The Alvernian

First Time Visitor to the GoggleWorks

Braden Livingston Contributing Editor

The GoggleWorks is a hub for all forms of art in the city of Reading. The Goggleworks showcases art from many different media including both physical media like paintings and photography, as well as performance media such as cinema and dance.

Inside the primary building are many exhibits that cycle through the works of various artists, showcasing a collection of their work in a beautifully organized showcase. There are usually multiple things going on that anyone can come and look at for free. While you’re on the first floor, you can also stop by the Boscov Theater to watch independent films on the big screen while enjoying some popcorn.

The GoggleWorks displays art but also works through programming to create more art. Goggleworks provides

local support and classes to help teach everyone, young and old, new ways to express themselves through different mediums of art.

While I spent the last three years in Reading for school, I never spent the time to go and visit the Goggleworks until this year. I came with a few friends who were also new to the GoggleWorks and were interested in seeing all the different art exhibitions. The kindness of the staff is the first thing many people notice. It was clear that they all enjoyed what they were doing and had a genuine passion for art.

The first floor featured two major exhibits when we were there. The Stephanie Rado Taormina: Time & Transformation exhibition, which was full of work from the artist over the last two decades.

In the room over was

the Brandon Clay Smith: Convulsive Motion exhibition. Smith’s work is inspired by the description of Frankenstein’s monster’s limbs from Mary Shelley’s original novel. The gallery is full of amazing paintings of different parts of the body, all made to convey different emotions through the stillness and movement of the paintings. The entire first floor was amazing, and it even had a lounge to relax in. The second-floor features classrooms and rental studios for local artists. Many of the studios had artwork strung inside, as well as more art along the hallway walls. They even had a community chalk wall that was open for anyone to draw on, and it was full of many fun drawings. We even left a few of our own for others to see.

Seeing all the classrooms and the opportunities that

this place provides was nice as it looks like the perfect environment to grow my own artistic talent. Others with me agreed.

“Honestly, if I lived a little closer, I think I would take one of the photography classes here,” Emmitt Ngo, Alvernia student, said.

There were a few more floors past the second floor, but it was getting late, and we had to take our leave. I left the GoggleWorks more excited and artistically inspired than I thought I would, and the feeling was mutual between my friends who joined me.

From the paper mache to hand-drawn art to paintings, I found everything to be interesting and unique,” Gianni Cocco said. “They even had a theatre! It was a fun experience.”

I already plan to go back with a few other people once the exhibits on the upper floors open, as I want to see the kind of artwork that will be displayed there. I also want to experience the Boscov Theater, since we didn’t get the chance. I also want to spend a bit more time on the upper floors next time. Overall, I highly recommend dedicating a few hours to exploring all that the GoggleWorks has to offer. Consider taking one of their classes. They offer classes for almost any form of art, and learning how to make your own art from skilled artisans is an amazing opportunity.

Cole’s ComiCs Corner

March/April 2026

the alvernian “Bat” to Basics: Matt Fraction Takes Batman Back to His Roots

Managing Editor/Layout

Grace

Section Editors

Cole

Brianna

Amelia

Kyle

Danica

Anthony

Shawn

Jacob

Michael

Braden

Contributing Writers

Kiley Delfin

Lindsay

Kenneth

Albert Vargas

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Ryan Lange

The Alvernian is the official student newspaper of Alvernia University.

Articles submitted for consideration into The Alvernian should be written in some semblance of AP style. Letters to the editor, requests for advertisements, and general comments and questions may be submitted to ryan.lange@alvernia.edu.

The editors reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, accuracy, and length.

The views expressed in The Alvernian are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the student body, faculty, staff, administration, or sponsors.

Cole Windsor Contributing Editor

In February 2025, DC Comics announced it would reboot the mainline Batman comic series, which has been running since the company’s last universal relaunch in 2016, DC Rebirth. DC decided to put writer Matt Fraction on the reboot, along with artist Jorge Jimenez, who had been consistently doing art for the series since 2020.

Matt Fraction’s reinvention of the Dark Knight was released to critical acclaim. Fraction masterfully combined classic Batman story structure and costume design, with modern writing and a sleek new suit. With the first six issues being released, Fraction has created a familiar, but completely new Batman, whom fans and critics have been enjoying.

When the reboot was announced, DC released a first look at the new Batsuit. Fraction and Jimenez utilized a modern Batman silhouette with a sharp contemporary Bat symbol, combined with a classic 90s color scheme. This is the first time since the 90s and early 2000s that the mainline Batman comic’s batsuit has returned to blue.

In September 2025, the first issue of this new Batman was released. This issue took an old-school approach to storytelling while introducing the reader to this new and improved Gotham, Batman, and the surrounding cast of characters. The first issue begins with Killer Croc breaking out of Arkham. The issue follows Batman working with possible love interest Dr. Zeller as he tracks down Croc. Because of Croc’s exposure

to a certain chemical, he is reverting to child-like behavior. When Batman finds him, rather than just beating him up, he helps and empathizes with Croc until Dr. Zeller can take him back to Arkham for treatment.

