Alvernia Magazine: Summer/Fall 2024

A Culture of Care

PRESIDENT

Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.

MANAGING EDITOR

Kristopher Nolt

Executive Director Marketing and Communications

EDITOR

Jon Fassnacht

Website Content Specialist

ART DIRECTOR

Lynn N. Gano

Director of Creative Services

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Claire Curry

Jon Fassnacht

Lini S. Kadaba

Sarah Matarella

Nikki M. Murry

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Susan Angstadt

Dan Z. Johnson

Stephen Johnson

Sarah Matarella

Hailey Rohrer

Jennifer Weasner

Alvernia Magazine is published by Alvernia University to share news and information about the institution with alumni, friends and the community. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the university. Please share your feedback, as we work to continuously enhance the publication: news@alvernia.edu.

Alvernia Magazine is a publication of Alvernia University. Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.

ALVERNIA UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Officers of the Board

Chair

Gregory J. Shemanski

Owner/President Customs Processing Services, Inc.

Vice Chair

Michael Duff

Senior Vice President Penske Truck Leasing

President

Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Alvernia University President

Secretary

John McCloskey Jr. ’94 M’01, DBA

Alvernia University Senior VP and Chief Operating Officer

University Counsel Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn

Members of the Board

John M. Arnold, Jr. Chairman, CEO & Owner PPC Lubricants, Inc.

Charles Barbera, MBA ’01, MD President and CEO Reading Hospital

Paula Barrett, CPA Partner - Retired Reinsel Kuntz Lesher

Michael J. Caron, GTS Retired, Welco

Kevin P. DeAcosta, ’00 President & CEO The Highlands of Wyomissing

Richard Allen Ehst Customers Bank, Retired President and CEO

Michael Fromm President & CEO Fromm Electric Supply Corp.

John H. Gallen, Jr. Owner & President EthoSource and Wyatt Seating

Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D. Retired Provost and SVP for Academic and Student Affairs Connecticut State Colleges and Universities

Patricia C. Giles Foundation President Wyomissing Foundation, Inc.

Sr. Madonna Marie Harvath Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Ellen Huyett, Esq. Attorney (Retired) Community Volunteer

Ginger Kunkel President Tompkins Community Bank

Steven M. Koons, CPA PMP ’05 Partner and Federal Service Line Leader Sikich, LLP

Daniel Langdon Retired CEO East Penn Manufacturing

Sr. Sandra Lyons ‘69 Assistant Congregational Minister Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Rachel Ann Maher, DMD ’94 Pediatric Dentist Dentistry for Children

Sr. David Ann Niski, OSF ’66 Executive Director Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Foundation

David W. Patti Director of Communications & Marketing Customers Bank

Karen Piraino Principal Mirador Talent Consulting

Sr. John Ann Proach ‘74 Congregational Minister Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Jeffrey R. Rush President, Commercial Markets Fulton Bank

Peter Rye President Brentwood Industries, Inc.

Jeanne L. Savage ’88 Community Volunteer

Barry L. Schlouch Owner, President Schlouch Incorporated

Lucine E. Sihelnik ’13 President and CEO Greater Reading Chamber Alliance

Sr. Mary Snisky Director of the Bernardine Franciscan Associates Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Douglas Tieman Retired - President and CEO Caron Treatment Centers

Sr. Mary Joseph Tirpak Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Micheal Tobash Owner

Tobash Insurance Agency & Financial Services Former member of PA House of Representatives

David Turner Regional Manager, External Affairs Met-Ed FirstEnergy Co.

Patrick Witmer, MPA Corporate Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications B.Braun

Care for one, care for all

A new academic year brings with it all the wonderful stories that emerge from our vibrant community — stories that reflect our

deep-rooted commitment to a culture of care and continuous pursuit of collaboration. This commitment defines who we are and guides the work we do every day at Alvernia. Our ability to support and care for each student is one reason why Alvernia welcomed another near-record class of over 520 first-year and transfer students in August. When you are here, you feel it.

In this issue, you’ll read about several initiatives that embody our Franciscan mission and reinforce our dedication to supporting one another, such as our Career Closet. Born from a successful winter clothing drive, this new year-round resource ensures our students can access professional attire for interviews, internships and jobs.

Another feature explores how we’re leveraging partnerships and unique collaborations to benefit the health and safety of our campus community. The incredible work being done through our Penn Medicine — Alvernia Medical & Counseling Center has dramatically expanded the physical and mental health services available to our students and staff, offering care that is accessible and compassionate. Over the past year, the center has tallied thousands of visits, ensuring our community members have the support they need to thrive academically and personally.

As shown on our cover, our commitment to collaboration is brought to life by the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development

and Entrepreneurship and the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement. These Institutes of Excellence have evolved to offer innovative experiential learning opportunities that uniquely prepare our O’Pake Fellows and Holleran Corps leaders for professional success while benefiting our community partners.

These stories are more than just examples of our university’s initiatives; they are testimonies to the power of a community united by our shared and distinctly Franciscan mission. We believe in the transformative power of care — care for one another, care for our students and care for our community. This culture of care allows us to collaborate effectively, innovate continuously, and, most importantly, uplift every member of our extended Alvernia community.

As we look to the future, I am confident our commitment to these values will continue to drive us forward, ensuring that Alvernia remains a place where students, faculty and alumni alike can grow, succeed and contribute to the greater good.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Your support and dedication help to sustain the spirit of care and collaboration that defines Alvernia University.

Sincerely,

Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. President

Serving a Purpose

Alvernia’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement have evolved, offering hands-on training that uniquely prepares students for the professional world, nurturing a new generation of leaders while benefiting community partners.

By Nikki M. Murry and Jon Fassnacht

“Every time we learn about the impact of the Holleran Center we feel great pride.”

— Carolyn Holleran

For nearly 20 years, Alvernia’s Institutes of Excellence – the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement and the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship – have combined the university’s commitment to innovation, service and community engagement with experiential learning to generate prepared, compassionate graduates.

Aided by a generous gift from T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran, a local couple passionate about community service, the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement was established to embrace and reflect the university’s mission and values in students’ coursework and co-curriculum.

Founded a few years later – also aided by a gift, this one from State Sen. Michael O’Pake – the O’Pake Institute for Ethics, Leadership and Public Service helped to make its trifecta a distinctive part of an Alvernia education.

Reflecting the university’s quest for continued innovation, both institutes

have evolved to meet the changing needs of students and the community. The shift occurred with the introduction of the university’s CollegeTowne Initiative in 2019.

The strategy fostered economic redevelopment around the university’s community-based campuses through partnerships and collaborations. Central to those plans was the newly rebranded O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.

“A key component of the original CollegeTowne strategy was an understanding that strategic nurturing was needed to realize the full impact of relocating downtown,” said Rodney S.Ridley Sr., Alvernia’s vice president of research, economic development & strategic initiatives and chief operating officer of the O’Pake Institute.

“Additionally, by 2019, it was evident that the higher education landscape was shifting dramatically,” he continued. “Universities had to adapt or face serious challenges. We have always

prided ourselves on our exceptional faculty, who deliver strong theoretical and practical instruction. However, we aimed to elevate this to an even higher level by prioritizing a new distinctive experiential learning model. Through the O’Pake Institute, we developed a renowned model for hands-on training that uniquely prepares students for the future workforce, setting us apart from other institutions.”

The O’Pake Fellows Program allows undergraduate and graduate students to work directly with entrepreneurs, smallbusiness owners, faculty researchers and local industry leaders. Since the rebrand, O’Pake Fellows have served over 300 clients and completed over 250 projects.

As O’Pake Communications Fellow, Hector Malave ’26 assists businesses such as Custom Cryptids, the Berks County Chamber Alliance and the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce with creative endeavors, including content creation, business analysis and graphic design.

—continued on the next page

From left, Danye Bundick and Hanna Reed, leaders in the Holleran Center’s Service Corps; Aracelis Amador Rivera, a leader in the organization’s Mission Corps; and Gianna Grullon and Christopher Grilli, leaders in its Justice Corps.

A generous gift from T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran helped to establish the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement.

“These experiences have equipped me with a well-rounded skill set, preparing me for diverse professional opportunities,” said the Reading Collegiate Scholar, a communication and theatre major. “They provided me with extensive networking opportunities and enhanced my time management abilities. And my participation in community service projects has fostered a strong sense of community and social responsibility.”

‘Not Just Serving a One-Time Need’

O’Pake’s successful shift in strategy inspired Holleran leadership to seek a similar transformation, leading to the establishment of the Holleran Corps in 2022. Divided into Education, Justice, Mission and Service branches, the collective harnesses students’ passions to create positive change.

“Rather than the O’Pake theme of going out into the community, we’re training them in here, and then they

“My participation in community service projects has fostered a strong sense of community and social responsibility.”

go out into their individual units,” said Alyssa Slade ’14 MA ’16, Senior Director at the Holleran Center. “Education Corps leaders will serve in the Reading School District. Service Corps is helping to inform things that we do in the Holleran Center. Justice Corps is helping the newly formed Office of Justice, Equity, and Inclusion. And Mission Corps is helping Mission & Ministry and the peer ministers and residents.”

In addition, Holleran trains students through mini leadership retreats, on-campus trainings and experiential opportunities in the community. The goal is for students in the Holleran Corps to explore, develop and practice civic leadership skills.

Invited to join the pilot year of the Service Corps, Lauren Janson ’27 is fully invested in its mission, becoming the group’s student leader in her second year. In fact, it was Alvernia’s commitment to service that reeled Lauren in and convinced her to enroll at Alvernia.

“The service requirement [a minimum

— Hector Malave ’26

of 40 hours prior to graduation] is something I found thrilling, actually,” said Janson, who further invests in service to others through her position as president of Circle K International on campus. “When I heard about it, I knew this would be a good place for me.”

Laura Nentwig ’23 MBA ’24 began working full time at Holleran as community engagement and communications coordinator in July following a year as a graduate assistant. Nentwig’s hands-on experiences included projects related to the promotion of Alvernia’s Days of Service and community service-related announcements like social media posts, T-shirt and pin designs, posters, photography, and instructional videos.

“My experience with Holleran allowed me to take what I was learning in the classroom in my marketing and communication courses and apply it to practical settings,” Nentwig said.

The work of the Corps extends to helping others in the region, as well as

O’Pake Communications Fellow Hector Malave ’26 assists the Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce with creative endeavors.

other parts of the world. Holleran has partnered with over 150 community organizations to support the needs of Greater Reading and Berks County, said Darryl Mace, Ph.D., vice president for mission, diversity and inclusion and Holleran’s executive director.

It has embraced global issues through support of environmental stability and the expansion of global experiential learning opportunities. Students lend helping hands in other states and continents through study abroad offerings, pilgrimages and Alternative Breaks, which are service and immersion trips meant to inspire students to lead lives dedicated to serving the underserved and promoting peace and justice.

“We’re not just serving a one-time need,” Slade said. “We’re really trying to teach the students what the root issue or the social justice issue is attached to what we’re serving and why we’re serving.”

Nearly 20 years after their gift helped to establish the service-focused Institute of Excellence, the Hollerans couldn’t be happier about what the center that bears their name has become.

“We are extremely grateful that our investment in the mission and program of the Holleran Center has produced such amazing results for the university and the surrounding community,” said Carolyn Holleran. “Every time we learn about the impact of the Holleran Center we feel great pride. We know that the Alvernia University students will continue to carry the Holleran Center spirit to wherever they live as they each reach out to help their communities.”

Click here to learn more about the Holleran Corps.

Ring of Honor

Alvernia officially installed Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., as its eighth president during a ceremony that capped off a week’s worth of celebratory events, including the return of the sound of bells to campus for the first time in decades.

