Duquesne University Alumni Association

The newest issue of the Duquesne University Magazine will be landing in mailboxes shortly! ✈️

You'll read about alumni making an impact at the new $1.7 billion Pittsburgh International Airport terminal transformation, The Kansas City Chiefs, SpaceX, Helltown Brewing and more!

winner Rachel Willis, A’17, draws inspiration from her family. She shares that her mother instilled an athlete’s mindset toward work and life, her father modeled integrity, her sister emphasized caring for others, and her grandmothers reinforced the importance of family and faith. Their combined influence shaped her drive to succeed while staying true to her values.

Rachel finds her work most rewarding at the forefront of finance, helping clients access tools to build and sustain generational wealth while navigating innovations in financial technology, including blockchain and automation.

Reflecting on her Duquesne experience, she says, “I loved the supportive community on the Bluff, from cheering on the Duquesne women’s basketball team to the academic rigor of the Honors College. My experience was defined by impactful electives and unique study abroad opportunities, which shaped my global perspective.”

Being a Duquesne graduate, Rachel explains, means leading with purpose and a commitment to service-oriented excellence, bringing a well-rounded perspective into her career in fintech.

Looking ahead, she hopes to grow GalaxyOne’s brand and continue helping clients manage wealth while personally pursuing athletic challenges like running another marathon and competing in her first triathlon.

Rachel attributes her success to a disciplined mindset, critical thinking, and her family’s unwavering support. In her spare time, she enjoys running, pilates, international travel, and supporting the NY Liberty. Being named a 2026 Duke from the Last Decade feels like a full-circle moment, honoring the foundation Duquesne provided for both her professional and personal life.

| Duquesne University Liberal Arts

Homecoming is calling 📣 All roads lead to the Bluff this fall for Duquesne Homecoming 2026! Save the date, October 9-10 2026, and start planning your return to campus.

To view the schedule and hotel blocks visit duq.edu/homecoming

winner Dominic Vissotski, B’18, is driven by a commitment to impact, professionally through investing and personally through community and family. Inspired by his wife and mentors like Bill Dietrich, Dominic strives to leave a legacy that extends beyond his own achievements.

As he shares, “His example inspires me to approach my work with purpose, to use the resources and opportunities I have to create lasting value, and to leave a legacy that extends far beyond my own achievements.”

A proud Duquesne graduate, Dominic carries forward the University’s values of integrity, service, and purpose in every part of his life. Being named a 2026 Duke from the Last Decade reflects his dedication to thoughtful leadership, mentorship, and giving back to the next generation of students and alumni.

| Duquesne University Palumbo-Donahue School of Business

Thank you to everyone who joined us at McNamara’s Pub & Restaurant in Arlington, VA. for their Wine and Whiskey Wednesday special. We loved seeing alumni from across the D.C. area come together to share stories, make new connections, and celebrate the Duquesne spirit! 🍷🥃

Duquesne University's Juneteenth 2026 Celebration will feature guest speaker Doris Carson Williams, former President and CEO of the Greater Pittsburgh African American Chamber of Southwestern PA. A light reception will follow the presentation. This event is open to the entire Duquesne University community.

Join us on June 19: https://www.duq.edu/calendar.php -details/6298bf33-a653-418f-944d-d6ccf0683ab9

|

winner Marie Vater, A’19, is dedicated to empowering students who are blind or visually impaired, helping them achieve independence and confidence through education and skill-building.

Inspired by her mother’s perseverance and support, Marie approaches her work with focus, compassion, and creativity. As she shares, “I feel the elation of my students when they accomplish new things… these are moments when I know I’ve been able to successfully integrate my math degree from Duquesne with my braille knowledge from my graduate studies.”

A proud Duquesne graduate, Marie carries forward the University’s values of community, service, and lifelong learning in every aspect of her work.

As a member of the 2026 Dukes from the Last Decade, Marie exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

| Duquesne University Liberal Arts

Thank you to all of the that joined us at the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp game this past Sunday! ⚾☀ We loved spending the day with you and look forward to seeing you at another alumni event soon!

winner Morgan Martinson, GP’22, is shaping the next generation of professionals as an educator, helping students grow in confidence, compassion, and skill.

Inspired by her mother’s courage and resilience, Morgan approaches her work with dedication, empathy, and a commitment to meaningful impact. As she shares, “The most rewarding part of my job is working with students and helping them grow into confident, compassionate professionals.”

A proud Duquesne graduate, Morgan carries forward the University’s values of integrity, service, and leadership in every aspect of her work and life.

As a member of the 2026 Dukes from the Last Decade, Morgan exemplifies perseverance, purpose, and the dedication to serving others that define the Duquesne alumni community.

| Duquesne University School Of Pharmacy

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our annual Alumni Wine Tasting on Friday evening! 🍷 We hope you enjoyed an evening of great conversation, delicious food, and a tasting journey through the wines of Southern Italy with Father John Sawicki, C.S.Sp., Ph.D. We love sharing this special tradition with our Duquesne alumni community. Cheers! 🥂