Alvernia University

Christina Walko, Karis Howell, Alexander Kabrich, Morgan Harig-Cook, and Emma Groff spent two weeks studying biodiversity in Costa Rica alongside Associate Professor of Philosophy, Dr. Josh Hayes and Associate Professor of Biology and Physical Therapy, Dr. Eric Recktenwald. They partnered with Dr. Stephen Mech and Dr. Bethanne Bruninga-Socolar, professors from Albright College who brought students from their Tropical Ecology of Costa Rica course. "Our trip to Costa Rica was designed to offer a real-world experience of the country with the highest biodiversity density in the world," said Rektenwald. "We explored tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, cloud forests, and both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Students were exposed to the intricacies of a conservation initiative, met with an indigenous tribe, and considered the ethics of ecotourism and sustainability - all in the presence of sloths, spider monkeys, pumas, tapirs, tree frogs, toucans, etc."

610 students earned associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees from Alvernia University during the 2022-23 academic year. Graduates from August 2022, December 2022 and May 2023 celebrated by walking across the stage during a pair of commencement ceremonies on May 13, 2023. "Four years ago, we welcomed many of you, both students and guests alike, to our university at our Opening Convocation," said President-Elect, Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald. "Flash forward to today and I can honestly say we have transformed together in so many ways. I've loved the opportunities to get to know you and your unique stories."

Nine Alvernia University students in the Speech for Professionals class presented at The Higher Education Council of Berks County (HECBC) Undergraduate Research and Creativity conference at Kutztown University. "The Undergraduate Research & Creativity conference is a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their research interests and gain valuable experience at presenting in a professional setting," said Communication & Digital Media Department Chair & Professor of Communication, Dr. Caroline Fitzpatrick. "Each year, it is a pleasure to mentor and sponsor students in this type of experiential learning during their academic journeys. It takes much effort and courage to present research at a conference. I am very proud of them."

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's O'Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship launched the Executives-In-Training Program featuring training from local experts, career development opportunities and networking. The first cohort of Alvernia graduate students in the O'Pake Fellows Program received their certificates at a graduation ceremony on May 1. "The Executives-In-Training Program at the O'Pake Institute has provided me with experiential learning that complements my MBA course schedule and kept me on my toes every step of the way," said Nick Nutile, MBA '23. From experienced professionals who came in to talk to us, to the self-assessments and activities that we completed, it has truly been a pivotal factor in increasing my knowledge and preparedness to enter the workforce. I couldn't be more thankful for Michelle Conway for her expertise and mentorship through this program. The insights I've gained from this course have been priceless and it was a fantastic experience overall."

Nearly 70 Students were recognized for their leadership role in registered student organizations (RSO) at the 2023 Student Government Association (SGA) Awards & Induction ceremony at the Francis Hall Theatre at the end of the 2022-2023 spring semester. "Your hard work is valued, as is all you do to contribute to fulfilling Alvernia's mission of creating ethical leaders with moral courage," said SGA Secretary & 2023-2034 SGA President-Elect, Colin Widmer. "Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and your dedication is greatly appreciated."

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."

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."

79 Alvernia University student leaders received academic, service and experiential learning excellence awards at the 2023 Honors Convocation Award Ceremony. The awards are presented by President-Elect Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald on behalf of the College of Business, Communication and Leadership; the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences; the College of Health Sciences; the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics; and the University. "Your success was no easy accomplishment, and we can certainly appreciate the balancing act: From your lectures in the classroom, experiments in the labs and research and study groups in the libraries to your experiential learning experiences through service-learning, clinicals and internships, there is no doubt that your plates were full. But most of you also balanced your busy lives outside of work. From athletics, clubs and service work, to holding a part-time or full-time job and even raising a family. It is this mix that makes all of your achievements, that much more extraordinary and we look forward to continuing the celebration of your achievements at commencement and the events leading up to it," said Alvernia University President-Elect, Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald.

