Thursday, October 16, 2025
President’s DINNER
Welcome
Thomas Minick ‘98 MBA’10, Vice President of Advancement and Government Affairs
Mission Moment
Sister John Ann Proach, OSF ‘74
Congregational Minister
Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Four Under Forty Alumni Awards
Alexandria Crouthamel ’15
Ashley Mikulsky, MBA’18
Brett Sneeringer ’09
Gabriella Valenti ’15
Distinguished Alumni Award Presentation
LeeAnn Smulligan, MBA’09
The Ellen Frei Gruber Award Presentation
Christopher R. deGruchy ’93 MBA’05
Dinner
Reading Symphony Orchestra and Reading Symphony Youth Orchestra
President’s Remarks
Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D
Alvernia Student Experience
Faith Bentz, Class of 2025
CollegeTowne Award Presentation
The Wyomissing Foundation
Franciscan Award Presentation
Kevin and Kim Murphy
Four Under Forty Honorees
Alvernia’s Four Under Forty Award was developed in 2019 by the Alvernia Young Alumni Committee to recognize the achievements of young alumni. The alumni chosen for this award exhibit high levels of success in their career, a commitment to community service, dedication to the advancement and growth of Alvernia and demonstrate Alvernia’s core values in their personal, spiritual and professional life.
2019 | Emily Berret ’11 | Amy B. Klatt ’08 MBA’09 | Steve Koons ’05 | Melissa Masone Ulmer ’09
2021 | Brandi Burns ’14 | Conor Delaney ‘07 | Kate Ecke ‘11 | Kyle Levengood ‘08
2022 | Joseph A. Bonanno ‘09 | Kayla Kressler ‘10 MA’17 | Rev. John A. Hutta ‘11 | Jiolka Peralta ‘12
2023 | Andrew Angstadt ‘08 | Junior Bernard ‘14 | Katie Griffith ‘05 | Mylen Morales ‘15
2024 | Angela York ‘11 | Mary Strausser ‘08 | Major Leon Geiger ‘13 MA’23 | Emily Cleffi-Tristani ‘12
Four Under Forty Honorees
Alexandria Crouthamel ’15
Alexandria Crouthamel is the founder and owner of Crouthamel Law Offices, an all-female firm based in Bethlehem with a second location in Lehigh County. Focusing her practice on criminal defense and family law, Alexandria has built a reputation as a dedicated and compassionate advocate who fights tirelessly to protect her clients’ rights.
A 2015 graduate of Alvernia University with a degree in forensic science and criminal justice, Alexandria went on to earn her Juris Doctor from Widener University Delaware Law School in 2019. During law school, she served in leadership roles with several organizations, including the Alternative Dispute Resolution Society and International Law Society, and was a senior staff member for the Delaware Journal of Corporate Law.
Since her admission to the Pennsylvania Bar in 2019, Alexandria has been recognized for her professional accomplishments and leadership. She has earned distinctions including Lehigh Valley Style’s “Influential Woman of the Year,” Who’s Who Top Lawyers, and Top Lawyers 2023.
Deeply committed to service, Alexandria has volunteered as a mentor and coach at Northampton County Prison and served nearly a decade on the board of Stephen’s Place, a halfway house in Bethlehem. Through her professional expertise and community engagement, she continues to exemplify the Franciscan values of justice, service, and leadership instilled at Alvernia.
Four Under Forty Honorees
Ashley Mikulsky MBA’18
Ashley Mikulsky serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, where she has led the organization’s transformation into a progressive, nationally recognized no-kill shelter. Her career in nonprofit leadership spans nearly two decades, including positions in fundraising and development with Alvernia University—where she founded the Alvernia Women’s Council—and Junior Achievement of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Collectively, she has raised more than $15 million in support of community-focused initiatives.
A proud graduate of Alvernia’s MBA program, Ashley is also Treasurer of her family’s business, J. Mikulsky Railway Supply Co., a women-owned and certified WBE/DBE company. In both her professional and volunteer roles, she is committed to advancing women’s leadership, building community partnerships, and creating opportunities that strengthen Berks County.
