From The Hill Spring 2019

From the Hill The Magazine for Alumni and Friends of Albertus Magnus College S P R I N G

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Transformative Education

TELL US The Scene on Albertus Social Albertus Falcons @AMCAthletics

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Honored to have Father Jordan, Sr. Anne and Sr. Joan stop by and bless the newly renovated weight room for our studentathletes. #fearlessfalcons #blessed

Photo: Judy Sirota Rosenthal

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S P R I N G

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P R E S I D E N T ’ S L E T T E R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 P L A N N I N G F O R 2 0 2 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Begin With a Solid Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Campus Improvements Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hubert Campus Center Renovation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Solar Panel Ribbon Cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

East Hartford Campus Improvements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Care of the Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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D I S T I N C T L Y A L B E R T U S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 9:28 AM - 30 Jan 2019

Albertus Alumni @AlbertusAlumni

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Wishing a Merry Christmas to our #FalconFamily!

The Team Teaching Approach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Transformative Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Department of Education Title III Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

National Science Foundation S-STEM Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Keys to Effective Leadership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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C O L L E C T I V E P E R S P E C T I V E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hispanic Heritage Month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Many Cultures, One Family.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

International Admissions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pride in Our Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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V A L U I N G O U R V E T E R A N S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Lending Support From Those Who Understand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Documenting PTSD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 T A K I N G A L O O K B A C K T O S T E P F O R W A R D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 T H E S T . T H O M A S A Q U I N A S L E C T U R E S E R I E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Belief in Youth as Our Future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 A L B E R T U S A L U M N I A R O U N D T H E C O U N T R Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 6:48 AM - 25 Dec 2018

Albertus Magnus College @AlbertusSocial

A N E W D A Y I N A L U M N I R E L A T I O N S .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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#AlbertusMagnusCollege Professor Ross Edwards returns to @WTNH to speak on the long term impact of a government shutdown. Watch the full clip at http://bit.ly/2QMY4JI @jocelynmaminta

Make a Difference and Join Our Family of Volunteers.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 8 Millions Reasons to Give. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 C A M P U S H A P P E N I N G S .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Around Campus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Class Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 On the Cover: In October 2018, Communications & Marketing Department intern Alyssa Cruz ’19 earned a Public Relations Society of America Mercury award for her hard work on the Coffee with the President video series. See full story of Alyssa’s transformative Albertus education on page 11.

Cover photo: KVON Photography

12:58 PM - 14 Jan 2019

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Four student interns worked alongside the Communications and Marketing Department at Albertus to produce this issue of From The Hill. In addition to learning how to write press releases, working with agencies, and creating marketing campaigns, some of the practical experience they are gaining includes writing articles for this magazine. Each of them has contributed to this edition— hands-on, industrypertinent experience in their fields of interest.

Pictured, clockwise: George Chaffin, Kristen O’Sullivan ’19, Paige Williams ’20, and Alicia Weaver ’19.

President Camille @AlbertusPres

A M ES S AG E FR OM TH E PR E SID ENT

Photo: Judy Sirota Rosenthal

Dear Alumni and Friends of Albertus,

Today at Albertus Magnus College, our community is engaged in strategic planning, developing a shared vision and plan that will be presented in March 2020 to the Board of Trustees for its endorsement. With the new plan’s adoption, the Albertus Magnus community—alumni, students, parents, friends, faculty, and staff—will focus with anticipation on the year 2025, the Centennial for this transformative, Catholic and Dominican, values- and liberal arts-based college.

In this issue of From the Hill, we share stories from this academic year, in which the enthusiasm surrounding the strategic planning initiative has been heightened by a palpable sense of excitement and myriad accomplishments across campus. For ninety-four years, the Dominican Sisters, faculty, and staff of Albertus Magnus College have been dedicated to excellence and the holistic success and well-being of every student who enrolls. That unyielding commitment was affirmed when the College was recently selected to receive two Federal grants worth $2.3 million over five years in support of those priorities.

Also in the fall, Albertus was included among US News & World Report’s ranking of the Top 100 comprehensive colleges in the north region. In January, an extensive renovation of the Hubert Campus Center commenced, following the unveiling of new solar panel covered parking, which is expected to offset roughly 30 percent of the College’s annual electricity consumption. Classroom improvements, athletic facilities upgrades, and public safety enhancements also are underway, as part of a major investment toward strengthening campus facilities and enhancing the college experience for students and faculty in the future.

Albertus Magnus College is poised for excellence in the years ahead. When our strategic planning process began, my overarching charge to the community was that our visioning and planning must begin with an affirmation of our Catholic identity and Dominican mission, and that our efforts must focus on identifying opportunities for future institutional distinctiveness and distinction. While the new plan will focus on enrollment and fundraising priorities to enable necessary facilities renovations and strengthened academic and co-curricular programs, what we will not stray from is the commitment to the foundational values and traditions of the alma mater, the College, that you know and love as we continue to impact our students, their families, and our community in meaningful and enduring ways.

Also in this issue of From the Hill are several stories featuring students and groups who are wonderful examples of Albertus’ positive impact. Along with the the four pillars that shape our Dominican mission, Albertus’ focus on every student’s success and experiential learning fosters the type of distinctive education that continues to be transformative.

This past fall, I was blessed to make a pilgrimage with fellow Dominican college presidents to the Fanjeaux region of France, visiting the places where Saint Dominic lived shortly before forming the Order of Preachers (the Dominicans).

I was able to wander the paths, to walk in the steps of our founding Saint, immersing myself in those spiritual spaces and our history. While visiting churches and altars where Saint Dominic once preached, traveling through bucolic rolling hills and fields, and spending time in Fanjeaux and Toulouse, I was overcome by a sense of purpose and passion for the College’s heritage that dates back more than 800 years. That opportunity to travel back in time has filled me with appreciation and inspiration as we plan for the College’s future.

The 19th century Catholic historian and writer, Lord Alton, wrote: “History is not a burden on the memory, but an illumination of the soul.” Indeed, the 94-year history of Albertus Magnus College illuminates a path forward, toward a second century of student-focused, values-centered excellence. In my inauguration remarks I proclaimed that our world, so desperate for civil discourse and valuesoriented citizens, needs nothing less than Albertus Magnus College. It is my great privilege to help lead this College on a shared journey with you, our alumni, parents, and friends, to fulfill that calling.

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Men’s basketball home opener underway vs @keenestatecollege @ksc_basketball. #FearlessFalcons ready to soar!

November 20, 2018

President Camille @AlbertusPres

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Just finished dinner with members of the senior class. These soon to be 2019 #FearlessFalcons alumni offered great insights and feedback. They’re ready to leave us and help make the world a better place! Proud of them.

November 13, 2018

President Camille @AlbertusPres

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I received two great gifts yesterday: strengthened passion for the Dominican heritage and identity that inspires our #AlbertusMagnusCollege family, and this amazing painting of New Haven’s East Rock Cliff, including its resident #FearlessFalcon in flight. An inauguration gift from @peacedominicans and painted by former Albertus professor of fine arts, Sr. Thoma Swanson, O.P. I am moved beyond words. #HeartfeltGratitude

In gratitude and in peace, Marc M. Camille, Ed.D.

albertus.edu/albertuspres

Connect with President Camille via phone 203-773-8529; email at president@albertus.edu; Twitter @AlbertusPres; on his blog at albertus.edu/AlbertusPres; and now on Instagram @AlbertusPres

October 26, 2018

From the Hill

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Planning for 2025 #Albertus2025

As we approach the 100 th anniversary of Albertus Magnus College in 2025, the framework for a strategic plan to lead us into our second century is being put into place. Research, focus groups, committees, and proposals will serve as the groundwork to decide which ideas to put into action.

However, according to the Leadership Council responsible for Strategic Planning, our goal remains “to embrace our Catholic identity and Dominican mission, offering an education that prepares students for the pursuit of truth in all its dimensions and is practical in its application.”

Pictured, above, the Strategic Planning Leadership Council: Associate Professor of English, Co-Director of the MFA Program and Chair, Faculty Assembly, Sarah Wallman; Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Sean P. O’Connell; Special Assistant to the President for Dominican Mission, Sister Anne Kilbride, O.P.; and Vice President for Student Services, Andrew Foster.

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Begin With a Solid Foundation

Photos: Andrea E. Kovacs

In spring 2018, members of the Albertus Magnus College Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff were surveyed on several topics regarding strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the College over the next several years. This “SWOT” analysis was compiled based upon the findings and comparisons where the groups were in agreement and where their opinions diverged. The most significant initial data confirmed the best possible scenario: a strong affirmation to the mission of our College is present.

With that, President Camille named a Leadership Council (pictured, opposite page) to guide the strategic planning process and to build the framework of the plan.

The areas of focus were presented to the Board of Trustees and President’s Cabinet in fall 2018.

The vision for 2025? Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Albertus Magnus College is a destination liberal-arts based college, distinguished by its interdisciplinary and experiential approach to education rooted in Dominican values, that prepares students for lifelong civic engagement and success.

The Leadership Council determined that in order to realize this vision, it became imperative to engage more intentionally with our Catholic identity and Dominican mission, strengthening its value proposition and financial stability.

The Council used the SWOT analysis to identify eight areas of focus to be overseen by a Steering Committee and led by various workgroups. The areas of focus are: Academic Centers of Excellence, Culture of Philanthropy, Dominican Tradition and Heritage, Enrollment Size and Mix, Employer of Choice, Resource Management, Student Life and Experience, and Telling the Albertus Story. While there are intentionally interconnectedness and correlations between and among the topics for consideration, the Council encourages and expects the work of the various groups to communicate regularly about developments in the strategic plan. Throughout the winter, spring and summer of 2019, each workgroup will conduct research, surveys, and focus groups representing input from the larger community. By fall 2019, the co-chairs of the workgroups will organize their collected data and propose three to five solid strategic initiatives to the Steering Committee.

As liaisons to the Leadership Council, the Steering Committee assists the workgroups and integrates any areas where strategies might be combined to gain momentum. By the March 2020 Board of Trustees meeting, the Leadership Council will be prepared to make recommendations in a presentation for a vote of endorsement.

Having eight focus areas and three to five proposals per workgroup, the Leadership Council will have its work cut out deciding which opportunities are viable to lead Albertus into 2025.

We look forward to communicating updates on this important initiative for the College in the months to come.

Steering Committee members, clockwise from behind: Jeffrey Scott, William Aniskovich, Patrick Clifford, Matthew Waggoner, Annette Bosley-Boyce, Patricia Compagnone-Post, Carol Huckaby, and Alissa Balouskus; Top photo: President Camille poses with members of both the Steering Committee and the Work Group Co-Chairs.