Alvernia University College of Business, Communication, and Leadership students, Isaac Kassis and Matt Lackman, along with faculty coach, Dr. Jane Brooker, participated in sales skill-driven role play and speed-selling elevator pitch competitions in the 2023 National Shore Sales Challenge (NSSC) at Salisbury University in Salisbury, MD from March 30- April 1. "It was a great opportunity to be the first to represent Alvernia at a sales competition to open doors for future Alvernia students," said Isaac Kassis, junior management major. "I was also blessed with the opportunity to meet new people and build connections with students from all over the country which can possibly lead to something bigger in the future." Alvernia was one of 40 universities to participate in the competition. Through experiential learning opportunities like role play and elevator pitch competitions, Alvernia students are able to discover their passions and turn them into lifetimes of career success and personal fulfillment and make a positive difference in the world and the lives of others. "We got to meet so many great people from many different places," said Matt Lackman, junior marketing major. 'I am super grateful for being able to use these opportunities to better myself. I would say if you are offered a chance to do these competitions, you should take them seriously and make the most out of them." Alvernia's approach to real-world learning combines hands-on educational opportunities through internships, field experiences, co-ops, clinical assignments, research projects, community service and study/service abroad programs, roles in student organizations and other creative and relevant campus experiences to prepare them to enter their desired industry upon graduation. "The 2023 NSSC competition held at Salisbury University was an invaluable experience that truly is experiential learning at its highest for our students," said Alvernia University Assistant Professor of Business, Dr. Jane Brooker. "They role-played with real sales executives and gave elevator pitches to over five career executives who were ready to hire interns and full-time employees."

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 had a successful weekend at the FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference in Harrisburg, Pa. with three student competitors and two awardees: Tegan Pentek, Finance Case Competition 2nd Place Logan Minford, Entrepreneurship Concepts, 3rd Place Anthony Florkowski, Competitor in Project Management and Retail Management "The 2023 FBLA-Collegiate State Leadership Conference was an amazing experience and incredibly successful," said Alvernia senior, Tegan Pentek. "As a graduating senior, I have greatly appreciated my FBLA experience throughout college. Apart from the benefits in leadership, public speaking, and communication skills, FBLA has been an incredible and unique opportunity to bond with friends, meet new people, and expand my network. I will take these experiences, new friendships, and lifelong skills with me throughout my career." Students gain experiential learning opportunities in FBLA competitions through Alvernia's Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) student chapter. The purpose of the PBL student chapter is to help business students build documented accomplishments that complement their academic experiences. "Alvernia University's FBLA Collegiate members have the opportunity to develop 21st-century business skills, create valuable professional relationships and compete at both the state and national level throughout the year," said Michelle Conway, PBLchapter advisor. "The most recent State Leadership Conference provided our members with the opportunity to flex their technical skills, network and actively participate in personal and professional development workshops. These unique experiential learning opportunities prepare students for great success." Students can even become involved at a higher level such as Pentek who serves as the state secretary for PA-FBLA and as the president of the PBL student chapter. Involvement with PA-FBLA and PBL promotes competent, aggressive business leadership, understanding of American business enterprise, the establishment of career goals, scholarship, sound financial management, and the development of both character and self-confidence to facilitate the transition from school to work.

Biochemistry major, Brianna Beavens, published the academic research article "The Current Therapeutic Role of Chromatin Remodeling for the Prognosis and Treatment of Heart Failure" alongside Dr. Lindsay Kraus, assistant professor of biology. "Working with Dr. Kraus on this academic services project was even better than I imagined," said Beavens. "She spent time teaching me about scientific writing and the process of becoming published since it can be extremely overwhelming. I felt guided and involved for the entire duration of the project. I have learned so much from Dr. Kraus in a short time, and I cannot wait to continue working with her through the end of my undergraduate career." Read full article here.

