Marywood University Announces New Endowed/Annual Scholarships Marywood University recently announced five endowed scholarships and two annual scholarships at the 2026 Scholarship Luncheon. The annual luncheon brought together students, donors, and esteemed guests to celebrate the impact of scholarships and express heartfelt appreciation for the donors who make scholarships possible. Emma Budnovitch ’26, Roaring Brook Township, BS Biochemistry, was the student scholar who spoke on behalf of the student scholarship recipients. She noted, “Scholarships do not just ease financial burdens, but they allow students like me to discover their passions and the confidence to pursue them. Because of your support, I did not just attend Marywood, I fully experienced it.” Institutional aid through scholarships allows Marywood University to assist students and make their education affordable and attainable. In 2025-2026, Marywood provided more than $3.5 million in institutional aid through 642 named scholarships awarded to 556 individual students. New endowed named scholarships can be established with a gift of $50,000 or more. New annual named scholarships can be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. For information on establishing a named scholarship, please contact the Office of University Advancement at 570-348-6238 or development@marywood.edu. The newly endowed scholarships include: The Rocco and Catherine Ciliberti Endowed Scholarship, established by Henry and Margaret Jordan Sallusti ’83, supports academically accomplished local students with financial need, who wish to pursue studies in Nutrition and Dietetics or the Health Sciences. The Kelleher Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Frank Kelleher ’03, Trustee of Marywood University, and his wife, Lauren, supports business students with financial need. The Dr. Lotte Behrendt von Kerczek Endowed Scholarship, established by Elisabeth Gilligan ’59, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need with preference to students enrolled in a major in Science, Math, or Computer Science Department or in the Health Sciences. The Class of 1972 Endowed Scholarship, established by the Marywood Class of 1972 in honor of their 50th Reunion, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need. The Joey Monaghan ’21 Endowed Scholarship, established by Richard Gorelick, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and a desire to help others excel. The newly established annual scholarships include: The Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell Annual Scholarship, established by Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell, M.P.A. ’77, supports full-time graduate students in the Master of Healthcare Administration program with financial need and academic achievement. The Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68 Annual Scholarship, established by Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68, Marywood Alumni Association Board Member Emerita, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need.
Marywood Event Raises More Than $466,000 Marywood University’s flagship annual fundraising event, Celebrate Marywood, took place on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The outdoor celebration, held in the picturesque Motherhouse and Seminary Morgan Memorial Garden, marked a significant milestone by raising more than $466,000 to support the renovation and transformation of the Center for Natural & Health Sciences. Since its inception in 2014, the event has raised over $4.6 million, with the 2026 total setting a new benchmark for generosity and community engagement. Proceeds from this year’s event will fund the renovation and transformation of the Center for Natural & Health Sciences into a state-of-the-art facility supporting nursing, physician assistant, pre-med, and science programs, including upgraded laboratory spaces, enhanced classrooms, and advanced simulation environments. Marywood’s natural and health sciences students, who consistently attain outstanding licensure pass rates ranging from 98% to 100%, gain the knowledge and hands-on experience that power the region’s healthcare and STEM workforce. This year, Marywood honored Virginia Doherty McGregor, Scranton, and Father Thomas M. Muldowney, Moscow, with the Inspire Award for their outstanding contributions to the university and the broader region. The celebration’s entertainment featured dueling pianos by The Philly Keys and fireworks on campus. President Lisa A. Lori, J.D., praised both honorees and noted that it was Marywood’s privilege to honor “two extraordinary individuals, whose lives reflect the very best of Marywood.” She added, “Individually, they are remarkable. Together, they remind us what it means to live with purpose—through service, leadership, and a deep commitment to others.” Marywood University extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, sponsored, and supported Celebrate Marywood. Their contributions play a pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission and ensuring a bright future for its students. To learn more about Celebrate Marywood, go to marywood.edu/celebratemarywood or call (570) 348-62
Marywood University Celebrates 108th Commencement More than 930 graduates, including those from August, December, May, and international cohorts, were part of Marywood University’s 108th annual commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1 p.m., Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, in Wilkes-Barre Twp. President Lisa A. Lori, J.D. conferred degrees on undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students, who represent 25 states and nine countries, from Marywood University’s two colleges, the College of Health Sciences and the Reap College of Creative and Professional Studies. Business, social work, and physician assistant studies were the top graduate-level degree programs. Business, architecture, and nursing were the top undergraduate-level degree programs. Actress and comedian Caroline Rhea served as keynote speaker and received an honorary doctorate during the ceremony. Ms. Rhea is known for her many television and film roles, particularly as Hilda Spellman in Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Recalling her role as Aunt Hilda, she encouraged the graduates to persevere as they pursue the magic of success. “Use your power for good,” said Rhea. “Persevere and keep trying.” Regional graduates are listed below by degree level, then alphabetically by county of residence. For full list of graduates and related commencement information, visit marywood.edu/commencement.
