As I contemplate the beginning of my experiences as President of Alvernia University, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and humility. I’m proud to walk in the footsteps of our beloved Bernardine Franciscan Sisters — leaders of our community — and humbled by the Sisters’ acceptance, guidance, and support as I became the first female lay president in Alvernia’s history. I am grateful for each leader before me, as they have been responsible for our university's timely growth and change.
Building upon the foundation established in the Alvernia Advantage Strategic Plan, I am eager to leverage the successes and competitive advantages cultivated through the CollegeTowne initiatives. These achievements, many of which materialized during the quiet phase of the campaign, were made possible through the $52 million in philanthropic and public resources. This financial support established a strong foundation for our university's continued growth and excellence.
Our work is leading to solid results. We have expanded academic programming in engineering and health sciences and added new facilities that enhanced scholarship and experiential learning opportunities; added student living space; enhanced academic support offerings; remodeled our academic operations into a four-college model; seen academic programs reaccredited; and reorganized our mission, diversity, equity, inclusion, and engagement models. While these accomplishments are significant, there is still work to be done to ensure all Alvernia students can be successful.
The Partners in Progress Campaign offers a historic opportunity to invest in an institution firmly committed to the communities in which it serves. Our alums carry this commitment even further to communities across the country. With the full involvement of the campus community, the Board of Trustees leadership, alums, and friends' support, we aim to lead the charge in rethinking higher education through ambitious investment, strategic partnerships, and community engagement.
I ask you to join us in fulfilling our vision of engaged alums, students, faculty, staff, and dedicated partner networks moving the university into the next era. With flexibility, innovation, expansion, engagement, and an unwavering student-centric approach, we will be prepared for the challenges facing this country’s regional private and liberal arts universities. I am excited and honored to lead Alvernia on this journey. With your support of the Partners in Progress Campaign, we will leave a lasting impact on Alvernia University and our entire community.
