Spirit-fueled passion inspires action.
passion action.
Dear Alumni and Friends,
American theologian Frederick Buechner once wrote,
“The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”
Each one of us has areas of calling that beckon us. We were intricately knit together with giftings and causes that energize our hearts and prompt us to act and impact our world’s deepest needs. As glass of varying shapes, sizes, and colors are intentionally pieced together to create a mosaic of stained glass, receiving the light and displaying the vibrant energy of colors in accessible beauty and glory, so God has intimately shaped and breathed life into our unique make-up.
The passions that inspire our hearts vary from one individual to another, all playing a crucial function in fulfilling our Kingdom mission. In 1 Corinthians 12, the apostle Paul talks about the amazing diversity of gifts given to the Church. Each of us plays a special role as together we exercise the gifts God has given to us, “just as God wanted it to be (v. 18).”
With the Spirit fueling our passions, our actions can make a meaningful difference in our relationships and communities.
As you read these stories of ardor and conviction, may you be filled to consider or reconsider the motivators and talents that God has invested in you. I pray that the Spirit will breathe life into those places and set your heart ablaze for the work you have been called to in every season of life. As the psalmist wrote; “I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being” (Psalm 104:33). So, if you’re living, you have a purpose on earth.
Please continue to pray for and support Eastern University. God is doing so many great things! Thank you for being a part of the continuing story.
Better together,
Ronald A. Matthews, President
Eastern is delighted to share that total enrollment has doubled over the last four years. The University also celebrates the launch of a pep band and drumline, as well as the many first generation students that make up our vibrant community.
The HOSA Future Health Professionals team of Esperanza College qualified for the HOSA International Leadership Conference and placed in STEMrelated competitions. Palmer Seminary celebrated how generational passion is passed on through storytelling, alumni care,
and finances.
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SPOTLIGHT
Health Sciences major Abby Agapito ’24 learns the power of presence with the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program. Principal Danny Peou ’97 uses his story as a refugee to encourage his students to pursue their passions in spite of challenges they face.
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FEATURE: PASSION
MAT student Elyse Garner ’13, MAT ’24 reflects on how pain has shaped her passion and perspective. Dr. Desaree Festa ’04 shares how she uses her passion to raise awareness around mental health in the NFL.
publisher / KELLY GODDARD
Editor-in-Chief / ALLY (HOLMES) ROSARIO ’14, MEd ’21
Creative Director & Lead Designer / DANIEL PEIRCE , mts ’23
Photographer / ELYSE GARNER ’13, MAT ’24
Designer / ALAINA MOSSO
writer / HOLLY SCOFFONE
ADDITIONAL PHOTO & ILLUSTRATION CREDITS / BILL WIPPERT/BUFFALO BILLS ( 1 4)
BEN TRIVETT/SHUTTERSTOCK FOR PEOPLE ( 1 6)
KEVIN SABITUS/GETTY IMAGES ( 1 7)
KIMBERLY PAYNTER/WHYY NEWS (2 1 )
ATHLETICS
Nicholas Fanelli ’23 became the career and single-season points leader for Men’s Lacrosse, alongside his two brothers. Marin Dremock ’24 earned MAC Women's Co-Golfer of the Year Honors. Athletics had over 157 different student-athletes on the MAC Academic Honor Roll.
Please send comments or article suggestions to: media@eastern.edu
Alumni news should be sent to: alumni@eastern.edu
Palmer Seminary alumni news should be sent to: palmeralum@eastern.edu
PUBLISHED BY
Marketing and Communications at Eastern University
ONLINE AT eastern.edu/MAGAZINE
COMMUNITY DOUBLING ENROLLMENT in 4 Years
by kelly goddard
EASTERN COULD NOT BE MORE DELIGHTED to celebrate that our total enrollment has more than doubled over the last four years. From Fall 2019 to Fall 2023, our University grew from 3,100 students to 6,981 students.
“It is a great joy to welcome so many new students into the Eastern community,” shared President Ron Matthews. “Each of our students has unique talents, passion, and purpose. We are honored and privileged to journey alongside them and help equip them with the knowledge, training, experiences, and credentials they need to achieve their dreams and goals.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE REASONS FOR THE INCREASE?
The last several years for Eastern have been marked by studentcentered innovation and a compelling desire to provide excellent, affordable, and transformative education. Eastern’s mission statement paints a picture of a “diverse, Christ-centered community preparing graduates to impact the world through Faith, Reason, and Justice” – a mission that has inspired accessible new programs and dynamic extracurricular activities that foster student flourishing.
While many programs at Eastern have experienced growth over the last several years, the biggest increase has come from Eastern’s innovative online LifeFlex programs, which feature fully online, flexibly-paced modalities with astonishingly affordable tuition.
