Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
DeSales University Honors Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat With 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award
CENTER VALLEY, Pennsylvania, May 29 (TNSjou) -- DeSales University issued the following news:
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DeSales University Honors Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat with 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award
DeSales University is proud to announce that Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat, Professor and Chair of Economics in the Waterbury Reilly School of Business, is the recipient of the 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award. This prestigious annual honor recognizes a faculty member who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of three pillars of academic life: teaching, scholarship, or service. This year,
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CENTER VALLEY, Pennsylvania, May 29 (TNSjou) -- DeSales University issued the following news:
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DeSales University Honors Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat with 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award
DeSales University is proud to announce that Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat, Professor and Chair of Economics in the Waterbury Reilly School of Business, is the recipient of the 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award. This prestigious annual honor recognizes a faculty member who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of three pillars of academic life: teaching, scholarship, or service. This year,the award celebrates the exceptional scholarly contributions that define Dr. Hojjat's remarkable career.
"I am deeply honored to receive the 2026 Provost's Faculty Excellence Award for Scholarship/Professional Growth," said Dr. Hojjat. "As a scholar, I have always believed that learning and intellectual growth are lifelong journeys. I am grateful to DeSales University for encouraging faculty scholarship, global engagement, and interdisciplinary research."
Dr. Hojjat's academic journey spans continents and decades. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Tehran, her master's degree from American University in Washington, D.C., and her Ph.D. from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Over the course of 36 years at DeSales University, she has built a body of scholarly work that is broad in scope and impact.
Her research has addressed some of the most pressing issues at the intersection of economics, society, and public health. She is the author of The Economics of Obesity: Poverty, Income Inequality and Health, first published by Springer in 2017, with a second edition released in 2021, a book that has contributed meaningfully to the academic conversation surrounding health economics and social inequality. She also co-authored Islamic Economy and Social Mobility: Cultural and Religious Considerations, published by IGI Global in 2016, which examines the social, cultural, religious, and political dimensions of Islamic economies at the global level. She is currently completing a manuscript titled Immigration, Identity, and the Politics of Belonging, scheduled for publication in 2027.
Beyond her books, Dr. Hojjat has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters in business, economics, and the social sciences. She authored Mini-Cases in Finance, an accompanying resource for Financial Institutions and Markets by Frederic S. Mishkin (7th edition, Pearson Prentice Hall). She has served on the advisory boards of Houghton Mifflin and McGraw Hill and currently serves as an Academic Advisory Board Member for the Journal of Asian Finance, Economics and Business (JAFEB). She also contributed as a reviewer for the 13th edition of Principles of Economics by Case, Fair, and Oster (Pearson, 2020).
Dr. Hojjat's scholarly excellence has earned her recognition well beyond DeSales. She is a past recipient of the Teaching Excellence Award from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and has received grants from the Center for Advancing Partnerships in Education (CAPE) for Global Collaborative Faculty Projects and from the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges (LVAIC) for the College Admission Mentoring Program (CAMP). She serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Economic Association and is an active member of the United States Association for Energy Economics (USAEE) and the Chapter on Energy Conservation of Lehigh Valley.
Provost Terese Wignot, Ph.D., expressed the deep respect the university community holds for Dr. Hojjat and the significance of this recognition.
"Dr. Hojjat is a true educator. She advances her field with her research and then shares that new knowledge with her students," said Wignot. "She is the ultimate example of a teacher and scholar."
DeSales University congratulates Dr. Tahereh Alavi Hojjat on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the lasting mark her scholarship has, and continues to make, in her field, her students, and the world.
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Original text here: https://www.desales.edu/news/2026/05/tahereh-hojjat-2026-provosts-award
Daniel Alarcon Promoted From Associate Professor to Full Professor at Columbia Journalism School
NEW YORK, May 29 -- Columbia University Columbia Journalism School issued the following news:
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Daniel Alarcon Promoted From Associate Professor to Full Professor at Columbia Journalism School
His appointment further establishes the J-School as a center for innovative audio journalism and international storytelling.
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The Trustees of Columbia University have approved Daniel Alarcon's promotion to full professor at Columbia Journalism School, effective July 1, 2026. An award-winning journalist, author and audio storyteller, Alarcon will hold the title of Godfrey Lowell Cabot Professor of
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NEW YORK, May 29 -- Columbia University Columbia Journalism School issued the following news:
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Daniel Alarcon Promoted From Associate Professor to Full Professor at Columbia Journalism School
His appointment further establishes the J-School as a center for innovative audio journalism and international storytelling.
