The Connection
Welcome to The Connection, the monthly OPC newsletter designed to connect employees to the people, updates, and moments that shape our Loyola community. Each issue offers a chance to learn about new colleagues, upcoming and recent events, and highlights from across the university, bringing what matters most right to you.
Welcome to Greyhound Nation
Please Join Us in Welcoming Our October New Hires!
Luke Cunningham
Assistant Coach XC/Track
Athletics
Nakishia EppsPolice Officer Public Safety
Marvin Foster
Environmental Services Technician
Facilities
Jamal Harris
Police Officer
Public Safety
Terek Holland
Police Officer
Public Safety
Area Coordinator Residence Life and Housing
Darall SmithPolice Officer
Public Safety
Hound Highlight 
Wall of Fame
Introducing the Wall of Fame!
We're excited to launch our annual recognition series, the Wall of Fame! This spotlight celebrates incredible Loyola employees who have dedicated 35 years or more to our community. The Wall of Fame honors their loyalty, hard work, and lasting impact on our campus.
LDML
Loyola's Mission Driven Leadership (LMDL) is an interactive workshop designed to develop participants' knowledge of Jesuit history and Loyola's mission, vision, and values that shape the work we do and how we do it. Participants explore Loyola's leadership model as a foundational component of our workplace environment for both people leaders and individual contributors.
Join us in recognizing the participants of LMDL Cohort 23!
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Imani Atkinson Assistant Coach Basketball/DOBO President |
Nia Johnson Program Assistant Student Development |
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Olivia Baumgartner Assistant Director Student Leadership and Involvement Student Development |
Jennifer Jones Systems Engineer Business and Finance |
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Donald Brennan Director Residence Life and Housing Student Development |
Thomas Mannion Area Coordinator Student Development |
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Kate Charles Area Coordinator Student Development |
Cara Seufert Manager Athletic Facilities and Equipment President |
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Francie Davenport Director, Advancement Communications Advancement |
Sunettee Sharpe Area Coordinator Student Development |
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Amy Hamilton Clinical Specialist Academic Affairs |
Brendan Sweeney Program Assistant Student Development |
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Margaret Heck Program Assistant Enrollment |
Saylor Travis Area Coordinator Student Development |
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Ieshia Hobbs Program Assistant Business and Finance |
Tavon Richard Driver Business and Finance |
Inspired to celebrate the incredible work happening all around us?
Submit your colleague to be recognized in The Connection newsletter!
Use the to nominate faculty, staff, and administrators who:
- Strengthen the Loyola community through everyday actions or special efforts that benefit students and colleagues.
- Demonstrate leadership in their role as an individual contributor or manager.
Magis Moment
鈥淭he most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any.鈥�
鈥� Alice WalkerWhat's Happening?
Cigna Wellness Incentive Period Ends October 31st
To qualify for reduced payroll deductions through the Cigna Wellness Incentive Program, employees and enrolled spouses or domestic partners must complete the Online Health Assessment and Annual Preventive Exam by October 31, 2026. The online health assessment is available through the Wellness Portal, and all required wellness activities must be completed by the deadline to receive the incentive.
For more information, visit the Wellness Page for step-by-step instructions, eligibility details, and additional information about completing the required wellness activities.
Mark Your Calendar 
- 10/23/26 鈥� Talent Development Needs Assessment Survey Closes
- 10/29/26 鈥� Fall Fest
- 10/30/26 鈥� Halloween Costume Contest
- 10/31/26 鈥� Cigna Wellness Incentive Requirements Due
- 鈥�11/10/26 鈥� Manager鈥檚 Retreat Part 1 (In-person)
- 11/12/26 鈥� Building Bridges Across Maryland hosted by Loyola
- 11/17/26 鈥� Manager鈥檚 Retreat Part 2 (Virtual)
- 11/19/26 鈥� The Exchange
- 11/26/26 鈥� Thanksgiving (University closed)
- 11/27/26 鈥� Observed Holiday (University closed)
- 12/15/26 鈥� The Exchange
- 12/23/26-1/4/26 鈥� Christmas break
What's New?
Happy Indigenous Peoples' Day!
Loyola recognizes the historical significance of Indigenous Peoples and celebrates the cultures, histories, and contributions of Native communities. May this day inspire reflection, learning, and appreciation for our shared heritage.
Fall Fest coming soon!
Join us for the annual Fall Fest as we celebrate the hard work and contributions of the Loyola community! Enjoy an afternoon of music, food, drinks, games, and seasonal activities on Thursday, October 29, from 1:00鈥�3:00 pm at the Evergreen Campus Humanities Porch. In the event of rain, the celebration will be held in Hug Lounge.
All Loyola employees are welcome. We hope you will join colleagues for an afternoon of celebration and community. See you there!
Halloween Costume Contest
Show off your Halloween spirit and join the fun on Friday, October 30th. Employees on campus and working remotely are invited to participate as individuals or teams. Submit your costume photo using the for a chance to win. Winners will be announced at 3:00 pm on the Humanities Porch!
-Hosted by Student Development and the Office of People & Culture (OPC)
Wednesday Yoga in Fava Chapel
Take a break and recharge with weekly all-level yoga sessions in Fava Chapel. Open to students, faculty, and staff, this 45-minute class focuses on the mind-body connection and welcomes participants of all experience levels. Wednesdays from 12:00-12:45 pm Yoga mats and blocks are provided.
Stay connected!
