Meet the Staff

Education:
Arkansas Tech University
Master of Science, College Student Development

Kansas State University
Bachelor of Arts, English Creative Writing
Minor in Leadership Studies

Barbara Kurz was born in Brazil but claims Kansas City as home. Barbara joined the Loyola community as the Associate Director of Messina in February 2022, and is now excited to serve as the Director of Messina. Prior to joining Loyola, Barbara served as the Assistant Director of Housing Facilities at Johns Hopkins University. Barbara has a strong background in Student Life, student development, and leadership development. Working with first year students has always been a passion for Barbara and she is thrilled to work with Messina students. Outside of work, Barbara enjoys being a “foodie” and trying out new restaurants with her partner, reading, and spending time with her dog, Ellie.

Education:
Rowan University
Master of Arts, History

Salisbury University
Bachelor of Arts, History - Secondary Education

Patrick is a proud Maryland native and an avid baseball fan who co-runs a baseball podcast. Prior to joining the Messina team, Patrick started at Loyola in the Academic Advising and Support Center as an Advising Specialist. He graduated from Salisbury University with a degree in History and then earned his Masters in History at Rowan University in New Jersey. When not at work or at a baseball stadium, he loves to spend time with his wife, Colleen, and their dog, Griffey.

Education:
University of Maryland - College Park
PhD, Journalism Studies

Syracuse University
Master of Science, Broadcast Journalism

Northern Michigan University
Bachelor of Arts, Media Studies

April teaches journalism and mass communication courses for the Department of Communication. Her research primarily focuses on gender and journalism, and on media ethics. She has taught in Messina for the last four years.  In addition to being the faculty co-director of the program, she has also served as a Messina advisor and faculty member for the Ignatian Scholars Program and as the Common Text Fellow.  In addition to her Messina responsibilities, April will continue to teach and serve in the Communication Department.