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The Trustees of Columbia University have approved Daniel Alarcon's promotion to full professor at Columbia Journalism School, effective July 1, 2026. An award-winning journalist, author and audio storyteller, Alarcon will hold the title of Godfrey Lowell Cabot Professor ofJournalism.
Alarcon joined the faculty in 2014 after serving as an Investigative Reporting Fellow at the UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism. At Columbia, he teaches audio journalism and narrative nonfiction storytelling, including the course "Telling True Stories in Sound."
"Daniel Alarcon is a pioneering writer, journalist, and audio storyteller. But, just as importantly, he is a gifted professor and mentor to our students. We are very lucky to have him at Columbia Journalism School," said Duy Linh Tu, Dean of Academic Affairs.
He began his journalism career in 2004, reporting for Latin American publications before contributing to outlets including Harper's Magazine, The New York Times Magazine, El Pais and Granta. In 2012, he co-founded Radio Ambulante, the pioneering Spanish-language podcast dedicated to long-form narrative journalism across Latin America.
In recognition of his contributions to journalism and literature, he was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2021 and has also received a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Fulbright Fellowship, the Maria Moors Cabot Prize and a National Magazine Award.
Alarcon has challenged students to report with greater depth, curiosity and attention to story. Columbia Journalism School congratulates him on this appointment and looks forward to his continued commitment to the CJS community.
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Original text here: https://journalism.columbia.edu/news/alarcon-promoted-to-full-professor
Chowan Athletics Welcomes Gabriel Espiritu as Newly Appointed Compliance Officer
MURFREESBORO, North Carolina, May 29 -- Chowan University issued the following news:
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Chowan Athletics Welcomes Gabriel Espiritu as Newly Appointed Compliance Officer
Gabriel Espiritu enters his first year as the newly appointed Compliance Officer for Chowan University Athletics, where he will serve as the department's newest administrative hire.
"Gabe's a great addition to our staff," stated Rob Burke, Chowan's Director of Athletics and Men's Basketball Coach. "The ability to hire from our alumni base speaks volumes about the type of workplace culture that we are establishing within
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MURFREESBORO, North Carolina, May 29 -- Chowan University issued the following news:
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Chowan Athletics Welcomes Gabriel Espiritu as Newly Appointed Compliance Officer
Gabriel Espiritu enters his first year as the newly appointed Compliance Officer for Chowan University Athletics, where he will serve as the department's newest administrative hire.
"Gabe's a great addition to our staff," stated Rob Burke, Chowan's Director of Athletics and Men's Basketball Coach. "The ability to hire from our alumni base speaks volumes about the type of workplace culture that we are establishing withinour department and the campus community. It's a true compliment to what we are doing here under Dr. Thomas' leadership that graduates want to stay on as employees."
A native of Gloucester, Virginia, Espiritu first arrived at Chowan in 2022 as a member of the Hawks baseball program and quickly established himself as a leader both on campus and within the university community.
During his time as a student he became heavily involved across campus, earning induction into Alpha Lambda Delta, the honor society for first-year students, Alpha Chi, which recognizes upperclassmen for excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character, and Chi Alpha Sigma, the national student-athlete honor society.
In addition to his academic achievements, Espiritu served as a ministry chaplain and worship leader for campus ministry. He became a presidential ambassador, appointed the vice president of the Honors College during his senior year, and was a member of the Rotaract Club. Further, Espiritu was a consistent name on the Dean's and President's Lists every semester and closed out his collegiate career being selected as a Commencement Marshal as a junior, before later being chosen as one of the university's Commencement speakers for graduation his senior year.
Graduating in May 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Wellness, and Sport, Espiritu earned Summa Cum Laude honors and was recognized as an Outstanding Student for the 2025-26 school year.
As a senior Espiritu served as an intern within the athletic department, gaining valuable hands-on experience in event operations, athletic communications, and compliance. His diverse background in athletics, academics, and campus leadership has positioned him for a seamless transition into a full-time role within the department.
