Alvernia University

Over 100 participants of the Alvernia Team For The Kids (FTK) joined more than 90,000 students across the country to help conquer childhood cancer through the Four Diamonds Organization. Alvernia Team FTK, sponsored by the Pre-Physical Therapy Club, shattered records this year by raising an astounding $11,379 at their Four Diamonds Mini-THON event to support children and families battling pediatric cancer. This marks the highest amount ever fundraised in the organization's history. "We are so extremely proud of everyone who was involved, from the leaders, students, volunteers, and businesses. This final number fundraised for our first year is so overwhelming and exciting. As us leaders built a foundation for the event, we can't wait to see how next year excels as well," said Claire Campbell, heathcare science and physical therapy major. From 7 p.m. on March 22 to 11 a.m. on March 23, students spent 16 hours straight in the PLEX. The event was packed with activities ranging from Zumba, bingo, and pep rally games to an overnight DJ session, tournaments, and community hour. Around the halfway point, students participated in active events like a 3v3 basketball tournament, pickleball tournament, and dodgeball. "Team FTK is so much bigger than having a fun event for students and raising money for cancer-we are commemorating and celebrating the positive impact that we are making in families all across America who are battling pediatric cancer," said Katie Nedimyer, heathcare science and physical therapy major. Beyond the record-breaking fundraising total, the event fostered a sense of unity and purpose among students, reminding them that small sacrifices, whether that be dancing all night or donating, can lead to meaningful change. "Showing support to the most vulnerable families is a way to use our resources for good. We dance today so one day we can all dance together," said Madison Matthews, healthcare science and physical therapy major. Rooted in Franciscan values, Alvernia's Pre-Physical Therapy Club and hosts of Team FTK strive to make an impact through serving the community and advocating for those in need. Through creative fundraising efforts and campus-wide events, it aims to foster a sense of hope and create meaningful, lasting change. Team FTK's connection to the Pre-Physical Therapy Club highlights the shared values of resilience, service, and advocacy. Both clubs provide opportunities for students to grow as leaders and servants, as well as promote skills like teamwork and adaptability.

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.

For the 37th consecutive year, Alvernia distributed Thanksgiving meals to local residents in need during its Turkey Drive event held at the university's Tom and Helen Flynn PLEX. "We were very fortunate and blessed to be able to host our 37th Turkey Drive for families in the Reading community," said Director of Mission and Ministry, Abby Canela. "The volunteers walked in the footsteps of Saint Francis and Saint Clare, putting others before themselves and working together to bring joy to the families we serve." The event came together with the help of over 40 student volunteers, faculty and staff, to provide 150 Thanksgiving meal bags filled with canned goods, pie crusts, mashed potatoes, and other food items to those in need in the Reading area for the Thanksgiving season. Helping Harvest Helping Harvest also donated a turkey for each meal bag. In addition, over $3500 was raised to help fill these bags with essentials, to be donated to the Kennedy House, a local food bank that has partnered with Alvernia for the Turkey Drive since its inception. "Volunteering at the Turkey Drive was an amazing experience," said Student Activities Graduate Assistant, Asher Smith. "At Alvernia, one of the core values that we are taught is service, and while it is one thing to read about all of the service opportunities that Alvernia presents, it is another thing entirely to experience those opportunities. It was impressive to see various students, staff, and faculty of the Alvernia community come together and serve in an efficient manner for a shared common goal." The Alvernia Turkey Drive, founded in 1987, began by just feeding a few local families in need before growing to what it is now. Polly Mathys, a longtime member of the Alvernia community, former faculty member and founder of the Turkey Drive, even returned this year to help. The expansion over the years has resulted in many student volunteers, who now consider the Turkey Drive a university tradition that represents the university's Franciscan core values. "One of the highlights of the experience was hearing Polly's mission moment, where she reminded us to pack the canned goods with intention-thinking about the families we were helping, rather than doing it mindlessly," said Senior Finance and Economics Major Teresa Keithley. "Helping at the local level feels especially important, as it allows us to make a direct impact on the people around us."

