Student Awards
John Facenda Award for Excellence in Communication Arts
Established in 1987 to honor the memory of John Facenda, a long-time leading figure in Philadelphia radio and television, and widely respected for his professionalism, graciousness, and sense of social responsibility.
John Facenda
Often referred to as the “Voice of Philadelphia,” John Facenda brought a personal dimension to his broadcasting. In 1931, Facenda graduated from Roman Catholic High School and enrolled in Villanova University. The great depression cut short his collegiate program. He went to work with the Philadelphia Public Ledger, then a major newspaper in the city and owner of the WHAT radio station. His career in radio and television began when he was asked to substitute for a WHAT sports announcer who had become ill. His broadcasting would span more than forty years. When Facenda first started broadcasting he was nervous. To calm himself he thought of his mother and decided to talk directly to her. With this focus, John Facenda was successful in reaching an entire city so that everyone sensed that he was talking just to him/her. John Facenda made his voice available for narrations and announcements for many charitable institutions, groups, and schools. His approach and manner of presentation were always with respect, honesty, and graciousness.
Recipient
The award recipient is selected from students who are in good academic standing in the Communication and Media Arts major and who best exemplify competence, creativity, integrity, graciousness, and community service. The honoree is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the recipient. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
Sister Clare Immaculate McDonnell, OSF Award for Excellence in Art, Humanities, and Franciscan Studies
Established in 2005 in honor of Sr. Clare Immaculate McDonnell, OSF, for Excellence in Art, Humanities and Franciscan Studies.
Sister Clare Immaculate McDonnell, OSF
Sister Clare Immaculate McDonnell, OSF, is a quiet, humble, religious woman with a twinkle of merriment in her eyes, an intellectual with a terrific sense of humor. Like many of the children in St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, and later at Hallahan High School, she contributed to the innocent mischief of children while nursing a bond with religious Sisters who were her teachers. She earned a four-year scholarship to Rosemont College but, after completing two years, Sister Clare withdrew to give in to her longing to enter the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Sister Clare considers her journey as a religious a quiet one but far from dull in terms of her intellectual and spiritual life.
She earned an undergraduate degree in education from Villanova University, a graduate degree in English from Catholic University, and a second master’s degree in humanities from Penn State University.
Sister Clare’s love for learning is evidenced in her continuous pursuit of opportunities to enrich her knowledge of literature and Franciscan writings. Her post-graduate study in English Literature took her to the University of London, England and to St. Deinoll’s Research Library in Wales, United Kingdom for the opportunity to study Bishop Moorman’s internationally-esteemed collection on St. Francis of Assisi. Grants and scholarships during each summer provided for participation in programs at Fordham University, the University of Tennessee, Georgetown University, Emory University, Princeton University, the University of Delaware, Haverford College, the National Art Gallery and the Folger Shakespeare Library. Sister has been a member of the Education Testing Service at Princeton University. Sister Clare has held the rank of Associate Professor in English Literature and holds the title of Franciscan Scholar in Residence. At Neumann, Sister Clare established and became curator of the Franciscan Resource Center and is participating in the design and development of the Neumann Institute for Franciscan Studies. Prior to teaching at Neumann, Sister was adjunct faculty in English literature at Villanova University. Early in her career she chaired the English departments at St. Hubert’s High School in Philadelphia and at Padua Academy in Wilmington, Delaware where she introduced the advanced placement program.
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating student who has majored in Art or Humanities, has a minor in one or more areas of the humanities that complements this chosen major, has demonstrated academic excellence with a minimum GPA 3.0 overall and 3.5 in the major courses. Awardee has strong writing skills, a commitment to intellectual exploration and life long learning and has demonstrated, through interdisciplinary and personal expression, an exceptional knowledge and appreciation of the Franciscan values of joy, intellectual curiosity, and embrace of creation.
Sister Jeanette Clare McDonnell, OSF Award for Excellence in English Literature
Sister Jeanette Clare McDonnell, OSF, welcomed the first students to Our Lady of Angels College, now Neumann University, and served as professor and chair of the English department, then as chair of the humanities division; directed the University’s first stage productions; planned and managed the annual cultural festivals and the Artist and Lecture series; and still found time to accompany a group of students to form a summer session at the University of Galway in Ireland.
