A new academic year brings with it all the wonderful stories that emerge from our vibrant community — stories that reflect our deep-rooted commitment to a culture of care and continuous pursuit of collaboration. This commitment defines who we are and guides the work we do every day at ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥. Our ability to support and care for each student is one reason why ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ welcomed another near-record class of over 520 first-year and transfer students in August. When you are here, you feel it.
In this edition of ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ Magazine, you’ll read about several initiatives that embody our Franciscan mission and reinforce our dedication to supporting one another, such as our Career Closet. Born from a successful winter clothing drive, this new year-round resource ensures our students can access professional attire for interviews, internships and jobs.
Another feature explores how we’re leveraging partnerships and unique collaborations to benefit the health and safety of our campus community. The incredible work being done through our Penn Medicine — ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ Medical & Counseling Center has dramatically expanded the physical and mental health services available to our students and staff, offering care that is accessible and compassionate. Over the past year, the center has tallied thousands of visits, ensuring our community members have the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Our commitment to collaboration is brought to life by the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and the Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement. These Institutes of Excellence have evolved to offer innovative experiential learning opportunities that uniquely prepare our O’Pake Fellows and Holleran Corps leaders for professional success while benefiting our community partners.
These stories are more than just examples of our university’s initiatives; they are testimonies to the power of a community united by our shared and distinctly Franciscan mission. We believe in the transformative power of care — care for one another, care for our students and care for our community. This culture of care allows us to collaborate effectively, innovate continuously, and, most importantly, uplift every member of our extended ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ community.
As we look to the future, I am confident our commitment to these values will continue to drive us forward, ensuring that ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ remains a place where students, faculty and alumni alike can grow, succeed and contribute to the greater good.
Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Your support and dedication help to sustain the spirit of care and collaboration that defines ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥.
Sincerely,
Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.
President
