May/June 2018
what’s in THIS ISSUE
Volume 57 Issue 3
Alvernia’s Got Talent! Photo courtesy of Campus Activities Board
By Anjelica Riccobono Contributing Writer
Stress Relief
The performers for Alvernia’s Got Talent 2018. L-R: James Wyatt, Faith Gordon, Rachael Jones, Lauren Knecht, Collin Welteroth, Ettieanna Britt, Allison Walker, Brayden Eckert, and Aaron Kuhlman.
from schools such as Albright College, Penn State Berks, Kutztown University and others. Alvernia’s Got Talent has received Student Government Association’s awards for event of the year both in the 2012-2013 school year, and again for the 2016-2017 year. Alvernia’s Got Talent allows student to express their individuality and diverse talents. This year for Alvernia’s Got Talent, nine contestants performed. Eight contestants all had vocal performances, and one contestant tricked the three judges with card tricks.
Every spring semester, Alvernia offers the opportunities for their students to display their unique talents during a campus wide event— Alvernia’s Got Talent! Students who come in 1st and 2nd place not only win cash prizes, but have a guaranteed spot to perform on Berks’ Got Talent, which is held at Reading Area Community College. Alvernia’s top two contestants have the opportunity to compete against other contestants
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Seeking Freedom at the 2018 Sigma Tau Delta Convention A New Look for Spring Fling
something for everyone. Alvernia was represented by a group of eight students and faculty, who moderated sessions, presented an original work of fiction and even gave a presentation about the dangers of false information. For some of the students and faculty members, this year marked their first Sigma Tau Delta Convention. “I enjoyed my first Sigma Tau Delta convention because it was incredible to see all of the students’ works and seeing how much passion
and inclusiveness that I experienced throughout our time in Cincinnati,” Jillian Baker, junior, said. “Everyone was super supportive of each other and their passions,” In addition to a host of different sessions covering a wide variety of topics, the convention also featured two guest speakers, who each spoke about the theme of Seeking Freedom in different ways. The first speaker, author Christina Henríquez, spoke about the freedom of immigrants from her
The 94th annual Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society Convention took place March 21 through 24 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Since the convention theme was “Seeking Freedom,” students and alumni were encouraged to submit their original fiction, critical essays or original poetry for presentation consideration at this exciting event. Students and alumni whose original works are Continued on page 3 accepted are then assigned to a Concurrent Session, where they present their piece and receive feedback and questions from the audience. There were ten Concurrent Sessions (A-J), with each one being broken down even further into sixteen subsections. Sessions consisted of either the presentation of an original work or a roundtable presentation, with each one being moderated by a faculty member. A roundtable presentation consisted of three to five students who speak about similar facets on a topic of their choice. With Alvernia’s Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta during the Convention. topics ranging from memes Back L-R: Mark Kaufman, Blaise Kabbeko, Andrew Dotter, Jillian and hip-hop to dystopias and Baker, Danielle Saad, Caroline Fitzpatrick world literature, there was Front L-R: Beth DeMeo, Kristen Sipling
Photo courtesy of Beth DeMeo
Alvernia’s Branding Project
By Andrew Dotter Contributing Editor
Women’s Equestrian
The Holleran Center Celebrates 10 Years By Spencer Matthews Contributing Editor
2018 marks 10 years for the Holleran Center. With a focus on community outreach coupled with student involvement, the Holleran Center has positively changed the lives of many. The Holleran Center runs multiple programs that focus on the betterment of the local Reading area, most notably the Bog Turtle Creek Farm and the South Reading Youth Initiative. Peter Reilly, a senior Early Education major, reflected on his time working at the Holleran Center. Reilly has worked there in some capacity every semester he has been at Alvernia except for the current one because of his commitments as a student teacher. Reilly acknowledged that the Holleran Center helped him grow as a person. “These kids are very
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flynn files
May/June 2018
t h e alver nian Managing Editor Mady Johnston Layout Mady Johnston Andrew Dotter Section Editors Shannon Bell Andrew Dotter Tommy Godin Justin Herforth Courtney High Kiersten Ingram Spencer Matthews Contributing Writers Cheyenne Ettinger Mikayla Pettis Anjelica Riccobono Faculty Advisor Dr. Ryan Lange
The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University. To contact newspaper staff, the office telephone number is 610-796-8358.
Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu. The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length.
The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.
