April 2024

Lackawanna College and The University of Scranton have formed more than 30 program articulation agreements, which provide degree-specific pathways to facilitate the credit transfer of Lackawanna College graduates to the University to complete their bachelor’s degrees. Degree pathways established over the past year span all three of Scranton’s colleges and include programs in business, health and other fields.

“These agreements represent a new chapter for The University of Scranton, allowing us to grant access to a Jesuit education, through our liberal arts tradition, to a broader student demographic. This is at the core of our mission, creating pathways to our Catholic and Jesuit educational tradition for a diverse student body and providing financial support to students through our merit scholarships,” said Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at The University of Scranton. “This is a proud moment in the history of the University, allowing us to embody our founding mission to provide affordable educational opportunities to the Scranton community.”

“The formation of more than 30 program articulation agreements between Lackawanna College and The University of Scranton stands as a groundbreaking initiative, reflecting our mission to offer affordable educational opportunities for our students,” said Erica Barone Pricci, Ph.D., provost of Lackawanna College. “By streamlining credit transfers and offering diverse academic pathways, these agreements allow our students to engage with a large range of bachelor’s programs. This collaborative endeavor underscores our joint dedication to fostering educational accessibility and elevating the academic landscape for our student community.”

Articulation agreements were signed for 33 bachelor’s degree programs, including programs in accounting, finance, operations management, history, political science, social media strategies, communication advertising, public relations and journalism and electronic media tracks, counseling and human services, human resources and occupational therapy, among other degrees.

“The number and variety of agreements represents the University’s commitment to offer Lackawanna students an extensive portfolio of degree offerings,” said Dr. Maldonado.

To be considered for the credit transfer for degree pathways established, Lackawanna College students must earn their associate’s degree from Lackawanna with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and enroll at Scranton within one year of their graduation date. They may not attend another institution between the time they graduate from Lackawanna College and their enrollment at Scranton, and they must meet other requirements as specified.

A full-time student who has completed the appropriate associate degree program at Lackawanna may be able to complete a bachelor’s degree at the University within four regular semesters, except for programs with extended internship and clinical experience requirements. In addition, eligible Lackawanna College students will have the opportunity to earn nine credits at Scranton while attending Lackawanna at one-half of the University’s tuition rate.

Lackawanna College graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or greater accepted into a degree program through a program-specific articulation agreement at Scranton, will be eligible for a University of Scranton merit scholarship with a minimum award of $20,000 per academic year for full-time students matriculating at the University. Non-traditional students enrolled through these programs at Scranton on a part-time basis may also be eligible for a merit scholarship. The merit scholarship is in addition to any need-based financial awards for which students may also qualify.

Merit scholarships may be renewed to students who maintain a minimum cumulative University GPA of 2.50 and meet other eligibility requirements.

For more information about the articulation agreements, visit Lackawanna College’s website or The University of Scranton website or call Lackawanna College, at 570-961-7898 or Scranton, at 888-SCRANTON.

The University of Scranton celebrated the naming of its Commons the “Rev. J.A. Panuska, S.J., Commons” and its Faculty/Student Research Program the “Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J., Faculty/Student Research Program,” in honor of its longest-serving President; and the renaming the Panuska College of Professional Studies the “Leahy College of Health Sciences,” in honor of longtime University benefactors Edward ’68, H’01 and Patricia Leahy, and their son, Edward, Jr.; at an event on campus April 23.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

“This is a day we celebrate generosity, service and mission at The University of Scranton, as we salute the spirit and the legacy of Father Al Panuska, the marvelous impact that the Leahys have had on the trajectory of the University,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton in his remarks.

“There are plenty of examples in Holy Scripture of a new and bolder direction that emerges from the changing of a name: Abram became Abraham; Simon became Peter; Saul became Paul, just to name three. In each and every case a change of name pointed to a renewed purpose and a deeper commitment to mission – all with the help of God’s grace,” said Father Marina. “It’s not that anyone becomes a completely different person by taking on a new name. All the history, the achievements, the stories, the outcomes, they’re all still there. All of it gets built upon for what comes next. It’s a foundation for future growth. And, the same is true today as the Panuska College of Professional Studies takes on a new name and becomes the Leahy College of Health Sciences. And as it does, it looks more intently toward the future.”

The Leahys' relationship with the University spans decades. Mr. Leahy graduated from Scranton in 1968. He also served as chair of the University’s Board of Trustees. The Leahys have given generously to support scholarship programs for students and for faculty research. In 1994, in memory of their son, Edward, they created the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment at the University, which is the largest single endowment at Scranton, and last year pledged a $10 million gift to the University, which is the largest single-donation in the University’s history. Their contributions extend beyond philanthropic support to engagement, leadership and participation in numerous initiatives, including the annual Conference on Disability, now in its 23^rd year at Scranton.

