SPRING 2018
Magazine
Peacocks of the ’80s and ’90s like Peter DeLuca, M.D. ’81— who helped the Philadelphia Eagles soar to Super Bowl victory—have blazed their own pathways to distinction.
I N S I D E : 10 MINUTES WITH THOMAS P. MAC MAHON ’68
PRESIDENT’S
Message
Holy High Five
the thousands of Saint Peter’s alumni who
Enthusiasm was high when His Eminence, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., archbishop of Newark, visited Saint Peter’s University to mark the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle on February 22. Peter the Peacock and the cheerleaders provided a rousing welcome when the personable cardinal entered The Rev. Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J., Recreational Life Center while touring campus. Cardinal Tobin celebrated Mass for the Saint Peter’s community, blessed the Mac Mahon Student Center and had the opportunity to chat with students. Read more about Cardinal Tobin’s visit on page 5.
every day.
make a difference in the lives of others Like our alumni, the University has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The American Council on Education (ACE) recently named Saint Peter’s first in the nation for institutional transformation, in recognition of strategic advances that have built enrollment, new facilities and academic programs that set our graduates on a course for success. Saint Peter’s is truly an institution of distinction.
Graduates of Distinction
Increasingly, employers seek to hire Saint Peter’s alumni immediately after
My career at Saint Peter’s University
commencement. In fact, more than 91
started in the classroom, where I taught
percent of the Class of 2017 had a job
political science for 20 years. As an educator, nothing gives me more pride than seeing our graduates carve out their own pathways to distinction. Across the country and around the world, Saint Peter’s graduates harness the knowledge,
“Saint Peter’s is truly an institution of distinction, in large part because of our very successful alumni.”
skills and ethical foundation that is the hallmark of a Jesuit education and, in the
or were enrolled in graduate school six
words of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, “set the
months after earning their degree. That’s
world on fire.”
something we can all celebrate.
Our students undergo an amazing
Great leadership drives these
transformation, and I have taken
accomplishments. The chairman of our
tremendous satisfaction in participating
Board of Trustees, Thomas P. Mac Mahon
in their intellectual and ethical growth.
’68, is stepping down after six years. Tom’s
I’ve witnessed first-year students,
incredible insight and generosity helped
unsure of their potential, go on to
to lead our institutional transformation.
achieve in ways they never dreamed
Without him, Saint Peter’s pathway to
possible. After graduation, one of my
distinction wouldn’t have been possible,
greatest joys is watching them return
and we owe him a debt of gratitude. I’d
to campus, now confident professionals
also like to welcome our new board chair,
with the critical thinking skills and strong
Frank L. Fekete, CPA ’75. I’m confident that
moral conviction that characterize all
Frank will continue Tom’s legacy, and will
effective leaders.
guide our University into a bold new era.
In this issue, we feature 12 Saint Peter’s graduates from the ’80s and ’90s who
Sincerely,
are leaders in their fields. As a University community, we’re extremely proud of their accomplishments. Yet, we recognize that they’re not alone in their success.
Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.
This talented group is representative of
President
Saint Peter’s University
1
IN THIS
Issue
HOW TO REACH US Alumni News & Notes Email: alumni@saintpeters.edu Office of Alumni Engagement 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Letter to the Editor Email: smalinowski@saintpeters.edu Editor, Saint Peter’s University 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Telephone: (201) 761-6239 Fax: (201) 761-6241 On the cover: Peter F. DeLuca, M.D. ’81, team physician for the Philadelphia Eagles, celebrates the team’s victory in Super Bowl LII.
FEATURES 10. Top of Their Field 18. 10 Minutes with...Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 20. Mission Motivates: The Real Reasons Donors Give
CONNECT
DEPARTMENTS 3. 24. 26. 32.
University News Peacock U Class News & Notes Ad Finem
ADMINISTRATION Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78 Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning Frederick Bonato, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J. Vice President for Mission and Ministry Jeffrey Handler, M.A. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing
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Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05 Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Eileen Poiani, Ph.D. HA ’17 Special Assistant to the President Anthony Skevakis, Ed.D. Vice President for Student Life and Development Hector Paredes, M.B.A. ’07 Vice President for Finance and Business Miloš Topić, MSIS, M.B.A. Vice President for Information Technology and Operations
SPRING 2018 SAINT PETER’S UNIVERSITY Volume 37, Number 3 Photography Patrick Annello, M.D. ’99 Editor Dan Bassini Sarah Malinowski Ferrary Noreen Heath Beaman, CPA ’86 Executive Director of University James C. DeAngelo, M.Ed. ’99 Communications Peter F. DeLuca, M.D. ’81 Editorial & Design Services GR Productions Erbach Communications Group Michael Marmora Richard M. Nugent, Esq. ’92 Contributors & Editorial Assistance Amira A. Roess, Ph.D. ’99 Angeline Boyer, M.B.A. ’15 Katrina T. Sabater, M.D. ’00 AnnMarie Gervasio Tim Trumble for ACE Sarah Lacz, M.B.A. ’11 La Toro Yates, Ph.D. ’94, ’98 Marta Costanzo Youth ’87 Saint Peter’s University is printed on FSC certified paper containing 10% post-consumer waste and was manufactured using 100% Green-e certified renewable energy.
UNIVERSITY
News
#1 in the Nation for Institutional Transformation
The American Council on Education (ACE) named Saint Peter’s University first among institutions across the nation as a recipient of the 2018 ACE/Fidelity Investments Award for Institutional Transformation. The recognition highlights the remarkable strides the University has made in the past six years. In that time, Saint Peter’s has responded to a challenging educational landscape with innovative and creative initiatives that are transforming the future for the University and its students. Continued on next page
Saint Peter’s University
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UNIVERSITY
News
Continued from previous page
Kara Freeman Lee, vice president of administration, chief information officer and interim vice president, ACE Leadership; Sherri Lind Hughes, assistant vice president, ACE Leadership; Bruce White, vice president and managing director, Fidelity Investments; Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president, Saint Peter’s University; Ted Mitchell, president, ACE The award was presented to Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.,
chia’s leadership, the University leveraged its new designation
president of Saint Peter’s University, in March at ACE’s 100th
with a strategic plan aimed at expanding the mission, growing
annual meeting in Washington, D.C. ACE President Ted Mitchell,
enrollment, enhancing student support, improving student out-
Ph.D., lauded the University for strategic approaches that have
comes, strengthening finances and building Peacock pride.
strengthened the institution in the midst of a shifting educational environment. Dr. Mitchell noted that Saint Peter’s proactive
The results have been dramatic: a 20 percent growth in enrollment over the past five years, expanded academic programs in cutting-edge fields, partnerships that emphasize real-world
The recognition, for institutions with less than 5,000 students, highlights the remarkable strides the University has made in the past six years.
learning and impressive new facilities such as the Mac Mahon Student Center and the School of Business. These advances have led to outstanding outcomes for Saint Peter’s students— more than 91 percent of the Class of 2017 secured a job or were enrolled in post-graduate study within six months of graduation and the University last year was eighth in the nation for mobility among graduates of 578 selective private colleges.
response illustrates that “addressing issues head-on, plus a lot of hard work and collaboration, can help transform an institution.” Saint Peter’s evolution began in March 2012, when the state approved its petition for University status. Under Dr. Cornac4
Spring 2018
Debra Frey, vice president of Fidelity Investments, said Saint Peter’s has “proven that comprehensive strategic plans, combined with quantitative goals, can put an institution on a path to sustained success.”
Feast Day Blessings
His Eminence, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.,
received an unexpected and wonderful gift with
archbishop of Newark, celebrated his first Mass
Cardinal Tobin’s visit to our community during
for the Saint Peter’s University community on
our Examen year,” noted Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J.,
February 22, the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter
vice president for mission and ministry. “Cardinal
the Apostle.
Tobin is very much in the spirit of Pope Francis,
Preserved in Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican
especially in his attempts to defend immigrants,
City, the Chair of Saint Peter symbolizes the
promotion of interreligious and ecumenical
Pope’s authority and his calling to tend to his
dialogue and support for pathways to equality
flock. This calling extends to the faithful, who are
in the Catholic Church. In many ways, his goals
asked to nourish and offer forgiveness to others.
echo the values of our students, as well as Saint
During the liturgy, held at St. Aedan’s: The Saint
Peter’s mission.”
Peter’s University Church, Cardinal Tobin spoke about forgiveness and healing. Cardinal Tobin’s visit coincided with the
Following the Mass, Cardinal Tobin toured the campus with student ambassadors, blessing the Mac Mahon Student Center and visiting
University’s Mission Examen, a process underway
the School of Business, the Theresa and Edward
on campus to reaffirm and strengthen the Jesuit
O’Toole Library and The Rev. Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J.,
mission and identity of Saint Peter’s. “We have
Recreational Life Center.
WELCOME TO THE MEADOWLANDS! Saint Peter’s University is expanding its adult undergraduate and graduate programs with a new location in Lyndhurst, pending Middle States Commission on Higher Education approval. “Saint Peter’s University at the Meadowlands” offers graduate programs in business (M.B.A.) and education, as well as bachelor completion degrees from the School of Professional and Continuing Studies. Students will have the option to transfer credits based on work experience and will be offered specialty pricing. The new facility features a computer lab, library and a full-service cafeteria at 1280 Wall Street West within the Bergen County Community College campus.
