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Avila University President Dr. Todd Pfannestiel shaking hands with Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas at Kansas City Hall, surrounded by INSPIRE International Exchange Program students during their July 2026 visit
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Global Perspectives, Local Leadership: INSPIRE Students Visit Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas
There are moments in education that extend far beyond the classroom—moments when conversations become catalysts for understanding, cultures connect through shared experiences, and tomorrow’s leaders discover that meaningful change begins with asking thoughtful questions. On Friday, July 17, Avila University had the distinct honor of accompanying students participating in the INSPIRE International Exchange Program to...
Avila University Admissions Community Partnership Signing with Youth Ambassadors, I AM Foundation, and KIPP KC
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Avila University Celebrates New Community Partnerships to Expand Opportunities for Students
 The future of higher education is built on collaboration, and on June 17, Avila University took another step toward expanding access and opportunity through the formal launch of three new community partnerships.  Faculty, staff, students, and community leaders gathered in the Whitfield Center as Avila University officially welcomed the I AM Foundation, Youth Ambassadors, and...
Avila University Welcomes Dr. Todd Pfannestiel, 16th President
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Introducing Dr. Todd Pfannestiel as Avila’s 16th President
Official Announcement The Board of Trustees of Avila University is honored to announce the appointment of Dr. Todd Pfannestiel as the 16th President of Avila University. Dr. Pfannestiel brings more than 27 years of distinguished higher education leadership experience, having served most recently as President of Utica University. His appointment follows a comprehensive national search...
Three Avila University students dressed in professional attire smiling together at a Collegiate DECA event.
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Avila University DECA Achieves Historic Success at International Competition
Kansas City, MO — Avila University’s Collegiate DECA chapter delivered its strongest international performance in program history at the 2026 Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC), held April 18–22 in Louisville, Kentucky. The conference brought together more than 1,000 college students from across the world to compete for international titles and DECA’s highest honors....
Avila University graphic announcing the graduation of its largest class in history, featuring 820 total graduates — 240 undergraduates and 580 master's students — overlaid on a photo of graduates in purple caps and gowns.
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Avila University Announces Record-Breaking Class of 820 Graduates, Strengthening Kansas City Workforce Pipeline
Kansas City, Mo. — April 29, 2026 — Avila University celebrated a historic milestone as it awarded degrees to a record-breaking 820 graduates during its commencement ceremonies. This marked the largest graduating class in the university’s history and reflected Avila’s growing impact on the Kansas City region and beyond. The Class of 2026 included 240...
Two women smile while holding framed Avila University certificates at an award ceremony, with an audience seated in the background.
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Avila University Celebrates Faculty and Staff Excellence at Annual Awards Ceremony
Kansas City, MO — Avila University proudly recognized outstanding faculty and staff during its annual awards celebration, honoring individuals whose dedication, service, and leadership continue to shape the Avila community. The ceremony highlighted milestone Years of Service Awards, recognizing employees for their long-standing commitment to the University. Honorees included: These individuals were celebrated for their...
Avila University ranked one of the most affordable online BS in Cybersecurity programs by OnlineU Most Affordable Online Degrees 2026
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Avila University Named One of the Most Affordable Online Cybersecurity Programs in the Nation
Avila University has earned a spot on OnlineU’s 2026 Most Affordable Online Cybersecurity Degrees ranking, placing among the top institutions nationwide for offering an affordable path to an online BS in Cybersecurity. OnlineU ranked Avila University #15 nationally, with tuition set at the same rate for both in-state and out-of-state students, making it an accessible...
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Avila University Presents The Cherry Orchard
Avila University’s School of Performing Arts will present The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov, translated by Jean-Claude Van Itallie and directed by Charlene Gould, Ph.D. The production will be held in the Frantze Family Blackbox Theatre at the Goppert Performing Arts Center on the campus of Avila University. This classic play tells the story of...
Avila named a Top University
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Avila University Recognized in National Rankings by OnlineMastersDegrees.org
Kansas City, MO – Avila University has been recognized in multiple national rankings published by OnlineMastersDegrees.org (OMD), earning distinction among the nation’s top institutions for master’s degree programs. After months of reviewing and analyzing thousands of graduate programs across the country, OMD named Avila University to its 2026 annual rankings. The evaluation process focused on...