Eastern’s LifeFlex programs currently include an MBA, MSW, and MS in Data Science, as well as seven undergraduate programs in business, education, psychology, and liberal arts.
Online graduate programs in Education also make up a large portion of the University's growing student body. Eastern offers over 40 online programs for educators, including a wide variety of master’s degrees and certification programs for teachers and school professionals.
At the traditional undergraduate level, expanded extracurricular activities, specifically athletic programs, have been a key reason for
the increase since 2019. Over the last several years, Eastern has added new football, cheer, dance, and esports teams. This Fall, a new pep band and drumline energized the football games, with plans for a full marching band to launch next year. Long-standing athletic teams have also experienced increased participation. Half of Eastern’s traditional undergraduate students are involved in athletics, and a significant portion of students participate in extracurricular Fine Arts including music, theatre, and dance.
“Eastern’s commitment to creativity and innovation has yielded spectacular growth over the last few years,” shared Provost Kent Sparks, who has played a key role in launching the LifeFlex and Athletic initiatives. “I am incredibly proud of our faculty and staff who have worked hard to meet student needs and design programs that are excellent, affordable, and accessible. We look forward to many more exciting initiatives ahead.”
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
6,981
3,100
EASTERN’S PASSIONATE FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS PURSUE NEW EDUCATIONAL PATHS TO MAKE THEIR FAMILIES PROUD
Being ‘firstgeneration’ means that I am the first in my family to set the standard of education being a reality rather than a luxury.”
EASTERN’S CAMPUS BOASTS A VIBRANT TAPESTRY OF STUDENTS, each with their own unique stories. Among them is a group of first-generation students who are not only pursuing their passions and dreams, but redefining their family legacies. A first-generation college student is someone who is the first in their family to enroll at a university or college, embarking on a journey that is both challenging and exciting, driven by their strong determination to learn, succeed, and pave a new path.
As a first-generation student myself, I have gotten to see firsthand the obstacles and victories that come with being the first in my family to pursue higher education. I would describe my experience as a challenging gift. Coming from financial hardships and a background where my family members were previously unable to pursue higher education, my generation is the first to be able to break the cycle. Making my parents and grandparents proud by pursuing higher education motivates me everyday.
Eastern has equipped me with the tools and resources to excel academically, socially, and spiritually. My experience is similar to many other first-generation students at EU who, like me, get to start a new legacy in their families. Read on to hear from other students and their perspectives on life as current first-generation students.
Gerson Obando ’25
Business Major
“One of the biggest hurdles I've faced during my educational journey has been the physical distance from my family in Colombia. The longing for home — including the comfort of familiar faces and the vibrant culture of Colombia – has often made me feel homesick. However, it's precisely this challenge that has pushed me to grow and become more independent. The most rewarding part of my journey has been the knowledge I've acquired. College has not only provided me with academic learning, but has also expanded my horizons in ways I could have never imagined. I've gained insights into business strategies, economics, and leadership that have ignited my passion for success. For other first-generation students, my advice would be to embrace every opportunity, strive for excellence, and believe in yourself. Be the best in everything you do, because, as a first-generation student, you have the power to break barriers and set an inspiring example for generations to come.”
Hannah Bonanducci ’26
Communication Studies Major
“To me, being ‘first-generation’ means that I am the first in my family to set the standard of education being a reality rather than a luxury. I was able to take the odds of a ‘first-generation, low-income student’ to break the educational barriers of my school and family and wind up at Eastern. I'm not just learning how to be a journalist; I'm learning how to approach the world and ask questions, which will provide a learning and understanding of the world far beyond my four years here. I hope that the work that I do now will make college more accessible and profitable for the generation that follows me, whether it be my own kids, the next generation of my family, or even the kids of my friends.”
John Heller ’26
Business Major
“I find it important to create change and make my family proud. My family is my passion, and that motivates me to keep moving forward. Initially, learning time management was a big hurdle for me – no one is making sure you’re awake to go to class or doing assignments. I learned I had to mature quickly and be responsible to be successful. The most rewarding part has been building relationships with new people I meet and growing as a person. Seeing my hard work pay off always feels good.”
A pep band and drumline energized football games this Fall, with a full Marching Band set to launch in Fall 2024
By Kelly Goddard
THE SOUND OF DRUMS, TRUMPETS, and trombones filled the air as football players, cheerleaders, and the dance team took the field on a sunny Saturday afternoon. This Fall marked not only the first season of varsity NCAA DIII football competition, but also the launch of a new Eastern pep band and drumline, with plans to expand into a full marching band next fall.
