Success Stories

Taylor Hess: Aiming for the Sky

Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman ‘13 | 06/18/2026
Taylor Hess is reaching for the sky—literally and creatively. As an aspiring pilot and fiction writer, she’s pursuing her aviation goals while continuing to grow as a storyteller. From flight training through Nulton Aviation to working on her own fantasy novel, Taylor is creating a future that combines passion, purpose, and possibility at Saint Francis University.

Tesla Dream Job for Engineering Graduate

Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman ‘13 | 06/08/2026
Ever since he was in middle school, Jacob Garrity had his sights set on a career at Tesla. His growing interest in robotics and the company’s image as an industry leader drew him in and ignited a spark. Now, less than six months after his graduation from Saint Francis, Jacob is living out his biggest dream.

Austin Wheeler: Finding His Calling and Launching His Career

University Communications & Marketing | 05/22/2026
Austin Wheeler is a senior engineering student who sees his work as a calling, blending faith with hands-on engineering. From building adaptive vehicles for children through Go Baby Go to contributing to NASA-sponsored ballooning projects, he focuses on making a real impact through his work at Saint Francis University.

2026 Mr. and Ms. Frankie

University Communications & Marketing | 04/30/2026
Kaylin Rose, an Exercise Physiology, 3+3 PT major from Cochranton, PA, and Matthew Hall, a Business Analytics major from New Enterprise, PA, were named Mr. and Ms. Frankie, Saint Francis University’s highest honor for graduating students.

Jelana Boldizar: Finding Herself Through Service and Storytelling

Shields School of Business - Communications Program | 04/23/2026
Jelana Boldizar has a passion for storytelling, service, and language. You’ll find her sharing stories through the Troubadour, leading on campus, and using her Spanish skills to connect with others—all while growing in her faith at Saint Francis University.

Hunter Jurica: Finance, Faith, and Finding the Fairway

Written by Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman '13 | 04/21/2026
Hunter Jurica balances life as a finance and analytics double major while competing on the golf team, growing in his Catholic faith, and applying data-driven thinking across campus and beyond.

Haley Gray: Connecting Campus and Capturing Memories

Written by Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman '13 | 03/17/2026
This senior Communications major can be found snapping photos for events organized by the Student Government Association (SGA), the Student Activities Organization (SAO), SFU Greek Life, SFU Athletics, and more.