Engage L E A D E R S H I P P H I L A N T H R O P Y O F R O B E R T ’86 A N D K AT H L E E N B R O W N , P’19
Bryant names Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center
A
t ceremonies on Friday, September 21, Bryant University’s award-winning Academic Innovation Center was formally named the Quinlan/ Brown Academic Innovation Center. The naming recognizes the leadership philanthropy of alumnus Robert ’86 and his wife, Kathleen Brown, P’19
finance industry, he achieved an exceptional record of accomplishment throughout his career at Fidelity Investments, where he served in several distinguished leadership roles including President of the Global Bond Division and Head of Institutional Fixed Income. Brown credits Bryant with providing
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. 4 October 2018
naugural Grant Thornton 3 IVisiting Executive omecoming@Reunion 5 Hrecap
7 Residence hall renaissance
C A P I TA L C A M PA I G N U P DAT E
Creating a transformational experience for students By David C. Wegrzyn ’86
A
utumn on the Bryant campus is a time of renewed excitement and many reminders of the pride shared by everyone in our community. In September, we welcomed nearly 900 students into the Class of 2022. Chosen from nearly 7,300 applicants, this year’s incoming students include 186 scholars who are the first in their family to attend college. The generous support of nearly 22,000 donors to Expanding the World
of Opportunity: The Campaign For Bryant’s Bold Future continues to sustain a world-class educational experience that has made Bryant continues on page 7
CONNECTING STUDENTS, BUSINESS AND THE ARTS Robert Brown ’86, Bryant Trustee and benefactor of the newly named Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center. him with a strong foundation, teaching him how to learn, and inspiring confidence in his skills and abilities, which allowed him to build a successful career and excel in his chosen profession. The Browns’ multimillion-dollar gift to the University’s transformational capital campaign,
We are extremely grateful for the leadership philanthropy of Bob and Kathleen Brown, which has helped us to build a facility that will inspire current and future generations of students to excel.
y senior year,
Lindsey Lerner ’15,
of Warwick, RI, was already
connecting what she was learning at Bryant with her passion for music. The nexus between business and the arts has been her destination ever since. An irrepressible creative soul, her path wound its way through photography, music and the arts, a Global Studies degree, and now a new venture in creative content. Alumni helped her launch her
Expanding the World of Opportunity: The Campaign for Bryant’s Bold Future, has allowed Bryant to “build
initial ideas with a major prize
facilities that are best in class and
company, Level Exchange, has opened
from the New Venture Business Plan Competition. Three years later, her a fully outfitted studio in Pawtucket,
LINDSEY LERNER ’15 RI where musicians and other content creators can record and collaborate. As her business model develops, Lerner is committed to helping students share this unique business environment alongside her.
continues on page 2
1150 Douglas Pike Bryant University
INSPIRED TO EXCEL
continues on page 6
I’m very passionate about Bryant. And if students ever need help, I’m like, ‘heck yeah, let’s figure this out! Whatever you need, let’s do it.’
Smithfield, RI 02917-1284
and honors the legacy of commitment to education forged by three generations of the Brown family. Bryant Trustee Robert Brown is among the University’s most dedicated alumni. As an esteemed leader in the
B
bryant.edu/social
PRESIDENT RONALD K. MACHTLEY
Alumni helped her, now she is helping students
NAC
Engage, you will read about Lindsey Lerner ’15, who
CORNER
has already launched her own start up, Level Exchange, in Providence. In
the process, she is providing opportunities for current Bryant students to learn on the job through internships. Internships are by students looking to gain relevant
continued from page 1
Through the Amica Center for Career
in a particular field. Employers benefit from these
path that he is passionate about. “What I found
Matthew Merolla ’19, from Johnston, RI; and Arnav Vaid ’20, from
was so much more than I could have expected. I’ve
Mumbai, India.
have achieved on my own.” Merolla adjusted
hired two students –
his original plan to major in Actuarial Math to take advantage of Bryant’s new Leadership and
be able to find your passion and follow it through,
Innovation Management degree. For Vaid, a Global Supply Chain major, the
You have to get the tools, and you have to make
hands-on work experience was especially
your own toolbox. And you can do anything you
meaningful. “Because of U.S. employment law,
want with that toolbox.”
many companies won’t consider an international
first year at Bryant. An interest in music and his
they often recruit
expanded my network in a way that I could never
says Lerner. “And I think it’s super important to
Merolla started working with Lerner his
placements because
experience at Level Exchange have opened a career
Education’s online internship postings, Lerner
especially with the tools that Bryant can give you.
skills and experience
best interns, who
Alumni helped her, now she is helping students
“Giving back is a very high priority for me,”
typically undertaken
employees from their
COLLEGIAL COMMUNITY
In this issue of
student for an internship,” he says, “so I was happy to get an experience I never would have had anywhere else.” Next summer Vaid hopes to be interning in
Marissa (Faenza) Crean ’81
finance. Merolla, who will graduate in December,
have demonstrated capabilities, thus saving time
looks forward to continuing to be part of a
and money in the long run.
community of local creators. Lerner, meanwhile, continues to pursue her path
Whether your company is large, like mine –
and evolve Level Exchange into a content creation,
The Hartford – where we hire several Bryant
collaboration, and co-working resource for the RI
students each year for our leadership and
community. She will continue to reach back to help
internship programs and other entry-level
Bryant students create their own paths.
positions, or a one-person shop like Lerner’s,
“I’m very passionate about Bryant,” she says.
where one or two interns can make the
“And if students ever need help, I’m like, ‘heck
difference for both the company and the student,
yeah, let’s figure this out! Whatever you need, let’s
these opportunities are a critical part of the
do it.’”
academic pathways that Bryant students follow. Bryant especially seeks internships in emerging areas of student interest – non-profits and health care to name two. In certain instances, students can learn and gain experience while working remotely from campus. So, whether you live and work in Providence, Los Angeles, or
Lindsey Lerner ’15 with student interns Arnav Vaid ’20 (center) and Matthew Merolla ’19, at Level Exchange in Pawtucket, RI
Join Bryant.AlumniFire.com to share your expertise, and email the Amica Center for Career Education at careers@bryant.edu when you are ready to post a job or internship for a Bryant student.
London, there is a student who would benefit from your expertise.
Marissa (Faenza) Crean ’81 Vice President, National Alumni Council
Want to offer a Bryant student a chance to learn on the job? Join Bryant.AlumniFire.com to share your expertise and email the Amica Center for Career Education at careers@bryant.edu when you are ready to post a job or internship for a Bryant student.
Alumni Webinars We continue to add new webinars to our schedule. If you have a topic you would like to propose, please email us at
alumni@bryant.edu.
To register and learn about more webinars, visit
alumniconnect.bryant.edu/webinars
ALUMNI AND PARENT NE TWORKING EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018
The Art AND Science of Negotiations with Beth Carter ’85, P’18, P’20
Expert facilitator and dynamic speaker Beth Carter ’85, P’18, P’20 will reveal how to negotiate in your professional and personal life.
View more pictures at facebook.com/bryantalumni/photos
June 2 | Portsmouth, RI Always a great crowd for Bryant’s Tailgate Picnic at Polo in Newport! Among the 175 guests, the group below are fellow Bryant travelers from our 2016 Cuba trip. Pictured (L to R) Back Row: Jeff Hiltpold ’98, Marcia Connors, Bill Neary, Donna (Barber) Neary ’82, Robert Magown ’75
May 2 | New York, NY Bryant Football Coach James Perry attracted a large crowd to hear about the upcoming football season at a reception at Stout in New York City.
