Student News

On Friday, May 8, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring the University's String Orchestra. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free and the concert is open to the public, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.

“The concert will take listeners on a journey through musical eras from baroque to modern, highlighting some connecting works," said Janelle Decker, Performance Music Executive Director and conductor.

The program will feature music by Karl Jenkins, Felix Mendelssohn, Giacomo Meyerbeer, W. A. Mozart, Vaclav Nelhybel and Dmitri Shostakovich, some of them in arrangements for string orchestra and others in their original form.

The University of Scranton String Orchestra is a 35-plus-member ensemble comprised of members of the University community from majors and departments spanning the curriculum — most of them undergraduate students, none of whom are music majors — joined by a few graduate students, alumni and members of the faculty who are all brought together by their mutual love of music-making.

The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no major in music at the University, and all enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University Bands, University Performance Choirs, University String Orchestra and Ensembles and Steel Drum Ensemble. A few members of the faculty and staff and alumni from the region also perform with the groups. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.

For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit the University's website.

 

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IF YOU GO:

 

What: IN CONCERT: The University of Scranton String Orchestra, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 8, 2026

Where: Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton

Admission: Free

The University of Scranton’s annual Earth Day Fair brought together students, campus partners and community organizations, all joining together to promote sustainability and environmental awareness.

The event, held Tuesday, April 21, attracted roughly 150 students who learned about environmental-friendly initiatives and efforts being made by more than a dozen participating vendors that set up tables at the lobby inside the Loyola Science Center.

“The Earth Day Fair was a huge success for the Society for Sustainability and Conservation and our partnership with the Jesuit Center,” said Samantha Kosmark ’26, an environmental science major from Old Tappan, New Jersey, and president of the University’s Society for Sustainability and Conservation. “Learning about the environmental efforts within our surrounding community and their positive impact on the world around us was reassuring and showed that we truly care.”

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Throughout the event, Scranton students engaged directly with faculty, staff and community representatives to better understand how small, everyday choices can contribute to long-term environmental stewardship.

The University of Scranton is currently engaged in a multi-year effort to become designated a Laudato Si’ University, committed to environmental stewardship rooted in Jesuit values. The initiative integrates sustainability across academics, operations and beyond, advancing seven goals to meet Pope Francis’ call for “integral ecology.”

For additional coverage of the Earth Day Fair, please visit the following links:

WVIA — University of Scranton Earth Day Fair encourages sustainability and small ways to help the planet

WBRE — Students go green for Earth Day hands-on showcase

The Times-Tribune — U of S students learn of sustainable living ahead of Earth Day

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The Mathematics Department held its annual induction ceremony of the Pennsylvania Mu Chapter of Pi Mu Epsilon, the National Mathematics Honor Society, at Brennan Hall, Room 509, from 5 - 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 24. Ten students majoring in either mathematics or mathematical sciences, five faculty members from the Mathematics Department, and Carolyn McNamara Barry, Ph.D., dean of The University of Scranton's College of Arts and Sciences, attended this ceremony.

Students inducted into the Pennsylvania Mu Chapter of Pi Mu Epsilon,
the National Mathematics Honor Society include: 
Matthew W. Rakauskas,
Thomas J. LeMay,
Allison M. Magee,
Daniel P. Cerra,
Katie N. Carrea,
Serhii Kuzmin,
Robert J. Newbeck,
Ashlyn Urbanski,
Alessandra Bellino,
Riley P. Clarke, and
Dr. Murong Xu.

Pi Mu Epsilon is dedicated to the promotion of mathematics and recognition of students who successfully pursue mathematical understanding. To promote mathematics, the National Pi Mu Epsilon Council sponsors an annual conference in conjunction with the American Mathematical Society (AMS) at the Joint Mathematics Meetings. 

A person meeting any one of the following four sets of qualifications may be elected to membership by a chapter. This election shall be held irrespective of sex, religion, race or national origin:

• Undergraduate student who has completed at least the equivalent of two semesters of calculus and two additional courses in mathematics, at or above the calculus level, all of which lead to the fulfillment of the requirements for a major in the mathematical sciences. In addition, such students must have maintained a grade point average equivalent to that of at least 3.0 on a 4-point scale, both for all courses that lead to fulfillment of requirements for a major in the mathematical sciences, and for all courses that lead to fulfillment of requirements for an undergraduate degree.
  
  
• Graduate students whose mathematical work is at least equivalent to that required of qualified undergraduates, and who have maintained at least a B average in mathematics during their last school year prior to their election.
  
  
• Members of the faculty in mathematics or related subjects.
  
  
• Any persons who have achieved distinction in a mathematical science.

Learn more about the society.

 

Numerous University of Scranton students, faculty and staff members assisted in organizing, executing and scoring the annual Hayes Family Science Competition on April 16.

One of the most popular and interactive events held each year at the University, this year’s competition attracted nearly 200 registered high school students from Berwick, Carbondale, Crestwood, Delaware Valley, Dunmore, Hazleton Area, Honesdale, Lackawanna Trail, North Pocono, Scranton, Scranton Prep, Wallenpaupack and West Scranton.

In addition to learning key physics and engineering principles, the high school students applied their knowledge to compete for trophies and medals. Prizes were awarded to the teams that recorded the highest scores in the events corresponding to the theme, “Waves.” These events included a quiz and Jeopardy-style game show, as well as competitions focused on frequency, temperature and buoyancy, among other concepts.

The Hayes Family Science Competition’s signature event took place in the Byron Center, where everyone gathered to watch a student-programmed robot play Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” on a guitar. The guitar was built by the department’s senior laboratory engineer Majid Mokhtari.

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“We built a ‘to-scale’ guitar, two times the size of a regular guitar, with two robots,” said Patrick Feller ’27, a computer engineering major from Montgomery, New York, who took the lead in the presentation. “One of the arms is plucking the strings while another arm is pressing down the strings onto the frets to create a certain note. …

“It was a lot of fun. They were a pretty nice crowd and I appreciated their enthusiasm about it.”

The overall champion in Division 1 was a team from Delaware Valley, which beat out second- and third-place teams from Scranton and North Pocono, respectively. A team from North Pocono won Division 2, topping teams from Lackawanna Trail and Wallenpaupack.

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List of Team Winners:

Division 1, First place: Delaware Valley (David Agron, Nathaniel Carso, Philip Fitzpatrick, Sarah Chalhoub, Terence Plummer, Grace Stevens)

Division 1, Second place: Scranton (Vini Ravel, Benjamin Shteynberg, John Hughes, Ellagrace Miseo, Peter Kwee, Noah Casey)

Division 1, Third place: North Pocono (Sean Gager, Phillip Mclaine, Jaden Mucha, Sarah O'Donnell, Will Eisley)

Division 2, First place: North Pocono (Bruce Cianfichi, Marlie DeRenzis, Gabe DeScipio, Jacob Motichka, Connor Simonson, Aaron Youngblood)

Division 2, Second place: Lackawanna Trail (Tyler Jervis, Holden Edwards, Avery Ronchi, Ethan Gorton, Lila Matuszewski, Alexandria Truitt, Giada Farrar)

Division 2, Third place: Wallenpaupack (Joe Pettinato, Nathan Freethy, Ashley DeJesus, Jude Mautz, Colby Bonagura, Chris Tufaro)

 

Students in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, and one nurse leader, earned entrance into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Iota Omega Chapter, this spring at The University of Scranton.

Sigma Theta Tau International is the national honor society for nursing. Thirty-six Royals, including 31 undergraduate students, five graduate students, and one nurse leader, were inducted Saturday, April 18, at the society's 37th annual ceremony at the University.

Induction into Sigma Theta Tau International, Iota Omega Chapter, is offered to:

• undergraduate students in the upper 35 percent of their class,
  
  
• graduate nursing students who demonstrate academic excellence by maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or greater, and
  
  
• nurse leaders who demonstrate nursing excellence and commitment to the advancement of nursing.

 

The University of Scranton’s rise to the top as a premier institution for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) continued with its most recent performance.

Scranton students combined to place in 16 events, winning four state championships with five runner-up finishes, at the FBLA State Leadership Conference, held March 27-28 in Harrisburg.

It marks the greatest state championship performance yet by Scranton’s FBLA team, according to David Mahalak, D.Eng., club advisor and professor of operations and analytics. Last year, Scranton placed in eight events with one state champion and two runners-up.

This year’s top performers included the first-place finishers:

• Gary Mrozinski, a finance major from Taylor, earned a pair of state championships in finance case competition and foundations of economics.
• Joseph Kulikowski, a business analytics and finance major from Moosic, earned the state title in supply chain management.
• Joseph Walas, an accounting and finance double major from West Islip, New York, won the state championship in foundations of economics. He also placed second in foundations of finance.

Together, Mrozinski, Kulikowski and Walas joined forces and earned fourth in state of the chapter.

Second-place finishers included: Megan Cosklo, a business administration major from Fell Township, foundations of management; Kaeli Romanowski, a finance major from Lake Ariel, foundations of marketing; and Lillian Stein, a cybercrime and homeland security major from Lehighton, computer applications. Additionally, Madyson Spevak, an accounting and finance double major from Easton, and Mallory Woodland, an advertising/public relations major from Nazareth, placed second in community service project.

