At PennWest University, our strength lies in the individuals who shape our community—the students, alumni, and faculty whose stories inspire and connect us. The People of PennWest is a platform dedicated to showcasing the voices that bring our campuses to life—students forging new paths, alumni shaping industries, and faculty inspiring the next generation. Through personal narratives, shared achievements, and meaningful connections, we highlight the individuals who make PennWest a thriving and dynamic place to learn and grow. Explore the connections, challenges, and triumphs that shape our journey together.

Jump to:  Students  |  Faculty/Staff  |  Alumni

Students

PennWest students are driven by curiosity and ambition, shaping their futures through academics, leadership, and community engagement. Their journeys are filled with growth, discovery, and the pursuit of excellence in every field of study.

  • Bria Allen takes a selfie with the PennWest California mascot, Blaze.

    Bria Allen

    Seeing PennWest Beautifully
    More than just images, Bria Allen's photographs are stories of the PennWest community, each frame capturing a unique narrative of individuality and belonging.

    "...being able to show others how we see themselves... and create something beautiful out of it is what's enlightening for me."

    Read More
  • Student purchase items for Toys for Tots

    Cassidy McCormick

    Bringing Joy to Local Children
    A senior elementary education major, Cassidy McCormick leads the Toys for Tots initiative on PennWest’s California campus.

    "Knowing that a simple toy can bring so much happiness to a child fuels my passion for giving back. It’s about making sure every child feels seen and valued."
    Read More
  • Joelle

    Joelle Paul

    Building a Team and Creating a Legacy
    Joelle turned her love of basketball into a new opportunity for her peers, founding a club team that continues to grow and thrive.

    "I started this club to create a space for encouragement, empowerment, and growth."
    Read More
  • Rachel Kister

    Rachel Kister

    Discovering Strength Through Self-Reflection
    Rachel Kister found her voice at PennWest Clarion, leading campus organizations and serving as a student trustee while pursuing her passion for communication.

    "We are not defined by our activities, but by our values, strengths, and what motivates us. That’s what makes each of us unique."
    Read More
  • Tyrique Whitson

    Tyrique Whitson

    Building Bridges in the Community
    Tyrique Whitson leads The Big Event, PennWest’s largest student-run day of service, uniting students to assist local residents and businesses.

    "Helping others, even in small ways, creates ripples of kindness. The Big Event is about bringing our campus together to give back and make a real difference."
    Read More
  • Courtney Keesling

    Courtney Kiesling

    Building Lifelong Connections
    Courtney Kiesling embraced every opportunity at PennWest California, from student government to leadership programs, while preparing for her future as an educator.

    "The friendships and faculty connections I’ve made here will last a lifetime. Relationships are what make the college experience so powerful."
    Read More
  • Ellie Keating

    Ellie Keating

    Embracing Change and Finding Purpose
    Ellie Keating’s journey took unexpected turns—from dance to stage management to communication sciences—but led her to her true passion in audiology at PennWest Edinboro.

    "You don’t have to have it all figured out. Follow your interests, explore, and trust that everything will work out in the end."
    Read More

Faculty/Staff

The faculty and staff at PennWest are the foundation of our learning environment, guiding and mentoring students while contributing groundbreaking research and dedicated service. Their commitment ensures that PennWest remains a place of inspiration, learning, and transformation.

  • Portrait of Dr. Michelle Torregano

    Dr. Michelle Torregano

    Leading with Vision and Heart
    Dr. Michelle Torregano's passion for education shines through as she mentors students and fosters critical thinking at PennWest, creating a dynamic learning environment.

    "We have a wonderful community and we have a wonderful group of people, faculty, staff and administrators that are here for our students."

    Read More
  • PennWest Clarion Coach Damian Pitts addresses the basketball team.

    Coach Damian Pitts

    Coaching Beyond the Court
    Meet PennWest Clarion's Coach Damian Pitts, who’s winning games and shaping futures through mentorship and emotional understanding.

    "As a mentor, I feel like it is my duty to engage in those kind of conversations because you can help people grow."

    Read More
  • Dr. Karim Hossain, Physics at PennWest

    Dr. Karim Hossain

    Making Physics Fun and Accessible
    Dr. Karim Hossain is transforming the way students experience physics by turning complex concepts into engaging, hands-on learning.

    "Instead of just talking about physics, I bring in toys and real-world examples to make it fun. If students are relaxed, they are ready to learn."
    Read More
  • Cody Stone, Sociology at PennWest

    Dr. Codie Stone

    Empowering Students Through Sociology
    As a first-generation college student, Dr. Codie Stone knows the power of education. Now, he helps students see how sociology connects to their lives and futures.

    "I want students to know they’re not just here to get a degree. They’re here to discover their power and shape the world around them."
    Read More
  • Student-athletes participate in Make-a-Wish

    Dr. Amy Eperthener

    Empowering Athletes Through Service
    As an athletic trainer and advisor to the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Dr. Amy Eperthener helps student-athletes balance competition and community service.

    "Raising funds for Make-A-Wish isn't just about donations—it’s about giving student-athletes the chance to create real change and see the impact of their efforts firsthand."
    Read More
  • Dr. Brandon Packard

    Dr. Brandon Packard

    Mentorship That Makes a Difference
    Dr. Brandon Packard’s journey into teaching began with helping a friend succeed. Now, he creates a supportive space for students to believe in themselves.

    "Sometimes, all it takes is one person who believes in you. I try to be that person for as many students as I can."
    Read More
  • PennWest Community Learning Center

    Dr. Leah Chambers

    Connecting Learning and Community 
    An English professor and co-director of the Community Learning Workshop, Dr. Leah Chambers bridges the gap between higher education and local education needs.

    "Higher education should be about more than just coursework—it should be about engaging with the community and making education accessible to all."
    Read More

Alumni

Our alumni carry the spirit of PennWest into the world, applying their education, experiences, and passion to make a difference in their industries and communities. Their stories reflect resilience, innovation, and the lasting impact of their time at PennWest.

  • Tim & Judy Camus

    Tim and Judy’s enduring partnership, forged on the vibrant PennWest California campus, has evolved over nearly 40 years into a legacy of love, community, and unwavering support.

    “On the days that I may lack or when I’m not on my A-game, I have someone fully supporting me, ready to go, never wanting to see me fail.”
    Read More
  • Danielle and Darren Fleming coaching on the basketball court.

    Danielle & Darren Fleming

    From a chance meeting in Columbus to becoming a dynamic coaching duo, Danielle and Darren Fleming embody passion, teamwork, and the power of growing together both on and off the court.

    “Figure out what it is that you love to do, and then pour everything you can into it.”
    Read More
  • Jason & Katie Spangenberg

    Jason and Katie’s journey from high school marching band memories to community leaders and entrepreneurs highlights their deep commitment to tradition, service, and the vibrant spirit of campus life.

    “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and get involved—campus life is full of surprises.”
    Read More
  • Lindsay Tolbert

    Lindsey Tolbert

    Turning Involvement Into a Career
    As a student, Lindsey transformed her experience with the Student Activity Board into a thriving career in event planning and talent management.

    “I met my boss as a student putting on events, not knowing he would be my boss someday.”
    Read More