July 2023-June 2024
EXECUTIVE
The
Guided
O’Pake
Innovation
Staff
O’PAKE
Graduate
O’Pake
Student
SPARK
Mentors
Financial
Technology
Community
Academic
Graduate
MESSAGE
MESSAGE
COLLEGETOWNE OVERVIEW
MESSAGE FROM RODNEY S. RIDLEY SR., PH.D., RTTP
In 2019, O’Pake officially changed its mission to become the home of the CollegeTowne Strategy, focusing on economic development, entrepreneurship and student experiential learning. This year, Alvernia University’s (AU) O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship made significant strides in expanding our capacity and impact while remaining focused on our revised mission. With the dedication of our staff, faculty, students and community partners, we’ve continued to foster economic and community development as well as supporting entrepreneurship across different regions. This was all done to provide students with a truly distinctive real-world, hands-on experience. One of the key achievements this year was expanding our Powered by O’Pake model to Pottsville. In partnership with the Pottsville Area Development Corporation (PADCO) and other local Schuylkill County stakeholders, we’ve adapted our successful student-powered approach to help begin to revitalize that region’s economy. This effort has reinforced that the Powered by O’Pake model, which blends education, entrepreneurship, and collaboration, can succeed in diverse communities.
Our work in Pottsville will be transformative and impactful. By providing students with hands-on experience through real partnerships with local businesses and organizations, we’ve begun to support the city’s economic growth, in part by helping to develop a stronger workforce that will be ready to meet today’s challenges. Our work in Pottsville builds on our success in Reading, demonstrating that the Powered by O’Pake model can adapt to and thrive in different regions. This past year, we also continued to push the boundaries of how education and experiential learning intersect. Our students are doing more than just learning in the classroom. They’re rolling up their sleeves and applying that knowledge by working directly with businesses and startups. This approach allows our students to leave O’Pake with a unique skill set that blends theory and practice, preparing them for success in a rapidly changing job market.
Looking ahead, O’Pake remains focused on expanding this model to more communities. Success in Pottsville shows what is possible, and we’re now working to identify the next region(s) where this approach can be replicated. We believe that by building partnerships and focusing on economic development, we believe the Powered by O’Pake model has the potential to drive lasting change far beyond Eastern Pennsylvania.
In partnership with Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, president, the Senior Leadership Team and the entire AU community, O’Pake is positioned for even greater success. We’re planning to reach more communities and find methods and resources to ensure our initiatives remain sustainable long-term. By supporting students, businesses and local economies, O’Pake is helping to shape a stronger future for everyone involved and the regions we serve.
RODNEY S. RIDLEY SR., PH.D., RTTP
Vice President of Research, Economic Development and Innovation
Chief Operating Officer of the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
OVERVIEW
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MAJOR INITIATIVES
Welcomed our largest cohort of Fellows.
The EmpowerED program formally launched.
National Science Foundation (NSF) invests in the O’Pake Institute through the first-ever Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) Grant.
Caitlin Long begins as the director of technology transfer and innovation commercialization.
Formalized partnership with (PADCO) and Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce’s IGNITE Schuylkill Program.
Dr. Jamie Becker begins as the director of academic services.
INITIATIVES TIMELINE
John Stetler begins as the executive director of financial services and business incubator management.
JANUARY 2024
Rodney Ridley serves as higher education panelist at the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) international technology conference.
FEBRUARY 2024
Ben Franklin Technology Partners honor Rodney Ridley for business acumen with Venture Idol Award.
Engineering students craft campus landmarkinspired birdhouse for local charity event.
JANUARY 2024
Lizette Epps transitions into a new role as the executive director of community and economic development.
Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., inaugurated as Alvernia University’s eighth president.
Twenty-one students graduate from the Fellows Program.
THE FUTURE OF
O’Pake is preparing for its next phase of growth. After several years of building a solid foundation, O’Pake is now focused on expanding its reach, enhancing its capabilities and deepening its impact, all with a keen eye focused on garnering the resources and creating the processes necessary to sustain the organization now and into the future. As Dr. Rodney Ridley explains, O’Pake has moved beyond its early “infant” stages; it has grown up and is ready to take on bigger projects with an expanded footprint that will both strengthen the local economies of the regions we serve and expand student experiential learning opportunities. A key priority is expanding the Powered by O’Pake model to more communities in a sustainable way. This approach has already made a positive difference in Pottsville, helping to begin to revitalize the local economy. O’Pake aims to replicate its success in other areas by partnering with local businesses, governments and organizations to be a catalyst for lasting positive change. Progress in Reading and Pottsville is just one example of what is possible as these efforts continue to grow and evolve.
One of O’Pake’s biggest strengths is its focus on giving students truly distinctive real-world experiences. Students in O’Pake go well beyond traditional classroom-based learning;
they actively manage projects and engage in problemsolving efforts, ultimately contributing to the success of local businesses. This hands-on approach helps students build practical and resumable skills that set them apart when they start their careers. Looking ahead, O’Pake will continue to build partnerships that support local municipal authorities and allow for the distinctive O’Pake Fellows Program model to be replicated at colleges and universities across the country. Additionally, O’Pake is creating new opportunities for student experiential learning through innovative programs and entrepreneurship by partnering with organizations like GoggleWorks Center for the Arts and Alvernia University’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, and College of Business, Communication and Leadership. With these partnerships and programs, O’Pake is positioned to drive student success and regional revitalization, ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the O’Pake Institute and its communities.
Students in O’Pake go well beyond traditional classroom-based learning; they actively manage projects and engage in problem-solving efforts, ultimately contributing to the success of local businesses.
- Rodney S. Ridley Sr., Ph.D., RTTP
O’PAKE
THE O’PAKE FOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
DEVELOPMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
GUIDED BY OUR MISSION
MISSION
Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship fosters the development of entrepreneurial programs and economic growth, both in the Reading community and in higher education.
HISTORY OF O’PAKE INSTITUTE
Alvernia University has valued students’ moral, ethical and leadership development since its founding in 1958, in alignment with its Franciscan heritage. In 2008, the university launched the Center for Ethics and Leadership (CEL) to make ethics and leadership a distinctive part of an Alvernia education. CEL advanced Alvernia’s Franciscan identity, expanded educational and collaborative opportunities for students and faculty, leveraged community resources to provide those programs, and established Alvernia as a leader in ethics and leadership education. On receiving a generous gift from Sen. Michael O’Pake, Alvernia renamed CEL the O’Pake Institute for Ethics, Leadership, and Public Service to honor his service to Alvernia and his community. In July 2019, President John R. Loyack assumed leadership at Alvernia University with a vision to transform not only Alvernia but also the surrounding economy and contribute to the future of the city of Reading and Berks County. The O’Pake Institute was a central part of accomplishing those plans, and in October 2019, it was reimagined as the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship. Today, the O’Pake Institute focuses on economic development in Reading and Berks County through handson, high-impact student projects that fuel experiential learning and provide valuable skills to local businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofits, as well as fostering meaningful relationships with government and community partners.
GLYNIS A. FITZGERALD, PH.D. President
Experiential learning is central to an Alvernia education, equipping students to apply their knowledge in innovative, service-driven ways. The O’Pake Institute fosters this ecosystem by providing real-world opportunities for collaboration, problem-solving and community impact. Through mentorship, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial initiatives, O’Pake prepares students to be ethical leaders and reflective professionals, ready to tackle tomorrow’s challenges with confidence.
- Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.
MISSION
O’PAKE SPONSORS
Through the generosity of the individuals and businesses listed below, the O’Pake Institute is providing students with experiential learning opportunities while fostering economic development in the community by providing resources and services to entrepreneurs and businesses.