By Jon Fassnacht

WATCH: President Fitzgerald, students, faculty and staff discuss what they imagine for the future of Alvernia University and themselves.

As I accept the honor and responsibility of being inaugurated as Alvernia’s eighth President, I invite you to be my partners.”

— Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D

The inauguration of Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., as Alvernia’s eighth president represented a ringing in of the new while paying homage to the university’s roots.

Fitzgerald’s ascension following four years as senior vice president and provost returned Alvernia to its initial status as a woman-led university. Its first three presidents were members of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, the university’s foundresses.

Fitzgerald was officially installed as the first female lay president in Alvernia’s history during an inauguration ceremony on April 12 at the university’s Physical Education Center. More than 300 attended the event, including elected officials, college officials, Alvernia students, faculty, staff, trustees, alumni and personal friends.

‘I Invite You to Be My Partners’

Fitzgerald was introduced by graduate school classmate Marya L.Doerfel, Ph.D., professor of communications and chair of communication at Rutgers University.

“Standing here reflecting on the person I knew then and who I know now, it is clear to me that her character, her ability to translate across worlds, her dedication to the service of others, and her fundamental knowledge about communication and relationships is … exactly why we’re here today,” she said.

During her presidential address, Fitzgerald outlined her reasons for optimism for Alvernia’s future. They included the university’s history of service and innovation, the campus locations and communities it serves, its ever-evolving culture of care and commitment to student success, and its deepening strategic partnership network.

“As President, I intend to foster an atmosphere where we facilitate conversations with our community partners in determining how to approach problems together, asking the right questions to flesh out the relevant issues to be addressed,

More than 300 attended the event at the university’s Physical Education Center.

Graduate school classmate Marya L. Doerfel, Ph.D., introduced Fitzgerald at the event.

Pennsylvania State Sen. Judith L. Schwank was one of the event’s speakers.

and furthering the deep work in the community with partners already active in these spaces,” Fitzgerald said. “So, as I accept the honor and responsibility of being inaugurated as Alvernia’s eighth President, I invite you to be my partners, to be Alvernia’s partners, as we undertake that work. …

“We have serious work to do, but as we do it, I believe it’s important that we find ways to be joyful. I look forward to seeing many smiles and to hearing much laughter from all of you in the months and years to come.”

Other speakers at the event included Pennsylvania State Sen. Judith L. Schwank; Berks County Commissioner Michael S. Rivera; English Bradley ’26, chief of staff to Reading Mayor Eddie Moran; Kevin Godfrey, Ph.D., professor of theology and Faculty Council president; Lynn N. Gano, director of creative services and Staff Senate chair; and Sara Baker, president of the Alvernia Student Government Association, among others.

Chiming In

Before ringing in the new, Fitzgerald helped to ring in the old, bringing the sounds of bells back to Alvernia for the first time in decades. On April 6, marking a private Mass and dinner where the Sisters commissioned Fitzgerald as president of the university they founded, new chimes rang out from the Motherhouse bell tower thanks to a generous donation from the new President.

“It’s a gift for the Sisters to bring back something that meant so much to them,” Fitzgerald said. “I’m also keen on beginning a couple of meaningful touchpoints, traditions that will engage students while they are here and give them something to return to.”

The history of chimes on campus reaches back to the end of the 19th century, when the Sisters purchased a bell engraved with the name Sancta Marie. Installed in the bell tower of the newly completed Motherhouse in 1905, it called Sisters to prayer for six decades. In the late 1960s, it was replaced by a carillon – an instrument featuring rows of bells played with a keyboard. Silent for many years as the number of organists who could play its keyboard diminished, the carillon was removed in 2003 when the Motherhouse was renovated.

The sounds of bells aren’t the only things coming back this year; the Sancta Marie will also return to prominence.

Removed from the Motherhouse’s cupola in March to be refurbished, the long-retired bell was placed on permanent display in the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Heritage Center in October to honor the congregation’s 130th anniversary.

The Bernardine Franciscan Sisters held a private Mass and dinner with Fitzgerald.

The long-retired Sancta Marie bell will be placed on permanent display at the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters’ Heritage Center.

The annual Earth Day of Service officially concluded the week’s festivities.

“Thank you, Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, for the gift of the sonorous bell chimes that daily make our hearts sing!” said Sister John Ann Proach, Congregational Minister.

A Full Slate of Activities

The inauguration ceremony capped off a week’s worth of activities across Alvernia’s locations. They included:

• Pottsville CollegeTowne Event: Students, faculty, alumni and community members welcomed Fitzgerald as Alvernia’s new president.

• Alvernia Community Interfaith Commissioning: Interfaith leaders from Berks County and beyond commissioned Fitzgerald and offered blessings on her presidency from their faith traditions.

• Philadelphia Alumni Event: Philadelphia alumni met at Manayunk Brewing Company to reconnect and congratulate Fitzgerald.

• Women in Leadership Panel: At Francis Hall Theatre, Provost and Senior Vice President Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., moderated a panel composed of women leaders in academia and beyond. Joining Kahanov were Dr. Laurie L. Shanderson, owner of Accreditation Insights and the former chancellor of Methodist College; Lucine Sihelnik, President and CEO of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance; and Ginger Kunkel, president of Tompkins Financial Corp. Sihelnik and Kunkel are both members of Alvernia’s board of Trustees.

• Faculty/Staff Art Show: The wide-ranging talents of Alvernia’s faculty and staff were celebrated at this Miller Gallery opening reception, which allowed attendees to meet the artists.

• Alvernia Theatre Opening Night: The Department of Fine and Performing Arts presented “Opening Night” at Francis Hall Theatre. The variety show included music, dance and acting by students and alumni.

• Mass: A Mass was held at Sacred Heart Chapel prior to Fitzgerald’s inauguration.

• Inauguration Formal: Following the ceremony, the Physical Education Center was transformed into the site of a free formal for students.

• Earth Day of Service: The festivities officially concluded with this annual service event, in which roughly 250 students, faculty and staff served throughout the county.

Interfaith leaders commissioned Fitzgerald and offered blessings from their faith traditions.

A Women in Leadership panel composed of women leaders in academia and beyond.

The talents of Alvernia employees were celebrated at the Faculty/Staff Art Show opening reception.

it y Glynis A. Fit zger ald, Ph.D.

Friday, April 12, 2024

Of the Eighth President Alvernia Univers

Class Act

Making a return to Santander Arena, this year’s commencement featured students experiencing rites of passage ruined during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Jon Fassnacht and Sarah Matarella

All commencements are important. But this one was extra special.

On May 11, Alvernia celebrated more than 600 students in the Class of 2024 with an indoor commencement at Santander Arena, the first Alvernia ceremony held at the downtown Reading venue since 2019.

The event, which anchored a revamped commencementceremony weekend, allowed many students to finally walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, something they couldn’t do at their high school ceremonies.

And one of the graduates had four legs.

The COVID Class

“This year’s commencement carries a profound significance for each one of us,” President Fitzgerald said during the event. “Being together holds a special meaning for the over 400 students here who graduated high school in May 2020, when the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic deprived you of this pivotal milestone. I hope you’ve had the opportunity in recent weeks to honor this rite of passage.”

About two-thirds of the students honored during Alvernia’s commencement graduated high school in the spring of 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic made holding large-scale ceremonies all but impossible. Schools adapted as best they could, but the makeshift events, coming as they did after months of additional missed milestones, felt empty — quite literally, in some cases.

“I remember walking down an empty gym and then walking across a stage with no one really being in there. It was all recorded and just didn’t feel real,” said Aja Walker of Bear, Delaware, who received a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science during Alvernia’s ceremony. “But walking across the stage to graduate from Alvernia was overwhelming and such an accomplishing experience. I felt the love and appreciation more than I ever could have expected.”

Like the final months of the group’s high school careers, the initial months of college were trying, but social distancing felt like a distant memory during commencement.

—continued on the next page

Executive Director of Community Standards Kimberly Lemon, Ed.D., congratulates son Zane Plaza ‘24.

“Walking across the stage to graduate from Alvernia was overwhelming and such an accomplishing experience. I felt the love and appreciation more than I ever could have expected.”

— Aja Walker

The walk was perhaps the sweetest for Amanda Hill of Reading. A physical disability left the biology major bedridden at 16, forcing her to experience the rest of high school online. But she persevered through grueling physical therapy sessions to get in shape to walk at her high school graduation.

“I pushed myself, I pushed myself ... and then I graduated in my car,” Hill said before the ceremony. “So this is the first time that I will actually physically be able to walk during graduation and I’m so excited.”

Paws for Thought

Only 5 years old, Edoras “Eddie” Hallameyer is far from your typical graduate. He’s also quick to wag his tail when offered treats.

A psychiatric service dog for Sara Hallameyer ’24 since 2019, Eddie received an honorary degree alongside his owner at the ceremony.

Eddie started as an emotional support animal during Sara’s transition from high school to college and has served as Sara’s

Alvernia’s commencement ceremony allowed many students to finally walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, something they couldn’t do at their high school ceremonies due to COVID restrictions.

support system ever since, officially becoming a service dog during the spring semester of her first year at Alvernia. In addition to his tasks, the beagle mix also served as a Golden Guide alongside his human when she assisted prospective students and families during admissions events or campus tours.

Though only a brief interlude in a day filled with memorable moments, Eddie’s achievement made quite the impression on those in attendance.

“I could go on and on about the heartfelt speeches and all the proud families,” said Franca Felcher, whose son Michael graduated with a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. “But what stuck in our minds, and we still talk about it, was the dog getting the honorary degree.”

Sara is attending West Chester University to pursue her master’s degree in biology. And her ever-present canine companion continues to be right by her side.

“I’m going to get him a lab coat, lab goggles and boots so that he can be with me in the lab, which I’m very excited about,” Sara said.

“I could go on and on about the heartfelt speeches and all the proud families, but what stuck in our minds, and we still talk about it, was the dog getting the honorary degree.”

— Franca Felcher, mother of Michael Felcher, MSOT ’24

Click here to learn more about Eddie and Sara.

Reimagined Festivities

In prior years, commencement weekend events were spaced across multiple weekends. This year, the events — which included pinning ceremonies for health science programs, a senior athlete award reception, an honors convocation and a baccalaureate mass — were limited to one weekend to help reduce travel for families attending multiple ceremonies.

The condensed schedule made it easier for Naomi Hoxter to see daughter Akilah, a track and field captain who graduated with a Master of Science in Athletic Training, honored at the athletes’ reception.

“I enjoyed the athletes’ ceremony where many athletes were recognized for all of their accomplishments,” said Hoxter of Bear, Delaware.

She called the commencement ceremony “absolutely amazing and so organized,” a sentiment echoed by Felchar.

“The atmosphere was electric for the celebration, and it was a beautiful setting,” she said. “The speakers were very inspiring and heartfelt, and it created a moment of profound accomplishment for my son.”

Edoras “Eddie” Hallameyer received an honorary degree alongside owner Sara at the ceremony.

Congratulations Class of 2024!

Click here to watch a commencement recap video.

Healthcare for the Body and Mind

The fruits of a partnership launched a year ago, Penn Medicine – Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center provides convenient and affordable physical and mental health services to students and employees campus-wide.

By Claire Curry

College can be stressful for students, along with the faculty and staff at higher institutions.

The passage into adulthood marks the start of an exciting chapter in students’ lives, but it can bring new challenges. Many leave their loved ones for the first time, take on more responsibilities and navigate newfound independence. For many, it’s also a time when they begin to take responsibility for their own physical, mental and emotional well-being. It’s no surprise that nationwide studies show an uptick in mental health issues in adults between 18 and 21. And that can have a corresponding effect on those who teach and work with them.

