Now through Saturday, May 9, when the semester ends, students with a DeSales University dining plan will be asked to donate money to Catholic Relief Services, which is funding earthquake relief efforts in Nepal.

Student contributions will be taken from the student’s semester dining account. Cashiers in the DeSales University Center, who work for the University’s food service company Sodexo, Inc., will ask students for donations.

“Some students use their remaining dining money for cases of water or soda,” said Fr. John Fisher, OSFS, assistant professor of theology, who conceived the idea. “How about donating a portion to brothers and sisters whom we do not know, but are certainly in need.”

One DeSales student, physician assistant major Rajendra Shrestha, is from Nepal and his family, while safe, is seeing first hand the devastation that the earthquake has inflicted.

“I am grateful to the students and the DeSales community for helping my country at this difficult time of ours,” said Shrestha. “The people of my country will thank you from the bottom of their hearts.”

Andy Okuley and Linnae Budusky, two incoming DeSales University freshmen, have received leadership scholarships, a full-tuition award given to students who have displayed exceptional leadership during the course of their secondary schooling.

This is the first year the scholarship was awarded, created as a way to recognize students for distinctions in work and activities outside of the classroom. To be eligible, prospective students were asked to submit a maximum 500 word essay describing their leadership experience through one of six traits, including courage, humanity, justice, temperance, wisdom, and transcendence. Twenty-five finalists were then selected from the pool of applicants.

“We didn’t know what the response would be, and we got more than 250 essays,” said Derrick Wetzel, director of undergraduate admissions. “All of the 25 finalists showed a diversity of leadership experience in their essays.”

Finalists were interviewed individually during the University’s scholarship day on January 31 by a panel of administrators, including Dr. Gerard Joyce, vice president of student life, Linda Zerbe, dean of students, Dr. Gregg Amore, associate dean of students, and Chad Serfass, director of the DeSales Experience.

“We were essentially looking for students who have leadership characteristics, and we’re hopeful that their leadership translates to DeSales University and they get involved in Character U and other things on campus,” Wetzel said.

Okuley wrote his essay around humanity and how he came to know its importance over the course of his high school career. A native of Toledo, Ohio, Okuley attends the city’s Oblate-run St. Francis de Sales High School, where he is a member of the baseball team. In the relief of hindsight, the incoming freshman admitted he nearly forgot to apply for the scholarship. 

“I was getting ready for our winter dance when I remembered it was the last day to submit the essay,” he said. “My date was probably waiting for me, but I’d say it was worth it.”

Okuley plans to major in sport and exercise science when he begins his academic journey in the fall.

A little closer to Center Valley, Budusky hails from Lancaster, Pa., where she will graduate from Lancaster Catholic High School this spring. The senior is active in theatre and directs a non-profit theatre camp for children during her summers. Like Okuley, she also wrote her essay on humanity.

“I wrote about humanity being the foundation for all other traits,” Budusky said. “To me, leadership is the ability to find a common ground and to make a connection that links us all as humans.”

Upon arrival in August, Budusky plans to major in TV/film and minor in business.

“We’ve always talked about character, we’ve always talked about leadership in everything we do, and how it’s a big part of the experience at DeSales,” Wetzel said. “And we want that to continue. We’re starting to recognize students that show outstanding leadership.” 

OnStage, a site dedicated “to cover theatre, no matter the size or location,” recently named the DeSales University one of the Top 10 Most Underrated Theatre Colleges in the northeast region of the United States.

Click here for the full article.

DeSales University will offer a minor in ethical leadership starting in fall 2015, an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the capacity to make ethical decisions while working in their specific field of choice.

The minor will be housed under the philosophy and theology departments but is open to students of any major, as its required course options are being drawn from 16 academic disciplines. It will be offered in the traditional day program as well as the adult evening program (ACCESS).

Six classes will be required for fulfillment of the minor: two of three core courses, which include “Introduction to the Devout Life,” “Ethics of Character: The DeSales Experience,” and “Leadership Self Development: The DeSales Experience,” as well as two courses selected from an ethics category and two courses from a leadership category. Both of these classifications will include courses from numerous academic arenas to allow the minor’s customization to a student’s respective area of study.

Dr. Stephen Loughlin, department chair of philosophy and theology, spearheaded the program’s development and proposal and said the new minor was another way DeSales differentiates itself.

“People who graduate from universities take up many and varied positions within the world, but one of the things that makes a DeSales education distinctive is the fact that we have a Catholic, Salesian character, which importantly molds our mission statement, which then acts as a guide for all of our different programs, the material we teach, the way we present ourselves, and so forth,” Loughlin said.

“So with this minor as an extension of that, we hope to have some kind of influence on the development of character, especially as we bring that character to the world--that we manifest a certain leadership capacity in whatever area of life we end up in.”

The Minor was created based on the Student Life department’s freshman “Character U” program and its four-year continuation, the DeSales Experience, which started in 2006 and 2013, respectively, and aim to develop well-rounded students with an inclination toward service and extraordinary leadership. The minor will provide these programs with heavier academic and intellectual value. 

Chad Serfass, director of the “DeSales Experience,” along with University Chaplain Fr. Tim McIntire and Dean of Students Linda Zerbe assisted Loughlin with the minor’s formation.

“We are now backing what we do with character and leadership with an actual minor that students can achieve, no matter their major,” Serfass said. “This will also help tie student life with academics and possibly form more relationships in the future.”

Like Serfass, Loughlin is hopeful that the partnership will be the seed for future interconnected programs and said he anticipates the minor in ethical leadership to see success.

“We have high hopes for this,” Loughlin said. “It’s yet another way that this University is able to show the world that we have something that is unique, that is distinctive, and something that will allow students to take that much more from this very good place and to be able to apply it practically in whatever area of life they end up becoming leaders in.” 

The DeSales University campus uses a single-stream recycling service. From August 1, 2014, until March 3, 2015, the report from the vendor showed the campus community diverted 232 tons of waste from the landfill. This conserves the following resources:

• Enough to power 48 homes for a full year
• Enough energy to heat & cool 63 homes for a full year
• Enough fresh water for 23,036 people for a full year

On Tuesday, April 28, 2015, the annual Student Life Awards Ceremony took place at the DeSales University Center.    

John Bayeux ’15, Jennifer Fay ’15, and Alyssa Petillo ’15, served as student leader hosts for the evening as a number of DeSales students were recognized for their service to the Student Life Department during the past year. 

Below are the recipients of the various awards along with the presenters. In addition, members of the Student Government Association (SGA) Executive Board were inducted into their new roles and members of the L.E.A.DSU (Leaders Emerging at DeSales University) program received their certificates of completion.

THE JOHN A. HANLEY SPIRIT OF DE SALES AWARD

Recipients: Catherine Chovanes and Ariana Faichtyger
Presenters: Maggie Riggins – Director of Campus Ministry

• This honor is awarded to an individual whose actions, positive attitude, and exemplified spiritual life has influenced DeSales University.

DR. JERRY JOYCE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP AWARD

Recipients: Andrew Ivankovits and Christine Holmes
Presenter:  Nick Luchko – Director of Student Engagement and Leadership  

• Presented to an individual, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in student activities, engaged other students through clubs and organizations and has dedicated themselves to enhancing the school spirit of DeSales University to their peers and the community. 

DR. GREGG AMORE FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE AWARD

Recipient: Ryan Gutshall 
Presenter:  Chad Serfass – Director of the DeSales Experience

• Presented to a first-year student who has exemplified the Golden Council traits within their personal and academic life, has demonstrated these character traits throughout the campus community, and has exhibited these traits and strengths in a way that has inspired character growth in her or his peers. 

PARENT ASSOCIATION AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL SERVICE

Recipient: James Herrighty 
Presenter: Jaime Gerhart – Director of the Center for Service and Social Justice

• This outstanding honor is awarded to the student who has portrayed a strong willingness to work within the community in an effort to strengthen and improve the lives of others.

REV. JAMES FINNEGAN COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL SERVICE AWARD

Recipients: Ashley Caroff and Victoria Gaffney
Presenter:  Jaime Gerhart – Director of the Center for Service and Social Justice

• Presented to an individual who gives of himself/herself for the betterment of his/her fellow students both on and off the DeSales University campus.

REV. JAMES FINNEGAN COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR ORGANIZATION SERVICE AWARD

Recipient: Best Buddies
Presenter:  Jaime Gerhart – Director of the Center for Service and Social Justice

• Presented to a group that is committed to giving back to the community through time and acts of kindness.

TROY BAUER CAREER AMBASSADOR AWARD

Recipient:  Heidi Kurter
Presenter: Kristin Eicholtz – Director of the Career Development Center

• Presented to an individual, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advising their peers to explore, experience, and achieve their professional goals and follow their passions.  Furthermore, this is presented to an individual who has gone above and beyond their scheduled duties to promote the Career Development Center and enhance his/her own career growth and development.

HELEN DANKO AND JEAN MAURER WELLNESS AWARD

Recipients: Paige Nebistinsky
Presenter:  Wendy Krisak – Director of the Counseling Center

• This honor is awarded annually to a student who has contributed to the overall wellness of the DeSales student body.

GEORGE S. SALZMANN AWARD

Recipient: Rachel Myslinski
Presenter: Linda Zerbe – Dean of Students  

• Presented to an individual whose leadership through the Student Government Association has made outstanding contributions to the DeSales community.

