ˮ��

26 Questions with a Class of 2026 Graduate

sarah.matarella@alvernia.edu — Fri, 01 May 2026 13:58:01 +0000

26 Questions with a Class of 2026 Graduate sarah.matarell… Fri, 05/01/2026 - 09:58

26 Questions with a Class of 2026 Graduate

Featuring Hector Malave

Communication major and commencement student speaker Héctor Malavé '26 talks what prepared him for the future and who he'll never forget at Alvernia.

Héctor Malavé was born and raised in the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico. He joined the pack at Alvernia in 2021 as a Reading Collegiate Scholar and is now a member of the Class of 2026, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a specialization in Film and Creative Cultural Arts. Driven by a passion for storytelling, Héctor has dedicated himself to directing both theatrical productions and films that explore culture, identity, and the human experience. His creative work has been recognized with selection for the Reading Film Fest 2025. He also competed outside Berks County at the KCACTF Region 2 Festival in Pittsburgh, where he received the Most Outstanding Director award. In addition, he dedicated himself to highlighting community-based stories in the Alvernia Community News Lab, serving as the First Student News Reporter. In the future, Héctor plans to continue pursuing his passion for the arts and storytelling, striving to create meaningful and impactful stories for diverse audiences.

Learn more about Héctor’s journey at Alvernia and what’s next for him:

You’re about to graduate, how are you feeling?
I feel so excited and so blessed.
Now that you’re graduating, what would you say to yourself before you started college?
I would say: Hector, do not rush through things. Whatever is meant for you will happen.
What made you choose Alvernia?
The Reading Collegiate Scholarship.
What is your major?
I'm a communication major with a minor in theater.
What inspired you to choose those?
I love telling stories.
You have a lot of pins. Do you have a favorite?
Yes, I do. I'm a first-generation student, and this "I'm First" pin means a lot to my family and me. But, I think I will pick the Franciscan Servant Leader pin overall. That's my favorite because it highlights all the service I have done without having to get anything in return.

What has been the most memorable class over the last four years?
Multimedia Production Video with Professor Christopher Shipley.
How about your favorite experiential learning opportunity?
Working with the Reading Film Office on multiple productions in the local area, especially serving as a video production assistant for a commercial for Roblox.
You were also a Fellow at the O'Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship. What was that like?
It was so much fun. I worked with many clients.
Any favorite projects?
Working with the Reading Film Office to organize their Reading FilmFest.
You also completed over 100 service hours, what does that mean to you?
It feels rewarding and healing to see how much work I have done for the community, and it has shown me how there is so much more to accomplish in the community as well.
Not only did you achieve all of those things, but you're also the student speaker for commencement. How does that make you feel?
I'm so thankful and excited to serve as the voice for the graduating class of 2026.

Who's one person from Alvernia you'll never forget?
Dr. Jodi Radosh from the Communication Department.
What makes her so unforgettable?
She's unforgettable because during her meetings she really showed that she cares about my career and she provided me with opportunities that I would never expect.
Did you live on campus?
I started as a computer, and then became a resident.
What was your favorite thing to do in Reading?
Grabbing food with friends in Broadcasting Square or West Reading.
What couldn't you live without in your residence hall?
My books and my aroma diffuser.
What was your favorite meal on campus?
BBQ boneless wings with loaded fries from Courtside.
What did you enjoy doing off campus?
Go on hikes, go to the movies, and take pictures around the area.
What else were you involved in outside the classroom?
I was involved in theater acting and directing.

What’s one goal that felt so far away before you started college?
Oh my gosh, I think that goal was seeing myself and my name on the big screen.
What was your favorite show you performed in and directed?
My favorite show was The Adding Machine, where I got to perform, and my favorite show I ever directed was Solis Marquez.
What helped you the most during your college journey?
The Alvernia faculty, my professors, my advisors, and, of course, my friends. I also think service learning, where I got hands-on experience for what I wanted to do in the future.
So, what’s next for you?
I'll be going. So that Disney College program on June 8.
Lastly, was college worth it?
College has been worth it and has been life-changing.

