Natural Sciences Lab Manager Receives Tender Courage Award
Established in 1993 to honor Sister Isabelle Keiss, the Tender Courage Award acknowledges members of the staff and administration who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help make our University the special place it is. Nominated by colleagues and peers, this award highlights someone whose accomplishments exemplify the ideals of our Catholic, Mercy mission. They practice integrity in word and deed, respect for the dignity of all people, service to society, and social justice, and display a commitment to the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy.
Riham Halvorsen has served GMercyU for 17 years with quiet excellence, deep care, and a generous spirit. Her colleagues describe her as the embodiment of Mercy and “the kindest person I know.” Though much of her work happens behind the scenes in Maguire Hall, her impact is felt across the Natural Sciences Department, the Biology program, and the wider University community.
Riham began at GMercyU as a part-time lab assistant and, through years of faithful service, grew into her current role as Lab Manager. Her nominators consistently describe Riham as someone who anticipates needs before others even realize them, manages details with care, and treats every person with kindness and respect. As one colleague wrote, “the students love Riham.” Another noted that “it is no accident that Riham is acknowledged on almost every student research poster and in every talk.” Riham was also captured on screen working alongside Biology students in GMercyU’s episode of the Amazon Prime show, The College Tour.
Riham’s Mercy spirit extends well beyond the lab. She helps create a welcoming environment for faculty, staff, adjuncts, and students; supports service projects and student events; volunteers for Staff Council, Honors Convocation, graduation events, and finals breakfasts; and assists as an advisor to student organizations. One nominator said of Riham, “She lives by the core values 24/7 by showing understanding, compassion, and social insight into every person she encounters.”
Riham was born in Amman, Jordan. Through the support of her family and a missionary friend, she attended college in the United States, earning her bachelor of science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Liberty University. Riham lives in Lansdale with her husband and two sons and enjoys playing board games, hiking, eating international food, and tackling escape rooms with them. She attends Lansdale Presbyterian Church and participates in its committee that cooks and serves monthly meals for underserved members of the community. She volunteers for various other ministries within her church.
Riham also enjoys serving on the exhibits committee for the International Spring Festival, held annually at North Penn High School. The largest multicultural festival in Pennsylvania, its mission is to promote peace and awareness of the various cultures within the North Penn community.