Alvernia University

Alvernia students engaged in community service and environmental stewardship through an ecology class led by Assistant Professor of Biology Jamie Becker, Ph.D. The class partnered with the Reading Climate Corps and Public Works to plant 24 native trees in Reading City Park. Through this collaboration, students gained hands-on experience while contributing to vital environmental restoration in the local community. "Ecology is an outdoor science, so most of our labs involve leaving the roof and walls of the Science Center. Collaborating with partners like Public Works of Reading and Reading Climate Corps to improve local ecosystem health translates information from our classroom into real-world student experiences that align with Alvernia's service-learning values," said Becker. According to Becker, the tree planting project aimed to combat erosion, improve soil hydrology in a wet area of the park, and create a habitat for local wildlife. Native species like eastern redbud, swamp oak, bottle brush buckeye, sugar maple, chokeberry, spice bush, and hop hornbeam were selected for their ecological benefits and longevity. "The lab was exciting as I felt like I was making a difference for the City of Reading for years to come by planting these trees," said biology major Brandon VanSchaick '26. Funded by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, Keep Reading Beautiful, and the GIANT Heal the Planet Grant, the project showcased the power of partnerships to enhance community spaces. Projects like this exemplify the values of community engagement, environmental stewardship, and experiential learning central to Alvernia University. Through hands-on participation, students strengthen their ties to the local community, acquire valuable practical skills, and cultivate a lasting commitment to sustainability and service. "It's crazy to think that if all goes well, the trees we planted will remain here for decades, providing quality air, shade, and beauty for the City of Reading and all who choose to come here," said biology major Mikayla Giuliano '25.

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.

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'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 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.

In alignment with Alvernia University's core value of service, engineering students and O'Pake Fellows, Robert Philpot, Kayla Moriarty, Gabriel Malek, and Jack Badalamenti designed, built and donated a birdhouse inspired by campus landmark, Francis Hall, for Habitat for Humanity of Berks County's largest charity event of the year. "I definitely learned a lot of hands-on skills throughout the process of actually building the birdhouse," said Gabriel Malek. "All of the craftsmanship that went into working with the wood and paint helped improve my own abilities for future endeavors. I also furthered my team-oriented work skills, staying communicative with the group to ensure we completed everything and delegating the work to optimize the process." The Francis Hall birdhouse, alongside over 30 other birdhouses donated by community members in the Berks County area, was auctioned off to support the nonprofit. Alvernia Trustee Ginger Kunkel, president at Tompkins Financial Corporation, bid on the Francis Hall birdhouse and won. "The enthusiasm displayed by the Alvernia students for replicating a beloved symbol of their school was inspiring, as was their determination to construct a work of art unique enough to raise meaningful dollars to really help the Habitat mission," said Kunkel. "The love and respect these students showed for each other, their school and their community made it an easy decision to bid. I loved seeing their overjoyed response to the contribution their work made possible." Kunkel reflected that after spending time on campus interacting with the Alvernia leadership, faculty, students and alumni and the Bernadine Sisters since she was appointed to the board last year, the campus community's strong support system was evident. With that in mind, she made the decision to donate the birdhouse and take it "back home" on campus to inspire current and future Alvernia faculty, staff, and students. "My favorite part of the project was witnessing the birdhouse being auctioned off and tying for first on the highest amount for the price in which it was auctioned," said Kayla Moriarity. The O'Pake Fellows Program provides high-achieving undergraduate and graduate students at Alvernia University with the ability to work hands-on with entrepreneurs, small businesses, regional partners, and faculty through the SPARK Business Incubator. The highly qualified students who enter the program are provided with numerous hours of professional training and mentoring to prepare them to work with our clients. Once trained, they are partnered with specific clients to provide services that match their expertise. The students receive experiential learning opportunities from their work, learn from faculty and subject matter mentors, and deliver quality services to clients.

