Announcements

The ninth presentation in the Jay Nathan, Ph.D., Visiting Scholar Lecture Series, Jan. 15 at the Loyola Science Center, PNC Auditorium, will welcome the distinguished Ambassador from Finland to The University of Scranton. This special evening will offer the campus and broader community an enriching exploration of Finland's fascinating history, vibrant culture and dynamic economy through the ambassador's presentation.

Following the 5 p.m. lecture, attendees will be treated to an authentic cultural performance showcasing the rich artistic traditions of the Nordic nation. The program will conclude with a reception, providing an opportunity for informal conversation and cultural exchange between the ambassador, performers, students, faculty and community members.

This engaging event continues the lecture series' mission of bringing international perspectives to Scranton while fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for Finland's unique contributions to world history, art, and global commerce.

The performance, lecture and reception are complementary and open to the community, courtesy of the Jay Nathan, Ph.D., Visiting Scholar Endowment.

 

Register for the event.

After our Dec.10 issue, the University's Royal News e-newsletter will publish on an adapted winter schedule. You can always read the latest at news.scranton.edu.

What to expect in the weeks ahead? Watch for a special holiday message the week of Dec. 15, and our alumni edition on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.

Royal News will return to its normal weekly publishing timeline Jan. 21, when classes resume.

Students, faculty and staff, be sure to send your department/organization/club holiday photo to us at RoyalNews@scranton.edu  so we can include it in a digital gallery here. We welcome your article suggestions and announcement submissions at any time. See the instructions at this link.

Thanks, and have a great holiday season!

Royal Restore Food Pantry hours for finals week will be Dec. 8-12 from 12 to 3 p.m. within the Arrupe House, 400 Clay Avenue.

The Royal Restore Food Pantry provides food, ready-made meals and toiletries to our students, staff and faculty in need. Royal Restore is a welcoming space for University students and employees to have access to free nutritious food and personal care products. Royal Restore is rooted in the saying “take what you need, give what you can.” 

Contact the Center for Service and Social Justice with questions at https://www.scranton.edu/volunteers 

Vice President for Mission and Ministry Daniel Cosacchi, Ph.D., announces four upcoming campus traditions  to celebrate Advent, which began Sunday, Dec. 2. 

First, Campus Ministry invites the University community to attend one of Scranton's most cherished traditions: the Advent Mass, which will take place on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m. in the Byron Center. Afterward, attendees will process with candles to the Dionne Green to bless and light the University's Christmas Tree. All are welcome at the event. Please feel free to bring family members such as parents, siblings, children, friends. 

The Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ) invites all to take an ornament from the Mission and Ministry Christmas Giving Tree located on the second floor of the DeNaples Center in order to purchase a gift for a child in need in the area. Unwrapped gifts are due to the CSSJ office, DeNaples Center, room 205 B, by Dec. 12. All donated gifts will support the Gifts for Kids program. The Friends of the Poor and Catherine McAuley Center (FOTP/CMC), in partnership with Catholic Social Services, are once again coordinating this community gift-giving event, hosted at The University of Scranton’s Byron Center. This program serves families living at or below the federal poverty guidelines who have not enrolled in other holiday assistance programs. Families can walk through and select gifts for the children in their household.
The Gifts for Kids event will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 16 and Wednesday, Dec. 17. Families are preregistered.
Questions can be directed to Ellen.Judge@scranton.edu, outreach program coordinator, The Center for Service and Social Justice.

Also, CSSJ is partnering with Performance Music for the annual Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert at 7:30 p.m, on Dec. 14 in Houlihan-Mclean Center. The admission charge is one new, unwrapped toy, a new toiletry item, or a cash donation. All proceeds will directly benefit local families in need.

Finally, continuing with a longstanding tradition, The Jesuit Center continues offering the daily Advent Devotional, which provides fruitful reflections on the scripture readings and feasts of the day. Sign up for these reflections. 

The annual Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon scheduled for next Wednesday, Dec.10 is free for University of Scranton staff members; however, registration is required for this event.

Registration closes on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.

Please RSVP here: 2025 Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon RSVP Form

If you have any trouble registering for the Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon or have any questions, please reach out to Melissa Eckenrode by e-mail at melissa.eckenrode@scranton.edu or by phone at (570) 941-7619 or to Lucy Grissinger by e-mail at lucia.grissinger@scranton.edu or by phone at (570) 941-4331.

Support Royal Restore Food Pantry at the Luncheon

Staff Senate will collect items for our Royal Restore Food Pantry that are unopened and not expired, specifically:
pasta sauce,
pasta,
mac and cheese microwavable cups,
microwaveable soup,
rice,
mashed potatoes (no cans or boxes),
individual cereal cups, granola/protein bars,
gluten-free products,
brownie/cake mixes,
Slim Jim/jerky, and
small toiletries, such as body wash, shampoo (no conditioner), bar soap, razors, laundry pods and feminine products.

Interested in Donating a Basket for the Raffle?

Additionally, the Staff Senate will continue to welcome donations of raffle baskets of any theme. Completed baskets are requested by Tuesday, Dec. 9. Baskets can be dropped off at O’Hara Hall to Lucy Grissinger. Interested in having your basket picked up on campus? Please reach out to Lucy by e-mail at lucia.grissinger@scranton.edu or by phone at (570) 941-4331 to coordinate your raffle basket donation. 