Issue 1 sets the tone for the series. Batman is less of a brooding, violent vigilante, but an empathetic crime fighter, looking to help. This heartfelt tone continues, with issue 2 reintroducing Robin. In the modern Batman comics, there are two Robins. The older is Tim Drake, one of Batman’s adopted sons, with the younger being Damian Wayne, Batman’s biological child. Issue 2 focuses on the relationship between Batman and Drake, both within the life of crime-fighting and outside. The issue ends with iconic DC villain, Vandal Savage, who is leading the police force, announcing that Batman and Robin are now enemies of the police force.

Issues 3, 4, and 5 continue the development each of these plotlines. While Dr. Zeller has interacted with Batman in the past, issue 4 introduces her to the

less serious and charming Bruce Wayne, who she does not know is Batman. This relationship continues in the next issue, following them as they are attacked by assassins targeting Dr. Zeller.

Also in issue four, the plotline with Vandal Savage continues, introducing “The Minotaur,” a crime boss who will most likely be an important character in the continuing issues.

Issue 6 is where Fraction seems to be escalating the stakes and setting up the metaplot for the series. Fraction is taking a huge swing with this series, having set up multiple interesting story arcs that will hopefully come together in a satisfying way.

Fraction is deviating from the normal formula of a six-issue arc. Fraction did not create an arc but set up for a massive saga that will most likely go on for dozens of issues. While anticipation continues to build for fans, it is still too early to tell if this will be a success, or if the hype will fizzle out.

loCal spots

March/April 2026

Reading Coffee Company: Coffee and Comfort Close to Campus

Lindsay Kerchner

Contributing Writer

Located just off the main road in Birdsboro, Reading Coffee Company HQ offers more than a quick caffeine stop. About 15 minutes from Alvernia University, the café provides a convenient change of scenery for students looking to study off campus, grab breakfast with friends, or take a break from a busy week.

The atmosphere strikes a balance between modern and cozy. Shelves of coffee line the walls, the scent of fresh espresso fills the air, and soft conversations blend with the sound of milk steaming behind the counter. Subtle Valentine’s Day decorations add a light seasonal touch, but the overall environment remains relaxed and inviting, making it easy to settle in and stay awhile.

“It just feels like a place you can hang out,” Hannah Tyler, a junior nursing student, said. Tyler recently visited the café. “It’s

comfortable, and it’s nice to get off campus for a bit without having to drive far.”

The menu features a variety of specialty drinks and fresh bakery items, offering something for both coffee lovers and those who prefer alternatives.

On my visit, I ordered a vanilla frozen coffee paired with a plain bagel topped with cream cheese and a chocolate croissant. The frozen coffee was smooth and slightly sweet, with a balanced vanilla flavor that complemented the richness of the espresso. The bagel

was soft and fresh, and the cream cheese added a simple but satisfying touch. The chocolate croissant stood out with its flaky layers and warm, melted chocolate center. Tyler ordered an iced chai latte along with a bacon, egg and cheese puff pastry and a chocolate croissant. Her iced chai latte blended spice and sweetness, offering a refreshing option. The puff pastry, wrapped in golden, flaky layers, was filled with crispy bacon, fluffy egg, and melted cheese.

“It’s really good,” Tyler said after taking a bite.

“Everything tastes fresh, and it’s worth the short drive. I could definitely see students coming here to study or hang out.”

According to a worker at the café, creating a welcoming space for all guests, including students, is part of the mission.

“We want people to feel comfortable whether they’re meeting friends, working on assignments, or just stopping in for breakfast,” they said.

“It’s always great to see students come in and make the space their own.”

Throughout the morning,

The Irish Roots of PA

customers filtered in steadily. Some sat with laptops open, while others chatted over coffee and breakfast. Staff members moved efficiently behind the counter, greeting guests and preparing drinks with care.

For Alvernia students seeking a nearby spot to recharge, Reading Coffee Company offers a convenient and inviting option. With quality drinks, fresh pastries, and a cozy atmosphere just minutes from campus, it provides the perfect excuse to take a short drive and enjoy a well-deserved break. Located at 532 Penn Street in downtown Reading, the café features free Wi-Fi, indoor and outdoor seating, and a rotating selection of seasonal drink specials. Reading Coffee Company is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., making it an easy stop before class, between study sessions, or during a weekend outing.

Anthony Parsons

Contibuting Editor

With winter coming to its end, a warm welcome to the spring season comes with an Irish twist. Saint Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and the people of Berk’s County and Pennsylvania more broadly look to celebrate their Irish heritage with friends and family.

“Growing up in Pennsylvania, you get to experience the deep Irish culture rooting back far in time,” Anthony Parsons, Alvernia e-sports athlete, said. “People love representing their ancestry and many respect

the culture that’s been a cornerstone of this state’s foundation.”

According to a Zippia statistic by Kathy Morris, Pennsylvania is the state with the sixth highest reports of Irish heritage in the United States at about 16%. Of Pennsylvania counties, Statistical Atlas claims Berks County has about 11.3% of reported Irish heritage, which is the third highest in the county. But everyone can be Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! Here are some places you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day whether you are of Irish

heritage or not.