“Every student is different, but we do know on the aggregate that we see mental health issues come up during this period,” said Elizabeth Matteo, dean of Alvernia’s College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences.

And they’re on the rise.

“The surgeon general has spoken about the mental health issues of this generation,” Matteo said. “And many research psychologists have hypothesized that cellphone use and the pandemic [could be] contributing factors. All colleges and universities need to be aware of this.”

As for Alvernia, the university is deeply committed to fostering a culture of care, offering many resources to support students throughout their college years, including free confidential counseling from skilled mental health counselors at Penn Medicine - Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center, which opened in August 2023. The result of a partnership between Alvernia and Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health — a health system with a vast network of more than 300 providers, four hospitals, and proven experience in the collegiate healthcare space — the on-campus center aims to reimagine and expand the university’s healthcare services.

Between August 2023 and June 2024, the facility clocked over 1,600 visits for mental health counseling, according to its clinical manager, Lynn Middleton, BSN, RN.

“Our counseling availability is better than any college I know, to be honest,” said Claire Murphy, MD, FAAFP, director of collegiate health services at Penn Medicine. “If it’s a crisis, they’re seen immediately, no question. If they want to make an appointment, we can get them scheduled within the week in most cases.”

There is no limit on the number of visits, she added, because first and foremost, care is centered around addressing individual needs.

Penn Medicine – Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center’s staff includes a trained family physician, a physician associate, a nurse, a psychologist and multiple licensed mental health counselors.

Healthcare for the Body and Mind

In addition to mental health support services, the center also offers a full range of physical healthcare services. Murphy, who joined Alvernia nearly 15 years ago and ran the healthcare clinic formerly housed in the basement of Veronica Hall, said the new facility is a one-stop shop for students and employees.

The medical office resides in the renovated Nursing Resource Center at 421 Adams Street. Equipped with the latest technology, it includes an electronic information-sharing system that streamlines healthcare services, as well as tools to provide acute and wellness care, including lab testing and routine bloodwork.

The beauty of the partnership between Alvernia and Penn Medicine, Middleton said, is the quality of care patients receive and the breadth of resources it opened up for patients.

“The staff is amazing, compassionate and caring,” she said. “Their No. 1 priority is the patient. And we now have so many resources. Penn Medicine has specialties in every area, so if there’s a specific need for a patient, we have access to the best care available.”

In its first year, from August 2023 through June 2024, staff conducted nearly 1,700 medical visits for students and an additional 469 for Alvernia staff, according to Middleton.

“It’s a very convenient service for employees,” Murphy added. “If they’re sick or want to change their primary care to us, they can do that. We’re literally a stone’s throw from where they work, and they can even bring their children.”

The staff, which includes Murphy, a trained family physician who previously worked in private practice, a physician associate, a nurse, a psychologist and three additional licensed mental health counselors, is committed to delivering patientcentered care to students and employees at Alvernia.

“Sometimes that looks a lot like primary care,” Murphy said, “and sometimes it looks like urgent care.”

In addition, the healthcare providers emphasize wellness education and prevention. To that end, Penn Medicine hosts events to educate the campus community on various healthcare topics. Danielle Dominik, a graduate assistant and student pursuing a degree in clinical mental health and counseling at Alvernia, has organized several programs on topics such as anxiety and stress reduction, alcohol education and healthy relationships, among others. On a lighter note, just before finals in the spring, students were invited to enjoy quality downtime with some very special guests: baby kangaroos.

“It was so sweet to see some of these football players coming by and just melting as they were holding these babies,” recalled Middleton.

Dressing a Need

A successful winter clothing drive quickly led to the creation of Career Closet, a year-round professional clothing repository galvanized by the university’s Franciscan mission and culture of care.

By Sarah Matarella

Click here to watch students discuss how the Career Closet benefits them.

As finals week approached during the fall 2023 semester, the Division of Student Affairs sent out a call for donations to host its first winter clothing drive.

Alvernia’s faculty and staff responded in force. Coats, longsleeved attire, scarves, hats and gloves filled clothing racks and tables in the admissions suite hallway.

The racks and tables were empty within a week. Students of all ages tried on clothing and went home with it, free of charge. Some got clothing for their children.

This work sits close to the heart of Alvernia’s Executive Director of Community Standards Kimberly Lemon, Ed.D.

“That was me, 100 percent,” Lemon recalled. “I completed all my degrees as an adult and a single parent. It would have been great if the universities that I attended had assistance for students in need because sometimes it’s just a one-time need. You can’t afford a winter coat, your car breaks down, you get a flat tire and then you’re in panic mode. Supporting students through this culture of care is important to me.”

The clothing drive’s success demonstrated a need for clothing in the Alvernia community. Outside of winter clothing, students need access to professional attire year-round for their interviews, jobs, presentations and internships. That can add up when purchased at retail prices. Plus, some students do not have transportation to get to those stores or to purchase clothing online for an interview the following day.

This need sparked action. During the following semester, the Career Closet was born. Akin to the winter clothing drive, the offerings are free for students and became a natural extension of Alvernia’s culture of care. But in this case, it runs throughout the year.

“It just felt like the natural next step,” said Mary-Alice Ozechoski, M.A., senior vice president of enrollment management and student affairs. “Our students know they need professional clothing but, for various reasons, may not have the means to acquire them. The ways that we make the path

Dressing a Need

“I found three nice blazers and some nice heels, and I have an interview coming up so I can use them for that and possibly for some conferences as well.”

— Alettya Zalapa-Alonso ’24

Alvernia’s Career Closet offers hand-picked, professional clothing of all sizes.

through college easier for students means that these barriers are lifted, and their stress level is reduced so that they can be a part of the community in a more robust way.”

Conveniently located on the first floor of the Campus Commons, the closet offers hand-picked, professional clothing of all sizes. When sizes run low, students are given gift cards for the local CommunityAid thrift store to find the items they need.

“I found three nice blazers and some nice heels,” said Alettya Zalapa-Alonso ’24. “I have an interview coming up so I can use them for that and possibly for some conferences as well. I was just strolling by when I saw it.”

Through the partnership with CommunityAid, Alvernia also receives 11 to 13 cents per pound of clothing donated at any thrift store location when the donor mentions Alvernia. CommunityAid sends a quarterly check that is then used to purchase additional clothing and gift cards.

“It’s this wonderful symbiotic relationship,” Lemon said. “They help us and we help them. People within the Alvernia community — alumni, family, friends and others — donate their unwanted goods to CommunityAid and our students benefit from the Career Closet.”

The impact does not stop there, though. The Division of Student Affairs is expanding the culture of care to include additional support services for students along with additional training for faculty and staff to better support the changing needs of today’s students.

“I believe in the transformative power of higher education,” Lemon said. “However, access to it is not equitable. Anything we can do to support students, to get them over the finish line and help them to achieve their goals will change their lives.”

Despite its success, Career Closet hasn’t replaced the push to collect winter clothing. Donations are being accepted for the 2024 drive, which will commence in the admissions suite hallway starting November 11.

A Comeback

Story

The Create Your Comeback campaign focuses on the grit and determination of Alvernia’s adult students, who juggle the responsibilities of full-time employment, raising families and serving their communities while working toward their degrees.

By Alli Blair-Snyder

Click here to watch Nicole ReeserMazur’s comeback story.

A“These students have the drive and unique determination to make their comeback and create impactful change for their communities, and we feel that it is vitally important that we recognize their commitment and accomplishments.”

— Gaetan Giannini, Ed.D.

lways a special occasion, Alvernia’s annual Honors Convocation resonated with an even deeper sense of triumph and inspiration for the university’s adult and graduate students this year.

At the pre-commencement event in May, the first group of students to receive the Create Your Comeback Award for Resiliency and Excellence in Graduate and Adult Education crossed the stage. The award recognizes bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral students who demonstrated resilience and excellence, using education as a transformative tool to overcome life’s challenges and setbacks.

The essence of the Create Your Comeback Award lies in its celebration of individuals who faced significant adversities yet harnessed the power of education to create a positive change in their lives and communities. The comeback concept was coined by Gaetan Giannini, Ed.D., Alvernia’s vice president of Graduate and Adult Education, to draw in the unique population the department serves. It was brought to life by the university’s Office of Marketing and Communications through its awardwinning “Create Your Comeback” storytelling campaign.

“We believe it’s time for higher education to focus on the growing population of adults with past college experience but no degree,” Giannini said. “These students have the drive and unique determination to make their comeback and create impactful change for their communities, and we feel that it

is vitally important that we recognize their commitment and accomplishments. This is the best collegiate campaign I’ve been involved with in my career. It is so rewarding to have students come up to us to say they are ready to make their comeback.”

Whether adult students are coming back to complete a bachelor’s degree, pursue a master’s degree or earn a doctorate, their paths are rarely linear.

The Create Your Comeback Award was a natural progression to follow, developed to formally honor the students who embody that phrase as they complete their degrees.

Returning to academia after many years, Tonee DelValle completed her Bachelor of Arts in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment while balancing family commitments and a full-time career.

“The words ‘create your comeback’ are powerful and motivational as I was originally on the fence about returning to school,” said DelValle, one of the inaugural award winners. “There were so many factors to consider as a mother, a wife and full-time employee. These encouraging words were the words I needed to take my chance, make it happen and create the comeback I deserve. Finally looking forward to achieving my education goal, and not allowing my fear to consume me, creating my comeback gave me that extra push to prove to myself I had it all along.”

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Create Your Comeback Award recipient Tonee DelValle shakes President Fitzgerald’s hand at Honors Convocation.

While pursuing a Ph.D. in Leadership, Nicole Reeser-Mazur made the difficult decision to put her studies on hold after suffering a brain aneurysm. After months of recovery, she told herself she needed to finish things.

“My personal and professional commitment motivated me to seek and achieve my educational goals,” she said. “It was not easy. I worked full-time and part-time positions to live while pursuing my degrees. Being a single mother motivated me to do my best for myself and my children. The sacrifices are truly worth the commitment. Education is the foundation that supports all occupations.”

Dzemal Crnkic’s story is equally inspiring. As a profoundly dedicated father and devoted imam, Crnkic has been a pillar of support for the Bosnian immigrant community. When his children faced a serious health diagnosis, Crnkic’s decision to pause his Ph.D. in Leadership program during moments of crisis reflected his unwavering dedication to his family and his sense of duty.

Crnkic credited his personal growth within the Alvernia community, explaining it “was vital for me in making a comeback and finishing my degree. Dr. Spencer Stober, my dissertation chair, was always there for me and encouraged me when things got tough. Without his support, I could not come to the dissertation stage. We all encounter challenges in life. For me, the phrase ‘create your comeback’ underscores the significance of my personal resilience and the ability to

“The sacrifices are truly worth the commitment. Education is the foundation that supports all occupations.”

— Nicole Reeser-Mazur

bounce back from difficulties through active engagement in the journey of growth and improvement.”

Each adult student at Alvernia illustrates that education is not just a degree, it’s a journey of personal growth, resilience and empowerment. The Create Your Comeback Award will remain a reminder for each of the awardees and serve as inspiration for those still continuing their educational journey.

Click here to watch all of Alvernia’s Comeback Stories.

Create Your Comeback Award recipient Nicole Reeser-Mazur.

Create Your Comeback Award recipient Dzemal Crnkic.

‘It All Goes Back to Giving Back’

Christopher deGruchy’s career as a business leader and entrepreneur spans diverse industries. His curiosity, love of learning, strong work ethic and commitment to philanthropy have led to his success in business and in life.

By Claire Curry

‘It

A“The scholarship program is special to me because the students are smart but just don’t have the financial ability to go to college.”