The raffle and 50/50 proceeds will benefit our Domestic Service Trip Program through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ).

 

"Learn to Cook: Tiramisu and Taro Rice Cake," at O'Hara Hall, room 106 on Nov. 19 from 2:30 to 4 p.m., or attend an Argentinian Cultural Event from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Leahy Hall Kane Forum, room 235.

These events, and others through Friday, Nov. 21, are open to the University community as part of  International Education Week 2025, which celebrates the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

On November 20, a Global Insight presentation on Japan will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall. Then, on Friday, from 12 to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m., study abroad informational sessions will take place at O'Hara Hall, room 106.

Hear from a few University students who share their experiences in International Education in the video, below, which was created by Royal Studios. And tune into 99.5 WUSR through Thursday from 4-5 p.m. to hear international songs.

For additional details on the week's events, including how to enter for a chance to win raffle baskets, visit The Office of Global Education in O'Hara Hall. 

The University of Scranton Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ) is again sponsoring the annual Thanksgiving Feed a Family Program, dedicated to providing Scranton families with a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

This year, our goal is to fill 150 baskets with enough essential items to create a wonderful holiday meal – all packaged and distributed by our amazing student volunteers.

The past success of the Thanksgiving Feed a Family Program has been the result of our University community’s thoughtfulness and generosity! We can't do it without you.

Please consider funding a basket with a gift of $35. Please note: CSSJ is requesting monetary donations only.

To pay by credit card, click here. On the payment form, select Other and type in “Thanksgiving Feed a Family Program” and your gift amount.

To pay by check: Make payable to “The University of Scranton” and write “Thanksgiving Feed a Family Program” in the memo line. Send via campus mail to the CSSJ office, TDC 205B.

Donations are tax deductible and receipts will be mailed directly to the donors.

Are you a University of Scranton Retirement Plan Participant caring for a loved one while trying to manage your own financial future? CAPTRUST is hosting a free webinar on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at 1 p.m., designed to support caregivers with practical strategies for:

• Budgeting and managing caregiving expenses
  
  
• Accessing government benefits
  
  
• Planning for long-term care
  
  
• Prioritizing your own financial wellness

For those who are currently caregivers or planning ahead, this session offers valuable insights to help navigate the financial challenges with confidence. 

Register today!

Questions? Contact the CAPTRUST Advice Desk at 800.967.9948 or schedule a one-on-one with a retirement counselor.

As part of the Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences Lecture Series, Dr. Glen Tellis, Ph.D, CCC-SLP, and ASHA Fellow, will share information about his Jesuit family roots and education, and how they have shaped his life. 

On Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 7-8 p.m., the University community is invited to learn more about the topic: "The Jesuit Mission and the Helping Professions: A Life Guided by Faith, Family, and Service."

This event is offered through a Diversity Initiatives Grant and is open to all students, staff and faculty.

Register at this link, using the QR code or email christiane.mcdonald@scranton.edu

No experience, yoga mat, or gym clothes are needed for the final Chair Yoga session of the semester, which will take place on Tuesday, November 18, from 12:15 to 12:50 p.m. at 335 Madison Ave., in the Weiss Hall Well-being Room, Basement 016.

This practice adapts traditional yoga poses to be more accessible, reducing strain on joints and muscles while still providing the benefits of movement, stretching and relaxation.

Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that is practiced while sitting in a chair or using it for support. It is especially beneficial for individuals with chronic pain, limited mobility, or conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or back pain. 

Click here to register.

Those who attended the first Chair Yoga session are automatically registered.

 

Each year, an International Fashion Show is hosted by The University of Scranton United Cultures Organization (UCO) and the Asia Club to represent the diverse student population at the university. The theme for the Nov. 14 free event focuses on the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. 

This show will feature students from The University of Scranton, including members of the UCO and Asia Club, and is open to students, faculty and staff. 

All are invited to attend free of charge on Friday, Nov. 14, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., at the DeNaples Ballroom, room 407. 

The International Fashion Show showcases a diversity of cultures, heritages, nationalities, and other aspects of students' identity. The goals for the event are to provide the campus with an opportunity to alleviate personal stress and to walk on a runway fashionably. 

The University community is invited to attend Veterans Day Prayer Service on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at the Veterans and ROTC Lounge, Hyland Hall, first floor.

The noon service, organized through a collaboration between Campus Ministry, the Student Veterans Organization, and ROTC, will be immediately followed by pizza, desserts, and refreshments.

Contact barbara.king@scranton.edu for more information.

The Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service will host the opening of a special exhibit honoring David Wenzel, decorated Army veteran, former mayor of Scranton, and lifelong public servant. The event celebrates  his enduring impact on civic life, disability access and ethical leadership.

A Life of Service: Celebrating David J. Wenzel '69, G'74 will take place Nov. 5 from 5 -7 p.m., Weinberg Memorial Library, The Heritage Room, fifth floor.

Please RSVP by Oct. 30. Scan QR code below or call (570) 941-7194. Event is sponsored by the University’s Ethics Across the Curriculum Initiative.

Employees, faculty, and students are invited to a Cultural Carefest on Nov. 18, 7:30-9 p.m. at the Kane Forum, Edward R. Leahy, Jr. Hall

Join for food, prizes, and a poster competition celebrating the intersection of culture and healthcare. All are welcome! To enter your poster, email krisy.elrod@scranton.edu by Nov. 11.

