The dawn of the 2026-27 academic year is just weeks away.

It's not too late, though, to celebrate the year that was, particularly as it relates to The University of Scranton's graduates of distinction in the University's prestigious honors and leadership programs.

Nearly 100 members of the Class of 2026 graduated from one of Scranton's programs of excellence.

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Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program

The Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program (SJLA) brings together students with an interdisciplinary curriculum rooted in the Jesuit tradition of intellectual excellence, critical inquiry, leadership and service.

This year, SJLA graduated 34 members.

Read the full list by following this link.

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University Honors Program

The University Honors Program challenges students through rigorous independent scholarship, close faculty mentorship and advanced inquiry that culminates in significant original research or creative work.

This year, the program graduated 31 members.

Read the full list by following this link.

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Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program

The Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program provides transformative leadership and service experiences designed to prepare students for exceptional professional success.

This year, the program graduated 19 members.

Read the full list by following this link.

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Magis Honors Program in STEM

The Magis Honors Program in STEM's interdisciplinary research experience fosters scholarly achievement and leadership in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics.

This year, the program graduated seven members.

Read the full list by following this link.

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Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program

The Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program provides high-achieving business students with a four-year experience that combines original research, professional development and leadership formation.

This year, the program graduated six members.

Read the full list by following this link.

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Additionally, 60 students were inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the national honor society for students in Jesuit colleges and universities. Juniors, senior and graduate students who have distinguished themselves in loyalty, scholarship and service are eligible for membership into the oldest honor society at Scranton.

Read the full list of inductees at this link.

 

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Also, earlier this summer, the University announced the 65 members of its undergraduate Class of 2026 who were presented with awards honoring their academic excellence, leadership and service.

Read the full list of Class Night award winners at this link.

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In addition to the regular Wednesday email newsletter, The University of Scranton's Royal News website is updated continuously throughout the year with new stories, features and announcements. Readers may visit at any time to find the latest news from across the University.

Nearly 1,900 students were named to The University of Scranton’s Dean’s List for the 2026 spring 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 2026 spring semester Dean’s List can be seen here.

The following students were added to The University of Scranton Dean’s List for the fall 2025 semester after publication of the list in February of 2026.

The Dean’s List recognizes students for academic excellence during the 2025 fall 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 fall 2025 Dean’s List are:

As is the case in every professional field, clinical rehabilitation counselors come from various backgrounds.

Aaron Redis, for instance, saw the vocation as an opportunity to combine his interests in advocacy, psychology and social justice. Cassandra Dierolf’s choice to pursue the profession was informed by her personal experience navigating life with perceived limitations. And for Mia Sandy, a year of service work reinforced her decision to return to school as a graduate student.

While Redis, Dierolf, Sandy and their classmates entered the clinical rehabilitation counseling profession for different reasons, they each answered the call and will leave The University of Scranton dedicated to the same goal of helping others achieve independence and become the best version of themselves despite disabilities or chronic health conditions.

It’s only fitting that clinical rehabilitation counseling is one of the most historic, highest-achieving and federally supported programs at Scranton, which prides itself on Jesuit values such as cura personalis (care for the whole person).

“The University of Scranton brings attention to the importance of taking care of each client’s mind, body and spirit,” said Redis, a Bloomsburg native who earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and a master’s in organizational leadership from the University of Maine at Presque Isle. “Because this perspective resonates with me, I am aware that a client’s psychological state, social support network, physical health and career objectives must all be taken into account in order to provide effective counseling.”

Therein lies the unique distinction about clinical rehabilitation counselors. They go beyond helping clients work through emotional or psychological challenges and are trained to address a client’s social, physical and other barriers that may stand in the way of a full and independent life.

“The inherent focus on commitment to social inclusion, holism, autonomy and resilience are all things that we need more of in society today,” Redis said.

A five-year, nearly $1 million grant ($999,909.16, to be exact) is helping Scranton train the next generation of clinical rehabilitation counselors. Announced earlier this year in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration and U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan ’12, the grant provides funding for student scholarships and expansion of program access by adding a fully online version of the program, directed by Samantha Herrick, Ph.D., as it seeks to address workforce shortages.

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The need for highly qualified rehabilitation counselors is significant, as is their impact.

Scranton’s clinical rehabilitation counseling program recently celebrated its 60-year anniversary, a span during which its graduates have served at least 1.5 million people with disabilities. Research shows that state vocational rehabilitation professionals with a master’s in rehabilitation counseling are also more likely to help clients achieve successful outcomes more quickly and with fewer state and federal resources, as opposed to professionals who hold other degrees.

Dierolf, of Larksville, understands better than most the impact that can be made with proper resources and a supportive team.

Diagnosed with autism at three years old, Dierolf was told by professionals that she may never drive nor live independently.

“I got my driver’s license at 16 and have built an independent life while pursuing a meaningful and fulfilling career path,” she said.

While Dierolf kept her diagnosis private for many years, she has openly shared her story in hopes that it inspires others to embrace their identities. This, she believes, will help with treating clients — and it already aided her in other opportunities, such as serving as a job coach and direct support professional for adults with intellectual disabilities at PA Inclusive.

A graduate of Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Dierolf has made the most of her time at Scranton by getting involved with the Performance Music program and earning induction into Chi Delta Rho, the counseling honor society, among other things.

“Each experience has reinforced my commitment to advocacy, accessibility and empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential,” Dierolf said.

Unlike Redis and Dierolf, Sandy completed her undergraduate studies at Scranton. She says she was “forever changed” while pursuing her degree in counseling and human services — and not only because of her coursework and mentors but because of a foundational experience with First-years Involved in Reflective Service Together (FIRST), a weeklong volunteer program that allows students to get involved in the community and see the impact they can make.

After graduating from Scranton in 2023, Sandy, a Scranton native, took a gap year to complete a service experience as an AmeriCorps member at Maggie’s Place in Phoenix, Arizona.

She returned to Scranton in 2024, prepared and inspired to follow another Jesuit ideal of “walking for and with others.”

“We are taught from the beginning of the program that anyone, at any time, can be diagnosed with a disability or acquire one,” Sandy said. “This career path became my passion, but like many counselors, I struggled with impostor syndrome and worrying about working with clients who may have very different life experiences compared to my own. …

“My experience at Maggie’s Place was fundamental in my choice to return to Scranton. I was surrounded by so many individuals with very different life experiences, and at the core of it all, I was relying on my rehabilitation background to support them.”

Sandy, who completed her graduate studies this past spring and was immediately hired by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Blind and Visual Services in Wilkes-Barre, shares fond recollections of the fourth floor of McGurrin Hall, where she was pushed to learn and acquire the skills and tools that she now shares with clients.

For Sandy, though, those classrooms, hallways and peers represent something even deeper, having suffered the unexpected death in November of her father. She leaned on her clinical rehabilitation counseling community to get through her toughest times, including stepping up to become the legal guardian for her two teenage siblings.

“Many people would offer guidance and share their experiences, which healed me in so many ways,” Sandy said. “It is something I will never, ever forget and something that I will always carry with me. I never felt alone, and there is nothing more important to me than making sure whoever I work with has the same experience. …

“We, as students, get a lot more from this program than just a good education. We get to understand the commitment of showing up for ourselves, our clients and most importantly each other.”

Thirty-one members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated from the University Honors Program, which is one of the Jesuit university’s programs of excellence. Undergraduate students in the Honors Program pursue a rigorous education that stresses independent work through close engagement with professors and other honors students, including the preparation, presentation and defense of a research or creative project during their senior year.

The following is a list of the class of 2026 University Honors Program graduates and their faculty mentors and their research projects.

Amber H. Armitage, Stroudsburg, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience major. Armitage worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Neuroprotective Effects of Pagonomyrmex badius Venom on PTZ-Induced Seizure Activity in Camponotus floridanus."

