Alumni News

What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.

John Zimmerman '67, Okatie, South Carolina, sold his cattle ranch in Shiner, Texas, and moved to Callawassie Island in the low country of South Carolina.

Joseph Sharp '78, Bensalem, was inducted in the Holy Ghost Prep Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing over half a century of support for amateur athletics as an athletic trainer.

Linda Arthur Hebbard '85, Johnson City, New York, retired from the Laboratory at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital microbiology department after 40 years of service.

Scott Antoine, D.O. '89, Carmel, Indiana, has published "The Comprehensive Physician's Guide to the Management of PANS and PANDAS," an Amazon bestselling textbook for physicians. These conditions are subtypes of autoimmune encephalitis that affect children. This textbook has defined the standard of care in these conditions. Dr. Antoine continues to lecture across the United States as a subject-matter expert in these conditions.

Ryan C. Joyce '04, Boston, Massachusetts, was named vice president, development at Burke Rehabilitation. In this role, Joyce will lead the development and philanthropic strategy at Burke in close partnership with hospital leadership and its Board of Trustees to strengthen fundraising performance, deepen donor engagement and expand opportunities across individual giving, institutional philanthropy and government grants.

Andrew F. Prior '08, New York, commanded a New York Army National Guard unit and led the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, the “Fighting 69th,” in the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, marking the regiment’s 175th time leading the parade.

John McKiernan G'12, Notre Dame, Indiana, has been named executive vice president and chief operating officer at Holy Cross College at Notre Dame, Indiana. When he begins in May of 2026, McKiernan will support President Marco Clark in operationalizing the College's many strengths as an institution for Catholic higher education.

Jeanne Rabel, Ed.D.'12, G'14, Scranton, successfully defended her dissertation, “Navigating Connection: A Case Study on the Sense of Belonging Among Undergraduate Students Experiencing Trauma-Informed Care” at Wilkes University. Dr. Rabel also holds a master’s degree in school counseling from The University of Scranton.

MARRIAGES

Megan Conley '09 to Ryan Arnold

Corey Gorman ‘12 to Ashley Mealey

Ryan Smith '16 to Loren Mastroberti '16

Gregory J. Lacey '19 to Briana N. Moritzen '20

Nora Murray '19 to Zachary Weinberg '19

Bailey McLaughlin '21, G'22 to Bryan Gorczyca '19, DPT'22

Elizabeth Ridge, D.O. '21 to Ed Burk '21

BIRTHS

A son, Bennett Thomas Grueter, to Jonathan '14 and Shannon O’Gorman Grueter '15; grandson to Jacqueline Christie O’Gorman '87 and James Grueter '85

A son, Jack, to Greg '15 and Sara Chapin Schwenk ’16 

A son, Lucas Robert, to Jacob '15 and Lauren Stewart 

A son, Patrick Thomas, to Christopher '18 and Tiffany Cecere O'Donnell '18 of Madison, New Jersey

A daughter, Emilia Diana, to Jonathan ’18 and Alexa Zirnheld ’19, G’20, Willow Grove

DEATHS

Robert L. Barrowcliff '51, Wilmington, Delaware

Carlo J. Celli '55, Peckville  

John E. Swift, M.D. '58, Bonita Springs, Florida

Robert J. Kilgour '69, Conestoga 

William M. Naughton '71, Scranton

James G. Burke G'77, Childs

Anne Scully Wettengel '77, Worcester, Massachusetts 

Charles R. Costello '78, Brick, New Jersey 

Jeffery W. Seitzinger, M.D. '81, Freeland

Jason Daria '91, Philadelphia

Michael Frazier '96, Olyphant

Deanna M. Zarzecki '02, New Milford

Bridget B. Flannery G'09, Binghamton

FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS

Dorothy Riley, mother of Mary Riley Elliott '88, Anne Riley Schiavo '89, and Thomas P. Riley '90, and mother-in-law of Anthony Schiavo '90

Tara Canally, wife of James Canally '95 

Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration is open.

Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.

Be sure to register to secure your spot for this unforgettable weekend.