14 Students were recognized at the Alvernia University Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement's Franciscan Servant Leadership Commissioning ceremony for outstanding service accomplishments. To be presented with this honor, students completed over 100 hours of service during their time at Alvernia. "You all have worked so hard to earn this achievement," said Senior Director, Holleran Center for Community & Global Engagement Alyssa Slade. "Collectively, those of you sitting in this room have served over 4,000 hours of service to our local and global communities. This is something to be very proud of. Our hope is that this service journey provided you with a well-rounded experience, allowing you to discover new passions along the way." Students recognized were committed to being a Franscian Servant Leader while at Alvernia. During their service journey, students' time and efforts were devoted to addressing various community needs, improving sustainability, supporting vulnerable populations, enrolling in service-learning courses, traveling for mission trips and alternative breaks, and participating in the Holleran Center's university-wide service days. The dedication exhibited by fellow students highlights the impact of promoting positive change and fosters a culture of community engagement. "Throughout my five years at Alvernia, I have loved participating in different service trips and events," said Fifth-Year Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Student Kyra Connolly. "I found it so rewarding to help and serve others in need. Throughout my service, I have met so many wonderful people and have had amazing opportunities that I will never forget. Volunteering and completing these service events have been top highlights during my college career and I am so grateful for the experiences and memories I have made."

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."

Students of the Pura Vida Club, in partnership with the nonprofit organization Letters of Love, gathered to make handcrafted letters for sick children battling cancer and terminal illnesses. Letters of Love is dedicated to brightening the lives of children going through hardship by sending letters filled with support and encouragement. "Through the cards, we hope that each child who receives a card knows that they are loved, supported, and never alone," said Pura Vida Vice President Jonny Division Martinez. "We want to show that we can change the world with small acts of kindness."

On February 9, 2024, Community Evangelical Church and Alvernia University partnered to host the Tim Tebow Foundation's Night to Shine in Berks County for the first time since 2020. Night to Shine is designed to be an unforgettable prom night hosted globally for people with special needs aged 14 and older. Over 400 Alvernia volunteers celebrated the individuals by providing them with a night of joy and recognition. "Alvernia is committed to personal and social transformation through integrated, community-based, inclusive, and ethical learning," said Director of Accessibility Services Andrea Swift, Ed.D. "The University holds to the ideal of 'knowledge joined with love.' Night to Shine is focused on love for the honored guests and their families. Our students had the pleasure of sharing an incredible night celebrating unique individuals and ensuring that they know how valuable they are. Alvernia students also had the opportunity to put their knowledge they have learned in the classroom into practice as they helped with this community event."

20 Alvernia students embraced their civic responsibility and volunteered at the 2024 annual MLK Day of Service. Alvernia University's Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement partnered with the NAACP, Albright College and Penn State Berks for this national initiative observed each year on the third Monday in January as "a day on, not a day off." Students volunteered across the Reading community at Helping Harvest, the Reading Firefighter's Museum and Mary's Shelter. "Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. through giving back to the community directly aligns with our Franciscan mission and Alvernia's core value of service," said Senior Director of the Holleran Center for Community & Global Engagement, Alyssa Slade. "Alvernia embraces this initiative as it allows us to not only address local needs but also instill a sense of civic responsibility and a culture of giving back in our students. By participating in this event, students can see how their impact fits into the larger picture as other groups serve alongside Alvernia, addressing other needs in the same community." Students also participated in a pre-service reflection with Vice President of Mission, Diversity and Inclusion, Dr. Darryl Mace where they were able to deepen their knowledge about the meaning behind serving in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Mace discussed additional opportunities to honor MLK's legacy in our every day lives beyond the day of service.