Collectively, these philanthropic leaders have contributed over $1.7 million to fully fund the O’Pake Institute’s operations, including work-study funding for the student Fellows, mentoring programs, the cultural coalition and early-stage funding for aspiring entrepreneurs. All of the success stories in this report have been made possible through the philanthropic support of the donors listed below, reflecting contributions made between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. We sincerely apologize for any errors or omissions.
O’PAKE DONORS:
Anonymous
Ben Franklin Technology Partners
Bollman Hat Company
Brute Athletic Apparel
County of Berks
Customers Bank
Essig
Fulton Bank
Herbein + Company Inc.
M&T Bank
MidPenn Bank
Pepsi Bottling Group LLC
Riverfront Federal Credit Union
RKL
Schlouch Inc.
Sordoni Family Foundation
Surgical Institute of Reading
Tom Masano Auto Group
Tompkins Bank
Visions Federal Credit Union
The Wyomissing Foundation Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Barrett
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Rush
Ira Tauber
Paul Trunk
Weidenhammer Family Fund
Patricia Perfect
TriCounty Community Network
Members 1st Federal Credit Union
RR Hockey LLC
O’PAKE FOUNDING SPONSORS
INNOVATION SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS INNOVATION SUBCOMMITTEE
The Innovation & Commercialization Subcommittee (ISC) is a subset of the community and philanthropy committee of the Alvernia board of trustees. The ISC is a collective group of experienced professionals, entrepreneurs and qualified investors providing oversight and advisory for the O’Pake Institute. O’Pake’s operation and design are modeled after traditional research entities at large institutions of higher education. The ISC supports the university’s strategic plan, the Alvernia Advantage and the CollegeTowne initiative to promote economic activity and student experiential learning in downtown Reading, Pottsville and other communities it serves.
Additionally, the ISC will work closely with the university president and the chief operating officer of the O’Pake Institute to evaluate potential investments of capital,
partnerships and mentorship opportunities through various strategic avenues including growth ventures, communitybased organizations and philanthropic initiatives. The ISC advises on the client portfolio, participates in opportunity assessment and determines how to best engage with each unique opportunity.
As an Alvernia trustee and chair of the ISC, working with the O’Pake Institute has been a very unique and rewarding endeavor. Our student Fellows get firsthand, real-world working experience in helping startups that most other students, even in the best universities in the U.S., never have the opportunity to partake in. Watching them work with the startups on market research, pitch decks, financial models, SWOT analysis, due diligence, presentation skills and more, it is exciting to see the Fellows grasp the various concepts and apply them to these real-world situations— education and knowledge that, once gained, will never be lost. I look forward to my meetings with the students and hope they continue for a long time.
- Mike Caron, Chair
SUBCOMMITTEE
FRANKI AITKEN COO, Berks County Community Foundation
LATRICE MUMIN Interim Superintendent, Chester Upland School District
CEO & President, Custom Processing Services Inc.
JOHN ARNOLD Retired Chairperson, CEO & Owner of PPC Lubricants Inc.
JOHN R. LOYACK
Senior Executive VP & COO Inperium; President Emeritus, Alvernia University
EDVARD PHILIPSON Consultant, Biotech & Pharmaceuticals
J. VALLETTA President & CEO, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania
NGOZI BELL Representative, Office of Advocacy-Region 3, Small Business Administration
PETER RYE Chief Strategy Officer, Brentwood Industries Inc.
DON WEBSTER CEO, TecBRIDGE
BELL President & CEO, Delane Consulting & ManagementTalent
Retired Partner, Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP
PAULA BARRETT
MIKE CARON Retired GTS-Welco Partner; LVAO Member
LUCY CORTEZ COO, Neighborhood Housing Services of Greater Berks
JASON LUTZ President, SV Sports
PETE MOLINARO Former CEO & Chairman, Adhezion Biomedical LLC
BARRY SCHLOUCH President, Schlouch Incorporated
JOHN SCIPIO CEO, SV Sports
GREGORY SHEMANSKI
ANGELO
JERRY LISMAN Chairman, Lisman Holdings
SHAWN HOFFMAN President, Sage Worth
JACK GOMBACH Consultant, McNees, Wallace & Nurick
GLYNIS FITZGERALD President, Alvernia University
CHRIS DEGRUCHY CastRite Metals; LVAI Member
THEO
STAFF BIOS
RODNEY S. RIDLEY SR., PH.D., RTTP
Dr. Rodney S. Ridley Sr. is vice president of research, economic development and innovation; founding dean of the College of STEAM at Alvernia University; and the chief operating officer of the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship at AU. He is a key architect of the Reading CollegeTowne initiative. He is the founder of the O’Pake Student Fellows Program, Business Incubator, Technology Transfer Office, Professional Mentor Program and Micro-Grant Fund. He oversees AU’s industry and economic development outreach activity. Prior to joining Alvernia, he was the executive director and distinguished professor at the Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Wilkes University. There, he was the founding director of the Wilkes Business Incubator, the Technology Transfer Office, the Industry & Community Outreach Office and a microgrant fund. In June 2017, he was named Innovator of the Year by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce. His professional experience includes chair/director and associate professor in the ABET-accredited Engineering & Physics Department at Wilkes University, engineering director at Velox Semiconductor, vice president of technology at Data Friendly Inc., and principal engineer and key technologist at Fairchild Semiconductor.
Ridley consults on intellectual property management, entrepreneurship, semiconductors and nanotechnology. He holds 27 U.S. patents and numerous foreign patents and has authored more than 35 journal and conference articles. He volunteers with a number of professional associations, including AUTM, and in 2019, he was honored with an AUTM Volunteer Service Award. He holds a Ph.D. in engineering science and an M.S. degree in electrical engineering from The Pennsylvania State University, and a B.S. degree in physics from Lincoln University Pennsylvania.
MICHELLE RAE CONWAY, MBA
Michelle Rae Conway is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, speaker and strategist. Conway serves as the executive director for student and client services, and business incubator manager at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute, an organization that fosters entrepreneurial activity and economic development. She is also an adjunct faculty member in the College of Business, Communication, and Leadership. Prior to her role at Alvernia, Conway acted as the interim assistant director at Wilkes University’s Allan P. Kirby Center for Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. In the last three years, Conway has mentored over 200 businesses in the areas of business development, business planning, market analysis and strategic planning. She is the author of “If You’re in Your Twenties, Read This,” a short story to inspire young professionals to own their journey, celebrate their inexperience and transform.
LIZETTE EPPS, MBA, CUDE, CNP
Lizette V. Epps is the executive director of community and economic development, leading transformative initiatives that foster growth, inclusion and empowerment. An awardwinning author and businesswoman, Epps published “Our Voices: Little Stories Through a Latina Lens,” in January 2024, a collection of short stories that earned the prestigious
2024 BookFest Book Award for #1 Non-Fiction Book in race, religion, and culture. With decades of success in both the public and private sectors, Epps’ unwavering commitment to social justice, equity and community advancement has been a driving force in her work. She is a dedicated advocate for the Latine and BIPOC community, women, and children, helping to create pathways to personal and professional success.
Epps serves as president of the board for the Berks Latino Workforce Development Corp., and a board member of First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union and Communities in Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania. She serves as a community leader on the FHL Bank’s Blueprint Communities PA Program in Reading. She is a proud MBA graduate of the University of Phoenix and holds the esteemed Credit Union Development Educator designation from the National Credit Union Foundation and the Certified Nonprofit Professional from LaSalle University.
JOHN STETLER, M.S.
John Stetler currently serves as the executive director of client and financial services at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship. In this role, Stetler is responsible for overseeing the Institute’s financial operations, financial projections, managing grants and annual budgets, and client portfolios, including business plan development, and developing strategies for new and existing businesses. He plays a pivotal role in advancing community and economic development initiatives across campus locations.
