On The Green

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Pr esident’s Letter

The Class of 2017 celebrates on Liberty Street.

BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE P H O T O G R A P H

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President

RICHARD A. LEVAO Vice President for Institutional Advancement

JACQUELINE M. BARTLEY Director of Major Gift Development and Advancement Services

RICH BASLER Director of Institutional Communications and Campaign Marketing

ALICIA COOK Development Associate

VINCE FAY Office Manager

JONI FRASCATI Director of Corporate and Foundation Innovation

DIANE PICCIUTO Director of Donor Relations and Campaign Manager

NICOLE QUINN Director of Annual Fund and Alumni Innovation

MICHELLE SCHLEIBAUM Bloomfield College Board of Trustees WILLIAM H. TURNER, III, CHAIR JOHN J. DELUCCA,’66 VICE CHAIR ROSEMARY T. IVERSEN, VICE CHAIR JOANNE T. MARREN, ESQ. SECRETARY JIM AXELROD HECTOR O. BANEGAS, CTFA DR. NICHOLAS CARLOZZI JACQUELINE COLGAN GEOFFREY M. CONNOR, ESQ. CARMEN AMALIA CORRALES, ESQ. BRIAN F. DORAN, ESQ. VERNON M. ENDO JOSEAN FERNANDEZ ’06 JAMES R. GILLEN STEPHEN A. GLASSER CAROLYN ROBERSON GLYNN ’69 DR. MAUREEN C. GRANT EDWARD C. HEFTMAN ’67 NANCY L. LANE STEPHANIE LAWSON-MUHAMMAD CRAIG B. LINDSAY ’76 DR. MARTIN MCKERROW H ’15 ALISA C. NORRIS JOHN PANAGAKIS ’85 SANFORD B. PRATER GLENN M. REITER, ESQ. HANNAH RICHMAN 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 EMERITI BERNARD S. BERKOWITZ, ESQ. JAMES C. KELLOGG (DECEASED) L. DONALD LATORRE P. HENRY MUELLER, H ’91 (DECEASED) PETER A. OLSON DR. RICHARD A. POLLACK H ’99 ALICE W. PRICE

973-748-9000 / ext. 1293

www.bloomfield.edu alumni.bloomfield.edu

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n this issue of On The Green, you will read stories that truly showcase the gracious support and amazing accomplishments of the Bloomfield College Community.

As you flip through these pages, you’ll read about Gage Daye ’12, an alumnus and star athlete who recently established a scholarship at the College for students hailing from Newark; the Bloomfield College Alumni Association and their pledge of $5,000 toward students on campus who need it the most, as well as Ed Heftman ’67, a member of the Board of Trustees who just contributed $15,000 to the same cause; and John B. Skowronski ’91, a member of the Board of Trustees who established a scholarship that connects current students and alumni.

The College has received a $150,000 grant in support of nursing students from the Partners for Health Foundation, whose vision is to make our communities healthier, better places to live. Additionally, the College received $1,000,000 from the Kellogg Foundation in the form of a pension program for select employees – a creative and innovative gift in the form of an endowment.

Early in 2017, Bloomfield College and its mission was recognized nationally. The College was ranked #1 in New Jersey and #20 nationally in promoting the social and economic mobility of students in the fifth quintile socioeconomically to high economic achievement, including top economic quintiles. The study, conducted by experts from Harvard University, Brown University, Stanford University, and UC-Berkeley as reported in the New York Times, was based on tax data of over 30 million taxpayers.

By moving our students up two or more quintiles, the College is essentially helping them move to the middle class or higher. That will, in turn, give their children every opportunity to further success and have a profoundly positive effect on their families for generations to come.

On May 19, 2017, the College celebrated its largest graduating class, ushering in 333 new alumni at our 144th Commencement. We welcomed honorary degree recipients Senator Cory A. Booker, Dr. Melissa Nobles, and Ms. Lori Stokes to campus. The day was extremely hot, but smiles were had by all as everyone listened to their encouraging remarks.

As we approach the College’s 150th anniversary, a 150th Celebration Committee has been formed and will be co-chaired by trustee vice chair and trustee Rosemary Iversen and trustee John B. Skowronski ’91.

Since 1868, Bloomfield College has provided the tools our students need to take their place as contributing and successful members of our society. Bloomfield College welcomes one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation, providing a personalized, yet global, experience that truly allows bold and courageous students to find their paths. Through all its changes, Bloomfield College remains a unique institution offering students access to an affordable college education.

I hope you will join us in celebrating our progress as the College nears its 150th year, and continue with us on our journey into this new and exciting era. I encourage you to share your stories by sending them to communications@bloomfield.edu. We want to hear how Bloomfield College set you on your path. The update/news you share will appear here in the alumni magazine and possibly in newsletters and on the Bloomfield College website.

I wish you and your family a happy and healthy summer. I hope to see you on campus soon.

Sincerely,

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

Richard A. Levao PRESIDENT BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE

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Upcoming Events

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Thursday, July 27, 2017, 6:30 p.m. – Alumni and Friends Regional Event and College Update by President Rich Levao at the Molly Pitcher Inn, Red Bank, NJ. F E A T U R E S

Thursday, August 10, 2017, 6:30 p.m. – Alumni and Friends Regional Event at the Maplewood Country Club, Maplewood, NJ. Thursday, August 24, 2017, 11:00 a.m. – 1868 Legacy Society Planned Giving Program and Luncheon on campus.

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Thursday, September 28, 2017, 6:30 p.m.: – BICC (Business, Industry, & Community Council) meeting on campus.

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Saturday, October 14, 2017, at 12:00 p.m. – Alumni Homecoming and 50 Reunion on campus.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017, 6:30 p.m. – Bloomfield College Student Scholarship Evening with Kevin Cummings, President and Chief Executive Officer, Investors Bank, and Chris Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Provident Bank, at Mayfair Farms.

She is King Gayle King and Jim Axelrod speak to students

Thursday, October 5, 2017, 11:00 a.m. – Diverse Business Leaders Luncheon and Panel Discussion on campus with Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, Vice President & Chief Diversity Officer /Office of Diversity & Inclusion and Alison Banks-Moore, Chief Diversity Officer, Horizon BCBS. th

The Bloomfield Lift College is nationally recognized for upward mobility

Saturday, September 23, 2017, 11:00 a.m.: – Charlotte W. Newcombe Recognition and Alumni Event on campus.

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Welcome Goya Panel of Goya executives visit campus

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Three of a Kind Triplets credit father for motivating them to earn their degrees

Tuesday, November 14, 2017, 12:00 p.m. – Women’s Panel on campus.

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Saturday, December 2, 2017, 11:30 a.m.: – Alumni Scholarship Recognition Brunch on campus.

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Campus Newsroom College announces new programs and test optional policy, two scholars are named, nursing division receives $150,000, and more

The Westminster Arts Center

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Commencement President’s Dinner, Nurses’ Pinning, Baccalaureate, and 144th Commencement

July 28 – 30, 2017, time TBD I, Broadway presented by NJSDA Summer Stage Tickets: www.njactors.org/summercamp.html August 4, 2017, 8:00 p.m.; August 5, 2017, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; August 6, 2017, 2:00 p.m. NiCori Teen Performance Ensemble presents Into the Woods

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Athletics Basketball player surpasses 1,000 career points

August 12, 2017, time TBD Jersey Tap Fest presents Tap ‘N Time! Tickets: http://www.jerseytapfest.com/tapntime/

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Montclair Operetta Club Tickets: http://www.mocmusicals.org/ November 16 – 18, 2017, 8:00 p.m.; The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later presented by Bloomfield High School’s Thespian Society Tickets to be purchased at the door

The BCAA The BCAA donates $5,000 to students in need; alumnus donates $15,000

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December 1, 2017, 8:00 p.m. NiCori presents Tap ‘N Time!

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In Memoriam The College remembers Stephanie Steines

December 2, 2017, 8:00 p.m.; December 3, 2017, 3:00 p.m. A production by Mosaic Dance Theater Company Tickets: www.mosaicdancetheaterco.org/

Make An Impact Invest in the futures of tomorrow’s leaders by making a gift to the Bloomfield College Fund today.

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

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on the cover: Triplets Kenechukwu (Kéne), Ikechukwu (Ike), and Rishana Ubah with their father, Obi.

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This is! We are!

For the first time in Bloomfield College history, an all-student cast performed in a powerful theatrical production, This is! We Are!: Acts of Resistance directed by Bloomfield College faculty.This is! We Are!: Acts of Resistance premiered April 7 and 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the Center for Technology + Creativity.

Over 30 students took part in the production, doing more than just performing. Student Nathan Grant ’18 created the program cover and his classmate Steven Acosta ’18 created the poster. Students Destiny Levy ’17 and Farzana Amin ’18 designed the original audition poster. All the other students have worked together to compile the playwright biographies for the program.

Trained as an actor at Drama Studio London, Dr. Freddie Harris Ramsby, Assistant Professor in the Humanities Division, has been involved with theatre education programs for 20 years.