Campus Improvements Update When students returned to campus in January, temporary locations for several facilities were set up to help our Falcon Family feel at home while construction began on one of the largest projects in over a decade: the renovation of the Hubert Campus Center.

The Campus Center renovation (see renderings on next page) includes a new dining hall and servery that were originally planned to have been accomplished over the summer 2018, thereby keeping the first floor open.

However, due to the scope of the project, it became necessary to take the building entirely off-line during construction. For the spring 2019 semester, Bree Common is functioning as the temporary dining room. A leased trailer and temporary, heated building were constructed just outside the patio to house the food preparation and serving functions. The new dining hall will reopen in August 2019.

While construction continues throughout the spring and summer, many offices were relocated so as to keep functionality. McAuliffe Hall, the dormitory overlooking our turf field, is now the temporary home to student services, residential life, student activities, student government, and Dominican Ministries. Other offices taking temporary residency in McAuliffe are the counseling center, health clinic, public safety, mailroom, and the pub. The Falcon Campus Store is residing in Dominican Hall until its new home is ready.

Several changes to the Athletic Center will also allow us to better meet the needs of our student-athletes while maintaining a welcoming environment. The new-expanded trainer’s room was relocated to the ground floor of the Athletic Center, while the weight room was enlarged and new equipment added. Continued improvements to classroom furniture and technology in both Aquinas Hall and Tagliatela Academic Center took place over winter break as well.

Finally, public safety improvements are ever-evolving. The addition of a well-marked, new Ford Explorer Public Safety vehicle makes it more efficient to patrol campus. A ‘Blue Light’ system is being installed, consisting of strategically-placed lighted poles; it will serve to provide students and visitors with direct access to our safety communication system.

Several of these poles will contain video cameras, allowing security officers to view the caller and their surroundings. Finally, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to download the app, LiveSafe, onto their mobile phones, an effective communication tool providing GPS locations from your phone to campus security in the event of an emergency.

From the Hill

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Hubert Campus Center Renovation: Wa With so many projects and improvements going on around campus, there is a sense of excitement as students, faculty, and staff anticipate the changes to come. The Hubert Campus Center Renovation — the largest project on campus in over a decade—began in December 2018 and the building is expected to reopen fully in January 2020. While that seems like a long time, the new campus center will provide the kind of common meeting room, lounging areas, and dining space to cover growth for years to come. The artists’ renderings below give you a sense of the functionality, scope, and beauty of this project.

Lounge

Lecture Hall

Bookstore

Entrance

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Game Room

atch Us Grow As Our Story Continues!

There is room for you at the new Hubert Campus Center!

To learn about giving opportunities, please contact giving@albertus.edu or call the Office of Advancement at (203)773-8502.

Fitness Center

Pub

Sitting Area

Servery

Aerial View

Artists’ renderings: courtesy Centerbrook Architects & Planners

Fireplace

Walkway

From the Hill

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Photos: left and middle: Marisa B. Dragone, right: Swinerton

Solar Panel Ribbon Cutting the electricity at a competitive, fixed rate under a 25-year power purchase agreement.

Green Street Power Partners, LLC, installed the solar panels, along with project partners Shawmut, Swinerton Renewable Energy, and The United Illuminating Company, a subsidiary of AVANGRID Inc. Scott Kerner, chief executive officer of Green Street Power Partners, joined the ribboncutting celebration and indicated “it’s evident that Albertus Magnus College has a forward-thinking mindset to create a sustainable future for their campus.”

Indeed, as the College has plans to further expand on its solar energy resources. Construction on a 228 kw rooftop photovoltaic array on the campus athletic center, offsetting an additional 10 percent of electricity, is currently in the planning stages. This would bring the collective impact of solar power to 40 percent on campus.

albertus.edu/solarpanels

Photo: Arnold Gold, courtesy New Haven Register

On Thursday, November 15, 2018, Albertus held a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil the construction of Phase I of the College’s 770 kw solar panel project located in the Tiers Parking Lot. The system, which went fully online in early 2019, is expected to offset approximately 30 percent of the College’s annual electricity consumption. To put this in perspective, the solar panels are capable of producing enough energy to remove greenhouse gases produced by 147 cars each year or preserving 140 acres of forest over the lifetime of the system.

“The solar carports are a great way for us to turn otherwise unproductive parking areas into environmentally friendly energy-producing sites,” said Bill Hawkins, Albertus Magnus College Vice President for Finance, Administration, and Treasurer. “We will save on utility costs and help the environment. As a bonus, we think students will also appreciate parking under the canopies, which may provide some protection from the elements.” The College will purchase

8 Spring 2019

East Hartford Campus Improvements

Artists’ rendering: courtesy Centerbrook Architects & Planners

In February 2019, expansion and renovation began at the East Hartford campus at 225 Pitkin Street. The construction project, designed with the adult student in mind, will include four spacious classrooms, an entry area with new kitchenette and living roomstyle seating area, and an open computer lab.

The project will be an addition to our current space at 222 Pitkin Street, known as the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) building, and accommodate the quick growth experienced in just over a year’s time.

Construction should be complete by the end of the spring semester and introduce a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and technological innovation.

Care of the Earth “Going Green” is not a novel idea on the Albertus campus. Care of the earth is key to our Dominican heritage. Students have been taking part in efforts to preserve our corner of the world for some time now. Hydration stations, located in Dominican Hall, Rosary Hall, Aquinas Hall, and Tagliatela Academic Center, include refill stations to support the reusable bottle campaign. In an effort to reduce emissions, students have access to transportation options as well. CTTransit bus passes can be purchased at a reduced rate, and Zip cars are available for long distance travel. Recycling is encouraged, with Shred-It used in offices across campus for important documents. For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach, the Community Garden, located behind Sansbury Hall, gives students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to plant flowers and vegetables to benefit our neighboring communities. And upon graduation, the students’ Commencement caps and gowns are made from recycled plastic. All of these contributions are part of a continued effort for environmental sustainability across the campus.

From the Hill

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Distinctly Albertus #TeamTeaching

In an Albertus Magnus classroom, our students will find more. More than a professor standing in the front of a lecture hall. More than a syllabus of the semester’s assignments. More than a grade representing a pass or a fail.

At Albertus, our students will find opportunities. They will find faculty to help them attain their goals. They will be surrounded by diverse channels in which they can learn, and find that the support staff wants them to succeed in the best way for them, personally. Our students may even find the President of the College teaching a class.

Albertus is not a cookie-cutter college. It is distinct in its offerings, it is distinct in its delivery.

And while the ultimate goal is to help our students soar, it is distinctly Albertus.

Pictured, above: Dr. Ross Edwards, Fr. Kenneth Jorgenson, Dr. Nicola Singh 10 Spring 2019

The Team Teaching Approach Dr. Ross Edwards, associate dean for Academic Affairs and assistant professor of History & Political Science, has helped spearhead one of this year’s many innovative programs, called Team Teaching. This program is being utilized in the freshman humanities course, where three faculty members— Dr. Edwards, Fr. Kenneth Jorgenson, and Dr. Nicola Singh — provide their “distinctive expertise on each area of the subject, creating a truly interdisciplinary encounter with course material and class discussion,” as Dr. Edwards describes it. This is a narrative of experiential learning where students have the opportunity to engage in more versatile and valuable discourse.

Team teaching can be an effective model because it is more engaging for students. Each professor has knowledge in a particular area and this collaborative effort forms a valuable, pedagogical approach.

The team teaching reach extends beyond New Haven, too.

In November 2018, Dr. Edwards invited Dr. Greg Beckett to speak in the Behan Community Room. Dr. Beckett, assistant professor of Anthropology at Western University in London, Ontario, has completed extensive research relating to crisis, disaster, and trauma from the standpoint of moral, ethical, and political relationships that emerge from them. The discussion that evening was entitled, “Being Human, Being Haitian,” and recalled events following the devastating hurricane in 2010, which killed more than 300,000 people and dehumanized a nation. This type of first-person perspective is priceless.

Outside of the classroom, Dr. Edwards is well-versed on the political front. He’s made two appearances on WTNH-TV, New Haven/Hartford to discuss the current climate, both in Connecticut and on the national level. In his first appearance

on WTNH just after Election Day, Dr. Edwards offered his commentary on the gubernatorial election and the unusually high voter turnout.

“This is most likely due to general elections being a referendum on the sitting president,” Dr. Edwards stated.

“I like seeing my students get politically active and apply the knowledge they have from the classroom to the outside world.”

In January 2019, Dr. Edwards returned to the studio to talk about how the prolonged government shutdown impacted the residents of Connecticut pointing out that as different agencies start to run out of money, we will see a greater impact.

As for the future of Team Teaching, Dr. Edwards has plans to structure new courses around nine different faculty members who will offer their insight to students on a weekly cycle, each one taking turns teaching the class as a way to offer their expertise in order to deepen students’ knowledge.

Although the specifics of the programming are still being engineered, this approach may become a key component to the College’s strategic planning moving forward.

Photos: KVON Photography

Transformative Education Like many students, Alyssa Cruz ’19 knew that Albertus was the right college for her when she first visited the campus.

“It checked off all of the aspects of my ‘perfect’ school: the small class sizes, the amount of scholarships offered, and the close-knit community.”

With determination and a hard work ethic in tow, finding her niche soon followed. Cruz’s Albertus experience includes working as a Resident Assistant, Writing Associate in the Academic Success Center, Tech Tutor, member of the Honors Program, Secretary of Aquinas Scholars, Vice President of the Multi-Cultural Club, Co-Designer of Breakwater, Junior Board Member for the New Haven Symphony, and Video Intern in the Communications & Marketing department.

Perhaps one of the more transformative opportunities offered at Albertus is one in which a student engages in experiential learning. As a sophomore, Cruz’s Coffee with the President series began just that way. While shadowing the work of professional videographer Mike DeMatteo and under the guidance of Vice President of Communications & Marketing Andrea Kovacs, Cruz worked on the filming and production for two seasons. She developed her skills, and with her background in computer science and graphic design, was quickly able to contribute to the series, playing an integral role in the process.

“Becoming the Project Manager for Coffee with the President has been very rewarding,” Cruz explains. “I have also learned so much more about being a leader. I can take

the initiative when working on a project. I can communicate effectively with others to get projects done. I can manage my time to finish tasks. From my role with this project, I can easily say that I am better suited for my career path.”

With her efforts, the College community was introduced to the 14th President of Albertus, Dr. Marc M. Camille, in brief, interview-styled videos, where faculty, staff, and students share their insight. In November 2018, Albertus Magnus College received a Bronze Mercury Award for Excellence in the Video/ Audio category from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Greater Connecticut chapter for the Coffee with the President series. Cruz is pictured on the cover of this edition of From the Hill, holding the award she earned.