Before joining Alvernia University, Stetler was the executive director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Kutztown University. There, he led the planning and implementation of Small Business Administration (SBA) funded programs, secured essential funding and developed strategic plans for the Center. Stetler also mentored staff,
managed daily operations and fostered partnerships with technical service providers.
Stetler’s career began as the budget manager and business administrator at Montgomery County Community College, overseeing a substantial grant portfolio and campus capital projects and managing budgeting systems and procurement processes. Stetler also served as the director of business operations at a private firm in Southeastern Pennsylvania, where he managed finance, IT, human resources, property management and marketing efforts. Significant achievements occurred during his tenure, including acquiring new contracts and implementing cost-saving measures while adding staff and locations.
Stetler holds a Master of Science in organizational leadership and culture management from Colorado State University and a Bachelor of Science in accounting. With over 20 years of experience in financial management, business development and education, Stetler is dedicated to enhancing organizational efficiency and fostering economic growth.
JAMIE BECKER, PH.D.
Jamie Becker is the director of academic services at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute and an assistant professor of biology in the Science Department, specializing in microbial ecology. His undergraduate courses emphasize the incredible diversity of life on our planet, and his research examines how microbes interact with their surrounding environment and each other to engineer healthy ecosystems. Becker earned his B.S. in biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his Ph.D. in biological oceanography from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His teaching philosophy is rooted in local and international experiential learning opportunities for Alvernia students that promote lifelong learning.
STAFF BIOS
CAITLIN LONG, PH.D, MSPAS, PA-C, RYT200
Dr. Caitlin “Cait” Long is a seasoned clinical expert who now serves as the director of technology transfer and innovation commercialization at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship. She loves using her science, medical, and creative knowledge and experience to help entrepreneurs bring new ideas to market. At O’Pake, Long oversees the technology transfer office, intellectual property and venture investment Fellow teams, as well as the rapidly growing Project 6™ program, which encompasses a specialized methodology in sponsored industry projects.
Long is passionate about growing life science innovation in Berks County and beyond, to help better patients’ and their families’ quality of life. She currently serves as managing director of the Berks Biomedical Innovation Collaborative, a local coalition of critical industry, academic and health care partnerships that serves as a catalyst for growing life science startups and economic revitalization.
Long is also a proud AUTM Susan Riley Keyes Fellowship alumna (2033), one of only three members selected from across the nation. She is a new AUTM Foundation Board member, currently serves as co-chair of the Small Office committee and is a member of the Eastern Regional planning committee.
Long is an entrepreneur herself, the CEO and founder of Team Lifelong Wellness LLC, a Berks County-based business committed to providing comprehensive and integrative health, wellness, and leadership consulting services to individuals and local businesses. She integrates her internationally published research on “Burnout to Balance,” into her various workshops, retreats, events and motivational speaking appearances for her one-on-one, group, corporate and academic clients. Having healed thousands in her career, Long integrates her proficiency as an experienced health care provider into a revolutionary
approach to whole-person wellness of mind, body and spirit. She is the co-creator of the people-first, value-centered leadership philosophy, built around keeping the human person and mission at the heart of everything organizations strive to accomplish. It is Long and Team Lifelong Wellness’ mission to build others up to be the strongest they can be from the inside out, to live full of balance and purpose, and with no regrets.
Long is a dedicated wife, mother of two small children, a dog mom, certified yoga instructor, and outdoors and travel lover. In the community, she proudly serves on the board of Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks, Women2Women Research & Development Committee, and Berks Cyber Alliance board.
CAROLYN GIBSON, M.ED.
Carolyn Gibson is an experienced higher education administrator with expertise in international education, study abroad and high-impact experiential learning programs. She currently works as the program coordinator at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute and teaches first-year seminar courses where students learn the skills they need to be successful in college. Gibson earned her B.A. from Juniata College in international studies and her M.Ed. from Lehigh University with a focus on comparative and international education. She has lived and worked abroad and continues to explore the world. Gibson has a passion for running and the great outdoors, currently serves on the Girls on the Run 5K Committee and is active in her community.
HORN, MBA
Max Horn is an entrepreneur, mental health advocate, coach and servant leader. He serves as the student experiential learning specialist at Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute. He’s also an Alvernia admission counselor, as well as an assistant coach for Alvernia’s women’s ice hockey team. Horn earned his B.A. from Alvernia University in sport management, marketing and communications, and also holds a Master of Business Administration. Over the past years, he has recruited and worked with over 70 O’Pake Fellows and provided student support and experiential learning programs.
MAX
O’PAKE FELLOWS PROGRAM
FELLOWS PROGRAM
O’PAKE FELLOWS
O’PAKE FELLOWS PROGRAM
The O’Pake Fellows Program, a signature component of the O’Pake Institute, provides undergraduate and graduate students at Alvernia University with hands-on experience working alongside entrepreneurs, small businesses, regional partners and faculty. Students selected for the program receive extensive professional training and mentoring to prepare them for client-facing roles. Once equipped, they are paired with clients whose needs align with their career goals and academic interests, offering them valuable experiential learning opportunities. Through their involvement with SPARK Business Incubator clients, Fellows gain practical experience while delivering high-quality student-powered services to clients.
In addition to the technical skills gained, personal and professional development is woven throughout the Fellows’
journey. This was further enhanced by the launch of the Professionals-in-Training program, which focuses on multiyear career readiness. To broaden the program’s reach, the Office of Student Experiential Learning developed EmpowerED, an initiative designed to extend internship opportunities to regional high school students. EmpowerED fosters entrepreneurial thinking while providing valuable support to local businesses.
The O’Pake Fellows program launched in 2020 with over 30 Fellows. Twenty-three Fellows were in the 2023-2024 graduating class, with 13 of the graduates accepting jobs in Pennsylvania, helping to retain local talent. The program sustained an impressive 80% retention rate.
PROGRAM
THE FUTURE
Maintain an 80% program retention rate.
Recruit 20% of high school interns as O’Pake Fellows.
Develop a collaboration strategy with Total Experience Learning for K-12 activities.
Spread the O’Pake Fellows model to other communities.
O’PAKE FELLOWS
KATHRYN
O’PAKE FELLOWS
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
TIFFANY ALEXANDER
Tiffany Alexander, graduate assistant of marketing and communications, worked with over 30 businesses as an undergraduate Fellow and a graduate assistant. Alexander worked closely with the undergraduate marketing and communications Fellows on client projects to help them succeed in learning skills such as website development, social media marketing and press release writing. Before completing her MBA, Alexander was hired full-time with Wind Creek Hospitality to manage and create content for Wind Creek Bethlehem’s many social media accounts, as well as write for the property’s internal newsletter and magazines.
Alexander holds the position of corporate communication specialist at Wind Creek Hospitality.
JACK COSSA
Jack Cossa, graduate assistant of community based-campuses, worked diligently to build a presence and form powerful relationships in the Pottsville and Schuylkill County area for the O’Pake Institute and Alvernia University. While a part of O’Pake, Cossa formed partnerships with the Pottsville Business Association and Pottsville Area Development Corporation. He worked alongside many businesses facilitating services offered by the O’Pake Institute. Cossa received professional real-world experience from O’Pake, as well as an undergraduate degree in marketing and a master’s in business administration, and he was a four-year member of the Alvernia University baseball team.
Cossa serves as an account executive at Ethosource Office Furniture in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
PROGRAM
KEVAUGHN FERGUSON
Kevaughn Ferguson, O’Pake Fellow of marketing, spearheaded three major client projects by delivering creative services between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. Ferguson assisted clients in the areas of social media marketing, content creation and website development. For example, Ferguson served as a project lead working with a local nonprofit organization to develop a comprehensive social media strategy, and managed content creation and execution on various channels including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Ferguson is expected to graduate in May 2025 with an undergraduate degree in marketing.
