Engage REUNION@HOMECOMING
Come home to Bryant September 21-22
B RYA N T UNIVERSITY I N S I G H TS AND OPPORTUNITIES F O R A LU M N I
Volume 22 No. 3 July 2018
Women in Finance 3 Sgomart behind the scenes
4 Reunion@Homecoming schedule
oppelt Black & Gold 7 DChallenge
1. re · un · ion /rē'yoonyən/ Noun | A social gathering attended by members of a certain group of people who have not seen each other for some time.
2. home · com · ing /'hōm kəmiNG/ Noun | An instance of returning home. '
S
eptember 21-22, 2018 is the weekend to return to Bryant. Our annual Reunion@Homecoming celebration attracts alumni from all classes and from cities and towns throughout the United States and abroad.
CLASS OF 1988 Celebrating their 30th reunion in style this year is the Class of 1988, many of whom will gather for golf on Friday at the nearby Crystal Lake Country Club, and later will lift a glass with classmates Vin Pina and Dieter Kamm at a wine tasting in the Rotunda. Pina, a certified wine specialist and educator, will be coming to campus from Portland, Oregon. “Being back on campus is like a breath of fresh air, it brings back memories of good times
and lasting friendships.” He is looking forward to sharing his love and knowledge of wine with alumni from all classes who attend Friday evening’s welcome reception, which will be followed by the annual bonfire and fireworks display.
CLASS OF 2013
CLASS OF 1968
Donna Harris P’03, who has worked at Bryant for more than 30 years and serves as Senior Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, leads the efforts to bring back the classes of 1973 and earlier. This year’s 50th reunion Class of 1968 attended Bryant at a tumultuous
“The assassination of JFK and the start of the Vietnam War. Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin were mystifying us with their fiery renditions, and the Cold War with Russia was escalating, but the Bryant College Class of ’68 still had dreams of changing the world. “Even though our campus was on the East Side of Providence, the Smithfield ‘Tupper’ campus feels like home now. Come join your ’68 classmates, who laid the foundation for Bryant’s amazing success story.” Jim and his classmates plan to be at Bryant throughout the weekend,
The Class of 2013 expects their fifth reunion to beat all attendance records. Co-chairs Raquel Cordeiro and Tyler Brum are planning a special schedule highlighted by a class party at the Last Resort. “Our classmates who haven’t returned to campus since 2013 will be amazed at the changes in just five years – from the new Academic Innovation Center to the indoor sports facilities,” notes Brum. “I can’t wait to reconnect!”
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE
Record-breaking contributions help Bryant ascend to new prominence
time. More than 800 students held a march on campus to support the Student Senate, which was calling for faculty evaluations, a more relaxed dress code, and more campus diversity, among other changes. “Times were changing in the 60s,” notes class co-chair Jim Squadrito.
Register now for Reunion@Homecoming: bryant.edu/reunion. If you are interested in volunteering for a committee, please contact Alumni Engagement at 401.232.6040 or alumni@bryant.edu
INSPIRED TO EXCEL
continues on page 6
Bryant University 1150 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917-1284
W
attending the annual Alumni Service of Remembrance Saturday morning, a special end-zone party at the football game, and the 50th Reunion induction into the Archway Society on Saturday evening.
bryant.edu/social
By David Wegrzyn ’86 hen the Bryant community comes together as one, I firmly believe that there is nothing that we cannot accomplish. During fiscal year 2018, we received contributions from 6,939 alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends. Together, we eclipsed this year’s goal of $8 million and raised
For 20 years, football has been a traditional part of Bryant’s Reunion@Homecoming. Plan to come back to campus this September to see your classmates and cheer on the Bulldogs.
D E E P, L I F E - LO N G C O N N E C T I O N S
NAC CORNER
If you ask me what I love about being a Bryant alumnus, the list would be long. Certainly near the top is working with
ALUMNI WEBINARS
Fall Schedule We continue to add new webinars to
today’s students.
our schedule. If you have a topic you
I return to Bryant
would like to propose, please email
several times a year, and it’s always a thrill to soak in the energy of
us at
alumni@bryant.edu.
our vibrant college campus. Much is familiar from my time back in the 80s, but it’s also
To register and learn about more webinars, visit
inspiring to see how
alumniconnect.bryant.edu/webinars
much changes and grows each time I return. So
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2018
Ethical Issues Facing Leaders Today with Rita Williams-Bogar ’76
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018
The Art AND Science of Negotiations with Beth Carter ’85
what keeps me coming back? I’m glad you asked! I get asked to speak to students in the classroom
T R AV E L T O G E T H E R : See the World with Bryant Alumni
and at events. I have judged student start-up and design-thinking
Jay Weinberg ’85
competitions, and provided career advice. What’s in it for me? It feels great! Students are so appreciative of our time and really want to learn from our experience. It is so rewarding to know that by just sharing a little of my own time, I can have a meaningful impact. How about you? I know you could make a big impact. As President of the National Alumni Council, I formally invite you to serve as a mentor, a speaker, a judge, or in many other roles. There are opportunities on campus, virtually through our online mentoring platform, or at your place of work. Just contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement to get started.
As we go to press, our group from Israel (pictured above) has just returned, and another 24 alumni and friends are touring Amsterdam and the Baltic Sea countries including St. Petersburg. Help us plan our 2019 itineraries by taking our survey, and watch for an email with the results.
– Jay Weinberg ’85 President, The Jay Group
Share your time and expertise with a new generation of Bryant students. Please contact Alumni and Parent Engagement at (401) 232-6040 or email alumni@bryant.edu.
TAKE OUR SURVEY Trips are being planned now for 2019. Visit
alumniconnect.bryant.edu/travel and let us know where you’d like to go!
Thank all of you for this life-changing experience. I still feel like I was in a dream. I hope I can remember half of what I learned. You all hit the moon on this one! KRISTIN KENNEDY, PROFESSOR OF MATHEMATICS AND ISRAEL TRIP PARTICIPANT
C A M P U S V I S I TS M A D E P E R S O N A L
Multiple Generations Celebrate 2018 Commencement Together
From left: Diane Garvey; Dan Garvey; Sam Nisbet ’19; Zita Hoadley; Brie Nisbet Hoadley ’18; Bill Hoadley ’18; Lisa Hoadley P’18; Clay Hoadley; Lexi Hoadley; Bill Hoadley ’84, P’18; Austin Hoadley; Tyler Hoadley; Jake Hoadley. Brie and Bill (in uniform) were married in May. From left: Karen Zarozny McGrath ’75; Richard McGrath ’75; Sheryl Zarozny ’86, P’16, P’18, P’22; Alicia Zarozny ’18; Bruce Zarozny ’86, P’16, P’18, P’22; Alexa Zarozny ’22; Wayne Zarozny ’79, P’13; Kneeling: Adam Zarozny ’16; Brittany Zarozny ’13
Be sure to contact the Office of Alumni Engagement if you plan to visit. Whether living near or far, alumni are encouraged to come to campus and tell us about their Bryant experiences. Email alumni@bryant.edu with your expected visit date.
Engage ISSN 1099-1913 is published four times a year in January, April, July, and October for the alumni of Bryant University. Publication offices are located in the Office of Alumni Engagement, Bryant University, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917-1284. Periodicals Postage Paid at Providence, Rhode Island. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Engage, Bryant University Alumni Office, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917-1284.