“The Leahys have made many contributions to the University and the college and the legacy of their work continues to inspire others to the present day,” said Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Leahy College of Health Sciences. “All who have worked alongside the Leahys will agree that Leahys are all in with endeavors they support. They show up. They put in the time and energy required to make each venture a success.”

“The Edward R. Leahy Jr. Clinic for the Uninsured, which includes a medical clinic, a physical therapy clinic, a low vision OT clinic and a counseling and behavioral health clinic, is a tribute to the many health care providers who attended to Edward Junior’s personal disabilities with compassion and skill over the course of his life,” Dean Castellanos said. Edward R. Leahy Jr. passed away in 1993, just before his ninth birthday. In 2015, the University dedicated Edward R. Leahy Jr. Hall in honor of the Leahy’s late son.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

“None of this would likely be happening today if it weren’t for the quiet courage and indomitable spirit of a tough little boy,” said Edward Leahy of his son who he describes as “a wonderful, happy child, with multiple disabilities.”

“I think it was St. Mark who said ‘and he took a child and set him in the midst of them.’ That tells me that no matter who you are, people can make a difference. All people can make a difference – even the most-humble, the powerful, the rich and the most vulnerable – every single one of them can make a difference,” said Mr. Leahy, who spoke on behalf of his wife Patricia at the celebration. “We are really excited that the graduates of The University of Scranton and of the Leahy College of Health Sciences are going into the world to make a mark for the betterment of all.”

$content.getChild('content').textValue

The celebration ended with a blessing and prayer by Father Marina, who concluded his remarks at the ceremony by quoting Father Panuska:

“I dream of the growth of the Scranton wave; to the education of students who are not only fully qualified to succeed competitively, but who know they have brothers and sisters all over the world. I dream of seeing our excellent faculty enabled to spend even more time with our students and with their research; of seeing our community spirit intensify so that alienation is truly alien in our lives; of seeing Jesuit lay collegiality as a full reality. We can dream because we are the children of God endowed with his power. Of course, dreams are not fulfilled by dreaming, but by planning and hard work.”

The late Rev. Joseph Allan Panuska, S.J., served for 16 years as The University of Scranton’s 22nd President, from July 1, 1982, until July 1, 1998. He became the University’s first President Emeritus and was affectionately known as “Papa Bear” by members of the University Community.

The recording of the celebration can be seen on the University’s YouTube channel.

An interview with Mr. and Mrs. Leahy about their long connection with the University and the naming of the college in their honor can be heard on WVIA’s news website.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

The Commuter Student Association (CSA) is sponsoring their annual "CSA Restaurant Fest" on May 2 from 11 a.m.  – 2 p.m. For the event, the CSA is sponsoring meals for 100 University of Scranton students. Meals will include an appetizer, entrée, and dessert, each from a different downtown Scranton restaurant. 

The goal of this event is to promote downtown restaurant businesses and encourage University students to explore the many diverse food options in downtown Scranton. The event includes five different meal routes. Each route will offer University students a different appetizer, entrée, and dessert from three different downtown Scranton restaurants. The routes will be assigned at random to participating University students, mindful of any dietary needs and offer students the chance to both try new downtown restaurant businesses while also enjoying a walk around downtown Scranton. 

"Restaurant Fest has been a huge part of CSA for the past four years. It provides students with the ability to explore downtown Scranton and local restaurants, as well as support local businesses. Restaurant Fest has been one of my favorite events since I have been at Scranton, and it has helped me find hidden gems downtown to share with my friends!"  Disha Patel '24, CSA President and biology major.

"I have attended Restaurant Fest all of my three years here at Scranton and part of the CSA board. It's a great way to discover new places close to campus and explore downtown with friends,"  Vanessa Pinto '24, CSA Secretary/Treasurer and finance major.

For more information about the CSA Restaurant Fest, please contact commuter@scranton.edu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"I have attended Restaurant Fest all of my three years here at Scranton and part of the CSA board. It's a great way to discover new places close to campus and explore downtown with friends,"  Vanessa Pinto '24, CSA Secretary/Treasurer and finance major.

 
For more information about the CSA Restaurant Fest, please contact commuter@scranton.edu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, May 4, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will debut two new works by guest composer-conductor Nate Sparks at its 41^st Annual World Premiere Composition Series Concert. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free, and open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.

The World Premiere Composition Series provides students with the rare opportunity to perform the premiere of a work by a nationally or internationally known composer under the baton of that composer, getting a first-hand glimpse into the compositional process. Meanwhile, audiences get to experience the piece for the first time, exactly as the composer intended.

At the concert, The University of Scranton Concert Band and Concert Choir will premiere two brand-new commissioned works by Sparks, written specifically for the University’s student ensembles, entitled Miserere Mei/Ave Verum Corpus (for SATB choir) and Prelude and March (for full concert band.)

“Nate’s writing is always musically inspiring and impeccably scored, and the pieces he has written for us this year are no exception” said Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga.