© 2018 The Alvernian
Vol. 57 Issue 3
The May Awards Round-Up By the time this column appears, spring (or, perhaps, summer) will finally be here! Honors Convocation featured students profiled here and many others as well as offering the opportunity to honor some special faculty. So now we are rapidly moving through the “last hurrahs” of our soon-to-be graduates: Spring Fling, SGA Awards, Senior Athlete Dinner, Senior Leaders Dinner, to name but a few, and then Baccalaureate Mass and, finally, Commencement. After 13 years at Alvernia, I join other longtime faculty and staff who enjoy seeing students whom we care about deeply walk across the stage. Some head home to Joisey (North, South, or Central!) or elsewhere; others settle locally, fortunate to have good jobs that have come from internships, field placements, or faculty referrals. Before leaving, many of you have hopefully seek out teachers, coaches, or other staff to thank those who took a special interest in you. From MargaritaVern to Graduation day, celebration is THE dominant emotion. We welcome our newest, proud alumni, confident that they are well prepared “To Do Well and To Do Good.” Here are just a few profiles of special graduates. They are scholars, leaders, differencemakers, one and all, who have excelled and made an impact in multiple ways. Christopher Thomas, an honors program member and O’Pake Leadership Fellow with double majors in Political Science and History and a minor in English, was recognized as the Outstanding Humanities Student and winner of the High Achievement Awards in both Political Science and History. Here’s a shout-out to the two other Honors Program graduates: Kayla Huey (Nursing & Biology) and also Nathan Keller (Political Science Excellence Award & History). Kristen Sipling (Women’s Volleyball and English) was named the prestigious MAC Women’s Volleyball Senior Scholar. An All-American and recipient of the Sigma Tau Delta’s Henry Miller Award, and also an RA and writing mentor, she is the 10th Alvernia MAC Senior Scholar
and now holds the Alvernia records for season and career “kills.” Ben Dubas (All-MAC Baseball and Business) and Maria Petrongolo (All-MAC Soccer and the Health Care Science Excellence Award) are Alvernia’s Outstanding Senior Scholar Athletes. We have many new doctors and proud master’s graduates! Four earned Ph.D.’s: Janene Holter (Community Leadership), a Senior Supervisory Special Agent in the state Attorney General’s office; Bernard Martin (Community Leadership), a Chester County detective; Patricia McGarry (Educational Leadership), the Senior Vice President at Valley Youth House; and Michelle Maloney (Corporate Leadership), the Regional Vice President of Operations for Sunspire Health (FL). And Andrew Innerst, one of our 29 new docs in physical therapy, received that program’s Academic Excellence Award. Tara Simmons (Master’s in Leadership for Sustainable Communities), is an O’Pake Graduate Leadership Fellow. The first cohort of Reading Collegiate Scholars boasts a 100% graduation rate, with 6 marching in May! Nathan Marquez, Cassandra Noray, Syana Ortega, Juan Paula, Karina Polanco, and Yeny Romero, and their fellow scholars are varsity athletes, honor society students, residence hall advisers, with several serving in our South Reading Youth Initiative and at Reading High School. Our first Albert Boscov Award winner for the top RCSP graduate, Syana, is an officer in several honors societies and clubs and graduates with a 3.9 average. Servant-leaders abound at Alvernia. Brittney Alphee (Nursing) received the Holleran Center’s Outstanding Service Award. Her 1,112 (and counting) hours of service is the new Alvernia record! Alyssa Keifer (Psychology), last year’s Fromm Interfaith Awardee, with over 500 hours of service, earned the Center’s Community Engagement Award. Others recognized with Community Engagement Awards (500+ service hours) include Alexa Cerulli (Sr. Pacelli Award), Alyssa
DeMarco, Sydni Gajewski (Excellence in Art Award), Joshua Harmes (Health Science Service Award), Morgan Kurtz (Health Science Excellence Award), and Madison Patten. Along with Christine Aponte (Psychology), the student leader for the Reading Collegiate Scholars, Christopher Donnelly, Carl Hendrickson, Kenisha Holloway, Samantha Homan, Madison Kleintop, Erica Luna, Casey Shirk, Matthew Shirker, Kailyn Sooy, Kallie Taylor, and Carnita Washington (Social Work Academic Award) earned the Graduation Award for Excellence in Service (300+ service hours). Resident Assistants, Tour Guides, and Ambassadors exemplify service leadership on campus. RAs (with National Residence Hall Honorary members noted with *): Michaela O’Hern*, Erica Luna*, Kimberly Whelan* (Leadership Award), Haley Balin* (NRHH president), Hanna Mallets*, Carolyn Stabile*, Samantha Brockway*, Victoria Gowland*, Abigail Cannon* (Health Science Clinical Excellence Award), Juan Paula (Excellence in Business award), Craig Grohoski (ACBSP Student Leadership Award and the PA Institute of Certified Public Accountants Award), Kristen Sipling, Kaitlyn Vane, and Janelle Webber. And here’s a shout out to the whole wonderful gang of graduating Tour Guides and Student Ambassadors! TOUR GUIDES: Samantha Brockway, Jane Burkett, Abigail Cannon, Allison Conley, Brittany Crowley, Tequila Donnelly, Erica Dunkelberger, Metuge Esong, Victoria Gowland, Erica Luna, Brittany Millard, Juan Paula, Zachary Rider, Tyra Roberts, Kailyn Sooy, Carolyn Stabile, Ann Walker, and Kim Whelan. And AMBASSADORS: Abigail Cannon, Allison Conley, Brittany Crowley, Aijah Hickey, Madison Kleintop, Hannah Mallet, Meredith McCarthy, Carolyn Stabile, Kaitlyn Vane, Ann Walker, and Kimberly Whelan. Four students have been recognized for their excellence in the arts:
Rebecca Dunst with the Outstanding Student in Chorus Award; Paige Burkett and Syndi Gajewski, with the Excellence in Art Award; and James Wyatt, with the Outstanding Student in Band Award. As always, student-athletes have won recognition for academic as well as athletic achievements. In addition to those mentioned above, Justin Gibbs (Volleyball) and Makenzie Quinn (Lacrosse) were selected for the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum. Both are O’Pake Leadership Fellows, and Justin also won an Excellence in Management award. Marisa Lombardo (Sports Information) was selected for the NCAA Emerging Leaders Seminar and--master’s degree in hand--is our new Assistant SID. Cassandra Noray (Women’s Tennis) and Andrea Wysocki (Field Hockey) have earned multiple All-MAC and Academic AllMAC honors. And Andrea, along with MVP Malorie McCoy, led her team this past fall to another ECAC Championship. Alyssa Keifer and Chris Thomas, in addition to their other awards (above), received the Franciscan Peace and Justice Award. Andrew Bugera (High Achievement Award in History) and Erika Hernandez Cheveres (Nursing Excellence Award), received the Saint Ignatius of Loyola Award, given to graduating veterans sponsored by Col. Deborah Geiger ’83. More undergraduate students than can be recognized here received awards at the annual Honors Convocation. Two graduates from our Philadelphia Center received top recognition. Rasheedah Tawnee Braxton received the CJ academic excellence award and Carnita Fransice Washington received the Outstanding Social Work Academic Award. When we honor some of the best among us, we honor the best in each and every one of us. So here’s to the Alvernia Class of 2018. Congratulations. We Are Proud of You. See you on stage! Peace and all good, President Flynn
campus news May/June 2018
3 Vol. 57 Issue 3
(L-R) 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for 2018 Alvernia’s Got Talent: Lauren Knecht, Faith Gordon, and Allison Walker.
Alvernia’s Got Talent is hosted by the Office of Student Activities. Nicholas Yando is the Assistant Director of Student Activities and advisor of CAB. “I enjoy seeing students who may not have had the opportunity to share their talents with the Alvernia community perform at Alvernia’s Got Talent, “ Yando
said. This year, the three faculty judges were Tracy Scherier, a nursing professor, Dolores Bertoti, occupational therapy professor, and Ryan Shannon of Alvernia’s Alumni Association. “It was really difficult being a judge because I wanted to award everyone for their great job,” Dr. Scherier
novel The Book of Unknown Americans. The second speaker, author Mary Norris, spoke about the freedom of language in crafting an original story. When not in a session, many students took the time to venture out into the city and do some exploring. Cincinnati offered a wide variety of great food, impressive views and colorful murals, all within walking distance of the hotel that hosted the convention. Additionally, a variety of special activities were also offered such as a Bad Poetry reading and an Escape Room. No matter how you choose to spend your time, a Sigma Tau Delta convention will be a unique experience. “I’ve been to a large number of academic conferences, and the Sigma Tau Delta convention has a more positive vibe than most,” Dr. Mark Kaufman, assistant professor of English said. “For young writers and scholars, it strikes me as the least intimidating introduction to presenting at an international gathering. I also appreciate the fact that the convention is studentcentered and studentdriven. In my experience, this is unusual, but certainly
welcome,” But everything must come to an end eventually, and no one knows this better than the current Sigma Tau Delta President, Alvernia’s Dr. Caroline Fitzpatrick. Dr. Fitzpatrick has served as President for two years and her term will be up at the end of the calendar year. “As President of the Society and Chair of the Board of Directors, it has been an honor to serve for a studentcentered organization that inducts more than 9,000 members every year,” Dr. Fitzpatrick said. “As a Faculty Sponsor, I am always proud to see my students do well and share in the experience of an academic conference. I look forward to continuing that tradition for many years to come.” Over the years, the International English Honor Society has given students substantial monetary awards. “From 2016-2018, the International English Honor Society supported undergraduate and graduate research in the humanities by giving away more than $150,000 in competitive scholarships, awards, grants and internships each year,” Immediate Past President Caroline Fitzpatrick said.