2 Engage | July 2018
COLLEGIAL COMMUNITY
Smart Women in Finance Boston trip explores the many paths to success
A
recent trip to Boston organized by
eye-opening to visit these places you
Bryant’s Smart Women in Finance
only really see in movies and realize they are just as amazing in real life.”
(SWIF) group offered 26 students an invaluable opportunity to go behind
OPENING DOORS
the scenes of the financial industry,
The day concluded with an alumni
and introduced them to mentors from
networking reception and panel.
Bryant’s successful alumni finance
Heather Donahue-Ahrens ’93,
community. Most importantly, however,
Managing Director at Four Springs
it showed the students that the path
Capital;
was open for them to one day join their ranks.
Investments;
“I hope everyone on the trip
visited,” says SWIF President Denae Pisano ’18, a Finance major and incoming Financial Analyst at Raytheon. “This trip is about taking what the students have learned from the classroom to the industry” Finance Lecturer
Mara (Bazarian) Derderian
’93 says. “It complements what we
Alumni, faculty, and supporters got together with Bryant students for a day behind the scenes in the financial industry. From left: Lisa Lynch, Managing Director and Director, Trading and Counterparty Services, Wellington Management; Meagen Sweeney ’94, Vice President and Manager of Fixed Income Trade Administration, Wellington Management; JoAnn Rossetti, CPA, Managing Director and Director, Global Client Reporting Services, Wellington Management; Susan Pike ’94, Managing Director and Director of IPS Operational Risk, Wellington Management; Denae Pisano ’18, President, SWIF; Mara (Bazarian) Derderian ’93, Director of the Bryant Financial Planning Program; Stephanie Field ’94, Managing Director Learning and Operations, CFA Society Boston. The day began with a discussion
encouraged the group. “The important
rounds out their experience."
at the Wellington Wealth Management
thing is not to be afraid of it, don’t be
firm, with panelists representing
intimidated by it.”
WHAT IT TAKES TO SUCCEED
different areas of finance, including
Made possible by a grant from
Anastasia Canty ’97, CFA, a Managing
students in small groups, answering
Envestnet Institute on Campus, the
Director and Equity Research Analyst at
questions and sharing further insights.
itinerary for the trip was built from
Wellington and
Bryant connections: alumni, parents,
Managing Director, Learning and
relate to the panelists as real people,
professional contacts and relationships
Operations at CFA Society Boston. They
to know that these very successful
established by the SWIF student
discussed their careers, what it takes to
investment professionals have had the
organization. Open to all students, it
succeed, and their advice for students
same experience and gone through
was designed to provide a wide-ranging
attempting to break into the field.
the same things we have as students,”
provide in an academic setting and
view of the many different options open to students in the field.
Eileen Hayes ’07, Vice
President, Asset Manager Relationship
realized they can do the things they saw today and work in the places we
Erica Vaters ’91, Vice
President of Compliance at Fidelity
Stephanie Field ’94,
“If you enjoy finance, there are so many ways for you to go,” Field
Afterward they spoke with the
“It’s really incredible to be able to
notes
Vanessa MacMillan ’19.
SEEING IT FIRST-HAND Federal Reserve Bank of Boston for a presentation on how the Fed sets monetary policy. They also visited the trading floor of MFS Investment Management, where they were offered an inside look at the business from the traders themselves as well as an overview of the investment industry from the firm’s Director of Global Equity Trading. “It was amazing to see where I’m, hopefully, going to be in the future,”
Students consult with DeJongh K. Wells ’95 at the recent Smart Women in Finance trip to Boston. The event gave students the opportunity for one-on-one engagement with mentors from Bryant’s alumni community of successful finance professionals.
HarbourVest Partners, all shared their stories and advice.
It’s really incredible to be able to relate to the panelists as real people, to know that these very successful investment professionals have had the same experience and gone through the same things we have as students. VANESSA MACMILLAN ’19
Events like the day’s trip, Voss noted, were of key importance for
The group then traveled to The
says
Management at Envestnet; and
Scott Voss ’92, Managing Director,
Chris Sherman ’19, who aims
for a career in finance. “It’s incredibly
students just starting out in their field because they introduce them to mentors who can help them both in college and beyond. “Mentors are critical at all points of someone’s career, whether you’re a student trying to figure out your first job, or even when you’re on your second or third,” he said. “They’re the people who are opening doors for you and helping you figure out how to walk through them.”
If you would like to mentor a Bryant student, join the AlumniFire program by visiting bryant.alumnifire.com.
CHECK OUT THE NEW ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT SITE
BryantAlumni.edu has a fresh new face
Check out our new, streamlined, and informative alumni website. We’re still mobile friendly, so try us out on every device. Register for events, find classmates, sign up for a webinar, or read a past publication – we’ve got you covered. Go to alumni.bryant.edu. (Don’t worry: all your old alumniconnect.bryant.edu bookmarks will still work!)
Engage | July 2018
3
REUNION@HOMECOMING REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW! Register online @ www.bryant.edu/ reunion All alumni who register before August 31 will receive a commemorative gift and discounts.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Friday September 21
Schedule is subject to change, please visit bryant.edu/reunion for the most up-to-date schedule
6 – 8 p.m.
Alumni Welcome Reception: Wine Tasting Rotunda | Early-bird pricing $25*
11 a.m.
Alumni Golf Outing Crystal Lake Golf Club, Mapleville, RI Join Bryant alumni on the golf course to help raise money for Parkinson’s disease awareness and research. Register separately for golf at alumniconnect.bryant.edu/ReunionGolf
2 – 5 p.m.
Archway Society and 50th Reunion Weekend Welcome Admissions Atrium
Join your classmates for a welcome reception, featuring a wine tasting.
6 p.m.
Women’s Volleyball Chace Center Gym You are invited to join the campus as we watch our Bulldogs battle against the Saint Francis Red Flash Friday evening! Game tickets are available day of in the Chace Athletic Center.
6 p.m.
Enjoy coffee, tea, and a light snack while you pick up your registration packet and reminisce with your classmates.
4 p.m.
Registration Opens
Champions for Philanthropy Dinner George E. Bello Center (by invitation) Dinner and a salute to Bryant’s Champions for Philanthropy Award recipients and members of the Bryant Leadership Council of Donors.
Alumni Office inside the Unistructure General registration fee $15
8 p.m.
Pick up your Reunion@Homecoming registration materials and name tag.
Fisher Student Center Join the Student Programming Board for a walk down memory lane with Big Bingo!
REGISTRATION FORM Full Name (incl. maiden) _______________________________________ Class Year______ Address__________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ____________________________________________________________ Email________________________________Phone________________________________ Guest Name (& class year, if applicable) ________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Dietary restrictions or special needs?____________________________________________ Reunion@Homecoming (per-registration required fee)
$15.00
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2018 2 – 4 p.m.
Archway Society and 50th Reunion Welcome
6 – 8 p.m.
Alumni Welcome Reception and Wine Tasting
8 – 9 p.m.
Big Bingo!
Complimentary
9 p.m.
Bryant Bonfire and Fireworks
Complimentary
Fisher Student Center Patio
Registration Tent in the Alumni Village General registration fee $15
Join the Pep Rally and Bonfire excitement with students, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
Saturday September 22
Registration Opens
Pick up your Reunion@Homecoming registration materials and name tag. All alumni who register before August 31 will receive a commemorative gift.