A Juilliard-trained composer, arranger, pianist, bandleader, music educator and liturgical musician who leads the 18-piece Nate Sparks Big Band, Sparks has been commissioned to write and conduct two works for the concert – one for The University of Scranton Concert Band and one for The University of Scranton Concert Choir. In April, cellists Mark Kosower and Mingyao Zhao joined The University of Scranton String Orchestra to perform the world premiere of La Gran Conversion, a piece Sparks wrote for virtuosic cello duo with student string orchestra.

A resident of Des Moines, Sparks has written music for a variety of ensembles, including Wynton Marsalis and The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks, the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, ABS Chamber Orchestra, Bobby Sanabria and the Multiverse Big Band, Lucky Chops, the MSM Afro-Cuban Orchestra, the 2023 PMEA All-State Jazz Band, Kyle Athayde Dance Party and Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers. In 2018, Sparks contributed to the Grammy-nominated album, “West Side Story Reimagined,” by Bobby Sanabria and the Multiverse Big Band, and wrote arrangements for the 2023 Jazz at Lincoln Center gala. He also serves as conductor and director of the Des Moines Youth Jazz Orchestra and director of music ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in West Des Moines.

The University’s Concert Band and Concert Choir are made up of students from majors spanning the curriculum, brought together by their love of music. The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no music major at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) from every major are eligible for membership in the ensembles, with neither an audition nor enrollment fee required for membership. Hundreds of students participate in the ensembles each year. Other programs within the department, including guest artist concerts, Nelhybel Collection, and Scranton Brass Orchestra, closely coordinate programming with the student ensembles and offer unique opportunities for student musicians in the ensembles to hear, observe, interact and perform with numerous world-class musicians and artist-teachers.

For more information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.

For further information about the performance, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit the Performance Music website. For additional info on Sparks, visit natesparksmusic.com.

Students from Wallenpaupack Area High School participated in hands-on demonstrations of sophisticated biomechanical measurement equipment as part of National Biomechanics Day at The University of Scranton.

Equipment used in demonstrations included: three-dimensional motion analysis using a 12-camera kestrel motion analysis system with AMTI force plates; isokinetic dynamometry using a Biodex System; vertical jump measurement using a Vertec; and strength and functionality assessment using handheld dynamometers.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

The demonstrations were led by Emily E. Gerstle, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at Scranton, and University students majoring in kinesiology. University students participating were Ariana Isayiw, a junior from Westminister, Maryland; Jenna Kotlar a junior form Branchburg, New Jersey; Robert Kretschmer, a junior from Honesdale; Caroline Napolitano a junior from Somerdale, New Jersey; and William Walsh, a junior from Scranton.

Scranton was among the colleges across the nation that participated in National Biomechanics Day events, which are intended to demonstrate biomechanics in various forms to high school students and teachers.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

Three-hundred and fifty students in grades five to 12 participated in The University of Scranton Earth Day Essay Contest this year, which set a record for participation in the annual competition. Awards were announced at the University’s Evening of Environmental Science Event on campus in April.

This year’s essay theme was “Sustainable Living, Caring for Creation,” which was inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical letter “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home” and The University of Scranton’s commitment to join a coalition of colleges from around the world to develop, implement and evaluate initiatives around seven ecological goals over a seven-year period to meet the Pope’s call for integral ecology and to gain designation by the Vatican as a Laudato Si’ University.

The first-place winner of the fifth-grade essay contest was Collin Sickles, from St. Claire/St. Paul’s Elementary School. Aubrey Mace, from Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School, and Sophia Norton, from St. Clair/St. Paul tied for second place. Isabella Muso and Taylor Ebersole from All Saints Academy won third-place medals.

The sixth-grade student that took first place in the essay contest was Sean Kiernan, from Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School. The students who tied for second place were Ronan Keating and Katie Doherty, both from St. Claires/St. Paul’s Elementary School. Receiving a third-place awards were Nathan Dennis, from Fell Charter School and Griffin Maynor, from All Saints Academy.

All the seventh-grade essay contest winners were from St Claire/St. Paul’s Elementary School. The first-place winner of the seventh-grade essay contest was Preet Patel. The second-place winners were Madlyn McHale and Sage Michel. The third-place winners were Bennet Budow and Lily Reager.  

The eight-grade first-place winner was Sylvia Fahey, from Howard Gardner Multiple Intelligence Charter School. In second place were Elizabeth Rich, from Holy Rosary School and Raeleigh Reiss, from Howard Gardner. The third-place winner was Jonathan Fitzmaurice, from Holy Rosary School.

The ninth-10^th grade essay contest winners were: Edie Hann, first place, Scranton Preparatory School; Anusha Thapa Magar, second place, Holy Cross High School; Anna Tringale, second place, North Carolina; and Simon E. Madore, third place, Holy Cross High School.

