The excitement on campus never wavered through the sunshine, clouds, and rain on Thursday, Aug. 27, as 91直播鈥檚 newest Explorers made their way to 20^th and Olney to settle into their new home.  

This year鈥檚 incoming class is the second largest since 2019. They arrived on campus with their loved ones and were assisted by volunteers from the campus community as they moved into St. Basil Court and St. Neumann Hall on the University鈥檚 South Campus.  

Explorers from across the country spent the morning settling into their rooms, adding their personal flair, and meeting their new dormmates.  

Gabriel Sowa, 鈥�30, made the journey from Alexandria, Va., with his favorite Star Wars poster in hand, to join the Explorer men鈥檚 rowing team.  

鈥淢aking new friends,鈥� he said, about what he鈥檚 most looking forward to. 鈥淏eing a student-athlete and winning races.鈥�  

Moving into St. Basil Court was the first time Sowa and his roommates met in person, but they weren鈥檛 strangers.  

鈥淲e鈥檝e been talking,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e awesome guys.鈥�  

He’s ready to get started and meet any challenges head on, he said.  

Ciara Alston, 鈥�30, didn鈥檛 have to travel as far as Sowa to get to La 91直播, which she chose because of the community and campus.  

鈥淚 felt like it would be a great place to get a new challenge,鈥� she said.  

Originally from Coatesville, Pa., she鈥檚 majoring in political science and is looking forward to everything she has ahead of her.  

鈥淚鈥檓 excited about getting into new groups and meeting new people and just learning new things,鈥� she said, adding that she looks forward to finding out more about everything that鈥檚 available on campus.  

While starting classes and getting into the flow of a new lifestyle does come with some apprehension, she鈥檚 approaching it with confidence.  

Jalen Waring, 鈥�30, became interested in media and broadcasting during high school and decided La 91直播 was the best place for him to continue that education as a communication major. He also had a more personal reason for becoming an Explorer.  

鈥淚 was born and raised in Philly,鈥� Waring, who grew up in Germantown, said. 鈥淚 always drove past La 91直播 and always felt like I was supposed to be here.鈥�  

As he settles in, Waring is excited to meet new people, engage with the community, and make a name for yourself, all while cultivating his newfound interest in broadcast.  

鈥淚 heard about La 91直播 TV,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檇 like to get involved with that.鈥�  

Throughout the morning, University President Daniel J. Allen, Ph.D., was also walking around getting to know some of the new Explorers and their families. One of the rooms he stopped by was home to Kayla Novoa, 鈥�30, Maddie Gallagher, 鈥�30, and Cameron Wilson, 鈥�30.  

Although this was their first time face to face, the three already consider themselves best friends after meeting on social media.  

Novoa, Gallagher, and Wilson all credited La 91直播鈥檚 size and community with being a main driver of their decision to attend.  

鈥淚 just really loved the campus and the community, and it was really nice coming here,鈥� Novoa, who came to 20^th and Olney from South Jersey, said. 鈥淚 really enjoyed it.鈥�  

Gallagher also has strong family ties to the University. Her dad, who was helping her move in, grandpa, two aunts, and other family members were all Explorers.  

鈥淢y dad and like my whole family went here, and so they kind of wanted me to go here my whole life,鈥� Gallagher said.  

Although she initially wanted to go somewhere new, after her dad convinced her to apply and visit, her mind quickly changed.  

鈥淚 literally came here on the first day, and I was like, 鈥榦h shoot, he was right,鈥欌�� the West Chester, Pa., native said.  

All three, who have rooms full of pictures of family and friends from home, are ready to get started on everything La 91直播 has to offer, including new friendships, new knowledge, and a new home away from home.  

鈥淢aking new friends, going somewhere new, and having new experiences,鈥� Wilson listed as the things she鈥檚 most excited for. 

Thursday also kicked off Welcome Weekend, four days of scheduled events to help students prepare for the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 31, and the rest of their years on campus.  

After a morning full of unpacking, organizing, and adding those final touches to feel at home in their rooms, students enjoyed lunch with their families before preparing for the scheduled afternoon events. 

Despite weather putting a stop to the official fifth annual Expedition Walk, the incoming students still gathered together to walk to the John E. Glaser Arena for the New Student Welcome Convocation.  

Here they heard from current members of the Student Government Association, various faculty and staff members including Allen, and alumna Hayley J. Boyle, 鈥�12, chief programs officer at the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, who all shared the same sentiment: there are  exciting times ahead for the newest Explorers.  

“Being an Explorer is about more than the degree you earn. It is about having the courage to keep asking what is possible, the confidence to pursue it, and the responsibility to bring others along with you,鈥� Allen said. 鈥淭oday, that journey begins. I am proud to welcome you to 91直播, and I am excited to see what we will build together.鈥�  

The new class of Explorers is joining the University at a time of upward trajectory. This year saw more applications than ever before, and La 91直播 has been making continuous upgrades to campus and creating new housing and academic options for its students. 

