On The Green Summer 2019

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

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Bloomfield, New Jersey 07003

Permit No. 740 Newark, NJ 07102

ONTHEGREEN A PUBLICATION OF BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

Commencement 2019

President

RICHARD A. LEVAO Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement

NICOLE QUINN Director of Major Gift Development and Advancement Services

RICH BASLER, CFRE Director of Institutional Communications and Campaign Marketing

ALICIA COOK Office Manager

JONI FRASCATI Development Coordinator

PATRICK VERA, LSW 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 GEOFFREY M. CONNOR, ESQ. CARMEN AMALIA CORRALES, ESQ. BRIAN F. DORAN, ESQ. VERNON M. ENDO JOSEAN FERNANDEZ ’06 STEPHEN A. GLASSER CAROLYN ROBERSON GLYNN ’69 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 DR. ADRIAN A. SHELBY H ’98 LARRY I. SILLS JOHN B. SKOWRONSKI ’91 ADEBOLA A. TAIWO ’09 HANK UBEROI NANCY H. VAN DUYNE JOEL M. WEINER ’66 THOMAS N. WILFRID, PH.D.

Moving Foward

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I made my On the Green debut in the spring of 2003, after being named the College’s 16th President. 16 years later, this is my final “Message from the President.”

First and foremost, I want to thank all of you for everything we did together to lift up this great, historic college, to make it successful, to make it shine. Over the past 16 years, Bloomfield College has reached places we could only dream about in 2003. I am immensely proud of the challenges we have met and the achievements we have earned.

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

I have always appreciated your steadfast support. None of what was accomplished on campus would have happened without the leadership and passion of the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees, and without the unwavering support of thousands of students, faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as friends of the College who believe deeply in Bloomfield College’s distinctive mission.

973-748-9000 / ext. 1293

www.bloomfield.edu alumni.bloomfield.edu

I will treasure my years as your President. Bloomfield College’s future is promising and I’ll be following its ongoing evolution from afar, doing so with pride, affection, and gratitude for all that we’ve achieved in these past 16 years.

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

Sincerely,

Richard A. Levao PRESIDENT BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

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Tuesday, September 10, 6-8:00 p.m.

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Homecoming and Alumni Reunion on campus

Thursday, November 21, 7:00 p.m.

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Scholarship/Fundraising Program and Reception on campus

The 2019 calendar is being updated daily. To receive the most up-to-date information on all events, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 973-748-9000 ext. 1293 or email advancement@bloomfield.edu

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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Bidding Farewell to President Levao Getting to Know Dr. Evans

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Newsroom Game Design ranked No. 1; Knock, Knock Give a Sock

Events The Company @ Bloomfield College; Nursing Adventures; Women’s Panel; Commencement Activities

146 th Commencement President Levao’s Final Commencement

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Giving Day

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Donor News

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Over $32,000 Raised!

College Unveils Marren Lecture Hall

Wrap up and Athletic Reunion

on the cover:

President Evans arrives!

In Memoriam Remember Dr. Angela Conrad

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Bloomfield College President, Richard A. Levao, has retired.

“I’m extraordinarily fortunate to have been able to serve such an important cause as Bloomfield College and to have had the help and friendship of dedicated Board members, staff, and faculty,” said Levao.

For the last 16 years, Levao has served as president. During his tenure, the College’s endowment has more than doubled. The institution has seen a successful capital campaign and is a nationally-recognized institution, ranking among the most effective minority serving institutions in the social mobility of its graduates.

In the last few years, a number of new programs have been unveiled, including master degree programs in fine arts, accounting, and education, and buildings, such as the Franklin Street Residence Hall, have been constructed.

Before Bloomfield College, he practiced law for 30 years and was a partner at the national law firm Drinker Biddle & Reath, LLP. Active in community affairs and New Jersey higher education, President Levao has served for over 30 years as a member of the Rutgers University Board of Trustees and Board of Governors, including three years as Chair of the Board of Trustees (1991-1994) and two years as Chair of the Board of Governors (19982000). He has also served as an adjunct member of the faculties of The Cornell Law School, Rutgers University and Bloomfield College.

He served as Chair of the New Jersey Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and was elected as Chair of the New Jersey Presidents’ Council representing more than 50 colleges and universities. He was a member of the Donald Payne Scholarship Selection Committee of the New Jersey Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, a member of the New Jersey State Opera Board, and on the Mountainside Health Foundation Board.

He also served on the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foun-

dation and the Executive Committees of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and the New Jersey Council on the Humanities, the state’s affiliate to the National Endowment for the Humanities. He served as President of the University Presidents’ Council of the World Technopolis Association (WTA), an NGO member of UNESCO, and delivered the keynote addresses at the WTA Conferences in South Korea, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

President Levao received an A.B. with High Distinction in Political Science from Rutgers College. He earned a Juris Doctor with Specialization in International Affairs from The Cornell Law School. In 2000, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Rutgers University for his professional achievements and for his outstanding service to the institution; in 2006, an honorary doctorate from Universidad Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, in Peru; in 2009, an honorary doctorate from Universitate Transilvania din Brasov, in Romania; and in 2011, an honorary doctorate from Jeonju University, in Korea.

Since arriving at Bloomfield College, he has established his leadership in many ways, including embracing and encouraging the importance of philanthropy for the College’s future. Last year, President Levao and Chairman Turner pledged to bestow $1.5 million combined to the College. In his final year, President Levao, now President Emeritus, continued to help advance Bloomfield College and celebrated the College’s sesquicentennial anniversary.

“President Levao’s leadership has benefited our students on multiple levels and in countless ways,” said Chairman Turner. “He has lived and breathed Bloomfield College, and has helped spread our mission throughout the state of New Jersey, for the past 16 years. We are grateful for his dedication and service.”

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Why did you become a college president?

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Richard A. Levao (RL): My experience as Chair of the Board of Rutgers University and my lengthy teaching experience at Rutgers and Cornell Law School had convinced me of the critical importance of higher education, not only to advance human knowledge in multiple fields, but also to serve as an engine of social justice to redress residual impacts of exploitation, both domestic and foreign, of peoples and resources, throughout history. This mission, if you will, includes institutional change, changing social attitudes, instilling compassion and empathy fostered in the arts, among many approaches. Leadership is essential to allocate our too scarce resources to these highest priorities.

Dr. Marcheta P. Evans (ME): The reason truly centers around how I was raised by my grandmother to be an advocate for individuals seeking education at all levels.

The stark reality is there is a paucity of women and people of color serving as president of higher education institutions.

It has been my mission to be a role model to demonstrate that if someone from my background can reach this level of service, so can anyone else that strives to achieve certain goals in their lives.

What impresses you most about Bloomfield College students?

RL: In addition to modest financial backgrounds, the students have enormous family responsibilities. Many work multiple jobs not only in order to afford college, but to help provide support for their families. Some spend an extraordinary amount of time not only striving for their own success, but volunteering in their communities to help their fellow citizens.

Seeing students, many without a great high school experience, struggle to achieve proficiency and then grasp difficult subjects and succeed, is more than gratifying.