ANTHONY FLORKOWSKI
Anthony Florkowski, O’Pake Fellow of finance and accounting, collaborated with over 20 local businesses in Reading, Pennsylvania, providing vital financial and accounting support to drive their success. He is a certified Intuit QuickBooks user and has overseen the Institute’s bookkeeping operations. In addition to his contributions at O’Pake, Florkowski holds leadership roles as president of the Future Business Leaders of America Chapter at Alvernia University and the Alvernia Accounting Club. On a broader scale, he serves as the state secretary for Pennsylvania Future Business Leaders of America. Florkowski has demonstrated his academic excellence through his consistent placement on the Dean’s List for six consecutive semesters.
Florkowski is expected to graduate in May 2025 with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
O’PAKE SERVICES
SERVICES
SPARK BUSINESS INCUBATOR
SPARK BUSINESS INCUBATOR
Since its inception, the O’Pake Institute has served over 450 clients, demonstrating a sustained commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth. The August 2021 opening of the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne marked a significant milestone, transitioning the SPARK Business Incubator from a virtual service to a physical space for entrepreneurs. The incubator has been at full capacity since its opening, with seven in-person and five virtual tenants and a continually growing waitlist. In addition to providing physical workspace, the O’Pake Institute offers entrepreneurial services through partnerships with the JumpStart Incubator, Penn State LaunchBox, SCORE and the Kutztown Small Business Development Center, serving both nonprofit and for-profit businesses.
In January, the O’Pake Institute expanded further with the opening of Pottsville CollegeTowne, launching a second SPARK Business Incubator location in October. This extension allows Schuylkill County’s for-profit and nonprofit businesses, whether early stage or established, to access a wide array of services, including funding preparation, business model development, financial services, IP management, market research, venture investment preparation and more. Through these offerings, the O’Pake Institute continues to strengthen its role as a cornerstone for entrepreneurial support and regional economic development.
and Client Services
INCUBATOR THE FUTURE
Expand the O’Pake model through our regional business incubator network.
Strengthen nontraditional revenue generation through Project 6.
Continue growth of student entrepreneurship through O’Pake’s EmpowerED program and in partnership with the Header School of Business entrepreneurship minor.
SPARK BUSINESS INCUBATOR
INCUBATOR CLIENT CASE STUDIES
Success Story: Perspective Unlimited Drone and Multimedia Services
Challenge:
Buddy Holmes, the owner of Perspective Unlimited Drone and Multimedia Services, faced a common but significant hurdle in the competitive multimedia industry: the need for advanced equipment and resources to elevate his business offerings. While Holmes had successfully established a reputation for high-quality aerial photography and videography in Berks County, Pennsylvania, he recognized that to truly stand out and expand, he needed enhanced capabilities to meet growing client demands.
Insight:
Understanding the importance of innovation and continuous improvement, Holmes sought support to upgrade his technology. This led him to the O’Pake Institute and its FLIC program, which offers microgrant funding for small businesses. The potential for this financial assistance represented not just an upgrade in equipment but also a strategic opportunity to expand services, improve product quality and ultimately grow the business.
Success:
With the grant from the O’Pake Institute, Holmes was able to invest in new cameras, drones and essential accessories. This upgrade not only enhanced the quality of the content he produced but also allowed him to attract more clients seeking high-quality multimedia services. As a result, Perspective Unlimited expanded its offerings to include regular monthly contracts and elevated its production capabilities from podcasts to high-quality TV-style shows. The improved services led to increased audience engagement and new business partnerships, positioning Holmes’ company for future growth. “The grant from O’Pake allowed me to upgrade my cameras and drones, as well as purchase an array of accessories,” Holmes explained. “This not only improved the quality of the products I deliver but also enabled me to partner with more businesses looking for high-quality content for their promotional needs. With these enhancements, I can now consider purchasing a physical location and expanding my team in the future.”
Holmes’ collaboration with the O’Pake Institute proved transformative, providing exceptional support that empowered him to redefine his business. His success story illustrates how targeted funding and strategic investments can propel a small business to new heights, solidifying its presence in a competitive industry.
INCUBATOR
MENTORS AND PROFESSIONAL
MENTOR PROGRAM
The O’Pake Institute’s has an unwavering commitment to student and client success, and our mentor network is a key driving force behind that mission. Mentorship is not just a program component, it is also the key component to unlocking both the personal and professional potential of our future leaders, innovators and changemakers. By pairing our O’Pake graduate assistants and Fellows with experienced mentors, we are creating opportunities for not just meaningful relationships but also deeper learning and lasting impacts. Our mentor program provides a journey of mutual growth for the mentors and the mentees. Mentors become more than just advisors to the students; they essentially become champions for students’ success, which in turn directly enhances our clients’ experiences and aspirations. Mentors offer guidance, share career insights and serve as sounding boards for our mentees as they navigate their academic challenges and career choices.
The level of commitment required as an O’Pake mentor is designed to be both rewarding and flexible. We acknowledge that with being diversly talented, there comes time constraints, which is why each mentor relationship is uniquely tailored. Our mentors have varied backgrounds, which allows each to bring a wealth of experience that enriches the O’Pake learning experience. Our network is not only diverse but also dynamic in providing mentorship related to higher education, venture investing, economic development, business law, leadership and more. Our network’s diversity affords our students the opportunity for exposure to the most cutting-edge ideas, practices and career opportunities across industries.
By providing mentorship, you can:
Empower students to realize their full potential.
Share your hard-earned wisdom and industry insights with eager learners.
Foster innovation and creativity by mentoring tomorrow’s leaders and entrepreneurs.
Expand your own professional network and find personal fulfillment in giving back.
Contribute to the vibrant, growing community of the O’Pake Institute.
Together, we are not just enhancing student experiences, we
also are building a brighter future for our community, one mentor-mentee relationship at a time. Be part of the legacy of excellence at the O’Pake Institute. Your guidance today will help create the leaders of tomorrow. Donald Schalk reflects that being a mentor is a very rewarding experience, saying that it allows you to give back and share your knowledge and experience with the next generation.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS
The O’Pake Institute has built a robust network of professional service providers around each client-facing business segment, ensuring comprehensive support for students, entrepreneurs and small businesses alike. This network is designed to equip individuals with the essential tools and knowledge for business growth, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration across a range of industries.
Through the O’Pake Fellows Program, students gain invaluable experiential learning opportunities by engaging in real-world industry work, complementing the foundational knowledge they receive in the classroom. This hands-on experience is crucial and a complement to their academic studies while completing their degrees.
O’Pake’s professional service network includes experts from various fields, such as business development, law, accounting, marketing and finance. These professionals not only guide students from a wide array of majors but also ensure quality oversight of the services provided to businesses across the regions we serve. This collaboration allows students to benefit from personal and professional development, gain industry insight, build confidence and enhance their networking skills, often leading to job opportunities and long-term career growth.
For professionals, this partnership provides a platform to give back to the community by mentoring students and offering their expertise to both new and established entrepreneurs. This mutually beneficial relationship enhances the region’s economic development while fostering the next generation of business leaders, ensuring that service, one of Alvernia University’s core values, remains central to the O’Pake Institute’s mission.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS
THE FUTURE
Expand mentor networks to align with career goals and personal development.
Improve the matching process for a personalized mentor-mentee experience.
Establish metrics and feedback to assess program success.
