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.
This segment features Michael Dimino, professor of law at Commonwealth Law School, sharing insight into an ongoing legal battle happening between the mayor of Harrisburg and the Harrisburg City Council. Dimino explains the need for both sides to seek outside counsel.
Widener was represented at service events honoring the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. including free community health assessments and screenings by graduate health science students, a peace march through Chester, community-building speeches on campus, banner paintings and more.
See also: 6 ABC, KYW Newsradio, Philadelphia Union
Greg Spicka, director of athletic communications, is mentioned here as a member of the NCAA Divisions II and III Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Rules Committee. This group oversees the rules and governance within the sport, including rule changes, championship operations and conduct for divisions II and III.
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.
