October 09, 2023
La Roche University Recognizes 2023 Distinguished Alumni
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 9, 2023 – La Roche University recently presented seven outstanding graduates with Distinguished Alumni Awards at a ceremony during Homecoming Weekend.
La Roche grants the Distinguished Alumni Award to graduates whose outstanding success at work and in the community reflects the mission of the University. After receiving nominations from alumni, parents, friends and other members of the La Roche community, a committee comprised of a diverse cross-section of La Roche constituents selects recipients.
“La Roche is honored to recognize our Distinguished Alumni who have achieved success in their professional lives and contributed in such meaningful ways to their communities,” said Melissa Keebler, M.S.Ed., executive director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving. “It is both gratifying and humbling to think that a La Roche education provided a foundation for such impressive accomplishments.”
The 2023 Distinguished Alumni Awardees are:
Lori Arend ’04, M.A., LSW (Posthumously)
Director of Counseling & Health Services
La Roche University
Tracie Brady ’91, DBA
Assistant Professor of Business & Accounting
Wor-Wic Community College
Adjunct Professor
Pittsburgh Technical College
Jason Haberman ’13, M.S.
Chief of Police
Mt. Lebanon Police Department
Kara Dragone Haque ’09, DMD
Periodontist
Integrated Periodontics & Dental Implants
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Holly Hippensteel ’94, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President of Student Affairs for Community Standards & Diversity Initiatives
Carnegie Mellon University
Jessica Huber ’06, ’08, Ph.D., MSN, RN, CCRN, CPN
Assistant Professor
Director of Experiential Learning
Carlow University
Clinical Education Specialist
UPMC Children’s Hospital
Sarah Sakaluk ’07, ’09, RN, MSN
Unit Director/Nurse Leader
UPMC
La Roche recognized all honorees at a special awards ceremony and dinner on Friday, Oct. 6. The event was held as part of La Roche’s Homecoming Weekend.
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About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for nearly 1,200 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.