Sara Hughes, a physical therapy student, and Madison Houck, an occupational therapy student presented at the Pro Bono Network conference at Widener University in Chester, Pa. alongside Dr. Robin Zappin, assistant professor of physical therapy, Dr. Gregory Chown, associate professor of occupational therapy and Jenna-Leigh Marrone, a speech-language pathology student from Misericordia University.

Alvernia University placed 15 field hockey student-athletes on the NFHCA National Academic Squad, and two student-athletes were named Scholars of Distinction, as announced by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association.

Alvernia University honors student leaders for successfully completing Resident Assistant (RA) training and serving as an RA into the 2023-2024 academic year while pursuing their undergraduate or graduate degrees. "The purpose of RA training was to focus on the professional development within the RA role," said Logan Houptley, area coordinator. "Our goal was to equip the RAs with tools that they could use to further develop their critical thinking skills, increase their cultural humility, and increase their understanding of mental health supportive skills and services." As an RA, the group of student leaders encourages student responsibility and accountability while working to provide a residential environment that enhances and extends beyond classroom learning. RAs are academically successful students who help build strong, healthy and engaging residential communities while upholding the core values of Alvernia University. As peers, RAs not only serve as a campus resource for residents, but also plan educational, cultural, and social programs and assist with roommate/suitemate conflicts. "RA role has allowed me to build trusting connections with my residents as they depend on me to foster an inclusive, safe, and conforming community for them to live," said Sara Baker, a junior occupational therapy major & first-time RA. " I truly love my residents and the connections we've built. The RA role has also given me the opportunity to build connections with supervisors and professionals at Alvernia, who have all taught me valuable lessons and I know are supporting my growth and success in future endeavors. All 37 incoming and returning RAs were interviewed and received training on topics such as building competence & practicing humility, conflict mediation, emergency response protocol, establishing & maintaining healthy boundaries, suicide prevention, mental health and more. "RA training is essential to the foundation of the RA role," said Jaqueces Mathis '22, a three-time returning RA and master of social work graduate student. "These trainings equip RAs with the skills to handle diverse situations in the residence halls. Being a social work major, these trainings not only prepare me for the RA role but develop my skills for my profession. Without a doubt, I feel more comfortable because of RA training in both my profession and RA position."

Alvernia University physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) students and faculty served patients in a nine-day interdisciplinary, intercollegiate clinical study abroad experience across five local community organizations in Belmopan, Belize. "Our goal was to provide sustainable education first and, second, rehabilitation," said Dr. Robin Zappin, assistant professor of physical therapy Alvernia University. "We wanted to teach as many healthcare workers and community members about wellness, prevention and rehabilitation as possible to avoid 'combat therapy' where you drop in, do something and leave. Students created presentations, posters and pamphlets to leave with the community members based on their needs." Alvernia University's PT and OT students and faculty partnered with Misericordia University's speech-language pathology (SLP) program and Bellarmine University's PT program on this transformational study abroad service trip. They worked together in Mercy Clinic, Help Age Belize, the YWCA, LIFE, and the Inspiration Center in Belize. "Unlike here in the United States, the people of Belize are not as fortunate as we are here with accessibility and quality of healthcare available," said Zachary Wanner, PT student at Alvernia University. "It was very important for myself and the students from the other disciplines that I had never met before to come together and determine the major concerns and develop a concise plan with very limited to no resources available to us. It truly amazed me how in such little time, we were able to not only treat the patient based on their individual needs, but also instruct the caregivers on how to continue the care, progress the interventions when gains were met, and utilize household objects to help aide progression of their care." This interdisciplinary, intercollegiate model allowed the students to collaborate as professionals in their industry while developing an understanding of their patients' needs for treatment from professionals across other disciplines. "It was amazing to see each discipline address specific concerns and treat them so well," said Ashley Martins, OT student at Alvernia University. "It was very patient-centered and efficient. My biggest takeaway is the respect that each discipline has for one another and how an interdisciplinary team can truly address each concern that an individual may have to provide truly patient-centered care and improve their overall quality of life. We all learned a lot from each other, and we will be better occupational and physical therapists in the future because of this experience." Prior to treating patients and throughout their trip, the entire group of students and faculty made it a priority to become immersed in the Belizian culture. They traveled to the Belize Zoo, which is a destination cherished by Belizians, as well as toured the Mayan Ruins, another historically and culturally significant archaeological site, among other activities. "I honestly never experienced such gratitude and kindness from people before," said Wanner. "It did not matter if the people had to walk three miles to get to a clinic that I was working at, or if they had to wait three hours to be seen for 40 minutes; the amount of gratitude given was astronomical. What really spoke to me the most was to what lengths the people of Belize were willing to do to be seen by students from the United States. I have countless people that I was blessed with treating over my week in Belize that stated that 'You were a gift from God' and asked, 'Is it ok if I pray for you?' following a treatment session. The community was so welcoming and willing to share their life with me, and I feel truly blessed to have been a part of this service-learning experience."

