Alumni Updates - Applied Humanities

Gema Ortiz Lombardo

World Languages and Cultures, 2009

Gema Ortiz Lombardo, 2009 Spanish, earned her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Bilingual Education from New Mexico State University in 2011. While pursuing her M.A., Lombardo worked with NMSU as a School Garden Curriculum Coordinator. Lombardo also served as a managing editor for the resource book, “Implementing a school and Community Garden.” In 2013, She provided college and career guidance to special-needs students at high school level. She is happily married and is currently an Admissions Counselor for Humboldt State and a recruiter for HSU’s College of Natural Resources & Sciences, focusing on promoting opportunities for hispanic students.

Jarad Petroske

World Languages and Cultures, German, 2006

Jarad Petroske and his wife, Angie (née Renzo), also an alumna ('09, NRPI), welcomed their second child, Henrietta, in 2014.

H.A. Nethery IV

Philosophy, 2003

H.A. Nethery IV, 2003 Philosophy, received an M.A. in philosophy from the University of Memphis, and a Ph.D. in philosophy from Duquesne University.
Nethery is currently an assistant professor of philosophy in the Department of Religion and Philosophy at Florida Southern College.

Steve Brudney

Philosophy, Landscape photography at earthscapephoto.com, 1970

Steve Brudney, 1970, Philosophy, might just have the first Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy. About the same time Brudney refused induction into the war in Vietnam. Later he earned Master of Arts in philosophy at UC Davis. Brudney wrote to 263 community colleges, found eight openings, got one interview, and was not hired. Instead, Brudney worked at Pacific Lumber Company for 19 years and then for the county. Now he’s writing a book on Christian fundamentalism. He draws from decades of experiences with fundamentalists, his training in philosophy, and over 33 years studying Bible scholarship, the historical Jesus, Christian beginnings, and the formation of the New Testament.

Andy Powell

Philosophy, 2005

Since the last update given, I have been working at Lost Coast Communications as a DJ for KWPT "The Point" as the host of The Night Show. Outside of playing music on the show 6 nights a week, I also talk about current events (news, politics, foreign policy, and yes even some philosophy) and attempt to present a fair look at subjects or topics of debate in today's times.

As was stated in my last update, I am still playing music with my band Strix Vega as the bass player, keyboard player, and one of the composers. We're expecting to release our third album in early 2013.

Katherine Louise Kalthoff

World Languages and Cultures, DPM Degree from Samuel Merritt, 1988

I am married with a 3 y.o. daughter. Working on another child. I've been clean and sober for more than 7 yrs. My years at HSU taught me about a sense of community that I have brought to my medical practice. I am truely blessed.

Shawna Joy Hernandez

Philosophy, 1996

While I did not pursue an advanced degree in Philosophy - my bachelors in Philosophy has served me well. I feel that my written communication, critical thinking and "outside of the box" perspective have come in very handy as I have navigated my way through the business world.