“The new pep band and drumline have added amazing energy and school spirit to the football games this year,” said Eric McNelley, Eastern’s Director of Athletics. “The atmosphere at the games was even more exciting than we anticipated.”
The Eagles played their home games at historic Franklin Field in Philadelphia this season while renovations are in progress on their home field at Valley
Forge Military Academy, conveniently located around the corner from the St. Davids campus.
Eastern has placed the current pep band and the future marching band under the leadership of Dr. Kate Umble Smucker, a professional trumpet player and music educator who has extensive touring and performing experience. She is also the founder and band leader of the King Street Big Band, located in Lancaster.
“It is always a big challenge to start something from the ground up, but with that challenge comes the energy and excitement of the entire community coming together to build something,” Dr. Smucker shared. “It is our privilege to hear the hopes and dreams for what a marching band can be from so
“The new pep band and drumline have added amazing energy and school spirit to the football games this year.”
many corners of the EU community and to try to mold that into something that represents us as EU students, alumni, faculty and staff.”
Marcus Myers, a Philadelphia native, is leading the drumline. Marcus has taught at University of the Arts and served as the artistic director for Musicopia’s drumlines in the Philadelphia School District.
“Gratefulness fills my heart concerning my involvement at Eastern,” he shared. “To create and coach the drumline is a wonderful opportunity. Although we are in the beginning stages, the students I have worked with share a love for music, Eastern, and their peers. I believe exciting days are ahead.”
Dr. Steven Ford, Executive Director of the Fine and Performing Arts Division, expressed his excitement about these talented leaders and the future of the program. “We are thrilled to launch Eastern’s new Marching Band under such excellent and talented leadership," he shared. "We look forward to the exciting new opportunities that the marching band and drumline will provide for student musicians."
Learn more at eastern.edu/marchingband.
How the MAT in Classical Education gave me a vision of human flourishing in the midst of hardship.
by elyse garner ’13, MAT ’24
THERE ARE FEW THINGS I enjoy more than a good story. Admirable characters, triumphs over evil, a satisfactory conclusion: what’s not to love? But what do we do when our stories don’t turn out the way we hoped? Not all stories have happy endings, after all, and some just never seem to end. Are those stories really worth getting excited about?
When I first enrolled in the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Classical Education program offered by Eastern through Templeton Honors College (THC), I was optimistically looking to reframe my own narrative.
Desperately in need of a change and weighed down by my own lack of direction, I hoped that enrolling in an interesting graduate program that nurtured my love for the humanities would help provide a new plotline for me and breathe new life into my story.
Without any particular career plans and with zero teaching experience, I anxiously enrolled in the honors program designed for classical educators. I didn’t know it yet, but being a part of the MAT program would quickly reveal a passion and a perspective that would deeply change me.
FEATURE
As I progressed through the courses, however, my personal plotline seemed to get worse. Each semester brought new tragedy into my life: three deaths, severe financial hardship, dangerous and discouraging diagnoses, broken relationships, traumatic experiences, public shame, deep betrayal from close family...the list goes on. My story was starting to resemble the biblical account of Job, and any hope I had for a triumphant plot twist was fading as my world crumbled around me.
Yet as I attempted to process my troubles, I found myself regularly referring to the timeless wisdom of authors we had read in class and applying points that my professors had stressed about human flourishing and virtue. Great thinkers throughout history such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Josef Pieper, and more invited me into a living conversation about what it means to be fully human and how the pursuit of piety through education can point us towards our divine purpose as image bearers who glorify God and wonder at the world he has made.
Human flourishing, after all, is what classical liberal arts education is about. Rather than preparing students for mere vocational or intellectual success, the goal of classical education, according to THC Dean, Dr. Brian Williams, “is to educate whole persons through the accumulated wisdom of the ages for a lifetime of flourishing regardless of their profession or place of employment.”
This holistic approach has been modeled since ancient times and has the ultimate goal of producing what the medievals called “a beautiful being” who is better able to serve both God and neighbor through love for what is True, Good, and Beautiful. To live life well, then, requires not only an enlightened mind, but also a transformed heart. Teachers and students alike are seen as fellow characters in life’s grand story, making classical education about shaping better people for the glory of God, not just better workers or scholars.
This refocused perspective on education was so refreshing to me. Soon, my classes started to take on a healing effect as my own character was being developed through hardship. I began to see how both positive and painful stories can each teach us something beautiful about life. Instead of just longing for a change of circumstance, I needed a change of heart that would enable me to say like Christ, “Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42).
After seeing the impact of classical education on my own character, I realized that I wanted to help students like me draw closer to God by examining their hearts and developing a better relationship with reality: the good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly. I now saw myself as a character in a much larger, more significant story – one that’s been passed down through centuries and continues to move towards an ultimate ending
that we already know: the coming of Christ and the establishment of his holy kingdom. If that isn’t a story worth getting excited about, I don’t know what is!
