Staff News

The University of Scranton’s Order of Pro Deo honored its newest group of silver medallion awardees — denoting 10 years of employment at Scranton — at a recent induction ceremony.

The 10-year employees were formally recognized on Thursday, April 16, at the Rose Room inside Brennan Hall, where Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, presented the awards and provided a prayer and remarks. Thirty-one employees were honored.

The Order of Pro Deo was established at The University of Scranton in 1961 by Rev. John J. Long, S.J., University president from 1953-1963. Since its creation, the Order has conferred this distinction on 797 individuals, including the 2026 members, and counting.

The University of Scranton’s Order of Pro Deo honored its newest group of silver medallion awardees — denoting 10 years of employment at Scranton — at a recent induction ceremony.

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The 10-year employees were formally recognized on Thursday, April 16, at the Rose Room inside Brennan Hall, where Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, presented the awards and provided a prayer and remarks. Thirty-one employees were honored.

The Order of Pro Deo was established at The University of Scranton in 1961 by Rev. John J. Long, S.J., University president from 1953-1963. Since its creation, the Order has conferred this distinction on 797 individuals, including the 2026 members, and counting.

 

Pro Deo 10-Year Recipients

Diane E. Barletta
James L. Caffrey
Joseph H. Cavanagh
Marleen Cloutier
Melinda J. Finnerty
Autumn M. Forgione
Ahmed A. Gomaa, Ph.D.
Mark C. Healey
Lucas Herbert
Michael S. Hill
Jessica B. Hughes
Robert Huston
Courtney Jones
John J. Kilker III
Colleen A. Lenzer
Tammy A. Manka
Jenny S. Mateo
Rose Merritt
Denise J. Mullen
Nicole Musto
Ismail Onat, Ph.D.
Vincent J. Rocco
Hollie R. Roscioli
Thomas W. Salitsky
Jose F. Sanchez
Ashley L. Stampone, Ph.D.
Mary Troy, Ph.D.
Andrew C. Venezia, Ph.D.
Traci E. Vennie
Allyson Vosburg
John P. Wiercinski

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for April 2026 is: 
Mary Lou Perri – Facilities

 

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Mary Lou does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Mary Lou and all our nominees. Mary Lou will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for April. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Mary Lou and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
April 2026 Nominees

 

Nominations open for MAY Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

Need a project done in record time with stellar results? Call a Royal. 

In just over one month, two departments united to reimagine and reconstruct an interior area on campus for the benefit of many. The result: a reimagined space at the Weinberg Memorial Library that could be a contender in HGTV's "Small Space, Big Potential." 

In the weeks between finals and the spring semester, University of Scranton Facilities and Library teams contributed their vision and skills to complete a Media Room renovation in record time.

“The timeframe for the project was set to work around students' studies, finals and utilize intersession. (From) December 15 to January 23 … the majority of work was completed,” said Michael Ridder, director of maintenance operations at Scranton.

Dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library George Aulisio explains the why behind the project.

“The concept grew out of a broad vision for the Library to be a place for all types of learners. We recognized that a section of the Library housing compact rolling shelving for DVDs, VHS tapes and CDs could be transformed into a dynamic student space with a clear purpose. The goal was to create a flexible, modern space that supports students and faculty while retaining media for curricular needs and personal viewing interests,” Aulisio said.

“This renovation reflects the direction the Library has been moving for several years, making a shift from being primarily a physical resource repository toward a dynamic center and service point that actively meets the evolving needs of our community,” he added.

He outlines the results:

• a dedicated Media Viewing Room,
• a dedicated space for the Education Laboratory and
• an open space with lounge seating, individual reading and study space and booths for collaborative learning

A resource reallocation made it possible to “flip the orientation of the room,” according to Aulisio.

“To do this, we carefully curated the Media collection so that actively used, new and popular titles could take up a smaller footprint in the space itself, and less frequently used materials could be relocated to basement storage.

 

This called for collaboration.

