Over 110 students honored at university’s celebration
View photos from the event here
Alvernia University's Annual Scholarship Luncheon, held Saturday at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, showcased the institution's commitment to academic excellence and student success. The event brought together over 110 students, with their families, friends, and distinguished guests, along with Alvernia trustees, senior leadership, deans, faculty, and staff, all united in celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of the students.
The luncheon commenced with welcoming remarks from Mary-Alice Ozechoski, stressing the importance of timely FAFSA filing for financial aid accessibility. Dr. Darryl C. Mace, Vice President for Mission, Diversity, and Inclusion, provided a Mission Moment and Prayer, fostering a spirit of reflection and unity.
President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., delivered remarks, showcasing Alvernia’s latest expansion plans and unique educational experience while urging students to envision the opportunities awaiting them at Alvernia University.
"Today’s luncheon is a special event set aside to celebrate intelligent, successful students who have worked hard and balanced academics with athletics, music, artistic or other activities, service projects, and more and more frequently — employment,” said Fitzgerald. “Each of you has already demonstrated an extraordinary drive to cultivate your unique gifts and abilities. Look ahead to your bright future, and consider Alvernia your partner in realizing your dreams."
Alvernia's Associate Professor of Political Science Victoria Williams, Ph.D., highlighted the Honors Program, emphasizing its role in nurturing exceptional students for future success in graduate schools or professional pursuits.
Senior psychology major Alettya Zalapa-Alonso shared her transformative Alvernia experience, inspiring future students with her journey as a first-generation college student.
“Surrounding you is also a glimpse of support, encouragement, along with other students like myself who can tell you their own story and share how Alvernia has shaped their experiences,” said Zalapa-Alonso. “I want to speak not only for the students but as one from the Alvernia pack. We see you, we recognize you, and we whole-heartedly cannot wait to see what stories and connections you make in your future steps.”
The luncheon's highlight was the presentation of certificates to incoming Alvernia students, recognizing their merit scholarships and awards, including the prestigious Boscov Scholarship, Presidential Scholarship, Trustees' Scholarship, Veronica Founder's Scholarship, Achievement Award, and Heritage Award. Additionally, recipients of the Reading Collegiate Scholars Program and Header Scholars Program scholarships were honored.
Following the luncheon, attendees enjoyed a dessert reception at Alvernia's John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, fostering continued camaraderie and celebration.
The Scholarship Luncheon is the latest admission event to attract the incoming Alvernia University Class of 2028. In February, Alvernia’s Packapalooza highlighted the university’s increased numbers of applications and visits this cycle.