The 11^th-12^th grade essay contest winners were all from Valley View High School. Coming in first place was Gabby Staback; in second place was Emma Miller, and tied for third place were Noah M. Nocek and Christian Sweeny.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

University of Scranton students who work in the Jesuit school’s Office of Sustainability reviewed the essays submitted, in addition to organizing the award ceremony. University students Emily Burgers, an environmental science major from Wayne, New Jersey; Rebekah Thompson, an occupational therapy major from Bedminster, New Jersey; and Emma Warras, an environmental science major from Kinnelon, New Jersey; spoke at the award program. Mark Murphy, director of the Office of Sustainability at the University, has organized the Earth Day Essay Contest for a decade. It was one of a dozen Earth Day events held on campus.

Information about next year’s essay contest will be posted to the University’s Sustainability webpage in January 2025.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

The University of Scranton’s spring 2024 Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar series concluded with a presentation by Jill Dougherty, adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s Center for Eurasian, Russian, and East European Studies, a global fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C., and a member of the Wilson Center’s Kennan Institute Advisory Council. The former CNN correspondent presented “The World in Disarray.” The luncheon seminars are sponsored by Munley Law.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

John Cawley, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Economics and the Department of Policy Analysis and Management at Cornell University, presented “The Economics of Obesity” at The University of Scranton’s 29^th Henry George Seminar on April 8 on campus. His research interests include the economics of risky health behaviors; in particular, those that relate to obesity. Examples of research projects include: the effects of food advertising on diet and of income on weight; the impact of obesity on labor market outcomes such as wages; the effect of physical education on youths; and the effectiveness of financial rewards for weight loss.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

A Scranton native, Dr. Cawley is co-director of Cornell’s Institute on Health Economics, Health Behaviors and Disparities. He is also a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), a research fellow at the Tinbergen Institute in the Netherlands, and a research fellow of the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA) in Germany. He is an editor of the Journal of Health Economics.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

It was a great day to be in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania! On Tuesday, April 9, students and staff from The University of Scranton visited the state’s Capitol for the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania's (AICUP) Advocacy Day. Over 100 students from independent universities and colleges across the Commonwealth were present on this day to highlight the importance of higher education funding.

In attendance from the University for this year's AICUP Advocacy Day were students John R. Sinclair III ‘25, Quanayah R. Jones ‘26, and Jaznie D. Belfont ‘25, and Assistant Director of Community and Civic Engagement Daysi Carreto ‘14. The students met with Pennsylvania State Senator Marty Flynn, State Representative Kyle Donahue (D-Lackawanna), State Representative Bridget M. Kosierowski (D-Lackawanna), and State Representative Kyle Mullins (D-Lackawanna), and shared their impactful stories and future academic and professional aspirations.

This was a great opportunity for the students, with majors in political science, to exercise their advocacy skills. “AICUP was nothing I had experienced before, but something I'd love to be a part of again. The history, the development, the power within that building was just incredibly strong. I hope that more people get to experience AICUP, for it will positively give a better understanding of our communities and leaders,” said Jones ‘26.

The University sends students to the state Capitol for AICUP’s Student Aid Advocacy Day to stress the importance of state financial aid for students pursuing higher education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and to make the case for the importance of supporting independent colleges and universities such as The University of Scranton, with its Catholic and Jesuit mission.

The University of Scranton will host its annual Evening of Environmental Science on Thursday, April 18, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the atrium of the Loyola Science Center. The event includes environmentally themed interactive displays and activities for elementary, middle and high school students. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

The event will also display the nearly 350 essays submitted by area students in grades 5 to 12 for this year’s Earth Day Essay Contest. The winners of the essay contest will be announced at the event.

Tours of the University’s state-of-the-art Loyola Science Center will also be offered. The Princeton Review ranked Scranton among the nation’s 25 “Best Science Lab Facilities” for seven years in their annual “Best Colleges” guidebook.

The Evening of Environmental Science is among numerous Earth Day events hosted by the University and its Office of Sustainability and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation.

Visit The University of Scranton’s sustainability webpage for information about the University’s sustainability efforts and Earth Day events, or call 570-941-6267.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

The University of Scranton formally broke ground for a nearly 90,000 square-foot center for workforce development, applied research and outreach at a ceremony on April 8. The ceremony took place on the site of the four-story building on University-owned property on the 300 block of Madison Avenue.

“As we all know, the word groundbreaking can be used as a noun or an adjective. Obviously, we have gathered here today for the noun. But, once the doors of our new building open, the adjective will take over: groundbreaking – in other words, trailblazing, innovative, and cutting edge. This new building will be one of the forces that helps The University of Scranton move into its future,” said Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, at the groundbreaking ceremony. “By embracing the opportunities of workforce development, applied research and community outreach, our new hall will help Scranton take a big step forward in its mission.”

“Our new hall will stand between downtown Scranton and the rest of our campus, always here to remind us of our responsibility to the city around us and our responsibility to the world beyond that,” said Father Marina.

Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Scranton, said at the groundbreaking ceremony that the building is “designed with collaboration in mind: collaborations between students and faculty; interdisciplinary opportunities across all our colleges; and the potential to increase engagement, partnerships and programming with regional businesses and organizations in the greater Scranton area.”

