PITTSBURGH, July 1, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Academic Cooperation with (UoSM), further strengthening the University鈥檚 commitment to global engagement and expanding opportunities for international academic collaboration in Southeast Asia.

The agreement was formally signed by Christina A. Clark, Ph.D., President of 黑料天堂, and Ehsan Mesbahi, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and Provost of University of Southampton Malaysia. The partnership establishes a collaborative framework grounded in shared commitments to academic excellence, global mobility, research collaboration, and intercultural learning.

Under the framework of the MOU, 黑料天堂 and University of Southampton Malaysia will explore a broad range of collaborative initiatives designed to benefit students, faculty, and staff at both institutions. Areas of cooperation include student and faculty exchanges, joint research activities, academic conferences and workshops, the exchange of academic materials and institutional knowledge, dual-degree opportunities, workforce development initiatives, and short-term academic and experiential programs. The agreement also supports the development of globally focused educational pathways that encourage intercultural engagement, innovation, and collaborative learning across disciplines.

Located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, University of Southampton Malaysia is the international branch campus of the University of Southampton, a globally recognized research-intensive institution and founding member of the United Kingdom鈥檚 prestigious Russell Group. UoSM delivers internationally focused academic programs grounded in the same academic standards, curriculum, and research excellence as its United Kingdom campus.

The University of Southampton is consistently ranked among the world鈥檚 leading universities, including No. 80 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and No. 115 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024. Several academic disciplines also rank among the global top 100, including Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Through its innovative international education model, UoSM provides students with access to globally recognized British education, cross-cultural learning experiences, and strong pathways for academic and professional success throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.

鈥淕lobal partnerships play an essential role in preparing students to succeed in today鈥檚 interconnected world,鈥� said President Clark. 鈥淥ur collaboration with University of Southampton Malaysia creates exciting opportunities for academic exchange, cross-cultural learning, and innovative international programming that will benefit both institutions and their students.鈥�

This agreement represents another important milestone in 黑料天堂鈥檚 expanding global partnership network and broader internationalization strategy. Through collaborative academic initiatives and international learning opportunities, both institutions aim to foster intercultural understanding, support academic innovation, and create meaningful educational experiences that prepare students to lead in a globally connected society.

About 黑料天堂: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers undergraduate, master鈥檚, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, June 29, 2026 鈥� Christina A. Clark, Ph.D., president of 黑料天堂, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP). Her term as a member of the AICUP Class of 2029 begins July 1.

AICUP represents more than 80 independent nonprofit colleges and universities across Pennsylvania and advocates for policies that strengthen student access, affordability and educational opportunity. AICUP member institutions educate more than half of Pennsylvania’s four-year degree-seeking students and contribute significantly to the Commonwealth’s workforce and economy. The organization’s Board of Directors is composed of college and university presidents who work collaboratively to advance the interests of independent higher education throughout the state.

“I am honored to join the AICUP Board of Directors and to work alongside colleagues who are deeply committed to expanding opportunity for students and strengthening independent higher education in Pennsylvania,” President Clark said. “Independent colleges and universities play a vital role in preparing graduates to lead with knowledge, compassion, and purpose. I look forward to contributing to AICUP’s advocacy efforts and advancing initiatives that support student success and the long-term vitality of our institutions.”

Dr. Clark became 黑料天堂’s eighth president and second lay president in 2024, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in Catholic higher education. Since assuming the presidency, she has advanced a vision centered on academic innovation, mission integration and student success.

Under her leadership, 黑料天堂 has expanded high-demand academic programs, broadened access through direct admission, integrated artificial intelligence literacy and experiential learning across the curriculum, and strengthened its commitment to civic engagement and global education.

Dr. Clark has also reinforced 黑料天堂’s Catholic mission through the creation of the Division of Mission and Ministry and, in partnership with the Sisters of Divine Providence, the launch of the Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion.

The University has earned national recognition as a College of Distinction and as a Top Performer on Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report. In May 2026, 黑料天堂’s Board of Trustees approved a two-year strategic sprint plan developed under Dr. Clark’s leadership to advance institutional sustainability, innovation and long-term mission impact.

