Duquesne University Liberal Arts

Community is at the heart of Kiley Vasquez’s, GA’25, journey at Duquesne. A McNair Scholar and master’s in philosophy student, she plays a key role in organizing the Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month activities at the Center for Hispanic Studies as part of her graduate assistant role.

For Kiley, who eventually wants to teach, this year’s event is particularly meaningful: A lecture by Dr. Maripaz García from Yale University, discussing how to transform Spanish class pedagogy.

“I’m really excited to hear her perspective,” Kiley said. “I want to apply her insights to my teaching practices and studies.”

Kiley is already making strides toward her bigger goals at Duquesne, where she instructs the undergraduate Global Thought course in the philosophy department.

“It’s been a great opportunity to design my own syllabus. In the process, I was able to read a lot of texts I’d never been taught before. I also really enjoy working with students, especially when they have a breakthrough in class,” she said.

As she prepares to graduate and return to her hometown of Chicago, Kiley’s focus on bridging academic and cultural experiences continues to shape her path.

“My grandparents came to America from Mazatlán, so it’s important for me to stay connected to Mexican culture. I want to emphasize critical race theory and identity in my courses. That’s why this upcoming lecture excites me — it’s an opportunity to explore my heritage through an academic lens,” she said.

Learn more about our Latinx and Hispanic Heritage Month programming: https://www.duq.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/liberal-arts/calendar.php

Fayla Junior is a dedicated healthcare ethics doctoral student, driven by compassion and a commitment to improving patient care, especially for those living in underserved communities.

“I’m learning the ins and outs of health care, not just from the clinical standpoint, but also the administrative standpoint,” she says. “I'm seeing the little pockets of ethics all around.”

Health Care Ethics Student Aspires to Create a Future Everyone Can Share Fayla Junior never misses an opportunity to learn or pull inspiration from those around her. The Center for Global Health Ethics doctoral student from Nashville, Tenn., absorbs as much information as possible inside the classroom and out, and she’s always aware of what new knowledge can bring.

Today marks 23 years since 9/11. For more than two decades, students across the university honor and remember the victims of the attacks by placing hundreds of flags on the College Hall Lawn.

Associate Professor of Sociology Dr. Anita Zuberi shared her insights with 90.5 WESA this week on the challenges low-income renters face in Allegheny County.

Many subsidized renters have trouble finding landlords who accept them in Allegheny County Section 8 vouchers help low-income tenants pay for rent in privately-owned apartments. But, it can be hard for people with a voucher to find a landlord willing to accept it.

A-Walk was filled for the Student Organization EXPO today. We’re so grateful for our campus leaders from Liberal Arts who take part and lead Duquesne’s 280+ student organizations!

Emma Detrick, A’27, arrived on campus for the first week of classes ready for action.

A political science major, Emma is eager for her National Security in the 2020s course, which tackles issues like terrorism, cyberattacks, and emerging international challenges.

“This class will be an opportunity to learn about current political events. I think this is important because it allows me to understand how what is going on now might impact our future — and what can be done about it,” she said.

Morgan Carr thinks Duquesne’s orientation is fantastic. Her favorite student event was the glow dance. The Dean’s Lunch, however, stood out as the most engaging Liberal Arts experience. There, she connected with professors and multiplatform journalism students in unique spots around campus like the community garden.

The numerous opportunities at the university and internship prospects throughout Pittsburgh played a significant role in her decision to attend Duquesne.

“With such a hands-on major like multiplatform journalism, it’s important for me to get experience in the real world. I’m so excited to study journalism here because of the brand-new TV studio on campus and all the news outlets and media organizations throughout Pittsburgh,” Morgan said.

Director of Pre-Law Dr. Kristen Coopie spoke with TribLive about the political future of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, stating that the recent national attention on him might be beneficial to his career, especially if Kamala Harris is elected president.

No VP pick? No problem. Experts see bright political future for Shapiro If Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro ever wants to make his own presidential run for the White House, political observers agree that his recent turn in the national spotlight likely would help, not hinder, any future bid. From delivering a stem-winder Tuesday night in Philadelphia to drawing comparison...

Much like the athletes she's covering, Vanessa Perdomo, A’16, has prepared for this moment her entire journalism career: the 2024 Paris Olympics.

It all started when she transferred to Duquesne in 2014, a decision informed by her first impressions of Pittsburgh and her conversation with the Duquesne University Women's Soccer coach about joining the university’s team, which went on to win the A-10 Championship her senior year. Taking classes with professors like Robert Healy III cemented her desire to work in sports journalism.

“At the time, I didn’t realize I wanted to be in sports journalism – I wanted to be in general news,” she said. “But taking sports media classes with Professor Healy was really fun. I also was working and taking television classes that really pushed me, and I found my love for being on camera and the video side of news.”

