On the Green Summer 2020

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WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER

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Alumni and Friends

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hope you and your loved ones are all well and safe. What an incredibly unprecedented time this has been. From a global pandemic to protests in our streets, I do not know where to start.

At the onset of COVID-19, Bloomfield College rose to the challenge and, after extending spring break, moved all classes online on Wednesday, March 18. Additionally, to assist incoming students, we announced we would be waiving or reducing enrollment deposits.

Sadly, college commencements across the country moved to virtual celebrations. Bloomfield College has every intention to host an in-person commencement once we can all safely gather together again.

To new alumni who didn’t receive the send-off you undoubtedly earned: grief is a natural, valid feeling. You are not alone. I wish to reiterate what I have been saying in my video messages. We are here for you, graduates. Never hesitate to reach out to your alma mater – whether you need help finding employment or want a pair of extra eyes on your resume or cover letter. Even if you just want someone to talk to or a shoulder to lean on – we remain here for you.

I cannot write this message without speaking about

the protests our country has seen. As the president of New Jerseys only four-year predominantly black institution, I deeply understand what many of our students, families, faculty, staff, and alumni are feeling right now. Before I became the first Black president of Bloomfield College, I was a Black woman and mother living in America. I grew up in the Deep South during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, a time when African Americans struggled to gain equality, and end disenfranchisement and racial segregation. Though decades apart, our lives have eerily aligned more than ever recently.

At Bloomfield College we have been working hard to figure out what resources and knowledge we can bring to help in both the midst of a global pandemic and as protests continue in cities across New Jersey and around the country. I personally wish to thank the Bloomfield College trustees, students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and extended Bloomfield College community for their nimbleness, support, adaptability, and understanding as we navigated these two crises.

In the midst of so much uncertainty created by COVID-19 and social unrest, I am happy to report the College officially has a full administrative team with the additions of Sarah Lacz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and Dr. Michael A. Palladino, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty. This

P R E S I D E N T ’ S

makes our strategic planning team even stronger. We pledge to continue to work together with one common goal: to take care of one another and serve our students.

Bloomfield College is equipped to persevere and this will not stop us from moving forward. The safety and

M E S S A G E

June 1 marked one year since I became President of Bloomfield College. I never imagined this to be the way I’d be acknowledging the anniversary. In some parallel universe, I imagine it is a beautiful summer day, and I am on the Quad. I hear the traffic moving along Broad Street and

“I pray by the time I write my next President’s Message for this magazine that we are all back on campus, healthy and together.” health of our students, faculty, and staff is our primary concern as we plan for the fall.

We are committed to working closely with our new and returning students to ensure they do not allow current circumstances to derail their academic and personal goals.

Bloomfield College is prepared to offer our amazing students an exceptional academic experience this fall, be it virtually or in-person.

We will continue to follow national and state safety recommendations and adapt our environment accordingly.

We will continue to provide regular updates as the fall term approaches and could not be more excited to welcome everyone back to the Bloomfield College community.

Bloomfield Avenue. I see full parking lots and lights on through office windows. Having celebrated the Class of 2020, the air is abuzz with excitement as we eagerly await move-in day to usher in returning students and the Class of 2024.

I pray by the time I write my next President’s Message for this magazine that we are all back on campus, healthy and together. Until then, please stay in touch. Let us know if you need anything.

We are Bloomfield College. We are in this together.

We will endure.

Sincerely,

Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D. PRESIDENT, B L O O M F I E L D C O L L E G E

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President’s Message

Newsroom New partnerships, awards, and a beloved nursing professor retires.

Events Due to COVID-19, Bloomfield College’s biggest events go virtual.

Athletics Read about how one softball player is connecting loved ones at a time of separation.

Two former classmates are now working together during the most dangerous pandemic in U.S. history.

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Get to know three new faces at Bloomfield College.

Alumni News

New Leadership

Class Notes

In Memoriam

This issue of OTG was created during the COVID-19 crisis.

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More than Just the “COVID-19 Class of 2020”

on the cover:

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Seven students spanning all academic divisions share how this pandemic has personally affected their lives.

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

President

MARCHETA P. EVANS, Ph.D. Vice President for Institutional Advancement

SARAH LACZ, MBA Executive Director for Institutional Advancement

NICOLE QUINN Director of College Communications

ROSA MULRYAN, M.A. Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement

PATRICK VERA, LSW Office Manager

JONI FRASCATI

Bloomfield College Board of Trustees WILLIAM H. TURNER, III, CHAIR JOHN J. DELUCCA ’66, VICE CHAIR JOANNE T. MARREN, ESQ., SECRETARY JIM AXELROD HECTOR O. BANEGAS, CTFA MELISSA BASTAN DR. NICHOLAS CARLOZZI JACQUELINE COLGAN CARMEN AMALIA CORRALES, ESQ. MARY DELAMIELLEURE BRIAN F. DORAN, ESQ. VERNON M. ENDO STEPHEN A. GLASSER SANDRA L. GONZALEZ, ESQ. DR. MAUREEN C. GRANT EDWARD C. HEFTMAN ’67 STEPHANIE LAWSON-MUHAMMAD CRAIG B. LINDSAY ’76 ALISA C. NORRIS JOHN PANAGAKIS ’85 SANFORD B. PRATER GLENN M. REITER, ESQ. DR. STEVEN M. ROSE ADRIAN A. SHELBY H’98 LARRY I. SILLS JONATHAN B. SIMON JOHN B. SKOWRONSKI ’91 ADEBOLA A. TAIWO ’09 HANK UBEROI

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EMERITI BERNARD S. BERKOWITZ, ESQ. JAMES R. GILLEN CAROLYN ROBERSON GLYNN ’69 ROSEMARY T. IVERSEN JAMES C. KELLOGG (IN MEMORIAM) NANCY L. LANE L. DONALD LATORRE (IN MEMORIAM) MARTIN MCKERROW H’15 P. HENRY MUELLER H’91 (IN MEMORIAM) PETER A. OLSON DR. RICHARD A. POLLACK H’99 (IN MEMORIAM) ALICE W. PRICE (IN MEMORIAM)

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973-748-9000 / ext. 1293

www.bloomfield.edu On The Green is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement, 68 Oakland Avenue, Bloomfield, N.J. 07003 Author: Alicia Cook Photography: Roy Groething, Gladstone Harris, Patrick Vera, Bloomfield College Marketing Design: Eric Miller + Associates Printing: Garrison Printing Company

Make An Impact Help future Bloomfield College alumni achieve their dreams.

