Alvernia University

In the Fall 2024 semester, Alvernia University Resident Assistants (RAs) successfully hosted 73 programs while balancing their academic pursuits, extracurricular commitments, and leadership responsibilities. These events reached 1,081 students, strengthening the campus community and providing meaningful engagement opportunities for residents. "I am incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity our RAs have shown this semester," said Associate Director of Residence Life, Logan Houptley. "Their commitment to fostering community within our residence halls is evident in the number of students they have engaged. Each program is a reflection of their hard work and dedication for making our residence halls feel like home." Programming efforts within Residence Life align with key student development outcomes, including a sense of belonging, health and wellness, cultural awareness, self-sufficiency, and academic success. Through intentional event planning, RAs play a vital role in providing a sense of belonging where students can learn and engage with one another in a positive way. The RAs came back in January for Spring training, which featured a new conference-style model that allowed them to focus on personal growth and skill development. "The choose-your-own conference-style sessions for this spring's RA training were very helpful," said Spencer Kneisley, and a first-year RA in Ehlerman Hall. "It gave us as RAs a chance to reflect and focus on what skill or knowledge we needed to be successful in our RA role this semester. I had the chance to attend the 'Re-Instilling the Values of the University' session, which helped us see the connections between the RA role and the core values of the University. It also showed how we can utilize those core values to guide us through our experiences as an RA." Beyond programming, the impact of the RA role extends far beyond event planning-it's about mentorship, support, and developing connection. "Being an RA has truly changed my life, helping me grow as a person while building meaningful relationships," said Francisco Sandoval, a second-year RA in Clare Hall. "The most rewarding part is guiding residents through their college journey and being a support system for them. It's an experience that has made a lasting impact on me." "As student affairs professionals, we know that learning also happens beyond the academic setting," said Associate Director Logan Houptley. "The work our RAs do directly contributes to student engagement and success, and it is rewarding to see the enthusiasm from both our RAs and the students they serve."

A total of 100 Alvernia University student-athletes were named to the MAC Academic Honor Roll for the 2024 fall semester, as announced by the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Executive Director Megan Morrison. Across the conference, a total of 1,809 student-athletes who competed in men's and women's cross country, field hockey, football, men's and women's soccer and women's volleyball were recognized. The fall academic honor roll is composed of student-athletes who competed in a varsity-level sport and registered a fall term/semester GPA of 3.20 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher. Since 2020-2021, the MAC has allowed its institutions to name all of their NCAA-competing sports to the MAC Academic Honor Roll even if the MAC does not sponsor the sport. A total of 100 Alvernia University student-athletes were honored by the MAC for their achievements in the classroom. 15 of those 100 honorees earned a perfect 4.0 GPA. Men's Soccer placed 24 student-athletes on the MAC Academic Honor Roll and both Football and Women's Soccer were represented by 19 student-athletes. Women's Volleyball was represented by 15 student-athletes, and Field Hockey was represented by 14 student-athletes. Women's Cross Country played nine student-athletes on the honor roll, and Men's Cross Country placed three. A complete list of Alvernia's 100 student-athletes on the MAC Academic Honor Roll can be found HERE.