Alvernia University Occupational Therapy students in Dr. Gregory Chown's OT 526 class raised nearly $1200 for the West Reading Disaster Recovery Fund created by Berks County Community Foundation in partnership with United Way of Berks County following the explosion of the R.M. Palmer factory in West Reading, Pa. earlier this year. "I am very proud of the graduating occupational therapy students, who despite their super busy end-of-the-year schedules, showed servant leadership and upheld the Franciscan values to help others in a time of great need," said Dr. Gregory Chown, associate professor of occupational therapy

Alvernia University Student Organization Circle K International hosted "Alvernia Against Cancer," a walk dedicated to cancer awareness at Alvernia's PLEX and Angelica Park where they raised $2,112 for the McGlinn Cancer Institute at Tower Health Reading Hospital. "Alvernia Against Cancer allowed so many people to come together to celebrate the life of loved ones, fight with those who are still fighting, and to honor those who beat this disease," said President of Circle K, Lindsay Eckhoff, MSOT '23. "Looking back at this last year, this event was just an idea that I had because cancer hits so close to home for me along with so many more people in Berks County and at Alvernia University. My grandpa passed away from lung cancer and my dad is still going through cancer treatments; through this, I learned that cancer does not only affect the patient but the whole family and no one should fight alone. The love from everyone that participated in the walk truly amazes me." The Alvernia University and members of the Greater Reading community gathered for remarks from cancer survivor & Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, Dr. Judith Schrepfer, DHS, OTRL; Occupational Therapy Department Chair & Assistant Professor, Dr. Elizabeth Bentz, OTD, OTR/L, SIPT, RYT; President of Circle K, Lindsay Eckhoff, MSOT '23; and Vice President of Circle K, Alyssa Yoder, MSOT '23. The donation presentation to the McGlinn Cancer Institute's Patient Assistant Fund and the ~1.5 mile walk from the Alvernia PLEX to Angelica Park immediately followed the remarks. "I am proud of the students of the Circle K club and the occupational therapy students who organized a beautiful event to honor the lives of those who have been impacted by cancer," said Bentz. "When Lindsay Eckhoff brought her idea to me about an Alvernia Against Cancer walk, I told her that we would assist her with anything that she needed. Her idea took off. Lindsay, along with her classmate Alyssa Yoder, worked tirelessly to launch this event. Because of their efforts and the support of the community, family, and friends, they raised $2,112 for the McGlinn Cancer Institute. I want to extend my deepest gratitude for all those who participated in the walk or contributed towards the fundraiser." Other Alvernia student organizations and community organizations were present throughout the event including representatives from the McGlinn Cancer Institute, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Berks Community Health Center, Co-County Wellness Services and Berks Teens, Safe Berks, LGBT Center of Greater Reading, All Abilities Fitness Center, Bethany Children's Home Inc. And the Alvernia occupational therapy students. These groups and organizations offered resources and information to participants. "This event fostered a spectacular sense of community for both Alvernia and Berks County while rallying for those fighting an illness that affects so many," said Vice-President of Circle K, Alyssa Yoder, MSOT '23. "We are thrilled with the number of people who came out to support and donate to a cause we are all so passionate about."

The Social Work Club at Alvernia University's Philadelphia Community-Based Campus held their annual spring bagged lunch event where they served 20 bagged lunches to the unhoused population in Center City, Philadelphia. "From my perspective, as a professor of social work, I believe that social work education is more than classroom experience," said Assistant Professor of Social Work, Dr. Paul Heffner. "We are a profession that is about a call to action. There are always so many folks in need, and if we can contribute a small bit of care to folks in need, that feels like a win for everyone." Throughout the course of the semester, the club collects donations to include in the bags, as well as fills and distributes the lunches with the help of volunteers alongside Heffner and his mother, Maria Heffner. "As a student determined in social work, this event means going out into the real world and engaging with the community to the best of your means," said Thanea Redroven. "Be the reason someone feels welcomed, seen, heard, valued, loved & supported." The items collected for these bags included: winter hats and scarves, bottled water, granola bars, hand warmers, travel mugs, hot cocoa packets, tuna cracker packs, and resource information packets. "Making outreach to the community is an action that all social workers are required to execute," said Social Work Club President, Michelle Johnson. Fulfilling the need and supporting as best you can. Providing service to the unhoused community is what we do at the Philadelphia Campus. We are a small organization making huge strides, uplifting the spirits of individuals, and showing compassion and care to each person we encounter. One kind gesture goes a long way."

The Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement held the annual Franciscan Servant Leader Commissioning to present service awards and pins to students for their service accomplishments. The honorees all performed more than 100 hours of service in a variety of tracks during their time at Alvernia. "The Franciscan Servant Leader Commissioning is truly a special event because it ties the students' service experiences together," said Alyssa Slade, senior director, Holleran Center for Community & Global Engagement. "Students are able to take a moment to reflect on what their service mindset was when they first stepped foot on campus and then really see all they have accomplished while a student at Alvernia. It is so amazing to hear the stories of those students who go from never having served to being a model of Servant Leadership in our community." As Franciscan Servant Leaders, these students chose to engage in a holistic service journey, volunteering to meet the community's sustainability, vulnerable population, and educational needs while also serving with community partners through Alvernia coordinated experiences such as service-learning course projects and university-wide days of service. "I am thrilled to be able to say that I now represent the Alvernia student with the most service hours in the university's history," said Erica L. Burch, SN-ALV, senior nursing major. "Community service is something that has been ingrained in me since I was a little girl...it is something I value because it has such a profound impact on the organization and the communities they support. I have had the most incredible support from everyone at the Holleran Center. Their amazing staff is passionate about giving back to not only the Alvernia Community but also to Berks County and beyond." This year, the Holleran Center also launched the Service Corps where students can come together and collectively identify an area of social injustice or need within the community. They also come up with a way to address this need through a service event where the whole campus can get involved. This year, the group decided to host a Best Buddies carnival for the community. Best Buddies is an organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. "It was a great event where over 25 families had the opportunity to come to Alvernia's campus and participate in a variety of different games alongside family members and Alvernia buddies," said Slade. "I have always believed that students should be at the heart of the planning process in the Holleran Center. This Service Corps allows students to do just that. Each student has a unique story and set of skills that they bring to the table."

The Philadelphia Campus Social Work Club hosts a bagged lunch event for unhoused populations in Center City Philadelphia each semester. Throughout the course of the semester, they collect donations to include in the bags, and this year they received enough donations to fill and distribute 35 bags with the help of volunteers. "Housing insecurity continues to be an ongoing issue in Philadelphia, and for social workers, we are often working on the front lines of these kinds of societal issues," said Paul Heffner, DSW, LSW, assistant professor of social work. "This is the reason it is so important for our students to be involved in concrete actions in the community to offer support... it may offer someone nourishment in a moment, and show care to people in a time that they may really feel forgotten. This falls very much in line with social work values, and for students in our field, to be a part of that, it is incredibly significant." The items collected for these bags included: winter hats and scarves, bottled water, granola bars, hand warmers, travel mugs, hot cocoa packets, tuna cracker packs, and resource information packets developed by Christina Joseph, a social work student who works with unhoused populations in Center City. "The Philadelphia Campus Social Work Club is dedicated to assisting the unhoused in Center City Philadelphia," said Michelle Johnson, president of the Social Work Club. We want to be impactful in the area of keeping them warm and providing some sort of nourishment. We are hopeful that we will be able to do more for the next event."

Physical therapy and occupational therapy students served in Alvernia University's inaugural eight-week physical therapy and occupational therapy interprofessional pro bono clinic. Students provide services free of charge to individuals in the Reading community who cannot afford traditional services, have exhausted their insurance or would like help with their daily living skills which might not be readily available to them. Physical therapy students have served in this clinic for the last six years on Alvernia's campus in the PLEX, and this year, occupational therapy students became involved in the clinic. A licensed and professional therapist is always on-site to provide supervision and guidance. This hands-on experiential learning opportunity allows the students to learn about each industry's unique points of view and approach to care. They also learn and practice collaboration, negotiation and professionalism through practical experience working side-by-side with other professionals in order to cater to the unique needs of the patients they serve. Thus, students can develop the skills that they need to become competent and confident practitioners in the future.

