2024 Commencement

Ali Horner '24 describes her studies at John Carroll as learning the world's oldest and newest languages. As a double major in Classical Languages and Data Science, Ali is no stranger to the campus community, which has allowed her to interact with several personalities in various fields of study. Dr. Ehrhardt and Dr. Compton-Engle in the Classics department, for example, were always more than willing to chat with Ali about all things academic, social, and professional.

"Ali's one of the most engaged students on campus--it sometimes seems like she's involved in everything! As her advisor and professor, I've loved being able to help her figure out how to fit in all the stuff she's wanted to get out of her college career, from finding opportunities to make art to traveling to Greece," Says Dr. Ehrhardt. "Ali told us her theory of the 'no thank you, bite', that she always took one bite out of any dish offered to her before deciding whether to commit to it. I think Ali's willingness to try new experiences extends from the dinner table to all aspects of her life, and it's been fun to have been part of her life, to guide and watch her grow during her time at JCU."

Ali's journey at John Carroll has been marked by significant personal growth. Her mentorship from faculty, staff, and alumni has inspired her to take on leadership roles. Over the past four years, she has been an Honors Program mentor, a MELT program mentor, and a SWAT leader on campus. These experiences have shaped her into someone who finds fulfillment in the mutual learning and developing friendships that come with a mentor-mentee relationship.

"As a leader, you have to be able to connect with others, but also know when to let those connections take on bits of leadership. In other words, understanding where someone else is going to shine and supporting them through that opportunity."

Ali's post-graduation journey is a testament to the power of connections. Leveraging her John Carroll network, she secured a position as a Pricing Analytics Specialist at Applied Industrial Technologies in Cleveland. Her affiliation with the Boler College of Business and her demonstrated leadership skills will undoubtedly pave the way for her success in her first job and throughout her career.

Data Science and Classical Languages

Angela Kalina’s ’24 formative years in elementary school have shaped her career aspirations to become an early childhood educator. Her goal is now a reality; upon graduation, Kalina has accepted a teaching position with the J.F. Mandel Jewish Day School in Beachwood, Ohio. At JCU, Kalina forged a meaningful relationship with Dan Reynolds, John Carroll’s Education Department Chair. She says Reynolds’ mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping her teaching philosophy “Dan has always been an unwavering pillar of support. I have known from day one that he is on my team and is genuinely excited to see me succeed. This is exactly the kind of relationship I want to bring into my own classroom.”

During her time at JCU, Kalina created a summer camp program for the Cleveland Montessori School as part of a summer internship. This camp worked to challenge students ages 7 to 13 in their philosophical thinking, asking them to view different perspectives, critique the arguments presented by philosophers and peers, and work on projects that replicated different thought experiments. The school is still using the camp she created as part of its enrichment programming. 

Kalina says she’s looking forward to creating a classroom environment where students are excited to learn and develop social connections beyond the curriculum. Her mentor, Dan Reynolds, says Kalina has built a teaching foundation to reach her classroom goals. “Angela has gone far beyond what a rookie teacher usually does: she’s done research into deep challenges in play-based primary education, aced all of her JCU coursework, and put it all into practice every day in serving her students at Mercer Elementary. She will make a difference for so many young students--and I think she’ll be an inspiring leader in the field of education in the years to come”.

Primary Education

Ben Brucken ’24 has excelled in the classroom and on the soccer pitch while attending JCU. The Sports Leadership and Business major has made lasting connections with teammates, classmates, and the athletic department while earning his degree at John Carroll. As a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Brucken has strived to elevate the experience of all student-athletes here on campus. His active involvement in JCU’s investment club and the Student Alumni Club showcases his ability to balance multiple commitments. Brucken says his JCU experience has helped him develop both professionally and socially. “John Carroll has helped me elevate myself in many phases of my life: Spiritually, athletically, academically, professionally, and socially. I could not have asked for a better launching pad as I move into the next phase of my life.”