Bloomfield College’s students manage to swim upstream to reach success with the 6

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INTRODUCING DR. MARCHETA P. EVANS Dr. Marcheta P. Evans is Bloomfield College’s 17th President. She has succeeded Richard A. Levao.

Dr. Evans is both the first woman and African American to lead the College in its 150-year history.

She was unanimously selected by the College’s Board of Trustees after a nationwide search by Academic Search, an executive search firm dedicated to serving higher education institutions.

Dr. Evans has served in transformational leadership roles in higher education for twenty-five years at both public and private institutions, with twenty of those years at Minority Serving Institutions (MSI’s) in the seventh largest city in the U.S., San Antonio, Texas. Bloomfield College holds the designations of a Predominately Black Institution (PBI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

“I am so humbled and honored to be selected as the 17th President of Bloomfield College. This is truly the fulfillment of a dream that was inspired by my grandparents as they raised me as a child during the civil rights movement of the 1960’s,” expressed Dr. Evans. “My heart is overflowing with this blessing and privilege. You will not find anyone more dedicated to the mission, vision, and goals of Bloomfield College as we move this great college forward with our commitment for diverse students to have access to an affordable education. We will become a national leader and role model for inclusive excellence.”

Previously the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU), Dr. Evans sequentially served as Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean at OLLU and Associate Dean and Department Chair at University of Texas at San Antonio. She has served as a faculty member for over 23 years and has the rank of Full Professor. Dr. Evans is a past President and Fellow of the American Counseling Association, past President of the Association for Creativity in Counseling, and is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions. A small sampling of these recognitions includes the Outstanding Multicultural Leadership Award, Yellow Rose of Texas Lifetime Educator Award, and Counselors for Social Justice Ohana Award.

Dr. Evans has authored numerous articles and book chapters, focusing on issues of diversity, multiculturalism, women’s issues, and leadership.

She has presented over one hundred times at the state, regional, national, and international levels addressing topics such as empowerment,

multiculturalism, diversity, and leadership. In her international work, Dr. Evans has traveled extensively, including a length of time in the African country of Malawi where she worked with educators and counselors on literacy initiatives sponsored by USAID. Dr. Evans graduated from the University of Alabama with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, specializing in Student Affairs, Administration in Higher Education, and Human Resource Management. Additionally, she has a Master of Arts degree in Education in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama-Birmingham, a Master of Arts degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Alabama.

“Dr. Evans' tenure at her previous institutions has been nothing short of transformative,” said William H. Turner, Chairman of the Board. “Her leadership qualities represent the academic and mission-based values of Bloomfield College, and we are delighted to welcome her to our community and campus.”

Some of her career highlights include optimization of class sizes, which resulted in over $300,000 in revenue and cost-saving strategies; development of academic centers to enhance student success, which saw freshman retention rates rise from 56.2% to 68.2%; and modified the advising model through collaborative advising, cohort scheduling, student success initiatives, and strengths-based peer mentor/teaching that resulted in a 23% increase in first-year students who earned a 3.0 GPA or higher.

President Richard A. Levao, who served as president of the College for 16 years, is excited for Bloomfield College’s next chapter with Dr. Evans at the helm.

“The Bloomfield College community is extremely pleased to have Dr. Evans assume the leadership of this wonderful institution in its 150th year,” said President Levao. “Her experience, dedication to our College’s mission, as well as her personal warmth, energy, and compassion, bodes well for the future of this College that so many of us love so well.”

Dr. Evans and her husband, Edgar, are exceedingly proud parents of six children with five of whom graduated from minority-serving institutions.

She and her husband are looking forward to moving to New Jersey.

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What do you believe is the true role of higher education in our society?

RL: To offer students opportunity. Our credo makes this plain: To prepare students to attain academic, personal, and professional excellence in a multicultural and global society. Who could ask for anything more? Without the inculcation and development of these qualities, we run the most awful risks to our country and the entire planet. We have always faced challenges throughout history. But as President Kennedy put it: “The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life.” We are entrusted with developing an aware, critically thinking, productive and intellectually, emotionally and spiritually balanced population to guide us through the choices about which JFK spoke so movingly.

ME: There are many roles of higher education and this is a truly complex question. Simply stated as a mother of six, I hoped that when my children completed their higher education journeys that they were ready for their respective fields in all aspects; that the institution had assisted

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G RO ET H IN G RO Y BY

ME: The students at Bloomfield have been so awesome in welcoming me into the family. They are not shy about expressing how they feel about their educational experiences. My job is to work with the faculty and staff to ensure they are workforce ready when they graduate, and to also make sure that they have had an experience at Bloomfield College that they can look back on fondly. The tenacity and drive that I see in their eyes to reach their goals has been inspirational to me and reminds me of why I must work hard to assist them in being the best they can be in their respective fields.

I hope the humanistic values that make institutions like Bloomfield College really great will survive and that I had some role in that.

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help of dedicated faculty and staff. The “value added” to a student in a place like Bloomfield College, can match that at any other college or university in America.

— P R E S I D E N T L E VA O

them in finding employment and that they had a holistic experience and were entering into the next phases of their lives as productive, service-oriented individuals. This is what I would want for anyone pursuing higher education. The words itself express what should happen. There should be a greater level of knowledge and growth that occurs when a student matriculates. They are more enlightened and civically minded.

What do you think the future holds for Bloomfield College?

RL: A new President. And more challenges, more successes, more planning, more new areas of study and the technologies used to make them available. Change is inevitable. American society is the most rapidly changing and adaptable social setting in human history. We have the burden and the exhilarating mission to be an active and constructive participant in that change — everything from training students to meet job needs of the marketplace, to finding one’s place in creation.

ME: Bloomfield College’s future is exciting. There are so many dedicated faculty, staff, Board of Trustee members, alumni, and community members supporting the mission of the College. Our job right now is to work on developing our college

priorities, formulating a strategic plan, and moving forward as expeditiously as possible in reaching these goals. We have to be able to articulate why a student’s experience at Bloomfield is unique and transformative.

What do you hope your Bloomfield College legacy will be?

RL: I hope it will be moving the institution into the future without sacrificing the core values of consultative leadership and respect for community. One of the most beautiful tributes ever paid to a person and his legacy was the following regarding the great comic and dramatic actor Ed Wynn: “His death is the first time he ever made anyone sad.” I hope that won’t be for a long time, but I hope the humanistic values that make institutions like Bloomfield College really great will survive and that I had some role in that.

ME: When my Presidency is done, I hope that my legacy will be that my impact on the whole community was significant in moving the College to the next level in educational attainment. n

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Game Design PROGRAM REACHES #1 IN STATE

network has really helped us foster a culture of collaboration and leadership within the student body. We’re proud to see our hard work earn this recognition, and we’re excited for the future of the program.”

The Princeton Review chose the schools based on data it collected in its 2018 survey of administrators at 150 institutions that offer game design courses, majors, or degree programs. Surveyed schools were in the U.S., Canada and abroad.

