Our Blue Jays always stay active as a college community. This year, we were introduced to many new faces and learned more about some longtime members of the community.
Here is a roundup of good news, great stories and moments from 2023.
Congratulations to our Graduates
Our 2023 Commencement Ceremony saw more than 70 Manor College graduates receive their diplomas. The ceremony was highlighted by honoring NBC10 Philadelphia’s Tracy Davidson with a Doctorate of Humane Letters. Student speakers for the event included Monica Maury and Anthony Caristo.
Introducing the Heart and Soul of Manor College
For many, Anne Kiczula ‘71 is the first person they meet at Manor College. Her desk often serves as an official meeting place for the community because of her well-crafted coffee. Her Basilian spirit reflects the core of what Manor College is all about.
Men’s Soccer Wins ESAC
In October, Manor College’s Men’s Soccer team won their first Eastern States Athletic Conference (ESAC) championship. The win was the first conference championship for the Blue Jays since 2007. The championship win additionally the 100th victory in head coach John Dempster’s coaching career.
Manor College Alum Returns for Dental Hygiene Degree
Tamia Gladney ‘21 graduated from Manor College with her Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology. Driven by her mother’s toughness, Gladney returned this Fall with the intent to enroll in Manor College’s Dental Hygiene program. “With (my mother’s) passing, I felt like I could use it as motivation to get it done and make her proud.”
Tapping the Maple Trees on Campus
A partnership between Manor College and Wyncote Academy led to a sweet ending. In January students from Manor College with help from staffers at Wyncote Academy tapped the maple trees behind the library on campus. In April, Wyncote turned the sap from the trees into maple syrup. Manor College used the syrup for a pancake meal on campus.
Soccer Star Becomes Second, Two Time All-American
Eddie Fortescue Jr. became the second Blue Jay to be named a two time All-American in November. Fortescue, who plays soccer, basketball and baseball for the Blue Jays, was named a USCAA First-Team All-American in soccer in 2022 and 2023. Fortescue received several other accolades in 2023, including USCAA All-Academic Team and ESAC Player of the Year.
Celebrating James’ Birthday
In September, Manor College celebrated a beloved member of the kitchen crew. In a birthday party, James was honored with a few of his favorite things - Manny the Blue Jay, a Philadelphia Eagles birthday cake and his friends and family.
Monica Maury
Growing up, Monica Maury ‘23 wanted to be a mother and have a family, because growing up, she never felt like she had one due to drugs and alcohol in her home. She achieved that goal, but as her children went to college, Maury sought more.
She worked in a day care facility and began classes for her Child Development Associate Certificate. After a conversation with her observer - Manor College Professor Dr. Cherie Crosby-Weeks - Maury began attending classes. In 2023, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development.
“I’ve seen some of the other colleges and the work I see them do in no way prepares you for what you’re doing, whereas what I learned at Manor through my Early Childhood Education classes has prepared me for what it is that I do here every day,” Maury said.
Back to School Fashion Tips
Looking good for school doesn’t need to break the bank. Manor College students Tamara Ellerbe and Neysha Medina spent a morning at Holy Redeemer Thrift Store in Hatboro to share their fashion tips for Fall.
Jocelyn Garcia
Jocelyn Garcia discovered a passion for veterinary technology after her dog, Coco, accidentally ate a corn kernel. Garcia watched as the technicians worked to care for Coco. A month later, she enrolled in Manor College’s Veterinary Technology program.
“Manor has so many different ways that you can find a home. There’s this closeness in the community. It gives you the mental break you need to push through.