"At the end of the day, it's about the people we work with and the relationships we build," said Meredith Long, Deputy Director of Athletics. "Gabe already bleeds Chowan blue and is well connected all over campus and within our community. We saw monumental growth in Gabe from his freshman year through his four years as a student-athlete, student leader, and campus leader . We can't wait to see that growth continue on this side of the operation."
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Original text here: https://www.chowan.edu/2026/05/28/chowan-athletics-welcomes-gabriel-espiritu-as-newly-appointed-compliance-officer/
Cal. State-San Bernardino Issues Faculty In the News Wrap Up for May 28, 2026
SAN BERNARDINO, California, May 29 -- California State University San Bernardino campus issued the following Faculty In the News wrap up:
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Faculty in the News, May 28
Ethel Mickey (sociology) was interviewed about her forthcoming book, "Networking to Nowhere: How Gender Inequality Persists in Tech," on the NPR-affiliate WOSU's program, "All Sides with Amy Juravich."
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CSUSB professor discusses forthcoming book on careers, networking and gender inequality in tech industry (https://www.wosu.org/show/all-sides/2026-05-26/tech-tuesday-university-of-cincinnati-creates-its-own-version-of-an-ai-chatbot)
WOSU
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SAN BERNARDINO, California, May 29 -- California State University San Bernardino campus issued the following Faculty In the News wrap up:
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Faculty in the News, May 28
Ethel Mickey (sociology) was interviewed about her forthcoming book, "Networking to Nowhere: How Gender Inequality Persists in Tech," on the NPR-affiliate WOSU's program, "All Sides with Amy Juravich."
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CSUSB professor discusses forthcoming book on careers, networking and gender inequality in tech industry (https://www.wosu.org/show/all-sides/2026-05-26/tech-tuesday-university-of-cincinnati-creates-its-own-version-of-an-ai-chatbot)
WOSU(Columbus, Ohio)
May 26, 2026
Ethel Mickey, assistant professor of sociology, was interviewed about her forthcoming book, "Networking to Nowhere: How Gender Inequality Persists in Tech," and topics related to careers, networking and gender in the tech industry for the May 26 "Tech Tuesday" episode of the NPR-affiliated station's "All Sides with Amy Juravich" program.
In describing her book, Mickey said, "Tech is the most powerful industry, both economically and politically, but we know it's remained stubbornly dominated by men, despite some really deep investments by the government, by nonprofits, by corporations themselves to train women in STEM and to infuse them into technical roles. These efforts haven't paid off. So I was trying to see, is there a connection here between the way people are building relationships and these patterns around gender?"
Mickey's book is due to be release in mid-June.
The interview begins about 17 minutes into the program.
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This news clip and others may be viewed at "In the Headlines."
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Original text here: https://www.csusb.edu/inside/article/596230/faculty-news-may-28
BU Wheelock Celebrates 2026 Faculty Awards
BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 29 -- The Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development issued the following news:
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BU Wheelock Celebrates 2026 Faculty Awards
By Stephanies Vang
Each year, BU Wheelock honors several faculty members whose work exemplifies excellence in scholarship, research, and teaching. Two of the awards offer funding to support full-time faculty in pursuing major research projects, while a third recognizes exceptional contributions across teaching, research, and service.
Award recipients are chosen through a competitive peer-review process and demonstrate
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 29 -- The Boston University Wheelock College of Education and Human Development issued the following news:
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BU Wheelock Celebrates 2026 Faculty Awards
By Stephanies Vang
Each year, BU Wheelock honors several faculty members whose work exemplifies excellence in scholarship, research, and teaching. Two of the awards offer funding to support full-time faculty in pursuing major research projects, while a third recognizes exceptional contributions across teaching, research, and service.
Award recipients are chosen through a competitive peer-review process and demonstrateBU Wheelock's continued commitment to advancing a strong culture of curiosity-driven research and scholarly innovation. In addition, one faculty member was recognized for outstanding faculty advising.
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Edward H. Ladd Award for Academic Excellence and Service
Recognizes a faculty member for a career-long commitment to academic excellence and service to the College. This award is given in honor of Ted Ladd, who served on the Wheelock College Board of Trustees for more than 25 years.
Grace Kim is a clinical professor and chair of the Counseling Psychology & Applied Human Development Department at BU Wheelock. She researches social justice education and Asian American psychology, exploring and understanding the meanings of diversity and the mental health of Asian Americans, centering their struggles for liberation, social agency, and solidarity with other marginalized groups.