Securely make your gift online at alumni.bloomfield.edu/make-a-gift or send a check to the Office of Institutional Advancement – 68 Oakland Avenue, Bloomfield, N.J. 07003.

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MORE THAN JUST THE “COVID-19 CLASS OF 2020” T

his was not the year that any of the graduating seniors of Bloomfield College expected. Without knowing it, over 300 Bloomfield College seniors left for Spring Break on March 9 and never returned. One student

from each of the College’s seven academic divisions shared how COVID-19 impacted their lives.

Dreiana Halley, Religion major and Mathematics minor “Once I realized we would not be returning to campus, I was a little numb,” said Dreiana Halley, Bloomfield College Student Government President (BCSG).

She spent her last day on campus looking forward to spring break and looking forward to returning afterward, refreshed, and ready to tackle the last two months of her undergraduate career.

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Halley, along with the rest of the BCSG, had spent months planning graduation festivities like the annual Senior BBQ and Spring Formal. COVID-19 took away any chances of those events happening, including the biggest milestone of all: Commencement.

“Knowing that my classmates and I would be graduating together helped to keep us motivated in times when things were hard,” said Halley. “We would push each other to continue by saying, ‘You got this, graduation will make it all worth it’. It sometimes feels like a piece is missing from this experience. Like we made it to the finish line for it to not look the way we had hoped.”

Even so, Halley remains positive and hopeful.

“This pandemic has caused me to see the bright side in everything. COVID19 has shown my classmates and me that we are stronger than we knew. There will be more passion and drive behind everything we do in life because of this time. We appreciate things more because of what has happened. When you feel like giving up, we will revisit the strength we had to have during our senior year of college and pull from that.” Halley, a first-generation student who was also apart of the First

“This pandemic has caused me to see the bright side in everything. COVID-19 has shown my classmates and me that we are stronger than we knew. There will be more passion and drive behind everything we do in life because of this time.”

— DREIAN A HALLEY

Ladies of Bloomfield College, and the TRIO SSS-Stars Program, plans to attend graduate school where she will continue her studies in World Religions.

Richie N. Him, Nursing major “Despite completing and passing all the required courses, I feel like I left Bloomfield College with some unfinished business,” said Richie Him, President of the Bloomfield College Student Nursing Association.

Even so, Him knows he is entering the workforce during a global pandemic and feels prepared.

“It almost feels like we will be thrown into the deep end with no life vest, but this is what we signed up for,” he said. “The nursing workforce could use some back up right now and it is our responsibility to step up and help to the best of our abilities.”

“I do believe Bloomfield College’s Division of Nursing has prepared us for the world we are about to step into,” he continued, noting that his alma mater has one of the top nursing programs in the state. “When the College closed and classes were moved online, we were given assignments specifically about

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COVID-19; what it is, what the symptoms are, how to treat it, and what to expect.”

Him recalled his last “normal” day on campus fondly. He was in the lab mentoring sophomore nursing students as part of the prestigious Peer Mentor Program on campus.

Him echoes Halley in feeling that something is missing, even though he participated in the virtual graduation.

“Having an in-person Commencement and Nurses’ Pinning ceremony taken from us is definitely a disappointment. These ceremonies are supposed to be the payoff of four, sometimes more, years of hard work,” he shared with On the Green. “I think the worst part about it is the fact that there is really no one to blame, no one to be mad at; these milestones are just victims of circumstance that no one had any control over.”

Jeremy Mpouma, Finance major International student, Jeremy Mpouma, came from Paris, France to Bloomfield, New Jersey to play soccer and study finance. He did not bargain for a global pandemic that would quarantine him on a mostly-deserted campus, 4,000 miles from his home.

While most students never returned to campus following spring break, Mpouma never left. Unable to return home, he, along with a few other international students, remained on campus.

As a student, Mpouma provided the Men’s Soccer team with stellar defense during his junior and senior years. Having graduated with a robust resume and with plans to receive an MS in Finance, he passed the Security Industry Essentials examination and the Bloomberg Market Concepts certificate program. He interned at Stifel Financial Corp. His ultimate career goal is to operate his own business.

“It almost feels like we will be thrown into the deep end with no life vest, but this is what we signed up for,” he said. “The nursing workforce could use some back up right now and it is our responsibility to step up and help to the best of our abilities.”

— RI C HIE N . HIM

pictured opposite page top left to bottom: Dreiana Halley

While he understands why the media and beyond have coined all graduating classes this year as the “COVID-19 Class of 2020,” he thinks a more fitting name would be the “Resourceful Class of 2020.”

“We have been through the worst. It has been a truly unprecedented crisis.

We are strong and will keep going,” he said.

Richie N. Him pictured above:

Jeremy Mpouma

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Danielle LeGrand, Education major Like her classmate, Richie Him, Danielle LeGrand is aware that she has entered the education workforce at an unbelievably stressful, different time for educators.

LeGrand had been spending the spring semester of her senior year fulfilling her student teaching requirement when COVID-19 moved her few remaining classes online.

“I always looked forward to going to campus, walking through the Quad, and seeing my professors and classmates,” recalled LeGrand. “It was truly a strange feeling knowing that suddenly, that would not be happening again.”

In addition to becoming an online learner, LeGrand found herself trying to help her fourth graders through much of the same.

“With my cooperating teacher, I had to learn how to plan, instruct, and grade lessons for fourth graders online. We also had to follow district guidelines

“It was with great effort and collaboration that teachers everywhere were able to implement distance learning. As a student teacher, it was amazing to see how all of the teachers stepped up and made it work.”

— DAN IELLE LEGRAN D

and remain in communication with other teachers,” she said, not playing down the stress of that transition. “I had just finished and passed my edTPA (a portfolio assessment teachers need to complete to become certified), and was looking forward to really focusing on my teaching and growing as a teacher. But then, everything went online, and no one truly knew what to do. It was with great effort and collaboration that teachers everywhere were able to implement distance learning. As a student teacher, it was amazing to see how all of the teachers stepped up and made it work.”

LeGrand’s road to graduation took six years of hard work. She joined in on the virtual graduation event, but nothing could replace being there.

“When I realized that I would not be able to graduate in person with my classmates, I felt kind of cheated,” she said. “We had gone through so much together in the process to become teachers, and then suddenly, the chance to celebrate together was taken away from us. Being unable to say goodbye to my college experience was difficult and strange. But, like many events in my lifetime, I was forced to accept the disappointment, collect myself, and adapt.”