After graduating, Vanessa started her career at StudioME, a production studio in Pittsburgh, first as an intern and later as a studio manager. The skills she developed there helped her secure a position as a freelance video editor with Bloomberg. Her success as a contractor led to a full-time role with the organization, where she has held various positions and is now a reporter on the business sports team.

She is currently in Paris, reporting on business aspects of the Olympics, including deals between brands and athletes, how small countries with few athletes fund their participation, and the motivations behind athletes putting their careers on hold to compete despite the uncertain financial benefits.

For current students and recent alumni looking to break into journalism, Vanessa’s advice is to be open to entering any relevant position in their field, even if the job doesn’t perfectly align with their career goals.

“You will always move forward if you say ‘yes’ and do everything you can to also gain experience in what you ultimately want to do. I started as an editor, which isn’t my passion, but now I’m officially a host and a reporter – everything I always wanted,” she said.

A star in the classroom and on the track. Congratulations, Emily, on your nomination!

Brozeski Nominated for NCAA Woman of the Year Award - Duquesne University Athletics WASHINGTON — Duquesne University track and field student-athlete Emily Brozeski has been nominated for the prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year Award, as the Atlantic 10 Conference member institutions announced the nominations of 17 outstanding female student-athletes on Thursday. The 17 nominations...

Jack Richards arrived on campus today for FAST with good company: his sister Marlee Richards, a dual degree program student in the School of Education and School of Science and Engineering.

Jack applied to Duquesne because of his sister’s positive experience on the Bluff, noting that everyone he’s met through her is nice and accepting. He enrolled at the College because of the opportunities present through the cybersecurity studies program.

“I’m excited to learn about cybersecurity studies and apply those skills in the job market,” he said. “After graduation, I’d like to work in a city like Pittsburgh.”

We can’t wait to welcome you back to campus next month!

Welcome to the Bluff! During FAST, faculty across the College connected with incoming students to introduce them to the Learning Communities they'll join this fall. These communities enhance academic and social growth by grouping students with similar interests in themed courses and designated residence halls.

If you missed today’s event, there’s still time to sign up for FAST on Friday: https://apply.duq.edu/portal/fast

What’s it like to work at a summer camp for youth with disabilities? In a word: Rewarding.

The Stages II Summer Camp, a collaboration between Duquesne University School of Nursing and Liberal Arts, offers theater programming and healthcare-themed learning activities for 7th- to 12th-grade students with disabilities.

Throughout the week, campers work with Duquesne students to develop a play they perform on the last day of camp. They also spend a day in the Nursing Learning and Simulation Center, participating in role-play activities where they act as healthcare providers and patients, building upon their self-advocacy skills.

Rachel Lewandowski, A’25, a theater arts major and music minor who began working with youth last year through the Gemini Children's Theater, finds this type of experience fulfilling.

“Last summer was my first year teaching at a summer camp. It’s helped me find more confidence in myself and better communicate with others,” she says.

Her positive experience led her to continue working with children during the school year through the Gemini Theater.

This summer, while working with students in Nursing, she aimed to inspire campers about their potential in the arts.

“We’re not just here to teach the kids,” she says. “But to set an example and tell them: ‘This can be you one day.’”

In the Theater Arts Program, students study every aspect of theatrical production. Rachel emphasized the program’s breadth, noting, “What I like about the Theater Arts Program is that we are well-rounded. Because of how our program is designed, I’ve learned to use the light board and light design, helped build sets, and stage-managed.”

She says the bonds she’s made in the Theater Arts Program and The Duquesne University Red Masquers are lifelong.

“I hope that through the connections I’ve made at Duquesne, that’s made me a role model for someone and inspired them to pursue the arts.”

Pittsburgh’s Anthrocon — a furry convention — starts on Thursday, and a record-breaking 15,500 people are anticipated to attend. Psychology Department Chair and Associate Professor Dr. Elizabeth Fein spoke with KDKA-TV's Talk Pittsburgh about the event and community building:

“Some people think that furries believe they are animals or want to be animals. But for most, it’s more of a role-play or an imaginary thing.”

Digging into the psychology of Anthrocon Pittsburgh's premiere furry convention, Anthrocon, kicks off this Thursday and a record-breaking 15,500 are expected to attend this year's event. Duquesne Un...

Amandalynne Davis, A’24, can give a lot of advice to current students, including the importance of studying abroad.

A recent alumna, Amandalynne majored in international security studies and international relations and minored in political science. She has studied abroad in both France and Tanzania. In the fall, she will attend the Institute of World Politics in Washington, D.C., to earn her master’s in strategic intelligence.

This summer marked Amandalynne’s second trip to Tanzania, where she guided a group of students, allowing them to experience the rich culture and community of the country. While there, Amandalynne visited schools for those with disabilities aiming to support students’ independence and personal autonomy, an HIV/AIDS clinic providing free, community-minded care, a women’s health clinic, and many other social service hubs.