Over 100 Alvernia students present research at HECBC conference

haileyrohrer — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:25:43 +0000

Over 100 Alvernia students present research at HECBC conference haileyrohrer Wed, 04/29/2026 - 10:25

Over 100 Alvernia students present research at annual HECBC conference

Annual event brings together five Berks County colleges to highlight student research

Over 100 ˮ�� students presented their research at the Higher Education Council of Berks County (HECBC) Undergraduate Research and Creativity Conference, held Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the PLEX.

Sponsored by the HECBC, the annual conference brings together five institutions of higher education in Berks County: ˮ��, Albright College, Kutztown University, Penn State Berks, and Reading Area Community College. The 2026 theme, Minds in Motion: Research, Reflection, and Insight, highlights the importance of innovation and critical thinking across disciplines.

"HECBC reflects what is best about higher education in Berks County, with students pursuing substantive research and creative work, faculty investing in student growth, and institutions working together to create opportunities," said Chair of John R. Post School of Engineering and Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Joseph Mahoney, Ph.D. "I am proud to have played a role in supporting a conference that gives undergraduate students a regional platform for their research, creativity, and scholarship."

The conference provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to showcase their research and creative accomplishments while engaging with peers, faculty, and the community. It is open to students from all disciplines seeking to share their work and insights in a collaborative, professional environment.

"Being surrounded by so many driven individuals and engaging in scientific discussions across a wide range of age groups brought a deeper sense of meaning and community to my work," said senior biology major Owen Weiss. "Over the past 7 months, I have been working to uncover microorganisms that produce novel antibiotics against safe ESKAPE strains, with the goal of aiding in the fight against AMR (antimicrobial resistance). Thank you to Dr. Jamie Becker, Kevin Burns, and the ˮ�� lab staff for facilitating this project and their unwavering support throughout."

By working alongside a faculty mentor, students used critical thinking skills, gathered data, and formed evidence-based conclusions to develop their research projects. This experience allowed students to gain professional insights and form connections to prepare for their futures in their field.

"The HECBC Conference was a great opportunity to share our research with others after working on it since August," said 5th-year occupational therapy major Karlee Smith. "We were able to present our topic, answer questions, and engage in scholarly discussions with people in attendance. It was also interesting hearing from fellow graduate students about their research topics."

O'Pake Institute work helps MBA student stockpile experience for future career

jonfassnacht — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:59:46 +0000

O'Pake Institute work helps MBA student stockpile experience for future career

Name

Brody DeGroodt ’24 MBA ’25

jonfassnacht Wed, 04/29/2026 - 08:59

College

College of Innovation, Discovery, and Enterprise

Department

Graduate and Adult Education

Persona

Graduate student

Intro Content

PHOTO: Bill Sheeler, from left, John Trimble, and Brody DeGroodt at the Reading Area Firefighters Museum.

In his years at ˮ��, Brody DeGroodt ’25 has had many rich experiences — four years as a baseball player, academic excellence that included the History Achievement Award at the Honors Convocation, and deep friendships.

But perhaps the best, said the Rock Tavern, N.Y., native who majored in political science and history as an undergraduate, has been the opportunities he was afforded through Alvernia’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship.

“The most interesting part is working with a client and applying what I learned in the classroom to the real world,” said DeGroodt, who is pursuing his MBA at Alvernia ahead of entering Syracuse Law School in the fall. “I’m able to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.”

In his junior year, he was invited to join the O’Pake Fellows Program for high-achieving undergraduate and graduate students. It offers hands-on experiential learning opportunities with local businesses and nonprofits, entrepreneurs, faculty researchers and industry leaders that includes a stipend.

DeGroodt, who worked about 10 hours a week in the Office of Community Development as a government relations fellow, helped community organizations increase their programming opportunities, he said.

His initial project, begun in 2024, involved helping the Reading Area Firefighters Museum increase its volunteer roster and attract more visitors. The intensive consultation over a few months involved an analysis of strengths and weaknesses and a business plan that included improving the website, bolstering social media and connecting with other organizations to promote the museum to tourists. He also created an electronic database for its numerous artifacts dating to the 18th century.

“At first it’s challenging,” he said. “Being so young, you have to show them [clients] that you’re confident in your abilities and what you’re teaching them is going to work.”