Alvernia Women's Ice Hockey goalie Julia Beaven was named the UCHC Women's Goalie of the Week for her performance this past weekend.

Over 650 students were named to Alvernia University's Dean's List for the fall 2022 semester. "Congratulations to these dedicated and hard-working students for getting the most out of the classroom and experiential learning experiences at Alvernia. Their hard work and academic achievement on top of their other personal, academic and professional responsibilities are to be applauded," said Alvernia University President John R. Loyack. "I cannot wait to see the academic achievements they continue to accomplish in the 2023 spring semester." 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. "Each and everyone one of the students on this list should be commended for their commitment to their academic excellence and to themselves as they continue to grow personally and professionally while following their passions," said Alvernia University Senior Vice President and Provost Glynis Fitzgerald. A full list of students is available at Alvernia.edu.

By Marisa Lombardo, Director of Sports Information, Alvernia University Athletics 99 Alvernia student-athletes were named to the MAC Academic Honor Roll for the 2022 fall semester, as announced by the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Executive Director Megan Morrison on Monday.

Alvernia University women's basketball junior Jordan Karmonick earned MAC Commonwealth Women's Basketball Player of the Week honors

Alvernia University's Mock Trial team debuted at the 17th annual Justice Louis D. Brandeis Mock Trial Invitational at Brandeis University in Waltham, Ma. Students from various majors put their knowledge to practice and prepped with local Berks County attorneys through this experiential learning opportunity. "This competition was an incredible experience. We brought a competitive team to our first competition and made many unforgettable memories while we were there," said Mock Trial Team Captain & History Major, Julia Davis. "The teamwork and dedication from everyone involved greatly contributed to our experience and we are excited to tackle the next competition. Mock Trial has allowed me to sharpen my skills in public speaking, debate, and most importantly, confidence. Overcoming challenging situations is the cornerstone of Mock Trial, and makes for an extremely rewarding experience." Students on the team have the opportunity to take on the roles of lawyers and witnesses while networking with other industry professionals and students and have a chance to win individual and team awards. Practicing lawyers and judges then critique the trial and award points for the performance of both lawyers and witnesses. Law schools also tend to recruit from undergraduate mock trial teams and award scholarships if students are interested. "Mock trial gave me a platform to speak, when all the other stages wouldn't. It welcomed me with open arms and allowed me to soar free within my passion for acting. It was the slipper that fit just right. A cracked window that I pushed open allowing light to come in," said Political Science & Theatre Dual Major, Grace Maketa. "The moment the idea of having a Mock trial team came to mind after having a mini-trial in my constitutional law class, I was on a mission to make it a reality. Professor Nicoletti helped bring that dream to life." The Alvernia Political Science Club sponsored the Mock Trial Team in the spring of 2022 and the team officially began competing in American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) tournaments in the fall of 2022. "This academic year, our team will travel to other universities to compete in invitational tournaments, eventually competing in the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) Regional Playoff," said Associate Professor of Political Science, Dr. Nicholas Nicoletti. "Mock Trial is also a fantastic networking opportunity, and Alvernia students will also have the chance to win individual and team awards." Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves over 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences and community engagement through its Franciscan-based community service model.