The survey requested information in four areas: academics, faculty,

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE HAS CAPTURED THE #1 SPOT IN NEW JERSEY AND THE #35 SPOT OVERALL ON THE

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The Princeton Review released its tenth annual ranking lists naming the best undergraduate and graduate schools for students to study—and launch a career in—game design.

Bloomfield College has captured the #1 spot in New Jersey and the #35 spot overall on the undergraduate schools list. Last year, the College earned the #2 spot in New Jersey and the #44 spot nationally.

“We've refined our curriculum to give students a greater depth of skills and breadth of experiences, and have made strides in how we approach career and personal development,” said Assistant Professor GJ Lee. “We’ve built a strong community of inspiring faculty, dedicated staff, and industry professionals who create opportunities for our students, and that support

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UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOLS LIST. LAST YEAR, THE COLLEGE EARNED THE #2 SPOT IN NEW JERSEY

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Game Design. Bloomfield College’s Bachelor of Arts in Game Design within the Creative Arts & Technology Division is a practice-oriented program focused on core principles, concepts, methodologies and skills that are reinforced through the creation of hands-on projects. There are also many courses where students will work on collaborative teambased projects that mimic real-world game development environments.

Theoretical knowledge and practical methods converge within these environments to provide students with the experience they need to

AND THE #44 SPOT NATIONALLY. technology, and career prospects. It covered everything from the schools’ courses and facilities to their graduates’ starting salaries and professional achievements. In all, more than 40 data points were analyzed to tally the rankings.

“The schools that made our lists this year have stellar programs” said Robert Franek, The Princeton Review's Editor-in-Chief. “Their faculties are outstanding and their facilities are awesome. Just as impressive: their alumni include many of the video game industry’s most prominent artists, designers, developers, and entrepreneurs.”

Approximately 125 students at the College are currently studying

truly understand and overcome the complexities involved in making games.

“National recognition from the Princeton Review validates what we at Bloomfield College witness on a daily basis. We have stellar faculty and programs that are some of the best in the country,” said Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. “We are extremely proud that our Game Design program has been ranked number one in the State of New Jersey this year!”

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Dr. Anita Pasmantier: Fulbright Scholar Last year, Bloomfield College Professor of Finance, Dr. Anita Pasmantier, was named a Fulbright Scholar, joining the ranks of distinguished Fulbright alumni, some of whom have become heads of state, judges, ambassadors, cabinet ministers, CEOs, and university presidents, as well as leading journalists, artists, scientists, and teachers.

As a Fulbright scholar, Dr. Pasmantier taught Advanced Corporate Finance at Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali Guido Carli (LUISS University) in Rome, Italy during the 2018 Spring semester. Dr. Pasmantier also conducted research on how to assess a writing intensive course in business.

She also attended several functions held for the Fulbright Program, including joining fellow Fulbright Scholars at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for several presentations by the Fulbright Italia organization; attending a reception in Rome with the Italian Ambassador to the US, Armando Varricchio, for the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Fulbright program in Italy; and attending the sister event for the 70th anniversary Fulbright celebration hosted by the Embassy of Italy in Washington, D.C. and the United States Department of State. Following the presentations at the Italian Embassy, a reception was held at Villa Firenze, the private residence of the Italian Ambassador to the US. “I truly consider myself very fortunate that I was able to participate in the amazing Fulbright program and was lucky enough to meet all of these incredible people,” said Dr. Pasmantier. “It was an experience I will cherish and always remember fondly for the rest of my life.”

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Students Can Now Register for Courses at Various Colleges During this upcoming fall semester, Bloomfield College students will have the unique opportunity to take online courses in the Humanities at various independent colleges across the nation. This is thanks to Bloomfield College being a part of a Consortium of Independent Colleges (CIC), which is dedicated to improving the effectiveness of online humanities teaching and learning. All courses are offered for academic credit and at no additional cost to Bloomfield students. Courses include Beginning Chinese, Beginning French I, and Intro to German Speaking World I from Concordia College; Medieval Literature from Hiram College; and Philosophy of Human Existence from Moravian College. All courses will transfer in as four credits each.

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College Community Participates in Knock, Knock Give a Sock

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For the second year, Bloomfield Human Health Services distributed 60,000 pairs of socks to the needy on Wednesday, April 10.

Forty local agencies assisting the economically disadvantaged met at the New Light Baptist Church where 300 cartons of socks were stacked.

Present at the event from Bloomfield College were Trustee Jacquie Colgan; Gabrielle Louis, Coordinator of Service Learning and First Year Student Activities at the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement; and three Bloomfield College students.

“This day was pure muscle work. All morning the students helped carry boxes filled with children and adult socks to cars for organizations,” shared Louis.

The socks came from nonprofit organization Knock Knock, Give a Sock. Its founder, Adina Lichtman, was present to share more about her nonprofit which is dedicated to reducing the stigma of homelessness. According to the website, socks are the most needed, but least donated, articles of clothing to help the homeless.

“Bloomfield College is honored to participate in this worthwhile event. As many of our students are also from families of need, they are uniquely positioned to truly empathize with the needs of the community and are very happy to be here today to assist in your efforts,” said Trustee Colgan.

Also present were Karen Lore, the Director of the Health Department; Paula Peikes, Supervisor of Human Health Services; Bloomfield Council members Wartyna Davis, Richard Rockwell and Nick Joanow; and members of the Bloomfield Fire Department. n

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THE COMPANY @ BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE SPRING WRAP-UP The Company @ Bloomfield College, the College’s first and only theater company, was quite busy this spring semester, hosting a benefit and a staged reading just one month apart.

The benefit was held on Thursday, February 28.

“Theater is important in that it teaches students about collaboration and teamwork. It helps them with time management and being prepared.

And studying scripts fosters critical thinking and assessment of human psychology,” said Dr. Fiona (Freddie) Harris, Assistant Professor of Writing and Rhetoric and Coordinator of the Company. “Our students are really talented and we discovered a need for a performance outlet here at the College. We are hosting this benefit to sustain and ensure that we can keep producing theatre at Bloomfield College.”

Students performed Searching for Answers, a student improvisational piece about young people who are grappling with the aftermath of tragedy, directed by Bloomfield College’s acting teacher, Kellei Cosby.

After a brief intermission, special guest Kyle Marshall’s contemporary dance production of Colored began.

Kyle Marshall, who first came to campus last year and helped Bloomfield College students tell their personal stories through contemporary dance, is a 2018 NY Dance and Performance “Bessie” Jury Award recipient and a 2017 NJ State Council of the Arts Fellow.

“One of our aims with the Company is to have students work alongside, and be exposed to, determined people making a living in the Arts,” said Dr. Harris. “We want them to witness the sort of passion and dedication it takes to ‘make it’ as a working artist in this contemporary

landscape. Kyle is a wonderful example to our students.”

The Company presented a staged reading of ANOWA on Thursday, April 4, and Friday, April 5. ANOWA, a provocative drama by acclaimed Ghanian playwright Ama Ata Aidoo, examines the tensions emanating from gender, race, and class inequalities in Victorian era Ghana.

Amy Estes, a co-founder of Marvell Repertory Theatre (2011–2014), a critically acclaimed Off-Broadway company in New York, directed the staged reading.