Front Row: Tracy Hiltpold, Jane Magown, Jerry Connors ’62, Judith Higgins ’73
June 6 | Beverly Hills, CA California area alumni, parents, and friends gathered for an exclusive reception at the Viceroy L’Ermitage where Dave Pezzullo ’89, COO of Herbalife Nutrition, shared his story. Pictured (L to R): Jeff Geida ’96, Kristen FioravantiBucci ’07, Chris Bucci ’08, and VP for University Advancement, Dave Wegrzyn ’86.
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 | October 2018
COLLEGIAL COMMUNITY
Daryl Crockett ’82 to be inaugural Grant Thornton Visiting Executive
I
“My Bryant education prepared me
ndustry leader and ValidDatum
Daryl (David)
Program at Bryant seeks to bring expert
for a broad array of employment and
resources to campus to offer students
Crockett ’82 is the inaugural Grant
entrepreneurial experiences,” Crockett
the broadest possible exposure to the
Thornton Visiting Executive at Bryant,
says, “and I’m eager to bring that
most contemporary and pressing issues
part of a new program scheduled
experience back to help a new generation
in business today.
on campus for October 10-12.
of students prepare for their futures.”
Founder and CEO
“Daryl Crockett’s industry leadership
Consistent with the University’s
“Bryant University has always been a leader in educating young
commitment to academic excellence
and expertise bring invaluable insights
people for success in business, and
and education of the whole person,
to our students,” says College of
Grant Thornton is dedicated to helping
Crockett’s focus as Visiting Executive
Business Dean Madan Annavarjula,
communities and people to grow,
is on topical areas of interest in today’s
Ph.D. “The Visiting Executive’s
develop, and unlock their potential,”
business world. With a broadly diverse
participation at Bryant will further
says
and impressive background, Crockett’s
distinguish both Bryant University for
Chief Operating Officer of Grant
expertise will benefit students in
its cutting-edge educational programs
Thornton. “We’re pleased to be able to
all disciplines, but particularly Data
and Grant Thornton for its commitment
facilitate the interaction between Daryl
Science, Information Technology,
to the development of Bryant students
Crockett and Bryant students who can
Entrepreneurship, and Global Supply
into successful leaders in the global
benefit so much from her expertise.”
Daryl (David) Crockett ’82 Grant Thornton Visiting Executive
marketplace.”
the challenges and rewards of
in 2013. She is an active Bryant alumna,
entrepreneurship.
lending her experience and expertise
Chain majors. Her topics of discussion include data privacy and security, supply chain economics, and
In her multi-day engagement at Bryant, she will interact with students and faculty in a number of different
to multiple student competitions and other alumni engagement events. A recognized leader in data,
ways, including lectures, classes,
she is also a degreed accountant
one-on-one mentoring, and meetings
with a background as an innovative
across the campus. Her keynote address
international consultant and C-level
is titled The Dawning of Data Privacy &
executive. Crockett’s wide array of
Data Security – What This High-Stakes
industry experience includes the life
Game Means for U.S. Business.
sciences, software, government, media,
Crockett founded ValidDatum –
P. James “Patrick” Brady III ’81,
Brady is also an active Bryant
Grant Thornton LLP (Grant
alumnus, and in addition to steering a
Thornton) is the U.S. member firm
successful Grant Thornton recruitment
of Grant Thornton International Ltd,
program on campus, is the benefactor of
My Bryant education prepared me for a broad array of employment and entrepreneurial experiences, and I’m eager to bring that experience back to help a new generation of students prepare for their futures. DARYL (DAVID) CROCKET T ’82
financial services, and manufacturing
P. James Brady III ’81
a data privacy, data migration and
fields. She is also the co-author of
one of the world’s leading
the Barbara and
validation software and services
several software patents and has
organizations of independent audit,
Sophomore International Experience
company – after winning the Bryant
co-invented a number of software
tax, and advisory firms. The new
Scholarship. He is also the Chair of the
New Venture Business Plan competition
solutions.
Grant Thornton Visiting Executive
College of Business Dean’s Council.
C A M P U S V I S I TS M A D E P E R S O N A L Frank ’68, ’72 MBA, Ph.D. and Amy (Olivelli) Pontarelli ’65 of Lincoln, RI, and Boca Raton, FL, toured the Bryant campus this summer and stopped for a photo under the Archway. Frank was a member of the 1968 Class Steering Committee for his 50th Reunion. The Archway, formerly used as the entrance to South Hall on the East Side Campus, was moved to the Tupper Campus in Smithfield through the generosity of the Class of 1968 as a link between the old campus and the new.
Be sure to contact the Office of Alumni Engagement if you plan to visit.
Rohan Shah ’06, from India, visited campus in August with his wife Meghna, daughter Viana and friends Kevin Martin ’06, Bianca Camasso, Kristina Antal ’06, Joe ’06 and Ashleigh Hansen.
June 7 | Santa Ana, CA
June 12 | Chicago, IL
System Pavers Co-Founder Doug Lueck ’86 shared his career story at an alumni and parent reception in Santa Ana.
Chicago area alumni and friends enjoyed a special reception at Fig & Olive. Lori Coakley, Ph.D., P’17, P’20, Professor of Management, brought the campus perspective to Chicago, sharing her energy and updates on the University.
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.
June 9 | San Diego, CA
June 13 | Rochester, NY
Our Bryant network in California is a mix of transplants from the East Coast and a growing number of local families from Southern California whose children are attending Bryant. San Diego area lacrosse players, alumni and parents got together at the home of Steven ’69 and Lily Cowen for an informal afternoon barbecue.
Alumni and parents welcomed Dean of the College of Business, Madan Annavarjula, Ph.D., to Rochester for an informal reception. The Dean shared insights about academics at Bryant and the role our community plays in student success.
Engage | October 2018
3
Bryant Announces Fully Online MBA Degree
B
ryant University recently announced the launch of a fully online Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program starting this December. It answers the national call for business leadership and continues Bryant’s 155-year tradition of innovation and continuous evolution. Bryant has been a leader in the MBA arena for 50 years, and the Bryant MBA Online is Rhode Island’s first fully online MBA from an AACSB-accredited institution. Bryant’s Graduate School of Business has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International since 1994, and the school has offered the Master of Business Administration degree since 1969. More than 6,300 Bryant alumni, who are distinguished leaders in organizations across the country and around the world, hold a Master’s Degree from Bryant’s prestigious graduate programs.