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Faith in Athletics: An Evening with JJ Niekro
Avila University Campus Ministry invites students to a powerful night of reflection, inspiration, and conversation at Faith in Athletics, featuring guest speaker JJ Niekro, former Atlanta Braves minor-league pitcher. Taking place on February 19 from 6:00–8:00 PM at Avila University, this event explores the intersection of faith, discipline, perseverance, and athletics. Drawing from his experiences...
AVILA-IFAL partnership
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Avila University and IFAL Launch Online Certificates to Accelerate Workforce Skills in U.S. Food & Agribusiness
New partnership delivers self-paced learning and AI-supported coaching for sustainable supply chains and leadership skills. The Institute of Food & Agribusiness Leadership (IFAL) has joined forces with Kansas City-based Avila University to launch a fully online curriculum designed to boost critical workforce skills for the U.S. food and agribusiness industries. The programs are built to...
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We Are Community: Demanding Dignity in a Divided Time
At Avila University, we cannot be silent in the face of fear, division, and the diminishing of human dignity that we are witnessing across our country right now. As a Catholic institution founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, we stand firmly and unapologetically for the God given dignity of every person and...
Boyd Pitkin
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Boyd Pitkin Named Recipient of Robert E. “Ish” Smith Achievement Award
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Avila University Associate Athletic Director Boyd Pitkin has been named the 2026 recipient of the Robert E. “Ish” Smith Achievement Award by the NAIA. The award was presented at the NAIA Baseball Coaches’ Association Meeting and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to the promotion of NAIA Baseball...
Avila University presents dialogue with descendants
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Avila University Presents “Dialogue with Descendants” as Part of the Harry S. Truman Distinguished Lecture Series
Kansas City, Mo. — Avila University will host a historic evening of dialogue, reflection, and civic leadership as part of the Harry S. Truman Distinguished Lecture Series with “Dialogue with Descendants: A Truman–Eisenhower Legacy Conversation” on Thursday, January 29, 2025, at the Goppert Theatre on Avila University’s campus. This special event brings together Mary Jean...
Dr. Laura C. Hartley
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Introducing Dr. Laura C. Hartley, Avila University’s Next Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Avila University is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Laura C. Hartley as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, beginning June 2026. With more than 25 years of leadership in higher education, Dr. Hartley brings extensive experience across mission-driven institutions and a deep understanding of strategic planning, academic operations, and student success. Colleagues...
Avila University Eagles quarterback throwing a pass during a football game
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Ed Warinner Named Avila Football Head Coach
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Bringing more than 40 years of NCAA Division I coaching experience to Kansas City, Avila football is pleased to announce the hiring of Ed Warinner as the university’s head football coach. A 2014 National Champion as the Offensive Coordinator at Ohio State, Warinner has five total seasons as a Division I assistant...
Avila University Education Without Limits campaign — three promotional graphics highlighting student support statistics including 75% say career center helped find a job or internship, 60% say alumni network is strong, and 56% say their degree is worth the investment
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Education Without Limits: How Avila University Helps Students Start Strong and Succeed
At Avila University, Education Without Limits reflects a commitment to students that begins the moment they arrive on campus and continues well beyond graduation. It represents a culture of support, opportunity, and genuine care for every student’s future. Recent data highlights the strength of an Avila education, and the real outcomes students achieve as they...
KCAC Alumni Spotlight — Dr. Shandon Boone, Avila University Health and Professional Sciences 2020 alumnus
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Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Shandon Boone ’20—From Avila Eagle to Kansas General Dentist
Avila University’s Own, Dr. Shandon Boone ’20 At Avila University, we believe in empowering students to pursue bold goals, and Dr. Shandon Boone is living proof of what happens when ambition meets support. A 2020 graduate with a degree in Health & Professional Sciences, Dr. Boone is now a thriving General Dentist in Shawnee, Kansas,...
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Celebrating National Recognition for Affordability – Top 50 Online Healthcare MBA Programs
We’re proud to announce that Avila University has been nationally recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Affordable Online Healthcare MBA Programs! This honor highlights Avila’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible, and student-centered education—empowering future healthcare leaders without the burden of high tuition costs. Avila’s online Healthcare Administration MBA offers: At Avila, we...