The new building will house the University of Success, which is a four-year college preparation initiative for area high school-students, and The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center, which was established at the University in 1980 and serves an eight-county area that spans northern tier and northeastern Pennsylvania.

“This facility includes a 10,000-square-foot innovation hub right on the first floor that we expect will be a centerpiece for collaboration and will serve as a dynamic resource for the campus and greater Scranton community,” said Dr. Maldonado.

The building also will house the University’s Student Health Services and The Center for Health Education and Wellness; and provide space for laboratories, classrooms, offices and meeting areas for the University’s Department of Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology and the Psychology Department.

“As a department, we are especially excited about the impact these new classrooms and research labs will have, every day, on implementing our engagement-focused curriculum,” said John Norcross, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Scranton, said in his remarks at the ceremony. “This is a place designed for – and built for – reciprocal access: easy access for the public to us, and easy access for us to the community. This new building will increase student and community contact with our multiple programs, including the interdisciplinary concentrations in lifespan development, environmental and sustainability studies, integrated data analysis, and Black studies directed by Psychology faculty.”

Also speaking at the ceremony were Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., professor and chair of the University’s Department of Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology; Maria Manno, a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major from Blue Bell and a peer health education team leader at the University’s Center for Health Education and Wellness; Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti; and U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright.

With the support of Congressman Cartwright, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Commerce, Justice and Science Subcommittee, the University received $16.62 million for this building project as part of Cartwright’s FY2023 Community Project Funding requests.

Hemmler and Camayd (HC Architects) are the architects of the building, which incorporates glass walls, steel and stone into a modern design intended to meet silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification requirements. Quandel Construction will serve as the construction manager.

The University plans to begin use of the building for the fall 2025 semester.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

Rev. William J. Byron, S.J., H’84, the 21^st president of The University of Scranton, passed away Tuesday, April 9 in Philadelphia at the age of 96.

Father Byron was one of the “most prominent Jesuit leaders and a prolific writer of books on Catholicism and faith. He will be greatly missed,” said Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, in a message to the University community about Father Byron’s death.

Father Byron served as president at Scranton from 1975 to 1982. During his tenure, the University’s operating budget doubled, while at the same time a computer-based Management Information System ensured each year’s budget produced a surplus. Father Byron embarked upon a multimillion-dollar capital campaign for the school. A new undergraduate college, the School of Management, was created, along with new programs including nursing and physical therapy. While no new buildings were constructed, the University’s physical plant continued to grow with the purchase of several existing structures. Also, two blocks of Linden Street were closed to vehicular traffic, allowing for the University’s “Commons” walkway to begin.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

During his time at Scranton, Father Byron welcomed visits to campus by Saint Mother Teresa, President Gerald Ford and Senator Edward Kennedy.

In a video commemorating the 125^th Anniversary of The University of Scranton, Father Byron said the University is “a great place and it has a good tradition,” crediting “the early tradition of the Christian Brothers who established it,” in addition to the contributions of others who followed.

Father Marina, in his message to the University community, wrote of a recent visit he had with Father Byron in March, while Father Byron was in hospice care. “As I walked into his room at the Jesuit infirmary, Father Byron was sitting up in his chair, alert but struggling,” wrote Father Marina “He managed to ask if I was the President at Scranton now. When I nodded yes, he said ‘take good care of it.’”

“Father Byron is among those who have given greatly to build a solid foundation for our mission and success at Scranton on which we continue to flourish to this very day,” said Father Marina.

After his presidency in Scranton, Father Byron became the first Jesuit to serve as president of the Catholic University of America, a post he held for 10 years, from 1982 to 1992. He went on to hold professorships at Loyola University of Maryland and Georgetown University. He has also served as rector of the Jesuit community at Georgetown and as pastor of Holy Trinity Church in Washington. He served as acting president at Loyola University of New Orleans (2003-2004) and as president at his high school alma mater St. Joseph’s Preparatory School (2006-2008). He was Professor Emeritus of Business and Society at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia.

Father Byron was the author of nearly a dozen books, and a longtime syndicated bi-weekly columnist for the Catholic News Service. He served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, and as chair of the Board of Directors of Georgetown University Hospital.

Father Byron received numerous awards during his distinguished career, including the 1999 Council of Independent Colleges’ Academic Leadership Award and the 1999 Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities’ Theodore M. Hesburgh Award for his contributions over the years to the advancement of Catholic higher education.

In 1982, The University of Scranton conferred an honorary doctorate on Father Byron, one of 30 honorary degrees he has received, and in 1986 the William J. Byron, S.J., Recreational Complex was dedicated in his honor.

Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Philadelphia, Father Byron graduated from St. Joseph’s Preparatory School. In 1945, he enlisted in the U.S. Army serving for one year in the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment.