Reunion T-shirts are also available for purchase at $20 each. When ordering, you can choose to either pick up your T-shirt during Reunion Weekend or have it shipped directly to you.

For more information and to register, visit scranton.edu/reunion.

Order your Reunion T-shirt here.

Alumni, parents and friends are invited to join us for an afternoon at the Jersey Shore on Saturday, June 27, from 3–6 p.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club in Belmar, New Jersey.

Hosted by Karen Golding ’91, this gathering is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and enjoy time by the ocean.

Register here.

At 6 a.m. EST, alumni, parents and friends of The University of Scranton around the globe received a special video communique from Iggy, the Royal Wolf, several University students, and Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president. The message?

“It’s finally 5.06!”

And, with that rallying cry, the University officially kicked off 5.06.26, its 12^th annual Day of Giving. Watch the video here.

Since its inception in 2015, 5.06 has evolved into a tradition of profound impact, creating a lasting legacy for current and future University students. As part of the celebration, alumni, parents, friends, faculty, students and staff are invited to show their Scranton pride by supporting the campus programs and causes that ignite their passion for Scranton.

As of press time, more than 1,800 donors had already raised more than $400,000 for Scranton scholarships, service programs, athletics and student organizations; make your gift before midnight to join the movement and help us reach this year’s goal of 2,500 donors.

The University will hold the 2026 Carlesimo Golf Tournament and Award Dinner Monday, June 15, at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey. Register here to reserve your spot today.

The University is once again partnering with the Quandel Construction Group as the title sponsor for this event. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the event or sponsorship opportunities, contact Eric Eckenrode, assistant vice president of Development, at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu. 

Founded in 1901, Canoe Brook Country Club offers 36 holes of championship golf. Recognized as a 5-Star Platinum Club of the World, the club has played host to a number of significant events, including U.S. Open and British Open qualifiers and the U.S. Women's Amateur.

Named in honor of the late Peter A. Carlesimo, former University of Scranton coach and athletics director, the Carlesimo Golf Tournament and Award Dinner celebrates athletics at The University of Scranton and honors a person who has made special contributions to athletics and Catholic education. The Golf Tournament and Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at Scranton. All proceeds will directly benefit the Department of Athletics and nearly 600 students it serves. See photos from the 2025 event here.

Mark your calendars for a fun afternoon at the Jersey Shore on Saturday, June 27, from 3–6 p.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club in Belmar, New Jersey.

Hosted by Karen Golding ’91, this gathering is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and enjoy time by the ocean.

More details and registration information will be shared soon.

We hope to see you there!

What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.

Jim Rauer ’78 was inducted into the South Jersey Soccer Hall of Fame on March 15 at the Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, New Jersey. Rauer, who is also a member of The University of Scranton Athletic Wall of Fame, was joined at the event by several of his former Scranton teammates and fellow alumni, including Joe Sharp ’78, Dennis Guida ’75, Steve Jiulianti ’78, Kevin McGeever ’78, Ron Rauer ’78, Don Appenzeller ’76, Jack Vogel ’78, and Dan Amspacher ’80. Former Scranton soccer coach Steve Klingman was also in attendance.

Attorney John A. Donovan Jr. ’83, West Pittston, was awarded the 2025 President's Award by the Wilkes-Barre Law and Library Association of the Luzerne County Bar Association.

Lawrence A. J. Spegar, Esq. ’84, Jessup, continues to enjoy a successful career as an attorney, in addition to his pursuits as a sports enthusiast and influencer. In 2026, he attended the College Football National Championship in Miami, Super Bowl LX in San Francisco, and the opening rounds of the men’s basketball tournament in Philadelphia.

Meg Powers '96, Richmond, California, earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia.

Scranton friends share a bond like no other. More than 30 years later, the Class of 1998 friendship remains strong. The “408 girls” (Robin Brooks Johnson ’98, Jennifer Weaver Musser ’98, Andrea Russo Hankey ’98, and Gianna Famulari ’98) gathered in February 2026 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to celebrate more than 30 years of friendship and their 50th year.