said. Collin Welteroth, a sophomore biology major and Rachael Jones, a senior psychology major performed at duet at Alvernia’s Got Talent. The duo performed “You are the Reason” by Calum Scott. “The both of us wanted to perform at Alvernia’s Got Talent to try and do something different and fun,” Welteroth said. The first place winner of Alvernia’s Got Talent 2018 was a freshman, Faith Gordon. Faith’s vocals were extraordinary on the song “Hollow” by Tori Kelly. “I have performed in talent shows in high school, why is why I wanted to perform this year as well,” Gordon said. Gordon sang the same song that was performed at Alvernia’s got Talent at Berks’ Got Talent. Megan Nicholes, senior Occupational Therapy student has attended several Alvernia’s Got Talent throughout her five years
here at Alvernia. “One of the things I like about Alvernia’s Got Talent is getting to see the wide array of talents the student body has. Over the years there have been great performances with unique talents that often extend beyond singing,”
Nicholes said. Faith Gordon and Allison Walker went on to perform at Berks’ Got Talent on Tuesday, April 3rd, Reading Area Community College and made Alvernia very proud.
Photo courtesy of Campus Activities Board
Photo courtesy of Campus Activities Board
Alvernia’s Got Talent! (Cont’d)
Aaron Kuhlman performing card tricks on the judges.
“At a time when the humanities were often under attack and budgets were being cut, Sigma Tau Delta’s ‘State of Giving’ was the largest amount provided in the history of the organization, and we accomplished that milestone with a balanced budget and wise stock investments for financial health well into the future. The increased funding meant more financial support for high-achieving students. I am proud that I could be a part of it.” Looking to the future, Sigma Tau Delta seeks to continue its trend of awarding students for their original works at the 2019 International Convention. With the theme of “Work in Progress” and featured speaker Tess Taylor students are in for another great time! For more information on Sigma Tau Delta, contact Beth Demeo at marybeth.demeo@ alvernia.edu
Photo courtesy of Sigma Tau Delta International Honor Society
Seeking Freedom... (Cont’d)
2018 Convention Theme- Seeking Freedom Logo
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end of semester
May/June 2018
Vol. 57 Issue 3
A New Look for Spring Fling Spring Fling will now have a different look from prior years. After first being announced in the fall, students will see the changes to the event on the weekend of April 27 and 28. The most drastic change for Spring Fling 2018 will be the absence of the typical large concert to end the festivities. Last year’s Spring Fling was headlined by a concert from X Ambassadors. The headlining concert over the last few years has seen a steady decline in the number of students who attend. As a result, SGA has decided to reallocate the funds to different events during the weekend. “A lot of the activities for this Spring Fling will be just like any other year, except there will be no traditional concert,” SGA President Sarah Englert said.
“To replace the concert, the other Spring Fling events will essentially become bigger. There will still be a block party, but with more bounce houses and novelty items, an outdoor movie experience with snacks, and a Mega Prize Bingo with much bigger prizes than the usual on campus bingo.” “There will still also be a music component of Spring Fling, with the annual Founder’s Village Festival, featuring the headlining music act, Howie Day.” The headlining event will be the very-popular Big Prize Bingo. With there being no headlining concert, there will be an increase of large prizes that will have the students going wild such as Apple Watches, TV’s, and even more. The Big Prize Bingo was a huge success in years past, and with more prizes up for grabs, it makes it an event you will not want to miss. “I think the bigger prize bingo will absolutely be an
enjoyable experience for the students,” Resident Director Amber Nikolaus said. “In the past, students never seemed to be satisfied with the artists that took their time to come in for the Spring Fling concert.” “Throughout the day on Saturday, there will be times for students to listen to artists sing outside so that it will be a different type of experience,
but super fun vibes for the Spring Fling experience.” With the changes for Spring Fling 2018, one of the biggest questions before the event is if the student body will enjoy the festivities? The consensus was overwhelmingly positive. “I think that the plans for spring fling this year will still be enjoyable for students,” SGA Vice President Kaitlin
Didinger said. “It was planned and structured to attempt to best fit the interest of the students, so I think it will still be an enjoyable weekend for students.” For more information on future campus events, follow @AlverniaCAB and @ AlverniaSA.