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Gordon L. Marshall Fellowship Award
Provides funding for full-time faculty to pursue significant teaching and research opportunities to achieve specific intellectual, academic, pedagogical, or creative goals.
Kaylene Stevens: Teaching Civic Discourse: An Educator's Guide for PEACE
Stevens is a clinical assistant professor in the Social Studies Education program. Her research explores teacher education, civics and social studies education, and pedagogy and curriculum in K-12 classrooms.
The award will support the development of a book that draws on research with Ariel Tichnor-Wagner to explore how educators can help students engage constructively in politically polarized environments.
Kyle DeMeo Cook: Competitors Today, Collaborators Tomorrow: Partnerships Between Community-Based Preschool Providers and School Districts to Better Serve Children and Families
Kyle DeMeo Cook is a clinical assistant professor in the early childhood programs, with appointments in the Teaching & Learning and Educational Leadership & Policy Studies departments. Her research examines early childhood education policy, including access to childcare and early education, kindergarten transitions, and partnerships between early education and K-12 systems.
The award will support research that examines how community-based preschool providers and public-school districts collaborate to deliver publicly funded preschool programs, focusing on implementation challenges and effective strategies.
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Large Grant Award
Supports faculty members in engaging in original, potentially groundbreaking work.
Detris Honora Adelabu: Exploring Culturally Affirming Teaching and Learning Practices Among African American Teachers Before Desegregation
Detris Honora Adelabu is a clinical professor in the Counseling Psychology & Applied Human Development Department. Her research examines factors that support school achievements for rural and urban African American adolescents.
The Large Grant Award will support a study focuses on the lived experiences and teaching practices of African American educators in a segregated rural community in the Deep South and how their approaches can inform contemporary culturally affirming pedagogy.
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Advisor of the Year
Recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies what it means to advise and demonstrates a commitment to BU Wheelock's mission. Nominations for this award are made by BU Wheelock students.
This year's Advisor of the Year award honored Kyle DeMeo Cook.
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Original text here: https://www.bu.edu/wheelock/news/articles/2026/bu-wheelock-celebrates-2026-faculty-awards/
At UMass Boston Commencement, Sen. Markey Praises Graduates as Embodiment of America's Future
BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 29 -- The University of Massachusetts Boston campus issued the following news:
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At UMass Boston Commencement, Sen. Markey Praises Graduates as Embodiment of America's Future
University confers degrees to 2,740 undergraduates at harborside ceremony
Crystal Valencia
Telling graduates they are entering a world shaped by rapid innovation and unprecedented technological advancement, Senator Edward Markey urged UMass Boston's Class of 2026 to "be bold" and use their talents to advance justice, equality, and opportunity around the world.
"In this era of innovation,
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 29 -- The University of Massachusetts Boston campus issued the following news:
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At UMass Boston Commencement, Sen. Markey Praises Graduates as Embodiment of America's Future
University confers degrees to 2,740 undergraduates at harborside ceremony
Crystal Valencia
Telling graduates they are entering a world shaped by rapid innovation and unprecedented technological advancement, Senator Edward Markey urged UMass Boston's Class of 2026 to "be bold" and use their talents to advance justice, equality, and opportunity around the world.
"In this era of innovation,you may have jobs that have not yet been imagined in fields that have yet to be created within industries that don't yet exist," he said. "Be bold. You can shape the course of history... Use your talents and your innovative tools to help all people everywhere build a more peaceful, prosperous future for them and for their families."
As the university celebrated its 58th undergraduate commencement Thursday morning, Markey looked out on a sea of students and their families on the Campus Center Lawn and remarked that the scene resembled "the United Nations in session."
"This is what the United States of America must celebrate. Because you are our future. Diversity is our future," he said. "You are what represents the 21st century for the United States of America. Your diversity. Your energy. Your vision."
UMass Boston graduates hail from 117 countries around the world and 48 states and speak more than 70 different languages. Nearly 60 percent of UMass Boston students are first-generation college students. It is the most diverse public university in New England and the third most diverse university in the country.
Watch UMass Boston's 2026 commencement ceremony.
The senator also emphasized the importance of protecting immigrants and creating pathways to citizenship, arguing that the pursuit of the American dream is reflected in the experiences of many UMass Boston students and families.