“It was such an honor and privilege to return to Arusha this year to see the progress made by these organizations and continue building relationships that took root last year,” Amandalynne says.

The trip concluded with Amandalynne guiding students on a tour of the East African Community (EAC) headquarters, where she led conversations alongside the EAC security professionals about the status of newly admitted states and the future of the EAC members amid regional crises.

“As I step into my next chapter in Washington, D.C., I will be holding these experiences close to my heart and mind,” she says.

The power of the connections you'll make in Liberal Arts. After graduation, we're still rooting for you — even if you're working for the opposing team.

Moments like these 🥰🥰🥰🥰

Our Robert Healy III - Media Professional/Professor caught up with three of his recent Sports Information and Media graduates at the Pittsburgh Pirates-Cincinnati Reds game last night. Pictured left to right are Pirates Public Relations Intern Wyatt VanDyke, Reds Media Relations Manager Luke Henne, Healy and Pirates Social Media Coordinator Grace Heidinger.

Huge thank you to the Pirates and Reds for making it happen.

Alumnus Sean Spencer, A’20, is transforming lives in Pittsburgh. A co-founder of Future Kings Mentoring, Spencer mentors young black males, helping them develop critical skills – from cooking to financial literacy – and explore the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics fields.

Future Kings Mentoring meets weekly at the Shadyside Boys and Girls Club.

Tony Norman: Tomorrow looks bright for Future Kings Mentoring The mission of Future Kings Mentoring is “to cultivate and develop male-identifying black youth into realizing they are Future Kings."

“My time at Duquesne University helped strengthen my confidence and broaden my perspective,” says Rachel Beckstrom, A’18. “It allowed me to see things from various perspectives through interactions with diverse classmates.”

Learn more about Rachel — one of several Dukes From the Last Decade winners from Liberal Arts: https://www.myduquesne.duq.edu/beckstrom

“Duquesne's community created a supportive environment where I felt not just like a student, but a valued member of a larger family,” says Dukes From the Last Decade winner Luke Macios, A’17, GA’19.

“The genuine connections forged with fellow students, faculty, and staff contributed to a sense of belonging that went beyond the classroom.”

Butler Eagle staff writer Zach Petroff, A’23, won an award for his multimedia presentation "Duquesne University Investigates" at the 60th Golden Quill Awards in the Student Excellence in Journalist Craft Achievement category. He was one of several Duquesne alumni and students to receive an award.

Reflecting on the project, which he worked on as a student before graduating in December, Petroff said: "It’s really great to be recognized for a project that took nearly a year to finish. [The project] was such a great opportunity to learn and experience investigative journalism techniques such as research, interviewing and analyzing data.”

Eagle staff writer Zach Petroff wins at Golden Quills Butler Eagle staff writer Zach Petroff won an award for his multimedia presentation “Duquesne University Investigates” in the Student Excellence in Journalist Craft Achievement category at the Press C...

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. 🇺🇸

Fr. Bede Ukwuije, professor and vice chair of the Department of Theology, recently addressed graduates at the Spiritan International School of Theology - SIST commencement: “Remember, your journey doesn’t end here. It’s just the beginning of a new and exciting phase.” Congratulations, Class of 2024!

Candis Dorsey, A'24, and her sister, Alysia McCray, S'24, made the decision to return to school after years in the workforce. Candis transferred to Duquesne from the Community College of Allegheny County – and graduated this month with a bachelor’s degree in corporate communication and a minor in sports information and media. She'll return to Duquesne in the fall to enroll in a master's program at the Palumbo-Donahue School of Business.

Her advice to those considering going back to school?

“There are a million and one ways to do it — there’s never just one way. So don’t let the thought process of there being only one way stop you from doing what you want to do,” she says on KDKA-TV | CBS Pittsburgh

Intersections 5-19-2024 This week's edition of Intersections with Lisa Smith.

Ashley Tannous, A'15, is one of this year's Dukes From the Last Decade winners from Liberal Arts.

Asked about what she liked most about her experience at Duquesne, she mentioned Duquesne's commitment to civic engagement, and how her work as an undergraduate with the community shaped her professional, personal, and academic life:

"Throughout my time at Duquesne, I was able to participate in many different service learning activities related to my coursework in the Spanish department and psychology department. I attended a naturalization ceremony downtown that brought me to tears. I volunteered to tutor Latino children in their homes, though they taught me more than I feel I ever taught them. I met individuals from all over the world that moved to Pittsburgh through a service learning project that encouraged attendance to ESL classes right across the street from the university. It was these experiences throughout my undergraduate degree that inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in social work and desire to work in the community myself."

