Alvernia University Alumni

Thank you to our alumni,
students and families who joined us last night at the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. A beautiful night for a game and fireworks.

Alvernia University mourns the loss of Polly Mathys, a beloved educator, mentor, devoted supporter of Alvernia Athletics and the arts, and faithful steward of our Franciscan values 🔗 https://www.alvernia.edu/news/2026/07/remembering-polly-mathys

For thirty-four years, Polly dedicated her life to Alvernia and to the success of our students. Serving as an assistant professor of Computer Information Systems from 1986 to 2020 and later as Learning Coordinator in the Academic Success Center, she helped shape the academic and personal journeys of countless students.

Polly's impact also reached far beyond the classroom. Polly leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service to our broader community. As the founder of Alvernia's Turkey Drive, she inspired a tradition that has provided Thanksgiving meals to thousands of local families over three decades. She was also the inspiration behind Angels in the Attic, which has grown into Clare’s Cupboard and continues to feed the campus community. Additionally, through Alvernia's Alternative Break program, she found joy in serving others shoulder to shoulder with students, once reflecting that what she treasured most was "how we all take care of each other." For her dedication to service, she was honored with a Legacy Award.

Her love for Alvernia Athletics became one of the hallmarks of her time at the university. What began with an invitation to a basketball game in 1993 grew into decades of enthusiastic support for student-athletes. Polly also served as the Faculty Athletics Representative. In recognition of her extraordinary commitment to the Golden Wolves, she was named the inaugural recipient of the Friends of Alvernia Athletics Award in 2022. Even while facing her own journey with cancer, Polly continued to inspire those around her through her resilience, optimism, and unwavering commitment to others. In 2019, she was recognized as the honorary captain of the men's soccer team's annual Kicks Against Cancer match, a fitting tribute to her courage and the many lives she touched.

The family will be holding a Celebration of Life because Polly did not want a funeral—she wanted a party. In that spirit, those who knew and loved her are invited to gather in festive and loving remembrance, sharing stories, laughter, memories, and gratitude for a life well lived. Details will be posted along with opportunities to share your memories 🔗 https://www.forevermissed.com/polly-mathys/about

White coats, big dreams & a historical milestone.

Alvernia's inaugural Physician Associate class officially donned their white coats, marking their commitment to compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care.

Rooted in our Franciscan values, these 20 PAs will lead with knowledge joined with love, service, and purpose in their careers. May God bless them on their journeys.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! 🩺

Learn more about Alvernia's Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate tracks: https://www.alvernia.edu/academics/undergraduate-major/physician-associate-program-bio-pa-32-accelerated-track

Join us for this year's Invest in Yourself Leadership Summit on September 11th. We are going back to Berks Nature. The event is open to everyone who would like to attend. Check out more information and register at https://www.alvernia.edu/womens-council

We’re so close to our goal! 🙌
Through the All In for Alvernia Campaign, the Hope Fund fuels scholarships, essential resources, and critical services that help students overcome challenges and stay on track toward graduation. 100% of donations go directly to students.

Here’s the best part: no gift is too small, every dollar matters, and your gift goes TWICE as far right now thanks to a $40,000 dollar-for-dollar match! 💥

We’re almost there, but we can’t cross the finish line without you.
Give now and help us reach our goal because hope starts with you. https://www.givecampus.com/s/ozwebg

🎢🍫 HERSHEY PARK CHALLENGE 🍫🎢
We’re All In for Alvernia and this challenge is sweeter than ever ❤️💛
From 11:00 AM–6:00 PM, make a gift during our Hershey Park Challenge of $50 or more and you’ll be entered to win 4 tickets to Hershey Park!
Support our students and treat yourself to some fun! https://www.givecampus.com/s/ozwebg