On February 22, 2024, Seton Hill University alumnus John Bitsura visited the Child Development Center to give a presentation to the children about dinosaurs. The interactive lesson allowed the children to be “paleontologists” for the day. John’s presentation included learning about T. rex fossils, the differences between carnivores and herbivores, and dinosaur eggs. 

“It’s great being back,” said John. “It felt really cool being welcomed back by the CDC, who were great hosts!”

The learners completed an inclusive activity to take their own fossils home. The children wrapped their “fossil” figures in paper towels and plaster strips to mimic the process of a cast. This fun activity gave the children a hands-on opportunity for sensory engagement. 

“I’m always going to be grateful to my education classes. Especially things like practicums, student teaching, and visits to the Child Development Center."

In 2013, John Bitsura graduated from Seton Hill with a degree in History, and earned a Pennsylvania Teaching Certification in Secondary Social Studies Education. He is the Offsites Program Manager at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. As part of the Outreach team, John uses dinosaur and cultural replicas to educate learners about different scientific fields.

“I’m always going to be grateful to my education classes,” John said. “Especially things like practicums, student teaching, and visits to the Child Development Center, where we’d practice working with the littles – like today.”