For 2 sisters, graduation day at Duquesne is special Two members of Duquesne's Class of 2024 took a unique route to graduation.

Congratulations to the Class of 2024 graduates from The McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts! We’re excited to see you achieve your bigger goals as you embark on this new chapter of your journey. ❤️ 💙

Amandalynne Davis, A’24, knows education is a powerful investment.

That’s why she became involved with Duquesne Orientation – first as a team leader, then as the assistant director, and most recently as the director – to aid incoming students in their transition to college life.

Her passion for education also led her to pursue a double major in international security studies and international relations with a minor in political science. Now she’s thrilled to be attending the Institute of World Politics in Washington, D.C. this fall to pursue her master’s in strategic intelligence, with aspirations of eventually earning a PhD to work in academia.

To advance her career, Amandalynne participated in two separate Maymester and summer programs offered by Duquesne in Tanzania and France. These experiences allowed her to apply her classroom knowledge on an international scale.

“Learning from leading experts, engaging in top-notch simulations, and experiencing travel abroad all contributed to my love for my majors. I feel genuinely prepared for whatever lies ahead,” she says. “I would highly recommend this program to anyone eager to broaden their understanding of the world – especially those who want to contribute to making it a better place for all.”

Throughout her time at Duquesne, she sought guidance from the Center for International Relations.

“The Center for International Relations has been a major support system and boundary pusher. I was always challenged in the classroom, which made me a better student and decision-maker. Without their encouragement and expertise, the idea of graduate school would have seemed out of reach,” she says.

Before heading off to D.C., she has one last hurrah with Duquesne following commencement: Another trip to Tanzania through the Office of Mission Animation, where she’ll help lead students, connect with the local Spiritans, and study human security efforts in the country.

“I couldn’t have achieved any of this without the unwavering support of those in the Liberal Arts community, and for that, I am deeply grateful,” she says.

Emily Brozeski, A'22 and GA'24, has been a force in Liberal Arts. The Double Duker is graduating tomorrow after completing her MFA in Media Art and Technology under the Interactive Design Track.

Authentic Collaboration, On and Off the Bluff Emily Brozeski grew up in the Pittsburgh area and was determined to attend college elsewhere. Instead, the heptathlon athlete committed wholeheartedly to Duquesne, falling in love with the location, beautiful campus and track and field program.

Lily Berry, GA'24, believes cookbooks have the power to tell us about the lives and cultures of their authors.

This week, she will receive her master's degree in public history from the Duquesne University Department of History, where her studies focused on exploring culinary history, particularly examining cookbooks written by women who were in concentration camps during the Holocaust, as well as Chinese cookbooks published in the United States between 1910 and 1950.

In an interview with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about the importance of learning about history, she shares:

“I think it matters a lot for college students, in particular, to understand historical contexts and to use that information to be civically involved in their own communities,” she said. “Holocaust education is one thing that varies regionally, but often falls to the wayside. […] It's important to understand the world around you.”

Graduating Duquesne student spent college years studying historical cookbooks In cookbooks written decades ago, pages are filled with more than ingredients and instructions, graduating Duquesne student Lily Berry has found. These...

Alexis Coletti, A’24, is a winner — and she keeps scoring big.

Graduating in three years, Alexis is this year’s recipient of the 2024 McAnulty College of Liberal Arts General Excellence Award. She has also earned the Chester A. Jurczak Excellence in Sociology Award and the Harold Webb Jr. Excellence in Political Science Award. Additionally, she has been recognized as the top graduate in the Department of Political Science’s law and politics concentration.

A student in the Honors College with majors in political science and sociology, a minor in history, and a pre-law certificate, she is proud to announce that she will be attending law school at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

“I am truly honored to have received the General Excellence Award,” she says. “I would like to thank Dr. Matthew Schneirov from the Department of Sociology and Dr. Clifford Bob from the Department of Political Science for nominating me for this award and providing me with a wonderful education that allowed me to succeed during my time at Duquesne.”

Alexis’ success is evident through her leadership skills seen in various campus organizations. She serves as president of CHAARG - Changing Health, Actions, + Attitudes to Recreate Girls, secretary of Pi Sigma Alpha, executive outreach coordinator for the McAnulty College Community Food Pantry, and treasurer of the Figure Skating Club.

While she only joined the Debating Society as a second-semester junior, she has won 13 individual awards through debate competitions. Her proudest accomplishment is placing 2nd in the Pennsylvania Forensic Association 2024 Championship Tournament for Declamation, showcasing her skills in dramatic speech interpretation.

Alexis says that joining the Debating Society has been transformational.

“I wanted to get better at public speaking because I want to be an attorney, and I’ve developed and strengthened those skills through the club,” she says. “We’ve received a lot of recognition this year. We compete because it’s fun — and we happen to win.”