—Christopher deGruchy ’93 MBA ’05

fter Sgt. Christopher deGruchy ’93 MBA ’05 returned from a four-year tour in the U.S. Army, the Philadelphia native enrolled at Alvernia to pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting.

Committed to continuing his education after high school, deGruchy studied while he served, accruing college credits wherever he was stationed, from Alabama to Europe to California. After his Honorable Discharge and move to Berks County he attended Alvernia at night — an opportunity made possible by the medical device manufacturer where he worked by day, which helped fund his higher education. He worked full time in the accounting department while single-parenting his 2-year-old daughter for a few years. A decade after receiving his bachelor’s degree, he returned to earn an MBA.

A volunteer at the March of Dimes while an undergraduate, deGruchy became a dedicated philanthropist. Today, he contributes generously to several organizations close to his heart, including Alvernia’s Hope Fund and Reading Collegiate Scholars

Program. More recently, he became involved with the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, working with engineering students on product development projects and sharing his business experience with a seminar he taught on mergers and acquisitions.

“My path with charitable giving peaked in 2022 when my wife and I created the deGruchy Charitable Fund,” he said. “The mission of the fund is to invest in local programs that provide for the health, education and character development of children.”

The primary charities the fund supports are the Muscular Dystrophy Association; Berks Nature, which provides scholarships for children to attend their nature summer camps; Helping Harvest with their Weekender Program of healthy meals for children in need; the John Paul II Center for Special Learning in Shillington; Reading Musical Foundation and the Reading Collegiate Scholars Program, which helps high school students attend Alvernia.

“The scholarship program is special to me because the

Chris deGruchy has carried forward his father’s legacy as a dedicated caretaker of a converted 10-acre arboretum with more than 100 species of trees and plants.

students are smart but just don’t have the financial ability to go to college,” he said. “I didn’t have any money but found a job that paid for it, which is the only way I was able to afford it.”

From Mushrooms to Metal

Post-graduation, deGruchy worked his way up in leadership roles across wide-ranging industries.

After several years at the medical device manufacturer, he sought new career opportunities. In the late 1990s, Californiabased Monterey Mushrooms hired deGruchy to help the company expand into the northeast market.

“I didn’t know a thing about mushrooms, but I accepted the challenge as the position offered was a stepping stone in my career path,” deGruchy said. “Pennsylvania is known as the mushroom capital of the U.S. There were concentrations of mom-and-pop mushroom farms run mostly by Italian families from Kennett Square through Berks County and out to Pittsburgh.”

In Berks, he worked with the mom-and-pop farms to join Monterey Mushrooms. His efforts were successful, and he ultimately was promoted to run the operation. During this time he worked with another local mushroom supplier to create a joint venture that solely grew portobello mushrooms.

Despite his limited knowledge of mushroom farming, deGruchy recognized that the business strategies and principles he learned while earning his MBA at Alvernia directly applied to his job. Always up for a challenge, deGruchy started thinking about his next move after completing his MBA: business ownership.

He began exploring potential opportunities and pursued one that landed him at the helm of Cast Rite Metal Company, an aluminum sand casting foundry that manufactures parts for machinery and equipment used in more than a dozen industries. His partner, Brian Kelley, is vice president of sales while deGruchy serves as general manager. In the 14 years the duo has overseen the business, they’ve tripled its size and expanded geographically, with hundreds of clients from Florida to Massachusetts, and a few in Canada and Mexico.

Located in Birdsboro, the company is just 20 minutes from the 10-acre arboretum where deGruchy lives with his wife of 32 years, Jane. Here they enjoy sharing the sprawling grounds with their family, friends and members of the community.

Chris deGruchy’s property includes a stocked pond, meadows and gardens that yield blueberries, pawpaws, Asian pears and apples.

“When my father retired at 67, he bought an old horse farm and converted it into an arboretum with more than 100 species of trees and plants,” deGruchy explained, adding that although his dad loved the outdoors, he spent his career running an insurance agency. “When he retired, he followed his dream. He went to Penn State Berks to learn about horticulture while creating the arboretum. Additionally, he grew kiwi, peaches, apples, pears, blueberries and chestnuts, to name a few.”

The younger deGruchy has carried forward his father’s legacy as a dedicated caretaker of the property, which includes a halfacre stocked pond, vast meadows and gardens that continue to yield blueberries, pawpaws, Asian pears and apples abundantly, with plenty to share with the local community. Every year, the deGruchys invite students from the John Paul II Center to visit and pick fruit, and they employ local high school students to help with upkeep. They also recently began raising honeybees.

“It all goes back to giving back,” he said. “Which is what you learn at Alvernia.”

Formula

By Nikki M. Murry

Uyen “Winnie” Nguyen ’15 and her husband opened three businesses in West Reading since 2022, bringing food and drink from different parts of the world to Berks residents.

Uyen “Winnie” Nguyen ’15 has quickly become a fixture in the West Reading business community.

She and her husband, Alex Alfaro, opened three businesses in the borough since 2022: Takkii Ramen on North Sixth Avenue, and Winnie Tea Bar and Winnie Mochi on Penn Avenue. They also own a second Winnie Tea Bar site in Muhlenberg Township, as well as out-ofstate locations in Florida and Indiana.

Part of the success of all the businesses, the Muhlenberg High School and Alvernia alumna said, is in their uniqueness, bringing different parts of the world to Berks residents.

“Takkii has traditional and authentic Japanese food, and we highlight anime, even hosting anime-themed nights,” Nguyen said. “The Tea Bar is a brand I created from my love of Taiwanese bubble teas (tea accompanied by chewy tapioca balls). They are our creations made through trial and error. And Winnie Mochi offers Korean wings, corn dogs and Vietnamese coffee. They are pieces of the world.”

Nguyen said she always worked two to three jobs while she was in school. They ran the gamut from nail salon technician (she’s licensed) to bartender (she’s licensed for that, too) to CNA work. Before enrolling at Alvernia, Nguyen earned her certification at Reading Area Community College to be a nurse’s aide. After completing coursework at Alvernia and earning her degree in biochemistry with a minor in Spanish, she landed a job in the healthcare field. Both she and Alfaro were working at Reading Hospital when Takkii Ramen in West Reading was born.

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West Reading is golden for former Wolves

The three West Reading businesses owned by Alvernia alumna Uyen Nguyen are far from the borough’s only connection to the university. In fact, there are Golden Wolves aplenty along Penn Avenue, West Reading’s business corridor.

The Bar Cart

Alumna: Kacie Griffith ’05

Address: 713 Penn Ave.

Website: thebarcartpa.com

Description: Owned by husband and wife Chris and Kacie Griffith, the Bar Cart is a combination tasting room and liquor store. It uses products from craft vendors throughout Pennsylvania along with fresh ingredients to serve an ever-rotating menu of upscale drinks.

Legacy Cigar Lounge

Alumnus: Rick Turner ’09 (Turner’s wife, Adrean, is an Alvernia adjunct professor who received the Alvernia University Women’s Council’s Bernardine Legacy Award in 2021.)

Address: 559 Penn Ave.

Website: legacycigarpa.com

Description: Cigars are certainly the focus of this establishment, but along with a plethora from which to choose, patrons can enjoy top-shelf spirits, televisions, game tables, live music and more.

Nonno Alby’s

Alumnus: Massimo Grande ‘07

Address: 701 Penn Ave.

Website: nonnoalbyswoodfire.com

Description: West Reading’s first wood-oven Neapolitan restaurant has become a popular eatery known for its gourmet-style dishes — personal pizzas, burgers and wood-oven-fired wings — that incorporate high-quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella made on-site, prosciutto, sopressata and imported olives and cheeses.

In addition, Massimo Grande plans to open another restaurant catty-corner to his first establishment. In June, the owner of Say Cheese! Restaurant announced that the fixture at 600 Penn Avenue was closing. Grande and his three co-owners purchased its assets, according to a statement posted on the Say Cheese! Facebook page.

To learn more about these establishments and dozens of others founded by Alvernia alumni across the country, visit the Alvernia Alumni Business Directory at alvernia.edu/alumni/alvernia-alumni-business-directory.

Click here to watch Fox 29 Philadelphia's visit to these businesses.

While meeting with a vendor in New York City, she had a random encounter with the owner of the Takkii Ramen franchise, who asked if she wanted to open a location. Realizing Berks didn’t have any established ramen locations at the time, Nguyen and her husband grew more intrigued by the possibility, later visiting a location in Bethlehem. Then, a spot opened on North Sixth Avenue in West Reading. A bonus: Most recently the site for El Morro Cafe was already outfitted to be an eatery. And her uncle was the property’s landlord. One might say it was kismet.

Though she didn’t major in business while at Alvernia, Nguyen says her

degrees greatly contributed to her new career path as an entrepreneur.

“The general studies curriculum enhanced my daily skill set,” she said. “For instance, prior to attending Alvernia, my English and presentation skills were lacking. I have learned effective communication techniques and gained the confidence to present and express myself clearly. As a business owner, I wear many hats, and I continue to apply my skills in math and accounting to stay organized with bookkeeping, taxes and payroll. I am truly grateful for my decision to pursue Spanish as a minor, as it has significantly enhanced my ability to communicate and connect with both staff

and customers. This skill allows me to engage with a more diverse audience.”

Uyen and Alfaro opened Takkii Ramen in early 2022 while Uyen was eight months pregnant with her third child. But the bubble tea dream remained. And customers at Takkii Ramen wanted more varieties of the drink.

In March 2023, after the pair had made back most of their investment in Takkii Ramen, they took the plunge on Winnie Tea Bar, amicably parting ways with Reading Hospital. Six months later, the Muhlenberg location opened. Winnie Mochi joined the family in May 2024.

“I had a vision, and you only live once,” Nguyen said. “We believed!”

Top left: Takkii Ramen on North Sixth Avenue features traditional and authentic Japanese food. Above: Winnie Tea Bar on Penn Avenue features Taiwanese bubble teas (tea accompanied by chewy tapioca balls). Left lower: Winnie Mochi offers Korean wings, corn dogs and Vietnamese coffee.

Institute for award-winning methodology finds new home with Alvernia community

Award-winning institute Total Experience Learning® (“TExpL”) has joined the Alvernia community, extending the university’s commitment to practical learning and meeting learners where they are.

“Alvernia University is a natural partner as we look toward the future,” said founder Adelle Schade, Ph.D. “With its focus on innovation and its burgeoning campus-community ecosystem, coupled with its innovative, experiential-based approach to learning, Alvernia University will build on our strong reputation and enhance our area partnerships.”

programming and the shared impact it will bring to the communities we serve.”

Total Experience has partnered with more than 80 organizations, including businesses, industry groups and foundations. Through this approach, TExpL®certified educators integrate the methodology in classrooms across Berks. In recent years, the program has also formed partnerships in surrounding counties and across the U.S.

Adelle Schade, Ph.D.

TExpL® is a methodology that encourages interdisciplinary learning through student-led experiences, resulting in measurable success. Educators are trained in solutions-driven philosophies, empowering them to implement project-management techniques in their classrooms and personalize their teaching practices. Student-focused programs encourage self-directed research projects across disciplines.

“Innovative partnerships continue to be at heart of our recent growth and recognition as a regional comprehensive university,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “The combined strengths of our partnership networks positions us to support TExpL’s plans for expansion of its inventive, award-winning

The institute’s operations are housed in the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, Alvernia’s 250,000-square-foot living-learning facility in downtown Reading. Students and educators enrolled in dual-enrollment, after-school or certificate programs will now take courses on Alvernia’s campus. The institute will also form a partnership with the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship at Drexel University.