The University community is invited to the annual Mass of Remembrance. The liturgy will be held on Sunday, Nov. 2, the Feast of All Souls, at 11 a.m. in Madonna della Strada Chapel.

Additionally, if you would like the name of a loved one who has died since November 2024 to be read as part of the ritual at this Mass, please submit their names to catherine.seymour@scranton.edu  by Oct. 30. 

The Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX (OIC) will host informational and training programs for staff and faculty.  

• Title VI Non-discrimination and Anti-harassment information session -  Become acquainted with university policy and handling of matters related to reports of harassment and discrimination based upon the protected classes.

  Thursday, Nov. 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Casey Conference Room, Brennan Hall, 502
  No registration is required. Lunch will NOT be provided.

• Title IX-Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Grievance/Hearing Process Volunteer Training and Brunch - OIC will host a training with a brunch* for faculty and staff interested in learning more about the Title IX adjudication process. This important training is for individuals willing to serve the University community in Title IX (sexual harassment and sexual misconduct) -related matters supporting students, faculty and staff. Title IX process roles may include party advisors, hearing panelists and informal process facilitators. Please contact the OIC with any questions. 
  * Brunch will be sponsored by the It’s On Us PA grant.

  Monday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., DeNaples Center, Room 405
  Registration required.

  Register for Title IX Process Training and Brunch

• Launch of Optional Online Training: This week all faculty and staff will receive an email from The University of Scranton - Vector/SafeColleges online learning system with a link to access online training related to University policies and processes handled by our office, and your roles and responsibilities under same. We encourage you to watch the video and contact our office with any questions. This training is “suggested/optional” unless you are a new employee. If you have already completed the video, you do not need to watch it again.

Please contact the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX with any questions at 570-941-6645 or email compliance@scranton.edu.

The Staff Senate Communications Committee, in collaboration with the Office of Human Resources, invites University faculty and staff to attend the Fall Communications Symposium, titled: "Purpose and Pressure in Higher Ed." The event will take place Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center.

Rather than a traditional presentation, the symposium will feature a dynamic panel discussion exploring the external pressures currently impacting various areas of the University reflecting on the question: "Where to go from here?"

Join University President Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J.,members of the President’s Cabinet, and Kate Yerkes, assistant provost for planning and institutional effectiveness, for a timely and thoughtful conversation about the challenges and opportunities ahead in higher education. To help guide the discussion, those participating are encouraged to submit questions through the registration form. Audience questions will also be welcomed during the event.

A light to-go lunch will be available for registered attendees at the end of the symposium. 

Please register by Wednesday, Oct. 22 using the link below.

Symposium Registration

The University of Scranton’s softball, baseball and men’s lacrosse teams will host a Halloween party on Volpe Field at the Kevin. P. Quinn, S.J., Athletic Campus on Monday, Oct. 27. The event, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., will include prizes, games and treats geared toward elementary and middle school-aged children. Costumes are encouraged.

Multi-factor authentication allows you to protect yourself in multiple ways.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could protect your password with another password? Multi-factor authentication offers this power. Imagine placing your house keys in a safety deposit box that can only be opened by a facial scan. In some cases, this metaphor isn’t far off from reality.

The Information Security Office at The University of Scranton recommends implementing multi-factor authentication for any account that permits it, especially any account associated with work, school, email, banking and social media.

Do not approve any unrecognized verification that you did not initiate.

Need help?

The University community is welcome to contact the Technology Support Center: ext.4357 or techsupport@scranton.edu 

Your Mission, should you choose to accept it… Jesuit Identity Week, Mission: Possible 2025, Oct. 17 through Oct 26. 

One participant's name will be chosen randomly after each student event. The winner will receive a $55 Dave & Buster’s Power Card or $25 in Aramark Flex.  

A free T-shirt will be given at asterisked events found on the Jesuit Identity Week webpage. 

The more events you attend the more chances you will have of winning one of three grand prizes! 

First Prize:  

$250 Amazon Gift card or $250 credit toward a retreat or service trip 

Second Prize:

$150 Amazon Gift card or $150 credit toward a retreat or service trip 

Third Prize:

$100 Amazon Gift card or $100 credit toward a retreat or service trip  

For details, https://www.scranton.edu/ministries/2025-jesuit-identity-week.shtml. Sign up now, https://forms.office.com/r/JHwDJgtJfs. 

Passwords are the keys to your digital castle. Just as you'd want to keep your house keys safe, you should do everything possible to protect your passwords. Throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month, October,
The University of Scranton Information Security Office offers tips and recommendations to stay safe online.

Creating, storing, and remembering passwords can be a pain for all of us online, but the truth is that passwords are the first line of defense against cybercriminals and data breaches. Also, it has never been easier to maintain passwords with free, simple-to-use password managers. With a few moments of forethought today, you can stay safe online for years to come.

Choose Long, unique, complex Passwords

No matter what accounts they protect, all passwords should be created with these three guiding principles in mind:

• Long – Passwords should be at least 12 characters long.
  
  
• Unique—Each account needs to be protected with a unique password. Never reuse passwords. This way, if one accounts is compromised, other accounts remain secure. Consider that unique means not just changing one character or adding a “2” at the end. To really halt hackers, none of your passwords should look alike.
  
  
• Complex – Each unique password should be a combination of upper case letters, lower case letters, numbers, and special characters (like >,!?). Again, remember that each password should be at least 12 characters long. Some websites and apps will even let you include spaces.