“From the Library's perspective, this project was about reimagining how the space functions, not just how it looks. Working closely with the Facilities team, we translated that vision into a practical design with a new layout, updated technology infrastructure, including new displays, refreshed furnishings and an environment that feels welcoming and contemporary,” Aulisio said.

Bringing that vision to life: the highly skilled Scranton staff.

“Internal staff completed this work, including Library maintenance Jake Harris and Anjelica Vaccaro, carpenters James Shygelski and Michael Tuffy, electrician Ed Piasecki, plumber Frank Lynott, painters Mark Burke and Jared Reznick, locksmith Joe Wright, and members of our IT Department Jason Wimmer and Jason Oakey,” Ridder said. 



Outside vendors included Premier Environments for carpeting and furniture, JP Jay for shelving units, Stone Office Furniture to disassemble, relocate and reinstall mobile shelving in the Performance Music department, and Sierra Six for data connections.

Ridder outlined the scope of work:

• Demolition of existing shelving units, removal of old flooring, cabinetry and some existing walls
• Construction of the new layout per design, including the walls and new custom wood-trimmed windows and shelving unit, completed onsite
• Installation of new flooring and shelving by Premier Environments
• Completion of electrical work, Spackle and painting, ceiling changes, data and new electronics, such as TVs

 

“An added bonus was that we were able to relocate the Library's rolling compact shelves to Houlihan-McLean Center so that the Performance Music department could benefit from it. It was a genuine collaboration between Library and Facilities, and the result speaks to what's possible when both teams are aligned around a shared goal.”

                           - George Aulisio, Dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library

Viola! Feedback from Library patrons and staff suggests that the renovation, completed in a brief window of time, delivered a significant impact.

"The response has been positive and overwhelmingly strong. Students have embraced the space quickly. In fact, while painters were still putting finishing touches on the walls, students were settling in to study. The staff has also noticed that the collection is more approachable now. Compact rolling shelves are not ideal for discoverability, but now that the collection is on stationary shelves and is curated, it's easier to explore and find a new or classic film for assignments and personal viewing," Aulisio said.

“This is exactly the type of response I had hoped for! It's gratifying to see a vision come to life and to watch the community make it their own. I'm proud to say we have a strong Library culture at Scranton, and we take that responsibility seriously.”

Four staff members, whose collective experience as members of The University of Scranton community spans nearly a century, were celebrated as the newest winners of the Sursum Corda (Lift Up Your Hearts) Awards.

The awards, presented Feb. 19 at the McIlhenny Ballroom inside the DeNaples Center, recognized the dedication, service and outstanding contributions the four individuals have made in performing their duties, nurturing a sense of a belonging and playing an important role in supporting members of the community as they strive to embody the University’s mission and values in their daily lives.

This year’s recipients of the Sursum Corda Awards are:

David Caffrey, public safety officer for the University Police Department

Caffrey began working at Scranton in 1989, policing the Hill section out of his own car.

In the 35-plus years since, Caffrey has been a steady and dependable presence who’s led by example through his consistency, reliability and commitment to excellence. Caffrey’s longevity stands as a testament to his devotion to law enforcement and the University.

Caffrey takes great care to ensure that University facilities, equipment and grounds are always secure, creating a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. He has a deep sense of duty and pride in public service, going far beyond what is expected.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Caffrey enjoys spending time with family, including his sister, her children and grandchildren.

Hugh Doyle ’17, G’20, director of undergraduate admissions within enrollment management

Just two weeks after graduating, Doyle joined the admissions staff and has since served in several leadership roles at the University.

Doyle brings exceptional dedication, creativity and intentionality to his duties and considers the University’s mission and the needs of its students in all he does. Bringing a philosophy of “mission first, people always,” Doyle manages his team with compassion and care and consistently models integrity, trust and mutual respect.

Doyle volunteers with a local nonprofit organization that supports individuals with mobility limitations. Similar to his interactions with students and colleagues, he approaches his voluntary work with humility and a genuine love for others.

A fan of the great outdoors, Doyle enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth ’17, and their son, Finnen.