TExpL® will complement Alvernia’s robust experiential learning offerings and communityfocused initiatives. The university has modeled how academic institutions can engage with business leaders to positively impact communities, notably through its Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement and O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.

ALVERNIA RECOGNIZED FOR MULTIPLE HONORS

Alvernia University earned national endorsements as a College of Distinction (COD) for the fifth consecutive year and was ranked among Money Magazine’s 2024 Best Colleges for the second straight year.

The university was listed among the 2024-2025, Catholic and Pennsylvania COD categories along with six others: equity and inclusion, nursing, education, business, military support and career development. Unlike traditional ranking systems based on numerical data, its rigorous selection process involves extensive research and detailed interviews with the institutions, accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes.

Money also ranked Alvernia among 745 other colleges using methodology that assesses graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid packages, alumni salaries and more.

Alvernia earned the 2024 Best National University designation by U.S. News & World Report after climbing 21 spots in the rankings to be among the top 300 national universities. This marked the fifth consecutive year that Alvernia was among the colleges and universities in the top tier of its designation. Additionally, for the first time in university history, Alvernia was recognized as a Top 100 university for social mobility. Alvernia climbed 55 spots, ranking 84 out of 443 in the social mobility indicator, which measures the graduation rate of Pell Grant recipients.

Alvernia is the only institution in Berks County to earn the Professional/Doctoral University designation by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education due to the number of professional graduate program offerings and graduates, and the university’s commitment to research.

Alvernia was also recognized as the Berks County college or university in the 2024 People’s Choice Who’s Who in Business listing for the fifth consecutive year and for the first time in the adult continuing education category.

ON CAMPUS

PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND MICROBANKING IN READING

Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and Community First Fund expanded their microbanking partnership in Reading. The O’Pake Institute and its Fellows program will provide technical assistance and funding education to current and new business owners to provide equitable access to microloans.

The O’Pake Institute’s Financial Lending and Innovation Collaborative (FLIC) has provided more than $100,000 in microgrant funding to over 25 local businesses through partnerships with financial institutions, foundations and private donors. The partnership with Community First Fund allows Alvernia to expand these efforts in a unique delivery that includes student experiential learning as well as financing, investment and mentoring for rising entrepreneurs.

Over the last four years, Alvernia has nearly doubled the O’Pake Institute’s goal of engaging 50 students in providing startup services to local businesses through the SPARK Business Incubator.

RIDLEY RECEIVES AWARD AT 2024 VENTURE IDOL

Rodney S. Ridley Sr., Ph.D., RTTP, Alvernia’s vice president of research, economic development and strategic initiatives, received the Frederick J. Beste III Partnership Award at the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeast PA (BFTP/NEP) Venture Idol 2024 Innovation Awards. Ridley earned the award for his commitment to enhancing the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through the university’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by BFTP as one of their long-term partners and receive the Frederick J. Beste Partnership Award,” said Ridley. “BFTP/NEP is a critical partner and plays a pivotal role in serving as the inspiration for our operational models.”

Alum promoted to major by veteran-alum aunt at newly revamped Veterans Center

When Alvernia University alum and United States Army Captain Leon I. Geiger ’13, M.A. ’23 found out he was being promoted to major, the Berks County native chose the university’s newly revamped Veterans Center in Bernardine Hall to be the location where it took place. He also chose his aunt, Alvernia Alum Col. Deborah Q. Geiger ’83, to promote him.

Maj. Geiger’s promotion ceremony in June marked a historic moment for the university and the Veterans Center as it was the first of its kind. It also fell on Flag Day and the 249th anniversary of the United States Army.

“It’s a full circle event. Leon is being promoted to Major and he started his career here at Alvernia and this is where I started my career as a military police officer,” said Col. Geiger, who received her bachelor of science in criminal justice administration in 1983 and Alvernia’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2012. She also established the Saint Ignatius Award presented annually to a graduating student veteran who exemplifies selfless service, leadership, compassion, strong moral courage and commitment to excellence. Her nephew received the award at the 2023 Honors Convocation ceremony ahead of commencement.

Maj. Geiger’s wife, Caitlyn Floyd Geiger, and their three sons — Adrian, Logan and Jon — traveled from West Virginia to celebrate his prestigious promotion along with the Alvernia community.

“I chose Alvernia as the place for my promotion because of the close ties to my family and the academic experiences I had,” said Maj. Geiger. “I’m humbled and honored to be able to do this on the Army’s birthday. It’s just another time we get to remember soldiers for what they’ve done in the past and in the present. I can’t say enough about how much I appreciate all soldiers that have been under me and have allowed me to progress into this position, and all the leaders, past and current that I’ve had who gave me the opportunity that I have.”

Maj. Geiger graduated as a member of Alvernia’s Class of 2023 with a Master of Arts in

U.S. Army Captain Leon I. Geiger at his promotion ceremony with his wife, Caitlyn, and three sons Adrian, Logan and Jon.

Leadership. He also received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2013 as an ROTC Scholarship recipient.

Earlier in the year, Alvernia earned a national endorsement in military support from Colleges of Distinction (COD), an advocate for institutions whose program experiences are grounded in a philosophy of engagement, teaching, community and outcomes.

Alvernia’s Veterans Center raises awareness about what is endured and accomplished by those who serve our country while providing them with an environment that assists them with the transition into higher education. The center provides anyone with ties to (or an interest in) the military with the resources, support and advocacy necessary to succeed academically, personally and professionally without membership fees or dues.

To earn a distinction in military support, Alvernia must offer comprehensive educational benefits, a military and veterans affairs team, flexible and accessible educational options, faculty training, campus activities specific to veterans, and community support. The expansion of the Veterans Center’s location increases the capacity for providing resources and personalized support to veteran students.

Alvernia celebrates 10th anniversary of groundbreaking higher-ed program

Alvernia’s Reading Collegiate Scholars Program (RCSP) celebrated 10 years of assisting under-represented and first-generation students from the City of Reading and, more recently, Berks County with life-changing opportunities to attend and succeed in college through fouryear, tuition scholarships and programming.

“We are immensely proud of the success of the Reading Collegiate Scholars program and our scholars’ accomplishments,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “This transformational program provides opportunities which lead to graduates working in needed jobs and making their lives right here in Berks County. Graduates who, were it not for the program, might have never been able to attend college.”

Since its founding by President Emeritus Thomas F. Flynn, RCSP has admitted 156 scholars, including the 66 students representing 13 Berks County school districts currently in the program. There have been 50 graduates. The scholars’ cumulative GPA is 3.0. Current scholars have provided nearly 1,400 hours of community service and are active in various student organizations, sports teams, clubs, internships and honor societies.

RCSP was designed to serve students from low income and first-generation backgrounds, providing the opportunity to attend a private university and a comprehensive support plan to assist in student success. The support plan

FOUR NEW TRUSTEES APPOINTED TO BOARD

Alvernia University announced the appointment of Charles F. Barbera, MBA ‘01, MD; Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D.; Karen Piraino; and Patrick Witmer, MPA to the university’s board of trustees.

Barbera is President and CEO of Reading Hospital, becoming the first physician to hold the position in the hospital’s 150-year history. He returns as an Alvernia trustee after serving on the board from 2014-2022. Gates’ distinguished career in higher education includes her position as provost and senior vice president for academic and student affairs for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System.

includes the Bridge Program, which aids in the transition from high school to college by providing academic resources, the opportunity to meet various faculty and staff across campus and meet other scholars and form relationships before the semester starts.

“The RCSP Scholarship is probably one of the best things to happen to me because my goal was to attend and graduate college,” said Justin Abreu-Castro ‘21, RCSP alum and senior auditor at Customers Bank. “I had no means to afford tuition at Alvernia, so financially it was a tremendous relief.”

Beyond scholarships, scholars interested in global study or service receive support from the recently established Jerry Greiner Endowment.

With nearly 25 years of leadership experience across industries such as healthcare, life sciences, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing, Piraino will play a pivotal role in supporting the university’s mission to prepare students for successful careers through experiential learning and industry partnerships.

Witmer is the corporate vice president for corporate affairs and communications at B. Braun Medical Inc., where he oversees government relations, external affairs and corporate communications in North America.

Alvernia also acknowledged the valued service and commitment of departing board members Stephen Najarian, Paul Trunk, and John P. Weidenhammer.

Since its founding by President Emeritus Thomas F. Flynn, Reading Collegiate Scholars Program has admitted 156 scholars. There have been 50 graduates.

From left: David W. Patti, Thomas F. Flynn, Ph.D.; Justin Abreu-Castro ‘21; Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.

Charles F. Barbera, MBA ‘01, MD

Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D.

Karen Piraino Patrick Witmer, MPA

ON CAMPUS

FOUNDATION GRANT EXPANDS NURSING SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Alvernia recently marked the opening of the John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing.

The Neag Foundation in January awarded Alvernia a $1 million grant to expand the Carole Neag Nursing Scholarship Fund, aiming to enhance its efforts in meeting the nursing workforce needs of the region.

The funds will be added to the existing Carole Neag Nursing Scholarship Fund endowment, established in 2016 through the generosity of Ray and Carole Neag. The expansion is designed to increase financial aid support, enrollment and retention in Alvernia’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

To achieve these goals, the university plans to increase the minimum number of four-year Neag Nursing Scholarship Fund recipients from four students per year to at least 10 by 2028.

WYOMISSING FOUNDATION PLEDGES $300,000 GRANT

The Wyomissing Foundation in January pledged a $300,000 grant to fund Alvernia’s collaborative venture with Berks Community Health Center (BCHC) to address the increased need for primary care services in downtown Reading by establishing a new state-of-the-art, comprehensive health center location in the former American House on 354 Penn Street.

Reading residents are at risk of negative health outcomes due to elevated levels of poverty, language and cultural barriers, and limited access to primary care services.

Physician Associate program faculty members making a difference with volunteer work in Philadelphia

Physician Associate faculty members provide wound care on the streets of Philadelphia.

Alvernia’s Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies program just welcomed its first cohort, but two of its faculty members have already been making a difference in the region.

Director of Outreach & Experiential Learning Stephanie Pillai, MPAS, MS, PA-C and Director of Curriculum Innovation & Program Assessment Joy Henderson, MMS, PA-C practice per diem at Eagleville Hospital, an inpatient drug and alcohol detoxification and rehabilitation facility just outside of Philadelphia in Montgomery County.

In June, they also began volunteering with addiction consultant company Parkhill Recovery Solutions, LLC, providing wound care on the streets in the Kensington area of Philadelphia. Founder Brian Parkhill was recently interviewed by CNN and HBO about his work.

“It’s hard to describe the scenes in Kensington, and until you see it for yourself, you don’t realize how devasting it is,” Pillai said. “Each of those people is someone’s mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter, or cousin and they need help.”

The work is personal for Pillai.

“I lost a close family member to a fentanyl overdose in 2017,” she said. “He was actively trying to get treatment and help in his recovery process, but resources were limited. I witnessed firsthand how addiction is not as easy as ‘just quitting.’ My family was torn apart because of the addiction.”

To help address the need for assistance, the Physician Associate program is adding

an addiction medicine course to its curriculum. According to Pillai, addiction medicine in medical and PA school usually consists of a single lecture. But Alvernia PA students will have more than 14 hours of lecture and hands-on skills sessions by the time they graduate, preparing them to combat substance-use disorders.

“In 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated over 107,000 people died due to overdose, with racial/ethnic minority groups at greatest risk,” Henderson said. “Barriers such as fear of being stigmatized or judged, financial constraints, access to care and fear of withdrawal often prevent individuals with addiction from seeking professional healthcare, even in the most dire circumstances. Working per diem at Eagleville Hospital only gave me a glimpse of the drug epidemic and its effects. Witnessing the drug epidemic firsthand in Kensington was and continues to be an eye-opening experience.”