Alvernia University Women's Golf and graduate student McKylie Boreman were recognized for their performances during the 2024 fall season as announced by Scoreboard Powered by Clippd on Thursday. Alvernia Women's Golf was recognized as the team with the most team wins across any NCAA division, NAIA division and also NJCAA division in the fall. The Golden Wolves recorded a nation leading seven wins in eight events in the fall. McKylie Boreman also was recognized as the co-leader in individual wins for the season with six. McKylie Boreman recorded six wins in eight events for the Golden Wolves in the fall of 2024 and was tied with Meghan DeLong from North Iowa Area Community College (NJCAA II) for the most across all collegiate divisions. Boreman recorded victories at Elizabethtown's Fall Invitational, California University of Pa's Vulcan Invitational, Millersville's Fall Classic, Arcadia's Golden Oaks Shootout, Kutztown's Fall Invitational and also Alvernia's Fall Invitational. Boreman recorded a 74.8 scoring average in eight events, she played in a total of 14 rounds and recorded a round of 79 or better in 12 of the 14 rounds. Boreman fired in a season and career low round of 69 on day one of the Vulcan Invitational at Cedarbrook Golf Club where she took home low medalist honors with a two day score of +4 (146). Boreman's round of 69 also tied teammate Cassidy Miksich's single round program record of 69. Boreman finished the fall season with 28 total birdies, 160 pars, she finished top ten in all eight events, finished top three in seven of the eight and, as mentioned, took home low medalist honors in six events. Boreman is currently the #46 ranked DIII women's golfer in the nation and is the #15 ranked DIII women's golfer in her region. Alvernia University Women's Golf was also recognized with the most team wins across all NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA divisions with seven victories in the fall of 2024. The Golden Wolves took home team title honors at Elizabethtown's Fall Invitational, California University of Pa's Vulcan Invitational, Millersville's Fall Classic, Arcadia's Golden Oaks Shootout, Kutztown's Fall Invitational, Alvernia's Fall Invitational and The Melee, hosted by Drew University. The Golden Wolves posted a 316.3 team scoring average in the fall, recorded top three finishes in all eight tournaments they played in. The Golden Wolves also tallied two record breaking performances at the Vulcan Invitational and Millersville's Fall Invitational. In round two of the Vulcan Invitational, the Golden Wolves posted a team total of 303 to break the previous team record of 306, which was set in the 2024 MAC Championships back in May. Alvernia then rebroke the team record with a 302 team total in round two of the Millersville Invitational to secure the team title. The Golden Wolves are ranked #44 in the nation among all DIII women's golf teams and also ranked #11 in their region.

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 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."

Alvernia University Men's Wrestling placed four wrestlers in the National Wrestling Coaches Association preseason rankings, and Alvernia was ranked 10th in the country in the preseason tournament rankings to open up the season. Alvernia was ranked 10th out of the 25 teams ranked in the preseason top-25 from the NWCA. Alvernia also placed three individuals in the preseason top-15. Keito Shaw was ranked #14 at 125 lbs, Jason Rezac was #9 at 157 lbs, Matthew Lackman was ranked #2 at 165 lbs, and Nathan Lackman was ranked #2 at 174 lbs. Shaw, a senior, finished last season just narrowly missing out on a trip to the NCAA Division III National Championship after finishing in fifth at the Southeast Regional. Shaw finished his junior season with an overall record of 24-10 and had nine technical falls and seven major decisions on the year. Rezac, a senior, qualified for the NCAA Division III National Championship last season after taking second at the Southeast Regional. Rezac went 20-8 last season and finished the year with 13 wins by fall. Last year marked the third straight season that Rezac finished with at least 20 wins and nine pins. Matthew Lackman, a graduate student, finished in third at the 2024 NCAA Division III National Championship at 165 lbs and was the National Runner-Up at the 2023 NCAA Division III National Championship. Lackman, the reigning MAC Wrestler of the Year, finished 2023-24 with an overall record of 45-1, and he is 93-2 over the last two seasons. Matthew Lackman is a two-time All-American at 165 lbs. Nathan Lackman, a graduate transfer from Rhode Island College, last wrestled in the 2022-23 season. He defeated his brother, Matthew, in the 165 lb Division III National Championship bout to earn his second consecutive national title before taking a year off. Nathan defeated Matthew with a takedown 50 seconds into overtime. In 2021-22, Nathan Lackman was the national champion at 157 lbs. Nathan was 39-3 his last season out, but was not defeated by a Division III opponent, and has not been defeated by a Division III opponent since 2021. As a team, Alvernia placed in the top four of each of its four regular-season tournaments. Alvernia took ninth at the NCAA Division III regional. The team started the 2024-25 season with a 40-10 win over Camden County College on Nov. 1 and had three first-place finishers, including Keito Shaw at 125 lbs, Matthew Lackman at 165 lbs and Nathan Lackman at 174 lbs, to lead Alvernia to a third-place team finish on Nov. 2 at the 11-team Tonee Ellis Memorial Invitational at Alvernia's PLEX. Alvernia is back in action at Scranton's Electric City Duals on Saturday, November 9th.