JESUIT MISSION IN FOCUS Noted author and theologian Timothy P. Muldoon, Ph.D., presented “Extending the Jesuit Mission Today: Love, Mercy and the University” as part of The John Tagliabue ’67, H ’05 Lecture Series on April 12. Dr. Muldoon discussed and signed copies of his latest book, Living Against the Grain: How to Make Decisions That Lead to an Authentic Life (Loyola Press, 2017), to raise consciousness of the presence of the church among marginalized communities in the United States. He is director of mission education for Catholic extension and a professor at Boston College. James D. Manney ’67 served as master of ceremonies for the event. The lecture series was established by former National Football League Commissioner Paul Tagliabue H ’05.
Timothy Muldoon, Ph.D., signs copies of his new book.
Saint Peter’s University
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UNIVERSITY
News
DR. NAATUS NAMED KPMG DEAN Saint Peter’s University has appointed Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., the KPMG dean of the School of Business. Dr. Naatus most recently served as interim dean. An associate professor of business administration, she is the former chair of the Department of Business and was the founding director of the Ignite Institute at Saint Peter’s University, which contributes thought leadership for social and economic justice in Jersey City. Dr. Naatus served in the Peace Corps and recently graduated from the Ignatian Colleagues Program, an 18-month immersion experience for educators and administrators at Jesuit institutions. To learn more, visit saintpeters. edu/news.
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SAINT PETER’S LAUNCHES TWO NEW DEGREES Emerging market needs spark new programs in consumer science and mathematics education. With firms like Google and Ama-
marketing channels to directly
zon leading the way, businesses
target consumers when and
recognize that mobile intelli-
where they’re online. Ethical
gence is transforming marketing.
considerations of artificial
In response, this fall Saint Peter’s
intelligence related to consumer
University will launch a new
information are a central part of
degree, the Master of Science in
Joseph Gilkey Jr., Ph.D., M.B.A.
consumer science with a specialization in mobile intelligence.
John Hammett III, Ed.D.
the degree. The new B.A. in mathematics addresses a statewide need for
It’s one of two new degree programs designed to
teachers who hold university degrees in mathematics,
meet emerging demand for well-trained professionals
at a time when STEM (science, technology, engineering
in fields that continue to evolve. The other new degree,
and mathematics) professionals are in high demand
a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics, with concentra-
in the marketplace. The United States Department of
tions in elementary or secondary education, will fill a
Education identifies mathematics as a high-needs field
critical gap for effective math teachers.
and reports that only 30 percent of New Jersey eighth-
The 36-credit consumer science program, which begins in September, leverages the power of artificial intelligence, mobile data, business analytics, block-
graders are taught by a teacher with an undergraduate degree in the field. Developed with the input of school principals,
chain technology, location-based data and social
supervisors and superintendents—who were
media listening to identify customers and drive
unanimous in recommending that math teachers
purchasing. “The availability of big data relating to
have a college major in that discipline—the new
consumers and the business intelligence derived from
Saint Peter’s major provides a level of coordination
this data have transformed advertising,” said Joseph
between the mathematics and education departments
Gilkey Jr., Ph.D., M.B.A., director of the University’s
to produce graduates who are well-equipped to teach
master’s program in consumer science. “Saint Peter’s
math in a STEM-rich classroom.
University developed this program in response to the
“This program provides the Department of
growing demand for marketing professionals who can
Mathematics with more meaningful input into the
harness consumer data, analyze it and turn it into
mathematics education of future elementary and
actionable marketing results.”
secondary school math teachers who graduate
Offered on the Jersey City campus and online,
from Saint Peter’s,” said John E. Hammett III, Ed.D.,
the degree will equip students to outmaneuver
chairperson and professor in the Department
competitors through the selection of digital
of Mathematics.
Futures Commence Saint Peter’s University held its 127th commencement on May 21, welcoming 835 graduates into the ranks of the University’s alumni community. Held under sunny skies at the PNC Bank Arts Center, the exercises featured a keynote address by Denise Morrison H ’18, retired chief executive officer of Campbell Soup Company and daughter of the late Dennis Sullivan ’53. Morrison and John B. Wilson, Esq. ’70, H ’18, president and chief executive officer of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in New Jersey and president of the Independent College Fund of New Jersey, were each awarded a degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa. Valedictorian of the Class of 2018 Patrick Joseph Cayabyab Caolie ’18 addressed the ceremony, during which 507 bachelor’s, 315 master’s and 13 doctoral degrees were conferred.
Saint Peter’s University
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UNIVERSITY
News
FACULTY NOTEBOOK
PROLIFIC PENS Saint Peter’s University celebrated faculty publications at the 13th Annual Writers’ Reception on April 25. Held in the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library, the event recognized 152 works created by 50 faculty and administrators across a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. The works highlighted were produced between March 2016 and February 2018. The publications, representing 19 departments at the University, appeared across a broad range of media, from journal articles and books to abstracts, papers in conference proceedings, documentaries and more. Three faculty members—David W. Gerlach, Ph.D., chair of the history department, Yosra Badiei, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, and Jennifer Ayala, Ph.D., professor of education—also shared research presentations during the reception.
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such desires can have terrible consequences, including materialism and conspicuous consumption, or they can inform racial superiority,” he said. “But, if channeled properly, it can be a force for good in the world…Greatness is not measured by what one can take or possess, but by one’s ability to serve.”
John Wesley Johnson Jr., Ph.D.
REFLECTIONS ON KING’S LEGACY The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. H ’65 delivered a speech at Jersey City’s Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church just eight days before his 1968 assassination. To commemorate that historic address, John Wesley Johnson Jr., Ph.D., assistant professor of history at Saint Peter’s University, presented a lecture titled “Peace Be Still: Marching in the Footsteps of the Drum Major” on March 28 at the Apple Tree House in Jersey City. During his address before more than 2,000 people, Dr. King sought support for his “Poor People’s Campaign” for economic justice for the nation’s underprivileged. Despite Dr. King’s April 4, 1968 assassination, a planned march on Washington, D.C., and six-week occupation of the nation’s capital proceeded. A seasoned educator, Dr. Johnson focuses his research on the political and cultural history of 20th century United States, as well as AfricanAmerican history, immigration and urban studies. His recent address reflected the impact of Dr. King’s visit on Jersey City, his role within the civil rights movement in the North, the Poor People’s Campaign and the lasting legacy of the civil rights leader within the community. Referencing a February 4, 1968 speech by Dr. King called the “Drum Major Instinct,” Dr. Johnson noted that man’s greatest desire is to lead in what he calls “the quest for attention.” “In Dr. King’s estimation,
Valera Hascup, Ph.D.
BEACON FOR NURSING PROFESSION Valera Hascup, Ph.D., assistant professor of nursing, was one of 14 nurses to be recognized with the Beacon of Light award presented by The Institute for Nursing, the foundation of the New Jersey State Nurses Association. The award recognizes nurses and community members who embody a passion for the profession and a commitment to helping peers through mentoring, coaching and giving back to the community. FACE OF THE BRAND Robert Donnelly, M.B.A., adjunct professor of entrepreneurship and innovation, contributed an article to the March 2018 issue of New Jersey Business magazine titled, “The Founder/CEO as the Brand.” FOOTBALL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE “Football and Domestic Violence: Developing a Method to Measure the Madness” is the title of
an article published by Beth Ellen Adubato, Ph.D., assistant professor of criminal justice. Dr. Adubato’s article is part of the SAGE Research Methods Cases. ADLER HOLDS RECITAL A recital at The Piano Salon of Yamaha Artist Services in New York on April 10 featured James Adler, M.A., adjunct professor of fine arts, performing piano works by Paul Turok, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Claude Debussy, Henco Espag and Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky. “Elegy for Norman,” composed by Adler in honor of his late brother, received its world premiere with guest flutist Cain-Oscar Bergeron at the recital. In addition, Adler’s recording of “A Winter Triptych” for chorus, French horn and harp is now available as a CD or digital download from Albany Records, iTunes and Amazon. The collection of three Christmas melodies from the Oxford Book of Carols was recorded by the choir of Judson Memorial Church in New York under the direction of Henco Espag.
ART IN MOTION Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens in Kansas is featuring the work of Meryl Taradash, M.F.A., adjunct professor in the Department of Fine
NEW LEADERSHIP FOR FACULTY SENATE WeiDong Zhu, Ph.D., has been elected chair of the Saint Peter’s University Faculty Senate effective July 1. A professor of physics in the Department of Applied Science and Technology, Dr. Zhu is director of the University’s Center for Microplasma Science and Technology. He holds undergraduate and master’s degrees from Soochow University in China and earned a doctorate in physics from Stevens Institute of Technology. In addition, Lori Ann Buza, Esq., chair of the accountancy and business law departments, will serve as vice president of the Faculty Senate, with Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Psychology, retaining her role as secretary. Buza holds an undergraduate degree from Rutgers University and earned a law degree from Rutgers Law School. A graduate of Hofstra University, Dr. Hamilton earned master’s and doctoral degrees from The State University of New York (SUNY).
Arts, in the exhibit “Whirlwind: Art in Motion.” The exhibit celebrates the environment’s power to enhance the aesthetic experience for the viewer. Spotlighting 13 kinetic sculptures from 10 artists, it opened in April and runs through September 30, 2019.
Jennifer Ayala, Ph.D.
CHALLENGING THE NARRATIVE Professor of Education Jennifer Ayala, Ph.D., has published a new book that questions standard narratives of achievement on how Latinx students can experience an education that forges new possibilities of liberation and justice. PAR EntreMundos: A Pedagogy of the Américas (Peter Lang Inc., International Academic Publishers, 2018) offers an alternative approach that embraces complex Latinx identities and clears a path toward resisting systems of oppression. KIDS CAN Daniel B. Fried, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, is the creator of a flagship science learning program called Biochemistry Literacy for Kids. The program, which takes place in Jersey City public schools, uses a specialized, kid-friendly chemistry and biochemistry curriculum to teach high-level concepts to young students. In a new documentary about the program, Dr. Fried said, “The most important thing that allows my students to succeed is the belief that they can.” Watch the documentary at biochemistryliteracyforkids.com.