Alvernia University Graduate Student Brooke Spezialetti was named an NFHCA All-American, as announced by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association

Alvernia University Men's Soccer sophomore Ryan Cogill earned All-Region honors for his performance during the 2022 season

Ten Alvernia student-athletes across men's and women's soccer earned CSC Academic All-District Honors, as announced by College Sports. Alvernia honorees for men's soccer included Evan Bauer, Ryan Cogill, Nick Denlinger, Justin Fetrow, Matthew Kerr, and Nick Willson. Women's soccer honorees included Breanna Dukehart, Olivia Malone, Heather Perna, and Grace Silva.

Alvernia University Men's Soccer placed five student-athletes on the 2022 All-MAC Commonwealth Men's Soccer team following their performances during the 2022 season, as announced by the Middle Atlantic Conference. Junior midfielder Gabe Wunderlich earned First Team All-MAC Commonwealth honors. Sophomore forward Ryan Cogill and sophomore defender Nick Willson earned Second Team All-MAC Commonwealth honors. Senior midfielder Nick Denlinger and sophomore goalie Evan Solley earned honorable mention honors.

Michael Ferrara and Kennedy Waterson were presented with a scholarship at Alvernia University's annual Criminal Justice Dinner. Ferrara and Waterson gathered with fellow students in the criminal justice program, faculty, and staff at the dinner to accept their awards. "[Ferrara] was chosen for the Professor Edgar J. Hartung Emeritus Award because of his passion to serve others in the community through law enforcement coupled with his excellent academics," said Rosemary McFee, instructor of criminal justice. "[Ferrara's] goal is to serve as a law enforcement officer and we have no doubt that he will attain that goal as he will be an asset to any department." Ferrara explained that his passion for criminal justice developed throughout his time at Alvernia. He also discovered the variety of plausible career paths criminal justice can provide. Ferrara shared that regardless of the path you take as a criminal justice major, the ubiquitous goal is typically to "make the world a safer place for everyone." "I'm beyond happy to receive this award," said Ferrara. "The more I hear about Professor Hartung and how much he impacted this school and its criminal justice program, the more I appreciate this award. It really feels like an honor." The Larrie Thomas Scholarship was created by Alvernia alumnus Nicholas Donohue '03. Donohue was inspired by how Larrie's kindness and good spirit affected those around her and thus, created the Larrie Summer Thomas Scholarship to keep her memory alive and to honor her tenacious, yet loving spirit that represents those who enter into the Criminal Justice field. "Kennedy is a double major (criminal justice and political science with a Pre-Law minor and has an impressive GPA of 3.96," said Dr. Malgorzata Zuber, assistant professor of criminal justice. "Overall, she is very engaged on campus life, and makes most of Alvernia's experience while still being a high-performing student in her major." Waterson is in Alvernia's Honors Program, represented Alvernia at the university's debut mock trial tournament, presented her scholarly research at the ASC conference in Atlanta, as well as serves as president of Alvernia's Criminal Justice Association, vice president of the Political Science Club, and as a tutor. "I am grateful to have been chosen as the recipient of the Larrie Summer Thomas Scholarship. Larrie's story is extremely motivating and encompasses the tenacity every individual should aspire to have," said Waterson. She explained that her biggest takeaway from being a criminal justice student at Alvernia is the ability to build close relationships with her peers and professors. She highlighted that the small class sizes promoted enhanced learning and facilitated her understanding of other students' perspectives.

Alvernia University graduate student Brooke Spezialetti was named to the 2022 NFHCA Senior Team, as announced by the National Field Field Hockey Coaches Association on Monday. Article by Director of Sports Information, Alvernia University Athletics, Marisa Lombardo.

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."