“After spending a year working on one of the biggest projects of my college career, I didn’t think I would get recognized externally.” Cruz sites faculty and staff for having a positive impact on her, in particular Andrea Kovacs and Maureen Kos (executive assistant to the vice president for Academic Affairs) who mentored her professionally, Jeff Scott (web development manager) for opening her eyes to her potential, and Jerry Nevins (co-chair of the Visual & Performing Arts Department) for encouraging her to develop her artistry.

Now a senior, Cruz envisions a future career in technology while pursuing photography and graphic design. That is, after a well-deserved vacation. albertus.edu/alyssacruz

From the Hill

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Department of Education Title III Grant

Photo: KVON Photography

For the first time, Albertus Magnus College has received a highly competitive Title III Grant from the U.S. Department of Education. According to Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Sean P. O’Connell, the award was based on a well-conceived approach to implement a holistic advising strategy that will support the College’s ongoing efforts to ensure student success.

The program includes new faculty advisors and student success coaches who will be developing student success workshops and opportunities on campus and in the New Haven area, and will connect freshmen students with peers, faculty, and opportunities directly related to their chosen major.

According to Heather Wotton, director of Academic Advisement and Student Success, “For students who may be undecided about a major, the new faculty will provide enhanced, holistic advising to help them along their educational journey. Additionally, these coaches will be developing workshops on advising best practices that will be available to all faculty advisors on campus. This will benefit students at every level.”

After applying for the grant, Albertus instantly achieved a perfect score based on the rating system used by the U.S. Department of Education. Objectives of the new advising program include increasing the number of full-time degree seeking undergraduates, increasing the percentage of undergraduate full-time students who graduate within six years, increasing the percentage of undergraduate full-time students who graduate within four years, and decreasing the percentage of undergraduate students who are not in good academic standing. The College plans to reach these objectives by completing tasks such as hiring new faculty advisors,

Pictured here: Natalie DeVaull-Robichaud, associate professor of English and director of the Academic Success Center and Writing Program, with Ashley Irvine ’18, a senior writing tutor.

appointing student success coaches, implementing a new leadership plan, and establishing a bridge leadership program for students who fall into at-risk categories.

Much of the new advisement for students will come through the Academic Success Center at Albertus, directed

by Associate Professor of English Natalie Devaull-Robichaud.

In addition to these new advisement programs, the Academic Success Center provides tutoring and guidance to all students in various areas such as writing, math, statistics, science, reading, finance, accounting, etc.

“We are very excited about all of the opportunities the grant will be able to provide for our students!” said Wotton.

albertus.edu/doegrant

The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded Albertus Magnus College more than $600,000 for a five-year S-STEM (Scholarships in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) grant in spring 2017. The program at Albertus Magnus was designed to enroll 15 scholars pursuing a STEM major that demonstrate both strong academic skills and financial need. Principal investigators for this grant are Biology Professor Dr. Patricia Compagnone-Post, Dr. Loel Tronsky, professor of psychology and education, and Dr. Mark Case, professor and mathematics program director. The goal for this program is to promote early career exploration in the student’s desired field.

In January 2018, the S-STEM scholars attended a regional networking event, Project Kaleidoscope (PKAL), at Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts, an event highlighting the unique challenges of minority students who plan to work in STEM fields. Second year student and S-STEM recipient, Maya Martinez ’21, served as a speaker on the panel “Journeys in STEM,” sharing her story and academic goals. First-year S-STEM students attended the 2018 New Haven Third Annual Student Research Symposium, sponsored by the American Chemical Society, and STEM scholars Andrew McGovern ’21 and Lakhena Rath ’21 recently attended a lecture in “Mathematical Modeling in Cancer Research” at Trinity College. This April, students will be at the Yale University west campus retreat, where they will meet professionals in their 12 Spring 2019

Photo: KVON Photography

National Science Foundation S-STEM Grant field of study and hear lectures from scientists.

Martinez attributes her success at Albertus to the connections she’s made on campus from peers to admissions counselors and faculty.

“I chose Albertus because I Pictured, above: Maya Martinez ’21, S-STEM recipient noticed a difference in the people...when you have that support, you stay.”

Most recently, Maya was accepted into the NIH Short-Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP), where she worked as a research assistant at Duke University.

At the end of her time in the STEP-UP program, she traveled to Washington D.C. and met with other students with similar career ambitions. While Maya is undecided as to where she will travel next, she is certain on her decision to pursue medical school and one day become a surgeon. Martinez is a sophomore Biology major, with a minor in Healthcare Management.

albertus.edu/stemscholars

Photo: KVON Photography Photo: KVON Photography

On November 29, 2018, the English department at Albertus Magnus College presented Dissociative Deeds, a play that puts the issue of mental health— particularly dissociative identity disorder— center stage. Written by New Haven residents, Albertus students, and Cooperative Arts and Humanities High School graduates Diamonte Maldonado ’21 and Dawn Washington ’19, the show used multiple actors to play the multiple personalities of someone traumatized by a campus shooting. After the performance, Albertus Magnus Psychology professor Dr. Bonnie Pepper facilitated a talk-back between the performers and the audience about themes discussed in the play.

Students Christopher Magnifico ’20 and Jayme Toro ’21 have their sights set on bringing podcasts to the Albertus campus. The duo is busy developing their content schedule and utilizing the studio equipment to hone their skills.

Photo: Sr. Ana Gonzalez, O.P.

On October 5, 2018, Dr. Howard Fero, professor of Leadership and Management, invited President Camille to facilitate a lesson to 21 freshmen leadership immersion students. Just five weeks into the fall semester, the first-year students may have been wondering what was in store for them, having the president of their college carving time out of his busy schedule to teach a class.

President Camille began by introducing the students to his own college history and self-discovery, explaining that although his intention was a pursuit in the medical field, he often found himself daydreaming during genetics lab, never fully engaged. He finally came to the realization that his heart wasn’t committed to medicine and changed his major, under advisement that unless you are happy with what you are doing, you may not be successful.

During his presentation to the leadership immersion class, President Camille illustrated what he believes are the ‘7 E’s of Effective Leadership’: to be Engaged, to lead by Example, communicate Expectations, Empower others, Evaluate, Encourage growth and development among subordinates, and value Experience.

He reminded the students of the Tagliatela family creed: that business ethics are required for business profitability. One student even suggested that this (‘Ethics’) become the eighth ‘E’ in his list. Over the hour-long lecture, the students became more comfortable asking Dr. Camille questions about who inspires him, the most difficult part of his job, and what he finds most rewarding.

Dr. Fero believes a critical piece of the Albertus business program is putting the mantra ‘Theory to Practice’ into place. “Many of the professors in the Tagliatela School of Business are practitioners in the field,” said Dr. Fero. He explains that taking a class is not simply putting pen to paper; it is learning how to better communicate, lead in conflict, make moral and ethical decisions, differentiate between for-profit and non-profit, and apply theories practically in the workplace. Which is why he also values having the occasional guest speaker, like President Camille, facilitate a class.

One of the things that helps to enrich students’ learning is participation in the community. As Dr. Fero serves on the board of Junior Achievement Southwest New England, he’s had the opportunity to challenge his Albertus students to teach others. ‘JA in a Day,’ now in its fifth year, is a hugely successful event held at Davis Street Magnet School in New Haven. Students, alumni, faculty, and staff are invited to partner in every classroom and mentor students in financial literacy and leadership. “The benefit from being a volunteer is the real key,” says Dr. Fero, noting how many students choose to participate. Experiential learning connections like these make the Albertus program distinctive, but it’s also the active, deeply-committed, and vested faculty that make all the difference. At the annual Hamden Regional Chamber of Commerce board meeting in January, Dr. Fero was the keynote speaker. His dynamic speaking style was motivating to the audience of professionals. He challenged the crowd to self-reflect, to envision the impact they wanted to make in a year’s time, and how their employees fit into their mission. He reiterated that through this consideration, they will find the way to achieve success. Theory to Practice? A perfect example to our impressionable youth.

Photo: Marisa B. Dragone

Photo: KVON Photography

The Keys to Effective Leadership

Pictured, top, Dr. Howard Fero; and below, Dr. Marc. M. Camille with a class of freshmen leadership immersion students.

Senior Art Therapy major, Emily Cuevas ’19, exhibited four 18 x 24 inch watercolor portraits on December 11, 2018 in Walsh Hall. Her exhibition entitled “Artificial Sweeteners” was a look into the saccharine portrayal of women in contemporary media. Here she is with her mother, Becky Cuevas ’05, a fellow alumna of Albertus Magnus College.

From the Hill

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Collective Perspectives #AlbertusCommunity

One of the pillars of our Dominican heritage is embracing our community, in all of its diverse glory. We identify and celebrate each of our individual gifts so that, as President Camille has stated, each student is “loved into being their best selves.” Along with the just-right academic advisors who mentor and encourage these young adults to learn, Albertus is the perfect ground in which they can take root and grow.

Pictured, above, Shayna Gerena ’22, one of Alyssa Cruz’s subjects in Collective Portraits: An Authentic Look to Hispanic Culture 14 Spring 2019

International Admissions— Making Our World a Tiny Bit Smaller

Hispanic Heritage Month For Alyssa Cruz ’19, researching her ancestry was the impetus, writing as an Aquinas Scholar was the opportunity, and her senior art show was the channel by which she demonstrated her vision of diversity on campus.

The opening was timed to coincide with Hispanic Heritage Month in October 2018.

Collective Portraits: An Authentic Look to Hispanic Culture was on display in the Margaret L. MacDonough Art Gallery and featured 11 portraits cultivated by the senior graphic design major. Many students, faculty, staff, and family came out to support the talented photographer.

Cruz stated, “I was discussing identities in my paper (for Aquinas Scholars), and I thought I could bring some to life using portraits. After months of debate and discussion, I decided to pursue the idea and made Collective Portraits.”

She continued, “My main inspiration came from a year’s worth of self-discovery and writing.”

Each photograph was accompanied by a description of the student’s ethnicity and culture with the representation of Puerto Rican, Dominican, Peruvian, Ecuadorian, and Cuban backgrounds. With support from the community it was obvious that this project made a positive impact on Albertus in learning more about culture and heritage on campus.

“It was a very hectic time, but I was able to accomplish my dream art show. It was truly an enlightening project.”

albertus.edu/collectiveportraits

Photo: KVON Photography

Sr. Ana Gonzalez, O.P., coordinator of International Admissions at Albertus Magnus, began the foundation of her work in April 2018. Currently, there are six international students enrolled, spanning from Ghana to Spain. When asked what draws potential students here, Sr. Ana attributes location as a major benefit.

Described as the ideal venue, Albertus Magnus is located between New York City and Boston.

Additionally, intimate class sizes and an inclusive, diverse student population allow international students to be recognized as individuals.