Sister Jeanette was influenced by Franciscan Sisters on the faculty at Hallahan High School, and especially by her mother who was attracted to Francis and Clare of Assisi, and credits them for her vocation as a Sister of St. Francis. Her love for learning was apparent to her Congregation who sent her to the Catholic University of America where she earned her Baccalaureate and Master’s Degrees in English, philosophy, and education. Assignments for post-graduate studies took her to Johns Hopkins University; the University of London; the University of Galway, Ireland; Villanova University; the University of Chicago; the University of Maryland; and the University of Detroit. Long before “cultural diversity” was receiving major attention at other educational institutions, Sister Jeanette Clare was busy at Neumann producing a series of community programs focusing on the rich heritage of several ethnic cultures. Before her pioneer role at Neumann, Sister Jeanette taught English at Villanova University, Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and Maryhurst College in Oregon. In 1984 Sister took a year’s leave from Neumann to join the faculty at St. Charles Seminary College. On her return, she served five years as academic advisor to adult students in the newly-established department of continuing education. Sister was named Professor Emeritus in 1992 and assumed responsibility as archivist of the copious writings of the noted international nurse theorist, Betty Neuman. Although she claimed simply to be an English professor, this brief review hints at the diversity of her interests that kept her alive to the changing profile of higher education.
Recipient
The recipient of this award shall maintain academic excellence (minimum of G.P.A. 3.0 overall and 3.5 in the major courses), demonstrate a passion for literature, model strong writing skills (exemplified by in-class and out-of-class work), show commitment to intellectual exploration and life-long learning, express leadership potential, display a gift for writing for publication, and visibly appreciate the Franciscan mission and values of Neumann University.
Sister Helen Prejean, CSJ Criminal Justice Award
Sister Helen Prejean was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and joined the Sisters of St. Joseph of Medaille in 1957. She received a B.A. in English and Education from St. Mary’s Dominican College, New Orleans, in 1962 and in 1973 earned an M.A. in Religious Education from St. Paul’s University in Ottawa, Canada. She has been the Religious Education Director at St. Frances Cabrini Parish in New Orleans, the Formation Director for her religious community, and has taught junior and senior high school students.
Sr. Helen began her prison ministry in 1981, when she dedicated her life to the poor of New Orleans. While living in the St. Thomas housing project, she became pen pals with Patrick Sonnier, the convicted killer sentenced to die in the electric chair of Louisiana’s Angola State Prison for the murder of two teenagers. Sr. Helen turned her experiences during her visits with Sonnier on death row into a book that not only made the 1994 American Library Associates Notable Book List, but also was nominated for a 1993 Pulitzer Prize. Dead Man Walking: An Eyewitness Account of the Death Penalty in the United States was number one on the New York Times Best Seller List for 31 weeks. It became an international best seller, was developed into a major motion picture, and has been the subject of numerous media reviews in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. As the founder of Survive, a victim’s advocacy group in New Orleans, she continues to counsel not only inmates on death row, but the families of murder victims as well.
Sr. Helen has served as member and chair of the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. She is a member of Amnesty International, an honorary member of Murder Victim Families for Reconciliation, and is the honorary chairperson of Moratorium Campaign, a group gathering signatures for world-wide moratorium on the death penalty. Another of her books, The Death of Innocents (Random House 2004), explores the cases of two death row inmates. Sister Helen is the recipient of many awards and 33 honorary degrees including the Neumann University Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa.
Recipient
The Sr. Helen Prejean, CSJ, Award for Academic Excellence in Criminal Justice is awarded to a graduating Criminal Justice major who has demonstrated academic excellence in criminal justice courses, good overall academic standing, service to the University and community, and dedication to the Criminal Justice field.
Sister Margaret Lewis, OSF Award for Excellence in Clinical Laboratory Science
Sister Margaret Lewis came to Neumann University in 1971 as Director of the new major in Medical Technology. Just prior to service at Neumann, Sister Margaret coordinated the Medical Technology program for St. Francis Hospital in Trenton, New Jersey. In 1971, she received the Benjamin Rush Award as an outstanding medical technologist. In 1976, she earned the doctoral degree in medical technology from Catholic University of America, the first individual in the country to receive such a degree. Among her publications is a textbook and manual for Medical Technology students. When Professor Lewis left Neumann University in 1984, it was to take on the position of Vice President in St. Francis Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware. In 1997, Sister Margaret returned to Neumann as a member of the Board of Trustees and of the Board’s Finance Committee.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has achieved the highest GPA in Clinical Laboratory Sciences; has demonstrated a value for research; and has shown evidence of commitment to the University and community service. The recipient is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the honoree. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
Camin Award for Excellence in Biology
Dr. Camin was advising professor for Dr. Moss during the latter’s graduate study. Dr. Camin demonstrated a devotion to biological science and accurate communications especially in the sciences. His thinking helped to launch the infant fields of phenetics and cladistics in North America. His publications have helped to keep the field of systematic biology vigorous and conceptually interesting. Students recognized how he seemed to be always available to guide them in research, or to simply discuss a diversity of biological topics. He thoroughly respected the views of others and their right to express them. At the same time he looked carefully for rationality and logic. He felt that it was critically important to think deeply, write clearly, revise, and reconsider in order to communicate meaning.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has achieved a minimum GPA of 3.2; participated in and contributed to University organizations; and has shown potential for professional growth through involvement in off-campus service.