Given her experience in arts education, Dr. Harris Ramsby recognized right away the performing talent at Bloomfield College. However, without a formal theater program, she

looked into other ways to get students involved.

When the Center for Technology + Creativity opened its doors on campus, debuting two black box theatres, Dr. Harris Ramsby, along with Music Production Manager, Toriono Gandy, and CAT members Yuichiro Nishizawa, M.F.A., Chair of the Division, and Assistant Professor Abraham Gomez-Delgado, M.F.A., decided to put on a show.

“We decided on a showcase that featured some of the playwrights, and more, that my students and I were studying in my course ‘Sticking it to the Man: Contemporary Social Drama 1960-1999,’” explained Dr. Harris Ramsby, devising a way to feature as many Bloomfield College students as possible.

Students engaged in powerful singing, acting, and/or spoken word.

Works included Ntozake Shange, Susan Lori-Parks, August Wilson, Anna Deveare Smith, Tony Kushner, and the creator of the musical Rent, Johnathon Larson. The show also included an original piece, written by Will and Kip Higgins, about discrimination against transgender people, per-

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formed by Jessi Melendez ’18.

Dr. Harris Ramsby included two short one-acts, by Luis Valdez and Marco Ramirez, as well as scenes and monologues from longer plays by the aforementioned playwrights.

Dr. Jeanne Nutter’s entire Oral Interpretations of Literature class opened and closed the show, performing, as a group, a selection of poems by Langston Hughes.

“This event is important because we need to showcase the extraordinary talent of our students, and have them proud to be a part of the College community while addressing material that contributes to issues of social justice and social awareness,” said Dr. Harris Ramsby, noting that some participants are freshmen who are eager to establish a theatre tradition on campus.

Martha LaBare, Associate Professor of English, and Barbara Appel, a longtime donor to the Humanities Division, provided funding for this event.

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Beginning fall 2017, Bloomfield College will offer a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Special Education.

The MA in Early Childhood Education is 40 credits and intended for individuals who already possess a teacher certification in Early Childhood Education (ECE), or in a related area, but are seeking to add another in Early Childhood Education as an endorsement while obtaining the MA degree or those seeking initial certification in ECE. The MA in Special Education is 36 credits and intended for currently credentialed teachers interested in developing advanced skills for teaching K-12 learners with disabilities, in particular, teaching learners with autism and other developmental disabilities. Graduate students are prepared to set up effective learning environments and instructional programs using evidence-based practices based on applied behavior analysis (ABA).

Both programs will run 12 months of the year to accelerate progress toward the degrees while offering the traditional two courses per session.

Additionally, both programs are designed in a way that students who are enrolled in the Graduate Certificate in Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education program at the College can add just a few additional courses to earn their master’s degree.

“We are very excited about the two new master’s degree programs, which are natural extensions of our existing, excellent graduate certificate program in post-baccalaureate teacher education,” said Dr. Carolyn Spies, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs /Dean of Graduate Studies.

Bloomfield College will be accepting applications for both programs soon. Please direct any questions to Jorge Fernandez, Assistant Director of Admission, at 973-748-9000 ext. 1222 or jorge_fernandez@bloomfield.edu.

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loomfield College and the Division of Creative Arts & Technology are pleased to announce the new Master of Fine Arts (MFA) graduate degree program.

Officially launched in June, the transdisciplinary program is designed for those working in video, game design, digital media, graphic design, music production, sound, performance, electronic, street, and visual arts, and other related fields.

“The program will be low-residency, allowing maximum flexibility for students, especially those who are working professionals,” said Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty.

The program will offer students a rotating faculty drawn from noted artists, scholars, and professionals, from the arts and media. The program is centered on one-on-one mentoring, group critiques and informal salons.

“The MFA program will provide the opportunity for artists and creative professionals to hone their skills and ideas, working in their own voices and genres, in a supportive community of peers and mentors,” said Peter Gordon, Professor of Music and MFA Director.

It will take prospective students approximately two and a half years to complete the 60credit program at the College, broken down into three 8-week summer terms, two 2-week winter terms, and two fall and two spring Independent Study terms.

Should you have any questions about the admission process, need additional information about the program, or would like to schedule a campus visit, please contact mfa@bloomfield.edu or call (973) 748-9000 ext. 1507.

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A Fulbright Scholar

Rev. Terri Ofori, the College Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life at Bloomfield College, was one of three chosen as a Robert L. Washington Scholar by the Synod of the Northeast.

“I am honored to have been chosen as a Robert Washington Scholar and I am committed to honoring the legacy of the late Robert Washington and his family," said Rev. Ofori. “I am especially grateful to be the first woman, and a woman of color, in the Synod to receive this honor.”

Robert Lee Washington was a teacher, preacher, and activist who dedicated his life to teaching and creating opportunities to further the church, civil rights, and

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economic equality. The program was established in his honor.

The Synod’s Committee on Representation met to review 12 Robert L. Washington Scholar applications and to select the inaugural group of Scholars. An extremely competitive process, the Committee chose Scholars who possess a strong commitment to exploring innovative ways of being gospel communities, are excited to lead gospel communities through the changing landscape of mainline Christianity, are interested in middle governing body leadership, and hold a desire to engage in personal and ecclesiastical transformation.

Apart from her Bloomfield College duties, Rev. Ofori cur-

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academic merits and their abilities to teach, conduct research, and contribute to solutions for shared international concerns.

As a grantee, Dr. Pasmantier will join the ranks of distinguished participants in the Program. Fulbright alumni have become heads of state, judges, ambassadors, cabinet ministers, CEOs, and university presidents, as well as leading journalists, artists, scientists, and teachers. They include 58 Nobel Laureates, 82 Pulitzer Prize winners, 31 MacArthur Fellows, 16 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients, and thousands of leaders across the private, public and non-profit sectors.

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SWPACA Conference

A select group of Bloomfield College students attended the 38th annual Southwest Popular/American Culture Conference February 15 through February 18, 2017, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

According to their website, the mission of the Southwest Popular /American Culture Association (SW-

PACA) is to promote an innovative and nontraditional academic movement in the humanities and social sciences celebrating America’s cultural heritages and to increase awareness and improve public perceptions of America’s cultural traditions and diverse populations.

Bloomfield College students Jessi Melendez ’18, Jason Dorlean ’18, and Kyle Arias ’19, along with Dr. Freddie Harris Ramsby, Assistant Professor in the Humanities Division, put together a panel and presented on February 16. The panel, titled “PostApocalyptic Performativity: Sex and Gender in Mad Max: Fury Road,” was a result of their class, “Dystopia

and Identity.”

“While we were extremely nervous, we all fed off of each other’s positive energy and represented Bloomfield College proudly,” said Melendez, who is studying English Literature at the College.

“I think it’s inspiring as a student to mingle with like-minded students and scholars from around the country,” said Dr. Ramsby, who noted the conference mostly consisted of those with doctorate degrees who were already teaching professionally. “It really raises the academic bar. Some of the theory we wrestled with last semester was really challenging but so crucial to a student's development in

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critical thinking.”

Funding for this trip was made possible by the Bloomfield College Community. A true group effort, Bloomfield College alumna, Rose Marie Meola Rudy ’65 and John Cross, former Senior Vice President of Administration and Finance, provided approximately 40% of the funding.

Martha LaBare, Associate Professor of English, then secured portions of the funding thanks to Barbara Appel, a longtime donor to the Humanities Division, and Dr. Paul Puccio, Professor of English and Coordinator of the English program, made sure that the Cyrus H. Holley Professorship sponsored part of the trip.

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Transitional Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. She later received her M. Div. from Harvard University, and a M.A.T. in Cross Cultural Theology from Columbia International University. She is currently studying Christian Spirituality and Spiritual Direction at Fordham University Rev. Ofori and her husband, Dr. David Ofori, are co-founders of P.A.Y.L.A. (Pan African Youth Leadership Academy), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing academic and leadership development skills to at risk youth.

Robert L. Washington Scholar

Internazionale degli Studi Sociali Guido Carli (LUISS University) in Rome, Italy for the 2018 Spring semester.

“We are thrilled that a member of the faculty of Bloomfield College has been selected to receive the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Award. Our faculty do a tremendous job of teaching and mentoring students,” said Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs/Dean of Faculty and Bloomfield College’s liaison to the Fulbright Scholar program. “This award provides national and international recognition of our faculty and their achievements. Dr. Pasmantier will leave a lasting impression on her colleagues in Rome, and will return to Bloomfield College with a wealth of experiences that she will share with our students.”

Funded by the U.S. government, Fulbright Scholars are chosen by the presidentially appointed 12member J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Scholars are selected based on their leadership and

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rently serves as the Interim Minister of the United Church of Spring Valley, the Chaplain to the Synod Commission of the Synod of the Northeast PC (USA), and the Clergywoman Representative for the Presbyterian Women in the Synod of the Northeast Coordinating Team. She has served congregations throughout New Jersey and as a chaplain at Brown University and Wellesley. Rev. Ofori also served as Director of the Harvard University Memorial Church School under the tutelage of the late Reverend Professor Peter J. Gomes The Rev. Ofori received her Th.M in Education and Spiritual Formation and a certificate in

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Bloomfield College Professor of Finance, Dr. Anita Pasmantier, has been named a Fulbright Scholar.

