Success Stories

Success Stories

The Alvernia Impact

Discover how ÿÈÕ´óÈü 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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Morgan Petry Alternative Break

Wide range of Alvernia experiences helped prepare for role as U.S. Navy nurse, alumna says

PHOTO: Morgan Petry, at right, during an Alternative Break trip to Cuba.When it came to selecting a place to continue her education, Long Island, N.Y., resident Morgan Petry '19 dreamed it would be a place where she could entertain more than one p...

  • College of Health Sciences
  • 2026
Ray Strickland Foundation

Former pro basketball player launches foundation to help at-risk youth

Ray Strickland ’04 became familiar with Alvernia’s campus before entering a classroom or declaring a major. His introduction came at summertime basketball camp with Alvernia Athletics Hall of Fame inductee Jack McCloskey, then coach of the men’s b...

  • College of Business, Communication, and Leadership
  • 2026
Kacie Walters

'Giving-back seed' sprouts into lifelong pursuit helping others

For as long as she can remember, helping others has been part of her life, said Kacie Walters '25.The Bachelor of Social Work grad was certainly influenced by her mother’s helping heart. The family’s matriarch introduced Walters and her siblings t...

  • College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences
  • 2026
Jeff Bush '79 and family

Alumnus gives back to give others an opportunity

When Jeff Bush ’79 committed to making a seven-figure gift to his alma mater — the largest planned gift in Alvernia’s 66-year history — in early 2025, his decision was inspired by his experience as a first-generation college student and a strong d...

  • College of Innovation, Discovery, and Enterprise
  • 2026