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Next up, several of Scranton’s FBLA medalists will travel to Las Vegas for the FBLA Collegiate National Leadership Conference. It will be held June 6-8 at the Westgate Las Vegas.

The University had an outstanding performance at last year’s national conference with Romanowski and Walas each winning national titles and Mrozinski earning a seventh-place finish.

Established in 1942, FBLA is the world’s largest organization of its kind, annually helping 230,000-plus members in middle school, high school and college prepare for careers in various business fields.

 

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The full list of Scranton’s medalists is below:

Individual Awards:

Joseph Kulikowski, a business analytics and finance major from Moosic, placed first in supply chain management

Gary Mrozinski, a finance major from Taylor, placed first in finance case competition; Mrozinski also placed first in foundations of economics

Joseph Walas, an accounting and finance double major from West Islip, New York, placed first in foundations of economics; Walas also placed second in foundations of finance

Megan Cosklo, a business administration major from Fell Township, placed second in foundations of management

Kaeli Romanowski, a finance major from Lake Ariel, placed second in foundations of marketing; Romanowski also placed third in foundations of management

Lillian Stein, a cybercrime and homeland security major from Lehighton, placed second in computer applications

Onyekachi Nubia, a finance major from Nazareth, placed third in foundations of economics

Mallory Woodland, an advertising/public relations major from Nazareth, placed third in foundations of digital design; Woodland also placed fourth in foundations of communication

Emma Sibbach, an accounting major from Palmyra, placed fourth in foundations of marketing

Madyson Spevak, an accounting and finance double major from Easton, placed fourth in retail management

Team Awards:

Madyson Spevak, an accounting and finance double major from Easton, and Mallory Woodland, an advertising/public relations major from Nazareth, placed second in community service project

Joseph Kulikowski, a business analytics and finance double major from Moosic, Gary Mrozinski, a finance major from Taylor, and Joseph Walas, an accounting and finance double major from West Islip, New York, placed fourth in state of the chapter

Engineering students from The University of Scranton delivered a standout performance, among peers from colleges throughout the region, at a competition testing their engineering, programming and problem-solving skills through robotics.

More than 300 students and faculty/staff members from 35 colleges and universities participated at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Region 1 and 2 Student Activities Conference (SAC), held March 21 at Rowan University in New Jersey. Only six events were held — and Scranton’s IEEE branch won two of them, placing first in the Mini Pupper and MicroMouse competitions.

IEEE Regions 1 and 2 comprise much of the Northeast United States from Ohio and West Virginia through Maine. Other top finishers at the event hailed from Penn State, West Virginia, Maryland, Rutgers, Temple, Ohio Northern, York College, Montclair State and Wilkes.

The Mini Pupper competition challenged students to program a small, dog-like robot to complete a set of tasks. Students used their coding skills to make the robot move and behave like a dog. Students also controlled the robot’s responses during a tug-of-war against other robots. Mini Pupper teammates included Rachel Lendzinski, Deanna Holbert and Lailah Merai.

"Even though this was my first time going to SAC, I didn't have to worry about feeling left behind. I got to work with two amazing seniors, and we put a lot of time and energy into our project, so to win our division meant a lot," said Lendzinski, president of the University's student-led Laboratory for Research and Innovation in Computer Engineering (RICE Lab). "I got to bond with several upperclassmen who not only helped me when I didn't quite understand something — but also told me a lot about what I had to look forward to in my engineering courses here at Scranton."

The MicroMouse competition tasked the group with designing and 3D printing a small, autonomous robot that could sense walls inside a maze. The robot needed to solve the maze on its own, using sensors and intelligently programmed logic to escape. MicroMouse teammates included Carlton J. Hackett, Noah Millett and Ryan Merlo.

Additionally, Alfred Kumi-Atiemo Jr. placed third in Brown Bag, a hands-on engineering challenge where student teams were given a bag of unknown components. Using only those components and their own knowledge, competitors, participating as teams of one to four students, had to design and build a working solution to a surprise problem.

The following students attended the conference:

• Emmanuel O. Awuah, a computer engineering major from Somerset, New Jersey
• Eldridge G. Charway, a computer engineering major from Somerset, New Jersey
• Carlton J. Hackett, a computer engineering major from Lansdale
• Deanna Holbert, an electrical engineering major from Simpson
• Alfred K. Kumi-Atiemo, an electrical engineering major from Stroudsburg
• Rachel A. Lendzinski, a computer engineering major from Lansdale
• Lailah D. Merai, a computer engineering major from White Plains, Maryland
• Ryan A. Merlo, a computer engineering major from Macungie
• Noah W. Millett, an electrical engineering major from Swarthmore
• Joseph R. Mpasiakos, a computer engineering major from Harriman, New York
• James W. O’Malley IV, a computer engineering major from Ambler

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All logistics related to the trip, including coordination and transportation, were supported and managed by Farshad Merrikh Bayat, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and engineering, working with the University’s IEEE student chapter. Dr. Bayat assigned the Mini Pupper portion to the University’s student-led RICE Lab group, whose faculty advisor is Navid Shahrouzi, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and engineering. Majid Mokhtari, senior laboratory engineer, provided essential technical support and preparation.

The IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. In addition to competitions, the SAC featured hands-on workshops and opportunities to network with fellow students and industry leaders.

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

Hundreds of students filled The University of Scranton’s Byron Center gymnasium on March 26, gaining a headstart on their future careers at the Spring 2026 Career Expo.

“I have some really good candidates that we may able to fill roles with,” said Stacy Karvoski, a senior talent acquisition business partner at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Karvoski’s organization was one of 65 organizations that attended the expo, matching potential employers with students from a wide range of majors offered at Scranton.

Hosted by the Roche Family Center for Career Development, the bi-yearly expo helps introduce students to potential employers and begin making plans for their futures after graduation.

Rose Jacklinski, the Center’s career relations manager for career development, says coordinating the event is a big part of her job.

“I am the bridge between our students and our employers,” Jacklinski explained. “So, I build relationships with our employers, recruiters, talent acquisition and bring them to campus to get in front of our students.”

In total, 425 students attended the event — the biggest student turnout at any University of Scranton Career Expo since fall 2017.

“We're always … taking a look at our majors here that we offer and how we can match our student majors up with what our employers have to offer,” Jacklinski said.

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Representing Lehigh Valley Health Network, Karvoski said the Spring Career Expo was the first one she’s attended at Scranton. Karvoski said many of the students she’d talked with were interested in rehab, which is what she hires for, but she also explained that she was looking for future employees in almost every field.

“We have a variety of positions available, everything from direct patient care, like RNs and physical therapy, to not taking care of patients, so security, payroll, human resources,” she said.

Scranton students were also hopeful that the career expo be fruitful for them, such as Liam Clare '27, a criminal justice major from East Stroudsburg, who hopes to work in homeland security.

“I feel I’ll gain some connections here and grow in the future with my career,” Clare said.

He also credited Scranton’s ROTC program for helping him become more disciplined and goal-oriented.

“Waking up early at 6 a.m., doing PT, that camaraderie and moving forward with your goals … I think it really put me on task, motivated me a little bit more, gave me a drive,” Clare explained.

The career expos have great effect since Scranton students are hired at remarkable rates.

Ninety-nine percent of members in Scranton's undergraduate Class of 2024 have reported success in their intended fields, according to the most recent First Destination Survey conducted by the Center for Career Development.

Marcus Smith '27, Schuylkill Haven, is an English and theatre double major at Scranton.

The Department of World Languages and Cultures welcomed over 200 guests for the 2026 Annual World Languages Day on March 5 at The University of Scranton, providing students, faculty, staff and language students and teachers from local high schools with a unique and unforgettable program.

More than 150 students from 10 local high schools joined dozens more from the University to hear a message about the value of World Languages. Interactive presentations were delivered in six languages. Participants engaged with World Languages instructors during break-out sessions featuring American Sign Language (ASL), Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Carolyn Barry welcomed a packed room.

The theme of this year’s World Languages Day: “Make Yourself More (interesting than AI). Dr. Amy Kuiken, Coordinator of the Language Learning Center at the University, explained that “we find ourselves once again living through an era when humans need to think about how to set ourselves apart from emerging technology when it threatens to do all the things we can do.”

Dr. Kuiken said AI-driven translation apps can now “handle everything from grammar and vocabulary to the trickier things related to tone and style. … Where we used to have to, in some cases, agonize over the best way to say something…we go straight to a translator that can increasingly handle more and more of that for us. But I think it’s important to keep in mind that if we’re outsourcing everything to an AI, we’re already replaceable by an AI.”

Kuiken maintained that those who do learn a language are investing in themselves: “Now you’re noticing cultural, linguistic, psychological, historical, social patterns, rules, alternatives, mechanics, properties…You see the matrix. This is how you grow and make yourself more interesting than AI.”

Kuiken appealed to those “who may be thinking that language learning might be one of the first things to go in an AI age” by sharing a personal story about how language learning “can set people apart while bringing people together.” Using social media, she unintentionally befriended a community leader in Tanzania after responding to a call to help translate for local French-speaking families in Scranton. This led to an international educational partnership that benefits hundreds of students today.

“We have an ever-evolving sense of what language is. People are starting to recognize that language is much more than translation, vocabulary and grammar. It’s about context, creativity, strategy, identity and community,” Kuiken said.

