From The President’s Desk
Moravian Greyhound family and friends,
As we begin another vibrant year at Moravian University, I am excited to discuss two major initiatives demonstrating our relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to holistic student development.
At the forefront of our endeavors is the launch of the School of Professional Studies and Innovation (SPSI). This innovative initiative reflects Moravian University’s enduring legacy of inclusivity and adaptability. By collaborating with leading businesses to craft curricula tailored for working adults, the school bridges the gap between academia and the dynamic requirements of today’s high-tech career landscape. It reaffirms our dedication to accessible and relevant education for all. Our programs in this school are all designed around the needs of working professionals and the application of learning to solve current problems.
Another significant milestone we celebrate is the groundbreaking of the new Haupert Union Building (HUB). Recognizing the integral role of mental and physical well-being in academic and personal success, the HUB is designed to be a sanctuary that fosters community engagement, collaborative learning, and holistic wellness. Architecturally conceived as a nucleus for student wellness, this facility addresses the pressing need for soft-space meeting areas for students, faculty, and staff. This initiative is a bold step toward nurturing an environment where every community member can thrive.
Beyond these exciting developments, this issue of the magazine is brimming with inspiring stories of Moravian students and alumni making impactful contributions to environmental sustainability. Notably, alumnus Brian Reckenbeil’s pioneering work in cultivating corals that thrive in warmer oceans offers a beacon of hope in restoring declining coral reefs. In another inspiring endeavor, Natasha Woods, with a significant grant of $503,000, collaborates with students in vital research for preserving barrier islands crucial to our coastlines’ protection. Moreover, Sarabeth Brockley’s consultancy with corporations on carbon capture initiatives showcases our commitment to combating climate change.
Each article in this edition is a piece of the mosaic of our university’s mission—to empower individuals to make meaningful contributions to solving the problems of our world. As you delve into these pages, I invite you to reflect on the legacy of Moravian University and the bright future we are building together.
President Bryon L. Grigsby ’90, P’22, P’26
Features
Sarabeth Brockley ’10 serves one of the most ambitious and critical goals of our century—achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050—and she’s using financial markets to help get us there.
How ecology instructor Natasha Woods’s research on island plants may help our shores weather storms.
Brian Reckenbeil ’09 is committed to the restoration of Florida’s declining coral reef, a biological masterpiece that supports more than 6,000 marine species, protects the state’s coastline, and underlies important sectors of the economy.
View Finder
Photographer Rob Cardillo captures star of Bethlehem blooming on South Campus.
The HUB
News & Notes
The School of Professional Studies and Innovation serves working adults in their careers.
News & Notes
Proud Awarded $888,044 NSF Grant
Cheung Selected for Prestigious Program
Doctor of Education in Transformational Leadership Launches July 1, 2024
Moravian University and Penn State Abington Partner in New Program
Students Learn about Public History and Gain Podcast Skills
More Accolades for Nursing Program
Moravian Takes the Stage at Climate Conference
Seminaries to Launch Joint Curriculum in Fall 2024
Community
An Alum Reflects
For Jessica Buttner ’19, attending the United Nations Climate Change Conference made all the difference.
Moravian Moment
Years ago, all students and faculty celebrated Founder’s Day at a rock formation high above Bethlehem.
Faculty Focus
A Conversation with Sara McClelland
The assistant professor of biology talks about wildlife, research, and teaching.
Student Spotlight
Though set on her pre-med track, Ayleen Mexquititla ’25 explores every opportunity available to her.
Brilliance
Creators
Caitlin Campbell ’13 may serve junior rangers as an interpretation engagement coordinator for the National Park Service, but her award-winning work is superior.
Thinkpiece
Higher education can inspire students to take action and address the challenges faced by the world and outlined in the United Nations Sustainabie Development Goals.
Bookshelf
Violence Never Heals: The Lifelong Effects of Intimate Partner Violence for Immigrant Women
By Allison Bloom, assistant professor of anthropology
The Psychology Major’s Companion: Everything You Need to Know to Get Where You Want to Go, 3rd edition
By Dana S. Dunn, professor of psychology, and Jane Halonen
Alumni
Alumni Stories
A Shark Tale
Maria Manz ’18
Researching Contaminants in Water
Katie Mayer ’20
Woman Behind the Millions
Jessica Foran Weaver ’10
In Memoriam
The Rt. Rev. C. Hopeton Clennon (March 25, 1960–January 7, 2024), Chaplain of Moravian College and Theological Seminary, 2009–2013
A Maine Life
“My first few summers here, bats were everywhere. As I was fishing on the nearby lake at night with ultralight tackle that bat sonar couldn’t detect, they kept flying into my line. When a bat hit my hat, I decided to let them enjoy the night without me. But as of five years ago, no more bats. Where there had been thousands squeaking through the summer nights, no more. A virus virtually decimated the population, and only mosquitos cheered.”
—Ron DePaolo ’64
Class Notes
1964
Arthur Grim retired five years ago as a judge in Berks County, Pennsylvania, as well as chair of the Pennsylvania Juvenile Court Commission, where he spent a few years consulting nationally and internationally on juvenile justice issues and reform.
1977
Bruce Weaknecht retired in June 2023 after serving 42 years as a Moravian pastor and 20 years at the Egg Harbor City Moravian congregation in New Jersey. He and his wife moved back to Pennsylvania and are enjoying their grandchildren.
2016
Timothy McCabe and Alyssa Giuliana ’20 were married on November 10, 2023, in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania.
After the life of Norah Bruther ’20 was tragically cut short, her family established a scholarship that is lighting the way for another student’s future.
Byrnese Craig S’25 looks forward to enjoying rest, restoration, and growth in the new HUB.
Get to Know Our Lighting the Way Subcommittee Chairs
Mary Kate Turowski Andris, EdD ’96
Chair
Anna Nitschmann Society Subcommittee
Jeffrey Studds P’17
Co-Chair
Zinzendorf Family Fellows Subcommittee
Danielle Grayuski P’17, P’19, P’21
Co-Chair
Zinzendorf Family Fellows Subcommittee
Flip-book Versions
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
Celebrating Excellence
- Nokukhanya Langa ’13 earns global acclaim
- Student composers score a win
- Alumni receive Shining Lights awards
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