Brucken's transition to JCU after one year at Coastal Carolina University was made remarkably smooth, thanks to the support and mentorship he received from Shawn Cronin. Cronin, the head athletic equipment and facilities manager, takes pride in the supportive culture at JCU, always making a point to check in with students and provide the necessary support. “Working with Ben has been an honor. I truly enjoyed seeing his growth not only as a student-athlete but as a person and a professional. I know that Ben has a bright future because watching him have a positive impact on everybody around him only illustrates how successful his journey at JCU has truly been. I am truly thankful for his friendship.” 

After graduation, Brucken will stay in Northeast Ohio; he’s accepted a sales development position with Park Place Technologies in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. In this role, he will be responsible for growing Park Place’s customer portfolio, leveraging his communication and customer service skills to ensure customer satisfaction and build long-lasting relationships. The company creates IT infrastructure and digital storage services for businesses around the world. 

Sports Leadership and Business

Caleb Correia ‘24 is a trailblazer and a young entrepreneur whose journey at JCU has been shaped by his passion for innovation, mentorship, and social impact. Before even arriving at JCU, Caleb met Doan Winkel, the John J. Kahl, Sr., Chair in Entrepreneurship and the Founding Director of the Bill and Sue Donnelly School of Leadership and Social Innovation. Caleb recalls thinking “there was something different about the way he looked at the world, life, and the opportunity of college that made me want to be part of JCU.” Inspired by Doan’s vision, Caleb charted his own path and created a customized major in entrepreneurial business. 

Doan’s influence extended beyond the classroom, he became Caleb’s go-to advisor for business endeavors, career decisions, and personal growth. Under Doan’s mentorship, Caleb delved into various initiatives that showcased his entrepreneurial spirit. Doan says, “Caleb is as good as it gets . . . period. He is the perfect storm of 21st century skills and the maturity to know when to dial them up and when to dial them back. I can’t wait to watch him put a dent in the universe.” 

Caleb served as the student CEO of the JCU Food Buggy - a student-run business venture that focuses on selling quality food and then using a percentage of the profits to give back to the community by feeding the homeless. As a resident assistant, Caleb paid forward the mentorship he received, guiding first-year students through the college process and helping them acclimate to their new environment. Outside of entrepreneurship, Caleb embodies the Jesuit value of Cura Personalis through his athletic achievements. Over the past 4 years, Caleb competed in both Track & Field and Cross Country. Caleb has had great athletic success earning five All-American titles, six OAC conference titles, setting six school records, and breaking a National Record in the DMR. 

Beyond campus, Caleb’s desire to learn and experience more is taking him abroad where he will travel Europe for three months to immerse himself in different cultures. Caleb plans to pursue a career in business operations or sales upon returning from Europe. 

Communication & Entrepreneurship

ellie..

class of 2024

Since third grade, Halle has always wanted to be a “detective.” Her fascination with crime and behavior studies led her to take on the hefty load of studying Sociology & Criminology at John Carroll, concentrating in Forensic Behavioral Studies and Criminology, Law and Justice, with minors in Law and Business. If that wasn’t enough to prove her dedication, Halle was also lucky enough to earn an internship with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Cleveland. She’ll continue the internship in May while pursuing a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis focusing on Criminal Studies and Health and Wellness. 

“Interning at the FBI is a pivotal chapter in my journey towards making a difference in the world. This opportunity has allowed me to learn from experienced professionals, actively engage in the critical work of investigating, and serve the city I grew up in.”

JCU connections served Halle well during her career. Through her John Carroll friends, she discovered the FBI internship program. After a lengthy application process, a JCU graduate serving with the FBI interviewed and granted Halle the position. On campus, Ed Mish in the Academic Success Center was crucial in helping Halle balance her demanding schedule, especially as a transfer student to John Carroll. “Students like Halle make my job so enjoyable – and easy, to be honest.” Ed said, “Her brain is matched only by her diligence; her ambition is as big as her heart.”  