Kristen Mucci-Mosier '00, Cranford, New Jersey, had her debut book, Restless: How to Stop Living an If-Only Life, published. The book became available on April 14, 2026, and examines the psychological, emotional and cultural roots of restlessness, that persistent feeling that something better must be just around the corner, guiding readers toward greater presence, clarity and meaning in their lives. After a decade working as a journalist, with roots in her Scranton education and time as a campus newspaper editor, she transitioned into psychotherapy. The skills she honed across both careers are woven into every page of the book.

Peter Castagna '03, West Chester, defended his dissertation to earn his Ed.D. from Saint Joseph’s University.
Bobby Davis ’03, Ed.D., served on the dissertation committee.

Dillon Chorba '15, Red Bank, New Jersey, has been appointed by Vincent Solomeno ’07, New Jersey’s Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, to serve as Chief of Staff of the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs.

MARRIAGES

Matt Nardo '18 to Lea Zaengle '18

Luis Melgar '18 to Catherine Bruno '18

DEATHS

Gerald M. Barbour '58, East Rockhill Township

Elbert H. Rowlands '59, Stroudsburg

Flora M. Cupple '62, Scranton 

Charles H. Castellino '63, Pittston

Robert M. Costello '63, Elizabethtown, Kentucky

Rose Ellen Miller G'65, Falls

John W. Nebzydoski, M.D. '65, Fayetteville, New York

Hugh Donald Burns, Ph.D. '68, Harleysville

Rose Mary E. Lynch G'69, Wilkes-Barre

Rev. Gregory N. Maslak '69, Bristol

Gerald J. Reisch '74, Luzerne

Joan Lengel G'75, Roaring Brook Twp. 

Robert C. Mesko '75, Scranton

Ann Marie Crow G'78, Harrisburg

Dennis J. Matzoni G'78, Newport Township

Brian P. McKenna '85, Bethlehem

Ann Marie Dixon Bestany '91, Malverne 

Make plans to come together with fellow Royals, parents and friends for an inspiring Day of Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Alumni across the country will unite to give back, strengthen their communities and live out the spirit of service that defines The University of Scranton.

Service opportunities are available in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., offering a variety of ways to get involved and make an impact.

To view a list of confirmed service sites and register, visit scranton.edu/dayofservice, where you’ll find site details and registration information.

Let’s serve together and show what it means to be part of the Scranton community!

Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu

Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration is now officially open.

Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.

Be sure to register to secure your spot for this unforgettable weekend.

Reunion T-shirts are also available for purchase at $20 each. When ordering, you can choose to either pick up your T-shirt during Reunion Weekend or have it shipped directly to you.

For more information and to register, visit scranton.edu/reunion.

Order your Reunion T-shirt here.

A few weeks remain to submit a nomination for the Department of Communication and Media Hall of Fame. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026. Nominations opened last fall at the annual Careers in Communication alumni panel to align with the celebration of the 50^th anniversary of the department's first graduating class (1975 – 1976).

The University of Scranton Communication and Media Department Hall of Fame honors distinguished alumni, living or deceased, who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions at the highest levels of public service, industry, the military or academia for at least 20 years. Eligible nominees do not need to be retired professionals. All graduates of the University, no matter their degree at the time of their graduation, are eligible for nomination.

The awards will be presented at a special department event in September of each year, with a panel discussion for all students, followed by a networking event and a formal induction ceremony.

 

Hall of Fame Criteria  

To be considered a Hall of Fame candidate, an individual’s nomination should clearly demonstrate the following:

* Superior service and achievement in the nominee’s respective field(s); nominations should highlight merits of accomplishment and may also highlight previous awards and honors.

* Significant impact of professional contributions at the organizational, local, regional, national or international levels.

* Outstanding leadership, character, values and ethical conduct.

* Jesuit model of being men and women for others.

 

Fields for Consideration 

Any area of the communication arts will be considered for this honor.  Examples include communications planning, social media, media relations, marketing, public relations, advertising, journalism, business communication, broadcasting, video and audio production and graphic arts.