Four Under Forty Honorees
Brett Sneeringer ’09
Brett Sneeringer currently serves as Captain with the Reading Police Department, where he oversees essential service divisions and serves as Deputy Commander of the Berks County Emergency Response Team. Previously, he led the Reading Police Academy, directing the training of more than 125 cadets and establishing traditions such as the Pagoda Run that continue to inspire new officers.
A 2009 Alvernia Criminal Justice graduate, Brett has advanced through the department since 2011, building strong community connections through outreach programs such as National Night Out and Cones with Cops. His commitment to mentoring new officers and fostering trust between law enforcement and residents reflects the values of service instilled at Alvernia.
Alongside his professional service, he is a proud husband to fellow alumna Jennifer and father of three, deeply dedicated to both his family and his community.
Four Under Forty Honorees
Gabriella Valenti ’15
Gabriella Valenti is an Associate Producer and Manager of Audience Logistics at Fox News Channel in New York City. Since joining the network in 2015, she has advanced through roles from guest greeter to administrative assistant, booker, and producer. In her current position, she produces live segments from start to finish, selects compelling visuals and sound to tell stories effectively, manages the logistics of a live studio audience each day, and assists with postproduction. Her career has been marked by dedication, clear communication, and the ability to thrive in the fast-paced world of national broadcast journalism.
A 2015 Alvernia graduate with a degree in Communication and English, Valenti was active on campus as an anchor for Alvernia’s television news program and as assistant editor of The Alvernian. She continues to carry her passion for storytelling into her career in national broadcast journalism. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering in her community, traveling, reading, running, and staying active through workout classes like Barre and Pilates. She also loves spending time at the beach and experimenting in the kitchen.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes a person(s) who demonstrates the valuable contributions to his/her professions, community and their nation.
Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients
1995 Ronald Mikula ’78
1995 Bruce A. Smith ’75
1996 Sue Reese ’83
1996 Col. John K. Schafer ’76*
1996 Jeffrey Smith ’86
1998 Claire Flemming ’77*
1998 Kathleen Kleppinger ’83
1999 Nancy Adam ’87
2000 Carol Lawlor Klimas ’84
2001 Robert Balthaser ’91
2002 James Murphy ’94
2003 Ray Melcher ’78
2003 Dr. Ben Schlechter ’82
2004 Charles Broad ’78
2005 Kevin Calabria MBA’03
2006 Wynton Butler MBA’03
2007 Michael J. Heimbach ’88
2008 Dr. Rachel A. Maher ’94
2009 Dr. Charles F. Barbera MBA’01
2010 Dr. Josephine Elia ’75
2011 Michele Murphy ’73
2011 Patricia Murphy ’73
2012 Col. Deborah Geiger ’83
2013 George S. Rice, Jr. ’85
2014 John H. McCarthy ’06
2015 Eric B. Turman ’97 MBA’03
2016 Kevin P. DeAcosta ’00
2017 Cheryl E. Callahan ’79
2018 Andres M. Dominguez ’82
2018 Dr. Melissa Marcario ’93
2019 Mary Kay Bernosky MBA’03
2021 Timothy J. Daley ’79
2022 Gregory Header ‘97
2023 David L. Yoch ‘82
2024 Joanne Haag ‘69
2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
LeeAnn Smulligan MBA’10
With more than two decades of experience at Mrs. T’s Pierogies, LeeAnn Smulligan has built an impressive career defined by leadership, innovation, and a commitment to people. In 2024, she was named Chief Operating Officer, a role that recognizes her long record of success in driving operational excellence, category development, marketing initiatives, and brand innovation for the family-owned company.
LeeAnn began her career at Mrs. T’s in 2002 as a marketing assistant. Her drive and vision propelled her through a series of leadership positions, including Director of Marketing, Vice President of Operations, and ultimately COO. In each role, she has helped shape the strategic direction of the company, keeping the Mrs. T’s brand both beloved by longtime customers and relevant to new generations. Her colleagues and industry partners alike admire her for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to align organizational values with community impact.