A group of doctoral candidates from Alvernia University presented their collaborative research on leadership in a rapidly changing world at the 26th Annual International Leadership Association (ILA) Global Conference in Chicago, Il. Under the guidance of Professor of Leadership Studies, Spencer S. Stober, Ed.D. the cohort, consisting of Michelle Conway, MBA; Kathleen Murney, MBA; Brittny Sparrow, M.Ed.; and Jessica Whitmore, M.A. worked on the research for three years through Alvernia's Ph.D. in Leadership program. The research, titled The Timelessness of Leadership: What a Future Leader Should Know to Successfully Navigate Change, explores the evolving demands of leadership in a world increasingly defined by rapid technological innovation, shifting work environments, global crises, and complex team dynamics. Through a timeline of major historical events, case studies, and extensive scholarly analysis, the team emphasized the importance of adaptive and situational leadership in addressing challenges in Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) environments. "While the end result was presented at the ILA Global Conference, this presentation went through many variations through various courses until we were all content with the finished project. We also knew we took a bold risk applying to present at the ILA Global Conference, knowing it is a very competitive process, but the excitement we all had when we received the official notification we were accepted," said Whitmore. "Our cohort became extremely close throughout this PhD program, and this research project collaboration only strengthened us as friends and colleagues. This research project, from the start to the presentation, also provided ample room for personal growth at many levels, and I'm extremely thankful to have experienced it all." The team's work was initially presented at Alvernia University's 2nd Annual Business, Communication, and Leadership Conference, before gaining international recognition at the ILA Global Conference. Known for fostering conversations that advance leadership knowledge and practice, the ILA's annual event attracts academics, practitioners, and students from around the globe. The conference provided a dynamic platform for Alvernia's scholars to engage with a global audience through an interactive panel discussion. Stober shared his enthusiasm for the team's progress, stating: "I am very proud of this team because they are making meaningful contributions to leadership studies. Collaboration is a key element in both scholarship and leadership. I see a bright future for these doctoral candidates as they become scholars and practitioners in leadership." As the doctoral candidates progress toward their dissertations, their efforts under Stober's mentorship will focus on developing a grand unifying theory of leadership, building upon the foundational insights of their current research.

765 students were named to Alvernia University's Dean's List for the Fall 2024 semester. "Congratulations to our outstanding students on earning a place on the Dean's List. This recognition is a testament to your unwavering commitment to academic excellence, perseverance, and passion for learning," said Senior Vice President and Provost, Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D. "At Alvernia University, we take immense pride in cultivating life-long learners and ethical leaders, and your achievements inspire our entire community. Thank you for setting such a remarkable example of dedication and hard work. We celebrate your success and look forward to all you will accomplish in the future." To be eligible for the Dean's List, students must carry a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credits. A full list of students is available at Alvernia.edu.

21 service-learning students and volunteers facilitated the collection and donation of 70 bags of clothing to the Hope Rescue mission. "Partnering with classes for service-learning courses through the Holleran Center at Alvernia University fosters a powerful exchange of knowledge and compassion," said Senior Director of the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement. "It empowers students to bridge classroom learning with real-world impact, cultivating empathy, leadership, and a sense of responsibility that extends beyond the university. These partnerships transform communities and shape students into active, engaged citizens committed to creating positive change. The Holleran Center partnered with Assistant Professor of Nursing, Heather Keperling, Ed.D. and her service-learning and SEARCH classes for this project. Leading up to the clothing drive, students also served at Hope Rescue Mission in various capacities from serving in the kitchen to providing health education. Students in the Nursing in Health and Illness III: Behavioral Health and Chronicity led the clothing drive campaign with the planning, advertising, and placement of collection bins around campus. Additionally, they helped collect and sort donations before the pick-up day on Dec. 12. "For me, service learning has consistently provided our students with some of the most meaningful educational experiences," said Keperling. "The clothing drive was a great way to support our service-learning site, the Hope Rescue Mission. This collaborative effort involving The Holleran Center and our dedicated students, staff, and faculty throughout the semester led to the success of this initiative. It is inspiring to see our commitment to our mission in action." According to Slade, this event was a reimagination of the university's move-out event, allowing students to clear out their belongings ahead of winter break while serving the community. This experience focused on creating an opportunity for service-learning students to showcase and develop their leadership skills. The Holleran Center plans to continue and build upon this event next semester when students leave campus for the summer.