Dr. Yamile Silva, Chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures, put it powerfully: “From the very first cry of a newborn to the last words whispered by an elder, language accompanies every moment of our lives. It is how we express love, resolve conflict, pass down wisdom, tell stories and make sense of a world that is often complex and uncertain. Language is not simply a tool for communication — it is the very fabric of who we are.”

Silva pointed out that “the study of world languages and cultures is not a luxury…It is one of the most urgent and practical investments a young person can make in their future — and one of the most meaningful contributions a university can make to the world…When you learn another language, you do not simply gain a new set of vocabulary words or grammar rules. You gain access to an entirely different way of thinking…You realize that the world is wider, and richer than you ever imagined…in that realization, something profound happens — you become a better thinker, a more empathetic human being, and a more effective citizen of the world.

Silva said, “Here at The University of Scranton, we take that mission seriously. Our Department of World Languages is not simply a place where conjugations are memorized and textbooks are studied…Our students take those lessons beyond the classroom — into study abroad programs, community engagement, research and careers that make a difference in the lives of others.

“Today's celebration is a testament to that commitment. It is a reminder of why we do what we do.”

Special Thanks to WLC Instructors Who Contributed to the Event:

Mandarin Chinese - Professor Chih-Yi Wu, Taiwanese Government Chinese language instructor

Spanish – Professor Agustina Santivañez, Spanish language Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Argentina

Japanese – Professor Kazumasa Fujita, ALLEX Foundation Japanese language instructor

German – Professor Eva Grohs, German language Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Germany

Arabic - Professor Mohamed El Ghanam, Arabic language Fulbright Teaching Assistant from Egypt

Italian – Professor Franca Kelly, University of Scranton adjunct professor of Italian

American Sign Language (ASL) – Professor MaryAnn Stefko, University of Scranton adjunct professor of ASL

Russian – Professor Anastasia Maume, University of Scranton adjunct professor of Russian

French and General Linguistics – Dr. Amy Kuiken, Language Learning Center coordinator

With support from the World Languages and Cultures full-time faculty:

Dr. Yamile Silva, chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures

Dr. Marzia Caporale

Dr. Virginia Picchietti

Dr. Habib Zanzana

 

Local High Schools Attending the Event:

Dallas 

Honesdale 

Lakeland

Old Forge

Riverside H

Scranton

Valley View

Wallenpaupack

Western Wayne

West Scranton

Twelve undergraduate students, one recent graduate and five professors from The University of Scranton had six research posters presented at the 2026 Eastern Psychological Association Conference in Boston on Feb. 27-28.

The following students had research presented at the conference:

Gianna Assuncao ʼ26, a neuroscience major from Clark, New Jersey, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with faculty member Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Joseph Battaglia ʼ26, a neuroscience major from Campbell, New York, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with faculty member Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Annabelle Berry ʼ27, a psychology major from Pringle, presented research titled “The Influence of Contextual and Confirmation Bias On Views Of Source Probability” with Joshua Reynolds, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology.

Emma Caldwell ʼ26, a psychology major from Little Neck, New York, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Erica Czerwinski ʼ26, a psychology major from Burlington, Massachusetts, presented research titled “Courses Required For Admission To Doctoral Programs In Clinical Psychology” and “Theoretical Orientations Of Clinical Psychology Faculty: Contemporary Data and Historical Patterns” with John Norcross, Ph.D., distinguished professor of psychology and Michael Sayette, Ph.D., distinguished professor of psychology at the University of Pittsburgh. Czerwinski also presented research titled “The Effect Of Different Types Of Lies On Destination Memory” with Jill Warker, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Sophia da Costa ʼ26, a neuroscience major from Ambler, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Connor Gannon ʼ27, a psychology major from West Orange, New Jersey, presented research titled “The Influence of Contextual and Confirmation Bias On Views Of Source Probability” with Joshua Reynolds, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology.

Anna Gowarty ʼ26, a psychology major from Scranton, presented research titled “The Influence of Contextual and Confirmation Bias On Views Of Source Probability” with Joshua Reynolds, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology.

Leah Nealon ʼ26, a psychology major from Clarks Green, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Edisa Reynoso ʼ27, a psychology major from New York City, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Joseph Vazquez ʼ26, a psychology major from Nutley, New Jersey, presented research titled “College Studentsâ View Jane Elliot's Brown-Eye Blue-Eye Exercise As Ethical” with Jessica Nolan, Ph.D., professor of psychology.

Maria Vyzaniaris ʼ27, a neuroscience major from Furlong, presented research titled “Phineas Gage Case Study: A Hyperbolic Depiction Across Introductory Textbooks” with Patrick Orr, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology.

Gabrielle Jamieson Gʼ25, a psychology major from Bradley Beach, New Jersey, presented research titled “College Students View Jane Elliot's Brown-Eye Blue-Eye Exercise As Ethical” with Jessica Nolan, Ph.D., professor of psychology.

 

Berry, Caldwell, Czerwinski, da Costa, Gannon, Gowarty, Vazquez, and Jamieson all attended the conference to present their work.

Also in attendance were their professors: Jessica Nolan, Ph.D., John Norcross, Ph.D., Patrick Orr, Ph.D. ʼ06, Joshua Reynolds, Ph.D., Jill Warker, Ph.D.

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By Marcus Smith '27, student correspondent

Marissa Manzo ʼ28 is an occupational therapy major with a guaranteed seat in her master’s program from Shelton, Connecticut. During winter intersession, she served as the peer facilitator for a domestic service trip to Syracuse that was run by The University of Scranton’s Center for Service and Social Justice.

With five other Scranton students, and University chaperones Reina Prado, graduate admissions counselor and Traci Vennie, assistant registrar, Manzo volunteered with L’Arche Syracuse, a residential service that helps people with intellectual disabilities live independently.

On campus, Manzo is an aide for CSSJ’s SMART program, a student tutor, a member of the women’s crew team, a board member of the neurodivergent inclusion association, and a participant in the Occupational Therapy Department’s Go Baby Go program.

She recently sat down for an interview with Royal News student correspondent Marcus Smith '27 about her experience as a peer facilitator.

Q: How did you find out about domestic service trips?

A: CSSJ, the Center for Service and Social Justice, does a bunch of service trips throughout the year. We do domestic and international trips. I did FIRST, which is First-years Involved in Reflective Service Together. [KGC1] So, that was my intro. Before I even came to college, I went for a week there. Then I was involved with them through other service trip-esque kinds of stuff. I did something called SPARK. I'm doing something called SMART right now. Both work with at-risk youth.

On the intersession service trip, we worked with a community called L'Arche, which supports adults with mental, physical and developmental disabilities, which was intriguing for me as an OT major. I was like, oh, this is right up my alley. So, I really wanted to go, but I didn't think I was going to be a peer facilitator.

Q: What were some of the things that you would do as a peer facilitator?

A: Once we got our group, we had weekly meetings. Ours was on a Tuesday night. … We talked about what we expected for the trip, any apprehensions we had about it, if we wanted to do fundraisers … just kind of getting to know each other. I would also meet with the chaperones and I'd keep everyone in the loop before the trip started. Then, during the trip, I would lead reflections. I created reflections, like any kind of service trip you go on or any retreat at Chapman Lake. I kind of based my reflections on themes of L'Arche like acceptance, diversity, living the Gospel. Then when we were there, I would lead the reflections. I was also like a point of contact for the person at L'Arche so, I had someone to contact with our itinerary.

Q: What expectations did you have going into the trip? How did it live up to or surpass those expectations?

A: I did service trips throughout high school, and they were very much based on active service, like building houses. This …was an immersive service trip, which I'd never been on. An immersive service trip is less about doing; it is more just being with the people, which at first was kind of scary for me. I have to be doing something at all times, my hands have to be busy, or I have to be talking or moving. So, it was definitely a change of pace to just sit and hang out. Maybe I was coloring with someone. Maybe I was sitting in silence. By day three, I kind of got comfortable with it. It was definitely different from anything I've ever done before.

Q: How would you say it fits into the Jesuit teachings and ideals that we try to follow here at Scranton?

A: L’Arche’s whole idea is that we're working with an underserved and very vulnerable population. The way L'Arche looks at it is: Yes, this person may have autism, but this person was also, in their youth, on the Olympic or Paralympic bowling team. The members of L'Arche community have all lived such interesting lives. I think learning about them kind of fits into cura personalis and searching for more.

Q: How does going on a domestic trip compare to doing a service trip abroad?

A: I understand the temptation to want to go abroad and see a whole different culture, but I still think I got just as much cultural understanding as I would have if I went abroad. In the United States, we have so many different cultural pockets that are so different from each other.

 

Q: Do you have a particular favorite memory or moment from the trip that stand out to you?

A: The core members, the people who live in this community, are very funny and very vibrant. They tell you exactly how it is. We went bowling with them. I'm not the best bowler. I was bowling and I thought I did pretty well; I hit four pins down. I turned around all happy. I looked behind me and three people (from L'Arche) were sitting booing me.

Q: Any advice for students who are interested in service trips but still on the fence about committing?

A: Yes. I say like Nike, ‘Just do it,’ and don't say no. I'm someone who has a lot of apprehensions about new things. However, I think if I hadn't gone on this trip, my life wouldn't be going on the route it's on. I think it really has changed me for the better. Whatever service trip you go on, it is meant for you; the service trip finds you. I think if anybody has apprehensions, just go into it with an open mind and heart and really just dive right into it.