What to Include in a Nomination Packet

All packets should include the following:

• A two-page narrative of the nominees’ accomplishments and qualifications for receiving the award
  
  
• The candidate’s resume
  
  
• A list of any awards received
  
  
• Encouraged but not necessary are: Letters of support, endorsement, or recommendation 
  
  
  

Need Additional Information?

Questions can be directed to Stacy Smulowitz, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Communication and Media, stacy.smulowitz@scranton.edu  or to Richard H. Breen, Jr., Communications Alumni Advisor, richard.breen@live.com.

Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration officially opens on March 16.

Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.

Be sure to register when the site goes live and add your name to the “Planning to Attend List” to let your friends and classmates know you’ll be there. For more information, visit scranton.edu/reunion and check future editions of Royal News for updates.

What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.

Belinda Juran '81, Lowell, Massachusetts, was sworn in as a city councilor in Lowell, Massachusetts, in January 2026.

Carol A. Peters '82, Scranton, celebrated 52 years with Peters Design Group Inc. Architectural engineering and Design.

Rich Bevilacqua, DMD, M.D. ’83, was named chief, oral and maxillofacial surgery, Hartford Healthcare and associate chief, craniofacial trauma system, Hartford Healthcare.

Doreen Madeira Matzerath ’83 and Joseph Matzerath ’84, Scranton, celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary last September 2025. Joining them were fellow University of Scranton alumni John Cannon ’85, John Matzerath ’87, and Darsh Dhaded ’15.

Jayden Walsh ’29 and Ruby McGrath ’28 attended the Society of Irish Women’s annual Top O’ the Morn Brunch on Sunday, Feb. 22, along with alumna Catherine Alu ’86. The students, both Reddington Scholars from Ireland, offered grace in fluent Irish, adding authenticity to the cultural heritage event.

MARRIAGES

Mariah Vellek '15, G'16 to Connor Shanahan '15, G’16

Ryan Smith '16 to Loren Mastroberti '16

John “Buddy” Stocks ’17, G’20 to Kaitlin Rush ’18

Nick D’Alonzo '19 to Julia Kerr '19

Kaitlin Memmen '20 to Emery Lease

Briana Moritzen ’20 to Gregory Lacey ’19

DEATHS

Joseph A. Moran '55, Millstone Township, New Jersey

Thomas J. Dougherty '62, Dunmore

Joseph J. Magalski Sr., D.D.S. '62, Forest City

Thomas G. Behonick '67, Endicott, New York 

Allen J. Duricko, Ph.D. '67, Gouldsboro

Joseph Sakelaridas G'68, Sugar Notch

Walter P. Andreski '72, Jefferson Twp.

Carl S. Scarantino '76, Pittston

Joseph B. Campbell G'83, Matamoras

Mary I. Herman G'90, Macungie

Jason A. Daria '91, Moorestown, New Jersey

FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS

Valerie Majez Evans, sister of Carol (Majez) Ginster G’84 and Jacalynne (Majez) Lopata '85

Join us for a Networking Reception with University of Scranton students and alumni on Thursday, April 9, from 5–7 p.m. at McGillin's Olde Ale House.

This reception provides a valuable opportunity for alumni to connect with current students and network with fellow alumni in a relaxed setting.

The cost is $20 per person, and cocktails and appetizers will be served.

Register today to reserve your spot.

Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu

We are excited to announce the return of our virtual Book Club! This semester, we are once again partnering with the Jesuit Center to read one book together as a community.

Our spring selection is "My Son, the Priest: A Mother’s Crisis of Faith" by Kristin Gilger.

The discussion will be held in two virtual sessions:

Tuesday, April 14, at noon
Tuesday, May 12, at noon

The links to join will be sent prior to each discussion date.

The conversation will be facilitated by Tim Dulle, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Jesuit Center at The University of Scranton. He looks forward to joining alumni, parents and friends for thoughtful conversation and fellowship.

The book is available in print and Kindle formats on Amazon.

We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful community discussion.

If you wish to join our book club, https://bit.ly/RoyalBookClub

 

Make plans to come together with fellow Royals, parents and friends for an inspiring Day of Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Alumni across the country will unite to give back, strengthen their communities and live out the spirit of service that defines The University of Scranton.