The Fulbright Program is a prestigious international exchange initiative created in 1946 that awards grants to American scholars each year to teach or conduct research in the more than 125 participating nations throughout the world.

“I am honored to receive this Fulbright Scholar award,” said Dr. Pasmantier. “I am very appreciative of the support that I have received from the Bloomfield College faculty and administration during the application process.”

Dr. Anita Pasmantier holds a B.A. in Economics and French, an M.A. in International Economics, and a Ph.D. in International Finance, all from Fordham University. She has published several scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals and continues to present her research at conferences.

As a Fulbright scholar, Dr. Pasmantier will be teaching Advanced Corporate Finance at Libera Università

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of today’s jazz greats as well as by his own groups. Colson has received several commissions and awards for composition and has performed on many of the world’s leading stages with artists that include Muhal Richard Abrams, Anthony Davis, Richard Davis, and Rachelle Farrell. As headliner, he has shared billing and stage with great artists from Dizzy Gillespie, Dr. Billy Taylor, and Ray Charles, to Art Blakey, Oscar Peterson, and Freddie Hubbard.

In addition to his tenure at Bloomfield College, he currently works for NJPAC’s Jazz for Teens program and serves as an Artist in Residence.

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ing to the East Coast where he now resides.

Steve and his wife, Iqua, established their own record label in 1979. In November 2011, their earliest recording on their label, Triumph!, was included in the prestigious Freedom, Rhythm and Sound Book / CD-LP compilation from Soul Jazz Records, London, UK with music icons such as Maurice White, John Coltrane, Sun Ra, and Mary Lou Williams.

A few years after returning to the East Coast, he brought national attention to New Jersey when he premiered his multimedia work, Greens, Rice, and a Rope. The premiere was at Newark Symphony Hall during the national celebration of New Music America. The City of Newark proclaimed November 13, 1989 “Adegoke Steve Colson Day” in honor of the premiere.

His compositions have been performed and recorded by some

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Adegoke Steve Colson, a 27-year adjunct member of the Creative Arts & Technology Division at Bloomfield College, composed a jazz-flavored tribute, Here Is the Place, Our City, in honor of Newark’s 350th anniversary.

Here Is the Place, Our City, dedicated to Clement Price and Amiri Baraka, premiered at NJPAC on Friday, April 7 at 8:00 p.m.

Colson joined the College in 1989 and has helped shape the CAT division to what it is today, even creating popular classes "Music in the US: the African American Influence" (CAT 224) and Beginning Piano (CAT 191).

Colson, who was born in Newark and raised in East Orange, has performed internationally as a leader of ensembles ranging from trios to orchestras. He received his degree from Northwestern University School of Music and lived in Chicago for a decade before return-

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Bloomfield College Receives Grant from the Partners for Health Foundation Bloomfield College has received a $150,000 grant from the Partners for Health Foundation to support junior and senior nursing students. The Partners for Health Foundation Nursing Scholarship Fund will be dispersed over five years to students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to successfully completing their education.

“In choosing to assist Bloomfield College nursing students, the Partners for Health Foundation is lifting a financial burden and helping future nurses from one of the best programs in the state achieve their dreams,” said Jackie Bartley, Vice President for Institutional Advancement.

The Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing at Bloomfield College boasts the second highest NCLEX passing rate in the state and was recently ranked the third best nursing program in New Jersey by RegisteredNursing.org. Nursing programs were assessed on several factors that represent how well a program supports students toward licensure and beyond including analyzing past and present NCLEX-RN pass-rates, weighted by year.

“As a member of the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees, I am ecstatic to learn the Partners for Health Foundation is providing funding toward our nursing students, which will help them reach their

full potential,” said Jim Axelrod, Senior National Correspondent for CBS News. “I often refer to Bloomfield College as an ‘on ramp.’ The College is designed to make sure as many people can gain access to a college degree as possible. It’s not just economic security, but emotional security, which the Partners for Health Foundation is helping us provide with this grant.”

Pam Scott, Executive Director of Partners for Health, said, “Scholarship recipients will be able to focus on their academics rather than on the economics of paying for college. We are proud to support their dream of becoming a nurse.”

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New Test Optional Admission Policy

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CAT Faculty Exhibit On April 6, 2017, Bloomfield College unveiled The Creative Arts & Technology Faculty Exhibition.

The Exhibition featured the works of Cheryl Gross, Lynne Oddo, Darwin Bharath, Ashley Gerst, Laura Nova, Michael Lantz, Alyssa Menes, Yuichiro B Y A L Nishizawa, I C I A C ONancy O K Bacci, Eun Jin Jang,

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Art Jones, Brian S. Chung, GJ Lee, Abraham Gomez-Delgado, and Elizabeth Seaton.

The works included film, animation, game design, new media, installation, music, photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, and more.

The exhibit was open to the public through April 27, 2017.

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On Thursday, March 30, 2017, the Center for Career Development held its annual Spring Career and Volunteer Expo. The fair provided over 200 Bloomfield College students the opportunity to network with 30 employers from various industries recruiting for part-time, full-time, and internship positions.

Along with job opportunities, the day was also designed to help students get to know local companies and hone interview skills.

One company that was actively seeking Bloomfield College juniors was ADP, a comprehensive global provider of cloud-based Human Capital Management (HCM) solutions that unite HR, payroll, talent, time, tax and benefits administration, and a leader in business outsourcing services, analytics and compliance expertise.

“We are pleased to have received over 40 applications from Bloomfield College students,” said Kate Sparano, the University Recruiter for ADP, who noted her team was impressed with the career event and turnout.

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Bloomfield College has announced the adoption of a test-optional (SAT/ACT) policy.

Undergraduate, first-year applicants will no longer be required to submit SAT/ACT test scores for evaluation during the Fall 2018 application review process.

“Our internal data analysis and studies at other institutions have demonstrated that the best predictor of college success is applicants' high school performance and co-curricular involvement along with other demonstrations of motivation,” said Richard A. Levao, College President. “Rather than continue to insist that all applicants take one or more standardized tests, we will evaluate students on the other criteria. Our goal is to identify those capable of having a successful college career, rather than place barriers to admission in their path.”

SAT/ACT opt-out students will be evaluated based on high school grade point average, curriculum, recommendations, and writing skills among other achievements. Test optional applicants may be required to submit additional materials or participate in an official college interview.

A specific cohort of programs and scholarship opportunities will still require students to submit test scores.

“The decision to go test-optional was based both on data and our desire to stay true to our mission,” said Adam Castro, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “By going test-optional, we can expand our access mission to exceptional students with limitless academic potential but maybe without the means to afford pricey test preparation courses.”

According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, the colleges and universities that have adopted a test optional policy experienced an increase in applicants that are more diverse and demonstrate higher academic quality.

“We have long been one of the most affordable private colleges in New Jersey.

Going test-optional is another example of Bloomfield College putting our students first,” said Castro.

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150th Committee Announced Next year Bloomfield College will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Preparation for the 150th anniversary celebration began this year, and a committee of representatives from across the College are planning a variety of events for faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the College.

The 150th Celebration Committee is cochaired by Rosemary Iversen, trustee and vice chair of the Board of Trustees, and John Skowronski ’91, trustee and member of the Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA).

“I am honored and excited to have been named co-chair of the 150th Celebration Committee,” said Iversen. “This year and the formation of this committee marks the beginning of what will be a

triumphant year of celebration for the College. As we begin to plan for the sesquicentennial celebration, we will do our best to incorporate much of the input and ideas we receive from the College community.

The task of planning and executing a year’s worth of activities will not be accomplished without the hard work of fellow committee members and the community at large. As we approach the official kickoff, please accept my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your diligent and steadfast work.”

“As both an alumnus and a trustee, there is nothing more important to me than to see our wonderful college continue its mission of helping students from all different backgrounds the way it helped me,” expressed Skowronski. “I am truly hon-

ored to have been asked by President Levao to co-chair the 150th Celebration Committee with Rosemary Iversen. I sincerely hope that through our efforts we can help Bloomfield College write its next chapter and set the stage for the next 150 years.”

The first official event in honor of the College’s 150th year will be the Bloomfield College Scholarship Fundraising Evening on Wednesday, November 1, at 6:30 p.m. at Mayfair Farms. Kevin Cummings, Chief Executive Officer and President of Investors Bancorp Inc. and Chairman of the Investors Bank Charitable Foundation, and Chris Martin, President, Chairman, and CEO of Provident Bank, will be honored.

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profoundly positive effect on their families for generations to come.

“As a mission-driven, access institution, Bloomfield College has a long tradition of educating a student population largely underserved by higher education in this country,” said Adam Castro, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “I see no better benchmark for assessing a college’s value than its ability to significantly improve the socioeconomic status of its graduates.”

In their report, “Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility,” five researchers measured how many students were able to jump from the lowest income bracket (bottom 20 percent) to the top bracket (highest 20 percent) about a decade after graduating from college. They published their report for The Equality of Opportunity Project, a group of economists looking for ways to address chronic poverty.