Q: Do you plan to participate on more service trips with CSSJ?

A: Yes, absolutely! I definitely hope to do more service trips in the future.

Read about CSSJ intersession domestic service trips to Florida, Phoenix and Washington, D.C.

Students in The University of Scranton’s cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity master's program are on the cutting edge of financial fraud detection and ransomware research, as detailed in a series of articles on the University’s graduate admissions website.

Julia Ciaccio ’27, a double major in cybercrime/homeland security and criminal justice who is also pursuing a cybersecurity master’s degree through Scranton’s accelerated BS/MS program, was among the featured students.

Ciaccio worked alongside Ismail Onat, Ph.D., associate professor, to investigate ATM and point-of-sale skimming, a growing and costly form of cyber-enabled financial crime. Together, Ciaccio and Dr. Onat used emerging prevention tools to analyze offender profiles and track system vulnerabilities. Ciaccio’s work, which included evaluating existing countermeasures and proposing forward-looking solutions, earned national recognition. She presented a research paper at the annual conference of the American Society of Criminology.

“I never imagined that a semester paper would be picked up and turned into a publication,” Ciaccio said. “This opportunity has significantly improved my academic confidence, enhanced my research skills and deepened my understanding of cybercrime.”

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Another featured student was Buse Onat ’26, a triple major in cybercrime/homeland security, criminal justice and philosophy. Like Ciaccio, Onat is also pursuing a master’s in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity through the University’s accelerated program.

Partnering with Sinchul Back, Ph.D., associate professor, Onat explored how digital guardianship — from secure passwords to AI-driven anomaly detection — reduces fraud risk in credit card transactions. Onat and Dr. Back’s hands-on research included studying more than 568,000 anonymized credit card transactions.

“Working with Dr. Back has been one of the best parts of my time at Scranton,” Onat said. “It gave me real research experience and showed me how classroom knowledge applies to real problems. …

“That perspective has helped me think more critically and practically as a grad student.”

While Ciaccio and Onat are simultaneously managing rigorous undergraduate and graduate work, Noah Mumma ’25 is a recent graduate who is solely pursuing a master’s degree in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity.

Working closely with Dr. Onat, Mumma has conducted outside-the-box research on cybercriminals’ behaviors and motivations. These individuals, Mumma said, often target states with higher median household incomes and greater internet access.

“This suggests cybercriminals are more concerned with overall income and digital connectivity than physical infrastructure,” Mumma said.

Ciaccio, Onat and Mumma are entering a growing field, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a projected 29% increase in security analyst jobs from 2024 to 2034.

According to the most recent Roche Family Center for Career Development’s Class of 2024 First Destination Survey, University of Scranton cybercrime and homeland security majors entered the field with an average starting salary of $70,122. Graduate students who earned master’s degrees in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity had an average starting salary of $82,710.

“Scranton’s program stands out because it teaches not only technical skills to defend against cyberattacks, but also computer crime law and cybercrime criminology,” Mumma said. “This gives students a lot more experience with different roles they can eventually apply for.”

For more information, please visit the University’s cybercrime and homeland security undergraduate page and the University’s cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity master’s program webpage.

Students from The University of Scranton traveled to communities across the United States in January for domestic service trips organized by the University's Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ).

Each trip was led by a peer facilitator, individuals who played a leadership role and supported their fellow students throughout the experience. Their efforts combined direct service with opportunities to build relationships and reflect on issues such as homelessness, poverty and access to resources.

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Patrick George '26, a graduate operations and supply chain management student from Endwell, New York, helped lead a group of seven students and three chaperones to Washington, D.C. The volunteers partnered with organizations supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

The Royals worked primarily with the Father McKenna Center, assisting with meal preparation, organizing donations and building relationships with clients.

Connecting with the people they served was the greatest emphasis of their work in D.C. “It was our goal to remind the clients of their humanity and give them genuine human connection and relationship,” George said.

Students also volunteered with We Are Family and the Catholic Worker, distributing food and supplies and participating in outreach throughout the city.

Daily reflections rooted in the Jesuit Examen helped students process their experiences and remain focused on four themes: presence, patience, perspective and moving forward.

According to George, the relationships formed during the week had the greatest impact. "There was a genuine exchange of love in both directions."

The experience had a lasting impact on George, particularly in his career discernment.

“This trip to D.C. solidified to me that I can do the most amount of good by working at a place like the Father McKenna Center,” he said. "Since coming back from this trip, I have committed myself to finding a job where I can lead people and serve the marginalized in a manner that glorifies God."

 

Rachel Alesso '27, a counseling and human services major from Manasquan, New Jersey, facilitated a service trip to Phoenix focused on supporting mothers experiencing homelessness.

The group partnered with Maggie's Place, an organization that provides housing and support for pregnant women and mothers with newborns. Seven students and two chaperones participated.

Each day, students visited homes, shown above, assisting with cleaning, organizing donations and preparing meals while spending time with residents.

Alesso said the experience deepened her understanding of poverty, particularly during a simulation that required students to navigate public transportation to access social services.

She noted that small acts of service often carried the greatest meaning.

“What stands out most is how something small like cooking dinner for a home felt deeply meaningful,” Alesso said. “Knowing it made the mom's night a little easier showed me the power of simple service.”

Since returning to campus, Alesso said the trip has influenced her professional goals.

“I can truly see myself working as an in-house counselor for an organization like Maggie’s Place and helping mothers rebuild their lives,” she said.

 

Peer facilitator Luke Flanagan '27, a business administration major from Pearl River, New York, led a trip to Florida to work with Habitat for Humanity. 

At two Habitat ReStore locations in Charlotte County, students sorted clothing and organized donations.

Flanagan guided a group, shown above, of six students and two chaperones who spent the week assisting with multiple housing projects in Charlotte County, Florida. Service activities included painting interiors and exteriors of homes, completing finishing touches such as baseboards and doors, and helping raise walls and install plywood sheathing for a new home build. The students also sorted clothing and organized donations at two Habitat ReStore locations.

On one of the final days, students met the future homeowners whose house they helped construct. The impact of their work stood out the most to Flanagan.

Leading nightly reflections challenged him to grow as a leader while drawing on the principles of his Jesuit education.

“I learned that leadership is not about being the loudest in the room, but more about listening and asking thoughtful questions,” Flanagan said.

He added that the shared experience of service strengthened the group’s sense of community.

“The week of living, serving and reflecting together created a level of trust and vulnerability that doesn’t always happen on campus,” Flanagan said.

Flanagan's experience has deepened his awareness of housing insecurity and commitment to serving those in need.

“I’ve become more aware of the realities of housing insecurity, and it’s pushed me to think beyond temporary service and toward long-term impact,” he said.

The domestic service trips are designed to immerse students in impactful community-based service while encouraging reflection rooted in Jesuit values.

A fourth domestic service trip to Syracuse, New York, will be highlighted in an article scheduled for publication in an upcoming issue. In this piece, student correspondent Marcus Smith '27 interviews peer facilitator Marissa Manzo '28 about her group’s experience serving in the Syracuse community.

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

Stepping foot into the Royal Theater in the McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts, the bustle of urban downtown Scranton gives way to the small backwoods town of Gilead, Wisconsin, for the spring musical “The Spitfire Grill.” 

The musical, written by James Valcq and Fred Alley, tells the story of a young parolee named Percy who helps bring new life to the dying town when she takes a job at the titular Spitfire Grill diner. 

The Players will perform "The Spitfire Grill" on Friday, Feb. 27; Saturday, Feb. 28; Sunday, March 1; Friday, March 6; Saturday, March 7; and Sunday, March 8. The Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m. and the Sunday shows are at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for general admission or $7 for students and faculty/staff and can be bought online or at the door.

Michael O’Steen, MFA, associate professor and the musical’s director, said the themes of found family and acceptance are more important in 2026 than ever.

“We see several broken families in the Spitfire Grill and they find a new family to fit into,” O’Steen said. “It’s also about accepting those who are different, people who are different from us, who might have iffy backgrounds that we can write off as the Other.”

O’Steen described The Spitfire Grill as “an intimate, lovely musical” that he especially enjoyed because it is an ensemble piece.

“Every actor in the show plays a significant character, carries significant vocals and significant scenes and themes,” he explained. “It’s a challenge for these young actors who want to improve as actors, designers or directors or theater technicians. The Players use everything as a learning tool and I think it's great.”

Devon Donnelly '29, an advertising and public relations major from Chester, New Jersey, plays Percy Talbott in her debut with the University of Scranton Players, but already has become comfortable with the company.

“I'm very fortunate to have friends in the cast that are my age that I talk to, so it's easing me into this new experience…I feel like I found my groove,” she said.

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Donnelly explained how important her character’s story of recovery and healing is for people to witness.

“It’s a tale of power and perseverance. She took a terrible hand she was dealt in life, and she was able to turn that around and make herself a new life with new friends and a whole entire new family,” she said. “It's important for people in this day and age to really look back and reflect that no matter what happened to you, no matter what you've gone through, you can always make light of any situation and always try to find something new for yourself.”

She also said that working in the company’s professional environment has been unlike any experience she has had before in the theater.