Photo courtesy of Campus Activities Board
By Justin Herforth Contributing Editor
Alvernia’s Campus Activities Board always puts on great events to entertain students.
Photo courtesy of Cheyenne Ettinger
Invest in Stress Relief to End Your Semester Right
Candles and bath bombs are the perfect pair for a night of relaxation. Aromatherapy is a great stress reliever.
By Cheyenne Ettinger Contributing Writer
It’s the time of the year, where both students and professors are making preparations for final exams, presentations, and deciding on what the new semester’s schedule will look like. Many people begin to feel a weight of stress that seems to hover over everything they do. It can lead to sleepless nights, headaches, and cause some to be unfocused in classes. How does one conquer that terrible weight of feeling like there is never enough time for anything? A favorite relaxation method among many is to simply shut the world out for a little while and take a nap.
Balancing school work and rest is a good way to help stay focused the next day in class. A forty five minute nap is the best way to feel better after waking up. Naps that last longer and require springing right back into what was being done before the nap can lead to grogginess and disorientation that can last up to half an hour, possibly more. Over the past few years, bath bombs have grown in popularity. Bath bombs are a hard packed mix of dry ingredients that become fizzy once placed into water. They also smell amazing and help to give people a calming sense. Drawing a warm bath with a bath bomb and a lit candle or two in a
dark bathroom helps ease the mind. Working out or going to the gym is one common way people let go of added stress. It’s a healthy way to escape from reality. “I really enjoy going to the gym to relieve stress,” Allee Blessing, a sophomore Health Care Science major said. Working out pumps up the production of the brain’s endorphins or, ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters. A simple way to relax and reduce stress is to remember to take breaks in between work. Ten minute breaks between assignments can keep from overworking and stressing out. Little breaks can increase focus and reduce stress. Avoid cell phone time as well as watching videos. Breaks with friends, such as lunch or grabbing a cup of coffee, simply to take your mind off of things for a bit. Other ways to keep the mind focused while also on break mode is to go for a brisk walk, have a small snack, and drinking water. Changing up the study method is a good way to continue studying without becoming bored of the topic such as watching videos that pertain to the material, note cards, or having a study
partner quiz you on the material. “I think it’s all about making time for things you enjoy,” Courtney Wentzel, a junior nursing major said. “I love writing and reading poetry, so I try to make sure that I at least make time for an hour a night to read or write. It’s all about balance.” Art, reading, and writing are all great ways to creatively get the things stressing you out most off of your chest. “I like to paint and read for stress relief,” Madi Kasapidis, a sophomore Health Care Science major, said. Many people tend to want to relax by enjoying alcohol, such as a glass of wine or a few beers. This can be enjoyable and relaxing, but is not the best choice when studying and getting through
the end of the semester. Drinking alcohol can lead to unresolved stress to come back after enjoying the buzz of a few drinks, which leads to even more stress and anxiety than before. The best thing to drink is water and to eat foods that will keep you alert and aware such as avocados, blueberries, dark chocolate, coffee, and eggs. Having a group of people who care about and support you can’t be beat. “My family is my support system,” Sary Ann Madera, a first year nursing major said. “They always make me laugh, even when I’m stressed out of my mind.” The end of the semester can be challenging, but don’t forget to take time to relax and have fun.
Breathe in, breathe out. Stress does not last. Just like the weather, this too shall pass.
all about alvernia 5 May/June 2018
Vol. 57 Issue 3
The Holleran Center Celebrates 10 Years (Cont’d) still give them what they need emotionally and educationally through your background, knowledge, and what you can offer to them, so I’ve been able to grow in that sense as an educator.” Riley is apprehensive about his life after graduation. “I’m not ready dude! I’m not ready! I need another year. I might have to go to grad
Photo courtesy of The Holleran Center
underprivileged when it comes to their school district and what they have to offer, but they do have an amazing staff that work with them,” he said. “I’ve only been able to grow as a leader and as an inspiration for these kids. That’s what it’s all about. Though they don’t have the supplies, you can
The founders of the Holleran Center, (L-R) Jerry and Carolyn Holleran
world learning experiences through study abroad and more internships, so it’ll be across the board, that all students will have that experience.” In the eyes of school President Tom Flynn, student involvement in the Holleran Center is very important. “The Holleran Center can’t exist without students,” Dr. Flynn said. “The great work of the Holleran Center, while staff are important, is being done...predominantly by students.” A continuation of successes of the Holleran Center is on the way. “The Reading Collegiate Scholars Program and the South Reading Youth Initiative are two of or signature programs and they will continue and expand, but as you hear we have a variety of programs in sustainability, environmental studies, interfaith work, and the Foster Grandparent Program,” Dr. Flynn said. “I think you’ll continue to see education
school or something.” Someone who does not plan on leaving the Holleran Center anytime soon is Dr. Jodi Radosh, Associate Director of the Holleran Center. She stressed the importance the Holleran Center holds in sponsoring unique outreach programs. “We do student outreach and outreach to the community in multiple ways,” Dr. Radosh said. “I’m responsible for service learning, so in that we partner with different community partners and our students help them with their needs through academic classes. You saw the South Reading Youth Initiative where we go in and help students with their needs after school. And then we also do outreach with the Bog Turtle Creek Farm.” Dr. Radosh wants to get more students involved in the Holleran Center. “We’re trying to expand upon our service learning offerings, making sure that there is more real-
By Kiersten Ingram and Shannon Bell Contributing Editors When you think of Alvernia University’s brand, what do you think of? Its logo: The Golden Wolves? Its motto: To Learn, To Love, To Serve? While these may be a part of Alvernia, these are not Alvernia’s brand. Alvernia’s mission, core values, and strong history set the framework for its brand. The subtotal of people’s experiences at Alvernia, what they have to say about the school, its website, and what Alvernia promises others is all incorporated into its brand. “A brand is your DNA, who you really are,” Deidra Hill, vice president of marketing and communications at Alvernia University, said.