“About half of our students identify as the first in their family to go to college. To play such a large role in their personal development, and to know the positive influence it will have on opportunities for their children and their children’s children, is incredibly rewarding,” added Castro.

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ixty six percent of Garden State colleges help graduates climb from poverty to the ranks of the upper middle class and Bloomfield College holds the highest success rate among all New Jersey liberal arts colleges and universities in moving students forward in economic standing.

“Bloomfield College is both a place for awakening and refuge,” said Richard A. Levao, College President. “My goal for the students at Bloomfield College is to not have their future decided by their past.”

The College was ranked #1 in New Jersey and #20 nationally in promoting the social and economic mobility of students in the fifth quintile socioeconomically to high economic achievement, including top economic quintiles. The study, conducted by experts from Harvard University, Brown University, Stanford University, and UC Berkeley, as reported in the New York Times, was based on tax data of over 30 million taxpayers.

Most Bloomfield College students are coming from the lowest economic quintiles.

By moving our students up two or more quintiles, the College is essentially helping them move to the middle class or higher.

That will, in turn, give their children every opportunity to further success and have a

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King has handled a number of high-profile assignments, including reporting from Newtown, Connecticut in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012. She was honored with an Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia Award as part of CBS News' divisionwide coverage of the Newtown tragedy. King contributed to CBS News' Election Night coverage in 2014 and coanchored CBS News' special coverage of several breaking news stories, including the Paris terrorist attacks, the San Bernardino shootings, and the Supreme Court's landmark decision to legalize same-sex marriage.

“As a journalist, you need a complete mastery of the facts, but you should never leave your heart at home,” said Axelrod, who went on to describe King’s unique delivery of the news as the “Gayle King Touch.”

Before moving into print and radio, King worked for 18 years as a television news anchor for CBS affiliate WFSB-TV in Connecticut where she hosted her own syndicated daytime program. Prior to joining WFSB, King worked at several other television stations, including WDAF-TV in Kansas City, Mo., WJZ-TV in Baltimore, Md., and WTOP-TV in Washington, D.C. “Hard work matters. We are all employed at will.

Make yourself indispensable at your workplace,” King advised, as Axelrod nodded in agreement. “Volunteer, find a mentor; no one makes it on their own.”

King has received numerous awards for her extensive work as a journalist. In addition to three Emmys, she was honored with the American Women in Radio & Television Gracie Award for Outstanding Radio Talk Show, the Individual Achievement Award for HostEntertainment/Information, and the New York Women in Communications' Matrix Award recipient.

“Thank you for giving our culture someone who is so connected to her heart,” said Axelrod, and the room erupted into applause.

This marked King’s first visit to Bloomfield College, and hopefully not her last.

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ayle King spoke candidly at Bloomfield College in the Robert V. Van Fossan Theatre on Wednesday, March 29, 2017.

“Introducing Gayle King is truly an honor for me because most mornings I am standing in front of my television screen watching Gayle King,” said Dr. Jeanne Nutter, Professor of Communication and Broadcast Journalism Coordinator at the College and one of King’s biggest fans. “CBS This Morning starts my day. I am over the moon to be able to introduce Ms. King.”

Dr. Nutter’s unorthodox and engaging introduction to King did not cover her boilerplate biography, but described the synergy between her and Charlie Rose and King’s connection to the New York Women in Communications, which the College has been linked to for 12 years thanks to the Cathy Carlozzi Fund.

Jim Axelrod, CBS colleague and friend of King, acted as moderator. Axelrod is the anchor of the Saturday edition of the "CBS Evening News" and a national correspondent for CBS News, reporting for the "CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley" and other CBS News broadcasts.

“Over 50 percent of Bloomfield College students are the first in their families to attend college,” said Axelrod, a member of the College’s Board of Trustees. “Meeting someone so established in their career, someone who set her own trajectory, means so much.”

King and Axelrod sat down for a nice, long, and honest chat about her life and career as a broadcast journalist.

“I am here because you do not say ‘no’ to Jim Axelrod,” quipped King, crediting Axelrod for introducing her to the College. “Jim is so passionate about Bloomfield College. I just had to come!”

King has been co-host of "CBS This Morning" since 2011, reaching a new highpoint in a four-decade career by becoming a morning TV star alongside co-anchors Charlie Rose and Norah O’Donnell. King is also Editorat-Large of the award-winning O, the Oprah Magazine.

Nearly the entire Broadcast Journalism program was present at the event. Many of the students asked King for career advice and for her thoughts on broadcast journalism.

“I still think broadcast journalism is the greatest industry,” expressed King. “We tell the truth, we state the facts. We have a front row seat to anything going on in the world.”

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above left: Gayle King speaks about “the Bloomfield Lift” above right: All smiles following King’s visit middle right: King speaks candidly with Jim Axelrod, college trustee

and Senior National Correspondent for CBS News lower left: King poses for selfies with students lower right: King poses with College President, members of the Board

of Trustees, and Cathy Carlozzi 12

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Welcome GOYA

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above: The Goya Executive Panel center left: Alexandria Glasper ’17 asks the panel a question lower left: College trustee Hector Banegas moderates the panel lower right: President Levao greets a student

“As I was going through school, and people discovered I was Latina, there was a preconceived notion that my ethnicity, and not my hard work, had something to do with me getting into certain schools,” said Sandra Gonzalez, who was the first in her family to graduate from college. “I told them, I still have to pass the same tests and Bar exam as you.”

Gonzalez has served Goya as in-house counsel for the past 12 years. Her focus has been managing a variety of complex real estate transactions and commercial contracts for the Company. She negotiated and oversaw contracts and incentives for the acquisition and development of Goya’s largest expansion in the Company’s history of its manufacturing and distribution facilities in the United States, totaling more than 2,000,000 square feet.

Gonzalez oversees and provides counsel to various business lines within the Company and manages the Company’s corporate governance, working closely with Goya’s outside counsel on a variety of litigation matters and commercial disputes.

“We are a two language country now,” said Chef Desa, who spoke to the crowd about the Latin fusion dishes he’s been creating. ““It is exciting to celebrate our diverse heritage through the blending of such unique flavors.”

Chef Desa joined Goya 10 years ago and works handin-hand with the Company's sales and marketing departments to explore the usage of new products from Latin America and adapt them for Goya's consumer markets.

Capturing the traditional tastes and cooking methods that have been handed down through generations, the Puerto Rico native works to retain the flavors of Latin American cuisine while incorporating new techniques that can be easily duplicated by every-day chefs.

A student then asked the panel how they give back to their communities and care for the environment.

“We don’t just give back to the community, we are a part of the community,” said Toro.

Through Goya Gives, the company donated one million pounds of food to The United Way on the 75th day of the year. Goya sponsors three orphanages in South America and collaborates with over 250 nonprofit organizations.

Toro also initiated the annual Goya Scholarship Fund and the Goya Employee Scholarship Fund to provide students with a four-year college scholarship of $20,000 in honor of Goya’s dedication and commitment to higher education.

The last question of the night came from Moderator Banegas, who wanted to know Goya’s core value in one word.

“Family,” all four executives answered in unison. n

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n Thursday, March 30, 2017, the Business, Industry & Community Council (BICC) of Bloomfield College welcomed Goya Foods, Inc. executives to campus.

Goya, the largest Hispanic-owned food purveyor in the United States, is 80-years-old. The company now has over 2,500 products to its name, employs more than 500 in Jersey City, 64 in Secaucus, and more than 4,500 worldwide.

The panel was moderated by Bloomfield College Board of Trustee member Hector Banegas, Senior Vice President/Senior Wealth Planning Strategist of Wells Fargo.

The Executive Goya Panel was comprised of Rafael Toro, Director of Public Relations; Sandra Gonzalez, Senior Counsel; Miguel Ferrer, Director of Credit; and Fernando Desa, Executive Chef and Product Development Manager.

“I just want to take a moment to congratulate the students at Bloomfield College,” said Rafael Toro, who had just learned that out of 2,200 colleges and universities in the United States, Bloomfield College was ranked 20th in upward mobility. “You are doing your best to better your lives.”

Toro joined Goya Foods, Inc. in 1985 as Director of Public Relations. Toro currently oversees Goya’s public relations department including public affairs, media relations, community activities, corporate contributions and food donations as well as event sponsorships, production and cultural programs.

“Goya’s story, like many of ours, is an immigrant story,” said Toro. “All he was, was an immigrant who was trying to feed his family,” Goya was founded in 1936, by Prudencio Unanue Ortiz from Valle de Mena, Spain. Prudencio believed that his name was too difficult to pronounce for American customers, so he purchased the name of one of his suppliers, a Moroccan sardine company named "Goya."

“As you go through your career, you have to make adjustments and receive feedback,” said Miguel Ferrer. “You have to take all feedback as valid in order to progress in your career.”

