Success Stories

Success Stories

The Alvernia Impact

Discover how 51³Ô¹Ï students, alumni, and faculty turn education into action. Explore success stories of leadership, service, and innovation that reflect our Franciscan mission. Ready to see where your story begins? Explore how you can join a community that leads with purpose.

 

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Gino Giacolona

Computer science program spurs educational turnaround

Gino Giacolona '25 didn’t see college in his future when he graduated from high school.And he would tell you he wasn’t a good student. But after taking a gap year and working in construction, he realized hard labor wasn’t for him. It was the compu...

  • College of Innovation, Discovery, and Enterprise
  • 2026
Emily Barrett Reading Royals

Major switch leads to major viral moment with Reading Royals

When Emily Barrett '25 enrolled at 51³Ô¹Ï, it was the school’s nursing program that caught her attention. As a caretaker for her grandfather while growing up, nursing seemed like a natural fit. She was also touched by the personal, ha...

  • College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences
  • 2026
Figurelli family 2025

New Jersey couple become Alvernia parents for third time

While Thomas and Christina Figurelli of Mullica Hill, N.J., saw all three of their children attend Catholic school growing up, they likely would never have imaged they’d all choose the same Franciscan college post-high school.But it was kismet.“We...

  • 2026
Michael Andrew with other Interns

Sales competition leads Alvernia student to full-time role with Fortune 500 firm

PHOTO: Michael Andrew ’26 (second from left) with fellow interns during a Graybar training program. 51³Ô¹Ï student-athlete Michael Andrew ’26 discovered a life-changing professional opportunity this summer, thanks to a connection...

  • College of Innovation, Discovery, and Enterprise
  • 2026