Robert Lewcun, a senior Business Administration major from Huntingdon Valley, Pa., has dedicated his college career to building connections and creating space for commuter students to thrive.

In his first year, Lewcun met Destiny Gaud ’23, a senior who advocated for commuter students and inspired him to get involved. 

“She encouraged me to run for the position of commuter assistant,” he said. “By next fall, the lounge had officially relocated from the bottom floor of Heinz to the Stein Fireplace Lounge in the Commons! We began having monthly lunches in the lounge, and with the help of Student Engagement, we officially created AU Commuters.”

Now, as founding president, Lewcun works to ensure commuter students are informed and engaged. 

“It is my job to advertise the club at campus events and open houses,” he said. “It helps bring a sense of belonging for commuters at a school where the majority of students live on campus. Inclusion is very important here at Arcadia, and this fits in perfectly.”

On top of his role with AU Commuters, Lewcun is a Campus Ambassador, a REAL certificate program peer mentor, and an athlete on both the men’s track and field and ultimate frisbee teams.

As a REAL peer mentor, Lewcun provides academic and social support to students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. “We work on assignments, such as papers, presentations, and readings. Outside of academics, the students also work on their hobbies. I helped one to co-host an Eagles radio show, and I have also starred in another student’s movie!” he said. “I highly recommend working in the REAL program.”

Lewcun’s proudest accomplishment, however, happened before college. At age 15, he began planning his Eagle Scout project—a Rosary-shaped prayer garden at his church and school, St. Albert the Great. “I knew I wanted it to be meaningful, long-lasting, and help my community,” he said.

The project, which began in 2020 and was completed in 2021, was a large-scale effort. “Though the total cost was over $100,000, donations covered everything,” he said. “Local contractors donated their time and expertise, completing cement work, installations, tree work, plumbing, electrical, and so much more at no cost.”

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Lewcun and his friends worked throughout the summer of 2020 to landscape and bring the garden to life. In October 2021, Archbishop Nelson Pérez blessed the completed garden, which was later featured by 6ABC and in other local news outlets. See some photos and additional coverage here and here.

“Faith has always been an essential part of my life, and I’m grateful I could express it in a lasting, physical way through this project,” he said. “I’m glad I built this garden because it encourages people to pray the Rosary. It is life-changing, and something the world always needs.”

After graduation, Lewcun plans to earn his human resources certification and work locally.