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Wilkes University Celebrates Dedication of Dr. Richard Abbas Alley School of Education

Administrators, faculty, staff, students and community members gathered to celebrate the dedication of the newly named Dr. Richard Abbas Alley School of Education at Wilkes University on Aug. 19, 2025.

The naming honors Dr. Richard Abbas Alley, a local physician, philanthropist and humanitarian whose decades of service to northeastern Pennsylvania — and medical mission work around the world — reflect a lifelong commitment to learning and compassion. Inspired by the example of his parents, Abbas and Maliha Alley, who immigrated to Berwick, Pennsylvania, and instilled in their six children a deep belief in education and hard work, Alley has long championed opportunities that uplift others.

Alley’s $2 million gift to Wilkes University led to the renaming of the School of Education and will support transformative educational experiences for undergraduate and graduate students preparing to become educators.

The dedication ceremony, held in the Breiseth Hall lobby, opened with remarks from Kevin Boyle, vice president for advancement. Deborah Zbegner, dean of the College of Health and Education, emphasized the lasting impact of Alley’s generosity. “When we invest in education, we invest in our humanity and the promise of the future,” she said.

Dr. Alley shaking hands with a man, in front of the Dr. Richard Abbas Alley School of Education building sign.

Dr. Alley speaking at a podium with a microphone, in front of a clock with Roman numerals.

A young woman with a ponytail in a yellow sleeveless top speaking at a podium, hand on chest, in front of a clock.

Dr. Alley speaking at a podium to an audience of people sitting in chairs, with a sign overhead reading, "Dr. Richard Abbas Alley School of Education."

Dr. Alley shaking hands with another man in a blue suit, in front of a blue wall with biographical information and a photo.

A group of people from behind, looking at Dr. Alley. One man has his hand on the back of another man. The building sign is in the background.

Representing students, senior early childhood education major Faith Sekol expressed gratitude for Alley’s support. “The Alley School of Education is more than a name — it’s a symbol of excellence and a reminder of what’s possible when someone believes in students,” she shared.

Wilkes University President Greg Cant welcomed Father Tom Looney, president of King’s College, and John Yudichak, president of Luzerne County Community College, who joined him in congratulating Alley on being named the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Cant highlighted Alley’s lifelong passion for learning before inviting him to speak.

Alley reflected on his family’s journey and the values that guided them. “I’m proud that the Alley name will be associated with the School of Education at Wilkes University,” he said, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the honor.

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