Build a robust service provider network for clients.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
FINANCIAL SERVICES
At O’Pake, we believe that strong financial foundations are the backbone of sustainable business growth. Through meaningful and strategic relationships, we provide comprehensive financial services tailored to support businesses at every stage of their journey. Our approach goes beyond traditional financial support—we empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources and connections they need to succeed. Whether a business is seeking funding, financial guidance or strategic planning, O’Pake leverages its expertise, staff and extensive network of partners to ensure financial security and long-term success.
I. Client Services Beyond SPARK Business Incubator
Customized Business Curriculum
MicroGrants and Microlending
Economic Development Partnership
Loan and Grant Preparation
Financial Services team enhances experiential learning by supporting entrepreneurs with financial statement development, financial literacy education, business plan creation, and three-year financial pro forma development.
II. The Financial Lending and Innovation Collaborative
A cornerstone of O’Pake’s financial services is the Financial Lending and Innovation Collaborative (FLIC), a dynamic initiative dedicated to supporting early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses by increasing access to capital. This initiative is powered by a coalition of financial institutions and community partners committed to fostering economic development and financial inclusion. This year, we had the privilege of awarding the following organizations:
Perspective Unlimited, owned by Buddy Holmes
Don’t Quit LLC owned, by Theron Cook
M&M Odds & Ends owned, by Beatrice Pierre
Timber Lane Handcrafted owned, by Chris Porter
Custom Cryptids owned, by David Weilacher
Skylight Cuisine & Bar owned, by Darelyn Abreu
Down Under Sports owned, by Sam Donovan & Stephen Pradon
ATV Bakery owned, by Joseph Albert
Ben Franklin Technology Partners
Engaging in collective and collaborative partnerships is important to fostering our students’ continuous educational and professional development. Our partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners has afforded O’Pake with the opportunity to engage with established manufacturers including, but not limited to, the ones listed below:
Heyco
MJ Reider
Phytogen X
Big Barker
S&W Metals
Misco
O’Pake Operations Fiscal Outlook
FINANCIAL SERVICES
The venture investment team assists high-growth startups in preparing for the investor audience. Venture clients typically require pitch deck development, financial projections and business development strategy. In the early stages of development, they also need microfunding for critical activities such as protecting intellectual property, legal counsel and other professional services. O’Pake has developed a model to invest in qualifying startups to assist with venture critical in-kind services and microfunding needs. As the startup matures, O’Pake connects the start-up to other sources of investment capital. This includes O’Pake’s Innovation Subcommittee, community and regional partners; Ben
Franklin Technology Partners; and the PA Angel Network (PAN).
Venture Investment Client:
Any client working directly with an O’Pake staff member or a graduate assistant of venture investments to prepare for the investor audience.
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SERVICES
THE FUTURE
Development of a microlending partnership with Community First Fund.
Adding new services for finance, including QuickBooks training and setup.
Expand relationships with PAN Ben Franklin Technology Partners, the Life Science Greenhouse and related organizations.
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER & BIOMEDICAL
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OFFICE
The O’Pake Institute’s technology transfer office (TTO) allows businesses in Berks County and beyond to save time and funds on intellectual property (IP) management. It is managed by the IP committee, which assists companies and entrepreneurs through the process of making the proper advancements regarding patents, trademarks, trade secrets and copyright. To further ensure positive results, O’Pake has several resources and partnerships to supplement the IP committee. Innovation Q Plus, a search and analytics platform that combines the power of a machine-learning search engine with patents and technical content, is a tool the committee uses for data-backed insights. Additionally,
THE FUTURE
O’Pake works with IP attorneys from FisherBroyles, one of the world’s largest distributed full-service law firms, to provide professional services to clients when they are deemed ready to file for a patent or a trademark. Licensing experts from TreMonti Consulting, an internationally recognized firm, provide a vast network of potential licensing partners, expert knowledge and training to O’Pake clients for utmost success. The TTO also has a special interest in advancing partnerships with the various science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics constituents, the biomedical industry, local and regional teaching hospitals, and the venture capital community.
Launch annual Innovation Symposium and Showcase.
Expand intellectual property training beyond O’Pake staff and students.
Develop a comprehensive monetization strategy.
BIOMEDICAL INNOVATION COLLABORATIVE
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
CULTURAL COALITION
Over the past year, the Community Development Department has made significant progress in strengthening ties with the Pottsville community. We’ve also established a key partnership with the Pottsville United Way, presenting to their partner organizations on how O’Pake can support their missions. This collaboration aligns with our goal of extending the university’s impact in the community.
In our ongoing efforts to meet local needs, we relaunched the Cultural Coalition with focused task forces, including initiatives like bilingual financial education
programming, allowing us to engage more effectively.
Our participation in Pottsville United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) presentation deepened our understanding of the challenges working families face. Inspired by this, we hosted a communitywide ALICE presentation in Berks County, collaborating with the Pennsylvania United Way and the United Way of Berks County to raise awareness and explore solutions for ALICE households.
In September, we proudly launched Latinos Unidos, our first Hispanic Heritage Month event, which drew over 200 participants. This event demonstrated the strong demand for culturally relevant programming and reinforced our commitment to fostering inclusion.
As we continue to engage with Pottsville and beyond, we remain focused on creating meaningful educational opportunities, leveraging partnerships and building a more inclusive future for our entire community.
DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
At the O’Pake Institute, our commitment to fostering economic growth remains stronger than ever. We’ve expanded our focus to include multilingual support, beginning with Spanish, to serve Reading’s diverse population better. The American House project, with its health care, training centers and business spaces, plays a vital role in providing community and economic resources for local revitalization efforts. Our key initiatives, such as the SPARK Business Incubator and FLIC Funding program, are designed to empower businesses and entrepreneurs. By expanding our business incubator and mobile services to reach more areas, we are creating broader opportunities for local businesses to thrive despite financial challenges.
Additionally, our commitment to sustainability is reflected in partnerships with organizations like GoggleWorks, helping to drive innovative programs that align with workforce development and community growth. The American House and mobile incubators initiatives also allow us to integrate cutting-edge services into our operations, ensuring our impact continues to evolve and grow. Moving forward, O’Pake will remain a critical force in shaping the future of economic development through strategic collaborations, innovative programming and long-term sustainability efforts, driving positive change and empowering the communities we serve.
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
“Working with the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship to bring ALICE data to the community at large and engage in a broader conversation about the challenges ALICE households face underscores O’Pake’s commitment to being a change agent for the economic and entrepreneurial outlook of Reading.”
Philip Falvo
Public Policy Director
United Way of Pennsylvania
“O’Pake’s Community Development Department has been instrumental in providing organized insights that translated into actionable strategies for our organization to enhance our processes and practices. Their guidance has allowed us to refine our approach and improve how we serve our community. We look forward to continued collaboration with Alvernia’s student body and leadership. With their support, we’re confident in maximizing the impact of our museum, which is housed in a beautifully restored 1867 fire station and features a worldclass collection of firefighting artifacts dating back to 1770. ”
William Sheeler
Reading Fire Fighter’s Museum
DEVELOPMENT
THE FUTURE
Conduct collaborative community engagement with elected officials, residents and neighborhood groups.
Design and execute targeted, communitywide educational outreach initiatives.
Consistently engage and contribute to economic developmentfocused organizations at local, regional and state levels.
Produce a quarterly impact and engagement report for stakeholders.
ACADEMIC SERVICES
ACADEMIC SERVICES
The Academic Services division of the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship continues to foster a culture of academic collaboration within Alvernia University by connecting faculty and staff innovators with student fellows to achieve scholarship goals. Our services are designed to create a collaborative learning environment that advances faculty research and staff goals while providing students with dedicated experiential learning opportunities beyond classroom and laboratory settings. Combining faculty and staff expertise, student enthusiasm, and community partner needs with nontraditional external support and resources, we are developing a model for successful partnerships that enhance the academic achievements of both entities and contribute to the overall academic excellence of Alvernia University.