This year, UMass Boston conferred an estimated 3,950 degrees (2,740 undergraduate; 1,090 master's; and 122 doctoral). The university held two commencement ceremonies over two days-- with a graduate ceremony taking place on Wednesday, May 27. The university also hosted a doctoral hooding ceremony that morning.
Chancellor Suarez-Orozco: "Go Out Into the World, Fiercely, Boldly."
Chancellor Marcelo Suarez-Orozco urged graduates to use their education to confront some of the world's most pressing challenges, including threats to democracy, climate change, and the overpromising of AI without fully understanding its threats.
"Tomorrow, life after UMass Boston begins. The career paths you see for yourselves are out there, waiting to be traversed. The problems you hope to solve are out there, waiting for your insights. The ideals you want to fight for are out there, waiting for your passion," he said.
He spoke of how everything graduates experienced at UMass Boston - the lively classroom discussions, the beautiful friendships, the moments of rebellion, stepping out of comfort zones - all of it has prepared them for tomorrow.
"Your 'now' has arrived. It is your time and there is much to do. Go fix what needs fixing. Share your wisdom with your communities and the world," he said.
Student Speaker Tells Classmates to Remember Their "Why"
Madeeha Syeda, recipient of the John F. Kennedy Award for Academic Excellence, reflected on the question that shaped much of her academic journey: "Why?"
During her speech, Syeda recalled asking herself why she chose such a demanding major and why she continued through long nights, exhaustion, uncertainty, and moments of doubt. She said her answer became clear as she looked toward her family in the audience and the generations before them whose sacrifices made her success possible.
A nursing major, Syeda moved to Massachusetts from India with her family in 2017. Following graduation, she will begin working as a registered nurse in the hematology-oncology unit at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
"But standing here today, I also have to acknowledge the privilege of access to higher education. The privilege of immigrating to a country where pursuing a university education in a field of my choice could become a possibility for me. The privilege of having parents who encouraged me to pursue my dreams, classrooms where I could learn freely, and the ability to imagine a future and work toward it. Not everyone is given those opportunities," she said.
Syeda acknowledged students around the world whose education has been disrupted by war and instability, including those in Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, Syria, Myanmar, Haiti, and Ukraine.
"Many may never get to experience a day like this. However, acknowledging that reality does not take away from our celebration; rather, it gives it meaning," she said. "It is something to be grateful for and something to be responsible with."
She told fellow graduates to hold on to their "why" and allow it to guide the way they treat others, the choices they make, and the impact they leave behind.
"As we step into whatever comes next, may we lead with gratitude, stay grounded in our 'why,' and continue building the kind of world we want to be part of-together."
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Original text here: https://www.umb.edu/news/recent-news/sen-markey-praises-graduates-as-embodiment-of-americas-future/
ASU System Announces 2026 Welch Presidential Scholars
JONESBORO, Arkansas, May 29 -- Arkansas State University posted the following news:
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ASU System Announces 2026 Welch Presidential Scholars
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LITTLE ROCK - Five graduates of Arkansas State University System two-year institutions have been selected as 2026 Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars.
The Presidential Scholars program was created in 2024 to honor the legacy of Welch, president emeritus of the ASU System, for his nearly 13 years of service. The annual program honors a deserving scholar from each ASU System two-year institution who transfers successfully to an ASU System four-year
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JONESBORO, Arkansas, May 29 -- Arkansas State University posted the following news:
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ASU System Announces 2026 Welch Presidential Scholars
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LITTLE ROCK - Five graduates of Arkansas State University System two-year institutions have been selected as 2026 Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars.
The Presidential Scholars program was created in 2024 to honor the legacy of Welch, president emeritus of the ASU System, for his nearly 13 years of service. The annual program honors a deserving scholar from each ASU System two-year institution who transfers successfully to an ASU System four-yearuniversity. Each of this year's honorees will receive a $1,000 stipend.
The 2026 Welch Presidential Scholars are:
* ASU-Beebe - Emma Lee Joplin of Mountain Home. She received an Associate of Science degree in agriculture, Associate of Science degree in liberal arts and sciences and a technical certificate in agriculture. She will transfer to Arkansas State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in agriculture studies. She was a member of the ASU-Beebe Agriculture Club, Trio and Student Life.