David P. Banko, Wind Gap, graduated, summa cum laude, as a biochemistry major. Banko worked with faculty advisor Michael Fennie, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, on a thesis project titled "Syntheses of 4-Azidoproline and 4-Cyanamidoproline."

Connor Patrick Brophy, Macungie, graduated, cum laude, as a biochemistry, cell, molecular biology major and member of the Magis Honors Program in STEM. Brophy worked with faculty advisor Riddhiman Medhi, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, on a thesis project titled "Silver Nanoparticles & Sensing Capabilities Ysiny Machine Learning and Statistics."

Christopher G. Conboy, Yardley, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Conboy worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology.

Erica C. Czerwinski, Burlington, Massachusetts, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology and philosophy double major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Czerwinski worked with faculty advisor Jill A. Warker, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, on a thesis project titled "The Effect of Different Types of Lies on Destination Memory."

Philip R. Danchik, Woodbine, Maryland, graduated as a chemistry major. Danchik worked with faculty advisor Riddhiman Medhi, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, on a thesis project titled "Removal of Methylene Blue Dye from Water by Magnetic Nio.6Co0.4Fe2O4 Nanoparticles in a Silica Matrix."

Ethan C. Distler, Royersford, graduated, cum laude, as a mechanical engineering major. Distler worked with faculty advisor Mojib Saei, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and engineering, on a thesis project titled "Transmission Maintenance Mount."

Rebecca R. Doyle, Massapequa, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and physiology double major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Doyle was the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship. Doyle worked with faculty advisor Krisy Elrod, Ph.D., assistant professor of counseling and human services, on a thesis project titled "Music on the Brain - A Neurological and Philosophical Review of the Emotional Processing of Songs."

Marc K. Guillet, Lindenhurst, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. Guillet worked with faculty advisor Robert Smith, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Effects of Parasite Load, Body Condition."

Marilyn Keating, New Providence, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a communication sciences and disorders major. Keating worked with faculty advisor Hope Baylow, D.A., associate professor of health and human performance, on a thesis project titled "Managing ARFID and PFD in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Scoping Review of Behavioral and Feeding Treatments."

Madison Jean Kuharchik, West Pittston, graduated, magna cum laude, as a forensic chemistry major. Kuharchik worked with faculty advisor John C. Deak, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, on a thesis project titled "Using Partial Molar Volume to Determine Differences in Glucose Molecular Properties."

Jenna M. LaBarca, Tuckahoe, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a English and criminal justice double major. LaBarca worked with faculty advisor Michael J. Jenkins, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology, on a thesis project titled "Comparison of the American and Italian Legal Systems through the Maxi Trials, Amanda Knox Trial and O.J. Simpson Trial."

Grace V. Lennox, Peckville, graduated, summa cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Lennox worked with faculty advisor Joyanna S. Hopper, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, on a thesis project titled "Local Labor Leadership & Political Approaches in Northeastern Pennsylvania."

Grace L. Lloyd, Yardley, graduated, summa cum laude, as an individualized major and member of the Magis Honors Program in STEM. Lloyd worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Computational Modeling of Temperature-Dependent Prion Protein Misfolding."

Allison M. Magee, Harleysville, graduated, summa cum laude, as a mathematical sciences and economics - social sciences double major. Magee was the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship. Magee worked with faculty advisor Aram R. Balagyozyan, Ph.D., associate professor of economics, finance and international business, on a thesis project titled "Hot-handed Effect and Gambler's Fallacy in Equity Markets: Evidence from Short-selling Data."

Ian T. Mahalek, Fairfax, Virginia, graduated, summa cum laude, as an environmental science major. Mahalek worked with faculty advisor Christopher Howey, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Biology Department, on a thesis project titled "The Effects of Prescribed Fire on Stream Habitats and Impact on Salamander Biodiversity."

Thomas Edward Marine, Cockeysville, Maryland, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Marine worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Synthesis of Tetraarylmethanes and Diaryl Ethers."

Dylan P. Matamala, New Rochelle, New York, graduated, cum laude, as a psychology major. Matamala worked with faculty advisor Jason Shrive, J.D., faculty specialist for criminal justice, cybersecurity and sociology, on a thesis project titled "From Amateurism to Professionalism: The Legal Evolution and Future of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in College Athletics."

Kylie K. Matulich, Bellmore, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business administration major. Matulich worked with faculty advisor Rose Sebastianelli, Ph.D., professor of operations and analytics, on a thesis project titled "An Empirical Examination of the Bloomberg Gender Equity Index."

Nathan A. Micknick, Jermyn, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. Micknick worked with faculty advisor Gary Kwiecinski, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Androgen and Estrogen Impacts on Bone Development."

Faith E. Montagnino, Morganville, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an English major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Montagnino worked with faculty advisor Billie R. Tadros, Ph.D., associate professor of English and theatre, on a thesis project titled "The Wound as Method: Pain, Language, and Feminist Knowledge in Confessional and Post-Confessional Poetry."

Michael R. Nicotera, Mountain Top, graduated, magna cum laude, as an economics and philosophy double major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program and the Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program. Nicotera worked with faculty advisor Andrew T. LaZella, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, on a thesis project titled "Marx Was a German Philosopher: Misunderstanding and Mischaracteriation of the Labor Theory of Value."

Janvi R. Patel, Scranton, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English major. Patel worked with faculty advisor Robert (Hank) Willenbrink, Ph.D., professor of English and theatre, on a thesis project titled "Autonomy: The Quest."

Kiera K. Ronan, Mamaroneck, New York, graduated as a neuroscience major.

Melissa J. Schweizer, Sparta, New Jersey, graduated, cum laude, as a nursing major.

Therese J. Shimkus, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a historyand philosophy double major.Shimkus worked with faculty advisor Patrick A. Tully, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Philosophy Department, on a thesis project titled "Natual Law and the Death Penalty."

Samantha R. Sonnie, Philadelphia, graduated, summa cum laude, as a journalism and electronic media major. Sonnie worked with faculty advisor Brian J. Snee, Ph.D., associate professor of communication and media, on a thesis project titled "Conspiracy Theories and The Media: Q'Anon Theory."

John C. Thomas, Danville, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major and member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Thomas worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "The Effects of CO2 on Memory in Camponotus floridanus."

Ashlyn Urbanski, Pittston, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and mathematical sciences double major. Urbanski was the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship. Urbanski worked with faculty advisor Joseph J. Klobusicky, Ph.D., professor of mathematics, on a thesis project titled "Two Problems in Computational Geometry."

Jordon B. Wagner, Falls, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biology major. Wagner worked with faculty advisor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology, on a thesis project titled "Integration of Haltere Feedback with Physical Stimuli in Dipterans."

Jared P. White, Clarks Summit, graduated, summa cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major. White worked with faculty advisor Joyanna S. Hopper, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, on a thesis project titled "Trust in the Digital Age: Podcasts, Alternative Media, and the Reconfiguration of Institutional legitimacy."

Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor of history, serves as the director of the University Honors Program.

Thirty-four members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated from its Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program (SJLA), which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in SJLA pursue a rigorous education designed to develop enhanced writing, oral and critical-thinking skills through specially designed courses in philosophy, theology and literature.

The following is a list of the class of 2026 SJLA Honors Program graduates and their majors.

Dermot I. Alvidrez, Summit, New Jersey, graduated as a journalism and electronic media major.

Jordan L. Badman, Sunbury, graduated, summa cum laude, as a kinesiology major.

Jamison C. Bessoir, Clarks Summit, graduated, magna cum laude, as a management and philosophy double major.

Emily R. Carey, Monroe Township, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a public policy and service and philosophy double major.

Aryan M. Chandavarkar, Westborough, Massachusetts, graduated as an electrical engineering and philosophy double major.

Christopher G. Conboy, Yardley, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience major and member of the University Honors Program

Adelle K. Confer, Canton, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and philosophy double major.