LeGrand has accepted the position of fourth grade teacher in Fair Lawn where she completed her student teaching.

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Stephanie Perez, Biology major Stephanie Perez’s plans to visit family in Puerto Rico following Commencement were thwarted by COVID-19. Having dedicated her life to school and work, it

“I am the first to graduate college in my family. My family was a little disappointed in not being able to attend the Commencement ceremony. They wanted to go through the whole experience of taking pictures and celebrating my accomplishment of getting my degree.”

— ST EP HAN I E P EREZ

would have been her first time going there in over seven years.

“Once I realized that we would not be returning to campus, I was slightly worried on how the classes were going to continue,” she admitted. “I was taking Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry with Dr. Vogt. The material that she teaches is better learned in a face-to-face environment.”

In addition to those courses, Perez was taking Organic Chemistry Lab and not being there to physically perform the experiments was a disadvantage. Learning the material in an online format was difficult to grasp, but not impossible for Perez. Her last “normal” day on campus included working at her day job as a Patient Care Technician, then working with Dr. Tammy Castro as her Molecular Cell Biology tutor before going home to catch up on Organic Chemistry II lab reports.

Perez had to work the day of the virtual graduation but watched the stream the next day with her family.

“I am the first to graduate college in my family. My family was a little disappointed in not being able to attend the Commencement ceremony. They wanted to go through the whole experience of taking pictures and celebrating my accomplishment of getting my degree,” she said.

Denise Wilburn, Psychology major Unlike most of the Bloomfield College Class of 2020, Denise Wilburn, a long-time staff member of the College, will be returning to campus once it is safe to do so.

Wilburn has served as Office Coordinator in the Athletic Department for 16 years and plans to stay until she retires.

“Getting a college degree was a personal goal for me that I put off for many years,” the Newark native told On the Green. “Due to the COVID-19, I was very disappointed at the thought of not having a 2020 Commencement celebration. I worked very hard toward my educational journey to achieve my degree. It took me

pictured opposite page top left to bottom: Danielle LeGrand Stephanie Perez pictured above:

Denise Wilburn

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“As a first-gen student, my family was sad knowing that they couldn’t attend Commencement.

That doesn’t stop them from planning a party to celebrate. Even though we can’t have the party at this current moment, we’ll have it at a later date.”

— ZAM IR MEN DOZA

21 years to accomplish this goal!”

As an adult learner, mother, and grandmother, Wilburn greatly empathizes with the 2020 high school students and her college classmates.

“I had the opportunity to attend my prom, have my yearbook signed by all my teachers and classmates, and say my goodbyes during my high school days. I have those special memories, but the 2020 graduating students did not have that opportunity and it is sad.”

Zamir Mendoza, Game Programming and Game Design major Zamir Mendoza remembers his last day on campus fondly. Having worked on his capstone and other assignments, he spent the rest of the day with friends in the CAT building and the night with his suitemates. They talked about life.

Little did he know that life was about to change entirely.

“I was sad because I was robbed of being able to say a proper goodbye to my classmates, friends, and professors once the semester was over,” he said. “Some of the people I met at Bloomfield College don’t live close to me, so it saddens me even though I know I’ll see some of them at industry events.”

Mendoza refused to allow the pandemic to affect his professional development. Committed to learning different programming languages and a new game engine following graduation, Mendoza told On The Green that he had just recently learned C++, a programming language, while quarantined.

“As a first-gen student, my family was sad knowing that they couldn’t attend Commencement. That doesn’t stop them from planning a party to celebrate.

Even though we can’t have the party at this current moment, we’ll have it at a later date.” n

pictured above:

Zamir Mendoza

All students that were interviewed fully intend on attending the in-person Commencement the College has committed to holding for the Class of 2020 once it is safe to do so as long as their post-college schedule allows.

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CAMPUSNEWSROOM President Evans Takes Lead on NJ Higher Ed Statement on Fostering Inclusive Communities loomfield College President, Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D. took the lead in developing a statement on combating systemic racism within higher education.

The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education and seven other NJ higher ed institutions partnered on the letter as well.

“I was proud to be a part of such a collaborative group and so grateful for my colleagues agreeing to be a part of this statement,” shared Dr. Evans, the first Black president of the College. “This is important work that we all must be committed to regarding the students we serve.”

Below is the letter, originally published on June 7, 2020: In a display of our unwavering solidarity, all private, public, and community colleges and universities of New Jersey, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education share space today to comment on the latest display of our country’s horrific legacy of racism and violence against Black individuals.

With New Jersey being more racially diverse than the rest of the nation, our higher education institutions rank among the most diverse in the country, and many hold the designations of Minority Serving Institution, Hispanic Serving Institution, and/or Predominantly Black Institution. Day in and day out, we advocate for our students and fight against racial and economic inequity. Moreover, we commit ourselves to being equal and just and to provide ALL students access to higher education.

Sadly though, it remains clear that our society can be unequal and unjust.

In recent weeks, the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, and the protests that have resulted all over the country have once again reminded us of the racism that persists in America today.

The level of care and respect we show the students that call our campuses home needs to be carried over to society at large. Today, and every day, we commit to standing together against the systemic racism still spilling into our world.

We are Jersey Strong. We were born to emerge as a leader for

inclusive excellence at a time like this. Our institutions will continue to welcome, foster, and educate the young people and adults in our state and beyond, many of whom will no doubt bring about the change our society needs to heal and thrive. Our state’s plan for higher education explicitly calls out issues of equity and charges that we make our campuses not only diverse, but truly inclusive, safe, and welcoming spaces for students. But we must do more than make statements. We must mean well and do well right now.

We must ensure our students and their families have an outlet to discuss these important issues and how they are affected. We must have an organized dialogue with our entire community of students about coping with and combating racism in an appropriate manner, be it explicit acts of racism, covert racism, or everyday forms of racism, and how they can bring about positive change. This conversation must be inclusive of all students, and particularly engage white students in this collective community conversation. We must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our colleagues since the last few weeks have not been a typical work week for them, and they should not have to pretend they are fine for the sake of completing their daily work responsibilities. The signatories of this letter commit to these actions post haste and plan to collectively offer forums and safe-space opportunities for everyone, especially our students. We hope you join us.

