Alumni Archives - Page 4 of 17

Valparaiso University Appoints Inaugural Richard C. and Francelia A. Gozon University Chair

Posted on September 22, 2020 (August 1, 2024) by kknoerze

Valparaiso University announces that Michael C. Chikeleze, Ph.D., has joined its faculty as the Richard C. and Francelia A. Gozon University Chair in Values-Based Leadership. Chikeleze, a leadership scholar, professional and educator, has a distinguished background in teaching, developing partnerships and collaborating with broad audiences about the role of leadership education within higher education. The […]

Electrical Engineer Kallie Lyon ’20 Discovers Her Path Forward

Posted on August 3, 2024 (August 1, 2024) by jembry

allie Lyon ’20 smiling while wearing Commencement regalia and holding her diploma.

Very rarely does a person know who they are and who they want to be when they’re 18 years old. No matter the destination, the road to self-discovery often involves speed bumps and U-turns — a sentiment shared by many college students as they look to the future. It’s a journey that electrical engineer Kallie […]

Outcomes in Action: Daniel Owens ’23

Posted on June 24, 2024 (July 30, 2024) by jembry

alumnus Daniel Owens '23 speaking to an audience out of frame during the TEDxValparaisoUniversity conference.

When alumnus Daniel Owens ’23 thinks back to his childhood career dreams, there’s quite a few that come to mind: chef, movie star, musician, and professional soccer player (running not included). While Dan cultivated each of those passions during his time at Valpo — and has continued to do so every day since — it […]

Outcomes in Action: Anthony Luciano ’22 Illuminates Pathways for Future Beacons

Posted on July 13, 2024 (July 16, 2024) by jembry

Alumnus Anthony Luciano '22 standing in front of the Christopher Center Library.

In the welcoming and supportive atmosphere of Valpo, accounting and finance double-major Anthony Luciano ’22 found his journey beginning with an innate sense of belonging. “When I came to Valpo, there was an inclusive, friendly environment that made me feel welcomed,” he recalls. Although Anthony grew up Catholic, Valpo’s inclusive ethos extended beyond the spiritual, […]

A Balanced Life Leading to Bright Outcomes for Nadia Paul ’25 DNP, MSN, ACNP-BC, FHM

Posted on July 22, 2024 (July 16, 2024) by jembry

Nadia Paul ’25 DNP, MSN, ACNP-BC, FHM, smiling while wearing professional attire.

Nadia Paul’s ’25 DNP, MSN, ACNP-BC, FHM, journey to Valparaiso University’s doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program began unexpectedly. “I was interviewing a candidate for a nurse practitioner position, and I noticed she had graduated from Valpo’s bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to DNP program. She was very prepared both clinically and professionally,” Nadia […]

Our Light is for Everyone

Posted on June 20, 2024 (June 20, 2024) by jembry

Sarah Rasing, M.Ed., smiling at the camera in professional attire.

At Valpo, we are proud to say our light is for everyone. But what does that mean in today’s cultural context? It means that as Beacons, we are called to reflect God’s light. Grounded in humility and compassion, we lead our communities through advocacy and service, helping to bring a brighter future for all into […]

Want to Become a Physician Assistant? This Valpo Alumna Has Some Advice

Posted on December 11, 2023 (June 6, 2024) by jembry

Valpo alumna Anatascia Mesina ‘18, ‘20 at work as a physician assistant in general surgery.

Considering a career as a physician assistant? We know just the person to help light the way. Anastacia Mesina ’18, ’20, knew she wanted to go into the medical field since she was in high school. Her family served as her inspiration with her grandfather working as a family medicine doctor and her mother working […]

Women Can, Too: The Story of Jeanette Gray

Posted on March 26, 2024 (June 6, 2024) by jembry

If you spend any amount of time with Jeanette Gray ’03, ’09 M.Ed., you’ll walk away feeling inspired to dream bigger than you thought imaginable and ready to chase after your lifelong goals. Life after Valpo has been nothing short of remarkable for Jeanette, a mechanical engineering major and student-athlete who helped lead her team […]

Game, Set, Match: Olivia Czerwonka ’23, ’26 DNP, Aces Leadership and Sisterhood In Valpo Tennis

Posted on April 15, 2024 (June 6, 2024) by jembry

Olivia Czerwonka '23, '26 DNP, embracing her sister and doubles partner, Claire Czerwonka '21, '24 DNP, on Valpo's tennis court after a match.

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to win a championship with your best friend? For Olivia Czerwonka ’23, ’26 DNP, that dream is a reality. As one of Valpo’s most successful tennis players in history, Olivia currently holds both of the program’s singles and doubles records, has previously been named Missouri Valley […]

A Calling Made Clear in the Capital

Posted on April 18, 2024 (June 6, 2024) by jembry

Kayla Smith '24 smiling in front of a government building in Washington, D.C.

From her hometown of Lake Station, Indiana, to the halls of Valparaiso University, to the bustling streets of Washington D.C., Kayla Smith’s ’24 journey is one of discovery, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her dreams. “I’ve always wanted to help people who are in need, so I thought criminal justice would be the perfect route. […]