The things that made this program so appealing to me personally: the flexibility, the cost is tremendously competitive, and it’s Bryant... I am absolutely convinced that the faculty will be invested in my success. W. DUSTIN GOLDSTEIN ’95, ’20 MBA enior Vice President S at U.S. Bank, Head of Corporate Banking Treasury Management Sales Division Chicago, IL “The Bryant MBA Online is an extension of Bryant’s world-class graduate business education,” said Provost Glenn Sulmasy, J.D., LL.M. “Our innovative MBA program is now available to alumni and aspiring leaders from all over New England, and indeed, from around the world.” The Bryant MBA Online program incorporates all of the hallmarks of the Bryant education: world-class faculty, innovation, technology, analytics, leadership, collaboration, global perspective, and invaluable and practical capstone experiences. Students will benefit from the same personal attention, resources, and award-winning facilities that distinguish all Bryant academic programs. In addition, every student in the program will have a dedicated academic success coach to help navigate the process, set priorities, stay on track, and get the most out of the program. “Bryant University’s business programs are consistently recognized and ranked
REUNION@
P R O G R A M OV E RV I E W • The Bryant MBA Online will launch December 2018 • Students from around the U.S. and the world can enroll • Flexible 10-course self-paced program with five start times each year, no prescribed sequence. Can be completed in one year while working full-time • GMAT waiver with qualified work experience
Reunion@Homecoming 2018 had a picture-perfect fall weekend for the festivities. Bryant celebrated a win on the football field, and alumni from the classes of 1948 through 2018 came back to campus to reconnect and reminisce. Setting the record for reunion attendance was the Class of 1988, with more than 100 members back on campus. The 50th Reunion Class was inducted into the Archway Society in a special ceremony with President Machtley.
• Tuition less than $22,000 ($2,150 per course plus $495 for Strategies for Success intro course) • Applications are now being accepted among the very best in the country,” said Madan Annavarjula, Ph.D., Dean of Bryant’s College of Business. “The new MBA Online is just one example of how we continue to enhance and strengthen these programs to be aligned with industry needs and students’ professional aspirations.” Designed for working professionals looking to advance in their careers, the new Bryant MBA Online will prepare graduates to enhance the performance of their organizations by building strategic leadership skills and knowledge. The schedule is flexible and self-paced, featuring five start times each year and no prescribed course sequence. Students may complete the 10-course program in as little as one year while working full-time and balancing personal commitments. Bryant faculty will equip students with the analytical, technological, and interpersonal skills required to meet the challenges of working in a diverse and global marketplace. Through the MBA Online, students will develop an understanding of foundational business knowledge; learn how to apply this knowledge to evaluating, analyzing, and solving business problems; and develop expertise in combining values-based leadership decision-making with business problem-solving.
To learn more about the MBA Online or other graduate programs at Bryant, visit BeInDemand.bryant.edu or contact Shaina Vandemoortele at 401.232.6205 or svandemoortele@bryant.edu.
Distinguished members of the University community cut the ribbon on the new turf field, setting the stage for a Bulldogs win against Robert Morris.
Fans cheered the Bryant Bulldogs to victory, and Tupper II made his Reunion@Homecoming debut.
ALUMNI AND PARENT NE TWORKING EVENTS
June 14 | New York, NY The Wall Street Council held its Annual Networking Event on June 14 at the New York Athletic Club. Bryant Dean Madan Annavarjula, Ph.D., shared the strategic initiatives underway for College of Business. Pictured (L to R): WSC Member Kendal Cehanowicz ’11, WSC Member Samantha Mirwin ’12, and Gregory Marino ’14
4 Engage | October 2018
View more pictures at facebook.com/bryantalumni/photos
June 19 | Denver, CO
June 28 | Boston, MA
What a fantastic group we had in Denver! Nearly 50 alumni and friends came together for a festive networking reception at Elway’s Steakhouse.
Over 100 alumni helped welcome the newest alumni group, the Class of 2018, to Boston. This reception was held at Coppersmith, one of South Boston’s most unique hot spots.
Pictured (L to R): Laura Kemp ’09, Douglas Mable, P’14, Aubrey Mable ’14, and Jazmin Stoner ’12
June 19 | Hingham, MA Parents Council members Mary Wheeler Grape, P’21 and Jo-Anne and Ed Anderson, P’17, P’20 hosted a welcome for parents and students from the Class of 2022 into the Bryant family at the Black Rock Country Club. Pictured (L to R): Meg Magee ’89, P’19, P’22, Sam Magee ’22, Jim Magee ’88, P’19, P’22, John Svensen ’22, Bret Bilyou ’22, Jennifer Bilyou, P’22, and Linda Svensen P’22
Pictured (L to R): Elizabeth Oluokun ’18, Lauren Leedberg ’18, Alexandra Ortiz ’18, Charlotte Cortez-Ortega ’18, Alyssa Goodwin ’18, Molly Gearan ’18, and Alison Feehan ’18
HOMECOMING 2018 Setting a record attendance among this year’s reunion classes, the 30th reunion for the Class of 1988 was not to be missed. Classmates gathered on Friday for a wine tasting hosted by their own classmates Vin Pina and Dieter Kamm. On Saturday, a live, five-piece band brought back memories as they celebrated by the pond.
The 50th reunion Class of 1968 gathered on Saturday evening for their induction into the Archway Society. To see more pictures, visit
facebook.com/bryantalumni/photos
Whether sharing a beverage with new friends or taking a selfie with classmates, Bryant alumni came back to reflect and reminisce about their time on campus.
July 12 | New York, NY Talk about a great crowd! New York area alumni came out in full force to welcome the Class of 2018 to the Big Apple at a beautiful reception overlooking the Hudson River.
June 30 | Amsterdam
July 19 | Providence, RI
Alumni met in Amsterdam on June 30th and then boarded the exquisite Celebrity Eclipse on July 1 for a 12-night Baltic cruise with stops in historic European and Scandinavian ports to and from St. Petersburg, Russia.
On a beautiful evening outdoors at Tavolo on Federal Hill in Providence, alumni, parents, and friends enjoyed a wine tasting and paired dinner surrounded by great company. Pictured (L to R): Bradley Adams ’17, Mary Moroney, Linda Matoian ’87, Robin Warde P’17, Kathy (Skierkowski) Brooks ’74, Carol (Carlson) Shibley ’73, P’98, and Sara Larrabee ’13
August 2 | Louisville, KY Thank you to our Louisville, KY alumni Micaela (Coakley) ’07 and Mike Skura ’07 for joining us for dinner and welcoming the Bryant University Student Alumni Association to the area. We had a fantastic time.
Engage | October 2018
5
I N V E ST I N E XC E L L E N C E
Celebrating the 2018 Champions for Philanthropy
T
he distinguished recipients of the 2018 Champions for Philanthropy awards are James S. Richardson ’68 and Shirley Ann Richardson, Outstanding Consecutive Giving Society members, and Mary and George Agostini, Outstanding Friends of the University. A gala dinner honoring the transformative role of leadership giving and celebrating this year’s Champions for Philanthropy award recipients was held September 21st. The Bryant University Board of Trustees and President Ronald K. Machtley honored the outstanding philanthropy of Robert P. Brown ’86
and Kathleen M. Brown, P’19.
Their multimillion-dollar cornerstone investment in Bryant’s historic capital campaign, Expanding the World
of Opportunity: The Campaign for Bryant’s Bold Future, is one of the
largest gifts in Bryant’s history. The University’s award-winning academic innovation center has been named the Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center in recognition of the couple’s philanthropy. [See story, page 1] The Browns were the 2014 Outstanding Alumnus Champions for Philanthropy. The tradition of honoring some of the University’s most generous
James S. ’68 and Shirley Ann Richardson
join us in a philanthropic partnership that grows stronger each year. That transformative partnership is reflected in the success of future generations of students who are inspired to excel at Bryant.