“It’s more in-depth and the type of musical we are doing is much more heavy,” she said. “I got a chance to take on something big and do something that almost feels too challenging, but I feel like I'll be able to do it. I'm just excited.”

The company features Scranton students Donnelly of Chester, New Jersey; Lauren DeSantis of Long Island, New York; Gabriella Palmer of Phoenixville; Cassidy Pfeiffer of Old Forge; Alexander Smulowitz of Shavertown; Marcus Smith of Schuylkill Haven and James Stensland of Huntington, New York.

For more information, contact the University Players box office at 570-941-4318 or visit the Players on Instagram @scranton_players.

The University of Scranton Players bring exceptional theatre to Northeastern Pennsylvania every season. The Players’ productions feature University of Scranton students in a mix of classical and contemporary works under the direction and mentorship of award-winning faculty and guest artists.

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This spring, student teachers from The University of Scranton are performing their duties at numerous classrooms across public and private schools in the Greater Scranton Area. 

In total, 14 undergraduate and seven graduate students will serve and gain valuable experience at primary and secondary schools in the Dunmore, North Pocono, Riverside and Scranton School Districts, as well as at Scranton Preparatory School and with Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit No. 19 and the Diocese of Scranton. 

Below is a list of the undergraduate and graduate students who are serving local schools as student teachers:

Bridget Basile, of Rockville Centre, New York, will teach at Moscow Elementary Center

Alessandra Bellino, of Schwenksville, will teach at Dunmore Junior/Senior High School

Chloe Colozza, of Old Forge, will teach at Riverside Junior/Senior High School

Sean Comiskey, of Dublin, Ireland, will teach at Dunmore Junior/Senior High School

Paige Conflitti, of Moosic, will teach at Isaac Tripp Elementary School

Gretchen Haray, of Haworth, New Jersey, will teach at Moscow Elementary Center

James Kane, of White Plains, New York, will teach at Riverside Junior/Senior High School

Faith Kwasnik, of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, will teach at Charles Sumner Elementary School

Alexis Maese, of Marlton, New Jersey, will teach at Riverside Junior/Senior High School

James McGrath, of Dunmore, will teach at Scranton Preparatory School

Jessica Middleman, of Huntingdon Valley, will teach at John F. Kennedy Elementary School

Alexis Nardella, of South Setauket, New York, will teach at the SOAR Program

Anthony Normile, of Lindenhurst, New York, will teach at Dunmore Junior/Senior High School

Emma O’Hara, of Commack, New York, will teach at Dunmore Learning Center

Timothy Prothero, of Scranton, will teach at Riverside Junior/Senior High School

Julia Santacreu, of Westbury, New York, will teach at Riverside Junior/Senior High School

Molly Schollenberger, of Sayville, New York, will teach at Dunmore Junior/Senior High School

Katherine Smith, of Sparta, New Jersey, will teach at Scranton High School

Ryan Sophabmixay, of Scranton, will teach at West Scranton High School

Somer Walsh, of Scranton, will teach at St. Clare/St. Paul School

Stevie Wilkinson, of Moscow, will teach at Dunmore Junior/Senior High School

More than 1,750 students were named to The University of Scranton’s Dean’s List for the 2025 fall semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours during the semester to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, Kania School of Management and the Leahy College of Health Sciences.

A list of students making the fall 2025 Dean’s List can be seen here.

The following students were added to The University of Scranton Dean’s List for the spring 2025 semester after publication of the list in June of 2025.

The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence during the 2025 spring semester. A student must have a grade point average of 3.5 or better with a minimum number of credit hours to make the Dean’s List. The list includes students from the Jesuit university’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Kania School of Management and the Leahy College of Health Sciences.

Students added to the spring 2025 Dean’s List are:

Sarah E. Baker, Yardley;

Nicholas L. Carr, Clarks Summit;

Carson L. Salvatore, Philadelphia;

Melissa J. Schweizer, Sparta, New Jersey.

Sheldon Myers ʼ26 is a biochemistry major on the pre-med track from Downingtown who recently presented cross-disciplinary research discussing the intersectionality of video games, method acting and theater at the Mid-Atlantic Popular American Culture Association (MAPACA) Conference. The conference was held in November in Philadelphia.

Myers' presentation represents a special interest of his, stemming from a class he took on drama in the United States with Hank Willenbrink, Ph.D., professor of English and theatre at The University of Scranton. Although Myers' presentation at MAPACA in Philadelphia was not a complete research project, it gave him feedback and inspiration for future projects.

Myers is also involved in organic chemistry research and plays various intramural sports at Scranton.

He recently sat down with Royal News student correspondent Marcus Smith '27 to discuss his research and the video game industry.

 

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Q: The research you presented actually came from a final project for a drama class. What did you put together for that final project?

A: I had a final for Dr. Willenbrink's class where there were two or three prompts you could choose from. I suggested this project where I looked at the intersections among video games, theatricality and method acting. Concisely, I'd say the project suggests that video games are a new kind of medium that, through their interactive aspect, are uniquely suited to convey a type of narrative empathy that all forms of media like literature and theater serve to communicate. Because of the interactive aspect of video games where the player ideally feels that they're the ones making the decisions, or at least that they agree with the decisions that they're kind of pushed to make by that agency, the narrative empathy that they experience is deepened.

Q: How did you end up bringing this class project to the MAPACA?

A: I finished it for the final, and I didn't really feel like I was quite done with it. And particularly, I noticed that people had only really discussed this topic tangentially, which is exciting because I have the opportunity to break the ice on it. There's some work discussing whether video games can be a form of art, especially in the 2010s when they were much newer, and discussing their place in society’s conception of art, but there really isn't much looking into this aspect of them. So, with this interest, Dr. Willenbrink suggested I get some feedback at that conference, so I presented and heard people’s feedback about it.

Q: What was that experience like: Having a project that you're working on get accepted to be presented at the conference, and then putting it out there in the world?

A: Despite the work I've done here with chemistry, I haven't presented at a conference before. So, I wasn't sure what to expect, especially because the only work that I presented previously was a poster presentation. This was a speech I gave to a group, so the format was certainly different and something that I had to prepare for, but it was interesting. I got a lot of good feedback from people much more knowledgeable in the field than I was, who could point me toward some good resources.

Q: Was there any particular feedback that stood out to you?

A: One person gave me a bunch of good resources to read for my own project, which was very helpful since he had a similar interest. I haven’t gotten through reading all of them, so I'm not sure I can pick out one particular piece. But their feedback was helpful to ground my ideas in the current climate of the field, and I enjoyed listening to all the other people's presentations in that section.

 

Q: What did the development of this project look like from those early stages in class, to where it is now?

A: A lot of trimming it down. That was definitely the hardest part for me. I have a tendency as a writer to try to put it all out there and see what sticks, but that's not great when you have to give a speech in a time limit. There were a lot of aspects that I would have liked to present about, but just didn't have the time. I also had to figure out how to condense more complex ideas that I might have one or two pages of explanation for into a couple sentences to quickly get that point across.

Q: Where do you see this going in the future, and how are you planning to achieve that if you have any plans at this moment in time?

A: Most of the work that I've written so far is defending the position that some types of video games are this kind of interactive theatrical experience and that deepens narrative empathy. From what I can tell, people largely agree. I'd like to move on to talking about or trying to look into how we might be able to write or direct video games, what aspects of them we should focus on in order to catalyze the maturation of the form from what it is now into a more narrative-driven medium. In similar ways, we've seen past forms of media go from kind of “lower” forms of media, to “higher” forms of media. In the U.S., theater went from a hedonic pleasure in vaudeville-era theater to a more introspective, “higher media” with the trend toward realism. I would love to play a part in catalyzing a similar trajectory with video games.

Q: What do you think are some of the biggest struggles that we might have in reaching this point of creating video games that are genuine art? How would you overcome them?

A: A significant barrier is the amount of labor that's required to make something that big. In the digital stage of a video game, it's such an enormous world that creating something that's able to deterministically or otherwise guide a player through a narrative is so labor-intensive. Certainly, some games seem to have been able to do that, such as the first "Portal" game or "Subnautica."

Q: How has the University helped with this project?

A: I've worked a lot with Dr. Willenbrink, who's been very helpful in the project. I think the class that I took with Dr. Willenbrink helped me learn to unpack the narratives in the pieces we read. I gained a lot of writing skills from my other classes, as well.

Q: Is there any advice you'd like to give to anybody who might be reading this, students or otherwise?

A: Research doesn't have to be focused on exploring a state-of-the-art procedure, reaction or phenomenon; it only needs to be a novel topic you're interested in exploring. It's often those topics that yield more productive results than those driven just by the allure of working on the cutting edge. So, if there's a topic you're interested in exploring, even if it seems to be out of your wheelhouse, consider turning that interest and thought into a more productive pursuit by creating something that can be shared and published to add to the discussion you're interested in.

“El Salvador is a country full of history, poets, celebrations, and festivals. No matter where you come from, you are welcomed as if you belong. Beyond the headlines, there are countless Salvadorans who have made meaningful contributions to art, culture, science, and community, driven by pride in their roots and love for their people. That is the El Salvador I hope others get to know..” - Jaime Serrano '27

Global Insights travels the world this semester with delicious, fun and educational programming! Jaime Serrano '27, software engineering major, will present the first spring Global Insights event on Tuesday, Feb. 10, beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509. 

