When first-year students Mackenzie Cahall ’30 and Tyler Grose ’30 stepped onto campus in August, they had no idea that a few months later they would be under the bright stadium lights at Subaru Park to do the first kick at a Philadelphia Union match. But on a crisp October evening, that’s just what happened.
Karol Trivola recently led a group of about 12 people in cooking soutzoukakia smyrneika, a meatball-type dish in tomato sauce, as part of an international teaching kitchen.
Widener celebrated Providence Hall’s opening, showcasing modern student housing and highlighting the university’s commitment to student success, campus community and continued growth.
Widener Athletics celebrated eight former athletes, including the nationally recognized basketball coach Phil Martelli, during Homecoming weekend.
Dressed in their best blue and gold, alumni, students and friends gathered once again Homecoming. This year's weeklong celebration featured nearly 40 events.
Widener once again teamed up with the Philadelphia Union to host a series of field trips for high schoolers to learn about the many career opportunities in professional sports. While many of this year’s attendees are just beginning to think about their college and career plans, some former work-in-sports field trip attendees are already putting future career plans into motion at Widener.
Widener’s commitment to student success goes far beyond grades. The Office of Career Design and Development hosts a number of on-campus career fairs throughout the academic year to directly connect students with employers looking to hire Widener graduates.
Widener football Head Coach Mike Barainyak likes to lead by example, always looking for ways to inspire his team and represent Widener with pride. Barainyak recently traveled to Florida to participate in the week-long 2026 Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Coaching Academy.
Widener's newest students have arrived on campus – filling residence halls, unpacking belongings, meeting roommates and taking the first steps in their college journey.
We sat down with Crystal Gibson, new executive director of athletics, to learn more about her background, her vision for Widener athletics, and her own time as a student athlete.