In related news, Alvernia’s Physician Associate program was granted Accreditation-Provisional status by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARCPA). Accreditation-Provisional is granted when the plans and resource allocation of a proposed program appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet ARC-PA standards.

Alvernia offers two pathways to obtain a Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies: a Bio-PA (3+2) accelerated track and a traditional post-baccalaureate track. The traditional post-baccalaureate track welcomed its first class in August.

“We are excited to welcome our inaugural class and contribute to the local healthcare workforce needs in our community by providing them with well-prepared and interdisciplinary trained graduates,” said PA Program Director Renee Langstaff, MSPAS, PA-C, who recently was invited to sit on the Peer Review Committee for the American College of Cardiology/ American Heart Association Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults.

Panel of mothers urges students to take stand against hazing rituals

Alvernia in January hosted the Hazing Stops Here: Hazing Prevention Panel featuring antihazing advocates and mothers Evelyn Piazza, Lianne Kowiak and Rae Ann Gruver who lost their sons due to the unlawful rituals.

Student athletes, coaches and athletic staff were required to attend while all students, faculty and staff were invited to the panel.

The event began with Piazza, Kowiak and Gruver discussing the tragic details of their families’ experiences with hazing.

“They kept checking his pulse and breathing,” Gruver recounted. “If you are ever checking someone’s pulse or breathing, you should be calling 911. No one called 911, which very much could have saved Max’s life that night, and he died on that couch.”

After sharing their stories, Kowiak defined the various types of hazing and the cycle of abuse that occurs, Piazza shared the various laws surrounding hazing in the United States and Gruver shared the aftermath that follows hazing including its immediate and long-term effects and impact. The three also discussed their own contributions to anti-hazing legislature and advocacy across the nation.

“Hazing is now a felony in 16 states and it’s because in those states, there was death first,” Piazza said in reference to the state’s Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law, named after her son. “We did get the law changed here in Pennsylvania unfortunately after Tim’s death. But it is now a felony here. We also have federal legislations that we are pushing including the Stop Campus Hazing Act.”

The Stop Campus Hazing Act was put in place to improve hazing reporting by requiring colleges to include hazing incidents in their annual security report, prevent hazing by establishing campus-wide, research-based hazing education and prevention programs; and to help students and their parents make informed decisions about joining organizations on campus by requiring colleges to publish on their websites the institution’s hazing prevention policies and the organizations that have violated them.

“The willingness of these women to share their unfathomable loss is a remarkable gift, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to share it with our student-athletes and student leaders with the hope of preventing any parent from ever having to go through what they did,” said Associate Vice President for Athletics Bill Stiles.

PROVOST DISCUSSES ACCREDITATION ON NATIONAL PODCAST

As the value of higher education continues to come under scrutiny, accreditation is increasingly becoming one of the critical topics in higher education. With Alvernia University in the middle of its latest review, the 2025 Middle States Self-Study, one of its leaders joined the podcasting world to share her expertise with a national audience.

Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., ATC/L, provost and senior vice president, co-hosted over 20 episodes of Accreditation Insights, an offshoot of the highereducation-focused EdUp Experience Podcast, with longtime colleague Dr. Laurie Shanderson, owner of Accreditation Insights and the former chancellor of Methodist College.

Kahanov also participated in webinars for GrayDI, providers of program evaluation systems for higher education, discussing how to make data-informed decisions to drive program development and enrollment.

CONFERENCE SHOWCASES THE FUTURE OF WORK

Alvernia and the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) hosted the second annual College of Business, Communication, and Leadership (CBCL): Because You Matter Conference at the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne in April, drawing over 200 participants.

“The Future of Work” included sessions on entrepreneurship, leadership, podcasting, AI, community journalism, sustainability, publishing and social media marketing. The conference came on the heels of Alvernia’s Header School of Business earning a national endorsement from Colleges of Distinction (COD), an online platform that aids college-bound students in the college decision process and honors colleges and universities for their excellence.

From left: Lianne Kowiak, Evelyn Piazza and Rae Ann Gruver.

Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., ATC/L

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IN ACTION

Students, alums spend week in Canada at sustainable eco-retreat

Seven Alvernia University students and alumni studied abroad through the Sustainability Immersion Program in Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada. The oneweek group-learning program was developed and facilitated by the Sustainable Misfits, a nonprofit organization founded by five Alvernia alumni. The program aims to guide young adults on effectively cultivating a caring, resilient community of people who positively impact others and the environment.

“Sustainable Misfits takes a holistic approach to learning,” said Alicia Sprow, Ph.D., Alvernia’s associate director of sustainability and Sustainable Misfits executive director. “What I love about this trip and Sustainable Misfits is that it aligns with the values and goals of Alvernia and our Office of Institutional Sustainability. The foundation that the five founders gained from being at Alvernia helped to form the essence of Sustainable Misfits. I use this same model with our students at the EcoHouse, in my classes and with our student clubs.”

The students stay at Castalia Marsh Retreat, owned by retired sea captain James Bates, complete with tiny homes, composting toilets, recycled items that have been artfully built into the structures, and a central gathering place to come together for meals and conversation. They tour the island to

gain a better understanding of the community and industries on which they rely. Students work alongside community members and organizations including MJ Edwards, curator/ director of the Grand Manan Museum, on service projects and planning discussions.

Students merge social work, advocacy in Harrisburg

Students in the Social Work Social Policy Class, taught by Professor Lelinna Hinh, took a day trip to Harrisburg for the National Association of Social Work (NASW) Legislation, Education and Advocacy Day (LEAD) to gain actionable insights about how social work and policy advocacy intersect.

“I wanted to make sure my students attended this event to provide them with a firsthand understanding of the policymaking process and its impact on the communities they will serve in the future,” Hinh said. “Experiencing this process in person offers insights into how policy directly influences their work and everyday lives. Taking them on this trip was essential in broadening their comprehension of the legislative world.”

This experience helped prepare social work students to navigate the complexities of policymaking and serve as advocates for their industry. Hinh brought students to the

capital to talk to state representatives and senators about policies that affect the industry and the importance of social workers. During the visit, the class met with State Rep. Manuel Guzman and State Sen. Judy Schwank’s legislation coordinator, Tess Hoffertt. Guzman gave students a tour of the house floor and capital building while discussing the importance of the Social Work Licensure Compact initiative. Hoffertt answered questions about the day-to-day life working in state government and Sen. Schwank’s role and responsibilities.

Students explore industries, meet alums in New York City

Business, political science, communication and digital media marketing students traveled to New York City to meet with successful alumni and immerse themselves in experiential learning opportunities. The trip was organized by professors Jodi Radosh, Ph.D.; Jane Brooker, Ph.D., MBA; and Victoria Williams, Ph.D.

Business majors visited industry-leading firms KPMG and SCOR, where they gained insights into financial practices and risk management strategies. Political science students delved into international diplomacy while visiting the United Nations headquarters and Security Council chamber. Communication and digital media marketing students met with alumna Gabby Valenti ’15, Fox News producer and booker, and Brian Nerney

’12, account manager at Paramount Advertising, to experience the world of media and broadcasting.

By venturing beyond the classroom and into the busy work environment of New York City, students gained practical insights and developed connections that enhanced their academic and professional endeavors.

O’Pake Fellows Program graduates 21 as members

Twenty-one O’Pake Fellows graduated as members of Alvernia University’s Class of 2024 and presented their final reflections regarding the experiential learning opportunities and professional development gleaned from the O’Pake Fellows Program. The O’Pake Fellows Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on distinctive experiential learning opportunities. Students of high academic standing from diverse majors and backgrounds work directly with regional entrepreneurs, small business owners, faculty researchers and industry leaders.

Graduating Fellows presented highlights and deliverables from their experience, including work they did for local business owners in and beyond Berks and Schuylkill counties, the training in which they engaged, connections they made through networking and skills they built along the way.

Periscope

Alvernia’s faculty making a difference

Due to limited column space, edits have been made to periscope submissions. To read the full version online, please scan the QR Code here:

Faculty SPOTLIGHT

Kevin Donnelly, Ph.D. Associate Professor of History

In May, Donnelly released his second book, “The Descent of Artificial Intelligence: A Deep History of an Idea 400 Years in the Making.” Itself seven years in the making, the book was published by the University of Pittsburgh Press.

The idea for the book began percolating when Donnelly spoke at a 2017 conference at Penn State’s Center for Humanities and Information, which featured presentations on statistics, data collection and algorithms throughout history, the types of information that make up today’s AI.

“It struck me that while ‘artificial intelligence’ had been around as a term for over 70 years — and many futurists and tech people were starting to predict when AI might reach a human level — no one was really looking at what kind of human AI was supposed to replicate,” he said. “To understand how AI might work, there needed to be a history of how people have thought, or at the least how people had tried to define how we think.”

In the book, Donnelly traces AI’s origins to the popularity of the ideas of René Descartes in Europe in the 17th century. Mechanical philosophy imagined that people are subject to scientific understanding just like other parts of nature, and that the same kind of experiments, quantification and scientific methods applied to nature could be applied to people.

Other big historical events profiled in the book are the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution and the Cold War. In terms of scientific thinking, Isaac Newton, Pierre-Simon Laplace, Charles Darwin and Alan Turing provide the big ideas.

“While the book is not at all a history of these events and people, it shows how major historical events in Europe and America led thinkers — particularly social scientists who

study people as if they were machines — to imagine the ‘human level’ in new ways,” he said. “I argue that each new scientific description that emerged from these thinkers simplified people, making the human level something closer to a machine. While many histories discuss the rise of AI, focusing on the increasing complexity of machines, the book looks at the lowering of human complexity. This is where the ‘descent’ part of the title comes in.”

One of society’s most common misconceptions about AI, according to Donnelly, is the perception of it as a kind of effortless technological marvel. In fact, it resulted from enormous amounts of human labor.

Should people be concerned about AI?

“Yes, but probably not for the reasons portrayed in dystopian films, Silicon Valley and in the tech world, where people openly discuss the percentage chance of something like an extinction-level event,” he said. “The major concerns I think are closer to those that people already have, or should have, with the power concentrated in major American technology companies. The fact that most AI today is tied directly to ideals and goals of profit-making companies rather than democratically elected governments is deeply problematic.”

Donnelly has used ChatGPT to test various questions and prompts to detect cheating on student papers and exams. But he doesn’t use AI in his personal life, at l east not consciously.

He believes one of his book’s strongest attributes is that it gives people the chance to view artificial intelligence from the perspective of humans. Only a select few can understand AI at the level of pure technology, which can lead to the pessimistic belief that humans are at the mercy of technology and the smart people who create it.

“Fortunately, the book demonstrates that AI today is also the result of the stories we tell about ourselves,” he said. “And the one thing we can be in control of is how we define ourselves.”

“The Descent of Artificial Intelligence: A Deep History of an Idea 400 Years in the Making” is available on Amazon and barnesandnoble.com.

Mary Ann Durant, DNP, MSN, RN, M.Ed.

Associate Professor of Nursing

Durant represented the Sigma International Nursing Honor Society as president of Alvernia’s Upsilon Zeta Chapter in November during the 47th Biennial Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

She also delivered a podium presentation at the 9th Annual Cultural Inclusion Institute Conference in San Antonio in April titled “A Joint Partnership Model: Academia, Healthcare Facilities, and Business Incubators: Engaging Innovative Recruiting and Retention Strategies for a Sustainable Workforce.”