10 a.m. – HALFTIME Reunion Tailgating
Alumni Village Walk in – complimentary | Early-bird tailgate parking pass $25*
9:30 a.m.
Alumni Welcome Breakfast Ronald K. and Kati C. Machtley Interfaith Center Join us for a complimentary welcome breakfast prior to the annual Interfaith Service of Remembrance.
10 – 11 a.m.
Interfaith Service of Remembrance
Join your classmates for informal gatherings in the Alumni Village adjacent to Beirne Stadium. Each major reunion class will have an individual area. For auto access, a tailgate parking pass (includes access for 1 vehicle under 20 feet) is required. Reserve your tailgate parking pass by August 31 for early-bird pricing.
Share your memories and celebrate the lives of Bryant classmates who are no longer with us.
Tailgating SATURDAY 10 A.M. – END OF HALFTIME A special section of the parking area has been set aside for you to gather with classmates for some good, old-fashioned tailgating fun. Gather with friends in the special tailgate area to share your own food and beverage. Plastic and aluminum only – for safety, please leave glass containers at home!
Parking Fee: $25 (Vehicles less than 20 feet only) Register early to make sure you can bring your car to the tailgating area, or park elsewhere on campus and join your friends in either the tailgate area or event tents. REGISTER AND GET YOUR PARKING PASS AT
www.bryant.edu/reunion
Complimentary
Registration and Reunion Tailgating Area
$25 pp_______________
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 9:30 – 10 a.m.
Alumni Welcome Breakfast
Complimentary
10 – 11 a.m.
Interfaith Service of Remembrance
Complimentary
11 a.m. – end of halftime Archway Society and 50th Reunion Pre-Game Reception and Football Ticket (classes invited: 1943–1973)
$25 pp_______________
5 – 8 p.m.
Archway Society 50th Induction Ceremony and Dinner (classes invited: 1943–1973)
$40 pp_______________
CHECK ENCLOSED FOR _____________________
Please make check payable to Bryant University, and mail with this form to: Bryant University Alumni Engagement Office, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917-1284. To pay by credit card, please call Alumni Engagement at 401.232.6040.
4 Engage | July 2018
10 a.m.
Bryant Bonfire and Fireworks
Ronald K. and Kati C. Machtley Interfaith Center
Big Bingo
50th Reunion Weekend and Archway Society**
**formerly Loyal Guard
9 p.m.
Black & Gold Tailgating Area
2018 | SEPTEMBER 21 – 22
INDIVIDUAL CLASS AND AFFINITY EVENTS 10 a.m.
Campus Tours Get up to date with Bryant University today. Take a tour or attend an information session for no additional cost: Get Reacquainted with Bryant’s Campus Tours leave every 30 minutes (10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.) from the Academic Innovation Center.
Sunday September 23
Saturday September 22
1 p.m.
11 a.m. – END OF HALFTIME
Men’s Soccer Join us to watch a battle of the Bulldogs in this Bryant vs. Yale Soccer match! Tickets are available day of at the match location.
TIME TBA
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Field Hockey
Fisher Student Center
Join us as the Bulldogs take on the Columbia Lions! Game tickets will be available day of on the field.
Alumni and Family Information Sessions (complimentary) Choosing the Right College for Your Teenager Donna (Barber) Neary ’82 will lead you through the admission process for selective colleges like Bryant, and share tips to help your high school student stand out.
11 a.m. – END OF HALFTIME
TIME TBA
Softball
Softball Complex at Conaty Park Watch the Bulldogs battle the Holy Cross Crusaders. Game tickets will be available day of at Conaty Park.
Bryant Football vs. Robert Morris Beirne Stadium | Game ticket $10 Cheer the Bulldogs to victory on our home turf against Robert Morris.
5 p.m.
Women’s Volleyball Chace Athletic Center Gym You are invited to join the campus as we watch our Bulldogs battle against Robert Morris! Game tickets are available day of in the Chace Athletic Center.
Join your classmates before and during the Bryant-Robert Morris football game in a covered tent near the Bulldog Strength and Conditioning Center. Enjoy a complimentary drink and barbecue fare, and root for the Bulldogs against Robert Morris. Your registration for this event includes a game ticket.
3 – 5 p.m.
Class of 2018 New Alumni Reunion Party The Class of 2018 celebrates its graduation and induction into the Bryant Alumni Association. Check out the Bryant Alumni Facebook page for more details.
Tent Adjacent to Beirne Stadium and Strength and Conditioning Center | Registration fee $25
1 p.m.
Tent adjacent to Beirne Stadium and Strength and Conditioning Center
The Last Resort | Party early-bird fee $5.18*
Class of 1968 50th Reunion – Pre-Game Reception
Join your classmates before and during the Bryant-Robert Morris football game in a covered tent near the Bulldog Strength and Conditioning Center. Enjoy a complimentary drink and barbecue fare, and root for the Bulldogs against the Robert Morris Colonials. Your registration for this event includes a game ticket.
Class of 1968 50th Reunion Pre-Game Reception
3 – 5 p.m.
REUNION YEAR CLASSES ARE ON FACEBOOK! Classes that end in a “3”or an “8” will find more specific information about their class reunions on the Bryant Alumni Association Facebook page (www.facebook.com/bryantalumni). Click on the “Events” tab, and contribute to the discussion. Post photos, suggest activities, and encourage others from your class to join you.
Class of 2008 10th Reunion Party The Last Resort | Party early-bird fee $15* The Class of 2008 celebrates its 10th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 2003 15th Reunion Party Rotunda Mezzanine| Party early-bird fee $25* The Class of 2003 celebrates its 15th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for further details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 1998 20th Reunion Party Inside the Rotunda | Party early-bird fee $25*
ACCOMMODATIONS Lodging in the immediate area fills up quickly, so please reserve your accommodations ASAP. Visit www.bryant.edu/reunion for a complete list, and when calling for reservations, be sure to mention Bryant Reunion@Homecoming for the lowest possible room rates. PROVIDENCE
SMITHFIELD/LINCOLN Hampton Inn 945 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI (401) 232-9200 $149 + tax Call 1-800-HAMPTON and ask for Bryant Reunion@Homecoming Book online and use the group code “BRH” Courtyard Marriott 636 George Washington Highway Lincoln, RI (401) 333-3400 $149 + tax Mention Bryant Reunion Weekend for special rate
Holiday Inn Express 1010 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI (401) 231-6300 $139 + tax Ask for the Bryant Reunion rate All Seasons Inn & Suites 355 Washington Highway Smithfield, RI (401) 232-2400 $108 + tax (2 night minimum stay required, 7 days cancellation)
Relive the ’90s with your classmates at your party. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 1993 25th Reunion Party Inside the Rotunda | Party early-bird fee $25* Relive the ’90s with your classmates at your party. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 1988 30th Reunion Party Tent adjacent to Koffler and the Pond Party early-bird fee $25* The Class of 1988 celebrates its 30th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 1983 35th Reunion Party Koffler Center | Party early-bird fee $25* The Class of 1983 celebrates its 35th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
4 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 1978 40th Reunion Party Koffler Center | Party early-bird fee $25* The Class of 1978 celebrates its 40th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for the latest details.
