GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College announces Sydney Bell ’26, of Knox, Pa., and Madalyn Semmler ’26, of Butler, Pa., as its Students of the Month for April.
Bell, a 2023 graduate of Keystone Junior-Senior High School, is an early childhood/special education major with a minor in psychology. Bell is secretary of Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society for education majors, and is an officer in the Thiel College music honor society. She is a member of the cheerleading team, which recently finished third in the nation in the National Cheerleading Association competition and multiple musical ensembles, including marching, concert, and jazz band. In addition to her academic and extracurricular commitments, Bell has volunteered in a variety of community settings, including working with children at the Baughman Center daycare, assisting with activities at local nursing homes, and participating in events such as the special needs prom Night to Shine and youth cheer camp Little Scratchers. She also works both on and off campus, including positions at the campus store and Walmart, while serving as a substitute in local school districts.
Reflecting on her college experience, Bell credits the people and community at Thiel for shaping her growth.
“Beyond just academics and athletics, I discovered passions I never knew I had,” she said. “Thiel pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and grow into a better version of myself, but what truly drew me here—and kept me here—was the genuine kindness and support I found in everyone.”
Bell also recognized several influential mentors, including band director Scott DiTullio, campus store supervisor Nalini Downing, cheer coach Randall Burnett M.A.’22, and campus dining staff member Rose Travaglini, for their encouragement and positive impact.
“Rose is my favorite part, because going to the café and having her swipe me just makes my day in every way,” Bell said.
She is the daughter of Carol Bell, of Knox, Pa., and Chad Bell, of Franklin, Pa.
Semmler, a 2023 graduate of Butler Senior High School, and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a concentration in veterinary medicine. She is also completing minors in biochemistry, chemistry, medical biology, and wildlife biology. Following graduation, Semmler plans to apply to veterinary school to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Semmler serves as Membership Vice President of Alpha Xi Delta, where she helps organize events and volunteer efforts supporting the Kindly Hearts Initiative, which aids children and teens experiencing foster care or homelessness. She is also a peer mentor at the Thiel Learning Commons, where she supports fellow students in mathematics, chemistry, and biology.
Semmler is a member of several academic honor societies, including Tri Beta biological honor society, Kappa Mu Epsilon mathematics honor society, and Alpha Chi national honor society, and participates in the Dietrich Honors Institute. She has also gained hands-on experience in her field through her work at Happy Tales Veterinary Hospital.
“Thiel has taught me to be a leader, to be resilient, and to be dedicated toward my goals and dreams,” Semmler said. “I will always appreciate the friendships I have made here and the professors who have supported me along the way.”
She credits Hannah Keeling ’08, a staff member at the Thiel Learning Commons, as a key influence in her academic journey, noting her mentorship and encouragement as instrumental to her success.
“I met Hannah in the spring of my freshman year when I applied to be a tutor at Thiel Learning Commons. She has helped me to be confident with my knowledge and abilities to learn, and she taught me how to help other students learn,” Semmler said. “Hannah has shown that she believes in me and she encourages me to do the best I can. I would not be where I am now without her support and kind heart helping me get this far.”
Semmler is the daughter of Alfons and Kristan Semmler, of Butler, Pa.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.