Alvernia University hosted its annual education dinner, titled “Supporting Education Through Innovation, Collaboration, and Partnership,” at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading. The event brought together more than 30 local education leaders, including PK-12 school district education leaders and Alvernia education faculty. The primary goal was to facilitate collaborative conversations and share innovative approaches to reshape the PK-12 education environment.

The event began with a mission moment by Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D., followed by a welcome and introduction from Senior Vice President and Provost Leamor Kahanov, Ph.D. The Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Director of the Bureau of School Support, Amy Lena, and Director for School Leadership and Teacher Quality, Dr. Carissa Pokorny-Golden, discussed the current state of education in Pennsylvania.

A presentation on “Bridging the Science of Learning with the Art of Teaching” was delivered by Tulpehocken Area School District’s Director of Teaching and Learning, Dr. Tim Matlack, Superintendent Dr. Andrew Netznik, and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Denis Quirk.

A panel discussion, facilitated by Alvernia University Education Department Chair Lucinda Schaeffer, Ed.D., featured Executive Directors from Berks County Intermediate Unit, Chester County IU, Carbon Lehigh IU, and Interim ED Schuylkill County IU. The panel covered topics such as mental well-being, government relations, strategic talent management, and navigating artificial intelligence.

The presentations were followed by interactive discussions, allowing education administrators and professionals from various school districts to engage in meaningful conversations.

Alvernia University’s Education Department offers a range of programs for educators, including bachelor’s degrees, teaching certifications, master’s degrees in education, and superintendent’s letters of eligibility. All programs are accredited by the Pennsylvania State Department of Education. The university also provides a Ph.D. in Leadership program with an Educational Leadership track for those seeking advanced leadership roles in education.