Avila University Eagles softball team and students gathered outdoors on campus in purple Eagles gear
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Avila University Awarded Capacity-Building Grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Avila University is honored to announce that it has been awarded a Capacity Building Grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, joining the Foundation’s highly selective Fall 2025 grantee cohort. This strategic investment supports nonprofit and educational organizations dedicated to strengthening internal infrastructure, enhancing operational effectiveness, and expanding long-term community impact....
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The New Avila Spirit Store Is Now Open!
Avila University is excited to announce the official launch of the Avila Spirit Store, your new one-stop shop for everything Avila. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, alum, or Eagle fan, you can now access all campus merchandise in one convenient online location. What You’ll Find: Visit the store today: https://avilastore.bibliucampus.com/home Show your Eagle pride...
avila-university-partnership-catholic-university-of-avila
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Avila University Strengthens Global Partnership with the Catholic University of Avila
Avila University is excited to announce a new international partnership with the Catholic University of Ávila (UCAV) in Ávila, Spain—creating meaningful opportunities for students, faculty, and academic collaboration across continents. During a recent institutional visit to UCAV, Interim President Dr. Andy Jett and Lourdes Miguel, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at UCAV, formally signed a framework...
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Avila Professor Honored with Prestigious W. Oliver Rasch Award
Professor Larry Altman Recognized for Groundbreaking Legal Writing on Native Sovereignty  Avila University is proud to celebrate Professor Larry Altman, recipient of the Missouri Bar Foundation’s W. Oliver Rasch Award, one of the state’s most esteemed honors for scholarly legal writing. His award-winning article, published in the Journal of the Missouri Bar, examines the constitutionality...
Avila Alum Kimberly Sixta Named 2026 Missouri Teacher.
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Avila Alum Kimberly Sixta Named 2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year
September 26, 2025 – Kansas City, Mo.Avila University proudly celebrates alumna Kimberly Sixta, who has been named the 2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year. Sixta, a Social Studies teacher at Ruskin High School in the Hickman Mills C-1 School District, becomes the 57th recipient of the honor since the program’s inception in 1957. Sixta earned...
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Avila University Announces International Graduate Pathways Partnership with Kazakh-British Technical University 
Kansas City, MO (August 22, 2025) — Avila University has announced a new international academic partnership with Kazakh-British Technical University (KBTU), creating a unique graduate pathways program that allows students from Kazakhstan to begin their studies at KBTU and complete their degrees at Avila University. Students will have the option to finish their programs either...
Avila University commencement 2025
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Avila University Announces Leadership Transition
Dr. Andy Jett named Interim President KANSAS CITY, Mo. (August 5, 2025) – The Avila University Board of Trustees has announced that after three impactful years of growth and leadership as President of Avila University, Dr. Jim Burkee is stepping down August 31, having accepted the role as President of Saint Leo University in St....
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3 Reasons RNs Choose Avila University’s RN to BSN Program
As the healthcare field continues to evolve, the role of the registered nurse is expanding, requiring not only clinical expertise but also leadership, clinical decision making, and a deeper understanding of healthcare systems. At Avila University, the RN to BSN program empowers licensed registered nurses to advance their careers with confidence. Designed for working professionals,...
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Campus Life: Studying Close to Home vs. Far from Home
For many students, the decision to attend college close to home or venture far away marks the first major crossroads in their adult lives,  one that can profoundly shape their identity, independence, and overall college experience. Choosing to attend college at home can make the transition to campus life less overwhelming for students, as having...
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Avila: The RN’s Next Step
Real Nurses. Real Results. Real Growth at Avila. As the healthcare field continues to evolve, the role of the registered nurse is expanding, requiring not only clinical expertise but also leadership, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of healthcare systems. At Avila University, the Online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is designed to...
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7 Effective Tips for College Students
College can be a mix of thrilling and challenging times for students as we navigate classes and social activities while trying to excel in our studies with the study methods in place. However, established study routines can significantly impact our academic achievements. Here are seven reliable approaches to enhance your journey and achieve the best...
Diverse group of students smiling and working together on computers in a collaborative lab at Avila University.