Saint Peter’s University
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Top of Their Field These 12 Saint Peter’s alumni from the ’80s and ’90s represent thousands of Peacocks who are making a difference in the lives of others. Super Doctor Peter F. DeLuca, M.D. ’81 will never forget the final play of Super Bowl LII. As the seconds ticked down, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady threw a desperate Hail Mary. The incomplete pass handed the Philadelphia Eagles their first Super Bowl victory. “Everything felt suspended in time,” said Dr. DeLuca, team physician for the Eagles. “We didn’t know if he caught it. We didn’t know if there were still seconds left on the clock.” Reality hit as the crowd went wild. Confetti in the shape of the Vince Lombardi Trophy rained down. Players with tears in their eyes embraced Dr. DeLuca, saying, “Doc, if it wasn’t for you, this wouldn’t have been possible.” The road to the Super Bowl began for Dr. DeLuca in his hometown of Jersey City and his family’s deep ties to Saint Peter’s University. His sisters, Rita DeLuca Bucco ’79 and Gina DeLuca Martone, Esq. ’85, are both graduates, as is his brother-in-law, Joseph Bucco ’76. In addition, his uncle, Peter A. DeLuca, M.D. ’77, is an alumnus of the University, as well as Xavier High School in New York. “He always bragged about his Jesuit education,” Dr. DeLuca said of his uncle. Following in his uncle’s footsteps, Dr. DeLuca decided to become a physician and attend Saint Peter’s University, before earning a degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Orthopaedics was a natural choice for the lifelong sports fan. The board-certified orthopaedist joined the staff at the Rothman Institute in Pennsylvania in 2005, and is now associate professor of orthopaedic surgery at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. He is affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Three decades later, he continues to find relevance in his Jesuit education. “The Jesuits create an educational environment that makes you want to keep learning,” he explained. “That thirst for education still drives me.” When the team physician for the Eagles and the Philadelphia Flyers asked Dr. DeLuca—then a diehard New York Giants and Rangers fan—to help out in 1997, he jumped at the chance. Five years and a southward switch in team loyalties later, Dr. DeLuca
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Peter DeLuca, M.D. ’81 1977 Enrolled in Saint Peter’s, following in the footsteps of his uncle 2002 Named head team physician for the Philadelphia Eagles and head orthopaedic surgeon for the Philadelphia Flyers 2018 On the field with Super Bowl LII champions, the Philadelphia Eagles 10
Spring 2018
was appointed team physician for the two Philadelphia franchises. While exciting, the job requires a 24/7 commitment. The toughest part: convincing an injured player to stay off the field or ice. “I’ve learned over the years that you can’t treat a player any different than another patient or your own family,” Dr. DeLuca said. “They’re regular people who need time to recover. What I find fulfilling is taking part in an injured player’s recovery. That still drives me.”
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Story
On the Front Lines of Emerging Epidemics It’s been quite a journey—from undergraduate laboratory assistant at Saint Peter’s to lead researcher of an international study on coronavirus—for Amira A. Roess, Ph.D. ’99. Dr. Roess, assistant professor of global health at the Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, has spent more than a decade studying emerging infectious diseases. Her passion for population health has taken her to Central Africa to identify methods to contain and prevent Monkeypox and Ebola, and more recently to East Africa and the Middle East, where she and an interdisciplinary team hope to pinpoint how MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Coronavirus) spills over from wildlife to camels and then humans. The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded the project a $2.5 million grant and Dr. Roess will lead an international team that includes geographers, anthropologists and veterinarians. “A lot of the interdisciplinary work I do today began at Saint Pe-
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Amira Roess, Ph.D. ’99 1996 Became an undergraduate researcher and lab assistant in the biology department at Saint Peter’s 2003 Joined the CDC as an epidemic intelligence service officer 2018 Lead researcher on an NSF funded, international study tracking how coronavirus moves from animals to humans
ter’s,” said Dr. Roess, who majored in biology and philosophy. “Early on, I learned a really good lesson on how seemingly different disciplines are interrelated.” As a professor and researcher, the epidemiologist practices the cura personalis she experienced as a student. “I had fantastic mentorship at Saint Peter’s and in graduate school, which made all the difference for me,” said Dr. Roess, who holds a Ph.D. in public health from Johns Hopkins University and M.P.H. from Rutgers University. “I try and do the same for others.”
A Global Outlook on Finance Transitioning from high school to college can be difficult, especially when you understand no English. Alessandro Gajano ’82 arrived in America in 1978 from Italy. At Saint Peter’s, he combined business classes with work and also attended school on the weekends, at night and during the summer. Through sheer determination, Gajano completed his degree in four years—with honors. “Saint Peter’s taught me discipline, which has helped me tremendously throughout my career,” said Gajano, who graduated summa cum laude. Gajano credits the late John Benson, Ph.D. ’53, professor of classical languages and literature, for acting as a mentor. “Dr. Benson not only spoke Italian, he would also take the time to meet with me to provide support and guidance,” Gajano recalled. “He illustrated just how important it is to help others.” Gajano has earned success in the financial world, serving today as treasurer of Banco do Brasil in New York. He also pays it forward by meeting with economics and law students from Naples, Italy, both here and abroad, to teach them about the financial markets and share his experiences. With a 20 percent unemployment rate in southern Italy, Gajano believes many of these students fail to believe that their dreams are attainable. “Sometimes people underestimate themselves,” Gajano says. “I hope that my own journey can serve as an inspiration to others.”
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Alessandro Gajano ’82 1982 Graduated with a degree in economics, four years after moving from Italy 1991 Named first vice president and treasurer of Banco di Napoli, New York 2006 Named deputy general manager and treasurer of Banco do Brasil, New York
Saint Peter’s University
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PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Patrick Annello, M.D. ’99
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Katrina T. Sabater, M.D. ’00
1985 As a third grader, decided to become a doctor 1995 A Presidential Scholarship brought him to Saint Peter’s 1999 Cura personalis in the form of Rev. James Loughran, S.J., the then-president of Saint Peter’s, assisted him in applying to medical school
1988 Arrived in the United States from the Philippines 1997 Financial assistance from Saint Peter’s enabled her to attend college 2005 Graduated from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, completing her residency at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medicine in 2009
Taming His Patient’s Pain
Accomplished Anesthesiologist
Little notes go a long way for Patrick Annello, M.D. ’99. Thank you
Funds were tight for Katrina T. Sabater, M.D. ’00 to attend col-
letters and visits provide meaningful proof that the pain manage-
lege. An immigrant from the Philippines, she initially earned a
ment specialist has made a difference. “Nothing can replicate the
scholarship from a highly-regarded technical college, which then
feeling that produces,” said Dr. Annello, an anesthesiologist. “The
rescinded the offer because she wasn’t yet a United States citizen.
gratification and thankfulness people show is tremendous.”
Her guidance counselor at Saint Dominic Academy walked the
A Long Island native, Dr. Annello decided in third grade to
distraught student down Kennedy Boulevard to Saint Peter’s. “It
become a doctor. A Presidential Scholarship drew him to
was a lifesaver,” Dr. Sabater said of the financial assistance she
Saint Peter’s, where he majored in biology. Striking up a friend-
received.
ship with the late President Rev. James N. Loughran, S.J., Dr. An-
Dr. Sabater was no stranger to the then-College. The talented
nello thrived at Saint Peter’s. He took part in Model U.N., coached
student had already earned college credits at Saint Peter’s through
women’s volleyball and met his future wife, Katrina T. Sabater, M.D.
a summer program for high school scholars. Several advanced
’00. When it came time for medical school, Fr. Loughran made a
placement courses in high school also earned her college credits.
call to Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine on his
Graduating Saint Peter’s in three years, she followed her then-
behalf. “The Jesuit connection makes a big difference,” Dr. Annello
boyfriend, Patrick Annello, M.D. ’99, to Loyola University Chicago
said. “They really look out for their students.”
Stritch School of Medicine, but transferred to Icahn School of
Today, that same Jesuit ideal of cura personalis runs deep in Dr. Annello’s practice, St. Francis Pain Associates on Long Island. He is one of a select group of doctors in New York state to perform
Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York after Dr. Annello’s mother became ill. Now an anesthesiologist at North American Partners in An-
spinal cord stimulation, an advanced treatment for severe pain.
esthesia, one of the nation’s largest anesthesiology groups, she
His greatest reward: knowing he’s relieved someone’s suffering. He
counts her Jesuit education as an effective tool for connecting
said, “These days, doctors go into medicine to put their mark on
with patients. “I can relate to patients on the spiritual side of
the world and impact other people’s lives.”
medicine,” said Dr. Sabater, who is married to Dr. Annello. “The spirituality and values I learned at Saint Peter’s ground me and give me faith.”