Alvernia University students, faculty and staff spent a week in the Dominican Republic teaching, serving, and learning. The students assisted the Bernardine Sisters with the schooling operations and experienced life in Los Tres Brazos Barrio, located in Santo Domingo. "Reflecting on my experience, one thought always entered my mind: I wondered how these children found such joy in having so little," said Kristen Eck, staff chaperone who serves as the Marketing Specialist at Alvernia University. "However, most don't know about the everyday conveniences and wealth we are fortunate to have living in the United States. The week-long journey in Santo Domingo stirred up many emotions. It made me realize that happiness isn't measured by material possessions but by the depth of connection and the ability to appreciate the simplest moments with people who share love and gratitude." Each student was tasked with raising $400 and creating a lesson plan for children in Kindergarten to Sixth grade. The lesson plans aimed to teach the kids about English and other cultural activities enjoyed in the US through games, gym activities, and arts/crafts. The Alvernia students also brought toothbrushes and toothpaste to teach about oral hygiene. Javier Romero, a nursing student at Alvernia University, even taught the kids about CRP treatment. "One thing that I have taken away from as I embarked on this Dominican Republic alternative break is the importance of serving," said Romero. "Service tends to have a very generalized definition amongst everybody, but I think it's one thing knowing what it means book wise (serving), and another thing doing it...Overall this has been such a humbling experience." In addition to creating lesson plans, the students also served the community in various ways. These included conducting a focus group with community teens and visiting 5 different community families struggling with illness. Every night, the group would reflect on the day and read scripture together. "Even in places where there's so much poverty and people are barely able to afford the clothing that they wear and food that they need to feed their family, that even in these places there can be so much joy and authenticity," said Hailey Keperling, a student at Alvernia University and the alternative break team leader. "I've met some of the happiest people here and some of the most loving children. It's really humbling to see that there can be so much love and so much joy in a place like this. Especially compared to back home when we do have a lot and we are afforded a lot of things, but there isn't always that joy and that gratitude here the same way that I saw in the Dominican Republic. I'm very grateful for these experiences and they have absolutely changed my life."

The Miller Gallery at Alvernia University became a hub of civic engagement this fall as the Media and Politics class, led by Professor of Communication and Digital Media Dr. Jodi Radosh and Professor of Political Science Dr. Victoria Williams, unveiled the voter education exhibition. The display, carefully curated by students seeks to educate the campus community about the importance of voting and media literacy during the election season. "We've been doing this class every four years for quite some time. It's our chance to team-teach and really delve into media and politics, especially around presidential elections," said Radosh. "This semester, we wanted to go beyond classroom discussions and create something tangible-a project that helps spread awareness of key issues and the power of voting, both on campus and in the broader community." The interactive exhibition highlights various facets of political media and the importance of informed voting, aiming to equip students with the tools to navigate today's complex media landscape. "In this class, we educate students on what media is, how it works, and how politics and media are intertwined," said Williams. "A key focus is developing skills in media literacy so students can better understand media bias and find credible sources of information. This project has been a great way for students to apply these skills in real-time." The display features in-depth posters created by each student to highlight the presidential candidates' takes on pressing issues. It also has different marketing materials and posters from each candidate, custom Alvernia "vote" pins and a selfie station with different props that encourage voting. "As a bio major, I'm not usually involved in political conversations, but this class has taught me a lot about media literacy," said junior Brianna Pascal, a biology major who participated in the project. "I feel more informed as a voter now, and I understand the importance of being able to navigate political information." The project also drew alumni support. Jason Hugg, founder of Berks Weekly, returned to share his experiences from the field and answer students' questions. "It's always great to give back to Alvernia and share my behind-the-scenes experiences from rallies and events. Voting is so important, not just for students, but for the community as a whole. I'm really impressed with how the students have put together this exhibition to encourage each other to vote."

Alvernia University business students tested their professional sales skills against 40 other students at Susquehanna University's Quick Pitch Sales Challenge. Caden DeSiato, Gino Giacolona, and Isaac Kassis worked for three months preparing for the competition. One competition involved sharing a 90-second elevator pitch to seven different companies. The competition consisted of two rounds and was free to all college students. All students competed in round one with the opportunity to pitch to four companies. Giacolona placed in the top 10 and immediately moved to round 2. Round 2 pitched to the Final Pitch Sponsor, Dell Computers. "Placing in the top 10 was exciting. Having practiced with Dr. Brooker, Isaac Kassis, and Caden Desiato, it made the experience much more rewarding," said Giacolona, computer science student at Alvenia. "I learned the importance of professional communication, which is especially crucial in computer science, where much of the interaction is with screens rather than people." Cash prizes were awarded to the top three participants. Students gained valuable experience in presenting themselves with confidence, gained networking skills, and made professional connections. Alvernia MBA candidate Kassis, who has competed in two other sales competitions prior to this one shared that preparation was the key to the students' learning experience. Having competed at several competitions, he stepped into the mentor role for his classmates. "The experience I had over the last 3 sales competitions is very unique," said Kassis. "I love competing and it was very different for me when I had to put on a suit and tie and try to sell something or [sell] myself. I gained a better understanding of communicating with professionals and students in a professional setting, and also met and became friends with a lot of them too." Assistant Professor of Business, Jane Brooker, Ph.D., MBA., who facilitates and chaperones the competitions as well as helps with preparation in and outside of class, expressed her pride for this cohort of competitors. "One student was offered a full-time sales position... This is why I do what I do," said Brooker. "I'm successful when my students are successful and step into their dream career and grow." DeSiato, Giacolona, and Kassis will continue their experiential learning in the sales industry at Bloomsburg University's Keystone Sales Challenge, where they will be role-playing with local sales professionals.