To view a list of confirmed service sites, visit scranton.edu/dayofservice, where you’ll find site details and registration information.

Let’s serve together and show what it means to be part of the Scranton community!

Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu

Members of the Classes of 2022–2026 are invited to the 16th annual Shamrockin’ Eve on Friday, March 13, from 8:30–11 p.m. at the Byron Recreation Complex.

Get ready for a night of food, drinks, green T-shirts and memory making with your fellow Royals! Registration is $40, with $5 supporting the Magis Fund, which provides scholarships and financial aid to current students.

Register today on the Shamrockin’ Eve Alumni Registration Page. Already registered? Invite your classmates to make this year’s celebration even more memorable!

 

The University will hold a reception in Naples, Florida, with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, March 4. 

The reception, which will be hosted by Patrick '83 and Mary '85 Haveron, will take place at the Twin Eagles Club, 11725 Twin Eagles Blvd., Naples, Florida, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register today to reconnect with your fellow alumni, parents and friends in the greater Naples area. 

Make plans to join fellow Royals and friends in the spring as we unite in service to implement the values of a Jesuit education and make a meaningful impact in our communities.

Service sites have been set up in California, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., on Saturday, April 25. Visit https://bit.ly/DayofService26 for the full list of confirmed sites and dates.

If you’re interested in coordinating a Day of Service site in your region or have ideas for volunteer opportunities near you, please reach out to Marge Gleason, P'14, '17 at margery.gleason@scranton.edu.

 

All alumni are invited to the Royals 2 Royals Networking Reception with current students on Friday, Feb. 20. The event will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall, located on the fifth floor of 320 Madison Avenue in Scranton.

This engaging networking opportunity offers a platform for casual conversations between alumni and students. Our students are eager to learn from alumni about their post-Scranton careers and experiences. Refreshments will be served, creating a relaxed atmosphere conducive to meaningful interactions.

Following the reception, alumni are encouraged to join us at Backyard Ale House from 8 to 9 p.m. for additional socializing over drinks and appetizers. Register here to reserve your spot today.

What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.

Mark Chopko '74, Falls Church, Virginia, was appointed the Lieutenant of the Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The appointment was made in October by Cardinal Fernando Filoni, who heads the order in Rome. The order is a pontifical institution dedicated to supporting the Church's works and mission and strengthening the Christian presence in the Holy Land through works of faith, service and charity. The Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy includes 13 dioceses in six states and the District of Columbia.

Colin O'Boyle '04, Plymouth Meeting, was elected president of the Montgomery Bar Association for the 2026 Bar Year. O'Boyle is a Shareholder at Elliott Greenleaf, P.C., where his practice includes trial and appellate litigation, focusing on commercial disputes, health law and employment discrimination. He is based in the firm's Blue Bell office.

Holli Bott Archer '13, Philadelphia, was promoted to Shareholder of Marshall Dennehey’s Healthcare Department.

Samuel J. Richards G'15, Bentleyville, is among the contributing authors for "Authoritarian Rule since 1750," part of Pearson’s new series of textbooks designed to support the International Baccalaureate’s revised history course being unveiled in February 2026. Richards has taught and developed curricula for schools in Brazil, China, Kenya, Switzerland and the United States. He is currently head of social sciences at the International School of Kenya in Nairobi.

MARRIAGES

Mia Notarianni '16 to Nicholas Swift '16

Katie Zefran, D.D.S.'16 to TJ Murray

Kaitlyn Davis ’17 to Matthew Andres ’17

Marissa Joyce ’20 to Jack McCaffrey ’20

Bridget Pynn '21, G’22 to Daniel Shuck '21, G’22

BIRTHS

Sean and Maribeth Castaldi Baress '14 welcomed a son, Michael Ryan.