Dr. Marcheta P. Evans, President of Bloomfield College Dr. Joel Bloom, President of New Jersey Institute of Technology and Chair of the NJPC Dr. Chris Capuano, President of Fairleigh Dickinson University Dr. Miriam Frolow, Campus Director, University of Phoenix Dr. Sue Henderson, President of New Jersey City University Dr. Arthur Munroe, President of Essex County College Dr. Anne Prisco, President of Felician University Dr. Zakiya Smith Ellis, Secretary, Office of the Secretary of Higher Education Dr. David Stout, President of Brookdale Community College

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CAMPUSNEWSROOM

New Partnerships

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n February, Bloomfield College established two new partnerships. One, academic related, the other, mental health related.

Bloomfield College + Fairleigh Dickinson University Bloomfield College’s Division of Natural Science and Mathematics can now offer a 3+1 program leading to a degree in Pre-Pharmacy. The College signed an articulation agreement with Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) that allows for Bloomfield College Biology or Chemistry/Biochemistry students, upon completing their junior year, to enter into FDU’s Fast Track to Pharmacy (PharmD) Program.

According to a memorandum to the Committee on Academic Programs and Faculty Council, students will spend their fourth year in the Dickinson Doctor of Pharmacy Program. The balance of courses needed to achieve Bloomfield College’s requirement of 32 courses will be made up by accepting first year Pharmacy courses from FDU, two courses of which will be in their major and the remaining free electives.

Dr. Michael J. Avaltroni, Dean, School of Pharmacy, and Dr. Gillian Small, University Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, at Fairleigh Dickinson University came to campus to formally sign the agreement. They were joined by President Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D., Dr. Maureen C. Grant, former Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Jim Murphy, Chair, Division of Natural Science and Mathematics.

past year. Over 40 percent said they felt so depressed they had difficulty functioning.

To combat these statistics, Bloomfield College is now part of the nationwide mental health initiative of The Jed Foundation (JED). JED Campus is designed to help schools evaluate and strengthen their mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programs.

“There is a critical need for mental health resources across all colleges and universities and Bloomfield College is no exception,” said Bloomfield College President, Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D. “With my background in counseling, I know this partnership will enhance our existing efforts to help our students overcome their struggles.”

Bloomfield College's membership in JED Campus will begin by establishing an interdisciplinary, campus-wide team to assess, support, and implement program, policy, and system improvements and completing a confidential, self-assessment survey on its mental health promotion, substance abuse, and suicide prevention efforts. Upon completion of the assessment, JED Campus clinicians provide schools with a comprehensive feedback report identifying successes and opportunities for enhancements.

“The college years are the age when many mental health issues first manifest, and it can be a time of significant stress and pressure,” said John MacPhee, Executive Director of JED. “We believe that the implementation of a campus-wide approach to mental health will lead to safer, healthier communities, and likely greater student retention.”

This four-year partnership was fostered by Pam Scott, Partners for Health Executive Director.

Bloomfield College + JED Campus According to the American College Health Association, more than 60 percent of college students said they had experienced “overwhelming anxiety” in the

Vision 2025: Strategic Plan Update loomfield College continues to move forward with plans to launch Vision 2025, its first strategic plan in over ten years. In the Fall of 2019, to ensure transparency, collaboration, and that the many voices of the community are included in the planning, President Evans created the Strategic Planning Council (SPC) in October 2019 which comprises 38 appointed individuals representing students, trustees, faculty, staff, and local elected officials. The SPC co-chairs are Dr. Patrick Lamy, Vice President for Student Affairs and Community Relations, and Matthew Frankel, a communication, government affairs, and crisis management strategist, who was brought on as a strategic planning consultant.

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While addressing COVID-19, and adapting to distance learning, the SPC has continued to meet regularly and developed a thorough approach in researching, prioritizing, and defining the critical parameters of the document and is still on schedule to launch on time.

Vision 2025 will assess the multiple challenges and changes affecting the higher education landscape, while also outlining the Institution’s immediate path as a national and global leader in higher education. When complete, the plan will look to provide a clear vision for the future and chart a new course over the next five years for the College, while bringing specific focus to engaging and serving on a local, regional, and global level. For more information on the strategic plan, please go to https://bloomfield.edu/about-us/strategic-plan.

OTG Nabs Another Award

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he Summer 2019 issue of On The Green has won top recognition in the recent 2020 Communicator Awards competition. The Communicator Awards presented the magazine with the Award of Excellence, the highest honor.

For nearly three decades, the Communicator Awards has been the leading international awards program in marketing and communications. With over 6,000 entries from companies and agencies of all sizes from around the world each year, it is one of the largest awards of its kind.

“This was a wonderful bit of news to receive,” said Sarah Lacz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Bloomfield College is proud of our award-winning magazine that’s filled to the brim with the stories about our devoted leadership, students, staff, and alumni. We look forward to continuing our efforts.”

The Summer 2019 issue of On The Green served as a “passing of the torch” moment featuring Richard A. Levao, former president, and Dr. Marcheta P. Evans, current president, on the cover. It was written by Alicia Cook,

who served as Director of Communications at the time, and designed by Eric Miller + Associates, the College’s longtime magazine designer. The cover and majority of interior photos were taken by Roy Groething Photography.

The Communicator Awards is sanctioned and judged by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts, an invitation-only group consisting of top-tier professionals from acclaimed media, communications, advertising, creative and marketing firms. AIVA members include executives from organizations including Big Spaceship, Conde Nast, Coach, Disney, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Estee Lauder, MTV, Pitney Bowes, Time, Inc., Victoria’s Secret, Wired, and Yahoo!

In addition to this honor, since 2017, On The Green has earned three MarCom awards and counting.

Coming Together reative Arts & Technology (CAT) Information Technology Director, Devrim Ozgur, has been working hard from home to continue to support CAT faculty by providing the resources they need to successfully teach online classes during the COVID-19 shift to remote learning. At the same time, like many parents who found themselves suddenly homeschooling children, he has tried to find teaching moments during the COVID-19 crisis for his kindergartener.

“My son and I are very creative at home. During these challenging times, I am able to teach our son how to be empathic and how to help those who are in need,” he said. “This is the ultimate teaching moment as it blends together my passion for the work I do within the CAT Division, the importance of giving back to others, and the power of collaboration.”

At the onset of COVID-19, it was no surprise that Ozgur reached out to President Marcheta P. Evans and inquired about getting resources so he could use the College’s 3D printers to create plastic face shields for healthcare workers on the front lines. Soon after, Ozgur, his son, and members of the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement and Students Engaging in Real Volunteer Experiences (SERVE) got to work.