The first place we’ll visit is the classic Irish pub, Trooper Thorns Irish Beef house, located near the Hill campus on Morgantown Road. Trooper Thorns has been serving the community since 2003, with classic food options like Shephard’s Pie, Irish Nachos, Reuben Sandwiches, and Irish Stew. They will also be holding a “St. Patty’s Day Showdown” on Saturday, March 14, which is a night filled with fun games and energy to celebrate the holiday. Trooper’s is a great place to meet up with your friends after a long day of classes even if you aren’t old enough to drink or prefer to abstain. For fun events within Reading to attend with live music and buffets, check out the St. Patrick’s Day Party at the Reading Liederkranz on Saturday, March 14. The German American social club located on Spook Lane is hosting their annual Irish celebration with an all-youcan-eat Irish buffet. The event will also include live performances from Irish band, The Malarkey Brothers. The Reading Liederkranz will be allowing current

members, as well as nonmembers and guests of the club, so everyone will be able to experience an energetic event. The West Reading Tavern will be hosting their annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on Sunday, March 15, from noon to 11pm. Located on Penn Avenue, they will be offering an Irish themed menu, along with musical entertainment. Bob Cleary will be featured on the bagpipes, along with the Sabo School of Irish Dance. Later in the night, DJ Special D will make a special appearance, play music of crowd favorites to end off the night with a bang. Next, we go to Sinking Spring to another great eatout spot. Found in Sinking Spring, PA on Brownsville Road, is Ganly’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, one of the highest Google rated spots in Berks

County. They serve classic Irish options Ganly’s features quirky offerings like ‘burgers and mash,’ alongside more normal fare like chicken pot pie and the pub entrees you expect. The pub offers a wide variety of burgers to meet every American (or Irish) appetite.

“One of a kind Irish Pub! Family-Owned means ever changing menus and endless creativity,” Lawrence Gill, online reviewer, wrote on a Google review.

The Irish community of Berk’s County is continuing bring fun events and delicious foods for everyone to experience during Saint Patrick’s Day. It’s a holiday for everyone, and Berk’s provides a large selection of places and events for all to enjoy.

March/April 2026

entertainment

The Dark Side of Disney

Kiley Delfin

Contributing Writer

The Walt Disney Company manages some of the, most popular franchises in the world. Its theme parks are located across the globe in Florida, Paris, Tokyo, California, Hawaii, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The Magic Kingdom in its various forms is said to be “one of the happiest places on earth.” But there are moments when human tragedy overcomes Disney’s vaunted magic.

There have been multiple deaths that have taken place at both Disney World, located in Orlando, Florida, and Disneyland, located in Anaheim, California.

According to Damfam.com, there have been 104 deaths resulting from incidents that occurred at the parks, with 52% being natural causes (28), followed by suicide (15) and drowning (11). Per these statistics, 2025 was a record year for Disney demises with seven total.

When Disney first opened

By Kiley Delfin

in October 1970, most of the deaths that occurred on the grounds were due to drowning. The first death occurred in 1977, when a 4-year-old boy drowned in the water area surrounding Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom. In 2009, two monorails collided, and 21-year-old pilot Austin Wuenneberg was killed.

Disney World’s Contemporary resort has seen multiple instances of suicide, one in 2016

and two in October 2025, including a victim jumping from Bay Lake Tower. But these deaths do not make headline news. Why? Disney removes the body from their property before the victim is announced dead, preventing their deaths from being recorded within the boundaries of the park.

Other deaths are workplace related. In 2004, cast member Javier Cruz was preparing to perform in a parade but died from being

run over by one of the floats. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined Disney for this death, which was deemed accidental. There have been nine suicides that have taken place on Disneyland property, starting back in 1994, with the most recent being in 2023. In 1981 and 1987, two murders occurred at Disneyland due to a shooting and stabbing, respectively. Other reported deaths at Disneyland were linked to medical complications following ride experiences.

Much of Disney’s operational infrastructure remains hidden from guests.

The “Utilidor” beneath Disney spans nine acres and features a street layout that helps keep workers from getting lost. It allows Disney cast members to keep the magic alive by “miraculously” transporting under visitors’ feet. The underground tunnels also house costumes, locker rooms, worker cafeterias, and a trash system that helps

keep the gigantic amusement park clean.

Some parts of the tunnels may be spooky as they also house old costume heads and animatronics from rides. However, the reader may be reassured that Five Nights at Freddy’s is not currently owned by the Disney company. Disney World and the other parks across the world bring magic to billions of people each year. I have gone to Disney World over 10 times, and going to the Disney parks is my favorite vacation. While there are dark sides to Disney, most major corporations have weird things going on behind the scenes.

“Disney has always been special to me because of the memories I have made there with my family. It’s a place where you can just forget about the normal world and immerse yourself in something less serious and more carefree,” Dakota Jurgens, a first-year North Carolina State student, said.”

Who Took My Cookie? Girl Scout Bakeries Vary

Danica Leister

Contributing Writer

Everyone loves Girl Scout cookies… but which ones?

Girl Scout cookie “season” in Pennsylvania is from January to April. The cookies the Girl Scouts sell are provided by two bakeries to provide the various scout state councils with cookies: ABC Bakery and Little Brownie Bakers. While some of the cookies are the same, others can be quite different. Pennsylvania is in the unique position of being served by both bakeries, so Girl Scouts in neighboring counties can have quite different offerings. There are three councils the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, the Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania and the Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania.

The Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, or GSEP, includes 9 counties, including Berks, Bucks, Chester, and Philadelphia. This council receives its cookies from ABC Bakery.

The other two Girl Scout councils receive cookies from Little Brownie Bakers. The Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania, or GSHPA, serves 30 counties, including Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin,

Schuylkill. The Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania, or GSWPA, serves 27 counties, including Butler, Cameron, Erie, and Allegheny. Both GSHPA and GSWPA.

Most people won’t know the differences between the councils or the bakeries that serve them. Some cookies are very similar, and recipes and ingredients differ only slightly. The least affected cookies are Thin Mints, Adventurefuls, Exploremores, and Trefoils. Originally, ABC bakery used to call Trefoils “Shortbread,” but changed the name to Trefoils in 2022.

Thin Mints are chocolate cookies with a minty chocolate coating, and Adventurefuls are brownieinspired and are chocolate cookies with sea salt caramel. Exploremores were introduced this year as the new cookie, inspired by Rocky Road ice cream, with a chocolate cookie and a marshmallow and almondflavored filling. County, part of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania council.)

“I thought they had changed the name to Caramel deLites to be ethnically sensitive,” Dr. Ryan Lange, full professor of communication said. “but I guess I just moved

into the region of a different Girl Scout council.”

Dr. Lange’s love for Caramel deLites has not changed even if the Girl Scouts he purchases them from sometimes has them under the name ‘Samoas.’ ABC Bakery has Caramel deLites, while Little Brownie has Samoas, both being cookies with caramel, coconut, and chocolate.

ABC also has a Peanut Butter Sandwich, and Little Brownie has Do-si-dos, which are oatmeal cookies with a peanut butter filling. Finally, there are Peanut Butter Patties by ABC and Tagalongs by Little Brownie, a cookie layered with peanut butter and coated in chocolate.

Dr. Genevieve Karki, a music specialist and Director of Choral Activities at Alvernia University, was asked what her favorite Girl Scout cookie was and why.

“The Tagalongs ones… because I like the texture of them and they are not too sweet”. Dr. Karki said.

Even though Dr. Karki works in Berks County, which is served by ABC bakery, she lives in Lancaster County and buys her Girl Scout cookies there. People who aren’t in the know are often oblivious to the distributor differences until they encounter one of the changed offerings.

Each bakery has its own version of gluten-free cookies.

ABC Bakery has caramel

Chocolate Chip, a classic chocolate chip cookie with sea salt caramel, and Little Brownie Bakers has Toffeetastic, a buttery cookie with toffee bits.

However, the most confusing cookies are the lemon ones. Each cookie has a different name and is entirely different from the others. ABC Bakery has Lemonades, a shortbread cookie with lemon-flavored icing, and Little Brownie has Lemon-ups, a lemon cookie with messages written on it.

Amelia Fortunato, Alvernia student and a Berks County resident, mistakenly bought Lemonups, not realizing they were not the Lemonades she was expecting.

“The cookie tastes terrible!” Fortunato said. While Amelia prefers ABC Bakery’s lemonades and Dr. Karki prefers Little Brownies’ Tagalongs, they both support the Girl Scouts of Pennsylvania by buying cookies. People across the country can find where their local Girl Scouts are selling cookies here at the official Girl Scout website.

sports

March/April 2026

The Return of Alvernia Men’s Volleyball

Shawn Williams Contributing Editor

Alvernia men’s volleyball is back for the 2027 season.

The men’s volleyball program began in 2015 and began competing in the 2017 season. They competed for five years, with the old program concluding after the 2022 season. Over those five seasons, the team posted records of 10-20 in 2017, 12-16 in 2018, 12-17 in 2019, 12-8 in 2020, 9-9 in 2021, and 13-12 in 2022.

“I’m excited for the return of men’s volleyball,” Marisa Lombardo, Assistant Athletic Director of Athletic Communications and Operations, said. “Having to put a pause on the program following the 2022 season was a difficult decision for the department, especially considering it came following a successful year for the team.”

“Since then, the MAC as a whole has gotten very good at men’s volleyball with two teams in Messiah and

Stevens making the NCAA Tournament last year, and Messiah advancing all the way to the Elite Eight,” Lombardo said.

“I’m excited to see how we compete in the highly competitive landscape men’s volleyball has become in the past four-to-five years.”

The men’s program returns to Alvernia while the

women’s team has continued competitive play. Players hope they can form a larger volleyball community on campus to raise awareness of their sport.

“Personally, I feel like it could make the volleyball community grow on campus, which will allow us to have a bigger family on and off the court.” Olivia Rohrbaugh,

junior and women’s volleyball player, said.

“I’m excited for the possible opportunity of bonding with the men’s team and making new friends. It also gives the women’s team an opportunity to watch a new view of volleyball without being on the court. Overall, I cannot wait for this new addition to Alvernia.”

Students are excited for the return of men’s volleyball to the Golden Wolves’ courts. Most of the current student population has not been able to witness a men’s volleyball team during their time here.