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Spring 2018
COVER
Story
A Diplomatic Life In sixth grade, Marta Costanzo Youth ’87 set a career goal to work in foreign service. At the time, her friend’s older sister had just enrolled in Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, and Youth decided to follow in her footsteps. Like her role model, Youth applied to Georgetown University as a high school senior, but a paperwork snafu negated her financial aid offer. Instead, the bright student enrolled at Saint Peter’s, with a generous scholarship. Georgetown’s loss was Youth’s gain. “Frankly, I think the reason I was successful in achieving my objective was because I attended Saint Peter’s,” said Youth, director of the U.S. State Department’s Office of Europe, Central Asia and the Americas for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration in Washington, D.C. “It’s very likely that in a different environment, it would have been much more difficult to flourish.” At Saint Peter’s, faculty took a personal interest in her success, presenting opportunities like studying in Washington, D.C., and Italy to lay the groundwork for a foreign service career. As a diplomat, Youth has been posted to countries around the world, including India, Spain, Ecuador, Canada and Nicaragua. She has represented the United States at conferences, liaised with relief organizations, stood shoulder to shoulder with heads of state and assisted people in severe poverty and crisis. Every day on the job, she finds relevance in her Jesuit education. “Some of the things I took from Saint Peter’s are intellectual curiosity, flexibility and adaptability,” she explained. “They’re all key parts of being a foreign service officer.” While meeting dignitaries is exciting, Youth said it’s critical to remain professional at all times. “If a head of state comes through your agency, you try not to be diplomatic tourists,” she noted. “The highlight is not who you’ve met, but the policy success—knowing that you’ve achieved something for your government, the American people and your host country.” After years of living abroad, Youth returned to the United States last July to her current role managing programs that assist refugees around the world. Reflecting on her career, she points to cherished moments, such as meeting people housed in refugee camps and humanitarian workers, as highlights of her career. “When you travel, you do see people who are not as fortunate as we are in the United States,” Youth said. “They live very basic lives. The fascinating thing is, just because people live humble lives doesn’t mean they’re not happy. It has taught me how little one needs to be happy.”
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Marta Costanzo Youth ’87 1983 Accepted a scholarship to Saint Peter’s 1991 Offered her first job at the U.S. State Department 2017 Appointed director of the U.S. State Department’s Office of Europe, Central Asia and the Americas for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration in Washington, D.C.
Saint Peter’s University
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The Sky is the Limit Abed Awad, Esq. ’91 can trace his professional and personal blessings to a specific time and place: the years he spent as an undergraduate at Saint Peter’s University. “Everything that’s good in my life started at Saint Peter’s,” said Awad, a noted attorney, legal commentator and national expert on Islamic law. Born in New Jersey, Awad was 6 when his family moved to a small village on the outskirts of Ramallah. He attended a Quaker school and returned to New Jersey for his senior year of high school and then Saint Peter’s, where Awad’s faith tradition and upbringing aligned with Ignatian values. “As a Muslim, I was very connected to the Jesuit tradition,” he said. “Respect for your elders, tolerance, emphasis on education, a sense of responsibility to others—that’s the Jesuit tradition.” Awad also met his wife, Dorothy Tymczyszyn Awad ’89, at Saint Peter’s. The couple, married for 25 years, have three children. After freshman year, Awad, a political science major, set an ambitious course for his life. He formed close relationships with his professors, including a friendship with Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s, that continues to this day. A native speaker of Arabic, Awad completed graduate coursework at Columbia University and earned a Master of Arts in Near and Middle East Studies from the University of London prior to attending Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. He clerked for the New Jersey Superior Court for a year and then started his own law firm. Within a few years, he established a thriving practice, which became Awad & Khoury, LLP, Attorneys at Law in 2010. His expertise in Islamic law led to high profile cases. In 2002, Awad represented the plaintiff in Odatalla v. Odatalla, a case involving the divorce of a Muslim couple and a dispute over a provision in their marriage contract, the mahr, a mandatory payment. The case went to trial. “The court had to determine whether the provision in this Muslim marriage contract is enforceable in the state of New Jersey and whether it violated the separation of religion vs. state. Is it a religious obligation or secular obligation?” Awad explained. The court ruled for the plaintiff and the case made news. Awad’s expertise in the interpretation and application of Islamic law was in high demand. He testified and consulted on cases throughout the U.S., became an adjunct professor at Rutgers Law School and made countless appearances on CNN, PBS, ABC, HuffPost Live and the BBC as a political and legal commentator. In 2015, SHARIASource, a project of the Islamic Legal Studies Program at Harvard Law School, selected Awad to be U.S. editor, and
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Abed Awad, Esq. ’91 1987 Began studies as a political science major at Saint Peter’s 2002 Won a precedent-setting case that determined a civil court could enforce the terms of a Muslim marriage contract in New Jersey 2010 Established Awad & Khoury, LLP, Attorneys at Law 14
Spring 2018
he also contributes articles to its peer-reviewed blog. “The bottom line is that I credit Saint Peter’s for giving me the guidance and a compass to move ahead,” Awad said. “The personal attention I received gave me a bridge to get through and realize my full potential. When you get that bridge and cross a threshold, the sky is the limit.”
COVER
Story
Champion for Educational Opportunity Growing up in Jersey City, La Toro Yates, Ph.D. ’94, ’98 would often find himself walking by the College in his community. “Even as a young child, it was clear to me that Saint Peter’s had a great respect for Jersey City and Jersey City had a great respect for Saint Peter’s,” Dr. Yates recalled. Little did he know the profound impact the institution would have on his life. After transferring to Saint Peter’s, he found himself exposed to a world filled with greater diversity, a newfound awareness of diverging opinions and a curriculum that challenged him. “Saint Peter’s taught me to love education and inspired me to share what I learned with the world,” said Dr. Yates. At Saint Peter’s, he was mentored by the first black man he ever met with a doctorate, Robert Perry, Ph.D. Dr. Perry exemplified what could be, inspiring Dr. Yates to aim higher. Dr. Yates went on to earn his doctorate and is now executive
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: La Toro Yates, Ph.D. ’94, ’98 1992 Transferred from Virginia State University to Saint Peter’s 1997 Joined Saint Peter’s as an admission counselor 2016 Appointed executive director for enrollment management at York College
director for enrollment management at York College of The City University of New York. He has traveled to schools across the country to share his story about overcoming socioeconomic challenges. “I let others know they should seek out mentors who can manifest who they can be in the future,” said Dr. Yates. “There are young people watching who see they can find success, just as I did.”
Leading Corporate Tax Attorney When Richard M. Nugent, Esq. ’92 arrived at Saint Peter’s, he expected to gain all of the experiences he would need for future success. The student-athlete—a Peacock tennis player—learned that losing teaches valuable life lessons. “Intercollegiate athletics are important because there are highs and lows,” said Nugent. “Learning how to deal with those lows during your formative years can pay off in dividends down the road and help build character.” Nugent has many fond memories of Saint Peter’s, including participating in an Emmaus Retreat. He graduated summa cum laude in 1992, and went on to earn a law degree from Rutgers Law School in Newark and a Master of Law from Georgetown University. Today, Nugent is a successful partner at Jones Day® in New York. He has 19 years of experience advising clients on the tax aspects of public and private mergers and acquisitions, spinoffs and internal restructurings, advising debtors and creditors within and outside bankruptcy and more. Nugent counts several professors, including the late Rev. John Ruane, S.J., philosophy, as enormous influences. “John was a real man of God and embodied humility and kindness,” Nugent said.
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Richard Nugent, Esq. ’92 1992 Enrolled in Rutgers Law School 1997 Clerked in Lansing, Mich., for a judge with the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit 2017 Became a partner at Jones Day®
Saint Peter’s University
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CEO to Watch Noreen Heath Beaman, CPA ’86 sums up her company’s mission simply: “Our job is to improve people’s outcomes—to help them live, put their kids through school and retire. It’s about humanity.” As chief executive officer of Brinker Capital, Beaman takes that philosophy to heart every day, inspiring employees to aim higher to safeguard the future for the firm’s clients. Saint Peter’s runs in the Heath family. The oldest of four sisters, Beaman paved the way for two younger siblings, Mary Heath Calcaterra ’93 and Susan Heath Ahern, Ed.D. ’18, to attend the University. As an undergraduate, Beaman scored an internship at Ernst & Young that opened the door for a career in finance. After graduation, she accepted a job with the firm before moving on to Mutual Benefit Capital Companies. That decision proved to be fortuitous. After a colleague founded Brinker Capital in 1987 as a subsidiary of Mutual Benefit, Beaman joined the staff. Two years later, she and six partners took the firm private, with Beaman appointed chief financial officer. In the early years, Brinker Capital employees all juggled a diverse pool of duties within the startup. Beaman drew on her Saint Peter’s liberal arts education to tackle the inevitable day-to-day challenges of advancing the new organization. Twenty-seven years later, the ability to remain open to new ideas—a hallmark of Jesuit education—and the flexibility to deal with challenges remains a guiding principle for Beaman, who was appointed CEO six years ago. “At Brinker Capital, we’re in such a people business and it’s never dull,” she noted. “We are always focused on delivering better outcomes for our clients.” That client focus connects strongly with serving others, a mandate central to the culture of Jesuit institutions such as Saint Peter’s. Beaman takes the responsibility seriously, on the job and in her personal life. At the University, she has served on the Board of Trustees and Board of Regents, and has provided opportunities for Saint Peter’s students to intern at Brinker Capital. It’s her way of giving back to the University that helped to set her on the path to success. Reflecting on the role Jesuit education has played in her life, Beaman recognizes the profound impact Saint Peter’s continues to make on her career. Jesuit-inspired values, as well as a strong work ethic, have taken her far. Along the way, she has earned recognition for her leadership, including InvestmentNews honoring her as one of 20 Women to Watch in 2017. “The thirst for knowledge embedded in my Jesuit education provides me with the ability to sit in this chair as CEO and be an ongoing learner,” she said.
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Noreen Heath Beaman, CPA ’86 1983 Transferred to Saint Peter’s to major in accounting 1991 Became a founding partner and CFO of Brinker Capital 2012 Named CEO of Brinker Capital
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Spring 2018
“It’s part of who I am.”