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Avila University Growth in 2025: Rooted in Values, Rising with Vision
With record enrollment, doubled revenue, and a new Southwestern campus, Avila University is proving what’s possible when mission meets momentum, showing that we have much to celebrate. We’ve come a long way since 2023, a record year for enrollment with over 1,300 new eagles, to a record-breaking 2025 – 2026 school year with nearly 3,400...
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Avila University Remembers the Life and Legacy of Pope Francis
APRIL 21, 2025, It is with deep sorrow and reverence that Avila University joins the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. As a Catholic institution guided by the values of service, faith, and education without limits, we pause to honor a spiritual leader who redefined the papacy for the...
Jean Buchanan
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Avila mourns the loss of dear friend, Jean Buchanan
It is with deep sorrow Avila mourns the loss of one of its cherished alumna, long-time friends and supporter, Jean Buchanan. Jean was loved by everyone she met and had tremendous strength, wisdom, and perseverance. “In this industry, there are so many people who make an impact across campuses nationwide. Jean was such a woman,...
Intramurals
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Avila University Launches New Intramural Sports Program
February 26, 2025 | Kansas City, MO — Avila University has launched a new intramural sports program, expanding opportunities for students to engage in athletic activities. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to offering a wide range of activities for all students. The program is the result of months of preparation by the student engagement...
Jade Alfieri Sobral
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A Student’s Journey: An interview with Jade Alfieri Sobral
Tell us a little bit about your decision to come to Avila. When I decided to pursue my MBA in the U.S., I knew it would be a way to level up my career and education. It was a big decision, but I wanted to challenge myself and open doors to new opportunities. However, I...
Civic Center[12].jpg
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Avila University opens Arizona location, offering transformative education and career-focused programs in Goodyear, Arizona
February 26, 2025 (Kansas City, MO)- Avila University has announced it will open Avila University Arizona, (AUA), an additional location in Goodyear, Arizona. This location will provide the opportunity for students to receive graduate level degrees in business and technology management. Avila University Arizona (AUA) has been approved and authorized by the Higher Learning Commission...
deca group collegiate
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Avila University DECA Brings Home 14 Trophies at the Collegiate State Competition
Guest Author: Bella Rainey, Instructor, School of Visual and Communication Arts + DECA Advisor FEBRUARY 14, 2025, COLUMBIA, MO – The Avila University DECA Chapter reached new heights at the Missouri Collegiate DECA Conference on Friday, February 14, in Columbia, Missouri. With 16 total competing members, Avila DECA brought home 14 trophies while competing against...
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Avila Theatre brings Intimate Apparel to the Stage
Intimate Apparel by by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, directed by Teresa Leggard, will be presented by Avila University’s Theatre program, February 20-23rd at the Frantze Family Blackbox Theatre on Avila Campus. “We are so excited to bring this production to Avila this February during Black History Month,” said Matt Schwader Harbor, Assoc. Prof. of Theatre, Dir....
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Avila University Theatre Students Sweep Awards at Regional Festival
Kansas City, MO (Feb 10, 2025) – at Avila University School of Performing Arts in Kansas City has been growing and the success, both in and out of the classroom, is getting recognized! The most recent accomplishment for the program comes at the recent Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (Region 5 Design and Technology...
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Avila Mourns the Loss of Tom Gordon, 12th President of Avila University
It is with great sadness we share the passing of former Avila University President, Thomas F. Gordon, J.D., L.L.M.  Gordon had a long history with Avila which started in 1977, when he served as the University’s legal counsel. He then served on the Board of Trustees, from 1990-1999 and was named Avila’s Interim President in...
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Avila University Offers New Access Award to help eliminate financial barriers to college
Kansas City, MO – (December 9, 2024) – In response to ongoing financial pressures faced by students who hope to earn a college degree, Avila University is proud to announce the launch of the Avila Access Award, which provides free tuition for eligible students to attend Avila University. Any student living in a Missouri household with...