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's Circle K International club recently brought Halloween cheer to Mary's Shelter, a local agency that addresses pregnancy, parenting, and youth homelessness, by packing and delivering 200 candy bags. "I wanted to put a smile on someone's face and remind them that they can still partake in Halloween festivities despite difficult circumstances," said Lauren Janson, president of the Alvernia Circle K club. Reflecting on the event, Janson added that the most rewarding part of it all was "dropping off the 200 Halloween candy bags and seeing the smile and gratitude on their faces." Circle K International is a service-driven organization, dedicated to fostering leadership through community service. The Alvernia student chapter's goal is to engage students in hands-on service projects that make a difference in their communities, embodying Alvernia's mission of community service and civic engagement. This event is an annual tradition for the club, and for its members, it's a powerful reminder of how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. "I hope to leave a positive impact on the people of Mary's Shelter and be a reminder to them that there are people out in the world that want to help," said Katelyn Smith, Alvernia Circle K club media coordinator. "Through doing service projects, I enjoy learning how the things we do change people's lives for the better. I am all about giving to others since that's what makes me happy. When I know that I made a difference, it's a confidence booster for me and a sense of motivation that inspires me to continue putting others first."

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.

Sophomore Women's Golf Student-Athlete Cassidy Miksich recorded the first hole-in-one in program history during the team's victory at the Alvernia Invitational Tuesday afternoon at LedgeRock Golf Club. Miksich recorded an ace at the par three fourth which is the first ace by an Alvernia Women's Golfer in tournament play in program history. She recorded an 89 on the day and finished in 19th place. She started on the second hole and posted two big numbers on two and three before carding her first hole-in-one in a tournament at the par three fourth. Miksich hit a crisp iron shot over the front bunker and onto the middle of the green, the ball then started tracking toward the pin before disappearing into the cup for an ace. Miksich then recorded pars at the fifth and ninth holes, but three bogeys on six, seven, and eight saw her post a 41 on the front nine. Miksich then carded just one par on the back nine with multiple bogeys and doubles as she carded a 48 and finished with an 89 on the round. About Miksich: Miksich competed in all 16 events for the Golden Wolves during her first year and fired a season low round of 69 at the Elizabethtown Invite at Hershey CC East. Miksich's round of 69 also broke the program's single round low record of 71 set by teammate Katie Lapinsky and former Alvernia Women's Golf member Yupha Muyxka. Miksich recorded wins at the Elizabethtown Invite and the Muhlenberg Spring Invitational and tallied four other top three finishes. Miksich made a total of 25 birdies and 170 pars on the year and finished with a scoring average of 81.5. Miksich finished in fourth place at the 2024 MAC Championships to help secure the team title with a program record team total of 306. Her accolades in her first year (2023-2024) include: First Team All-MAC Alvernia Single Round Record (69) 2x MAC Golfer of the Week Alvernia Athlete of the Week MAC Academic Honor Roll

The Orientation Weekend Leaders (OWLs) for the 2024-2025 academic year brought the university's mission of 'knowledge joined with love' to life during New Student Orientation (NSO) and welcomed Alvernia's record-breaking incoming class with enthusiasm. From assisting with move-ins to leading a variety of engaging activities, the OWLs were dedicated to making sure new students felt embraced by the Alvernia community through service, leadership, and inclusion. "I really enjoyed being in OWL training this year because it gave me connections with professional staff members and the rest of my team so we can be successful in welcoming new students," said Car Johnson, Head OWL for August 2024. "The scavenger hunt for Orientation Day of Service stood out to me specifically because students could learn about campus resources in a fun format." OWLs are members of the Student Affairs para-professional staff selected based on leadership, character, and the ability to relate well with others. They facilitate the events of NSO, which support the academic and social transitions new students entering Alvernia University experience. During training, OWLS learn to articulate strategies that promote respectful and meaningful conversations in the Alvernia community and how to effectively promote campus resources for individual students' needs presented during NSO. Their vibrant leadership not only eased the transition for incoming students but also sparked a sense of belonging, setting the foundation for a transformative Alvernia experience. "Being an OWL is such a fun experience," said Hailey Rohrer, new OWL hire for August 2024. "I loved helping new students connect with one another and get familiar with campus. The day of move-in may be busy, but it always comes together smoothly for students to create a lot of new relationships and settle into campus life"