Refrigerated Buyer FoRWARD Award (Frozen & Refrigerated Women Achieving Remarkable Distinction), honoring her contributions to the frozen food industry and her mentorship of emerging female executives. Beyond her corporate role, she is active in industry and community leadership, serving as chair of the National Frozen & Refrigerated Association’s Promotions Committee, as a member of VISTAGE—the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization—and as Secretary of the Board for Helping Harvest, the regional food bank serving Berks and Schuylkill Counties.
LeeAnn’s dedication extends well beyond her professional responsibilities. She is passionate about using her knowledge and leadership to mentor others, to strengthen community organizations, and to ensure that business success also drives community well-being.
A graduate of Saint Joseph’s University with a bachelor’s degree in food marketing, LeeAnn earned her MBA from Alvernia University, where she deepened her expertise in business leadership. Committed to continuous learning, she further enhanced her executive skills by completing the Wharton Executive Education Leadership Program in 2024.
LeeAnn’s professional achievements have earned national recognition. In 2024, she received the prestigious Frozen and
She and her husband, Charles, reside in St. Clair, Pennsylvania, with their daughters, Carlee and Ellee. LeeAnn values time with her family, enjoys traveling, reading, and fitness, and remains active in service to her community.
Through her professional achievements, community engagement, and leadership rooted in values, LeeAnn Smulligan exemplifies the spirit of the Distinguished Alumni Award and the mission of Alvernia University.
Ellen Frei Gruber Award
The Ellen Frei Gruber Award is presented to an individual who has given outstanding service to his/her alma mater and exemplified continued commitment and support of the mission of Alvernia University. Most importantly, this individual reflects the values of service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation and collegiality.
Ellen Frei Gruber Award Recipients
1983 Mary Ann D’Alonzo ’69
1984 Sister Rosemary Stets, OSF ’71
1985 Dr. Michael J. Skoraszewski ’78
1986 Joseph J. Swope ’80
1987 The Honorable Linda K.M. Ludgate ’77*
1988 Christine Dracopolos Carpenter ’76
1989 Alice Jean Bleacher ’83
1992 Terry D. Cieri ’88*
1993 Helen Ravel ’73
1994 Sister Edward Ann Wierzalis, OSF ’73 *
1995 Diane Cominski Gracely ’71*
1996 Marie Heck Bentz ’88
1997 RoseMarie Winters ’82
1998 Kevin Georgetti ’85
1999 Dr. Marie Nowakowski ’61
2000 Robert McCormack ’82
2001 Stella I. Leonti ’71
2002 Dr. Scott Ballantyne ’86
2003 Sister Ann Marie Coll, OSF ’67*
2004 Linda Lysakowski ’88
2005 Kathleen D. Herbein ’95
2006 Valetta Eshbach ’68
2007 Steven S. Keiser ’80
2008 Dr. Colleen A. Woodard ’68
2009 Suzanne M. Miller ’89
2010 Dominic M. Murgido ’79
2011 Theresa M. (Gillichbauer) McCormack ’83
2012 Deanna L. Reuben ’79
2013 Sharon A. Danks ’03, MBA’04
2014 Meggan Hannigan Kerber ’96, MBA’01
2015 Jeanne Moran Savage ’88
2016 Mary Lou Kline ’81
2017 Julia S. Angstadt MBA’05
2018 Dr. Philip J. Fromuth Ph.D. ’12
2019 John D. Wanner ’82
2021 Nadine Blair ’83
2022 Susan W. Green ’76
2023 Judith Ann Bohler ‘09
2024 Dr. Patricia W. Savage ‘71
*deceased
2025 Ellen Frei Gruber Recipient
Christopher deGruchy ‘93 MBA‘05
Christopher “Chris” deGruchy has built a distinguished career and legacy of service rooted in the values of integrity, perseverance, and community impact. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Chris began his educational journey while serving overseas, completing college courses wherever he was stationed. Following his honorable discharge, he balanced full-time employment and single parenthood while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in finance from Alvernia University, graduating in 1993. A decade later, he returned to earn his MBA with a concentration in business leadership, equipping him for the next chapter of his professional journey.
