Winter 2025

Winter 2025 Issue
Fueling Motivation and Inspiration

Immaculata Alumni Collaborate on Beloved Classic in Community Theater Production

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

In the rush of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the countless people and moments that have the power to inspire and motivate us. I know I often feel this way myself. Yet, when we take the time to pause and notice, we find stories that are energizing and uplifting. This issue of Immaculata Magazine highlights some of these remarkable stories from our campus community and beyond.
In the world of academia, the ultimate milestone is earning a degree. But behind every diploma is a journey of perseverance, growth and hope. If you ever worry about the future, just look to our graduates—they each carry an inspiring story that reflects the promise of the next generation of leaders.

Dr. Lisa Bailey-Davis ’00 exemplifies the power of purpose through her tireless work to combat obesity and food inequality in underserved, rural populations. Susan Sackett Kratzinger ’68 offers a shining example of resilience through her inspiring recovery from a serious car accident. And Senior De-Sean Hubert shows us the transformative power of motivation and determination with his decision to redefine his academic path—a story that will resonate with any student seeking a fresh start.

I invite you to take the time to listen to the stories, learn from their experiences and draw strength from their journeys. And when you’re ready, come back to your alma mater to reconnect, recharge and be motivated by the vibrant spirit of the Immaculata community.

Barbara Lettiere ’72

Class Notes

See what Immaculata alumni have been up to with class notes, marriages and births, and death notices for alumni and family members.

IU Word Search

How good are your eyes? Find the Immaculata words hidden in this grid of letters.

What’s New at IU

Stay informed about campus updates, from renovations and events to student achievements and awards. Plus, meet the new faces and bid farewell to those moving on.

Thor Edmiston’s Competitive Edge: A Tale of Competition, Camaraderie and Success

Thriving in an Immaculata Ed.D. cohort with his friend and co-worker, Thor Edmiston earned his doctorate and became a superintendent. He credits the University’s internal processes and cohort model for ensuring students’ success. He now encourages others to consider Immaculata for their advanced degrees.

An IU Alum’s Remarkable Story of Faith in the Face of Crisis

After a near-fatal car accident in 2024, Susan Sackett Kratzinger’s unwavering faith and the support of her family helped her recover and embrace a new chapter in life. A proud Immaculata alumna, she continues to live out and pay forward the lessons that have shaped her life.

A Journey to Academic Success

Read how De-Sean Hubert ’26, found academic success, confidence and a sense of belonging after switching his major. His grades improved and he was awarded the Commonwealth Good Citizen Scholarship from the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania.

Alumni Association Celebrates 100 Years

The Immaculata University Alumni Association is celebrating 100 years of service and dedication to its over 21,000 members.

The Immaculata Effect: How a Close-Knit Community Shaped a Leader

Jacqueline Vasinda’s ’06 describes her transition from a large public high school to the close-knit supportive environment of Immaculata University.

From Mother to Daughters: The Arata Family’s Enduring Connection to Immaculata

For Ruth Arata ’82, Maureen Arata ’15, and Theresa Arata ’24, Immaculata University is a place where community and belonging run deep. Each experienced the University’s powerful sense of belonging, discovering a place where they truly felt at home.

From Classroom to Crisis: Equipping Students for Real-World Disasters

Immaculata University’s B.S. in Emergency Planning and Management program, led by George Schwartz ’17 Ed.D., prepares students to tackle the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters by emphasizing planning, leadership and hands-on experience, equipping future emergency responders with the skills to effectively handle crises.