-Naomi Thomas

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La 91直播 University honored members of its community with awards during its 2026-27 Academic Year Convocation.

91直播 community members were honored with awards during the 2026-27 Academic Year Convocation, held in the Union Ballroom on Aug, 24.  

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Lisa Jarvinen, Ph.D., welcomed faculty, staff, and Christian Brothers to the Convocation, setting the tone for an exciting and successful academic year, throughout which Explorers can听succeed.听听

鈥淥ur work as educators, whatever our role on campus, begins with belonging. Our students will thrive if they know they matter to us and are welcomed into a community that believes in their potential. The responsibility for creating that kind of environment belongs to all of us,鈥� Jarvinen said. “This is one of the great insights of the Lasallian tradition. We accomplish our mission in association, and not alone. Not as isolated departments or offices, but as a community united by a shared purpose. As we begin this academic year, I hope we will hold fast to that sense of shared purpose.鈥� 

As well as the award recipients, attendees also heard from Br. Bob Schaefer, FSC, who spoke about the history of the Lasallian mission and how that is reflected at 20^th听and Olney.听听

La 91直播 also recognized community members who have recently been promoted, and celebrated employee milestones, including five Explorers who are celebrating 25 or more years of service to the University. 

Keep reading to learn more about the awardees.  

Faculty Recognition

Distinguished Faculty Scholarship Award

The Distinguished Faculty Scholarship Award, which recognizes excellence in scholarship completed at La 91直播, was听co-awarded听to听Katie Bogle, Ph.D., and Brian Wyant, Ph.D.听

鈥淚 am very thankful to be honored with the Distinguished Faculty Scholarship Award,鈥� Bogle, a professor of sociology and criminal justice, said. 鈥淥ne of the things I am most proud of at La 91直播 is how my research has created opportunities for undergraduate research projects for students, which has helped distinguish them for graduate and law听school.鈥澨�

Wyant, professor and chair of the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, echoed the sentiment.  

鈥淚鈥檓 very grateful to receive the Distinguished Faculty Scholarship Award. Scholarship has always been an important part of my work as a faculty member,鈥� he said. 鈥淔or me, scholarship and teaching reinforce one another, and I believe my research makes me a better teacher while also providing opportunities to inform policy and practice. I鈥檓 fortunate to be surrounded by dedicated scholars in our department who support and inspire one another鈥檚 work.鈥� 

Distinguished Faculty Service Award 

The Distinguished Faculty Service Award is given to an Explorer who demonstrates exceptional involvement in and dedication to the good of the University community, contributions advancing the University鈥檚 mission, and leadership in building a Lasallian sense of fellowship, either within the University or the larger community that La 91直播 belongs to. This year鈥檚 recipient was Rosemary Barbera,听Ph.D.,听an associate professor of social work.听听

“We live in a world that has the resources to sustain all life with dignity, yet so many suffer. I am engaged in the community鈥攁t La 91直播 and beyond鈥攂ecause I believe living beings are more important than profit. I also believe we have the obligation to build a community of care and to end suffering in our world,” Barbera said.  

Presidential Teaching Award for Full-Time Faculty 

The Presidential Teaching Award is given to听a faculty member who has been with the University for less than 10 years when they are nominated.听Nancy Franke,听Ph.D., assistant professor of social work was awarded the Full-Time Presidential Teaching Award.听听

鈥淚鈥檓听incredibly honored to receive the Presidential Teaching Award.听I have approached teaching as a collaborative, student-centered process grounded in meaningful engagement, rigor, and real-world application. I strive to create classroom spaces where students feel challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow intellectually, professionally, and holistically,鈥� Franke said. 听鈥淔or me, teaching is ultimately听relational听work: building relationships with students, fostering curiosity and critical thinking, and helping students connect what they learn in the classroom to the broader world.听I鈥檓听especially grateful to be recognized in a community so committed to educating the whole person.鈥澨�

Staff Recognition

Explorer Experience Award  

The first of three new awards for staff members, the Explorer Experience Award recognizes an individual who goes above and beyond to provide a welcoming, responsive, and positive experience through exceptional service and professionalism.  

The inaugural recipient is Gabrielle Lemmo, associate director of employee benefits and human resources operations.  

“I’m honored to be the first recipient of the Explorer Experience Award,鈥� Lemmo said. 鈥淚’m thankful for my supportive HR team members and for the great people of the La 91直播 community that I’ve met along the way.” 

Guiding Compass Award 

The Guiding Compass Award is the second new staff recognition for this academic year. It is given to a staff member of meaningfully supports student growth, development, and success through various avenues including mentorship, advising, or programming.  

Penny Grob, director of the Business Scholars Co-op Program and Career Services Liaison for the School of Business is the first awardee.  