Chris’s career began in cost accounting and financial analysis, roles that allowed him to build deep expertise in manufacturing operations and leadership. He advanced through positions at Arrow International, Yuasa Exide Battery, and Monterey Mushrooms, where he played a pivotal role in the company’s expansion into the Northeast. In 2007, he seized the opportunity to become co-owner and Principal–General Manager of Cast Rite Metals in Birdsboro, a commercial aluminum sand casting foundry. Under his leadership, Cast Rite has tripled in size, serving hundreds of clients across the U.S. and internationally.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chris is equally devoted to philanthropy and service. In 2022, he and his wife Jane established the deGruchy Charitable Fund, which invests in programs that support the health, education, and character development of children. Through this fund, they have made transformative contributions to Alvernia’s Reading Collegiate Scholars Program, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Helping Harvest, Berks Nature, the John Paul II Center, and the Reading Musical Foundation. Chris has also served for over two decades as a volunteer with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, including leadership on the Black & Blue Ball Committee, and is a mentor to students through Alvernia’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.
Equally meaningful is Chris’s devotion to family and community. He and Jane live in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, where they care for Golden Pond Arboretum, a 10-acre property developed by his father that Chris continues to nurture. The couple shares their love of nature by hosting annual blueberry festivals, introducing John Paul II Center students to fruit picking, and recently expanding into beekeeping and pollinator habitat restoration.
A proud Alvernia graduate, Chris reflects the Franciscan call to learn, to love, to serve through his leadership, philanthropy, and mentorship. His life’s work has created opportunities for countless others, making him a true example of what it means to live out the mission of Alvernia University.
CollegeTowne Award
The CollegeTowne Award (previously Pro Urbe) is presented to a business or organization that performs significant community service and contributes to a higher standard of living in Berks County and surrounding communities.
Pro Urbe Award Recipients
2003 Sovereign Bank
2004 United Way of Berks County
2005 Fulton Bank – Great Valley Division
2006 City of Reading Police Department
2007 Caron Treatment Centers
2008 Berks County Community Foundation
2009 Berks Women in Crisis
2009 Mary’s Shelter/Mary’s Home
2010 Reading Area Community College
2011 Berks Catholic High School and its predecessors
2012 Reading Symphony Orchestra
2013 Olivet Boys & Girls Club
2014 Carpenter Technology
2015 John Paul II Center for Special Learning
2016 East Penn Manufacturing
2017 Opportunity House
2018 Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P.
2019 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Reading PA
CollegeTowne Recipient
2021 Sweet Street Desserts
2022 Customers Bank
2023 Berks Community Health Center
2024 Brentwood Industries
2025 CollegeTowne Award
The Wyomissing Foundation
Founded in 1926 by the leaders of Wyomissing Industries, The Wyomissing Foundation has spent nearly a century serving as a catalyst for community change. More than a grant maker, the Foundation provides thought leadership on critical issues, builds place-based coalitions, and fosters collaborations that strengthen Berks County. Its investments support initiatives in health and human services, education, the arts, the environment, and community and economic development.
The Foundation has consistently supported major institutions, including the United Way of Berks County, Reading Hospital, the Reading Public Museum, and the Reading Musical Foundation. More recently, its funding has fueled Reading’s revitalization through projects such as Tec Centro Berks, Helping Harvest Community Kitchen, and the Community First Fund. At Alvernia University, its impact has been transformational— supporting projects such as Francis Hall renovations, the Student Center, and the Tom and Helen Flynn Plex, while also investing in student-focused programs including the Reading Collegiate Scholars Program, the O’Pake Institute, and the American House at Reading CollegeTowne with Berks Community Health Center and Total Experience Learning.
As Tec Centro reflects: “The Wyomissing Foundation was the foundation upon which Tec Centro was built, placing their trust in our mission and providing essential financial support. Without their visionary support—and the dedication of Karen Rightmire and the founding members of Tec Centro—our organization would not exist. Today, their continued investment not only transforms the lives of our students but strengthens the entire Berks County community, creating opportunities, hope, and a brighter future for all we serve.”
