From left: Alvernia President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.; Alvernia Associate Professor of History Kevin Donnelly, Ph.D.; Helen Flynn; Alvernia President Emeritus Thomas F. Flynn, Ph.D.; Alvernia Associate Professor of Athletic Training Thomas Franek, Ph.D.; LAT/ATC, Alvernia Professor of Philosophy Janae Sholtz, Ph.D.; Alvernia Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., LAT/ATC.
Newly established endowment provides sustained funding for faculty development
Alvernia University launches the Flynn Family Endowment to support faculty research, teaching, and professional growth. The endowment, created by President Emeritus Thomas Flynn, Ph.D., and Helen Flynn, will provide annual financial support for Alvernia faculty development through two key programs: the Flynn Faculty Excellence Grants and the Flynn Teaching and Learning Fund.
“This gift is an investment in the future of our faculty and the generations of students they inspire,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “The Flynn Family Endowment ensures that our faculty will have the resources to engage in groundbreaking research and professional development, which directly enhances the quality of education at Alvernia.”
The Flynn Faculty Excellence Grants enable Alvernia faculty to pursue scholarly research, creative projects, or external grants. Faculty can apply for release time and funding to complete their work and share findings through peer-reviewed or juried dissemination. The Flynn Teaching and Learning Fund supports annual workshops focused on enhancing teaching methods and educational innovation.
“Tom and Helen Flynn have long demonstrated a deep commitment to our academic community, and this endowment continues their legacy,” said Alvernia University Provost and Senior Vice President Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., ATC/LAT. “The Flynn Family Endowment will enhance the academic environment at Alvernia by empowering our faculty to advance their scholarship and innovate in the classroom.”
During Dr. Flynn’s presidency, from 2005 to 2019, Alvernia transitioned to university status, expanded its academic offerings, and introduced new graduate and doctoral programs. His leadership positioned the university as a leading institution in higher education.
“Helen and I are delighted to express our confidence in Alvernia’s future,” noted Dr. Flynn. “The faculty is the heart of any fine university, so we also celebrate the Alvernia faculty and call on others to join in supporting their continued excellence in teaching and scholarship and the formation of their students to do well and to do good.”