Clearly, DeGroodt aced that.

“He’s an exceptional young man, very well organized, mentally organized,” said Bill Sheeler, who serves on the firefighters museum’s board and chairs its five-year development plan. “He was very dedicated, from the heart. He stayed in constant contact. He never left me in a weak moment.”

Another standout project was a bilingual financial empowerment series begun in 2025. DeGroodt, who worked on it as a senior and graduate student, helped present eight sessions at Alvernia’s John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne on personal finance for English speakers that included Alvernia students and community members. Topics included budgeting, how to invest and student loans.

“We touched upon everything that would help them set up for success in the future,” said the O’Pake graduate assistant, who puts in about 20 to 25 hours a week.

Currently, he’s repeating the presentations for Opportunity House, a nonprofit that helps unhoused people.

DeGroodt said his Alvernia education, both undergraduate and graduate, have prepared him for his future. In fact, he’ll graduate certified as a project manager.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said. “A lot of entry level jobs want two years of experience. But if you’ve just graduated college, how are you expected to get that? O’Pake has actually solved that problem. We’re completing college with all this experience.”

— Written by Lini S. Kadaba

Alvernia holds annual Earth Day of Service, ramps up sustainability efforts

jonfassnacht — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:17:37 +0000

Alvernia holds annual Earth Day of Service, ramps up sustainability efforts jonfassnacht Mon, 04/27/2026 - 08:17

Alvernia holds annual Earth Day of Service, ramps up sustainability efforts

Photo by Lauren A. Little: Over 80 volunteers participated in Earth Day of Service.

Students, leadership, faculty and staff help to beautify the area, part of the university’s continued push to advance sustainability

ˮ�� students, leadership, faculty and staff participated in the Holleran Center's annual Earth Day of Service – one of Alvernia’s annual Days of Service – clearing storm drains, trimming trees, and pulling weeds as part of the Reading Great American Cleanup ahead of the City of Reading’s 2026 Earth Day celebration on April 18 in City Park. Teams also performed cleanup work at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area in Spring Township.

In addition, the university held its annual Earth Day Festival on campus on April 24, drawing over 350 attendees.

Photo by Elayna Palm '28

“We're really just trying to raise awareness," said Office of Institutional Sustainability Director Alicia Sprow, Ph.D.

Attendees took a survey in which they were asked about habits such as transportation and diet. Results showed how many Earths it would take to support their routines. Many students were surprised to find that five or more Earths were needed.

"It's trying to identify ways to make our day-to-day life more sustainable," she said.

Genevieve Weikel '27 brought Wear Share, her free campus thrift store, to the event. Featuring items donated by students, faculty, staff and other members of the Alvernia community, the project aims to encourage people to reuse and re-wear clothing rather than throwing it away or donating it to a for-profit company. 504 items were donated at Friday's event, and attendees went home with 241 items, which is three times more than last year.

Photo by Elayna Palm '28: Weikel (center) setting up the pop-up Wear Share on the Quad during the Earth Day Celebration.

"The overall goal is to share the wealth of clothing we have as college students," said Weikel, who is majoring in environmental science and minoring in environmental and community sustainability. "Everyone is constantly changing their styles. And I want people to be able to explore that for free, but also to showcase that we can share amongst each other, and there's no environmental harm to that."

Wear Share is located on the second floor of the Penn Medicine-Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center building.

The Earth Day events highlight the university’s push to advance sustainability across campus operations, student engagement and global leadership.

Clean Energy Progress

Since July, solar panels installed on the university’s Pottsville CollegeTowne location have generated over 100 megawatt hours of clean energy, helping prevent nearly 175,000 pounds of CO2 emissions, roughly equivalent to avoiding almost 200,000 miles of driving. The university is also installing solar panels to power its Tom and Helen Flynn Complex for Recreation, Wellness and Health Sciences (PLEX) on the Hill Campus.

Electric Vehicles

In February, Alvernia’s Facilities Department replaced six maintenance vans with electric vehicles, and is installing EV charging stations at the Hill Campus, Pottsville Collegetowne and Cedar Hill Farm (also known as the President’s House).