COVER
Story
The Business of Improving Lives Not many newly minted accounting graduates become controller of a company right out of college, but Maria Arreaga Solorzano ’84 was no ordinary business undergraduate. Born in Ecuador and raised in Jersey City, Solorzano began a 40-year career in finance while still in high school. A teacher at William L. Dickinson High School introduced her to the Education Federal Credit Union, now Liberty Savings Federal Credit Union (LSFCU), and Solorzano was hired as a file clerk. After one semester at Hudson County Community College, Solorzano transferred to Saint Peter’s, where she attended classes in the morning and worked at the credit union in the afternoon. LSFCU’s founders, Catherine and William Miller, took a personal interest in her future and career. “They put me on the right path,” said Solorzano, who assumed greater responsibility at the financial not-for-profit while attending Saint Peter’s. “The great experience I had at Saint Peter’s made me who I am,” said Solorzano, who clearly relishes being in the business of improving people’s lives. She rose through the ranks to become vice president and chief financial officer, and in 2017, was named president and CEO of an institution that has grown to 22,000 members and nearly $90 million in assets, succeeding James Miller Sr. ’68. “I feel fortunate to be able to lead the credit union and that the Board of Directors put their faith in me,” Solorzano said. “Our pas-
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: Maria Arreaga Solorzano ’84 1980 Transferred from Hudson County Community College to Saint Peter’s 1984 Graduated with a B.S. in accounting and named controller of the LSFCU. Solorzano was promoted several times and named vice president and CFO in 1999 2017 Appointed president and CEO of LSFCU
sion here is to help people and take care of the community.”
Standard Bearer for Jesuit Education Ignatian values run deep in the career of James C. DeAngelo, M.Ed. ’99. The Jesuit-educated principal of Saint Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City has had a profound impact on the mission of his school and its students. “Today’s students at Prep have a clear understanding of who Saint Ignatius was and his vision for education,” he said. “They have many opportunities to experience spiritual growth and development.” DeAngelo’s own Ignatian journey began when he enrolled as a student at Prep, as the school is fondly called, in the 1980s. The lessons he learned about Saint Ignatius resonated, leading him to Boston College and then Saint Peter’s, where DeAngelo earned a master’s in education. “The concept of finding God in all things presented an intriguing and comforting world view,” he recalled. After college graduation, DeAngelo accepted a job teaching German at Prep and was eventually promoted to chair the modern languages department. He left the school briefly to serve the then-New
PATHWAY TO DISTINCTION: James DeAngelo, M.Ed. ’99 1981 Began the Jesuit education that would shape his career at Saint Peter’s Preparatory School 1999 Earned his master’s degree in education from Saint Peter’s 2007 Appointed principal of Saint Peter’s Preparatory School
York Province of the Society of Jesus, but returned two years later. Now principal at the high school for 11 years, he says his students’ dedication to Ignatian spirituality—despite encountering fewer Jesuits—bodes well for the future: “It speaks to the power of the Ignatian world vision and the commitment of the Society of Jesus to share their mission with lay people.”
Saint Peter’s University
17
10 MINUTES
with...
Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68
Leading by Example
The tenure of Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 as chairman of the Board of Trustees sparked an era of tremendous progress at Saint Peter’s University. As he retires, Mac Mahon reflects on the importance of vision and leadership in shaping the future of the University and its students. You’ve helped to drive an incredible transformation at
ronment when other institutions aren’t generating dra-
Saint Peter’s University.
matic admissions. We also raised a significant amount
In 2011, Saint Peter’s—under the leadership of President
of money for a capital campaign when the worldwide
Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.—was building an exciting
markets were in disarray. It’s a wonderful story to tell.
strategic plan. As I look back, we’ve achieved most of
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Spring 2018
the items in the plan. The greatest single achievement
How did the Board of Trustees play a role?
is a dramatic increase in admissions. There’s been
Saint Peter’s board members were leaders during our
significant growth in the past five years. Students are
most recent capital campaign, but the board does much
flocking to Saint Peter’s under the leadership of the cur-
more than provide financial support. The job of a board
rent faculty and administration. That means revenues
is to think strategically, have a good president in place
are up dramatically, so the financial condition of the
and make sure the financial condition of the University
institution has improved. This has happened in an envi-
is strong. Board members are watchdogs. The board,
administration and faculty all understand the expec-
any success on the business side that I’ve had in life
tations that have been set for the University’s growth.
would have never happened without the development
It’s all about giving students the most positive experience we can. The student center has had a
that I experienced at Saint Peter’s. That’s for sure. When I compare Saint Peter’s today to the college I
profound impact on student life at Saint Peter’s. Now,
attended 50 years ago, it still has the same basic mis-
there’s a place for students to meet. It’s helped with
sion. It has the same type of students. They want to
admissions and also retention. When we give campus
be there, and they really are engaged in going to and
tours, we move potential students toward the east
participating in a university. Today, there are more
side of the campus, which houses the student center
programs and more opportunities. There are better
and is the hub of student life. It’s very impressive.
facilities. I think the Jesuit mission Saint Peter’s ful-
Frank Fekete, CPA ’75
fills to perfection is being in an inner city, being part What qualities did you bring to the table as
of an urban society. This university educates students
board chair?
who give back and as an institution reaches out into
I hope people would say management skills—30 or 40
the community to help. Saint Peter’s has been doing
years of senior management experience in the private
this for a long time.
sector. I would hope tenacity, an ability to create a process or enhance a process that already existed.
What’s next for Saint Peter’s?
Leaders have to lead, not only from a business and
Saint Peter’s is in a special time. The University is
process perspective, but from a financial perspective,
flourishing and so is Jersey City. We’ve got parallel
as well. I’ve been fortunate to be able to do that. I do
courses. Now, Saint Peter’s needs to do two things: enhance the endowment and the west side of campus.
“Saint Peter’s is in a special time. The University is flourishing and so is Jersey City. We’ve got parallel courses.”
An endowment allows students to receive financial aid and scholarships. Right now, we have a very small endowment compared with other universities. It’s also time to turn our attention to the west side of campus. That part of campus includes all of the classrooms and The Rev. Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J.,
want to make the point that I may have been a part
Recreational Life Center. Some of the facilities are
of Saint Peter’s transformation, but I wasn’t the main
70 or 80 years old, and it’s very visible to prospective
person. Dr. Cornacchia is a great leader. It’s been a
students. What Saint Peter’s University now needs to
good team.
do is bring the newness of the student center to the west campus. That will bring in more students, which
Saint Peter’s alumni seem excited about the
in turn, fulfills our Jesuit mission.
University’s progress. They’re ecstatic. The feedback I get is that most
Any plans for retirement?
alumni never had a student center when they were
I’m retiring at a time when I see a completely
at Saint Peter’s. They never saw a capital campaign
committed board that has matured phenomenally.
that could raise $65 million dollars. Alumni are more
Everybody’s engaged. While I’m busy, I’m not as
engaged. They believe in the story that’s being told
busy as I used to be. So I’ll always be part of Saint
about Saint Peter’s. Now, we want more alumni to
Peter’s. I’ve been fortunate in life and I’ll help in any
see what’s happening here. Our challenge is getting
way I can.
them to visit. When alumni see it for themselves, they believe.
Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 is the retired chairman and chief executive officer of LabCorp. Chairman of the Saint Peter’s
How has the Jesuit mission shaped these changes?
University Board of Trustees since 2012, he was the lead
Jesuit philosophy and mission is a total experience.
donor for Students at the Center: The Campaign for
It’s educational, it’s social and, often, it’s athletic, as
Saint Peter’s University.
well. As a student, I gained confidence in all three of those areas, and I’m absolutely convinced that
NEW LEADERSHIP The Saint Peter’s University Board of Trustees has elected Frank L. Fekete, CPA ’75 to be its chair. Fekete has served on the Saint Peter’s Board of Trustees for seven years, and was a 2016 recipient of the University’s Professional Achievement Award. Since 1984, he has been a managing partner of Mandel, Fekete and Bloom, CPAs, in Jersey City. Susan MitchellAbbate ’72 has been named vice chair. She retired in 2006 as executive vice president of human resources at CIT Group, where she was responsible for human resource strategy, compensation, benefits and organization development. A member of the board since 2011, she holds a M.B.A. in finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Saint Peter’s University
19
1
TOP REASONS DONORS GIVE
ADVANCEMENT
Mission Motivates The real reasons donors give Studies* show that for a majority of Americans, the mission of an organization like Saint Peter’s University drives charitable giving more than practical factors such as tax incentives. That should come as no surprise to graduates of Jesuit institutions, whose lives have been shaped largely by Ignatian values.
