Summer 2024 Issue
Progress and Growth
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
What do growth and progress really mean? In tangible form, they can be seen in all of the campus construction happening this summer, such as the addition of dormitory space in Villa Maria East and renovations to the Nazareth Dining Hall. However, much of the growth and progress we celebrate comes from things you cannot see, feel or touch.
As you read the articles in the summer 2024 Immaculata Magazine, you will find evidence of our collective growth and progress across campus. From our historic, first-ever women’s varsity flag football team to changes in the way we reach prospective students, Immaculata’s evolution is quite evident. Be sure to read the reflection from our recently graduated senior class president, where she discusses the growth she witnessed in her four years on campus. Learn how Immaculata is embracing artificial intelligence for students and staff. Understand more about why we forge strong partnerships with diverse businesses and organizations to foster experiential learning opportunities that lead to real-world outcomes. And gain insight into our approach to providing holistic learning support and wellness services to our students.
As Immaculata constantly evolves to meet the needs of today’s students, it is great to see how this progress is directly linked to enrollment and retention rates. I would like to extend an invitation for you to experience firsthand the remarkable growth and progress that has defined our institution in recent years. Come to campus to witness the tangible and intangible evidence of our progress and growth. You will be inspired.
Barbara Lettiere ’72
Building the Future: Campus Renovations
Immaculata is renovating various areas on campus this summer to accommodate more students, modernize facilities and conserve energy.
Read MoreArtificial Intelligence: The Future is Now
With the proliferation of AI tools, Immaculata has a responsibility to provide AI-focused skills essential to the evolving work environment. Even though students and educators are just beginning to understand the implications and complexities of AI, there is no doubt both groups are using it or plan to use it. As such, Immaculata is educating students, faculty and staff on the ethical and moral issues surrounding AI and is guiding them on how to use the tools effectively.
Read MoreFrom Stress to Success: Inside Immaculata’s Student Support Services
With help from Immaculata’s learning support and counseling services, students are managing stress, building their strengths and making remarkable progress.
Read MoreThe Power of Partnerships: How Immaculata’s Alliances Elevate Student Potential
Immaculata is expanding partnerships with numerous organizations to offer students experiential learning, tuition discounts, industry-informed coursework, clinical training and pathways to graduate programs.
Read MoreImmaculata University Marks Historic Milestone with 100th Graduating Class
The campus community celebrated the 540 graduates of the 100th class with an outdoor ceremony and inspirational comments by Fox-29’s feature reporter, Bob Kelly.
Read MoreQ&A with Kaleigh Dugan, Senior Class President
Senior Class President Kaleigh Dugan reflects on her time at Immaculata, the growth she has seen on campus and the ways she and other student leaders have contributed to the University’s progress.
Read MoreWhat’s New at IU: Summer 2024
This recurring section explores the projects, events, accolades and current news to keep readers up to date on what’s happening at Immaculata.
Read MoreFashion Trends Through the Years at Immaculata
Members of the IU community from the 1960s to the present shared memories and photos of fashion through the years—the dress code, gym uniforms, outfits for special occasions, trendy brands and how special it was to get ready for a night out together.
Read MorePutting College Within Reach Through Scholarships
As the oldest of 12, Mary Lou Kramer ’70 knew college was not an option without financial support. But when Immaculata offered her a full scholarship, she enjoyed a transformative education and felt empowered to pursue a law career. Now she offers other IU students the same opportunities she had.
Read MoreReaching Future Mighty Macs through Innovative, Tech-Savvy Strategies
Steven M. Kendus, vice president for communications and marketing, explains how Immaculata attracts and engages right-fit prospective students.
Read MoreRare Skills Led Amethyst Award Winner to Historic Naval Command Role
Patricia Cerchio ’79 became a trailblazing leader in the Navy as the first woman to command a submarine-centric unit. For her skillful leadership and advocacy for veterans and military members, she is this year’s recipient of the Amethyst Award.
Read MoreAlumni Medal Winner Shines in Volunteerism and Campus Support
Patricia Crea LaRocco ’71, M.D. is the recipient of the 2024 Alumni Medal. Discover the ways that she provided outstanding volunteer service and support to Immaculata University.
Read MoreStaying Connected: Immaculata University Reunion 2024
The Class of 1974 became Golden Macs as classmates returned to IU for their 50th reunion. Alumni from across 13 states converged on campus for this year’s festivities.
Read MoreHow Mother Camilla Award Winner Revolutionized Palliative Care
The Mother Camilla Maloney Award is being presented to Patricia Bomba ’72, M.D., F.C.C.P., M.A.C.P. for her dedication to the field of geriatrics and palliative care. As a recipient of a full scholarship to attend Immaculata, she continually shows the importance of giving back to her alma mater.
Read MoreScientia Floret Virtute Award Winner’s Educational Impact
With all her education, skills and service experience, Divida (Dia) Veneziano Kitchengs ’18 hopes to continue to learn and grow in new ways to be the best teacher she can be.
Read MoreClass Notes
See what Immaculata alumni have been up to with class notes, marriages and births, and death notices for alumni and family members.
Read MoreSupporting Immaculata’s Growth and Progress into the Future
Alumna Kathleen James ’74 provides ample reasons why she continues to support Immaculata—one reason involves a beloved IHM Sister who taught English.
Read MoreFarewell & In Memoriam
Celebrating faculty members who have retired and honoring those who have served Immaculata University.
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