Bill and Jean Buchanan
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Jean Buchanan Hall, Avila University’s Newly Renamed and Renovated Student Residence,Honors Beloved Alum, Generous Donor and Longtime Peace and Nonviolence Advocate
Buchanan Hall will accommodate recent growth, serve as home for Buchanan Initiative for Peace and Nonviolence Sept. 26, 2024 – KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Avila University’s ribbon-cutting today accomplished several important objectives with one slice of the oversized scissors: offering expanded and updated student housing as the school experiences a historic stretch of recent growth;...
Demonstration in the Simulation Lab
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Avila University, HCA Midwest Health Partner to Provide Aspiring Nurses with Accessible Education
The two organizations have a rich and collaborative history Guest authors: Kimberly Stern, Christine Hamele Post updated December 4, 2024. On November 20, 2024, Avila University and HCA Midwest Health held an event on the Avila campus, officially announcing their partnership and plans to help address the nursing shortage problem in Kansas City with an...
NKC and Avila working together
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Avila University, North Kansas City Hospital/Meritas HealthPartner to Expand Access to Critical Nursing Programs
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – August 7, 2024 – Today, Avila University and North Kansas City Hospital/Meritas Health (NKCH/MH) announced a new partnership to provide expanded access to nursing education to students within our community. Through this partnership, NKCH/MH will provide hands-on clinical learning in tandem with Avila’s programs to prepare aspiring nurses to enter the...
From athletics to academics to student life, Avila is growing and has much to offer its students!
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Avila in the Media: Expanding Horizons and Embracing Growth
Each student invited to campus at Avila University brings a unique and valuable perspective, enriching the fabric of our academic community. We recognize that every student’s personal background, experiences, and aspirations contribute to a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. Our institutional focus on meeting the diverse needs of each of our students is at the...
Five Avila students were selected for the 29th Annual Kansas City Artist’s Coalition Undergraduate Student Exhibition
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Five Avila students selected for the 29th Annual Kansas City Artist’s Coalition Undergraduate Student Exhibition
This is a local juried exhibition of university students from Kansas and Missouri and an opportunity for area students to have their work shown at an established gallery here in Kansas City. VisCom Assistant Professor Teresa Johnson encourages her students to enter their work in this exhibition every year. This year’s jurors were Diana &...
AAqep
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Avila University Earns National Accreditation of Educator Preparation Programs
Co-authored by, Sarala Rijal, student writer and contributor Avila is proud to announce another milestone in the university’s commitment to excellence in education – an announcement that will shape the future of Avila’s undergraduate and graduate programs. The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) has awarded full 7-year accreditation to the educator preparation...
Ridgway Hall
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Avila University’s historic year includes $1 million grant from Mabee Foundation
Funding to support needs for growing student body as Avila welcomes largest-ever incoming freshman class Months after welcoming its largest-ever incoming freshman class, Avila University has been awarded a grant of more than $1 million from the Mabee Foundation. With the rapid influx of students on campus, Avila will use the $1,032,753 challenge grant as...
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Education Without Limits
March 4, 2024 It’s an exciting time at Avila University, and our campus is truly energized with an unprecedented string of successes! In the fall, we celebrated our largest-ever incoming freshman class. We’re constantly exploring ways to expand access and introduce new programs. We recently received a challenge grant of more than $1 million from...
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Don’t let the FAFSA keep you from Enrolling Early-
ACT NOW and get the information you need when you need it. The FAFSA can be overwhelming, no doubt. And, it can feel like a lot is riding on it. Plus, on top of the already confusing process, this year, they announced big changes to the form and these changes delayed the application process. Don’t...
Two Avila students stand in front of a purple welcome sign
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Avila Welcomes the Largest Incoming Class in Institutional History 
Avila University enrolled the largest incoming class in institutional history this fall. “We are already ahead of the traditional undergraduate enrollment pace from last year by nearly 200 students – that’s a 70% increase year over year,” said Josh Parisse, vice president of enrollment management. Avila commits to providing “access through affordability, quality individualized education,...
Avila graduation outside in the quad on campus
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Avila University Celebrates its 106th Graduating Class
On May 13, commencement returned to campus at Avila University for the first time in 19 years. “President Burkee wanted to bring graduation back to campus to build tradition and foster community,” said Margaret Herron, registrar. The sun was shining, and the campus was buzzing with excitement from 344 graduates and over 2,000 guests in...
