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Frequently Asked Questions

What does SOLAR stand for?

SOLAR stands for Support, Opportunity, Love, Access, and Resources. It is a campus-wide initiative focused on organizing opportunities and services to ensure the success and persistence of every Â鶹ÊÓƵ student.

Is there a SOLAR Office?

SOLAR is not a physical office. It is a campus culture that brings together various student support services under one vision. Its purpose is to ensure that all students can easily access the resources they need for academic and personal success.

How does the new Office of Social Services and Director of Social Services work to support SOLAR?

The Office of Social Services will promote the culture of care through the implementation of case management by connecting students to community-based services and campus supports, help oversee the distribution of Hope Fund resources, ensure that community resources remain accurate and relevant and will collect data to determine ways to improve support to students and retention rates. The inaugural Director of Social Services Melissa Terwilliger will lead the work of the Office of Social Services.

What is case management and how does this approach support SOLAR goals?

This is a holistic approach where the case manager works to support the student by connecting students to resources on and off campus while collaborating with university staff and community services to monitor progress. The case manager will coach the student to become more independent while advocating for the student. The purpose of case management is to ensure that barriers are broken to provide more opportunities to achieve academic success.

How has the SOLAR work started at the university?

Several initiatives have already begun under SOLAR, including the Career Closet (providing professional attire for students), the Winter Coat Drive, and Commuter Lunches to support students in need of essential items and social connections. There are also several well-established programs such as Clare’s Cupboard (food pantry), Navigation Office (Navigators provide individualized support to guide, motivate, and inspire students towards personal and academic success) and Academic Success Center (tutoring and mentoring) that are being pulled together as part of the resource network.

How does SOLAR support student retention and graduation?

SOLAR addresses the barriers that students may face in their academic journey, such as financial, personal, and academic challenges. By organizing comprehensive support services in areas like mental health, career readiness, and basic needs assistance, SOLAR helps students stay on track, persist, and graduate.

How does SOLAR align with Alvernia’s Franciscan values?

SOLAR directly aligns with Alvernia’s Franciscan mission of service, community care, and holistic education. It reflects our commitment to supporting the whole student—mind, body, and spirit—by providing resources that help students thrive academically and personally.

How will I know if SOLAR is working?

SOLAR’s success will be measured by increased student engagement, higher retention rates, and positive student outcomes. Regular updates on the program’s progress will be shared through email newsletters, the Alvernia website, and campus communications.

What is the Thoughtful Assessment Group (TAG)?

The purpose of the Thoughtful Assessment Group (TAG) is consistent with Alvernia’s SOLAR initiative to provide another level of support to Alvernia students by taking a proactive approach in offering personalized interventions, behavior strategies and resources to meet the students’ needs holistically. TAG is composed of various student-facing offices and is led by the Director of Social Services, Melissa Terwilliger who can be reached via email at solar@alvernia.edu or melissa.terwilliger@alvernia.edu. 

FAQs for Students

Who can benefit from SOLAR services?

All Alvernia students, including undergraduates, graduate students, and adult learners, can benefit from SOLAR services. Whether you need help with academics, financial aid, career guidance, or personal well-being, SOLAR ensures that a support system is available for you.

I'm in need of emergency aid. How to I access Hope Fund Resources?

Students request Hope Fund support by emailing SOLAR@alvernia.edu with their request. Your request will be reviewed by a team of SOLAR leaders a representative will follow up with you to gather additional details.

Are SOLAR services free for students?

Yes, most of the services under the SOLAR initiative, such as access to Clare’s Cupboard, academic advising, and mental health support, are free for students. Additional resources, such as career counseling, financial planning, and tutoring, are also available at no extra cost.

How do I find out more about the services offered through SOLAR?

You can visit the SOLAR page on the Â鶹ÊÓƵ website, check digital displays around campus, or speak with faculty and staff who are leading the areas of SOLAR network. Keep an eye on email announcements and social media posts for updates on new services and opportunities.

FAQs for Faculty and Staff

How can I support SOLAR?

You can support SOLAR by learning about your role in it and staying informed about the available services. Faculty, staff, partners and the extended community should work collaboratively to ensure students can seamlessly access resources. Participation in training and programming such as workshops, mentoring, and community-building activities will also help foster a culture of care on campus.

I know a student who is in need of emergency aid. How do I connect them with Hope Fund resources?

Â鶹ÊÓƵ faculty and staff can alert campus SOLAR leaders of a student's emergency aid need by emailing SOLAR@alvernia.edu with their request. The request will be reviewed by a team of SOLAR leaders and a representative will follow up with you to gather additional details.

What role do faculty and staff play in SOLAR?

Faculty and staff are key to ensuring the success of SOLAR. They are encouraged to help connect students to resources and services, support the culture of care through mentoring and guidance, and collaborate in SOLAR events that promote student well-being and academic success.

FAQs for Alvernia Community

Can I volunteer to help with SOLAR initiatives?

Yes! Faculty, staff, students, and even alumni are welcome to volunteer. You can contribute to initiatives such as Clare’s Cupboard, mentorship programs, or SOLAR events. Contact the SOLAR team or the appropriate campus office for more details on how to get involved.

How can I financially support Alvernia's SOLAR initiatives?

There are many ways to financially support SOLAR. Alvernia's Hope Fund assists all students and families in financial need and provides Alvernia with the flexibility and resources necessary to address student hardships as they arise. In addition, two pillars of Alvernia's Partners in Progress Campaign are Access and Opportunity and Student Success. To find out how to support SOLAR, please reach out to Vice President for Institutional Advancement Thomas C. Minick at 610-790-2862 or thomas.minick@alvernia.edu, or Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement Meggan Kerber at 610-796-8327 or meggan.kerber@alvernia.edu.