Erica C. Czerwinski, Burlington, Massachusetts, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology and philosophy double major and member of the University Honors Program

Sophia C. da Costa, Ambler, graduated, cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major.

Lauren N. DeSantis, Copiague, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and philosophy double major.

Mason S. DiCesare, Feasterville Trevose, graduated as a biochemistry, cell and molecular biology major.

Joseph T. Dolan, Conshohocken, graduated, summa cum laude, as a computer science major.

Rebecca R. Doyle, Massapequa, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a neuroscience and physiology double major and member of the University Honors Program. Doyle is also the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.

Kevin P. Finning, Rockville Centre, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a history and philosophy double major.

Roseanna L. Hessler, Warrington, graduated as a neuroscience major.

Sean H. Kavanagh, White Plains, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a history and philosophy double major.

Grace V. Lennox, Peckville, graduated, summa cum laude, as a political science and philosophy double major and member of the University Honors Program

Thomas E. Marine, Cockeysville, Maryland, graduated, magna cum laude, as a biochemistry major and member of the University Honors Program

Sofia Mastellone, Wayne, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology major and member of the Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program

Joseph J. Mazich, Sparta, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business analytics major.

Molly R. McGuinness, Stewart Manor, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a communication sciences and disorders major.

Olivia N. Miller, Phoenixville, graduated, summa cum laude, as an operations management major and member of the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program

Faith E. Montagnino, Morganville, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an English major and member of the University Honors Program

Michael R. Nicotera, Mountain Top, graduated, magna cum laude, as an economics   and philosophy double major and member of the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program, Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program and the Undergraduate Honors Program

Thomas W. Noll, Scranton, graduated as a biology and philosophy double major.

Brian M. O'Connor, Sussex, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a mechanical engineering major.

Buse Z. Onat, S Abington Twp., graduated, cum laude, as a cybercrime and homeland security, criminal justice and philosophy triple major.

Gabriella M. Palmer, Phoenixville, graduated, magna cum laude, as an English and theatre major.

Sophia G. Perrin, Milford, graduated, cum laude, as a History, philosophy and theology and religious studies triple major.

Rebecca F. Potter, Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a physics and philosophy double major.

John C. Thomas, Danville, graduated, magna cum laude, as a neuroscience and philosophy double major and member of the University Honors Program

Nicholas S. Tollefsen, Rockville Ctr, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance and philosophy double major and member of the Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program

Joseph T. Vazquez, Nutley, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology and philosophy double major.

Molly E. White, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a communication major.

Daniel Haggerty, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Philosophy Department, serves as the director of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.

Seven members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated from its Magis Honors Program in STEM. The program, which is one of the Jesuit school’s five honors programs. combines the development of STEM knowledge and research techniques with programming to further the students’ understanding of the impact science has on society.

The Magis Honors Program in STEM offers talented students a more intense, interdisciplinary experience of research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Courses taken over four years at Scranton combine a series of seminars on STEM and society with humanities courses. With guidance by faculty mentors, the students in the program develop, present and defend a thesis based on their individual research projects. In addition, the program requires participation in annual community service projects as well as professional development programs.

The following members of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated as members of the Magis Honors Program in STEM.

Connor P. Brophy, Macungie, graduated, cum laude, as a Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology major and as a member of the University Honors Program. Brophy worked with faculty mentor Riddiman Medhi, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, on a thesis project entitled "Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their ability to detect things in the environment."

Alyssa M. Cosklo, Fell Township, graduated, summa cum laude, as a Biology major. Cosklo worked with faculty mentor Amelia Randich, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, on a thesis project entitled "Characterizing the growth and morphology/reproductive method of the marine Caulobacteria Henriciella pelagia." Cosklo is the recipeint of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.

Grace L. Lloyd, Yardley, graduated, summa cum laude, as an individualized major and as a member of the University Honors Program. Lloyd worked with faculty mentor Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biologyon a thesis project entitled "Thermal dynamics of prion and protein misfolding: A compuational approach."

Alexa R. Martinez, Walden, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology major. Martinez worked with faculty mentor Michael Hague, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, on a thesis project entitled "Effects of transmission of the parasite Wolbachia."

Sheldon S. Myers, Downingtown, graduated, summa cum laude, as a Biochemistry major. Myers worked with faculty mentor Michael Fennie, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, on a thesis project entitled “Cyano and Azido Tryptophan Probe Synthesis for Use in 2D IR Spectroscopic Protein Structure Elucidation.”

Hailey C. Patts, Harding, graduated, summa cum laude, as a Biochemistry major. Patts worked with faculty mentor Michael Fennie, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, on a thesis project entitled "Effects of the estrous cycle on Parkinson's Disease in female mice."

Daniella M. Scanlon, Goshen, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a Neuroscience major. Scanlon worked with faculty mentor Chris Howey, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Biology Department, on a thesis project entitled "Ambient light at night and how it affects the behavior of male anoles."

Declan Mulhall, Ph.D., professor of physics and engineering, and Amelia Randich, Ph.D., associate professor of biology, serve as the directors of the Magis Honors Program in STEM.

Six members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated from its Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this program undergo four years of honors studies in the areas of economics, entrepreneurship, operations management, accounting, finance, international business, marketing and management, as well as a series of personal development extracurricular activities in the areas of service and career building.

The Business Honors Program students presented their senior projects to a panel of judges in early May. Grace Boyle received the award for best senior project, and Colin Merriman and Frederick Rollo received honorable mention awards.

The following is a list of the class of 2026 Business Honors Program graduates and their majors, as well as their faculty mentors and research project.

Karleigh A. Capobianco, Long Beach, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a business analytics major. Capobianco was also a member of the Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program. Capobianco worked with faculty advisor David Mahalak, Ph.D., professor of operations and analytics, on a thesis project titled "Uncovering the Impact of Social ESG Through Firm Clustering."

Dean J. Finan, Malvern, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and business analytics major. Finan was also a member of the Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program and was the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship. Finan worked with faculty advisor Pedro Monteiro, Ph.D., assistant professor of finance, on a thesis project titled "Government Spending Uncertainty and the Systematic Risk of Corporate Bonds: Asymmetric Effects Across Credit Quality."

Olivia N. Miller, Phoenixville, graduated, summa cum laude, as an operations management major. Miller was also a member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Miller worked with faculty advisor Ozgur Isil, M.B.A., Ph.D., associate professor of operations and analytics, on a thesis project titled "Overproduction by Design: How Fast Fashion Supply Chains Drive Textile Waste and the Offsets of Secondhand Market Solutions."

Michael R. Nicotera, Mountain Top, graduated, magna cum laude, as an economics and philosophy major. Nicotera was also a member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program and the Undergraduate Honors Program. Nicotera worked with faculty advisor Andrew Lazella, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, on a thesis project titled "Marx the Economist vs. Marx the Philosopher: Limitations of a Popular Reading of Marx's Writings."

Camille C. Schwabe, Harleysville, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business administration major. Schwabe worked with faculty advisor John Ruddy, D.P.S. '91, associate professor of economics, finance, and international business, on a thesis project titled "Evaluating PRISM Portfolio Performance (2020–2025)."

Nicholas S. Tollefsen, Rockville Centre, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance and philosophy major. Tollefsen was also a member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program. Tollefsen worked with faculty advisor Jinghan Cai. Ph.D., associate professor of economics, finance, and international business, on a thesis project titled "Local Sentiment and Alpha: Evidence from Country‑, State‑, and County‑Level Twitter Data."

Aram Balagyozyan, Ph.D., associate professor of economics, serves as director of the University’s Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program.

Nineteen members of The University of Scranton’s class of 2026 graduated from its Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program, which is one of Scranton’s programs of excellence. Students in this highly-selective program explore the basic theories and concepts of leadership through special seminars and courses in management, ethics, strategy and analysis, in addition to field trips to learn from top executives and projects in leadership, service and mentoring.