Ferrer joined Goya Foods as Director of Credit in October of 2010. He manages the Credit, Collection, and Cash Application department for $650 million, covering the Northeast Division of Goya, as well as a staff of 20 employees and three managers. His main responsibility is to improve cash flow and reduce unnecessary debt through negotiation and mitigation of the major risk associated with the bankruptcy of large supermarket chains.

Through negotiating better compliance with cash discount terms, Ferrer has significantly improved Goya’s cash flow by $4 million. He has improved the overall efficiency of the company by leveraging the automation and expansion of electronic commerce for 50% of Goya’s customer network.

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of a Kind This year will close the chapter on an impressive family educational achievement, as triplets Kenechukwu (Kéne), Ikechukwu (Ike), and Rishana Ubah will all earn bachelor degrees from Bloomfield College by year’s end.

On May 19, 2017, at the College’s 144th Commencement, Kéne and Rishana earned degrees in psychology and chemistry, respectively. Come December, Ike will earn his degree in business with a concentration in finance.

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at least in his eyes, we finished,” said Ike. The Ubah triplets keep returning the conversation to their father, who was born in Nigeria and was unfamiliar with the higher education process in the states.

“Our dad is our number one supporter,” said Rishana, noting at one point she thought she had to drop a course, but her father encouraged her to stay in the class. “I tell him all the time

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he Ubah triplets were born two minutes apart on July 1, 1994. They graduated together from Burlington County Vo-Tech High School then made identical college choices, enrolling at Bloomfield College later that summer. The Ubahs received a lot of financial support at the College, including scholarships for their exceptional community service records and additional donor-based aid from a fund established by Trustee Edward Heftman ’67. These scholarships allowed the triplets to live on-campus and were the driving forces in their decision to attend Bloomfield College.

Kéne and Ike were roommates for all four years with a main mission to look out for sister, Rishana. The brothers accomplished some separation as Kéne pledged Phi Beta Sigma, graduating as Vice President of the Lambda Chi Chapter, while Ike opted for Alpha Phi Alpha membership. All three were part of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program and held down multiple internships during their time at the College.

Kéne was also a student ambassador, a part of Team Infinite, a social group dedicated to developing self-esteem, pride, dignity, and respect, and the Male Empowerment Network, as well as a student employee/ building manager for the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement (CSLE).

Rishana was a McNair Scholar and student ambassador, a member of the First Ladies of Bloomfield College /

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whose mission is to uplift, educate, and motivate young women in the surrounding communities, and acted as Secretary, Vice President, and President of the African Student Association. She worked as a lab assistant on campus, proctoring exams, and was a part of the TRIO SSS-STAR Program.

Ike, like his brother, was a student ambassador, member of Team Infinite, and building manager for CSLE. He also acted as Treasurer of the Bloomfield College Student Government and was a tutor counselor for EOF, helping peers in math and English.

While their co-curricular activities and academics kept them busy, the triplets have remained very close, and during the course of the interview, completed one another’s sentences.

“I am really proud of my brothers; they have grown over the years,” started Rishana.

“We’ve all seen each other grow. We have been through a lot together,” furthered Kéne.

“We all failed at one point or another. Experiencing the let downs together made it easier to get through,” closed Ike. Their lives have not been easy, from experiencing the death of two older siblings, to having to relocate from their family home recently due to structural damage. Their parents, Sylvia Muhammad and Obi Ubah, both actively take part in the lives of their children.

“He always said that we would finish college no matter what, even if he was in debt, at least in his eyes, we finished,” said Ike. “I’ve been so emotional. I was talking to my daughter and I started crying. And that made her almost cry. Our children have been a sweet blessing,” said Sylvia. “I didn’t have that single-mom burden. Their father was always in our lives. He provided financial, spiritual, and emotional support. He played a significant role in encouraging our children to pursue education.”

Having three children enrolled in college at the same time would be a financial hardship on most any family.

“We knew every semester was going to be (financially) hard,” began Rishana.

“It’s all on our father. Even in tough times, not finishing was never an option in his eyes,” added Kéne.

“He always said that we would finish college no matter what, even if he was in debt,

that we would not be where we are without him.”

“His advice and everything he did for us… he sacrificed a lot. He gave up a dream career to be with us full time,” stated Kéne.

“He knew if he wasn’t there for us, no one would be there to push us,” added Ike. Obi works as an electrical engineer for a hospital. He took this position after leaving behind a lucrative career that involved heavy travel and too much time away from his children, who moved in with him full-time once they turned 10.

“I took a job for less pay, but more time with my family,” said Obi. “My children, and their educations, come first.”

Obi was an advocate for his children throughout their entire lives, tutoring them when they got home from grade school, encouraging them while they were in high school, and being a very hands-on parent throughout their time at Bloomfield College.

When asked if they wanted to say anything to their father, all three began speaking at the same time, Rishana with tears in her eyes.

“Dad, you are the father of the year – no, the century!” she exclaimed.

“Dad, your sacrifices haven’t been in vain, it’s all paid off,” expressed Kéne. “We appreciate everything you’ve done.”

“I love you, you deserve so much recognition. I wish there was an award,” said Ike. As luck would have it, there was an award.

The EOF Program awarded Obi a surprise parent award at their annual awards ceremony in April.

For Kéne and Rishana, graduating this past May means the world to them.

“It’s a relief,” admitted Kéne. “The hard work has come to fruition. I am so happy. Going through all we did and still being able to graduate, is truly something special.”

“The thought of graduating is surreal to me,” said Rishana. “I’ve had so many great experiences at Bloomfield College. I’ve definitely achieved something here. I passed classes I didn’t think I would, became involved in McNair Scholars. I am proud of myself. I weathered the storm and here I am.”

As Ike looks toward completing his degree in December, he cannot help but be reflective.

“It’s scary, but so rewarding,” he said. “After all the ups and downs, it’s unbelievable that we made it. We finally got to this point.”

The Ubahs are now moving on to their next chapter in life. Kéne received employment as a social worker in Hamilton Township, Ike landed a finance specialist position with TD Bank, and Rishana will continue her chemistry studies at Binghamton University’s highly selective master’s program. n

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144th Commencement On Friday, May 19, 2017, Bloomfield College embraced 333 new alumni at the College’s 144th Commencement Ceremonies, marking the largest graduating class in the College’s history.

Distinguished guests, families, and friends joined the College community on campus, as students received Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees from Bloomfield College.

The institution conferred recognition upon its distinguished retiring faculty during the program, with John Hinchcliffe, Martha LaBare, and Dr. Erica G. Polakoff receiving Professor Emeritus honors.

“We are here today to celebrate, to express joy, and to praise,” Richard A. Levao, College President, said in his opening remarks.

Honorary degree recipients included U.S. Senator Cory A. Booker, awardwinning ABC 7 News anchor Lori Stokes, and Dr. Melissa Nobles, Kenan Sahin Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

“Find ways in ordinary moments to be there to help, serve, and love other people,” advised Senator Booker. “More than that big speech you might give, more than that big fight you might take on, more than our race, and more than our religion, it is our actions, what we do day

in and day out, that define the truth of who we are.”

“We may not be able to change the world, but we can make a world of change to the people around us,” observed the Senator. “Just a smile, just a kind act, just a note of encouragement can transform the spirit of another person on their journey.”

The Senator brought up one of his mentors, Frank Hutchins, with whom he had fought housing injustices in Newark.

Sen. Booker went on to say, in later years, as Hutchins’ sight deteriorated, he always told Booker, “I see you.” According to Booker, Hutchins’ last words to him were “I see you. I love you.”

The Senator repeated those words to the Class of 2017 as cheers built.

“I have the awesome responsibility of following Senator Booker,” quipped Dr. Nobles, whose speech focused on the role of technology in our lives today. “I am confident your degrees from Bloomfield College have prepared you for the ‘new’ future.”

Dr. Nobles closed her remarks with a quote from Oscar Wilde.

“I am so honored to receive an honorary degree from Bloomfield College because of what this institution stands for,” expressed Lori Stokes, as she took the podium. “This college stays true to its mission and commitment to see to it that graduates are in a position to have social — continued on page 23

“We may not be able to change the world, but we can make a world of change to the people around us.”

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— Senator Cory A. Booker

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Sen. Cory A. Booker, President Richard A. Levao, Deacon the Bear, Lori Stokes, Dr. Melissa Nobles, and Board Chairman William H. Turner, III. B L O O M F I E L D

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Many members of the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees with honorary degree recipients Lori Stokes and Dr. Nobles

and economic mobility.”

Stokes shared with the crowd a personal story, regarding her daughter who was graduating from Georgetown the next day. Stokes said that her daughter was upset her grandfather, Stokes’ father who passed away in 2015, would not be present at her college graduation.

“Class of 2017, if you have lost anyone in your life, know that they are watching you today, they are here with you,” said Stokes.

The day also featured remarks from other notable speakers, Chair of the Board of Trustees, William H. Turner, III, President of the Alumni Association John Murdock ’73, and Class of 2017 Valedictorian Lidia Wrobel, a graduate of Nutley High School.

“There are two reasons why I am here today. Hard work and willingness to ask for help,” continued Wrobel. “I believe that is all you need to be successful.