OUTSTANDING CONSECUTIVE GIVING SOCIETY MEMBERS
James S. Richardson ’68 and his wife, Shirley Ann, have been making gifts to Bryant for more than four decades. Their early gifts signaled gratitude to the place where they met and where James earned a degree that enabled him to teach high school
The 2018 Champions for Philanthropy join an esteemed group of alumni, trustees, parents, and friends of the University whose private philanthropy is an investment in excellence that galvanizes others to join us in a philanthropic partnership that grows stronger each year. benefactors as Champions for Philanthropy began in 2009. The 2018 recipients join an esteemed group of alumni, trustees, parents, and friends of the University whose private philanthropy is an investment in excellence that galvanizes others to
business courses and later, enter the business world as an accountant who rose to CEO of the J.R. Group, overseeing a family business that encompasses four thriving automobile dealerships. Through the years, their
George and Mary Agostini, pictured here with scholarship recipient Catherine Benetti ’18. commitment to Bryant has been marked with regular and significant gifts, including generous pledges to the Campaign for Bryant in 2000 and the current campaign, Expanding
the World of Opportunity: the Campaign for Bryant’s Bold Future.
James, who received Bryant’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1995, also supported Bryant through nine years of service as a member of the University’s Board of Trustees. Shirley serves their community as a Trustee of Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice in New Jersey. For these Outstanding Consecutive Giving Society Members, giving consistently, year after year, is simply “the right thing to do.”
OUTSTANDING FRIENDS OF THE UNIVERSITY More than a decade ago, a call from President Ronald K. Machtley checking the status of a new residence facility cemented a business deal with George Agostini, Chairman and CEO of Agostini Bacon Construction Company, and launched a philanthropic partnership with George and Mary Agostini. That partnership, reflecting the couple’s deep Catholic faith, has impacted Bryant students in life-changing ways.
Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center inspire current and future students to excel at Bryant and beyond,” says Brown. University President Ronald K. Machtley, beginning his 23rd year at Bryant, noted “We are extremely grateful for the leadership philanthropy of Bob and Kathleen Brown, which has helped us to build a facility that will inspire current and future generations of students to excel. The Quinlan/ Brown Academic Innovation Center advances academic excellence and redefines the future of teaching and learning in higher education.” A committee of faculty members advised on the project; graduate and undergraduate classes from both Bryant’s College of Business and College of Arts and Sciences are taught in the space. The facility naming honors the legacy of commitment to education forged by three generations of the Brown family and is a lasting tribute to Robert Brown’s parents, Russell
6 Engage | October 2018
and Janice Brown, P’86, P’92; his maternal grandparents, Jeremiah and Madeline Quinlan; and his paternal grandparents, Lawrence and Fannie Brown.
BUILDING FOR INNOVATION Opened in September 2016, the 48,000-square-foot Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center is an innovative facility for teaching and learning that has garnered national recognition. The culmination of years of strategic academic review, the building was designed by awardwinning architect Kip Ellis of EYP Architecture and Engineering. Gone are the rows of seats and lecture dais that served higher education for centuries. Instead, flexible spaces within the AIC are designed for a wide variety of innovative teaching and learning styles, developing leadership and design thinking skills through real-world simulations, rapid prototyping, social entrepreneurship
Impressed with the campus culture, Bryant’s focus on developing ethical leaders with character, and the leadership of Ron and Kati Machtley, the couple established a multi-year Partners in Scholarship fund to honor George’s late brother, Dominic
Agostini ’74.
The Agostinis’ generous gift in support of Expanding the World
of Opportunity: The Campaign for Bryant’s Bold Future incorporates
and permanently endows the existing scholarship as the Agostini Family Endowed Scholarship. The gift also provided major support for the University’s Christian Campus Ministry, and their continuing support funds programs, events, and activities that help Christian and Catholic students deepen their faith through service, spiritual development, and educational programming. Each year, students return from Alternative Spring Break opportunities with perspectives and lives transformed through their service. Mary and George Agostini exemplify an essential lesson that our students learn through service and model with leadership – Life is about helping others.
continued from page 1
and service learning projects, flipped class delivery, group work, and more. Distinguishing features of the building include the Janikies Family Innovation Forum, a flexible, lightfilled space for enhancing academic excellence designed with moveable furnishings and advanced technology, and the Murray Family Charitable Foundation Admission Presentation Room. These spaces are complemented by flat classrooms, tiered classrooms, team breakout rooms, group study space, lounge seating, and a café where students and faculty gather for respite from rigorous problem-solving. “Bryant’s Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center has become a catalyst for transformational education,” said University Provost Glenn Sulmasy. “It provides an environment for our dedicated faculty to prepare students for exceptional success whether they seek to make their mark in the corporate world, in politics and law, or in the arts and sciences.”
The Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center is the centerpiece of Bryant Builds, the largest and most transformative facilities initiative since Bryant’s move from Providence to Smithfield 45 years ago. In total, the effort added more than 250,000 square feet of academic and athletic facilities. The landmark construction is made possible by nearly $80 million in leadership gifts received for Bryant’s capital campaign. Nearly 22,000 alumni, parents, and friends of the University have contributed to the campaign, which has surpassed $90 million.
Gifts of any size help provide Bryant students with new opportunities to excel. Please contact a gift officer today by calling 877.353.5667.
Residence hall renaissance reaffirms commitment to 360 Bryant experience
F
or more than 50 years, philanthropy has played a crucial role in providing for the exceptional learning environment that makes the Bryant experience unique. In 1967, Earl S. Tupper, former president of Tupperware Corporation, donated 220 acres in Smithfield to Bryant. His generosity paved the way for Bryant’s transformational move to Smithfield, where the University has grown and flourished at the new Tupper Campus, dedicated in 1972. A key feature of the new campus was residential living, where students would learn from world-class scholars and executives-in-residence during the day and then immediately put those lessons to the test in vibrant co-curricular student life programs. This purposeful integration of
Residence halls have been renovated, upgraded, and renamed across campus.
Today, Bryant’s residence life is a key component of the total Bryant experience. More than 95 percent of all first-year students, and 76 percent of the student body overall, choose to live on campus. academic and student life programs has become an enduring hallmark of the Bryant experience – one that enhances learning while forging deep connections that last a lifetime.
Today, Bryant’s residence life is a key component of the total Bryant experience. More than 95 percent of all first-year students, and 76 percent of the student body overall, choose to
C A P I TA L C A M PA I G N U P DAT E the first choice for more prospective students than ever before. Scholarships have brought a Bryant education within reach for talented and ambitious undergraduates from 25 U.S. states and 23 countries, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Your gift each year makes a lasting impact on our campus, our faculty, our academic programs, and – most importantly – our students. As the new semester gains momentum, the Bryant community is thriving, enriched by the many people whose stories are shared in these pages – including transformational experiences of world travel, vibrant co-curricular programs, and a passionate commitment to helping others. Our recent Reunion@Homecoming brought together alumni from all eras and decades for a weekend of reminiscing with classmates, while providing some special opportunities to recognize some of Bryant’s most generous contributors at our Champions for Philanthropy gala. The naming of the Quinlan/Brown Academic Innovation Center, in appreciation for one of the most generous gifts in our history, is an especially powerful example of how philanthropy is helping to bring our bold vision into focus. Ceremonies marking the first night game under the new lights
live on campus. Our residential facilities provide students with their home for four years, as well as space for group projects, study, social gatherings, and more. In addition, the residence halls provide space for essential offices including Health Services and the Office of Residence Life as well as offering ready proximity to classes, the Krupp Library, Chace
Wellness and Athletic Center, and Fisher Student Center. Every square inch of the Bryant campus works hard to advance student learning and development, and over the years our residence hall facilities have worked very hard. To support the residential needs of Bryant students today and tomorrow, the University has embarked on a Residence Hall Renaissance. One of the first things you’ll see is that formerly numbered halls have been renamed to highlight Rhode Island locations from Westerly to Warren. Numerous interior upgrades include brighter lighting and finishes, contemporary lounge spaces for respite from study, new restrooms, and provision for cooking so that students have an opportunity to observe and share their cultural traditions.