The following is a list of the class of 2026 Business Leadership Honors Program graduates and their majors.

Matthew J. Almonte, East Stroudsburg, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance major. Almonte was also the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.

Luca J. Baratta, Richboro, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance major. Baratta was also the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.

Owen P. Barlow, Chesterfield, New Jersey, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance major.

Katie E. Brennan, Bohemia, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as a business analytics major.

Camia R. Capalongo, Scranton, graduated as an accounting major.

Karleigh A. Capobianco, Long Beach, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a business analytics major. Capobianco was also a member of the University's Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program.

Nathan F. Clarke, Malvern, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major.

Philip J. Evan, Kingston, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and economics double major.

Dean J. Finan, Malvern, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance and business analytics double major. Finan was also a member of the University's Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program and the recipient of the University's four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarship.

Phoebe A. Glidewell, Clarks Summit, graduated, summa cum laude, as a accounting major.

Matthew Hanley, Staten Island, New York, graduated, magna cum laude, as a business administration major.

Ryan W. Hanley, Dumont, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a accounting major.

Sofia Mastellone, Wayne, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as a psychology and finance double major. Mastellone was also a member of the University's Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program.

Denis P. McBride, Mount Laurel, New Jersey, graduated, summa cum laude, as an applied computing major.

Ava M. Milicia, Holbrook, New York, graduated, summa cum laude, as an accounting major.

Michael R. Nicotera, Mountain Top, graduated, magna cum laude, as an economics and philosophy major. Nicotera was also a member of the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Frank P. Corcione Business Honors Program and the Undergraduate Honors Program.

Jakub Niemczyk, Bartonsville, graduated, magna cum laude, as a finance and economics double major.

Kaeli M. Romanowski, Lake Ariel, graduated, summa cum laude, as a finance major.

Nicole C. Tonny, Scranton, graduated, summa cum laude, as a marketing major.

Robert McKeage, Ph.D., associate professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship, serves as director of the University’s Business Leadership Honors Program.

The University of Scranton’s Orientation Team Leaders will play a key role in welcoming members of the Class of 2030 as they arrive later this month for New Student Orientation.

Students and their families who attend one of the four sessions — June 22-23, June 25-26, June 29-30 and July 1-2 — will meet classmates, faculty and staff members and administrators covering virtually all areas of campus life. You have questions — about academics, arts, athletics, service, campus life, spiritual life, food, off-campus entertainment and everything in between — they’ll have answers.

The four Orientation Team Leaders will have answers, too, providing guidance and support, drawing on their own experience to help new students adjust.

We caught up with this year’s Orientation Team Leaders as they imparted some words of wisdom to the newest Royals.

Mary McAlpin, a theology and religious studies major on the pre-med track from Newtown: “I would encourage new students to be very open to the whole experience, to put themselves out there. This is really your first exposure to your new class and your new life at Scranton. So, take advantage of everything, get out there, talk to people, start making connections. Doing those things will only help you grow once you step on campus in the fall.”

Michael Mancini, a nursing major from Trumbull, Connecticut: “I think the most important part is having an open mind and living the experience for what it is. Take your time to get to know our beautiful campus and also the great people you’re going to be around. If you do that, you will feel more comfortable and more familiar when you get here in the fall.”

Gavin Kovaleski, a theology and philosophy double major from Dunmore: “People at orientation are more than willing to help you in every single facet to ease your college transition. Other new students and friends are also coming in with an open mind — so look to meet new people and make your next four years the best four years that you could possibly make, together.”

Michael Zipay, a mathematical sciences and philosophy major from Archbald: “Don’t be afraid to take on any opportunity that you’re given. Embrace it. There’s so much for you to do at Scranton. We’d love to see you take advantage of it.”

Students and their families are urged to visit the University’s website and check their emails for updates regarding programming.

A group of students recently returned from Las Vegas, Nevada, where they represented The University of Scranton at this year’s Future Business Leaders of America National Leadership Conference.

Continuing the trend of Scranton FBLA members returning from state and national competitions with prizes, four Scranton students finished in the top 10 of their respective categories:

• Gary Mrozinski, a finance major from Taylor, placed third nationally in the Foundations of Finance category.
• Mallory Woodland, an advertising/public relations major from Nazareth, placed third nationally in the Foundations of Communication category.
• Kaeli Romanowski, a finance major from Lake Ariel, placed ninth nationally in the Foundations of Management category.
• Lillian Stein, a cybercrime and homeland security major from Lehighton, placed ninth nationally in the Computer Applications category.

Earlier this year, Scranton had its best showing to date at the FBLA State Leadership Conference with four state champions and five runners-up.

David Mahalak, D. Eng., assistant professor of operations and analytics, is the University’s FBLA moderator and accompanied the students, whose experience also included networking and taking in the sights of the Las Vegas Strip.

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.

The University of Scranton recognized 34 outstanding master’s and doctoral degree graduates at its graduate commencement events the weekend of May 22-24, including at the graduate commencement ceremony at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre Township.

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The following graduate students were honored for achievement in their academic area:

Bryant L. Richards, of Webster, Massachusetts, received the Doctor of Philosophy Outstanding Student Award for Accounting;

Madison A. Borys, of West Caldwell, New Jersey, received the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Outstanding Student Award for Occupational Therapy;

Zadok I. Miller, of Glen Allen, Virginia, received the Doctor of Nursing Practice Outstanding Student Award for Nurse Anesthesia;

Madison R. Ribeiro, of Fairfield, New Jersey, received the Doctor of Physical Therapy Outstanding Student Award for Physical Therapy;

Cassidy A. Bartkowski, of Clarks Summit, received the Outstanding Student Award for Family Nurse Practitioner;

Madalyn Dolores Beretzki, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Occupational Therapy;

Logan H. Campbell, of Conshohocken, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Analytics;

Bethany Earley, of Clarks Green, received the Outstanding Student Award for School Counseling;

Christopher W. Eppley, of Harleysville, received the Outstanding Student Award for Finance;

Fara C. Etienne, of Wheatley Heights, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Healthcare Management;

Amelia J. Farry, of South Abington Township, received the Outstanding Student Award for Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity;

Cassandra K. Haw, of Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling;

Thomas W. Hoy, of Danville, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Jonathan Janosky, of Greenfield Township, received the Outstanding Student Award for Software Engineering;

Paul L. Katz, of Pittsburgh, received the Outstanding Student Award for Accountancy;

Kevin M. Keil, of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Faith M. Kwasnik, of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Special Education;

Nicholas A. Luzetski, of Edwardsville, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Kevin Ly, of Danville, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Anna J. Merkel, of Skillman, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Chemistry;

Renata Monteiro, of Mount Arlington, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Corporate Finance and Investment Specialization;

Spencer R. Owens, of Coopersburg, received the Outstanding Student Award for Health Administration;

Christian S. Rizzotti, of Macungie, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Allison Schuessler, of Selinsgrove, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Alyssa E. Sendek, of Haddon Township, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Ryan V. Sophabmixay, of Scranton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Secondary Education;

Julia R. Swistak, of Olney, Maryland, received the Outstanding Student Award for Business Administration;

Ashley M. Tirone, of Budd Lake, New Jersey, received the Outstanding Student Award for Applied Behavior Analysis;

Angeliki I. Trifonopoulos, of Jeffersonville, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Clinical Mental Health Counseling;

Kristen Ullmeyer, of Walden, New York, received the Outstanding Student Award for Speech-Language Pathology;

Anathae Wallace, of Levittown, received the Outstanding Student Award for Health Informatics;

Isabelle M. Wohlleber, of Hazleton, received the Outstanding Student Award for Biochemistry.

