From The President’s Desk
Moravian Greyhound family and friends,
As many socially connected Hounds know, Moravian University is now part of a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prestigious recognition not only honors our rich history but also underscores our commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of education that has been a cornerstone of our institution since its founding. We are now one of two universities in the United States and one of eight worldwide to have this designation. This issue of Moravian University Magazine beautifully captures the spirit of Moravian education, one of the reasons for this prestigious and celebrated designation.
Our cover story delves into the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. Moravian is pioneering this cutting-edge technology to enhance learning experiences, foster innovation, and prepare our students for transformative leadership in a world of change. AI integration into our curriculum is a testament to our dedication to providing a forward-thinking and practical education.
In addition, we are proud to highlight the Black and Latino College Readiness Program in its second year. The program is the first high school–to–college initiative of this kind in the Lehigh Valley and provides Black and Latino males entering grades 10, 11, and 12 with a comprehensive experience to learn about the college search process. It embodies our mission to offer education for all, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
We also celebrate the achievements of teachers, such as Wendy Elvin-Thomas, who has joined the first cohort of our Doctor of Education in Transformational Leadership program. The EdD degree program is designed to support the forward-thinking scholar-practitioner by providing the tools to thrive in today’s educational setting and cultivating inclusive systems geared toward the future of learning.
As we continue to build on our legacy and welcome the largest class of Greyhounds in Moravian history, I am grateful for our community’s unwavering support. Your contributions and engagement are vital to our success, and I look forward to the many ways we will continue to grow and innovate together.
Hound ’em,
President Bryon L. Grigsby ’90, P’22, P’26
Features
Evolving the Educational Landscape at Moravian
Committed to advancing teaching and learning, Moravian University is exploring the applications of generative AI across disciplines.
Educator Wendy Elvin-Thomas uses a stakeholder approach to champion an equitable education for all children.
Moravian University’s Black and Latino Male College Readiness Program of the Lehigh Valley prepares high school students for success in higher education and beyond.
View Finder
Photographer Nick Chismar ’20 captured a Moravian University student offering assistance in a classroom at Bethlehem’s Thomas Jefferson Elementary School during Heritage Day 2024, Moravian’s celebration of volunteerism.
The HUB
News & Notes
Moravian’s Incoming Class Beats Last Year’s Record
Biology Professor Awarded $500,846 Grant
Department of Eduction Receives Funding for Special Initiative
Moravian, Bethlehem Area School District, and CITYarts Collaborate on Peace Mural
Bethlehem and Sister City in Japan Celebrate 60 Years
Video Featuring Black and Latino Male College Readiness Program Is Nominated for an Emmy
Community
An Alum Reflects
Around the World in Seven Years
Tom Turcich ’11 reflects on his journey across six continents and shares an excerpt from his new book.
Moravian Moment
John Amos Comenius’s philosopy continues to serve as the foundation of a Moravian University education.
Faculty Focus
The associate professor of religion shares his experience as a fellow in the National Committee on United States–China Relations Public Intellectuals Program (PIP).
Student Spotlight
Music and Cutting-Edge Cancer Research
Biology and music composition double major Hailey Belverio ’25 pursues dual passions on her way to becoming an MD/PhD.
Brilliance
Creators
Two students preserve the legacy of the Hollywood Saxophone Quartet.
Bookshelf
Womb Work: Healing Narratives as Reparative Praxis in Black Women’s Literature
By Belinda Waller-Peterson, associate professor of English and associate dean for equity and inclusion
Stone Creek
A novel by Kate Brandes, professor of practice for environmental studies and sciences
Gloria Guardia (Panama): Critical Approaches (Essential Central American Writers Series, Volume 3)
By Nilsa Lasso-von Lang, associate professor of Spanish and assistant director of multicultural enrollment
Alumni
Alumni
Jesse McHugh ’14 has overseen the publication of more than 600 books, including The World Walk by fellow alum Tom Turcich ’11.
Alumni
Sara Kaskowitz ’14, a resident physician and fellow with Atlantic Sports Health System, is a member of the team of physicians that serve the New York Jets.
IN MEMORIAM
President Grigsby and First Lady Lea Grigsby share their farewell to beloved greyhound and university mascot Mo.
Class Notes
1957
Roland Passaro married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Hall. Both are 88. They reconnected at their high school’s 50th class reunion. You can read their story in People magazine.
1982
Susan Kressly is currently serving as president-elect of the American Academy of Pediatrics and will assume the presidency in January of 2025.
2018
Bryan P. Cleary has joined the law firm Goodell DeVries as an associate
in the firm’s Medical Malpractice Practice Group.
The journey of first-generation student Donald G. Musselman ’68 at Moravian
Honnie Spencer, MD ’90 attended Moravian on scholarship and knows that the kindness she received changed her life.
Get to Know Our Lighting the Way Subcommittee Chairs
Mrs. Evelyn Trodahl Chynoweth ’68
Chair
Comenius Society Subcommittee
Flip-book Versions
The Future of Education
- Artificial Intelligence
- Black and Latino College Readiness
- Teachers as Transformational Leaders
DIGITAL ONLY
The great outdoors
- Nature’s healing powers
- A photo essay: Close-ups of Moravian’s natural wonders
Working for the earth
- Cutting greenhouse gases
- Protecting coastlines
- Preserving biodiversity
The Food Issue
- Heat up your cooking skills
- Follow our food trail
- Try these wines, ciders, and beers
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