Father Byron entered the Society of Jesus in 1950. As a Jesuit scholastic, he first came to Scranton teaching mathematics at the Scranton Preparatory School from 1956 to 1958. He was ordained in 1961.

Father Byron earned a doctorate in economics from the University of Maryland, two theology degrees from Woodstock College, a bachelor’s in philosophy and master’s in economics from Saint Louis University, and a certificate in educational management from Harvard.

$content.getChild('content').textValue $content.getChild('content').textValue $content.getChild('content').textValue

Internationally acclaimed cellists Mark Kosower and Mingyao Zhao will visit The University of Scranton for two mid-April performances.

Kosower and Zhao will present a recital on Sunday, April 14, then return the evening of Thursday, April 18, to join The University of Scranton String Orchestra for a program that includes the world premiere of composer Nate Sparks’ new work for string orchestra and the virtuosic cello duo, “La Gran Conversión.”

Both events, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton, begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. Admission is free and open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.

The students will work with the guest artists throughout the week of the mini-residency visit, according to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga. “We are always delighted to have Mark here – his impact on the development of our young string orchestra during previous visits cannot be overstated – and are very excited that this time his wife, also an acclaimed cellist, will be joining him.”

A frequent visitor to the University in recent years, Kosower has served as the principal cellist of the Cleveland Orchestra since 2010. He has appeared as a soloist with symphony orchestras throughout the world, guested at international chamber music festivals, recorded for multiple labels, regularly serves as faculty for a variety of prestigious schools and festivals. He is in demand internationally as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestral player, teacher and champion of the instrument. Kosower is also the founder of the “Bach for Humanity” initiative, which aims to bring people of diverse socio-economic backgrounds together via presentations of Bach’s music in various community settings.

Recognized internationally for her dynamic performances, Zhao has extensive experience as a soloist, recitalist, orchestral and chamber musician in China, the United States, Canada, Korea and Poland. She has received numerous accolades through the years, including first prize in the Haydn Competition at CelloFest, the Aldo Parisot Award, Arkady Fomin Young Artist Award, the silver medal at the Texas Young Artist Music Competition, and the bronze medal at the IX Carlos Prieto International Cello Competition. Zhao frequently performs as substitute cellist with the Cleveland Orchestra and serves on the faculty of the College of Wooster.

A 2017 graduate of The Juilliard School, Sparks has written for performing ensembles throughout the United States, including Lucky Chops, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, ABS Chamber Orchestra, the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, Bobby Sanabria and the Multiverse Big Band, the MSM Afro-Cuban Orchestra, Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks, Kyle Athayde Dance Party and Joseph Boga and the Scranton Ramblers. On May 4, The University of Scranton Concert Band and Concert Choir will premiere two new works by Sparks at Performance Music’s 41st Annual World Premiere Composition Series Concert.

The University of Scranton String Orchestra is a 30-plus-member ensemble comprised of members of the University community from majors and departments spanning the curriculum – most of them undergraduate students, joined by a few graduate students, alumni and faculty members. With no music major at the University, the performers are united by their mutual love of making music.

For further information about the performance, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit the Performance Music website. For additional information on Kosower, visit clevelandorchestra.com/discover/meet-the-musicians/cellos/Kosower-mark. For more on Zhao, visit wooster.edu/bio/mzhao, and for more on Sparks, visit natesparksmusic.com.

Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., President of The University of Scranton, announced that the Board of Trustees has approved the renaming of the Panuska College of Professional Studies to the “Leahy College of Health Sciences,” and the renaming of the “Commons” and Faculty/Student Research Program to the “Rev. J.A. Panuska, S.J., Commons” and the “Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J., Faculty/Student Research Program,” in honor of the late, longest-serving President in the University’s history.

“Father Panuska’s devotion to students was legendary, as was the University’s growth under his leadership, and few if any Scranton graduates and benefactors can match the lifelong devotion that Ed Leahy and his wife, Patricia, have manifested over the decades,” said Father Marina.

“Ed and Patricia Leahy have consistently answered the University’s call for support from capital campaigns and annual giving to scholarship appeals and special projects. However, their philanthropic support is only part of the story. Throughout their lives, they have engaged with the University in impactful ways,” said Father Marina. “Their leadership and participation in the annual Conference on Disability, as just one example, has made possible the presence of nationally and internally recognized speakers and scholars at the event.”

Father Marina also noted that changing the title from “professional studies” to “health sciences” more accurately describes the mission and scope of the school, which offers degrees in physical and occupational therapy, nursing, healthcare administration, kinesiology and counseling.

“Since its founding in the mid-1980s as the College of Health, Education and Human Resources, and later Panuska College of Professional Studies, the College’s academic offerings have increasingly coalesced around health science disciplines. The recent movement of the Education Department to the University’s College of Arts and Sciences creates the opportunity for greater clarity of purpose,” said Father Marina.