To participate in this initiative and learn more about how you can make a difference in the life of Bryant students by investing in their residence life experience, please contact a member of the University Advancement team at 877.353.5667 or email Executive Director of Development Edward Magro, J.D., emagro@bryant.edu.
continued from page 1
at Beirne Stadium and its new state-of-theart turf field were celebrations of the passion and enthusiasm that are hallmarks of Bryant Athletics. The momentum we have built together continues to break records: 455 members of our Bryant Leadership Council (an increase for the fifth consecutive year), and gifts from more than 1,700 Bryant parents. These and other contributions in fiscal year 2018 David C. Wegrzyn ’86 resulted in our raising more than $18 million Vice President for in total revenue – University an all-time record Advancement at Bryant University. Thanks to the success of our first-ever Bryant Giving Day last spring – inspiring more than 1,900 gifts, directed to every one of our academic departments and programs – the event is now positioned to take its place among our important traditions. Mark your calendars for March 27-28, 2019! As we celebrate these amazing accomplishments, the Bryant spirit reminds us that we are not finished yet. Our capital campaign recently passed the $90 million mark – shattering our original goal of $75 million, and we are well on our way to our new goal of $100 million. Thanks to the support of philanthropic partners like you and so many others, our future is brighter than ever before. Your gift each year makes a lasting impact on our campus, our faculty, our academic programs, and – most importantly – our students. With each new graduating
$100 million $95 m
$91 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
class, engagement and participation are rising throughout our network of 50,000 alumni around the globe. And, for the Class of 2022, still learning their way around campus, your investment in Bryant will make the difference between a good education and a transformational experience.
$5 m
KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING Please contact a gift officer at 877.353.5667 or visit
bryant.edu/giving
to give online today.
Engage | October 2018
7
K I INNG EAXC DEI FLFLEERNECNEC E I N VMEAST
K E N N E T H M I D D L E TO N ’ 6 3 G I F T W I L L P R OV I D E S C H O L A R S H I P S U P P O R T
1963 European business tour inspires the life and legacy gift of Bryant alumnus
I
n his senior year at Bryant,
Kenneth R. Middleton ’63 faced
an extraordinary opportunity: to embark on a 41-day business tour of eight Western European countries with 10 fellow students and a favorite faculty member, Wallace S. Camper. The cost was $1,100 – a considerable sum for the hard-working commuter student from Pawtucket, RI, who had earned a business administration degree in management with Summa Cum Laude honors. But Middleton seized the moment and set sail one day before graduation. When he returned – inspired by meetings with European business leaders and their culture – his outlook on business, travel, and career had been transformed. That formative experience created a bond with Bryant that Middleton held dear. Later in life, as he reflected on a career in finance with Marsh & McClennen and Exxon that included executive posts in London, Peru, Rio de Janeiro, and the Caribbean, he decided to name the University as a beneficiary in his estate plan. When Middleton died in October 2017 following a sudden and brief illness, his generosity was revealed.
The components of his philanthropy plan – which include an IRA and a percentage of proceeds from the sale of a business he owned in Florida – created one of the largest legacy gifts in Bryant history. The Kenneth
Middleton ’63 Endowed Scholarship Fund will provide annual scholarship
He knew the value of education and what it did for him. He had no heirs and felt the best thing he could do with his assets was to give students the opportunity he had. EARL HANDRIGAN KEN MIDDLETON’S CLOSE FRIEND
support for a Bryant undergraduate with demonstrated financial need. Middleton’s long-time companion, Emmy Johnston, and close friends Mary Moroney, former Director of Library Services at Bryant; and Earl Handrigan, appreciate that Middleton’s memory will live on
through his scholarship. The couples traveled the world together. “He knew the value of education and what it did for him,” notes Handrigan, who had known Middleton since junior high school. “He had no heirs and felt the best thing he could do with his assets was to give students the opportunity he had.” “Ken was a great intellectual, a humanist, and very well-read,” recalls Moroney. “He earned his MBA at Wharton School of Business and was third in his class. And after that first trip on the SS France with Bryant, he never stopped traveling.” Johnston confirms that Professor Wally Camper was a major influence on Middleton’s life. “That European study trip inspired him to work for a company where he could live in Europe. That was a big part of his
Kenneth R. Middleton ’63 life and what encouraged him to go to Wharton.” Middleton passed on another legacy that everyone is quick to recount. “Ken loved to teach children to fly fish,” says Johnston. “He taught all my grandchildren, our neighbor’s kids, and Earl’s grandson.” Handrigan concurs, “As soon as they were old enough to hold a fishing pole, Ken would spend hours teaching them.”
A legacy gift can open a world of opportunity for Bryant University students. Share your inspiration by including Bryant in your estate planning. Contact a gift officer today by calling 877.353.5667.
Recent gifts to Bryant Hillel affirm University’s commitment to support a vibrant Jewish community on campus
B
ryant’s focus on creating a home for Jewish values, culture, and faith at the University continues to attract essential support. Rabbi Steven Jablow, the Jewish chaplain and University lecturer who serves as the director for Bryant Hillel, is
“Bryant values and Jewish values are a perfect match.” That observation – and an early gift to Bryant Hillel from Bruce Shatz ’62 and his wife Nancy that enabled Rabbi Jablow to raise programming to the next level – convinced him and
than 550 campus chapters of Hillel International, the world’s largest Jewish student organization. Other program elements include Rabbi Jablow’s full-time availability as a chaplain to the Bryant community and a Judaic studies course – with a waiting list for enrollment – that he teaches. The initiative’s vision and success recently inspired a $100,000 gift from
Arthur ’60 and Carole (Oliner) ’59 Sukel to establish the Hillel Program
Charles ’70 and Anne German with Rabbi Steven Jablow and the new ark – made possible by their generous donation – that will house Bryant University’s new Torah scroll. thrilled – but not surprised – by the recent outpouring from generous benefactors. Shortly after he began his work at Bryant as a part-time chaplain seven years ago, “I saw how Jewish culture and ethical teaching fit with Bryant’s goal of educating students of character who were going to use their influence in a moral manner and make a difference in the world,” he explains.
