Noteworthy

Sachin Patil, professor of chemical engineering, and his team of student-researchers in the NanoBio Lab recently published findings to advance the future Alzheimer's disease treatment and prevention. The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Molecules, identified Isobavachin, a natural flavonoid, as a potential "structure corrector" for Apolipoprotein E4, known as ApoE4, which is the strongest genetic risk factor for the disease. The breakthrough discovery suggests that Isobavachin can stabilize the problematic ApoE4 protein, potentially reducing its harmful effects and altering the course of Alzheimer’s disease.

Through the use of a cutting-edge combination of computational modeling and lab experiments, the researchers found that Isobavachin binds to ApoE4, reshaping it into a more stable form—similar to the neutral or protective ApoE3 and ApoE2 variants. The team noted that Isobavachin is a naturally occurring compound, derived from a plant used in traditional medicine, that is also bioavailable, meaning it has the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier. Both characteristics make this discovery particularly exciting as they show promise for future drug discovery and hope for the millions of people affected by the disease worldwide.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/engineering-professor-publishes-new-discovery-alzheimers-disease-research

Widener University welcomed Amanda Bickerstaff, co-founder and CEO of AI for Education, as the 2025 Beideman Visiting Scholar in conjunction with the university’s inaugural AI Day event. Bickerstaff delivered the keynote address in Alumni Auditorium, covering current events and the future of AI in education, AI literacy and ethical usage, and how educators and students can prepare for more AI integration with the classroom of tomorrow. 

“We are living through an inflection point that is probably most similar to the Industrial Revolution,” said Bickerstaff. “ChatGPT is the fastest growing consumer technology by a magnitude. This is an opportunity for students, staff, and faculty to talk to each other.”

In addition to delivering the keynote address, Bickerstaff led several hands-on workshops throughout the event sharing her tips and best practices for working with generative AI platforms and encouraging attendees to bring AI into their daily lives. 

She discussed the history of artificial intelligence and machine learning and demonstrating a number of generative AI tools to share about effective prompt writing, data privacy, and keeping an open and innovative mindset. 

“AI is quickly shaping the way we operate across all sectors, and Widener is pleased to welcome Amanda to campus to share her expertise,” said Paul Beideman ’79 ‘14H, chair of the university Board of Trustees who made the lecture program possible through a generous gift, made with his wife, Caroline Beideman. “Being able to provide professional opportunities like this to our faculty, staff and students reinforces Widener’s commitment to being prepared for the future.”

AI for Education provides AI literacy training to educators. With over 20 years of experience in the education industry, Bickerstaff is committed to helping educators, staff, and students maximize their potential through the ethical and equitable adoption of AI. 

The Beideman Visiting Scholar Program brings world-class speakers and scholars to the Widener campus on an annual basis to stimulate discussions on current and pertinent theories and practices related to leadership development and the effective exercise of leadership. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/2025-beideman-visiting-scholar-brings-future-ai-education-widener-keynote-address-and-workshops
 

Widener welcomed U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon to campus for a women’s history month talk and fireside chat with President Stacey Roberton. The event was sponsored by the gender, women, and sexuality studies department and Project Pericles. 

Scanlon spoke to students, faculty, and staff about her work and the issues that are important to her when representing Pennsylvania’s 5th Congressional District, including women’s rights, healthcare and wage gaps. She also emphasized the importance of empowering women and other members of traditionally marginalized communities to become involved in the community and in politics as a way to enact change. 

Afterward, Scanlon and Robertson sat together and discussed women’s central – and often unrecognized – role in history and as historical leaders, and how society can use history to navigate the future. From the women’s suffrage movement, to civil rights, to the current day, they discussed the power of open communication and accurate information within communities. They also spoke about inspiring courage for those who wish to stand up for their beliefs and taking time to do so safely and peacefully. 

Both women touched on the importance of finding a community, role models, and using voting as a vital tool to share thoughts and opinions. The event was followed by questions from attendees and a brief reception.

 Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/us-rep-mary-gay-scanlon-joins-president-stacey-robertson-womens-history-month-event

Assistant Professor of Chemistry Robert Mishur has been awarded the Cynthia H. Sarnoski Endowed Science Faculty Fellowship to support developing protocols to detect and identify metabolites, and then using those methods to investigate mechanisms of aging. The award is a two-year term, running through 2027. 

“With an aging population, it’s important that we have the tools to help people age healthily,” said Mishur. “By understanding the pathways that underly the aging process we can help people live longer and make sure they’re living life healthy for longer.”

These methods can be applied to a variety of organisms, including fruit flies and nematodes, or microscopic thread-like worms, offering broad opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Mishur also intends to apply this technology to assess the impact of different drugs on cancer cells. 

“It feels great [to receive this award]!” Mishur shared. In addition to using a portion of the funding on research materials, he is most looking forward to how the award can benefit the students working with him on this topic. It will allow him to provide compensation for their research assistance, and have them accompany him to academic conferences.

The Cynthia H. Sarnoski Faculty Fellowship award supports science faculty through a generous gift made by Cynthia H. Sarnoski, who serves as vice chair of the Widener Board of Trustees. Sarnoski graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Widener in 1974. She is a retired senior vice president for Global Compliance and Quality Systems for Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/chemistry-faculty-awarded-cynthia-h-sarnoski-faculty-fellowship-continue-research-cancer-and-aging
 

Matthew Clarke, executive chef at Widener, won first place at the Aramark Culinary Excellence, or ACE, competition for the mid-Atlantic region of Aramark Collegiate Hospitality. Chef Matt competed at West Chester University against talented chefs from across the region to showcase their culinary excellence. His win earned him a spot to represent Widener and the region at the National ACE competition in Napa Valley this summer.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/executive-chef-places-1st-regional-cooking-competition

Audrey Snyder has been named the next dean of the School of Nursing. Snyder will assume the role on July 1, 2025.

A celebrated educator, passionate healthcare advocate, and accomplished scholar, Snyder brings more than 40 years of experience to this role. She comes to Widener from the University of North Carolina Greensboro where she currently serves as professor and associate dean for Community Engagement and Academic Partnerships. Throughout her career, Snyder has focused on promoting access to care for rural and under-resourced populations. While at UNC Greensboro, Snyder was instrumental in securing federal funding to promote telehealth education for rural environments and launching the nursing program’s mobile clinic, known as Minerva’s Mobile Health, to increase healthcare access in rural and under-resourced communities in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.

Snyder is a leading expert and scholar in disaster preparation and response. Her primary research focuses on improving the lives of individuals at risk for disasters through disaster resilience. Her research is informed by her diverse disaster response experiences across the United States, most notably following hurricanes Katrina and Rita and refugee response at the United States-Mexico border. Snyder has also participated in international responses such as the earthquake response in El Salvador and Haiti.

“I am delighted to welcome Audrey Snyder to the Widener community,” said Provost Andrew Workman. “Audrey’s proven dedication to nursing education and meaningful student experiences will be a tremendous asset to Widener’s nursing program. In addition to being an exceptional nursing scholar, Audrey brings a deep passion for engaging with the communities around her to improve healthcare access and outcomes. Her demonstrated commitment to service and care at the local, national, and international levels will help to advance Widener’s mission and values.”  

“I am truly honored to join the pride at Widener University,” said Audrey Snyder. “The School of Nursing has a strong history of promoting nursing excellence in practice, leadership, research, and service to nursing and the community. I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, students, and community partners to continue this legacy.”

Snyder’s career is marked with accolades and achievements from many distinguished institutions. She received the 2023 Lillian Wald Humanitarian Award by the National League for Nursing and was honored as a North Carolina Great 100 Nurse for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Snyder has secured more than $12 million in funding from federal, foundation, and intramural grants, including the Emergency Nurses Association. 