“I loved the idea of exposing Bloomfield College students and the Bloomfield community to this play by Ama Ata Aidoo, the first woman to have a play published in Africa,” said Estes. “Anowa is an intelligent, ambitious, principled young woman who is trapped and ultimately ruined by cultural expectations that she cannot support. It struck me that even in today's America, when women and people of color challenge historically dominant cultural narratives, they face judgment and danger.”

The event featured Bloomfield College students Elizabeth Agyapong, Joseph Darby, Naja Long, Joshua McLean, Precious Olubiyi, Delores Oppong Ntow, and T'shaka Thorpe, and staff member and alumna Celeste Walden-Kelley. Bloomfield College students Tenasha Simpson and Destin Johnson served as stage manager and dramaturg.

For those who may wish to contribute to The Company, you can mail a check the Office of Institutional Advancement, 68 Oakland Avenue, Bloomfield, NJ 07003. Please include ‘The Company’ in the memo section.

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Nursing Students Host Fair, Travel to U.N., and Give Back to Community

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On Wednesday, March 27, the Division of Nursing at Bloomfield College hosted a health fair in the Library. The Division’s senior nursing students offered a number of free services to faculty, staff, and students, including massages and blood pressure screenings, as well as free refreshments, games, and prizes.

The health fair was an opportunity for the Bloomfield College community to learn moreabout domestic violence, organ donation, substance abuse, dental heath, and suicide and depression.

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Women’s History Month In celebration of Women’s History Month, Bloomfield College hosted a HERstory luncheon and panel on Thursday, March 28.

The panel consisted of Julia Del Bagno, Associate Director of Admissions; Cathy Garrison, Career Coach for Career Development; Kristina Jones ’98, EOF Director; and Sheila Wooten ’85, the College’s Athletic Director.

The panel answered questions about their personal experiences as women, both professionally and personally. They shared insights and advice with the men in attendance as well.

“Women have come a long way from the times we couldn’t vote and were viewed solely as housewives and mothers. It is important for us to acknowledge our past, embrace our present, and celebrate those who have made, and are making, positive changes that impact women,” said Yuliana Gonzalez ’12, Director of the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement

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and Special Programs. “We need to motivate and encourage future leaders, like our students, who will go on to make their own waves in HERstory. It’s important to not only focus on our female students during Women’s History Month, but also provide information to our male students on how to be allies for women’s rights.”

The luncheon also included a Phenomenal Women award ceremony that recognized female staff or faculty members who are exceptional leaders and role models that go above and beyond in their roles and make a difference on campus. Leading up to the day, students were able to nominate who they believed deserved the recognition.

The recipients were Dr. Maria Vogt, Professor of Chemistry; Quincina Littlejohn, Interim Director of Student Financial Services; and panelist Kristina Jones.

On Friday, April 12, 18 senior nursing students and two nursing faculty members traveled to the United Nations in New York City as a part of their Community Nursing course. This trip served as a nice endcap to their nursing educations as it brought to life the Sustainable Development Goals developed by the United Nations.

These 17 goals stand for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future, have been woven into the students’ curriculum since their first year at the College. The goals are an urgent call for action by all countries — developed and developing — in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth — all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.“In this age of

globalization, things we do at home affect everyone abroad. We hope to instill a sense of global citizenship in our students,” shared Associate Professor Lori Ann Palmieri, MSN, RN. “The day definitely opened our students’ eyes and gave them a better understanding of accountability and responsibility. They know they cannot ignore what is going on in the rest of the world.”

The day included a guided tour and immersion experiences such as a simulated refugee camp. This trip was made possible through the generous giving of Archie and Lynne Palmer.

SE NIO R “P R OM”

On Friday, May 3, The Neighbor to Neighbor Network (NTNN), in conjunction with the Township of Bloomfield and Bloomfield College, hosted the fifth annual Nursing Senior Extravaganza. This year’s theme was “Hollywood Comes to Bloomfield.”

The Neighbor to Neighbor Network is a 501C3 nonprofit. The volunteer organization for Bloomfield Township and the Borough of Glen Ridge provides free socialization and volunteer services for senior citizens in Bloomfield and Glen Ridge.

Held at the Knights of Columbus in Bloomfield, the Nursing Senior Extravaganza, also known as “the senior prom,” is coordinated and attended by Doreen Gagnon, an Associate Professor in Bloomfield College’s nursing division; Neighbor to Neighbor Network Volunteer Coordinator, Stephanie Cruz; and Paula Peikes, Supervisor of Human Services for the township.

“The collaboration between Bloomfield College Nursing Students, NTNN, and Bloomfield Human Services has blossomed over the years. Bloomfield Senior Citizens and Bloomfield College nursing students have formed a great relationship where they spend time throughout the

year participating in socialization activities that the students organize in the local senior building,” said Peikes.

155 senior citizens and 45 student volunteers participated this year. U.S Senator Bob Menendez; Bloomfield Mayor Venezia; Councilman Joanow; Councilwoman Cruz; Bloomfield College Board of Trustees member Jacqueline Colgan; Brookdale Shoprite Owner, Neil Greenstein; Pamela S. Scott, Executive Director of Partners for Health Foundation; and Bloomfield Department of Health and Human Services Director, Karen Lore, were in attendance as well.

The seniors and Bloomfield College nursing students danced, laughed, and shared a meal, which was donated by over one dozen local food establishments.

The goal of the collaboration is to provide seniors with socialization and to provide the students a glimpse into the lives of people who they usually see in the hospital, many times unable to speak, unable to advocate for themselves, or unable to share their interests. The interaction has been extremely positive for both the seniors and the students of Bloomfield College.

“Everyone had a great time! It was an unexpected pleasure that the students experienced and I believe all were impressed with the event,” said Professor Gagnon. “It was a great service to the community of Bloomfield.”

top:Trustee Jacquie Colgan and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez bottom: nursing students with attendees

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EVENTS

Nurses’ Pinning and Baccalaureate The Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing at Bloomfield College celebrated its graduating nursing students on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at its annual Nurses’ Pinning.

The pinning ceremony is a time-honored nursing school tradition. It signifies students’ official initiation into the nursing profession. The modern ceremony dates back to the 1860s, when Florence Nightingale was awarded the Red Cross of Saint George in recognition for her unstinting service to the wounded during the Crimean War. To share the honor, she in turn presented a medal of excellence to her brightest graduates. By 1916, the practice was commonplace throughout the United States.

Graduates Consider the “GPPA” at Baccalaureate Following Nurses’ Pinning, students were honored for their academic achievements at Bloomfield College’s annual Baccalaureate ceremony.

Highlighting students who achieved a high GPA while pursuing honor society membership, graduates received honors cords for earning cum

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laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude distinctions. Students also received cords for their work in the Institution’s honors societies, with Alpha Chi (all majors), Delta Mu Delta (Business), Kappa Delta Pi (Education), Psi Chi (Psychology), Sigma Theta Tau (Nursing), and Chi Alpha Sigma (for juniors and seniors lettering in a NCAA Division II sport) bestowing their organization’s highest honor on the group of distinguished academics.

