University celebrates history and installation of Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.
Alvernia commences a multi-day event schedule celebrating the history of the university and the installation of the university’s eighth president, Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members will take part in a series of alumni gatherings, lectures, fine and performing arts events, student activities, service opportunities and celebrations of faith that begins tonight with an alumni event at the university’s Pottsville CollegeTowne location and ends with a community-wide day of service on Saturday, April 20.
Following four years as Senior Vice President and Provost, Fitzgerald commenced her tenure as president on July 1, 2023. The planned events will showcase the history and tradition of the university and academia, as well as an inside look at Fitzgerald’s vision and personality.
The Alvernia community is welcomed and encouraged to attend the various events. Below is a highlight of the inauguration events. For a complete listing of event dates, locations, descriptions and registration links, please visit Alvernia.edu/Inauguration.
Alumni Gatherings
Pottsville CollegeTowne Event
Thursday, April 4, 2024 | 5:30-7:30pm
500 Progress Avenue, Pottsville, PA 17901
Join our alumni, community, parents, and leaders of the university for a special evening to celebrate the inauguration of Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Register here.
Philadelphia Alumni Gathering
Tuesday, April 9, 2024 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Manayunk Brewing Company, 4120 Main St., Philadelphia, PA 19127
Join our alumni, community, parents, and leaders of the university for a special evening to celebrate the inauguration of Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Register here.
Student Activities
Casino Night
Friday, April 5, 2024 | 7-10 p.m.
Francis Hall Atrium
Hit the jackpot by attending our Casino Night! Francis Hall Atrium will be transformed into a casino filled with games such as blackjack, poker and roulette. Earn as many poker chips as possible and trade them in for chances to win raffle prizes!
Student Inauguration Formal
Friday, April 12, 2024 | 8:30-11 p.m.
Physical Education Center
Come dance the night away! As part of Inauguration Week events, President Fitzgerald and Alvernia will host an Inauguration Formal for students. This special formal is to provide students who missed out on their proms and other in-person events during COVID-19 with an unforgettable night.Please join us for food, drinks, dancing, raffle prizes and lots of fun. Heavy hors d’ oeuvres, desserts and drinks will be available. The event is free to Alvernia students, who may bring one non-Alvernia guest. Students must sign up and pick up a free ticket in the Office of Student Activities.
Service Event
Community-Wide Day of Service, Saturday, April 20, 2024
Earth Day of Service
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Berks County Parks Department and City of Reading
Join us in celebrating President Fitzgerald's Inauguration by serving together on Earth Day! We will serve throughout the City of Reading and in Berks County Parks Department locations. The day will conclude with a tree dedication at City Park.
Sign-up link for students, faculty and staff.
Inauguration Ceremony Event Schedule
Friday, April 12, 2024
Mass |11 a.m.
Sacred Heart Chapel
All are invited and welcome.
Inauguration Ceremony and Reception |3-6 p.m.
Physical Education Center
Please join us for the inauguration ceremony of the eighth president of Alvernia University. All inauguration ceremony attendees are welcome to join President Fitzgerald for refreshments and fellowship in the Physical Education Center.
Other Events
Academic Engagement Day, Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Campus Happy Hour | 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Holleran Patio or Student Center
The Alvernia community is invited for a backyard BBQ happy hour before an evening of panels and art.
Women in Leadership Panel and Reception |5-7 p.m.
Francis Hall Theatre
Dr. Laurie L. Shanderson, owner of Accreditation Insights and the former chancellor of Methodist College; Lucine Sihelnik, President and CEO of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance; and Ginger Kunkel, president of Tompkins Financial Corp, lead a panel spotlighting women who are succeeding as leaders in academia and beyond. Register here.
Student and Faculty Art Shows | 6 p.m.
Franco Library (Students) and Miller Gallery (Faculty)
Alvernia’s Miller Gallery honors the Inauguration of Dr. Fitzgerald with a show featuring the talents of the faculty and staff at the university. Some pieces will be for sale. Alvernia's Franco Library will showcase the art of Alvernia's students.
Alvernia Theatre Opening Night | 7:30 p.m.
Francis Hall Theatre
The Department of Fine and Performing Arts is proud to present "Opening Night," a brief variety performance including music, dance and comedy by Alvernia students and alumni in honor of the inauguration of Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald. Admission is free. The show will be followed by dessert in the Francis Hall Atrium.