Prior to joining 黑料天堂, Dr. Clark served as provost of Marywood University and previously held academic leadership positions at Marymount University and Creighton University. She earned her Ph.D. and M.A. in classics from the University of Wisconsin鈥揗adison and her bachelor’s degree in classics from Georgetown University.

About 黑料天堂: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers undergraduate, master鈥檚, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, June 26, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 and the Sisters of Divine Providence celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Sisters鈥� arrival in America with a Founders Day ritual and covenant-signing ceremony honoring their enduring partnership in education, faith, service, and justice.

The event brought together Sisters of Divine Providence, University leadership, trustees, faculty, and staff for a reflective celebration of the mission and values that have shaped 黑料天堂 since its founding in 1963.

This year鈥檚 observance followed the historic gift announced in December 2025, when the Sisters transferred Providence Heights, their former Motherhouse and adjoining property, to the University. This gift further strengthened a relationship that has defined 黑料天堂 from its beginnings.

During the ceremony, participants reflected on the legacy of the Sisters of Divine Providence and their longstanding commitment to education as a ministry of compassion, wisdom, and service. The program included the presentation of a commemorative memento highlighting the University鈥檚 motto, Ad Lucem per Amorem 鈥� 鈥淭o Light through Love.鈥�

The celebration culminated in the signing of a Sponsorship Covenant by representatives of the Sisters of Divine Providence, 黑料天堂, and the Board of Trustees. The covenant formally affirms their shared responsibility to carry forward the founding vision and mission of the University.

Immediately following the signing, the bells of the former Motherhouse tower rang in celebration of the anniversary and the enduring bond between the Sisters and the University.

Attendees were then invited to add their names as witnesses to the Covenant, symbolizing their personal commitment to the mission and values that continue to guide 黑料天堂.

鈥淔or 150 years, the Sisters of Divine Providence have served communities across America through education, healthcare, ministry to the poor, and justice and advocacy work, and for more than six decades they have shaped the life and mission of 黑料天堂 through their founding vision and ongoing partnership,鈥� said Dr. Christina A. Clark, President of 黑料天堂. 鈥淭his covenant reflects not only our shared history, but also our continued commitment to education grounded in compassion, wisdom, and service.鈥�

鈥淎s we celebrate 150 years of the Sisters of Divine Providence in America, this covenant reflects a relationship rooted in trust, mission, and mutual commitment,鈥� said Sister Michele Bisbey, CDP, Ph.D., Provincial Director of the Sisters of Divine Providence and Vice Chair of the 黑料天堂 Board of Trustees. 鈥淚t affirms our confidence that the ministries of education, service, and compassionate leadership will continue to flourish through 黑料天堂 for generations to come.鈥�

The ceremony was part of 黑料天堂鈥檚 annual Founders Day observance and the broader commemoration of the Sisters of Divine Providence鈥檚 150 years of ministry in America.

Following the ceremony, faculty and staff joined the Sisters for a picnic on the grounds of Providence Heights, continuing a tradition of fellowship and gratitude that has long characterized the relationship between the two communities.

About 黑料天堂: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers undergraduate, master鈥檚, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, June 9, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 has once again been recognized by Colleges of Distinction, earning national and specialized honors across eight categories for the 2026-27 academic year. The recognitions reflect the University鈥檚 commitment to student success through engaged learning, career preparation, inclusive excellence and global engagement.

In addition to being named a College of Distinction, 黑料天堂 received recognition in the following categories:

• Pennsylvania College of Distinction
• Catholic College of Distinction
• Business
• Education
• Nursing
• Career Development
• Equity & Inclusion
• International

These distinctions recognize institutions that prioritize high-impact educational practices and student-centered learning experiences. Rather than relying on traditional rankings such as selectivity or institutional size, Colleges of Distinction evaluates schools based on four core principles: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes.