Hill did a significant amount of research on Alvernia before accepting her current position, such as reading the mission and evaluating its staff; she thought that Alvernia would be a great fit for her. Hill is responsible for overseeing all marketing initiatives of the university, protecting the school’s brand at all times, and makes sure the right decisions are made with inside and outside sources. She is also in charge of overseeing the school’s latest Alvernia Brand Project. “It’s not uncommon for institutions to go through brand projects,” Hill said. “Typically every 3-5 years universities will at least re-evaluate their brand.” It is important for universities to re-evaluate their brand to ensure it is relevant to the current time. The reason for the branding project is not to say that Alvernia does not have a good brand, but to assess how it can be improved. The project will test the brand with other people. What does the community, businesses, students (past, present, and prospective), donors, parents, and other
constituencies have to say about the Alvernia brand? Deidra Hill and other Alvernia faculty members have been divided into task forces to work with representatives of the constituencies so that they can ask critical questions and come up with statements that describe the truth of Alvernia. Alvernia is lucky enough to have two outside vendors work with them on the brand project for a $50,000 stipend. As long as the branding project does not go over $50,000, it will be of no cost to Alvernia and it’s students. Fleishman Hillard, a prestigious PR firm, will be working with Alvernia along with the Learning House, a company that offers online programs. Both of these companies will enable Alvernia to communicate its brand more effectively. The brand will have a kickoff, a workshop, qualitative studies, and an analysis of the answers from those studies. “We hope to discover new language to describe the Alvernia experience as well as uncover descriptions that set apart Alvernia from its peers,” Hill said. After the project, Alvernia’s
Photo courtesy of Alvernia University
Alvernia’s Branding Project
of youth in Reading both in elementary and high school, interfaith work, sustainability work. Those will be the key focuses going ahead.” “I view the Holleran Center as being one of the principle embodiments at the University of our core values and our Franciscan mission where a whole lot of things come together and of course the fact that we have faculty and students and staff all involved there. It’s the way we walk the talk of the mission.” The Holleran Center is a key component of Alvernia University. Although it has only existed for 10 years, the Holleran Center has affected the lives of many in ways they might not even have realized. From the personal growth of students like Peter Reilly, to the continuation of the school’s mission, while also being a direct embodiment of the Four Core Values, the Holleran Center has facilitated, positive change.
Deidra Hill, Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications, at the helm of Alvernia’s branding project.