The annual Residence Hall Association (RHA) Trunk-or-Treat drew over 175 attendees with 108 student participants and 42 decorated cars. RHA President Wilma Taveras and RHA Vice President Faith Guers reached out to many on-campus and community partners to spread the word, as well as encouraged their peers to sign up to decorate their cars under the leadership of Area Coordinator, Avery Bailey. "Although RHA has existed on Alvernia's campus for years, Faith and Wilma have slowly become the face of the organization," said Bailey. "This year, they were determined to make their last Trunk-or-Treat the best one yet. Their goal was to make it a memorable experience not only for the students who participated but also for the community members and families. The turnout was great for both groups. There was a sense of community and love in the air at the event, all thanks to these two students." From ordering candy to making crochet toys to working with community and campus partners, student-leadership and proactive planning made the event a success. Best costume and The event was so popular that the candy and toy supply ran out before it was over. Awards for best costume, voted on by President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., and best trunk, voted on by the community attendees, were also given out to student volunteers. "This event ties into my role as an RA by fostering community, promoting engagement, and providing a safe, fun Halloween activity for the community of Reading and our residents," said RHA President Wilma Taveras. "We were able to provide residents with a means to connect, build relationships, and feel more involved. When planning this, we wanted to focus on strengthening a sense of belonging and inclusivity on our campus while promoting a welcoming environment." The goal of RHA is to advocate for all the students living in university housing to have the best residential experience possible and to help build a stronger residential community on campus through programming. RHA gives students like Taveras and Guers to have additional leadership responsibilities on top of being a resident assistant. "Experiences like Trunk or Treat and being an RA greatly benefit my future," said Taveras. "They've helped me develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Leading events and working with diverse groups has also strengthened my ability to work in teams, resolve conflicts, and build community. Overall, these experiences have given me a strong foundation for personal and professional growth."

Rachel Miller, a second-year Master of Science in Athletic Training student, was recently awarded the Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society (PFBATS) Jerry Rhea Scholarship from the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) for her high academic and clinical achievements. "As a department, we are so proud of Rachel for being recognized for her hard work and dedication. This scholarship was well-deserved and is only the beginning of what Rachel is capable of doing within the athletic training profession," said Ashley Gray, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Clinical Education for the MSAT Program. This scholarship was named after the longtime Head Athletic Trainer of the Atlanta Falcons and Past NATA President, Jerry Rhea. NATA scholarships are one of the most competitive and sought-after awards in the country, provide substantial financial support for college expenses, and recognize students who exhibit not only high academic prowess but also leadership and integrity. "Receiving this scholarship is incredibly motivating and validates the hard work I've put into my studies," said Miller. "It not only supports my journey as an Athletic Trainer but also reinforces my commitment to addressing mental health in sports. This opportunity inspires me to make a positive impact on athletes' lives, ensuring they thrive both physically and mentally." Miller currently serves as the President of the Athletic Training Student Association and has been an active member since 2019. Along with her leadership role, she also presented a poster presentation at a regional conference in January 2024.