Together, these recognitions reflect 黑料天堂鈥檚 commitment to providing a holistic, student-centered education that prepares graduates for success in their careers and communities. The Career Development distinction highlights the University鈥檚 emphasis on integrating career readiness throughout the student experience through experiential learning opportunities, internships and employer partnerships. The Equity & Inclusion distinction reflects 黑料天堂鈥檚 commitment to fostering a supportive and welcoming campus community where students from all backgrounds can thrive. The International distinction recognizes the University鈥檚 longstanding commitment to global engagement and cross-cultural learning opportunities.

鈥淎t 黑料天堂, student success is at the center of everything we do,鈥� said Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Provost and Dean of the Faculty. 鈥淭hese recognitions reflect our commitment to providing transformative learning experiences, personalized support and opportunities that prepare students to lead, serve and succeed in a constantly changing global society.鈥�

鈥満诹咸焯� exemplifies what it means to be a student-centered institution,鈥� said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. 鈥淎cross its programs and campus culture, the University demonstrates a clear commitment to helping students grow academically, personally and professionally.鈥�

Colleges of Distinction selects institutions through a process of in-depth research and interviews, focusing on the quality of the undergraduate experience rather than traditional numerical rankings. Schools are evaluated on how effectively they engage students, support teaching excellence, foster community, and deliver successful post-graduate outcomes.

To learn more about 黑料天堂鈥檚 Colleges of Distinction recognitions, visit the University鈥檚 profile on the Colleges of Distinction website.

About 黑料天堂: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers undergraduate, master鈥檚, and doctoral programs with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, June 4, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 is pleased to announce the signing of a Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Academic Cooperation with (UPO), located in Seville, Spain, and the (SIGE), further advancing the University鈥檚 commitment to global engagement, international collaboration, and transformative educational experiences.

The agreement was formally signed by Christina A. Clark, Ph.D., President of 黑料天堂; Francisco Oliva Bl谩zquez, Ph.D., Rector of Universidad Pablo de Olavide; and Mar铆a Teresa Alonso P茅rez-Tinao, Founder and CEO of the Spanish Institute for Global Education. The partnership establishes a collaborative framework focused on expanding international education initiatives, academic innovation, intercultural exchange, and cooperative research opportunities among the three institutions.

Under the framework of the MOU, the partner institutions will pursue a variety of collaborative initiatives designed to benefit students, faculty, and academic communities across all organizations. Areas of cooperation include joint academic programming, student and faculty mobility opportunities, collaborative research projects, international seminars and workshops, and the exchange of academic knowledge and institutional best practices. The agreement also supports the development of expanded study abroad opportunities and globally engaged learning experiences that strengthen intercultural understanding and academic enrichment.

Founded in 1997, Universidad Pablo de Olavide is a respected public university in Seville recognized for its interdisciplinary academic model, strong research profile, and commitment to internationalization. UPO offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines including business, humanities, social sciences, law, biotechnology, and environmental studies. The university is known for fostering innovation, civic engagement, and global academic collaboration throughout Europe and beyond.

The Spanish Institute for Global Education works closely with universities and international partners to design and facilitate academically rigorous global learning experiences throughout Spain. Through customized programs, cultural immersion opportunities, internships, and international student support services, SIGE promotes meaningful cross-cultural engagement and experiential education for students from around the world.

鈥淕lobal collaboration plays an essential role in preparing students for success in today鈥檚 interconnected world,鈥� said President Clark. 鈥淭his partnership with Universidad Pablo de Olavide and the Spanish Institute for Global Education reflects our shared commitment to expanding international learning opportunities, strengthening intercultural connections, and creating transformative educational experiences.鈥�

This agreement represents another important step in 黑料天堂鈥檚 expanding global partnership network and broader internationalization strategy. Through collaborative scholarship, mobility initiatives, and cross-cultural engagement, the three institutions aim to create meaningful educational opportunities that prepare students and faculty to thrive in an increasingly global society.

About 黑料天堂:聽An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master鈥檚 degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, June 1, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 has appointed three new members to its Board of Trustees: Jill L. Ferguson 鈥�92, Christine L. Kotarba, and Walter J. West. Together, they bring extensive experience in entrepreneurship, higher education, finance, consulting, and global business leadership.