You don’t have to be a genius to succeed in life. You just need to work hard, set realistic goals, and be vulnerable enough to seek guidance from those around you.

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness.

In fact, I believe it is one of the greatest strengths a person can possess.”

Wrobel, who lives in Essex County, earned a degree in psychology. She hopes to work in human resources.

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

Nurses’ Pinning Bloomfield College celebrated their best and brightest students on Thursday, May 18, 2017 at its annual Nurses’ Pinning and Baccalaureate ceremonies.

The Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing at the College began the afternoon by officially ushering students into the ranks of nursing alumni at the Westminster Arts Center’s Robert V. Van Fossan Theatre.

“You have made, and will continue to make, a significant commitment to this profession and all that it implies: healing, compassion, care, and a dedication to modern science and hard work,” said Richard A. Levao, College President. “The nursing profession is the most exciting, scary, and uplifting of all the professions.”

The pinning ceremony is a timehonored 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.

“I haven’t felt this good since the day I learned I was admitted to the Bloomfield College nursing program,” said Alexandra “Alex” Cicchetti.

Cicchetti, who earned the highest G.P.A. amongst the 23 nursing students, delivered the senior address. “We’ve spent the last four years calling ourselves ‘nursing students.’ Now, we retire that name. Today, we are nurses. Class of 2017, I know I could not have done this without you.”

As Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs/Dean of Faculty called out names, Bloomfield College nursing students received their divisional pins. Families, friends, and members of the Bloomfield College community watched, cheered, and snapped pictures in the packed theatre.

Baccalaureate In the second event of the day, students were honored for their academic achievements in the annual Baccalaureate ceremony.

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Highlighting students who achieved a high GPA while pursuing honor society membership, graduates received honors cords for earning cum 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) and Sigma Theta Tau (Nursing) bestowing their organization’s highest honor on the group of distinguished academics.

Dr. Anita Pasmantier, Professor of Finance and first woman Fulbright Scholar at the College, delivered the Baccalaureate Address.

“There will be many people who will inspire you, helping you to move forward and to achieve your dreams,” said Pasmantier.

“No one gets to their college graduation without the support of their friends and family.”

Dr. Pasmantier then shared with students her background and upbringing. The professor grew up in a one-bedroom apartment in the Bronx with her mother and sister.

She recalled taking buses and the 24

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subway everywhere as her mother could not afford a car. As a single parent, her mother faced many challenges and difficulties, working fulltime and raising two daughters.

Though not earning a college degree herself, Dr. Pasmantier’s mother always stressed the importance of education to her children, and, despite a difficult economic situation, she saw to it that Dr. Pasmantier and her sister received college degrees. Eventually, her mother did attend college herself.

“One of the proudest moments of my life was when I had the honor of awarding my mom, who was 56 at the time, her bachelor’s degree from Fordham University,” expressed Dr. Pasmantier. “It’s never too late to invest in yourself and fulfill your dreams. I stand here before you as an example of where hard work, dedication, and perseverance can take you. If you come from modest beginnings as my sister and I did, don’t let it get you down.

Your education and hard work will overcome all obstacles.” n

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n Thursday, May 18, 2017, Bloomfield College hosted its annual President’s Dinner at the Cedar Hill Country Club in Livingston. Many members of the Bloomfield College community, including current and former trustees, faculty, staff, students, and friends, attended this time-honored tradition to celebrate the Commencement Ceremonies.

Following remarks from College President, Richard A. Levao, and Board of Trustees Chairman, William H. Turner III, a student from each of the seven academic divisions spoke about the impact Bloomfield College made on their lives as well as their future plans.

“I’ve worked very hard but I’ve also been extremely lucky to have the help of the faculty and staff. They have been instrumental in helping me succeed thus far and I truly cannot thank them enough,” expressed Alexandria Glasper, who has graduated in just three years.

“Without their help, I would be in an excessive amount of debt, possibly in a different school, or may have forgone higher education completely. Bloomfield College makes a difference in the world and has made a huge difference

in the life of a girl with big dreams.”

Glasper has secured a position with Frank Recruitment Group in Philadelphia.

Many of the speeches touched on their personal stories and how Bloomfield College helped them achieve their dreams of earning a college degree.

“I am so thankful to have spent my college years at Bloomfield College,” said Hun Gu Do, an international student from South Korea. “All of this would not have been possible without the small campus atmosphere that Bloomfield provides as well as the financial commitment that the College makes to its students.”

Do has accepted a full-time position as a Lab Technician at Bloomfield College.

“I wish I could say my childhood was picturesque, unfortunately I cannot. Living with my mom who had substance abuse problems and a dad who was in and out my life, we were evicted from our home and spent time in a shelter. Surrounded by this as a young child is harder than you can imagine,” said Zamel Mitchell, a nursing student who was ultimately raised by his grandmother. “Living in a shelter

as a 13-year-old boy from Brooklyn, I never would have imagined I would be sharing my story with you, the evening before I earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. It’s unbelievable.”

The evening, which consisted of a cocktail hour, dinner, and enlightening conversation, clearly demonstrated what the College is all about: celebrating the successes of Bloomfield College students. n

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him getting recognized for his outstanding play this season.”

Noting that 1,000 points cannot be accomplished alone, the team captain is quick to credit his teammates and coaches.

“I trust my teammates, they trust me. I matured the most on the court this year,” said Davidson, the two-time leading scorer. “We won a conference chip this year. On and off the court we are a unit. That’s what has made us stronger.”

Davidson also praises his mother and grandmother, who make it to every single one of his games, with his grandmother even trekking to Colorado to watch him play.

“My mother and grandmother are huge support tools in my career,” said Davidson.

“I don’t have good games every game, and they help me stay level. They remind me the highs are never as high, and the lows are never as low as they seem.”

Davidson, who studies communications, chose Bloomfield College for its athletic and academic programs. With one season of Bloomfield College basketball left for Davidson, he has his sights set on hitting goals as a team.

“Now that I’ve gotten my 1,000, I am more team-oriented,” said Davidson, who has been playing basketball since he was a child. “I have a lot of big goals for myself and team. I would like to go undefeated in our conference and win the conference, making us back-to-back champs. I want to make it to the Elite 8 or win the national championship, since Bloomfield has never won a national championship…yet.”

After graduation, Davidson hopes to play professional basketball overseas. n

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tudent-athlete Nick Davidson has reached his 1,000 career points mark in his junior season (2016-17) at Bloomfield College. The forward notched his 1,000th point December 16, 2016 on the road against Southern New Hampshire University.

“In high school, I was 85 points away from 1,000 when I graduated,” recalled Davidson, who was named MVP his senior year at Rancocas Valley High School. “I came to Bloomfield wanting to score 1,000. It’s not all about points, but now I will be remembered at Bloomfield College and it shows me how far I’ve come. I wasn’t always the basketball player I am today. I am really blessed.”

Davidson ’18 was also named to the All-Metropolitan Writers Association (first team) and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) 2017 Coaches' Division II All-District East Second Team.

Davidson led Bloomfield in scoring, averaging 16.7 a game and eclipsed 1,000 career points after posting 534 (points) during the Bears’ 32 contests this season. Davidson ranked in the top 50 players in the nation in Division II with his 183 free throw attempts (43rd) and 144 free throws made (36th). He was named to the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) All-Conference First Team and All-Tournament Team this year and was voted to the second-team All-East Region by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association (CCA).

“Nick is a special player and works hard day in and day out,” coach Gerald Holmes, whose team won the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) for the seventh time. We had a good year and he was an integral part of that; I'm glad to see

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Alumni Pay it Forward above: Members of the Alumni Association gathered together a few years ago at the Spring Gala, held at the Galloping Hill Golf Course. below: John Skowronski '91 and Ed Heftman '67 (at the College's 144th Commencement) both have established scholarships at Bloomfield College.

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he Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA) has donated $5,000 to be directed toward the College’s homeless student population on campus, enabling them to live on campus through the summer. After hearing Dr. Patrick Lamy, Vice President of Student Affairs, speak about this growing hardship on our campus, members of the BCAA were motivated to pay it forward.

“When Dr. Lamy mentioned that some of our students are actually homeless and have nowhere to go after the spring semester ends, most, if not all of us, were quite surprised by this,” said John Murdock ’73, BCAA President. “After Dr. Lamy left, Frank Corrado ’69 made a motion that the BCAA make a donation to help these students so they could have a place to live this summer. I think we all went home that evening feeling good about what we did.”

The College would like to extend special thanks to alumnus Frank Corrado who initiated the motion and alumna Theola Riedemonn for her passionate backing of this important issue.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) reported over 58,000 students identified as homeless on the 2013-2014 application, a 75% increase over the last three years, according to FAFSA. Though FAFSA is the only reliable source for these statistics since colleges are not technically required to keep track of their homeless students, this number is likely underestimated, as many homeless youth either do not realize they qualify or are too ashamed

T

to admit their living situations.

Some U.S. colleges have programs to meet the needs of homeless students, but many schools still lack comprehensive services and depend on outside funding and assistance to ensure retention of these students.