Alvernia students represented the Alvernia Student Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) at the SHRM National Conference at the McCormick Center in Chicago, IL. alongside 28,000 students from across the nation. "Attending this conference is an experience like no other," said Associate Professor of Business, Beth Berret, Ed.D., MBA, SPHR, SHRM SCP. "This annual conference hosts practitioners from around the world. Students have an opportunity to attend professional sessions and learn more about the challenges, rewards, and latest information in the legal/management/HR arena. In addition, students attend the exposition which displays all the technology and services available to the practitioner. Students who attend this conference often return with a renewed interest in HR or an interest in an area they never knew existed." The SHRM National Conference is the world's largest convention of human resource (HR) professionals. Leaders in HR and business come together at the event to discuss new methods for addressing the most pressing issues in the workplace, foster professional connections and empower current and future HR professionals to expand their knowledge base and apply it to their work. The purpose of Alvernia's SHRM student chapter is to acquaint students seeking careers in human resource (HR) management, management or labor relations with experiential learning opportunities and knowledge on current issues and trends in these fields through opportunities like the SHRM National Conference. "Attending the SHRM 2024 Conference in Chicago was an amazing experience that expanded my understanding of human resources and business management," said MBA Candidate and SHRM Student Chapter President, Nicholas King. "We explored new products, met with professionals, listened to speakers from various diverse specialties, and enjoyed discovering the city. The conference brought together HR professionals from across the globe, offering a rich mix of learning, networking, and exposure to the latest industry trends. As the SHRM student chapter president, I also had the chance to strengthen my leadership skills, make meaningful connections, and gain insights for my future HR career and the club." Alvernia's merit-winning student SHRM chapter is recognized locally by the Berks County SHRM Chapter. Sponsorship affords our students networking opportunities with professional chapter members during monthly meetings. The professional chapter also helps to sponsor events such as our on-campus Job Fair. Student members have been active participants in various community events such as Toys for Tots, Road Run, MADD fundraisers, and the chapter's Annual Animals Need Food, Too campaign. SHRM has also participated in Christmas on Campus, the Turkey Drive, and Trick-or-Treat for Unicef for community service projects.

Alvernia University student Kyle Patton raised over $2,000 to support veterans and Gold Star families who lost immediate family members who died while serving in the military through participation in the New York City SEAL Swim. This multi-sport open swim event in New York City benefits the Navy SEAL Foundation, which supports over 30 critical programs for active-duty SEALs, veterans, and their families. Patton described his decision to join and train for this event as "an opportunity to express my appreciation and patriotism." Patton's commitment to the cause was evident in his effort to raise over $2,000 to support veterans and Gold Star families. Reflecting on his fundraising efforts, Patton shared "Fundraising for this event was an eye-opening experience. He continued stating, "I was genuinely touched by the generosity of those who supported the cause, and it reinforced my belief in the power of community and shared values." In addition to the swim, Patton had the opportunity to tour the New York Stock Exchange, watch CNBC live behind the scenes, and visit the 9/11 museum. During this experience he states, "This visit deepened my appreciation for the sacrifices made by first responders and all those who worked to rebuild and heal our nation after that dark day" Patton's involvement in the SEAL Swim highlights his commitment to service and community, embodying Alvernia University's core values and demonstrating how personal dedication can make a meaningful impact on important causes.

