The Connection

Welcome to The Connection, the monthly OPC newsletter designed to connect employees to the people, updates, and moments that shape our Loyola community. Each issue offers a chance to learn about new colleagues, upcoming and recent events, and highlights from across the university, bringing what matters most right to you.

Welcome to Greyhound Nation

 

Hound Highlight

Employee Spotlight

This month, we proudly recognize Officer Devon Purnell of the Department of Public Safety as our November Hound Highlight.

Officer Purnell was recently awarded a Letter of Commendation for his courage, professionalism, and quick action during an attempted carjacking near campus. While on patrol, he observed suspicious activity, remained vigilant, and immediately intervened when two community members were threatened. Despite facing physical resistance from the suspect, Officer Purnell maintained his composure and continued his efforts until the individual was successfully apprehended.

His actions helped protect members of the Loyola community and exemplify the dedication, service, and professionalism that define Public Safety.

"Your [Devon] initiative, situational awareness, courage under pressure, and refusal to disengage from a serious threat directly contributed to a successful outcome.“

- Anthony Pluretti, Director, Public Safety

Congratulations, Officer Purnell, and thank you for your outstanding service to Loyola University Maryland community!

   Inspired to celebrate the incredible work happening all around us?

 

Submit your colleague to be recognized in The Connection newsletter!

 

Use the Hound Highlight form to nominate faculty, staff, and administrators who:

• Strengthen the Loyola community through everyday actions or special efforts that benefit students and colleagues.
• Demonstrate leadership in their role as an individual contributor or manager.

 

Magis Moment

“Small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.”

              — William Shakespeare

 

What's Happening?

Mark Your Calendar 

• 11/19/26 – The Exchange
• 11/26/26 – Thanksgiving (University closed)
• 11/27/26 – Observed Holiday (University closed)
• 12/16/26 – The Exchange
• 12/23/26-1/4/26 – Christmas Break

What's New?

Happy Thanksgiving!

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, Loyola extends gratitude to our faculty, staff, students, and community. We hope this holiday provides an opportunity to connect with loved ones, reflect on the year’s blessings, and enjoy a well-deserved break. Wishing you a safe, happy, and restful Thanksgiving!

Thank You for Making Fall Fest Amazing!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year's Fall Fest. It was wonderful to come together as a community to enjoy food, activities, seasonal fun, and some friendly competition.

A special thank you to everyone who participated in the Pumpkin Decorating Contest. The creativity and effort on display made the contest a highlight of the event.

Congratulations to our Pumpkin Decorating Contest Winners!

1st Place: Jada Washington
2nd Place: Tyler Zorn
3rd Place (Tie): Matthew Gaines & Sophia Ragot

Thank you to all who participated and voted. We appreciate the enthusiasm and creativity that helped make Fall Fest such a success! 

Halloween Costume Contest

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year's Halloween Costume Contest. Whether you entered individually or as part of a team, your creativity, humor, and Halloween spirit helped make the celebration memorable.

Individual Winners

Most Creative: Kristi Yowell
Scariest: Cindy Rohnacher
Funniest: Lauren Miller

Team Winners

Most Creative: Student Leadership & Involvement
Scariest: Counseling Center
Funniest: Student Health Services

Congratulations to all of our winners, and thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year's contest a success! We look forward to seeing your creativity again next year.

Stay connected!

Previous Newsletters

• January 2025
• November and December 2025
• September 2025
• August 2025
• July 2025
• June 2025