Psychology Award for Outstanding Senior Student
Established in 1991 by the Psychology faculty to recognize the graduating senior who has shown excellence in the study of Psychology.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has demonstrated academic excellence, a commitment to the field of Psychology, and has provided service for the community.
Stephanie Marek Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts
Stephanie Marek taught music at Neumann College for twenty years. From its inception and until her death in December 2000, Stephanie served as musical director, composer, arranger, stage director, and performer for the Neumann College Theater Ensemble and was associate director of the Neumann College Community Chorus for ten years. She sang with the Greater South Jersey Chorus and with the Lauda! Chamber Singers. A passionate patron of and advocate for the arts, Stephanie was also a gifted teacher of piano and music history and theory. She was awarded the Neumann College Excellence in Teaching Award in 1989.
Recipient
This award is given to the graduating senior who has demonstrated a high level of achievement in, and commitment to, the performing arts at Neumann University.
Dr. Dorothy A.P. Leunissen Academic Award for Excellence in the Life Sciences
Dorothy A. Piatnek-Leunissen, Ph.D., M.D., born in Lawrence, Pennsylvania, received her bachelor’s degree (magna cum laude) in Biology and Chemistry from Seton Hill College, her master’s degree in Physiology and Biochemistry from Mount Holyoke College, her doctorate degree in Physiology and Biochemistry from the University of Pittsburgh, and her medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania. After her residency in internal medicine at Bryn Mawr Hospital, Leunissen began a private practice in 1976 with her husband, R.L. Abraham Leunissen, M.D., at Riddle Memorial Hospital, Media, Pennsylvania.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has demonstrated consistent excellence in academic achievement; possesses a GPA of 3.5 or greater, and is graduating with a degree in discipline of Life Sciences, Biology, Clinical Laboratory Sciences, or Nursing.
Sr. Elaine Martin, OFS Award for Excellence in History and Political Science
Recipient
This award is given to a graduating senior majoring (or minoring) in History, Political Science or Liberal Arts who has maintained academic excellence; demonstrates a passion for the study of History, Political Science, or Diversity; has given service to the University and community; and visibly upholds the dignity and inherent worth of each person.
Psychology Award for Outstanding Senior Student
Established in 1991 by the Psychology faculty to recognize the graduating senior who has shown excellence in the study of Psychology.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has demonstrated academic excellence, a commitment to the field of Psychology, and has provided service for the community.
Award for Excellence in Business Administration
This award was established in 1989 by the Division of Business and Information Management to honor a graduating senior from the Division with a major in Business.
Recipient
The recipient is a graduating senior in Business who has demonstrated ability to apply theory to practice, leadership qualities, ethical and moral character, and service to the University and community. The honoree is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, the date, and name of the recipient. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants Award
The Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants is a professional organization comprised of members who are certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PICPA established the award program in 1990 to honor the outstanding senior students majoring in Accounting.
Recipient
This award is given to a full-time student in the Accounting major who has maintained an overall GPA of 3.2, demonstrated leadership qualities, dedicated time to community service, and who has a commitment to the Accounting profession. The recipient is recognized by PICPA with a certificate and a mention in CPAzone.org and has his/her name added to the engraved plaque displayed at Neumann University. The honoree is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation, and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, the date, and the name of the recipient. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
Tau Award for the Outstanding Accelerated Degree Graduate
Tau, the nineteenth letter of the Greek alphabet, was often used by St. Francis of Assisi and by his followers as a symbol of the cross and salvation. The naming of this award was selected to honor St. Francis, the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia as the sponsoring congregation of the University, and all Franciscans.