Marywood University To Host Third Annual Veterans And Community Partners Wellness Summit The Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center Veterans & Community Partners, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), and the Scranton Vet Center are presenting the Third Annual Veterans and Community Partners Wellness Summit at Marywood University on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., at Nazareth Student Center. This free, one-day conference will provide opportunities for continuing education and networking for healthcare professionals, community leaders, veterans, family members, and nonprofit organizations working directly with veterans in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Participants will connect, learn, and recharge through interactive wellness breakout sessions, supportive talks, and valuable networking opportunities. A light breakfast and a lunch will be provided.
Marywood University to Host Veteran Services Fair Marywood University will host a Veteran Services Fair and Guest Speaker Presentation Friday, Feb. 20, 2026. This event will bring together veterans, service members, students, families and community members for a morning focused on connection, transition support and access to critical resources. Open to veterans, currently serving service members, students, families, and the broader community, this event underscores Marywood University’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served and strengthening partnerships with organizations dedicated to veteran well-being. The event is organized by Marywood University’s Office of Military & Veteran Services, the program will take place in the Nazareth Student Center, beginning with a Veteran Services Fair from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the Fireplace Lounge. Brigadier General (PA) Keith Graham, Executive Director of Veterans Programs and Services for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), will deliver the keynote presentation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Upper Main Dining Room. General Graham oversees outreach and support for over 640,000 veterans in Pennsylvania. The Veteran Services Fair will feature resource tables staffed by regional veteran service organizations offering information, referrals, and one-on-one guidance on a wide range of supports, including education, employment, benefits, health services, and community programs. The keynote presentation will address the challenges veterans often face during the transition from military to civilian life, the importance of early engagement with support services, and the role institutions and communities play in ensuring long-term success. According to Bronson Cass, Military & Veteran Specialist in Marywood University’s Office of Military and Veteran Services early access to trusted resources can be life changing. “Early connection to the right resources can change the trajectory of a veteran’s transition,” Cass said. “This event is about building a strong, visible network of care together, so no veteran or family member feels they have to navigate this journey alone,” Cass said. Community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions, meet service providers and bring family members or friends who may benefit from the information shared. By fostering early awareness and connection, the University aims to help veterans and their families access the tools and relationships they need to thrive. For more information, contact Marywood University Military & Veteran Services at veterans@marywood.edu.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Juliette Meyers as Program and Events Coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Juliette Meyers as the new program and events coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna, the Chamber’s community leadership and professional development division. In this role, Meyers will assist in the coordination of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature programs—Tomorrow’s Leaders Today and Leadership Collegiate—as well as alumni engagement initiatives, fundraising efforts, and community events. She will also collaborate with regional partners and program participants to support Leadership Lackawanna’s mission of developing informed, committed, and engaged leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We are delighted to welcome Juliette to our team,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Her unique background in art therapy, education, and program management brings a creative and compassionate approach to this position. Juliette’s experience working with diverse groups—and her passion for today’s youth—will allow her to thrive as our new Program and Events Coordinator.” Meyers expressed her enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, saying, “I’m honored to become part of an organization so deeply committed to leadership development and community impact. I look forward to helping cultivate experiences that inspire collaboration, creativity, and service across our region.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Meyers worked as manager of Art Therapy Integration Services at The Wright Center, where she implemented innovative art therapy programs across clinical settings. Her background also includes roles as art coordinator at Winfield Children’s House in Maine and transition coordinator at The Opportunity Alliance, where she supported young adults in a transitional housing setting develop life skills. Meyers earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Marywood University.