Now celebrating the completion of its fifth year, Templeton’s MAT program has grown significantly and produced an incredible group of scholars who are passionately serving God and neighbor in their various spheres of influence. Teachers from all over the country have inspired me with their own passionate pursuits and educational goals. Other MAT students continually encourage me by looking for new ways to apply course material to their passions in the arts, sciences, and even athletics.
And then there’s someone like me: new to teaching and unsure of what the future holds, but now a lot more hopeful. Sometimes the strongest passions can develop from the greatest pain. The Great Tradition is a fascinating story that ultimately points to the glory of God and tells the tale of human flourishing throughout history. My story is not my own, and I am not the main character – that role belongs to our righteous Savior. His is the greatest story ever told and to be able to pass that on to future generations in any way through classical education is an incredible responsibility, joy, and privilege.
“I NOW SAW MYSELF AS A CHARACTER IN A MUCH LARGER, MORE SIGNIFICANT
DR. DESAREE FESTA '04 AND HER TEAM HONORED WITH 2023
PAT TILLMAN AWARD FOR SERVICE FOR NFL CRISIS RESPONSE
Prioritizing mental health often falls by the wayside amidst the pressing demands of life. We’re quick to believe that mental health is wonderful if you have it, but requires a lot of time, effort, and resources to attain it if you don’t. More often than not, our response to an unhealthy mental state is to neglect, dismiss, or power-through warning signs. We minimize the importance of caring for our minds. But on January 2, 2023, the events of Monday Night Football highlighted the crucial importance of addressing mental health needs and introduced a new era of mental health awareness in the NFL and our nation.
By Ally (Holmes) Rosario ’14, MEd ’21
This award is a reminder that professional athletes are human too and that their mental health and wellness matters.
Since middle school, Dr. Desaree Festa ’04 has known that her passions for sports and helping others would play a significant role in her life. But it wasn’t until she learned about the emerging field of Sport Psychology that her passion was confirmed.
Dr. Desaree started at Eastern in 2000 as a Psychology major with a minor in Sports and Coaching. Her pursuit was even highlighted in a 2002 article in The Waltonian, where she shared her belief that Sport Psychology would reshape the way athletics is perceived as a whole. She was right.
After graduating, Dr. Desaree went on to earn a Master’s in Sports Psychology and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Florida State University. Her passion and education opened doors for many different roles in collegiate and professional sports and eventually brought her to the NFL’s Buffalo Bills football team as Team Sport Psychologist.
“Healthy athletes off the field are healthy athletes on the field,” Dr. Desaree explains. “As the team’s sport psychologist, I provide mental health counseling to help players and coaches navigate difficult life situations and equip them with mental techniques and strategies that optimize their performance on the team, among other responsibilities.”
“Every day you work in the NFL, you learn something new and grow as a result – I enjoy the challenge.”
The Buffalo Bills vs. Cincinnati Bengals game this year on January 2nd brought a significant challenge to Dr. Desaree and her team when mid-game, the Bill’s safety #3 Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field. The game stopped, and the nation watched in stunned silence as Dr. Desaree and the Buffalo Bills staff jumped into action to respond.
DR. DESAREE AND HER TEAM POSE WITH DAMAR HALMIN AT THE ESPYS
Hamlin was rushed to the hospital due to cardiac arrest, and both teams, shaken by the incident, did not resume gameplay.
“The physical nature of football often overshadows the mental impact the game has on the players. That night, the psychological ramifications of witnessing and being involved in this traumatic event were certainly overarching,“ Dr. Desaree recollects. “In that moment, we all shared a collective, human experience as we hoped for the best for Damar.”
Dr. Desaree explains, “As one of the only NFL teams with a fulltime sport psychologist or mental health clinician, I was able to implement a mental health response for the whole team that started immediately the night of the incident and continued throughout the remainder of the season. Our work in building community within our organization prior to the incident was extremely beneficial in getting through this situation.”
While Damar returned to the field several months after intensive mental and medical care, the effect this incident created has left a lasting impact on the way the NFL, and the nation, values mental health.
professional athletes are human too and that their mental health and wellness matters.”
This past summer, Dr. Desaree and her team were awarded the 2023 Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) Awards, honoring the quick response and life-saving measures the team provided to Damar, and the team, on that night. Damar presented the award himself.
“I was honored to be acknowledged alongside the rest of my team. This recognition is extremely important, since the mental impacts of such a physical game often get overlooked,” Dr. Desaree shares. “Many times, we see professional athletes as superhuman. But this award is a reminder that
“It is my hope that receiving this award and having this platform will shed light on the importance of mental health wellness not only within the NFL, but in our world as a whole. I hope this experience encourages others to be proactive in creating space for their mental well being. This experience is a reminder that life situations can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone, even on the football field.”