Recipient
This award is given to the graduating senior who has achieved the highest GPA in the last semester completed. In case of a tie, the highest GPA earned at Neumann is honored. In case of further tie, the highest number of Neumann University credits determines the recipient. The honoree is recognized at Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the recipient. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
St. Francis of Assisi Award for Outstanding Graduate in Pastoral Care and Counseling
John Bernardone was born in Assisi in 1811 to parents Pica, from Pacardy and to Pietro, a successful cloth merchant. During the absence of his father, the newborn was baptized John, but Pietro overruled and named him Francesco. Pietro traveled back and forth to France on business and often spoke French with his son for this fluency of two languages would give advantage to Francis on future trips across the Alps and place him on the level of nobility. Francis was a most likeable lad. People noticed his constant gaiety, his laughter, his courtesy, his generosity, and his respect for everyone. He was the leading troubadour and party-giver for the youth of Assisi. Fascinated by the tinsel of chivalry, he dreamed of knighthood and twice rode off to battle splendidly outfitted in an elegant suit of armor and a horse with regal trappings supplied by a proud father. Francis was taken prisoner along with several warring noblemen; because of his armor, horse, and grand manner he was mistaken to be one of the lords. In prison he smiled, joked, and had his companions laughing through their dejection. After months of enduring the cold, damp conditions in captivity, Francis became very ill, which allowed him to be ransomed by his father. He was twenty-two years old. As he recuperated, Francis was given the great grace to recognize that he would not be the “ideal knight” of his earlier dreams, but rather the “knight of the Ideal (Jesus),” whom he would come to love more than self, and in the depths of his being to know that he was more His than his own. So began his attempts to replace the bricks in a run-down church; to give fine cloths to the poor; to embrace a leper who had been most repulsive to the sensitive aesthete; to return to his father all of his material wealth; to don the robe of a poor man; to walk through the streets of Assisi; to beg for the food he would eat with gratitude to the giver; to sing and rejoice in God’s creation; and to seek places of solitude for intimate union with his Lord and Life. He appeared to the citizenry as a fool and accepted the role of “God’s fool” as God’s will for him. His fidelity to a prayerful, simple, penitential, yet joyful life was a magnet for many “brothers” to join him. Thus the congregation of the first order of Franciscans evolved. Francis guided Saint Clare in establishing the second order known as the Poor Clares. At the request of several men and women, Francis instituted the third order of Franciscans, which today includes the third order laity and the third order religious of which the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia are members. Two years before his death (October 4, 1226), Francis was the first person to receive and endure the special blessing of the stigmata (bleeding and painful wounds in both hands, both feet, and chest like those suffered by Jesus during His crucifixion). (Written with thoughts and phrases from Julian Green’s God’s Fool. 1985. Harper & Row Publishers, Inc., New York, NY)
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating student from this master’s program who has achieved excellence in the combination of academics and clinical practice. The recipient is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the honoree. The medal is worn during the commencement ceremonies.
Kelly Vaughan Chase Memorial Academic Award
Kelly Vaughan Chase was an elementary education student at Neumann University from 2005-2010. Kelly was known for her ability to spread joy and laughter into every room she walked into. With Kelly’s heart of gold, fiery spirit and love of life, she was a friend to many and loved by all.
Recipient
This award is given to a graduating elementary education student who is in good academic standing, who is committed to teaching, shows a great love of children, exhibits creative teaching skills, and inspires children to achieve their potential, believe in themselves, and to follow their dreams.
Sister M. Everilda Flynn, OSF Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education
Sister Everilda Flynn was co-founder and first president of Neumann University (then Our Lady of Angels College) from 1965 to 1970, and served as consultant for the next twenty-two years. Sister was a member of the University’s Board of Trustees and at the close of her term continued to serve as trustee emeritus. Her life was a loving response to the call to serve God through the profession of teaching as a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Sister taught in elementary schools for ten years followed by thirteen years of teaching biology at Hallahan High School. After administering in one of the congregation’s provinces, Sister Everilda went to Portland, Oregon, where she served as Mistress of Novices for three years. Her strong belief in education led to her return east in the role of Director of Franciscan Schools. When assigned a new task which she understood to be the expansion of the motherhouse library, she soon came to realize that the expanded library was to be the start a new four-year college. With all the blessings of her vow of obedience, Sister Everilda took the first of many steps to bring into reality the fine institution we know as Neumann University.
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating senior who achieved a GPA of 3.5; demonstrated involvement in and commitment to the practice of teaching as an art; and has become eligible for certification in early childhood education.