The Alvernia University Academic Success Center named the peer tutors for the 2024-2025 academic year. Peer tutors offer a wide range of support including in-person and online as well as individual or group sessions, supplemental Instruction (SI) for challenging courses, study groups, and extended test review sessions. "Our Peer Tutors embody Alvernia's mission of 'knowledge joined with love'. Each day, the tutors patiently solve problems alongside students who want guided practice. In addition to explaining complex concepts, Peer Tutors also build up students' self-confidence," said Director of Academic Support Services, Carla Mannix. "Our motto in the Academic Success Center is 'Partners in Your Academic Journey.' The Peer Tutors equip students with the skills needed to succeed and encourage them with meaningful praise. Peer Tutors routinely go above and beyond their work-study job, creating study aids that students can use independently and sometimes changing their schedules to accommodate student needs." In the 2023-24 academic year, the ASC Peer and Professional Tutors supported 849 unique students, conducting 5974 appointments, including writing support, study groups, and academic coaching from undergrad to Ph.D. Students who worked with a subject or writing tutor earned an overall mean GPA of .4 points higher than students who did not use any academic support service. "I wanted to use my knowledge to help other students succeed in their studies. It feels less daunting to meet with a fellow student than a professor, so knowing that I can be a source of knowledge and comfort to a student is incredible," said Master of Science in Occupational Therapy candidate Lauren Janson, who has been a peer tutor since January 2023. "Completing my CRLA certification was long and challenging, but definitely worth it. I feel more and more confident in my tutoring abilities with every training and session." To earn Level 1 certification, tutors complete at least 10 hours of training and conduct at least 25 hours of tutoring. Training topics include learning theories, communication skills, and academic integrity. They are observed and receive feedback on their performance. "As a peer tutor, I've gained valuable communication and leadership skills, " said Master of Science in Occupational Therapy candidate, Reilly Enos, who has been a peer tutor since August 2022. "I've learned how to break down complex concepts into more digestible pieces, which not only helps the students I tutor but also refreshes my memory of courses I have taken in the past. It allows me to actively prepare and teach content that may reappear in my academic or professional career. As an occupational therapy student, I have been fortunate enough to transfer my skill of breaking down complex concepts into digestible pieces in my patient interactions to enhance patient understanding!"

Five Alvernia students studying social work were inducted into the Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society. Congratulations to Thanea Redrovan, Catherine DiPerna, Daria Podell, Isabel Alarcon, and Laura Szeredai on your academic accomplishment! "I'm thrilled to have these new inductees added to our long list of current and alumni Phi Alpha members," said Allison Gosch, assistant professor for the Master of Social Work program. "Students have a rigorous course load, therefore this accomplishment is worthy of celebration. We are honored to have these new inductees continue our Phi Alpha humanitarian efforts." Faculty involved in social work education at Alvernia University foster high standards of education for social work and invite students who have attained excellence of scholarship and distinction of achievement as future professionals in the social work industry into honor society membership. Alvernia's Phi Alpha chapter aims to promote more intimate fellowship with those dedicated to the promotion of humanitarian goals and ideals through a professional group for which quality educational preparation is deemed imperative.

Alvernia University students in the O'Pake Fellows Program completed an intellectual property (IP) training series centered around patents, licensing, contracts, and the art of protecting creativity through O'Pake's Technology Transfer Office (TTO). "I have learned many nuances in this series such as smart processes that involve creating contracts related to licensing and patents," said Robert Philpot. "It has given me an important addition of skills that will help me in the field of engineering if I have an idea that I want to pursue. Furthermore, networking with these professional speakers has given me a contact in the IP field. Through this experience, students were trained to assist companies and entrepreneurs through the process of making the proper advancements regarding patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyright as members of the student-powered IP committee. Furthermore, they were able to apply this knowledge directly to their course curriculum, ultimately enriching their experiential learning. "I have gained another level of knowledge that has helped me excel in a lot of my classes because I understand the legal side of the engineering process in regard to patent work and what exactly goes into a Patent and how to file for one," said Evan Thomas. "I've also received a whole new view on engineering because instead of just understanding the prototyping and testing phase, I now understand how to claim whatever I prototype or test as my own through IP." In addition, students were able to learn from and engage with industry professionals, including Chuck Valauskas, an IP lawyer based in Chicago; John Zurawski, a partner at the Belles Group, P.C.; and Kattina Barsik, owner of Barsik Law Offices, specializing in intellectual property law across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The IP committee also played an integral role in the planning and execution of the series. "I was a part of determining what general topics we should dive into for the training and helping assess which speakers would be best for the different topics," said Blake Rutcosky. "It has been beneficial in expanding my knowledge on licensing intellectual properties as well as refreshing me and fleshing out some of the intricacies of the processes in obtaining various protections." The O'Pake Fellows Program provides elite undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on experiential learning opportunities. Students of high academic standing from diverse majors and backgrounds can work directly with regional entrepreneurs, small business owners, faculty researchers, and industry leaders, can work directly with regional entrepreneurs, small business owners, faculty researchers and industry leaders. Within this dynamic environment, fellows not only develop personally and professionally but also have the freedom to innovate, experiment, learn from failure, and ultimately thrive. By fostering such an environment, the program enables students to seamlessly transition into their chosen careers as creative and ethical leaders.