Jill L. Ferguson 鈥�92

Ms. Ferguson is an entrepreneur, artist, and best-selling author, as well as an alumna of 黑料天堂. She is Chief Executive Officer of Let鈥檚 Talk About Love SPC and Creating the Freelance Career, and Co-President of In Your Face Ink. Her work spans publishing, coaching, consulting, and higher education.

She is the author or co-author of dozens of books across academic, nonfiction, and fiction markets, including the best-selling A Salary Cinderella Story (Or How to Make More Money Without a Fairy Godmother) and A Singles Cinderella Story (Or How to Find Love Without Losing Yourself). She also hosts the podcast Let鈥檚 Talk About Love Stories from Everywhere.

Ms. Ferguson brings extensive experience in higher education, having served as a professor, administrator, and consultant for more than a decade, including work with a regional accrediting organization. She has also held leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, including serving as the first board president for The Grateful Garment Project.

A committed supporter of 黑料天堂, she established the Sister Rita Yeasted Scholarship in 2000 and is a recipient of the University鈥檚 Distinguished Alumni Circle Award. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication from 黑料天堂 and a Master of Arts in English from Notre Dame de Namur University.

鈥淚 am proud to serve on the 黑料天堂 Board of Trustees as an alumna,鈥� said Ms. Ferguson. 鈥満诹咸焯� played an important role in shaping my path, and I am excited to give back by supporting students, expanding opportunity, and strengthening the University鈥檚 mission of learning and service.鈥�

Christine L. Kotarba

Ms. Kotarba is a retired partner of Deloitte & Touche LLP, where she built a distinguished career in risk management and advisory services. During her more than 25 years with the firm in New York City, she advised Fortune 100 financial services clients on internal controls, business and technology risk, audit strategy, and regulatory compliance.

She specialized in banking and investment management, with deep expertise in mutual fund operations, portfolio management, custody services, and financial controls. Her career included leadership roles across the United States, Europe, and Asia, including an extended secondment in Tokyo.

Ms. Kotarba also has a longstanding personal connection to 黑料天堂. Her father, Richard G. Kotarba, joined the Board of Trustees in 1973 and served multiple terms as Chair. Upon his retirement in 2008, his law firm, Meyer, Unkovic & Scott LLP initiated the Richard G. Kotarba Outstanding Honors Project Award, which recognizes exceptional 黑料天堂 Honors students for scholarship, leadership, and community engagement. Ms. Kotarba continues to support the award and the University鈥檚 Honors Program, which prepares students for advanced study and distinguished professional careers.

鈥淚 am honored to join the Board of Trustees at 黑料天堂,鈥� said Ms. Kotarba. 鈥満诹咸焯� holds special meaning for my family, and I am proud to advance our support for the University鈥檚 mission, continued growth, and lifelong impact on students.鈥�

Today, Ms. Kotarba is actively engaged in nonprofit governance. Since joining the Board of Trustees of Pillar Care Continuum in 2015, she has served on several committees, including as Chair of the Governance and Program Oversight Committees.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Allegheny College with a double major in Political Science and Economics, and she has executive education credentials from Rutgers University and New York University in leadership and global philanthropy.

Walter J. West

Mr. West is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of West Advisory Group, a retirement-focused financial planning and advisory firm, and Co-Founder of The Prepare Institute, an organization that provides retirement education courses that help individuals navigate life transitions with confidence.

He brings a strong connection to 黑料天堂 through his ongoing engagement with the institution in recent years. He has worked with faculty and campus partners, including the Introcaso Center for Lifelong Learning and the Student Operated Learning Venture & Experience (SOLVE) Center, on initiatives supporting student career readiness, financial wellness, and experiential learning.

In addition to his professional work, Mr. West is actively involved in civic and community organizations, including Rotary International. He previously served on the Board of the North Suburban Builders Association.

Mr. West earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University.