Sister Theodore Klingseisen, OSF
This award was established in 2010 by Dr. Ardeshir Shahmaei, Professor, and Former Academic Dean of Business and Information Management Division to honor Sister Theodore Klingseisen, OSF in celebration of awarding her the Presidential Humanitarian Award at the eleventh Neumann University Annual Scholarship Gala.
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating student who achieved a GPA of at least 3.5; and who has demonstrated the qualities to become an outstanding teacher of the Franciscan values learned at Neumann University.
Madison Chase Williams Award for Excellence in Education
Recipient
This award is given to a graduating senior who has proven consistent excellence in academic achievement having a GPA of 3.0 or higher; demonstrates a passion for helping inner city youth; models strong character and leadership, and fosters peer mentoring relationships. The recipient shows commitment to intellectual exploration and life-long learning, expresses leadership potential through service activities on campus; and visibly appreciates the Franciscan mission and values of Neumann University.
John A. Kaczenski Award for Excellence in Graduate Education
John A. Kaczenski served as Chair (now Dean) of the Division of Education and Human Services at Neumann University from 1992 to 2000. His qualifications included a wide and varied set of experiences in organization, administration, curriculum development, and personnel and staff development. John was greatly appreciated for his interest and concern for each member of the faculty, staff, and students within the Division. During his tenure the Division expanded with State-approved certificate and certification programs.
Recipient
The award is given to a graduating student from the master’s education program of studies who has demonstrated intellectual excellence, professional competence, and community service.
Sister Margaret Bonner, OSF - Sister Kathleen Cronin, OSF Award for Excellence in the Graduate Nursing Program
Sister Margaret Bonner joined the nursing program faculty in 1971. She came with a rich background in nursing, education, administration, and a master degree in public health. Although her principal role was teaching of community health nursing, Sister recognized the feasibility of having the nursing program policies in writing and so compiled the department’s policy manual based on policy and action already in place and on new policies being created in anticipation of predictable situations. Sister Margaret was a major contributor to the nursing program’s self-study reports for continued state approvals and for nursing league accreditations. Her service within the nursing program was interrupted in 1973 when her religious superior assigned her to hospital administration over the next ten years. On return to Neumann as staff to the President, Sister designed a self-evaluation system for the Board of Trustees. She then requested a move back to the nursing department, as staff to the Dean and at the same time organized and supervised the use of the nursing laboratory. This was followed by staff assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and then for the President. During the years in the last two positions, Sister Margaret was involved in presidential projects and self-study reports of the University.
In 1968 Sister Kathleen Cronin was one of the designers of the original curriculum for the study of nursing at Neumann University, with the integration and teaching of community health nursing as her principal focus. Her wisdom and vision for the program placed her in a leadership role for curriculum planning, as mentor for new faculty, and as researcher of nursing graduates’ performance. Together with Dr. Rosalie Mirenda, Sister carefully studied the various nursing theories and selected the Neuman Systems Model as the basis and framework for the education of nursing students. Through the years Sister Kathleen was a key contributor to the program’s self-study reports which resulted in accreditation and continued accreditations by the National League for Nursing. After fourteen years of directing the community health nursing studies, Sister Kathleen was called upon to design and implement a quality assurance program for one of the Franciscan hospitals; the quality of this program was pivotal to the accreditation granted by the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Hospitals. On her return to the University in 1987, Sister was academic advisor for students in nursing. When the program chair (dean) was appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs, Sister capably served as chair during the year of search for a replacement. Later she served as assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and then as staff to the President of Neumann University. During these last two assignments, Sister Kathleen was involved in the self-study reports of the University to assure Middle States accreditation for Neumann, and of various program reports. Her input and critique of important University documents have greatly contributed to the progress of Neumann University.
Recipient
The award is given to a graduating student from the Master of Science in Nursing program for academic excellence and competence evidenced by a GPA of 3.0 or higher; visionary, creative use of the Neuman Systems Model in advanced practice nursing as evidenced by care, student papers, projects, presentations, publications, and faculty evaluations; and integration of Franciscan values by quality of relationships with peers, faculty, clients, and other health professionals. The recipient is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the honoree. The medal is worn during commencement.