All students, staff, and faculty are invited to the free lunch-and-learn program. Cultural cuisine will be provided. Registration is required.

Global Insights interviewed Serrano about his upcoming presentation.

What interesting fact about El Salvador would you like the audience to learn more about during your presentation?

One fascinating and lesser-known aspect of El Salvador is how the Izalco Volcano, once known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific,” remained active for over 200 years and literally guided ships along the Pacific coast at night due to its constant eruptions.

Another remarkable story is Joya de Cerén, often called the “Pompeii of the Americas,” a pre-Hispanic village preserved under volcanic ash that offers an incredibly intimate look into everyday life over 1,400 years ago.

What is your favorite activity in El Salvador that you will share in the presentation?

One of my favorite activities in El Salvador is hiking and exploring mountains and small towns throughout the country. I especially enjoy combining this with discovering local food, since each region has its own traditional dishes and flavors. El Salvador is incredibly rich in both gastronomy and natural trails.

What do you miss most about being in El Salvador?

Without hesitation, what I enjoy and miss the most about El Salvador is the food. The country is full of incredible dishes, from fresh seafood to grilled meats and traditional desserts. What I miss the most are the seafood dishes and panes con gallina guisada, which are deeply tied to family gatherings and celebrations.

Where is your favorite place to visit?

I have two places I never get tired of visiting. One is the Port of La Libertad (shown on bottom), because of its vibrant atmosphere and incredible seafood. The other is the mountainous region, especially places like El Boquerón Volcano (shown here), and the Ruta de las Flores, a collection of colorful towns full of life, festivals, music, and amazing food both day and night.

Briefly describe the people and culture. What values or traditions help to shape both?

If I had to describe Salvadorans in one phrase, I would say we are people with “hardworking hands and open-door hearts.” We are a small country in size, but with a resilience and warmth that cannot be measured on any map. Hospitality without discrimination, a strong sense of family, humor in both good and difficult times, and a deep respect for work are values that strongly shape our culture.

“We are small in territory, but immense in resilience, warmth, and heart,” said Serrano.

Register for El Salvador Feb. 10

This program is sponsored by The Office of Global Education and co-hosted with the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX, the Cultural Centers and Office of Residence Life.

For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.

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The 35th Annual Evening for Northeast Pennsylvania’s Environmental Partnership dinner once again emphasized partnership, environmental stewardship and community collaboration. It was a night filled with inspiration and celebration, recognizing the individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact across the region. The event honored a variety of groups dedicated to conservation, education and sustainability, all demonstrating that anyone can contribute to protecting our natural world.

Students, professionals, and environmental advocates from across the region gathered to share ideas and celebrate achievements. Many attendees from local universities found the event particularly motivating, as it showcased the collective power of community-driven environmental action. Carolyn McNamara Barry, Ph.D., Daniel Marenda, Dr. Terrance Sweeney, Dr. Christopher Howey and Mr. Mark Murphy represented the University of Scranton, engaging with award recipients and emphasizing the importance of integrating education and sustainability in the region’s future.

University of Scranton student Jordon Wagner received this year’s Emerging Environmental Leader Award, recognizing his exceptional commitment to sustainability and campus engagement. Reflecting on the honor, Wagner shared:

“I take great pride in being an environmental steward for our university and regional community, and I felt truly honored to be recognized as this year's Emerging Leader. My experience at the Pennsylvania Environmental Council dinner was incredibly positive, as it offered meaningful conversations, valuable networking opportunities, and a shared appreciation for environmental values.”

Throughout the evening, a strong focus on partnership underscored the importance of collaboration between local organizations, government agencies, and community members. Informational tables and displays allowed guests to learn about local environmental projects, conservation initiatives, and potential internship opportunities. These interactive exhibits encouraged students to connect with professionals and explore future pathways in sustainability.

Attendees left with a powerful message: meaningful environmental progress is achieved through shared effort, education, and long-term commitment. Students and faculty from The University of Scranton expressed pride in joining regional leaders and organizations dedicated to advancing environmental excellence and stewardship.

Groups and individuals honored at the 35th Annual Environmental Partnership:

• Back Mountain Bloomers Garden Club (Luzerne County)

• Crestwood High School Enviro Club (Luzerne County)

• Friends of Salt Springs Park (Susquehanna County)

• Lackawanna State Park Trail Crew (Lackawanna County)

• Watershed Coalition of the Lehigh Valley (Lehigh County)

• Pennsylvania American Water – Wonderful World of Water Summer Camp (Lackawanna County)

• Jordon Wagner, University of Scranton – Emerging Environmental Leader Award (Lackawanna County)

• John Maday – 35th Annual Thomas P. Shelburne Environmental Leadership Award (Luzerne County)

Get all the details about the 35th Annual Northeast Dinner Celebrates Environmental Excellence and Partnership

After receiving an undergraduate degree in his native country of India, Mohan Reddy Palle arrived at The University of Scranton — sight unseen — with big dreams.

Palle first stepped on campus one week before classes started in the fall of 2024. Before setting foot in the classroom to pursue a master’s degree in accounting analytics, however, he needed to learn a few things: everything from guidance on documentation to tips about American culture and advice on winter clothing.

“We didn’t see snow back in India,” Palle said on a particularly freezing afternoon, reaching into his pocket for one of the most practical items he uses in Scranton. “Here’s my ChapStick.”

Palle is one of a handful of international students who will graduate this month, capping a journey of discovery and adaptation largely aided by the University’s Office of Global Education.

“A lot of times, they’re arriving the week before classes begin and trying to settle into their apartment, getting everything they need for their apartment, everything they need for their classes and they need to be able to start classes right away,” said Crystal Cool, manager of international student and scholar services. “It’s a lot. They’re hitting the ground running in a completely different culture and climate.”

The Office of Global Education held a farewell gathering earlier this month at its offices in O’Hara Hall. Palle attended with some friends also from India. The University serves 200-plus international students from about 20 countries.

In addition to helping international students settle into their new surroundings, the Office of Global Education organizes trips throughout the academic year and keeps in contact with students through the summer months to ensure they’re on track for a successful transition.

“We’ve gotten to see a lot of cultures, a lot of people, met a lot of friends from other countries,” said Pardhu Meka, a business analytics graduate student. “Meeting all the people and learning about their interests and cultures — it’s given me more knowledge to understand people, how they think, their vision. I got the best chance here to explore the U.S, the people and their cultures.”

The cultural exchange Meka and his classmates experienced goes beyond campus.

Sai Prabhu Siddabathini, a health administration graduate student, pointed out that he’s traveled to New York City, Philadelphia and Atlantic City and will travel this month to Miami.

For all the fun he’s had off campus, though, Siddabathini, who previously held a government job in India, said the highlight of his time in Scranton has been working in a pharmacy residency program at the University’s Edward R. Leahy Jr. Clinic for the Uninsured.

“I feel proud about that because we are serving those who are really in need and they’re getting the perfect care in the pharmacy center,” Siddabathini said.

Palle, Meka, Siddabathini and their classmates interviewed all hope to take advantage of Post - Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), a temporary employment authorization allowing students on an F-1 student visa to gain real-world work experience related to their field of study, with Scranton serving as a stepping stone to their budding careers.

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

The University of Scranton takes pride in its students’ academic excellence, which is made possible in large part by dedicated high school teachers. Three such educators were honored last month for contributing to Scranton students’ academic success.

Selected students and teachers were presented on Dec. 3 with Rose Kelly Awards in a special ceremony at the Weinberg Memorial Library.

The Rose Kelly Award was established by University of Scranton alumnus Joseph Wineburgh, Ph.D., to link the efforts of educators to the achievements of college students. The award is presented jointly to a student in each of the University’s colleges who has completed two years at Scranton and to the teacher he or she recognizes as having a great impact in his or her life. Students are selected based on exemplary achievement in both academics and general campus involvement.

College of Arts and Sciences

Katie Carrea, of Glenn Mills, received the Rose Kelly Award for the College of Arts and Sciences. She honored William Wells, her emergency medical technician (EMT) teacher at Bayard Rustin Technical College High School, who taught her what it meant to work in the healthcare field. A dean’s list student, Carrea is a junior mathematical sciences major on a pre-medical track. On campus, she is a math tutor, member of the women’s crew team and attends CrossFit. She also volunteers with Students Together Achieving Remarkable Success (S.T.A.R.S.) and works as an EMT for Pennsylvania Ambulance.

Kania School of Management 

Rebecca Boyle, of Sugarloaf, received the Rose Kelly Award for the Kania School of Management. She honored Patricia Patton, her business education teacher at Marian Catholic High School, who taught her about the fundamentals of finance, marketing and investments and pushed her to reach her full potential. A dean’s list student, Boyle is a junior business administration major. She has worked as an intern for SL Green Realty Corp., the City of Scranton, the Advocacy Alliance and Mountain View Real Estate. She also founded the Lovely Lemon Digital Design and has served twice as team captain for the PwC case competition. Boyle was the chief marketing officer at Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week and placed in the top 5% nationally in the Beta Bowl Competition. On campus, she is the marketing chair for Kania Women in Business and is a member of the entrepreneurship club, Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program, Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program and Omega Beta Sigma Women’s Business Honor Society.

