22 Memorable University Moments of 2022
The Nexus looks back at the biggest Jefferson stories of the year.
Some members of the Jefferson community who helped shape 2022, including (clockwise from top left) Vidhi Desai, health sciences-physician assistant studies student; Anjeanette Mathis, organizational leadership graduate; Dr. Ahmad Qais Munhazim, assistant professor of global studies; Dr. Brooke Worster, associate professor of medicine; Aleksandr Kvasov, adjunct professor in the College of Humanities and Sciences; and Maddie Woytovich, fashion merchandising and management alumna.
One of the toughest challenges the University faces is narrowing down all the incredible stories from the year into a single list. From student, faculty and alumni successes to groundbreaking research to, yes, delicious chicken fingers, we’ve experienced quite a memorable 2022. Let’s recap the year with these 22 special moments. We can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store.
Celebrating the Success of a Historic Merger
Five years ago, the two esteemed universities came together to create a model for professional education and prepare students for the future of work.
Collaboration Leads to Innovation With Occupational Therapy-Industrial Design Projects
Student groups create assistive technology for people with special needs.
Jefferson Research Celebrates Black History Month
Shining a light on Black excellence, researchers share their accomplishments, role models and lived experiences.
Hugs, Cheers and Relief at In-Person Match Day Ceremony
Over 250 Sidney Kimmel Medical College students found out where they will complete their residencies. The Philadelphia Inquirer attended this special rite of passage as well.
Park in a Truck Toolkit Allows Community Members to Transform Empty Lots Into Green Spaces
The Jefferson initiative helps to beautify neighborhoods across the city.
Alumna Maddie Woytovich Is Making Strides in the Fashion Industry
From modeling with alopecia to working at QVC, the recent grad stepped out of her comfort zone early on and never looked back.
Helping to Bring Social Justice to the Neurodiverse Population
A Jefferson team develops an autism toolkit for police, emergency personnel and justice professionals.
What Is the Science Behind Using Cannabis to Treat Serious Illness?
Dr. Brooke Worster works to close the gap between research, the medical community and patients.
How Do We Preserve the Past for a More Sustainable Future?
Architectural historian Dr. Suzanne Singletary shares her research on the challenges of preserving America’s cities.
How a Beach Meeting Between Alumnae Created an Innovative Textile Program
In teaming up with Scotland’s Heriot-Watt University, Jefferson offers a first-of-its-kind joint-degree path that establishes a global model for 21st-century professional education.
Celebrating the Class of 2022
Seven students reflect on their time at the University and discuss what lies ahead. In addition, read recaps of the Commencement ceremonies here and here.
The True Colors of Pride
Dr. Ahmad Qais Munhazim explores the personal and global meanings of Pride and how we can make queer celebrations more inclusive.
Jefferson Welcomes Students at Convocation
Full of hope, excitement and confidence, members of the new class look to the future. The Sidney Kimmel Medical College Class of 2026 also receive their white coats.
How to Find a Culturally Competent Therapist
When it comes to mental health, personal and cultural connections are key. Dr. Erica Wilkins, couple and family therapy program director, offers suggestions.
Rams Shortstop Part of Phillies’ World Series Run as a Ball Girl
Pre-medical studies student Cayla Kalani works the foul lines and serves as a team ambassador.
Students Work to Ease Burden During Nationwide Nursing Shortage
Helping Hands program allows nursing students to provide real-world support.
Jefferson Names Dr. Joseph Cacchione as New CEO
Dr. Cacchione will lead Jefferson in shaping the future of higher education, health care and discovery. In addition, the Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Mark Tykocinski as president of the University.
Industrial Design Alumni Save Animals With Special Prosthetics
Graduates Adam Hecht and Alex Tholl founded DiveDesign, which makes adaptive devices for different kinds of animals (even a duck). CBS Philadelphia shares their story.
Jefferson May Have Some of Philly’s Best Chicken Fingers
The dining staff whips up standard chicken, halal, vegan and gluten-free options. Fox29 samples them all.
Women’s Rowing Takes Fourth Place at NCAA Division II Championships
It marked Jefferson’s best finish in the event in program history. Men’s tennis and volleyball earned CACC Championships and competed in the NCAA postseason. Women’s basketball and soccer also punched tickets to their NCAA tournaments.
‘Farewell to the King’
Herb Magee always believed in himself—as a player, an all-time great basketball coach with 1,144 victories and a shooting instructor without parallel, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. Plus, Jimmy Reilly takes over as head coach after 15 years as the top assistant. “I gotta be me,” he tells KYW Newsradio.
