Kyle T. Smithmyer, a surveying technology major from Huntingdon, was crowned the latest "Penn College Star" at the recent conclusion of a three-round talent competition. The singer/guitarist, among four students vying at the second annual event's Nov. 12 culmination in the Klump Academic Center Auditorium, took home a $500 Amazon gift card as the top prize-winner. Also competing were Lucas P. Crawford, a manufacturing engineering technology student from New Bethlehem, who beatboxed; James C. Hendrie, of Gettysburg, a software development and information management major who produces, writes and raps his own songs; and singer Gwendolyn A. Ntim, of Yonkers, New York, a pre-nursing student. A panel of judges and a tally of audience text messages rated the musicians on creativity/originality, poise/presentation, voice clarity and crowd appeal. Judges were college President Davie Jane Gilmour; Elliott Strickland, chief student affairs officer; Commuter Assistant Morgan N. Keyser; and 2000 alumnus Jon W. Mackey. “Penn College Star” – sponsored by the Off-Campus Housing Organization and the Residence Life and Student Activities offices – was hosted by George W. Settle III, last year's champion, and Lauren J. Crouse, OCHO vice president. Settle was also a guest performer, as was Caleb G. Schirmer, OCHO's interim president.Photos by Dalaney T. Vartenisian, student photographer