Leahy College of Health Sciences 

Sarah Lyons received the Rose Kelly Award for the Leahy College of Health Sciences. She honored Jennifer McAndrew who was her chemistry and honors chemistry teacher at Holy Cross High School. A dean’s list student, Lyons is a junior nursing major and is in the accelerated Master of Family Nursing program. She works as a per diem nurse assistant for Geisinger Community Medical Center, where she also served as an intern. She volunteers with Hospice of the Sacred Heart and at The University of Scranton’s open house. On campus, she is a spin instructor, completed a community-based learning project by leading and volunteering with the Nursing Department’s Period Poverty Project and also has previously served as a peer health educator with the Center for Health Education and Wellness.

Marcus Smith '27, Schuylkill Haven, is an English and theatre double major at Scranton.

During the University of Scranton’s week of Veterans Day observances, the ROTC program and the Student Veterans Organization (SVO) partnered to host a meaningful service initiative known as the “We Care” meal event. Led in part by SVO President Melany Ortiz, a sophomore forensic chemistry major, the project brought students together to support local veterans facing challenging circumstances.

Volunteers taking time to connect with veterans and learn more about the support programs offered at St. Francis Commons.

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Ortiz played a central role in coordinating the event, helping plan the menu and assisting the organizer in any way needed. For her, the experience was not only a chance to lead but also a reminder of the community-driven mission at the heart of the SVO. “It shows that we care for our community and the veterans that are going through hard times,” she said. “There are people out there willing to take time out of their busy schedules and do something for someone in need.”

The event strongly reflected the values of service, compassion and the Jesuit commitment to caring for others. For Ortiz, serving veterans holds personal meaning. She noted the importance of giving back to those who have served, acknowledging that anyone may someday need support themselves. “Giving back to veterans will always be a goal for me to do in whatever way I can,” she said.

By the end of the initiative, students had prepared 60 meals: 30 were delivered to St. Francis Commons and another 30 to the Community Intervention Center (CIC). At St. Francis Commons, participants had the opportunity to speak with a resident veteran and see firsthand the living spaces provided through the center’s two-year supportive program.

Through the “We Care” meal event, Scranton’s ROTC and SVO reaffirmed their dedication to honoring veterans not only with words, but through meaningful action and service.

 

The University of Scranton Lady Royals on Sunday recorded one of the greatest wins in the rich history of the women’s basketball program.

Ranked No. 2 in the NCAA Division III ranks, according to the D3hoops.com preseason poll, the Lady Royals traveled to play at the University of Pittsburgh and beat the Panthers, 69-63.

Numerous national media outlets have covered the Lady Royals' win, including ESPN, Bleacher Report and The New York Times, whose sports website, The Athletic, reported on the historic nature of the result.

"According to the NCAA media coordination team in charge of record-keeping," the website said, "the victory is the first-ever power-conference loss to a D-III team in collegiate women's basketball history."

Elizabeth Bennett ’27, a 5-foot-11 center from Staten Island, New York, was Scranton’s leading scorer with 15 points and five rebounds.

Bennett reflected below, as told to University communications, on the rare experience of playing against a Division I ACC opponent — and the even more remarkable feat of beating that team.

 

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One of the hallmarks of our team is that we are steady.

If we are on a run, if the other team is on a run — and it’s inevitable, basketball is a sport of runs — it doesn’t matter. We just want to stay as steady as possible, no matter the circumstances.

On Sunday, the circumstances were evident on the scoreboard. We were up 10 at halftime. We were down six after three quarters. And even though we were playing against a great opponent in an amazing arena, we just had to remind ourselves to stay steady.

The opponent, of course, was Pitt. We were back on campus this fall for two or three weeks when we got the news that we’d be playing Pitt. We were all really excited but a little nervous, too.

And the arena was the Petersen Events Center. Last year, we had a winter tournament at Daytona Beach, Florida, and that was the biggest arena I’d ever played in. It was more of a convention center, though, so getting to play at Pitt was going to be special.

A couple days before the game, we went over film and stats. We knew we’d be at a size disadvantage. However, even going back to travel basketball, you play against bigger girls all the time and just have to remind yourself that this is something you’ve done before.

When we got on the bus Saturday morning at 7 a.m., I definitely had some nerves bouncing around. We knew it would be a great opportunity to play against good competition, no matter if we won or lost.

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When the game finally tipped off on Sunday, we all reminded ourselves to stay in the moment.

“Just play how you usually play,” I told myself.

Like I said before, basketball is a game of runs and Pitt had a huge one in the third quarter. That’s when we all huddled up, collected ourselves and got back in our rhythm.

“Just play how you usually play,” I reminded myself again.

We had the final run, winning the fourth quarter, 25-13, and the game, 69-63.

It was a bit of a shock, even to us. The whole experience just didn’t feel real.

We checked our phones after the game and all had gotten so many texts, videos and pictures from everyone watching the game at their houses and in their dorms. Everybody’s talking about it on social media. We feel an immense amount of support from everybody at Scranton, including our professors, who have been reaching out and congratulating us.

Sunday was a confidence booster. We have confidence in ourselves — and we should have confidence in ourselves. We can achieve big things if we put our minds to it.

We’re not done yet, though, and I hope you can come cheer us on at the Long Center for some of our upcoming games. It’s a long season and it’s just getting started.

 

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Bennett was one of four Lady Royals in double-figures scoring Sunday, joined by Sophia Talutto (14 points), Katie Gorski (11 points, 10 rebounds) and Meghan Lamanna (11 points). Kaeli Romanowski added nine points and eight rebounds. The Lady Royals’ first home game in Landmark Conference play is 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, against Goucher College.

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

University of Scranton students from all cultures and backgrounds celebrated their heritage Friday, Nov. 14, at the annual International Fashion Show co-hosted by the United Cultures Organization (UCO) and Asia Club.

Under thematic blue lighting, 42 Scranton students walked the catwalk as models in Friday night’s event, sporting clothes inspired by the 1980s, '90s and the 2000s.

In addition to the wide variety of clothes on display, the evening also included various regional foods during intermission, a dance performance by the University’s Urban Beats Crew and a musical performance by Berline Louis-Jacques ʼ27, who sang “Creep” by Radiohead.

 

Fabyan Georges ʼ26, president of the UCO, is proud that the event dramatically highlighted what the UCO stands for as one of the largest clubs on campus.

“People are able to showcase cultural exchange, diversity and where they're really from," Georges said. "This is an event that is able to showcase that at its greatest and being able to show that the Scranton community is able to come together and showcase that we are not a school of students who are different, but students who can come together, unite and be all alike as we are all humans.”

He is also proud of the effect the fashion show has on the student body as a whole.

“People who join in are typically scared and not sure if they're ready. Once they rip that Band-Aid off, it's an event that is full of excitement and fun,” Georges said.

The final part of the show was the evening’s highlight: Rep Your Flag, an opportunity for students to display their countries' flags. Students whose cultural heritage spanned 15 countries took part in the section, wearing vibrant outfits reflecting the cultures they come from.

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For Lauren DeSantis ʼ26, president of the Asia Club, the fashion show is a way to encourage future students to share pride in their own distinct cultures.

“I am passing along the joy that I felt from being able to represent China, a country and region that I'm so proud of. I want people to continue to share that joy, because it really is one of the most uniting moments on this campus,” DeSantis said.

Not only is the annual fashion show a major tradition for the cultural clubs at The University of Scranton, it is also a business opportunity for local fashion designers. 

This year, the fashion show featured pieces by Aesthetic, a designer from Wilkes-Barre, and LeftWorldwide, run by Scranton alum Sohail Shareef ʼ25.

LeftWorldwide’s clothes are a celebration of graffiti culture and subcultural art.

"It feels like a moment where the underground world I grew up loving finally connects with the mainstream and I’m proud to represent that journey,” Shareef said.

While many of the participants are upperclassmen, the fashion show also was an important event for freshmen and sophomores, as well.

Deena Kahn ʼ28, social media coordinator for the Asia Club, participated in the fashion show for the first time Friday, representing India.

Kahn was thrilled to boost her own confidence, as well as the confidence of others by walking in the show.

“I feel like walking down the runway is going to help me with my own confidence," Kahn said. "I also hope it teaches others that we're all beautiful in our own way and that you don't need to walk a runway to feel beautiful."

Marcus Smith '27, Schuylkill Haven, is an English and theatre double major at Scranton.

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The possibilities within data science are endless and evolving, constantly being pushed by new technological advancements. Professionals earn an average of $112,000-plus per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which projects a 34% increase in jobs from 2024 to 2034.

However, as with many mathematics- or science-related fields, its complexities could overwhelm a beginning student.

“Sometimes, data sets could be very ugly, very hard to manage,” said Joseph Klobusicky, Ph.D., associate professor of mathematics at The University of Scranton.

That’s where an event like Data Science Day proves useful.

This year’s Data Science Day was held Thursday, Nov. 13, at the DeNaples Center. Thirty-five students from five high schools — Abington Heights, Carbondale Area, Holy Cross, Mid Valley, Scranton Prep — participated in the second annual event, which provided them with hands-on instruction and programming practice on powerful tools used for data-driven analysis in various industries.

“I’m elated,” Dr. Klobusicky, the organizer of the event, said of its turnout. “As we all know, AI is the big thing that’s coming. Having a command of topics like data science really helps you understand a lot of the topics of computer science. It’s good to give them a head start on these types of the topics.”