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Spring 2018
Belief in the mission of the organization
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Belief that the gift can make a difference For personal satisfaction, enjoyment or fulfillment
To support the same causes/organizations year after year To give back to the community For religious beliefs To receive a tax benefit
For political or philosophical beliefs
* 2016 U.S. Trust Study of High Net Worth Philanthropy
E
arlier this year, the passage of tax reform
strategic plan developed by President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.,
sparked questions about the new legislation’s
and the University’s Board of Trustees. Michaud said, “When
potential effect on philanthropic contributions
leaders have a strategy and a plan, donors have more confidence
for nonprofit organizations. The most potent
in the institution, and they invest accordingly. At Saint Peter’s,
motivation for giving, however, was left out of
they have contributed generously and thoughtfully.” Recently,
the conversation. When it comes to charitable
the University’s donors have helped to build a stronger financial
giving, donors are as focused on mission as ever.
base that has fueled unprecedented growth in admissions,
That’s great news in the philanthropic world,
academic programs and improved University facilities.
according to Charlie Michaud, a partner with
Joseph Apicella, Esq. ’69 has renewed his support at a higher
CCS Fundraising. “For major philanthropists and families, mission
level because he believes in Saint Peter’s mission and future.
is the driver,” Michaud said. “In our experience, people want to give
When Apicella’s tax adviser mentioned that he could maximize
to something that will have a big impact in the community.”
his giving through tax-free distributions up to $100,000 from his IRA, the longtime Saint Peter’s benefactor said, “Saint Peter’s
Charlie Ramos ’02, a vice president at Morgan Stanley, has heard similar sentiments from the clients he advises. A generous
gave to me. Now at 70 ½ years of age, it’s time for me to give back
donor to Saint Peter’s, Ramos recently increased his own support
through my IRA.”
for the University. “Most of my clients are highly philanthropic,”
Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05, vice president for advancement and ex-
he noted. “They’re not motivated for tax reasons, but purely to
ternal affairs, expressed confidence in the strong philanthropic
help make the world a better place. That resonates with me.”
commitment to Saint Peter’s mission. “Our donors are extremely dedicated to the University’s mission and its students,” she ex-
For Saint Peter’s donors, Jesuit mission and effective organizational leadership are strong indicators that the
plained. “I find that it’s not tax reform that they want to discuss;
University is on a trajectory that’s worth their investment. They
they’d prefer to talk about how their gifts—large or small—can
have responded with confidence to Pathways to Distinction, the
propel the upward trajectory of Saint Peter’s.”
Giving Makes Good Things Possible
$22,000
average scholarship package to deserving students
50,000
35%
total hours of service to the community
of undergraduates conduct research with a faculty member
3 THINGS TO ASK YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISER 1. How can I accomplish something more meaningful in the most tax-efficient way? Be sure to ask how blended gifts (a combination of cash and planned giving) can help you to reach your goal.
2. How can lead or charitable remainder trusts benefit my family and the charities I care most about? These vehicles are tax-efficient ways to provide you with income, transfer wealth to your children or other loved ones and support favorite nonprofits like Saint Peter’s.
3. How can I make tax-efficient charitable gifts from my individual retirement account (IRA)? Your adviser can explain the tax benefits of gifting from your IRA once you reach age 70½.
Interested in learning how to make a gift to Saint Peter’s? Contact Linda S. Moore, J.D., director of leadership giving, at lmoore2@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-6128.
Saint Peter’s University
21
ADVANCEMENT
May 4 was a Peacock-studded evening at the Mac Mahon Student Center, as the Saint Peter’s University community gathered for Hearts & Minds: The Saint Peter’s University Scholarship Celebration. The Monte Carlo-themed night honored Warren C. Fristensky ’74, Julie Delaney Fristensky ’73 and Robert J. Goldstein, M.B.A. ’60, ’06 for loyalty to alma mater and Elnardo J. Webster, Ed.D. ’69 for service to community. All proceeds from the signature event benefit the students of Saint Peter’s through the General Scholarship Fund.
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1. Guests play a competitive game of craps 2. Donald Fanelli, DMD, Alice Lehman, Frank Fekete, CPA ’75 and Tony Verdoni ’64 3. John Cannon ’89, Damier Johnson Roberts ’18, Shan Kazmi ’18, Leo Flores ’18 and Omar Crespo ’11 4. Elnardo Webster, Ed.D. ’69, recipient of the service to community award 5. Robert Goldstein, M.B.A. ’60, ’06, recipient of the loyalty to alma mater award 6. Decorations and the night’s program 7. Honorees with Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University 8. Guests play casino games 9. Warren Fristensky ’74 and Julie Delaney Fristensky ’73, recipients of the loyalty to alma mater award 10. Bryan Felt, director of athletics, and his wife, Tara 11. The Aidan C. McMullen Chorale 12. Last year’s loyalty to alma mater award recipients Maureen Lemke Pergola ’94 and Anthony O. Pergola, Esq. ’92 with Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry 13. Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University, and Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry 14. Kapil Bastola ’12 and Ritam Neupane ’12 15. A group plays roulette 16. Shaheen Holloway, head men’s basketball coach, and his wife, Kim, with Marc Mitchell, head women’s basketball coach, and his wife, Winsome 17. Guests browse the silent auction 18. Jazz band
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Saint Peter’s University
23
PEACOCK
U
Off and Running Left to right: New Head Basketball Coaches Marc Mitchell, women’s, and Shaheen Holloway, men’s With the appointment of three high-profile coaches, Saint Peter’s University Athletics Director Bryan Felt is fulfilling his pledge to
and now will shine as a head coach.” During a news conference announcing Holloway’s appointment,
inject strong leadership into Peacock athletics. Leading the slate
Felt said, “It was critical that we find someone of great integrity,
of new hires is Shaheen Holloway, named head coach of the men’s
who possesses a tireless work ethic and most importantly, fits into
basketball team in April. Holloway spent the past eight seasons as
our renewed culture of excellence within Saint Peter’s athletics.”
associate head coach at his alma mater, Seton Hall University. Vow-
Those qualities also apply to the new coaches of the women’s bas-
ing to work with his players and the University’s administration
ketball team, Marc Mitchell, and cross country/track & field teams,
toward success in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC),
John Marshall.
Holloway said, “Together, we will help elevate Peacock men’s bas-
As head coach at the Fairleigh Dickinson University College at Florham, Mitchell piloted his teams to six Middle Atlantic Confer-
ketball, here in New Jersey and in the MAAC.” In high school, Holloway played for legendary coach Kevin Boyle
ence Freedom Women’s Basketball Championships, earning six
’86 at St. Patrick’s High School, competing in the 1996 McDonald’s
straight NCAA Division III tournament appearances. His unde-
All-American Game. Boyle, who now coaches in Florida, told Zags-
feated 2013-2014 team captured a national title. He was named
blog, “It’s well deserved. He’s one of the all-time great high school
Freedom Conference Coach of the Year four times, D3 News Coach
and college players in the metro area. He’s an excellent recruiter
of the Year, WBCA Coach of the Year by the Women’s Basketball
All-MAAC Honors for Two Golfers 24
Spring 2018
Top 10 finishes in the 2018 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Men’s Golf Championship earned slots on this year’s All-MAAC team for Mike Winter ’19 and Jeffrey Peters ’21. Winter ended the April
tournament, held at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course in Florida, with a third-place finish, while Peters tied for eighth. This was the fourth season that at least two Peacocks have scored spots on the
Get the Latest Peacock News Subscribe to Peacock Bulletin to receive the latest info on your favorite Saint Peter’s teams. Sign up for this monthly online newsletter at saintpeterspeacocks.com.
Season Tickets Now On Sale! John Marshall, head track & field /cross country coach Coaches Association and All Met Coach of the Year by the Metropolitan Basketball Writers Association. “You’ve got to have heart and determination, and a will to win,” he said. “I like players who hate to lose more than they love to win. Those are the kind of student-athletes we’re going to recruit.” A 1984 Olympian, Marshall took the helm of the men’s and women’s cross country/track & field programs in March. He brings nearly 20 years of coaching experience to Saint Peter’s, including at his alma mater, Villanova University, where he was named NCAA Coach of the Year in 1994. He has coached 12 NCAA individual champions, more than 40 All-Americans and a Rhodes Scholar, and his teams have won NCAA and Big East titles. He welcomes the return to Division I coaching, adding, “Saint Peter’s has a tremendous history in men’s and women’s track & field and I am eager to get started in our quest for a MAAC championship.”
All-MAAC team. The team graduates no golfers this year, pointing to a promising 2019 campaign for the squad, coached by Nick Dilio ’16.
Experience the excitement of Peacock basketball with a season ticket package for 2018-2019. Season ticket holders* receive lots of perks, including a VIP party, media guide, meet and greet with the team and invitations to attend open practices. Customize the package that suits your schedule. For the best value, purchase the combo package, which offers courtside seating for all men’s and women’s home games for $300, or general seating for $100. Packages are also available with courtside or general seating for the men’s or women’s seasons. New this year is the Postgrad Program, providing a free season ticket pass for all men’s and women’s home games to the Class of 2018. For more information or to register, contact Anna Pitingolo, marketing and communications assistant, at apitingolo@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-7300. *Available with combo and men’s packages only
Jeffrey Peters ’21
Mike Winter ’19
Saint Peter’s University
25
CLASS NEWS
& Notes
Have you… • Landed your first job?
1952
Send us your news!
Gerald Kallman Sr. recently presented a paper titled “Face-to-Face Marketing and International Exhibitions” at the Annual UFI (Union des Foires Internationales) Congress in Johannesburg, South Africa. Kallman Worldwide, Inc. has been engaged in trade fair management and marketing for more than 53 years.
• Retired from your last job? • Met the love of your life? • Celebrated a milestone anniversary? • Welcomed a child? • Welcomed a grandchild?
1959
• Reminisced with friends from Saint Peter’s? • Received a promotion or honor? Saint Peter’s University welcomes any and all news about your career, education, family life and reconnecting with other alumni. Submit a note via email to alumni@saintpeters.edu or send to: Office of Alumni Engagement, 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07306.
Col. Thomas Foley, USA (Ret.) and his wife, Maryellen, recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary.
