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 July New Hires!
Matthew Anderson
Assistant Teaching Professor
Academic Affairs
Donald Brennan
Director Residence Life and Housing
Student Development
Paul Faison
Project/Relief Specialist
Facilities
Willie Asamoah Frimpong
Visiting Assistant Teaching Professor
Academic Affairs
Caitlin Hubler
Assistant Professor
Academic Affairs
Assistant Athletic Trainer
Athletics
Sami KircherAssistant Coach Women's Volleyball
Athletics
Bill MargolAssistant Teaching Professor
Academic Affairs
Jennifer O'brienAssistant Director Financial Aid
Financial Aid
Jeffrey RzeszotarskiAssistant Professor
Academic Affairs
Nicole SchneiderAffiliate Instructor
Academic Affairs
Sunettee SharpeArea Coordinator
Student Development
Rachel SinclairAssistant Professor
Academic Affairs
Gena StengerAffiliate Instructor
Academic Affairs
Kat Swerbenski-GriffinAssistant Professor
Academic Affairs
Sara WongVisiting Assistant Teaching Professor
Academic Affairs
Hound Highlight 
Wall of Fame
Coming soon!
We’re excited to introduce a new annual recognition series: the Wall of Fame. The new spotlight will celebrate our incredible Loyola employees who have dedicated 25 years or more to our community. It will allow us to honor their loyalty, hard work, and lasting impact on our campus.
Stay tuned for updates!
Inspired to celebrate the incredible work happening all around us?
Submit your colleague to be recognized in The Connection newsletter!
Use the Hound Highlight form 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
“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.”
— Martin Luther King Jr.What's New?
Happy Independence Day!
Independence Day is a time to celebrate the freedoms and opportunities that bring us together as a nation. As we gather with family, friends, and loved ones, we also take a moment to reflect on the values of community, service, and civic engagement.
This day allows us to celebrate freedom, foster connection, and look toward a brighter future together.
We wish everyone a safe, joyful, and meaningful Fourth of July!
Did you Know?
July is Disability PRIDE Month
July is Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, experiences, and contributions of people with disabilities and to recognize disability as an important part of our diverse community.
This month, let's celebrate the contributions of the disability community and continue building a culture where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered.
What's Happening?
403(b) Employer Contribution Changes Effective July 1
Beginning July 1, 2026, Loyola's 403(b) employer contribution will move to a tiered structure based on completed plan years of service. Employees with 0–5 completed plan years of service will receive a 5% employer contribution, while employees with more than 5 completed plan years of service will receive a 7.25% employer contribution. The employee required minimum 2% contribution remains unchanged.
Visit the Retirement Plan webpage for more information, including eligibility details and more.
Cigna Wellness Incentive Period Begins July 1
The Cigna Wellness Incentive period begins July 1, 2026. To qualify for reduced payroll deductions, employees and enrolled spouses or domestic partners must complete the Online Health Assessment and Annual Preventive Exam. The online health assessment will be available beginning July 1, and all wellness requirements must be completed by October 31, 2026.
For more information, visit the Wellness Page for step-by-step instructions, eligibility details, and additional information about completing the required wellness activities.
What's Next?
Summer Fridays Are Winding Down!
Mark your calendar - The final Summer Friday will be August 7th. We hope eligible employees have enjoyed the opportunity to take advantage of adjusted
summer hours and support their work-life balance throughout the summer.
Visit the Summer Hours webpage for more details and information.
Ice Cream Social
Come celebrate with us by taking a well-deserved break and join us for our annual Employee Appreciation Ice Cream Social on Tuesday, August 25th from 12:30–2:30 PM at the Evergreen Campus Humanities Porch. You will be able to enjoy a sweet treat, catch up with colleagues, and celebrate all the hard work and dedication that make our community thrive. We look forward to sharing a fun and refreshing afternoon with you!
Stay connected!
