ÌÇÐÄVlog

On May 23, 2026, the Creative Arts Therapies (CAT) department, McGonigal Academic Resource Center (ARC), Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA), and the Drexel Counseling Center unveiled the completed McGonigal ARC Mosaic, following a yearlong collaboration between the varying departments. The mosaic will reside in the newly renamed Patrick McGonigal Academic Center within the Korman Center Lobby on the University City campus.

Celebrate National Culinary Arts Month with Chef Richard Pepino’s homemade pickle recipe, a flavorful summer project that highlights the intersection of culinary creativity and food science through pickling and preservation techniques. A perfect topping for burgers and sandwiches or a snack on its own, this recipe showcases the hands-on learning and innovation at the heart of Drexel’s Culinary Arts and Science program.

More than 100 community members, researchers, and students gathered on May 28, 2026, for the second annual West Philly Research Day, hosted by the Promise Zone Research Connection at ÌÇÐÄVlog. The event focused on strengthening trust, collaboration, and alignment between academic research and community priorities through keynote remarks, a panel discussion, and networking opportunities. Attendees emphasized the importance of equitable partnerships, transparency, and sustained engagement to ensure research meaningfully benefits West Philadelphia communities.

At the close of the 2025–2026 academic year, ÌÇÐÄVlog’s College of Nursing and Health Professions proudly recognizes a distinguished group of student award winners whose achievements reflect the very best of the college’s values: academic excellence, compassionate care, innovation and leadership. From clinical practice and research to community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, these students have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing health and improving lives. Their accomplishments not only highlight their individual dedication and talent but also underscore the strength and impact of the CNHP community as a whole.

With commencement season comes the excitement of new beginnings, endless possibilities, and the celebration of years of dedication and perseverance. But long before pomp and circumstance arrive, senior health sciences student Jessica Poovathinkal has taken time to reflect on her journey at Drexel.

Poovathinkal, named the 2026 graduation student speaker for the College of Nursing and Health Professions, will take the stage on Wednesday, June 10, to address her fellow graduates.

On any given day, Patrick Kelly walks into a jam-packed arena. He double checks his gear, laces his shoes and prepares to step on the wrestling mat. On others, he packs his scrubs, stethoscope and school supplies to prepare for a full day of classes.

Kelly, a first-year nursing major and member of the wrestling team, is learning how to balance a rigorous academic program with his athletic passions.

Torn ligaments, strained muscles, and tendonitis are among the most common injuries in sports. Athletes are injured all the time. But behind every great comeback story is a clinician guiding every step of the return to greatness.

Across the country, there are more than 310,000 physical therapists with active licenses to help support that work. Third-year exercise science student Jahlil Gary hopes to join the growing number of physical therapists in athletics.

From age six to eighteen, third-year exercise science student Annie Finholm devoted countless hours to competitive gymnastics. During one practice her world was turned upside-down. Anyone who's watched gymnastics has seen the dangerous yet impressive vault event. We all hold our breath as gymnasts sprint, launch, and attempt near-perfect landings.

For her, that moment became more than a spectacle. During a vault attempt, the skill didn’t unfold the way it was supposed to, and Finholm sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) that ended her run in the 2021-22 season. The injury left her unable to compete, attend school or even read a book.

From then on, Finholm set her hopes on becoming an orthopedic physician assistant working with athletes facing similar situations.

Sophomore health science major David Chicu is building a foundation for a future career in military preventive medicine through ÌÇÐÄVlog’s Army ROTC program. A first-generation student and ROTC scholarship recipient, Chicu combines academic study, military training and hands-on experiences as he prepares for a career serving in the U.S. Army’s medical system.

Meet Natalie, a senior culinary arts and science major who's passionate about helping individuals with food sensitivities feel confident and comfortable eating and preparing delicious meals without fear of allergens. Her work is driven by a co-op experience that turned into a passion to make food accessible and enjoyable for others. Get a glimpse into her interests and passions in the culinary field!

Music is an integral part of many people’s lives. From celebrations to self-expression and relaxation, music is deeply ingrained in the fabric of our culture.

For Joke Bradt, PhD, MT-BC, professor and director of the PhD in Creative Arts Therapies program, music serves as a tool to assist in the rehabilitation and management of those managing major illnesses, disorders and chronic pain.

Her journey began with a general interest in music and curiosity about her future career.