The University of Scranton honored 65 members of its undergraduate Class of 2026 for academic excellence, leadership and service at a Class Night ceremony on Friday, May 22, at the McIlhenny Ballroom inside the DeNaples Center.

Students with the highest GPA in each of the University’s three undergraduate colleges were presented Frank J. O’Hara Awards for General Academic Excellence, a memorial to the late administrator who served the University for 53 years.  

Class of 2026 O’Hara Award recipients were: Alyssa M. Cosklo, of Fell Township, Michael J. Gallo, of Whitehall, Sheila A. Miller, of Milford, New Jersey, and Matthew F. Schade, of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, for the College of Arts and Sciences; Nathan F. Clarke, of Malvern, Dean Joseph Luciano Finan, of Downingtown, and Gary C. Mrozinski, of Taylor for the Kania School of Management; and Claudia Vivian Campisciano, of Broomall, for the Leahy College of Health Sciences.

Member of the Class of 2026 Mariah Mancuso, of Dunmore, offered remarks at the ceremony. 

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In addition, students were honored for outstanding academic achievement in their fields of study, leadership and service.

The students honored at Class Night and the awards received are as follows:

David P. Banko, of Wind Gap, received the Lawrence A. Mann Award;

Alessandra Bellino, of Schwenksville, received the Excellence in Mathematics Award;

Diana Lynn Bobko, of Exton, received the Excellence in Occupational Therapy Award;

Claudia Vivian Campisciano, of Broomall, received the O'Hara Award;

Emily R. Carey, of Monroe Township, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Public Policy and Service Award;

Nathan F. Clarke, of Malvern, received the O'Hara Award and the Excellence in Accounting Award;

Chloe P. Colozza, of Old Forge, received the Mary E. Quinn Award for Excellence in Secondary Education;

Rebecca M. Colwell, of Taylor, received the Jesuit Community Award for Outstanding Service (ex aequo);

Kaitlyn M. Conrad, of Wyoming, received the Excellence in Management Award;

Alyssa M. Cosklo, of Fell Township, received the O'Hara Award and the J.J. Quinn, S.J., Achievement Award for Demonstration of Excellence in English Studies and the Excellence in Biology Award;

Erica C. Czerwinski, of Burlington, Massachusetts, received the Excellence in Psychology Award;

Philip R. Danchik, of Woodbine, Maryland, received the Excellence in Chemistry Award;

Allie D. Dean, of Endicott, New York, received the Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Award;

Philip J. Evan, of Kingston, received the Excellence in Economics Award (Kania School of Management);

Dean Joseph Luciano Finan, of Downingtown, received the O'Hara Award and the Excellence in Finance Award (ex aequo);

Kevin P. Finning, of Rockville Centre, New York, received the Prof. Frank C. Brown Award for Excellence in History;

Maeve A. Gale, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, received the Excellence in Health Administration Award;

Michael J. Gallo, of Whitehall, received the O'Hara Award;

Ryan W. Hanley, of Dumont, New Jersey, received the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants Award;

Matthew J. Jasienski, of Duryea, received the Excellence in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Award;

Christina M. Kennedy, of Morristown, New Jersey, received the Jesuit Community Award for Outstanding Service (ex aequo);

Ashley A. Kessell, of Exeter, received the Excellence in Health Promotions Award;

Madison Jean Kuharchik, of West Pittston, received the Excellence in Forensic Chemistry Award;

Benjamin Lenert, of Havertown, received the Excellence in Cybercrime and Homeland Security Award;

Grace V. Lennox, of Peckville, received the Prof. Timothy H. Scully Award for Excellence in Political Science;

Bianca Leonard, of Hellertown, received the Excellence in Counseling and Human Services Award;

Grace L. Lloyd, of Yardley, received the J. Timothy Cannon Award for Excellence in Neuroscience;

Tanis J. MacNamee, of Windsor, New York, received the Excellence in Kinesiology Award;

Allison M. Magee, of Harleysville, received the Excellence in Economics Award (College of Arts and Sciences);

Ian T. Mahalek, of Fairfax, Virginia, received the Excellence in Environmental Science Award;

Mariah A. Mancuso, of Dunmore, received the Student Life Award (ex aequo) and spoke at the event;

Thomas Edward Marine, of Cockeysville, Maryland, received the Susquehanna Valley American Chemical Society Senior Award;

Sofia C. Mastellone, of Wayne, New Jersey, received the Lawrence Lennon Award for Outstanding Service and Achievement in Psychology;

Denis P. McBride, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Applied Computing Award;

Ashley M. McCartney, of Macungie, received the Excellence in Early and Primary Teacher Education Award;

Deirdre Rose Meagher, of Staten Island, New York, received the Excellence in Communication Sciences and Disorders Award;

Hadley M. Michaels, of Baldwinsville, New York, received the Academic Excellence in Nursing Award;

Olivia N. Miller, of Phoenixville, received the Excellence in Operations Management Award;

Sheila A. Miller, of Milford, New Jersey, received the O'Hara Award and the Prof. Bernard J. McGurl Award for Excellence in Communication;

Faith E. Montagnino, of Morganville, New Jersey, received the Prof. Joseph B. Cullather Award for Excellence in English;

Gary C. Mrozinski, of Taylor, received the O'Hara Award and the Excellence in Finance Award (ex aequo);

Sheldon S. Myers, of Downingtown, received the Excellence in Biochemistry Award;

Thomas M. O'Hern, of West Caldwell, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Chemistry Business Award;

James W. O'Malley, of Ambler, received the Dr. A.J. Cawley Award for Excellence in Engineering;

Caroline E. O'Rourke, of Huntington, New York, received the Excellence in Physiology Award;

Evangelina M. Paisi, of East Stroudsburg, received the Excellence in International Studies Award;

Gabriella M. Palmer, of Phoenixville, received the Excellence in Theatre Award;

Alek D. Panchik, of Hershey, received the Excellence in Business Administration Award;

Quentin A. Pegan, of Upper Chichester, received the Croteau and Marx Family Award for Excellence in Mechanical Engineering;

Rebecca F. Potter, of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, received the Prof. Joseph P. Harper Award for Excellence in Physics;

Jonathon Purvis, of Carbondale, received the Excellence in Computer Science Award;

Brian Readie, of Cranford, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Information Technology Award;

Kaeli Marie Romanowski, of Lake Ariel, received the Edward K. Spitzer Scholarship Award;

Vito M. Rotell, of Eynon, received the Excellence in Business Analytics Award and the Student Life Award (ex aequo);

Matthew F. Schade, of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, received the O'Hara Award;

Therese J. Shimkus, of Scranton, received the Excellence in Philosophy Award;

Sarayah F. Smith, of Dallas, received the Excellence in Criminal Justice Award;

Samantha R. Sonnie, of Philadelphia, received the J. Harold Brislin Memorial Award for Excellence in Journalism;

Nicole C. Tonny, of Scranton, received the Excellence in Marketing Award;

Ashlyn Urbanski, of Pittston, received the Excellence in Mathematical Sciences Award;

Elizabeth G. Vander Neut, of Exton, received the Alumni Loyalty and Service Award;

Maria I. Viola, of Monroe, New York, received the Excellence in Theology Award;

Stevie-Gianna V. Vitale, of Freehold, New Jersey, received the Excellence in Sociology Award;

Steven Wohlmuth, of Cromwell, Connecticut, received the Military Science Leadership Award;

Delaney M. Wozniak, of Kings Park, New York, received the Excellence in Human Resource Studies Award.

An archived recording of the ceremony can be seen at this link.

Five members of The University of Scranton’s Class of 2026 capped their undergraduate careers by being commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army.

The five Scranton graduates, as well as three additional members from other regional colleges, were honored at an on-campus ceremony, held Saturday, May 23, at the McIlhenny Ballroom inside the DeNaples Center. 