5 Avila rad science students in front of a brick wall.
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Avila Rad Tech Students Win Competition at Missouri Conference 
Students from Avila’s School of Imaging Science took first place in the fast-paced, competitive “Ray Bowl” at the annual Missouri Society of Radiologic Technologists conference on April 5-7 in Columbia, Missouri.  “The Ray bowl was unlike anything I’ve ever done before, and to experience it with this group of people around me was incredible. We...
Chancellor Kimberly Beatty (MCC) and President Jim Burkee (Avila) shake hands on a $13.7 million scholarship venture
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$13.7 million scholarship commitment provides a low-cost pathway to a bachelor’s degree from Avila University for Metropolitan Community College students.
The agreement also makes Avila the most transfer-friendly university for MCC students.  Metropolitan Community College and Avila University leaders signed a six-year, $13.7 million scholarship agreement today, creating high-quality, low-cost pathways to obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The brief ceremony, led by MCC Chancellor Dr. Kimberly Beatty and Avila President Dr. James Burkee, marks...
A social work student watches (right) as two nursing students ask the "patient" questions about her health.
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Avila University Offers Accelerated Online Nursing Degree Program to Help Address Missouri’s and the Nation’s Critical Nursing Shortage
Avila University is pleased to announce it is now offering an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) degree. This degree completion program is for students with some college experience or who hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in any field other than nursing. All students will receive a personalized degree completion plan that equips...
Avila Football Coach Derrick Alexander
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Derrick Alexander Named Avila University Head Football Coach
January 12, 2023, KANSAS CITY, MO – Today, the Avila University Department of Athletics named former Kansas City Chiefs standout and Avila assistant football coach Derrick Alexander the university’s new head football coach. “We are very excited to welcome Derrick back to Avila University as our head football coach,” Avila University Director of Athletics Shawn...
Several Avila students sitting at graduation cheering and raising their arms in the air.
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U.S. News & World Report Names Avila University a Top Performer on Social Mobility
After assessing an all-time high of 1,500 U.S. bachelor’s degree-granting institutions on 17 measures of academic quality, U.S. News & World Report has named Avila University #51 in Top Performers on Social Mobility for Midwest regional institutions in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges. While a college degree is still considered the surest path toward...
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Five Latinx Avila School of Education Students Receive $3k Grants
Five Latinx Avila School of Education students were each recently awarded a $3000 grant to assist with the educational cost of pursuing their dream of being an educator. The grant was awarded to Avila University by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), and through it, Avila partnered with the Latinx Education Collaborative...
Avila President Jim Burkee (center), Bruce Ranney, president (left), and Joseph Mroz (right), executive vice president of K-12 Teachers Alliance sign the partnership agreement, joined by Avila University leadership team
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Avila University Partners with K-12 Teachers Alliance to Lower Tuition, Add Master’s Degrees and Improve Student Access to Online Education Programs
KANSAS CITY, MO, October 5, 2022 – Avila University announces the addition of three Master’s of Art in Education programs and a 30% tuition reduction through a new partnership with K-12 Teachers Alliance (KTA). Developed and taught by Avila University instructors, the online programs start in March 2023. KTA provides enrollment recruiting, resources, and marketing services through...
Student signing agreement
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$130 Million Scholarship Agreement Between Avila University, KC Scholars to Benefit Up to 800 Students
KANSAS CITY — On Thursday, Sept. 8, Avila University and KC Scholars announced a new scholarship partnership that will benefit up to 800 low-to-modest income students in the Kansas City area. Beginning with the 2023-2024 academic year through 2031-2032, Avila University and KC Scholars will award eight cohorts of up to 100 students per year...
National Science Foundation
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Wagge Wins Historic $267,741 National Science Foundation Grant
Avila Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Science Jordan Wagge, Ph.D., received a $267,741 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant from the Division of Undergraduate Education to fund, evaluate, and enhance the activities of the Collaborative Replications and Education Project (CREP). “CREP is a group I have worked with since 2014; I became executive director in 2019...
Carolyn Brown
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Q&A: Carolyn Brown MA.Ed ’22
Carolyn Brown is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Education at Avila University. Earlier in her career, she completed the teacher certification program. “After completing the certification program at Avila, I decided that it would be beneficial to continue my learning and pursue my Master of Arts in Education,” said Brown.  “Avila was the...