“As someone who always loved volleyball, I think it’s about time that the guys can join the fun,” Kyle Rudart, senior, said. “It’s a shame it came at the end of my Alvernia tenure, but it’ll be great for those who want to get involved and will only bring in more.”

While some will not be able to attend games because of graduation and where life takes them, they still can connect with the program through social media and follow along with their seasons in the future. Make sure to tune in to Alvernia University men’s volleyball in the 2027 season.

Madness in Milan: The 2026 Winter Olympics

Kyle Rudart

Contributing Editor

Milan, February 2026, will go down as one of the most eventful and impactful Olympic Games in recent history. Everything from the record-breaking performances, drama, to comedic moments that had everyone talking all over the world.

As the Olympic flame extinguishes, there are several moments that are must-know highlights for any sports fanatic.

In one of the more uplifting events, alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin finally claimed Olympic gold that she has been chasing since 2018. Not only did she win, but it was by a landslide, no pun intended. The gap was one of the biggest margins in Olympic alpine racing in a long time. Making this even more heartwarming, two years ago she had missed the podium and came off a frightening crash.

Coming after a difficult stretch that included missed podiums and the lingering shadow of the 2024 crash, Shiffrin framed the win as cathartic and gave closure. For any athlete watching, her

story is a strong example of resilience paying off.

If Shiffrin’s story was redemption, Lindsey Vonn represents the harshness of chasing that Olympic glory and not knowing when to quit.

The forty-one-year-old legend decided to come out of retirement after a knee replacement and found her way back into the Olympic scene. However, she had completely ruptured her

ACL the month previous, but insisted on doing the women’s downhill event, hoping for one last run.

Instead, a terrifying crash ensued a few seconds into her race as Vonn got tangled with the gate. A helicopter was needed to airlift her out. She later described herself as ‘bionic’ after the number of plates and screws that were in her from previous injuries.

Fellow American Breezy Johnson won the gold for the downhill ski event, becoming the only American woman after Vonn to claim the title, Greatness comes at a cost and in these Olympics there has been an epic comeback and a career-ending crash.

Alvernia senior and digital media marketing major Connor Kraycik had commented on the Lindsey Vonn crash after it occurred.

“The crash did not have anything to do with the ACL she ruptured before the event. It is very upsetting to see her go out like that, so we will be praying for her.”

Figure skating delivered drama that would kill on any network television show, led by a fantastic performance from American skater Alysa Liu.

Liu’s win capped what was

years of pressure when she became a teenage sensation.

Japan’s Riku Miura & Ryuichi Kihar set scoring records for pairs in skating. Then, American men’s skater Ilia Malinin landed a backflip on one foot since that move has been legalized in the Games recently, marking one heck of a moment.

Curling has found its way to the forefront of plenty of minds, like communication professor Chris Shipley.

“I have been glued to my screen late at night watching curling and being thoroughly entertained.”

There has been some controversy over double touching the stone. The dispute happened between Sweden and Canada, more specifically, Marc Kennedy being accused of breaking the rule during a close game. It has caused them to add more monitors to track the releases.

On the ice, US teams gave people a lot to look forward to, especially ice hockey. The women delivered a classic, winning gold in sudden death overtime fueling that America-Canada rivalry even more. The U.S. men’s team had a fantastic run hoping to claim the title for

themselves. Norway sits atop the table, while hosting nation Italy is not far behind, even Japan has come out of the woodworks to become a stronger winter sport nation.

Keeping up may be difficult but these Olympics have been showstopping and have showcased how important longevity is and the twists and turns sports have to offer.

mental HealtH

March/April 2026

You Are Capable of Neuroplasticity

Michael Peffer Contributing Editor

After waking up to your fifth alarm of the morning, you drag yourself out of bed and force yourself into your morning routine. Your eyes are dry and hazy as you stumble around your room getting ready for your day. You open Instagram and watch people younger than you living off yachts and climbing mountains, driving the cars of your dreams and spending time with the people they love. “With what time, and what money?” you think, as you close your phone, your mind heavier than before.

That won’t do. Let’s try this instead.

You begin to stir as the sound of birds chirping and the light of a sunrise activates your body. You take a confident step out of bed to shut off the alarm and drink a crisp glass of water. You’ve just woken up, but you feel rested and ready for the day. Your body flows through your routine without even having to think about it and your mind feels at peace because you just woke up in paradise. Work is fun, and so is your daily exercise. The foods you eat are both nutritious and delicious and give you a steady stream of energy and mental clarity. The people in your life are fulfilling and your heart is whole. Stress feels productive and your mind is at ease because you are on undoubtedly achieving your dreams.

How did that feel? Take a moment to read that again and feel yourself living that life. Who is there with you? What kind of work are you

doing? What house did you wake up in? What car do you drive? Be specific, because you are actively building your future.

Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system through different disciplines like biology, psychology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics to better understand the brain. The aim of neuroscience is to better understand how we can function in a healthier way and identify and treat neurological disorders.

Neuroplasticity is a concept in neuroscience. It explores the ability to rewire neural pathways through habitual change within thought-patterns and physical actions.