“As we are faced with difficult and trying times, it’s heartwarming to see all members of the Bloomfield College community, even members of their families, coming together to help others,” expressed President Evans.

Ozgur initially asked for materials to produce 100 masks. Through

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SERVE resources, CSLE (Center for Student Leadership and Engagement) was able to provide materials for over 200 masks.

Students involved in the project include CSLE student ambassadors Marvin Delgado ’22, Kiera Patterson ’20, Kayla Fairclough ’23, Tyra Brooks ’22, Kyle Smith ’21, Samantha Lacayo ’20, Jacquaia Nettles ’24, and Jacob Enis ’20.

“We are proud to be able to protect our front-line healthcare workers as well as staff and students who are currently on campus,” shared Terrance Bankston '04, Interim Director of CSLE and BCAA Member.

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CAMPUSNEWSROOM

A Trusted Advisor Retires

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fter dedicating over 20 years to the Division of Nursing at Bloomfield College, Dr. Neddie Serra has retired. In recognition of her service, dedication, and leadership, the Board of Trustees has conferred upon her the tenured professor title of Professor Emerita of Nursing.

The successes Dr. Serra was able to bring to the College are numerous. Perhaps most notably, she successfully led the faculty through the arduous accreditation process, resulting in a full 10-year accreditation (2010-2020) without conditions or recommendations. Since Dr. Serra’s tenure, the student NCLEX success rates have become one of the highest among all the baccalaureate programs in the state of New Jersey.

The NCLEX exam, also known as the National Council Licensure Examination, is the standardized test that every state regulatory board uses to determine if a candidate is ready to become a licensed nurse.

“Dr. Serra is the definition of a trusted advisor, mentor, and professor,” said Dr. Marcheta P. Evans, Bloomfield College President. “She has guided countless Bloomfield College nursing students and served as an academic reference for many graduates for new nursing positions, promotions, and graduate school placements. She will be greatly missed not just by the Nursing Division, but campuswide.”

Dr. Serra, who became chair of the Nursing Division in 2004, first arrived at Bloomfield College in 1991 and remained until 1996, when she left to pursue her terminal degree. A seasoned nurse and educator, she also taught at William Paterson University and Trinitas School of Nursing at Union County College.

Prior to entering higher education, she began her nursing career in the Bronx at Morrisania Hospital in Pediatrics. She later was a camp nurse with Westchester County Parks and staff nurse at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Bronx

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Municipal Hospital Center, and Watchung Pediatrics. She was nursing supervisor at Expert Health Care Inc., and an instructor at Health Force Home Care, Heart to Heart Home Center, and Mountainside Medical Center. An expert in her field, she served as consultant at Excelsior College, Independent Education Associates, People Care of New Jersey, and as an NCLEX reviewer for Kaplan.

During her tenure at Bloomfield College, Dr. Serra served as the Governor’s appointed Board Member Representative of the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing. She was a member of the Political Advocacy Committee for the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, and treasurer of the New Jersey Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs in Nursing. In addition, she was a member of the Faculty

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Council, and on numerous Bloomfield College committees including Assessment, Academic Programs, Enrollment Management, General Education, Faculty Development, Vision 21, Tenure and Faculty Advancement, Technology, Strategic Planning, and Nursing Advisory.

Dr. Serra earned an Ed.D. in Healthcare Education from Nova University, as well as a Master’s degree in Community Health Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both from Pace University. n

EVENTS

G I V I N G B Y

N I C O L E

D AY

Q U I N N

loomfield College celebrated its second annual Giving Day on Thursday, April 16. The College surpassed an original goal of $20,000 and ultimately raised over $42,000 for the Bloomfield College Scholarship Fund.

“During these challenging times, it was important that Giving Day was still scheduled even if we could not be together physically,” said Sarah Lacz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Our students continue to be our main focus and the College is committed to making sure they are able to live out their dream of higher education.”

Student videos featuring Marvin Delgado ’22 and Dreiana Halley ’20, showcased the importance of scholarship support in the lives of first generation students in particular.

“In the midst of this crisis, the Bloomfield College family rose to the occasion to support our students,” said Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D., President. “Each of the individual Giving Day gifts combined will strengthen the Bloomfield College Scholarship Fund and have a tremendous impact on the lives of our students. We cannot thank everyone enough for supporting our community.” n

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EVENTS

VIRTUAL ACCEPTED STUDENTS DAY ne of the most important events for colleges and universities, accepted student days offer admitted students and their families the opportunity to gain a stronger perspective of a day in the life of a college student through a series of on-campus activities such as presentations, classroom experiences, and tours.

The Bloomfield College admission team was already well underway in planning the College’s annual Accepted Students Day when COVID-19 shuttered higher education institutions across the nation.

Using Zoom Webinar, the nimble team quickly pivoted and hosted a virtual Accepted Students Day on Saturday, April 25.

“Despite the unusual circumstances, the Bloomfield College community pulled together to showcase the most important asset the College has: its people,” said Kevin Cavanagh, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “The enrollment staff, faculty presenters, student panelists, and administrators all did a great job in engaging our prospective students in this virtual experience.”

Registered guests were able to access the day remotely from the

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safety of their homes. With no pre-recorded content, all sessions were live, beginning with the welcome remarks by President Evans, Cavanagh, and current student and Storyteller, Nicolle Ferrel ’21.

In order to successfully give students one final comprehensive look at Bloomfield College before they decide where they will enroll come fall, students were guided to one of seven academic sessions, then to a student life presentation that provided an overview of the non-academic offerings at the College given by Dr. Patrick Lamy, Vice President for Student Affairs; Rose Mitchell, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs; and Terrance Bankston ’04, Interim Director and Coordinator for Service Learning & First Year Experience. The day ended with a Q&A with five Storytellers, moderated by Nicole Cibelli, Director of Admission.

Bloomfield College has done its best to further adapt to social distancing practices by instituting virtual tours and taking part in virtual information sessions hosted by high schools. n

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G R A D U AT I O N C E L E B R AT I O N

loomfield College held its first virtual graduation celebration for its 147th graduating class on Thursday, May 21, 2020. The streaming festivities kicked off at noon, with U.S. Senator and 2017 Bloomfield College honorary degree recipient, Cory Booker, greeting graduates and their families, college leadership, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.

“I want to say to the 2020 graduates, I am so grateful for your grit and your guts, for your service and your sacrifice. I congratulate you and thank you for making us, so much more so, Jersey Strong,” opened the Senator.