BUFFALO BILLS KNEEL IN SOLIDARITY DURING GAME IN SUPPORT OF DAMAR HAMLIN #3, WHO SUFFERED A CARDIAC ARREST, ON JANUARY 2, 2023, IN CINCINNATI, OH.
SPOTLIGHT
By Holly Scoffone
WHILE MANY TRAVELERS FLOCK to the tourist sites in Rome or Florence when visiting Italy, Abby Agapito ’24 chose to spend her summer in the quieter city of Genoa interning with the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program. This physician-led program provides pre-med students from around the world with diverse, hands-on experiences within different healthcare models in real hospital settings.
During this trip, Abby, who is majoring in Health Sciences, had the opportunity to shadow physicians and specialty doctors to experience how to be a better healthcare worker, as well as how to love and serve overlooked minorities in the healthcare system.
Abby grew in confidence as she navigated the language barrier and learned the importance of presence over verbal communication with her patients. “I became hyper-aware of my facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice, which trained me to know what someone was
trying to convey, even when words were not helping.”
“One patient was anxiously waiting for a procedure. The anesthesiologists worried about her increasing heart rate – she was anxious. She grabbed my hand, looked at me, and despite not completely understanding her words, I could tell that she wanted me to hold her hand and remain with her. I nodded ‘yes,’ and she closed her eyes and was able to rest.”
Abby was intrigued as she observed the doctors and hospital staff reflecting the parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke 10. Jesus uses this story to encourage his listeners to show compassion, be present, and care for those in need, regardless of their background, faith, or social standing. In the hospital, Abby witnessed this Good Samaritan posture in action as medical professionals worked to diligently provide medical care to those in need. She was inspired by the way unconditional love was on display.
“Healthcare should offer a haven marked by unconditional love where the sick and hopeless can find physical and mental healing.” In spite of the language barrier, Abby embraced the power of her presence and worked hard to display unconditional love to her patients.
Experiencing this power of presence with the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program has shaped Abby’s perspective on the medical field. “I am eager to be part of a holistic medical team that believes providing medical care is more than just finding a cure,” she shares. “My mission to serve with full commitment to excellence is driven by my life verse, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people’ (Col. 3:23)." Abby found that while knowledge and strong communication are important, the power of presence and serving from a posture of love and humility are key to effective medical work.
Healthcare should offer a haven marked by unconditional love where the sick and hopeless can find physical and
SPOTLIGHT
Passion as a Principal
A full-circle story of how difficult circumstances shaped a passionate difference-maker.
WWHILE THE JOURNEY from Cambodia to America was never easy, Daniel Sophara Peou ’97 has allowed his story to shape his passions and influence his desire to make a difference for his students as a principal in the School District of Philadelphia.
At 13 years old, Dan and his family came to America as refugees after surviving a tragic genocide in Cambodia. Enrolling in the School District of Philadelphia (SDP) at Horace H. Furness High School, Dan immediately faced many challenges including an inability to speak English, a lack of resources, and an absence of support for refugees as they navigated resettlement.
Dan also noticed that there were very few teachers that looked like him in the district, and none at the school in the administrative level. This realization sparked Dan’s passion to make a difference and be the change he wanted to see in his Philly community.
After graduating high school, Dan worked hard to earn his Bachelor’s in Organizational Management
BY Sydney Tilley
from Eastern, which helped him secure his first teaching position in the SDP. He worked tirelessly to provide support to students who found themselves in similar situations to his own. Throughout his career, Dan held many roles in the SDP, until finally accepting the role as principal of Horace H. Furness, the very same school Dan attended after arriving in America.
“Furness High School has a very diverse student population, with most students’ journeys to America being very similar to my own,” Dan shares. “I make sure that students understand that their past experiences should not hold them back in pursuit of their dreams. I share my life experience with the hope of motivating them to reach their highest potential.”
Eastern played an integral role in preparing Dan for the work he is currently doing with his students. Assistance with public speaking was vital to his continued rise in the education field, especially since Dan was initially fearful of public speaking. “I had a very low self-esteem during my youth, but at Eastern, I discovered a technique that grew my confidence when speaking in public and learned the foundation for my management
skills.” Dan’s time at Eastern gave him confidence to engage community stakeholders, support his school community, and provide better access to resources for his students.
Though his time at Eastern was far from easy, Dan was able to see the deeper purpose behind each assignment and how it would connect to the work he desired to do in Philadelphia’s education system.
