BACK, LOOKING FORWARD G N I O G
Reunion Gala 2016 •Iona College•
BECKWITH POINTE • NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.
Reunion Weekend 2016 REUNION GALA & AWARDS CEREMONY Saturday, May 14, 2016 BECKWITH POINTE • NEW ROCHELLE, NEW YORK
mission statement Iona College is a caring academic community, inspired by the legacy of Blessed Edmund Rice and the Christian Brothers, which embodies opportunity, justice, and the liberating power of education. Iona College’s purpose is to foster intellectual inquiry, community engagement and an appreciation for diversity. In the tradition of American Catholic Higher Education, Iona College commits its energies and resources to the development of graduates recognized for their ethics, creativity and problem solving abilities; their independent and adaptable thinking; their joy in lifelong learning; and their enduring integration of mind, body and spirit. (adopted may 2, 2012)
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May 14, 2016 Dear Alumni, Family and Friends, Welcome to Iona College’s Reunion Weekend 2016 – Going Back, Looking Forward. How wonderful it is that you have come back to the campus of your beloved alma mater, to reunite with former classmates and reminisce about your time at Iona College. The College is especially pleased to welcome the Classes of 1966 and 1991, who are celebrating their respective 50th and 25th anniversaries. In line with the theme of Reunion Weekend, Iona College has spent the last year looking back on our 75 years of history as an institution of higher education. We are blessed that each and every one of you is a part of our history – you are what makes Iona College what it is today. Now, as our celebrations come to a close, we look forward to all that is ahead for the College and our community. The College continues to be molded and shaped every day by students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends who all leave an indelible mark in our history. Tonight, the College is honored to recognize several deserving alumni for their commitment and service to the College and community. Congratulations to Cornelia Award recipients Linda M. Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd and Michael P. Hegarty ’66; Doyle Award recipient Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA; Driscoll Award recipient Nesta Felix ’01; Loftus Award recipients Vincent Beni, Ph.D., ’71, ’74MS, and Matthew P. Byrne ’81; and Durning Award recipient Evita T. Robinson ’06. The College extends its deep appreciation for all that these individuals do on our behalf. Thank you for attending this year’s Reunion Weekend and for remaining a part of the Iona College community. We remain inspired by your dedication and blessed by all that you do for the College. Iona College will always be your home, and we will always be your family. I look forward to your continued presence on our beautiful campus for many years to come. Best regards,
Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. President
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Dear Fellow Alumni and Friends, After a two-year hiatus as president of the Alumni Board, I am so pleased to again be able to welcome you to Reunion Weekend. We recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of our founding and I’m sure that Brother Cornelia would be amazed at how far his little College has come! Our eighth president, Joseph Nyre, Ph.D., has led the College to a place of prominence in the collegiate world, and because of this we can continue to be proud of our alma mater in so many different ways: academically, athletically and socially. Speaking of athletics, we are so very proud of our men’s and women’s basketball teams who both won their MAAC Championships, which earned them each a berth in the NCAAs. Our Reunion theme of “Going Back, Looking Forward” says it all. Going back to the days we spent in the College Diner and looking forward to the beautiful residence hall that will take its place! This is also the evening to honor our fellow alumni for their personal and professional achievements. Please join me in congratulating the following award winners. The Brother William B. Cornelia Award for Outstanding Service to Iona – Linda Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd and Michael Hegarty ’66, The Brother John G. Driscoll Award for Humanitarian Service – Nesta Felix ’01, The Patrick B. Doyle Award for Distinguished Service to the Alumni Association – Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA, The Brother Arthur A. Loftus Award for Outstanding Achievement – Vincent Beni ’71, ’74MS and Matthew Byrne ’81, The Brother Robert A. Durning Rising Star Award – Evita Robinson ’06. I would like to extend my gratitude to the Internal Affairs Committee who spent countless hours researching and evaluating the many deserving alumni candidates. I would also like to thank the staff of the Alumni Relations Office for their dedication and support. And in closing, I would like to thank you, the alumni, for attending and for your support of Iona College. Please continue to keep us in your hearts and in your prayers. Remember… IONA FOREVER! Sincerely,
Monica L. Judge ’70 President, Alumni Board of Directors
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Procession Iona College Pipe Band President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. Paul J. Sutera, Senior Vice President for Advancement & External Affairs Monica L. Judge ’70, President, Alumni Association Board of Directors Br. Harry Dunkak, Ph.D., ’51, Professor Emeritus
Program Welcome Remarks Paul J. Sutera Senior Vice President for Advancement & External Affairs Monica L. Judge ’70 President, Alumni Association Board of Directors Invocation Br. Harry Dunkak, Ph.D., ’51 Professor Emeritus Master of Ceremonies Elizabeth Faia Orgera ’10MBA Director of Alumni Relations Ceremonial Remarks Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. President Presentation of Alumni Awards Dinner Student Remarks Ashley Hubaykah ’16 Presentation of Class Gifts Alma Mater Dancing Channel One Band
Alumni Awards 2016 The Iona College Alumni Association is honored to present the following awards: The Brother William B. Cornelia Founders Award for Outstanding Service to the College, named for the founding president of Iona, was inaugurated in 1961. Bestowal of this award is intended to show the Association’s appreciation for those who have generously given of their time, resources and energies for the betterment of the College.