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Among the student volunteers from the University was John DiMattio ’29, a computer science major from Jefferson Township. Last year, DiMattio was a competitor at the event in his senior year at Scranton Prep.

“I did it last year because I like to code, so I wanted to use another coding language and see what data science is like,” DiMattio said. “It gave me an insight to what this is, especially since I have to take data structure next year. So, it kind of gives a little sneak peek into what I’m to expect as a computer science major.”

Data Science Day included data processing tutorials, individual and team competitions and a keynote address by Stephen Sorokanich, a Quantum Fellow with the Air Force Research Laboratory.

The competition offered a structured, beginner-friendly environment to learn high-demand skills that could be used to analyze and visualize complex data, create predictive models, identify unusual patterns and automate tasks, among other things.

Volunteering alongside DiMattio was Jackson Conti ’27, a computer science major from Pottstown.

“After I’d taken some data science classes with Dr. Klobusicky, I realized that this was something that I was extremely interested in. I wanted to help out where I could,” Conti said. “For me, (I’m interested in) the wide range of applications where you could apply data science. There’s no shortage of where you could apply it: sociology, philosophy, psychology, economics. There’s really nowhere you can’t apply it.”

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On Saturday, Nov. 22, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present a concert featuring the University’s Symphonic Band. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free and the concert is open to the public with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.

According to conductors Cheryl Y. Boga and Janelle Decker, the program will include a variety of symphonic band works including music by Malcolm Arnold, Eric Ewazen, the University’s late composer-in-residence Vaclav Nelhybel H’85, Robert Spittal, Joseph Turrin and Jan Van der Roost.

The University of Scranton Symphonic Band is a 70-plus member ensemble comprised of members of the University community from majors and departments spanning the curriculum. The vast majority of them are undergraduate students — none of whom are music majors — joined by a few graduate students and members of the faculty, staff and alumni, all brought together by their mutual love of music-making.

The primary focus of Performance Music at The University of Scranton is its student choral and instrumental performing ensembles. There is no major in music at the University. All enrolled Scranton students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible for membership in the University bands, University performance choirs, University string orchestra and ensembles and steel drum ensemble. A few members of the faculty and staff and alumni from the region also perform with the groups. Each year, hundreds of students participate in the ensembles.

For additional information on the concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit the Performance Music website.

 

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IF YOU GO:

What: IN CONCERT: The University of Scranton Symphonic Band, presented by Performance Music at The University of Scranton

When: Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton

Admission: Free

In an occasional series, Royal News spotlights clubs from the university’s 100+ student organizations on campus, speaks to members and offers information on how to connect with the clubs. 

To suggest a club for a future Royal News article, to share ideas or to inform us of any upcoming club events, please email RoyalNews@scranton.edu or Elizabeth.vanderneut@scranton.edu.

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By: Elizabeth Vander Neut, student correspondent

GET INVOLVED

Club: American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Meet: Ethan Distler '26, is a mechanical engineering major from Royersford.

Role in the Club: President 

Connect: @asme_uofs   

Q: Your club is one of many extracurricular opportunities at The University of Scranton. How does American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) stand out?

"ASME as a club ... exists purely to help enrich the (still new) mechanical engineering major. I’m part of the third graduating class of mechanical engineering and the first graduating class with the program officially accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc.) So, with a program still in its infancy, the officers and I wanted to make some sort of resource that would promote engagement. The electrical engineering major already has such a rich and involved alumni network and relationship with companies and other resources. We asked what was stopping the mechanical engineering major from developing an involved network early on."

Q: Why did you join the club? Why would you recommend someone join?

"Anyone should join if they’re interested in engineering. The beauty of engineering is how diverse it is. It is merely applied physics with an interest in design. Mechanical engineering happens to limit the scope to something mechanical. So, anyone who is interested in learning about how the world operates in terms of manufacturing, infrastructure, etc. should absolutely come to a meeting."

Q: What is the mission of ASME?

"From our constitution, the mission is this: 

1. Support the expansion and visibility of the Mechanical Engineering program with a club that participates in interscholastic competitions, networking opportunities, such as facility tours, and other off-campus activities, in addition to on-campus seminars, events and workshops. 

2. Provide students with the opportunity to engage in seminars with mechanical engineering graduates and industry professionals. 

3. Allow Mechanical Engineering students to explore post-graduate opportunities within their discipline, such as workshops, conferences and connections specific to the mechanical engineering fields.

4. Promote collaboration amongst mechanical engineering students to nurture an ME community essential for the expansion of the Mechanical Engineering Department.”

Q: What, in your opinion, are the most exciting events or activities you present as a club?

"Our national organization is ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers). They host design competitions and other events all year. Competing in one of these events is definitely going to be something we (the officers) start to look at."

Q: Please share the format of a typical meeting. How can someone interested in these meetings find out more?

"We’ve been doing meetings every other Tuesday from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Mechanical Engineering Suite in Hyland Hall. When you walk into the floor, the building is on your right. We’ve been meeting in the Mechanics of Materials Lab." 

Q: Any upcoming club plans for the fall semester? 

"12/2/2025 gingerbread weight competition."

Q: Any upcoming club plans for the fall semester? 

"I think that covers all of it! On behalf of the ASME Officers, we’d like to thank you for featuring us. Please stop in any time!"

"Japanese people value harmony, respect, and consideration for others...The idea of balance between old and new is what shapes our culture today."
- Fujita Kazumasa

Global Insights finishes fall semester with a presentation by ALLEX Foundation Japanese instructor, Fujita Kazumasa, who will present Japan, Thursday, Nov. 20, beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509.

All students, staff, and faculty are invited to the free lunch-and-learn program. Cultural cuisine will be provided. Registration is required.

What's one interesting fact about Japan you will discuss in your presentation?

I would like to share the Japanese idea of wabi-sabi, which means finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection. It reveals a lot about the Japanese way of thinking and appreciation of life.

What is your favorite activity in Japan?

I love visiting local festivals all around Japan. Each one has its own dance, music and food, and they really show community spirit and joy of Japanese culture.

What do you miss/enjoy most about being in Japan?

I miss Japanese food, especially, sushi.

Where is your favorite place to visit?

My favorite place to visit is Yakushima Island which is located in Kyushu area. It inspired the forest in "Princess Mononoke in Gibli" animation. The ancient cedar trees there make you feel the deep connection between nature and spirituality.

Briefly describe the people and culture. What values or traditions help to shape both?

Japanese people value harmony, respect and consideration for others. These values can be seen in everything - from how we speak to how we work and live together. The idea of balance between old and new is what shapes our culture today.

Register for Global Insights Japan.

This program is sponsored by the Office of Global Education and co-hosted with the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX, the Cultural Centers and Office of Residence Life.

For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.

Thirty-two members of The University of Scranton’s Class of 2029 enrolled in its prestigious Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program, one of the University’s five programs of excellence.

Students in this program complete four years of honors studies in economics, entrepreneurship, operations management, accounting, finance, international business, marketing and management, as well as a series of personal development extracurricular activities in service and career building.

The following members of Scranton’s Class of 2029 have begun their studies in the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program:

Benjamin D. Blum, Bethlehem, a finance major,

Harrison G. Braida, Hawley, a finance major,

Lorenzo Bucolo, Hopewell Junction, New York, an accounting major,

Sophia R. Burbridge, Hawley, an international business major,

Matthew J. Capra, Fairfield, New Jersey, a business administration major,

Luca V. Chiaramonte, Jenkintown, a finance major,

Andrew J. Czahor, Martinsville, New Jersey, a business analytics major,

Grayson J. Dueck, Washingtonville, New York, a finance major,

Erin V. Farrell, Sea Girt, New Jersey, a finance major,

Derek R. Graziano, Roseland, New Jersey, undeclared,

Lucas C. Griffin, Garden City, New York, a business administration major,

Nathaniel R. Gundling, Tunkhannock, a finance major,

Patrick J. Hansen, Neptune, New Jersey, a business administration major,

Jase T. Heffernan, Nesconset, New York, a marketing major,

Trevor T. Kerlin, Manahawkin, New Jersey, a finance major,

Allison R. Kipp, Pittston, a business analytics major,

Molly F. Lain, Media, undeclared,

Aidan E. Landers, Bethpage, New York, a finance major,

Ryan J. Lavin, Morristown, New Jersey, a business administration major,

Riley N. Lyons, Chalfont, a marketing major, 

Charlie J. Malloy, West Chester, a finance major,

Patrick K. McKenna, Jamison, a finance major,

Andrew B. Mohlenhoff, Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, an accounting major,

Vincent M. Nola, Washington Crossing, a finance major,

Kylee Noriega, Colts Neck, New Jersey, a finance major,

Kathryn H. OKane, Southampton, a business administration major,

Steven L. Penatzer, Pittston, a finance major,

James C. Scialla, Allentown, a finance major,

Eamonn H. Twomey, Rochelle Park, New Jersey, an accounting major,

Adria M. Vargas, Sayville, New York, undeclared,

Hailey R. Zambriski, Holbrook, New York, an accounting major, and

Christopher L. Zampirri, Philadelphia, an accounting major.

Aram R. Balagyozyan, Ph.D., associate professor of economics, finance and international business, serves as director of the University’s Corcione Business Honors Program.