Senior communications major and podcaster Sherrin Smith launched the 'Around the Den' podcast which features conversations with students, staff, and faculty to showcase Alvernia events and happenings. "I started this podcast as a need to help student organizations and other departments increase their student engagement numbers," said Smith. "Though it's a small campus, there is always something taking place that students may be unaware of. As I continued coming up with ideas for the podcast, I also thought to give the students an opportunity to share their unique experiences on campus or thoughts they may not be able to speak on in the classroom." The first episode aired on Monday, September 9. Listeners can find it on Spotify and follow @aroundthedenpod for updates and episodes. "I'm looking forward to seeing where it goes," said Smith. "I hope people will like the podcast and suggest ideas on what else they would like to see and hear from it. I really want this to be student-driven, so I'm excited to see what the trajectory of this podcast will be."

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!"

Third-year Alvernia University Doctor of Physical Therapy candidates provided pro-bono services to 25 Berks County community volunteers during the second annual American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Annual Visit for Older Adults. Students conducted a formal wellness screening and provided health and wellness recommendations to each patient. "I registered, came in for the class and I was astounded," said Barbara Flowers, Berks County resident who volunteered as a patient. "They did a great assessment of what my deficiencies were. I didn't want to admit them, but I had them. And when I left, they were more in control. I wasn't at risk of falling, which is a problem for me... it didn't stop there because they gave me a packet to continue at home on my own." The goal of this performance-based physical therapy education experiential learning opportunity is to promote the practical application of knowledge and the development of clinical skills to ensure that graduates will be prepared to have an immediate impact on the lives of others. In this case, individual screening visit results may lead to a referral for a physical therapist evaluation and treatment plan or to another health care professional depending on the potential health risks identified during the visit. "I love working with people in the community," said Collin Barndt, a Doctor of Physical Therapy candidate, "It's also great to have first-hand experience to see how it is to interact with patients in the real world. When we work with just our classmates, it's a little tough to interact that way. It's always great to see the smiling faces of these people in the community when we work with them."

Alvernia University graduates Jordan Karmonick and Shinelle Felix earned NCAA Woman of the Year accolades, as announced by Alvernia and the Middle Atlantic Conference. Both Karmonick and Felix were selected as Alvernia's Institutional nominees for the 2024 NCAA Woman of the Year program. In addition, Felix was selected amongst the MAC's institutional nominees as the 2024 Middle Atlantic Conference nominee. This is the third straight year that an Alvernia institutional nominee was selected as a conference level nomination. She joins Sarah Reinert (2022) and Brooke Spezialetti (2023). The NCAA Woman of the Year program, now in its 34th year, was established in 1991 and honors the academic achievements, athletic excellence, community service, and leadership of a graduating female collegiate athlete that has exhausted their NCAA eligibility. Felix joins Laura Matthews (Stevens), Bella Garabo (York), and Catie McGrath (DeSales) as MAC Nominees. Mathews and Felix will move forward as the MAC nominee, Garabo will represent the MAC Commonwealth and McGrath will represent the MAC Freedom. About the nominees: Shinelle Felix, a four-year member of the Alvernia Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field programs, graduated in May with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Art. Felix was a two-time Academic All-MAC honoree and earned MAC Honor Roll and Dean's List honors . Felix graduated as one of the most decorated Alvernia student-athletes of all-time. As a triple and long-jumper for Alvernia, Felix finished her career as a four time first team All-American, a national runner-up, and a two-time third place finisher. She is a six-time national qualifier and a 15 time All-MAC honoree. During her career, Felix competed at six NCAA Division III National Championships. At the 2024 NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field Championship, Felix finished as the national-runner up in the triple jump. That finish marked the highest place finish by an Alvernia female athlete, and made her just the second Alvernia student-athlete (male or female) to earn a second place finish at a national championship. Felix also finished third place at a National Championships on two occasions (2023 Outdoor and 2024 Outdoor). In December of 2023, Felix broke a decades old facility record at Division I Bucknell University. Felix hit a mark of 12.67m in the triple jump. At the time, her mark was the second best in DIII for the 2023-24 indoor season and sixth best overall in DIII women's track and field history. For her athletic achievement, Felix was named Alvernia Most Outstanding Athlete of the Class of 2024. Off the track and outside the classroom, Felix participated in several local community service projects. Felix participated in two Alvernia service-learning courses. She also volunteered with the Philadelphia Marathon and Health Kids Run program. Jordan Karmonick, a four-year member of the Alvernia Women's Basketball team, graduated in May with a degree in nursing. Karmonick graduated from the nursing program with a 3.88 cumulative GPA. Karmonick earned Academic All-MAC honors in both 2023 and 2024. Karmonick was also a recipient of the Alvernia Richard Law Award for Composition and Research, and the Alvernia Barbara Stratton Nursing Award. On the court, Karmonick was a four-year starter for the Golden Wolves. Karmonick was named the MAC Commonwealth Defensive Player of the Year for the 2023-24 season and became the first player for Alvernia to earn a MAC "Of the Year" honor since Alvernia joined the Middle Atlantic Conference in 2008. Despite her first year being limited to five games due to COVID restrictions, Karmonick started in 86 of the 87 games Alvernia played during her career. She finished her career with 931 career points, 610 rebounds, 314 assists, and 151 steals. Karmonick was a hustle player through and through for Alvernia. She averaged no-less than 31 minutes played per game each season of her career. For her efforts on the court over the last four years, Karmonick was named a recipient of Alvernia's Athletic Excellence Award. Off the court and outside of the classroom, Karmonick was involved in several community service endeavors. Amongst other activities within the community, In 2022, Karmonick took part in one of Alvernia's Alternative Break trips. Karmonick went to Alderson, West Virginia. While there, she worked within the local community; preparing meals, working on a local farm to learn aspects of sustainability, and used limited resources to build ramps, porches, and doors.