“Through the recruitment of international students, Albertus Magnus College will continue the Mission of creating a cross-cultural experience for the promotion of global awareness and to create paths to build peace,” said Sr. Ana. She believes that through encountering diversity and multicultural richness, our students can immerse themselves in our education system, peer interactions and experiential opportunities that enrichen their college careers, and lead to the ultimate goal of promoting global peace.

A native of Mexico, Sr. Ana was a contributor to the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations on campus this past fall, posting a daily motivational quote on @AlbertusSocial from significant Hispanic figures, and attended the Day of the Dead altar decoration.

On her personal story, Sr. Ana states, “The month is an invitation for me to be mindful of the heritage that runs through my veins, the stories of struggles and success of my ancestors culminating in me. I also rejoice and take pride in my fellow Latinos who have and continue to break stereotypes, dispel myths, and contribute to a rich diverse national identity.”

This December, Sr. Ana participated in a Latinx Heritage Forum cohosted by the Connecticut Commission on Equity & Opportunity and the Commission on Women, Children, and Seniors.

One of Sr. Ana’s favorite quotes, by Robert Kennedy, states it best: “Ultimately, America’s answer to the intolerant man is diversity, the very diversity which our heritage of religious freedom has inspired.”

Many Cultures, One Family

albertus.edu/internationaladmissions

Pride in our Community

Photo: Paige Williams

Photo: Alyssa Cruz

The Multicultural Club provides students with the opportunity to celebrate and educate their peers on all of the diverse cultures represented here at Albertus. With students attending from several states and countries, they learn to recognize their differences and find that their common goal is simply to better their education.

The theme of the club’s first event, held just before Thanksgiving break, was “Giving Thanks Bake Giveaway,” where members handed out free baked goods to students before they left for the holiday. Many firstyear students have made the greatest impact within the club, enthusiastically bringing awareness on campus.

To celebrate the last day of classes of the fall semester, the club initiated what they hope will become an annual event, “We Are The World: Albertus Edition.” Each member selected a country to represent their heritage and provided food, music, and games to best reflect their culture to share with the group.

In its first year the Multicultural Club is already flourishing. It’s nice to see that through all of our differences, we can enjoy breaking bread as one, big Albertus family.

In August 2018, the PRIDE Club made its debut at the Albertus Magnus College student activity fair. Thirty students signed up to participate— a large number for one club—and not long after when the first meeting was held, all thirty students showed up.

Jeff Funk, former housing director at Albertus, says he often heard students express the need for what he calls “a safe space for the LGBT community and their allies to connect and network” but the students weren’t sure where to begin. He decided that this year, it was going to happen, and since then, an executive board has been formed and Funk has completely handed over the club to the students.

The goals of the pride club are not only to create a place where LGBT students and allies can gather, but also help educate the community on LGBT issues as well as engage in activism. Maxim Schmidt ’19, LGBT student and PRIDE Club president, emphasizes the need to raise awareness, promote understanding, and bring students together on campus at Albertus.

Schmidt states, “We all appreciate being a part of establishing something so crucial to celebrating identity, especially at such pivotal years in our lives. College is for coming into our own; PRIDE gives us a place to support one another in one facet of that journey.”

So far, the club has held events on National Coming Out Day, fundraised through a successful bake sale, and plans to attend a conference in the Spring. In planning for the future of Albertus PRIDE, Schmidt says that they are figuring out how we can best access and aid the New Haven LGBT community, as well as solidifying us as an organization. The club hopes to connect with not only the Albertus campus, but also the greater New Haven area outreach programs that work with the LGBT community.

From the Hill

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Valuing Our Veterans #AlbertusVeterans

According to College Factual, Albertus Magnus College is one of the best schools for Veterans studying Business Administration and Management Programs nationwide and is ranked #1 in Connecticut for 2019. With an increased number of adult undergraduate and graduate students, it’s become increasingly important to ensure we are catering to the needs of our servicemen and servicewomen returning to college to earn their degrees. And although re-entry into civilian life isn’t always a smooth transition, Albertus is committed to extending a hand to ease the process and welcome them home.

Military coins are a recent but pervasive tradition among service members. They are presented for accomplishments and establish a bond between the giver and receiver. Albertus Magnus College, as an institution that celebrates and honors military customs, has its own coin exchanged within its veteran community.

16 Spring 2019

Lending Support From Those Who Understand It’s important to know that when a veteran is applying to Albertus, either for an undergraduate or graduate degree, he/she will be supported both educationally and personally. In fact, Tom Noonan was hired to fill just that role—as Veterans Liaison and Admissions Counselor. After serving eight years in the Army and in the Reserves in Texas himself, he knows what he’s talking about.

“Acclimating into a school is a difficult process, feeling that you’re a part of something again and to have the support that you’re not alone, have mental health and self-worth,” says Noonan. “You question why you got out (of the military), if it was the right decision, and need support.” He states that most of the time, vets are comforted just knowing that someone is there having a similar background. For that reason, he has reached out to most of the veteran students to get to know them so that he can offer support in whatever way they require.

New scholarships are in place to benefit veterans’ family members, and this can result in additional funding for both traditional and Professional and Graduate Studies (PGS) programs. According to Noonan, however, some vets face challenges navigating the GI bill process. Since information

doesn’t always trickle down from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in a timely fashion, unless they have an advocate helping them, oftentimes vets back off rather than pursue their dream of returning to their studies. Having a liaison in your corner becomes a key component when applying.

Sean-Michael Green, vice president for Enrollment Management and Marine (pictured, right), also understands these nuances intimately. A veteran of the First Gulf War, he served in infantry and reconnaissance units on active duty prior to an additional eight years in the Selected Marine Corps Reserve.

“Ten percent of our adult students are veterans here at Albertus,” he said. That number will grow. Between the word of mouth of alumni, flex programs, and the family atmosphere, Green’s hopes are to grow the amenities that we can afford to offer.

The family atmosphere is tangible. Jiron Cummings, sophomore and Navy veteran, whose home is not around here, was invited to fellow student and Navy vet Dean Tudeme’s home for Thanksgiving. He accepted the invitation.

Documenting PTSD

Photos: KVON Photography

Art Therapy with Military Veterans, a documentary created

by Laura Spinelli, ATR, LPC, ’00, ’04 MAATC, explores the positive effects of treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in veterans with art therapy. The film, which had a premier viewing on campus on October 30, 2018 followed by a panel discussion, offers testimonies from both male and female veterans and expresses how Spinelli’s Giant Steps art therapy program at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven, Connecticut has changed their lives for the better through the creation of art. The documentary unveils an analysis of PTSD in female veterans, stating that one in four women in the military have faced sexual harassment or assault—a shocking statistic that often goes unacknowledged by their male counterparts.

Art Therapy students at Albertus Magnus College often have internships at the VA Hospital in West Haven in the Giant Steps art therapy program with veterans and have immeasurable experiences within the Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling program.

“The MAATC program has expanded my thoughts in more ways that I can even explain. It has not only enabled me to continue learning about my profession but also to learn more about myself, which has become so important in informing how I work with my clients,” says graduate

student Aly Sklenarik ’19. On the documentary viewing and panel, she states, “The VA panel was an incredible experience.

Meeting both the individuals and viewing their artwork was so powerful! Whenever Albertus does events like this, it rekindles my passion for this field.”

Spinelli describes her time at Albertus as “impactful — it was a time devoted to cultivating self-awareness, tremendous personal growth on every level.” She, too, interned at the Giant Steps program when she was a student at Albertus.

Things have truly come full circle as she now directs the program and supervises Albertus interns. When it comes to art therapy, Spinelli says the impact it can have on veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder is transformative. She explains that, “Engaging in the creative process can lead to a decrease in distressing symptoms, an increase / reawakening of positive emotion, enhanced resilience; a way to find meaning and reconnection to one’s authentic self and spirituality.”

Spinelli directs an outpatient mental health program at VA Connecticut Healthcare called Giant Steps. She is an Albertus graduate of the MAATC program and has been supervising graduate art therapy interns for over 14 years. She also occasionally teaches graduate classes at Albertus.

Purple Hearts

What Veterans Need To Know

On February 22, 2019, Albertus Magnus was honored as the first “Purple Heart School” in the state of Connecticut by The Military Order of the Purple Heart. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of an enemy, or posthumously to next of kin in the name of those killed in action or die of wounds received in action. In lieu of reserving a traditional handicapped parking spot, the area was painted purple and marked with a plaque designated for a Purple Heart recipient. Local veteran constituents were invited to celebrate the occasion.

The Registrar’s office has a wealth of information for prospective students: personalized guidance is available, access to a veterans liaison, a studentveterans association, a veterans crisis line, tuition assistance, and rehabilitation services.

“We try to be as military-friendly as possible here at Albertus Magnus,” says Sarah Jordan. “It is a pleasure to work with them due to the many different experiences they bring to the table.”

The College is going to start development on specific veterans’ programs in an effort to improve overall experience and be more embracing of individual backgrounds. The Veterans Affairs page currently on the website will help answer questions on eligibility. Visit albertus.edu/veteransbenefits.

From the Hill

17

Taking A Look Back to Step Forward #DominicanTradition

A retrospective journey from President Marc M. Camille’s trip to Fanjeaux, France in October 2018.

18 Spring 2019

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Early in The Fall

DR. MARC CAMILLE TRAVELED TO FRANCE,

along with a group of other Dominican college presidents, to retrace the steps of Saint Dominic as he started a journey of discovery and exploration that would ultimately lead to the founding of the Dominican Order.

“The trip was equal parts educational and inspirational. I was able to spend time in the part of France where Saint Dominic did shortly before founding the Dominican Order, but also to see up close the places that Albertus students and faculty experience when they participate in the summer Fanjeaux program,” Dr. Camille said. The

Photos: President Marc M. Camille

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Fanjeaux program is an opportunity for students and faculty to experience the Dominican pilgrimage and the culture of France, and allows them to connect with the College’s Dominican heritage.

Dr. Camille’s travels, the sights and experiences, along with the rich history and culture of France, took him back through time and ultimately gave him a fuller sense of appreciation for the Dominican Order and the influence it still wields today over Albertus Magnus College and other similar schools.

Albertus Magnus College is unique in its travel abroad program. For more than a decade, students and faculty have had the opportunity to visit France and participate in the College’s study abroad program to Fanjeaux. The program is available every other year as a summer session from the end of May to the middle of

June, and students and faculty complete applications to be selected for the highly competitive process. This summer, students Jane Kos ’21 and Ashley David ’20, along with Career Services staff member Wiley Dawson have been chosen for this opportunity in experiential learning.

The program allows students and faculty to deepen their appreciation for the College’s Dominican heritage and to explore their own faith through spending time where the Order first took shape.

