President's Newsletter
September 2025
Dear Juniata Community,
What an amazing month we’ve had! Juniata’s year-long sesquicentennial celebration has begun, giving even more meaning to the traditions at the heart of our community. Lobsterfest, Storming of the Arch, and Mountain Day are always occasions for fun and fellowship, but as Juniata marks this impressive milestone, these moments illustrate the bonds that connect generations of Juniatians.
As we celebrate 150 years rooted in education, integrity, and service, Juniata will unveil a refreshed brand on October 3, 2025—an evolution that honors our proud history and looks boldly to the future. More than a new look, this refresh reflects our mission, our community, and the distinctive education that transforms lives. While the updated visual identity refines (not replaces) familiar elements, the whole brand communicates the energy, innovation, and spirit of Juniata College.
The spirit of Juniata also shines in recent national recognitions. This week, U.S. News & World Report ranked Juniata #92 among the nation’s best liberal arts colleges and #44 for Top Performers on Social Mobility. These recognitions underscore the impact of our collective mission to create a welcoming and supportive environment for every student.
As I begin my 13th year as Juniata’s president, I have the privilege of teaching a First Year Foundations class, where I see our newest students bring curiosity, energy, and fresh perspectives into the classroom. Their eagerness to learn and connect affirms the strength of our community and the promise of Juniata’s future.
Juniata's enrollment is growing, with 1,363 students on campus this year (up from 1,342 last year). You can be a part of this growth as one of the most powerful ways to share the power of a Juniata education is through the Juniata Community Scholarship, which directly connects the generosity of today with the aspirations of tomorrow. Your involvement makes all the difference, and we look forward to sharing the energy of campus with you this fall.
Warm regards,
President James A. Troha
Celebrating Cherished Traditions
Juniata’s campus comes alive each fall with cherished traditions that bring our community together in celebration. From the crustaceans and connections made at Lobsterfest, to the networking at Welcomefest, the excitement of Storming the Arch, and the joy of Mountain Day, these moments showcase the joy, spirit, and camaraderie that define the Juniata experience.
A Degree 50 Years in the Making
For 50 years, Pete Lentini carried with him unfinished business. A member of Juniata’s Class of 1975, he left before completing his degree—but never let go of the idea of finishing.
That moment arrived this summer in true Juniata fashion, when Lentini’s capstone recital doubled as a surprise graduation ceremony. With the support of faculty, staff, and his longtime friend Fred Wulczyn ’75, Lentini completed an independent study in music—his lifelong passion—with guidance from Professor of Music Jim Latten.
“I’ve learned as much from Pete as he has from me,” Latten said of their collaboration.
Surrounded by family, friends, and classmates, Lentini shared his music and story before being formally awarded his degree by Provost Lauren Bowen and President Jim Troha.
At age 73, Lentini’s advice to others is simple: “Get it done. Finish it. Closure is very important—you don’t want to leave things open.”