James F. Kilcur SGA CLASS LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Freshman: Karrington Hamilton
Sophomore: Dan McDonald
Junior: Rebecca Cabrera
Senior: Erin Rosa Pabon
Presenter: Rachel Myslinski – Executive President of SGA 

• This award is given to a freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior who has exemplified outstanding leadership through academics, extracurricular activities and served as a positive role model for others during his/her senior year. 

SGA PROGRAM OF THE YEAR

Recipient: Psychology Club Masquerade Ball
Presenter:  Savanna Risser – SGA Vice President for Student Life 

• This award is presented to an individual or group who has executed the most outstanding campus program benefitting the University. Outstanding programs include programs that contribute to the development of a diverse culture on campus and appeal to a varied audience.

SGA CLUB OF THE YEAR AWARD

Recipient: Exercise is Medicine
Presenter: Christine Holmes – SGA Vice President of the Treasury

• The Club of the Year is presented to a group who has benefited the community through outstanding programs, leadership on campus and dedication to the mission of DeSales University

SGA OUTSTANDING STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Recipient:  Brother Joseph Schodowski – Campus Environment
Presenters: Rachel Myslinski and John Bayeux

• This award is presented to a staff member who has shown outstanding service to the student body of DeSales University.

SGA OUTSTANDING FACULTY MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Recipient: Dr. Amy Scott – Business Department
Presenters: Rachel Myslinski and John Bayeux 

• This award is presented to a faculty member who has shown outstanding service to the student body of DeSales University.

SGA 2015 – 2016 Executive Board

Executive President - Savanna Risser
Executive Office of the Treasurer - Lauren Wieser
Executive Vice President of Student Life - John Blaisse
Executive Vice President of Campus Services - Thomas DePaul
Executive Vice President of Student Resources - Kristyna Sabato

LEADSU Graduates

Patrick Collins
Angela Delio
Emily Gallagher
Gina Galassi
Erin Grube
Kelsie Hess
Ryan Jordan
Myriam Joseph
Amanda Kaschak
Emily Miller
Kaitlyn Miller
Krystina Sabato
John Pinto
Paul Vizza
Tim Yannaccone

De Sales University Trustees, administration, faculty, & staff; parents, families, friends, and, most importantly, the graduating class of 2015 – good morning and thank you for having me here today to celebrate with you. When Father O’Connor first invited me to be your commencement speaker I was in awe that I had been considered for such an honor.

As I thought about the message I would share, it occurred to me that I had no idea who gave the commencement speech at my college graduation in 1996. What chance did I stand to be remembered by any of you in a decade or two…so I decided it would come down to sharing a message and advice that would stick with you after the excitement of receiving your degrees today.

I was invited here because I am the President of Nativity Preparatory School of Wilmington. Nativity Prep and the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales helped me realize that working with Nativity’s young men isn’t just my career, it is my calling. Many of the young men, whom I’ve known since they were 10 years old and are now in college – in fact, one of those young men is sitting with the graduates today – that many of these young men have changed my life even more than I believe I have changed their lives. 

About 5 years ago, we created a program for Nativity alums across the country as they transitioned from college to career. The program was called: Backpack to Briefcase… and I borrow that title for my remarks today – so that in twenty years when you can’t recall who gave your commencement speech…. perhaps you’ll recall the “Backpack to Briefcase” theme – for the transition from college to career is not an easy one…you will be challenged, you will have doubts, some days you will feel empowered, and other days you’ll, quite frankly, be freakin’ out a little (or even a lot) - but you’ll always fondly remember these past years at De Sales University as some of the most important in your life. (also, I realize that very few people actually use a briefcase anymore, but stick with me here – it’s a metaphor)

 When I talk to parents or donors or volunteers, people interested in Nativity Prep, I tell them that we want our young men to succeed and graduate from college, have a career, and become a positive statistic rather than a negative one… but secretly, that’s not why I want Nativity’s graduates to go on to college. I want them to choose this path because of the amazing, personal growth that they will achieve by taking advantage of a college education… a college experience. It’s life-changing to have the opportunity to have what you have experienced for the past four years: to live on a college campus (or commute to one) – to have an “ivory tower” where you could make lifelong friends, explore ideas, form opinions, and have your world view challenged and expanded as you grow into adulthood – from Backpack to Briefcase.

A recent New York Times article by David Brooks entitled The Moral Bucket List highlights, for me, the two sets of values that you will focus on as you move from Backpack to Briefcase. It reads and I quote: “there are two sets of virtues, the resume virtues and the eulogy virtues. The resume virtues are the skills you bring to the marketplace. The eulogy virtues are the ones that are talked about at your funeral – whether you were kind, brave, honest or faithful.”

Brooks continues: “We all know that the eulogy virtues are more important than the resume ones. But our culture and our educational systems spend more time teaching the skills and strategies you need for career success than the qualities you need to radiate a sort of inner light. Many of us are clearer on how to build an external career than on how to build inner character.” End quote.

You are beginning your transition from Backpack to Briefcase with a unique advantage because you spent your last few years on a campus managed by the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Whether it was in your required classes, a religion or philosophy elective, or one of the many opportunities to nurture your spiritual side on campus – from daily Mass to the new and extremely popular “Salesian Spirits” – you have had the opportunity to develop your “resume virtues” along side your “eulogy virtues” and achieve a balance that will be of great benefit as you face challenges in your life.

I have four pieces of advice – I believe these four pieces of advice have helped me maintain a balance between “resume virtues” and “eulogy virtues” – it gives me a little bit of “backpack” in a life that is sometimes dominated by “briefcase”. My four pieces of advice:

First – READ.

I know all of you have likely done quite a bit of reading these past few years…but trust me when I tell you that reading is a powerful skill that you need to continuously nurture. I tell our students at Nativity that they should read because reading gives you power – the power to deduce, the power to use your imagination, the power to form your own opinions. I like reading books (the kind with real pages and paper), but reading on a smartphone or tablet or computer screen can be just as effective (depending, of course, on the content). Tweets, texts, and status updates will keep you informed, but these bite-sized pieces of information will not exercise your minds the same way as an article, essay, short story, novel, or non-fiction book. “Reading” is very different from “watching” – reading develops your mind in a way that will empower you to achieve your dreams!

Second – VOLUNTEER.

In other words, find ways to give back. You might accomplish this with time, talent, or treasure. You might volunteer, you might serve on a board of a nonprofit, you might find yourself with disposable income that you choose to give to a charitable cause. I’ll share an example from my life and a quick version of how I ended up standing here before you today. After college, I intended to become a teacher or work in a school. Life circumstances happened and … fast forward 7-8 years … I found myself working in the corporate sector … enjoying a certain level of success, but not feeling totally satisfied by my daily grind. In 2003, I heard about a school called … you guessed it: Nativity Prep. They needed evening tutors – so I signed up, my life was instantly changed, and the rest is history. It was volunteering that led me to discover my vocation – my calling. I stand here before you as the president of the organization that I would have never discovered if I hadn’t volunteered that first night 12 years ago…

Third – LIVE LIFE PASSIONATELY

Living life passionately is very much in line with the teachings of St. Francis de Sales. Give yourself fully to everything that you do. “Be who you are and be that well.” – I’m sure you have heard that most famous of de Sales’ sayings many times – but it’s great advice – I try to live every aspect of my life with passion and I recommend you do the same.

Fourth – ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL

Nativity’s school theme this year is “Gratitude” – George Herbert, a contemporary of Francis de Sales, said: “You have given us much, Lord. Give us one more thing, a grateful heart.” Gratitude can completely shift your perspective from negative to positive. It is easy to get caught up in worries and anxieties and forget to be grateful – but once you shift to a perspective of gratitude you see everything differently.

As I prepared my remarks, I considered that I was speaking at the commencement of a Catholic college and that none of my advice was about prayer – but I believe that all of my pieces of advice are about praying. Whether you’re reading, volunteering, living your life passionately, or being grateful – you are praying – prayer, or meditation if you prefer, can be seamlessly woven into the fabric of your daily life – but do it with intention and conviction. My favorite Francis de Sales quote reads: “Half an hour’s meditation each day is essential, except when you are too busy. Then a full hour is needed.”

Finally, I want to exercise a piece of my own advice by expressing gratitude – I’m humbled to have received this honorary degree from the University, but I believe I share this degree with so many people who have made Nativity and my life what it is today. I believe it is the vision of the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales that has had and continues to have a profound effect on giving educational opportunities to the kind of young men served by Nativity Prep. I am grateful to so many Oblates who have guided me on my journey. I share this degree with all of the current and past trustees, faculty, and staff of Nativity Prep – as well as all of the students and graduates.

I also want to thank my family – my parents, my sisters, my nieces and nephews, and most especially my wife, Grace, who is here today to support me even though she is eight and a half months pregnant with our first child. All of these people have inspired the advice I share with you – read, volunteer, live life passionately, and always be grateful.

In closing, I want to dedicate these remarks to my unborn daughter, Olivia, who I will spend the next 22 years nurturing on her own journey from Backpack to Briefcase. Thank you.

On Saturday, May 16, DeSales President Fr. Bernard O’Connor, OSFS, conferred degrees upon 477 graduating students, including traditional undergraduates, graduate, and ACCESS students during the 47th commencement exercises on the campus mall between McShea Student Center and Trexler Library.

David J. Kubacki, president of Nativity Preparatory School of Wilmington, Del., delivered the commencement address. To read Kubacki’s address, click here.