Think of neural pathways like a highway system for information in your brain. Some highway systems are very well maintained,

with helpful connections and good upkeep. Other people’s highway systems are outdated with old connections and many potholes. We build our systems in our youth to process new information like learning how to walk and talk. Our systems mature as we do, becoming more complex you learned how to run, play sports, and fit into society. As you grew, you faced many challenges. Managing your schoolwork, relationships, and experiencing pain. Your highways were shaped by these challenges, and it gotten you this far. A good neurological system is regularly pruned and focused, but like real highways, sometimes things stand in the way of progress. Insecurity was formed through past traumas, poor eating habits were learned as a coping

mechanism, and bad habits were formed as a means of survival. Emergency measures will work for a while, but surviving is not thriving.

Neuroplasticity is the ability to shut down and re-form those highways, Changing ourselves is much easier than you may think, but it does take thoughtful, deliberate action.

“We make habits because we seek to be cognitively efficient,” Dr. Ryan Lange, full professor of communication, said. Dr. Lange’s research area deals with automated behaviors, or ‘habits.’ “Thinking costs glucose. Glucose is a finite resource. We want to avoid burning up all that useful glucose each day for as long as possible.”

“So we become accustomed to doing things based on prompts, either internal or external, and so much of our day is routinized rather than requiring cognitive effort,” Dr. Lange said. “However, that does mean that we become locked in patterns if we don’t examine them.”

“Our brains are dynamic!” Jessica Warchalking, professional Dance Choreographer, and Fine & Performing Arts professor at Alvernia, said. “We can (and do) engage them in many ways – through movement, creativity, connecting with others, or challenging our own ideas. Neuroplasticity means we can constantly change and grow as individuals – whether that means rehabilitating from an injury or evolving our perceptions of the world.” Go back to this beginning of this

article and consider what you want your ideal life to feel like. Your brain physically won’t allow you to become a future version of you that it hasn’t experienced yet, but you can train it to become that way with mindful effort. Think about it every day, feel yourself living that life, and wholeheartedly believe that you can. Your brain doesn’t care whether your thoughts are true or not. It simply believes whatever you repeat to it.

Then start living it. Does the ideal version of yourself wake up early? Do they stay off their phone? Do they keep their word? Start making minor changes in your life to better show up for yourself. Start with small, attainable actions with immediate benefits. Drink water as soon as you wake up, sleep a little longer, follow through on a promise. Each time you do one of these things, you are strengthening the neural pathway that aligns with your ideal self. Celebrate every little success because your brain sees it as proof that you can become that person.

Within a few days you’ll start to notice a change, your thoughts become more positive, and you start to feel more confident. In a month, you’re building habits you never thought you’d be capable of. In a year, you’ve achieved more than you have in the past few years of your life, and success has a snowballing effect. Our ability to change our own minds is how we can change ourselves.

mental HealtH

March/April 2026

You Don’t Have To Be Lonely!

Grace Wanner Managing Editor

It may sound cliché, but making friends can be hard, especially as a young adult. Many people struggle with making connections in college for several reasons, foremost among them the transition from high school to college. It can feel like everybody has found their people and made new friends except for you. If this describes your situation, you’re not alone.

A Harvard study from 2021 found that 61% of young adults aged 18-25 felt alone, which is higher than any other age group. Scientists debate why this pattern has emerged, with some blaming social media or lack of accessible “third places.”

On apps like YikYak and Fizz, which are anonymous posting chat forums used heavily on college campuses, many students have expressed feeling alone. One Alvernia student wrote, “I genuinely need a friend. I spend most of my time alone,

nights in my dorm alone. I try to meet people, but I just don’t know what I’m doing. I hate it here.”

This is not an isolated incident. A post of this nature is shared every few days and receives dozens of upvotes. Trying to make friends on campus can feel intimidating. It adds extra pressure because of the fear of being judged by the people at your school or having to see failed friendships in your classes. The good news is, there are plenty of off-

campus events that could be great opportunities to make connections.

A great approach to making friends in the area is joining local groups. There are tons of young adult groups in the area that would be happy to accept new members. Some examples are service groups, young professional groups, Bible groups, or empowerment groups for different demographics. If you don’t know where to start looking, Eventbrite is

an online ticketing platform where you can search for groups and events in your area. They have free online events and workshops, verified in-person social events, and more.

For example, there’s a group called “Foodies + New Friends” that goes to local restaurants twice a month to meet new people. Another group you can join is called the Berks County Rotaract Club. According to their website, “Berks County Rotaract blends service, socials, and new friendships for ages 18–40. Let’s build a better community together!”

The Rotaract Club’s

membership chair, Trey Kirkpatrick, encourages anyone who is interested in service and meeting new people to come out to one of their events. “We welcome everybody. We come from all different walks of life but are united by our passion for community service. I’ve met some of my best friends in this group,” Kirpatrick said. Expanding your horizons can be intimidating, but it can also be rewarding. The Alvernian invites any student looking to make friends to join us at our weekly meeting on Fridays at 12:20. You don’t have to be lonely.

Breaking the Stigma Around Bipolar Disorder

Amelia Fortunato

Contributing Editor

College is a difficult time for anyone, let alone someone suffering from a mental illness. 3.2% of college students meet the criteria for bipolar disorder, according to a study done by Blanco et al. Like any mental illness, bipolar disorder can significantly impair a student’s life. It can impact a student’s grades, social life, and their health.