The 2024 Alvernia Baseball team earned Team Academic Excellence honors for the 2023-24 academic year, as announced by the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) and presented by Sports Attack. Alvernia joins over 470 collegiate programs across all divisions to earn the team honor. In order to achieve Academic Excellence honors, programas must post a team GPA of 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 scale for the 2023-24 academic year. This is Alvernia's third straight year earning the honor. The Golden Wolves finished as the 2024 MAC Commonwealth Champions, and also placed 30 student-athletes on this spring's MAC Academic Honor Roll. Alvernia finished the 2024 season with a 29-18 overall record and was 15-6 in conference play.

Five Alvernia University Women's Lacrosse student-athletes, as well as the Women's Lacrosse Team earned Academic Honors for their performances in the classroom, as announced by the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA). Lauren Fox (Grad./Physical Therapy), Olivia Malone (Jr./Nursing), Mackenzie McKinney (Sr./Early Childhood Education), Sherrin Smith (Jr./Communication), and Sophia Ruocco (Jr./Early Childhood Education) were named to the IWLCA Academic Honor Roll. In order to qualify for the honor roll, student-athletes must be a junior, senior, or graduate student and have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or greater through the conclusion of the spring semester. In addition to the five individual student-athletes honors, the Alvernia Women's Lacrosse team was one of 325 schools across all divisions to be named an IWLCA Academic Honor Squad for the 2023-24 academic year. In order to qualify, teams must post a team GPA of 3.20 or higher for the academic year.

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 placed nine student-athletes on respective 2024 Winter Academic All-MAC Teams, as announced by Middle Atlantic Conference Executive Director Megan Morrison on Monday. Bobby Mullan (Men's Basketball), Jordan Karmonick (Women's Basketball), Kayla Williams (Women's Basketball), Matthew Davies (Men's Ice Hockey), Jackson Fellner (Men's Ice Hockey), Logan vande Meerakker (Men's Ice Hockey), Julia Beaven (Women's Ice Hockey), Julia Franklin (Women's Ice Hockey), and Matthew Lackman (Men's Wrestling) earned the honor for Alvernia. The Winter Academic All-MAC teams recognize the top student-athletes both in the classroom and in athletic competition during the 2024 spring semester. The MAC sports information directors nominate and vote on the Academic All-MAC teams, giving 50 percent weight on both academic success and athletic success. A student-athlete must have a spring semester grade-point average (GPA) of 3.20 or higher to be eligible for the award.