Student Leadership and Academic Excellence

Alexander Kabrich ’25, the university’s Sustainability Operations Coordinator, on April 25 delivered the keynote speech at the 2026 HECBC Conference, hosted by Alvernia. Also at the conference, Office of Institutional Sustainability (OIS) student employees Nick Hornbuckle and Genny Weikel and OIS intern Lilly DeLoreeta highlighted Student Sustainability Ambassador projects.

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Grant Award

Bog Turtle Creek Farm – Alvernia’s student-led regenerative agriculture project - will use a $7,500 Agriculture and Youth Grant to transform an underutilized area of the farm into a living laboratory for sustainable agriculture.

Experiential Learning Abroad

In June, OIS Director Alicia Sprow, Ph.D., will lead a 1-week experiential-learning study abroad program on Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada.

Advancing Sustainability Leadership and Global Engagement

Professor Emeritus Spencer S. Stober, Ed.D., was among more than 60 global researchers and institutional leaders invited to the inaugural convening of the Global Alliance for Integral Ecology at Borgo Laudato Si’ in March.

Learn More

Visit Alvernia’s sustainability webpage.

ˮ�� Fine and Performing Arts Department presents 'Together'

jonfassnacht — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:50:18 +0000

ˮ�� Fine and Performing Arts Department presents 'Together' jonfassnacht Thu, 04/23/2026 - 14:50

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media (Adult Education)

jonfassnacht — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:39:34 +0000

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media (Adult Education) jonfassnacht Thu, 04/23/2026 - 09:39

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media

jonfassnacht — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:11:10 +0000

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media jonfassnacht Tue, 04/21/2026 - 14:11

Transfer student follows mother's footsteps to find community and a full-time job

jonfassnacht — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:58:44 +0000

Transfer student follows mother's footsteps to find community and a full-time job

Name

Lilibet Perez '26

jonfassnacht Mon, 04/20/2026 - 13:58

College

College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences

Department

Psychology

Persona

Undergraduate student

Intro Content

The journey of transfer student Lilibet Perez '26 to Alvernia wasn’t exactly traditional. She originally thought she wanted to be an elementary school teacher, only to realize a year-and-a-half into her college journey that her heart wasn’t in it.

So, she took some time off to reflect, working full time before deciding to return to school with a clearer sense of what she wanted. She earned an associate degree while working, which she recalls being a rewarding but challenging experience.

She knew she wanted to transfer somewhere to earn her bachelor’s degree, but was looking for a place where she wouldn’t feel like just another number. Alvernia was the answer. She recalls the campus feeling personal. And it didn’t hurt that her mother, Xiomara Cabreja '06, is an alum.

Stories her mother shared made a huge impression on her, Perez says.

“It made Alvernia feel familiar in a way, but I also saw it as an opportunity to create my own path while being part of something meaningful," she said. "My mom always spoke about how supportive the environment was and how much her professors truly cared about her success. She made it clear that Alvernia wasn’t just about academics, it was about community and personal growth, which definitely influenced my decision [to enroll.]”

The transfer process being easy was a bonus.

“The process was actually really smooth," she said. "They were helpful, responsive and made sure my credits transferred in a way that made sense for my goals. I felt supported right away, which made a huge difference.”

“My practicum ... allowed me to take everything I’ve learned in the classroom and actually apply it in real-life situations with families and children.”

Perez’s new path was psychology, which was also her mother’s major. She says the field felt like the perfect fit as it allows her to combine her curiosity about the mind with her desire to support people, especially families and children, in a deeper, more impactful way.

She explained: “I’ve always been really interested in understanding how people think, feel and behave. Over time, that interest turned into a passion for helping others, especially in a way that feels meaningful and lasting.”

Perez has felt especially supported by her professors at Alvernia.

“They’re always willing to help, whether it’s with coursework, career advice or just offering encouragement when things feel overwhelming,” she asserted. “They’ve pushed me to do my best while also making me feel capable, which has made a huge difference in my confidence as a student and as a future professional.”

Those working at her practicum site, Easterseals Eastern Pennsylvania, are impressed. So much so that Perez was offered, and accepted, a full-time position prior to graduation due to her exceptional performance.