DEATHS

Milton A. Rosenbloom '53, Bloomfield, Connecticut 

C. Martin Kelly Jr. '59, Moosic

William T. Kwolek ’62, Peckville

John M. Wastak Jr. '62, Old Forge

Caesar Augustus DeLeo, M.D. '65, Lake Bluff, Illinois

Gary C. Boam '67, Roaring Brook Township

Harold P. Perkins '67, Etters

James L. Walsh '69, Camp Hill

Gerald J. Paparella G'70, Peckville

Brian R. Flynn G'71, Wolcott, Connecticut 

James C. Daily G'72, Westfield, Connecticut

Thomas J. Hughes '73, G'87, Scranton

Robert A. Gerrity '76, Clarks Summit

James M. McLaine '79, Scott Township

Cindy L. Noll '80, Dalton

Ronald V. Petrilla, Ph.D. G'80, Hazleton  

Gerard McGraw '85, Havertown

Denise L. Doty Cabezas '89, Wall Township, New Jersey

Lisa Gervasio Alfano '90, Verona, New Jersey

James P. Burton '96, Scranton

Deno S. Gualtieri, D.O. '03, Coopersburg

FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS

Diann Sauer, wife of Joseph Sauer '64

Tara Canally, wife of James Canally '95, Wyndmoor

Members of the Classes of 2022-2026 will celebrate the 16th annual Shamrockin' Eve in the Byron Recreation Complex March 13. 

Visit the Shamrockin' Eve Alumni Registration Page to register today, or visit scranton.edu/shamrockin to learn more about this year's festivities.

The University of Scranton is pleased to partner with Orbridge to offer alumni exceptional travel opportunities. Each trip combines unique itineraries, deluxe properties or ships, knowledgeable expedition leaders and the fellowship of other Royals. With special features and unparalleled access to distinguished locations, you’ll discover unforgettable places, people and cultures while enriching your understanding of our diverse and wonderful world.

Whether close to home or far away, on land or by sea, your next adventure is waiting. Join us and our partner Orbridge and make your reservation today!

👉 https://bit.ly/ScrantonAlumniTravel 

Join us on Thursday, Feb. 12, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. in the McIlhenny Ballroom on the 4th floor of the DeNaples Center at The University of Scranton for a Craft Night hosted by Creative Sisters. The $55 registration fee includes all materials needed to create your choice of a 22-inch St. Patrick’s Day door hanger or a 22-inch Hello Spring door hanger.

Guests will also enjoy wine, beer, soda and snacks while they craft and unwind. Space is limited, so be sure to register early to save your spot.

The Garden of Cedar will be planting Valentine hearts bearing personalized messages on the lawn of the Everhart Museum at Nay Aug Park until Feb. 14, and the leaders of both nonprofit organizations hope their fellow Scranton grads will help them reach their goal of collecting 2,000 inscribed hearts during this snow-dusted season of love.

“I’d like to issue a challenge to the University community to assist the Garden and Everhart in obtaining 2,000 Valentine participations, including every U.S. state, and as many countries as possible,” said Frank Dubas ’75, a former University trustee and the president of the Garden of Cedar, a nonprofit urban community garden/park and children’s discovery area that serves the Scranton community from its home base on the 700 block of Cedar Avenue. “Claim your personally inscribed heart and tell the world what you’d like to say to your loved ones.”

Dubas has already placed more than 700 hearts on the lawn to date as part of the Garden’s fourth annual Valentine’s Day event, and the hearts will remain on display at the Everhart until the first week of March.

“We’re a couple of U of S alums teaming up to do something really cool for the community,” said Tim Holmes ’88, CEO of the Everhart Museum, which has been enlightening Northeastern Pennsylvania through natural history, science and art since 1908.

To claim your free personalized heart, visit this link. 

“Keep the requests coming,” said Dubas. “Our scribes are not deterred by snow!”

Join fellow Royals on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 6–8 p.m. at Hudson Golf, located at 16 Hudson Place, Hoboken, for a casual night out. The $35 per person registration fee includes golf, appetizers and one drink ticket, making it the perfect way to unwind and reconnect.

Spots are limited, so be sure to register today to secure your place.

The University recently released the 2025 edition of its Royal Ornament Collection featuring the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library. 