Alvernia University celebrated more than 600 students in the Class of 2024 with a commencement ceremony at the Santander Arena in downtown Reading, Pa. on May 11, 2024 as a part of a revamped graduating student celebration weekend in front of family and friends. "This year's commencement carries a profound significance for each one of us," said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "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. Rest assured, these cherished traditions that you helped create will be here ready to welcome you back to campus." Graduates earned associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees as the university celebrated an indoor commencement at Santander Arena for the first time since 2019. Beginning this year, the university restructured its graduating student event schedule to allow for more accessible travel for parents and other loved ones to participate in the various events, which included health science programs pinning ceremonies, a senior athlete award reception, an honors convocation and a baccalaureate mass. "The Class of 2024 has faced unparalleled challenges, navigating the turbulent waters of the COVID-19 pandemic with unwavering strength and resilience," said student speaker and youngest graduate Cora Cox. "Despite the upheaval it brought to our lives, we refused to be defined by adversity. Instead, we rose to the occasion, demonstrating extraordinary adaptability and perseverance in the face of uncertainty. The world eagerly awaits your brilliance, your passion, and your boundless potential. Go forth and make your mark on the world, knowing that you carry with you the values of Alvernia and the spirit of service, compassion, and humility." Longtime public service executive and global engagement leader George S. Rice, Jr. '85 was presented with an honorary degree of humane letters and shared his experiences through the concepts of language and space to inspire the Class of 2024. "The imprint you make will set the tone for those who come after you," said Rice. "They'll need your vision. My generation and every generation are represented in this room we need your vision. What you're taking away today from Alvernia isn't a rote vision to implement. Rather, it's the capacity to take in all that you experience in order to shape a vision. To use language and intent to nurture that vision. To make that vision the space in which we live. The space where we can all thrive." As the ceremony concluded, a scrolling list of names of every graduate, appeared on the newly installed video boards at the arena and Santander Arena, and confetti cannons showered the graduates in maroon and gold confetti. Alvernia University Class of 2024 By the Numbers: 606 total graduates 503 Pennsylvania Residents 260 Berks County Residents 2,900 miles is the farthest distance traveled for students within the U.S. to attend Alvernia University 130 are first-generation college graduates 18 is the age of the youngest graduate 62 is the age of the oldest graduate 11 graduates are military veterans 8 countries represented by graduating students See the commencement stories, photos and videos by CLICKING HERE.