Bloomfield College is able to help its homeless population through the Student Affairs Emergency Loan and through its partnership with the Montclair Emergency Services for the Homeless (MESH) based in Bloomfield’s neighboring town of Montclair, NJ. Dr. Lamy went on to present at a Trustees’ meeting, spurring another notable alumnus and member of the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees to help as well. In addition to his generous scholarship support, Ed Heftman '67 made a $15,000 gift to go toward assisting the homeless student population on campus.

“While I was never homeless, my family was certainly poor,” said Heftman, recalling a time when his father would give him $20.00 for the entire week while he was enrolled in college. Heftman would always make sure he had 60 cents left over for the bus fare home each week. “What Vice President Lamy was saying really struck me. I couldn’t stop thinking about it so I worked with Jackie Bartley, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, so I could help these students.”

The Student Affairs Emergency Loan will eventually deplete as the funding has stopped. Once that runs out, Bloomfield College will depend entirely on MESH. This is not a sustainable model. If you are interested in making a donation toward this very important cause, please contact Jackie Bartley, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at 973-748-9000 x. 1293.” n

Dear Bloomfield College Alumni, The Bloomfield College Alumni Association is having a fruitful year as we continue to make a difference at our alma mater. As President of this great Association, I am both humbled and honored to lead the BCAA as the College approaches its 150th anniversary. We are hard at work planning and preparing for upcoming BCAA events and I hope to see you soon.

Please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 973-748-9000 ext. 1293 for more information or to join the Bloomfield College Alumni Association. I look forward to seeing you at our next event!

Sincerely,

John K. Murdock ’73 P R E S I D E N T ,

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College Receives One Million Dollars from JC Kellogg Foundation

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loomfield College has received one million dollars from the JC Kellogg Foundation. The gift marks the second largest gift in the College’s 150 years. This creative gift is an endowment that will allow the College to create a new pension incentive program for staff, with eligibility depending on the employee’s annual salary.

“This innovative gift concept has sparked others to be interested in other programmatic support on the campus. It has spurred some creative thinking on gift opportunities that have major impact,” said Jackie Bartley, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the entire Kellogg Family and Bloomfield College Board of Trustee member Nancy Van Duyne for her assistance in securing this noteworthy grant.”

The JC Kellogg Foundation and Bloomfield College believe every employee has value, with each employee contributing to the successes of our

students. By investing in employees who need it the most, this gift will change the College’s landscape.

“The Kellogg Foundations’ historic million-dollar gift to the College was made in the memory of Jim Kellogg, with whom I had the pleasure to work and consult for many years,” said College President, Richard A.

Levao. Beloved Trustee Emeritus and distinguished member of the College’s Board of Trustees, James “Jim” C. Kellogg, passed away on December 31, 2015. “At an institution like Bloomfield College, a gift of this magnitude will greatly increase our endowment and only strengthen our financial standing.” n

Star Bloomfield College Athlete Gives Back Star athlete and Bloomfield College alumnus, Gage Daye, has established a scholarship at his alma mater designed for students hailing from Newark, New Jersey.

A Newark native himself, Daye ’12 is committed to assisting students in need from New Jersey’s largest city.

At 27 years old, Daye has established himself and has pledged to make a difference via his personal philanthropy.

Daye played basketball at Bloomfield College. One of the premier players in the College’s program history, Daye became the institution’s all-time leading scorer during his senior season, 30

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amassing 2,518 career points. A first team All-America selection by Daktronics, Basketball Times Magazine, and the Division II Bulletin as a senior, the two-time CACC Player of the Year led Bloomfield to its first CACC Tournament championship since 2006 during his senior campaign in 2010-2011, and to the first NCAA Tournament Elite Eight in program history. His incredible play in the postseason saw the 6’2” sharpshooter earn CACC Tournament and East Regional Tournament MVP honors. During his career, Daye also earned Daktronics East Region Player of the Year honors and was twice

named an All-Met Player of the year.

Though the basketball guard signed with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA Development League. In the 2011-2012 NBA Development League season, he averaged 9.3 points per game and 2.7 rebounds per game.

Following being waived by the Mad Ants on December 20, 2011, the Sheffield Sharks, of the British Basketball League (BBL), confirmed they had signed Daye ahead of the 2012/2013 season on August 23, 2012. There he averaged 17 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

Daye would soon return to

New Scholarship Connects Current Students with Alumni Bloomfield College in the role of assistant coach for the team.

On January 17, 2014, Daye signed a contract to play for the Wagga Heat Basketball Association of Australia’s Waratah State League, marking Daye’s third campaign in the professional ranks.

Daye spent the last three seasons playing in Australia, winning two league MVP awards. During his off-seasons, Daye returns to campus to serve as assistant coach.

The scholarship Daye has established at Bloomfield College reinforces his legacy at the College.

“Bloomfield College is truly a special place, which is why I felt it was so important for me to start giving back with more than just my involvement in the basketball program,” said Daye, crediting the institution for helping him reach his full potential as a student-athlete.

Recently, Daye established Academic Athletic Advancement (A3), a nonprofit organization designed to garner resources, finances, and opportunities for students and athletes state/nationwide.

Daye earned his M.A. in Athletic Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. His goal is to become head coach for a Division I basketball team. n

We need to encourage alumni and students to interact more,” said John B. Skowronski ’91. “As a proud member of the Bloomfield College Alumni Association (BCAA), it is my intention to do whatever I can to advance our wonderful institution, recognize outstanding alumni for their achievements, and to record for posterity the stories of fellow alumni so others can learn and be inspired by their fellow Bloomfield College grads.”

Skowronski is a long-time Director at Automatic Data Processing (ADP), a human resource management company that graciously matches his gifts to his alma mater. A dedicated member of both the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees and the BCAA, Skowronski aims to foster studentalumni 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.

WBCR is a student-run radio station operated by the Broadcast Journalism program. For 12 years,

the Station has given students the opportunity to gain hands on experience with the medium. The current manager of the station is adjunct professor Douglas Doyle.

“This extraordinary gift from alumnus and Board member John Skowronski solidifies how much he truly believes that Bloomfield College alumni and current students can enhance each other’s experiences,” said Jackie Bartley, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “We are so appreciative of John’s ongoing commitment to encouraging these relationships and for creating opportunities for current students and alumni to collaborate. When helping students connect with alumni, it’s important to be strategic, and this scholarship is just that.”

The inaugural scholarship recipient is Stephanie Valdiviezo ’18, a Broadcast Journalism major. Valdiviezo interviewed Carlos Gomez ’13, who has quickly made a name for himself in the world of finance.

“Receiving scholarships from members of the Board of Trustees impacted my life one hundred percent,” said Gomez, in the interview, who noted a scholarship from trustee Rosemary Iversen made studying abroad in France possible. “It was a life changing event because in that moment I B L O O M F I E L D

knew would be able to continue my education at Bloomfield College.”

Gomez, an international student, came to the College from the Dominican Republic. Gomez earned a bachelor’s degree in International Business and went on to earn an MBA from Case Western Reserve University.

Soon after, Gomez began working at IMG, a global leader in sports, events, media and fashion that operates in more than 30 countries, as an International Treasury Analyst. The day following his interview with Valdiviezo, Gomez was on a plane to England, headed to IMG’s London office, where he will work anywhere between one to three years.

Throughout the interview, which acts as the first installment of the new series “Bloomfield’s Best,” Valdiviezo asked Gomez questions about his upbringing, favorite professors, love for sports and finance, and his volunteer experience with the Special Olympics.

Valdiviezo plans to enroll in law school following earning her bachelor’s degree.

“The John B. Skowronski '91 Communications Scholarship has lifted a financial burden off my shoulders,” expressed Valdiviezo.

“This scholarship has helped me pay at least half my tuition for the semester. I am able to focus on my studies without the worry.”

“I am so very grateful for the opportunity and honored to be the first recipient of this award,” she added. n

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CLASSNOTES

1990’s

1950’s 1952

1965/66/67/70

Thomas Brannin '52 and Mariano Vera continue to contribute to their scholarship at Bloomfield College for LGBT students in need.

1960’s

1965

Tau Alpha Kappa fraternity brothers John Delucca '66, Al Cattafi '70,Joe Nucci '65, Roger Colonna '67, and Ron Lucariello '66

1979

Bruce Osborne ’79

Stewie Bitterman ’65

1965 Stewie Bitterman ’65 Every year Stewie and his wife travel to Hong Kong for business and explore remote places in Asia. Last year they spent three weeks in Tibet. In the photo, they are 16,000 feet above sea level visiting a Buddhist monastery.

1965

1968/69

Rick Boschen ’65

1965 Rick Boschen ’65 the Director at the Realtors Association of Martin County/Florida, and former Metropolitan Intercollegiate Golf Champion, has accepted the responsibility as the Senior Tournament Official for the Treasure Coast Junior Golf Tour in Florida.

Carolyn Roberson Glynn '69 (from left to right) enjoyed a great visit with Bob Porsavage '68 and Judy Susen Porsavage '68 at their new home in Ft. Myers, Florida enjoying 50 years of friendship!