Alvernia University's Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement has announced their 2019-2020 student awards. The awards include the Graduation Award for Excellence in Service, which is presented to graduating seniors who have completed at least 300 hours of service to the community as an Alvernia student, the Holleran Center Community Engagement Award, which is presented to graduating seniors who have completed at least 500 hours of service to the community as an Alvernia student, the Holleran Center Fellow Award, which is presented to an inspiring college student leader and rising senior that demonstrates exemplary service and work through the Holleran Center, the Boscov's Reading Collegiate Scholar Award, which is presented to a graduating senior member of the Alvernia Reading Collegiate Scholars Program who is actively engaged on campus and in the community and also has a GPA higher than a 3.3 and the Holleran Center Outstanding Service Award, which is presented to the graduating senior who has completed the highest number of hours in service to the community.

Nearly 200 students and faculty members from Alvernia University served various organizations throughout Berks County as part of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Participants provided service for Berks County organizations including the Phoebe Berks Retirement Community, Helping Harvest, Hope Rescue Mission Thrift Stores, Hopewell Furnace, Habitat for Humanity, Mary's Shelter, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Reading Area Firefighter's Museum, Reading City Hall, Reading Pagoda, Reading Science Center and St. Joseph's Villa. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is part of a national initiative of community service and is also one of four traditional Days of Service at Alvernia - where students volunteered 40,000 hours annually. Alvernia's other annual Days of Service include Freshman Orientation Day in August, St. Francis Day in October, and Earth Day in April. Alvernia's individual, group and mass service ventures are coordinated by the university's Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement, currently in its 12th year of operation.

More than 40 students were recognized by the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement for their dedication to service during an awards ceremony. During the ceremony, students received service awards and pins for their service accomplishments. The honorees all performed more than 100 hours of service in a variety of tracks during their time at Alvernia, incuding helping lead alternative breaks and university-wide service days, completing sustainability projects, participating in educational enrichment opportunities, and helping meet the needs of vulnerable populations in the community.

First-year students in Alvernia's Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program demonstrated the importance of movement and exercise to fourth-grade students at Lauer's Park Elementary School through an interactive program called Power in Motion.

Alvernia students and faculty volunteer to provide fresh produce for the local community.

Alvernia students spent a week of the 2019 summer break volunteering in Negril, Jamaica, through the university's Alternative Breaks program. During their experience, the students engaged with children while assisting them with their educational and creative skills, painted a school, sorted clothing donations, attended mass and learned about the Franciscan charism. The team also learned information about poverty, environmental sustainability and education in Jamaica. Alvernia's Alternative Break programs organize weekend and week-long service and immersion trips for students to inspire and empower them to lead lives dedicated to serving the underserved, promoting peace and justice and working towards the common good. Alvernia University is a thriving comprehensive university that empowers students to become ethical leaders with moral courage, while providing an intellectually challenging environment with real-world learning experiences. Located on a scenic 121-acre suburban campus in historic Berks County, Pennsylvania, the distinctive Franciscan university of nearly 3,000 students is conveniently located near Philadelphia (60 miles) and within an easy drive of New York, Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Alvernia students spent a week of the 2019 summer break volunteering at the Bethlehem Farm in Alderson, West Virginia, through the university's Alternative Break program. Students experienced living simply in a prayer community while learning about sustainable practices and working on different projects such as home repair and gardening.

Alvernia students spent a week of the 2019 summer break volunteering in Reading, Pennsylvania, through Alvernia University's Alternative Break program. Along with their staff advisors, the students assisted a diverse group of non-profit organizations that included the Opportunity House, Phoebe Berks, Helping Harvest, Hope Rescue Mission, Mother Veronica Resource Center, St. Joseph's Villa, and Alvernia's very own Bog Turtle Creek Farm.

Alvernia students spent a week of their 2019 summer working to make a difference in Reading, Pa., Alderson, W. Va., and Camden, N.J through the University's Alternative Break programs.

Alvernia students spent their 2019 spring break working to make a difference in Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Tucson, Arizona, and Cuba through Alvernia University's Alternative Break programs.

College students worked with children and adults in San Domingo, Dominican Republic this winter through Alvernia University's Alternative Break programs.

Alvernia students spent their 2019 spring break working to make a difference in Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Tucson, Arizona, and Cuba through Alvernia University's Alternative Break programs.