As Principal, Dan is always using his story to encourage others to pursue their passion, in spite of the many challenges they may face.
“Despite the struggles I went through during my youth, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community that I love. I am very grateful that I found an educational program at Eastern University that helped me break out of my shell and highlighted my strengths,” Dan reflected.
“If you have a dream, don’t let your past experiences hold you back from achieving your future dream. Keep looking for your strengths, and don’t give up!”
Beyond
by Professor nilsa graciani
All Limits
ONE OF THE GREATEST satisfactions of my work at Esperanza College is seeing our students succeed and upholding Esperanza’s mission: “to enhance the outlook of young people and adults so that they can live even more thoughtful, positive, productive, and purposeful lives.”
Since the STEM fields have historically been an area where Latino/a individuals are underrepresented, we strive to bring students opportunities in these areas that will challenge them and encourage them to consider pursuing a career that God has perhaps created them to be successful in. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to travel with Esperanza’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Future Health Professionals
team members to the International Leadership Conference (ILC) and competition, which took place at the end of June in Dallas, Texas. In order to compete at ILC, students must qualify by winning gold, silver, or bronze medals in their events at the state level conference. Our team all earned gold! The conference is the culmination of our students’ hard work and the highlight of the year.
The theme of the conference was “Beyond All Limits” and brought together more than 12,000 individuals with similar career goals from different countries and different educational levels to learn about healthcare issues in our world.
I was not only challenged scientifically and in the field of health, but in relation to my competence in creative problem solving, my leadership skills, cooperation and creative thinking.” “
Axxel castillo ’24
Limits
Esperanza College was represented by five students from the health sciences program: Axxel Castillo ’24, Jasmin De Jesus ’23, Mateo Guzman ’24, Cristal Soto ’23, and Esteban Vidal ’23. The conference included a variety of activities: educational seminars, competitions, exams, workshops, and an exhibition. Students also had the opportunity to network with representatives from different schools, including medical programs and healthcare employers.
“One of the things I liked the most about ILC was the amount of resources and information available in one place,” Esteban shared.
“Visiting the diversity of tables in the expo really encouraged me to stay on my path to a career in health sciences.”
The competitive events focused on leadership and professional skills, as well as anatomy and physiology. The students had prepared, practiced, and studied. Their efforts were rewarded, as every student placed in their competition!
“HOSA ILC was an experience that I will never forget,” Axxel shared. “I was not only challenged scientifically and in the field of health, but in relation to my competence in creative problem solving, my leadership skills, cooperation, and creative thinking. This is an experience that I will carry with me for the rest of my life as I go beyond all limits.”
I am very proud of the work of these students. The integration of our values of Faith, Reason, and Justice, combined with rigorous academic courses and extracurricular activities such as HOSA, nourish our students and allow them to develop and become caring, well-rounded individuals. As I reflect on where these students were when they first walked into Esperanza and where they are today, I am inspired by the changes and know that they are going to fulfill their calling and make an impact in our community.
From To
GENERATION GENERATION
Passing Passion on to the Future
by Daniel Garrison Edwards ’11, Mdiv ’18
ON A SATURDAY MORNING in late August, nearly 90 people gathered at Eastern University's City Ave location in Philadelphia to celebrate Palmer student-scholars and leaders. The standing-room-only space hummed with excitement, full of seminary students, local church leaders, and those touched by the Palmer community.
Generations of scholars were present – some just beginning their seminary studies while others, long-since graduated, having served in vibrant ministries for decades. The common thread that united them all: Passion. Everyone present shared a deep passion to participate in Christ’s restorative work in the world. It brought to mind the relationship between the prophets Elijah and Elisha. As a prophet, Elijah trained Elisha as his apprentice, then passed down the prophetic office. On this late summer day, the crowd celebrated the importance of handing down passion from generation to generation, specifically through the gift of financial scholarships and the opportunities that arise through them.
Rev. Dr. Wayne Croft, ’98, and his wife Dr. Lisa Croft shared how they were inspired to establish the Albert F. Campbell Endowed Scholarship because of the example and mentorship of Rev. Dr. Campbell, former adjunct professor and Pastor Emeritus of Mount Carmel Baptist Church. “We had little, but we put our few pennies together,” Rev. Croft reflects. They were driven by a passion to preserve their mentor’s legacy and pay forward the same financial generosity that Rev. Croft enjoyed himself.
Jen Lisowski, MDiv ’24, Student Assembly Moderator, represented the current generation of Palmer students and shared about the
wisdom that has been handed down to them through their time at Palmer.
“Peace is not about the lack of something, but the presence of something – it is not the lack of brokenness but the presence of wholeness – wholeness because of Jesus Christ!” she expressed. The room applauded in agreement.