In addition to the May graduates, students who graduated in January 2015 were invited to walk in the May ceremony as the January ceremony was cancelled because of snow.

Congratulations to all of our graduates listed below. Please note, all January 2015 graduates are listed here.

• Erik A. Alderiso, B.S., computer science, cum laude
• Corrine J. Alles, B.S., marketing, magna cum laude
• Danielle Altavilla, B.A., early childhood education
• Lauren N. Amiano, B.S., biology
• Sianta L. Anderson, B.S., psychology
• Kristana M. Ascani, B.A., communication
• Julieann N. Attieh, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Luis A. Ayala-Rivera, B.S., accounting and finance
• Christine N. Baglivio, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Lucas S. Banko, B.A., criminal justice
• Lindsay A. Bannon, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Christine M. Banos, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology and biology
• David A. Barnes, Jr., B.S., computer science
• Michele A. Bartkus, B.S., accounting
• Eric Bartosz, M.B.A., management
• Brent A. Barwick, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Dylan F. Baxter, B.S., sport and exercise science
• John J. Bayeux, III, B.S., marketing and finance, cum laude
• Debra S. Bealer, M.B.A., accounting
• Catherine M. Beck, B.A., early childhood education
• Kimberly D. Bell, B.S., psychology
• Anthony R. Bender, B.A., theatre
• Janeen M. Bendig, B.S.N., nursing
• Ashleigh L. Berge, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Lacey N. Berger, B.S., psychology
• Jacob P. Bernier, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Phoenix C. Best, B.A., theatre
• Grace E. Betz, B.S., accounting
• Jeanelle K. Biggs, B.S.N., nursing
• Victoria L. Blair, B.A., TV/film
• Julie A. Blessing, B.S., sport and exercise science, cum laude
• Nathan W. Blevins, B.A., criminal justice
• Karyn A. Bohli, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Kayla L. Bolza, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Morgan E. Boni, B.S., medical studies
• Alexandra N. Borakove, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Drew H. Borger, B.S., accounting, magna cum laude
• Alyssa R. Borgesi, B.S., chemistry
• KatieAnn Borrello, B.A., dance
• Dan Bortz, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Philippe J. Bortz, B.A., management
• Lance M. Bracale, B.A., TV/film
• Nicole E. Brandstetter, B.S., biology, summa cum laude
• Alyssa L. Brandt, B.S., biology, magna cum laude
• Ryan E. Breslin, B.S., finance and accounting, cum laude
• James C. Breuning, B.A., business administration
• Letta A. Brewington, B.S., psychology
• Charles E. Brita, M.B.A., finance
• Joshua R. Brobst, B.S., computer science and mathematics, magna cum laude
• Chelsea P. Bronstein, B.S., marketing, cum laude
• Daniel A. Brozoski, B.S., sport management
• Morgan C. Bryan, B.S., sport management
• Travis K. Bryan, B.S., biology, magna cum laude
• Catherine Buck, B.S., psychology
• Andrew C. Burns, M.B.A., management
• Nicholas R. Campbell, B.S., accounting and finance
• Curtis A. Cappuccino, B.S., accounting and finance
• Lucas Cappuccio, B.S., computer science
• Mei Ying Carbonaro, B.S., chemistry, cum laude
• Dominic A. Carlineo, Jr., B.S., sport and exercise science
• Ashley P. Carlson, B.S.N., nursing
• Ashley M. Caroff, B.A., history, summa cum laude
• Meghan E. Carr, B.S.N., nursing
• Chelsea R. Carver, B.A., business administration and marketing, summa cum laude
• Nicholas S. Carvis, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology and biology, cum laude
• Jennifer A. Cassidy, B.A., criminal justice
• Katrina M. Ceci, B.A., criminal justice
• Natasha E. Cedeno, B.A., business administration and management
• Connor A. Chapkowski, B.A., criminal justice
• Catherine Chovanes, B.S., psychology
• Michelle A. Churchman, B.S., sport and exercise science, summa cum laude
• Stephanie A. Churchman, B.A., business administration and management, cum laude
• Chelsea N. Cito, B.A., early childhood education, cum laude
• Ryan A. Cleland, B.S., computer science and TV/film
• Nicholas J. Colonello, B.S., computer science
• Christine A. Confer, B.A., theology and marriage and family studies, magna cum laude
• Mary M. Connors, B.A., law and society, magna cum laude
• Trevor J. Connors, B.S., accounting
• Angelo J. Cook, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Jennifer L. Cooley, B.S., biology, summa cum laude
• Bryan J. Correnti, B.S., sport management
• Annie L. Cosentino, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology and biology
• Andrew J. Cox, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Heather A. Craft, B.A., English and communication
• Jennifer Crosby, M.B.A., accounting
• Sean M. Crosby, B.A., theology
• Benjamin C. Culichia, B.S., marketing, cum laude
• Kiesha M. Custis-Adams, B.S.N., nursing
• Erin N. Cutler, M.B.A., human resource management
• Brent Czapp, B.A., management
• Rouba E. Daher-Mansour, B.S., marketing and international business
• Vincent T. Daily, B.S., finance and philosophy
• Bonnie-Marie A. Dakis, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Julia A. Dale, B.S., psychology
• Derek G. Dalition, B.S.N., nursing
• Robert Dallas, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Desiree M. Davis, B.A., dance
• Meghan L. Davis, B.A., early childhood education, magna cum laude
• Kaitlynn T. De Marco, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Autumn T. Deiter, B.A., communication
• Alyson K. Dellavalle, B.A., early childhood education, cum laude
• Michael V. Delpome, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Emily N. DeOliveira, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Gabriela L. Depaulo, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Madisyn J. DeSieno, B.A., theatre
• Bekki L. Dibble, B.S., psychology
• Sean F. Dickinson, B.S., finance and accounting
• George C. Difiore, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Eric J. Dillard, B.A., communication
• Megan T. Dolan, B.A., communication
• Ryan Donohue, B.A., theatre
• Jacob P. Donovan, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Mira A. Dove, B.A., biology, cum laude
• Alina Edinger, B.A., criminal justice, summa cum laude
• Michael E. Ellard, M.Ed., technology in education k-12
• Eric P. Elmer, B.A., business administration
• Matthew S. Enters, B.A., theatre
• Nicholas K. Faber, B.S., accounting
• Douglas J. Fagan, B.S., accounting
• Ariana M. Faichtyger, B.S., biology, cum laude
• Natalie A. Fanelli, B.A., communication
• Elizabeth J. Fasanello, B.A., TV/film
• Kenneth G. Faust, Jr., B.S., biology
• Jennifer G. Fay, B.A., criminal justice, summa cum laude
• Ann M. Fegley, B.S.N., nursing
• Tyler S. Feight, B.A., management
• Edward J. Felix, B.A., early childhood education
• Andrew B. Fernandez, B.A., criminal justice
• Corallys Fernandez, B.A., criminal justice
• James M. Finan, B.S., accounting and finance
• Autumn L. Fink, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Cody R. Fink, B.S., sport management
• Nicholas O. Fischer, B.S., sport management and law and society, magna cum laude
• Alyssa Flanagan, M.Ed., technology in education k-12
• Mary K. Flanagan, B.A., early childhood education
• Amy E. Fleck, M.B.A., management
• John J. Flynn, B.S., computer science
• Eric T. Forst, M.B.A., management
• Michelle K. Foster, B.S., accounting and finance, magna cum laude
• Michael L. Franz, B.A., theatre
• Crystal L. Fries, B.A., theatre
• Brian Fry, B.S., finance and accounting
• Brittney N. Fucci, M.B.A., project management
• Nathan T. Furman, B.S., mathematics, cum laude
• Jessica Anne S. Gabat, B.S.N., nursing
• Victoria A. Gaffney, B.S., psychology and English, magna cum laude
• Francesco S. Galati, B.A., communication, cum laude
• Becky L. Gamboa, B.A., early childhood education, summa cum laude
• Erin A. Gannon, B.S.N., nursing
• Elizabeth Garcia, B.A., human resource management
• Kimberly Ashley R. Garcia, B.S., sport and exercise science, cum laude
• Nicholas A. Gardetto, B.A., management
• Hannah M. Gardner, B.S., psychology
• Joseph T. Garlick, B.A., political science
• Katherine D. Gehring, B.S., psychology, cum laude
• Allyson J. Genito, B.A., criminal justice
• Timothy S. Gentner, B.A., criminal justice
• Alan H. Georgiadis, B.S., accounting
• Sarah N. Giammarese, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• James G. Ginter, B.S., psychology
• Kevin P. Gleason, M.B.A., finance
• Patrick A. Golebiowski, B.A., theatre
• Robert L. Gonzalez, B.S., biology, summa cum laude
• Sarah D. Goodreau, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Paul A. Gormly, B.A., criminal justice
• Konstantine H. Goulas, B.S., finance
• Kate D. Gould, B.A., communication
• Connor M. Grade, B.A., early childhood education
• Melissa A. Granger, B.A., management
• David J. Grasso, M.B.A., management
• Albert A. Gregory, B.A., criminal justice
• Joslyn L. Gregus, B.S.N., nursing
• Kathleen A. Griffin, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Kelly A. Grim, B.S.N., nursing, summa cum laude
• Elizabeth R. Grochowski, B.S.N., nursing
• Jennifer A. Grom, B.S., psychology, cum laude
• Brandon J. Grube, B.A., business administration
• Courtney E. Guglielmi, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology
• Kane A. Guill, B.S., accounting
• Michael D. Guldin, B.S., finance
• Michael J. Gursky, B.A., communication
• Anne Gurtowski, B.S., marketing, summa cum laude
• Camilo A. Gutierrez, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology
• Amanda M. Hahn, B.S., psychology
• Patricia M. Halpin, B.S., psychology
• Tyler D. Harris, B.A., history
• Arzoo Hassan, B.S., pharmaceutical marketing
• Diane L. Heck, B.A., human resource management
• James K. Herrighty, B.S., psychology and criminal justice, cum laude
• John T. Higgins, B.A., communication
• Jessica A. Hillegass, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Kevin A. Hixson, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Lori A. Hlavinka, B.S., psychology
• Andrew M. Hoffa, B.S., sport management
• Dana L. Hoffman Swanger, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Karl H. Holl, B.A., TV/film
• Jayme C. Holland, M.Ed., special education
• Stephanie M. Horoski, B.S., psychology
• Brooke A. Horrigan, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology and biology, magna cum laude
• Sarah K. Howshall, B.S., chemistry, summa cum laude
• John R. Hufnagle, B.A., history, cum laude
• Rachel M. Hutnick, B.S.N., nursing
• Briana N. Hyndman, B.S., psychology
• Elizabeth M. Ickes, B.S.N., nursing, summa cum laude
• Elsie Isidore, B.A., business administration
• Andrew Ivankovits, B.S., marketing and international business, magna cum laude
• Elie N. Jabbour, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Tatyana Jackson, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology
• Trevor F. Jackson, B.S., medical studies
• Nicole L. Janazzo, B.S., pharmaceutical marketing
• Christine M. Jancay, B.S., psychology, cum laude
• Nicholas F. Johnson, B.A., philosophy, summa cum laude
• Alex J. Jones, B.S.N., nursing
• Samantha E. Jones, B.A., dance, cum laude
• John E. Jordan, III, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Therese M. Jordan, B.S., sport and exercise science, cum laude
• Kristen M. Juhrden, B.S., mathematics, cum laude
• Christa L. Kanuck, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Matthew P. Kastner, B.S., computer science and mathematics, cum laude
• Brianna A. Kays, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Jacob M. Kean, B.S., mathematics, magna cum laude
• Bryce C. Keene, B.S., sport management
• Devin M. Kelly, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• James R. Kelly, M.B.A., management
• Taylor Kelly, B.S., medical studies
• Nicholas Keysock, M.B.A., project management
• Cynthia L. King, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Russell E. Kingsland, B.A., criminal justice
• James A. Kinyon, B.A., philosophy
• Jackson L. Kitchell, B.A., TV/film, magna cum laude
• Sarah E. Klingel, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Ellen E. Knauff, B.A., history, cum laude
• Joshua J. Knipe, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• David T. Kocsis, B.S., computer science, magna cum laude
