Thiel College officially launched the public phase of Join the Journey, the largest fundraising campaign in College history, during Homecoming 2026, introducing the $100 million campaign to alumni, students, employees and friends of the College at events throughout the weekend.
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High school students, transfer students and their families can experience Thiel College firsthand this fall through a series of campus visits, open houses and special admission events designed to introduce them to the College’s academic programs, campus community and personalized approach to education.
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Fifty years of Thiel College history are captured in a new book being released as the College celebrates its 160th anniversary.
+ Read the full story in the newsroom
Homecoming 2026 brought Tomcats together for a weekend of reunions, traditions, athletics and celebrations across campus. Faculty and staff can revisit the weekend—and see plenty of familiar faces—through photos from Homecoming events.
Visit Thiel College’s Flickr page to browse the Homecoming 2026 photo galleries and relive some of the moments from the weekend.
The Student Life Emergency Pantry is seeking donations of nonperishable food items and monetary contributions to support students experiencing financial hardship, including students who remain on campus during breaks and commuter students.
Suggested donations include microwavable macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, rice, soup and Chef Boyardee products, as well as breakfast and snack items such as granola bars, Pop-Tarts, crackers, peanut butter and microwavable popcorn.
Donations may be dropped off at the Wellness Center or Student Life Office. Faculty and staff who are aware of a student in need of food or personal care products should contact Melanie Broadwater ’98, Jodie Witherite or Keri McElhaney.
Faculty, staff and administrators are invited to nominate eligible seniors for Thiel’s Student of the Month Program, which recognizes students for achievement in scholarship, leadership, service and civic engagement, and campus representation.
Eligible students have completed at least four semesters and earned 88 or more credit hours. A list of eligible seniors is included in the nomination form. Nominators should select one student and provide a brief narrative highlighting the nominee’s strengths and contributions.
Fall nominations are due by midnight Tuesday, Oct. 6. Employees should check their email for additional information and the link to submit a nomination.
Faculty and staff interested in attending the upcoming Zooming from the Archives: Thiel History Book will be emailed information on how to join the virtual event.
Archivist John Hauser ’71 H’20 and authors of “The History of Thiel College Volume II: 1975–2025” will discuss the new book during the online presentation at noon Tuesday, Oct. 13.
Brynn Houser ’30 made Homecoming weekend a little more memorable when she nailed a 15-yard field goal at halftime of Saturday’s football game against Hiram College, winning a $1,000 prize.
Houser was selected from students who registered for the halftime field goal challenge, sponsored by Delta Sigma Phi alumni. One registered student was chosen for the opportunity to attempt the kick—and Houser made hers count.
The $1,000 field goal challenge will return at each of Thiel’s remaining home football games, including this Saturday’s night game against Allegheny College at Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium. Students can register for a chance to be selected to attempt the kick.
On Sept. 22, two recent Thiel graduates shared their experiences as entrepreneurs. Casey Yacos ’25, a former Student Entrepreneur of the Year honoree, is the founder of Selling by KC, an online clothing retailer she operates through Instagram. Trey Wilt ’23 is the owner of Wilt Landscaping, which provides lawncare and landscaping services throughout Greenville and the surrounding region. Both entrepreneurs shared their personal journeys into business ownership and offered valuable advice, insights, and takeaways for the class.
Key Student Takeaways:
Platinum Rule – Treat others the way they want to be treated – Khamari Accursio-Harris ’27
First lesson is to start now and not give up. A second lesson is to be authentic and keep up with the morals you have. – Sam Draa ’28
Casey spoke about the importance of consistency and understanding that the person who continues to show up will be successful. She also discussed how different trends play a role in the process of her business and the importance of staying updated on what is happening. – Noah Leffingwell ’28
Trey shared with us some experiences about the importance of writing things off for an LLC. In addition, he started the business 16 days after he finished college – Ryan Wilson ’28
Both speakers showed that successful entrepreneurship does not require having everything figured out from the beginning. Instead, they learned through experience, adapted to challenges, and gradually developed their businesses. – Yunjeong Ryu ’27
Create a budget for your life. Make your passion profitable. Consistency, Consistency – Anna Kavulla ’26
Be open-minded. You are who you surround yourself with. Always make room to grow – Cydney Wierzbowski ’27
Dinner Dishing
Tomcat Tributes
Tomcat Tributes recognize the teamwork Thiel College employees exhibit each day. Employees can nominate co-workers for recognition in four categories (Random Act of Kindness, Going the Extra Mile, Had a Great Idea, Just Because).
Communications collateral
Employees should update the logos used on institutional materials, including email signatures, letterhead, PowerPoint slides, etc.
Thiel College has used the shield and wordmark combination as the official institutional logo for more than a year. They are the only approved logo for academic co-curricular and institutional use. Additional athletic logo packages are also available.
Email signatures, brand resources, and a job request form are all available online. A Dropbox folder has been set up with instructions and the materials necessary to create new email signatures. Employees can find other Thiel College-branded resources including letterhead, logos and PowerPoint slides in the same folder.