Students who participate in the program take a three-credit class, “France in the Middle Ages,” and learn about the life and culture of the time period through art, history, philosophy, and literature.

The students visit a variety of different sites in France, and finish the program with an excursion to Paris. Throughout the trip, the students are responsible for keeping a detailed journal about their experiences and reflecting on how the program is affecting their understanding of our Dominican 3 heritage and how this applies to the world they live in today.

During his pilgrimage, Dr. Camille retraced the steps and visited the placed where Saint Dominic did during his time in France.

From the Hill

19

“Seeing the landscape, seeing some of the buildings that he lived in, the churches he preached from, it helps paint a picture of what it must have been like in those times,” said Dr. Camille. The visit filled him with awe, gratitude, and a deeper sense of respect and empathy for the Dominican Order that he honors here at Albertus Magnus College.

“I think I now view the Dominican Order through a lens more informed and I think I have a better appreciation for the history of the Order and the inspiration behind it, as well as a greater appreciation for our heritage and the Dominican charism,” Dr. Camille said.

President Camille met with other Dominican College presidents in the quaint little town of Fanjeaux, about 467 miles south of Paris. “Fanjeaux is a small, rural village that sits high atop a hill overlooking a spectacularly beautiful rolling hills landscape. It was fall when we visited, and I remember some of Fanjeaux’s historic buildings being coverd with bright red-orange hued ivy,” said Dr. Camille. There, the presidents bonded and learned about the experiences of their summer abroad students who travel to Fanjeaux biennially.

The presidents’ time in the village of Fanjeaux included visiting the small bedroom where Saint Dominic resided and Église Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, built

on the foundation of the church where Saint Dominic once preached and served as Pastor, and an opportunity to see and touch the original altar from which Saint Dominic preached. They then walked down from Fanjeaux, through fields to the Prouille Monastery, the convent founded by Saint Dominic for his first women followers. At Prouille, the presidents were able to be present for the nuns’ evening Vespers, which was held in their Choir, adjacent to the never completed Basilica that sits in disrepair.

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The presidents also spent a day visiting Carcassonne, the last fortified city remaining in France.

“When you walk into a fortified city that dates back to the Middle Ages, you suddenly realize your own existence is but a speck in history and you find yourself in awe,” Dr. Camille said.

Within the city, in addition to walking through its bustling streets and shops, they visited the Basilique des Saints Nazaire et Celse, where Saint Dominic served as pastor for the church during his years in the Fanjeaux area, and historians believe he celebrated Easter mass in the church in 1213.

Dr. Camille next ventured to the city of Toulouse, which is referred to as La Ville Rose in France because of the pink-colored blocks used in the construction of many of its buildings.

During their visit, they toured the largest pilgrimage church in Europe, the La Basilique Saint-Sernin. While

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“The trip was equal parts educational and inspirational.

I WAS ABLE TO SPEND TIME IN THE PART OF FRANCE WHERE SAINT DOMINIC DID SHORTLY BEFORE FOUNDING THE DOMINICAN ORDER, BUT ALSO TO SEE UP CLOSE THE PLACES THAT ALBERTUS STUDENTS AND FACULTY EXPERIENCE WHEN THEY PARTICIPATE IN THE SUMMER FANJEAUX PROGRAM.

20 Spring 2019

” —Dr. Camille

1. In Les Jacobins, standing in the church’s cloister with Fr. Silly, Dr. Donna Carroll, president of Dominican University in Illinois, Dr. Nancy Blattner, president of Caldwell University, and Dr. Robert Gervasi, president of Ohio Dominican University; 2. Evening vespers in the Choir of the Basilica on the grounds of the Prouilhe Monastary; 3. The fortified city of Carcassonne; 4. Fanjeaux’s rolling hills; 5. Maison Pierre Seilhan in Toulouse, where St. Dominic and his fellow Friars slept centuries ago; 6. Stained glass window depicting important moments in Saint Dominic’s life in La Maison Saint Dominique; 7. The Basilique in Carcassonne, where St. Dominic served as pastor during his years in the Fanjeaux area; 8. Notre Dame De L’Abbaye, where faculty, staff and students from Domincan colleges are housed during summer programs.

in Toulouse, President Camille and his colleagues visited Les Jacobins, the original Church of the Dominicans.

Rev. Renaud Silly, O.P., who spent time with Dr. Camille’s group throughout the pilgrimage, shared the history of the church, which today includes the relics of the Dominican Saint, Thomas Aquinas.

That afternoon, they visited Maison Pierre Seilhan, where Saint Dominic and his other early Friar brothers resided.

“Toulouse, too, was very inspiring. Visiting the original Dominican church and the relics of St. Thomas Aquinas, then walking through the home where Saint Dominic once lived, these were powerful experiences. When

When night fell after the visit to Toulouse, the skies opened up, with ten inches of torrential rains falling upon the area. Before sunrise the next morning, all of those traveling on the pilgrimage were woken and evacuated from their hotel to the center of the village, as the town’s two converging rivers, the Aude and La Sals, were flash flooding.

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we walked through Les Jacobins’ Cloister and I noticed the stained glass windows featuring bright blue and white fleur-de-lis, I couldn’t help but reflect on the connection to our Albertus Magnus colors and seal,” Dr. Camille said.

“The flash flooding was the worst to hit France since 1892, and people lost their lives as a result. Our innkeeper had the foresight to wake and evacuate us in advance of the worst of the flood. We waded in the dark through about a foot of water, but had we not done so then, the waters eventually rose to about four and a half feet. We were fortunate, blessed, to get out when we did, with nothing more than inconvenience. It

was a jarring reminder of how much we have for which to be grateful, every day,” Dr. Camille said.

After the flooding, the presidents visited the medieval village of Lagrasse, which dates to the 8th century, when it was chartered by King Charlemagne.

The students and faculty who participate in the Fanjeaux program also visit Lagrasse. Dr. Camille and his fellow pilgrims enjoyed a lunch in one of the restaurants where the students and faculty dine. After spending time in Lagrasse, they traveled to the L’Abbaye de Fonftroide, chartered in the late 11th century, initially for Benedictine and then soon thereafter Cistercian monks, with construction beginning in early 12th century. While visiting the Abbey’s church, Dr. Camille and all of those who traveled sang together the Dominican Blessing, which they also had done a number of other times during the pilgrimage.

President Camille’s trip to France was an informative and life-changing experience for him, allowing him to fully immerse himself in the history, values and characteristics of the 8 Dominican Order.

“I wouldn’t have thought it possible, but after the trip, I have even more inspiration than before.

My appreciation and love for our distinct, important Dominican heritage and mission have grown deeper,” Dr. Camille said.

Now that Dr. Camille has experienced first-hand much of what Albertus faculty and staff do when they participate in the Fanjeaux program, he’s returned a more informed and impassioned ambassador for the College, ready to lead the Albertus community forward as it sets its sights on the College’s second century.

albertus.edu/fanjeaux2018

From the Hill

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The St. Thomas Aquinas Lecture Series #StThomasAquinas

St. Thomas Aquinas wrote, “Wisdom is the desire for knowledge.” As a great Dominican, scholar, and student of Albert the Great, St. Thomas left behind a legacy in his search for truth and pursuit of knowledge. Through the generosity of one of the largest single gifts to the Albertus endowment, alumna Marie Louise Bianchi ’31 directed that her gift be used to promote the teachings and philosophies of St. Thomas Aquinas. Although Marie Louise passed away in 1994, all members of the Albertus community continue to benefit from her philanthropy.

Pictured, above: Kerry Alys Robinson 22 Spring 2019

The theme of this year’s St. Thomas Aquinas Lecture series is youth in the Catholic church.

During Saint Albert Week in November, Dr. Theresa O’Keefe, associate professor at Boston College, presented the first lecture in the St. Thomas Aquinas lecture series. Entitled, Sharing Truth and Community with Young Adults: Dominican Spirituality for a Meaningful Life, the discussion was centered on the time in early adulthood when a person gains the capacity to think and move beyond simple self-interest, and how Dominican spiritual values provide young adults the practices they need to expand their vision and hope for the world.

Dr. O’Keefe presented adulting and the concept of transitioning from childhood to adolescence, to emerging adulthood, and finally, adulthood. Her discussion and, at times, witty delivery focused heavily on people belonging to the “emerging adulthood” phase, a place in which many college students can identify. Dr. O’Keefe also noted a transition within the Catholic Church in recent years which has moved this dialogue into a greater conversation concerning multiculturalism, changes in secularization, and the ongoing need to welcome these communities.

Is adulthood a way to feel, or a way to be? What is adulting? What does it mean to become successful at being an adult? In recent years, a cottage industry has been created around these questions about becoming an adult, filled with books covering just this issue. However, Dr. O’Keefe notes that these books overcomplicate the matter. In exploring these questions, the presentation broke down the idea of “adulting,” or the study of feeling like an adult, into three main concepts: learning to recognize yourself as a person of unique value, recognizing others as people, and analyzing the relationship between both of these aspects of becoming an adult. When this is done O’Keefe says, “Our value and impact allows us to blossom and see ourselves.”

Many college students find themselves in this emerging adulthood phase of life, a phase that can be overwhelming and frustrating because everything seems new and scary as they enter into the world after graduation. Although considered legal adults when we turn eighteen, Dr. O’Keefe acknowledges that we are not yet fully functioning adults. Some people may go through their whole lives without reaching the self-actualization it takes to succeed as an adult. However, Dr. O’Keefe’s definition of adulthood is the capacity to be responsible within the context of relationships—it doesn’t mean we do it all the time, but the fact that we are capable to do so is what makes us truly adults. We are always learning and growing, and embracing the changes throughout the adulting process. This is what can enable students to overcome obstacles and continue their journeys into adulthood.

Photo: Marisa B. Dragone

Belief in Youth as Our Future

Pictured above: Sr. Anne Kilbride, O.P. with Dr. Theresa O’Keefe after the first lecture in the series.

In January, we welcomed Kerry Alys Robinson to discuss Imagining Abundance: The Role of Young Adults in the Church. Robinson is the founding executive director and global ambassador of Leadership Roundtable, a Catholic nonprofit organization that works to develop successful leaders that serve the Catholic Church.

In her lecture, Robinson explained that the Catholic church was losing an entire generation of young adults from their ministry, and the ways in which she developed a strategic plan to re-engage with young adults who are caught up in the early years of figuring out adulthood and inspire them to take on leadership roles on campus through ministry and in the Catholic church.

Robinson noticed that, especially among college students, the topic of religion was regarded as anti-intellectual, and that many young adults had lost interest in cultivating their faith. To combat this, Robinson started a mentorship program where young adults were invited to take on real, meaningful leadership roles. She finds that to be a young adult, and have people be confident in you, and to be supported and encouraged is a means for exponential growth during a time when they can feel insecure about emerging adulthood and being entrusted with these roles.