• Alec J. Kohl, B.S., accounting and finance
• Helen Z. Koshkaroff, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Lester R. Kovacs, M.B.A., management
• Natasha A. Kowaleuski, B.S., chemistry and biochemistry molecular biology
• Marca L. Kreger, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Alexander N. Krick, M.Ed., technology in education k-12
• Brittany A. Kucsan, B.S., accounting
• Justin M. Kulhamer, B.S., sport management
• Binoy J. Kurakalayil, M.Ed., academic standards and reform
• Katherine R. Kusik, B.A., communication
• Kristen E. Lake, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Cheryl L. Lande, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Nicholas J. Lanzetta, B.S., accounting
• Davida M. Leayman, B.A., management, magna cum laude
• Jennifer L. Lentz, B.S., psychology
• Lisa M. Leone, B.A., theatre
• Robert W. Leonhauser, Jr., B.A., English
• Dylan M. Lesisko, B.A., biology, cum laude
• Kennis R. Levano, B.A., law and society
• Victoria D. Lewis, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Ryan T. Lind, B.A., theatre and business administration
• Tessa J. Logan, B.S., psychology
• Matthew J. Longua, B.A., TV/film, cum laude
• Jason Lotti, B.S., management information technology, magna cum laude
• Ryan T. Loughlin, B.S., accounting and finance
• Nicholas M. Lowry, B.A., criminal justice
• Karen E. Luckie, B.S., marketing and international business, magna cum laude
• Maryanne D. Lutz, B.A., criminal justice
• Mikelyn E. Mackavage, B.S., pharmaceutical marketing
• Andrea Madochick, B.A., management
• Julie A. Maggio, B.A., theatre
• Kyle P. Mahaney, B.A., TV/film
• Jessica R. Maines, M.Ed., teaching English as a second language
• Teresa M. Mainiero, B.S.N., nursing
• Alexander M. Maksymowych, B.A., TV/film
• Alison Malatesta, B.S., mathematics, magna cum laude
• Alyssa Malatesta, B.S., accounting, cum laude
• Michael J. Mannucci, B.S., sport management
• Lisa A. Mantz, M.B.A., finance
• Francesco Marchiano, B.A., law and society
• Nicole E. Marino, B.S.N., nursing
• Tara M. Maruszczak, B.S., biology
• Jessica L. Mathiesen, B.S., biochemistry molecular biology and biology, cum laude
• Pamela McAuliff, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Hunter N. McCadden, B.A., dance
• Catherine R. McCarthy, B.A., philosophy
• Garrett B. McDivitt, B.A., communication
• Jennifer M. McDonald, M.B.A., project management
• Brian J. McDonnell, B.A., management and human resource management
• Meghan McFadden, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Lore A. McFadden-Westwood, B.A., theology
• Cayleah C. McFarland, M.B.A., marketing
• James J. McGarvey, M.B.A., management
• Dennis J. McGouldrick, B.S., chemistry
• Megan E. McGrail, B.S., management information technology, summa cum laude
• James H. McManus, B.S., accounting, cum laude
• Matthew S. McMonagle, B.A., media studies and communication, magna cum laude
• Jackie J. McNamara, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Aesha Mehta, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Matthew C. Meyers, B.S., biology, summa cum laude
• Amanda N. Miller, B.S., psychology
• Amanda L. Miller, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Andrea E. Miller, B.A., dance
• Bianca M. Miller, B.A., early childhood education, magna cum laude
• Caytlin A. Miller, B.S., mathematics
• Joanna M. Miller, B.S., chemistry
• Kaley J. Miller, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Ryan D. Milloy, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Alesia F. Milmine, M.B.A., marketing
• Eric P. Minzola, B.A., communication
• Glen Misho, MACJ, criminal justice
• Carly T. Mitchell, B.S., accounting and finance, summa cum laude
• Cindy L. Mitman, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Fabiola E. Mondaca-Soto, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Arturo E. Mondello, B.A., theology
• Ian T. Moody, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Kelly E. Morgan, B.S.N., nursing
• Adrian Moyer, M.B.A., management
• Rebecca L. Moyer, B.S., psychology
• Tiffany A. Musselman, M.Ed., teaching English as a second language
• Zachary D. Myers, B.S., finance, cum laude
• Samantha L. Myles, B.S., biology, cum laude
• Olivia R. Myron, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Rachel E. Myslinski, B.S., finance and accounting, summa cum laude
• Zeina R. Nassif, B.S., marketing and business administration
• Allison J. Newhard, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Janet Nickisher, M.B.A., management
• Nathan D. Noll, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Samantha J. Noll, B.A., theatre
• Lauren E. Nonnemaker, B.A., criminal justice
• Shannon M. Noska, B.A., early childhood education, magna cum laude
• Daniel J. O'Connell, Jr., B.S., marketing
• Maria S. Oberto, B.A., history
• Christopher M. Okula, B.S., marketing and international business
• Donnajoe Olmo, B.A., criminal justice and psychology
• Logan R. Olszewski, B.A., theatre
• Nisha Oommen, B.S., pharmaceutical marketing
• Lee E. Orzol, B.S., computer science, cum laude
• Marissa L. Ott, B.S.N., nursing
• Shawn P. Owens, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Anthony Pambianco, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Alyssa L. Pammer, B.S., psychology
• Kaijie Pan, M.B.A., management
• Anthony V. Pasquino, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Janki V. Patel, B.S.N., nursing
• Bruce D. Peditto, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Teresa D. Pedro-Valente, B.A., business administration
• Melissa S. Perrine, B.S., finance and human resource management, magna cum laude
• Alyssa L. Petillo, B.S.N., nursing
• Andrew Petrick, Sr., B.A., management
• Kimberly T. Phan, B.S., marketing and international business
• Jennifer M. Photiades, B.S.N., nursing
• Holly A. Piel, B.A., management
• Robert Pierangeli, M.B.A., management
• Alexandra M. Pigliavento, B.A., dance and marketing
• Rachael A. Polet, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Jessi C. Poole-Gulick, MACJ, investigative forensics
• Brendon M. Power, B.A., TV/film
• Colleen Quinn, B.S., accounting
• Patrick S. Rambo, B.A., criminal justice
• Stephanie Rapp, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Meghan A. Reilly, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Cody M. Reinert, B.A., criminal justice, summa cum laude
• Lauren K. Remaley, B.A., criminal justice, cum laude
• Marianne Reznik, B.A., early childhood education, cum laude
• Lauren L. Rice, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Erika L. Rich, B.A., dance
• Tyrone Riddick, M.B.A., finance
• Biagio L. Rimmaudo, B.S., sport management
• Laura R. Risch, B.A., theatre
• Anna E. Ritchey, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Adriana Gabrielle Rivera, B.S., computer science
• Dominique A. Robert, B.S.N., nursing
• Stephanie M. Robert, B.S.N., nursing
• Lisa Rodrigues, B.A., human resource management, magna cum laude
• Angelique R. Roe, MACJ, investigative forensics
• Damien M. Romaine, B.S., sport management
• Lindsay M. Romanic, B.S., psychology, magna cum laude
• Alexandra Romanyshyn, B.A., philosophy and English, summa cum laude
• Mary Colleen Romendio, B.A., communication, cum laude
• Erin N. Rosa-Pabon, B.S., accounting
• Leida Y. Rosario, M.Ed., teaching English as a second language
• Kathryn M. Rosser, B.A., communication
• Jonathan C. Rossi, B.S., computer science
• Joshua J. Roth, B.A., criminal justice
• Ryan D. Rowse, B.S., computer science
• Vanessa A. Ruggiero, B.S., biology, cum laude
• Viviana Russell, B.S.N., nursing
• Agnieszka Ruszkiewicz, B.A., business administration
• Patrick J. Ryan, B.A., management and marketing
• Daniel J. Rybak, B.S., psychology
• Jay M. Sabatine, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Chelsey P. Saboe, B.S., biology
• Jennifer Santiago, B.S., psychology
• Justin L. Schell, B.A., law and society, cum laude
• Casey R. Schermick, B.S., sport management and marketing
• Jennifer L. Schloo, B.A., early childhood education, summa cum laude
• Christina J. Schoemaker, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• John C. Schwind, B.S., marketing
• Mary C. Seghers, B.A., dance, cum laude
• Theresa G. Seibert, B.A., early childhood education, magna cum laude
• Sarah L. Shaller, B.A., political science
• Dr. David Silver, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Mahendi Singh, B.S., psychology
• Elizabeth M. Sisk, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Steven A. Skipper, B.S., finance
• Christina Smith, B.A., criminal justice
• Kelly N. Smith, B.S., accounting and management, cum laude
• Kelsey A. Snyder, B.S., psychology, cum laude
• Kristen M. Snyder, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Benjamin C. Sobler, B.S., marketing
• Stephen T. Sommers, B.A., political science
• Sadiq A. Soonasra, M.B.A., health care systems management
• Kyle S. Sorensen, B.S., sport and exercise science, cum laude
• Sara Sorensen, M.B.A., human resource management
• Edward J. Souaid, B.A., TV/film
• Kiersten M. Spence, B.A., theatre
• Michele Spinosa, B.A., Spanish, cum laude
• John E. Stamatakos, B.S., computer science, summa cum laude
• Vanessa L. Starr, MACJ, criminal justice
• Thomas M. Staskowski, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Marina Stephen, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Lauren M. Stimpfle, M.S.I.S., information technology
• Lauren M. Strauss, B.A., TV/film
• Alexandria E. Suk, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Ian E. Sullivan, B.S.N., nursing
• Colin P. Sulpizio, B.S., chemistry, cum laude
• Andre L. Sumiel, B.S., psychology
• Maria A. Surita, M.Ed., teaching English as a second language
• Madeline M. Svrcek, B.S.N., nursing
• Morgan A. Tate, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Frank J. Taubenkraut, M.B.A., management
• Cameron T. Taylor, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Lauren E. Taylor, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Benjamin M. Thackray, B.A., TV/film
• Zachary J. Thompson, B.S., biology
• Neil J. Tichelaar, M.Ed., secondary education
• Tyler R. Tocci, B.S., psychology
• Julie E. Tozzoli, B.S.N., nursing, magna cum laude
• Daniel C. Troia, B.A., business administration
• Amanda L. Urbanski, B.A., dance
• Candice R. Urffer, B.S.N., nursing, cum laude
• Dhara R. Vachhani, B.S., accounting
• Esteban A. Valle, B.S., finance and accounting
• Stephen E. Van Doran, B.A., political science, magna cum laude
• John S. Vanic, B.S., management information technology and management, summa cum laude
• Charley P. Viebrock, B.S.N., nursing
• Rachel W. Vogel, B.S., sport management
• Anthony M. Vonelli, B.S., psychology
• Elizabeth L. Wagner, B.A., dance
• Jonathan J. Wallace, B.A., theatre
• Amanda M. Wallitsch, B.S., sport and exercise science
• Amos H. Walwendah, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Jessica S. Watson, B.S., sport and exercise science, cum laude
• Jodie G. Weaver, M.B.A., human resource management
• Cody M. Weiss, B.A., business administration
• AnneMarie Wentzell, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Catherine D. Wenzel, B.A., theatre
• Kevin M. White, B.A., theatre
• James L. Whittenburg, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Louisa J. Wickus, B.S., biology, summa cum laude
• Alisha A. Wilcox, B.S.N., nursing
• Clifford L. Williams, B.S., marketing
• Jenna L. Williams, B.S., medical studies, cum laude
• Joseph R. Williamson, B.A., business administration
• Charles E. Wilmer, B.A., criminal justice
• Emily N. Wisniewski, B.A., theatre, cum laude
• Simon P. Woolbert, B.A., political science
• Julie M. Wright, B.A., dance, cum laude
• Sara E. Wright, B.S., medical studies, summa cum laude
• Lindsey A. Wyglendowski, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Rachel Wysocky, B.S., psychology
• Maria Yankus, B.S., medical studies, magna cum laude
• Daniel J. Yaw, Jr., B.A., management, cum laude
• Cynthia J. Yoder, B.A., criminal justice, magna cum laude
• Alyssa C. Yost, B.S., biology
• Kelly A. Zahradnik, B.S., pharmaceutical marketing, cum laude
• Dana Zeuggin, B.S., psychology
• Michael J. Zile, M.B.A., in a self-designed track
• Logan T. Zuercher, B.S., accounting, magna cum laude 

