Ozechoski, Ridley, Ruth expand roles to support Alvernia’s new strategic direction
Alvernia University promotes and expands responsibilities for three senior leadership team members, President John R. Loyack announced today. The promotions and role expansions will support the university’s strategic direction, the Alvernia Advantage, designed to support its unique brand of experiential transformation and commitment to diversity and inclusion for all its students at all campus locations.
Mary-Alice Ozechoski
Mary-Alice Ozechoski has been promoted to senior vice president for enrollment and student affairs. She joins Provost Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald and Chief of Staff John McCloskey as the university’s senior vice presidents. Ozechoski will oversee student affairs, enrollment, marketing and graduate and adult education. She has also been tasked with leading diversity and inclusion efforts for all of the university’s students.
“As we continue to align our senior leadership team to enhance our student-centric and experiential learning based strategic plan, Mary-Alice will be a vital component in upgrading the student experience at all our campuses,” said Alvernia University President John R. Loyack. “She and Dr. Fitzgerald will work side by side to ensure our students are immersed in a diverse, collegial and inclusive community.”
Dr. Rodney Ridley
Chief operating officer of the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Rodney Ridley, has been named a university vice president and the interim dean of the university’s new College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
“In his short time with Alvernia, Rodney has been essential in developing experiential learning opportunities for our students, leading the positive impact that the O'Pake Institute has had on economic development within the Reading community, and developing our new engineering programs,” said Loyack. “His diverse and inclusive approach to this process Rodney will continue to benefit both our students and the greater southeastern Pennsylvania region.”
Dr. Rudy Ruth
Finally, executive director of the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement, Dr. Rudy Ruth, has been elevated to the university vice president for community engagement. Ruth and the Holleran Center will continue promoting the success of all students through programs, service and experiential learning opportunities and by developing strategic community partnerships that holistically address cultural, educational, and civic growth with unity and respect.
“Rudy’s diverse experience and connections in our community have been vital in our movement toward a new strategic direction,” said Loyack. “We look forward to Rudy and the rest of the Holleran Center team continuing their mission by providing resources and advocating for the Greater Reading community on diversity, inclusion and equity.”