message to its audiences should be stronger, with those audiences reacting more positively to the school. The new message will be included in Alvernia’s website, which is one of the main objects of focus for the project. More videos, new messaging, and an all-around more efficient site is the goal that Alvernia, the Learning House and Fleishman Hillard will be working on. Although the idea of re-evaluating Alvernia’s brand has been in the works before
Hill arrived at Alvernia, she predicts the relaunching of the brand to happen in late June of this year. The project is expected to be finished by late spring of next year. “While our logo is the most recognizable symbol of who we are,” the Alvernia Identity Manual says, “it is important to remember that in the end we, the people of Alvernia, are the best brand messengers,”
6 opinion
& comment
May/June 2018
Vol. 57 Issue 3
By Mady Johnston Managing Editor As the November midterm elections draw closer and political divisions continue to guide Americans’ conversations and news feeds, there is both a desire for bipartisanship and a sense of political exhaustion. In times like these, the oftenignored voices of young voters can provide a fresh perspective on how politics hold influence on their lives. Arelis Colon, 22, is a senior Communications major at Alvernia University and is a self-identified liberal. A longtime resident of the City of Reading, Colon has seen firsthand that economic standing can influence a person or community’s political activity. “When you’re to the point where you have to hustle to survive, you don’t have the time to worry about ‘What’s going to benefit me more?’ or ‘Who should I vote for?” Colon said. The political atmosphere at Alvernia is similar. As a liberal arts college, Alvernia University encourages its students to engage in civil discord. However, classes, extracurricular activities and other academic stressors can make students not want to bare the extra weight of political conversations. Still, students, like Colon, are aware of how politics have an influence in their everyday lives. “We see close friends no longer become friends,”
Colon said. “I’ve never stopped being friends with people because of differences in politics, but I have tried to tread lightly because of stuff that some people have said or done [that are politically driven.]” She’s not alone. According to a 2016 Pew Research poll, most Americans don’t enjoy engaging in political dialogue. 46% of total individuals polled said that they found talking with people they disagree with is “stressful and frustrating”, and 61% of people found that they had less in common when discussing politics with someone across the aisle. As a result, most people would be reluctant to engage in politics with their peers for fear of cutting ties. James Wyatt III, 22, a senior Criminal Justice major at Alvernia, and a self-identified conservative, is also aware of how politics can divide people, citing the strain on his relationship with his girlfriend after Donald Trump was elected president and the fear of losing key friendships. “I also found a decent number of Republican friends, including myself, don’t post a lot of political stuff online, because we don’t want that to get in the way of our friendships,” Wyatt said. Most students interviewed said that they did not believe that bipartisanship in government and society was possible, at least not right now, citing the influence of
mass media and the human condition of stubbornness. Ironically, the very institution causing such a stir is also filled with people working to achieve bipartisan discourse. U.S. congressmen and senators are joining bipartisan movements, such as the Problem Solvers Caucus and Climate Solutions Caucus, in the hopes of promoting bipartisan legislation on many issues. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ) is a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, a subgroup of bipartisan political organization No Labels, with Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ). Rep. Lance’s efforts to represent the citizens of New Jersey sometimes involves going against the views of his fellow Republicans. “I’ve certainly felt immense pressure from certain party leaders to vote a certain way on key legislature this term, such as healthcare reform and the new tax law.” Rep. Lance said. But the congressman maintains that he will continue to push for what is most beneficial long-term for the people of New Jersey. On the state level, Sen. Judy Schwank (D) and Rep. Mark Gillen (R) are two PA lawmakers pushing for bipartisanship by maintaining strong relationships with their constituents from both parties and working together to push fair legislation that will benefit the Commonwealth. The exhaustion of partisan politics for young people,
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Parker
College Students’ Perspectives on Politics, Bipartisanship
The National Newspaper Association Fellows after finishing their program in Washington D.C., discussing bipartisanship with lobbyists and congressmen for their respective stories. Back L-R: Hunter Andes, John Hammel. Front L-R: Cassandra Buchman, Monica Diaz, Elissa Kedziorek, Mady Johnston
however, is not lost on these representatives. In a written statement, Rep. Mark Gillen said he has faith in the influence of young voters. “I believe that if these young adults felt more involved with the system, understood how their choices could significantly influence society, and felt connected to the individual(s) running for office, they would become more excited about the incredible opportunity that informed voting offers.” Furthermore, Sen. Schwank has said that she is working with Republican and Democratic constituents to pass Pennsylvania SB. 501, a
bipartisan bill that is passed would take away and deny guns for individuals who have threatened partners or have Protection from Abuse Orders. Despite discomfort discussing politics, college students do agree on a few things. When asked what political issues matter most to them, interviewees overwhelmingly cited gun reform. Some believe in strengthening background checks while others want a change in the culture and dialogue surrounding guns, but the desire for gun safety is mutual.
“Our predecessors understood that the ties that bind America are far stronger than disagreements over any particular policy and far more durable and profound than any party affiliation.” Madeleine Albright
spring special May/June 2018
7 Vol. 57 Issue 3
One Man Working to Form a Better Reading Tim Daley is many things. Daley is a graduate of Alvernia University, a former Reading police officer, a former safe-schools coordinator for Reading School District, the current executive director of a nonprofit, and the father of two grown children. He also is the grandfather to one “very rambunctious” four year old. Daley has spent much of his life working to help form a better Reading. During his 16-year career with the Reading Police Department, he was not only an officer but also a detective sergeant in charge of a nine-man unit. Daley then served as the first safe-schools coordinator for Reading School District, and went on to serve as the first criminal justice program director for the Berks County courts.