鈥淩eceiving the inaugural Guiding Compass Award is especially meaningful to me because it recognizes the heart of my work over the past twenty-one years: helping students navigate the beginning of their professional journeys with confidence, purpose, and direction,鈥� Grob said. 鈥淚 share this honor with every student who has entrusted me to be a part of their lives during their time at La 91直播 and beyond. Their growth, resilience, and success have been my greatest reward. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as a member of the La 91直播 community, which believes so strongly in the transformative power of mentorship, service, and lifelong learning.鈥�

Spirit of Association Award  

The final new award, the Spirit of Association Award, goes to a staff member who strengthens the University community through collaboration, building relationships, and advancing shared goals.  

Mike Nielsen, director of enterprise applications in information technology, is the first recipient.  

鈥淚 feel the award is more a reflection of my team, not my own actions. I’ve come to appreciate deeply the Lasallian spirit of collaboration, kindness, and care for others. Something that resonates with my own personal and religious beliefs and background. That at heart, we are all sisters and brothers. The more we see and treat each other as such, and not as strangers, the more we can overcome any challenge that comes our way,鈥� Nielsen said. 鈥淭ogether and association is not a pithy saying, but a mindset of common consideration. Reliance on each other, and strength through humility and the power of the community.鈥�

Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards  

The Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given to one faculty member and one staff member who embody the Lasallian values of education, inclusion, service, and community.  

Deb Byrne, Ph.D., RN, CNE, associate professor of nursing was the faculty awardee.听听

鈥淚 am deeply honored and grateful to receive this award. I have been fortunate throughout my career to work alongside incredibly supportive and dedicated colleagues who share a commitment to excellence in nursing education,鈥� she said. 鈥淢ost of all, I am grateful for our wonderful students, whose hard work, resilience, and passion for nursing inspire me every day and make teaching such a meaningful and rewarding privilege.鈥� 

The staff award was given to Gregory Fala, 鈥�04, M.S. 鈥�08, assistant vice president of marketing and digital strategy in University Marketing and Communications.  

“I am truly honored and humbled to receive the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award,鈥� Fala said. 鈥淚 am proud to carry on the traditions and legacy of the Christian Brothers in working to build community within 91直播 as a leader, mentor, educator, colleague, and friend since I stepped foot on this campus 26 years ago.” 

The post Explorer听faculty听and staff听recognized for their听achievements听 appeared first on 91直播.

Incoming Explorer Wayne-James Wesley, 鈥�30, is moving from Coatesville, Pa., to 20^th and Olney, where he hopes to get involved with photography and media clubs on campus.  

Wesley鈥檚 hobbies include photography, making creative content, and listening to music, with his cats Ghost and Caliope by his side. He also enjoys spending time with his friends and family.  

The incoming psychology major is looking forward to living in the city and exploring his new home.  

Here’s more about what drew him to La 91直播.  

Why did you choose La 91直播? 

It just felt like a good fit for me. I liked the smaller, close-knit feel, the Psychology Program, and being close to Philly but still having an actual campus vibe. 

Why did you choose your major?  

I chose Psychology because I鈥檝e always been interested in how people think and why they do what they do. I want to learn more about that and hopefully use it to help people in the future. 

What are you most excited to do here?  

Honestly, just starting a new chapter, meeting new people, and seeing what college life is like at La 91直播. 

How do you want to be known for more?  

Just as someone who鈥檚 creative, hardworking, and real with people. 

What’s your walking to class soundtrack? 

When it鈥檚 all said and done鈥� Take Time by Giveon. I can put that album on repeat and not skip anything. 

The post Meet the Class of 2030:听Wayne-James Wesley, 鈥�30听 appeared first on 91直播.

The Philadelphia Business Journal’s List of employers includes businesses, nonprofits, and governmental organizations.

91直播 made the list of largest employers in the greater Philadelphia region, reflecting the University’s longstanding presence and role as an employer in the region. 

Included on , La 91直播 ranked #63 out of 561 businesses, nonprofits, and governmental organizations. Combined, the list showcases the businesses who provide jobs to more than 400,000 people locally and even more across the nation and world.  

La 91直播 employs nearly 700 local employees. 

Along with including the total number of employees per workplace, the Philadelphia Business Journal conducted independent research and reviewed questionnaires supplied by employers to create the list.  

La 91直播鈥檚 inclusion on the list reflects the University鈥檚 longstanding presence in Philadelphia and the important role its faculty and staff play in serving students, advancing its Lasallian mission, and contributing to the broader community. 

鈥淥ur faculty and staff are at the heart of the La 91直播 community and bring our mission and Lasallian values to life every day through their work with our students and their service to one another and the broader community,鈥� said Kristin Heasley, PHR, SHRM-CP, CPSP, senior vice president of university operations. 鈥淲e are proud of the dedication they bring to La 91直播 and proud to be recognized among the region鈥檚 largest employers, reflecting our longstanding commitment to Philadelphia and the communities we serve.鈥� 

According to a 2025 analysis conducted by Parker Strategy Group for the听听(AICUP), La 91直播 generates an estimated听$273.9 million in annual economic impact听across the Commonwealth. This impact comes from direct spending on operations, wages, benefits, and capital projects, as well as from student and visitor spending in the region.