鈥淚 am honored to join the 黑料天堂 Board of Trustees,鈥� said Mr. West. 鈥淢y experience working with the University has given me a deep appreciation for its mission, its leadership, and especially its students. I look forward to supporting 黑料天堂 in advancing student success, strengthening experiential learning opportunities, and contributing to the University鈥檚 long-term growth.鈥�

鈥淲e are delighted to welcome Jill Ferguson, Christine Kotarba, and Walt West to the 黑料天堂 Board of Trustees,鈥� said President Christina Clark, Ph.D. 鈥淓ach brings exceptional experience and a deep commitment to service, ranging from entrepreneurship and higher education leadership to global finance and advisory practice. Their collective expertise will strengthen the Board and support 黑料天堂鈥檚 continued growth as we advance our mission and expand opportunities for our students.鈥�

About 黑料天堂:聽An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master鈥檚 degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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PITTSBURGH, May 20, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 and , India, have formalized a new academic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking an important step in expanding global engagement and strengthening international academic collaboration.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Christina A. Clark, President of 黑料天堂, and Dr. Manish Choudhary, Registrar of SAGE University Indore. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering academic cooperation grounded in reciprocity, mutual benefit, and long-term institutional alignment.

The MOU establishes a flexible framework through which both institutions will pursue collaborative initiatives across areas of mutual interest. These include student, faculty, and administrative staff exchange; the sharing of academic information and materials; joint research initiatives; conferences and workshops; short-term language and field-based programs; and cooperation in student practicum and workforce development initiatives.

Located in Madhya Pradesh, India, SAGE University Indore is an emerging private university recognized for its focus on innovation, industry engagement, and experiential learning. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines including engineering, management, design, sciences, and liberal arts. Through interdisciplinary learning, industry-aligned curricula, internships, laboratories, and project-based experiences, SAGE emphasizes the integration of academic knowledge with practical application. Its growing focus on global engagement and academic innovation reflects a commitment to preparing students with the adaptability, technical expertise, and global perspective needed to succeed in today鈥檚 evolving workforce.

鈥淭his partnership reflects our shared commitment to creating meaningful global connections that extend beyond individual exchanges,鈥� said President Clark. 鈥淏y working together, our institutions are creating new opportunities for students to engage across cultures, disciplines, and professional pathways.鈥�

Under the framework of this agreement, both institutions will explore a broad range of collaborative activities designed to support academic innovation, global learning, and student mobility. These efforts aim to strengthen institutional capacity while preparing students with the competencies required in today鈥檚 global environment. Both universities expressed appreciation for the collaboration that made this agreement possible and emphasized their intention to translate the partnership into impactful, sustainable initiatives.

As 黑料天堂 continues to expand its international partnerships, this collaboration with SAGE University Indore supports a broader institutional strategy focused on building structured, scalable models for global education. Through sustained academic collaboration and student mobility initiatives, both institutions aim to enhance intercultural understanding, strengthen academic quality, and prepare graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

About 黑料天堂:聽An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master鈥檚 degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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Retired Army Major Donna Reuss 鈥�80 knows firsthand the impact of service and education鈥攁nd now, she wants to ensure veteran students at 黑料天堂 discover where both can lead.聽

Through an outright gift of $40,000 and an estate commitment of $200,000, the Distinguished Alumna has established the Donna Reuss Service to Scholars Leadership Fund to support veteran and active-duty students. The fund also will provide resources for collaborative service projects with local and regional veteran organizations. 聽

鈥満诹咸焯� is proud to support veteran and active-duty students as they pursue their educational and professional goals,鈥� said President Christina Clark, Ph.D. 鈥淒onna鈥檚 generosity reflects a deep commitment to service and leadership, and this fund will create meaningful opportunities for those who have served our country and are continuing their journey through higher education. We are sincerely grateful for her support.鈥�

An Unconventional Path

As a high school student, Donna imagined a future in art. After graduation, though, she decided to join the military first and see the world. But persuaded by her mother to continue her education, she attended 黑料天堂 for a year as a liberal arts major.