As shared by Berks Community Health Center:
“The Wyomissing Foundation played a pivotal role in the founding of Berks Community Health Center, joining other key organizations in championing accessible, community-based health care. Prior to the opening of our first site, they generously provided in-kind support by hosting our administrative staff—an act of true partnership that helped us get off the ground. Their continued support through strategic grant funding has enabled BCHC to launch innovative programs, including initiatives to combat childhood obesity and the creation of our Healthy Eating Room.” — Mary Kargbo, Berks Community Health Center
Looking ahead to its 100th anniversary in 2026, the Wyomissing Foundation continues to enhance the quality of life while shaping a stronger, healthier community for all.
Franciscan Award
The Franciscan Award honors individuals who selflessly give of their time, talents, and resources for the betterment of others. This award is presented for exceptional service to the University, the community, and the individual’s profession.
Franciscan Award Recipients
1986 The Reverend Monsignor Felix A. Losito*
1987 Attorney Adam B. Krafczek*
1988 Mr. and Mrs. Charles Shander *
1989 Rev. and Mrs. Warren Wilfert *
1990 Dr. Frank A. Franco*
1991 Rabbi Alan Weitzman*
1992 William E. Maier *
1993 Dr. Leo George Frangipane, Jr.
1994 Thomas M. McMahon
1995 T. Jerome and Carolyn Holleran
1996 Dr. Jasper G. ChenSee*
1997 P. Sue Perrotty
1998 Joseph* and Shirley Boscov
1999 Sen. Michael A. O’Pake*
2000 P. Michael Ehlerman
2001 Robert* and Catherine* Wright
2002 John F. and Margaret * Horrigan
2003 Terrence J. McGlinn*
2004 Ray* and Carole* Neag
2005 Larry and Cindy Mazzeno
2006 Ronald and Helen Smith
2007 Honorable Arthur and Mrs. Louise Grim
2008 Alfred J. Weber*
2009 Paul R. Roedel*
2010 Mary V. Pendleton*
2011 Marlin and Ginger Miller
2012 Carl * and Kathleen ’95 Herbein
2013 Honorable Linda K.M. Ludgate ‘77*
2014 Albert * & Eunice Boscov
2015 James* & Anna* Connors
2016 Founders of a Common HeartElsayed Elmarzouky, Rabbi Brian Michelson, Rev. Philip Rodgers
2017 Joanne M. Judge, Esq. & Rick Oppenheimer
2018 James & Cynthia* Boscov
2019 John P. Weidenhammer
2021 Gary and Karen Rightmire
2022 Richard A. Ehst
2023 Michael and Susan Fromm
2024 Kevin and Ellen St. Cyr
*deceased
2025 Franciscan Award Recipients
Kevin and Kim Murphy
Kevin and Kim Murphy have built distinguished careers dedicated to advancing philanthropy, education, conservation, and community well-being.
Kevin Murphy became the founding president of the Berks County Community Foundation in 1994 and continues to lead the organization today. Over the past three decades, he has guided the Foundation’s growth into one of the most respected philanthropic institutions in the region. His leadership has extended nationally as chair of the Council on Foundations, president of Community Foundations for Pennsylvania, and chair of The Funders’ Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities. Internationally, he has shared his expertise through the German Marshall Fund, consulting with philanthropic organizations in Russia. A Penn State graduate with a master’s degree in community leadership from Duquesne University, Kevin has dedicated his career to building partnerships that improve the quality of life in Berks County and beyond.
million, secured national land trust accreditation, and protected over 7,600 acres of land. She has overseen the creation of nine community gardens, the Greater Reading Trails partnership, and environmental education initiatives that reach thousands of children and families.
Among her signature accomplishments are the development of The Nature Place, a regional hub for environmental learning, and the establishment of the Berks Nature Preschool, where children spend the majority of their day outdoors. Kim is a Penn State alumna with a background in education and nonprofit leadership, including roles in development, alumni relations, and conservation.
The Murphys live in Bernville and are the proud parents of twin sons, Carver and McQuillin, both Penn State graduates. Together, Kevin and Kim exemplify servant leadership and a shared commitment to creating a stronger, more vibrant future for Berks County.
