Rosemont College Students Lead the Way in America250PA Initiative

The Rosemont College community continues to expand its impact through dynamic involvement in the America250PA initiative. This statewide program celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States and highlights Pennsylvania’s historic role in the nation’s founding. At Rosemont, the initiative has blossomed into Rosemont 250 and the Ambassador 250 program where students are transforming history into hands on leadership and real world success.

Campus Wide & Statewide Competition

Recognizing Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in American history, the Pennsylvania Legislature and Governor established the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial – (America250PA) in 2018. A key component of this initiative is an annual statewide marketing competition, where college and university teams develop and present innovative campaigns based on a new theme each year.

At Rosemont College, the Marketing Department embraced this opportunity from the start. In the first year, students teams competed on campus, presented their campaigns in Main Building before a panel of faculty and staff judges. The selected team went on to represent Rosemont across the state and in Harrisburg. And so it began. Each year for the past 7 years Rosemont’s marketing teams and participants represented Rosemont College across the Commonwealth.

Civic Engagement & What it Means to be a Good Citizen

Associate Professor of Business Studies, Dr. Christine Hagedorn recognized early on the powerful impact of student participation in America250PA. She recognized that the students embraced the opportunity and saw themselves as a part of history. Students continue to take an active role in promoting our nation’s democratic heritage together with pride. Each year they find they learn things about their state, communities and themselves.

Celebrating the founding of the United States became a unifying experience. Students developed a deeper appreciation for their communities and Pennsylvania’s role in shaping the nation. Along the way, they discovered new perspectives about civic responsibility and their place within society.

Building on this momentum, Dr. Hagedorn expanded the conversation to include broader definitions of civic engagement. Students began to see it as more than voting or protesting—it also includes the everyday contributions of coaches, teachers, neighbors, first responders, volunteers, and community leaders. These are the individuals who support, protect, and strengthen society at every level..

The students recognized the deep meaning of participating in Pennsylvania’s role in the founding of our nation, experienced accomplishment and achieved measurable goals. The students were learning outcomes and put the Rosemont’s Cornelian Mission into action – not just words.

Dr. Hagedorn emphasized the significance of these outcomes: “Our students demonstrated not only creativity but a deep commitment to understanding their role in history. Their work opened doors and showed how meaningful engagement can lead to real opportunities.”

Real World Impact: Internships & Professional Growth

The impact of this program extends far beyond the classroom.

Leaders at America250PA recognized the professionalism, creativity, and dedication of Rosemont students. As a result, several students secured prestigious internships with the organization—some of which evolved into full time positions, demonstrating the program’s ability to launch careers.

Since its inception, approximately 80 students have particpated in what will ultimately be an 8 year initiative that continues through 2026.

Most recently, senior art student Phoenix Gruver earned 2nd place statewide in Harrisburg with with a presentation inspired by the theme Miles of Impact celebrating the Pennsylvania Turnpike and its historal significance. Phoenix has since been invited to intern with America250PA. His work can be seen on the organization’s social media platforms. Additionally, don’t miss his Senior BFA 2026 Art Exhibit opening April 18, 2026. 

Victor “Andre” Castillo and Dani DiMarco, both business majors, had interned with America250PA and were then hired as full time staff members. Both have enjoyed the past couple of years working across the Commonwealth to advance the 250 celebrations in all 67 Pennsylvania counties. 

The Birth of Rosemont 250 & the 250 Ambassador Program

In response to student engagement, Dr. Hagedorn launched Rosemont 250 four years ago, inviting participation from all academic departments. The initiative has strengthened student pride in the nation’s founding while deepening civic engagement on campus and beyond.

Building on this success, Rosemont 250 recently introduced the Ambassador Program – an interdisciplinary opportunity open to undergraduate students from all majors. Ambassadors research initiatives, plan events, collaborate with community partners, and represent Rosemont at both campus and external events through December 2026. Currently, Briana Mohammed serves as Senior Ambassador. 

This program provides valuable leadership experience while fostering civic awareness and professional development.

Students can particpate through multiple pathways, including volunteer work, federal work study, or internship credit. These hands on experiences connect academic learning with meaningful community service, preparing students to become active and engaged citizens.

Rosemont 250 reflects a strong commitment to community, learning, and service. The program prepares students to lead with purpose and contribute to society. It also unites the campus around a shared moment in history.

A Lasting Impact

Rosemont 250 reflects Rosemont College’s strong commitment to community, learning, and service. The initiative prepares students to lead with purpose, contribute to society, and engage thoughtfully with history.

As the nation approaches this historic milestone, Rosemont College continues to unite its campus around a shared moment – one that honors the past while preparing students to shape the future.

We look ahead to fall 2026, when Rosemont 250 will host a special reunion celebrating all participating students. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to coming together to honor their work, sing “Happy Birthday,” and celebrate 250 years of the United States of America together!

Happy 250th Birthday to the United States of America!