Congratulations to all of our graduates, as well as their supportive parents, spouses, families, and friends.

To see the list of graduates, click here.

To read David J. Kubacki's Commencement address, click here.

The 2013-built Rev. Daniel G. Gambet, OSFS, Center for Business and Healthcare has received certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Green Building Certification Institute for meeting its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.

To reach certification, a structure must accumulate a point total of at least 40 by receiving   credits for its characteristics that are environmentally and energy-progressive.

The Gambet Center was granted 42 points across numerous categories, including reduced water usage, certified wood for building, low solar-absorbing roof coloration, preferred parking for low-emission vehicles, 90% recyclable construction waste, installation of bicycle racks, multiple thermostat controls, outdoor air delivery monitoring, and regionally produced building materials, among several others.

The building was designed with LEED certification in mind because of the manifold benefits both in the present and long term that come with adhering to the necessary standards.

“Constructing a building according to LEED standards is favorable for sustainability and environmental aspects, as well as from a financial standpoint, because you’re using less energy,” said Marc Albanese, associate vice president of campus environment. “And you’re looking at a healthier building for the occupants.”

Green Building Certification Institute inspectors visited and commissioned the Gambet Center in the fall of 2014 and officially granted it certification this spring. 

“All of our future buildings will be built to LEED standards,” Albanese said. “We’re firmly committed in the principles of LEED.”

On Thursday, June 11, 2015, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., DeSales University will host its first Information Technology Forum. The topic will be "Focus on Healthcare Technology Careers" and will be held in the Gambet Center Auditorium. 

The event, sponsored by the DeSales Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) graduate program, is free and open to the public

Professionals from Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke's Health Network will speak on technology careers in the healthcare industry today. Learn about these jobs and how to access these opportunities in your career. A general question and answer session will follow the presentations and the event will close with a networking reception. Light refreshments will be served.

Featured Speakers and Topics:

• Patrick Kincaid, MBA - Kincaid is a Senior IT Operations/Business Process Specialist for Populytics in Allentown, Pa. Presentation topic: Populytics.
• Mark Rebimbas, MSIS - Rebimbas is an Application Coordinator for the EpicCare Ambulatory Team at Lehigh Valley Health Network. Presentation topic: Past, Present, and Future of EHR implementation across the United States.
• Sharon J. Scheirer, MEd, SPHR - Scheirer is Director of Recruitment for St. Luke's University Health Network. Presentation topic: IT in Healthcare.

To attend the event, please register by completing the form here.

Congratulations to the following ACCESS students for making the Dean's List for the sessions 3 & 4, Spring 2015. To qualify for Dean’s List, a student must have earned 9 credits in a semester with a minimum 3.25 GPA.

The numbers after the students' names correspond to grade level: 01 freshman, 02 sophomore, 03 junior, 04 senior.