During the 2023-24 academic year, the O’Pake Institute facilitated academic service projects ranging from sequencing environmental DNA in the Peruvian Amazon to creating a database of social workers in the state of Pennsylvania. One highlight was Fellows Haley Dougherty and Katelyn Scheeler, who collaborated with Dr. Jamie Becker, assistant professor of biology, to design four interactive learning modules using open-source global climate data. Another highlight was multiple engineering and computer science projects under the guidance of Jon King, instructional technology faculty support manager, that led to university-branded prototypes and real-time data analytics for collegiate athlete awards.
THE FUTURE
Strengthening connections between the O’Pake Institute and Alvernia’s four-college model will foster fruitful collaboration. Introducing curricular activities will provide the O’Pake Fellow experience to more students. Faculty in residence will serve as academic service role models, providing a framework for successful academic service projects. Further integration with existing university programs will support large, sustainable projects that promote faculty scholarship, build faculty-student bonds and serve community needs.
STAFF PUBLICATIONS & PRESENTATIONS
R IDLEY, RODNEY
Awards, Honors & Certifications
Ridley, R (May 2024). The Frederick J. Beste III Partnership Award. Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeast PA Innovation Awards. Presented to an individual whose strong vision, dedication and commitment have helped Ben Franklin Technology Partners accomplish its goals, demonstrating a sincere desire to see the region thrive.
Presentations & Publications
Farewell, C. (Moderator), Davis, M., Ridley, R. S., Sr., Long, C. (Panelists) (September 12, 2023). "The Bridge Between Researchers, Students, Community & Tech Transfer." Presented at the AUTM Eastern Region Meeting, New York, NY.
Snellenberger, J. (Moderator), Ridley, R. S., Sr., Demirali, L. (Panelists) (October 3, 2023). “Mobilizing Angel and VC Funding in an Ecosystem.” Presented at the InBIA - e.Builders Forum, BFTP TechVentures, Bethlehem, PA.
Albright, E., Valuntas, K. (Moderators), Kunkel, E., Looney, S., Ridley, R. S., Sr., Schade, A. (Panelists) (October 17, 2023). "The Role of Higher Ed in Revitalizing Reading & Driving Talent Pipelines." Presented at the 2023 PEDA Fall Conference, Reading, PA.
Ridley, R. S., Sr. (October 8, 2023). “Thriving Together.” Keynote presentation at the 36th Annual NAACP Freedom Fund Gala Event, Reading, PA.
Bernstein, L., Duff, M., Ehst, D., Fitzgerald, G., Herr, R., Cunfer, K., Loyack, J., Masano, H., Minick, T., Ridley, R. S., Sr., Rye, P., Schlouch, B., Sihelnik, L., Turner, D. (January 18, 2024). “PA Chamber Business Roundtable.” Presented at Alvernia University’s Reading CollegeTowne, Reading, PA.
Mackay, E., Ridley, R. S., Sr. (February 20, 2024). “AUTM Small Office SIG.” Presented at the 2024 Association of University Technology Managers Meeting, San Diego, CA.
Moran, E., Ridley, R. S., Sr., et al. (April 11, 2024). “City of Reading Roundtable Economic Development Meeting with
SERVICES
DCED Secretary Rick Siger.” Held in Reading, PA. Scott, G. (Moderator), Broaddus, D., McFalls, J., Cobbs, C., Dorestant, J., Ridley, R. S., Sr. (Panelists) (May 23, 2024). “PLBC Legislative Panel on Small Businesses and Banking.” Presented at the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) 3rd Annual K. Leroy Irvis Day of Action Event, Harrisburg, PA.
BECKER, JAMIE
Awards, Honors & Certifications
Becker, JW (August 2023). Science and Education Advisory Committee Appointment. Amazon Center for Environmental Education and Research.
Becker, JW (September 2023). Grant Award, study of freshwater mussels in the Leipsic watershed using environmental DNA, Justice Outside, Liberated Paths Grantmaking Program.
Becker, JW (February 2024). Invited Reviewer. National Science Foundation Early Career Proposal Panel.
Becker, JW (March 2024). GLOBE Teacher Certification. NASA GLOBE Program.
Presentations & Publications
Berta-Thompson, J, Thomas, E, Cubillos-Ruiz, A, Hackl, T, Becker, JW, Chisholm, SW (2023), Draft genomes of three closely related low-light adapted Prochlorococcus. BMC Genomic Data 24(11). doi: 10.1186/s12863-022-01103-4.
Kujawinski, EB, Braakman, R, Longnecker, K, Becker, JW, Chisholm, SW, Dooley, K, Kido Soule, MC, Swarr, GJ, Halloran, K (2023), Metabolite diversity among representatives of divergent Prochlorococcus ecotypes. mSystems 8:e01261-22. doi: 10.1128/msystems.01261-22.
Biller, SJ, Coe, A, Arellano, AA, Dooley, K, Gong, J, Yeager, EA, Becker, JW, Chisholm, SW (2023), Environmental and taxonomic drivers of microbial vesicle production in marine ecosystems. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 89(6). doi: 10.1128/aem.00594-23.
Becker, JW (October 2023), Breakout Leader – Standardizing DNA extraction protocols in the marine environment, BioGeoSCAPES Workshop, Woods Hole, MA.
Becker, JW (April 2024), (Invited Talk) Microbial Naturalists - Observing the Invisible, Mengel Natural History Society, Reading, PA.
Becker, JW, Pollak, S, Berta-Thompson, JW, Becker, KW, Braakman, R, Dooley, KD, Hackl, T, Coe, A, Arellano, A, LeGault, KN, Berube, PM, Biller, SJ, Cubillos-Ruiz, A, Van Mooy, BAS, Chisholm, SW (2024), Novel isolates expand the physiological diversity of Prochlorococcus and illuminate its macroevolution. mBio 15:e03497-23. doi: 10.1128/mbio.0349723.
Braakman, R, Satinsky, B, O’Keefe, TJ, Longnecker, K, Hogle, SL, Becker, JW, Dooley, K, Arellano, A, Kido Soule, MC, Kujawinski, EB, Chisholm, SW (2024), Global niche partitioning of purine and pyrimidine cross-feeding among ocean microbes. Accepted for publication at Science Advances. doi: 10.1101/2024.02.09.579562.
EPPS, LIZETTE
Awards, Honors & Certifications
Community Votes Reading 2023
Administrative Services Platinum Winner
December 2023
The BookFest Spring 2024 Book Award
Our Voices: Little Stories Through a Latina L ens No. 1 Nonfiction Book in Society & Social Sciences on Race, Class, Culture & Religion February 2024
Citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives In recognition of Women’s History Month March 2024
Woman of Influence Award
Awarded by The Lehigh Valley Business
May 2024
Presentations & Publications
Epps, L. (2024). Our Voices: Little Stories Through a Latina Lens. Published January 13, 2024.
Epps, L. (2024). Nuestras Voces: Pequeñas Historias a Través de la Lente de una Latina. Published January 13, 2024.
Epps, Lizette, Fleming, Adonis, & Short, Jack. (August 2023).
ACADEMIC SERVICES
Powered By O’Pake - Service to the Community Presentation, Schuylkill United Way.
Latinos Unidos. (September 29, 2023). Driving Progress, Power & Progress Across Berks County. (Panelist).
Connections Works. (January 2024). Financial Wellness for Communities. (Presenter).
The 4th Trimester MAHMEE. (February 2024). The Legalities of Board Membership. (Presenter).
Cultural Coalition & PA United Way. (February 2024). ALICE: Data for Action. (Presenter).