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Class of 2013 5th Reunion Party The Last Resort | Party early-bird fee $15* The Class of 2013 celebrates its 5th Reunion. Check out the group’s event page on Facebook for further details.
5 – 8 p.m.
50th Reunion Party Archway Society Induction Ceremony and Dinner George E. Bello Center | Party fee $40 Join fellow classmates for cocktails, dinner and an induction ceremony on Saturday night. The class of 1968 will be inducted into the Archway Society (formerly the Loyal Guard) during Reunion@Homecoming. The classes of 1963, 1958, 1953, and 1948 will also be honored.
*Register by August 31 to receive early-bird pricing
(standard rates apply)
Renaissance Providence Hotel (401) 276-0010 (800) 468-3571 Providence Marriott (401) 272-2400 (800) 937-7768 Providence Biltmore (401) 421-0700 (800) 294-7709 Omni Providence (401) 598-8000 (800) 937-8461 Courtyard Providence (401) 272-1191 (800) 321-2211
Stay Safe LET BRYANT DO THE DRIVING Things on campus may have changed since you were here last. Enjoy the weekend without worrying about driving and parking. Transportation will run continuously between campus and these area hotels: ALL SEASONS INN & SUITES, Smithfield | COURTYARD MARRIOTT, Lincoln HAMPTON INN & SUITES, Smithfield | HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, Smithfield For added convenience, from 8 p.m. to closing, the shuttle will also stop at Blackie’s, Parente’s, Last Resort, Tavolo, and Stillwater Tavern.
Engage | July 2018
5
I N V E ST I N E XC E L L E N C E
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE $18,147,367 million – a tremendous accomplishment that we all should take a moment to celebrate. Thanks to you, Bryant has never been more visible and competitive in a changing
Our success is creating a vibrant culture of philanthropy at Bryant that is growing stronger with each new class of graduates.
higher education landscape. The University is ascending to new prominence with a world-class faculty, a forward-looking, innovative curriculum, and unmatched opportunities for experiential learning. Our ability to award $1.9 million in scholarships, created and funded by donor support, to 332 students is making Bryant a preferred destination for prospective students. As we near the $90 million mark in our ambitious capital campaign, Expanding
the World of Opportunity: The Campaign for Bryant’s Bold Future, the campaign
continues to have an impact that resonates beyond our campus. Bryant pride is bringing together alumni from different generations and from around the world, whose varied experiences are connected by the energy of an alumni network that has expanded Bryant’s influence more widely than ever before.
continued from page 1
Our success is creating a vibrant culture of philanthropy at Bryant that is growing stronger with each new class of graduates. This was never more evident than during our recent, award-winning “All In” Bryant Day of Giving, when we received more than 1,900 contributions – a powerful testament to the strength of the Bryant community and the important place it has in our lives and in our hearts. But, we aren’t David C. Wegrzyn ’86 finished. Together, Vice President for we are leveraging University Advancement this powerful momentum to complete this unprecedented campaign and reach our goal of $100 million. There is still time to support your passion at Bryant. Please consider a campus visit, or take a look at our recently redesigned website. I promise, you will be impressed. Your support is transforming a 155-year-old institution as we build new programs on its solid foundation and prepare for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Our future is bright because our future is being shaped by you – and more than 21,846 Bryant donors who have participated in our historic capital campaign so far – who are investing in excellence at Bryant. And the dividends of your investment will be reflected in the success of future generations of Bryant students, inspired to excel.
$100 million $95 m
$89 million
$85 m $80 m
$75 million $70 m $65 m $60 m $55 m $50 m $45 m $40 m $35 m $30 m $25 m $20 m $15 m $10 m
$5 m
KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING Please contact a gift officer at 877.353.5667 or visit
bryant.edu/giving
to give online today.
PLANNED GIFT/BEQUEST
Diane Marolla ’87 “pays it forward” with bequest gift to fund future scholarship
D
Diane Marolla ’87 made a bequest to the University to establish an endowed scholarship for students who want to work in health care-related fields.
6 Engage | July 2018
iane Marolla ’87 is passionate about health care. For more than 30 years she has worked to improve the industry, formerly as an executive and ombudsman with United Health Group, and now as a health care consultant and advocate, and an independently licensed social worker. “The changes I have seen in the industry throughout my career are amazing,” she observes. “It’s become beyond complicated. Both consumers and providers are having a lot of difficulty. That’s ultimately why I became an independent consultant. I’m going to do my part through my business to advocate for quality, affordable health care for every American. But I really look to the future and to the individuals who will recognize where policies need improvement and force change.” That future focus is the impetus behind the bequest intention Marolla has made to Bryant University. When
she learned Bryant is developing develop the ability to look at all sides new programs to prepare students of a problem objectively and create for leadership in health care, metric-based and human-oriented she immediately recognized her solutions. Who better to lead the opportunity to “pay it forward.” charge in health care?” She has pledged the full value of her estate to Every day I get my inspiration from the University for the purpose of establishing somebody. Hopefully my choice to do an endowed scholarship this will inspire somebody else. Bryant in her name that will really is a special place. benefit students who want to study or work DIANE MAROLLA ’87 in health care, health care management, or “I am so proud of and grateful health care policy. to Bryant,” adds Marolla. “My degree Marolla considers the bequest her opened up so many doors for me. This sign of hope for the future – where has always been a dream of mine. Now she envisions a “harmonious formula” I’m able to make it come true and I’m that combines financially affordable really happy about that. Every day I health care with good clinical outcomes. get my inspiration from somebody. “Look at how well Bryant prepares Hopefully my choice to do this will students to work in corporate America inspire somebody else. Bryant really or to be entrepreneurs. Bryant instills is a special place.” ethics and invests in students. They
S O KO L F O U N DAT I O N G R A N T
$50,000 grant from the Sokol Foundation expands Bryant Hillel’s impact
B
ryant University’s commitment to being a diverse and welcoming community received a significant boost with a $50,000 grant to Bryant Hillel from the Sokol Foundation. The gift is supporting a number of new initiatives designed to increase the visibility and impact of Jewish life and values at Bryant. These include a part-time Hillel Engagement Associate, leadership training for students, speaking and arts programs, and events for Bryant Hillel alumni. The Sokol Foundation, which is managed by Corey Levine ’80, was established by Elsie Sokol prior to her death in February 2018. Starting as a bookkeeper in 1944, she forged a distinguished career in banking, retiring as Chief Executive Officer
Rabbi Steven Jablow, pictured here with students, believes that a vibrant Jewish community on campus benefits the Bryant community as a whole.
Hillel isn’t just an organization; it’s a community that brings people together. GAL BENARUSH ’18
from Central Jersey Bancorp. She was the first woman to hold top executive positions in the industry in Monmouth County, NJ. Hillel International is the world’s largest Jewish student organization, with campus chapters at more than 550 colleges and universities. Bryant Hillel was established in 1948 and today serves as a “home” for Jewish students on campus, according to Rabbi Steven Jablow, the Jewish
Chaplain and University Lecturer who serves as Hillel’s Director. “Whatever students are looking for – social connections, information about Jewish life and culture, advocacy or education related to Israel, or guidance with their personal religious journey – Hillel is here to meet those needs.” Under Rabbi Jablow’s direction, Bryant Hillel has expanded its offerings and attracted broad support for and participation in its innovative
and inclusive programming. It is a key element of a multi-prong approach to serve Bryant’s Jewish students that also includes new courses in Jewish history and culture, developing international exchange opportunities in Israel, and the availability of a full-time campus rabbi for personal and religious counsel. Rabbi Jablow believes Bryant Hillel benefits both Jewish and non-Jewish students. “A vibrant Jewish community on campus benefits the community as a whole in so many ways,” he explains. “I firmly believe that Jewish values fit the overall goal of the Bryant commitment to character. When Hillel represents Jewish values on a campus, it demonstrates the good people can do with the abilities,
responsibilities, and resources they acquire in life.” Gal Benarush ’18, who served as co-president of Bryant Hillel, agrees. “Hillel isn’t just an organization; it’s a community that brings people together. Hillel definitely helped me build my character. I’ve learned more about myself and how I’ve been raised. I really think more deeply about that and how I can grow as a person more and more every day.”