“You matter. If you are someone who has been recently diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, practice self-compassion and selfcare. It is okay to lean on others during difficult times,” Santa Alacan said. Alacan is a third year Master of Arts in Counseling student at Alvernia University.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 2.8% of U.S. adults suffer from bipolar disorder, or about one in 40 American adults. The Mayo Clinic defines bipolar disorder as “…a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings.”

Candice J. Templeton, who lives in Harrisburg, is one of those adults. Templeton, who was diagnosed with Bipolar II in 2019, believes in the

importance of breaking the stigma around this disorder. “There is still too much stigma around mental health and because of it, too many people do not seek the help they need because they’re afraid of being labeled as ‘crazy,’” Templeton said. These mood swings are characterized into two categories – depression and mania/hypomania. Depression is defined by things such as sadness, a lack of pleasure or interest in doing things, and feelings of worthlessness. Mania and hypomania are the “high” points, where people will feel more energetic than usual, potentially irritable, and engage in more risky behavior.

“…they reported or presented with clinically significant depression and mania, such as anhedonia, racing thoughts, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, self-harm behaviors, and an inability to maintain a functional life to sustain stability cognitively, emotionally, socially, and or occupationally,” Alacan said. In 2025, Alacan completed a practicum-internship at Haven’s Partial program in Reading, PA, which included treating those with Bipolar Disorder.

Like any mental health condition, bipolar disorder isn’t always noticeable, and it isn’t a death sentence. With the right combination of medication and therapy, people with bipolar can

live happy, healthy lives. A challenge in America is being accurately diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Only 20% of patients are correctly diagnosed within the first year of seeking treatment. There are many reasons bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose, but one common one is that a clinician usually wants to see a patient for a few years at least to diagnose.

“It was extremely hard to get correctly diagnosed,” Candice J. Templeton said.

“It took thirty years and an inpatient hospital stay before I was diagnosed as having Bipolar II.”

Mental health issues are often stigmatized. This stigma can greatly harm those suffering from this illness, making them less likely to seek treatment. People who suffer from this condition do have ways of getting help.

For those in the Alvernia community, this can look like seeing one of the therapists at Penn Medicine or talking to a professor.

“…self-care, which starts with asking for help, is the first step towards what we call a life worth living,” Templeton said.

Not only is it important for

people with bipolar disorder to ask for help, but it’s also vital that their loved ones support them.

“…sometimes reaching out that person gives them the tiny bit of hope that helps them take those first terribly difficult steps out of the darkness,” Templeton said.

While bipolar can be an invisible disease, the smallest thing, such as a supportive text message, can help that person know they’re not suffering alone. Fortunately, mental health advocacy is becoming increasingly common. Just in the Berks County area, there is the Office of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities, the Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance, and the National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) Berks.

For those dealing with bipolar disorder or suspected bipolar disorder, help is available. The Berks County Intermediate Unit has compiled a list of resources in the community.

“There are so many compassionate people who have dedicated their lives to helping those who are struggling with mental illness,” Templeton said. “Find them.”

o’pake news

March/April 2026

Brianna Corbett

Contributing Editor

The O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship Fellows Program provides students with the opportunity to work in different areas of business development to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses. They create a variety of designs and presentations for clients and projects. Along with the Fellows, there are GAs, or graduate assistants, who mentor them and assign projects from O’Pake’s clients for hands-on, experiential learning.

O’Pake Institute has various departments where Fellows gain realworld experience in fields ranging from client services, financial services, technology transfer, and marketing. The marketing team is led by three graduate assistants known in O’Pake as “the three marketeers.” These young, bright men have become the cornerstone of the O’Pake Institute’s client marketing team. So, what do the “three marketeers” do? Jordan Hall joined O’Pake after completing his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Lincoln University in 2025 and is currently in Alvernia University’s MBA program. In his previous role, Hall had the opportunity to work with the Lincubator at Lincoln University, where he supported student entrepreneurs and community founders by helping them sharpen their ideas into clear, marketable concepts. Through his work at the Lincubator, he was identified as the first student to join O’Pake through the partnership with the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC).

“Jordan is a big piece of the culture we have here at O’Pake and someone I rely on daily,” Angelo Herrera, Graduate Assistant of Student Services said. “He is a marketing specialist, which is very apparent when you see his work and hear him talk about work and his personal endeavors.”

Within O’Pake, Hall has many responsibilities as a graduate assistant, including assisting with client marketing projects, managing and supporting the Fellows, and serving as a liaison between O’Pake

The Three Marketeers

and the NAACP. A big part of Hall’s role is also keeping the work moving from “good ides” to “finished results,” keeping the high school inters organized and on track (deadlines, who’s doing what, next steps), helping students take a concept and turn it into real deliverables (content, graphics, strategy, event support, client-ready materials), and making sure nobody feels lost in the process and that they are guided and confident.

Because Hall has a history of running media and community-focused projects outside of O’Pake, he has special insight into how to connect strategy, storytelling, and impact.