Dr. Marianne Flood, professor and dedicated member of the Division of Nursing for 16 years, delivered the baccalaureate address. The following day at Commencement, Dr. Flood, now retired, received faculty emerita status.

“Your learning has just begun and your journey is in the infancy stage,” said Dr. Flood, after congratulating the high-achieving students. “I challenge you to work toward another kind of GPA as you find your way in the world: the GPPA, which stands for ‘Greatest Professional and Personal Accomplishments.’”

Dr. Flood then shared with the graduates a number of post-Bloomfield College success stories of the alumni who came before them.

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President’s Dinner

“I challenge you to apply your current GPA in the real world setting to make a difference in the people’s lives that you serve in your communities,” she said, concluding her remarks. “That is the greatest GPPA of all!”

On Thursday, May 16, 2019, Bloomfield College hosted its annual President’s Dinner at the Cedar Hill Country Club in Livingston.

“The best gift I can give is the gift of brevity,” quipped President Levao. “I have 16 years of memories. It’s been an extraordinary experience for me to be President of Bloomfield College. When the chance came for me to come to the College, and I met the community, I knew there was an opportunity to leave an impression that could change the world. Help people start anew, empowering lives.”

Joining the Bloomfield College community were leadership of neighboring towns that have connected or partnered with the College, including Hillside, East Orange, and Teaneck.

During dinner, a graduating student from each of the seven academic divisions spoke about the impact Bloomfield College made on their lives.

These students included psychology major, Paola Tejada Bueno, who completed her degree in three years; game design major, Shayne Shekon; education major, Jasmine Nicole Webster; bio-chemistry major, Adrian Smart; business major, Jessica Larson, who will soon begin a paid internship with

Ernst & Young; nursing student Amanda Thomas; and history major Kiki Bynes.

Danielle Patterson ’13 introduced the student speakers and announced while at the podium that she plans on establishing a named scholarship at Bloomfield College to assist students. After graduating, Patterson, an alumna of the Division of Natural Science and Mathematics, worked first in New Jersey, then in Maryland, as a Clinical Histotechnologist with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, all while working toward a Master’s degree in Biotechnology. She will complete the program in 2020. She has since continued her career with the Bio Defense.

In a special part of the evening, Dr. Jim Murphy, faculty chair, presented President Levao with a gift on behalf of the faculty, while sharing some words about the retiring President. President Levao was visibly touched by the moment.

“Bloomfield College faculty has been so deeply committed to the Institution,” said President Levao.

“Faculty give out their personal phone numbers and emails to students, they serve as mentors. It’s a very inspiring thing to see. Bless you. Thank you.”

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G RO ET H IN G

C O M M E N C E M E N T

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146th Commencement

“It’s been an extraordinary experience for me to be President of Bloomfield College.”

— President Levao

— The Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka: 40th Mayor of Newark, New Jersey

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Bloomfield College embraced 313 new alumni at the College’s 146th Commencement Ceremonies on Friday, May 17.

This Commencement marked Richard A. Levao’s final as President.

President Levao retired two weeks later.

“It is such a great honor for me to be here today for my sixteenth and last time as your president,” expressed President Levao in his opening remarks. President Levao received the status President Emeritus during the ceremony.

The Institution conferred recognition upon its distinguished retiring faculty during the program, with Dr. Mike Schiro, Dr. Marianne Flood, and Dr. Carolyn Tuella receiving Professor Emeriti honors.

Honorary degree recipients The Hon. Ras J. Baraka, the 40th Mayor of Newark, and The Hon. Margaret H. Marshall, the 35th Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and the only woman to serve as Chief Justice, delivered moving and timely remarks, both weighing in on climate

change, women’s rights, wealth distribution, and the important role this generation of graduates will play in our planet’s future.

“Today is a great day for you, but tomorrow begins the rest of your lives. It is a very scary time. What we need is not just brilliant people, we need courageous people,” said Mayor Baraka. “We need you to take everything you learned at Bloomfield College and use it, but we also need you to be courageous enough to make the world a better place, to speak to noisy crowds, to lead when it’s not popular, to hold the line and keep moving forward, especially at a time when people are trying to divide us.

We need you in 2019, but most importantly, we need you in 2020, 2021, 2022…”

“What a mess my generation has left you, and you have to fix this before you are my age,” opened Chief Justice Marshall, while sharing stark data on animal extinction and income inequality. “I know you will bring your talents, creativity, and life experiences, to make an impact on our world. You will

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C O M M E N C E M E N T

“We need you to be courageous enough to speak to noisy crowds, to lead when it’s not popular, to hold the line and keep moving forward.”

— The Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka: 40th Mayor of Newark, New Jersey

change the world, for the better, one step at a time. Congratulations.”

Class of 2019 Valedictorian, Curtis Gonzalez, a Creative Arts & Technology student, preceded the honorary degree recipient speeches, also articulating these concerns in his vulnerable and empowering speech.

“College can take a toll on our minds. And a lot of the time, it did.

Many of us had to balance our studies while taking care of our families and working long shifts at our jobs just to provide. It is understandable that at some moments, we wanted to give up.

But, what matters, is that we didn’t give up. As real as life got for us, we all somehow pushed through. We faced adversity to get where we are now because we knew that being strong

would pay off. And that’s what’s most important here. We are strong. We are here together,” said Gonzalez. “Without hard work, determination, and perseverance, the degrees we receive today won’t be anything more than a fancy piece of paper. As you move on, remember everything you faced during your college years. Remember how you still worked your hardest in spite of the pain. Because in life, that’s what matters. Back up what your degree says.

Apply your talent and what you’ve learned to make that piece of paper mean something.”

Following Commencement, in a sea of decorated caps, diplomas, balloons, flowers, and smiles, both graduates and guests continued the celebration on a very crowded Liberty Street.

“I know you will bring your talents, creativity, and life experiences, to make an impact on our world.”

— The Honorable Margaret H. Marshall: 35th Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

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GIVING DAY

PH OT O G RAPH

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GRO ET HING

Bloomfield College celebrated its first-ever Giving Day on Wednesday, April 10. The day exceeded expectations with 200+ donors, which included members of the Board of Trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends, raising over $32,000.

April 10 kicked off with a “Farewell Breakfast” for President Richard A. Levao, who retired in June. Next, President Levao hosted his final “Pizza with the President.” The day came to a close with a “Giving Day Reception,” hosted in honor of the faculty, staff, and students who took part in Giving Day. “It’s amazing what can happen when we come together as a community. Our first Giving Day was unforgettable,” said Nicole Quinn, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement.

Out of the 200+ donors, 74 were faculty and staff members. Nearly 50% of total donors were alumni of the College,

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many of whom were first time donors. The College also saw a high number of recent graduates take part in Giving Day and support their alma mater.

Leading up to the day, a special video was released featuring Dr. Fiona Harris, Assistant Professor of Rhetoric and Writing; Heinz Nordmann, maintenance; and senior Paola Tejada.