When her plan was executed, Robinson and her colleagues saw mentors speaking personally about where faith mattered in their lives and fostered Catholic intellectual discourse among college campuses. Young adults were encouraged and inspired to take on leadership roles on campus, including the creation of service and social justice ministries.

Robinson insists that the Church’s greatest asset is its people and that the involvement of young adults is both a gift and a promise for the future. albertus.edu/stthomaslectures

Photo: Alyssa Cruz

The St. Catherine of Siena Lecture What does it mean to be young and Hispanic in the United States? What strategies will better serve the pastoral and spiritual needs of this important population? Join us for the final lecture in the series on Monday, April 1, 2019 at 5:15pm when Dr. Hosffman Ospino will present, Journeying with Young Hispanics on the Path of Faith and Discernment. Dr. Ospino is associate professor at Boston College School of Theology and Ministry and director of Graduate Programs in Hispanic Ministry. RSVP alumni@albertus.edu or call 203-773-8502.

From the Hill

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Albertus Alumni Around the Country Los Angeles, CA — January 9 President Camille met with Alumna Barbara Chesney Schmir ’95 and alumnus Giovanni Duaqui ’96 and heard their inspirational stories of how Albertus Magnus impacted their lives. To join the newly established Albertus Magnus California Chapter, contact Giovanni Duaqui ’96 via email @ duaqui@gmail.com

Washington, D.C. — February 6 Albertus Magnus goes to Washington and meets alumni at the University Club. It was a packed house filled with memories and appreciation for a lifetime of connection.

Houston, TX — February 25 Dallas, TX — February 27 Texas alumni enjoyed dinner and conversation with President Camille in Downtown Houston and Uptown Dallas.

Scottsdale, Arizona — January 5 Alumni from the 1950s through the 2000s shared their stories with us in Scottsdale, Arizona on January 5.

A special thank you to alumnus Larry Cole ’96 for assistance in organizing the gathering.

24 Spring 2019

Naples, Florida — January 28 Albertus Magnus College traveled to Naples, Florida to meet with Alumni including June Munnelly Falcone ’58 and Jane Utz Hamilton ’70 at the Stonebridge Country Club.

East Hartford, CT — TBD Join us as we celebrate our expansion into a new location at 225 Pitkin Street in East Hartford. Details Coming Soon.

Boston, MA — March 14

BOSTON RSVP to www.albertus.edu/alumni/events

Upcoming Alumni Events albertus.edu/alumnievents

Networking Reception

Wednesday, April 3 A casual evening of conversation and connection with alumni, graduating seniors, and the Albertus Magnus campus community. Bring your business cards and make connections that last a lifetime!

Golden Society

Saturday, April 27 All members of the Golden Society are invited as we induct the Class of 1969, celebrate milestone classes, and present the Alumni of the Year Awards at the Golden Society Brunch.

PONS Party

Friday, May 17 Join recent alumni and the campus community as we celebrate the Class of 2019.

Palm Beach, Florida — January 27 Our alumni reception in Palm Beach, Florida was a huge success.

Alumnae from many generations shared their stories with President Camille including our generous host and alumni advisory board member, Sheila Flaherty Wycinowski ’72.

Founders’ Day

New York, New York — April 11

NEW YORK RSVP to www.albertus.edu/alumni/events

Friday, September 20 The Albertus Magnus community will gather to celebrate the 94th Anniversary celebration of our College.

Homecoming 2019

SAVE THE DATE–October 19 Reunion: 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014

From the Hill

25

A New Day in Alumni Relations When I accepted the position of Director of Alumni Relations and Parent Engagement, I knew I came to a campus entrenched in pride, tradition, connection, and support. My first experience with Albertus was watching my younger brother play on the soccer team, leading up to the historic Great Northeast Athletic Conference Championship in 1996. I remember seeing how supportive the Albertus community was from his fellow teammates, his coach and the faculty and staff that cheered him and his team onto victory.

For the last 15 years, I have worked at a large California university with more than 40,000 students; lack of personal connection and individual support were common themes I heard from students and alumni. Students were lost in a sea of people, often times becoming just another number in the mechanism of higher education. Alumni were proud of their alma mater but missed out on developing personal connections in their formative college years.

In just the few short weeks since I’ve been here at Albertus, I look around and see students, alumni, faculty, and staff share a deep sense of community and connectivity. Students and alumni have shared with me how much Albertus has meant to them. For students, the ability to reach out to faculty, staff, and alumni and receive support and guidance is immeasurable.

Alumni continually mention their overwhelmingly positive experience here and how the pillars of our mission have carried out through their professional careers and personal relationships. Additionally, I am amazed at the number of generations of family that have called Albertus home. Most universities or colleges are lucky to have a handful of relatives attend the same college, let alone multi-generations of family members. There is no doubt that this impression of connection and support that I get from the campus has been a driving force for multi-generations of family members to continue to come to our College. I am humbled and proud to be part of the new Albertus alumni and advancement team, led by alumna, Carolyn Behan Kraus ’86.

One of my greatest goals is to amplify what Albertus does so well. It is very apparent that this sense of connection, support, pride, and tradition is what makes Albertus so distinctive and important. Alumni Relations is working hard to develop new programs and strengthen traditional events by partnering with other areas on campus like the Office of Career & Professional Development and the Division of Professional and Graduate Studies. For example, this March, we have a Career Conversations roundtable discussion, where

we invite alumni to participate and share their experiences with our students.

In order for Albertus Magnus College to be successful, we need your help and we need your participation and your presence at our programs and events. For alumni around the country and the world, this doesn’t mean you’re excluded from all of the fun. Our team has been traveling to areas all over the country connecting with alumni from Los Angeles to Florida. See our travelogue in this issue of where we have been and where we are going! These regional gatherings have left an indelible mark on our graduates. In fact, at a recent gathering in Los Angeles, two attendees felt so inspired that they are now starting an alumni chapter in California. Alumni participation is key to the success of our mission. In the coming weeks, we will be posting a new page on our website asking alumni to fill out ways they would like to connect, volunteer, or participate in the Albertus story. You can become part of an Albertus Speakers Bureau, volunteer at one of our signature campus events, assist us in the alumni office with special projects, or simply attend an event and have fun and reminisce with your fellow Falcons!

Let us know how best the Alumni Association can serve you.

Tell us if you are the first in your family to come to Albertus or if you come from a multi-generation of family members who have called Albertus home. I’m so happy to be a part of the Albertus family and I look forward to our partnership in sharing the Albertus story and its impact on our community.

Tony Alves Director of Alumni Relations and Parent Engagement

Attention Alumni: Have You Heard About Handshake?

Need Help Finding a Career After Graduating or Looking to Shift Careers? Look no further than our new online platform that matches jobs or internships to your professional profile. As a free benefit to Albertus alumni, you can post your résumé and find a career that meets your skills.

Visit Handshake.albertus.edu to get started.

26 Spring 2019

Photo: Steven Rignoli

8 Million Reasons to Give

Each semester, the Office of Advancement, in partnership with the Office of Career and Professional Development, hosts Career Conversations, which invites alumni back to campus to share their career experiences with current students. Each event focuses on different majors or disciplines. In October, we highlighted business careers with panelists, from left to right, Michael Federico ’16, credit analyst at TD Bank; Rachael DeMarzo ’16, interdepartmental project manager at Aware Recovery Care; Nicole Evans ’15 ’16 MBA, contracts administrator at United Technologies Corporation; and Deanna Fowler ’13 ’16 M.S., manager for retirement benefits and financial wellness at Yale New Haven Health.

The cost of a quality education continues to increase. For Albertus, it is especially important to help students afford to attend.

“It is part of our Mission to create opportunity for anyone seeking truth,” says Carolyn Behan Kraus ’86, the vice president for Advancement at Albertus, “so scholarships are vital to our ability to welcome all qualified candidates to join our campus community.” Albertus this year awarded almost $8,000,000 in scholarships to students demonstrating financial need.

Many of these scholarships are made possible through the more than $500,000 in alumni gifts made to the Fund for Albertus, as well as to the Class Scholarships.

“Alumni support of scholarships is critical to our ability to remain competitive,” reports Behan Kraus. “In addition, students feel a sense of pride knowing that their scholarship is funded by alumni—it enhances the feeling of community and support for our students.”

Make a Difference and Join Our Family of Volunteers!

Many of the programs that the Alumni Association hosts wouldn’t be possible without the help of our dedicated and selfless volunteers! Their time and talents of a variety of professions are what help our organization grow.

Our volunteer group is comprised of current Albertus Magnus students, alumni, parents, staff, faculty, and emeriti, as well as friends of the College that use their time to give back to the Alumni Association and many of its programs.

Volunteers assist us annually with several events and programs throughout the year. They assist us in events such as Commencement and Homecoming, as well as speaker’s panels such as Career Conversations, along with helping on special projects, regional events, and student mentoring.

Albertus Magnus College has a long history of alumni giving back in many ways including volunteering their time in support of their alma mater! Come join us and see all of the exciting things happening at Albertus Magnus.

Photos: Coppola Photography (top left); Pretty Instant (top right and bottom left); staff photo (bottom right)

To join the Albertus Magnus Volunteer Program, visit us online at albertus.edu/alumni/alumni-volunteer

Alicia Vitigliano ’19 received the Class of 1967 Scholarship this year. “Albertus has been an amazing place for me,” says Vitigliano, “because of the support I have received from faculty and staff. It feels like home.” Vitigliano served as president of the Honors Program, vice president of Philanthropy for the Student Alumni Association, and an admission ambassador.

“Knowing this substantial scholarship was funded by alumni made me feel like the whole Albertus community supported me and had faith in my achievements—now and in the future. It was especially meaningful in my last year, to know so many people donated to help me succeed. I look forward to being an alumna and making impactful donations, just like those that helped me.” Vitigliano is currently studying for the LSAT and hopes to practice Law. “Scholarships are made up of many individual gifts,” according to Behan Kraus. “We encourage gifts of any size because they all add up to significant amounts.” If you’d like to make a gift, please go to Albertus.edu/give. To learn more or to start your own named scholarship, please contact giving@albertus.edu or call (203)773-8502.

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Around Campus Dr. Hilda Speicher, professor of psychology, coordinator of the accelerated degree program in the Professional and Graduate Studies (PGS) Division and Coordinator of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, had her radio debut on NPR’s “An Academic Minute” September 21, 2018. The episode entitled, “Stigmatizing Single Adults” was based on research she has gathered on cultural norms and the pressure associated with adults to marry. She has developed an individual differences self-report measure of intimacy capability and motivation (Speicher Trait Intimacy Capability and Intimacy Motivation; STICIM) and a projective measure using artwork of intimacy in a relationship (the Draw Your Relationship; DYR).