Marywood School of Architecture Honored With Social Impact Award Marywood University is proud to announce that its School of Architecture (MUSOA) has been selected for the 2025 Social Impact Award from the American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania (AIA Pennsylvania). This honor is part of the AIA Pennsylvania Architectural Excellence Special Awards program, which recognizes outstanding contributions by individuals, organizations, and institutions that advance the built environment and the architectural profession across the Commonwealth. The Social Impact Award celebrates design work that advances positive social, environmental, and economic change. The recognition highlights efforts that are innovative, scalable, and measurable – underscoring the belief that design is a powerful tool for improving lives, strengthening communities, and shaping a better world. “The School of Architecture at Marywood University has a deeply rooted commitment to teaching the value of impacting community through design,” said Catherine Broh, AIA, Secretary, Executive Committee, AIA Pennsylvania Board of Directors, who presented the award. “For years, their faculty, staff, and students have actively partnered with local and regional communities to provide meaningful design assistance that addresses real world challenges in the northeast region of the state.” Broh cited projects that encompass designing and constructing a range of community-focused solutions, including much needed bus stops for a nearby town, community gardens that demonstrate how design can be both pragmatic and beautiful, and teaching local elementary students how design impacts their lives. Recent MUSOA initiatives include: Observe Scranton festivals in partnership with the Center for the Living City (2021, 2023, 2025) Garden Structures for Camp Create (2025) Virtual Reconstruction of a Railcar at Steamtown National Historic Site (2025) LightUP Everhart for the Everhart Museum (2024) Architecture in Schools K–12 Education Initiative (2021–2024) Hosting the International & Northeast Pennsylvania Regional Bridge Building Competitions (2022, 2025) Glacier Jane: zero-energy renovation of the Mariner’s Unit at Girl Scouts’ Camp Archbald (2022–2024), awarded Second Prize in the Retrofit Housing Division of the 2023 U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Design Challenge Adaptive Reuse of the Gravity Slope Colliery for the Borough of Archbald (2021–2024) Barn Renovation for Arthur’s Acres Animal Sanctuary (2023) Public Space Design for the Garden of Cedar (2021–2025) Recreational Infrastructure for the Lackawanna River Conservation Association (2022) Adaptive Reuse of the Former PNC Bank for the Black Scranton Project Center for Arts & Culture (2021) Bus Shelters for Valley in Motion (2021) Electric Jane: net-zero townhouses for Endless Mountains Habitat for Humanity (2020–2021), awarded First Prize in the Attached Housing Division of the 2021 U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Design Challenge Through hands-on partnerships and community-driven design, MUSOA empowers students to engage with people of all social and economic backgrounds and encourages the next generation of designers to positively impact their communities as they develop into architects. The Marywood University School of Architecture (MUSOA) received the 2025 Social Impact Award from the American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania (AIA Pennsylvania) on December 4. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to advance the built environment and the architectural profession across the Commonwealth. MUSOA faculty members include, from left to right, LiYang Ding, Elizabeth Andrzejewski, Christopher Loofs, Jodi La Coe (MUSOA Director, holding award), Jim Sullivan, and Blake Nickel.
