History
Philadelphia is a proud city of firsts.
Most folks are familiar with Philly as the cradle of modern democracy, as the place where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution took shape. But what many don't know is that Philadelphia has for generations served as a dynamic force in medicine, education, business, and technology. Philly is home to the nation's first hospital, stock exchange, computer, theater, and zoo.
You don't need to look far to find stunning evidence of the region's historical prominence. Take a stroll through any of Philadelphia's famously walkable neighborhoods and discover gems ranging from the nation's oldest residential street to the birthplace of American soda pop. If you've already seen the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, head out to Haddonfield, N.J., to see the site of the first discovered dinosaur fossil. Or consider visiting the site where William Penn actually first set foot in Pennsylvania, located less than two miles away from campus at Penn and Front streets in Chester.
The region is also home to many of the country's most well-preserved historical places. As a primary location of early settlement in the New World, the Mid-Atlantic region offers history buffs a long list of sights to see. Visitors can learn about the several Swedish communities that emerged around the Delaware Bay in the 17th century, including Fort Nya Gothenburg in nearby Tinicum Township, the earliest recorded European settlement in Pennsylvania.
Difference makers
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Difference makers
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Difference makers
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Difference makers
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Difference makers
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Difference makers
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Program Highlight
The 1821 Experience
In this pre-orientation program, you will explore how multiculturalism adds to the college experience and connect with other students on campus.
Program Highlight
Summit Widener
This multi-day backpacking trip, led by members of the Outdoor Adventure Club, offers incoming Widener students a chance to build self-confidence and a social network of like-minded students on campus while having fun in the Appalachian Mountains.
Program Highlight
ELEVATE
This student life leadership program, Enhancing Leadership Experience Via Activities, Training, and Engagement, aka ELEVATE, allows you to build or hone your leadership skills with learning tracks for emerging student leaders.
Program Highlight
Oskin Leaders
The Oskin Leaders program inspires and equips Widener undergraduates to courageously leverage their passion and leadership skills to create significant, positive change.
Program Highlight
PSC/Bonner Leaders Program
This program connects Widener students with a service movement of college students around the country. Students in the Presidential Service Corps/Bonner Leaders Program complete 300 hours of community service and a variety of leadership activities.
Difference Makers
Continuing Studies
University College student Dale Kerns Jr. established the Little Angels Foundation, which provides financial and emotional support for children suffering from cancer, tumors, and other deadly diseases.
Difference Makers
College of Arts & Sciences
Chemistry Major Anna Miller ‘12, from East Prospect, PA, served as site team leader at CityTeam International in Chester, where she coordinated the efforts of 10 other PSC students.
Difference Makers
College of Arts & Sciences
Anthropology Major Sara E. McManus ’13 has been named a 2012 Newman Civic Fellow, an award that recognizes inspiring college student leaders who have worked to find solutions for challenges facing their communities.
Difference Makers
Alternative Spring Break
Anthropology Major Jess Viscuso ’12 and Nursing Major Devin Weesner ’13 coordinated Alternative Spring Break efforts for 87 students and faculty and staff chaperones at six locations throughout the U.S.
Difference Makers
Institute of Physical Therapy Education
Doctoral Student Scott Cheney serves on the board of the Society for Student-run Medical Clinics, where he is one of five national directors charged with planning the society’s international conference.
Difference Makers
Widener University
President James T. Harris III has been appointed chair of the Board Directors for the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP) for 2012–13. Harris has served on the AICUP Board of Directors since 2007, most recently as vice-chair.
Difference Makers
Widener Observatory
Dr. Harry Augensen, associate dean of science and professor of physics and astronomy, helped alumnus Dominic Liberto ’08 arrange a private moment during a public viewing at the Widener University Observatory to propose to his girlfriend, Jenn. She said yes!