Thiel College community members who need help with communications and marketing initiatives and collateral can now request those services with a job form. The request form is available on the communications and marketing webpage or linked directly below.
For more information, email the office.
HR Notes
Reminder: Complete required Vector Solutions training
Thiel College employees who have not yet completed their assigned Vector Solutions training are reminded to log in and complete their required courses by their assigned deadlines.
Training requirements and due dates may vary by employee. Faculty and staff should check their email for messages from Vector Solutions for information about assigned courses, deadlines and instructions for accessing the training site.
Employees who still have outstanding training are encouraged to complete it as soon as possible and before the deadlines listed in their individual accounts.
Retirement Planning Appointments Available
Thiel College's independent retirement plan advisor, Sierra Christian of Henderson Brothers Financial Partners, is available for virtual meetings throughout the month. Employees can schedule a 15- or 30-minute appointment to discuss retirement planning, investment options, retirement income strategies, market updates, outside investment reviews, insurance needs, or comprehensive financial planning.
December graduates asked to submit regalia information by Oct. 9
Students anticipating graduation in December 2026 have received an email from the Registrar’s Office requesting their height and weight for graduation regalia. Responses are due by Oct. 9.
The information will be provided to the Campus Store so the appropriate regalia can be ordered. Bachelor’s degree regalia includes a cap, gown and 2026 tassel and costs $55.
Faculty and staff working with December graduates are encouraged to remind students to check their email and respond to the Registrar’s Office by the deadline.
Campus store hours update
The Campus Store is open from 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 for the Fall Visit Day.
OBC Meeting
Sept. 30 at 8 p.m.
Stamm Hall
The Organization of Black Collegiates holds its general meeting.
Mercer County Guidance Counselors College and Career Fair
Oct. 1 at 9 a.m.
Thiel College
High school juniors and seniors and members of the public are invited to meet representatives and learn about college and career opportunities.
SGA Meeting
Oct. 1 at 2 p.m.
Sawhill Georgian Room, Howard Miller Student Center
Students are invited to attend a Student Government Association meeting.
DHI (Honors) Visit Day
Oct. 2 at 9 a.m.
Thiel College
Prospective students can explore the Dietrich Honors Institute through admissions information, a campus tour, a DHI class and activity, lunch with current students and optional honors interviews.
Shape Your SGA
Oct. 3 at 11 a.m.
Sawhill Georgian Room, Howard Miller Student Center
Students are invited to share their ideas about representation, club funding and decision-making as Thiel’s Student Government Association considers its structure and operations.
WVB vs. Saint Vincent College
Oct. 3 at noon
Maenpa Court, Beeghly Gymnasium
The Thiel College women’s volleyball team hosts the Saint Vincent College Bearcats in its 2026 home opener.
Fall Open House
Oct. 3 at 3:30 p.m.
Thiel College
Prospective students and their families can explore academics, athletics and campus life through presentations, conversations, a campus tour, dinner and an opportunity to attend the evening football game.
45th Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Oct. 3 at 5:30 p.m.
Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center
Thiel Athletics will recognize its newest Hall of Fame inductees during the 45th Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony; attendance is by invitation only.
Football vs. Allegheny College
Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.
Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium
The Thiel College football team hosts the Allegheny College Gators under the lights.
Grove City Outlet Trip
Oct. 4 at 1 p.m.
Grove City Premium Outlets
Students can take advantage of free transportation to the Grove City Premium Outlets; seating is limited and registration is required.
WTEN vs. Franciscan University
Oct. 5 at 4 p.m.
Thiel Tennis Courts
The Thiel College women’s tennis team hosts the Franciscan University Barons.
WTEN vs. Grove City
Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.
Thiel Tennis Courts
The Thiel College women’s tennis team hosts the Grove City College Wolverines.
WSOC vs. Hiram College
Oct. 7 at 5 p.m.
Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium
The Thiel College women’s soccer team hosts the Hiram College Terriers to begin a three-event evening of Tomcat athletics.
Brewed Theology
Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m.
Weyers Lounge
Brewed Theology brings together members of the campus community for conversation about the intersection of faith and everyday life.
WVB vs. Hiram College
Oct. 7 at 7 p.m.
Maenpa Court, Beeghly Gymnasium
The Thiel College women’s volleyball team hosts the Hiram College Terriers.
MSOC vs. Hiram College
Oct. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium
The Thiel College men’s soccer team hosts the Hiram College Terriers to close out a three-event evening of Tomcat athletics.
OBC Meeting
Oct. 7 at 8 p.m.
Stamm Hall
The Organization of Black Collegiates holds its general meeting.
Common Hour: Stress Less Day
Oct. 8 at 11 a.m.
Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center
The annual Stress Less Day features therapy animals, free mini-massages, a hands-on activity, Nothing Bundt Cakes and a prize drawing.
SGA Meeting
Oct. 8 at 2 p.m.
Sawhill Georgian Room, Howard Miller Student Center
Students are invited to attend a Student Government Association meeting.
WTEN vs. Ursuline
Oct. 9 at 4 p.m.
Thiel Tennis Courts
The Thiel College women’s tennis team hosts the Ursuline College Arrows.
