Success Stories

Success Stories

The Alvernia Impact

Discover how Alvernia University students, alumni, and faculty turn education into action. Explore success stories of leadership, service, and innovation that reflect our Franciscan mission. Ready to see where your story begins? Explore how you can join a community that leads with purpose.

 

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Jamie Becker ocean research

Biology professor leads team authoring article on notable marine microbe

Assistant Professor of Biology Jamie Becker, Ph.D., in November published a research article on a minuscule yet mighty marine organism.“Novel isolates expand the physiological diversity of Prochlorococcus and illuminate its macroevolution” appeare...

  • College of Innovation, Discovery, and Enterprise
  • 2026
Rachel Sebastian

Total Experience Learning adjunct named finalist for PA Teacher of the Year award

Once a student of the Total Experience Learning Institute® (TExpL), Rachel Sebastian, a librarian at Brecknock Elementary School in the Gov. Mifflin School District, believes in its mission so deeply that she’s also an adjunct for the program base...

  • 2025
Tom Franek

He finds joy in helping students find their 'lightbulb moments'

Dr. Thomas Franek started at Alvernia University during the 2015-2016 year, but has nearly 20 years of experience as an educator and 30 years of practical experience. Once an active high school athlete, the associate professor of athleti...

  • College of Health Sciences
  • 2021