Consider using a password manager to make this easier. It can securely generate and store strong, complex passwords for every account—so you don’t have to remember them all or reuse the same one twice.

Need help? The University community is welcome to contact the Technology Support Center: x4357 or techsupport@scranton.edu 

At an upcoming Schemel Forum Luncheon Seminar: New Discoveries of the Penn Museum Excavations at Abydos, Egypt, a guest speaker will look briefly at the history of fieldwork and turn to focus on ongoing excavations at the site of Abydos.

Work at Abydos has identified a royal necropolis at the site named “Anubis Mountain.” There, at least 13 kings who reigned between1850 and 1650 BCE were buried. These include previously unknown pharaohs such as the King Seneb-Kay discovered in 2014, as well as the mysterious owner of new royal tomb just discovered in January 2025.

At the lecture on Thursday, Oct. 30, at Brennan Hall, Rose Room, 509 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the University community is invited to learn more about these new discoveries and what this research suggests about politics and society in Ancient Egypt.

Josef Wegner, Ph.D., professor of Egyptian archaeology; chair, Department of Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures and curator, Egyptian section, Penn Museum, University of Pennsylvania, will present on the topic.

Members of the University community interested in attending are directed to register on RoyalSync or call (570) 941-4740.  The event is free to The University of Scranton faculty, students and staff.

 

The Center for Service and Social Justice invites the University community and their family to join for the annual Monster Mash Bash, formerly called Safe Trick or Treat, on Saturday, Oct.18, from 1–3 p.m. in the Byron Center.

This Halloween event is designed for University of Scranton families with children ages 0–13 and will feature:

* Spooky games and activities

* Creative crafts

* Treats and light refreshments

Parents/guardians must remain with their children throughout the event. Trick-or- Treating will no longer take place in the residence halls.

Anyone who would like their child(ren) to participate should complete the registration form at the QR code below by Thursday, Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. Costumes are invited.

Reach out with any questions to ellen.judge@scranton.edu or Patricia.Vaccaro@scranton.edu. 

 

Ellacuria Teach-in for Justice, in keeping with Jesuit Universal Apostolic Preference No. 2,  will follow the theme "Walking with the Excluded." The event will take place at The University of Scranton on Monday, Oct. 20 in Loyola Science Center, room 133.

Faculty are invited to encourage students to attend. Royal Card readers will track attendance. The event schedule is as follows:

• 9-9:50 a.m., light breakfast, "The University of Scranton Behind Bars," Dr. Chris Haw, Theology/Religious Studies
  
  
• 10-10:50 a.m., "Israel-Palestine and Catholic Social Teaching," Julie Schumacher Cohen, Community Relations
  
  
• 11-11:50 a.m., "Ignatian Pedagogy and Catholic Social Teaching," Dr. Stephen Whittaker, English and Theatre
  
  
• 12-12:50 p.m., light lunch, "Attacks on Higher Education: Central America," Dr. Mike Allison, Political Science
  
  
• 1-1:50 p.m., "Compassion in Motion: Supporting Immigrant and Refugee Neighbors in NEPA," Jenny Gonzalez, Marywood University, Daysi Carreto, Community Relations
  
  
• 2 -2:50 p.m., "Healing Hatred in Jewish-Christian Relations," Hana Bendcowsky, John Munayer, Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue
  
  
• 3-4:15 p.m., "Art, Scripture, and Al:The Beauty of Justice," Dr. Patrick Beldio, Theology/Religious Studies, Sponsored by the Ellacuría Initiative

Questions? Contact christian.krokus@scranton.edu

The University's campus bookstore invites employees, faculty and students to their Community Appreciation Sales event.

The first event will take place on Friday, Oct. 10 only. Visitors will receive 20 percent off the price of a single gift item. Also, any purchase over $75 will be accompanied by a free gift, in-store only while supplies last.

The second event will take place from Thursday, Oct. 9 - Thursday, Oct.16. and includes 25 percent off all Champion apparel, both online and in-store purchases.

On fall break? Shop 24/7 at www.UofScrantonshop.com

The University of Scranton Asia Club will host a Diwali and Navaratri event featuring traditional music, dancing and food from India celebrating two of India's biggest festivals. The event, open to all students, faculty and the campus community will take place Friday, Oct. 24 from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m. at The DeNaples Ballroom, room 407, on campus.

The Asia Club invites the campus community to experience the joy and cultural experience of Diwali, the festival of lights, and Navaratri, a nine-night celebration of dance and devotion. 

Fall in love with Scranton and start your graduate journey with The University of Scranton! Join a Graduate Virtual Open House on October 8 at 6 p.m.

Opportunities to connect directly with faculty and admissions counselors will be offered. Learn how a Scranton education can help you advance your career and achieve your goals—all in a convenient online format.

Register today.

In addition to the Virtual Open House, the Office of Graduate Admissions offers program-specific information sessions and daily personal appointments. 

The Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX will host informational and training programs for all employees regarding University policy - your resources, roles and responsibilities. 

Elizabeth Garcia, Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX, and Diana Collins Gilmore, Deputy Title IX Coordinator/Investigator will present two sessions on University policies. For your convenience, one session will be offered in-person and one virtually.