1960 Hon. Bruce Graham has penned his latest novel, Green Mountain
GOLD Standard Young alumni met and mingled at a happy hour for GOLD (Graduates Of the Last Decade) alumni on April 26. Held at Hudson Hall in Jersey City, the event featured an opportunity for alumni to catch up with old friends, network and reconnect with Saint Peter’s University. GOLD alumni—who graduated between 2009 and 2018—receive special privileges, including reduced pricing for most alumni events, special programming and entry levels for the President’s Council, the University’s premier leadership giving society. To learn about upcoming GOLD events, contact Karen Hackett, senior alumni engagement officer, at khackett@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-6113. 1. Ariel Ramirez ’14, Alana Janiszewski ’16, Johan Romero ’14 and Yadi Marmolejos ’09 2. The crowd mixes and mingles at Hudson Hall 3. Khadeen Isaacs ’12, David Watson ’14, Erica Gbekle ’15, Christopher Diaz ’15, Jasmery Davila ’15 and Venny Jean Turner ’13 4. Shishir Khadka ’12, Ali Hassan ’13, Natalia (Carvalho) Hassan ’14 and Khadeen Isaacs ’12 5. Omar Crespo ’11, Javier Lua Freire ’17, Venny Jean Turner ’13 and Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry
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Gunfighter (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2018), which is available as an e-book on Amazon or hard copy from outlawspublishing.com. It recounts the life of a Vermont boy who served in the Army during the Civil War and went on to become a hired gun in the West. John Kip recently retired as planning commissioner for the town of Warrenton, Va.
1962 John Grisoni has been working with Project SEARCH, a national program under the Department of Labor, which helps young people with disabilities to find internship placements in local hospitals.
C AT C H I N G U P W I T H . . .
1963
1968
Peter Stewart, Esq., recently retired from his law firm, Carella, Byrne, Cecchi, Olstein, Brody & Agnello, P.C., located in Roseland, N.J., after 40 years and also retired from the Board of Directors of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey after 30 years.
Anthony Calabrese, M.D., recently retired from his gastroenterology practice in Annapolis, Md., after more than 45 years working as a physician.
John Connolly will be retiring at the age of 80. He and his wife will move to Maine and spend their time hiking. George Degnon has served as a volunteer with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The organization is a Catholic charity that strives to serve those in need.
1964 John Santapietro, Ph.D., recently retired from the position of principal sensor systems engineer with The MITRE Corporation after 24 years. He is now an adjunct professor of electrical and computer engineering and mathematics at Stevens Institute of Technology.
1967 John Reilly Jr. was memorialized with a ceremony and a plaque on the West Liberty University Theatre Wall of Honor for his years of service to the university theater (1980-2008). Dimitry Droujinsky was a Russian born in Jerusalem. After living there for 20 years, he emigrated to the United States in 1959, and in 1960 joined the United States Marines. With a degree in French and a minor in Russian from Saint Peter’s, he secured a position as a special agent in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He retired in 1998. He recently wrote and published a book of true short stories: Life Experiences of a Youth from Palestine (Politics & Prose, 2017), available on Amazon and Kindle.
Living the Mission When Saint Peter’s University magazine last spoke with Steven Llanes, Esq. ’02, he had just graduated at the top
1969 In March, James De Noble retired from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Site Remediation Program after 29 years of service.
1970 Pat Finnegan was honored with his class at Bergen Catholic High School’s Hall of Fame dinner in November 2017. The Council of Independent Colleges honored John B. Wilson, Esq., for his 28-year commitment to independent higher education. Wilson is president and chief executive officer of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in New Jersey and president of the Independent College Fund of New Jersey.
of his Saint Peter’s class and was heading to Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government for graduate studies. Today, he can pinpoint the moment that set him on a course toward a highly successful career in law and public policy and an enduring commitment to serving others: the day his Cuban-born grandparents became American citizens. Llanes, the son of Cuban immigrants and the grandson of a political prisoner who fled Cuba, recalls helping his grandparents prepare for their citizenship exams. “This experience instilled in me early on a commitment to public service and civic engagement,” said Llanes. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in political science from Saint Peter’s University, Llanes received a master’s in public policy from Harvard University, and a Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law. Llanes joined Lowenstein Sandler in 2013 and is a member of the law firm’s litigation department and white collar criminal defense team. Prior to this, he served as a White House appointee to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as a member of the administration of President George W. Bush. Following
1971
9/11, Llanes coordinated the U.S.-UK Joint Contact Group, an
Diane (Dabrowski) Korey and J. Mark Korey celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in February.
as cybersecurity, intelligence and counterterrorism.
1972
among the presidential centers of George W. Bush, William
Dom Miliano and his wife have been cooking Sunday meals at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church in Paterson, N.J., preparing breakfasts at their local church and serving organizations like BASF and North Porch Women & Infants’ Centers by providing assistance with information technology computer support teams.
May, life came full circle when he visited the presidential
1973
of the President’s Council and served on the Alumni Board.
Bill DiCorcia has retired from his position as director, information technology, at Johnson & Johnson
mission of service has reminded me to not only strive for
international alliance to promote cooperation in areas such Earlier this year, Llanes was selected to the Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program, a historic collaboration J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush and Lyndon B. Johnson. In center for George W. Bush in Dallas. “I was able to thank President Bush personally for the opportunity to serve during his administration,” Llanes said. “The PLS program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of both my professional and personal lives, allowing me to think about leadership methods and how to successfully translate them into service.” Llanes’ ties to Saint Peter’s remain strong: He is a member He will join the Board of Regents on July 1. “Saint Peter’s excellence, but to also always serve others,” he said.
Saint Peter’s University
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CLASS NEWS
& Notes
and is using some of his retirement hours to coach Special Olympics basketball. His team, the Montgomery Magic, recently won a championship in their division at the Special Olympics of New Jersey state finals in Wildwood.
1974 John Anderson ’74, ’93 finished an interim position as principal at Mater Dei Prep in March 2018. He is currently doing voice-overs and acting.
1975 Carol (Casey) Gelsomino, Cathy (Amoroso) Wickiewicz and Diane (Scala) Holm reunited for lunch at Charlie’s in Bay Head, N.J., in April.
1976 Enrico Siano retired after more than 30 years in public education, serving as a school business administrator.
Donna DiNardo was named educational services professional at Washington Street School in Toms River, N.J., for the 2017-2018 school year. She is a school counselor at two elementary schools in Toms River and an active member of the Ocean County Personnel and Guidance Association, currently serving as elementary trustee.
1977 Gary Ferrari has joined Ernst & Young in New York City as executive director in the anti-money laundering/financial crimes sector of the financial services advisory business. Richard Sartori, M.D., FAAP, will be returning for his seventh visit to Kisumu, Kenya, to help with the medical needs of orphaned children in remote areas of the country. Most of the children have no healthcare, are malnourished or have contracted diseases. He will also be running
the World AIDS Marathon on World AIDS Day in December in Kisumu.
franchise owners with Pillar to Post Home Inspectors.
1981
1987
Jay Stearns, M.D., is currently working in Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands as a locums hospitalist (medical ward intensive care). He and his wife, Pilar, will be celebrating 33 years of marriage in July.
Ted Daniels recently became an internal specialist for Merrill Edge, acting as a liaison to Merrill Lynch financial advisers in the Southeast U.S.
1983
Timothy Gallagher was recently appointed managing director in the cybersecurity and investigations practice at Kroll, the leading global provider of risk solutions. He has an extensive arrangement of investigative experience with financial fraud, as well as with cyberrelated criminal activities.
Cathy Carnevale received the Dominican Pillar Award at the 19th Annual Saint Dominic Academy Leadership Awards Gala on April 21.
1985 David Turner, after working as a global manager for 30 years, has decided to now work for himself and become one of the newest
1990
1995 Matt Cheplic ’95, ’07 serves as the leader of The Bitter Chills, a folk rock band that opened at White Eagle
Taking Care of Business The Saint Peter’s Business Network hosted alumni and friends at a reception on March 15 featuring a keynote by Kevin Cummings, president and chief executive officer of Investors Bank. Cummings spoke on “Stimulating Growth Through Business Leadership and Community Involvement” at the event, held at The Gallery at Liberty Prime. The Saint Peter’s Business Network provides graduates representing all fields of business with opportunities to exchange ideas, explore new professional relationships and engage with the University.
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1. Crowd at Saint Peter’s Business Network 2. Leonardo Flores ’18, Richard Martin ’21, Devin Varela ’20, Kim Sanchez ’20 and Andrea Lopez ’20 3. Kevin Cummings 4. Rozen Pradhan ’11, Bobby Cutro ’75, Patricia McQuillan Cummings ’77, Kevin Cummings, Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University, and Jimmy Rizzo ’81
Hall on March 1; the show was the biggest they have ever played. The band has two records out on independent labels.
2002 Steven Llanes, Esq., was selected for and commenced the Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program as one of 59 leaders brought together to collaborate and make a difference in the world as they learn about leadership through the lens of the presidencies of Presidents George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush and Lyndon B. Johnson. Hon. Ken Kopacz was recently selected to represent Bayonne’s Polish-American community as the Bayonne Contingent Marshal of the tri-state Pulaski Day Parade on October 7. In November 2017, he was elected as a Hudson County freeholder and has been credited with bringing new playing fields, parks and projects to his community.
2006 Juvonda Jackson recently retired from the Hudson County Department of Corrections.
2012 Tellisia Williams has been selected for a Kenneth B. and Mamie Phipps Clark Fellowship for the 2018-19 academic year. Adding to her sociology and Africana studies degrees from Saint Peter’s, the award will assist her in completing a Ph.D. in environmental psychology at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY).
advising and registration at Saint Peter’s University. In this new position, she will be managing transfer student services, credit evaluations, peer mentoring programs and other retention activities.
2015 Jessica Facchini adopted a 2-yearold dachshund mix from Home for Good Dog Rescue, a local dog rescue owned and managed by Toni Ann Turco ’86.
Births Kurt Mathews ’82 and wife, Janice, welcomed their grandchild, Logan Joseph Mathews, in March.