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University of Scranton ROTC

• 2nd Lt. Natalie M. Badilla, of Fairless Hills, graduated, magna cum laude, as a nursing major. 
• 2nd Lt. Caleb A. Grossman, of Swoyersville, graduated, magna cum laude, as an international studies major. He was named a Distinguished Military Graduate, placing him in the top 10% of cadets in the nation. He received the George C. Marshall Military Leadership Award, as well.
• 2nd Lt. Nicholas A. Luzetski, of Edwardsville, graduated as a business administration major. He was named a Distinguished Military Graduate, placing him in the top 10% of cadets in the nation.
• 2nd Lt. David R. McIntyre, of Scranton, graduated, magna cum laude, as a criminal justice major.
• 2nd Lt. Steven Wohlmuth, of Cromwell, Connecticut, graduated, summa cum laude, as a communication and philosophy double major. He was named a Distinguished Military Graduate, placing him in the top 10% of cadets in the nation. He received The University of Scranton's Military Science Leadership Award at Class Night on May 22.

Also commissioned at the event were members of the Royal Warrior Battalion from area colleges:

• 2nd Lt. Efrain Madera, of Reeders, who graduated as a criminal justice major from East Stroudsburg University;
• 2nd Lt. Stephen Tellez, of Moscow, who graduated as a U.S. history major from East Stroudsburg University.
• 2nd Lt. Amanda Trzesniowski, of Wilkes-Barre, who graduated as a nursing major from Marywood University.

Col. Kaitlyn Perkins '03 served as the principal speaker. Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, and Lt. Col Jay Wenger, Ph.D., University professor of military science and leader of the Royal Warrior Battalion Army ROTC program, also participated in the ceremony.

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The University of Scranton conferred more than 450 master’s and doctoral degrees at its graduate commencement ceremony for the Class of 2026. Graduates received their diplomas on Sunday, May 24, at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre Township. Graduates must have completed their academic requirements between August 2025 and May 2026.

Graduates spanned 22 states from throughout the U.S., including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee with a large concentration from the East Coast. Pennsylvania was the most populous state among the graduates at 48%, followed by New Jersey and New York at about 15% each. International graduates hailed from Canada, India and Saudi Arabia.

Harshil Nariya ’26, a Master of Business Administration graduate from Enola, addressed his fellow graduates as the class speaker.

“Today is not just a celebration of what we have become, but it is also a reflection of who we are," Nariya said. “We came here with ambitions: to build careers, to learn, to create opportunities. And yes, we have done that. But along the way, we also developed something deeper. We developed empathy, resilience and a sense of responsibility.

“I come from a background where opportunities are not always guaranteed. From working in my family business to studying here, I have seen different sides of the world. And what I think connects them is simple: an understanding that our success is tied to those around us.”

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Karen L. Pennington, Ph.D. ’76, G’83, H’15, who spoke earlier in the day at the undergraduate commencement ceremony, addressed the graduate crowd, as well.

Dr. Pennington, a former higher education administrator, was also in town to celebrate her 50-year class reunion.

“You have a chance to use this gift of education, this special status you achieved, as the launching pad to be more than you were before,” Dr. Pennington said. “Take all you have learned about managing time — past, present and future — to carry the lessons of organization, respect and kindness with you, as you commit to taking the actions necessary to achieve all of your goals.

“What does it mean to have a degree from The University of Scranton? You soon will know, because you have reached the end of this part of your Scranton journey. ... I say it's just ‘this part,’ because what it means to have a degree from The University of Scranton is more than a piece of paper to hang on your wall. It is knowing that you are part of a larger community, not just while in class but for long after."

Among the degrees awarded were Masters of Accountancy, Business Administration, Health Administration, Science and Science in Nursing; as well as Doctors of Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy, Philosophy and Physical Therapy.

An archived recording of the ceremony is available online.

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The University of Scranton awarded undergraduate degrees to more than 900 members of the Class of 2026. The newest Scranton alumni received their bachelor’s degrees on Sunday, May 24, at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre Township. Graduates must have completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2025, as well as January and May of 2026.

The most populous states in this year’s graduating class included Pennsylvania (46%), New York (27%) and New Jersey (20%). Graduates hailed from 11 other states, stretching as far west as Washington and as south as Florida and Texas. The countries of Ireland and Ukraine were represented, as well.

The most common major among the graduates was nursing (10%), while accounting, biology, business administration, criminal justice, finance, kinesiology and occupational therapy represented about 5% each. In total, the graduates covered 61 distinct majors.

Following the processional and a welcome by Tracy M. Stewart, Ph.D., interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., H’14, Bishop of Scranton, provided the Invocation.

Sajidul Alam ’26, a double major in political science and philosophy from Kingston, addressed his fellow graduates as the class speaker.

Alam spoke about how the University became “home” for the Class of 2026, referencing two quotes that graduates have seen and heard throughout their daily travels at Scranton.

“‘Go forth and set the world on fire.’ At first, it may have sounded like a call to do something big, something enormous. But Scranton has taught us that sometimes, it means taking what we have learned here and carrying forward those values with intention, integrity, compassion and purpose,” Alam said. “And there is another idea that defines this place, one that is etched on the side of the DeNaples Center: ‘Not where I breathe, but where I love, I live.’ For the past four years, The University of Scranton has been that place.”

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Following Alam’s remarks, the University conferred honorary degrees to former Dominican University president Donna M. Carroll, Ed.D.; attorney and University alumnus Vincent F. Reilly, Esq. ’80; and longtime educator Jack Raslowsky.

Karen L. Pennington, Ph.D. ’76, G’83, H’15, then took the stage as the principal speaker. Dr. Pennington’s 40-plus-year career in higher education administration, prior to retiring in 2021, included 22 years as vice president for student development and campus life at Montclair State University.

In addition to serving as the principal speaker, Dr. Pennington celebrated her class reunion. She and other 1976 graduates gathered before the ceremony, reminiscing on their historic class — the University’s first undergraduate, full-time student class to include women.

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Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president, conferred degrees upon candidates presented by the deans of the University’s three colleges: Victoria H. Castellanos, Ph.D., Leahy College of Health Sciences; Mark Higgins, Ph.D., Kania School of Management; and Carolyn M. Barry, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences.

Following the awarding of diplomas, Christopher J. Neumann, Esq. ’87, president of the alumni society, addressed the graduates, as did Father Marina. Megan E. Heeder, Ph.D., assistant professor of theology, provided the benediction prior to the recessional.

Music throughout the event was provided by the University’s concert band and singers.

An archived recording of the ceremony is available online.

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The University of Scranton honored its Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) students at a special luncheon, held April 21 at The Colonnade in downtown Scranton.

Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, offered a blessing as the students dined with him; former U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, the University’s Leahy Distinguished Fellow in Public Service; and Lt. Col. Jay Wenger, professor of military science and leader of the Royal Warrior Battalion Army ROTC program.

ROTC is a college-based leadership and training program that prepares students to serve after graduation as officers in the U.S. military. ROTC cadets pursue their academic degrees while participating in military science courses, leadership training and physical fitness activities.

In its most recent rankings, U.S. News and World Report ranked Scranton No. 3 in the North category for “Best Colleges for Veterans,” recognizing the University’s efforts in making higher education more accessible and affordable for veterans and active-duty service members.

In 1979, artist Jim Markowich shifted focus after creating a visual celebration of baseball. Today he's getting back in the game to showcase a significant body of work.

"I graduated with a BFA from the Cooper Union School of Art back in 1979," said Markowich. "Making a living as a fine artist was an iffy proposition, so I became a computer programmer and did that professionally for 45 years."

Since his retirement in 2024, the lifelong learner has been engaging in University coursework as an auditor and volunteering botanical skills at the University's Quain Memorial Conservancy Greenhouse. And this spring, in addition to studying European History and Science and the Human Environment at The University of Scranton, he can be found exhibiting a collection of paintings (78!) at the Everhart Museum.
 
