– Spotlight (Alumni, Community, and Staff)

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: September 2023: Mr. Yarnick, High School Social Studies Teacher

Education:

UPJ - Bachelor's Degree

Saint Francis University - Master's Degree

What makes you proud of being part of the Richland School District?

It is a tremendous honor to teach at my former high school, the premier school district in our region!

Fun Fact:

Although I am a huge Penn State fan, I also support Pitt H2P!

Family:

My wife Holly, and I have 3 children in the Richland School District. Austin 11th grade, Ali 9th grade, and Aiden 6th grade.

Who is the most inspirational person to you and why?

My wife, because of her work ethic and love for others.

If you could pick three famous people to be a part of your entourage, who would you choose?

Martin Luther, Frederick Douglas, & Joe Paterno

Favorite Quote:

“If you take care of the small things, the big things take care of themselves.”

What’s on your bucket list?

Live at the beach.

What is your favorite song from your youth that you still rock out to when nobody else is listening?

I'll Be Missing You

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: August 2023: Kim Mock

Kim Mock is very active within the Richland community, serving as mayor of Geistown, president of the Richland School District Foundation, and continuously supporting initiatives within the Richland Fire Department.

How long have you been active in the Richland School District community? 25 years

What do you love the most about being involved in the Richland community? I really enjoy working with my friends and meeting new people. It is rewarding to work together on projects that will benefit others in the community.

What's your favorite memory while being involved in the Richland community? One of my favorite memories is the first Baconfest event. After all the preparation, it was wonderful seeing people interacting and enjoying themselves.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) not many people know? I am an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan. I attend many games during the season.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: July 2023: Andy Palko, Class of 2001

College/Higher Education:

Doctorate of Education in Health and Physical Activity, University of Pittsburgh

Master of Science in Recreation and Sport Science, Ohio University

Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, Waynesburg University

Current Town/City:

Washington, PA

What is your current occupation/employer?

Assistant Professor, Program Director for Athletic Training & Health and Exercise Science, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, NCAA Healthcare Administrator at Waynesburg University

How did your Richland experiences help you reach your educational and/or professional goals?

Richland provided the means for exploring various subjects and discovering my interests. Through a diverse curriculum and extracurricular activities, I had the opportunity to delve into different fields in science, literature, arts, and mathematics, laying the groundwork for a strong academic foundation and a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to lifelong learning. This exposure assisted me in identifying my passion for biology which became the driving force behind my educational and career choices.

What was your most valuable lesson as a student at Richland?

The most valuable lesson I learned was that setbacks and failures are inevitable aspects of life, but it is our response to these obstacles that defines our character and ultimately determines our success. I discovered that seeking support and leaning on others during tough times is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our willingness to grow and learn. Richland's nurturing environment fostered a sense of community where I felt comfortable seeking help when needed and offering assistance to my peers when they faced challenges of their own. These lessons continue to shape my character, instilling in me the confidence and determination to overcome any obstacles that may come my way.

What is your fondest memory during your time at Richland?

Many of my fondest memories revolve around my involvement in athletics, like walking a mile from the old high school to Rachel Hill each day for football practice, the comradery of my teammates on and off the field, the marching band’s drum cadence, and pep rallies. Also, moments outside of athletics, like playing our favorite music on the jukebox in the cafeteria while devouring cream chicken over biscuits, being a member of the homecoming court, being a member of the Student Leadership Team, and participating in the school musical each year as student tech director.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

As a faculty member, my greatest professional accomplishment lies in the meaningful connections I've established with my students. Building a supportive and inspiring learning environment has been my priority, and witnessing my students thrive academically and personally has been incredibly fulfilling. I take great pride in seeing them embrace their potential, overcome challenges, and develop a passion for the subject matter. Equally rewarding is guiding them through their academic and career journeys, providing mentorship, and witnessing their achievements beyond the classroom. Recently, my dedication and commitment to teaching were recognized as I was awarded the “Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award” at Waynesburg University. Receiving this honor has been an incredible validation of my efforts as an educator and has further fueled my passion for teaching.

Is there anyone in particular who had a major impact on you during your time at Richland? Please share who and how he/she made a difference in your life.

Numerous teachers, counselors, and coaches at Richland have had a profound impact on my education and personal development. A few in particular would be Mr. Brian Rozich. His biology and human anatomy/physiology class played a pivotal role in shaping my interests and future career path. It created a fascination with the complexities of life and the human body, igniting my curiosity and passion for the sciences. His classes also taught me how to take detailed and organized notes.