About 91直播  

91直播 is a comprehensive Lasallian Catholic university located in Philadelphia. It is rooted in the tradition of the Brothers of the Christian Schools teaching order, founded by St. John Baptist de La 91直播鈥攖he Patron Saint of Teachers. Chartered in 1863 by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, La 91直播 prepares students to become known for more through a practical liberal arts and experiential education. By offering a high-quality experience; rigorous academics; transferable skills; and exposure to domestic and international partnerships in a safe and caring environment, La 91直播 is propelling learners into leaders. Learn more at lasalle.edu. 

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Mason Ordonez, 鈥�28, has found community and camaraderie at 91直播. 

Mason Ordonez, 鈥�28, dove headfirst into his 91直播 experience. 

As a student-athlete on the swimming and diving team听and听nursing major,听he has no plans听to slow听down his engagement on campus.听He鈥檚听also vice president of alumni engagement for the听Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, student representative of the 2028听nursing class听cohort,听member of the听Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP),听a听student tutor, and the captain听of men’s swimming and diving for the 2026-27 academic year.听听

Being an engaged Explorer is about more than adding items to a resume for Ordonez; it鈥檚 also about supporting one another. 

鈥淟a 91直播 has given so much to me,鈥� Ordonez said. 鈥淪o, it鈥檚 nice to be able to just give back to the other students. It may be small, but it just feels nice to know that I’m able to do something to help other people, and that I would want someone to do the same for me.鈥� 

Originally from听West Milton, Pa., Ordonez was drawn to La 91直播 because of听its Philadelphia zip code and Division I athletics.听During a campus visit,听his interest was solidified听when he saw how听impactful the high-quality education would be in the Nursing Program and听how听welcoming听the swimming and diving team was,听allowing him to continue a passion that began at 5 years old.听

鈥淟a 91直播 presented me with this amazing opportunity to compete in Division I athletics while also being able to succeed in my academics,鈥� he said.  

Since then, Ordonez has found success in and out of the pool. He鈥檚 competed at the A10 Championships and landed top five finishes within previous seasons. He鈥檚 also done well academically with a high-grade point average. His time in the Nursing Program has helped reinforce his interest in working in healthcare.  

He enjoys being able to work closely with patients at the bedside during clinicals, and the opportunity to continue his nursing education in the future with advanced credentials, with the potential of earning them at La 91直播.  

He鈥檚 most interested in working in the intensive care unit or cardiovascular care, hoping to one day become a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).  

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences faculty have sent Ordonez up for success through hands-on experience and personalized teaching.  

鈥淲e have access to so many great clinical opportunities in Philadelphia,鈥� he added. 鈥淚 was at a Penn Health System hospital this semester, and I’ll be at a different one in the city next semester. But besides the clinical opportunities, the small class numbers really allow you to connect with your professors. I know all my professors on a first name basis. They know me. We email regularly. I feel like I can actually speak to them, and I鈥檓 not just a number, which is really nice.鈥� 

That community feeling continues with the swimming and diving team, where Ordonez has a strong group of friends who he can rely on and experience campus life with. Not only does the team get together for practices and meets, but they鈥檝e formed friendships outside of their sport and even give back through service projects including the Learn to Swim Pilot Program.  

鈥淲hen you’re part of a team, you automatically have about 30 friends that are going to be there for you and help you. If you’re struggling with something, whether that be in the classroom, in the pool, or in life you have a support system that without fail will be there for you,鈥� he said.    

As Ordonez looked toward his junior year prior to the academic year starting, he was excited to be back at 20^th and Olney. 

鈥淚’m just excited to get back to campus and see my teammates, coaches, friends, and professors. I’m looking forward to just enjoying my last two years and continue to give back to La 91直播, as it’s given us all so much,鈥� he said.    

鈥� Meg Ryan, M.A. 鈥�24  

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Throughout her career as a mathematics educator, Abbey Howard, Ph.D., has focused on making the subject as accessible as possible for students, drawing from her personal experiences as  inspiration.

Abbey Howard, Ph.D., had to work hard at mathematics when she was a student. Although听she’s听loved听the logic and reasoning that听come听with numbers and equations since childhood, it often took perseverance and听focus听for her to get an answer.听听

“Mathematics did not come naturally to me. I had to work hard to develop my understanding, and that experience shaped my approach to teaching,” the assistant professor of mathematics said. “Because I had to find ways to make mathematics make sense for myself, I became passionate about helping others to do the same.”  

It was as an undergraduate at Drexel University majoring in secondary education for mathematics that she first realized that it was learning how to understand mathematics that really interested her. That, combined with her personal experiences, led her down the path to becoming a mathematics educator.  