To support Bryant’s Hillel community and help students build character throughout their college educations, please make a gift today at
bryant.edu/giving.
Jeff Doppelt ’73 Black & Gold Challenge
T
hroughout the month of June, the Jeff Doppelt ’73 Black & Gold Challenge encouraged the University’s former student-athletes to get in the game and show their support by investing in Bryant. Alumni who played on Bryant’s 22 NCAA Division I varsity teams were asked to participate and make a contribution to help their former teams win a share of $10,000 in program support. Social media updates were provided throughout the month, and former players used social media to spread the word and challenge their teammates to match their contributions. In addition to providing muchneeded program support, the Doppelt Black & Gold Challenge provided alumni student-athletes with an opportunity to reconnect with former teammates, support the teams they love, and strengthen the proud tradition of Bryant athletics. The competition was sponsored by Jeff Doppelt, former Bryant baseball
team alum from the class of 1973, and member of the Bryant Athletics Hall of Fame. The competition was tough, but thanks to the strong support of their former team members, the winners were six varsity teams that each claimed a share of $10,000 in program support.
In addition to providing muchneeded program support, the Doppelt Black & Gold Challenge provided alumni student-athletes with an opportunity to reconnect with former teammates, support the teams they love, and strengthen the proud tradition of Bryant athletics.
MEN’S DIVISION Swimming & Diving: $2,500 Lacrosse: $1,500 Tennis: $1,000 WOMEN’S DIVISION Lacrosse: $2,500 Swimming & Diving: $1,500 Cross Country & Track and Field: $1,000 Jeff Doppelt ’73 The Black & Gold Challenge brought together Bulldogs from different eras and decades, and from all over the nation in support of the proud tradition and bright future of Bryant Athletics. No matter which Bulldog teams were victorious this year, when we win, we win as a team.
The Doppelt Black & Gold Challenge has concluded, but it’s never too late to contribute in support of Bryant’s athletic teams. Please contact a gift officer at 877.353.5667 or visit bryant.edu/giving today.
Engage | July 2018
7
K I INNG EAXC DEI FLFLEERNECNEC E I N VMEAST
B L O O M B E R G R E C O G N I Z E S B R YA N T ’ S L E A D E R S H I P I N E X P E R I E N T I A L L E A R N I N G
University joins Bloomberg Experiential Learning Partner Program to showcase innovation, share knowledge B
ryant University is now a Bloomberg Experiential Learning Partner (ELP). The program was developed by Bloomberg to recognize academic institutions that lead the way in integrating Bloomberg information resources into their curricula for experiential learning opportunities. With more than 600 students and graduates now certified in introductory Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) in the 18 months since a dozen Bloomberg terminals were installed, Bryant has deeply integrated Bloomberg’s real-time business and financial information into a number of courses, providing impactful new real-world learning.
BRINGING THEORY TO LIFE “This new Experiential Learning Partner designation from Bloomberg recognizes our innovative approach to combining academic excellence with experiential real-world applications in the classroom,” says Kevin Maloney
the Archway Fixed Income Fund without it.” Students agree: “In a market where bonds weren’t necessarily doing all that well, we still had returns that exceeded our benchmark – and we did that quite consistently over our entire
University’s Finance Department. An accomplished scholar and finance industry executive with more than 35 years of teaching and corporate leadership experience, Maloney has woven his own industry experience with Bloomberg directly into his classroom instruction, such as in the Archway Fixed Income class he teaches.
The Bloomberg data and analytical applications are invaluable for making the concepts we teach in the classroom come alive for our students. And we couldn’t run the Archway Fixed Income Fund without it.
P’16, Ph.D., Executive in Residence and Senior Lecturer in Bryant
supply chain analysis, and economics, “it’s valuable for almost anybody,” she added. The University’s Bloomberg terminals are located in the George E. Bello Center for Information and Technology, distributed through the
KEVIN MALONEY P’16, PH.D., EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE AND SENIOR LECTURER semester,” said
Bryanna Seefeldt ’18,
speaking about her senior-year Archway Fixed Income class. “I can’t imagine how we could have done that without access to Bloomberg.”
GIVING STUDENTS A CAREER-PREPARATION EDGE
President Ronald K. Machtley discusses the Bloomberg terminals with students. Made possible by a generous donation, they have been extensively integrated into the curriculum at Bryant, providing new experiential learning opportunities and earning recognition from Bloomberg. The Bloomberg terminals, the same tool used by professionals in the financial marketplace, were made possible by the generous donation of an anonymous donor who is both an alumnus and the parent of an alumnus. They offer access to Bloomberg’s extensive worldwide network of business and financial data, market and economic news and information, and financial software. This powerful package of resources has opened the door to innovative ways of teaching and hands-on learning.
The Archway Fixed Income Fund is the newest addition to Bryant’s student-managed portfolio. Near real-time Bloomberg data is deeply integrated into the fund’s tracking spreadsheets, allowing students and advisors to analyze complex sets of information they need to spot patterns, identify trends and changes, and make informed trading decisions. “The Bloomberg data and analytical applications are invaluable for making the concepts we teach in the classroom come alive for our students,” said Maloney. “And we couldn’t run
Seefeldt, who works in the actuarial department at XL Catlin, a commercial property insurer, used the Bloomberg terminals in three different courses, and feels strongly that they give Bryant students an edge in their career preparation. “For Finance majors, the Archway Fixed Income class is one of the best courses you could possibly take – to be able to tell a prospective employer that you worked on trading an actual portfolio using real-time market data and news.” With applications for students in finance, accounting,
Kevin Maloney P’16, Ph.D. first and second floors for ready access by students. There is a dedicated station in the C.V. Starr Financial Markets Center, the University’s simulated trading floor, as well as a mobile station available for use by faculty. Use of the Bloomberg terminals spans the curriculum at Bryant, including areas such as finance, accounting, supply-chain analysis, and economics. All students have access to the terminals after completing the BMC course, either as a class or as a self-paced e-learning course. As part of the ELP program, Bryant faculty will now have access to additional resources within a private online portal where ELP institutions share knowledge and ideas, along with course syllabi.
Bloomberg offers its information and software services as a subscription model that will require ongoing funding to sustain. Already, members of the University’s Wall Street Council – a group of finance industry alumni professionals who provide a network and a forum to help open doors for finance students – have begun to donate to help maintain the Bloomberg service. To designate your own gift to support this invaluable resource, please visit alumniconnect.bryant.edu and click on the GIVE button.