The Office of Residence Life hosted its annual Resident Assistant (RA) Banquet on May 5, 2024, in Francis Hall. "I am very proud of the efforts of everyone who made this event, and this year, possible. It was a special night to not only reflect on the memories and relationships that we have with one another, but also to honor some pretty amazing student leaders," said Associate Director of Residence Life, Logan Houptley, M.S. The banquet, hosted by the RA Recognition Committee, had raffle prizes, catered food, and plenty of decorations that matched the theme, the Wild West. 38 RAs were invited to participate in the banquet. The professional staff announced the 2023-2024 winners of the RA of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards. "Being an RA is critically important to the success of our residential experience here at Alvernia University," said Houptley. "Being an RA means that you are a community leader, a friend, a classmate, a colleague, a mentor, an advisor, a facilitator, a shoulder to cry on - the list goes on. RAs are what make living on campus such a special experience for many. Everyone always remembers their RA and the positive impact they have on making Alvernia feel like home." The winner of RA of the Year is Wilma Taveras, who has been an RA for 2 academic years: first in Clare Hall, this year in Zygmunta Hall. Next year, Taveras will be an RA in Ehlerman Hall. "I appreciate receiving this award because it shows me that the work I put into trying to make a positive impact among residents through addressing their needs, supporting them in any way they need, and creating an atmosphere where they feel they can thrive doesn't go unnoticed. This award reminds me of my "why" I do this job," said Taveras. "My favorite part about being an RA is seeing residents' progression through college and playing a part in their journey. It's incredible to see how much residents have grown into their own selves within the time I have known them. It is beyond rewarding to see the connections I have formed within ResLife, but especially with residents. I know I wouldn't have the skills and confidence I do now if it hadn't been for the residents I have interacted with and gotten to know." Taveras' direct supervisor, Area Coordinator Kylie Dillon, M.A., said the following of her performance: "Over the last academic year, Wilma has grown as a person, and as an RA. She has done an incredible job of participating and is always dependable. She communicates well both with her peers and professional staff. Especially this semester, with an academic schedule she knew would be incredibly busy, each of her programs was preplanned before the first day of classes even began. Her dedication to the role and ability to balance her personal life, academic schedule, and RA responsibilities makes me super honored and proud to honor Wilma as RA of the year." The winner of Rookie of the Year is Julia Lawson, who was an RA in Clare Hall this past academic year. Next year, Julia will be an RA in Holleran Hall. "Being the recipient of the Rookie of the Year Award has been the highest honor this year because I put my heart into being an RA," said Lawson. "It is rewarding to know that all my hard work was recognized and appreciated by the professional staff and encourages me to continue my work as an RA in my final two years at Alvernia. An important skill I discovered that I can take with me throughout my career was being able to help first year students overcome struggles of college life on campus and to help them successfully navigate throughout their first year at Alvernia. And of course, getting to know my residents throughout the year has also been a favorite part. Some of them really made my first year amazing and they made my life as an RA so much easier, so shout out to them." Lawson's direct supervisor, Area Coordinator, Jason Patrick Lee, MBA, said the following of her performance: "As a first-year RA, Julia Lawson carried herself like a seasoned veteran, demonstrating a strong internal foundation that pointed to her maturity and desire to be successful in her role. She made herself available for coaching from Residence Life's professional and student staff as well as offered mentorship to other RAs. She shined the brightest when she was hard at work meeting the varying needs of her freshmen residents. Her residents frequently spoke very highly of her, and the impact that she made on Clare Hall this year was, to me, such a joy, privilege, and honor to watch and encourage."

103 Alvernia University students received academic, service and experiential learning excellence awards at the 2024 Honors Convocation Award Ceremony. The awards were presented by Senior Vice President and Provost, Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D. as well as faculty and staff representatives from the College of Business, Communication and Leadership; the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences; the College of Health Sciences; the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics; and the University. "Each of you is valued for your unique talents, and your contributions to our community are what makes it so unique. Your success was no easy accomplishment, and we can certainly appreciate the balancing act," said Alvernia University President, Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "From your lectures in the classroom, experiments in the labs and research and study groups in the libraries to your experiential learning experiences through service-learning, clinicals and internships, there is no doubt that your plates were full. But most of you also balanced your busy lives outside of work, from athletics, clubs, and service work, to holding a part-time or full-time job and even raising a family. It is this mix that makes all of your achievements that much more extraordinary."