Melissa Eckenrode, administrative assistant to the Department of English and Theater

Known for her compassion and unwavering support of students, offering encouragement and guidance to all who come through the department, Eckenrode has served the University for more than a decade.

Since 2021, she has been an active member of Staff Senate and now co-chairs the Social Events and Community Building Committee, strengthening connections across campus while also volunteering with additional committees.

Deeply committed to service, Eckenrode chaperones annual student service trips. This past year, she generously chaperoned two international service trips.

Eckenrode and her husband, Paul, volunteer for the Feed a Friend program, providing essential resources to individuals and families in need. She and Paul are the proud parents of four children — Monica, Abigail, Matthew and Isabel.

Diane Kennedy, IT client services analyst in the division of information technology

For nearly three decades, Kennedy has been an influential, reliable and dedicated University community member who has played key roles in several major technological transitions.

Notably, Kennedy assisted in the University’s move to Microsoft email and calendaring and the redesign of an outdated asset tracker system.

Kennedy’s commitment extends far beyond her professional responsibilities. She has long visited nursing homes, hospitals, youth groups and libraries with her therapy dogs, Opel and Uwe, offering comfort and connection.

Kennedy’s service took on new meaning in 2024 after her husband, Rob, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Together, they have become advocates for dementia awareness and caregiver support, helping raise funds and engaging in various outreach activities and initiatives.

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The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for March 2026 is: 
Dolores Rozelle – Health and Human Performance

How long have you worked at the University?

I have worked at the University for 18 years. 

What is your title?

I am the Administrative Assistant for Health and Human Performance.

What do you like best about your job?

I’ve met a number of people over the last 18 years who were so helpful and welcoming, many of whom I consider friends. I love the daily interaction with the people I work with and the students, because every day is a new experience. I work with the best group and work-study students!

What do you like to do for fun?

I love spending time with my family, both human and fur!  I also enjoy sewing, quilting, crafting and listening to live music.

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Dolores does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Dolores and all our nominees. Dolores will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for March. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Dolores and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
March 2026 Nominees

 

Nominations open for March Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for February 2026 is: 
Eric Gatto – Financial Aid

How long have you worked at the University? I have been here a little over two years now, starting in January of 2024.

What is your title? Assistant Director of Financial Aid.

What do you like best about your job? Being able to help our students and families.

What do you like to do for fun? I love to golf and have a newborn daughter who I am trying to keep up with.

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Eric does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Eric and all our nominees. Eric will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for February. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Eric and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
February 2026 Nominees

 

Nominations open for March Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for December 2025 is: 
Michelle Van Pelt - Nursing

 

How long have you worked at the University? I have worked at the University since January 2020. 

What is your title? Director of Clinical Operations for Department of Nursing

What do you like best about your job? The people I work with make this job the best job ever.

What do you like to do for fun? Spending time and traveling with family and friends.

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Michelle does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Michelle and all our nominees. Michelle will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for November. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Michelle and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
December 2025 Nominees

 

Nominations open for JANUARY Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

Members of the Staff Senate greeted more than 270 University employees entering the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center on Wednesday, Dec. 10, for the annual Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon.

As part of the holiday welcome, the Staff Senate Social Events Committee members collected items for the University's Royal Restore Food Pantry. Additionally, they sold raffle tickets for a chance to win themed basket donations created by members of the University community. The raffle and 50/50 proceeds will benefit the University's Domestic Service Trip Program through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ).

“This is always a wonderful event. We appreciate everyone’s generosity and contributions,” said Lucia Grissinger, Staff Senate Social Events Committee co-chair.

At the first of two seatings, Staff Senate President Kristi Klien offered a welcome and Jesuit Center Executive Director Tim Dulle shared a blessing focused on gratitude and mindfulness. The second seating began at 1 p.m.; both were free for University of Scranton staff members.