INSPIRED TO EXCEL The Bryant Fund is the University’s most important source of annual philanthropic funding, providing a crucial resource. Gifts to the Bryant Fund provide direct and immediate support for Bryant’s top priorities, and yours, creating the opportunity for students to learn, to explore, to compete, to lead, and to excel. The power of the Bryant Fund comes from thousands of gifts working together to have a transformative impact every year, and gifts of any size make a difference.
Visit bryant.edu/giving to make a gift online and learn more about how you can become involved.
8 Engage | July 2018
David Ellison ’79: Seeking a return to civility and common sense
D
avid Ellison ’79 is frustrated
with the current political climate. “Our need,” he says, “is for a government that is more fiscally responsible and more socially accepting. I think we need those two things to move the country forward. The far right and the far left are pushing the two parties away from the common sense approach that is needed.” “Our country seems to be led by clowns and jokers, rather than elected officials who, in the interest of their constituents and the nation as a whole, should be preserving, protecting, and defending the Constitution of the United States of America,” he writes in the introduction to his first book, Politics Beyond Left and Right: A Guide for Creating a More Unified Nation.
I feel education could help unify and make it more civil. DAVID ELLISON ’79
A BALANCED BRYANT EDUCATION A Finance major who went on to become a certified financial planner, Ellison now works in real estate as a partner with his wife, Stephanie, in the Ellison Homes Team, a RE/Max affiliate in Milford, CT. His Bryant connection, however, remains strong as Ellison keeps in touch with more than 30 brothers from his Phi Sigma Nu fraternity, and, with his wife, has been hosting an annual golf outing and dinner for that group for about 10 years now.
Bryant was known primarily as a business school when he attended, Ellison recalls. “But half of our courses were liberal arts,” he notes. “I think we got a great, balanced education at Bryant.” He fondly remembers Professor John Jolley, who died in 2013, for making history come alive for him. One day, he asked the professor, “I give you everything we’ve learned. How can you not give me an A?” “You do,” Jolley agreed. “But to get the A, you’ve got to give me a little extra. You’ve got to give me you in there, what you’re thinking.” “And I always remember that,” says Ellison. A regular writer of letters to the editor, who throughout his life has cared about public affairs, he poured that passion into his book. In those 122 pages, Ellison makes his our country case for a countryfirst perspective, as opposed to a party-first stance that he believes is turning the United States into “an angry nation divided by party lines.”
A CENTRIST APPROACH A registered Republican who votes across party lines for the most qualified candidates, Ellison says his centrist approach calls for taking “the good from each side — not a watereddown version of either, but the best from each.” Limiting terms to a total of 12 years and reforming campaign finance laws are also critical, he argues.
David Ellison ’79 author of Politics Beyond Left and Right: A Guide for Creating a More Unified Nation
David Ellison ’79
Those changes, he says, could lead to important discussion, compromise, and an end to politicians focused only on reelection. Ellison also sees value in a return to civics education – which provides young people with an understanding of why the founders set up the Constitution the way they did – and history education that makes clear why understanding the roots and impact of slavery and the Holocaust are important today. “I feel education could help unify our country and make it more civil,” he says. In his book, Ellison says, “I don’t try to come across as a benevolent dictator. I am trying to open a discussion so we can delve into our problems and address them rather
than sugarcoat everything. I think our elected officials are more concerned about getting re-elected than they are about making the difficult choices. And that’s discouraging and disgusting.” That message clearly resonates with Ellison’s readers, who have agreed that they, like him, feel “stuck in the middle,” and who endorse his common sense approach. His book, released in 2017, is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and other online retailers.
Mentors’ support, encouragement help Alison Feehan ’18 land a position in her ‘dream industry’ MFeehan ’18
onths before graduation, Alison landed a position as a financial analyst with Education First (EF), an international education company specializing in language training, educational travel, and cultural exchange. Her new career, says Feehan, is in her “dream industry,” and will allow her to pursue her passion for international travel. She credits two Bryant mentors, Sheila Guay ’83, ’86 MBA, the University’s Director of Conferences & Special Events, and
Elizabeth Schlatterer, ’07, ’08 MPAc, an Accounting Manager at Education First, with helping her to find a career that she’s truly excited about. As a staff advisor for Feehan’s Sophomore International Experience trip to China, Guay came to know Feehan well, and later hired her as a student conference coordinator. When Guay learned of a management trainee position with EF, she recommended that Feehan apply. “I thought the EF position sounded like a great fit for Alison,” says Guay, who describes Feehan as “a quick learner, dedicated, upbeat and a natural leader.” Feehan, a former President of
Alison Feehan ’18 Bryant’s Honors Program, is grateful for that brand of one-onone mentoring. She spoke about the benefits of having good mentors in an April speech at Bryant’s Admitted Students Open House, noting that Guay was “a great example for me as a young professional. She has always had an open door policy.”
MAKING CONNECTIONS After applying to EF, Feehan connected with Schlatterer through LinkedIn before meeting her in person. Like Guay, Schlatterer offered Feehan both professional and personal support,
to a roomful of EF vice presidents, including advice that she also apply whom she impressed with her to EF’s accounting and finance knowledge, passion, and dedication departments’ rotational training to her work. programs, which Schlatterer thought “Ali took full advantage of might be a better fit. everything available to her. She kept “Bryant gave me so many really adding to her professional portfolio,” excellent opportunities – athletically says Guay. “She drove herself.” and in the leadership realm – … so Feehan’s credentials, poise, I wanted to give back as much as I job-ready skills, and mentoring could,” says Schlatterer, who had been earned her the job offer from EF, pondering how to connect the Bryant which she was thrilled to accept. community with EF when Feehan first contacted her. In addition to the Ali took full advantage of everything invaluable mentoring she available to her. She kept adding to her received, Feehan’s Bryant education helped her in professional portfolio. She drove herself. other ways as well. She says she “was a sponge” SHEILA GUAY ’83, ’86 MBA in soaking up everything she could learn from the “She’s a great standout, professional Amica Center for Career Education’s and well-spoken,” says Schlatterer. robust programming. Her “1,001 “I wasn’t surprised that she was presentations” at Bryant and her extended an offer.” Her mentoring experience as both a portfolio relationship with Feehan has continued manager and the public relations as the latter prepares to join the chair of the student-managed EF team. Archway Investment Fund, prepared “I am very excited to see what she her well for a comprehensive day of does in this program,” Schlatterer says. interviews, which included presenting
Engage | July 2018
9
I N SSPPIIRREEDD TO TOEEXC XCE LE L
S U SA N ( B U T KU S ) P I K E ’ 94 , C FA , C I PM
Leadership begins with learning
S
ue (Butkus) Pike ’94 has steered
DA M I E N C A B R A L ’ 05:
TribalVision’s marketing maverick
D
amien Cabral ’05 never expected
and Cabral was named one of PBN’s
to have an ownership stake in a
40 Under 40 leaders. That success stems
successful company at such a young
from TribalVision’s refreshing business
children. “It may never feel like a
age. Yet, six years after graduation, he
model and a laser-like focus on an
perfect time to pursue these rigorous
and Chris Ciunci launched TribalVision,
old-fashioned principle: We don’t
never stop learning. Her commitment has
designations,” she observes. “But if
an outsourced marketing consulting
oversell, but we keep our promises.
been steadfast through more than 18
you want it, don’t put it off. It will only
years at Wellington Management. With
get harder as life demands increase
more than one trillion dollars in client
over time.”