Mr. John Transue. I was lucky to be a student of his my freshman year before his retirement. He taught history and was the advisor to the musical tech crew. A closet history buff myself, I enhanced my knowledge about the past, but also learned how a teacher should treat a student, maintaining a balance between being a friend and an educator. He offered unparalleled wisdom, taking into account the perspectives of all his students and treating them with respect and kindness.

Lastly, Mr. Virgil Wenturine, my high school social studies teacher. His passion for the subject and personalized approach to teaching inspired me to embrace learning. He fostered a supportive classroom environment, encouraging open discussions and respecting diverse perspectives. His mentorship extended beyond academics, serving as a coach supporting many of my athletic interests. His dedication and genuine care left a lasting impression.

Describe Richland in three words.

Dynamic, Caring, Enriching

What advice do you have for current Richland students?

Utilize a daily planner. I would be absolutely lost if I didn't have a planner/calendar on my devices. You achieve the best results when you prioritize and plan. Effective scheduling is also a crucial part of time management.

Don't deny that you are going to procrastinate. Procrastination is a part of any endeavor and comes with benefits and consequences depending upon how you approach it. However, with good friends, a good support network, and a good head on your shoulders, you can turn procrastination into positive action and creativity.
Be genuine about your future decisions. If you want to head to a top college or pursue a particular vocation, you need to start thinking and working for that immediately.

Create useful connections. Reach out to people for mentoring and for internships. In my experiences, professionals want to pay it forward and help cultivate passions by providing opportunities. You just have to ask.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: June 2023: Mrs. Shaffer - 4th Grade Teacher

Education:

I'm a 1999 Windber Area School District Graduate. I graduated with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in 2003.

What makes you proud of being part of the Richland School District?

I have been a member of the Richland community for 16 years. I have always dreamed of being a part of the Richland School District and being able to teach at the same district my boys attend. I am proud to tell others that I teach at Richland because I know that we are an excellent school district that focuses on making a positive impact on the future. I work with an amazing group of people, and I feel so blessed to be here.

FUN FACT:

I watched the sunrise from the top of a volcano in Hawaii.

Family:

Husband: Michael Children: Kaden and Noah

Who is the most inspirational person to you and why?

Jesus - I do my best to live my life for him.

Favorite Quote:

This, too, shall pass.

What’s on your bucket list?

Visit the New England states in the fall.

What is your favorite song from your youth that you still rock out to when nobody else is listening?

Free Falling by Tom Petty

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: May 2023: Tony LaMonaca

How long have you been active in the Richland School District community? 20 years

What do you love the most about being involved in the Richland community? It’s my home! It’s great to be able to help make sure people are safe during times of severe weather. It’s also rewarding to make school visits in the area and teach kids about the weather!

What's your favorite memory while being involved in the Richland community? One of my favorites is getting dunked repeatedly at Richland Community Days!

What’s something about you (a fun fact) not many people know? My middle name is Martin!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: April 2023: Katie Wilson (Varner), Class of 2003

College/Higher Education:

University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Bachelor of Arts Degree in Financial Accounting; Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Internal Control Auditor (CICA)

Current Town/City:

Hillsboro, VA

What is your current occupation/employer?

Senior Manager in CohnReznick LLP’s Government and Public Sector Advisory Practice leading the team’s Compliance, Monitoring, and Oversight Business Line

How did your Richland experiences help you reach your educational and/or professional goals?

At Richland, I was involved in various clubs, sports teams, and concert band, which taught me discipline and perseverance. The teachers and coaches embodied excellence and collaboration within teaming environments, understanding we all have a part to play. This is something I implement and strive for myself and my teams.

What was your most valuable lesson as a student at Richland?

Understanding the importance of constructive feedback as part of your growth. Whether it was through graded homework/tests or hitting the right music note/tempo during a concert, serving a tennis ball during a doubles match, or throwing a javelin to then end up hitting your head during a meet, it takes receiving that feedback not in a defensive manner, but actively listening to those coaching moments and challenging yourself to educate yourself and be an even better version of you.

What is your fondest memory during your time at Richland?

Ram pride, comradery, and energy for games, especially when the marching band would hit that drum cadence kicking off the NBC dance, opportunities to work on various individual and group projects with my classmates, and all of the lasting friendships. Also, Chicken gravy over biscuits day was always a fan favorite!