“During his 16-year tenure as President, Father Panuska is credited not only with a construction boom that added 15 buildings to the campus, but also for raising the caliber of our faculty from excellent teachers to teacher-scholars,” said Father Marina, explaining the rational to remember and honor Father Panuska with the renaming of the Faculty/Student Research Program as well as the Commons, the stone pathway at the heart of campus that begins on Linden Street and Monroe Avenue and continues to North Webster Avenue. Three artworks, commissioned during Father Panuska’s term as President, adorn the pathway: the sculpture of Christ the Teacher at the base of the Commons; the Metanoia of St. Ignatius at the midpoint; and the statue of Jacob and the Angel at the top of the hill on the Commons.

The University will celebrate the memory, life and contributions of the late Father Panuska and Edward and Patricia Leahy and their son, Edward, Jr., and at an event April 23 at 3:30 p.m. on campus, at which the University will officially formalize the naming of “Rev. J.A. Panuska, S.J., Commons,” the “Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J., Faculty/Student Research Program,” and the “Leahy College of Health Sciences.”

“Every day was a wonderment. This place opened the world to me.” Edward R. Leahy about his education at The University of Scranton

Edward R. Leahy, of Scranton’s Class of 1968, served as chair of the University’s Board of Trustees. The University recognized his achievements and service through the Alumni Achievement Award for Distinguished and Exceptional Attainment, given in 1993, the Frank J. O’Hara Distinguished Alumni Award in 2008, and with an Honorary Degree, bestowed in 2001. In 2015, the University dedicated Edward R. Leahy Jr. Hall in honor of their late son. In 2023, he and Patricia received the University’s President’s Medal, which recognizes individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others, representing lifetime achievements that reflect the University’s mission of Catholic and Jesuit excellence and service.

In 1988, the Leahys created the Edward P. Leahy Scholarship, in memory of Mr. Leahy’s uncle, which awards scholarships to Scranton students annually. In 1994, in memory of their son, Edward, they created the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment at the University, which is the largest single endowment at Scranton. That endowment has supported the Clinic for the Uninsured, which includes a medical clinic, physical therapy, occupational therapy, counseling and low vision clinics that help individuals who are most in need in Lackawanna County. A new agreement between the University and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine will further expand the reach and services offered by the Leahy Medical Clinic. At the 2023 public launch of the University’s “A Fire That Kindles Other Fires Campaign,” Father Marina announced a $10 million gift from the Leahys, which is the largest single-donation in the University’s history.

“Edward, who was a wonderful, happy child, with multiple disabilities, passed away in 1993, just before his ninth birthday. Throughout his short life, Edward was helped enormously by doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and many other health professionals.” Edward R. Leahy

The naming of the “Leahy College of Health Science” will honor the life and memory of their son, Edward R. Leahy, Jr., and acknowledge Ed and Patricia’s lifelong commitment to and support of The University of Scranton.

“What we do here is like a pebble dropped in the sea; the effects spread, the waves grow. . . . I dream of the growth of the Scranton wave through the education of students who are not only fully qualified to succeed competitively, but who know that they have brothers and sisters all over the world. I dream of seeing our excellent faculty enabled to spend even more time with our students and with their research, of seeing our community spirit intensified so that alienation is truly alien to our life, of seeing Jesuit-lay collegiality as a full reality. . . . We can dream because we are the children of God, endowed with His power. Of course, dreams are not fulfilled by dreaming, but by planning and by hard work.”  Rev. J.A. Panuska.

The late Rev. Joseph Allan Panuska, S.J., served for 16 years as The University of Scranton’s 22nd President, from July 1, 1982, until July 1, 1998. He became the University’s first President Emeritus and was affectionately known as “Papa Bear” by members of the University Community.

The Francis and Elizabeth Redington Hall, built in 1985, was Father Panuska’s first major addition to campus, followed quickly by William J. Byron Recreation Complex in 1986, and Gavigan Hall in 1989. The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library, built in 1992, and the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts, built in 1993, were among the buildings added to the campus during Father Panuska’s tenure as President.

During Father Panuska’s presidency, the University’s academic reputation and reach expanded throughout the Northeast and Middle Atlantic states, while continuing a strong commitment to local students. U.S. News & World Report first recognized Scranton among the nation’s best universities, and the tradition of students earning Fulbright Scholarships and other prestigious academic awards began.

In 2004, Father Panuska returned to The University of Scranton’s Campus Ministries Office, devoting particular attention to providing spiritual direction and programming for University staff. He died in 2017 at the age of 89.

The University of Scranton will host a Graduate Open House the evening of April 10 to provide information about its more than 30 advanced degree programs. Those attending the event will hear from and meet Scranton alumni, faculty, admissions representatives and current students.

A nationally recognized Jesuit university, Scranton seeks to provide the highest-quality graduate education, with programs meeting the most rigorous state or national accreditations available within their professional fields. Graduate programs include physical therapy, occupational therapy, nurse anesthesia, health care management, clinical rehabilitation counseling, business analytics and MBAs in several concentrations and other business disciplines. Scranton also offers a Ph.D. program in accounting. While most programs are offered on campus, some also offer online options.