Donna initially thought to continue her French language studies, but found that her proficiency surpassed the level taught at the college. She then approached Sister Celeste Rudolph, CDP, the German language instructor, who offered her introductory German as independent study. That experience shaped more than her academic journey鈥攕he enlisted and went on to serve as a German linguist-interrogator in the U.S. Army.聽

After completing her term of service, Donna returned to 黑料天堂 and earned a bachelor of arts degree in bilingual business administration through a personalized program designed with the guidance of the same faculty mentor.

鈥淭he military gave me the confidence to explore new things. For veterans, it can be challenging to transition into college life. We have a totally different perspective than traditional students on problem-solving, dealing with difficult situations, and appreciating other cultures,鈥� she explained. 鈥淭he University鈥檚 supportive environment for veteran students and its international student-focused programs helped ease that adjustment for me.鈥澛�

Following graduation, Donna built a career in national security emergency preparedness, serving for more than three decades in the Department of Defense and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). After 27 years of active and U.S. Army Reserve service, she retired with the rank of major.聽

Through the Service to Scholars Leadership Fund, Donna hopes to reduce financial barriers for veteran and military students, strengthen their educational experience, and help prepare them for success in civilian life.

How to Give

Gifts to 黑料天堂 fuel learning, discovery, and lifelong success. To learn more, contact Vice President for University Advancement George Barron: 412-536-1096 or george.barron@laroche.edu.

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PITTSBURGH, May 9, 2026 鈥� 黑料天堂 proudly conferred 325 degrees during its 60th Commencement Ceremony held today.

The University honored graduates earning 20 doctoral degrees, 124 master鈥檚 degrees, 175 bachelor鈥檚 degrees, and 6 associate degrees. The Class of 2026 included 51 international students representing 25 countries.

This year鈥檚 commencement speaker, Dan Beck, delivered remarks reflecting on a more than 50-year career in the music and entertainment industry, where he worked in artist development, marketing, and innovation with some of the most influential figures in popular music.

Mr. Beck went on to hold senior roles at CBS Records and Epic Records, where he led publicity and marketing efforts for a wide range of artists, including Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, Cyndi Lauper, Sade, and others. He later served in artist management and music publishing before returning to Epic Records for a 17-year tenure as a product manager overseeing global marketing strategy.

In his address, he reflected on the power of creativity, resilience, and personal responsibility.

鈥淐hange doesn鈥檛 start out there. It starts with you,鈥� Mr. Beck told graduates, urging them to remain resilient, build meaningful relationships, and 鈥渒now how to finish鈥� in the pursuit of their goals.

He was also presented with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of his distinguished career in music, media, and leadership.

黑料天堂 President Christina Clark, Ph.D., commended the Class of 2026 for their achievements and the strength of the graduating class.

During the ceremony, President Clark presented the 2026 President鈥檚 Award for Leadership and Scholarship to three outstanding graduates: returning student Roger Healy, and traditional undergraduate students Malvin Madzimbamuto and Madison Dalverny.

Roger Healy, an English Studies: Professional and Creative Writing major and U.S. Army veteran, graduated summa cum laude with a 3.94 GPA. He distinguished himself through student journalism, grant writing in support of veterans and first responders, and contributions to campus Veterans Day programming.

Malvin Madzimbamuto, an Information Technology major from Switzerland, was recognized for his leadership as captain of the men鈥檚 soccer team, where he helped lead the Redhawks to their first AMCC Championship while earning First Team All-AMCC honors. He balanced athletic achievement with academic excellence and active engagement across campus.

Madison Dalverny graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Communication, Media, and Technology and Sports and Entertainment Management. She was honored for her extensive leadership across campus, including roles in student government, athletics, and residence life. She also contributed significantly to student support services and athletics operations throughout her time at 黑料天堂.

The President鈥檚 Award for Leadership and Scholarship is the highest undergraduate honor at 黑料天堂. Recipients are selected for academic excellence, leadership, and service, and exemplify the mission and values of the University.

About 黑料天堂:聽An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, 黑料天堂 offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master鈥檚 degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, 黑料天堂 embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, 黑料天堂 educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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