Donors were able to designate their support to a number of funds including the Bloomfield College Fund, President Richard A. Levao's retirement scholarship, all seven academic divisions, and Athletics. Increased participation, not the amount contributed, was the focus of Bloomfield College’s Giving Day. “Participation is key. Every gift counts, from $1.00 to $300.00,” Dr. Harris said in the video.

Each of the individual gifts combined on April 10 to create a tremendous impact, which will strengthen Bloomfield College’s programs, scholarships, and more. n

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DONORSTORY

INTRODUCING: MARREN LECTURE HALL

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Bloomfield College is excited to announce that College Hall 016 has been renamed Marren Lecture Hall, after Trustee Joanne T. Marren.

“We are thrilled that Trustee Marren's ongoing, generous support to the College has been commemorated in this way,” said Nicole Quinn, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Her gifts ensure that Bloomfield College students realize their true potential as global citizens and leaders. Having her name on this lecture hall will remind the College community of her dedication for years to come.”

Marren’s many contributions to the College can be seen across campus, including the funding of the College’s new e-sports program. Marren is someone who became familiar with the College through Trustee Emerita Rosemary Iversen.

Marren, who is a relatively new member of the Board, having joined in 2013, established the Therese V. Marren Endowed Scholarship Fund in memory of her mother and has also supported

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other campus initiatives, including assisting the marketing department.

She warmed and empowered many hearts in 2016, at the Partners for Student Success Dinner, when she publicly matched the Glasser Family Fund with a contribution to the Therese V. Marren Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Her giving doesn’t stop there, as she has dedicated much of her time to the College as well.

She has stepped up tremendously as Secretary of the Board, remained a strong leader in the Campaign Working Group, and can be seen at the College’s events in support of students and programs.

“We are so grateful to supporters like Joanne Marren. What’s special about Joanne is the great appreciation and value she places on higher education. Instilled in her at a young age, Joanne’s passion for scholarships in higher education is evidenced today by the fund she created in loving memory of her beloved mother,” said Chairman William H. Turner of Marren, during a summer 2018 interview in On The Green.

Beginning her career in law, Marren was an Associate at Willkie, Farr & Gallagher in New York City. She then served as Senior Vice President and Corporate Counsel for Shearson

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Lehman Hutton Incorporated. She then took the role of Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for The Equitable Companies Inc. — now AXA Financial. A move to Gruntal Financial, LLC followed for Marren, who served as the company’s Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative, and Legal Officer and Director.

In the field of education, Marren has served as a Trustee on boards at various levels, including a term as Board Chair of Nativity Middle School in New York. Concurrently, Marren served in various capacities at LeMoyne College, including stints as Chair and Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Chair of Academic Affairs and Student Development. More recently, she has served as a member of the Board of Trustees at Xavier High School in New York, as well as Co-Chair of the school’s Presidential Search Committee. Also involved in teaching, Marren served as Adjunct Professor at Passaic County Community College and Montclair State a University.

Trustee Marren hopes her contributions, “will make an impact on the lives of our current and prospective students and encourage donors to take a closer look at the amazing work Bloomfield College is doing every day.” n

AT H L E T I C S

AWARDS sports spread

G L AD ST O N E PH O T O GRAPH S

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The Bears reached the double-elimination stage of the tournament by defeating the top-seeded Golden Falcons from Felician University. Bloomfield College baseball scored a victory against each of the remaining three teams in contention for the CACC Championship.

H ARRIS

BASEBALL

Wilfrido Valenzuela (freshman) was named to All-CACC 2nd Team and All-CACC Tournament Team. Tyree Bradley (freshman) was named CACC Rookie of the Year, All-CACC 1st Team, All-CACC Tournament Team, All-East Region 2nd Team.

sports spread

left: Tyree Bradley bottom: Wilfrido Valenzuela opposite page: Anthony Zarro with Coach Lisa Morgan-Richman

TRACK & FIELD Track & Field placed 2nd at the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) Championships on both the men’s and women’s sides.

RECONGITIONS Having led the Bears’ Track & Field team to a 2nd place finish at the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) Championships, Anthony Zarro (Randolph, NJ) qualified for the NCAA Championships in the men's long jump. In just the fourth year of the program's existence, Zarro is the first Bloomfield College student-athlete to qualify for the Championships that were held from May 23 – 25, 2019 at Texas A&M Kingsville in Kingsville, TX. Zarro’s leap of 24'-5" on May 9 at the Army West Point Twilight Meet was his personal best in the long jump and set a school record while springing him into the NCAA Championships. Zarro also holds the school record in the triple jump and captured his first CACC Championship in that event this season. He is a three-time conference champion in the long jump and currently holds the CACC Championship Meet record in that event as well.

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BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

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AT H L E T I C REUNION

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1

On Saturday, June 1, former Bloomfield College athletes, including members of

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the Hall of Fame, joined Athletic Director, Sheila Wooten '85, and former and current coaches, for a reunion and brunch. Dr. Marcheta P. Evans kicked off

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her time as the 17th president of Bloomfield College at this event.

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Gage Daye '12, who has established a scholarship at his alma mater designed for students hailing from Newark, New Jersey, took time at the podium to speak to guests. Alumni flipped through yearbooks, posed with Deacon, found themselves in photo collages, and shared fond memories of their time at Bloomfield College.

n

(1) Vanessa Watson, Debra Curtis, Rhonda Otten-Curtis. (2) Tyrone Fashaw '76, Perry Gray '77. (3) Andrew Mees, Brianne Mees '11. (4) Lisa Morgan-Richman.

(5) Back row, Nathaniel Nicholson '90, Paul Bowlby '75, Rober Armbruster '62,

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Ernest Ruffin Jr. '84, Samuel McGee '94. Front row, Sheila Wooten '85, Donald Manfria '80, Michael Lampariello '70, David Wright '71.

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12

Rhonda Otten-Curtis, Debra Curtis, Dreshonda Williams '13, Emily Hall '12.

(10) Pamela Gray, Dr. Marcheta Evanse. (11) Michael Lampariello '70, Vince Wooten, Gage Daye '12, Dr. Marcheta Evans, Peter Botzenhart '85, Parker Mitchell '90. (12) Nathaniel Nicholson '90, Lorines Vega '92, Samuel McGee '94, Carolann Jaworski '92, Franklin Kennedy ’86.

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Tiffany McDaniel '11, Jamal Smith '17, Dr. James Lee (at other table with glasses),

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(9) Counter-clockwise beginning with woman in denim shirt, Jamila Garrett '12,

PHO T O G RAPH S

(8) Donald Manfria '80, Carol Manfria '98, Carolann Jaworski '92, Lorines Vega '92.

GRO ET HING

(6) Gerald Holmes, Gage Daye '12. (7) Sheila Wooten '85, Natasha Robinson '04.

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E D U C AT I O N A L O P P O R T U N I T I E S

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Learn from experts in your field, harness cutting-edge technology, and reach your career goals.

Corporate Training The Office of International Training and Professional Studies at Bloomfield College provides customized corporate training programs designed to specific business and technology needs.

Training programs cover a wide range of topics, certifications, and business skill-set development.

Costs are covered by tuition assistance programs from major corporations.

