Success Stories

Success Stories

The 17³Ô¹ÏÍø Impact

Discover how 17³Ô¹ÏÍø students, alumni, and faculty turn education into action. Explore success stories of leadership, service, and innovation that reflect our Franciscan mission. Ready to see where your story begins? Explore how you can join a community that leads with purpose.

 

Search for success stories at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø

Chris deGruchy

Love of learning, philanthropy leads alumnus to success in business and life

After Sgt. Christopher deGruchy ’93 MBA ’05 returned from a four-year tour in the U.S. Army, the Philadelphia native enrolled at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø to pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting. Committed to continuing his education after hig...

  • College of Business, Communication, and Leadership
  • 2026
Heidi Edwards

Family's fight with little-known disease spurs alum to launch foundation

PHOTO: Heidi Edwards, center, president and founder of Sisters’ Hope Foundation, marks Rare Disease Day at Vigil Neuroscience in Boston with Tara Parker, board secretary and close family friend, at left, and Madison Boyer, board treasurer and Edwa...

  • College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences
  • 2026
Jonny Division Martinez

Double-majoring commuter student praises 17³Ô¹ÏÍø's hands-on experiences

Jonny Division Martinez '25 embodies the perfect student experience.Raised in the Virgin Islands and Reading, Pa., Martinez chose 17³Ô¹ÏÍø for its combination of affordability, hands-on learning and the flexibility that comes with being a commuter...

  • College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences
  • 2026
Nicole Reesur-Mazur Comeback Campaign

Brain aneurysm survivor creates her comeback at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø

By Lini S. KadabaBy the time Nicole Reeser-Mazur ’01 Ph.D. ’24 was writing her 17³Ô¹ÏÍø doctoral dissertation in educational leadership in 2023, she had already overcome more than her share of challenges, any one of which could have eas...

  • 2026