• Adzima, Gregory A., 03
• Ali, Zeanab R., 04
• Allen, Kelly A., 03
• Arbogast, Jonathan C., 01
• Barber, Desiree M., 04
• Barchini, Sharon S., 01
• Bennett, Angela M., 01
• Biggs, Jeanelle K., 04
• Brockel, Heather S., 03
• Brown, Sharon E., 01
• Budraitis, Laura M., 04
• Burgess, Kelly R., 03
• Bush-Apgar, Dianne M., 04
• Cannon, Patricia B., 04
• Cervantes, Erica L., 03
• Confer, Christine A., 04
• Craft, Heather A., 04
• Crosier, Robert W., 03
• Cutrone, John M., 04
• Danner, Dianne M., 04
• Diefenderfer, Kara A., 04
• Doerr, Karoline, 03
• Durdan, Renee L., 04
• English, Daniel, 01
• Faber, Nicholas K., 04
• Fegley, Ann M., 04
• Fernandez, Corallys, 04
• Ferrara, Michael F., 03
• Flaherty, Stephanie, 02
• Frankenfield, Adam K., 03
• Frattone, Angela M., 03
• Gamboa, Becky L., 04
• Gibson, Jennifer C., 02
• Gonzalez, William R., 02
• Grom, Jennifer A., 04
• Hanks, Bryan A., 02
• Harris, Mary, 04
• Hartman, Arnold, 01
• Hauck, Laurie A., 04
• Hontz, Jonathan W., 03
• Houpt, Michelle L., 03
• Hrusovsky, Christine M., 02
• Hunsberger, Jennifer S., 04
• Karam, Leila A., 03
• Kernechel, Jacqueline M., 04
• King, Cynthia L., 04
• Knotts, Tara L., 04
• Kobzina, Cassandra L., 01
• Kurter, Heidi L., 04
• Kutsch, Kelly L., 03
• Larimer, Kristen L., 03
• Latham, Robert S., 03
• Lippman, William O., 03
• Lotti, Jason, 04
• Mann, Jeremy, 03
• Martin, Nicholas H., 02
• Mateo, Annmarie D., 03
• McConnell, Mark D., 04
• McManus, James H., 04
• Miller, Karissa, 03
• Nguyen, Leya, 03
• Nolte, Brian O., 04
• Nunez, Julyssa, 03
• Oliver, Valerine D., 03
• Orenstein, Elad, 03
• Oscavich, Cody A., 01
• Ott, Marissa L., 04
• Pagan, Crystal M., 01
• Parsley, William E., 03
• Perotti, Giorgia S., 03
• Perrine, Melissa S., 04
• Petrick, Andrew, 04
• Ploucha, Zachary J., 03
• Quinn, Colleen, 04
• Raykos, Dorina L., 03
• Reeser, Katie N., 04
• Repsher, Todd W., 02
• Rivera, Christopher L., 04
• Rivera, Davida V., 04
• Robertson, Ashley B., 03
• Romero, Nancy A., 01
• Rosa, Sarai, 04
• Samuels, Mark A., 04
• Schardt, Alan C., 02
• Scott, Michael T., 02
• Smith, Christina, 04
• Smith, Kelly N., 04
• Smyth, Amanda J., 02
• Souder, James M., 04
• Stamatakos, John E., 04
• Stanton, James D., 01
• Stout, Sue L., 03
• Suydam, Christina, 04
• Topper, Christopher D., 03
• Tourney, Jessica A., 02
• Truszkowski, Kelly A., 03
• Vandersande, David J., 03
• Vanic, John S., 04
• Vazquez, Elizabeth, 03
• Wagner, Ian D., 03
• Waselus, Brian K., 02
• Watson, Leon W., 03
• Weatherspoon, Dawn, 03
• Wright, Julie M., 04
• Yaw, Daniel J., 04
• Zahradnik, Kelly A., 04
• Zeuggin, Dana, 04
• Ziegler, Johanna M., 04

Congratulations to the following traditional day students for making the Dean's List for the Fall 2014 semester. To qualify for Dean’s List, a student must have a minimum 3.25 GPA.

CLASS OF 2015 

• Alderiso, Erik A.
• Amiano, Lauren N.
• Anatalio, Allister C.
• Arahill, Marissa A.
• Baglivio, Christine N.
• Banos, Christine M.
• Bender, Anthony R.
• Berger, Lacey N.
• Berner, Austin D.
• Blair, Victoria L.
• Blaise, Andrew D.
• Blevins, Nathan W.
• Bohli, Karyn A.
• Bolza, Kayla L.
• Borger, Drew H.
• Brandstetter, Nicole E.
• Brandt, Alyssa L.
• Brozoski, Daniel A.
• Bryan, Travis K.
• Caroff, Ashley M.
• Carver, Chelsea R.
• Carvis, Nicholas S.
• Cassidy, Jennifer A.
• Churchman, Michelle A.
• Churchman, Stephanie A.
• Cito, Chelsea N.
• Connors, Mary M.
• Cook, Angelo J.
• Cooley, Jennifer L.
• Costanzo, Megan A.
• Crosby, Sean M.
• Culichia, Benjamin C.
• Cullen, Michelle D.
• Curry, Jessica L.
• Davis, Meghan L.
• Dickinson, Sean F.
• Difiore, George C.
• Dolan, Megan T.
• Donohue, Ryan
• Fager, Jordan C.
• Faichtyger, Ariana M.
• Farmer, Julie A.
• Fasanello, Elizabeth J.
• Fay, Jennifer G.
• Fischer, Nicholas O.
• Furman, Nathan T.
• Galati, Dayna M.
• Gardner, Hannah M.
• Grade, Connor M.
• Henderson, Allysha
• Hivner, Mitchell C.
• Holl, Karl H.
• Holmes, Christine E.
• Holveck, Karen K.
• Horrigan, Brooke A.
• Howshall, Sarah K.
• Huber, Jenna L.
• Hufnagle, John R.
• Hyndman, Briana N.
• Ickes, Elizabeth M.
• Ivankovits, Andrew
• Jackson, Tatyana
• Jesiolowski, Matthew A.
• Johnson, Nicholas F.
• Johnson, Robert W.
• Jones, Samantha E.
• Jordan, Therese M.
• Juhrden, Kristen M.
• Kastner, Matthew P.
• Kean, Jacob M.
• Kelly, Devin M.
• Kinyon, James A.
• Kitchell, Jackson L.
• Knauff, Ellen E.
• Lake, Kristen E.
• Lande, Cheryl L.
• Lanzetta, Nicholas J.
• Levano, Kennis R.
• Logan, Tessa J.
• Longo, Alberto M.
• Lowry, Nicholas M.
• Luckie, Karen E.
• Maksymowych, Alexander M.
• Malatesta, Alison
• Mannucci, Michael J.
• Marchiano, Francesco
• Mathiesen, Jessica L.
• McCadden, Hunter N.
• McCarthy, Catherine R.
• McCarthy, Christopher J.
• McCauley, Darryn J.
• McFadden, Meghan
• Meyers, Matthew C.
• Miller, Amanda N.
• Mitchell, Carly T.
• Mondello, Arturo E.
• Moody, Ian T.
• Morin, Nicole S.
• Mosier, Erin K.
• Myles, Samantha L.
• Myslinski, Rachel E.
• Newhard, Allison J.
• Noverati, Nicholas
• Olszewski, Logan R.
• Orzol, Lee E.
• Pasquino, Anthony V.
• Petillo, Alyssa L.
• Pigliavento, Alexandra M.
• Pinto, John F.
• Pinto, Joseph H.
• Rezek, Emily G.
• Reznik, Marianne
• Ritchey, Anna E.
• Rivas, Danielle R.
• Robert, Stephanie M.
• Romaglia, Patrick J.
• Romaine, Damien M.
• Romanic, Lindsay M.
• Romanyshyn, Alexandra
• Romendio, Mary Colleen
• Rossi, Jonathan C.
• Schell, Justin L.
• Schermick, Casey R.
• Schloo, Jennifer L.
• Schloo, Stefanie L.
• Scott, Gabrielle E.
• Seghers, Mary C.
• Seibert, Theresa G.
• Sherry, Payton K.
• Sisk, Elizabeth M.
• Snyder, Kelsey A.
• Sommers, Stephen T.
• Stribula, Nicole T.
• Sumiel, Andre L.
• Tozzoli, Julie E.
• Urffer, Candice R.
• Wallace, Jonathan J.
• Wallitsch, Amanda M.
• Walther, Sarah A.
• White, Kevin M.
• Wickus, Louisa J.
• Wolcott, Stefanie V.
• Wysocky, Rachel
• Young, Samantha K.

