DeSales University

A new episode of Tales for DeSales is here! This week, we’re inviting you to grab a seat at the table with Fr. Jim and Dr. Alan Heckman ‘11, a board-certified physician assistant, longtime DeSales faculty member, and Graduate Program Director and Chair for the Department of Medical Science and Prehospital Medicine.

In this episode, Dr. Heckman reflects on his journey from DeSales student to healthcare leader and educator. With over 20 years of emergency medical service experience, Dr. Heckman speaks with passion for preparing the next generation of medical professionals.

This episode was filmed in the Virtual Production Studio. Watch it here or listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://youtu.be/z5raB1nf7wo?si=9EIYcBtam-zMPLQk

Ready to take the next step in your EMS career?

Join Dr. Alan Heckman, creator and director of DeSales University's new Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services program, for a virtual information session on June 25. Designed specifically for certified or licensed paramedics, this innovative degree can help you advance your education while expanding your career opportunities in emergency medical services.

During the session, you'll learn more about the program, hear from Dr. Heckman about the future of EMS, and have the opportunity to ask questions about admissions, transfer credits, financial aid, and the enrollment process.

Register today for the virtual session: https://discover.desales.edu/register/?id=1b9b4fdf-498c-4a09-89aa-cc2fe4c473f1

The Strength and Conditioning track of the Sport and Exercise Physiology program at DeSales has achieved a landmark milestone, receiving full accreditation by the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE), a recognized authority in quality strength and conditioning education.

This accreditation demonstrates the University’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and excellence in our strength and conditioning program. Our curriculum, faculty, and facilities have undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure that we provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in the field of strength and conditioning and keep athletes safe.

Read more about this milestone and what it means for current and future students: https://www.desales.edu/news/2026/06/sport-and-exercise-physiology-earns-accreditation

Happy Mascot Day to our own campus rockstar. 🐾

Thanks to the Philadelphia Phillies Phanatic and Lehigh Valley Phantoms meLVin for helping make this year's DUCsgiving one to remember.

"The Heart of Jesus is an abyss of love." — St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, VHM

This month, Catholics across the United States are reflecting on the Sacred Heart of Jesus in a special way as the nation's bishops consecrate our country to the Sacred Heart, entrusting our communities, families, and future to Christ's loving care.

For the DeSales community, this devotion carries a meaningful connection to our Salesian heritage.

In the 17th century, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a Visitation Sister, received a series of visions that inspired devotion to the Sacred Heart throughout the Church. The Order of the Visitation was founded by St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane Frances de Chantal, whose legacy continues to shape DeSales University today.
Through St. Margaret Mary's witness, generations of Catholics have been invited to reflect on the boundless love of Christ and to respond with hearts marked by gentleness and humility, two of our University’s core values taken from Francis de Sales’ favorite Gospel quote: “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart” (MT 11:29).

As the Church continues this tradition and the month of June unfolds, may we be reminded that faith begins not with power or prestige, but with a heart transformed by love.

DeSales University's Office of Veterans and Military Services has been honored with the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council's Distinguished Patriot's Award, recognizing its outstanding commitment to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Accepted by Director Wendy Badman, the award highlights the University's long-standing dedication to creating a welcoming community where military-connected students can thrive.

Read more about this prestigious recognition and the impact of DeSales' veteran support programs: https://www.desales.edu/news/2026/06/office-of-veterans-receives-patriots-award

One campus. Many stories. One Savior. 🎶

Earlier this spring, the DeSales community gathered for OneVoice, an evening of music, prayer, and reflection celebrating our shared faith in the risen Christ.

The night featured worship in multiple languages, including Arabic performances by Joyce Hanna, Braeden DeGrazia, and special guest Elia Hanna. Fr. Burns led "In Christ Alone," Fr. Jim accompanied on piano, and Sister Idoko offered a reflection on the power of forgiveness and resurrection.

Thank you to Fr. Dan, Fr. Burns, Fr. Jim, Sister Idoko, Elia Hanna, and everyone who helped make the evening so meaningful.

🌎 Happy World Environment Day!

DeSales University is blessed to call the beautiful Saucon Valley home. The forests, wetlands, trails, and open spaces that surround our campus enrich the lives of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and neighbors while serving as a reminder of our responsibility to care for creation.

That's why we're proud to support the new educational signs recently installed along the Saucon Rail Trail in Hellertown. These displays help visitors learn about the wildlife, wetlands, geology, and history of the Saucon Valley while encouraging appreciation for the environment we all share.

As we celebrate World Environment Day, we're grateful for the opportunity to help preserve and promote the natural spaces that make our community so special. 🌿

Good food, great company, and a packed dance floor. ✨

Students gathered this spring for Senior Formal, hosted by the Student Government Association. The evening featured a buffet dinner, karaoke, casino games, dancing, photo booth memories, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate with friends.

Take a look back at a memorable night on campus. 💙

📸 Photography: Perrin Kirby, Owen Gingrich

Today, the Church celebrates Trinity Sunday, celebrating the splendor of relationship found among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. May our relationships be sustained and marked by this love to move us to greater peace and joy.

This year, Trinity Sunday also coincides with the Feast of the Visitation, a moment especially meaningful in the Salesian tradition. Inspired by Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane Frances de Chantal founded the Order of the Visitation in 1610, rooted in humility and gentleness, which we champion as University core values.