8 Engage | October 2018
Bryant President Ronald K. Machtley that a strategic initiative to establish a “home” for Jewish students at Bryant could grow and thrive. The multi-prong program is now in its fourth academic year. Its centerpiece is a revitalized Bryant Hillel that sponsors a full schedule of cultural, social, and religious activities and events. First established in 1948, Bryant Hillel is one of more
Endowment Fund that bears their names. The fund will support programs for Jewish students, as well as for students identified with other faiths or no faith, that enhance their spiritual development and leadership skills; provide educational and travel programs focused on Jewish culture and teachings; and promote an understanding of the history, culture, business, and contemporary life of the State of Israel. The Sukels, who are long-time and generous supporters of the University, participated in the alumni trip to Israel sponsored by Bryant Hillel in May 2018. “We think the Rabbi is doing a terrific job and we would like to see his programs progress,” explains Arthur Sukel, who endorses the focus on welcoming students of all faiths to Hillel programs. “The more we interact with each other and understand our religions,
We can offer many different ways of bringing the community together – to grow spiritually as well as academically. A vibrant Jewish community on campus benefits the University as a whole. RABBI STEVEN JABLOW our commitments, and our concerns, the better off this world will be.” Rabbi Jablow deeply appreciates how this level of support advances the visibility and impact of Jewish life and values at Bryant. “Gifts like this from the Sukels help spread the word about our program and grow our reputation. I receive many more calls from parents now than I did three years ago. ‘Tell me about Jewish life at Bryant,’ they say. ‘What’s going on?’” Another milestone was reached with the gift of a Torah scroll, made to Bryant Hillel with assistance from the family of Samantha Scoca ’18. Her Bat Mitzvah during her senior year, in April 2018, was the first ever held at Bryant. The Torah scroll was previously in the possession of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Bayside, NY. Following its appraisal and repair, it will be conveyed to Bryant Hillel continues on page 9
SOCIAL MEDIA
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Stay in touch and stay involved with alumniand parent-related events and news.
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NEW: Inspired to Excel blog inspiredtoexcel.bryant.edu
Recent gifts to Bryant Hillel continued from page 8 in a hand-embroidered mantle, which will bear the names of the benefactors, the Lerner and Winter families. When the Torah scroll is received at Bryant, it will be stored in an ark, custom built in Israel. Funding for the construction and delivery of the ark was provided by Charles German ’70, who attended a Bryant Hillel alumni event in Florida and learned of Rabbi Jablow’s desire to acquire a Torah scroll. The presence of the Torah scroll is significant. “As our Jewish community grows, we will be able to provide more opportunities to use the Torah in a traditional manner,” explains Rabbi Jablow. “It sends a message to potential students that we’re serious about the growth of Jewish life on campus – not just culturally or socially, but also religiously. We can offer many different ways of bringing the community together – to grow spiritually as well as academically. A vibrant Jewish community on campus benefits the University as a whole.”
To support Bryant’s Hillel community and help students build character throughout their college educations, please make a gift today at bryant.edu/giving.
M S P M
Facebook Alumni Association facebook.com/bryantuniversity
LinkedIn Alumni Association
N
M P
twitter.com/bryantathletics @bryantathletics
facebook.com/BryantAthletics
Instagram instagram.com/bryantathletics
linkedin.com/groups/51303
Instagram Bryant Alumni instagram.com/bryant_alumni
Facebook Family & Friends facebook.com/familyandfriends
Just a few of Bryant’s many social media accounts.
E N D O W E D S C H O L A R S H I P E S TA B L I S H E D BY A M I C A I N S U R A N C E C O M PA N Y
Watkins Snead ’06H remembered
T
he sudden passing of
Cheryl Watkins Snead ’06H
in January 2018 left a great void in Rhode Island’s business community. As founder and CEO of Banneker Industries, she built a small manufacturer of precision machine components into an award-winning international supply chain management company. The first African-American woman to earn an engineering degree from the University of Massachusetts, Watkins Snead was widely recognized as a champion of professional opportunities for women and minority students. Her business acumen was matched by a passion to serve and improve her community and her nation. In recognition of her leadership and professional accomplishments, Amica Insurance has established
The Cheryl W. Snead H’06 Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund at Bryant with a gift of $100,000. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to female students and/or students of color in good academic standing with demonstrated financial need.
“We’re honored to remember Cheryl Watkins Snead with this memorial scholarship, as it will be a lasting legacy to her many contributions to the Rhode Island community and beyond,” Amica CEO Robert A. DiMuccio said of Snead, who served on the company’s Board of Directors since 2000. “In addition to her extraordinary
Cheryl Watkins Snead ’06H business accomplishments, Cheryl was also a dear friend who genuinely took an interest in the success of others.” Watkins Snead served on the Board of Trustees at Bryant University and worked with
faculty and staff to create the University’s L.I.F.E. program, which introduces minority youth to business and professional career opportunities. She was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Business Administration from Bryant in 2006. A former member of the Board of Trustees at Amica Insurance Company, Watkins Snead also served in board positions with the Greater Providence RI Chapter of The Links, a nonprofit comprised of women focused on leadership, education and service; the Federal Reserve Advisory Board in Boston; the Textron Chamber School; and WaterFire. In addition to national recognition from U.S. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, Watkins Snead was named a Women’s Business Enterprise Star in 2009 and inducted in the Women’s Business Hall of Fame in 2014. She was recognized as New England Businesswoman of the Year by Bryant University’s Women’s Summit and was featured nationally in numerous industry publications.
Engage | October 2018
9
I N SSPPIIRREEDD TO TOEEXC XCE LE L
J U N I O R D . J A B B I E ’0 6 , ’ 07 M B A :
J OA N WAT E R S ’83:
The best choice I ever made Working harder than the average bear J unior D. Jabbie ’06, ’07 MBA
knew he wanted to play football and
couldn’t have known it at the
pursue an MBA, so he went with what he
time, but when he was an undergrad
now calls “the best choice I ever made”
student-athlete who skipped dinner
when Bryant recruited him. He received
at Salmo one night to attend a guest
his B.S. in Business Administration in
speaker presentation at a graduate-
2006 and his M.B.A. in 2007.
level class, his life was about to change. The class was Operations Management, and the guest speaker was
Cheryl Watkins Snead ’06H,
Jabbie, who enjoys travel and sports, makes sure to work fitness into his daily routine. An intensely driven person by nature, he was recently named to the
Bryant University Trustee, and Founder,
Providence Business News “40 Under 40”
CEO, and President of Banneker
list. He credits his athletic training –
Industries. Following the talk, Professor
and the rigorous Bryant curriculum
Christopher Roethlein, Ph.D., suggested
– with helping build his discipline,
that Jabbie look into an internship at
determination, and business agility.
Banneker. Neither of them realized that
ffice furniture is a great deal
and credits the sport with helping teach
more than just where people
her discipline, hard work, how to compete,
work or sit, says
Joan Waters ’83;
from Bryant makes it easy for Jabbie to
program at the time.
stay in touch, and he frequently visits
extremely fortunate that her teammates
culture. In today’s competitive world,
are her best friends even today – their
organizations need to create spaces
lifelong friendship is another important
that reflect their brand and foster an
by-product of her time at Bryant.
environment to help attract the best
student programs. “It feels like I never
“Eventually, they brought me in for
left!” he jokes.
“ Bryant was a great education. To this day, I believe that my college education was a big part of why I am where I am today.” – Joan Waters ’83
But he’s serious about giving
an interview.”
back. “Networking shouldn’t be a
“ Networking shouldn’t be a transaction. It’s going out and meeting as many people as you can, and trying to help out as many of those people as you can in one way or another. All those seeds you plant will grow.” – Junior Jabbie ’06, ’07 MBA
Waters felt so positively about her Bryant experience that she was proud
and brightest employees.
the campus to participate in events and
sent multiple emails,” Jabbie says.
and how to be part of a team. She feels
it’s an important part of a corporate
Working just a few minutes away
Banneker didn’t have an internship “But I called, multiple times, and
O
Waters never set her sights specifically
to be a part of a new era of Bryant
on office furniture, but shortly after
basketball by providing an entire suite
graduation, she got an unexpected
of state-of-the-art COFCO-supplied
opportunity to join a large supplier in
furnishings for the team room and the
Maryland. Soon, she found herself in the
men’s and women’s locker rooms,
role of that company’s “fixer” – turning
renovation of which is expected to be
around poorly performing locations up
completed this fall.
and down the East Coast.