She succeeds Anne Krouse, who has retired from Widener’s School of Nursing after 25 years of distinguished service, including seven as dean.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/audrey-snyder-named-dean-school-nursing

Dipendu Saha, associate professor and chair of chemical and materials engineering, was named the inaugural recipient of the Fred Akl Endowed Professorship in Engineering. Named in honor of former engineering dean and professor, the professorship was created to reward excellence and provide support to a talented Widener University faculty member in the School of Engineering who embodies the values of Widener as an outstanding academic citizen, teacher, and accomplished scholar. 

The endowed professor is selected based on a distinguished record of teaching, exemplary leadership and service to the school, the university, and the academic and professional communities, and scholarly accomplishment appropriate to their discipline and their primary responsibilities. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/dipendu-saha-receives-inaugural-fred-akl-endowed-professorship-engineering

Sara Kate Frye, assistant professor of occupational therapy, was elected chairperson of the Rehabilitation and Disability Special Interest Section within the American Occupational Therapy Association, or AOTA. Frye's clinical expertise includes in inpatient and home health rehabilitation with clinical specialties in spinal cord injury, brain injury, neurological disorders, oncology, and cardiopulmonary conditions. As an elected volunteer leader, Frye's extensive experience and passion will be instrumental in shaping the future of AOTA and advancing its mission.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/occupational-therapy-professor-elected-chair-aota-special-interest-section

Rosara Torrisi, assistant professor of human sexuality studies, has been recognized as the 2025 Best Sex Therapist on Long Island for her work and dedication to advancing the field of clinical sexology. Torrisi’s research and teaching focuses on accessibility and sex, as well as clinical recommendations for sex therapists. She strives to create innovative, experiential programs that train the next generation of sex therapists.

In addition to her work at Widener, Torrisi leads the Long Island Institute of Sex Therapy which provides specialized patient care and training for clinicians. She also serves as co-host of the “Our Better Half” podcast. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/human-sexuality-faculty-member-recognized

Michelle Lyttle Storrod, assistant professor of criminal justice, has received over $54,000 from the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center for a two-year grant intended to study the role of women in community violence intervention. The unique comparative study will take place in Chester, Philadelphia, and Camden, New Jersey, and will include students working hands-on to collect and analyze data from social media, community focus groups, and more.

Lyttle Storrod has previously received additional funding from the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center for work in other areas of researching gun violence including a focus on measuring community attitudes towards gun violence in the Philadelphia region. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/criminal-justice-faculty-member-receives-funding-gun-violence-research
 

Vicki Brown, professor emerita of civil engineering, has been named the 2025 Engineer of the Year by the Delco Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers. The award is given each year to a candidate who resides or is employed in Delaware County or southern Chester County, and is evaluated against a rigorous criterion including professional achievement and contributions to community. This award is among the many accolades that Brown has earned throughout her career for her academic, scholarship, and community engagement work. 

Brown, who earned emerita status in December 2024 after serving more than 40 years in the civil engineering department, joins a roster of celebrated engineering professionals including many former Widener faculty and students. Former recipients include Chalmer Gatlin Kirkbride, Kirkbride Hall's namesake who was a member of the Board of Trustees of Pennsylvania Military College and was instrumental in the fundraising and design of the science and engineering laboratory building; Charles Bartholomew, former professor and chairman of civil engineering; and Fred Akl, former professor and dean of the School of Engineering. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/vicki-brown-named-engineer-year-pennsylvania-society-professional-engineers
 

Happy New Year and welcome to the beginning of the spring semester! Whether you are a returning student in Chester, Harrisburg or Delaware, or new to Widener, I am so excited you are here.

