University of Mount Union

Founded in 1967, Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is a nationwide society in which college students who are due paying members are able to enhance their education, broaden their network and launch their professional career. PRSSA is composed of 7,000 students across the United States, Argentina, Columbia and Peru.

As young college students, public relations practitioners and members of PRSSA- University of Mount Union Chapter, they have felt much heartache created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Obtaining a college education during a pandemic requires immeasurable amounts of adaptation and change. This is not just true for college students, but many others as well.

Most notably, senior citizens living in residential care facilities have had to adapt to a year of isolation and separation from their families.

Auburn Skilled Living, a local nursing home in Damascus, OH is no exception to this. Jennifer Zamarelli, marketing director of Auburn shared that the facility is always looking for COVID19-safe opportunities for their residents.

Nearly all PRSSA members attended the volunteer event, and some brought additional friends to help out. Collectively, the students were able to make 200 cards to send to the facility. Not only this, but they included some extras to thank the staff for all of their hard work during the pandemic.

“Every day is a new adventure here,” Zamarelli said. “The residents are hopeful for the day their families can visit again. Despite great change, our mission is to continue creating a loving community for the residents, even amidst a pandemic.”

Emily Cooney ‘21, Brenna Walker ‘21, Bailey Balderson ‘21 and Peyton Zamarelli ‘22 are all executive members of PRSSA. They were on the lookout for a meaningful service project for the spring semester.

At the time, Valentine’s Day was quickly approaching, and partnering with a local nursing facility would not only spread love this season, but also grant PRSSA members the opportunity to volunteer their time for the betterment of others. That is where “The Love Communication” volunteer project began.

Gillian Maffit from Mentor, was one of the PRSSA members in attendance for this event.

Jessica Brown from Aurora, was one of the PRSSA members in attendance for this event.

Not only did the residents and staff receive handmade messages of love, but PRSSA received national recognition by PRSSA- National for their efforts across all national social channels, which inhabit thousands of followers and connections. The members of PRSSA were so thankful for the opportunity to give to those in need while excelling as a chapter.

• The University of Mount Union’s Department of Theatre presented the musical, “Songs for a New World,” with music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown, March 25-28.

The Mount Union cast members provided five great performances through acting, unique scenery and excellent portrayal of this vocally demanding show.

Madison Priestap from Jefferson, was involved in this stage performance as part of the performing ensemble.

Clorise Busch from Jefferson, was involved in this stage performance as part of the production staff.

Serena Sanzo from Painesville, was involved in this stage performance as part of the production staff.

Mason Conn from Painesville, was involved in this stage performance as part of the production staff.

“Songs for a New World” was directed by Kevin P. Kern with musical direction by Ryan Bergeron.

The shows were presented in-person to campus audiences in a limited capacity.

Lehigh University

Students at Lehigh University attained Dean’s List in Fall 2020. This status is granted to students who earned a scholastic average of 3.6 or better while carrying at least 12 hours of regularly graded courses.

Area students included:

Sara Weisman of Beachwood

Darien Hersh of Beachwood

Victoria Jepson of Chagrin Falls

Rafiq Sitabkhan of Highland Heights

Francesca Garofalo of Novelty (44072)

Nicholas Kosir of Willoughby.