* ASU-Mountain Home - Ty Tilton of Gassville. He received an Associate of Science degree in business and will transfer to A-State to pursue his bachelor's and master's degrees with a focus in healthcare administration. He served as Student Government Association president and was a member of the Fran Coulter Honors Program, Phi Theta Kappa and the TrailBlazer baseball team.
* ASU-Newport - Eli Jamar Tate of Concord. He received an Associate of Arts degree in secondary education and will transfer to A-State to pursue studies as a physical education educator. He was an ASU-Newport Student Ambassador, served in the Student Government Association and helped create the "Blue Coat" Leadership program on campus.
* ASU Mid-South - Cedarius Sanders of West Memphis. He received an Associate of Arts degree and will transfer to A-State to pursue studies in mechanical engineering. He was selected Trio Student Support Services Most Valuable Player for his contributions to campus life, served as an ASU Mid-South Student Ambassador and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Kappa Delta honor societies. He is an ASU System Student Leadership Institute graduate.
* ASU Three Rivers - Savanna Null of Malvern. She received an Associate of Arts degree in general education and will transfer to Henderson State University to pursue studies in psychology. She was a member of the ASU Three Rivers Honors College and a graduate of the inaugural Arkansas State University System Student Leadership Institute.
"We are proud to recognize this outstanding group of Welch Presidential Scholars," System Interim President Dr. Robin Myers said. "These students represent academic excellence and service at our two-year campuses. We're excited they have chosen to continue their studies at Arkansas State and Henderson and can't wait to see what the future holds for them."
Contributions to the Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars fund may be made through the ASU System Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 1990, State University, AR 72467, with "Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars Fund" designation on the memo line. If you wish to make a donation online, use this link and note "Welch Scholars Fund."
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Original text here: https://www.astate.edu/about/news/asu-system-announces-2026-welch-presidential-scholars.html
Assumption University: 'Tend Your Garden' - School of Graduate Studies Celebrates 2026 Commencement
WORCESTER, Massachusetts, May 29 -- Assumption University issued the following news:
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"Tend Your Garden": School of Graduate Studies Celebrates 2026 Commencement
Assumption's School of Graduate Studies celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its commencement exercises on Wednesday, May 20, marking a significant milestone for graduates, their families, and the University community.
Assumption President Greg Weiner gave remarks inviting graduates to recognize the support of family, friends, mentors, and faculty, underscoring the collective effort required to complete their
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WORCESTER, Massachusetts, May 29 -- Assumption University issued the following news:
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"Tend Your Garden": School of Graduate Studies Celebrates 2026 Commencement
Assumption's School of Graduate Studies celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its commencement exercises on Wednesday, May 20, marking a significant milestone for graduates, their families, and the University community.
Assumption President Greg Weiner gave remarks inviting graduates to recognize the support of family, friends, mentors, and faculty, underscoring the collective effort required to complete theirdegrees, and expressed gratitude to them for choosing Assumption as a partner in their educational journey.
Weiner invoked the imagery of Adam tending the Garden of Eden in Saint John Paul II's 1981 encyclical Laborem exercens. "[Saint John Paul II] says that just as we were made in the divine image, so too are we called to work alongside God in the act of creation," Weiner said. "He says 'work is one of the characteristics that distinguish man from the rest of creatures. Work bears a particular mark of man and of humanity, the mark of a person operating within a community of persons.'
"The desire to work well and meaningfully is profoundly human," he continued. "We find joy in doing it, particularly in community, and particularly when we use our talents to serve the common good. That is the joy you embody and will embody for the rest of your careers and lives. I hope that you will find joy in tending your garden with courage, humility, and charity."
Weiner recognized the commencement speaker, Larry Thayer '70 G'72, as a profound example of a life spent pursuing the common good through his work at Cape Abilities, a non-profit organization supporting individuals with disabilities.
"Like so many of you today, Larry sees the person," Weiner said. "He sees in all of us Adam in the garden, and he knew that to be denied meaningful work is to be denied that which makes us so fully human. With definitive Greyhound grit and tenacity, Larry set out to address that."
One of Thayer's many accomplishments leading Cape Abilities was the acquisition of several acres' worth of land that became thriving farms.
"I want to share with you the words of a 27-year-old man who could not find employment before Cape Abilities was able to hire him full time to tend and grow tomatoes," Weiner said. "He said 'this is my most favorite job. I love this place.' May we all be so fortunate to find that joy, that sense of purpose, in our lives and our careers."