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree and earning a Master of Science in teaching, learning, and curriculum from Drexel, Howard began her teaching career, holding teaching roles at various institutions including Temple University, Pennsylvania State University Abington, and The Community College of Philadelphia. She also earned her doctorate in mathematics and science education from Temple University. 

A decade听into her teaching career, Howard was exploring new opportunities and came across La 91直播, joining the School of Arts and Sciences as an assistant professor of mathematics.听听

When she first became an Explorer, she didn’t think it was possible for the community to be as welcoming and supportive as they were. 

“Four years later, I’ve learned that it isn’t too good to be true. It’s simply the culture,” she said. “Looking back, I truly feel as though I was meant to end up here.”  

That culture is one of Howard’s Explorer highlights, she said, adding that she is part of a community that “truly lives its mission” and has taught her how to be student-centered without sacrificing content.  

Every student is treated as an individual, with their own goals, challenges, and strengths, she said, adding that the environment allows for the relationships between the teachers and learners to become central to the overall educational experience.  

“I deeply value that approach,” she said. “It reflects my mission of being both caring and demanding, supporting students while also encouraging them to reach their full potential.”  

Howard credits the late Br. Bob Kinzler, FSC, with inspiring that mission. After first hearing Br. Bob use the phrase 鈥渃aring and demanding鈥� at her first fall convocation, she wrote it on a sticky note which she has kept on her desk as a reminder since.  

Throughout her four years at 20^th and Olney, Howard has stayed true to her goals, creating and adapting classes and resources to help her students thrive.  

As part of a group of faculty, Howard helped to develop the course, MTH III: Foundations of Algebra, after noticing that many students who were placed in College Algebra needed additional foundational skills. Instead of requiring remedial classes that would delay graduation, she and the mathematics department built those lessons into the curriculum of the College Algebra course, through an additional credit hour.  

“The goal is simple,” she said. “Remove unnecessary barriers and give students the support they need to succeed without slowing their academic momentum.” 

Howard is also a big proponent of Open Educational Resources (OER) and has been working over the past several years to transition multiple of the courses she teaches to apply them.  

OER utilizes free education resources, for example textbooks and instructional materials, to help reduce additional costs and financial barriers for students and their teachers. Beyond just the cost benefits, OER also gives faculty more flexibility in customizing their materials and resources to align with the specific needs of their students.  

College Algebra, a course the Howard teaches most fall semesters, is now completely OER based. Being able to teach this class to students with all the resources that OER makes possible and then see many of those same students in the spring semester in more advanced classes, means that she can see their progression throughout their college years.  

“Watching students grow over time is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “Some of the best moments happen when students suddenly recognize how concepts fit together and how mathematics applies to fields and interests they genuinely care about. Seeing that growth in both understanding and confidence is one of the most satisfying parts of teaching.”  

No matter the class she’s teaching though, the most fulfilling thing about her job has remained the same: helping her students gain confidence in the field.  

“Many people believe they simply are not ‘math people,’ and I enjoy challenging that assumption,” she said. “There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student who once doubted their abilities experience the moment when everything clicks.” 

As well as her own dedication to her classes, Howard also credits the rest of the faculty in the School of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science with creating an environment where both she and her students can thrive.  

“Teaching can sometimes feel like an individual endeavor, but at La 91直播 it truly feels like a team effort,” she said. “Whether we’re sharing ideas, troubleshooting challenges, developing new initiatives, or simply supporting one another, my colleagues play a significant role in my success and our students’ success.”  

–Naomi Thomas听

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Eric Stonesifer, 鈥�01, M.Ed., began his journey to becoming an educator at 91直播. Through his strong passion for history and commitment to serving others, he built the foundation for a successful career that has led him to become the next principal of Little Flower High School. 

Eric Stonesifer, 鈥�01, M.Ed., grew up in central Maryland, just 30 minutes south of Gettysburg, Pa.  

Being so close to such a pivotal battlefield from the American Civil War, it was only natural for Stonesifer to become curious about history. That proximity led to a passion which later was the spark for his higher education and career journeys.  

鈥淗istory was always a hobby,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 was immersed in it all my life. Always loved it. I never thought of it as 鈥榓 career.鈥� But once I realized, if you do what you’re passionate about, the career path will take care of itself.鈥� 

Stonesifer made the decision to study history at 91直播 after a brief stint as a math education major. He was drawn to the campus because of its听Philadelphia address and the ability to听learn听at a Catholic university where he could continue to explore his faith and spirituality.听听

As a history major, Stonesifer grew his knowledge on different periods of American life. He is incredibly grateful for his time learning from Stuart Leibiger, Ph.D., chair of the Humanity and Society Department and history professor.  

Stonesifer took courses on the American Revolution and American Civil War with Leibiger. He and his classmates had the opportunity to visit Washington鈥檚 Crossing Historic Park and Gettysburg National Military Park on different trips. Both experiences reinforced what was being discussed in class and brought the lessons to life.  