Sister M. Everilda Flynn, OSF - Mary K. Brod Award for Excellence in Nursing
Sister Everilda Flynn was co-founder and first president of Neumann University (then Our Lady of Angels College) from 1965 to 1970, and served as consultant for the next twenty-two years. Sister was a member of the University’s Board of Trustees and at the close of her term continued to serve as trustee emeritus. Her life was a loving response to the call to serve God as a member of the Franciscan congregation through the profession of teaching. Sister taught in elementary schools for ten years followed by thirteen years teaching biology at Hallahan High School. After administering in one of the congregation’s provinces, Sister Everilda went to Portland, Oregon, where she served as Mistress of Novices for three years. Her strong belief in education led to her return east in the role of Director of Franciscan Schools. When assigned a new task which she understood to be the expansion of the motherhouse library, she soon came to realize that the expanded library was to be the start a new four-year college. With all the blessings of her vow of obedience, Sister Everilda took the first of many steps to bring into reality the fine institution we know as Neumann University.
Mrs. Brod intended this award to be named for Sister Everilda, who in turn insisted that Mary’s name be included. Mrs. Brod was no stranger to challenges and generosity. After her father died at age 36, Mary helped to raise five brothers. And again when her husband, Dr. Benjamin Brod died, Mary faced the challenge of rearing her three young children.
Recipient
This award is given to the senior nursing student who maintains at least a 3.5 GPA and who best demonstrates exceptional ability in applying theory to general nursing practice; excellence in providing nursing to clients in varied settings; and provides evidence of compassion and caring for all persons in her/his care. The recipient is honored at Academic Awards Convocation and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of honoree. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
St. Francis of Assisi Award for Excellence in Geriatric Nursing
John Bernadone was born in Assisi in 1811 to his parents Pica, from Pacardy and to Pietro, a successful cloth merchant. During the absence of his father, the newborn was baptized John, but Pietro overruled and named him Francesco. Pietro traveled back and forth to France and often spoke French with his son, for this fluency of two languages would give advantage to Francis on future trips across the Alps and place him on the level of nobility. Francis was a most likeable lad. People noticed his constant gaiety, his laughter, his courtesy, his generosity, and his respect for everyone. He was the leading troubadour and party-giver for the youth of Assisi. Fascinated by the tinsel of chivalry, he dreamed of knighthood and twice rode off to battle splendidly outfitted in an elegant suit of armor and a horse with regal trappings supplied by his proud father. Francis was taken prisoner along with several warring noblemen. Because of his armor, horse, and grand manner he was mistaken to be one of the lords. In prison he smiled, joked, and had his companions laughing through their dejection. After months of enduring the cold, damp conditions in captivity Francis became very ill, which allowed him to be ransomed by his father. He was twenty-two years old. As he recuperated, Francis was given the great grace to recognize that he would not be the “ideal knight” of his earlier dreams, but rather the “knight of the Ideal (Jesus),” whom he would come to love more than self, and in the depths of his being to know that he was more His than his own. So began his attempts to replace the bricks in a run-down church; to give fine cloths to the poor; to embrace a leper who had been most repulsive to the sensitive aesthete; to return to his father all of his material wealth; to don the robe of a poor man; to walk through the streets of Assisi; to beg for the food he would eat with gratitude to the givers; to sing and rejoice in God’s creation; and to seek places of solitude for intimate union with his Lord and Life. He appeared to the citizenry as a fool, so he accepted the role of “God’s fool” as God’s will for him. His fidelity to a prayerful, simple, penitential, joyful life was a magnet for many “brothers” to join him. Thus the congregation of the first order of Franciscans evolved. Francis guided Saint Clare in establishing the second order known as the Poor Clares. At the request of several men and women, Francis instituted the third order of Franciscans which today includes the third order of laity and the third order religious of which the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia are members. Two years before his death on October 4, 1226, Francis was the first person to receive and endure the special blessing of the stigmata (bleeding and painful wounds in both hands, both feet, and chest like those suffered by Jesus during His crucifixion). (Written with thoughts and phrases from Julian Green’s God’s Fool. 1985. Harper & Row Publishers, Inc. New York, NY)
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating nursing student who has maintained at least a 3.0 GPA; best demonstrated exceptional ability in applying theory to practice of geriatric nursing; has shown excellence in providing nursing care to older members of society; and consistently evidenced compassion and caring for sick or well older persons.
