A Message from President Aceves
Dear Colleagues,
As 2023 ends, my heart is filled with joy and gratitude for the many ways our community lives our mission. As I spend time with faculty and staff, I am inspired by the care they have for our students. Our students, embodying the Ignatian spirit, shine as beacons of light, accomplishing much and aspiring towards a more impactful future. Here are a few examples highlighting some wonderful achievements.
In Regis College, more than 70 students showcased their work at the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Fall Poster Session. Dr. Jamey Maniscalco's Neuroscience Methods students presented findings from a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) on the neurobiological basis of anorexia nervosa. In November, six undergraduate students presented the results of their research at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in Washington, D.C. alongside more than 25,000 other neuroscientists. Giulia Aimale, Isabella De Leon, Katelyn De Leon, Mary Goldschmidt, and Yisel Villagomez presented their work done under the mentorship of Dr. Ashley Fricks-Gleason about sex differences in the ability for exercise to attenuate the neurochemical and cognitive consequences of methamphetamine abuse. The group also connected with recent Regis alums – Kelley Coakley, Brier Fine-Raquet, Crystal Minjarez, and Rachel Urquhart, who were there presenting the results of their doctoral research.
Dr. Rona McCall's Developmental Psychology II students engaged in service learning across the Denver metro area, relating their experiences to models of human development. Dr. Brian Drwecki's students presented results from a study on the effect of cognitive depletion over two semesters of Research Methods and Behavioral Statistics. Dr. Kyle Lucas's Lifespan Development students connected their interests to human development, exploring topics such as exercise and mental health, nature-based stress reduction, and the long-term effects of bullying. Regis University seniors Bella Willhite and Hans Gebauer led the debate team to victory at the 2023 Rocky Mountain Debating Championship. While Willhite aims for a Fullbright position in Taiwan, Gebauer plans to continue coaching debate at the high school level, emphasizing the importance of debate in shaping young minds.
At Reuckert-Hartman College for Health Professions, pharmacy student Mihretu Wondifraw ('26) exemplified exceptional resilience after facing the challenges of a family tragedy. Mihretu has emerged as a pillar of strength for his family and community, navigating caregiving responsibilities while dedicating long hours to a community pharmacy. Regis graduate student, Daniella Salawu, pursuing dual degrees in PharmD and Health Informatics, aims to become a Clinical Research Informatics Pharmacist, actively engaging in diverse research on cybersecurity for pacemakers, food insecurity during COVID-19, and the application of blockchain technology for enhanced pacemaker security, while also addressing lice treatment inequities through alternative practices and pharmacist counseling.
Loretto Heights School of Nursing senior, Ilse Diaz (’24), already exemplifies the caring and scholarly qualities seen in a Regis University nurse. Ilse is a first-generation student who continues to help care for her very young siblings while excelling in her nursing coursework. She is in the LHSON Honors Program where she has explored healthcare experiences in the Latinx community while working with our community partners. Ilse is the President of the Regis Student Nurses Association, and she continues tutoring in The Learning Commons and working as a Nurse Extern at Saint Joseph Hospital. Savana Reyes (’24), a student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program, is passionate about advocacy, collaboration, and ethical treatment and recently won the Sisters of St. Francis scholarship, which is awarded to those in this field who use their marginalized identities as a means of making a positive impact in and outside the therapy room.
Physical therapy student Aryn Cunningham, DPT class of 2024, brings a diverse background in emergency services and community outreach having previously worked for the Department of State in Asuncion, Paraguay as Chief of American Citizen Services, assisting in parental child abduction matters and ensured safe repatriation of stranded US citizens. She continues to demonstrate her passion for serving underrepresented populations. Danielle Au, class (’25), developed a pro bono pickleball injury prevention clinic during her clinical experience in Hawaii, emphasizing her commitment to creating safe community wellness spaces. Sambi Mori (’25), faced a personal challenge during her Clinical Education I experience but has shown resilience and commitment to her goal of becoming a physical therapist. Laleobe Olaka (‘24) received the Terri Lynn Criner Memorial Award, presented to an African American OTD student exemplifying resilience and supportiveness.
Anderson College of Business and Computing was involved in several initiatives supporting those in need. Supplies were delivered to The Gathering Place for women and children, winter clothing and toiletries were distributed to Haven of Hope for homeless men, and a clothing swap was held at Walker's Pub, with proceeds supporting a shelter for new mothers.
Anderson supported the Foodbank of the Rockies, serving over 175 families. Fundraising and grants provided supplies for Hope House teen moms. Meals were prepared for over 100 homeless men at the Denver Rescue Mission, and over 100 books were donated to Book Give.
Our Regis Athletics department is fostering a strong and supportive community. The commitment to service is evident, with the athletic department supporting the volleyball team at the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Championships, participating in suicide prevention discussions, and engaging in and supporting a number of community service initiatives. Regis Volleyball won the RMAC championship. Four players earned All-American recognition, and Coach List was honored as Regional Coach of the Year. Women's Soccer saw two All-region players and reached the semi-finals in the RMAC Championships, while Women's Golf secured a 3rd place rank in the RMAC. Cross Country achieved their highest program finishes in recent history.
At the start of the new year, six Ranger Catholic students will attend the FOCUS SEEK24 conference in St. Louis, MO. FOCUS, which stands for "Fellowship of Catholic University Students," organizes conferences that strengthen students' faith and foster connections among Catholic students nationwide.
I take immense pride in the ongoing accomplishments of our students and their thoughtful and intentional contributions. I am equally grateful for the faculty and staff leadership across our campus community. I am delighted to share this year's Christmas video, showcasing the exceptional talent of our student choir under the direction of Dr. Raul Dominguez. The video reflects how the Regis community’s actions embrace a community of care. https://vimeo.com/893432703
As I reflect on the year, we must never forget that, through our Jesuit Catholic heritage, we aim to foster a community that is inclusive, compassionate, and dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and truth. We encourage open dialogue and critical thinking, challenging our students and faculty to explore their beliefs and engage with diverse perspectives. And, at Regis, measure our success in whom and what our students become and how they impact the world as stewards of a transformative Jesuit Catholic education.
I extend heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. It is a privilege and honor to serve you, our beloved Regis University community.
Kindly,
Salvador D. Aceves, Ed.D
President