Even as a student, Stonesifer knew he wanted to utilize his knowledge of history as an educator. He was a student worker in the Education Department at La 91直播 and a few years later went on to obtain his Master of Education degree at another institution.  

鈥淓ducation was definitely something I was always interested in鈥攖he idea of taking knowledge, helping other people out with that, and really providing a service to others,鈥� he explained.  

Reflecting on his La 91直播 experience, he said learning about the University鈥檚 namesake and patron saint of teachers, Saint John Baptist de La 91直播, made a large impact on him.  

That impact has continued throughout his career in the classroom. After spending two years working for the School District of Philadelphia, Stonesifer has spent over two decades working in Catholic education across the city. 

He spent many years working as a teacher in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, first as a long-term substitute at multiple institutions and then his first permanent role at St. John Neumann High School for Boys. Stonesifer was there for a year prior to its closure in 2004 when the school merged with St. Maria Goretti High School to become Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti Catholic High School. 

He said 鈥渢he years that really defined me as an educator鈥� were over the next six while he taught at Northeast Catholic High School for Boys. He then went on to teach at Pope John Paul II High School and most recently, he served as the assistant principal of academic affairs at St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls. He鈥檚 also held the role of chair of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia鈥檚 secondary social studies curriculum committee. 

He鈥檚 had the opportunity to teach many about American and world history, and how it all shapes the many societal, cultural, political, economic, and environmental systems that impact our lives. 

鈥淚 think it’s important to understand the world that we live in now; you need to understand the past,鈥� he said.  

As an educator, he鈥檚 learned it鈥檚 important to believe in the process, make a plan, and help develop students instead of expecting immediate results.  

鈥淭here’s going to be days that are really tough, but there’s going to be days that are really, really rewarding,鈥� he said.  

Stonesifer looks forward to graduation every year because while it means saying goodbye, it also means he鈥檚 done his job in preparing students to have the skills needed to take on what comes next.  

鈥淚f I am doing my job the way it’s supposed to, I need to be prepared to say goodbye to make sure whichever students I’m responsible for are prepared to go out into the world that they’re going to face and they have all the tools that are necessary,鈥� he said.  

He said those skills, including analyzing, synthesizing, and critical thinking, are incredibly important for young people to learn as they enter the next phase of their lives.  

Looking ahead to the upcoming school year, Stonesifer is entering a new chapter as he becomes the principal of Philadelphia鈥檚 Little Flower High School. He said this moment has felt very full circle as his commute to and from work will mean passing by La 91直播 every day.  

鈥淚t鈥檚 a good way to ground myself,鈥� he said.  

As he continues his career in Catholic education, he鈥檚 looking forward to leading the girls鈥� high school. His main priorities include working to stabilize enrollment and to ensure the education they offer continues to be exceptional. As one of the two all-girls Catholic high schools in the city, he said it’s imperative their work continues for the betterment of the students and the community.  

As the next academic year marks the 175^th anniversary of Bishop Saint John Neumann founding the Archdiocese of Philadelphia school system, it鈥檚 critical to carry on the legacy. 

“The importance of the Catholic school system within the City of Philadelphia and strengthening the City of Philadelphia and being part of the community is so important. If we want our cities and our neighborhoods to be vibrant, we must have strong Catholic schools in there to go along with that,鈥� he added.  

鈥� Meg Ryan, M.A. 鈥�24  

The post Teaching with purpose appeared first on 91直播.

91直播 is preparing to welcome returning and new students to a campus full of updates for the fall semester.

As summer break winds down, so does a season of renovation and rejuvenation on the 91直播 campus. Keep reading to learn more about all the changes Explorers can see when they arrive on campus for the 2026-27 academic year.  

Campus Updates

In nearly every part of campus, there will be places with new looks when Explorers get back to 20^th and Olney.   

In the Union, students can enjoy a coffee from the Hideaway or catch up with friends after the summer break surrounded by freshly painted walls and pillars, proudly representing blue and gold pride. Throughout the building, updated signage will be there to help the newest Explorers find their way around.  

Whether walking to class from St. Basil Court or heading to a game at DeVincent Field from the Hansen Quad, a new pedestrian walkway allows for a safe journey in between the sports facilities on campus.   

Explorers can stroll the new Nocella Walkway between the Connelly Library and tennis courts established to honor students’ journeys to success and the long-term support of Ruth  and the late Anthony J., ’66, Nocella who established the Nocella Student Success Fund.  

New landscaping along this path is already making a big difference to the look and feel of campus and will only continue to do so as the plants grow and flourish.  

For those who drive to campus, Lots E and H situated around the and the Connelly Library, have been resurfaced, and the lines have been repainted.  

Some classes held in St. Benilde Tower will also look a bit brighter. New desks and chairs have been installed in Room 448, which has also been painted alongside the nursing simulation lab in the building.  