Kim Murphy has served as president of Berks Nature since 2004. Under her direction, the organization has raised more than $60
PEACEMAKING
CONTEMPLATION
COLLEGIALITY
VALUES SERVICE HUMILITY
Alvernia Senior Leadership Team
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D. President
Gaetan Giannini, Ed.D.
Vice President of Graduate and Adult Education
Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., ATC/LAT Provost and Senior Vice President
John McCloskey Jr. ‘94 MBA‘01, DBA DBA, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Thomas Minick ‘98 MBA’10
Vice President of Advancement and Government Affairs
Rodney Ridley Sr., Ph.D., RTTP
Vice President of Research, Economic Development and Strategic Initiaves
Adelle Schade, Ph.D.
Vice President of Innovation and Educational Ventures
Adam Waszkiewicz ‘11, CPA Vice President, Business Affairs
2025-2026 Board of Trustees
Michael Duff, Chair
Senior Vice President, Penske Truck Leasing
Jeffery Rush, Vice Chair
President Commercial Markets, Fulton Bank
Patricia Giles, Secretary President, The Wyomissing Foundation
Charles Barbera M’01
President and CEO of Reading Hospital
Paula Barrett, CPA
President, Breidegam Foundation
Michael Caron
Retired, GTS-WELCO
Tim Daley ’79
Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity
Kevin DeAcosta, CEO ‘00
President & CEO, Highlands of Wyomissing
Sister Ann Therese deGuise, OSF Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Richard A. Ehst
Retired President & CEO, Customers Bank
John H. Gallen, Jr.
Owner & President, Ethosource and Wyatt Seating
Jane Gates
Former Provost and Interim President, Connecticut State College and Universities
Sister Madonna Marie Harvath, OSF Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Steven M. Koons, CPA, PMP ‘05 Partner, Federal Service Line Leader, Sikich
Ginger Kunkel President, Tompkins PA
Daniel Langdon
Retired CEO, East Penn Manufacturing, Inc.
Sister Sandra Lyons, OSF ‘69 Assistant Congregational Minister, Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
David W. Patti
Director of Marketing and Communication, Customers Bank
Sister John Ann Proach ‘74, OSF Congregational Minister, Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Karen Piraino
Former head of recruitment and onboarding, Hackensack Meridian Health
Peter Rye Chief Strategy Officer, Brentwood Industries, Inc.
Jeanne Savage ‘88 Community Volunteer
Barry Schlouch Owner and President, Schlouch, Inc.
Gregory Shemanski
Custom Processing Service, Inc President and Owner
Lucine Sihelnik M’13
President, Greater Reading Chamber Alliance
Sister Mary Sninsky, OSF ‘62 OSF Director of Bernardine Franciscan Association
Sister Mary Joseph Tirpak, OSF ‘61 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Michael Tobash Owner, Tobash Insurance Agency and Financial Services
David Turner
Regional Manager, External Affairs, FirstEnergy Corp.
Patrick Witmer, MPA
Corporate Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications, B. Braun Medical
Trustee Emeritus
Carl Anderson
Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
James Boscov
William Combs, III
Salvatore Cutrona
Jess F. Cwiklinski*
Raymond Dee*
P. Michael Ehlerman
Frank A. Franco, M.D.*
Bernard Fromm
John W. Gruber, M.D.
Angel Helm
Kathleen Herbein ‘95
Carolyn R. and T. Jerome Holleran
Joanne Judge, Esq.
Steven Keiser ‘80
Leroy Klein*
Chris Kraras
Rev. Msgr. Felix A. Losito*
The Hon. Linda K. M. Ludgate ‘77*
Thomas Martell
Robert McCormack ‘82
The Hon. Thomas McMahon
Janice B. Miller
Carole Neag *
Michael O’Pake*
Richard Purcell
Kevin St. Cyr
Richard Tschiderer*
The Hon. Mary Ann Ullman
John Wanner ‘82
Alfred Weber*
Chester M. Winters
Robert T. Wright*
*deceased