Springton Lake Middle School
Principal’s Leadership Committee . Role
Models on the Move is a part of the leadership program where students
welcome special guest speakers to talk about their “journey” as they
overcame obstacles in order to achieve success.
Julani shared with students his personal experiences, pointing out to
them that it is important for them to be the best at whatever they do in life,
and to chose a positive role model. “It
only takes one person to change someone’s life forever.”
Penncrest graduate Ron Cross, was applauded for his 35-year tenure as an Aston Township employee. Ron has been working for the township since 1971. He has become a recognized veteran leader in the public works department. “You’re an asset to the township and the community,” stated the Commissioner/Public Works Committee Chairman
Ensign Michael Antonelli graduated June 22, 2009 from the United States Merchant Marine Academy. He received a Third Mate Merchant Marine Coast Guard License with a Qualified Member of the Engine Department Endorsement Michael was awarded a bachelor of science degree in marine operations and transportation technologies as well as a commission in the United States Navy Reserve. While at the Academy, he held various leadership roles.