New housing options

This semester, the first group of Explorers will move into Chew Flats, formerly known as St. Teresa Court Apartments, after the University announced it would be leasing the residences earlier this year.  

Students living at these one- and two-bedroom apartment-style homes will have access to on-site laundry service, a shared community courtyard, and the chance to experience a new style of living.  

The Fall 2026 semester is the second in a row that La 91直播 has offered new residence options to incoming and returning students, after increased enrollment for the 2025-2026 academic year led to the renovation and reopening of St. Cassian and St. Denis in the North Halls complex.  

New programs begin

Last academic year, three new programs were announced at the University. In August, the inaugural classes of students will begin their classes for the Cosmetic Chemistry and Biotech Innovation and Enterprise Bachelor of Science Programs, and the Associate of Science in Computer Technology Program.  

-Naomi Thomas 

The post What’s new at 20th and Olney for 2026-27 appeared first on 91直播.

Kristen Casey, 鈥�05, and Jillian Mele, 鈥�05, MBA 鈥�24, have gone from being next door neighbors and sharing clothes at 91直播 to creating a new athletic apparel line, and a community, for women golfers.  

Casey had looked at a handful of schools before she visited 20^th and Olney. After one look at the campus and the Communication Department, she was sold, she said. She quickly realized she鈥檇 made the right choice.  

鈥淚 rarely went home, I just really accepted being away from home and at school,鈥� she said. Casey grew up in South Jersey around 90 minutes away from campus. 鈥淚 loved the smallness of it; you got to know everybody and be a part of the community.鈥�  

In her junior year at La 91直播, Casey鈥檚 community gained a new person, when Mele transferred to La 91直播, wanting to be near to her family after losing someone close to her.  

鈥淚t was the right place for me with the right people,鈥� Mele said. 鈥淎nd when I say that, I mean from the professors down to the friends I made there.鈥� 

A longtime friend of Mele鈥檚 was already an Explorer, and listening to her experience was one of the reasons Mele looked to La 91直播 when deciding where she would complete her education. The size of the campus and the atmosphere also contributed.  

鈥淢y best friend from high school was in her pledge class,鈥� Mele said about how she and Casey became friends. 鈥淲hen I transferred, Kristen was given no choice.鈥�  

Their friendship grew from there, and Mele and Casey were even next-door neighbors in the St. Miguel Townhouses.  

鈥淲e basically shared all of our clothes,鈥� Casey said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 know if there was really a distinction between apartments sometimes.鈥� 

After they graduated, the pairs’ careers took very different paths, but they still stayed close.  

Casey, a communication听and art history double major,听worked as a media buyer and then a personal stylist.听听

Communication听major Mele went on to have an award-winning career in first local, then national broadcast journalism.听In 2023, when she was a national news anchor, Mele decided she wanted to go back to school to earn a听Master of Business Administration. Coming back to La 91直播 was almost inevitable.听听

鈥淢y two years there really made me love it so much that when I wanted to go back to grad school a few years ago, it was one of two schools I reached out to,鈥� Mele said. 鈥淚 loved my time there and it bought me back for more.鈥�  

Mele, who was the speaker at her graduate Commencement ceremony, describes earning her MBA as the most important thing she鈥檚 ever done.  

鈥淚t was the first thing that I did for me, and it changed the trajectory of the rest of my life,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 know that sounds dramatic, but it gave me the tools that I needed to go forward and have the confidence to start the business that we鈥檙e doing right now.鈥�  

The two friends had always talked about starting something together, but none of their ideas had ever stuck until a 2024 phone call where Mele suggested golf apparel, a sport which both she and Casey play.  

鈥淲e鈥檝e always had this dream of doing something, collaborating our two skill sets and bringing something to life. When women鈥檚 golf apparel was said, that was the aha moment, that was like yes, this is it, there鈥檚 no turning back,鈥� Casey said. 鈥淲e started sketching that night and never looked back.鈥� 

From that conversation,听 was born.听听

鈥淟emonRose Golf is a women鈥檚 golf apparel brand that is very fashion forward, that is way different from anything that is out there right now, and it has a new concept that has never been done in athletic apparel,鈥� Casey said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 very feminine but functional. It has personality and it goes far beyond just the golf course.鈥�  

The new concept that Casey and Mele have incorporated in their designs are interchangeable collars for one of the tops and two of the dresses in their first collection, a design that they have a patent pending for. A mock neck or collared shirt is required to play golf, they explained, and having different collars that snap on and off means that women have several options in one.  

LemonRose Golf is more than just clothing, though. It鈥檚 also a way to create community for women in the predominantly male sport of golf, they explained, adding that they also host events where female players can network and build friendships.  