“I really enjoy working under Jordan Hall because he creates such a positive and comfortable environment,”

Christian Hartman, one of Hall’s Fellows said. “He’s chilling in the way he approaches things, making it easy to communicate and collaborate without pressure. On top of that, he has a great sense of humor that keeps the atmosphere light and enjoyable.”

Being a GA means balancing a lot of responsibility. Fortunately, the culture at O’Pake respects and emphasizes that education comes first. The flexibility and understanding from the O’Pake team make it possible to do well in both without feeling that he must sacrifice one for the other.

“For anyone who wants to become a GA here, my biggest advice is to stay on top of your assignment, have a genuine desire to help others, and really commit to improving your skills,” Hall said.

A few O’Pake accomplishments that Hall is most proud of would be leading and managing student Fellow teams to deliver tangible marketing assets for local businesses by helping projects actually get finished, and strengthening

client communication and accountability. He also ensures deliverables, feedback, and timelines stay clear so clients feel taken care of and Fellows know what “professional” looks like, and supporting brand growth across platforms through content planning, media, and promotional strategy tied to entrepreneurship and community impact.

Jameel Burton graduated from Alvernia University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Burton’s responsibilities include overseeing active clients, coordinating communication between the client and his team, monitoring deadlines and timelines, and ensuring each project stays on track. He manages clients ranging from restaurants to a sports media company while making sure goals and expectations are clearly defined, along with keeping projects moving forward without delays. A significant part of his role is to lead and mentor a strong team of undergraduate students and high school interns.

“Jameel is a supportive GA who listens, gives great advice, and makes every project enjoyable,” said Chahd Senbel, one of Burton’s Fellows said.

Burton guides Fellows and interns through hands-on work in social media marketing strategy, content creation, branding, marketing research, and website redevelopment. His mentorship helps them grow professionally and apply what they have learned to real clients.

“Having Jameel around is very helpful. He is a great mentor and is always with you every step of the way,” Senbel said.

Burton also provides ongoing support by troubleshooting challenges (identifying and resolving issues that may slow down or affect a project), offering feedback (providing

constructive feedback to improve work quality), and ensuring high-quality deliverables (reviewing and packaging final outputs to ensure they meet professional standards), along with making sure the finished product aligns with the client’s vision and brand. His work between O’Pake and classes is balanced through weekly scheduling. Jameel would set due dates for his class assignments and O’Pake tasks, ultimately keeping himself as focused and disciplined as possible.

Burton’s role can be overwhelming, but the professional experience he’s gained is unique to the O’Pake model.

“I would tell people who want to be a GA to absolutely jump at this opportunity, as it has catapulted me into a better professional, leader, and person,” Burton said.

A few O’Pake accomplishments that Burton is most proud of would-be Burton started as a Fellow of Marketing as an undergraduate, and was chosen to step up into a graduate assistant role, earned his certificate to become a certifies Project Manager and mainly doing social media marketing for clients, so the majority of his clients seen a spike in followers and engagement after working with Burton and his team. Fleming graduated from Alvernia University with a bachelor’s degree in communication and a minor in English, and he graduated in 2025. As a graduate assistant in digital media marketing, Fleming has responsibilities that include client-based digital marketing projects. He works closely with local businesses, nonprofits and community partners to bring their brand visions to life through creative and data-driven solutions, including digital platforms, particularly social media, along with branding development, logo creation, marketing strategy design, website content development, and social media planning.

“Through my time working with Jamel, I have learned and gained so much knowledge. He is there to answer any questions I have about a project or teach me new marketing skills. Dare I say he taught me more than what I was taught in class?” Chole Weiss, one of Fleming’s Fellows said.

Fleming balances his graduate studies and work responsibilities by prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy routine. During Fleming’s rare free time, he coaches the Reading High School football team which plays a significant role in keeping him grounded and energized. While he coaches, he can stay connected to football while also giving back to the community, and it provides a meaningful outlet that helps him manage stress.

“Jamel is the type of person you go to when you need extra help in a project, when you have a random question, or when you just need a good laugh. He always jokes about me being his mentor, but in reality, he is the true definition of what a mentor looks like,” Chole Weiss, one of Fleming’s Fellows said.

“My advice would be to stay curious, be open to learning, and embrace every opportunity for growth. Be a sponge, absorb as much knowledge and experience as possible, and do not be afraid to fail,” Jamel Fleming said.

Fleming’s O’Pake experience helped him build valuable connections and lead with empathy and authenticity. His work with clients and students strengthened his communication skills and helped him become a better leader, both professionally and personally.

Fleming also supports internal communications for the O’Pake Institute and help ensure consistent messaging and effective communication across teams and initiatives. Fleming also works with the O’MakerSpace at CollegeTowne for the O’Pake Institute. Institute where he used the O’Makerspace to support small-batch merchandise branding for internal initiatives and client projects.

A few O’Pake accomplishments that Fleming is most proud of would be managing the internal marketing team, serving as the graduate assistant for the Community News Labs alongside Dr. Radosh, “LinkedIn Presentation” with Total Experiments Learning, “Hope Fund” Alvernia University Vice President Keynote Speaker, and “CBCL Conference” Keynote Speaker.