As a natural-born leader, Halle found belonging and purpose in various on-campus positions. This season, she served as a captain on the Women’s Basketball team and as their representative to the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, where she could speak on her team’s behalf. Coinciding with leading by example, Halle is an executive board member of Morgan’s Message at JCU becoming an “At Large Ambassador”, where she raises awareness for mental health in the student-athlete community and shares her own story of overcoming mental battles when recovering from injuries.

Halle has exemplified being a woman for and with others through her on- and off-campus involvement, from working in the field with the FBI to working with her teammates. Finding her voice and embracing her lifelong passions have been hallmarks of her time at JCU, and she is confident that she will carry those qualities on to the next chapter in her life and career.

Sociology & Criminology

Lily Free ’24 discovered her sense of belonging at JCU by engaging with Campus Ministry. Free, an Arrupe Scholar, prioritized her academic pursuits and dedicated herself to serving others. She served as the Labre President, immersion intern, Carroll Faith Community (CFC) Leader, and retreat leader, embodying the Jesuit values of Cura Personalis and being a woman for and with others. These values, she says, have shaped her time at John Carroll. “Campus Ministry has provided me with a sense of belonging and community on John Carroll’s campus. I have met some of my closest friends and mentors through my experiences and will always be grateful for them all.”

The Jesuit value of accompaniment is central to Free’s JCU experience. She cites Campus Ministry’s Resident Minister Shelby Smyth as a mentor who helped guide her throughout her JCU experience. Smyth says it’s been rewarding to Free's personal and leadership growth over the past four years. “Lily is a strong servant leader. She is open to always challenging herself to push the line of her comfort zone. The things I have seen her accomplish her senior year are things that she probably wouldn’t have been able to see herself do as confidently as an incoming first-year student. Each person she meets leaves happier. Lily is a friend to everyone, and is constantly looking to better serve her friends, her peers, the community, and the world.”

Moving forward, Free will follow in her mentor’s footsteps; Lily will serve as a Resident Minister in JCU’s Campus Ministry next year. As a Resident Minister, she will provide spiritual guidance and support to students, foster a sense of community, and organize various religious and service-oriented activities. Free will continue her education at John Carroll, working toward a Master’s in school counseling. Ultimately, as a social worker, Free aspires to better the lives of children and teens dealing with familial difficulties.  

Psychology - Child & Family Studies, and, Peace, Justice, & Human Rights

Madelyn Pietrek ’24 is driven to serve others. Upon graduating from John Carroll, she will continue her service to her country as an agent with the United States Secret Service. Pietrek not only led her teammates on the field as a starting defender for JCU’s Women’s Lacrosse team but also advocated for student-athletes dealing with mental health issues as the vice president of Morgan’s Message. This national organization strives to make psychological and physical treatment equitable among student-athletes. “I have always known that I could do more to continue serving both myself and others.  John Carroll gave me the connections and outlets to be able to do so.” 

Madelyn Pietrek, a mathematics major, has balanced her time between the lacrosse field and the classroom, showcasing her commitment to her teammates and education. Madelyn attributes her ability to thrive in both arenas to the support she received from one of her math professors, Dr. Axel Brandt. His consistent academic and personal support has significantly impacted her success, highlighting the supportive environment at JCU. “It has been a joy supporting Maddie through the collegiate part of her journey to becoming who she is today. She astutely navigated the myriad of college stresses, both confidently tackling many on her own and graciously seeking guidance from others.”

Pietrek, a North Carolina native, says the charm of JCU’s campus and the Jesuit-rooted education were key factors that led her here. She says the opportunity to reignite her faith beliefs and develop her leadership skills at JCU has been invaluable. She’s looking forward to applying all she’s learned at JCU while serving her country with the Secret Service.