her impressive career in investment
management by a guiding principle:
assets under management in more than
she was expecting her first and second
Rather than suggest what young
60 countries, the company is one of the
graduates need to know as they enter
world’s largest independent investment
the workforce, Pike says, “What you
management firms.
don’t need to know is exactly what your
Over the years, Pike has held
“ We focus on developing marketing plans that get clients more leads and more revenue.” – Damien Cabral ’05 TribalVision Partner
career will be. Your early career years
increasingly more senior roles in
are really about exploring interests,
operations that support both clients and
building skills, leaning into strengths,
portfolio managers. She is currently the
and addressing weaknesses. It’s about
Director of the Investment Products and
getting to know yourself and what work
Strategies Operational Risk Team, a new
will make you happy. And it’s learning
firm that broke new ground in the
“ Really strong leaders listen to truly understand viewpoints that are different from their own. They are inclusive and hire people with different perspectives.” –Susan Pike ’94
advertising and marketing sector. One year after TribalVision opened with two partners and one client, its
Senior Marketing Managers, and two
400-square-foot office was bursting at
part-time interns, work at TribalVision,
the seams – eight employees made calls
which offers Bryant students paid
in the hallways and outside the office!
internships each semester. With a
Today, TribalVision’s 65 employees
“stellar workforce,” Cabral calls them
work in spacious offices in Boston and
“extremely competitive, well-rounded
Warwick, and top-line revenues are
individuals who are genuinely curious
expected to reach $7 million this year.
about the world and our clients.”
Filling the void between the entity she proposed and created to
what kind of company culture is
address challenges and opportunities
important to you and the kind of
she had observed department-wide.
leadership you need to help you learn
“Learning is a constant in investment management,” explains Pike, who holds
and grow.” For Pike, learning and leadership
an MBA from Northeastern University
are intertwined. “Really strong leaders
as well as the CFA Institute’s Chartered
listen to truly understand viewpoints
Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certificate
that are different from their own.
in Investment Performance Measurement
They are inclusive and hire people
(CIPM) designations. One of her
with different perspectives. They make
proudest professional accomplishments
themselves available, prioritize the
is the completion of the CFA program
success of others, and share the lessons
within three years – and taking the
they have learned.”
tests for levels one and three when
Six Bryant alumni, including
Morgan (Morris) Durfee ’12 and Mary Green ’12, ’13 MBA, both
Given Bryant’s focus on group
intersection of marketing consulting
projects, teamwork – a TribalVision
firms and traditional advertising
must – is built into their DNA, says
agencies, TribalVision represents a
Cabral. With a 94 percent retention rate
different business model, says Cabral,
among managers and an 80 percent
partner and co-founder. “We focus on
retention rate company-wide – and
developing marketing plans that get
many employees in their first post-
clients more leads and more revenue.”
college position – TribalVision is
Outsourcing all of the creative work –
making a profit, with manufacturing
websites, videos, etc. – to one or more
companies, family-owned businesses,
of its pool of 50 cost-effective, talented
and nonprofit entities buying its
freelancers, TribalVision serves as
services. In the coming months,
clients’ sole point of contact.
TribalVision expects to hire more Bryant alumni to help the company recruit
KEEP PROMISES The business model clearly works: TribalVision’s extraordinary growth has been recognized by Inc. 5000 and
and retain additional South Korean marketing clients seeking access to the U.S. market.
Providence Business News (PBN),
ALUMNI AND PARENT NE TWORKING EVENTS
View more pictures at facebook.com/bryantalumni/photos
March 15 | Washington, DC Alumni and students gathered at The Washington Center to network. Students were spending Spring break learning about career opportunities in government and non-profit organizations.
March 28 | Boston, MA March 11 | Wellington, FL Bruce ’62 and Nancy Schatz hosted a reception for alumni to meet Bryant Rabbi Steven Jablow at the Wycliffe Golf and Country Club in Wellington, FL. Pictured here are Paulette and Arnold ’64 Stairman; Charlie ’70 and Anne German; and Anita and Professor Alan Olinsky.
10 Engage | July 2018
Denae Pisano ’18 moderated a Smart Women in Finance Panel at District Hall in Boston featuring speakers Heather Donahue Ahrens ’93, Erica Vaters ’91, Eileen Hayes ’07, and Scott Voss ’92.
IN MEMORIAM Remembering members of the Bryant community who have passed away.
C I N DY PAU L ’84 :
Integrity and trust are vital
C
indy Paul ’84 understands the risk-reward calculation of
TRUSTEE EMERITUS AND FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE BRYANT BOARD OF TRUSTEES, JOHN D. “JACK” CALLAHAN ’56, ’05H passed away on June 3,
For Paul, the essential ingredient for success is integrity. “Integrity is
celebrity endorsements and business
critical to your personal brand and at
sponsorships in a world consumed with
the end of the day, that’s all you’ve got,”
media channels. She is Executive Vice
she explains. “It’s all about trust. We
joined the Bryant Board of Trustees in 1994 and served
President and Chief Financial Officer,
all encounter people again and again
as Chair from 1998-2005. He felt that his association
Global Marketing at Octagon, the world’s
in business situations, so integrity and
with Bryant was one of the most rewarding experiences
largest sports & entertainment agency.
trust are vitally important.”
2018 in Northfield, IL. He was 86. Callahan was passionate about his alma mater. He
of his life.
Paul’s advice to graduates entering
The company is part of the Interpublic
Callahan was a visionary thinker and a frequent lecturer on the subject of
Group of companies (IPG), a broad-based
the workforce reflects her conviction that
leadership and change. Bryant’s presidential residence was named in honor
marketing solutions organization with
learning never stops. “Congratulations
of the many generous contributions of Callahan and his wife, Lucy.
clients worldwide. Paul has worked
on completing college, but it’s just the
within IPG for more than 20 years.
beginning of your learning. You’re not
In addition to his tireless service to the University, the couple’s philanthropy supported several student scholarships, including the Jack & Lucy Callahan Endowed Scholarship Fund, and the Lucy Callahan/Peachtree Place Scholarship. A highly accomplished alumnus, Callahan was a member of the Allstate Insurance Board of Directors for 13 years, served as Chairman and CEO of Allstate’s Canadian company, was President of the Business Insurance Group of Allstate, and was a member of the senior management team that took Allstate
“ Integrity is critical to your personal brand, and at the end of the day, that’s all you’ve got.” –Cindy Paul ’84
public in 1993. After retiring from Allstate, he became the Chairman and CEO of the Callahan Group, a management consulting firm founded in 1995. A champion for women and minorities in business, Callahan served as a mentor with Menttium 100, an organization dedicated to the development of high-potential women in business. He was a frequent speaker on the topic of winning in the new world of business, and his leadership experiences were profiled in many books during his career, including Robert H. Rosen’s Leading People. Callahan believed that every person has the ability to be a leader, if only they are given the right tools. After decades of corporate experience, he developed
Octagon advises corporations such
done,” says Paul. “Don’t get comfortable.
as BMW, Mastercard, Siemens, and
Use a different part of your brain,”
Cisco about sports and entertainment
she counsels. “You might have been an
sponsorship opportunities that
amazing student but you have a whole lot
strategically position their brands for
more to learn. Learn something different
maximum influence and marketing
– not just more about what you already
share. Paul oversees operational
know how to do really well.”