Sister Margarella O’Neill, OSF Award for Excellence in the Practice of Holistic Nursing Care
Sister Margarella O’Neill served as President of Neumann University from 1983 to 1989, and as Vice President for Academic Affairs for nine years prior to her presidency. Under her stewardship, the Life Center was constructed in 1985. She added the position of Vice President for Mission and Campus Life to her executive council as part of an ongoing effort to promote Catholic Franciscan values at Neumann. Curriculum majors in computer and information management, psychology, and business administration were established. She was awarded an honorary doctorate from Villanova University in 1983 for her contribution to the founding of the Villanova School of Nursing and from Neumann University in 1997, for her contribution to higher education. Sister Margarella studied nursing at Georgetown University and Catholic University of America, and received a doctorate in sociology from Catholic University. She has dedicated her life to serving others especially as a Franciscan, nurse, educator, and administrator in Catholic education.
Recipient
This award is given to a senior nursing student who has maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher and who best demonstrated the embodiment of Franciscan values and the values inherent in the Neuman Systems Model: the values of wholeness, dignity of person, and caring in the care of all clients; and provided nursing care based on a sound theoretical base.
Ilene Novak Army Nurse Corps Award for Excellence in Nursing Care of Women, Children and Families
Mrs. Novak was a graduate of the Neumann Nursing Program and entered the Army Nurse Corps. On retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel, Ilene joined the Army Reserve with an assignment to the 361st EVAC hospital in Folsom, PA. She held the position of Assistant Professor of Nursing at (then) Neumann College during the last five years of her life. Ilene was an active supporter of the American Cancer Society. She is remembered for her dedication to the science and practice of nursing, her excellence in demonstrating that dedication to the students, her loyalty to Neumann University, and her devotion to her family.
Recipient
This award is presented by a representative from the Army Nurse Corps to a graduating senior in the nursing major who has maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher; demonstrated exceptional ability in applying theory to nursing practice in the care of families; shown excellence in providing nursing care for women, children, and families; and gave consistent evidence of compassion and caring for women, children, and families assigned to his/her care. The recipient is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a plaque from the Army Nurse Corps.
Hubert Lee Award for Excellence in Athletic Training
Established in 2006, the Hubert Lee Athletic Training Academics Award was initiated by Hubert Lee, Director of the Neumann University Athletic Training Programs.
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating student who has maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher; has exhibited excellent performance at clinical sites; and has demonstrated leadership qualities.
Edward Brock Price Award for Excellence in Physical Therapy
With an Associate in Applied Science in Physical Therapy, a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Education, a Master of Science in Sports Medicine, and a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation, E. Brock Price had established the outpatient clinic, Associates in Physical Therapy, at four locations in Virginia. Although he had preparation and experience in physical therapy, Brock aimed to broaden his knowledge of the profession and its services by enrolling in the master’s program offered on weekends at Neumann University. He graduated in 1999 with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy. He has cooperated with the physical therapy graduate program at Neumann by providing clinical experience for its students and has remained a strong supporter and promoter of Neumann University.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has demonstrated consistent excellence in academics; high quality of final research project and presentation; active participation and enthusiasm for learning; professional conduct; the values of integrity, respect and service for others.
Presidential Ambassador Academic Award
This endowed academic award was established in 2010 by Dr. Rosalie and Mr. Anthony Mirenda, to honor Sr. Jordan Marie Goeke, OSF.
Recipient
The Sister Jordan Marie Goeke, OSF Presidential Ambassador Award is presented to a graduating Presidential Ambassador. The graduating senior must have served the University as an ambassador for three years, is a constant reflection of the University’s Franciscan Core Values, has maintained above average academic standing, served in leadership in major and co-curricular activities, and contributed to the Senior Class Campaign.
United Parcel Service Award
In 1991 the United Parcel Service, through the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, established this award to recognize the graduating senior who has demonstrated academic excellence and the qualities of good citizenship.
Recipient
The recipient is the graduating senior who has consistently shown the qualities of good citizenship and leadership while maintaining an outstanding academic record.
Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Senior
Initiated in 1999 by the Neumann University Alumni Association to recognize an outstanding senior student.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has maintained a good GPA; performed community service; shown excellent leadership skills; and has given evidence of a search for truth and respect for all of creation.
John A. Phillips Scholar-Athlete Award
Mr. Phillips is an African-American businessman, community leader, and family man. His value for education as a key to responsible living and success motivated many to pursue their academic degrees.
Recipient
The recipient of this award is a graduating student-athlete who has maintained a minimum GPA of 3.0; has earned a varsity letter in an NCAA-sponsored sport at Neumann University; and who best exemplifies scholarship, service for others, and commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. The honoree is announced at the annual Athletic Award Program, is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation, and receives a medal engraved with the University seal, date, and name of the recipient. The medal is worn during commencement ceremonies.