University Policy Information Sessions:  Learn more about policies on:

• Reasonable accommodations provided to employees for reasons based on disabilities, pregnancy, or religious beliefs, and the policies and process
• What constitutes sexual harassment, where to report instances, where to get support for yourself or students who may have experienced something, and the University process to address possible violations of policy
• The University’s Non-Discrimination statement and supportive policy, and what constitutes unlawful harassment and discrimination based upon protected classes

Two policy information sessions available. Choose one:

• Monday, Oct. 6 from 1-2 p.m. - Virtual session. Click here to get Zoom link for general policy information session.

• Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. - In-person, the Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall 228. No registration required. 

Questions can be directed to compliance@scranton.edu.

Visit the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX to view the polices.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING 

Title IX Adjudication Process Training - Virtual

This important training is for individuals willing to serve the University community in Title IX (sexual harassment and sexual misconduct) related matters supporting students, faculty and staff. Title IX process roles may include party advisors, hearing panelists and informal process facilitators. Please contact the OIC with any questions. 

Friday, Oct. 10 - 2-3:30 p.m.

Zoom Meeting - Registration required.

REGISTER FOR TITLE IX PROCESS TRAINING.

 

University staff members are invited to hop on the 'Iggy Shuttle' for a weekly ride to the local farmers market Fridays in October.

Space is limited to 24 spots per run. Registration is required.

Every Friday (Sept. 26 – Oct. 31), two shuttles will run per day: 

• 12 p.m. (Facilities staff members may participate with permission from their supervisor.)

• 1 p.m. (Facilities staff members are not able to participate in this time slot.)

Each run returns approximately 50 minutes later.

The shuttle will pick up at the flagpoles in front of St. Thomas Hall.

Register for the farmers market shuttle 

Questions?  Contact bryn.schofield@scranton.edu.

Jesuit Identity Week, Mission: Possible 2025 will be hosted October 17-26. The complete schedule of events is listed below.

View the website for details, https://www.scranton.edu/ministries/2025-jesuit-identity-week.shtml.
Signup is now open, https://forms.office.com/r/JHwDJgtJfs 

Dr. Bill Conlogue will deliver a lecture titled “Our Common Home: Scranton and the Environment” on Thursday, Oct. 16. Dr. Conlogue will offer an introduction to the relationship between Scranton and the environment, telling stories that stretch from local narratives of extraction to planetary tales of fire.

The event will take place in Brennan Hall, room 228, at 5:30 p.m. The lecture is sponsored by The Gail and Francis Slattery Center for the Ignatian Humanities.

Designed to provide a place for sharing scholarship, the first faculty research presentation was held Feb. 4, 2005.

"In its essence, the series is intended to build community and collegiality by setting the venue for you to communicate to others just what you do. It's casual and fun: a great way to relax, meet faculty from various disciplines and get a good feel for the University community at its best. Please join us," said Amelia Randich, faculty seminar coordinator. 

Upcoming presentations will be held on select Fridays from 3:10 to 4:30 p.m., in Loyola Science Center 233. Refreshments will be served. 

On Sept. 19, Dr. Chris Haw, Theology Department, presented  "God is No-Thing: What is the Difference Between Atheism and Apophatic Theology? (or, Concerning the Unintelligibility of Scapegoating and the Holy)"

The schedule for the semester is as follows:

• Oct 3: Dr. Adam Pratt, History Department, "The Militia: An American Institution"

• Oct. 24: Dr. Cyrus Olsen, Theology Department, "Living Networks: How Community, Ecology, and Spirituality Shape Help-Seeking Behavior in Uganda"

• Oct. 31: Kate Cummings, Library Department, "Try Being a Librarian! Commitment in the Face of Obsolescence in Turbulent Times"

• Nov. 7: Dr. Chris Howey, Biology Department, "Snake on Fire: Disturbing Rattlesnake Ecology and Physiology"

• Nov. 21: Sylvia Orner, Library Department, "Assessing a Library Collection Using Faculty Citation Data"

• Dec. 5: Dr. Christie Pugh Karpiak, Psychology Department: TBA

For more information contact amelia.randich@scranton.edu.

Have scholarship you want to share? We’re now looking for seminar speakers for next semester. Please contact the coordinator if interested.

Friday, Oct. 3 

"The Militia: An American Institution," presented by: Dr. Adam Pratt, associate professor in history. 

"Codified by the Constitution, the American militia system was designed to be the United States’s primary mode of national defense. Between 1792 and 1903 Americans participated in, trained for, argued over, and made fun of the militia system. What makes the militia uniquely American, then, is its contested nature and how it was a stand-in for political, social, and economic debates over its century-long existence." - Adam Pratt, Ph.D.

University of Scranton faculty and staff have access to free, independent financial counseling through CAPTRUST—just for being part of The University of Scranton’s retirement plan including:

• A 30-minute personal consultation

• Expert advice tailored to goals

Employees are invited to schedule a session today and take a confident step toward their financial future.

Visit: https://www.captrustatwork.com/scheduler/
Use your my.scranton email to schedule an appointment.

Prospective students and their families are invited to experience all that The University of Scranton has to offer at two upcoming Open House events: Sunday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Nov. 9, both from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the John J. Long, S.J., Center  

During their visit, guests will have the opportunity to take a guided campus tour, explore academic programs, learn about student services, residence life, and athletics, enjoy a complimentary brunch and lunch, and connect with members of the University community.

Families will discover firsthand why Scranton is a place where students thrive — both in and out of the classroom.

Register for Open House today!