Samantha Collins
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Q&A: Samantha Collins MA.Ed, ’19 and 2020 Kansas Horizon Award Winner
Samantha Collins, MA.Ed is a 2019 graduate of Avila University’s School of Education. A career-changer, Collins went through Avila’s initial teaching certification program before continuing on to earn her Master’s degree. “When I decided to make a switch to be an educator, I knew I wanted to find an accredited, rigorous program with a strong reputation...
Photo collage showing three different size workshops available - large conference, smaller team, and virtual meetings
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Avila Announces Workforce Development Academy
KC Rising-inspired initiative designed to give businesses and workers dynamic, essential workplace skills...
Truman Lecture Series Flyer 2018
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2018 Harry S. Truman Distinguished Lecture: “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” Author William Kamkwamba Brings His Sustainability Story to Avila University
New York Times bestselling author and inventor, William Kamkwamba will deliver the 2018 Harry S. Truman Distinguished Lecture on October 24, 2018, on the campus of Avila University. Kamkwamba will speak on his inspired autobiography “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind,” which tells the story of human inventiveness and its power to overcome crippling adversity....
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Avila University President Dr. Todd Pfannestiel shaking hands with Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas at Kansas City Hall, surrounded by INSPIRE International Exchange Program students during their July 2026 visit

Global Perspectives, Local Leadership: INSPIRE Students Visit Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas
There are moments in education that extend far beyond the classroom—moments when conversations become catalysts for understanding, cultures connect through shared experiences, and tomorrow’s leaders discover that meaningful change begins with asking thoughtful questions. On Friday, July 17, Avila University had the distinct honor of accompanying students participating in the INSPIRE International Exchange Program to...
Avila University Admissions Community Partnership Signing with Youth Ambassadors, I AM Foundation, and KIPP KC

Avila University Celebrates New Community Partnerships to Expand Opportunities for Students
 The future of higher education is built on collaboration, and on June 17, Avila University took another step toward expanding access and opportunity through the formal launch of three new community partnerships.  Faculty, staff, students, and community leaders gathered in the Whitfield Center as Avila University officially welcomed the I AM Foundation, Youth Ambassadors, and...
Avila University Welcomes Dr. Todd Pfannestiel, 16th President

Introducing Dr. Todd Pfannestiel as Avila’s 16th President
Official Announcement The Board of Trustees of Avila University is honored to announce the appointment of Dr. Todd Pfannestiel as the 16th President of Avila University. Dr. Pfannestiel brings more than 27 years of distinguished higher education leadership experience, having served most recently as President of Utica University. His appointment follows a comprehensive national search...
Three Avila University students dressed in professional attire smiling together at a Collegiate DECA event.

Avila University DECA Achieves Historic Success at International Competition
Kansas City, MO — Avila University’s Collegiate DECA chapter delivered its strongest international performance in program history at the 2026 Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC), held April 18–22 in Louisville, Kentucky. The conference brought together more than 1,000 college students from across the world to compete for international titles and DECA’s highest honors....
Avila University graphic announcing the graduation of its largest class in history, featuring 820 total graduates — 240 undergraduates and 580 master's students — overlaid on a photo of graduates in purple caps and gowns.

Avila University Announces Record-Breaking Class of 820 Graduates, Strengthening Kansas City Workforce Pipeline
Kansas City, Mo. — April 29, 2026 — Avila University celebrated a historic milestone as it awarded degrees to a record-breaking 820 graduates during its commencement ceremonies. This marked the largest graduating class in the university’s history and reflected Avila’s growing impact on the Kansas City region and beyond. The Class of 2026 included 240...
Two women smile while holding framed Avila University certificates at an award ceremony, with an audience seated in the background.

Avila University Celebrates Faculty and Staff Excellence at Annual Awards Ceremony
Kansas City, MO — Avila University proudly recognized outstanding faculty and staff during its annual awards celebration, honoring individuals whose dedication, service, and leadership continue to shape the Avila community. The ceremony highlighted milestone Years of Service Awards, recognizing employees for their long-standing commitment to the University. Honorees included: These individuals were celebrated for their...
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