Sister Jordan Marie Goeke, OSF Presidential Ambassador Academic Award
This endowed academic award was established in 2010 by Dr. Rosalie and Mr. Anthony Mirenda, to honor Sr. Jordan Marie Goeke, OSF.
Recipient
The Sister Jordan Marie Goeke, OSF Presidential Ambassador Award is presented to a graduating Presidential Ambassador. The graduating senior must have served the University as an ambassador for three years, is a constant reflection of the University’s Franciscan Core Values, has maintained above average academic standing, served in leadership in major and co-curricular activities, and contributed to the Senior Class Campaign.
David Barton Sumner Award for Leadership and Sportsmanship
Academic Award founded in 2011 by the Sumner family and friends in memory of David Barton Sumner.
Recipient
The David Barton Sumner Award for Leadership and Sportsmanship is presented to a graduating senior who has achieved consistent excellence in their academic accomplishments having earned a GPA of 3.0 or greater, displays a competitive athletic ability, role models good sportsmanship, demonstrates character and leadership, and fosters peer relationships.
Delta Epsilon Sigma’s Fellowship for Graduate Study
Recipient
Eight national fellowships for full-time study in graduate or professional school are awarded each year by Delta Epsilon Sigma, the National Scholastic Honor Society. Each local chapter can nominate one student for this fellowship. Neumann’s nominee for this award demonstrates academic excellence with a GPA of around a 3.90 or higher, shows great potential for graduate study, models leadership in the Delta Pi Honor Society, as well as in other organizations and engages in service activities.Eight national fellowships for full-time study in graduate or professional school are awarded each year by Delta Epsilon Sigma, the National Scholastic Honor Society. Each local chapter can nominate one student for this fellowship. Neumann’s nominee for this award demonstrates academic excellence with a GPA of around a 3.90 or higher, shows great potential for graduate study, models leadership in the Delta Pi Honor Society, as well as in other organizations and engages in service activities.
Established in 1991 by the Academic Division Council, to recognize the graduating senior who demonstrates academic excellence and distinguished service to the University.
Recipient
The valedictorian is a graduating student who has studied full-time at Neumann University over a four-year period; has achieved the highest GPA in the graduating class; has consistently demonstrated leadership; and has participated in community service.
Faculty Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching
Recipient
This award is given to a full-time faculty member based on the discipline, ability to generate critical thinking, teaching techniques used to accommodate different learning styles, and encouragement of student development at a graduate level.
Faculty Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching
This award is given to a full-time faculty member based on the discipline, ability to generate critical thinking, teaching techniques used to accommodate different learning styles, and encouragement of student development at an undergraduate level.
Faculty Award for Growth in Scholarship
Initiated in 1988 by Neumann University to provide an opportunity for the University community to acknowledge a faculty member with demonstrable growth in research and scholarship.
Recipient
The recipient is a full-time faculty member nominated by a peer or self, who has been at Neumann University for at least one academic year; gives evidence of scholarly growth in terms of quantity or exploration of new areas; has recently presented in a public forum (e.g., publication, conference, performance); and has peer acceptance/ validation from within the academic field and beyond the confines of Neumann University. The recipient is honored at the Academic Awards Convocation and receives a certificate and a monetary award.
Part-Time Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching
Begun in 2002 by Dr. Steven Thorpe, then Vice President for Academic Affairs, at the request of the Board of Trustees to give recognition to the part-time faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching.
Recipient
The recipient of this award has completed a minimum of four semesters of teaching at Neumann University; demonstrated knowledge of his/her discipline; generated critical thinking; encouraged student development; given service to Neumann University beyond the classroom; and has shown commitment to Neumann’s mission. The recipient is honored at the Academic Awards Convocation.
Neumann University Award for Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership
Initiated in 1989 and funded for fiscal 1989-1990 by the Sears Roebuck Foundation, Neumann University continues to fund the award. Its purpose is to focus on the importance of teacher competence as a critical element in the strengthening of undergraduate teaching and learning.
Recipient
A full-time faculty member is selected based on knowledge of his/her discipline or field; ability to generate critical thinking; teaching techniques used to accommodate different learning styles; and encouragement of student development. The recipient is recognized at the Academic Awards Convocation, and receives a certificate and a monetary award.
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