As a high school student in south central China, Jiangxia (Renee) Liu, Ph.D., anticipated the opportunity to continue her education in the United States. That dream came true, and as she wraps up her first year as an associate professor of accounting, she is eager to help students with similar ambitions further their studies here […]
Category: Student Spotlight
Intersecting Passions: Kelsey Larson ’15 explores classroom and community, science and art.
As she sits alone in Valpo’s art studio, Kelsey Larson ’15 focuses intently on the project at hand, blocking out any other distractions or obligations. Working diligently, she begins to craft a piece that would later serve two purposes — provide enjoyment for Bauer Museum patrons and feed the hungry. In the spring, Valpo ceramics […]
Defining Experiences: Leandro Jaime ’16 uncovers “The Power of &” at Valpo
First-generation student and fearless leader; a head for business and a heart for community; fraternity brother and focused communicator; mentee and mentor; embracing diversity and empowering others; inspired and inspiring. Already exhibiting a myriad of defining traits, Leandro Jaime ’16 is just beginning the journey to realizing his potential. Valpo students are not defined by […]
Run at the Top: The Crusaders’ Success Under Bryce Drew
May 17, 2011. That was the day Homer Drew announced that his 22nd season as head coach of the Valparaiso men’s basketball program had been his final season at the helm. After a brief intermission, Homer’s son, Bryce Drew, was introduced as the 21st head coach in program history. During his remarks, Bryce Drew jokingly thanked his dad […]
Making Miracles: Fourth Annual Dance Marathon Strives to Change Lives
Their mission is simple: to dance for those who can’t. For the fourth year in a row, Valpo Dance Marathon continues to evolve and become a fixture at Valparaiso University as one of the largest University-wide philanthropy events. On Saturday, April 9, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., students from across Valpo’s campus will have […]
Embracing Opportunities: Katie Merkling ’16 finds community in Valpo’s math and science education program.
Water boils over the stove at an old off-campus home awaiting uncooked noodles. A kitchen timer beeps, and giggles erupt from the kitchen table where five girls are sharing stories after a full day of student teaching. This is ritual for senior secondary education and mathematics student Kathryn “Katie” Merkling, who shares a home with […]
Driven to Succeed: Ashita Bhatnagar ’18 Finds Inspiration at Valpo
Traveling more than 8,000 miles, Ashita Bhatnagar ’18 arrived at Valparaiso University two years ago sight unseen to embark on what has proven to be a journey full of challenges and growth both academically and personally. Not one to sit idle, Ashita has immersed herself in the community both inside and outside the classroom, combining […]
Discovering Purpose Through Leadership, Musicianship, and Scholarship
At Valpo, Emily Robinson ’17 has blossomed in countless ways — as a leader, collaborator, scholar, educator, musician, and motivator. Even though Emily may not know exactly where she’ll be after graduation, she is confident Valpo has prepared her for whatever career path she may choose. From St. Louis, Emily toured more than 20 schools […]
Man of Influence: Using Music to Transform Community
Growing up in West Englewood, on Chicago’s South Side, Andre Daniels ’08 was surrounded by violence, poverty, and drug abuse, with nearly every one of his friends engaged in some type of negative activity. Music became his refuge at an early age. He began rapping at 13 and has been perfecting his craft ever since. […]
Transcending the Competition: Kyle Dunn Drills His Way to the Top on the Court and In the Classroom
Tennis balls fly back and forth across the net as young men run in zig-zag patterns to thwart their opponents hard driving serves. Tennis at Division I schools is a blur of intense and concentrated movement. At Valpo, it’s especially engaging as a Horizon League Championship winning team includes Senior Tennis Team Captain, Kyle Dunn […]