Two faculty members and one alumna from the Master of Arts Therapy and Counseling (MAATC) Program presented at the 49th annual American Art Therapy Association conference on November 1, 2018 in Miami, Florida. In recognition of the program’s 20th anniversary of its founding, MAATC was a proud sponsor at this year’s conference. Lisa Furman MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPC, director, presented “Itinerant Art Therapy: An Educational Model for Community Outreach Therapeutic Service.” Joining her as co-presenter was MAATC alumni Hope Boeve ’06. Lisa also presented “Ethical Considerations: Clients with Cognitive Degeneration in Therapy Research and Treatment”. Abbe Miller, MS, ATR-BC, LPC, Associate Professor and Art Show Coordinator, presented “Disclosure Phenomenon and Layered Art-Making with One-Canvas.”

According to Best Value Schools, Albertus Magnus College has been identified as one of the best values for a Master of Liberal Arts online in

Photo: KVON Photography

Assistant Professor of Psychology Dr. Bonnie Pepper’s poster entitled “Utilization of a Community Garden as a Pedagogical Tool for High Impact Practices in Psychology” has been accepted for presentation at the annual NECToP (North East Conference for Teachers of Psychology). The poster will be based on Bonnie’s work with the MAATC students in the College’s community garden and will be co-authored by many of the students who were in Bonnie’s summer 2018 counseling theories course. It will discuss the design of the assignment as well as the implementation and outcome of the students’ class projects.

On November 13, 2018, President Camille recognized faculty and staff at the Employee Milestone Service Recognition Event, celebrating those who have served the Albertus community ranging from five through forty years. We are very grateful for their dedication to our Falcon Family!

the ranking based on affordability. Albertus ranked number 16 in the poll. The full list can be found by visiting https://www.bestvalueschools.com/cheap/ online/masters-general-studies/. In the same poll, Albertus ranked 10 for Online Masters of Science in Criminal Justice Program: Correction Concentration.

In November, the Commission on Accredidation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) awarded the Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling Program initial accreditation. CAAHEP is the largest programmatic accreditor of the health sciences professions and currently accredits over 2100 individual education programs in thirty health sciences occupations. As this is a new accreditation, it is more comprehensive and incorporates a wider range of counseling programs than was the case under Art Therapy program’s accreditation to this point. CAAHEP’s accreditation standards are established by CAAHEP, the Accreditation Council for Art

Welcome several new faculty members and academic support staff who have joined us this spring through the $2M grant supporting an initiative to implement a proactive, holistic, case management approach to student advising and mentoring and promotion of student retention and success.

To implement this initiative, the following employees will assume the positions of full-time faculty who will have significant advising responsibilities in their various programs: Corey Brushett, assistant professor and faculty advisor in the Department of Business and Management (B.A., Gettysburg College; M.B.A., Albertus Magnus College ’11)

Brenda Joslyn, assistant professor and faculty advisor in the Department of Business and Management (B.S., Albertus Magnus College ’14; M.B.A., Albertus Magnus College ’15)

Jennifer Dealy, assistant professor and faculty advisor in the Department of Psychology (B.A., Assumption College; M.A., University of Connecticut; P.h.D. candidate, University of Connecticut)

James Scott, assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice (B.A., Albertus Magnus College ’06; M.A.S., Fairleigh Dickinson University)

These staff members will assume the positions of student success coaches: Melissa Laskowski, student success counselor in the Division of Professional and Graduate Studies (B.S., Averett College; M.B.A, University of New Haven)

Morganna Payne, student success coach in the Department of Academic Advising and Student Success (B.A., Albertus Magnus College ’91; M.A., Fairfield University; Ph.D. candidate, American International College)

And finally, to support our growing MBA program and our new MPA program, we are pleased to welcome as new full-time faculty members: Patricia Birungi, assistant professor in the Department of Business and Management (B.S., Makerere University; M.P.H., Eastern Virginia Medical School; Ph.D., Old Dominion University)

28 Spring 2019

Jonathan McKinstry, assistant professor in the Department of Business and Management (B.S., Central Connecticut State University; M.S., Quinnipiac University; Ph.D. candidate, Capella University)

Therapy Education (ACATE) and the American Art Therapy Association (AATA).

The accreditation process is quite rigorous. Congratulations to Lisa Furman who spearheaded the accreditation effort, Cynthia O’Brien who provided administrative and logistical assistance, and the members of the Psychology Department who supported the accreditation effort.

Bishop Theodore L. Brooks, Sr., senior pastor of Beulah Heights First Pentecostal Church, annual Albertus Magnus College commencement guest, and recipient of the 2003 Honorary degree of Humane Letters, was celebrated at a ceremony on November 17, 2018 when he was elevated to the Office of Presiding Bishop. Bishop Brooks lives out the values we hold near and dear through his deep commitment to the Beulah Heights congregation and the broader New Haven neighborhoods and boards on which he serves.

Senior Art Therapy major, Maxim Schmidt ’19 exhibited his solo exhibition “Gender Fools” at the Ely Center of Contemporary Art in New Haven, CT from December 2, 2018 to January 6, 2019. His exhibition tackled the issues of

gender identity and was held in conjunction with “The Wintry Mix,” a group exhibition of local and regional artists. Schmidt was selected in January as one of the Connecticut Student Poets who will recite his work alongside other student writers from the University of Connecticut, Quinebaug Valley Community College, Yale University, and Trinity College. Albertus Magnus was host to one of the CT Student Poets readings on February 27, 2019 in Rosary Hall.

Albertus Magnus professor of Religious Studies, Dr. David Wheeler-Reed had an author talk and book signing January 24, 2019 at the New Haven Pride Center for his book “Regulating Sex in the Roman Empire,” published by Yale University Press in 2017.

Andrew Foster, vice president for student services, was unanimously appointed as a board member of the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) by the Board of the Connecticut Health and Education Facilities Authority (CHEFA). CHESLA provides a valuable service to students and families and Andrew’s expertise in financial aid will help fulfill their mission.

MS in Applied Behavior Analysis with Regis College Albertus Magnus College has entered an agreement with Regis College (Weston, Massachusetts) to offer a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. Albertus seniors, upon meeting qualifying criteria, will have preferred admission to the Regis program and application fee and GRE/MAT requirement will be waived. Prior to acceptance into the program, Albertus juniors and seniors also have the opportunity to take two free courses at Regis, as well as the option to delay enrollment into the MS program for one year.

Student Alumni Association Receives National Award The Albertus Magnus College Student Alumni Association was founded in spring 2012 to instill a sense of tradition, loyalty and pride that will motivate current students to become future alumni association leaders and advocates. Many Albertus students are first-generation students who didn’t know what it meant to be an alumni or the responsibilities and privileges that come along with it.

Their mission is to bridge the gap between Albertus past, present, and future. SAA focuses on traditions-based programming, while incorporating philanthropy. Now in its seventh year, the group has created several programs including: Falcon Flights, a “Cash Cab” style of Albertus trivia, to support and increase awareness about Founders’ Day and the College’s history and founders’ legacy.

Thank-a-thon, a week long calling campaign before Thanksgiving to thank annual fund donors for their gifts to the College.

Christmas Tree Lighting, bringing together the Albertus community to celebrate the holiday.

I Love Albertus Week started as Frankie’s Hatch Bash, a birthday celebration for our Mascot as part of NCAA DIII StudentAthlete week. Last year, this event was transitioned into a whole week of activities.

Project Gratitude, a thank you note campaign for students to recognize faculty and staff.

The Student Alumni Association also supports events hosted by the Office of Advancement, such as Reunion and Homecoming, College-wide events, and serve as ambassadors for the Office of the President.

Every February for the past five years, SAA has participated in Student Engagement and Philanthropy Month, alongside institutions

across the world. In 2015, they began the “Change for Change” Campaign, a student-to-student giving initiative, to encourage their fellow students to give back to their peers and raise awareness about the importance of giving back to others. All currently enrolled students are eligible for the funds through an application process.

An anonymous panel of judges selects the recipients. To date, Change for Change has awarded almost $4,000 in microscholarships to current students to go toward tuition, books or degree completion fees.

The Student Alumni Association, through its involvement with the Council of Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Affiliated Student Advancement Programs (ASAP), has won both regional and national awards for their work to increase student engagement on our campus. This year at the CASE ASAP National Convention in Louisville, KY, they received National Outstanding Organization. albertus.edu/saa

From the Hill

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CLASS NOTES Alumni photos appearing in Class Notes are submitted unless otherwise noted.

1957 Classmates Nancy Francis Hopkins, Margaret Mary Burns Clancy, and Mary Keane visited the old homestead of David and Julia Moriarty Hayes this fall and enjoyed a tour of the outdoor gallery on the property courtesy of their son David, who maintains a workshop there, restoring his father’s works as needed and managing traveling exhibits across the country. Next stop: Colorado.

1965 Patricia Podufaly Schultheis, Baltimore, MD, published her memoir titled, A Balanced Life (All Things That Matter Press). Ms. Schultheis uses skating to examine the richness and constraints of her Catholic girlhood, the impact of the upheavals of the sixties on her young marriage, and how skating provided a release from the demands of marriage, motherhood, and a career.

When a series of devastating losses, including the death of her husband, knocked her off her feet, she wondered if she could get up again.

1971 Ann Pennell-Cimini, East Longmeadow, MA, retired as a Librarian from Springfield Schools 8 years ago and is still working part-time at Yankee Spirits in Sturbridge, MA. She volunteers for a town Library Friends’ Group and several Church groups.

Members of the women’s soccer team attended the wedding ceremony for head coach, Nick Wajnowski ’06.

1974

2003

Seven alumna from the Class of 1974 (Dianna Reitano Heck, Mary Duncan, Susan Peters Crawford, Elizabeth Silvia, Kate Farrell Kurosky, Eliane Whipple Holmes, and Kathy Devlin) were in Santa Fe, NM to celebrate the wedding of Susan Peters Crawford’s daugther, Eliza.

Kareem Mebane, Hamden, CT, received the 2018 “Soup Ladle” Award from the Community Soup Kitchen at Christ Church Parish in New Haven.

Mr. Mebane was instrumental in coordinating donations to the soup kitchen from the Travelers Golf Tournament and Yale New Haven Hospital.

1994

2004

Keith Raffone will now serve as Director of Manufacturing and Distribution— South Atlantic for GateHouse Media. This promotion is part of the leadership changes associated with GateHouse’s Accelerating Change initiative for the South Atlantic region. Mr. Raffone will have direct responsibility for Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia operations. He will also serve as a conduit for distribution team ideas to corporate leadership and manage third party distribution relationships. Since 1996, he has held numerous positions at a number of newspapers.