Professional Specialist of Nursing

Periscope

Kris Lowrey, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Communication

Lowrey collaborated with Alvernia political science faculty Victoria Williams, Ph.D., and Nicholas Nicoletti, Ph.D., on a panel discussion titled “Ukrainian War: A OneYear Retrospective” during International Education Week. In addition, she was appointed to the board of directors for the Reading Film Office in December and volunteers with the Literacy Council of Reading-Berks as an ESL teacher.

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Alvernia’s faculty making a difference

Caroline Fitzpatrick, Ph.D.

Professor

of Communication & Digital Media

Fitzpatrick served as a judge for the Critical Essay Convention Awards of the 2024 Centennial Convention, In Flux, of the Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society held in St. Louis. She also finished a two-year interim term on the executive board, bringing her 16-year tenure as an elected board member of the nonprofit organization to a close. She will continue to serve on the society’s Past Presidents’ Advisory Council.

Cynthia Bickings, MSN, RN

Academic Clinical Coordinator, Professional Specialist, John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing

Keperling, Bickings and Rhoads published a teaching innovation in the peer-reviewed journal Nurse Educator. The article was entitled “Simulated End-of-Life Nursing Care Teaching: Clinical Simulation Investigation House.”

Lizette Epps, MBA, CUDE, CNP

Executive Director of Community and Economic Development, O’Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship

Epps’ debut book, “Our Voices: Little Stories Through A Latina Lens,” was named Best Young Adult Nonfiction Book and received an Honorable Mention for The Dolores Huerta Best Cultural & Community Themed Book at the 2024 International Latino Book Awards. A collection of poignant narratives, “Our Voices” shares the diverse experiences, resilience and cultural richness of Hispanics and Latinos.

The collection also won first place at the BookFest Book Awards, which recognized Epps’ work in the non-fiction category in Society & Social Sciences on Race, Class, Culture & Religion.

In September, U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan — who represents Pennsylvania’s 6th congressional district, which includes the city of Reading — met with Epps to discuss “Our Voices,” Hispanic heritage and literacy initiatives.

“Our Voices” is available in English and Spanish on Amazon and barnesandnoble.com. For more information, visit breadthofhope.com.

Additionally, Epps received the Lehigh Valley Business (LVB) 2024 Women of Influence Award, which honors high-achieving women for their career accomplishments. The Women of Influence honorees are selected based on professional experience, community involvement and a commitment to mentoring.

Heather Keperling, Ed.D., RN

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Keperling attended and presented at the 2024 International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses Annual Conference in Providence, R.I. The presentation was titled “Nursing Student Perceptions of Perseverance and Passion in Nursing Education.”

Colleen Rhoads, MSN, RN

Heather Keperling, Ed.D., RN

Joseph Mahoney, Ph.D. Director, John R. Post School of Engineering

Mahoney published a peer-reviewed article in the open-access journal Sensors in January in collaboration with Matthew B. Rhudy and Allison R. Altman-Singles. The article, “Knee Angle Estimation with Dynamic Calibration Using Inertial Measurement Units for Running,” describes the researchers’ method for determining the knee angle of runners using small, unobtrusive, wearable devices (IMUs). Monitoring the knee angle – or other joint angles – can be important for training runners and predicting injury risk based on the range of motion.

Professor of Healthcare Science; Chair, Healthcare Science Department

Periscope

Alvernia’s faculty making a difference

Bongrae Seok, Ph.D. Professor of Philosophy

In the first half of 2024, Seok gave multiple academic presentations at prestigious international conferences. He presented “The World of Aesthetics and Beauty in the Eye of the Brain” at the 17th International Geo-aesthetics Conference (Towson University, Baltimore, March) and “Song Shi-Yeol’s Theory of Moral Mind and Its Implications on Ethics of Artificial Intelligence” at the 2024 International Conference on Confucian Humanism: Korean, Comparative, and Interdisciplinary Reflections (University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada, June). He also gave two presentations (“Xunzi’s Epistemology of the Heart-Mind and Fodorian System of Central Cognition” and “Dasan Jeong Yak-Yong’s Interpretation of Toegye’s and Yulgok’s Theories of Moral Emotions and Its Implications on Moral Psychology and Practical Ethics of Self-Cultivation”) at the Eastern APA (American Philosophical Association) conference (New York, January).

In addition, he was interviewed by Gyosu Sinmun from the Korean Higher Education Newspaper regarding his recent publication on AI and Buddhism (“Future of Artificial Intelligence and the Buddha Algorithm” published in South Korea by Philosophic). He was invited to join several book projects on moral psychology of desire and boredom by Routledge and Oxford University Press. He is preparing a book chapter on the therapeutic effects of art and music (“Healing and Aesthetic Experience: Art, Music, and the Pandemic”) to be published by Springer.

Professor

Ruiz published a peerreviewed article entitled “Service-learning: An Empirically Driven and Transformational Pedagogy to Develop Psychologically Literate Citizens for Contemporary Challenges” with Roger N. Reeb, Tia N. Turner, Robert G. Bringle and Patti H. Clayton in the journal Psychology Learning and Teaching.

Ruiz also received a Faculty Excellence Grant in the summer to prepare the conference presentation “Civic Identity: Why Is It Important, What Does It Mean, and How Might We Cultivate It?”

Professor of Nursing

Bertoti, Porrazzo and Thacker presented at the International Teaching Learning Cooperative’s Lilly Conference from May 20 to 22 in Austin, Texas. “Teaching Strategies for Shaping Professional Behaviors” described how professional behaviors and personal responsibility in students can be intentionally shaped to meet graduate school and healthcare workforce expectations. Several strategies were demonstrated, including observational modeling, intentional advisement, and the application of value-based problem-solving.

Professor of Philosophy / Coordinator of Women’s Gender Studies

Sholtz completed a residency as a Fulbright Specialist collaborating with faculty from North-West University in South Africa from May 15 to June 15. The project advanced research on areas of social inequality, situated knowledge and experience, and access to technologies in the light of posthuman and postcolonial concerns. Collaborations included joint presentations, with the anticipation of publication on contemporary trends related to designated areas.

Sholtz also presented as an invited speaker at the North Texas Philosophy Association in April as well as the International Deleuze Studies Conference in the Netherlands in July and published “Commentary on Buchanan’s Schizoanalysis: The Unfinished Project” in Lebenswelt: Aesthetics and Philosophy of Experience Journal in July.

Ana Ruiz, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology

Dolores Bertoti, DPT, PT

of Physical Therapy

Karen S. Thacker, Ph.D., RN

Thomas G. Porrazzo, Ph.D.

Janae Sholtz, Ph.D.

Attention, Alumni:

• Married?

• New job?

• Addition to the family?

Share your news! Contact us at alumni@alvernia.edu.

1970s

(1.) Sister Rosemary Stets OSF ’71 completed a book published by Franciscan Media titled “Franciscan Field Guide: People, Places, Practices, and Prayers.” It is a reference book that provides an overview of the history, major figures and locations, and most influential texts of the Franciscan tradition. Available on Amazon.

(2.) Dominic Murgido ’79 in February published his third book, “Life Changes While Grieving: Three Significant Changes. One Ultimate Outcome.”

1980s

(3.) Nadine (Fronheiser) Blair ’83 welcomed her second grandchild in September 2023. Charlotte Marie joined her older brother, Caleb, born in August 2021.

Class NotesAlumni

(4.) Gary Binns ’89 joined IT service management company ConRes as a principal solutions architect. He is looking forward to making meaningful contributions.

1990s

(5.) Lori (McIntosh) DiGuardi ’90 published her second book, “Something About Greatness: 7 Simple Steps to Align with Your True Nature and Thrive.”

(6.) Dr. Lori (Miller) Bignotti ’93 completed her Education Doctorate at Drexel University in 2023.

2000s

Lynda (Hoffman) Coyle ’03 won the prestigious Lindback Foundation Award for Distinguished Teaching in the School District of Philadelphia. This award recognizes an educator who exemplifies skills that mold character and intellectual development with students while going above and beyond in the school community.

(7.) Tiffany (Spotts) Micale ’03 was elected to serve on the board of directors for Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County (BCSS).

Steven Koons ’05 a member of Alvernia’s board of trustees, was named partner, federal government services & DC market leader at Sikich, LLP, which specializes in technologyenabled professional services.

Jamie (LaDolce) Laury ’05 was included in Marquis Who’s Who — which “endeavors to profile the leaders of American society; those men and women who are influencing their nation’s development” — for her expertise as a senior scientist for upstream process development with FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies.

(8.) Dr. Karen (Frey) Slate ’05 opened Clean Slate Vision, LLC, contracting as an independent optometrist with nonprofits and government agencies.

Jonathan Kukta MBA ’07 was sworn in as the new president of the National Association of College Auxiliary Services (NACAS) East region.

(9.) Katie Loubier ’09 married Matthew Turner on October 27 in Farmington, Connecticut.

Sister Rosemary Stets, OSF ’71 2. Dominic Murgido ’79 3. Nadine (Fronheiser) Blair ’83 4. Gary Binns ’89 5. Lori (McIntosh) DiGuardi ’90 6. Dr. Lori (Miller) Bignotti ’93 7. Tiffany (Spotts) Micale ’03 8. Dr. Karen (Frey) Slate ’05 9. Katie Loubier ’09

Class NotesAlumni

2010s

(10.) Cecily Crawl ’10 founded Cecily & Company, LLC, to offer certified personal and executive coach services.

Jeffrey Corpora M.Ed. ’12 was selected to be a member of the Northampton County Council.

Dr. Daniel Kwasniewski ’13 became a tenure-track assistant professor of chemistry at Fresno City College in Fresno, California.

(11.) Karoline Miller ’13 got engaged to Alec Calvetti at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square on November 4.

Lucine Sihelnik MA ’13 was named President and CEO of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA).

(12.) Kyle Dillman ’14 married Dr. Nathan Backenstose in October.

Kristen Costar ’16 and her husband, Andrew, welcomed baby Riley Elizabeth in May.

Sara Defeo ’16 married Matthew Lombardo in May.

Dr. Gabriella Messina ’16 got engaged to Jon Sewell in March.

Leah Eshbach ’19 was promoted to assistant director of admissions at Alvernia.

2020s

(13.) Cassie (Kershner) Deaven MSOT ’20 and her husband, Dakota, welcomed future Golden Wolf Eliza Mae into the world in June.

(14.) Morgan Ditchey MSOT ’20 and Jack Fenwick ’21 got married on February 24.

Max Horn ’21 MBA ’23 has been promoted to assistant director of admissions at Alvernia.

(15.) Marisa Bishop ’22 MBA ’23 has been appointed the Regional Manager for Greater Reading/Berks at Ben Franklin Technology Partners.

Todd Minshall ’22 became engaged to Ashley Rogers ’22

Zackary Schneider ’22 was sworn in as a police officer for Woodbridge, New Jersey.

(16.) Jake Taylor ’22 MBA ’23 will attend the Charles Widger School of Law at Villanova University.

Emily Zaorski M.Ed. ’22 and Tanner Feinour ’22 got married on September 30, 2023.

10. Cecily Crawl ’10 11. Karoline Miller ’13 12. Kyle Dillman ’14 13. Cassie (Kershner) Deaven MSOT ’20 14. Morgan Ditchey MSOT ’20 and Jack Fenwick ’21 15. Marisa Bishop ’22 MBA ’23 16. Jake Taylor ’22 MBA ’23

Class NotesAlumni

In Memoriam

In memory of our deceased alumni who are gone but not forgotten.