Waters says she feels fortunate to
She later joined COFCO, where she
work with an extraordinarily talented and
excelled under the invaluable mentorship
committed team at COFCO, and says she
transaction,” he says. “It’s going out
of owners David and Alan Einstein.
is proud to be carrying on a remarkable
and Jabbie would find himself on an
and meeting as many people as you
She eventually became a partner, and
corporate culture established by her
accelerated career growth trajectory,
can, and trying to help out as many of
later put together a deal to purchase
predecessors.
starting as an intern, and culminating
those people as you can in one way
the company. Today, she is CEO of the
in his appointment as President and
or another. All those seeds you plant
$40 million full-service provider of
don’t think about the fact that 70 families
CEO of the supply-chain-management
will grow.”
office furniture and related services.
– not 70 people, but 70 families – are
Headquartered in Philadelphia, the
depending on the decisions I make. I take
His energy and persistence paid off,
company this year, following Snead’s
For Banneker, his vision for the
“There isn’t a day that goes by that I
unexpected death in January, 2018.
future includes expansion to scale
company serves clients all over the
that responsibility extremely seriously,”
(See related story, page 9)
their third- and fourth-party logistics
country, from six-person startups to
she says.
services and solution-engineering
Fortune-500 clients, and Waters says her
that Snead appreciated in the young
competencies. And he wants to continue
time at Bryant gave her the foundation
author Stephen Covey still helps guide
employee, and she took him under her
Snead’s legacy of “inspiring and
she needed to ascend to leadership.
her leadership style: “seek first to
wing, mentoring him through several
encouraging people to do more than
years of progressively more responsible
they thought they ever could.”
It was Jabbie’s energy and drive
assignments at the company, which is
Among the many new initiatives
headquartered in North Smithfield, RI,
Jabbie has implemented at Banneker
and has operations in four other states.
are a formal internship program and
“Bryant was a great education,” she
A timeless piece of advice from
understand, and then to be understood.”
says. “To this day, I believe that my
Becoming a good listener, she says, is
college education was a big part of why
an important leadership skill.
I am where I am today.”
But that’s not the only secret to her
She and her husband, a two-time
success. “The number-one reason I’m
a leadership development track, so
cancer survivor, are avid cyclists, and
successful,” she adds, “is my willingness
Washington, D.C. metro area, Jabbie
that he can help introduce young
are passionate about raising money
to work harder than the average bear –
barely knew where Rhode Island was,
professionals to career opportunities,
for cancer research.
it makes up for a whole lot of other
much less Bryant University. But he
the way Snead did for him.
Born in Silver Spring, MD, in the
Waters played basketball at Bryant,
ALUMNI AND PARENT NE TWORKING EVENTS
August 18 | Edgartown, MA Barbara and Paul Pertile, P’21 and Chris and Anthony Mignanelli ’73, co-hosted our alumni and parent reception at the Edgartown Tennis and Yacht Club. Men’s Tennis Coach Ron Gendron, P’22 was also in attendance and provided the group an update on Bryant Athletics.
10 Engage | October 2018
shortcomings!”
View more pictures at facebook.com/bryantalumni/photos
August 19 | Chatham, MA
August 19 | Carolina, PR
Bryant Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Glenn M. Sulmasy, J.D., LL.M., P’22, shared insights about what’s new on campus with a group of alumni, parents, and prospective students.
Bryant is a home away from home for more than 30 students and dozens of alumni from Puerto Rico. Pictured are a few of our students at the Summer Reception to welcome the Class of 2022 to the Bryant family.
Pictured (L to R): Lillian Tantimonico ’17, Emily Desmarais ’17, Lori (Matellian) Hall ’85, P’20, Kathryn Hall ’20, Taylor Garvey, Hannah Garvey ’22, August 29 | and Stacy Garvey, P’22
Glastonbury, CT Now that’s a CT group! Thank you to all the alumni, parents, and friends that came out to Rooftop 120 on a very humid afternoon and had a blast catching up and meeting new friends.
IN MEMORIAM G R E G O RY J . V E L A N D E R ’ 01 :
Blending logic and creativity to propel business
G
regory J. Velander ’01 likes
work. He started his career there
data. It’s been a common thread
17 years ago, fresh out of school and eager to make a difference.
throughout his career – one he can
He spent his college summers
trace all the way back to a database design class with Professor Wallace
working in the Bryant Office of
Wood, Ph.D. It opened his eyes to just
Conferences and Special Events, where
how powerful and revealing data can be.
it wasn’t unusual to spend 80 hours a
At the time, he couldn’t know just
week coordinating and managing event
how important data would become to
details. Velander credits that experience
his future, but in his role as the new
with helping polish his communication
Director of Technology Innovation at
and other professional skills which
Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode
prepared him for interviewing, and
Island, data plays a critical role, leading
eventually securing a great job out
to insights that help improve patient
of school. A soccer coach for his kids’ teams,
care and outcomes. “Today, data is everything that we
Velander also enjoys staying active with
do. It’s everywhere, and it’s critical to
sports like surfing, basketball, tennis
what we do at my organization.” And
and golf. Sports like these helped him
far from being boring, he says, data
bond with his close-knit group of
enables creativity – allowing him to
college friends – many of whom he
create solutions from scratch that solve
remains in touch with today, both
problems and propel business forward.
personally and professionally. “We had
His is a new role, created to help IT
a very diverse set of majors among us,
take a more visionary leadership role at
and keeping up those connections really
Neighborhood, where digital tools and
helps when I need expertise from other
data analytics are transforming faster
disciplines.”
Remembering members of the Bryant community who have passed away. Notices from 6/21/18 to 9/4/18 SHIRLEY (FINE) SZABO ’44 March 22, 2018
DAVID A. SHAKER ’51 July 11, 2018
DORIS (WEINGARD) PIKE ’56 January 15, 2018
MARY (DERDERIAN) BEDROSSIAN ’46 August 22, 2018
JOSEPH J. GIMLEWICZ ’52 May 30, 2018
ROBERT H. FORREST ’57 February 26, 2018
JOHN G. WINTERS ’52 August 14, 2018
RALPH A. GLASSEY ’57 May 31, 2018
JOHN J. FITZGERALD, JR. ’53 July 4, 2018
WILLIAM C. MACHABEE ’57 April 5, 2018
JOHN J. RISICA ’53 July 21, 2018
MARY (GROMKO) COUGHLIN ’58 August 18, 2018
EDWILDA (WOJCIK) LYONS ’46 February 10, 2018 HELEN (DZIADUL) UMBERFIELD ’46 July 7, 2018 PATRICIA (MCGARRY) GALE ’47 June 27, 2018
MARY (GRASSO) LENZ ’54 April 21, 2018
EUGENE N. STEVENS ’48 August 20, 2017
ROBERT J. SOKOLOSKI ’54 May 29, 2018
HOWARD E. MOWRY, JR. ’49 May 4, 2018
RICHARD G. MATARESE ’55 May 23, 2018
A. DONALD MERCIER ’51 June 5, 2018
ROBERT C. WHITAKER ’55, ’73 MBA April 11, 2018
DOMENIC FANDETTI ’58 March 16, 2018 DONATANTONIO GERARDI, JR. ’58 July 15, 2018 GERALD E. LOVELY ’58 August 10, 2018
F E B R U A RY 8 - 16 , 2 019
Travel through the Panama Canal and Costa Rica aboard the sailing ship Wind Star
“ Always be honest, never take what others do for granted, and treat everyone with respect.” – Greg Velander ’01
than the industry can keep pace with.
