Featured Stories
Ashley Willoughby ’19 and Daniel Hernandez ’18
Ashley and Danny’s story began on Adelphi’s campus, where Greek Life events and mutual friends kept placing them in the same orbit. What started as casual run‑ins at Student Activities Board programs soon grew into something more—easy conversations, shared laughter, and a connection that felt increasingly meaningful.
Some of their favorite memories were made right in the heart of campus. Danny still recalls Ashley doubled over laughing as he attempted to conquer the mechanical bull at Pantherfest—a moment that sparked a tradition they’ve kept alive by returning every year. Ashley’s favorite memories were quieter: standing beside Danny at Spirit Weekend’s Casino Night, learning Blackjack from him and turning it into their own annual ritual.
Their relationship grew steadily and intentionally. They took their time, learned each other’s rhythms, and built a foundation rooted in communication and patience. That slow, thoughtful beginning shaped everything that came after.
After graduating—Ashley in 2019 and Danny in 2018—their paths continued to unfold in meaningful ways. Ashley earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Touro University in 2022 and now works as a Physical Therapist at Professional Physical Therapy. Danny completed his service with the Marines and now serves as an accountant for Building Homes for Heroes, a veteran nonprofit in Island Park.
Together, they’ve embraced adventure and new traditions. They got engaged on August 16, 2025—returning to Adelphi for their engagement photos—and are joyfully planning their August 14, 2027 wedding. They discovered a shared love of running and completed their first NYC Half Marathon side by side. Their travels have taken them from Aruba to Vermont to Disney (Danny’s first time), and they’re excited to explore Iceland this fall. And since 2017, they’ve kept one of their favorite traditions alive: visiting the Jones Beach Christmas Light Show every year.
Looking ahead, they picture a life filled with love, dogs, future children, and a home that feels like their dream. They hope to keep traveling the world and collecting memories as bright as the ones they made at Adelphi.
Their advice to current students is simple but powerful: take it slow. In a fast‑paced world, they found strength in patience—getting to know each other deeply before taking the next step. It allowed them to grow individually and together, and to truly enjoy the life they’re building.
Harris and Olivia with the panther on graduation day, May 2019; Bottom: On their wedding day; Announcing their newest adventure- their first child
Harris Cherpelis ’19, Olivia Minogue Cherpelis ’19, MA ’22
Harris and Olivia’s story began at Adelphi, long before either of them realized how much those first days would shape their lives. They met during freshman orientation—Group 7—and while they chatted here and there, something clicked a little deeper at a soccer game during the first week of classes. From that moment on, they kept finding themselves in each other’s orbit: Greek life events, shifts at Campus Recreation, Olivia leading group fitness classes, and Harris working in Rec. What started as an easy friendship slowly grew into something neither of them wanted to ignore.
After ten years of dating, they married on October 11, 2025. Since graduating from Adelphi, Harris has completed PT school, and Olivia has been building her career in Dance Education, working toward tenure in the South Huntington School District. Now they’re preparing for their biggest adventure yet—their first child, arriving July 2026.
Their advice to current students is simple: go for it. Don’t let fear of “ruining a friendship” keep you from something real. Let your guard down, be yourself, and trust the timing.
As for the years ahead, they picture a life filled with growth, love, and plenty of time spent lifting together—just like they did on their very first date at the Adelphi gym.