RS Department Hosts 33rd Annual Reception
On May 21, 2026, the Religious Studies Department hosted its 33rd Annual Religious Studies Reception. Following the ceremony honoring Prof. Teresia Hinga (see cover story), the department gathered in Nobili Dining Hall. Professor Gene Schlesinger opened the reception with an invocation. Professor Chris Tirres served as the emcee of the event. The night included 8 new inductees to the honor society, Theta Alpha Kappa. RS Major and Minor students also received awards. The Catherine Bell award, given to a junior major for exceptional academic achievement and promise, went to two students: Gavin Brunsman and Diane (D) Lue. The Tennant C. Wright, S.J. Award for the senior Religious Studies minor(s) most proficient in the study of religion was presented to Raquel Arevalo and Juliana Bruno. The evening ended with a group photo of all in attendance.
Catherine Bell Award Recipients: Diane (D) Lue, RS Chair Jim Bennett, Gavin Brunsman
Tennant Wright Award Recipients: Juliana Bruno, RS Chair Jim Bennett, Raquel Arevalo
Theta Alpha Kappa Inductees
Seniors
Raquel Arevalo
Juliana Bruno
Gabby Robles
Juniors
Gavin Brunsman
Luke Froemming
Jia Yue (Evina) Li
Asher Dahlke
Felicia Saunders
Teresia Hinga Ceremony Speaker Karen Peterson-Iyer
Clockwise from lower left: Gaurika Mehta, Paul Schutz, Gavin Brunsman, Hoan Pham, Nicholas Hayes-Mota, Bryson White, Kaylee Arbaugh