In recent years, Scranton has added new graduate programs, such as an online master’s degree program in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity, and a synchronous remote master ’s degree in speech-language pathology.

The Graduate Open House begins on April 10 with registration at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of the DeNaples Center, followed by an alumni panel presentation at 6 p.m. Program specific information sessions will run from 6:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. Optional campus tours are available from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The event is offered free of charge.

For more information or to make reservations, visit the Graduate Open House webpage or email gradadmissions@scranton.edu.

$content.getChild('content').textValue

In recognition of Pope Francis’s call toward environmental sustainability, The University of Scranton’s Sustainability Office chose “Sustainable Living, Caring for Creation” as the theme for this spring’s Earth Day celebration, which includes nearly a dozen events, many of which are open to the public, free of charge.

The theme is inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical letter “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home” and The University of Scranton’s commitment to join a coalition of colleges from around the world to develop, implement and evaluate initiatives around seven ecological goals over a seven-year period to meet the Pope’s call for integral ecology and to gain designation by the Vatican as a Laudato Si’ University.

This year’s Earth Day Essay Contest, open to area students in grades 5-12, has the same theme: “Sustainable Living, Caring for Creation.” Submissions will be accepted until April 5, and winners will be announced at the Evening of Environmental Science event on April 18. For more details on the essay contest, visit the contest webpage.

The exhibit in the University’s Hope Horn Art Gallery, titled “Our Common Home, University Art Collection,” will highlight 20^th and 21^st century portrayals of scenes and nature associated with eastern Pennsylvania. The exhibit opens April 5, with a Curator’s Lecture in the Pearn Auditorium of Brennan Hall from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by an opening reception in the Hope Horn Gallery in Hyland Hall from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit will be on display during gallery hours through May 3. The lecture, reception and exhibit are open to the public, free of charge.

The Weinberg Memorial Library will host an Environmental Art Show featuring art of members of the University community in the Charles Kratz Scranton Heritage Room from April 15 to April 24. A lecture by artist Theresa O’Connor on April 15 at 5 p.m. will open the exhibit, that can be seen, free of charge, during library hours.

The University will host an Earth Day Fair on April 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Atrium of the Loyola Science Center. The event will feature University student displays as well as, displays from university departments, local non-profits and governmental offices, which will provide information about sustainable practices and products.

The Evening of Environmental Science, set for April 18, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Atrium of the Loyola Science Center, will feature a display of essays received for the Earth Day Essay Contest, as well interactive environmental displays and activities. Awards for the Earth Day Essay Contest will be presented at the event. The Earth Day Fair and the Evening of Environmental Science are open to the public, free of charge.

For members of the University community, the University will host a day-long Environmental Teach-In, which focuses on topics of environmental sustainability, on April 23, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Loyola Science Center. Earth Day celebrations conclude with a kayaking trip on the Susquehanna River for students on May 5, hosted by the University’s Sustainability Office and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation.

Related Earth Day events that were held on campus prior to the month of April, included a World Water Day event at the DeNaples Center on March 21 that featured interactive activities and displays to help raise awareness of water usage and its importance. From Feb. 19 to 23 the Fresh Food Company held Plant Based Meals Week for University students. Also, on March 5, the film “The Letter: Laudato Si, A Message for our Earth” was screened at the Moskovitz Theater of the DeNaples Center.

Visit The University of Scranton’s sustainability webpage for information about the University’s sustainability efforts and Earth Day events, or call the Office of Sustainability at 570-941-6267.

The upcoming Pennsylvania primary election on April 23 presents a critical opportunity for every eligible individual to exercise their right to vote and have a say in shaping the future of our state and nation. The Pennsylvania primary election is a crucial event in the electoral calendar. Registered voters have the opportunity to select their preferred candidates for various offices, including state and federal positions. This year, the primary election holds particular significance as it sets the stage for the general election later in the year.

Key Dates to Remember:  

The voter registration deadline for the Pennsylvania primary election is approaching quickly. It's essential for all eligible individuals to mark their calendars and ensure they register to vote before the deadline on April 8, 2024. Missing this deadline means forfeiting the opportunity to participate in the April 23, 2024 primary election.

How to Register to Vote:

Registering to vote in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process, with several convenient options available to residents. Eligible individuals can register here through the Pennsylvania Department of State's website. You can also register by mail using a paper registration form, or in person at various government agencies, including the Department of Motor Vehicles and county election offices. 

Who is Eligible to Register?

In order to register to vote in PA, you must be a United States citizen, resident of Pennsylvania for at least 30 days before the election, and at least 18 years old on or before Election Day. Students from out-of-state can register to vote in Pennsylvania using their campus mailing address.  

Stay tuned for campus voting events and initiatives and if you have questions, email community@scranton.edu and follow @uofscommunity on Instagram for updates.