“Class of 2020, this is the not graduation that you wanted or invited. I learned, in many ways, you can’t always control what happens to you, but you can control your response.”

“You are going to go on to do amazing things. You define who you are, daily,” he continued to over 1,000 viewers. “I hope you bring your power of love because that’s what the world needs right now; it needs lightworkers in darkness. Don’t underestimate your power. Use it every day to make a difference in this world that needs you.”

Next, Reverend Anita Wright, Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life, and William H. Turner III, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, addressed the viewers, with Wright providing the Invocation and the Board Chairman offering congratulations on behalf of the Board.

“While operating in person would have been our choice, we would never let this momentous occasion go unrecognized,” said Turner. “The Board looks forward to a future Commencement ceremony when we can celebrate together. Congratulations to each and every one of you.”

Celebrating her first official Bloomfield College graduation, President Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D., standing between two college banners and dressed in regalia, shared deeply moving sentiments.

“Think about your past, and what it took to get you here today. Do you remember your first day of college? Were you nervous? I hope when you think back, it brings a smile to your face, because you did it! Be proud of your accomplishments. Celebrate the present. Today your dream is fulfilled,” began President Evans.

“Everything you have experienced has prepared you for the days and years ahead. For your future. With your Bloomfield College degree, the sky is the limit. Your education – no one can take that away from you – it is yours, forever and ever. Be bold, be extraordinary,” she concluded before introducing Keynote Speaker Mona Scott-Young.

Scott-Young, Missy Elliott’s manager and accomplished television producer most known for Love & Hip Hop, shared her personal experience growing up as the daughter of a single mother, an immigrant from Haiti, and got candid with graduates about the often unconventional paths to success.

Following Scott-Young, Ali Caldwell, Newark native and Christina Aguilera’s backup singer, performed a Stevie Wonder cover live from the College’s Van Fossan Theatre. Caldwell was a finalist on season 11 of The Voice and was featured on the second season of The Four.

Following the moving, upbeat performance, each graduate was recognized by name by the seven academic division chairs. Caldwell sang an original song following the conferring of degrees.

Throughout the hour-long event, a nonstop flood of excitement, emojis, and happiness overtook the live chat and a slideshow played of the 312 graduating undergrads in their caps and gowns, acting as a touching transition between speakers. As the closing credits began to roll, videos played of leadership, faculty, staff, and alumni wishing the 2020 graduates all the best. n

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ATHLETICS

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STEPPING UP TO THE PLAT E

o curb the risk of spreading COVID-19, hospitals nationwide have banned visits from family and friends. Loved ones of those battling COVID-19 are experiencing something they never imagined: not being able to hold their hand or say goodbye. Even after their death, families are unable to embrace their loved ones for the last time.

Bloomfield College Softball player, Alexis Freudenberg, has stepped up to help connect families during their most heart-wrenching moment.

The education major, a senior who extended her coursework and college athletic career until 2021, is volunteering her time to Connected Hearts.

Connected Hearts is a movement that connects patients in hospitals in palliative care to their families at home by giving a yarn heart to the patient and another to their loved one. The handmade hearts serve as a tether, linking them to one another even when they cannot be physically together.

Freudenberg’s mother is an assistant nurse manager inside the ICU at Northwell Health Southside Hospital in Bayshore, New York. A nurse from the hospital pitched the idea and, together, they got to work.

“My mom being an essential worker in a hospital is difficult for me because she is putting herself in harm’s way every day to help others. But I know this is her calling and that she is making a difference,” she expressed.

Freudenberg helps by knitting or crocheting the hearts and rounding up the hearts made by others. Freudenberg also assisted in launching the Connected Hearts official Facebook page, where knitting patterns and dropoff addresses are shared, and where volunteers upload photos of the hearts

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they have made. Additionally, she plays a part in creating cards to go alongside the hearts, written in both English and Spanish.

Freudenberg became involved in this cause because she wanted to help families who are hurting.

“I am doing well, but COVID-19 has definitely made its impact on my life. It felt as if all the things I worked so hard for were being taken away,” she said. “This crisis has helped me appreciate the little things, such as doing a puzzle with my mom, or a phone call with my nephew. Being a part of Connected Hearts means I am a part of something bigger than myself.”

To become involved with Connected Hearts, follow ‘Connected Hearts’ on Facebook.

Like the rest of her Bloomfield College class and teammates, Freudenberg is adjusting to remote learning, even Zooming with the kindergarteners she had just started connecting with as a student-teacher, and taking care of her mental health by walking her dog and keeping up on her softball drills.

Following graduation, Freudenberg hopes to become an inclusion or special education teacher.

“My dream career, which I am consistently working on, is to open up a summer softball/baseball camp for children with disabilities,” she shared. This camp would be fully accessible, where children could get the chance to work on their social-emotional skills while developing their motor skills in a fun environment. Ultimately, the camp would grow to include all sports, art therapy, and more for children with disabilities to enjoy on a daily basis. n

ALUMNISPOTLIGHT

ALUMNI HELP THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

hen Juan Soto ’14 and Betsaida Salom ’18 graduated from Bloomfield College, they never imagined that they would be conducting research during the most dangerous pandemic in U.S. history.

Soto and Salom both graduated from the College with Biology degrees and are Associate Researchers at the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, Icahn Institute and Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences. Sitting across from each other in a laboratory, they are working together on fighting COVID-19.

As associate researchers, Soto has a sequencing related role in the Mount Sinai Health Network Pathogen Surveillance Program and Salom has a library preparation related role in the Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences PacBio Pipeline.

Their efforts will contribute to the development of successful therapeutics and even potential vaccine creation. These sequences are published in databases which the scientific community can access globally in efforts to end the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a student, Soto was a New Jersey NASA Space Grant Consortium recipient and a Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Research Grant recipient. Shortly after graduating, Soto became an Adjunct Lab Instructor at Bloomfield College under the direction of Dr. Jim Murphy, Chair of the Division of Natural Science and Mathematics. He then became a Research Technician at the Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center (ADARC), and a Flow Cytometry Technician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

While a student, Salom conducted summer research at the College entitled: “Expression of TNF-, TNFR-1, TNFR-2 Human Breast Cancer Cells,” with Dr. Tammy Castro, Associate Professor of Biology. Soon after graduating, she heard directly from Soto about opportunities for new graduates and Salom became a Flow Cytometry Technician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

“Juan and Betsy were exceptional students, researchers, and peer mentors. It did not surprise Dr. Castro or myself at all when we heard about their roles at Mount Sinai and the research they are working on regarding COVID-19,” shared Dr. Murphy.