CLASS OF 2016

• Almocherki, Joann G.
• Alpha, Kaelee
• Andrews, John P.
• Anthony, Kelly M.
• Ashby, Kiana
• Augustine, Taylor M.
• Ayala, Christian J.
• Barshinger, Marian J.
• Baver, Emily J.
• Baxter, Ashley M.
• Benjamin, Kevin R.
• Borgstrom, Allyson A.
• Bridge, Sarah E.
• Brozoski, Thomas D.
• Burns, Samantha C.
• Cabrera, Rebecca A.
• Carpency, Scott D.
• Carpenter, Nicole R.
• Carraturo, Angelina
• Chase, Samantha N.
• Coccia, Stephanie L.
• Cole, Jessica L.
• Colella, Gianna J.
• Connell, Shannon P.
• Costolnick, Rachel M.
• Coyle, Emily
• Cruts, Brian T.
• Cugini, Elizabeth M.
• Delio, Angela S.
• DePaul, Lauren M.
• Destasio, Casey M.
• DiAngelis, Andrew T.
• Driscoll, Lindsay N.
• Duffy, Sean J.
• Farnesi, Alessandra C.
• Ferraro, Emily D.
• Fichter, Autum L.
• Finnegan, Megan R.
• Fischer, Christine A.
• Fischer, Ryan J.
• Frace, Harley E.
• Frederick, Janalyn R.
• Fresco, Nicholas A.
• Galassi, Gina M.
• Gallagher, Emily F.
• Gandy, Taylor C.
• Gessner, Michelle L.
• Gibson, Samantha E.
• Gies, Shawn P.
• Greenbaum, Alfred L.
• Harding, Meryah R.
• Heck, Andrew D.
• Heller, Tara E.
• Hill, Elizabeth A.
• Hoang, Kim T.
• Hollendonner, Liana
• Houseal, Matthew C.
• Ivarsson, Erik C.
• Jackson, Hutton G.
• Jacobs, Brianna R.
• Jannuzzi, Louis C.
• Julien, Jeffrey A.
• Kahr, Alyssa
• Kemmerer, Emma B.
• Kershner, Jonathan M.
• Kilduff, John T.
• Kinsell, Sarah K.
• Kissinger, Elizabeth A.
• Kradzinski, John M.
• Labar, Abigale C.
• Labelle, Toni B.
• Lacalamita, Mary K.
• Larkin, Lauren A.
• Larsen, Katrina L.
• Laughlin, Danielle R.
• Lawler, Robert J.
• Lichtenwalner, Sarah M.
• Lickona, Monica M.
• Livengood, Patricia M.
• Lucas, Marc T.
• Luft, Meghan K.
• Maletz, Joseph M.
• Manidis, John A.
• Manzo, Alexa C.
• Marinelli, Nathaniel A.
• Marshall, Emily J.
• Mastriani, Christian A.
• McHenry, Cara M.
• Medrano, Paola A.
• Miller, Aubrey J.
• Miller, Emilie Claire
• Miller, Emily C.
• Miller, Kaitlyn M.
• Miller, Kelby L.
• Mills, Kaitlyn M.
• Moyer, Julia L.
• Mudri, Alexis N.
• Myers, Leslie
• Myers-Ackerman, Paige K.
• Nadeau, Catherine T.
• Napolitano, Jennifer L.
• Nemes, Jennifer R.
• Ni, Rebecca J.
• O'Connell, Sarah M.
• Parker, Joseph J.
• Paul, Krista L.
• Peterson, Shana E.
• Pierzga, Brittany R.
• Plummer, Colleen M.
• Pujols, Tiffany A.
• Purkey, Kristen R.
• Ramsey, Jillian M.
• Rappold, Vanessa M.
• Rasmuson, Rebecca R.
• Rath, Timothy A.
• Rennalls, Scott T.
• Rivas, Vanessa A.
• Rohrbach, Kristie S.
• Ryan, Parker
• Salovich, Daniel
• Schinstine, Shelby A.
• Scofield, Dylan P.
• Setzer, Amanda L.
• Shinkus, Amy M.
• Shuster, Caitlyn A.
• Sicilia, Shana A.
• Singh, Tajinder
• Siracuse, Christina M.
• Smith, Alana N.
• Smith, Shaye A.
• Sorrentino, Felicity L.
• Strickland, Wesley R.
• Stuart, Emily A.
• Sun, Janet C.
• Szczeblewski, Emily
• Szena, Derek A.
• Tabuzo, Jonathan G.
• Tarantino, Amanda M.
• Tran, Christina N.
• Tranchitella, Stefany A.
• Veltri, Taylor J.
• Vignogna, Ryan C.
• Vitale, Phillip G.
• Vyas, Brinda B.
• Wendel, Jaci L.
• Wickus, Henry J.
• Wieser, Lauren A.
• Younger, Esther M.
• Yusella, Amy N.
• Zakzewski, Jessica M.
• Zampini, Christopher A.

CLASS OF 2017 

• Alderfer, Kayla E.
• Anatalio, Angela
• Anatalio, Audrey
• Andreotta, Gianna K.
• Bamundo, Michael J.
• Benedetto, Holly N.
• Bielski, Ann L.
• Blaisse, John R.
• Blomquist, Olivia M.
• Buck, Abbey E.
• Calamari, Christopher R.
• Callahan, Nicole M.
• Callahan, Ryan P.
• Cammisa, Mikel J.
• Cappuccino, Katie M.
• Chen, Sophia
• Colliflower, Edel T.
• Collins, Patrick J.
• Cooperman, Tyler J.
• Costanzo, Christopher R.
• Crincoli, Victoria A.
• Cunningham, Benjamin S.
• Curcillo, Paul G.
• Dalesandro, Brianna E.
• Dalition, David K.
• D'Annibale, Francesca M.
• Dauer, Elizabeth M.
• Defilippo, Jana M.
• Demartino, Nicola T.
• Dietrich, Kellie A.
• Dotzman, Lyndsay A.
• Downing, Katherine M.
• Duffany, Sarah P.
• Dyszel, Alison Z.
• Edwards, William C.
• Elliott, Kelsey R.
• Eshleman, Erika L.
• Fabey, Kristin E.
• Feeney, Kelly M.
• Ferre Marti, Maria Del Carmen
• Fischer, George P.
• Gordon, Olivia C.
• Grube, Erin S.
• Hansen, Paige V.
• Hawkins, Daniel S.
• Hodge, Stephanie A.
• Hoffman, Christopher M.
• Holmes, Brian P.
• Hough, Rachel C.
• Hurst, Wesley J.
• Jesiolowski, Rachel
• Kaschak, Amanda M.
• Kelly, Mackenzie C.
• King, Karli A.
• Kovaleski, Christy R.
• Krall, Allison
• Kramlich, Kylie A.
• Kwiatkowski, Julianne K.
• LaBar, Gianna R.
• Laird, Brian W.
• Lancashire, Richard H.
• Leo, Francis J.
• Lonardi, Angeline M.
• Longo, Kristen A.
• Matejcek, Jonathan M.
• McCadden, Madison E.
• McCarthy, Melissa E.
• McDermott, Nicola M.
• McDonald, Daniel C.
• McGovern, Maranda P.
• McMichael, Josiah D.
• Mohr, Isaac J.
• Moussa, Samantha
• Myers, Allison M.
• Nadolski, Leah R.
• Nielsen, Madison M.
• Notarianni, Lara E.
• Nowakowski, Jennifer M.
• Nungesser, John A.
• Nutt, Dominique E.
• O'Loughlin, Therese C.
• Orobono, Mary E.
• Ott, Michael G.
• Palen, Sean G.
• Pellosie, John M.
• Phillips, Elizabeth E.
• Popp, Hannah R.
• Pullara, Sarah
• Quinn, Alexandria C.
• Raso, Theresa C.
• Reeder, Matthew J.
• Reese, Olivia C.
• Roff, Owen C.
• Rogan, Emily L.
• Romano, Michael A.
• Rosenberger, Stephanie M.
• Ryan, Rachel M.
• Salib, Rochelle M.
• Santschi, Emma K.
• Scargle, Caitlin E.
• Schick, Timothy C.
• Schwarz, Ryan J.
• Scripture, Avery Q.
• Seemayer, Amanda K.
• Sesholtz, Jacqueline A.
• Shaak, Taylor E.
• Siy, David O.
• Southerton, Jennifer M.
• Spaar, Emily G.
• Springer, Scott M.
• Sterner, Stacie E.
• Stoudt, Jakob T.
• Sweeney, Cailin M.
• Synoracki, Joshua S.
• Terplan, Brooke T.
• Thuss, Jennifer L.
• Van Camp, Kimberly M.
• Von Spakovsky, Alexis E.
• Waldron, Stephanie M.
• Wessel, Mark R.
• Wetherhold, Jessica L.
• Wieziolowski, Logan A.

CLASS OF 2018

• Abouafech, Sandra
• Ackerman, Paige A.
• Ament, Jessica L.
• Anderson, Joshua C.
• Anderson, Kari M.
• Angelucci, Kelly M.
• Aronica, Therese M.
• Aungst, Mariette J.
• Basil, Thomas J.
• Bertola, Angelica C.
• Biase, Michael V.
• Bondi, Alexander J.
• Bortz, Dylan T.
• Brown, Shannon M.
• Cantelmo, Victoria R.
• Clark, Thomas H.
• Colasante, Emily A.
• Costa, Larissa M.
• Crupi, Gabriela N.
• Cybulski, Noelle M.
• Czankner, Randy L.
• Dalition, Kelsey J.
• Desseyn, Adam N.
• Diaz, Anelise
• Duerholz, Chelsea M.
• Durkee, Colleen N.
• Emering, Gina M.
• Engwall, Danielle P.
• Evans, James T.
• Fella, Allison J.
• Frati, Haley N.
• Giannotti, Natalie K.
• Good, Rebekah E.
• Gutshall, Ryan M.
• Hamilton, Karrington Y.
• Helou, Majd B.
• Howald, Emma K.
• Iacono, Celeste D.
• Kulig, Colby
• Letcher, Joseph T.
• Loeb, Jordan M.
• Lucchese, Gabrielle M.
• Luzi, Tess M.
• Lynn, Margaret K.
• MacDonald, Jenna C.
• Matzerath, Paige N.
• Maye, Andrew W.
• McGann, Edward I.
• Meade, Margaret K.
• Miller, Scott A.
• Mursko, Sydney A.
• Ochs, Sarah J.
• Oldt, Jade E.
• Palan, Holly M.
• Pennella, Shannon M.
• Rizzolino, Madison D.
• Rodriguez, Elizabeth
• Santiago, Thalia
• Schmauder, Mason S.
• Scott, Michelle K.
• Scullin, Deborah A.
• Shvindlerman, Ilya
• Smith, James P.
• Speranza, Nicholas P.
• Stigliano, Annabella E.
• Tatasciore, Krista L.
• Trovato, Matthew J.
• Trumbull, Lauren A.
• Turck, Sarah E.
• Walker, Joshua R.
• Walters, Lucas A.
• Wehbey, Brian S.
• Weidner, Jenna M.
• Wood, Bernadette M.
• Yob, Anthony L.
• Young, Brigid
• Zaleski, Margaret A.