1969/68

1970’s

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1980’s

Camille V. Otero, Esq. ’95

1995

1979 Bruce Osborne ’79 is President and Creative Director of the Osborne Strategic Marketing Group (OSMG). Mr. Osborne began his career in advertising/design over twenty-years ago. He was a protégé of the Founder of Essence Magazine; served as Publisher of Directions Magazine (a national consumer publication), consultant and designer for one of New Jersey’s Premier Cable TV Networks, and Associate Director/Graphic Specialist for a college’s creative/marketing divisions.

Carolyn Roberson Glynn '69 with Bob Porsavage '68 and Judy Susen Porsavage '68

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1995

1983 Richard Walters ’83

1983 Richard Walters ’83 is currently a VP of Client Relations at EA Berg & Associates, a Food Broker that represents companies in the Candy, Snack & Grocery Industry in the Northeast.

Walters found himself in this industry because in the spring of 1983, he attended a career fair at Bloomfield College and spoke to a Food Broker representative!

Now 34 years later, he is married for 27 years with two wonderful children and still lives in central New Jersey.

1987 Patricia Bender ’87

1987 Patricia Bender ’87 currently serves as Assistant Editor for the New Jersey Council of Teachers of English.

Camille V. Otero, Esq. ’95 is a member of the New Jersey and New York State Bar Associations, and Director of Real Property & Environmental at Gibbons P.C.The first female, minority equity director at her firm, Otero was named to Profiles in Diversity Journal’s “Women Worth Watching”list in 2016.

Otero is also listed in Chambers USA Guide to America’s Leading Lawyers for Business, and selected to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars list, Environmental Litigation in 2006.

Earlier this year, she was named one of New Jersey’s “Best 50 Women in Business” by NJBIZ.

1996 Tamara B. Stewart ’96

company that creates stage props, floral arrangements, chocolate lollipops, party favors, center pieces, diaper cakes, and more. The alumna also offers event planning and wedding coordination. She is also the Stage Manager, Set Designer, and Props Creator for ManOf The House, a theatrical production.

A proud mother of four, Stewart’s daughter, Bria, is currently attending Bloomfield College and will graduate in December 2017.

1996

2000’s 2007 Lillian Oduwole ’07 was presented with the ninth Annual Summit Award from MHS Health Wisconsin (MHS Health), a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation.

Lillian Oduwole ’07

2007

Mike Murphy ’96 is currently the Vice Chairman of NJ Food Counsel and Senior Vice President of QuickCheck.

1996 Tamara B. Stewart ’96 is the founder of Creations

By Gifted Hands, LLC, a

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CLASSNOTES

2012

2009

Gage Daye ’12

2009 Daniel “D.Royul” Cody ’09 , was named a finalist in McDonald’s Gospelfest 2017, an annual gospel music festival, talent competition, and fundraiser in Newark, New Jersey.

The alumnus has three gospel albums to his name.

His most recent, Duality of Worship, was released on April 14, 2017.

Gage Daye ’12 professional athlete and Bloomfield College assistant basketball coach has established a scholarship at his alma mater designed for students hailing from Newark, New Jersey.

2010’s

Send your personal and professional achievements to advancement@ bloomfield.edu for inclusion in our next issue!

Passages Alumni

Kiara Mudd ’13

2013

2010

2013

Frederick Gearhart ’10

2010

Carlos Gomez '13

Frederick Gearhart ’10, is Montclair TV34’s newest station manager. Prior to Montclair TV34, Gearhart worked at Princeton Community Television and WBMA-TV, Bloomfield’s government access station.

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2013

We Want To Hear Your Story!

2012

Daniel “D.Royul” Cody ’09

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IMG, a global leader in sports, events, media and fashion that operates in more than 30 countries, as an International Treasury Analyst. He currently resides in England, working for IMG’s London office, where he will stay anywhere between one to three years.

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2013 Carlos Gomez ’13 earned a bachelor’s degree in International Business and went on to earn an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. Soon after, Gomez began working at

Kiara Mudd ’13 is currently the studio manager at BB4. The CAT alumna is an Audio Engineer/Composer whose composing credits include Jessenia Vice "In Love With The DJ,” and whose mixing (Music) credits include Kelly Parker, Raekwon, and The Real Infinity.

Her post audio engineer credits include the popular shows Real Housewives of Miami, Cousins Undercover, Brother Vs Brother, Chasing Taste, Rachel vs. Guy Celebrity, Rachel vs. Guy Kids, and My Grandmother's Ravioli.

Annaclare Mueller Vollherbst ’46 Robert Charles (Bob) Wallman ’51 & ’55 Reverend Michael Kotora ’53 William Forrest Dittler ’57 Carl Matteson ’64 Philip A. Kane III ’65 Daniel Randolph Douglas ’68 Richard H. Ebeling ’68 Lawrence Pastuszak, Jr. ’68 Sam Blanos ’73 Kathleen Z. Morse ’73 Ruben Aponte ’89 Edith J. Trevenen Lotz ’52 Stephanie Steines ’03 (Staff) Kathy Guerino (Staff)

Note: Passages are published in the issue immediately after the College is notified; we publish only passages that take place within one year of the season of publication.

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

IN MEMORIAM

Remembering our

STEPHANIE

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tephanie Hager Steines ’03, beloved member of the Bloomfield College community, passed away on February 9, 2017.

“I will always be grateful to my beautiful, blue-eyed daughter Stephanie for leaving me a treasure chest filled with priceless memories of our 46+ years together,” said her mother, Lois Reilly ’02. “I am blessed that Steph shared with me her loving, kind, and thoughtful ways, her generous spirit, her hearty, joy-filled laughter. I thank her for the gift of our dear granddaughter, precious Sadie Rae, whom she loved so deeply.”

Born on May 2, 1970, Stephanie spent most of her early life in Wall Township, and is a graduate of Wall High School. Stephanie came to Bloomfield College in 1999 and spent her entire career in the Frances M. McLaughlin Division of Nursing. First serving as secretary, then as Manager of the Division, Stephanie was a friend to the many students she advised and helped through their challenging program.

“You are the epitome of goodness in this world, Stephanie,” wrote Toni-Marie Sosnowski, a 2014 nursing alumna, on Facebook. “You effortlessly invested so much time and effort into people. You created an environment of hope and healing for every person who entered your presence. You gave without complaint and offered yourself with grace. I pray for those who'll never experience your great heart and kind soul.”

While working at the College full-time, Steph formed many close friendships with colleagues, and matriculated and graduated in 2003 with a degree in Criminal Justice.

“When I would ruminate over decisions I had made, Stephanie always helped me see the ‘grey’ and assured me I had made the right decision. She always had my back,” expressed Carolyn Tuella, Ed.D, Professor of Nursing, who interviewed and hired Stephanie in 1999. “I cherish the time we had together and will always hold in my heart her quick smile, contagious laugh, and her loving and giving spirit.”

Above: Stephanie and Billy with Sadie Center: Stephanie graduating from

Bloomfield College in 2003 Bottom: Stephanie and her brothers

“Stephanie was a very close and dear friend of mine,” said Christina Nolan, Administrative Assistant to the President, tearfully recalling nearly 20 years of friendship. “Stephanie had a heart of gold. She always liked to say that we were ‘forever friends’ because we were going to be friends for a lifetime. She was one of a kind.”

Stephanie and her husband, Billy Steines, celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary in November of 2016. Their beautiful daughter, Sadie, was the light of her life.

Along with Sadie and Billy, Stephanie leaves behind siblings, nieces and nephews, in-laws, aunts and uncles, many cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved her dearly and deeply.

She will also be sorely missed by her father-in-law, Edmund Steines, and loving stepfather, Dave Reilly.

“Although not my biological daughter,

30 years ago Stephanie became my family,” said stepfather, Dave Reilly ’01, an adjunct professor at the College. “Her sudden passing left a large hole in our lives; we will never be the same. As we try to move forward, our thoughts focus on our granddaughter, Sadie. We deeply regret that Steph will not be here to watch her grow into adulthood from the sweet, loving, caring child that she and Billy have nurtured. I will miss Steph's smile, her hearty laugh, and her playful personality. Even being on the receiving end of her jokes was always fun. Many happy memories will help us endure. Rest in peace our sweet and sensitive, Stephanie.”

Stephanie left her special mark on all of our lives. We will never forget her. We will always think of her with love and with gratitude for the time we were able to share together.

“Stephanie changed my life forever when she entered this world; she will forever live on in my heart,” said Lois, who also spent many years employed at the College, retiring as Director of Alumni. “Rest in peace, my sweet Stephanie.” n

JOIN THE BLOOMFIELD COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION! There are many reasons to stay connected to your alma mater. We will let you know of events, reunions, resources, and other ways to be involved with, and stay connected to, Bloomfield College.

To join the BCAA, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 973-748-9000 x. 1293.

Upcoming BCAA Meetings, 6:30 p.m., Shelby Art Room (on campus library): 9/6/17, 10/18/17, 11/15/17

Be sure to “like” the BCAA on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bloomfieldcollegealumni 36

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