Over 60 students were honored for their leadership in registered student organizations (RSO) as part of the 2023-2024 Student Government Association (SGA) Awards & Induction ceremony. "As student leaders you play a pivotal role in shaping the culture of care that makes Alvernia special," said Alvernia President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, P.hD. "Your passion, dedication, and innovative spirit create a welcoming and thriving campus environment where every student can grow, learn, and succeed. Your leadership not only enhances the student experience but also fosters a sense of belonging and community that extends far beyond the confines of our campus." In addition to student leaders being recognized, faculty & staff advisors were honored, and the SGA awards for RSOs were announced. RSO of the Year was the Pickleball Club, Event of the Year was the Interfaith Walk, and Community Service of the Year was the Circle K Paracord Lanyard Project. "Pickleball Club was recognized for RSO of the year based on student input that emphasized that Pickleball Club is one of the most popular and active clubs on campus," said Campus Activities Board President Aleksandra Kolesnikova. "This club is known for offering a stress-free and inclusive environment to socialize, exercise, and keep students involved on campus by making connections with other students." Individual awards were also acknowledged for Senator of the Year and President of the Year. Sophomore Senator Logan Minford was awarded the Senator of the Year recognition, and Pura Vida President Yessica Abreu Robinson received the President of the Year award. "Yessica Abreu Robinson was recognized for President of the Year based on student input that emphasized that Yessica has a creative mind, goes out of her way for the members of her club, and brings events to this campus," said SGA President Sara Baker. "Events brought to the Alvernia community have been able to provide an opportunity for all to engage in many traditions and cross-cultural experiences."

Alvernia University's Doctor of Physical Therapy cohort, faculty and staff visited Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. to advocate for, be educated on and discuss legislation surrounding the physical therapy profession with senators and representatives. "I organized the trip to Washington D.C. to enlighten our students on the process of American Physical Therapy Association Governance (APTA House of Delegates) which develops policies and positions of the APTA," said Alvernia University Doctor of Physical Therapy Director of Clinical Education, Pamela Unger, PT, DPT, CWS. "I was so proud of our students' attention to the issues and their ability to communicate compassion and concern for these issues to our senators and representatives. They represented our DPT program and Alvernia very well." They spent the first two days in Capitol Hill in listening sessions with the APTA House of Delegates learning about various bills passed by the APTA. Two professors, Unger and Claire McCann, PT, DPT, are in the House of Delegates as well. The third day was spent discussing various bills with local senators and U.S. Congress and Senate representatives of the implication of legislation specific to the physical therapy industry including physical therapy assistant (PTA) supervision, payment and reimbursement rates in the Medicare system; the role of physical therapy treatment in the fourth trimester of pregnancy and the inclusion of rehabilitation services in underserved areas. "Traveling to D.C. for the first time to advocate for the profession I've worked so hard to be a part of was a pivotal moment in my life. Sitting in discussion with the senators and their representatives truly set the tone for how I will choose to stand up and defend my career as a physical therapist not only for myself and fellow PTs but mainly for my patients," said Maximillano Karabachian, DPT Class 2024. "My patients are the main reason I am here today. They give me a purpose. Preparing my speech on why patients in rural cities deserve easier access to health care was next to common sense. However, because this was my first time, my nerves were running rampant. It took several calls to my parents and siblings back home to ground me and remind me why I am here and why this is important to me. Advocating in D.C. lit a fire deep in my soul that motivates me to aspire to greatness- a feeling I will continue to pursue." The group also educated the senators and representatives on their work with the pro bono clinics that serve the Reading and Berks County communities. Out-of-state students even had the opportunity to spend the day with delegates from their home state and visit their respective senators and representatives in Utah, NY, NJ, VT, DE and WA. "As a student who helps run our pro-bono clinic within Berks Community Health Center, I get to see the direct influence of PTs in these communities and our impact on patients' lives. I appreciated the time we were given to advocate for our profession and the lives of our patients," said Samantha Donmoyer, DPT Class of 2024. "I enjoyed speaking about bill H.R. 4829, which allows PTs to participate in the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. I was very anxious to be the only student in one of my meetings on Capitol Hill, but I was very grateful to my professor, Dr. [Christopher] Wise, who joined me."

Academically successful students have been named as Peer Tutors by Alvernia University's Academic Success Center. Working in a one-on-one session or in small groups, Peer Tutors answer questions on course material and aid in comprehension of course content.

"Alvernia's campus community takes great pride in serving and recognizing those who have served in the United States Military," said Veterans Center Coordinator, Bret Krotee. "It is wonderful to be part of a team that provides the necessary resources and support to ensure military student academic success, professional development, and positive mental health."