Corina Alvarezdelugo, Simbury, CT, has been accepted into the Master of Fine Arts Program in Visual Arts at the New Hampshire Institute of Art, with a merit scholarship.

1998 Michael Raymond, North Haven, CT, accepted a new position as AVP for Competitive Market Solutions at Lincoln Financial in October 2018.

2005 Vivian Martinez-Wells has been named Director of Business Development & Contracts at Cadence Aerospace after a career spanning nearly 20 years in the aerospace and aviation industry. She has completed training programs in the areas of Quality Assurance, Negotiating Solutions, and Leveraging Style Differences for Team Leadership. Ms. Martinez-Wells also has received a number of industry awards and accolades throughout her career.

Keith J. Murphy, received a new position as Vice President of Supply Chain Services at The University of Miami Health System. In this newly created role, he will oversee the supply chain of the health system, including the hospital-based and ambulatory facilities, and the UM Medical Group.

2006 Nicholas Wajnowski, West Haven, CT, married Lakeisha Nishimura on December 15, 2018.

Several alumni from the men’s soccer team were in attendance including: Michael Abbey ’04, John Adams ’03, Kurt Bedocs ’03, Jim Bernardo ’97, Brett Colavolpe ’07, Michael Gilman ’06, and Michael Perreira ’05.

2007 Thomas Hesse, Guilford, CT, was appointed COO at Clear Auomation. He is responsible for increasing the organization’s talent, quality, and efficiency, while improving their customers’ experience through transparent clear communication. Thomas earned his Master’s degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

At Albertus, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Management. Tom also attended Harvard Law School’s “Program on Negotiation.”

New degree? New house? New job? Marriage? Baby? Share your news with us! albertus.edu/classnotes 30 Spring 2019

2009

2015

2018

Genese Calloway Clark, New Haven, CT published her first children’s book titled Suddenly I Found It. The book addresses the joy of discovery and a little boy’s appreciation for the gifts found within. Ms. Clark is the founder of Advocate Lab, LLC, building strong families and communities around the world utilizing family strength research, creativity, and art.

Yvonne Gordon Moser, M.A.A.T., Branford, CT, used her training to not only help others, but to also help her navigate through her husband’s stem cell transplant. It spawned a creative rebirth for her resulting in two ongoing art exhibits and a feeling of hope that the worst was over for the couple.

Ashlee Nachelle Eason, New Haven, CT, married Corey Phillip Paris on November 9, 2018.

Mrs. Paris is the procurement supervisor at the Cornell Scott Hill Health Center in New Haven.

Christopher Saunders, Oakville, CT, has been named the play-by-play announcer for WATR-AM.

2013

2017

Stephen Sangapore, Newton, MA, was interviewed by The Boston Globe regarding his unique paintings that are not limited by the shape of a regular canvas. Steve assembles canvases and wood panels to create a unique geometry before he begins paintings. Recently, he also began printing his works on skateboards.

IN

M E M O R I A M:

Joan Crawford McCooey ’52 worked as a newspaper and magazine editor. She also worked as a proofreader at a law firm.

Joan was a guardian ad litem, advocating for the rights of children.

October 28, 2018 South Burlington, VT

Louise Hogan Garvey ’49 worked as a social worker for the State of Connecticut. She spent most of her life residing in Hamden, CT and lived in Branford, CT and Hilton Head, SC October 27, 2018 North Branford, CT

Katherine Burnes Weil ’52 went on to teach High School in New Haven after graduating from Albertus. She later taught English as a Second Language for Bayer Pharmaceuticals.

July 5, 2018 Orange, CT

Virginia Selfors Murphy ’49 (Jinny) worked in advertising in Manhattan and taught ballroom dancing in the evenings with Arthur Murray, founder of the eponymous dancing schools, before returning to New Haven to teach Spanish and French in local area schools.

October 19, 2018 Woodbridge, CT

Barbara Czajka Coughlin ’56 was a teacher at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School after graduating from Albertus. After raising her children, she returned to teaching at Mercy High School in Middletown, CT. November 19, 2018 Cromwell, CT Alice Buskey Nealon ’56 was a dedicated teacher for the Bridgeport Public School System for 25 years, spending much of that time in 8th grade Language Arts at Blackham Elementary School before her retirement.

September 21, 2018 Bridgeport, CT

Mary Shurter Cassidy ’50 graduated from Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School following her time at Albertus and briefly worked at Electrol, Inc. before starting her family.

September 3, 2018 Pompton Plains, NJ Doris Savelle Breuler ’52 was a teacher at the former St. Mary’s High School in New Haven and later at Guilford High School where she was chairman of the English Department until her retirement.

October 16, 2018 Northford, CT

M E M O R I A M:

R EL AT I VES

Margaret T. Bixler, grandmother of Ryan C. Holt ’14.

November 24, 2018 Doreen Boyd-Jones, student in the professional and graduate studies program.

Nov. 2, 2018

Zaida Velazco and Gabriel Perez were married on December 15, 2018 surrounded by many of their Albertus classmates.

Zaida Velazco ’17 and Gabriel Perez ’18

AL U MNI

Audrey MacKenzie White ’47 was married to the late Roderick B. White and lived in Bethany for 62 years. She was the mother of Endley K. White ’77.

October 3, 2018 Bethany, CT

IN

Stacie Hurley, West Haven, CT, has been promoted to Corporate Compliance Officer at Aware Recovery Care.

OF

Lorraine Rosadini DiGioia ’58 worked for the State of Connecticut as a Social Worker.

After taking time off to raise six children, she later worked in real estate, retail, and finally at Blue Cross and Blue Shield in North Haven, where she retired in 1997, after twelve years.

October 15, 2018 Wallingford, CT M. Eileen Fitzgerald ’58 worked as a teacher in Naugatuck and Braintree Public Schools, and most recently as a social worker for the Sharon Public Schools for 35 years. She was active in the METCO Program in the Sharon Public Schools and the AIDS Action Committee of Boston.

January 8, 2019 New Haven, CT Joan Regan Sheridan ’59 began her career as an elementary school teacher stepping away from her career to raise her family. She returned to the classroom before beginning a new phase of her career as a health educator. Joan was the sister of Sr. Doris Regan, O.P. ’58 December 2, 2018 Portland, CT

ALUM N I

Lorraine D. Cronin D.H.L. ’06 received her Doctor of Humane Letters from Albertus Magnus College in 2006.

September 29, 2018 Jane Faiella, sister of Carol Fucci ’09, Assistant to the Treasurer.

November 6, 2018

Patricia Mullan Burnham ’57 returned to school and obtained a Ph.D. in Art History while raising two children. She taught at the University of Texas in the Department of American Studies, and the Department of Art and Art History from 1988 until 2008, when she retired.

November 12, 2018 San Antonio, TX

AN D

Carol A. Broshjeit ’62 worked for 47 years at the West Haven Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

She was one of the original pioneers in helping to establish one of the VA’s, and nation’s, first network integrated automated laboratory environments.

December 20, 2018 New Haven, CT Moira Kennedy O’Malley ’67 was a lifelong fundraiser for Irish cultural and charitable causes and the first executive director of the Ireland Funds. Moira was part of the New York City Committee to elect Senator Ted Kennedy as president in 1980. Twenty years later, she worked in Connecticut for Senator Bill Bradley’s presidential aspirations in 2000.

December 25, 2018 New York, NY Aleksandra L. “Sandra” Bzdyra ’69 worked as a Program Manager for the State of Connecticut. She enjoyed traveling and looking after her family.

October 10, 2018 Cheshire, CT Raydora Drummer Francis ’79 spent almost all of her career in Student Support Services at Wheaton College, Michigan State University, and the University of Dubuque.

November 3, 2018 Fayetteville, NC

M EM BERS

Candace Johnson, student in the professional and graduate studies program.

December 17, 2018 Robert Phillips Levenson, husband of Diane Kinnane ’70 October 12, 2018

OF

THE

Mary Beth Naples ’96 was formerly employed at St. Vincent’s Medical Center and as a nursing home Director where she enjoyed socializing with the residents and making them smile.

November 27, 2018 Bridgeport, CT Louis Sidera ’99 served in the United States Marine Corps prior to attending Albertus and later went on to law school at Quinnipiac University.

August 26, 2018 Northford, CT Herbert Wexler ’99 was an athlete, deep thinker, and business man. He created the medical billing software MicroEdge and established The Next Edge before becoming an international business consultant.

October 6, 2018 Norwalk, CT Clare Leniston Buzzell ’01 worked at Manchester Memorial Hospital for 37 years in the Health Information Management Department.

December 8, 2018 Manchester, CT Henry L. Williams ’06 was a Vietnam War U.S. Coast Guard veteran and a supervisor at Sikorsky Aircraft where he had been employed for 46 years.

Henry loved fishing and truly enjoyed his job and work.

November 8, 2018 Bridgeport, CT

ALBERTUS

Lois Paliwoda Mauro, mother of Jill Mauro Sweet ’86, grandmother of Ella Sweet, student in the professional and graduate studies program.

October 5, 2018

C O MMUNI TY

Tyrone E. Newton, student in the professional and graduate studies program.

November 8, 2018 Megumi Yamamoto, affiliate faculty member in the Department of Education.

October 3, 2018

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Albertus Magnus College A Catholic College in the Dominican Tradition Since 1925 700 Prospect Street New Haven, CT 06511-1189

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID New Haven, CT Permit No. 323

From the Hill Marc M. Camille, Ed.D. President Andrea E. Kovacs ’12 M.A. Vice President for Communications and Marketing Carolyn Behan Kraus ’86, M.A. Vice President for Advancement Marisa B. Dragone Director of Creative Services Editor Tony Alves Director of Alumni Relations and Parent Engagement Siobhan Lidington Director of Annual and Individual Giving Sarah Barr Media Communications Specialist Jason Dunn ’18 Digital Communications Specialist Steven Rignoli Coordinator of Alumni and Donor Engagement Lyndi Szabo Communications and Marketing Assistant Karin Krochmal Designer From the Hill is published by Albertus Magnus College.

Send address changes to the Office of Advancement, Albertus Magnus College, 700 Prospect Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06511 or alumni@albertus.edu.

Editorial offices are located at Mohun Annex, Albertus Magnus College, 342 Ogden Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06511.

albertus.edu

Tradition Never Graduates Delia Nicoletti Bellarosa ’43 just turned 98 years old. Delia has written memoirs for the Wallkill Retired Teachers Newsletter, two of which, The Candyman and Doobie, have received recognition.

Photo: submitted

Albertus Magnus College admits students of any race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, and disability status to all the rights, privileges, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school, nor does it discriminate in these areas in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.