Call 973-748-9000 ext. 1656 for your tailored program!

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CLASSNOTES Marilyn Dunning and Friends

fly in the world of politics and I am forever grateful,” expressed Plaza.

1980’s

1950’s

2009

Karen Keithler

1968 Marilyn Dunning and Friends A small group of 1968+ alumni met for lunch.

Pictured L to R are: Dolores Trimiew '68, Brenda Blaine Rooberg (attended Bloomfield College for about 18 months then transferred to Kean University), Roberta Fitzgerald ’70, Marilyn Dunning ’68, and Ann Morrison ’68.

1954 Rev. Alick Kennedy ’54 and his wife, Jean, enjoyed a visit with the Advancement team in Pittsburgh.

Bob Edmondson ’68

1965

1957 Rev. Richard Szeremany ’57 catches up on College news in Pittsburgh.

1960’s

1968

Rose Marie Meola Rudy ’65

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Rose Marie Meola Rudy ’65 recently became the recipient of the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award for achieving career longevity and demonstrated unwavering excellence in her chosen fields. Only 1% of people who are published in Who’s Who are selected for this recognition and award.

Bob Edmondson ’68 has just received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, an award bestowed by the President of the United States, the highest civilian and military honor in the United States. He served as Presidential advisor from 1999 to 2005 for the Clinton and Bush administrations and holds the Highest military rank, Lt General. ned a Master of Divinity

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degree in 1973 and a Master of Sacred Theology degree in 1974, both from Drew University. He earned his Doctorate in Ministry in 1979 from Louisville Seminary and his Doctorate of Theology in 2009 from Wittenberg Lutheran Seminary.

He is also the recipient of honorary degrees including an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Concordia Seminary, and an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Wittenberg.

He served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of St. Abrose College from 2003 to 2007 and currently holds the position of Metropolitan Archbishop of the Augustana Catholic Church.

“Bloomfield College proved to me that anything is possible if you do your best and never give up,” said Edmondson. “As a result, I’ve developed a personal motto which is, ‘I will try to climb to conquer.’”

Lynda Wright

University with a Doctorate in Education.

1981 Guy David Knoller, Esq.

Karen Keithler ’81 sent in this lovely photo of herself donning a Bloomfield College hat in Monument Valley, UT.

1988

Dolores Trimiew

1968

1968

Dolores Trimiew '68 took this photo on April 14, 2019 in Washington, DC. She hosted a mini-Bloomfield College reunion at her son and daughter-in-law’s home, where they had a Palm Sunday dinner. Pictured here Dolores Mayberry Trimiew ‘68, Georgina McLaughlin Belk ’68, Felecia Adams Brownlow ‘68, Julia Grayson Riley ’69, Jackie Johnson Byers ‘69, Anne Davis Carter ’70, and seated Addie Sue Brown ’68.

Marquis Who’s Who has selected Guy Knoller ’68 for its official 2018 Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime lected to receive this prestigious award as a result of his hard work and dedication to his profession.

Until very recently, Dr. Donna Fischer Naturale ’88 was an Assistant Professor of Nursing and Public Health at Caldwell University. In May, she became the Associate Dean of the School of Nursing and Public Health.

She will continue in the Assistant Professor role as well.

2000’s 2004 Lynda Wright ’04 graduated in May from Caldwell

2009 Tina (Scott) Plaza ’09, member of the Bloomfield College Alumni Association, earned her a B.A. in Political Science while at Bloomfield College and then attended Rutgers University and earned a M.A. in Public Administration.

She is excited to share she ran for office for the first time and won a seat as an officer in her local union Newark Council 21, IFTPE, AFL-CIO. They are a 900member subordinate council of International Federation of Teachers and Professional Engineers (IFTPE). This union also covers local Government workers, including physicians.

She has been elected as Treasurer for Newark Council 21 for a 4-year term, beating out the incumbent!

“I must say that Bloomfield College has been the catalyst that gave me wings to

After teaching for seven years, Takeerah Jones ’09 recently started her own childcare business, Busy Bees Home Daycare.

Busy Bees Home Daycare is a licensed home daycare providing childcare for infants to school-aged children in Newark, New Jersey. Busy Bees is located close to the Garden State Parkway and Springfield Avenue. If interested in learning more, please call 862-202-2262.

2010’s

Ewa Augustyniak

2013 Born and raised in Poland, Ewa Augustyniak ’13 ventured to America as an Au Pair, with $150 in her wallet, with hopes to live the American Dream. After two years, she saved enough money to

enroll at Essex County College, where she would go on to earn her Associate’s degree in Accounting and Business Administration. She then transferred to Bloomfield College to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Being that she was on a student Visa, she was unable to receive financial aid, so, as a full-time student, she continued to work full time.

She was invited to join the Delta Mu Delta business honor society at Bloomfield College. At the annual induction ceremony conducted by Dr. Anita Pasmantier, Professor of Finance, she met Pasmantier’s husband, Jeff Terry.

He asked her about her future plans and then asked if she was interested in a position with his company.

Soon after that day, she interviewed at Jeff’s workplace, Data Inc., as a salesperson. She was one-year shy of graduation at the time so she was not able to join the company, but had a follow up interview a year later where an offer was immediately extended to her. She landed her full-time job two months before she graduated. She is grateful that she found a company that would be willing to sponsor her for H1-B visa (working visa) and eventually, Green Card.

“I received a Green Card in July of 2017 and my life has changed. It gave me more freedom and stability,” shared Augustyniak. “Now, I am less worried when I travel and my confidence level is much higher at the airports. Being a Permanent Resident is just one step away from becoming a Citizen of the United States of America. By the time I know it, I will be sending my application in!”

Currently, she is working

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as an Account Manager for Pyramid Consulting, handling a few major clients. Her most recent news is that she has just become a homeowner! She looks forward to working on the house and starting a family.

“Dreams do come true, if you believe in them, work hard and plan your money wisely,” said Augustyniak.

“You will see the results sooner or later. We all want the results now — I wanted them years ago too when I was going through my struggles — but we just have to be patient. Everything will come to place at the right time. I still have dreams and I am on my way to accomplish them!”

Danielle Patterson

2013 Danielle Patterson ’13 worked first in New Jersey, then in Maryland, as a Clinical Histotechnologist with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine all while working toward a Master’s degree in Biotechnology. She will complete the program in 2020. She has since continued her career with the Bio Defense.

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The BCAA Connects with Students

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A dedicated member of both the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees and the Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA), John Skowronski '91 aims to foster student-alumni interactions with many different initiatives, including the creation of his scholarship, the John B. Skowronski '91 Communications Scholarship Fund.

A unique aspect to the parameters is the scholarship recipient is required to interview at least one notable member of the alumni community.

The interview would then later air on WBCR, the Bloomfield College radio station.

Adebola A. Taiwo '09, Trustee and BCAA member, spoke with current Broadcast Journalism major, Rayne Russell, on overcoming obstacles, succeeding when others think you can’t, and explained why she remains deeply dedicated to her alma mater.