The museum is showcasing his artistry, "Play Ball!: The Tarot de Cooperstown," now through July 19. And, at an Artist's Reception there on Friday, May 15, from 5-8 p.m., Markowich will walk visitors through the development of 78 baseball-related tarot paintings inspired by the baseball diamond and its cast of characters, including the manager, the owner, the players and the commissioner, to name a few. 

Registration is not required, but is recommended.

In celebration of America’s pastime, artists Paul Kuhrman and James Markowich used the 18th-century Nicolas Conver tarot card deck, itself derived from the original Tarot de Marseille decks, as the foundation for a series of 78 paintings inspired by the baseball diamond and its cast of characters, including the manager, the owner, the players and the commissioner, to name a few. 

According to the Everhart Museum exhibition description, "Tarot decks were originally created for card games, before evolving into tools used to seek guidance and insight into the future. As any baseball fan understands, speaking to and pleading with one's deities about the game is a rite of passage, even to the extent of praying for a hit by one’s favorite player or team, or a recorded out by the opposition. These artistic interpretations take a different approach: not to predict what lies ahead, but to offer a playful celebration of baseball through the imaginative lens of tarot imagery.

In conjunction with the series of paintings, reproductions of the paintings have been printed into a complete tarot card deck that can be used to play an actual baseball game, complete with hits, outs, and interactions with the gods of the diamonds — the umpires!"


Postcard courtesy Everhart Museum.

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IF YOU GO:

What: "Play Ball!: The Tarot de Cooperstown," on view through July 19, 2026

When: Artist's Reception with Jim Markowich, Friday, May 15, 2026, 5 –7 p.m.
Registration is not required, but is recommended.

Where: Everhart Museum,1901 Mulberry St, Scranton, PA 18510. Contact: info@everhart-museum.org and 570-346-7186 ext. 510

The Student Education Club of The University of Scranton (SECUS), led by Co-Moderators Dr. Tata Mbugua and Dr. Jinqing Liu, joined over 20 dedicated education majors for a landmark visit to the Pennsylvania State Board of Education meeting in Harrisburg. The student delegation represented all three certification tracks: Early and Primary Education (PreK–4), Middle Level Education (4–8) and Secondary Education (7–12).

The Pennsylvania State Board of Education is comprised of 21 members, ten of whom serve as the Board’s Council of Basic Education and ten of whom serve as the Board’s Council of Higher Education. The Board has the power and duty to review and adopt regulations that govern educational policies and principles and establish standards governing the educational programs of the Commonwealth.

During the meeting, Dr. Mbugua was recognized by the Board and invited to make a public comment. A public comment at a Pennsylvania State Board of Education meeting follows specific protocol, usually requiring a two- to four-minute limit and a focus on education-related matters such as academic policy, education priorities and teacher preparation priorities. In her 90-second address, Dr. Mbugua expressed the group's gratitude to the Pennsylvania State Board of Education, with special thanks to Board Member Nathan Barrett. Dr. Mbugua noted that Barrett has been a steadfast supporter of The University of Scranton students and was instrumental in facilitating this visit.

"This opportunity allows our future educators to experience firsthand how advocacy and professional agency function at the state level," Dr. Mbugua told the board. "By witnessing these proceedings, our students are moving beyond classroom theory to see how policy is debated, shaped and implemented for the benefit of all Pennsylvania learners."

She emphasized that such experiential learning moments are vital in empowering students to envision themselves not only as future classroom teachers, but as active participants in the broader educational landscape.

Dr. Mbugua thanked the Pennsylvania Board of Education “for its leadership and for providing this platform that helps prepare the next generation of educators to advocate effectively for their students and their profession in Pennsylvania and beyond.”

The group was also addressed by Dr. Carrie Rowe, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, who encouraged the students to continue seeking opportunities to contribute to the teaching profession. Dr. Rowe commended the delegation for their participation and extended an invitation to return for next year's Board meeting. Her current priorities span a wide range of pressing issues, including teacher recruitment and retention, student mental health, funding for 27 Pennsylvania libraries, structured literacy, workforce development, expanding dual credit enrollment taught by certified 9–12 grade teachers, amplifying student voices in Board priorities, and funding initiatives to reduce sexual violence on campuses.

Adding to the significance of the occasion, the Pennsylvania Department of Education generously provided a complimentary coach bus for the students' travel to Harrisburg. Dr. Mbugua reflected that the experience was nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — one that brought the future of Pennsylvania education face to face with those who shape it.

“One of the best parts of the trip was speaking with Board of Education members, learning more about education policy, advocacy, and seeing firsthand how decisions impacting schools and students are discussed,” Alexis Cox, SECUS Secretary.

The following students and faculty attended the PDE Board of Education session in Harrisburg: Nina Balchune, Sarah Batista, Julia Brophy, Alexis Cox, Kayla Cunningham, Monical Dell’Olio, Abigail Griesemer, Bridgid Guarnuccio, Makenzi Jashembowski, Bridgit Ann Lewis, Anya Kelly, Jena Lewis, Breana Metric, Bridget Mitchell, Grismeiris De Jesus, Ashley McCartney, Alahna Pidich, Emma Schultz, Emma Ryan, Riley Schmidt, Lizzy Zdziebkowski, Dr. Jinqing Liu and Dr. Tata Mbugua.

The students also had the opportunity to engage with Amy Lena, Deputy Secretary of Education, who applauded them for attending the Board session and invited them to reflect on the meeting's agenda items — among them campus hunger and food insecurity, dual enrollment, minimum of 30-minute recess in K–12 schools, and the Science, Technology, Engineering, Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (STEELS) Standards.

Dr. Liu captured the significance of the experience: "As an Assistant Professor, I am honored to co-lead alongside Dr. Mbugua in bringing our future educators to this Board meeting — where they witness firsthand how educational policy is shaped through dialogue, debate, and democratic action. This transformative experience empowers our students to see themselves not only as teachers, but as advocates and leaders in the future of education. By engaging directly in the policymaking process, they gain the confidence and inspiration to cultivate civic engagement and democratic participation in the generations they will one day teach."

SECUS President Julia Brophy echoed that sentiment: "By observing the Board's deliberations firsthand, we gained an invaluable understanding of teacher advocacy and the critical role of professional agency in shaping the education system."

Pennsylvania State Board of Education Member Nathan Barrett guided University of Scranton students and faculty on a tour of the State Capitol and Darby Free Library. Shown are Dr. Mbugua, Barrett and Dr. Liu.

Hundreds of students have been inducted into national and international honor societies represented at The University of Scranton throughout the 2026 spring semester. Lists of students inducted into some of the University’s honor societies can be seen below.

 

Sixty University of Scranton students were inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the national honor society for students in Jesuit colleges and universities in 2026. The Scranton chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu, founded in 1943, is the oldest honor society at the University. Juniors, seniors and graduate students, including students in doctoral-level degree programs, who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service are eligible for membership.

The following undergraduate and graduate students earned the distinction of being inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu:

Kania School of Management Operations and Analytics Department hosted the INFORMS Omega Rho 2026 International Honor Society Induction Ceremony on April 23.

Omega Rho is the official honor society of INFORMS—the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences. INFORMS is the premier international association for professionals in analytics, operations research, and decision sciences, and Omega Rho recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in these disciplines.

This recognition is extended to students across several distinguished programs—undergraduate students majoring in business analytics and supply chain management, as well as graduate students in the Master of Science in Business Analytics program and the MBA program with concentrations in business analytics or supply chain management.