A new calendar year gives us the chance for a fresh start.  I absolutely love to use January as an opportunity to set goals. It turns out, change is easier when starting a new chapter! This year, I’m working to increase my daily meditation. I know that integrating new habits into an established routine is helpful, so I now meditate immediately following my daily stretching. I’ve also started tracking my meditation because creating a long streak is so motivating! I’m even giving myself rewards along the way, like more lunch desserts! I’ve already decided to allow room for small failures, so that obstacles won’t be an excuse for me to give up. 

I invite you to reflect on your goals for 2025. Whether it’s taking a daily nature walk, joining one new organization, or creating and sticking to a study schedule, please know that the Widener community is here to cheer for you every step of the way. You are right where you belong. And know that if you have a stumble, or had some stumbles last semester, it’s OK and this is the start of a new opportunity. We are a community that supports each other. 

As we move forward, let's embrace this opportunity to begin again with a renewed sense of community and collaboration. Remember, every small step forward brings us closer to success, and together we can achieve great things. Let's celebrate our victories, support each other, and make this semester truly remarkable. Here's to fresh starts and a successful year ahead!

With Warmth and Widener Pride,

Stacey

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32260/

The Philadelphia Business Journal has named Widener President Stacey Robertson to its list of 2024 Most Admired CEOs. 

Recipients are chosen based on the work they have undertaken in their current role in the context of their careers, how they give back to the community, and other ways they positively impact greater Philadelphia. Robertson is widely admired at Widener for her dedication to the university’s commitment to belonging, and to providing a welcoming place for all. She lives into that promise each day with her warm, engaging manner and her relentless commitment to the ethos of “We’re All Widener.” Under her leadership, the university has welcomed back-to-back, record-setting first-year undergraduate classes.

Robertson was among 25 honorees in the highly competitive program that recognizes executives in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. She and the other winners were recognized this week at a dinner at Vie in Philadelphia.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32231
 

Widener University is pleased to announce Heather L. Meier, a Philadelphia-area financial professional and licensed certified public accountant with more than 15 years of experience in higher education, will join the university’s leadership team as vice president for administration and finance and chief financial officer. Meier comes to Widener from Gwynedd Mercy University, where she has served in a similar financial leadership role since 2022. 

In her new position at Widener, Meier will oversee the finances, financial planning, budgeting, contracts, human resources and facilities for the university and its seven colleges and schools, located in Chester and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Wilmington, Delaware. She will work to ensure financial sustainability, optimize the university’s resources and their allocation, and drive strategic financial initiatives that support Widener’s mission and long-term goals. She will be part of the core leadership team that reports to Widener President Stacey Robertson. 

“I am honored and thrilled to accept this position and join the Widener community,” Meier said.  "Widener University has a remarkable legacy in the Philadelphia region, with a distinguished history of evolving to meet the needs of generations of students. Its commitment to providing an exceptional education that prepares students for successful lives and careers is truly inspiring. I am privileged to contribute to the university’s continued success and be part of shaping its next chapter."

“We are so excited to welcome Heather Meier to Widener,” Robertson said. “Her impressive financial background – with so much of it steeped in higher education – coupled with her warm personality and keen support for our culture of belonging made her a fantastic choice for this critical position. Heather has a very collaborative spirit which makes her well-suited for the many partnerships she’ll be developing as her work touches every corner of Widener’s operations.”

Prior to her time at Gwynedd Mercy University, Meier served as controller and acting vice president for finance at Montgomery County Community College for more than six years. She also has held finance leadership roles at other local universities including La Salle, Jefferson and Villanova universities. She began her career in public accounting auditing for nonprofits and social service organizations. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Villanova University, two bachelors of arts degrees in business administration and economics, with a minor in accounting, from McDaniel College. 

She will begin her position at Widener on Jan. 14, 2025. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32227
 

Widener University is proud to announce two notable developments that will help strengthen mental health services available to students on the Chester campus.

The Steve Fund Equity in Mental Health on Campus initiative has offered Widener placement in an 18-month cohort that focuses on how well the university is doing at providing services to students of color. The Steve Fund is an organization dedicated to supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of young people of color.