Passion leaves an imprint. Palmer inspires in its students a holy passion that transcends generations and extends well beyond the flipping of mortar board tassels. This passion permeates the lives of its graduates, animating Palmer’s mission, The Whole Gospel for the Whole World through Whole Person
This passion is expressed through CARES, the Center for Alumni Care and Seminary Engagement, which offers chaplaincy care, connection, and continued formation for ministry leaders in need of rest and restoration. It does so through legacy offerings such as the Mitchell and Costas Lectureships that commemorate and honor the rich traditions of the African American Church and Latinx Theological Scholarship. It does so through nearly 100 years of innovation in Palmer’s history with the purpose of bringing Christ’s restorative work to the present time.
As many have said “The spirit of Elijah rests in Elisha,” so one could say the “spirit” of Palmer rests on those who boldly carry on the mission.
After the scholarships were presented, Rev. Dr. Kimberlee A. Johnson, Dean of Palmer Theological Seminary and College, invited the scholarship recipients to share a word of thanks. The first to rise stated simply, “My answer is still ‘Yes.’” The room responded with a passionate chorus of “Amen.”
Passion leaves an imprint
FANELLI BROTHERS: A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE AT EASTERN
IN A 21-8 WIN OVER HOOD COLLEGE in the final game of the 2023 regular season, #7 Nicholas Fanelli ’23 became both the career and single-season points leader for Eastern Men’s Lacrosse. The following game, he would become the first Eastern player to record a 100-point season.
Most Eastern Men’s Lacrosse players consider their teammates to be family. For Nicholas, however, that is more than a feeling. In his four years playing with the Eagles, Nicholas has always had a brother close.
When he arrived in St. Davids, his older brother Kyle ’20 was a senior who was emerging as a goal-scoring midfielder. With COVID shutting down the 2020 season and reducing the length of the 2021 season, the duo only played 20 games together.
In just their second game together, the two had their first Fanelli-Fanelli scoring combination, and they did it both ways. Nicholas finished a pass from Kyle early in the third quarter, and then Kyle scored off a pass from Nicholas 12 minutes later. The two would combine only one more time in 2020. Kyle finished that year with six goals and two assists and Nicholas had 11 goals and five helpers. Kyle decided to come back as a graduate student in 2021.
That year, the two brothers were atop the Eastern points table. Nicholas scored 43 goals and had 20 assists. Kyle scored 33 goals and had 18 helpers. With their three younger brothers following on livestreams early in the season and from the hill once fans were allowed to return, they combined on goals 19 times.
BROTHERS NICHOLAS (#7) AND KYLE (# 1 ) FANELLI
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After Kyle finished his time at Eastern, he passed on his #1 jersey to the next Fanelli brother, Christopher ’25, who arrived on campus to continue the family legacy. He set up Nicholas for a goal in his first game, but the two brothers finally connected in earnest when Christopher joined the starting attack for the Arcadia game. Christopher scored five times. Three of those goals came on passes from his brother. Over his first two seasons, Christopher scored an impressive 90 times. Thirty-three of his goals came from Nicholas.
After Kyle finished his time at Eastern, he passed on his #1 jersey to the next Fanelli brother, Christopher ’25, who arrived on campus to continue the family legacy. He set up Nicholas for a goal in his first game, but the two brothers finally connected in earnest when Christopher joined the starting attack for the Arcadia game. Christopher scored five times. Three of those goals came on passes from his brother. Over his first two seasons, Christopher scored an impressive 90 times. Thirty-three of his goals came from Nicholas.
All told, the Fanelli brothers have accounted for 291 goals and 175 assists since Kyle scored his first collegiate goal in 2018.
All told, the Fanelli brothers have accounted for 291 goals and 175 assists since Kyle scored his first collegiate goal in 2018.
“Nicholas really embraces the brotherhood mindset,” First-year Head Coach Colin Piper said. “Outside of practice, Nicholas is dedicated to his craft. He works tirelessly on his shot, footwork and stick skills. He is never alone. Like his big brother, he always pulled his little brother out to the field.”
“Nicholas really embraces the brotherhood mindset,” First-year Head Coach Colin Piper said. “Outside of practice, Nicholas is dedicated to his craft. He works tirelessly on his shot, footwork and stick skills. He is never alone. Like his big brother, he always pulled his little brother out to the field.”
EASTERN WINS 22 WINS
The Education major from Perkasie is slated to return with brother Christopher for the 2024 season. Younger brothers Frankie and Rocco will compete at Pennridge High School, and Matteo, the youngest, will continue to roam the sidelines creating fabulous content for Instagram.
