Recognized for Excellence: How Valparaiso University is Getting National Attention

Chapel Graduation

September 18 , 2023– Valparaiso University is dedicated to creating a first-class college experience, and that dedication has garnered the attention of publications, national reviewers and state representatives. The University prides itself on its exceptional courses, facilities and expert faculty members and is proud to be recognized for its efforts. “The recognition bestowed upon Valparaiso University […]

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A Way Station of Wonder, A Haven of Hope | The Chapel

Valparaiso University Chapel of the Resurrection.

Before coming to Valpo, the words “In Luce Tua Videmus Lucem” most likely would have been lost in translation – literally – for those of us who don’t speak Latin (so…most of us). Since coming to Valpo, however, you may now know those words to mean “In Thy Light We See Light.” For the curious among us, […]

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Grounded in Community, We Radiate Resilience | The Story of Braulio Alcala ’23

Braulio Alcala '23

Braulio Alcala’s ’23 journey to Valpo was nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up in California, Braulio balanced his role as an advocate for his family, whose primary language was Spanish, while overcoming personal and academic obstacles. His determination to become a nurse grew from these early experiences. “I’ve always liked being an advocate,” Braulio shared. […]

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Discovering Home: Laëtitia Raoult’s ’27 4,000-Mile Journey to Valpo

Valparaiso University international student-athlete Laëtitia Raoult '27 posing with a French flag.

Valpo student-athlete Laëtitia Raoult ’27 may not have begun her college journey at Valpo — or even in the United States — but she’s always been a Beacon at heart. Her experience both as a transfer and international student serves as a telltale testament to resilience and admirable humility, drawn from her home in Guingamp, […]

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Valparaiso University Joins “Dream Big” Collaboration on Undergraduate Satellite Project

Valparaiso University’s College of Engineering has joined five other Universities in the region in NearSpace Education’s Dream Big Program. NearSpace Education is an Indiana-based nonprofit whose stated mission is to “inspire, equip, and impact the next generation of STEM students through innovative educational programs.” The project will also involve close collaboration with both other departments […]

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Where Faith Meets Passion | Ashley Velasquez ’25 Finds Her Calling in Bioengineering

Valparaiso University bionengineering student Ashley Velasquez '25 smiles in professional attire.

Since middle school, Ashley Velasquez ’25 has always planned on becoming a nurse. By sixteen years old, she was gaining experience as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), and finding a top-tier nursing program was at the top of her post-high school to-do list. Once she was finally kicking off her freshman year in Valpo’s College […]

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Grounded in Purpose, Sam Gountounas ’25 Dreams of Radiating Compassion in Pediatric Nursing

Valparaiso University nursing student-athlete Sam Gountounas '25 smiles in brown and gold soccer gear.

For senior nursing student Sam Gountounas ’25, compassion and care will always go hand-in-hand — in the classroom, on the soccer field, and when caring for every patient. Grounded in the values of our nationally ranked College of Nursing and Health Professions, Sam plans to use her bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to fulfill […]

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A Wonderful Mind Leading to Stellar Opportunities | Lane Scheel’s Journey of Discovery

Valparaiso University physics and mathematics student Lane Scheel '25 smiles in professional attire.

A first-generation college student from rural Wisconsin, Lane sought a place where he could grow academically and personally. “I knew I didn’t want a huge state school experience. Valpo had that smaller, more personal feel I was looking for,” he shares. After visiting the campus, Lane fell in love with the University’s supportive atmosphere and […]

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A Beacon’s Reflection | Yingxin (Grace) Zhang ’25

Valparaiso University business student Yingxin (Grace) Zhang ’25 stands in front of the Chapel of the Resurrection, smiling while holding up a medal.

When I first arrived in America, I was a forty-year-old college freshman, a military spouse, and an immigrant from Changchun, China. Adjusting to a new culture wasn’t easy. Not being able to work, I found purpose through volunteer work with the American Red Cross and a local church. Every day, I would ride my bike […]

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Emma Hickey ’26 Serves Joy and Teamwork as a Student-Athlete

Valparaiso University student-athlete Emma Hickey '26 celebrating with her team after a volleyball match.

For junior Emma Hickey ’26, being part of a team is as natural as going in for the dig. Hailing from a long line of family players and coaches, Emma has played volleyball since she was in grade school. Her skill as a libero, love for the sport, and desire to uplift others led Emma […]

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