Alvernia highlights experiential learning additions at President’s Dinner

Alumni and community leaders earn prestigious honors at annual celebration

Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., highlights the evolution of experiential learning opportunities for Alvernia students, including the addition of the American House at Reading CollegeTowne and Apprenticeship to Degree Program, at the university's annual President's Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading.

"The next wave of experiential learning at Alvernia is happening just down the street, in the heart of downtown Reading, as The American House represents everything we stand for at Alvernia-service, community engagement, and preparing our students to be leaders in their fields," said Fitzgerald. "But we don't do any of this alone. If you have an idea, an internship opportunity, a project that could use student support, we want to talk with you. Together, we can ensure that every student who walks through our doors leaves with experiences that will change their lives-and the world around them."

The university also shared an update on the university's largest comprehensive fundraising campaign, Partners in Progress, which it announced publicly at last year's President's Dinner.

At last year's dinner, we announced through the support of many of you in this room, the university had secured over $52 million in gifts and pledges from a combination of philanthropic support and public funding," said Alvernia University Vice President for Advancement and Government Affairs Thomas Minick '98 M'10. "Tonight, I'm pleased to announce that over the past year, an additional $10 million has been secured, bringing our campaign total to over $62 million to support endowment growth, academic excellence, scholarships, financial support for students, and capital projects such as the American House and Phase two of Pottsville CollegeTowne."

Alvernia University bestowed five of its prestigious awards on alumni, a community organization, and community leaders. Honorees include Kevin and Ellen St. Cyr, Brentwood Industries, Joanne M. Haag '69, Dr. Patricia W. Savage '71, Leon Geiger '13 M'23, Mary Strausser '08, Emily Cleffi-Tristani '12 and Angela York '11.

CollegeTowne Award

Brentwood Industries former CEO and current Chief Strategy Officer Peter Rye accepted the CollegeTowne Award (formerly Pro Urbe Award) on behalf of Brentwood for its significant community service and contributions to a higher standard of living for the Reading community. Brentwood has provided internships for students and projects for the John R. Post School of Engineering and has been a philanthropic partner for numerous programs and projects and has established Brentwood Industries Gives, which provides volunteer time off for employees to connect with nonprofits, helps coordinate volunteer efforts and manage the company's philanthropy budget.

"Recognition like this was not something we sought. But we proudly accept the award knowing that we are well on our way to building something big and impactful," said Rye. "Especially coming from an institution like Alvernia, who sets the gold standard for community engagement, this award is extra special. So, thank you Alvernia and also thank you to that core group of employees at Brentwood who took a simple concept and made it real. This award is yours."

Franciscan Award

Longtime Lancaster County and Alvernia University servant leaders Kevin and Ellen St. Cyr were honored with the university's Franciscan Award, given annually to a person or couple who selflessly gives their time, talents and resources for the betterment of others and is presented for exceptional service to Alvernia. As a long-serving trustee from 2003 to 2019, Kevin held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Facilities & Technology, Mission, and Compensation Committees and served as Chair of the Board. Kevin played a crucial role in shaping Alvernia's growth, advising on the Ph.D. in Leadership program, contributing to the strategic and campus master plans.

"When I think about the exciting times we had, it is no wonder we stayed on for 16 years," said Kevin St. Cyr. "Since then, the positive Alvernia experiences have helped me be a more effective member of other nonprofit boards and organizations."

Distinguished Alumni Award

For her valuable contributions to her profession and community, Joanne M. Haag '69 received Alvernia University's Distinguished Alumni Award. Haag, who began her career as an elementary school teacher in Washington, D.C., became a part-owner in H.P. Thompson, and engineering firm where she served for over 42 years. Haag is involved in the National Association of Professional Women, T.E.C. and the Clermont Chamber of Commerce.

"Alvernia didn't just provide me with a degree in education; it gave me the structure, confidence, and resilience to take on life's challenges head-on," said Haag. The close-knit community and rigorous academics taught me to think critically, act confidently, and, most importantly, believe in myself. Alvernia gave me the foundation to embrace challenges, to step into the unknown, and to build a life filled with purpose and passion. And now, I want to challenge each of you to do the same."

Ellen Frei Gruber Award

For her reflection on the values of service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation, and collegiality, Dr. Patricia W. Savage '71 earned the Ellen Frei Gruber Award. Savage, longtime President and CEO of Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries, provided services from childcare to senior care throughout eight counties in West Central Pennsylvania. In the community, Savage served as a member of the Lancaster Sunrise Rotary, a past President of the Rotary Club of Altoona, a Paul Harris Fellow and chaired the executive leadership team for Blair Go Red for Women and served on the Arts Altoona Board of Directors.

"I owe a great deal to the professors, mentors, and peers who pushed me to become a better version of myself," said Savage. "They taught me to approach challenges with curiosity, to lead with integrity, and to never stop learning. They taught me to adhere to the moral and ethical percepts of the Franciscan tradition - to learn, to love, and to serve throughout life."

Four Under Forty Award

The university also awarded its fifth class of Four Under Forty winners including Angela York, executive director of THRIVE Peninsula; Mary Strausser, Owner of Gym Jam Therapy, Leon Geiger, U.S. Army Captain; and Emily Cleffi-Tristani, strategic communications leader with Google, Brookings Institution, and Discovery Communications.