“We want to create a community and we鈥檙e already laying the foundation, where women can feel like they have a place where they belong and they鈥檝e got other women that they can either play with or talk to about their intimidations or frustrations, and overcome it together,鈥� Mele said. 鈥淪o that is kind of the other half of what we鈥檙e doing, that confidence and community portion.鈥� 
 

The pair debuted LemonRose Golf at the 2026 PGA Show, held in Orlando, Fla., in January. Although they were apprehensive about the reception, they would get at first, both were happy with how positive it was.  

鈥淲e did not know how people would respond to this concept,鈥� Mele said. 鈥淲e believed in it and we loved it, and we were floored at the PGA show how much people loved it.鈥�  

There are nearly 2,000 vendors from across the world at the show, they explained, and by the end of the first day, attendees were seeking out the LemonRose Golf booth.  

鈥淎 true pinch me moment,鈥� Casey said. 鈥淏ecause we had sleepless nights leading up to it. Like, who do we think we are? We鈥檙e taking this new concept of women鈥檚 apparel into such an established place鈥攖he PGA Show鈥攆or a sport that is predominantly male-based, who do we think we are? And we were absolutely floored by the response.鈥�  

Throughout the whole process, Mele and Casey鈥檚 friendship and support of each other has played a big part in their success. Every decision made is mutual, they explained, and they lean on each other’s strengths.  

鈥淭he way that we balance each other out with my business background now and her styling and fashion background, it鈥檚 like chef鈥檚 kiss to what we鈥檙e doing right now,鈥� Mele said.  

They also learn from each other, making sure that they鈥檙e both aware of what鈥檚 happening in every step of the process.  

鈥淲e won鈥檛 do things single-handedly here because we are such a team, but we know when to pick up the slack, we know when to take the lead,鈥� Mele said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 been a very natural, easy aspect of this that I don鈥檛 think you can plan for.鈥�  

Casey credits their background at La 91直播 as one of the contributions to this synergy.  

鈥淚 think a lot of that comes from鈥擨 guess to bring it full circle鈥攖he place where we met, the place that built us as friends, that鈥檚 why we can support each other and go through so much and have these conversations, and pick each other up when the other one needs it,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ecause we have that friendship first.鈥�  

While LemonRose Golf products started shipping in April, Casey and Mele experienced a milestone moment in January, when they attended the La 91直播 Baseball First Pitch Dinner. Wearing pieces from their first collection was an easy choice.  

鈥淚鈥檓 back in my alma mater, wearing clothing that we created, that we made, and it was like this full circle moment,鈥� Casey said about the evening. 鈥淲hen you think back to our first days, and living in St. Catherine dorms or being in the townhouses, fast forward 20 something years, if you told me in that moment I would be back at a banquet in clothing that we designed, that we created, it鈥檚 just a pinch me moment.鈥�  

Looking to the future, beyond just hoping to expand and continue releasing their apparel collections, Casey and Mele hope that LemonRose Golf continues to embrace what makes the brand special: being detail-oriented, building a community for women in golf, and hopefully being seen as a support network for their wearers.  

鈥淭he apparel, yes, it is the foundation, the first thing we鈥檙e doing, but I hope in five years LemonRose Gold is a brand that really does mean confidence and community and friendship,鈥� Mele said.  

One of those details that make the brand so special is the personalization of their pieces. Every item of LemonRose apparel is named after an important woman in Mele or Casey鈥檚 life.  

鈥淓ven down to the tiny details, we have something personal听in听everything we do.,听Eevery听decision we make has a spot in our hearts.听I feel like this brand is our hearts and the people听that have built us and made us who we are听are听all a part of it,鈥� Casey said.听鈥淚听know that鈥檚 not going to go away.鈥澨�

-Naomi Thomas

The post From campus to the golf course appeared first on 91直播.

When Will Babineau, 鈥�30, isn鈥檛 spending time with his family and friends in Ontario, Canada, he鈥檚 rowing. This summer, he鈥檚 getting ready to bring his passion to Philadelphia and 91直播.  

As one of the newest members of the Explorer men鈥檚 rowing team, Babineau is going to have the opportunity to explore the Schuylkill River from the boat in his new city, one of the things he鈥檚 most looking forward to, as well as exploring everything else that Philadelphia has to offer.  

Below, the secondary education major shared why he chose La 91直播.  

Why did you choose La 91直播?  

I chose La 91直播 because of its small class sizes and the program offerings really suited what I was looking for. 

Why did you choose your major?  

I’ve decided on secondary education. I chose this path because just like I was inspired and helped by my teachers, I would like to do the same for future students. 

What are you most excited to do here?  

I’m most excited about rowing on the Schuylkill with the La 91直播 men’s rowing team. 

How do you want to be known for more?  

I want my classmates and professors to see me as someone who comes prepared, contributes and is willing to help others when I can.  

What’s your walking to class soundtrack?  

AC/DC Thunderstruck, Queen On With the Show, and Dire Straits Money for Nothing are some of them. 

The post Meet the Class of 2030: Will Babineau, 鈥�30听 appeared first on 91直播.