Marywood University Announces “Merry & Bright” Christmas Celebration The sights, sounds, and spirit of the season will come alive as Marywood University invites the community to campus for its annual “Merry & Bright” Christmas celebration—a joyful tradition filled with lights, laughter, music, and the true meaning of Christmas. This year’s festivities promise even more magic, with new family-friendly activities that include live reindeer, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and the cherished Christmas Tree Lighting that has become one of the region’s most beloved holiday events. The highlight of the season is the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3, in the Rotunda of the Liberal Arts Center, where Marywood’s Chamber Singers will fill the air with festive carols. The celebration continues from 4 to 7 p.m. along Marywood Main Street and in the Memorial Garden, with lights, music, and family fun for all ages. Marywood’s Christmas spirit, however, shines far beyond this single evening— On December 2 the student-run radio station VMFM 91.7, becomes “Christmas 91.7,” sharing the sounds of the season 24/7 through New Year’s Day as a joyful, commercial-free gift to the community from the Marywood family. Families can stroll through a beautifully illuminated Memorial Garden, warm up around crackling firepits, and enjoy hot cocoa and s’mores while costumed carolers perform classic holiday favorites. Children will delight in meeting Mr. and Mrs. Claus and visiting with live reindeer, perfect for memorable holiday photos. This year’s celebration introduces several new activities along Marywood Main Street, including festively adorned Christmas trees, and a “Grinch” sighting, The festivities will also include a Christmas Craft Fair from 12 to 7 p.m., offering unique, handmade gifts and treats for holiday shoppers. Visitors are encouraged to stop by Marywood’s life-size Nativity under the Memorial Arch, a cherished tradition symbolizing the true meaning of Christmas. As the lights twinkle and voices rise in song, Marywood University invites neighbors, alumni, families, and friends to share in the warmth and wonder of the season. Come together with the community to celebrate the holiest and most joyous time of the year. For a full schedule of events and more information, visit www.marywood.edu/merryandbright.
Marywood To Present Advocacy and Social Justice Day Marywood University will highlight the theme “Raise Your Voice, Shape Your Future” during events at this year’s Advocacy and Social Justice Day, Wednesday, November 5, on Marywood’s campus. Co-organizers of the event are Amy Fotta, director of community service and social justice, and Monica Law, Ph.D., director of the School of Business and Global Innovation. Featured public events include a panel session with highlights of the documentary, Making NEPA Home, featuring stories of resilience, unity, and cultural diversity, in the Swartz Center for Spiritual Life at 1 p.m. The panelists will include Kara Washington, WVIA; Julie Schumacher-Cohen, University of Scranton; and Ushu Mukelo, Congolese Community of Scranton. At 3 p.m., there will be a re-dedication and celebration of the Mother Theresa Maxis IHM Center, named in honor of the co-founder of the IHM Congregation. The event will feature a conversation with Sister Cor Immaculatum Heffernan, IHM, and Lisa A. Lori, J.D., Marywood President, will give a presentation about the vision for the Center. There will be a Feed a Friend Food Drive challenge kick-off held on campus, as well as a social justice art display in the Kresge Gallery at the Insalaco Center for Studio Arts. Throughout the day, the campus community can participate in social justice discussion circles and tours of the campus green house and flex farm hydroponics system. A clothing swap also will be held. For more information about Advocacy and Social Justice Day at Marywood University, contact Amy Fotta at amfotta@marywood.edu or call 570-348-6211, extension 4593.
Marywood Explores Global Initiatives in Colombia Recently, Marywood University representatives visited Medellín and Bogota, Colombia, to expand Marywood’s global initiatives and explore program development and recruitment in the country. Representatives included Jessica A. Quintana Hess, assistant dean of global initiatives & programs, and Chris Speicher, Ph.D., associate professor of business. Hess conducted recruitment events, including independent school visits, potential university partner site visits, and the EducationUSA Bogota series, while Dr. Speicher presented at Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (Region 9) conference. Jointly, they conducted a series of meetings at the university’s current International Programs partner, Universidad EAN, in Bogota, Colombia, to review proposals for program expansion and development. The trip culminated with a special lecture about design thinking, hosted by Marywood University and presented by Dr. Speicher. For more information about Marywood’s Global Initiatives, visit: marywood.edu/life-at-mu/student-experience/global.