After Weiner's remarks, an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree was bestowed upon Micheal J. Kelly '70, a global leader in business education and entrepreneurship. Presented by Chair of the Board of Trustees Candace Race '78, the honor recognized Kelly's lifelong commitment to educational excellence, ethical leadership, and the advancement of business strategy in service of society.
Kelly, who has held leadership roles at institutions including the University of Ottawa and Wilfrid Laurier University, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. Reflecting on his own Assumption education, he credited the University with laying the foundation for his career in academia and public service. "Assumption has always been close to my heart," he said. "This school means a lot to me, and I'm very grateful for it."
Drawing on his professional and volunteer experiences in the commencement address, Thayer highlighted the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and lifelong commitment to service, urging graduates to stay engaged beyond their professions. "Graduate school teaches expertise, but community teaches responsibility," he noted, encouraging graduates to volunteer and foster meaningful connections.
Thayer closed with a message of resilience and generosity: "Don't give up... and don't give until it hurts--give until it feels good."
Following Thayer's address to the class, graduate students were presented with their academic hoods by their respective program directors and received their degrees.
In total, graduate students collectively completed more than 87,000 hours of internships across schools, healthcare settings, businesses, and community organizations--demonstrating their commitment to applied learning and professional development.
The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Fr. Roger Corriveau, A.A., '69, blessing the graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. He called upon them to use their education in pursuit of the common good, and to "make of [the world] a better place where all can live in the peace, justice, and freedom to flourish as human beings."
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Original text here: https://www.assumption.edu/news-and-events/news/tend-your-garden-school-of-graduate-studies-celebrates-2026-commencement
Alvernia Adds Four Business Leaders to Board of Trustees
READING, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Alvernia University issued the following news:
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Alvernia adds four business leaders to Board of Trustees
Quartet with strong legacies of expertise, service and philanthropy join the university's Board
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Alvernia University announces the appointment of business leaders Michael Fromm, Christopher deGruchy '93/MBA '05, Stephanie Rawden and Angelo J. Valletta to its Board of Trustees.
The new members' legacies of expertise, service and philanthropy will significantly contribute to the university's mission and strategic goals.
"We are honored to welcome these
... Show Full Article
READING, Pennsylvania, May 29 -- Alvernia University issued the following news:
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Alvernia adds four business leaders to Board of Trustees
Quartet with strong legacies of expertise, service and philanthropy join the university's Board
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Alvernia University announces the appointment of business leaders Michael Fromm, Christopher deGruchy '93/MBA '05, Stephanie Rawden and Angelo J. Valletta to its Board of Trustees.
The new members' legacies of expertise, service and philanthropy will significantly contribute to the university's mission and strategic goals.
"We are honored to welcome theseoutstanding individuals to our Board of Trustees," said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "Their focus on philanthropy and service align perfectly with Alvernia's core values. And as Alvernia continues to grow as a comprehensive regional university, their leadership will help us align our mission-driven education with the needs of the communities we serve."
About the New Trustees
Michael Fromm
The Chairman of Fromm Electric Supply Corp. returns as an Alvernia trustee after serving on the board for over a decade, including a stint as Board Chair, a post previously held by his father, Bernie. He joined his family's company in 1991, becoming President in 1997. In 2009, Michael transitioned day-to-day management to a professional team with the aim of building long term sustainability. In 2023, Michael and Susan Fromm earned the university's Franciscan Award, given annually to a person or couple who selflessly gives their time, talents and resources for the betterment of others.
Christopher deGruchy
The former Principal/General Manager of Cast Rite Metal Co. earned a bachelor's degree in finance and accounting and a Master of Business Administration at Alvernia after serving in the U.S. Army. He held leadership roles across wide-ranging industries, including a medical device manufacturer and Monterey Mushrooms, before taking the helm at Cast Rite, an aluminum sand casting foundry. He recently sold the company after overseeing it for over 15 years. A dedicated philanthropist, deGruchy contributes to several organizations, including Alvernia's Hope Fund and Reading Collegiate Scholars. In 2025, deGruchy received Alvernia's 2025 Ellen Frei Gruber Award, which is presented to an individual who has given outstanding service to his/her alma mater and exemplified continued commitment and support of Alvernia's mission.