FOLLOW US ON
Erin (Fitzgerald) Doorly ’97 and her husband, Kevin, welcomed their first child, Casey Marie Doorly, in March. John Salierno ’11 and his wife welcomed their first child, Vincent, in April 2017. Also, Salierno recently opened his law office, Salierno Law LLC, in Jersey City.
Toasting the Class of 2018 The Class of 2018 began celebrating its Saint Peter’s University commencement at the John J. Delaney ’50 Graduate Reception on May 17. The annual event is the first opportunity for the University to welcome graduating seniors as members of the University’s alumni community. During the reception, the annual James J. Damiano ’53 Award recognizing student leadership and scholarship was presented to Renee Lladoc ’18, day session, and Cynthia Felder ’18, evening session. In addition, Donal Malone, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology, was the recipient of the George F. Johnson, S.J. Faculty Award.
1. 1. Class of 2018 gift ambassadors Leonardo Flores ’18, Jessica Dominguez ’18, Nicholas Brown ’18 and Anica Bustamante ’18 present Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University, with a check 2. David Surrey, Ph.D., professor of sociology and urban studies, Donal Malone, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology and recipient of the George F. Johnson, S.J. Faculty Award, and President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D. 3. Awilda Pomales Diaz ’18 and Christine Boyle, director of campus ministry 4. Anthony Skevakis, Ed.D., vice president for student life and development, Renee Lladoc ’18, day session James J. Damiano ’53 Award recipient, and President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D.
Monique Flores recently landed a job as a registered nurse in the operating room at the University Medical Center of El Paso.
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Tracy Louisse (Soriano) Chacon has been appointed director of
Saint Peter’s University
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CLASS NEWS
& Notes
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Tracing Their Roots Alumni took a cultural trip to Ellis Island sponsored by Saint Peter’s Office of Alumni Engagement on April 13. Following a tour of the historic immigration gateway, Cynthia Tosatto Harris ’73, genealogical expert and manager of the New Jersey Room of the Jersey City Free Public Library, discussed tips for searching family history through the library’s archives.
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Spring 2018
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1. Alumni gather in front of the main entrance to the museum on Ellis Island. 2. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration 3. Cynthia Tosatto Harris ’73 leads the group to the ferry.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! The Sodality of the Children of Mary of Saint Teresa celebrated their 145th anniversary with Mass and a reception at Saint Peter’s University on May 4. Known as the Teresians, the sodality has focused its serviceoriented activities on providing generous financial support to Saint Peter’s and The Campus Kitchen. The organization also donates a large nativity scene displayed for Christmas on the front lawn of Saint Peter Hall. The Teresians gathered at the University for their 145th anniversary.
Requiescant in Pace Saint Peter’s University wishes to extend its prayers and condolences to the families of alumni, members of the University community and friends who have passed away.
Michael B. Berkowitz ’67
Richard T. Koping ’70
Robert J. Bittmann ’71
Joan Schaudel Lanigan
George J. Brogan, Esq. ’65
Edward A. Loniewski, D.O. ’53
Matthew Carcich ’66
Joseph M. Lynch, Esq. ’48
LeeAnn Cappiello Cervelli ’81
James F. McGrath ’50
Stephen Colacurcio ’75
William J. Mueller ’66
Hon. Joseph T. Connolly ’59
Herbert James Murray
Michael E. Cull ’70
Joseph E. Niedermeyer ’54
Robert H. Davis ’63
John E. Regan
Richard A. Derrig, Ph.D. ’62
John M. Rusakowsky ’76
Robert J. Dobis ’67
William Ronald Schilpp
Helen Rogers Donovan ’73
Rosemary G. Gagliardo Scott ’73
Joseph A. Driscoll USN (Ret.) ’61
Divine Settles ’21
Olindo Esposito
Michael Simmons ’77
Alice Fitzgerald
Michael Skevakis
George T. Furst, Ph.D. ’68
Daniel F. Sullivan ’50
Patricia Hairston ’97
Maria Sullivan
Walter E. Hanley ’60
Gerard J. Tarrant ’52
Francis Hesketh
Thomas J. Tierney ’51
Patricia E. Jago
Thaddeus J. Wheeler ’68
Saint Peter’s University
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AD
Finem
Force for Independent Higher Education Every year, more than 65,000 students attend independent colleges
Erbach ’82, whose first job out of college was as a speechwriter at
and universities in New Jersey. Most have never met John B. Wilson,
Seton Hall, where Wilson led the Office of Advancement. “He is that
Esq. ’70, H ’18, but his tireless work on their behalf—from
way with everyone.” Now an executive coach and poet, Erbach was
ensuring state funding for the Tuition Aid Grant
also recruited to work at Saint Peter’s when Wilson was vice
(TAG) program to raising millions of dollars for
president for advancement. Erbach certainly learned
academic programs, research and scholar-
some important fundamentals from his mentor
ships—has impacted their lives in un-
(“If someone isn’t returning your calls, camp
told ways. Wilson, an unassuming, yet
out on their doorstep.”), but mostly, he values
tenacious and influential leader, has
Wilson’s quiet, powerful presence that
devoted his professional life to ad-
inspired his own leadership. “Whatever
vancing higher education in New
good I did as a boss, I learned from J.B.,”
Jersey at Saint Peter’s University
said Erbach, the founder and former
and Seton Hall University, as well
owner of the marketing and branding
as at the Association of Indepen-
firm, Erbach Communications Group.
dent Colleges and Universities
While his advocacy on behalf of
in New Jersey (AICUNJ) and the
independent higher education is well
Independent College Fund of New
known among legislators and policy
Jersey (ICFNJ). He retired in June
makers in Trenton and Washington,
after leading AICUNJ as president
D.C., Wilson’s role in promoting Division I
and chief executive officer and ICFNJ as
athletics is not. In 1980, Wilson was a central
president for more than 27 years.
figure in the establishment of the MAAC,
“J.B. has been such an icon in higher education, in New Jersey and beyond,” said Eugene
following the formation of the Big East conference the previous year. “J.B., along with colleagues at other
J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University.
schools, recognized that in order to maintain a presence in
“He is so widely respected and renowned. J.B. is an incredible
Division I athletics, they needed to develop a new conference,”
resource for all institutions of higher education in New Jersey, par-
said Ensor. “He was one of the great thinkers on how to protect
ticularly Saint Peter’s. He’s been a trusted adviser to me, as well.”
schools like Manhattan, Iona and Saint Peter’s that were too small for the Big East, but had strong histories in athletics.”
“J.B. is an incredible resource for all institutions of higher education in New Jersey, particularly Saint Peter’s.”
Founded by six charter members, including Saint Peter’s, the MAAC today is in its 37th year of Division I competition, with 11 institutions and 24 men’s and women’s sports and championships. “It’s very clear that his Jesuit training has prepared him to be a man for others and to always put students first,” said Dr. Cornacchia, who has worked closely with Wilson for more than
Before he became the force behind New Jersey’s independent higher education sector, Wilson served at Saint Peter’s and Seton Hall, where he earned his respective undergraduate and law
20 years. “He’s been a strong advocate for students in New Jersey, especially at the independent schools.” Erbach looks at Wilson’s incredible career this way: “If a
degrees. J.B., as he is affectionately known, generously mentored
reporter had been by his side all these years writing down
and guided the careers of many. “He was one of my godfathers in
everything J.B. accomplished, you would look at the list in
the business,” said Richard Ensor, Esq. ’75, commissioner of the
disbelief, because how could one person do all that? He’s had
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Wilson, then director
an enormous effect on public policy and higher education, but
of athletics at Saint Peter’s, hired Ensor as sports information
beyond all of those accomplishments, J.B. changes for the better
director in 1977. “He’s an educator. J.B. gave back to young people
any person he comes in contact with.”
starting out all the time,” said Ensor. “I’ve always tried to do the same thing. I learned well from him.” “J.B. was always positive, he always supported me,” said Bart 32
Spring 2018
John B. Wilson, Esq. ’70, H ’18 will be joining the Board of Trustees on July 1.
Calendar 2018 Saturday, July 21 Pi Lambda Tau 50th Anniversary Reunion Mac Mahon Student Center
July Thursday, October 11 President’s Reception Pleasantdale Château, West Orange, NJ (Exclusive to members of the President’s Council and Pavonia Heritage Society. To learn more about becoming a member, please contact Linda S. Moore, J.D., at (201) 761-6128 or lmoore2@saintpeters.edu.) Thursday, October 18 Peacock Nation Tip-Off Dinner Liberty House Jersey City
October
Wednesday, September 12 Saint Peter’s Business Network (Formerly Alumni in Finance) in collaboration with the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership, featuring Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop H ’14 Mac Mahon Student Center September 29-30 Golden Peacock Alumni Weekend Honoring the Class of 1968 Mac Mahon Student Center
September Saturday, November 10 Fall Open House Mac Mahon Student Center
December 2018 Saint Peter’s Business Network (Formerly Alumni in Finance) Manhattan
November
December For more information, please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at (201) 761-6122 or alumni@saintpeters.edu.
2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Change Service Requested
Ready to Reach the Top of Our Fields
Thank You for Your Support! As members of Saint Peter’s Class of 2018, we are the direct beneficiaries of the transformative education provided by the University. We feel prepared to reach the top of our fields because of a dedicated faculty and administration. We could not have done it without their guidance and your generous support. Thank you! In gratitude for the education we have received, we, along with our classmates, are doing our part to support the University through the Class of 2018 Gift. Join us today and strengthen the student experience with a gift to Saint Peter’s. Together, we will. Please visit our secure site at saintpeters.edu/giving or call us at (201) 761-6109. Pictured above from left: Nicholas Brown '18, Jessica Dominguez '18 and Anica Bustamante '18