1960s

Sandra Watt Ph.D. ’67

1970s

Sr. M. Lucette Kane MSC ’74

Richard Beck ’76

Ronald Bolza ’76

Kurt Braun ’76

Dong Kim ’76

Sandra (Prus) Denny ’77

Jackie Farmer ’78

Dennis Tobash’78

William Cheatham ’79

Kathleen (Spencer) Histand ’79

Lloyd Keffer ’79

Joanne Kozlowski ’79

Joseph Petrakovic ’79

Morris Ragus ’79

Frank Wagner, Jr. ’79

1980s

Richard Dobson, Jr. ’81

Robert George ’81

Dorothy Kulp ’81

Leroy Rhodes ’81

Douglas Roberson ’81

Linda Seidel ’85

Sharon (Horvath) Miller ’86

Kathy (Baertschy) Olson ’86

Donald Perkins ’86

Mary Ann (Arthur) Marino ’88

Walter Schwenger ’89

1990s

Rosina (Giron) Ervin ’90

Constance (Weber) Riker ’90

Peter Flahive ’92

William Khan ’92

Angie Mingari ’93

Gail Roberts ’93

Tiffany (Emrich) Bare ’95

Janet (Daugherty) Bonser ’95

Jon Ann (Wallace) Frederick ’95

James Harrison ’95

Candace (Christ) Mack ’95

Nicholas Martinelli ’95

Lucinda Smith ’95

Kim (Imler) Ferry ’96

Craig Laity ’96

Marie Durante ’97

Thomas Griesser ’97

Mary Rehrer ’99

THOUSANDS RAISED IN MEMORY OF ATHLETE

In May, the second annual Ice Bath Challenge Fundraiser raised nearly $3,800 in memory of football player Gregory Harder. Proceeds benefited the Greg Harder Scholarship Fund and Alvernia Football.

“This event was created to provide the campus an opportunity to remember Greg in a way that we believe honors his perseverance and resiliency,” said Lucas Bianco, lead athletic trainer.

A bench now overlooks the Turf Field in his memory.

2000s

Ketan Patel ’00

Thomas Webb ’00

Joseph Caruso MBA ’01

Gloria Blackwell ’03

Dennis Sensenig ’03 ’05

Kaiesha Blackwell ’04

Joseph Danver, Jr. ’04

Lorenzo King ’04

Timothy Moll ’04

Mae Phillips ’04

Barbara Teal MBA ’04

Harold Weaver, Jr. ’04 MBA ’06

Anthony Bracey ’05 MA ’07

Frances Brown ’05

Richard Chappelle ’05 MA ’08

Sivann Douk ’05

Susan Petley MBA ’05

Lashana Miranda-Williams ’06 MA ’07

Douglas “Jay” Umstead MBA ’06

Scott Schwartz M.Ed. ’07

Patricia (Bailey) Taylor ’08

Aimee (Gilmore) Frank ’09 MBA ’12

Felishia Gilchrist ’09 MA ’11

Gerald May ’09

Susan Mengle ’09

2010s

Heather (Wilson) Brookins ’10

Kelly Ann Gemmell ’11

Gwendolyn Walker-Huckstep ’11 MBA ’13

Gayle Hensley ’12

Anthony Remlinger, Jr. ’15

April (Willwerth) Shirk ’19

NEWS Alumni

Alumni celebrate 30 years being in lockstep

Melodie (Weaver) Hoff ’91 and John Hoff ’90 celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on July 30.

“When you’re married 30 years, you always get asked the question, ‘So, how did you two meet?’” Melodie said. “My answer is always the same: a hilarious story about the Alvernia library.

“Fall 1987, my first night in Veronica Hall, freshman year,” she recalled. “The RA gathered everyone into her room, turned down the lights and filled our impressionable heads with frightful campus tales, like secret underground passageways that led from the Sisters’ Convalescent Home to Francis Hall, and how the Sisters would escape from their rooms and roam the tunnels.”

The next semester, Hoff was sitting alone in Francis Hall Library when she heard a squeaking sound. She eventually traced it to a slowly turning doorknob on the wooden door behind her. With the first-night scary tales rattling around in her mind, she cautiously walked over to the door. As she approached, a woman yelled, “Let me in!”

Clockwise from top, Melodie ’91 and John Hoff ’90 at Melodie’s commencement, the couple engaged in 1992, and today.

“I tried to open the door, but it was locked,” Melodie said. “Then the voice called out again. I meekly answered, ‘I’m so sorry, I can’t open it.’ When she replied, ‘Open this door!’ I was in complete flight mode. I whipped around, and who did I see on the other side of the room, standing by the periodicals: my future husband, John. I had never met him before, but I ran up to him with my eyes practically bugging out of my head when I exclaimed, ‘There’s a nun on the other side of the door and she can’t get in!”

John calmly told her everything would be OK; he would get the librarian. As soon as he walked out, Melodie dashed into the adjacent study room, imploring a student seated there to act natural.

“Keep in mind I had never met this girl before,” she said. “Looking puzzled, she asked, ‘Why am I acting natural?’ I said, “There’s a nun on the other side of the door and she can’t get in!’ She just looked at me confused.

“Through the doorway, I saw the librarian walking by, wearing his usual — sandals with socks — and John following. But then I saw John walking backward. He looked into my new room and shrugged his shoulders as if to ask, why did you switch rooms? I started waving my arms wildly, motioning for him to go on. The girl at the table asked, ‘That’s acting natural?’ I said, ‘I don’t want whoever is on the other side of that door

to know I’m the idiot who couldn’t open it!’”

The next day, as Melodie approached a set of double doors in Bernardine Hall, she again ran into John, who smiled and said: “Let me get the door for you. There might be a nun on the other side.”

Since then, many more doors have opened for the couple, who moved back to Pennsylvania to be closer to family after living in California for 13 years. This year, Melodie was named director of grants management for Franklin County. John is also employed with Franklin County and was recently promoted to Deputy Sheriff, first class.

In their free time, Melodie likes to write funny short stories and John, a history buff, likes to read. Together, they enjoy picnics in the park and taking long walks hand in hand.

Partners in Progress campaign continues toward ambitious fundraising goal

Partners in Progress, the public phase of Alvernia University’s largest comprehensive fundraising campaign, continues to add to its tally while making a difference for students and the community.

Over $60.5 million of the campaign’s ambitious $70 million goal has been raised, helping to increase access to higher education, refreshing existing and adding new academic programs, engaging students in new ways and fueling growth throughout the business community.

“We’re ecstatic by the enthusiasm generated in our community about the campaign and the significant impact it is having on the student experience,” said Alvernia Vice President for Advancement and Government Affairs Thomas Minick ’98 MBA ’10. “The needs of our students and the communities in which we serve continue to increase and there are so many ways you can help address those needs.”

Alvernia launched the campaign, which aims to build stronger communities by redefining higher education, at the annual President’s Dinner in October 2023 following years of planning and fundraising in the silent phase. The campaign is focused on funding the university’s commitment to fostering academic distinction, supporting the community, and preparing students for a future defined by innovation and impact and is anchored by four pillars:

• Access and Opportunity

• Academic Engagement

• Student Success

• Community Engagement

Originally approved by the Alvernia board of trustees in December 2020, the campaign prioritized the university’s CollegeTowne Initiative in Reading and Pottsville. It focused on funding new academic programs such as engineering and refreshing existing programs such as business, communication, leadership, nursing and occupational therapy in the John

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Alumnus named to PASSHE Board of Governors

Alvernia University

alumnus Brandon

Danz, Ph.D. ’24, was recently nominated by Gov. Josh Shapiro to a term on the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors. Danz was unanimously confirmed by the Pennsylvania State Senate in July.

The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors plans and coordinates the development and operation of Pennsylvania’s 10 state universities, establishing broad educational, fiscal, and personnel policies. The board also appoints the chancellor and each university president, sets tuition, and coordinates and approves the annual State System operating budget.

“Given all the movement happening in higher education policy right now, this is an amazing time to join this board of governors,” shared Danz. “There is a need to adapt to rapidly changing technology and workforce demands. I look forward to being an active part of that conversation and an accelerator of innovation.”

Danz credits his recently earned Ph.D. in corporate leadership at Alvernia University to preparing him for this opportunity, and also for lending to his nomination and confirmation.

“It comes as no surprise that Brandon was confirmed to this high-profile and important appointment,” shared Travis Berger Ph.D., dean of the College of Business, Communication, and Leadership at Alvernia University. “We are proud to see an Alvernia alumnus rise to this level of influence in the state.”

Danz is senior director of value based care at WellSpan Health, providing leadership for development and management of value-based care models, payor partnerships, and population health strategies serving over 200,000 patients in south central Pennsylvania.

The campaign’s fertile pre-launch period included the opening and naming of the John R. Post School of Engineering.

The John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne.

Fall 2024/Spring 2025 Alumni Events

For more information, contact Director of External Engagement Daniel Hartzman at 610-568-1530 or daniel.hartzman@alvernia.edu.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Brunch with Santa – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., PEC

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

Athletics Hall of Fame

SATURDAY, MARCH 15

Alumni Night at Philadelphia Flyers (vs Carolina Panthers) and Social at SouthHouse Philly.

SUNDAY, APRIL 6

Easter Egg Hunt, 1 p.m., Flynn PLEX

The state-of-the-art John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing and Interprofessional Healthcare Simulation Center opened in fall 2023 on the second floor of the Post Center.

R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne and Pottsville CollegeTowne. The O’Pake Institute for Economic and Entrepreneurship and other student-centered initiatives such as the Hope Fund were also areas of focus.

Alvernia secured over $52 million during the initial silent phase of the campaign. The fertile pre-launch period included the opening and naming of the John R. Post School of Engineering and the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a living and learning facility that opened in 2021; the introduction of Pottsville CollegeTowne in January 2023; and the launch of the state-of-the-art John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing and Interprofessional Healthcare Simulation Center in fall 2023 on the second floor of the Post Center. Additionally, alumnus Greg Header and his family made the largest alumni gift in university history to fund business scholarships for students.

Additionally, in October 2023, Alvernia and Berks Community Health Center (BCHC) announced a partnership to expand healthcare access for downtown Reading residents while providing real-world learning opportunities for College of Health Sciences students. The community-based health center will be housed at the former American House property (354 Penn Street), located across the street from the Post Center.

In addition to traditional primary care services, the Berks Community Health Center will offer mental health services, nutrition and wellness education, financial literacy education, social services assistance, and warm hand-off referrals. The site will also host clinical experiential learning opportunities for Alvernia’s students in healthcare science and social services programs.

In January 2024, the Wyomissing Foundation made a $300,000 commitment to fund the collaborative venture.

The public phase of the Partners in Progress campaign will continue to focus on partnerships as the drivers of growth and innovation while providing many new and expanded support opportunities for community members interested in philanthropy.

“The needs of today’s students are more significant than ever. At Alvernia, we have cultivated a unique culture of care that addresses those needs,” said Alvernia President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “Our community is committed to addressing these needs and being part of lasting, positive change for Reading, Pottsville, and the other communities we serve through the Partners in Progress Campaign.”

To contribute or to learn more about the campaign, visit Alvernia.edu/partners-in-progress.

MargaritaVern 2024 was a great night for alumni and soon-to-be graduates. About 350 attended the festivities at the Flynn PLEX, spanning graduation years 1967 through 2024. The People’s DJ, Nick Talarico ’03, entertained everyone with various music and games, and eight party-themed food stations were a hit with everyone’s appetites. Local brewer Pagoda City Brewing provided Golden Wolves Lager to aid the festivities.

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Alvernia University

400 Saint Bernardine St.

Reading, PA 19607

Print or Digital… You Decide

We’ve added more digital content, like photo galleries and videos, to the Alvernia Magazine. Starting Fall 2024, we’ll begin to reduce printed copies by 70%, an effort that is in line with our commitment to environmental and fiscal sustainability of the university. You can still enjoy the magazine in print or digitally—whichever you prefer, but we are asking for you to declare your preference.

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