Creative Writing Club
Oct. 9 at 6 p.m.
Greenville Hall, Room 101
Students are invited to join the Creative Writing Club for an opportunity to explore and share their creativity.
Midterm Break
Oct. 10-13
Thiel College
No classes will be held during Midterm Break.
WVB vs. Franciscan University
Oct. 10 at 1 p.m.
Maenpa Court, Beeghly Gymnasium
The Thiel College women’s volleyball team hosts the Franciscan University Barons.
ACTS Performing Arts and GSO Concert
Oct. 10 at 3 p.m.
William A. Passavant Memorial Center
The ACTS Performing Arts Center and Greenville Symphony Orchestra will perform patriotic music and American favorites in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Exploring Faith Opens
Oct. 11 at 10 a.m.
Friends of Art Lounge, Howard Miller Student Center
Students are invited to take time for quiet reflection or participate in activities as Exploring Faith opens in the Friends of Art Lounge.
GSO Children’s Concert
Oct. 13 at 8:30 a.m.
William A. Passavant Memorial Center
The Greenville Symphony Orchestra presents its annual young audience concert for area students in grades four through six.
TNT (Thiel News Time)
Oct. 13 at 11:30 a.m.
Sawhill Georgian Room, Howard Miller Student Center
President Susan Traverso, Ph.D., hosts Thiel News Time, providing updates and information for the campus community.
Zooming from the Archives: Thiel History Book
Oct. 13 at 11:45 a.m.
Online
Archivist John Hauser ’71 H’20 and authors of “The History of Thiel College Volume II: 1975–2025” will discuss the new book during an online presentation.
Midterm Grades Due
Oct. 13 at noon
Thiel College
Midterm grades are due.
Classes Resume
Oct. 14
Thiel College
Classes resume following Midterm Break.
WSOC vs. Geneva College
Oct. 14 at 5 p.m.
Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium
The Thiel College women’s soccer team hosts the Geneva College Golden Tornadoes in the first match of a soccer doubleheader.
WVB vs. Grove City
Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.
Maenpa Court, Beeghly Gymnasium
The Thiel College women’s volleyball team hosts the Grove City College Wolverines.
MSOC vs. Geneva College
Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium
The Thiel College men’s soccer team hosts the Geneva College Golden Tornadoes in the second match of a soccer doubleheader.
OBC Meeting
Oct. 14 at 8 p.m.
Stamm Hall
The Organization of Black Collegiates holds its general meeting.
Fall Flavor Fest
Oct. 17 from 3–7 p.m.
Downtown Greenville
The Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Flavor Fest features tastings from local wineries, breweries and distilleries, a chili cook-off, craft vendors, food trucks and live entertainment throughout downtown Greenville.
Ticket Options:
🌶️ Tasting & Chili Cook-Off Combo – $30
🍷 Tasting Ticket – $25
🔥 Chili Cook-Off Ticket – $10
Tasting tickets are available to guests 21 and older only.
Tickets are available online through the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce website or in person at the Chamber Office, weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
🍷 Tasting Vendors
Enjoy tastings from local wineries, breweries and distilleries, with vendors lining the middle of Main Street. To be a vendor register HERE
🎶 Live Entertainment
Two bands will keep the event going throughout the afternoon: 6 String Blvd from 3–4 p.m. near the Mural, followed by Elements Rock Trio from 4:30–7 p.m. by Fox’s Pizza.
🌶️ Chili Cook-Off
New this year! Community members, businesses, organizations and restaurants will compete for the title of Fall Flavor Fest Chili Cook-Off Champion. Attendees will sample the entries and vote for their favorite using a QR code. To enter, register HERE
🎨 Vendors & Food Trucks
For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Mark Batt ’87 at ext. 2157.
Scarecrows in the Park
Oct. 12-31
Riverside Park
Scarecrows in the Park is open to any business, organization, or individual. Scarecrows are set up in Central Park and put on display for the public to vote on from October 12-31.
Entry Fee: $15
Prizes: Cash prizes for 1st and 2nd place
Entry Deadline: Friday, October 9th
Judging: Judging will take place on the chamber website. The community will vote for their favorite scarecrow
NEW THIS YEAR: We are opening up the contest to include Main Street businesses. Businesses with a store front on Main Street may enter the contest and securely display their scarecrow in front of their store front.
Submit updates and news
The Office of Communications and Marketing is always looking for good content that can be featured in the weekly staff newsletter (T-Notes), the student newsletter (Thiel Happenings), the website Newsroom or on social media.
Please send any information about you, your students, your department or your colleagues to Dominick DiRienzo M.A.’22.
The updates can include information about anything your department is featuring this year, any faculty accomplishments or student activity.
These updates do not have to meet a “newsworthiness” standard and do not have to be things that you are specifically doing or hosting.
If you have any questions, contact DiRienzo at ext. 2188.
Publishing Schedule
T-Notes is published Wednesdays during the academic year. Send your event or news to tnotes@thiel.edu by noon Oct. 5, 2026 to be published in that week’s edition. The next edition will be published Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026.
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