Semaj Smith-Barber ’28, a construction management student, reflects on how volunteering—from his early experiences in Chester to Widener’s annual MLK Day of Service—shape his sense of belonging, career, and commitment to carrying forward the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of unity, equity, and compassion.
Here’s a look back at the moments in 2025 that made us cheer, crave boba and prove that at Widener, going big isn’t just a trend—it’s a tradition.
From events to help you de-stress, to tips for self-care, we’ve got your end-of-semester survival guide.
The clinical anatomy lab provides graduate health science students with hands-on access to study anatomy, master techniques and build confidence ahead of practice. In this first-person narrative, physician assistant students Sarah Connors, Jordan Li and Vrunda Patel share how the experience not only teaches them about the body, it deepens their understanding of the human experience.
Widener’s Chester Community Clinic was the focus on the latest episode of the Keeping It 100 podcast hosted by Dr. Kristin Motley, health commissioner for the city of Chester and founder of Health Educated Inc. The podcast gave an overview of the clinic, its pro bono services, and impact on student learning. It featured interviews with Jill Black, associate dean of the College of Health and Human Services, Blerina Dinaj, a physical therapy student, LaRonda Lockhart-Keene, assistant professor of occupational therapy, and Mike McDevitt, assistant professor of physical therapy and director of clinical education.
Engineering faculty, students, and alumni hosted a mini camp in Kirkbride Hall for high school girls. The camp, hosted in partnership between Widener engineering and the Philadelphia section of the Society of Women Engineers, featured hands-on labs and activities designed to introduce students to the different STEM fields and possible careers.
This article features The Delco Swim School, hosted on Widener's Chester campus and directed by Assistant Men's and Women's Swim Coach Matt Matys. Matys shares what inspired him to start The Delco Swim School, how Widener student athletes are involved, and how swimming is a skill that could save a life.
Erika Dawkins specializes in community psychology, trauma, gun violence, microaggressions, and relationships. Her expertise includes couples therapy, body image, self-esteem, self-worth, and strategies for organization and productivity.
Ross Steinman specializes in industrial/organizational psychology, consumer behavior, and decision-making. He researches brand transgressions, implicit attitudes, cross-cultural differences, and automatic consumer choices.
Daniel Roozbahani is an expert in AI, robotics, and VR/AR simulations. He specializes in real-time process monitoring, human-machine interactions, 3D printing, and laser-based technologies, and also focuses on automated manufacturing and custom robot development.
Jeff Lolli is an expert in tourism and hospitality management, including food and beverage, lodging, casinos, events, and sports services. He specializes in service quality, customer satisfaction, experience management, and human resources, and is also knowledgeable in food and alcohol safety, sense of place in tourism, and service environments.
The Widener Magazine is published twice a year by the Office of University Relations for alumni, parents, friends of Widener, and the university community.
The Widener University communications team is available to help reporters and editors find the right faculty expert for breaking news, provide information about Widener University programs and initiatives, and serve as a resource for news and feature stories.
