Success Stories
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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MSOT standout aims to advance use of 3-D prosthetic hands
As a high school student, Regina Rossi MSOT '24 perused occupational therapy programs and Alvernia’s stood out. “When I discovered the school offered a five-year OT program, I was intrigued and when I visited the beautiful campus and spoke to the ...
Family support encourages educational comeback
When Wanda Ivette Cruz ’22, MSW ’23 graduated in 1994 from high school in Philadelphia, she had her eye on going to community college. Then she got pregnant as a teenager, waylaying those plans.“I had to make a very tough decision—put a roof...
Making the case for K-9 units
Criminal Justice Administration graduate Elizabeth Goida values the education she received at Alvernia University, which included real-world experiences, such attending the Reading Police Academy and working with the Reading Police ...
Addictions caused her to lose everything — perseverance helped her recover
By Lini S. KadabaWhen Shannon Qualters ’23, MAOL '25 hit bottom, the survivor of child sexual abuse was hooked on heroin and crack cocaine, living on the streets of the Kensington section of Philadelphia and eating out of garbage cans, by her own ...