Inductees include:

Jacob Bendixen

Mark Benginia

Karleigh Capobianco

Nicholas Daleo

Ayushi Das

Connor Farrington

Venkat Kalpatapu

Kevin Keil

Joseph Kulikowski

Harshawardhan Limaye

William Gabriel Martin, III

Joseph Mazich

Olivia Miller

Harshil Nariya

Sara Orlandini

Prasham Patel

Drew Paxson

Nina Sorbera

Robert Stefano

William Tagliareni

Christopher Talocka

Meghan Theofield

MacLean Thuermer

Traci Vennie

Dylan Port Vliet

Dr. Nabil Tamimi is a professor and chair of the Department of Operations and Analytics. Dr. David Mahalak, an assistant professor in the Operations and Analytics Department, serves as the faculty advisor for the University's chapter of the Omega Rho Honor Society.

 

 

By Marcus Smith '27, Student Correspondent

Every year, Sigma Tau Delta, the international English Honor Society, hosts a convention that gathers some of the most brilliant of the next generation of writers and literary scholars.

This year, 11 student members of Mu Omicron, The University of Scranton’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, attended the annual convention “Second Lines and New Beginnings” from March 29 to April 1, in New Orleans, where they presented papers ranging from short stories to poetic criticism.

Almost 200 different universities and colleges from across the globe attended the closing ceremonies on April 1, where awards were presented to around 70 presenters for outstanding works in their categories, ranging from original prose to LGBT literature to pop-culture analysis.

Out of those 68 recipients, two University of Scranton alumni and one current undergraduate won awards, putting Scranton in the upper tier of universities to be awarded, with three in total.

The following students presented their papers at the convention:

Emily Carey ʼ26, a public policy and philosophy double-major from Monroe Township, New Jersey, presented “Uttering Identity.”

Adelle Confer ʼ26, an English and Philosophy double-major from Canton, presented “Clifton and Madhubuti: Assassination, Hopelessness, and Dejection.”

Lauren DeSantis ʼ26, an English and Philosophy double-major from Copiague, New York, presented “The Emerald Standard: Limitations on Irish Women in Lady Gregory and W. B. Yeats’ “Cathleen Ni Houlihan” and James Joyce’s ‘Eveline.’”

Amanda Karpiak ʼ27, an English major from Scranton, presented “Death In Edinburgh.”

Jenna LaBarca ʼ26, an English and Criminal Justice major from Tuckahoe, New York, presented “Annis’ Departure from the World of Spirits and Passage to Freedom.”

Faith Montagnino ʼ26, an English major from Morganville, New Jersey, presented “Grief as Protest: Reimagining the Elegy in Danez Smith’s ‘not an elegy for Mike Brown.’”

Gabriella Palmer ʼ26, an English, Theatre and Philosophy triple-major from Phoenixville, presented “The Inheritance of Vivienne Dupree.”

Nya Rowe '26, an English major from the Bronx, New York, presented "The Art of Dorian Gray: Victorian Aesthetics in Oscar Wilde's 'The Picture of Dorian Gray.'"

Marcus Smith ʼ27, an English and Theatre double-major from Schuylkill Haven, presented “The Scranton Anomaly.”

Lauren Spratt ʼ26, an English major from Philadelphia, presented “Women and Proto-Feminism in Victorian Literature.”

Benjamin Storman ʼ27, an English major from Scranton, presented “Journal of an American Janitor.”

The students were chaperoned by Billie Tadros, Ph.D., and Madeline Gangnes, Ph.D., both associate professors in the Department of English and Theatre who also serve as faculty moderators for Mu Omicron.

 

 

 

Two Scranton alumni also presented works of poetry, for which they won awards.

Bethany Belkowski ʼ24, who has a double-major in English and Public Policy and Service, presented “She Punctuates Her Conversation With Snatches of Song” and Elias Kerr ʼ23, who has a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy presented “trans [re]formation - part 1.”

Belkowski won an honorable mention for the Stemmler/Dennis LGBT Awards, while Kerr placed second, both in the creative works category.

In addition to the alumni, Carey won third place for the Stemmler/Dennis awards in the critical essays category for her work “Uttering Identity,” an essay that she wrote in a class that she took with Dr. Tadros.

Likewise, Kerr’s poetry flourished while studying with Dr. Tadros during their undergraduate years at Scranton.

According to Kerr, that tutelage, along with presenting their work at Sigma Tau Delta’s conventions, helped them “become a more confident, empowered, and healed individual.”

Kerr also discussed how important the Sigma Tau Delta community is to them, and the meaningful impact they have had among the literary community.

“People will always come up to me after I speak on a panel or give a reading, often bringing up how they heard me read the previous year, or how my book has helped them through similar challenges,” Kerr said. “Being able to use the written word to share my personal story and experiences with others has made a world of difference for me; I feel like I am giving back to a community that has always given to me.”

Kerr also expressed a desire to stay involved with Sigma Tau Delta for a long time, saying that “I hope to continue to be a part of the convention for years to come, and share my work, my stories, and my experiences with other writers from around the country.”

Additionally, Confer, DeSantis, LaBarca and Montagnino, Mu Omicron chapter’s executive board members, presented a Roundtable research discussion titled “What We Owe Each Other: Survival, Storytelling, and Care in Jesmyn Ward’s ‘Salvage the Bones.’”

Beyond the presentations and awards, members of Scranton’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta were deeply involved in ensuring that the conference ran smoothly, ranging from serving as regional representatives to inaugural leaders of new groups, helping to give back to the literary community.

Dr. Tadros and Kerr were also both appointed as inaugural mentors for the new National English Honor Society Poets Laureate Award, where they will help aspiring poets in high school serve as poetic voices for their communities.

So far, they have mentored three young poets who gave a reading at the convention this year as a part of that program.

Both Kerr and Dr. Tadros were recognized for mentoring those students at the awards ceremony on April 1.

They both also took part in a panel called “Distinguished Voices in Contemporary Poetry,” where they discussed this new mentorship position.

Scranton’s contributions did not stop there, though, as Montagnino, Mu Omicron’s president, served both onstage and behind the scenes as the 2025-2026 Associate Student Representative for the Eastern Region, a position that she described as “an incredibly fulfilling, albeit different, experience compared to my trips to St. Louis and Pittsburgh as a convention attendee.”

As a student representative, Montagnino took on numerous responsibilities, such as coordinating the schedules that helped the convention run smoothly, introducing keynote speaker Jesmyn Ward and running after-hours events for the convention attendees.

“I loved being able to introduce myself in person to the people I had been working to support for so long,” Montagnino said.

She also was excited to see everyone getting to know each other and making connections with people from other places.

“It was beautiful to witness the connections fostered by students from diverse parts of the country,” Montagnino said. “Watching attendees make friends from other universities, show up for one another, and encourage each other was truly moving, and I feel blessed to have had a hand in creating that space.”

Sigma Tau Delta recognizes and encourages excellence among undergraduate and graduate students in all aspects of English language, literature and related fields such as journalism, theatre, creative writing, media and film studies, communications, marketing, linguistics and education, including literacy initiatives.

 

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

The University of Scranton Health Professions Organization (HPO) and Medical Alumni Council (MAC) hosted a joint event on Monday, May 1 on campus. Alumni and students in attendance participated in panel discussions, dinner and networking. 

The presenters included Bernard Costello III, MD, DMD '91, and Katie Zefran, DMD, MPH'16. Panelists included Thomas Churilla, MD '09, Scott Peslak, MD, Ph.D. '06, and Alexandra Shomali '25.

HPO President William Vinsko, III ‘26, and Dan Marenda, Ph.D., associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, provided an introduction and conclusion, respectively.

Learn more about the HPO from Vinsko, a biology major from Wilkes-Barre, in a recent Club Spotlight interview with Royal News. Connect with the organization on Instagram @uofs_hpo. 

The MAC seeks to assist undergraduate pre-health professional students through education in health-related programs, networking assistance and guidance on admission to health professional schools, and access to role models in various medical careers. The MAC also keeps alumni health practitioners informed about campus developments, nominates students and alumni for scholarships and awards, conducts symposia for alumni in the health professions and encourages financial support for the University from these alumni.

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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