Knowing she would not have been able to graduate from college without financial assistance from scholarship donors including Bestfoods Educational Foundation, Taiwo has established two scholarships at the College as well.

“I’ve always wanted to give back to education. I believe if you want to be educated, you should be able to achieve that goal. One month after graduating from Bloomfield College, I established my first scholarship in my name,” shared Taiwo. “I started small, with $1,000. It has grown greatly since. If you want to give back, you don’t need to start with one million dollars. You can start small and still make a major impact in our students’ lives.”

Taiwo currently works for Verizon within the

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Business Excellence group. She is responsible for leading Verizon’s strategic initiatives. Current initiatives include the implementation of Zero Based Budgeting and saving Verizon $10 billion over 4 years.

“The Verizon community is very diverse, open, and encouraging,” Taiwo said in the interview. “Verizon even matches my donations to Bloomfield College.”

Prior to this role, she was a Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) Project Management Officer at Verizon. She played a vital role in the success of IT integration and training of the Yahoo Global Compliance team on the AOL environment.

Taiwo has over 10 years of combined experience in a variety of finance functions including Auditing, Financial Planning & Analysis and External (SEC) Reporting. She previously served in finance and audit roles at Johnson & Johnson, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and Prudential. She has her CPA and a Bachelor of Science with a Major in Accounting from Bloomfield College.

She has a passion for community service and has worked with various not-for-profit organizations, including a previous role of Director of Scholarships on the National Association of Black Accountants Board - NJ chapter.

Taiwo was elected to the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees in 2016. In this role, she has gained a reputation as the “student's advocate" as she supports students by providing Accounting scholarships, mentoring and career development. She is also a member of the Bloomfield College Alumni Association and serves as the Acting Secretary.

“Giving back makes me very fulfilled. If it has to do with our students, I am all in. I plan on being involved with Bloomfield College until I die,” she said, with a laugh.

WBCR is a student-run radio station operated by the Broadcast Journalism program. The current manager of the station is Adjunct Professor Douglas Doyle. The video of the interview was produced by broadcast journalism student Janelle Blake, under the supervision of Professor Esther Dillard, and can be viewed via the College’s website.

PASSAGES

Alumni & Friends

Dear Bloomfield College Alumni, 2019 has been an action-packed year for the Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA) so far. After closing off 2018 with the Bloomfield College Sesquicentennial Gala, we jumped right into an exciting and changing time for the College.

On June 1, we said “goodbye” to President Richard A. Levao, who retired after 16 years of serving and doing an outstanding job at the College. He has been a great friend and supporter of the BCAA. We will miss him and we hope he visits campus to see us again soon.

The BCAA has been very busy planning and participating in events. We hope you all enjoyed the alumni video that we produced and sent out via email earlier this year.

If you find yourself missing your time at Bloomfield College, come back to the campus and join the BCAA! We help our alma mater, and our students, and have a great time doing it. If you are interested in becoming a member of the BCAA, give please call us at 973-7489000 ext. 1293. We promise to save you a seat at our table!

Bruce S. Arlett Sr. ’81 Dr. Stanley S. Bergen Jr (hon. ’72) Ed Bindel (beloved husband of Trustee Adrian Shelby) Rev. Benjamin Edgar Blumel ’51 Dr. Angela Beth Conrad (beloved professor) Virginia I. Freeman ’47 Douglas J. Hedli (adjunct, assistant coach) Loren James ’68 Joanne Vaccaro Kish ’75 Dennis L. Linder ’81 Doris Marie Monkowski ’77 Richard Pollack (former Trustee, hon. ’99) Rona Pollack (wife of Richard Pollack) Cleola Roberts ’77 William P. Ryan ’74 Frederic E. Shafman (Fred was a dear friend of the College.

In memory of a favorite uncle, Fred founded the Mern Shafman Scholarship Fund at Bloomfield College.)

Rev. Arthur W. Stevens ’55 Bernadette “Bernie” Sudol ’83 Ruth Sulc ’45 Marc Arthur Thibault ’95 Billy E. Traywick ’74 Mary L. Tunnero ’85 Howard Joseph Vliet ’86 Steven J. Wallerstein ’84 Vanessa Doreen Walton ’89 Ruth Harriet Wolf ’48

Sincerely,

John K. Murdock ’73 B C A A

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IN MEMORIAM

Richard A. Levao turns over the reigns and a new era begins.

In Loving Memory  Dr. Angela Conrad

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Dr. Angela Beth Conrad, beloved professor, mentor, colleague, and friend, passed away on March 27, 2019. A moment of silence was held in her honor at the College’s 146th Commencement in May. Dr. Conrad was a published author and Professor of English at Bloomfield College for 20 years, teaching courses on 19th century English literature and Shakespeare. She also initiated courses in African-American, Feminist, and World Literature, and served for three years as Chair of the Division of Humanities. She was a much-loved teacher who, in turn, adored her students.

She was passionate about cooking, jammaking, sewing, and quilting. She loved traveling in the United States and abroad. Like Emily Dickinson, she cherished nature, where she could find spirituality. She loved the outdoors, having spent many weeks canoeing and camping in the Canadian wilderness, as well as many summers in Cape Cod with her family.

Her greatest passion was her family, and she is survived by her loving husband Roberto Osti, an artist, teacher and author; her two children, Emilia

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and Massimo Osti; her father David W. Conrad; mother in law Mirella Osti; her sister Robbie Conrad Ratte and husband Chris; her brother Philip Conrad and his wife Natacha; and her niece and nephew, Chloe and Lucas Ratte.

The Bloomfield College community, especially her students, will never be the same, and will miss Dr. Conrad deeply and dearly.

“She was one of the most challenging instructors I had during my time at Bloomfield College and I loved every minute of it. She really pushed me to excel and I appreciated her so much for it. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.” — Amira Onibudo ’13, adjunct “Dr. Conrad always pushed her students to explore our thoughts a little further, to write and then rewrite, to constantly challenge ourselves to become better. I thank her for that. All these years I have kept her lessons and kind words close to me.”

— Dr. Latisha L. Collins ’02 “She was more than a professor; she became a friend. Dr. Conrad gave me so much support when I lost my sister in the middle of the semester. She was the first to tell me that I was brilliant. I will

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miss her always.” — Danielle Scott-Mitchell ’13 She became one of my biggest supporters and a good friend. This woman loved me so much. She made sure I’d become the best version of myself.

She has, without a doubt, been instrumental in me becoming a successful author and a decent man.”

— Elijah Bell ’07 “I will miss her friendship, her sense of humor, and our walks after class. I will always cherish our chats over tea in her office, the advice she gave, and the knowledge she imparted on me.

She always managed to make me smile even if I was having a bad day. I will miss her dearly and will never forget her.” —Johan Leal-Pena ’17 “Dr. Conrad was such a special person in my life. As a professor, she set high expectations for her students. She not only shared her love of literature but she shared her heart. She was kind, witty, and compassionate. She was concerned about the affairs of her students beyond the classroom which opened the door to a more intimate relationship.”

—Michelle Bacot-Edwards ’11. The Division of Humanities will host an on-campus memorial for Dr. Conrad in the fall semester. n