The Education major from Perkasie is slated to return with brother Christopher for the 2024 season. Younger brothers Frankie and Rocco will compete at Pennridge High School, and Matteo, the youngest, will continue to roam the sidelines creating fabulous content for Instagram.
Even as years pass, Eastern University Men’s Lacrosse will continue to grow as brothers. In the middle of it all, there will be Fanellis.
Even as years pass, Eastern University Men’s Lacrosse will continue to grow as brothers. In the middle of it all, there will be Fanellis.
CHRISTOPHER (# 1 ) AND NICHOLAS (#7) FANELLI
CHRISTOPHER (# 1 ) AND NICHOLAS (#7) FANELLI
Eastern and Palmer Alumni Class Notes
1950 S
Charles Russell Moore ’55 and his wife Alice Essex Moore ’72 celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary in June 2023. Charles is still preaching occasionally. They are both in fairly good health living with their daughter and her husband in Arizona.
1970 S
Dr. Jeff Leonards ’75, just published his second novel, entitled Sigmund Fraud, Licensed Imposter. It centers around Braydon Mitchell, a middle-aged psychologist whose life is awash in challenges.
1990 S
Anna Dickson James ’94 has published her debut short fiction collection featuring not-youreveryday tales of female resistance.
2000 S
Congratulations to Wayne Gordon, DMin ’01 upon his retirement in September after 45 years as Lead Pastor of Lawndale Community Church. Wayne will continue teaching and directing the Doctoral and Master’s programs in Christian Community Development at Northern Seminary.
Garth McBride ’01 is celebrating his 10th year as an Associate Minister at the Sharon Baptist Church Philadelphia in February 2023. He was also inducted into the US Department of DefenseDefense Logistics Agency Troop Support 2022 Hall of Fame in December 2022.
Holly O’Brien ’04 married Matt Fisher in March 2022 in Anderson, CA.
David Richardson, MDiv ’06, DMin ’10 is celebrating the publication of his first book How to Know for Sure, and currently serves as pastor at The Journey on Park Avenue, Parkersburg, WV.
Julie Rosenau ’07 was recently appointed to the Board of the Christian School of York. She was reappointed to the Board of Stillmeadow Church of the Nazarene in York, PA. She will soon complete her two-year term as Chair of the Board of Affordable Housing Advocates in York, PA where she has served on the Personnel Committee and Board for over ten years. Julie recently completed her service on a Committee of the Lyric Band of Hanover, PA. Julie is a lifetime member of the trumpet section of the Lyric Band. Julie and Scott enjoyed a ten-day cruise for their 10th wedding anniversary last fall.
Towanda Connelly, MDiv ’08 is celebrating ordination as Elder in the United Methodist Church, May 2023.
Congratulations to Kevin Lester, MDiv ’09 for being commissioned as a Provisional Elder in the Desert Southwest Conference of the United Methodist Church, June 2023.
2010 S
Nora (Barth) Devlin ’11 moved back to Southeastern, PA (Delaware County) in June 2022. Her husband started teaching at Swarthmore College in August 2022. She completed her PhD in Higher Education from Rutgers University in May 2023. She started a new role at Eastern in June 2023.
Rejoice with Ian Dugan, MDiv ’15 as he was ordained a Minister of Word and Ordinance in the Missionary Baptist Conference USA, May 2023. Ian serves at Grace Church, Salvation Army KROC Center, and UPenn Hospital sharing his gifts for music, technology, and chaplaincy.
Jamila, MDiv ’15 and Solomon Jefferson, MDiv ’20 are celebrating the publication of their first book Now What? After the Wedding & Honeymoon is Over in April 2023. Sonny serves as a Chaplain at Redemption Housing, Philadelphia and Jamila is a school nurse in the Philadelphia School District.
We celebrate the ministry of Reuben Hoggard, MDiv ’18, Director of the Firehouse Center, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, which was recently featured on ABC 6 Action News.
Jonny Rashid, MDiv ’18 is receiving congratulations on a new call as Pastor of West Philly Mennonite Church April 2023 and on receiving licensure with the Mennonite Church USA, May 2023.
2020 S
Congratulations to Jonathan Delgado, MDiv ’20 in his new position teaching Bible to Upper School students at Lanier Christian Academy. Jonathan also serves as the Family Life Minister at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Parkersburg, WV.
Nicole Weenink ’20 and Doug Kramer ’21 were married on June 9!
Congratulations, Karen Bartkowski, MDiv ’21 upon ordination as Elder in the United Methodist Church, May 2023. Karen currently serves as Pastor at Conshohocken UMC, PA.
Congratulations, Kevin Schondelmeyer, DMin ’21 on receiving a new call as Pastor of Davenport Presbyterian Church, Davenport, IA in December 2022.
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