Get ready... Jesuit Identity Week, Mission: Possible 2025 will be held Oct.17 through 25. The Department of Mission and Ministry invites the entire University community to learn more about Jesuit values, identity and history.

Please check the website for details, https://www.scranton.edu/ministries/2025-jesuit-identity-week.shtml  .

Signup is now open, https://forms.office.com/r/JHwDJgtJfs 

STUDENTS: FIND OUT HOW TO WIN PRIZES

The more events students attend, the more chances they will have to win one of three grand prizes:

FIRST PRIZE 

* $250 Amazon gift card or $250 credit toward a retreat or service trip

* Dave and Busters swag basket including a $100 Power Card

SECOND PRIZE

$150 Amazon gift card or $150 credit toward a retreat or service trip

THIRD PRIZE

$100 Amazon gift card or $100 credit toward a retreat or service trip

One participant's name will also be chosen randomly after each student event. The winner will receive a $55 Dave & Buster’s Power card or $25 in Aramark Flex.

Please check the website for details, https://www.scranton.edu/ministries/2025-jesuit-identity-week.shtml .

 

The Counseling and Human Services Department and The Jesuit Center will present a National Recovery Month Lecture Series featuring author, Rev. Robert McChesney, S.J., on Monday, Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m. in the Kane Forum, second floor, Leahy Hall. The free event will be open to the public.

National Recovery Month 2025 takes place throughout the month of September.

Fr. McChesney has accompanied war refugees, military veterans and survivors of sexual violence and child abuse as chaplain, pastoral counselor, and retreat guide for more than 30 years, paying particular attention to the intersection of Ignatian spirituality and mental health in the healing of traumatic injury.

He has served with the Jesuit Refugee Service in the Middle East, at a federal immigration detention center in Los Angeles Harbor, and as national director in Washington, DC. Fr. McChesney is a frequent speaker at workshops and conferences regarding soul repair in trauma recovery. He is a member of the Georgetown Jesuit community in Washington, DC.

Copies of his book, "The Soul Also Keeps the Score," can be purchased at the event or at The University of Scranton Campus Store. 

 

Benefit-eligible faculty, staff, and their families who are interested in learning more about tuition remission are invited to an in-person info session to learn how to take advantage of this valuable benefit and to share questions with the presenters

Session 1, "Using Your Tuition Benefit," will take place Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 11:30 a.m. in the DeNaples Center 401, Moscovitz Theater.

The tuition benefit is one of the most significant benefits of working at the University, and  benefit-eligible faculty, staff and their families are encourage to take advantage of it. Employees can pursue an undergraduate degree, learn for their own enrichment, or pursue a graduate degree.

This workshop is presented by a team to provide a full overview of all of the benefits associated with remission, including: BethAnn McCartney, benefits manager and Human Resources business partner, who will provide an overview of the many ways eligible employees can take advantage of this benefit for themselves, and for their dependents; Jonathan Kirby, assistant director of Financial Aid, will share information about the Tuition Exchange program and Financial Aid; and Hugh Doyle, director of undergraduate admissions, will provide information about the admissions process for both undergraduate and graduate level coursework, as well as High School Scholars.

RSVPs are encouraged, but not required, to attend.

Let the presenters know you're coming: https://forms.office.com/r/UrE63u65d6 

The Office of Institutional Compliance (OIC) and Title IX again was awarded a grant from the “It’s On US PA” state fund to promote the campaign that raises awareness of the positive effects of bystander engagement in situations that could result in harassment, discrimination and sexual misconduct.

OIC will host informational and pledge tables with free T-shirts featuring the new Royal Wolf logo on Thursday, Sept. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the fireplace lounge of second floor DeNaples Center.

Students, staff and faculty are invited to watch a short video, take the pledge, get a free T-shirt, and enter to win prizes, including a $100 Starbucks gift card or a $100 University Bookstore gift card.

“Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to stand up safely and be Royals for others,” said Jennifer Pennington, administrative assistant in the OIC. “Each of us can put the brakes on the behaviors that could negatively change the course of a classmate’s or co-worker’s life just by speaking up or stepping in at the right time,” said Pennington.

Campus community members are invited to stop by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sep. 25. No registration is required.

For more information, contact the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX at titleIX@scranton.edu or call 570-941-6645.

Pet Therapy: Canines on Campus is back for fall! The event of joy and stress relief will take place Tuesday, Sept. 30 from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. on the Dionne Green if weather permits. Rain location will be the Byron Center.

Event host, the University's Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ), is seeking very social dogs who enjoy being with people and other dogs. Anyone interested in bringing a dog must register by Friday, Sept. 26 by emailing Ellen.Judge@scranton.edu with your dog’s name and breed.  Please put “pet therapy” in the subject line. 

All dogs must be fully vaccinated, including Bordetella (kennel cough). Dog owners may be students, staff, faculty, alumni or University guests. All who enter must be over age 18.

The University of Scranton's Roche Family Center for Career Development is hosting the Fall 2025 Career Expo on Thursday, Sept. 25, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Byron Center

Dozens of employers will be on campus to meet students of all years and majors. This is an extraordinary opportunity for the university's recruitment partners to reach students from all majors. 

Over 70 organizations and graduate schools are expected. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to find a full-time job, internship, co-op, part-time experience, or interact with representatives from graduate and professional schools. All students are encouraged to attend this free event.