Stephanie Rawden
The Owner/Operator and multi-restaurant entrepreneur with more than 30 years of leadership within the McDonald's system has helped grow her family's organization from five restaurants founded by her father into a network of 56 locations employing more than 3,500 team members across central and eastern Pennsylvania, northern Delaware and southern New Jersey. Within the McDonald's system, Rawden has served on several national leadership teams, contributes her expertise to the McDonald's U.S. MenuTeam and serves on the board of directors for the Philadelphia McDonald's Owner/Operators Association.
Angelo J. Valletta
The president and CEO of Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania amassed nearly 40 years of leadership in finance, philanthropy and technology. He has held multiple board-level leadership roles at companies including FISGlobal, Sun National Bank and PNCBank. He spotlighted his servant leadership approach, which emphasizes synergy and shared success, in his book "7 Rs of Leadership and Life" recently published by Newman Springs. Valletta was named Alvernia's 2025-26 Executive in Residence for its Header School of Business.
Alvernia and the Board of Trustees also acknowledge the valued service and commitment of departing board members Peter Rye, President of Brentwood Industries, Inc., and former Board Chair Gregory Shemanski, President and Owner of Custom Processing Service, Inc.
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Original text here: https://www.alvernia.edu/news/2026/05/alvernia-adds-four-business-leaders-board-trustees
A challenging new world for wildlife: How humans have reshaped the food webs
DARWIN, Australia, May 29 -- Charles Darwin University posted the following news:
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A challenging new world for wildlife: How humans have reshaped the food webs
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The relationship between predators and prey in the wild is underscored by an evolutionary arms race spanning millions of years, but new research has found modern human activity is reshaping the rules.
Led by Charles Sturt University (CSU) with support from Charles Darwin University and others, the review - published in one of the leading ecology and evolution journals - found that physical and behavioural traits of both predator
... Show Full Article
DARWIN, Australia, May 29 -- Charles Darwin University posted the following news:
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A challenging new world for wildlife: How humans have reshaped the food webs
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The relationship between predators and prey in the wild is underscored by an evolutionary arms race spanning millions of years, but new research has found modern human activity is reshaping the rules.
Led by Charles Sturt University (CSU) with support from Charles Darwin University and others, the review - published in one of the leading ecology and evolution journals - found that physical and behavioural traits of both predatorand prey have been altered by human interference, and this has affected how they interact with each other.
The study examined the adaptations that different species evolved in response to human interaction such as fishing, climate change, species introductions, habitat alteration, or pollution.
For example, fisheries' preference for harvesting larger fish has resulted in reduced body size and age structure in certain species, potentially increasing their vulnerability to predators.
Co-author Dr Chris Jolly, an adjunct for CDU's Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods (RIEL) and Macquarie University Research Fellow, said these physical changes have flow-on effects for "who eats whom".
"That matters because predator-prey interactions underpin the evolution of entire ecosystems," Dr Jolly said.
"They influence everything from species abundance to vegetation and nutrient cycling - if we change how predators and prey interact, those effects can cascade through food webs and fundamentally alter ecosystems."
Dr Jolly said one of the key takeaways from the study was that changes in animal behaviour and physiology weren't always obvious or immediate, but could have long-term consequences.
"Trait shifts can build over time, leading to cascading effects like population declines, food web restructuring, or even local extinctions," he said.
"The good news is that by understanding how human activities drive these changes, we can design better conservation strategies.
"Ultimately, this research highlights that conserving ecosystems means thinking not just about species, but about the dynamic relationships between them."
Study lead author and CSU Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Dr Eamonn Wooster, said much of the work necessary to counteract the damage inflicted by human disruption was governed at a scale much higher than the individual.
But he said there were some "quick fixes" available at the individual level.
"The end of size selective hunting and fishing will help return natural variation to populations - trophy hunting is particularly damaging to animal populations.
"However, for other disturbances like climate change or urbanisation, preventing animals from responding to these rests on the prevention of the disturbance itself.
"Animals will continually adapt to the challenges humans present to them or in some cases, go extinct.
"Much of conservation in the Anthropocene is simply understanding the mess we created and how to help animals navigate it."
Human-induced trait shifts reshape predator-prey interactions was published in the journal Trends in Ecology & Evolution.
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Original text here: https://www.cdu.edu.au/news/challenging-new-world-wildlife-how-humans-have-reshaped-food-webs