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Challenging myself to take chances and make choices not based upon fear. By doing so, I’ve obtained my CFE credentials, been recognized in the ACFE Global Anti-Fraud magazine, serve a range of federal and state agencies, making a difference to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse, and lastly, empower and support in the growth of professionals.

Is there anyone in particular who had a major impact on you during your time at Richland? Please share who and how he/she made a difference in your life.

Mr. Bodolosky for teaching me I can express myself through music. Mrs. Kaminsky who through literature taught me to think outside of the box and analyze information. Lastly, Mrs. Mack, my accounting teacher during my Junior and Senior years. Through her words of encouragement and accounting puzzles during those 8th-period classes, I found my passion for problem solving and following the money trail, leading me to my degree.

What advice do you have for current Richland students?

If there is something that moves you, something you’re passionate about – pursue it ignoring the “outside” noise. And NEVER allow fear or doubt to make decisions for you – take chances.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: March 2023: Mrs. Dumm - Health & Physical Education

Education:

I graduated high school at Central Cambria. I received my Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Slippery Rock University and my Master's in Education from St. Francis University.

What makes you proud of being part of the Richland School District?

The camaraderie among the entire staff.

FUN FACT: What’s something about you not many people know?

I held the Central Cambria’s 3200 meter girls’ track record with a time of 11:42 for over “20 years” before Carly Seymour broke it.

Family:

My family consists of my husband, Darrell, and my five children; 3 Boys - Dakota, Derek, Devin, and 2 Girls - Danielle and Delaney. Some might call us a full house! I am going to be a grandmother. My parents also had a full house with 8 children, 4 Boys and 4 Girls.

Who would you choose if you could pick three famous people to be a part of your entourage?

The Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Who is the most inspirational person to you and why?

My mother because she has always placed others’ needs before her own. She taught me how to love everyone unconditionally. She is the most selfless and generous person I know. Everything she did was for the good of her family. I could always count on my mother to support me in everything I did.

Favorite Quote:

“Only a Life Lived in the Service to Others is Worth Living.” By Albert Einstein

What’s on your bucket list?

To go to Hawaii

What is your favorite song from your youth that you still rock out to when nobody else is listening?

Come on Eileen (1982 Version) by Dexy’s Midnight Runners

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: January 2023: Hunter Bomba, Class of 2013

College/Higher Education:

Ph.D. Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; B.S. Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University

Current Town/City:

Seattle, WA

What is your current occupation/employer?

Senior Oncology Program Manager, Cancer Targeted Technology

How did your Richland experiences help you reach your educational and/or professional goals?

The ability to take collegiate-level courses helped me prepare for college. I also learned how to problem solve, work in a large group setting, and compromise through my extracurricular activities.

What was your most valuable lesson as a student at Richland?

Education is a gift and a privilege. Take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. Use those opportunities to create the life you want, and remember to thank those that encouraged and supported you along the way.

What is your fondest memory during your time at Richland?

I have fond memories of my time in the Technology Student Association (TSA). Mr. Hutzel, Mr. Huffman, and Mr. Beach made learning and problem-solving fun. I loved working on exciting projects with my friends and traveling to regional, state, and national competitions. I am incredibly grateful for my exposure to software, tools, and technology to succeed at TSA competitions and open doors to careers I had never considered.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Currently, I serve as the Principal Investigator for a $2 million NIH grant focused on developing a novel radiotherapeutic for prostate cancer. I collaborate with academic and industry professionals around the country to develop new cancer therapies and oversee the company's clinical trials.

Is there anyone in particular who had a major impact on you during your time at Richland? Please share who and how he/she made a difference in your life.

Mr. Brandt Hutzel, Mr. Tanner Huffman, Mr. Justin Beach, Mr. Michael Oravec, Mrs. Amy Euen, and Mr. Brian Rozich ignited and fueled my love for science, math, and problem-solving.

What advice do you have for current Richland students?

Get out of your comfort zone, and explore what you are passionate about.

Richland School District is fortunate to have an excellent alumni network, great community support, and outstanding staff. We plan on featuring individuals from these groups in a monthly spotlight. If interested in nominating an alumnus or community member, please click below:

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

NOMINATION

https://bit.ly/rsdalumnispotlight

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

NOMINATION

https://bit.ly/rsdcommunityspotlight

Please email Brandon Bailey at [email protected] with any questions or comments.