finances such as client pricing and budget development. As Paul has progressed to increasingly
In new hires, Paul looks for a combination of professional skills and personal values. “For entry-level
senior positions, one early piece of
candidates, your professional skills are
advice she received rings true. “Let the
the base level – that’s what gets you
small stuff go,” she recalls a mentor
the job. However, your personal values
advising. Paul realized though there
and attributes – drive and integrity,
were many things she could do well,
for example –will drive your success.
they no longer made a significant
You need both – and a sense of humor
difference. She learned to focus her
never hurts.”
attention on new priorities where her
a “leadership toolbox” to equip employees with what he believed were the 18 essential skills necessary to unlocking a person’s leadership potential. Acutely aware that “the speed of change is increasing,” Callahan felt that cultivating workers who take an entrepreneurial ownership of the company’s vision was a winning business strategy. “You win when you empower the worker,” he told a Bryant Review writer in 1994. He believed strongly that in order to align along a common vision of success, leaders must share knowledge and power with employees. “If you’re not empowering people, you’re not giving them the right to be responsible.” Callahan was a veteran of the United States Navy, and after serving, earned his degree in Accounting and Finance at Bryant in 1956. The University also awarded Callahan with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration in 2005. He received the Nelson J. Gulski Service award in 2007, and for his decades of distinguished service, was given a Key to the College – Bryant’s most prestigious alumni award – in 2006. “Once you met Jack, you never forgot his warmth, sense of humor, and enthusiasm – to say nothing of his love and appreciation for Bryant,” said Bryant University President Ronald K. Machtley, who considered Callahan a mentor. “We have
efforts would have greater impact.
lost a wonderful friend and a valued leader.” Callahan was born in New Britain, CT. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Lucy Callahan; and children John, Mike, Maureen, and Phillip. A memorial service was held on campus on June 22 so family and friends on the East Coast
Contributions can be made in memory of Jack Callahan online at www.bryant.edu/givenow or by check to: Bryant University, 1150 Douglas Pike, Box 40, Smithfield, RI 02917.
could honor him and pay their respects.
April 26 | Charlotte, NC
PARENT PROGRAMS
Charlotte Alumni Reception at the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Alumni in Charlotte were ALL IN on Bryant’s Giving Day sending good wishes back to campus for a successful fund raising campaign.
April 15 | Bulldog Connection More than 120 student athletes received advice from Bulldog Connection panelists Beth Schlatterer ’07, ’08 MPAc; moderator Christano Andrade ’03; MaKayla Hancock ’14; Eloma Johnson ’12; Katie Whittington ’13; and Meredith Soper ’13, ’14 MBA.
May 21 | Glastonbury, CT May 9 | Boston, MA Bryant hosted three receptions for parents of Bryant students in the greater Hartford, Boston, and New York City regions. Parents heard from a senior Bryant academic officer and had a chance to learn more about future plans for the College of Business and the College of May 22 | New York, NY Arts and Sciences. Engage | July 2018
11
D E E P, L I F E - LO N G C O N N E C T I O N S C A L E N DA R
ADDITIONS
August
Notices from 1/1/18 to 5/31/18
September
October
Louisville, KY
Phoenix, AZ
London
August 2, 6:30-8:30 p.m. TBD
September TBD
October 4, 6-8 p.m. Royal Thames Yacht Club
Edgartown, MA
Smithfield, RI
August 18, 6-8 p.m. Edgartown Yacht and Tennis Club
September 21-22 Reunion@Homecoming 2018
Cape Cod, MA
September 29, 2018 Central Park Tour
August 19, 11 a.m-1 p.m. Brunch at Chatham Bars Inn
Puerto Rico August 19 TBD
Chicago, IL August 24 TBD
1993 Scott and Cynthia (Gale) Miranda ’93 welcomed their baby, Joseph Allan, born on March 2, 2018.
New York City, NY
Let us help celebrate your news! Submit your announcement to alumni@bryant.edu or enter a class note through our online directory at alumniconnect.bryant.edu (account required).
PA R T N E R S H I P S Notices from 1/1/18 to 5/31/18
Washington, DC September 25 Time & Location TBD
New alumni events are added weekly. Check alumniconnect.bryant.edu/events for the updated calendar and to register. Check bryantbulldogs.com for athletic contests in your area.
September, 2017 | Cape Cod, MA Brendan Sysun ’10 and Samara Lampert
IN MEMORIAM Remembering members of the Bryant community who have passed away. RICHARD A. FREED ’48 May 1, 2018
RICHARD CONNOR ’55 April 1, 2018
DAVID W. SHERMAN ’59 March 18, 2018
BARBARA (CAMPANELLA) BOOTH ’49 March 25, 2018
MARTIN S. DESOMMA ’56 May 15, 2017
DONALD L. QUATTROCHIO, SR. ’63 June 12, 2018
EDWARD M. COSGROVE ’49 June 5, 2018 PRISCILLA (LACHANCE) SPRAGUE ’49 March 11, 2018 CLIFFORD J. STOWE ’49 May 9, 2018 MATTHEW A. CZECH ’51 March 26, 2018
RONALD P. HADDAD ’56 June 15, 2018 SANDRA (WINKLER) MCKINLEY ’56 May 1, 2018
ANTHONY “TONY” DEQUATTRO ’67, ’74 MBA March 7, 2018
November, 2017 | Sharon, MA Amanda Dionne ’12 and Rohan Laungani ’11
ROY C. JONES ’68 March 7, 2018
WILLIAM A. MUSSO, JR. ’56 April 24, 2018 DONALD D. CROCKER ’59 May 21, 2018
RICHARD A. KAUFMAN ’68 May 10, 2018 IRVING D. HUMPHREY III ’69 May 22, 2018
MARGE YASICK, CAMPUS FAVORITE The campus community fondly remembers Marge Yasick, a beloved figure at mealtime in the Salmanson Dining Hall. She passed away in May at the age of 93.
November 11, 2017 | Nahant, MA Robin (Connors) McElligott ’00 and Shawn McElligott
Marge started at Bryant in 1971, checking students in to the dining hall from a paper list. She was at her station for breakfast and lunch, greeting everyone with a smile each day until 2015, when she retired at the age of 90.
Send wedding photos that feature a group of Bryant alumni to alumni@bryant.edu. Contact us in advance to receive a complimentary Bryant banner.
Marge was always a student favorite, not only because she always had a friendly smile for everyone, but because
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she took the time to get to know and recognize students in thoughtful ways, such as chatting with them about the
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previous night’s game, or posting news clips about their achievements. She regularly attended athletic games and other events, and several times played the role of Mrs. Claus at the University’s annual Festival of
A campus favorite among students, Marge is pictured here at a special Bryant University gathering in celebration of her 90th birthday
Lights celebration. “Marge was a kind moment in the day that brought smiles to the students
Cheryl (Abrams) Levy ’75 and Robert Levy ’76 of Seattle, Washington recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary.
as they entered Salmo,” said John
Saddlemire, D.Ed., Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. “She embodied Bryant’s commitment to providing a caring community to our students.” Marge raised four sons, and was a resident of the town of Millville, MA. She spent the early part of her career in manufacturing, and also worked at her son William’s company, Countertops By Superior, even after her retirement from Bryant.
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12 Engage | July 2018
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