“My practicum has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience,” Perez said. “It’s allowed me to take everything I’ve learned in the classroom and actually apply it in real-life situations with families and children.”

In the long term, Perez would love to continue her education and earn her Ph.D. in psychology.

“I’d love to work in marriage and family counseling," she said, "and eventually would love to become a professor so I can help guide and support future students the way my professors have supported me.”

— Written by Nikki M. Murry

Alvernia students and faculty earn statewide recognition at SPSEA conference

haileyrohrer — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:38:30 +0000

Alvernia students and faculty earn statewide recognition at SPSEA conference haileyrohrer Fri, 04/17/2026 - 10:38

Alvernia students and faculty earn statewide recognition at SPSEA conference

Students earn awards, regional leadership roles and national conference nominations at the 2026 Kindling Change Convention

ˮ��'s Education students and faculty were recognized for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to the field at the Kindling Change 2026 Student Pennsylvania State Education Association (SPSEA) Conference & Convention. The Alvernia Education Association celebrated multiple student achievements, including regional leadership appointments and recognition for student-led initiatives.

The association received the Outstanding Chapter Event Award for the event "Carnival for All," an event that brought together association members and the community to create an inclusive, engaging experience for all. This award recognizes chapters that demonstrated excellence through events that foster involvement. Association member and PK-4 and Special Ed PK-12 major Josalym Atrip '26, also the inaugural recipient of the Exceptional Chapter Engagement with New Media Award, which recognizes chapters that effectively use social media and other platforms to communicate and connect with members and future educators.

"Last year, when we came to this conference, we were so excited to learn and grow. This year, to be recognized for that growth means so much," said Pk-4 and Special Ed Pk-12 major, Josalyn Artrip '26. "I am especially proud of our Carnival for All, an event centered on inclusion and community, and the impact it had. Getting to see this event recognized at this level was so meaningful."

In addition to the award, two students were elected to serve in key leadership roles within the Eastern Region. Catherine Scott was selected as Eastern Region President and House of Delegates Member, while Aislinn Murphy was named Eastern Region Vice President. These roles allow students to represent aspiring educators across the region, collaborate with peers statewide, and help shape the future of education through Student PSEA.

"Watching the Alvernia Education program grow has been one of the most rewarding experiences," said Assistant Professor of Education, Dr. Molly Brobst. "Our students consistently rise to the challenge, and their hard work shines in everything they do. The recognition and awards that students received at the SPSEA conference were well-deserved, and they reflect their dedication and the strong future of our program."

Both Scott and Murphy were also nominated to attend the Aspiring Educators Conference and National Education Association Representative Assembly (NEA RA), taking place June 28 through July 7 in Denver, Colorado. This opportunity will allow them to connect with educators from across the country, engage in professional development, and participate in discussions impacting public education.

Ed.D. in Transformative Education (Online)

jonfassnacht — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:12:52 +0000

Ed.D. in Transformative Education (Online) jonfassnacht Fri, 04/17/2026 - 09:12

ˮ����

26 Questions with a Class of 2026 Graduate

Communication major and commencement student speaker Héctor Malavé '26 talks what prepared him for the future and who he'll never forget at Alvernia.

Over 100 Alvernia students present research at HECBC conference

Annual event brings together five Berks County colleges to highlight student research

O'Pake Institute work helps MBA student stockpile experience for future career

Alvernia holds annual Earth Day of Service, ramps up sustainability efforts

Students, leadership, faculty and staff help to beautify the area, part of the university’s continued push to advance sustainability

Clean Energy Progress

Electric Vehicles

Student Leadership and Academic Excellence

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Grant Award

Experiential Learning Abroad

Advancing Sustainability Leadership and Global Engagement

Learn More

ˮ���� Fine and Performing Arts Department presents 'Together'

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media (Adult Education)

Bachelor of Arts in Social Influencing, Communication, and Creative Media

Transfer student follows mother's footsteps to find community and a full-time job

Alvernia students and faculty earn statewide recognition at SPSEA conference

Students earn awards, regional leadership roles and national conference nominations at the 2026 Kindling Change Convention

Ed.D. in Transformative Education (Online)

ˮ��

ˮ�� Fine and Performing Arts Department presents 'Together'