WFMZ 69 News. (March 2024). Sunrise Guest Interview. (Speaker).
Pennsylvania Latina Women’s Conference. (March 27, 2024). Guest Author & Speaker.
Univision & Feria Latino Americana Del Libro. (March 27, 2024). Author Interview.
WXAC 91.3 FM. (May 8, 2024). Power House Latina Guest Interview.
Reading Public Library. (June 28, 2024). For the Culture Book Club. (Speaker).
GUTIERREZ, WINIFRED
Awards, Honors & Certifications
Awarded the O’Pake Graduate Fellowship in Leadership at the 2024 Honors Convocation Award Ceremony.
Presentations & Publications
Moderator for Latinos Unidos: Driving Progress, Power, & Progress Across Berks County; September 29, 2023
LONG, CAITLIN
Awards, Honors & Certifications
Grant Award – "People-First, Value-Centered (PFVC) Leadership: A Fresh Perspective on Key Leadership Behaviors,” Alvernia Graduate Student Research Fellows Program (12/2023)
Susan Riley Keyes Scholar (AUTM Fellowship): Completed 09/2023
Registered Technology Transfer Professional, Candidacy (5/30/2024-present)
Presentations & Publications
Long, Caitlin. (April 2024). Dissertation: Healthcare Heroes: Relationships Between Bosses, Burnout & Balance. Alvernia University: Proquest
Co-presenter: “Mini-Manifestations: Unleashing Your PocketSized Dreams”
Alvernia Women’s Council Leadership Conference, 09/2023
Panelist. “The Bridge Between Researchers, Students, Community and Tech Transfer.” AUTM Eastern Regional Conference, 09/2023
Co-presenter. Small but Mighty (Small Office Roundtable) AUTM Annual Conference, 02/2024
Keynote speaker: How to LIVE it: Ryan Leadership in Action. DeSales University, Annual Ryan Leadership Alumni Dinner 01/2024
Speaker: Relationships Between Bosses, Burnout & Balance.
Entrepreneur’s Connection: Speed Symposium. 01/2024
GRADUATE & ADULT EDUCATION
GRADUATE AND ADULT EDUCATION
The O’Pake Institute, in collaboration with Alvernia University’s Graduate and Adult Education (GAE), is deepening its partnership to enhance nontraditional revenue generation and workforce development efforts. This synergy combines GAE’s expertise in noncredit education with O’Pake’s commitment to economic development to create leadership learning academies tailored to industry needs. These academies offer cutting-edge skills training, leadership development and technology integration, equipping participants with practical knowledge that supports professional growth and strengthens local industries. By bridging academic theory and real-world business demands, this partnership fosters a dynamic, adaptable workforce with lasting community impact.
FEATURED PROJECTS
Surgical Institute of Reading (SIR): The O’Pake Institute and GAE hosted fall and spring Leadership Academies for 30-plus SIR leaders, with 10 enrolling in Alvernia graduate programs. Sessions covered organizational development, conflict resolution, team building and DISC Leadership Personality Style Profiles.
Giorgio Foods: GAE and the O’Pake Institute co-facilitated the Giorgio Leadership Academy, which empowered over 250 managers through 20-plus sessions on leadership, communication, DEI, and the Oz Principle, strengthening listening skills and fostering a unified organizational culture.
THE FUTURE
ACADEMIES
Banking Academy
Drone Operations Academy
Supply Chain Management Academy
DEI Academy
Fully integrate GAE and the O’Pake Institute synergistic areas through the restructure of CEL to Accelerate AU.
Refine nontraditional revenue costing methodology.
INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
GRADUATE AND ADULT EDUCATION
The partnership between the O’Pake Institute and the department of Graduate and Adult Education Initiatives, and our focus on strategic partnerships and building nontraditional revenue has been instrumental in driving leadership development and organizational growth for businesses across the region. Over the course of the year, this collaboration facilitated a series of impactful programs, underscoring the power of this alliance.
Together, we hosted multiple fall and spring Leadership Academies for more than 30 leaders from the Surgical Institute of Reading, with 10 participants subsequently enrolling in graduate degree programs at Alvernia University. These academies covered key areas such as organizational development, conflict resolution, team building and feedback mechanisms, alongside the use of DISC leadership personality style profiles to enhance personal leadership understanding. Additionally, the Giorgio Leadership Academy empowered over 250 mid-to senior-level managers, reinforcing leadership skills through targeted sessions.
Over 20 sessions were conducted using the Oz Principle to further enhance leadership, listening skills and feedback, while also advancing DEI initiatives. These programs emphasized communication, cultural awareness and fostering a cohesive organizational culture.
The alliance between O’Pake and strategic partnerships/ nontraditional revenue has significantly strengthened leadership across industries, serving as a model for collaborative success. These efforts not only contributed to organizational transformation but also generated $200,000 in nontraditional revenue for Alvernia, exemplifying the value of consultative services and innovative partnerships.
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
The Institutional Advancement (IA) team plays a pivotal role in securing resources by fostering a culture of philanthropy, engagement and collaboration. By building strategic partnerships and cultivating meaningful relationships, the
team helps advance Alvernia University’s Franciscan values and ensures a transformational educational experience for students and the broader community.
This past year, the IA team partnered closely with the O’Pake Institute for Community and Economic Development to enhance philanthropy efforts and support O’Pake initiatives. Together, they have successfully engaged graduate assistants in learning about university philanthropy and volunteerism through hands-on experience with annual funds, grants, class gifts, alumni relations, student engagement, special events and stewardship activities.
In addition to these efforts, the partnership has led to the development of new relationships and the strengthening of community ties across the region. This collaboration also supported the advancement of the Alvernia Women’s Council’s mission and the establishment of the O’Pake Alumni Affinity Group, creating lasting networks that support both student success and community engagement.
HOLLERAN CENTER
As Alvernia University’s Institutes of Excellence rooted in the Franciscan tradition, the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement and the O’Pake Institute enhance students’ college experience as well as the Greater Reading and Berks County communities. Together, the institutes of excellence nurture a new generation of leaders by fostering a lifelong commitment to service and social responsibility while supporting economic development in the region.
The Holleran Center plays a vital role in community engagement, allowing students to obtain service hours through community and on-campus volunteer opportunities. This year, the Holleran Center partnered with the O’Pake Institute to provide students in the Fellows Program with the opportunity to obtain hands-on learning experiences that emphasize both service and professional development. Through this partnership, two O’Pake Fellows were assigned to the Holleran Center, where they supported key initiatives around creative marketing and communications for the center.
The O’Pake Institute, a catalyst for regional economic and community development, has worked closely with the Holleran Center to align our community development and outreach activities. By ensuring collaboration across
PARTNERSHIPS
departments, both centers have successfully avoided duplication of efforts and have broadened the scope of impact, particularly in serving the needs of students, local organizations and businesses. This partnership will continue to allow for streamlined community programming and a united approach to improving the quality of life in the surrounding community.
In addition to the experiential learning opportunities, the centers connect to provide and community service opportunities, offering Alvernia students chances to work with O’Pake clients on service projects. This integration of service and professional growth reinforces the university’s commitment to developing engaged citizens who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society on graduation.
By blending economic development, community engagement and student service, the partnership between the Holleran Center and the O’Pake Institute exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals of enhancing both campus and community vitality.
OFFICE OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATION
The partnership between the O’Pake Institute and the Office of Marketing and Communication (OMC) plays a vital role in shaping the O’Pake Institute’s voice and image, ensuring alignment with Alvernia University’s brand identity. This collaboration empowers the O’Pake Institute to communicate its mission and impact effectively, both internally and to the broader community. By adhering to the university’s brand standards, the OMC provides the O’Pake Institute with the tools and guidance necessary to craft a consistent and authentic narrative.
