GRAD CLAS NOTES

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Graduate Newsletter

GRAD CLASNOTESCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences Graduate Newsletter
2018 Villanova Commercial
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Research that Resonates

I hope that you have seen the excellent new Villanova University commercial featuring Biology student Amber Shelton '17 CLAS, '18 MA. Amber is enrolled in our Combined Bachelor/Master Program. This commercial has been in rotation during the Men's Basketball games.


In the early planning stages for the commercial, we noticed that Amber's story is as much a graduate student story as an undergraduate one - and maybe even more so. The themes of following one's passion, mentorship, collaboration, participating in meaningful research, and working to make the world a better place perfectly reflect our mission in Graduate Studies, and we hope they resonate with you.


Because we found Amber's story so compelling, we decided run this commercial (with a little Grad Studies tweak at the end) during some additional programming throughout the month of March in the Philadelphia area. We want to create a little March Madness of our own!


  • On 6 ABC, we are running the spot during Good Morning America, Action News at 6 and 11 pm, Jimmy Kimmel and Saturday morning Action News.
  • On Fox 29, we are running during Good Day Philadelphia.
  • On NBC 10, we are running during The Today Show and the 6 pm News.
  • On cable, we are running the commercial nearly 240 times on AMC, Bravo, ESPN, FOOD, FX and HGTV - and if you are a "Fixer Upper" fan, look for our extra 10-second program sponsor spot!


We chose this schedule based on in-depth research about our prospective student audience. We were so excited to share our Graduate Studies story with a larger audience in the Philadelphia region.


To all our athletic and academic teams ... Go Wildcats!


- Christine Palus, PhD, Dean of Graduate Studies, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

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New Master of Arts in Ministry and Theology Announced

This new graduate program in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies will prepare students to become responsible lay ministers, educators and leaders. Learn more.

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National Award for Analysis of Beyoncé’s Super Bowl Statement

Richelle Hurley ’17 CLAS, ’18 MA, earned the Top Student Paper Award in the Communication as Social Construction Division at the National Communication Association convention for her analysis of Beyoncé’s 2016 Super Bowl perfomance. Read more
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MPA International Student Spotlight

Meet Tolu Omodara, one of our outstanding current MPA students. She joins Villanova from Nigeria where she has held leadership positions in the private and public sector. Learn more about Tolu and other students, alumni and faculty at the MPA Leaders' Lounge blog.

Language Training Offered This Summer

The Office of Graduate Studies sponsors intensive language training during the summer to assist students in preparing for reading proficiency examinations. This summer, we will offer German and Biblical Hebrew. No previous language background is assumed, and there is no cost for these courses. Students should keep in mind that these are intensive courses and should be prepared to minimize conflicts that may interfere with attendance. Priority enrollment is for PhD students in Theology and Philosophy, followed by Master’s students. Students wishing to participate in the workshop must apply by April 28. Learn more and apply.

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Events, Reminders and Tips

NOVA NETWORK - Villanova's New Social and Professional Networking Platform

Through the Nova Network, you can find Villanovans in your industry and local area, discuss career-related topics and access resources for your professional development. You can sign up within a few minutes, and you can even use your LinkedIn account. Learn more.


Holy Thursday Retreat for Graduate Students, Faculty, and Staff - March 29

Graduate students are invited to participate in a Holy Thursday retreat on Thursday, March 29 from 10 am – 1 pm. The theme of the retreat is “Discerning Vulnerability with Christ” and is led by Amanda Osheim, PhD. Should Christians brace for vulnerability, or embrace vulnerability? Join us during Holy Week for a time of discernment as we reflect together on Christ’s life and how we may be called to imitate his vulnerability. Learn more register here.


Post-Graduate Service Opportunities

Serving in a post-graduate volunteer program after Villanova can be a meaningful way to serve in marginalized communities and engage questions of social justice and solidarity . Villanova Campus Ministry can help you connect with more than 200 secular and faith-based service organizations to choose from, and the office recommends spending time researching and speaking with friends and mentors about your desire for service. Hundreds of Villanova graduates have chosen to dedicate a year (or two!) of their lives after graduation to service. Curious about this process and what a year of service could look like for you? Contact Campus Minister Michelle Sherman or learn more here.


Villanova Theatre Presents Much Ado About Nothing - April 10-22

Villanova Theatre invites you to its production of Shakespeare's timeless romantic comedy, directed by Villanova Assistant Professor James Ijames. Graduate students can attend for free on Tuesdays (4/10, 4/17) or for just $11 for any other performance. Use the code NOVA to access discounted tickets online at villanovatheatre.org.


Villanova HRD Annual Networking Reception - April 11

The annual Villanova HRD Reception on Wednesday, April 11 is a night of networking, learning and giving back. This year's theme is HR's role in Corporate Social Responsibility, and the event features Keynote Speaker, Grady Lee, CEO of Give2Get. The event will be held at The Inn at Villanova. Doors open at 5 pm for networking, drinks and hors d'oeuvres. The program runs from 6 to 8:30 pm. Learn more and register.