Flynn receives 2018 Vision for Peace Award
Alvernia University President Tom Flynn has been recognized with the 2018 Vision for Peace Award by Safe Berks for his voice on inclusion and contribution to interfaith dialogue in partnership with Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders and for leadership in positioning Alvernia as an "anchor institution” in the City of Reading and Berks County communities.
This is only the third time the Vision for Peace award, which honors those who have made justice and peace their life's' work, has been presented in more than 10 years.
"Dr. Flynn has been an advocate, ambassador and advisor to Safe Berks since his arrival at Alvernia in 2005," said May Kay Bernosky, Safe Berks CEO. "He has also been a voice for understanding, community and peace in Berks County."
Under Flynn's leadership, Alvernia has become a leading anchor institution through many community initiatives. The university's highly successful Reading Collegiate Scholars Program enrolls underserved but capable students in the City of Reading and provides support, incentives and financial aid designed to ensure students successfully complete a college education. Started in 2014, the first cohort has a 100% college graduation rate.
Alvernia also runs the South Reading Youth Initiative, an after-school enrichment program at Millmont and Tyson-Schoener Elementary Schools. Through the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement, Alvernia faculty, staff and students collaborate with the Reading School District to provide educational enrichment and literacy services to more than 100 elementary students every day.
Each year, Safe Berks honors individuals and institutions whose work makes a significant contribution to furthering its mission—to provide supportive services for victims and to eliminate domestic and sexual violence in Berks County.