Equipped with knowledge, skills, and experience, Soto and Salom are two great examples of young alumni of Bloomfield College that graduate and immediately begin making a difference in the world. n

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NEWLEADERSHIP

New Leadership Announced

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resident Marcheta P. Evans, Ph.D., announced the appointment of a Vice President for Institutional Advancement and a Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, two new key members of her President’s Council, and a new member of the Board of Trustees.

Vice Presidents Following a national search conducted by Academic Search, the College named Sarah Lacz as Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and Michael A. Palladino Ph.D. as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty.

Sarah Lacz, MBA is the former Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement at Saint Peter’s University. Prior, she served as the Director of Development for the northeast region at Georgetown University and Associate Director of Major Gifts at Stevens Institute of Technology. Her fundraising career began as a Leadership Gifts Officer at Saint Peter’s University.

As the Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement at Saint Peter’s, Lacz was responsible for leading a team which included leadership and planned giving; annual giving; corporation, foundation and government relations; and alumni engagement. She contributed to strategic planning and development of a critical investment initiative that raised over $46M in three years for phase one, surpassing the goal by $6M via record-breaking fundraising efforts. Her focus is a mission-driven approach to philanthropy while driving strategic decision making to maximize fundraising achievements.

“I am honored to be joining the team at Bloomfield College at such a pivotal moment in its history. As a passionate advocate for ensuring that all have access to higher education, I am committed to the mission and student body at the College. As the forward momentum continues under the visionary leadership of President Evans, I am excited to partner with the entire campus community to set a new precedent for ambitious fundraising success,” said Lacz.

She received her B.S. in Business Management with a concentration in Finance from Monmouth University and completed her MBA with a concentration in Management from Saint Peter’s University.

Michael A. Palladino, Ph.D. is the former Vice Provost for Graduate Studies and Professor of Biology at Monmouth University. Prior to taking his post at Bloomfield College, he joined the biology faculty at Monmouth University in 1999 and served as Dean of the School of Science from 2008-15. He then served as Vice Provost.

As Dean, he led the School of Science at Monmouth through a period of unprecedented growth and success including a significant

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increase in undergraduate student enrollment, new academic programs, and international partnerships. He led the concept and planning effort for a $48M science building renovation and expansion project – the largest capital project in Monmouth history for an academic building. As the Vice Provost for Graduate Studies at Monmouth University, Dr. Palladino led a formal partnership agreement with the RWJBHealth system to design a state-of-the-art $5 million simulation center for training students and hospital residents, nurses, and patients.

Dr. Palladino has authored, co-authored or edited over 35 peerreviewed scientific publications and has delivered over 100 talks as an invited speaker. He is the co-author of Introduction to Biotechnology, the leading undergraduate textbook in the field and used at over 100 institutions throughout the United States and beyond.

“I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to serve on President Evans’ team to lead academic affairs during a particularly exciting time for Bloomfield College. I look forward to working with our dedicated faculty and all members of the Bloomfield community to advance the mission of the College and the growth and success of our students,” said Dr. Palladino.

He received his B.S. in Biology from Trenton State College (now known as The College of New Jersey) in 1987 and completed a Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology from the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

New Trustee Joining the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees is longtime Bloomfield College advocate Mary DeLamielleure. A graduate of Accounting from Boston College, her work in public and private accounting firms has allowed her to master how to solve issues effectively through communication among diverse team members and with outside clients.

Currently, DeLamielleure is a Sales Associate for the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office in Warren, New Jersey. Her many years of experiences gained from being a homemaker, working in the corporate world, and her work coordinating volunteer activities for various communities has helped to further develop her expert communication skills and grow her network. Her personal philosophy helps her achieve goals that are important to her professionally and personally.

In recent years, with her husband, Brad, DeLamielleure has funded a number of the College’s study abroad trips. n

DONORSTORY

THE JOHNSON & JOHNSON SCHOLARSHIP AND MENTORING PROGRAM Bloomfield College is excited to announce the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) Scholarship and Mentoring Program. The scholarship, aimed toward nursing and science majors, will not only assist J&J Scholars financially but will offer several mentoring support components as well.

“After learning more about Bloomfield College, we were so impressed with the mission and the students the Institution supports,” said Pamela Fisher, J&J’s Head of Diversity and Inclusion, Global Strategic Partnerships. “Our diversity, inclusion, and talent acquisition programs along with Bloomfield College’s need for scholarship

support, mentoring, and career opportunities for its students mesh well together and are mutually beneficial.”

These conversations began several years ago when Fisher, along with J&J’s Wanda Bryant Hope, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, and faculty, staff, students, and College administrators met on campus to discuss a potential scholarship and mentorship collaborative.

“Bloomfield College is very appreciative to J&J for supporting our future nursing and science professionals through scholarship

assistance and career mentorship,” said Sarah Lacz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at the College. “Now, more than ever, scholarships serve as a lifeline to our students and help them continue their higher education journey.”

“The J&J Scholarship and Mentoring Program has been a one-of-a-kind experience for me,” expressed nursing student Aramis Ayolo ’21. “Not only am I receiving scholarship support, but I have access to J&J employees who are willing to offer their guidance and professional insights.” n

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Dear Bloomfield College Alumni,

Thank You! FRONTLINERS Alumni on the Frontlines: Thank You

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he Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA) wishes to honor the alumni working on the frontlines of COVID-19 in healthcare, transportation, education, and all other essential jobs. We are grateful for you.

According to our records, over 2,000 nurses and over 450 educators have graduated from the College since the 1900’s, as well as a great number of S.T.E.M. graduates. We also know that many of our fellow future alumni, who are currently working toward their degrees at Bloomfield College, support themselves by working for essential organizations like supermarkets, delivery services, banks, and coffee shops.

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Whether you are a student, teacher, researcher, nurse, physician, EMT, therapist, first responder, supermarket employee, delivery driver, mail carrier, IT professional, government official, volunteer, or one of the countless other occupations that have made a world of difference during our nation’s darkest time: you are all extraordinary.

Please know that your alma mater is rooting for you as you continue to support frontline efforts to combat COVID-19. Thank you.

Sincerely, The BCAA

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My name is John Murdock and I am President of the Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA). Usually, I use this space to encourage you, as fellow alumni of Bloomfield College, to join the BCAA and become more involved with your alma mater.