Each Spring semester, the students in the Senior class of the Faith and Reason Honors Program undertake a 3-credit independent study, the culmination of which is a 30-50 page honors thesis.  The topic of the thesis is chosen by the student, with the approval of the faculty advisor and the director of the Salesian Center for Faith & Culture.

Each year, the best thesis—as judged by the Review Committee of the Salesian Center—receives the annual Faith and Reason Award. The winning essay for 2015, "Literary Analysis: Contrasting Tradition and Modernism,” was written by Alexandra Romanyshyn ’15, a philosophy and English major.

To learn more and to read the essays that competed this year and in previous years, click here.

DeSales University was ranked third in the Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania for 2015 by Affordable Colleges Online.

The group focused on undergraduate programs that are offered through the school’s ACCESSprogram and noted that courses are offered in two formats: synchronous, where students and instructors log on at the same time for a virtual class; and asynchronous, where students can log on at any time during the week to complete coursework and review materials.

Scoring metrics for the rankings included: count of online bachelor’s degrees available, student-faculty ratio (undergraduate), 6-year graduation rate, percentage of students receiving financial aid, availability of academic/career counseling services

DeSales also offers online degrees and courses in its graduate programs.

Affordable Colleges Online is a not-for-profit resource center that provides information about college cost, financial aid and college rankings for prospective college students and their families.

Once a week from June 18 until August 7, 2015, DeSales University doctor of physical therapy (PT) students will treat volunteer clients at four area Good Shepherd Rehabilitation sites free of charge.

Physical therapy services will be provided by students under the supervision of the PT faculty from the program and are for individuals experiencing pain and loss of motion, as a result of osteoarthritis, low back or neck pain, spinal stenosis, or other musculoskeletal conditions.

“Sometimes people reach the limit of their therapy per their insurance company but they still have a way to go to be back to full function,” says Dr. Kay Malek, director of the DeSales physical therapy program. “Or people may not have insurance for PT.” 

Good Shepherd sites offering the physical therapy include locations in Allentown, Center Valley, and Souderton, Pa., on Thursday afternoons and Macungie, Pa., on Friday afternoons.

For more information, call 610.282.1100, ext. 1898, or email to Heidi.Troxell@desales.edu

 In an adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic novel that has traveled around the world from Off-Broadway to Bangladesh, Mark Brown’s Around the World in 80 Days will open at Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, where the idea for the play originated. The production previews June 17 and 18, opens June 19, and continues through July 12 in the Festival’s intimate Schubert Theatre.

With a fast-paced script praised by the New York Times as“Smart enough to make sophisticated adults laugh out loud. And shamelessly silly enough to keep children ... interested and entertained,” the excursion begins with a bet by Phileas Fogg that takes him and the audience on a whirlwind tour of the world by train, boat, automobile and elephant (but no balloon).

 Played by Festival veterans Richard B. Watson, Fogg and his servant Passepartout, Brad DePlanche, set out to win the world record. Directed by Russell Treyz, who directed PSF’s first production of the play ten years ago to rave reviews, …80 Days also features Eric Hissom and Christopher Patrick Mullen in multiple roles ranging from the detective who suspects Fogg of trouble to a troublesome Chinese Broker. Aouda, who is rescued by Fogg then accompanies him on his journey, is played by Anita Vasan.

Bob Phillips and Samina Vieth serves as set designers; Amy Best as costume designer. Eric T. Haugen designed lights and Stacy Renee Norwood is production stage manager.

The production sponsor is DeSales University; co-sponsors are Embassy Bank and Lutron. The season sponsor is Amaranth Foundation. Associate season sponsors are Henry C. Trexler Trust, Linda Lapos and Paul Wirth, Dr. James and Penny Pantano, and the Szarko Family.

For tickets, call 610.282.WILL [9455] or online at www.pashakespeare.org. Performances are Tuesday at 7pm; Wednesday through Saturday at 8pm [excluding the 4^th of July holiday, when there is not a performance], and 2pm Sundays. Sunday, June 21^st and July 5^th there are additional 7:30pm performances. Additional 2pm matinees are Saturday June 27^th and July 11^th and Wednesday, July 1^st.

The Festival’s 24^th season also features Les Misérables (through June 28); The Foreigner (July 8- August 2); Henry V (July 16- August 2); Pericles (July 22- August 2); Shakespeare for Kids (July 22- August 1) and Rapunzel (through August 1). One night events include The Rape of Lucrece, a one-man performance of Shakespeare’s epic poem by Dan Hodge in the Schubert Theatre on Monday, June 22 at 7:30pm. Jeremiah James, in addition to playing Javert in the opening production of Les Misérables, is performing a special concert, Choose Love, Monday, July 27 at 7:30pm on the Main Stage.

The DeSales University ACCESS program’s online accounting degree program was listed in The 25 Best Online Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs in the U.S. by the accounting.com website.

Ranking at number 11, the DeSales online ACCESS program was cited for a student’s ability to transfer up to 75 credits from coursework or professional accounting experience.

“I was delighted to learn the news,” said Deborah Booros, dean of lifelong learning. “Our team of faculty and staff at DeSales are passionate about designing and delivering excellence in education whether classes are face-to-face or online. And we are extremely fortunate to have dedicated and hardworking students who deserve a quality education and exceptional support from all of us here at DeSales.”

Accounting.com bases its rankings on the collection and analysis of data points from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), a source for data concerning higher education in the U.S., as well as the recognition by one of three prominent accrediting agencies for business and accounting programs. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredits all of the business programs at DeSales.

Other factors that the site took into consideration included school reputation, graduation rate, quality of curriculum, and student preference.

Accounting.com was founded by a team of researchers, writers, and experts with a passion for accounting and the desire to increase public knowledge of the field. The site’s primary goal is to be a resource for learning about the accounting profession, with content addressing education, employment, licensure and regulations.

Please note, this opinion originally appeared in The Morning Call, Saturday, 6/20/15: 

Sunday marks the 105th, or 107th, celebration of Father's Day in the United States, depending on which historical account is precise.

By some interpretations, the first Father's Day in the nation occurred in 1908 in Fairmont, W.V., where Grace Golden Clayton spearheaded an event to honor 361 men, mostly fathers, who were killed in a mine explosion.

Others cite that 1910 was the first Father's Day in our country, organized by Sonora Smart Dodd in Spokane, Wash., to honor her father, who raised his children as a single parent after the death of her mother.

Either way, these women sought to have fathers recognized for their dedication to their families in the way that mothers were recognized during Mother's Day festivities dating years earlier.

By the 1920s, Father's Day was regularly observed throughout the nation. In 1966 President Lyndon Johnson declared a presidential proclamation officially making the third Sunday in June Father's Day; in 1972 President Richard Nixon made Johnson's proclamation enduring when he signed into law a permanent recognition of Father's Day.

Traditionally, Father's Day is an occasion to honor fathers for all they have done for us as individuals and for our families. It is a time to express gratitude, respect and love for our fathers.

However, there are many for whom Father's Day is not a special occasion. There are fathers and children who are hurting on Father's Day. We should pause to reflect upon bereaved fathers, fathers estranged from their children, and men who so greatly long to become a father. There are also children who endure physical and/or psychological abuse, for whom Father's Day is not celebratory. Those whose father is deceased may find Father's Day bittersweet. I fall into the latter category.

This year marks the fifth anniversary without my dad. A member of the Air Force and veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, my dad was a laid back, humble gentleman. His hobbies were golfing and gardening. I tinker with both of these hobbies myself now.

When I'm on the driving range, I can still see how he gripped the golf club and took the driver back slowly, then a swift follow-through swing. Sometimes I get this maneuver perfect. I then say, "Thanks for that one, Daddy"!

I also remember how his ungloved hands worked the soil to add just the right mixture of nutrients prior to planting anything. Twenty-five years ago, he planted a scrawny 2-foot lilac bush in our backyard when we moved into our new home. It has grown to where it has had to be pruned back several times. Each spring it blossoms for a very brief two weeks. Its fragrance reminds me of my dad's labor of love.

I'm reminded of this saying, whose author is unknown: "A man's children, and his garden, both reflect the amount of weeding done during the growing season." I believe I blossomed because of my dad's tender weeding during my lifetime.

My Dad enjoyed time spent with him during visits and phone calls. We always ended our time together with saying, "Love you!"

I was moved by J.K. Simmons' acceptance speech for best supporting actor at the Oscars in February. He was targeting the youth of the nation when he stated: "Call your mom. Call your dad, if you are lucky enough to have a parent or two alive on this planet. Don't text. Don't email. Call 'em on the phone. Tell them you love them."

I think his message applies to all lucky ones — our age doesn't matter. If you're lucky enough, call or visit your dad. Not just on Father's Day. Make time to celebrate your dad. Your time is the best gift you can give to your father … on Father's Day and on the other 364 days of the year.

Mary Ellen Miller is an associate professor of nursing at DeSales University.