All candidates should dress to impress and bring plenty of resumes to distribute to employers/schools. Those in need of professional attire for the event are invited to visit Royal Threads, the Center for Career Development free professional clothing closet at LSC 235. Call 570-941-7630 or schedule an appointment in Handshake.

Need Tips to help prepare for the Expo?

The Roche Family Center for Career Development compiled the resources listed below to help attendees present their best professional image at upcoming events: 

• What to Expect at a Career Expo
  
  
• What to Wear—Dress to Impress!
  • Consider utilizing Royal Threads, our professional clothing closet
    
    
• What to Say—The Introduction and Elevator Pitch
  
  
• Resume Writing Tips
  
  
• Review the List of Organizations Attending

Questions? Visit the Roche Family Center for Career Development website.

 

University of Scranton Multicultural Center Assistant Director José Sanchez announces a month of events designed to increase awareness of national and global cultures.

"Our goal this year is to increase education and awareness of national and global cultures and current issues. We are seeking not only to celebrate, but also increase awareness of the role of culture in society," said José Sanchez, University of Scranton Multicultural Center assistant director.

Events taking place will include:

• Thursday, Sep. 25 at 5:30 p.m. "The Migrant Workforce behind NEPA’s Agricultural Industry" presented by Jenny Gonzalez Monge, LSW. Brennan Hall, Pearn Auditorium, room 228. Register for the lecture. Gonzales will discuss the history of the local migrant workforce behind the booming agricultural industry in NEPA that started in the 1940s. She will explain how this history impacts current employment and immigration realities for the regional Hispanic and Latino community.
  
  
• Saturday, Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Southside Restaurant Tour in partnership with Office of Community Relations and the United Neighborhood Centers. Southside Restaurant Tour is an annual event to foster connection and education to University students about our Scranton community and issues impacting out area. The event will be hosted in Southside Scranton, United Neighborhood, Local Farmers Market.
  
  
• Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m., Know It and Nosh It: Trivia Night , an ALAS & SSAP Collaboration. Celebrate Latinx and Filipino culture with cultural trivia, tasty bites and music. Come for the fun, food, and music; stay for the community and connection. The event will take place at the DeNaples Center 1st floor, Multicultural Center Lounge Area. Uplift shared and distinct elements of Latinx and Southeast Asian traditions, celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Filipino Heritage Months.
  
  
• Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 6 to 8 p.m., "Passport to Europe: European Cafe Night," presented in partnership with the Italian Cultural Society and the Piast Polish Cultural Society, with participation from the German Cultural Society. A “European Café Night” featuring sweet treat, food samples, cultural music and games, and sharing of traditions, holidays and history will take place at Brennan Hall, Rose Room, Room 509. Celebrate shared European roots, cultures and traditions while honoring unique customs, celebrating Italian, Polish and Czech Heritage Months
  
  
• Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., One World, Many Voices: A Cultural Trivia Night partnership with International Student Club and the Global Education Office. DeNaples Center, first floor, Multicultural Center Lounge Area.The goal is to create an inclusive, educational, and engaging event to learn about cultural diversity around the world.
  
  For more information about the events, contact jose.sanchez@scranton.edu or call 570-941-6904.

Kyle Athayde Dance Party will present a one-of-a-kind children’s jazz concert that offers something for everyone on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 1 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton.

Built around imaginative, jazz-infused arrangements of beloved children's songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” “The Wheels on the Bus,” and “Five Speckled Frogs,” the show is a celebration of music that is fun, thoughtful and accessible for all audience goers.

The programming creates music that delights young audiences, educates newcomers to jazz, and satisfies even the most seasoned listener. Each tune is treated with care and creativity, turning familiar melodies into vibrant, jazz experiences that introduce kids to rhythm, improvisation and musical storytelling.

Increasing our efforts to keep the University community safe, the Fire Watch program has been developed to support University buildings during infrequent times when fire protection systems are compromised. Faculty and staff are invited and needed to serve in these roles as they arise.

What is Fire Watch?

University buildings are protected by a network of fire protection systems that detect, alarm and suppress fires. They also communicate directly with the University Police Communications Center, who monitor the systems. There are certain times when the systems require maintenance or repair, and portions of the system are temporarily taken offline. University employees who have completed the short training are called to support the fire protection system during these infrequent down times. Trained faculty and staff work with University Police to monitor the building’s system and/or patrol the area until the system issue is resolved. If a need arises, the trained Fire Watch individual calls University Police to respond.

How Does Fire Watch Work?

Interested employees register for a short training course provided by the Environmental Health and Safety Office and are placed on a call list. When a need arises, a call first goes out to all employees on the list who have indicated they may be available for that specific time slot, then to the general list if necessary.

Upon arrival on campus, you will be given directions as to where to go and what is needed.

This is not a volunteer position. Non-exempt staff will submit their fire watch hours on a separate timecard. Fire watch hours must be included when calculating overtime.

Exempt staff will be paid $20.00 per hour.

Register for Fire Watch training by contacting Brian Loughney at brian.loughney2@scranton.edu.

The University of Scranton will celebrate its annual Mass of the Holy Spirit on Thursday, Sept. 4, at 11:30 a.m. in the Byron Recreation Complex. The Mass will be celebrated by University President Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., who will also deliver the homily. All classes will be canceled and offices closed from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 4 so that the entire campus community may participate in this special celebration.