While I hope you still consider joining our organization to reconnect with former classmates and better support future alumni, this message has a different focus. I hope you remain safe, healthy, and hopeful in the weeks and months ahead. As the days of quarantine progressed to weeks, then months, no one saw this coming, and if the BCAA can help in any way, please reach out to us. We are thinking of all our alumni during this time. To join the BCAA or reach out for any other reason, please email advancement@bloomfield.edu.

Sincerely,

John K. Murdock ’73 B C A A

P R E S I D E N T

CLASSNOTES

1960’s

Trustees has named the Rev. Dr. Inga Brockington ’00 to serve as Executive Director. Congratulations!

Class of 1970

1990’s Reverend Inga Brockington ’00

2000 Holly Hoffman ’67

Reverend Allan Boyer ’00 recently retired after 15 years of serving as Pastor of the Bethel AME Church in Paterson, NJ. Happy retirement!

1967 Holly Hoffman ’67 published a children's picture book called Dogspeak: A Darren Dog Adventure in Family Communication in October 2019. It is a sweet tale about a family who adopts a puppy and has no idea how to care for, or communicate with, him.

1968 Felecia Adams Brownlow ’68 and Dolores Mayberry Trimiew ’68 Felecia Adams Brownlow ’68 & met at a tea Dolores Mayberry Trimiew ’68 sponsored by Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Felecia is a member of the sorority and resides in St. Thomas. Dolores was visiting her classmate and friend on the beautiful island, enjoying precious time together.

1970’s 1969-70 Class of 1970 Paul Zalewski ’70, Roland Alum ’70, Arpad Hamos ’69 and Carl Allen '70, gather together and share fond memories with one another.

Camille V. Otero ’95 Reverend Allan Boyer ’00

1995 Camille V. Otero ’95, now Chair of the Environmental Department at Gibbons P.C., has been selected to the fifth Lawyers of Color Power List. The Power List recognizes the nation’s most influential minority attorneys, including general counsel, managing partners, and law school deans, as well as legal media and nonprofit leaders. She was also named one of the Profiles in Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching in 2016, selected by NJBIZ as one of the state’s Best 50 Women in Business in 2017, and has been ranked as a leading lawyer by Chambers USA.

2000’s 2000

2010’s

Anthony Addone ’11

Candace McEwan ’14

2011

2014

Anthony Addone ’11 is celebrating nearly nine years at Sherwin-Williams and two years as a Multi-Segment Field Sales Representative.

Candace McEwan ’14 recently celebrated her one-year anniversary as a CardiacThoracic Nurse at Hackensack University Hospital. Thank you to this special healthcare worker!

Your alma mater is proud of you, Candace.

Reverend Inga Brockington ’00, The Raritan Township-based non-profit Good News Home for Women’s Board of

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CLASSNOTES

2018 Gregory Cowart ’18 Bloomfield College Trio SSS STAR alumnus, Gregory Cowart ’18, was admitted to Virginia State University’s computer science master’s degree program. Cowart, who graduated from the College with a bachelor’s in computer science, earned the HBCU Master of Computer Science Grant, which includes full tuition and a monthly stipend. More recently, he was offered a position as a Software Developer at Oracle.

“Everything I learned at Bloomfield College has perfectly prepared me for this intensive program. I am really happy I did my undergraduate work at Bloomfield College because there’s nothing I can’t do now,” he said in January.

Danielle Andreas ’15

T. Lyn Washington ’15

2015

2015

T. Lyn Washington ’15 Employed at Bloomberg, T. Lyn Washington ’15 hosted Bloomfield College students at her job. Thank you, T. Lyn!

Danielle Andreas ’15 This past spring, Danielle Andreas ’15 celebrated one year as a Financial Analyst at TD Bank.

P A

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E

S

Student Memorial It is with great sadness that the College reports a COVID19 related death.

Obinna Chibueze Eke, loving father, dedicated healthcare worker, and Bloomfield College student, passed away on April 5. With a passion for helping others, he served as a Patient Care Technician at The University Hospital in Newark and remained devoted to his job even as the COVID-19 crisis progressed across New Jersey.

“I would have lunch with Obinna on campus periodically,” shared President

Evans, in a somber video message in April. “I want to make sure he is remembered. I know firsthand how much he loved the College. He will be profoundly missed within our community.”

Originally from Nigeria, he was an active member of the campus community, who acquired the basic and advanced skills in the nursing profession at the College, studying both pre-nursing and sociology.

Eke was expected to graduate this year from the College. He was posthumously awarded his degree on May 21. The College extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

Alumni & Friends Richard Barton ’78 Gilbert Beck ’71 Ronald P. Belli ’61 Catherina Blauvelt ’70 Dr. Albert Cataffi ’70 Dr. Thomas H. Cavicchia ’51 Joseph Clarizio '54 Jane Comerci ’52 David W. Conrad (former faculty) Dr. John G. Cross (former staff) Rev. Robert W. Edmondson ’68

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Obinna Chibueze Eke '20 Glenn Evans ’85 Michael M. Feravola ’59 Alan D. Foltz ’59 Richard Fox, Sr. ’95 Pamela A. Frueh ’84 Freda A. Gardner (h ’79) Thomas W. Hedge ’72 Alfred Iversen Sadie Johnson (former faculty) Richard L. Krajeski ’63

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Linda L. Leak ’84 Louis Long ’62 Donald Lopes ’70 Barbara Lowenthal ’76 Herbert C. Massa ’72 John Mleziva ’79 Sharon Miles ’89 Abram Morales (former faculty) James D. Musto ’74 Mary A. Pastino (former trustee) James A. Reid '70

Devine Robinson ’19 Felix A. Torres ’93 Frank Vecchione, Esq. (former trustee) Arlene Wachino ’54 Nancy Wendt ’56 Councilman Calvin West ’51 John Wetzel ’71 Karen Wingfield ’75 Stephen Yates ’74

Your Story can leave a Legacy.

A contribution through your estate establishes your legacy and ensures generations of Bloomfield College students will receive life-changing educational opportunities.

A planned gift can make your story a lasting one. Contact the Office of Institutional Advancement for more information about how you can include Bloomfield College in your estate.

(973) 748-9000 ext. 1293 Email: advancement@bloomfield.edu

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Non-Profit Organization

BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

U.S. Postage

P A I D

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Permit No. 740 Newark, NJ 07102

W R I T E Y O U R O W N S T O R Y. MAKE IT AN

inspiring

ONE.