2020 News
Villanova Offers Online Certificate Program to Train Immigrant Advocates
IN THE NEWS: DIVERSE ISSUES IN HIGHER EDUCATION. Michele Pistone, a professor of law at Villanova University in Pennsylvania and an immigration lawyer for nearly 30 years, has founded the first university-based online certificate program that trains immigrant advocates to serve migrants and refugees.
WATCH: First Person Interview - Michele Pistone and VIISTA
IN THE NEWS | REFUGEE, MIGRANT AND EDUCATION NETWORK. Villanova Immigration Studies Training Program founder, Michele Pistone, was interviewed by Refugee and Migrant Education Network.
Student Spotlight: Nick Langan - Finding Passion Both In and Out of the Classroom
In May 2018, Nick Langan set a goal. By enrolling full time in Villanova’s College of Professional Studies, he set out to earn his earn his bachelor’s degree in two years. Along the way, that goal evolved. His eyes were opened to a field, and a style of learning and collaborating, that made him eager to keep going past his bachelor’s. Now, with his undergraduate degree in Information Systems in hand and as the recipient of CPS’ 2020 Grit Award—given annually to the graduate who has shown dedication, courage and character throughout their studies—he’s decided to continue on at Villanova for his master’s in Software Engineering.
Most Asylum Seekers Have No Legal Counsel. This Villanova Program Trains Non-Lawyers to Step In.
IN THE NEWS | THE CHRONICLE OF HIGHER EDUCATION. After a successful pilot that ended in May, she started a program this fall to certify students to become legal advocates for migrants and refugees. “Villanova Interdisciplinary Immigration Studies Training for Advocates,” offered through the university’s College of Professional Studies, is described as the first university-based, fully online program to train immigrant advocates. That format, planned before the pandemic forced most courses online, allows easier access for working professionals, including those in rural areas, and keeps costs low.
Student Spotlight: John Weinberger ‘22
John Weinberger CPS ‘22 whole-heartedly believes in taking advantage of every opportunity he is given. That’s how the Navy veteran found himself studying Information Systems and Cybersecurity at Villanova University’s College of Professional Studies.
After 11 Years of Service, This Marine Has His Sights Set on a Bachelor’s Degree
After joining the Marine Corps immediately after high school, Chad Allen served for 11 years. Although he wasn’t exactly sure what profession he wanted to pursue post service, he had a clear understanding that —whatever he decided— a bachelor’s degree would be essential.
New Villanova program tackles ‘justice gap’ for immigrants
IN THE NEWS | CATHOLICPHILLY.COM A new program at Villanova University is helping migrants and refugees by equipping advocates to provide desperately needed legal aid. Launched in August, the Villanova Interdisciplinary Immigrations Studies Training for Advocates (VIISTA) consists of a one-year, fully online curriculum that enables graduates to become U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representatives.
New Villanova program trains advocates how to provide legal assistance for immigrants
IN THE NEWS | KYW NEWSRADIO PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Immigrant and refugee cases are flooding immigration courts, but there aren’t enough legal defenders to handle the load. A new program hopes to fill that void with advocates — not lawyers.
Faculty Spotlight: Talar Kaloustian, EdD
Talar Kaloustian has been teaching English to those whom English is a second language for over fifteen years and all around the world, from Prague to Philadelphia. Growing up, Kaloustian lived in many countries because her native Lebanon experienced unrest. She had the challenge of learning to integrate into the new communities she found herself, an experience she has carried with her that now helps her connect with students who find themselves in similar positions.
For adult students, the journey to a degree can be long — and rewarding
Dean Christine Palus and Kellie Miles CPS '20 were featured in a Philadelphia Inquirer article about the resiliency of adult students and the additional challenges they have faced & overcome during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Building the Leadership Skills That Matter
For Philadelphia native Corey Stephens, a deep desire to motivate people and inspire them towards excellence was the driving force behind his decision to enroll in Villanova’s College of Professional Studies.
Online Learning 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Enroll
A Philadelphia Magazine sponsored article that highlights the quality and rigor of online courses and programs offered at Villanova University this summer.