Through this partnership, the O’Pake Institute has developed its own distinct voice, which enhances its ability to promote strategic marketing services and highlight student-powered consulting initiatives. This unified approach amplifies the Institute’s presence across the region, positioning O’Pake as a trusted resource for entrepreneurs, small businesses and community organizations. The collaboration serves as a model for leveraging brand identity to strengthen community
engagement and economic development efforts while reinforcing Alvernia University’s mission and values.
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
STAFF REFLECTIONS
RODNEY S. RIDLEY SR., PH.D., RTTP
Igniting Growth: O’Pake Institute Launches SPARK Business Incubator in Pottsville
The O’Pake Institute has expanded its economic development efforts by partnering with the Pottsville Area Development Corporation and the Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce’s IGNITE Schuylkill initiative. On Oct. 5, the O’Pake Institute launched SPARK Business Incubator services at Alvernia’s Pottsville CollegeTowne campus, aimed at providing comprehensive support to local entrepreneurs and businesses. This collaboration strengthens Pottsville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering essential business services and resources to drive economic growth in Schuylkill County.
Through this partnership, businesses in Schuylkill County now have access to a wide range of services, including funding preparation, business model development, financial services, intellectual property management, market research and more. The collaboration aims to foster innovation and business expansion by providing tools and expertise that support for-profit and nonprofit organizations alike. PADCO, with its long history of revitalizing Pottsville’s downtown district, and IGNITE Schuylkill’s entrepreneurial support program complement the O’Pake Institute’s mission to serve local communities and contribute to regional economic development.
MICHELLE RAE CONWAY, MBA
Launching Careers: O’Pake Institute’s Professionals-inTraining Program for Student Fellows
This year, the O’Pake Institute’s Office of Student Experiential
Learning introduced the Professionals-in-Training Program for undergraduate O’Pake Fellows, aimed at equipping students with comprehensive career development training. Through a blend of hands-on learning, assessments and personalized coaching, this program helps students across various disciplines develop critical professional skills, explore career paths and gain a competitive advantage as they prepare to enter the workforce.
The Professionals-in-Training Program is a structured, fouryear initiative that progresses students through key stages of professional growth. In year one, students complete selfassessments to understand their strengths and values. Year two includes career exploration with guest speakers and business etiquette training, while year three emphasizes practical skills like resume building, LinkedIn optimization and interview preparation. Year four provides job shadowing and personalized career coaching. Graduates of the program earn a Professionalsin-Training Certificate for completing 40 hours of professional development.
LIZETTE EPPS, MBA, CUDE
Celebrating Heritage and Unity: The Inaugural Latinos Unidos Event
The Community Development Department is thrilled to announce our major achievement of the year: the successful kickoff of what will now become an annual Hispanic Heritage event. After engaging with numerous community leaders and residents, we learned there was a strong desire for an event that would meaningfully honor and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community. Responding to this, we launched our inaugural Latinos Unidos event, aligning with the National Hispanic Heritage theme celebrated across the U.S.
Our first event brought together local community leaders from diverse sectors, including small business entrepreneurs, government officials, workforce development professionals, grassroots leaders and artists. The program was enriched with traditional Mexican dancing and a powerful spoken
REFLECTIONS
word performance by the Berks County Poet Laureate. With 225 registrants and 150 attendees, the event’s impact was profound. Many students shared that it helped them overcome identity struggles, while community members expressed that the frank discussions provided them with valuable insights for their professional journeys. The success of Latinos Unidos underscores our commitment to fostering community connections and celebrating cultural diversity, and we look forward to continuing this impactful tradition in the years to come.
JOHN STETLER, M.S.
Empowering Clients Through Financial Education
At the O’Pake Institute, financial education is a cornerstone of our Financial Services Program, ensuring that all clients, whether nonprofit organizations, small businesses or early-stage entrepreneurs, receive the foundational knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions. By embedding financial education into the core of our services, we not only assist clients in developing their finances but also empower them with the skills and understanding necessary for long-term financial sustainability and growth.
Each O’Pake financial services client benefits from foundational financial education terminology, which focuses on essential vocabulary that all business owners need to know. This educational approach enhances their ability to speak confidently about their finances and develop a stronger financial foundation, make strategic decisions and manage resources effectively. By equipping clients with this knowledge, we help foster financial literacy and resilience, which are key to achieving long-term success and economic stability.
This commitment to financial education strengthens our services’ impact, helping to ensure that the organizations and businesses we serve are better prepared to navigate their financial landscapes, secure funding and grow sustainably. In doing so, O’Pake contributes not only to individual clients’ success but also to our community’s broader economic development.
CAITLIN LONG, PH.D.
Advancing Life Science Innovation
Alvernia University is proud to be a driving force in fostering life science development in Berks County through its involvement in the Berks Biomedical Innovation Collaborative (Berks BIC). Recently chartered, Berks BIC brings together leaders from higher education, medical institutions, life science companies, investors and consultants to advance biomedical and life science innovation in the region. This collaborative effort aims to highlight the exceptional work already underway in Berks County while attracting new talent and organizations to the area.
Alvernia University’s Reading CollegeTowne and Drexel University’s medical school campus in Reading have further fueled economic growth and life science activity in the area. In 2024, Berks BIC welcomed its inaugural board of directors, including representation from Alvernia, 3Sixty Pharma Solutions and Penn State Berks, with Caitlin Long, O’Pake’s director of technology and innovation commercialization, serving as managing director. The collaboration has engaged over 20 regional organizations, advised 10 life science companies and contributed to regional economic revitalization efforts. A notable success is its partnership with CatapalloVR, an immersive virtual reality learning module enhancing safety and outcomes for behavioral therapists and educators. Berks BIC is set to host its first Innovation Symposium and Showcase on Jan. 17, 2025, spotlighting the innovative projects shaping Berks County’s future.
IN THE NEWS
THE EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE (ECC)
ECC is a student-powered public relations group that strategically manages the O’Pake Institute’s marketing and communications activities. This department works directly with Alvernia University’s Office of Marketing and Communications.
Here are pictures of highlights from our activity from June 2023 to July 2024:
THE O’PAKE INSTITUTE PRESS RELEASES
SOCIAL MEDIA
FOLLOWERS COUNT:
Instagram: 824 followers
LinkedIn: 931 followers
Facebook: 487 followers
Follow
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
STUDENT CONTRIBUTORS
We extend our deepest gratitude to the following individuals whose dedication and contributions made this annual report possible. Your commitment and expertise have truly enhancedthis report’s quality and impact. Thank you for your exceptional contributions.
LOGAN GOLDENBERG
Logan Goldenberg, Fellow of marketing, for his outstanding photography contributions. Goldenberg is expected to graduated in May 2027 with a Bachelor of Arts in marketing.
NICHOLAS KING
Nicholas King, graduate assistant of operations, for his invaluable contributions as a writer. King is expected to graduate in May 2026 with a Master of Business Administration degree.
JENNIFER WEASNER
Jennifer Weasner, graduate assistant of marketing and communications, for her outstanding work in designing the annual report as well as photography contributions. Weasner is expected to graduate in December 2024 with a Master of Business Administration degree.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
EDITOR
Winifred Gutierrez
MANAGING EDITORS
Lizette Epps
Fabiola Flores
Winifred Gutierrez
Katie Hestor
Sarah Matarella
Kristopher Nolt
DESIGN EDITORS
Jennifer Weasner
Kristin Eck
DESIGN EDITORS
Jennifer Weasner
Max Horn
Sarah Matarella
Susan L. Angstadt Photography
Dan Z. Johnson Photography
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O’Pake Institute
@opake.institute
The O’Pake Institute