Mathematics

Mallory Dunlap ’24 has made a name for herself through her selfless advocacy for others. The Arrupe scholar has worked to boost non-partisan voter registration among college students and has supported refugees in Northeast Ohio and abroad. Along with other Democracy Fellows, Dunlap created the JCU Votes club. The student organization raises awareness about the importance of civic engagement and voter education.

Heather Craigie, Associate Director of the Center for Service-Learning and Social Action, says Dunlap has diligently bolstered civic engagement for JCU students. “Mallory has reinvigorated John Carroll University’s culture of student civic engagement and voting through her instrumental work as a Campus Vote Democracy Fellow and President/Founder of a new student organization, JCU Votes,” Craigie says.

Dunlap is also passionate about refugee rights. While participating in the JCU in Rome program, Dunlap interned with Jesuit Refugee Services, based in Vatican City, educating herself on the challenges facing refugees in the current global climate. She used the knowledge gained volunteering her help to displaced Ukrainian refugees in Elyria, Ohio. This spring semester, she recently traveled to D.C. to represent Jesuit Refugee Services and advocate for more protection of refugee rights. 

Dunlap says her time at John Carroll defined her servant leadership skills. “While attending John Carroll University and becoming involved in its culture of service, I have discovered my passion for advocating for the forcibly displaced, voting rights, and I look forward to advocating for even more causes in the future. Without the incredible experience I had at John Carroll, I would not be the person I am today.” Dunlap is preparing for a year of impactful service with City Year in Columbia, South Carolina. Her role will involve working closely with elementary students, providing comprehensive support to help them thrive socially, personally, and academically, further demonstrating her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.  

Political Science and Peace, Justice, & Human Rights

Melina Mera ’24 has been awarded two unique post-graduate scholarships. The psychology major has earned the prestigious Fulbright scholarship for the English Teaching Assistantship. She’ll spend the 2024-25 academic year teaching English in the Rioja Region of Spain. 

Following her Fulbright teaching assistantship in Spain, Mera will head to Los Angeles to pursue her passion for social justice. She’s completing a year of service through the St. Joseph Worker Program at Homeboy Industries, a gang rehabilitation and re-entry program. Mera secured her St. Joseph service program before learning she earned a Fulbright and postponed her St. Joseph commitment for a year while teaching in Spain. Mera is looking forward to both opportunities to serve others. “I’m beyond honored and grateful to have received both of these positions and will carry these experiences with me into my future career and life.”

Mera has been engaged in several clubs and organizations while at JCU. The Arrupe Scholar served as President of the Latin American Student Association (LASA), an immigration intern for Campus Ministry, and a Residence Assistant for the Office of Residence Life. Mera says her support from Dr. Angie Canda helped her balance academics, extracurriculars, and post-graduate plans. “As a student, Melina embodies our university mission. She learns. She leads. She serves. She engages meaningfully with all those around her,” says Dr. Canda. “As an alum, she will impact the communities in Rioja and Los Angeles and then beyond in her professional life after graduate school. I am lucky to have been a part of her journey here at JCU and look forward to seeing how she changes the world around her.” 

Mera plans to enroll in graduate school after her two postgraduate internships. She’s set on earning a master's degree in social work, which will prepare her for a career as a licensed, professional counselor.

Psychology

Patrick McGraw ’24 split most of his time at JCU between the biology lab and the wrestling mat. As a student-athlete, McGraw notched 138 wins with the varsity wrestling team, a JCU school record. In the lab, he spent more than 600 research hours studying the pathway that controls neuromuscular junction growth development in fruit flies. McGraw is also the 2024 recipient of JCU’s Beaudry Award. The award is bestowed to one graduating senior who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to leadership, Ignatian Values, academic achievement, and service. 

McGraw says balancing his commitment to wrestling, leadership, and challenging academics influenced his personal development. “My experiences at JCU pushed me outside of my comfort zone in more ways than one, but that experience has allowed me to grow. In particular, being forced to juggle multiple involvements has helped me become a more mature person and has taught me how to thrive under pressure.”