Members of the Staff Senate Social Events Committee include: 
Lucia Grissinger, co-chair
Melissa Eckenrode, co-chair
Shawn Beistline
Bridget Conlogue
Kelly Cook
Jill Eidenberg 
Melinda Finnerty
Autumn Forgione
Melisa Gallo
Kristi Klien
Daniela Teneva

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for November 2025 is: 
Maria Z. Cutsinger – Director, Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, Student Life

How long have you worked at the University? 
I joined The University of Scranton in January of 2024.

What is your title? 
I am the Director for the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution

What do you like best about your job?
The best part about my work with the University is my ability to have meaningful conversations with students who might be at a crossroads in their lives.

What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I like to search for antiques at estate and yard sales, and I love to cook!

 

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Maria does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Maria and all our nominees. Maria will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for November. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Maria and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
November 2025 Nominees

 

Nominations open for December Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

DECEMBER MAGIS AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for November 2025 is: 
Maria Z. Cutsinger – Director, Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, Student Life

How long have you worked at the University? 
I joined The University of Scranton in January of 2024.

What is your title? 
I am the Director for the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution

What do you like best about your job?
The best part about my work with the University is my ability to have meaningful conversations with students who might be at a crossroads in their lives.

What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I like to search for antiques at estate and yard sales, and I love to cook!

 

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Maria does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Maria and all our nominees. Maria will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for November. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Maria and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
November 2025 Nominees

 

Nominations open for December Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Perhaps they embody our Jesuit mission or simply possess an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

DECEMBER MAGIS AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for October 2025 is: 
Majid Mokhtari – Physics and Engineering

How long have you worked at the University?
20 years

What is your title?
Senior Laboratory Engineer

What do you like best about your job?
Working closely with staff, faculty and students, designing and 3D printing, robotics.

What do you like to do for fun?
Kayaking, swimming, cycling.

 

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Majid does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Majid and all our nominees. Majid will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for October. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Majid and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
October 2025 Nominees

Nominations open for NOVEMBER Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Maybe they exemplify our Jesuit mission or just have an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

NOVEMBER MAGIS AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for September 2025 is: 
Ann Siock – Management & Marketing

How long have you worked at the University?

A little over a year now

What is your title?

Administrative Assistant, Management & Marketing Department

What do you like best about your job?

I like that there is something new every day. I have great colleagues, and I enjoy working with the students and faculty.

What do you like to do for fun?

I read, knit, play with my cat, and try to understand football for my husband’s sake. 😊

 

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Ann does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Ann and all our nominees. Ann will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for September. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Ann and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
September 2025 Nominees

Nominations open for October Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Maybe they exemplify our Jesuit mission or just have an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award. 

OCTOBER MAGIS AWARD NOMINATION FORM

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.

 

The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleagues' accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence. The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community!

THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for August 2025 is: 
Antonelle Kern - Admissions

How long have you worked at the University?
This October will mark 11 years!

What is your title?
Assistant Director of Admissions Events

What do you like best about your job?
It’s hard to choose just one thing. I truly enjoy working with the team in Admissions/Enrollment Management. I love coordinating event details across various campus offices, seeing all the planning come together, and connecting with prospective students and their families.

What do you like to do for fun?

Life is wonderfully full right now with our three-year-old and one-year-old! Most of my free time is spent with them and my husband, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

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We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the good work that Antonelle does on a daily basis. We hope you will join us in personally congratulating Antonelle and all our nominees. Antonelle will receive a complimentary food donation at our fabulous University food service outlets AND a reserved parking space in the DeNaples Parking Pavilion for August. Each winner is also invited to the Staff Senate Recognition event in May 2026 to receive a certificate of appreciation.

We congratulate Antonelle and all the wonderful nominees for being recognized as “Magis” employees!

 
August 2025 Nominees

Nominations open for September Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award.

Have you witnessed a University staff member, Aramark or Follett employee offer a simple act of kindness? Go above and beyond for others? Maybe they exemplify our Jesuit mission or just have an incredible attitude. If so, please recommend this individual for this prestigious award.

Although only University staff members, Aramark, or Follett employees win the award, nominations may be made by any University of Scranton employee.