Students in Waynesburg University’s Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership traveled to Pittsburgh April 10 for a day of immersive learning, engaging with prominent leaders in government, law and higher education while reflecting on the city’s rich historical legacy.
During the visit, Stover Scholars met with Pittsburgh mayor Corey O'Connor; Jeremy Weber, professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public and International Affairs; and Waynesburg alumnus Ryan McCann (’22), now an associate at the law firm of Babst, Calland, Clements, and Zomnir P.C. The group also explored the Fort Pitt Museum, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s historical significance.
The trip concluded with the program’s annual Senior Dinner at the Duquesne Club, where Ken Gormley, president of Duquesne University, served as the keynote speaker. The evening brought together current scholars and more than 25 alumni, along with distinguished guests including Western District of Pennsylvania Judge Mark R. Hornak, former First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh pastor Tom Hall, and former U.S. Attorney Scott Brady.
“In their annual trip to Pittsburgh, the Stover Scholars had another unique experience of meeting with distinguished leaders, in addition to reflecting upon Pittsburgh’s great history at the Fort Pitt Museum,” said Dr. Larry Stratton. “The trip provided a grand finale for Waynesburg University’s Stover Scholars in an academic year which included meetings with U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett; U.S. Senator Dave McCormick; Assistant U.S. Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel T. Elliot Gaiser; and American University President Jonathan Alger, among other leaders.”
Students described the experience as both professionally enriching and personally impactful.
“Meeting with Mayor O’Connor was my favorite part of the Pittsburgh trip this year,” said Theresa Eggleston. “With the NFL Draft coming to Pittsburgh, he gave us a lot of good insight about how he plans to handle this event and the precautions they will be taking. I thought the mayor showed that he truly cares about the area he works for and prioritizes what is best for the community. Getting the opportunity to have conversations like this with Mayor O’Connor and many other public figures is truly an unparalleled experience that you cannot find outside of the Stover Program.”
Joel Baily noted the practical insights gained from each session.
“We were able to learn how the mayor acquired funding from different companies in Pittsburgh, had a great luncheon while learning the day to day as an associate of a large law firm, and discussed the uses of statistics in public policy,” shared Baily. “Overall, the trip was an incredible testament to the unique opportunity given to Stover Scholars so we can learn how to transform the polis.”
Olivia Toth highlighted the trip’s influence on her future goals.
“I especially enjoyed hearing from Ryan McCann because, as a Waynesburg alum, his journey felt more relatable and attainable,” said Toth. “It was inspiring to see someone who was once in a similar position now working professionally at Babst Calland, and it made me reflect more seriously on my own future goals. This experience helped me better understand potential career paths in law and public affairs and motivated me to take advantage of opportunities that could help me move in a similar direction.”
For Gracie Rape, the experience was equally meaningful on a personal level.
“The annual Stover Scholars trip to Pittsburgh is a memorable day filled with opportunities to meet with leaders of Pittsburgh and hear from our seniors,” she said. “It is always an emotional night to hear how much the program has met for our seniors and will always cherish the friendships I have made through the program.”
The following students participated in the trip:
- Rachel Arhin
- Joel Baily
- Joshua Baily
- Emily Barker
- Carolyn Clarkson
- Kathryn Cottis
- Theresa Eggleston
- Tyler Gordon
- Sydney Kratsas
- Makai’o Nihipali-Sanchez
- Avery Rape
- Gracie Rape
- Jackson Sauders
- John Scott
- Josiah Shimizu
- Emma Shashura
- Emily Stutzman
- Olivia Toth
The annual Pittsburgh trip is a cornerstone of the Stover Center’s experiential learning approach, providing students with direct access to influential leaders while preparing them for careers rooted in constitutional principles, public service and moral leadership.
About Waynesburg U.
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
# # #
The Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership Scholarship
The Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership Scholarship recognizes students with a passionate interest in the U.S. Constitution and its application in public life today. Several incoming freshmen of academic ability are chosen each year. To learn more about this prestigious scholarship opportunity and its application requirements, click the link below.