The Weinberg Memorial library is a campus favorite that has been shaping minds and serving the Scranton community for the past three decades. The second entry in the Royal Ornament Collection, it measures 2.5 inches in diameter, and its red ribbon helps to ensure its place as the perfect stocking stuffer for Royals this season. When you make a gift of $35 or more to The Magis Fund, a new fund designed to provide current-year scholarships and financial aid to students to ensure that every Royal can access a Scranton education, you'll receive this exclusive Scranton ornament in recognition of your generosity. Make your donation to receive the 2025 ornament here.

The Royal Ornament Collection debuted in 2024 with an ornamental representation of the Estate. In case you missed last year's inaugural edition, you can still order the Estate ornament by making a gift of $35 or more to The Magis Fund here.

Please note: one ornament per transaction, and shipping is included. 

On Dec. 2, more than 500 members of The University of Scranton community celebrated Giving Tuesday 2025 by raising more than $96,000 for campus programs and priorities in a wonderful start to the Christmas season.

"Once again, your generosity has made this year's Giving Tuesday celebration a great success here at The University of Scranton," said Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, in a "Thank You" video message to those who donated. "Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our beloved University." 

This year's celebration focused upon two University causes: The Magis Fund, a new fund designed to provide current-year scholarships and financial aid to students to ensure that every Royal can access a Scranton education, and the Scranton Athletics Fund, which helps provide invaluable travel, team-building and leadership development opportunities to the nearly 600 student-athletes at the University.

The University will hold a reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President, Jan. 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Basking Ridge Country Club, 185 Madisonville Road, Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Register here for the event.

The University of Scranton invites alumni, parents and friends to a Day of Prayer and Reflection on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Retreat Center at Chapman Lake, 287 Chapman Lake Road, Jermyn.

This annual tradition offers participants a chance to pause, reflect and reconnect with their faith and with one another in a serene lakeside setting.

Register for this event here.

What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.

John Lyons ’64 and Connie Ruscik Lyons, Marywood ’62, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a party at their home in Jenkintown. The couple was married on October 16,1965, at Sacred Heart Church, Scranton, by Rev. John Albosta. They have two children: John Scott, retired from the FDNY, and Kimberly Ann, of Boise, Idaho, as well as one granddaughter, Kaia, of New York City.

A group of Scranton alumni continued their annual tradition of gathering for a mini reunion in Cape May, New Jersey, enjoying several days of dinner, drinks and music. The special friends who reunited in October 2025 were Gary Beilman ’76, Andrea (Rygiel) Beilman ’76, Roe (Bunting) Murphy ’76, Jim Helhowski ’76, Rose (Lally) Doyle ’76, Donna (Lange) Helhowski ’76, John O’Boyle ’74, Lucy (Burke) O’Boyle ’76 and Wayne Wilhelm ’76.

Ed Burnetta, M.D. '84, Villanova, is delighted that his son, Chris Burnetta, has committed to the admissions process at Harvard as a member of the 2027 Men's Lacrosse recruit group. He will graduate from Haverford School in 2027. Chris will be joining his three older sisters as an Ivy attendee. His oldest sister Isabelle graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013, Kristin graduated from Harvard in 2020, and the youngest sister Sabrina is a junior at Cornell.

Christopher J. Kane '86, Jupiter, Florida, startup co-founder of 3PL-RX, announced a merger with the American Chain of Warehouses, a nonprofit organization founded in 1911. American Chain provides sales and marketing strategies and services for Warehouse Logistics members across the U.S. and Canada. Christopher J. Kane will become president; his son, Zach Kane, will be vice president of Administration and Technology. American Chain is one of the oldest Warehouse organizations whose members are long-established family businesses.

Richard W. Peuser '86, G'87, Brookfield, Maryland, retired on October 31, 2025, from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) after 37.5 years in public service. His final position was director of the Processing and Release Division, National Declassification Center. As branch chief of the Textual Reference Unit, he assisted thousands of researchers, both at the Washington, D.C., building and at the College Park, Maryland, facility. One of the highlights of his career was assisting the late David McCullough on his book, "1776." “It was truly an honor and privilege working at this incredible institution,” he said.