Through this new initiative, Widener will undergo an assessment process that yields evidence-based recommendations and strategies to better inform, support and strengthen the mental health of our students. The entire effort speaks to Widener’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.

The university has also received a $300,000 Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant, awarded through the federal Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. The grant, which will be spread out over three years, includes funding to:

•    Provide outreach and public education for students with mental health, suicide and alcohol use disorders.
•    Provide training for students, faculty and staff on identifying and making referrals for students with mental health and substance use problems, and paying special attention for first-year and first-generation students through monthly programming.
•    Develop a program of undergraduate student mental health ambassadors, and opportunities for graduate students to provide psychoeducational programming and mental health screenings. These efforts will further institutionalize student engagement in mental health and substance abuse education.
•    Enhance partnerships with local mental health care providers who treat Widener students with more serious and long-term needs than the university’s Counseling and Psychological Services office can accommodate on an ongoing basis.
•    Fund the hiring of a project coordinator to facilitate these efforts.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32220
 

Robin Dole was elected as vice speaker of the House of Delegates and member of the board of directors for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The APTA Board provides strategic direction for the organization and advocates on behalf of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, students of physical therapy, and patients nationwide to advance the profession of physical therapy and improve the health of society.

Dole joins fellow Widener physical therapy faculty member Colleen Chancler on the APTA board. Chancler, an assistant professor in the Institute for Physical Therapy Education, was elected to the board in 2023.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/health-and-human-services-dean-elected-american-physical-therapy-association-board

Robin Dole, dean of the College of Health and Human Services, was named the 2024 recipient of the Carlin-Michaels Achievement Award from the Pennsylvania chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). One of the highest awards given by the Pennsylvania APTA, this recognition celebrates Dole's influence and impact in the physical therapy profession, physical therapy education, and the broader community. Dole is a celebrated educator and scholar who specializes pediatric physical therapy. As dean, Dole has led the College of Health and Human Services through strategic growth. Dole's leadership has guided significant changes such as the transformation of the college's on-campus learning and research facilities and the addition of new health science programs. 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/robin-dole-receives-distinguished-award-apta-pennsylvania

Rose Rossi, associate dean of undergraduate nursing and professor, has been named to the board of directors of Nurses & Neighbors Collaborative Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit founded in 2022 with the mission to improve health and wellness within local neighborhoods through nurse-led programs. Nurses & Neighbors has used its members’ collective nursing experience to work with the homeless, volunteer in vaccination clinics, present health information to community groups, and serve as volunteer nurses in partnership with community-based organizations.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/nursing-faculty-joins-local-nursing-nonprofit-board

Widener men’s rugby won the Challenge Cup (Regional South) on Nov. 23.

The Pride 15s beat Hofstra University at home by a score of 19-12 to win the cup, also known as the Steel Belt Bowl Championship.

The win marked head Coach Andrew "Fireball" Burkhardt’s 46th win since taking over the club team in 2014. Burkhardt is a 2012 Widener alumnus.
 
Rugby player Jeremiah Thompson '27 was selected as the Player of the Game.

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/news/noteworthy/widener-mens-rugby-wins-championship

Widener University was recently named to a national list of best colleges and universities for international students.

The list published by Colleges of Distinction included 200 schools from 40 states, with just 15 from Pennsylvania.
The outlet considered five key conditions that create supportive environments for students trying to acclimate themselves to life on a U.S. campus. They included: 

•    Programs that support recruitment and retention, including efforts that help students transition and access to tutoring.
•    Guidance on living and studying in the United States, such as providing students information on everything from U.S. culture to how to open a bank account.
•    Academic acclimation and support, such as providing English language support, alumni networking and virtual office hours with professors.
•    Fostering a sense of belonging on campus, through things like peer mentoring, international student groups and cultural festivals or events.
•    Career development and immigration support, on matters like visas, immigration and tax guidance. 
 

Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32190