Growing up in North Kingstown, RI,
The not-for-profit organization’s
Velander knew he wanted a business-
mission is to provide high-quality,
related degree, and felt strongly
low-cost access to healthcare for Rhode
that Bryant would be his best option
Islanders, currently serving some
for career preparation. He started in
200,000 of them.
finance, then dabbled in marketing, but
Recently named to the Providence
it was his computer courses that really
Business News “40 Under 40” list,
captured his imagination, offering him
Velander says what gets him out of
just the right combination of logic and
bed in the morning is being part of a
creativity, he says.
motivated, creative, teamwork culture
Voyage from the Pacific to the Atlantic through one of the greatest man-made wonders of the world, the ingenious Panama Canal. An $800 deposit per person is due upon reservation; a $200 per-person Costa Rica pre-program or post-program option is also available. All reservations made on or before October 22, 2018 are eligible for early booking prices starting at $4,795, double occupancy, per-person booking.
His advice for leadership success?
like that at Neighborhood – recognized
“Always be honest, never take what
last year by that same publication as
others do for granted, and treat
one of Rhode Island’s best places to
everyone with respect.”
Learn more at alumniconnect.bryant.edu, or contact Alumni and Parent Engagement with questions at 401.232.6040 or alumni@bryant.eduant.edu/travel and let us know where you’d like to go!
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.
Engage | October 2018
11
D E E P, L I F E - LO N G C O N N E C T I O N S PA R T N E R S H I P S
C A L E N DA R October
November
Smithfield, RI
Kingston, RI
October 12-14 Family and Friends Weekend
November 6, 5:30-7 p.m. Reception & Bryant Bulldogs Men’s Basketball @ URI Ryan Center
Brooklyn, NY October 13, 2-4 p.m. Bryant Reception Brooklyn Cider House
Smithfield, RI October 18, 7 p.m. President’s Cultural Series: Copley Chamber Players Trio
Charlotte, NC October 18, 6-8 p.m. Bryant Patio Reception Fahrenheit restaurant
Las Vegas, NV October 21, 1 p.m. Brunch Honey Salt
Chicago, IL October 22, 6-8 p.m. Reception Gibsons Italia
Minneapolis, MN October 23, 6-8 p.m. Reception Crave Galleria
Lincoln, RI October 24, 6-8 p.m. Alumni/Student Networking Night Amica Mutual Insurance
New York City, NY October 25, 6-8 p.m. Wall Street Council Reception
San Francisco, CA October 25, 6-8 p.m. Honors Program Reception Bay Club, SF Tennis
Fairfield, CT October 27, 1 p.m. Tailgate & Bryant Bulldogs Football @ Sacred Heart
La Jolla, CA October 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bryant Brunch
Notices from 4/20/18 to 8/4/18
Seattle, WA November 11, TBD Reception & Bryant Bulldogs Men’s Basketball @ Seattle University
New York City, NY November 14, 6-8:30 p.m. CEO Alumni Panel and Reception @ Grand Central Tech
Boston, MA November 15, 6-8:30 p.m. An evening reception with an expert from BNY Mellon Wealth Management
August 4, 2018 | Ningbo, China Lina Zhao ’16, ’17 MBA and Tianfang Song ’15
Washington DC November 17, 1 p.m. Reception & Bryant Bulldogs Football @ Howard University
Annapolis, MD November 18, 2 p.m. Reception & Bryant Bulldogs Men’s Basketball @ Navy
December Smithfield, RI December 5, 5:30-7 p.m. Festival of Lights
New York City, NY
April 20, 2018 | Dedham, MA Megan Strumpfler ’10 and Daniel Donnellan ’10
June 2, 2018 | Glastonbury, CT Alaina Umbach ’13 and Alex Clausen ’13
December 7, time TBD Reception and Bryant Bulldogs Men’s Basketball @ Columbia
Huntington Beach, CA December 8, 5-9 p.m. Holiday Boat Parade
January 2019 Alumni/Student Career Advice Nights
Boston, MA January 8, 6-8 p.m. at Liberty Mutual
Hartford, CT January 9, 6-8 p.m.
New York City, NY
June 16, 2018 | Warwick, RI Melissa Grieco ’12 and Matt Llewellyn ’12, ’13 MBA
January 16, 6-8 p.m.
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.
ADDITIONS Notices from 1/1/18 to 5/31/18
2010 Scott and Jessica (Beck) Weiner ’10 welcomed their son, Ryan Zachary, on May 25, 2018.
2016 Jason Boulay ’16, Melissa Boulay and their son Liam Boulay welcomed twin boys, Jameson Miles and Luke Hendrix Boulay, on January 18, 2018.
1998 Stacy Farber ’98 and Keith Revoet welcomed their second daughter, Lana Fay FarberRevoet on March 22, 2018. 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).
July 27, 2018 | Bryant Campus, Smithfield, RI Emily Kaup ’13, ’15 MA and Ryan Narwold ’13
September 23, 2017 | Nahant, MA Shannon Wheeler ’09 and Colby Butler ’09
Send wedding photos that feature a group of Bryant alumni to alumni@bryant.edu. Contact us in advance to receive a complimentary Bryant banner. We receive more photos than we can print for each issue of Engage. To view all wedding photos received since the last issue, as well as the names of alumni in attendance, please visit facebook.com/bryantalumni. Submit your “Partnerships” and “Additions” to the Office of Alumni Engagement by emailing alumni@bryant.edu or enter a class note through our online directory at www.bryant.edu/alumni.
c o n tac t u s
s t ay i n t o u c h
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To submit personal or professional news and photographs, visit our website at bryant.edu/alumninews.
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e d i to r - i n - c h i e f
e d i to r s / w r i t e r s
c a l e n da r l i a i s o n
Robin Torbron Warde, P’17
Victoria Klesseck ’14
by searching “Bryant Alumni.” Join Bryant’s secure online community by going to
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Mad Creative Jennifer Zevon
Kathleen Brown Tyler Brum ’13 Donna Harris, P’03 Nancy Kirsch Stephen Kostrzewa Karen Maguire, P’18 Jeffrey Stupakevich Patricia Viera
Contact us at alumni@bryant.edu or (401) 232-6040 with questions or ideas for future stories.
12 Engage | October 2018
Sarah Garnsey d e s i g n /p r o d u c t i o n
project specialist
Leslie Bucci ’77
a r c h way s o c i e t y ( loya l g u a r d ) l i a i s o n
Donna Harris, P’03 a lu m n i r e c o r d s l i a i s o n
Rita Colburn a lu m n i w e b m as t e r
Chardé Hunt-Jeanty ’17