Dr. Pam Vanderzalm (Dr. V), Professor of Biology, has played a vital role in McGraw’s success. Dr. V serves as both a faculty and research advisor for Patrick. McGraw says her mentorship was critical in developing his scientific research skills and pursuing a medical career. Dr. V believes McGraw has built a firm foundation of research which will serve him well in future endeavors. “Patrick has been an exemplary research student: inquisitive, dedicated, and a joy to work with,” she says. “It’s these strengths among others that allow him to do so many things so well. He really went all-in on his college experiences and will be leaving an indelible mark here at JCU.”

McGraw served as the student coordinator for an immersion trip to Honduras, providing medical care to those in need in remote parts of the country. He says his two visits there have helped him determine his goal of becoming a doctor. Upon graduation, he’ll split time as a medical assistant and an MCAT tutor before applying to medical school in 2025.

Biology

Paul Corley ’24 has taken an atypical path toward earning his degree in international business. After high school, he enlisted in the Army, serving eight years on active duty. His military experience, particularly as a Medical Platoon Sergeant with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy, instilled discipline and sparked new interests: real estate investing and Italian cuisine. These interests have significantly influenced his academic journey at JCU, adding unique perspectives to his student experience. 

As a Veteran, Corley felt a duty to re-establish JCU’s Veteran Student Association as a resource for other service members at JCU. Collaborating with Naomi Sigg and JP Robinson in the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, he successfully reignited the program. Taking on the role of Veteran Student Services Coordinator while pursuing his degree, Corley's contributions were instrumental in the association's revival. He describes the position as a rewarding part of his JCU experience. "Restarting the VSA has been a great learning experience of trial and error that has opened up so many unexpected doors for me and introduced me to amazing people."

In working with the DEIB office, Sigg connected Corley with a donor who provided funding for VSA programs and events. Sigg says it was a rewarding experience to get the VSA up and running again with Corley. “Paul was instrumental in reinvigorating services and support for our veteran community,” says Sigg. “He was diligent in fostering vital connections to community resources, building a strong sense of belonging for veterans at JCU through social events, and establishing new programs like the Veterans Students Graduation Recognition Ceremony and the Veteran Work Study Program. Paul leaves a strong and lasting legacy for future JCU veterans and we are grateful for his leadership and dedication."

Post-graduation, Corley envisions blending his real estate business, Atlas Investing, LLC, and his love for Italian cuisine —becoming a restaurateur. He plans to return to Italy as a civilian and learn the culinary techniques used in Bologna. Once trained, Corley plans to open a restaurant serving specialties from the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy.

International Business

Talia Weeks '24 aims to positively impact others as a clinical mental health counselor. She says the support she received as a JCU student has helped define her career aspirations. "I’m so grateful for the support from JCU faculty, especially from my psychology professors who have given me the resources to grow academically and personally." The Psychology major transferred from Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) as an incoming junior to earn her degree at John Carroll. 

Two key figures in Talia's journey at JCU were Dr. Ben-Porath, her academic advisor and psychology professor. Talia took several classes with her and Dr. Ben-Porath’s support has helped Talia find her passion for counseling. Shortly after enrolling, Talia connected with Dr. Masterson, who played a pivotal role in her career development. Dr. Masterson not only helped Talia secure an internship at the Cleveland Clinic, working with children diagnosed with ADHD, but also encouraged her to seek experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom. This internship, though challenging, solidified Talia's determination to serve others with mental health issues. “Talia is a natural leader, who felt immediately at home at JCU as a transfer student,” says Dr. Masterson. “Talia is a natural leader who goes above and beyond in her coursework.”

Talia immersed herself in the JCU community, becoming active in club and intramural sports, WJCU, the creative arts club, and the psychology club. After graduation, she'll return to John Carroll to earn a Master's in clinical mental health counseling. 

Psychology and Entrepreneurship