Alvernia University placed 13 student-athletes on respective 2024 Spring Academic All-MAC Teams, as announced by Middle Atlantic Conference Executive Director Megan Morrison on Tuesday. Alvernia's 13 student-athletes on the Spring Academic All-MAC team is the most in a single season for Alvernia since the Academic All-MAC program began in the Fall of 2013. The Spring Academic All-MAC teams recognize the top student-athletes both in the classroom and in athletic competition during the 2024 spring semester. The MAC sports information directors nominate and vote on the Academic All-MAC teams, giving 50 percent weight on both academic success and athletic success. A student-athlete must have a spring semester grade-point average (GPA) of 3.20 or higher to be eligible for the award. Mike Ramundo (Baseball), Maggie Loomis (Softball), Taylor McClain (Softball), Jackson Hoovler (Men's Golf), Shawn Williams (Men's Golf), McKylie Boreman (Women's Golf), Katie Lapinsky (Women's Golf), Cassidy Miksich (Women's Golf), Rylee Stenzel (Women's Golf), Dane Sabarese (Men's Lacrosse), Lucas Berger (Men's Tennis), Leah Bouchard (Women's Tennis), and Cera Gaston (Women's Outdoor Track and Field) each earned the honor for Alvernia.

Alvernia University's student entrepreneur Tobi Somori '24 was a collegiate finalist in the 2024 TecBRIDGE Business Plan Competition with her startup technology company Emivero. Somori's technology startup, Evimero, aims to enhance retention and engagement for universities and students. Its time-management and student engagement features are designed to retain current students and recruit non-traditional students. "I learned grit, the importance of feedback, and how to pivot," said Somori. "All the hard work paid off. To me, it was very validating to know that we are past the idea stage, and the industry experts who served as judges for the competitions agreed with us." Somori worked with Jack Short, MBA Candidate, and O'Pake Institute Graduate Assistant of Startup Ventures and Investments. Short serves as Emivero's chief financial officer. In this role, he creates financial projections, cash flow statements, and profit and loss statements, manages budgeting, and oversees many day-to-day operations alongside Somori. "Being a finalist in the TecBRIDGE business plan competition has provided me a plethora of experiential learning," said Short. "I had a great opportunity to develop a financial model for our start-up company, present to a great group of judges, and showcase Evimero to the world which TecBRIDGE provided to us the opportunity to do." College student teams in the region, like the Emivero team, compete in the collegiate division. Competitors are responsible for deliverables in four areas: an executive summary, competitor analysis, proforma financials, and a pitch deck, which they presented on April 18. Industry expert judges evaluated these presentations ahead of the awards ceremony on May 2 at the F.M. Kirby Center for Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre, PA. "Preparing to compete in the TecBRIDGE Business Plan Competition is a rigorous process, but Tobi and Jack embraced the challenge," said O'Pake Institute Executive Director of Student and Client Services, Michelle Conway, MBA. "They diligently developed a comprehensive business plan, pitch deck, financial projections, and competitive analysis. They also attended help sessions with tecBRIDGE's professional service provider network and invested countless hours perfecting Evimero's wireframe-all while balancing full-time studies and part-time jobs. Tobi and Jack truly embody the entrepreneurial spirit and the commitment of having 'skin in the game."

Seven Alvernia University students & alums studied abroad through the Sustainability Immersion Program in Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada. This trip is a 1-week adventure-based group learning program developed and facilitated by the Sustainable Misfits, a nonprofit organization founded by five Alvernia alumni. The program's focus is to guide young adults on how to effectively cultivate a caring, resilient community of people who make a positive impact on others and the environment. "Sustainable Misfits takes a holistic approach to learning. Equally important to the knowledge students gain during our trips, including the eco-retreat and the community engagement encounters, is focusing on students' inner development - building the inner skills and mindset that, joined with knowledge, lead to transformational change. To reflect this, we integrated the new Inner Development Goals Framework into our program model," said Alvernia University Associate Director of Sustainability and Sustainable Misfits Executive Director, Dr. Alicia Sprow. "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 on service projects and planning discussions. The five main program outcomes of this trip include skill and knowledge development around community building, effective communication, systems thinking, innovative leadership, and supportive followership. "During my trip to Grand Manan, having the opportunity to interact with the local community and explore the island's beauty, I learned the invaluable lesson of slowing down and appreciating life's simpler pleasures," said Teresa Keithley. "With its small population and remote location, the island portrayed a sense of tranquility much different from the life I have returned home to, especially working in Philadelphia. This experience has inspired me to incorporate more balance and mindfulness into my daily routine at home. Along with enjoying the nightly dinners together and exploring the Eco-Retreat, I especially enjoyed the cold plunge into the ocean and the team-building games we did together on the beach afterward."