Margot Royer-Johnson ’95, East Providence, Rhode Island, celebrated her 25th year as head coach of the NCAA Division I Providence College volleyball program in August.

Christine Royce, Ed.D. G’95, Newburg, is the recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship to teach and study in Cairo, Egypt, for the spring 2026 semester while on sabbatical from Shippensburg University. As part of this Fulbright, Royce will be teaching at Ain Shams University in Cairo, where her focus will be on the preparation of teachers, specifically in the STEM areas.

Joseph D. Ward '95, Coral Gables, Florida, has been named president and chief operating officer at Quirch Foods.

Glynnis Jones, OTD, OTR/L '02, G'03, Albrightsville, recently authored a peer-reviewed publication in The American Journal of Occupational Therapy: Jones, G., Helsley, S., Fox, R., Tumminello, A., Grasso, A., Potter, A., Wynarczuk, K., Reinson, C. (2025) titled "Parent Perspectives: Menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene Management for Autistic Daughters."

John P. Gray '00, Ewing, New Jersey, has joined the firm Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP as a partner in the Environmental and Energy and Renewable Resources practice areas.

Nicole E. Negowetti ’02, Melrose, Massachusetts, published a new book, "Feeding the Future," which offers a radical reframing of the global food system to address injustices and existential threats.

Five Scranton graduates proudly serve as board or committee members at Lincroft Elementary School in Lincroft, New Jersey: Alexandra (Parlamas) Russomanno ’11, G’12; Lauren (Zumbo) Netksa ’02; Lindsey (Pachuta) Miceli ’08; Danielle (Attanasio) Lemish ’05; and Annemarie (Craft) Champagne ’06, G’07.

Katelyn Mertz '12, Harrisburg, graduated with her MSN in May 2022 and her MBA in December 2024 from Pennsylvania Western University and will start her DNP in the summer of 2026. Mertz recently presented nationally at the International Magnet and Magnet Pathway Conference in October 2025 and will present at the Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) Global Surgical Conference and Expo in April 2026 on her work “Safety Coach Simulation Training: Empowering Nurses to Speak Up in the Operating Room.” Mertz has been the manager of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center’s 39 Level 1 operating rooms since 2022.

Will Craven '19, Scranton, has joined Moses Taylor Foundation, a private foundation with a mission to improve the health of people in Northeastern Pennsylvania, as its operations and grants officer. In this role, he will support the Foundation’s grant management system, lead internal operations, and coordinate organizational initiatives and events.

MARRIAGES

Jaclyn Potapchuk '05 to James D. Vaughan '09

William D. Orasin ’09 to Brittany Strausser

Brenna Anderson ’15 to Francis Degnan ’16

Allison Smith '16, G'18 to Evan DeGraw

Jessica Nickel '16, G'17 to Mitchell Prescott

BIRTHS

A daughter, Maisy Lane, to Matt and Erin Fetsko Johnson '16, Syracuse, New York, and a granddaughter of Frank Fetsko ‘86

DEATHS

James P. McDonnell Jr. '52, Scranton

Vincent J. Mondelli '61, Endicott, New York

Richard J. Flynn, M.D. '63 Bradenton, Florida

Michael J. Mitchko '63, Bluffton, South Carolina

Roman S. Misorek '67, Duryea 

Joseph V. Grega '69, Opelika, Alabama

Hon. David J. Wenzel '69, Scranton

Yamini C. Desai '72, Bloomfield, Connecticut

Gardner W. Smith '74, Mechanicsburg

Arnold L. Ligi, Jr. '78, Dayton Beach, Florida

Linda S. Mainwaring G'79, Mountaintop

Susan Brown Otto '79, Bethel, New York

Nadia C. Burns '81, Norfolk, Virginia

Martin J. Barrett G'85, Hollisterville

William H. McDonald '90, Springville, New York 

Lauren R. Propst '05, Honesdale

Jennifer L. Murphy '09, Floral Park, New York

FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS

Harrison O. Bush Jr., father of Peter Bush '79

Jennifer Quattrocchi, wife of Joseph Quattrocchi ’02