The liturgy will also be livestreamed: https://youtube.com/live/THrWE26MD9A?feature=share

A longstanding tradition in Jesuit education, the Mass of the Holy Spirit dates back to the 16th century. Jesuit schools around the world continue this custom as a way to mark the start of the academic year. At Scranton, the Mass underscores the University’s Jesuit mission by reminding the community that education is not only an intellectual pursuit but also a spiritual journey. It calls upon the Holy Spirit to guide and inspire students, faculty, and staff in their shared work of teaching, learning and service.

Following the Mass, a picnic lunch will be offered on the Dionne Green and the DeNaples Center Patio for all members of the University community.

The Mother Daughter Retreat will be held Saturday, Oct.11 to Sunday, Oct. 12 at the University’s beautiful Retreat Center at Chapman Lake. Mothers and daughters will have the chance to spend part of fall break relaxing overnight at the University's Retreat Center at Chapman Lake, enjoying quality time with one another, and praying and reflecting with other Scranton moms and daughters. 

The cost of the retreat is $65 per mother/daughter pair and includes overnight accommodations (mother and daughter share a room with a private bathroom), and all meals and materials.  After the retreat, students will still have the Monday and Tuesday of Fall Break free to go home.  Daughters who are current students can register with their mom in Royal Sync: https://cglink.me/2rM/s1545 

For more information, please contact amy.hoegen@scranton.edu

Keep reading if you're a Royal interested in a work-study position that will prepare you for your first job in marketing, communications or social media. 

Want to work closely with the University's Marketing Communications team to engage prospective students, students, alumni, faculty and staff with your favorite University? 

The Department of Marketing Communications is seeking social media interns beginning this spring and continuing through the 2026-2027 academic year.

We're looking for self-starters with a talent for creating content who understand the importance of social media in establishing a strong brand identity. You'll assist with planning the University's online presence by creating, scheduling and posting content across various platforms, monitoring audience engagement and tracking performance metrics (an important skill in this field!)

Key responsibilities include managing social media calendars, researching trends, brainstorming content ideas, analyzing campaign performance and engaging with followers. The role involves collaborating with the News and Media Relations and Admissions teams, staying updated on new technologies, and contributing to brand awareness and follower growth.

Read below to find out about preferred experience and requirements!

Contact kristie.ceruti@scranton.edu to request the full social media correspondent/ Royal News Contributor job description. 

Among the content the social media intern team creates for the University: the Royals on the Spot campus interview series, shown inset above, and videos for the University's Instagram, TikTok and YouTube channels. 

---

Depart­­­­ment of University Communications – Social Media Correspondent / Royal News Contributor

Preferred Experience

• Video filming and editing skills.
  
  
• Strong writing skills.
  
  
• Ability to meet strict deadlines.
  
  
• Willingness to be creative and collaborate closely with a team to plan content.
  
  
• Familiarity with Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Snapchat and emerging social media channels.
  
  
• Good working knowledge of social media in general, as well as an awareness of how it can be part of a brand marketing strategy.
  
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.

Requirements

• Involvement in campus activities, clubs, etc.
  
  
• Available to work 7-10 hours per week in the fall and spring semesters. Opportunities for summer are available as well.
  
  
• Sophomores and rising juniors preferred.

NOTE: This is a paid work study position and, in the past, the internship has qualified for credit (dependent on faculty approval). 

Interested students should submit their resume and the name of a faculty member who will recommend them to: kristie.ceruti@scranton.edu during the fall semester.

Campus Minister, Amy Hoegen, MA, is the featured preacher on Catholic Women Preach for Sunday, Aug. 31, the twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Her reflections can be watched or read here.   

Catholic Women Preach began in November 2016 and highlights the voices of theologically-educated and faith-filled Catholic women from around the world. Each preacher offers a five to seven-minute reflection on the readings from the Catholic lectionary.

Several University of Scranton alumni who have gone on to work in areas of mission and ministry have been featured preachers for Catholic Women Preach since the project’s inception. Alumni preachers include: Stephanie Boccuzzi ’14, Marissa F. Papula ‘13, Kelly Miguens ’10, Jaclyn T. Newns ’09, Christine E. Boyle ’01 and Karen M. Murphy ’94. Their reflections can be found in the Catholic Women Preach archives of past Sundays.  

The Department of Mission and Ministry announces the dates for its much-anticipated annual event, Jesuit Identity Week, October 17-25, 2025.

Hear from a guest speaker, immerse yourself in hands-on programming, or just connect with others in the community. Events offer great experiences and make Jesuit education more meaningful. The Department of Mission and Ministry invites the entire community to learn more about Jesuit values, identity and history.

Watch for details in an upcoming issue of Royal News.

The University of Scranton will test its emergency notification system on Wednesday, Sept. 10. 

The University uses Everbridge to send notices of emergencies, school closing and weather delays to members of the campus community via employee office phones, Scranton email addresses and numbers registered by employees and students to receive these notices on cell phones by voice or text.  

Members of the University community are reminded to register, verify or update contact information for emergency notices, which can be done through the My.Scranton portal. Just choose “Emergency Notification” Link in the announcement at the top of the page, or choose “discover” and search for “Emergency Notification System Registration.” 

The University’s emergency text alerts originate from 893-61 or 878-44. The email address for alerts is alerts@scranton.edu and phone alerts will display 570-941-5427. Students, faculty and staff are asked to save these to their contacts in order to identify future emergency notification alerts.