“I’m always intrigued by what’s next on the horizon,” Daley said. Currently, he is approaching his seventh year as the executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Berks County. He also serves on Alvernia’s Presidential Advisory Board. Daley’s resume is anything but ordinary. He even ran for the Mayor of Reading in 2015. “I never say never,” Daley said when asked if he would ever run for mayor again. There is no doubt Daley has put his criminal justice degree to good use throughout the course of his career, but that does not mean he would have done everything just the same. “Something I wish I could tell my younger self would be in the sense of commitment and working harder,” he said. “I think as a teenager and early in my life I had a very casual approach to things. I think I would have just said to think of the bigger more
distant picture, with more relevance.” Daley’s favorite thing about being a police officer was feeling like he made a difference each day. “Having the opportunity to do work that was important for people and the community that they live in, that’s the most important thing about police work,” he said. “When you think about the things that you are asked to do and the things that you see, you can get too immersed in all of that, but I think from a loftier perspective to know that if you’re fortunate enough in life to do something in a profession where the work is extremely important and meaningful there’s a great sense of satisfaction, that I felt with that.” Daley’s role at Habitat for Humanity of Berks County is similar to that of his former job as a police officer. “I will say that other than policing,
the executive directorship of Habitat has something that has stirred the same types of emotional importance of the work and the energy that it needs to be done right, or at least effectively, that was my reward for being a police officer,” Although Daley has had many careers with the betterment of Reading at the focal point, he is not a 24/7 workingman. “I like to golf, I like to fish, I like my alone time just to
clear my head so to speak,” he said. “But I try and never lose the perspective that my off time is important, you have to balance your time, I’m very big into a balanced approach to my day-to-day routine.” Facio nilum medius is one of Daley’s favorite quotes. “It’s Latin for ‘do nothing ordinary’ and that’s more so what I funnel my journey in life about,” Daley said.
Photo courtesy of Courtney High
By Courtney High Contributing Editor
Tim Daley at his desk at Habitat for Humanity on Canal Street.
Photo courtesy of Eryn Ziegler
Women’s Equestrian Comes to Alvernia
Coach Eryn Ziegler competing at an Intercollegiate Horse Show Association competition.
By Mikayla Pettis Contributing Writer Women’s Equestrian is riding in as Alvernia’s 26th sport this fall. Announced in November 2017, Alvernia’s team will be joining the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). Valley Mist Farms will host and serve as the official stables of Alvernia’s new team. Valley Mist Farms of Oley, Pennsylvania and was established in 1990. Tobey McWilliams, the owner of Valley Mist Farms, is the official advisor of the team along with Eryn Ziegler as
head coach. Coach Eryn Ziegler has been riding at Valley Mist Farms most of her life. Ziegler started riding lessons at the farm when she was just four years old. Today she teaches lessons to young riders and trains at the farm nearly every day. Ziegler attended Cedar Crest College where she competed on the women’s equestrian team and was nominated most valuable rider three years in a row. Ziegler has expressed excitement for the coming season which is set to begin in the fall. Ziegler has her work
cut out for her in building up a team from scratch, “Finding riders of all levels of experience can be challenging,” she said, explaining that it is important in competition to have riders of different skill levels to compete in each event. “There is a lot of dedication that goes into the sport; I think a common misconception is that you get on the horse and it does everything, but the horse listens to the commands of its rider. Knowing how to give those commands takes some practice,” Ziegler said. Different from the NCAA division, the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association is inclusive of all levels of experience and skill. According to the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association, it is their goal that “any college student, regardless of skill level or riding experience, should have the opportunity to compete on a college equestrian team.” The IHSA has eight levels to compete in based on skill and experience. The skills that riders demonstrate at the levels 1 and 2 are walk and trot. At the highest level (eight) riders canter, flat race and jump fences.
Riders compete for individual scores, as well as for the overall team score at the end of the competition. At IHSA competitions the host college provides all the horses that competitors will be riding for the day. “It’s the luck of the draw,” Ziegler said. “Riders find out what horse they will be riding for the day ten minutes before they compete.” Ziegler explained that a big part of the sport is understanding the tendencies of the horse quickly before the competition. Although many girls on the team are new to the sport, they are excited to learn new
skills and work with the horses. “I’ve never participated competitively (in equestrian) before but I am excited to learn more,” Marissa Cosgrove, first-year Alvernia student, said. If you are interested in joining the women’s equestrian team or in taking riding lessons, Ziegler recommends doing some research first. “I would also say come out to the barn first,” she said. “A lot of people that haven’t ridden before are surprised by the size of a full-grown horse.”
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