LINDA M. BRUNO ’76, ’79MSEd MICHAEL P. HEGARTY ’66 The Brother John G. Driscoll Award for Humanitarian Service recognizes members of the Iona Community who, by their activities and service to others, have reinforced Iona’s identity as a College founded in the tradition of the Congregation of Christian Brothers and American Catholic higher education. This award, established in 1995, is named in honor of Br. Driscoll, sixth president of the College, who by his example, imbued all with the spirit of scholarship, vision and humanitarian service.
NESTA FELIX ’01 The Brother Patrick B. Doyle Award for Distinguished Service to the Alumni Association was instituted in 1968 in memory of one of the founding faculty members of Iona. Br. Doyle was revered as a classical scholar, a naturalist and a spiritual father to all Ionians of his era.
CLAIRE MUNGIGUERRA ’75, ’78MBA The Brother Arthur A. Loftus Award for Outstanding Achievement recognizes and honors Ionians who have brought acclaim to the College by brilliant accomplishments in their chosen careers. This award, dating back to 1965, perpetuates the memory of Iona’s second president, Br. Loftus, who was also on the original faculty of the College.
VINCENT BENI, PH.D., ’71, ’74MS MATTHEW P. BYRNE ’81 The Brother Robert A. Durning Rising Star Award, in its inaugural year, is named for Iona’s beloved alumni and faculty member, Br. Robert A. Durning ’69. It honors recent Iona graduates who have already brought acclaim to the College through achievements in their respective fields. Brother Durning was a dynamic and gifted teacher who touched the lives of many students. With this award, we honor his commitment to excellence and the pursuit of lifelong learning by recognizing these outstanding young professionals.
EVITA T. ROBINSON '06 The award selection process begins each winter. The evaluation process takes several months of individual and collective efforts by members of the Alumni Board’s Internal Affairs & Research Committee. Selection of award recipients is done by a committee vote after consideration of all available information on nominees. Ratification of proposals from the committee is by the Alumni Association Board of Directors.
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About the Honoree: Linda M. Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd Linda M. Bruno is the president of Bruno Sports Enterprises at Eclaro, an intercollegiate athletics consulting and search firm, which she established in 2010. Additionally, Bruno has served as commissioner of the Skyline Conference since 2011, which adds to her 30 years of experience at the college conference level. Bruno was the commissioner of the Atlantic 10 Conference for 14 years, during the time it evolved into one of the most prominent basketball conferences in the country. In addition to overseeing the expansion and growth of the conference, Bruno negotiated the conference’s first extensive ESPN contract, while also securing an Emmy award for her oversight of the Atlantic 10 Television Network. Prior to being named commissioner of the A10, Bruno served as associate commissioner for 12 years at the Big East Conference, during its meteoric rise through the 1980s. Bruno’s career in athletics began at Iona College, as an assistant to the director of athletics/basketball coach, the late Jim Valvano. After earning her master’s degree in 1979, Bruno served as the first academic advisor for student-athletes and then worked as an assistant athletics director at Yale University before joining the Big East Conference staff. Bruno has also served on the faculty of the Goodwin School at Drexel University, teaching graduate courses in athletics administration. She was named to Street and Smith’s Top 40 Executives in athletics administration twice and has served on numerous NCAA committees. In addition to her master’s, Bruno earned her undergraduate degree from Iona. She is a member of Iona’s Board of Trustees and serves on the committees for both Athletics and Student Life/Mission, and is a member of the Iona Athletics Hall of Fame. In honor of her parents, Bruno has established the Michael and Lillian Bruno Endowed Scholarship which is awarded annually to a deserving student. Bruno is a native of New Rochelle and currently resides in Manhattan.
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A note of thanks: Linda M. Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd I am honored to receive this award this evening, especially to share it with such esteemed company as my fellow board member, Mike Hegarty. This is truly very special and I thank Dr. Nyre and the Alumni Association for bestowing this on me. When I think about my time at Iona, I am reminded of the old Christmas movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” in which Jimmy Stewart’s character thinks back on his past and wonders what would have happened to him and others if events had altered the decisions he had made. What if… •
My parents were not insistent that Iona was the only college I should attend? I would have probably made a huge mistake and gone somewhere just to annoy them. We were all 18 once, right?
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I had not been in the Church Key after an evening graduate course the night JB Bono ran into me to say the athletic director, Jim Valvano, was looking for an administrative assistant? I would have just finished my master’s degree at Iona and returned to teaching, instead of taking the job which led me to a career path I have followed for 40 years.
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I was not nice to the student worker who kept wandering into my office in hopes of bumping into my sister (Michelle ’82)?
I would not have a brother-in-law, who really is my brother, Ron Ritz ’82, or a niece, Jen ’08, who played for our basketball team or nephew Michael ’13, who was the Ionian Sports Editor and sports radio host.
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I did not love everything about Iona, have a great experience as both a student and employee enough to always keep Iona in my life?
I would never have had the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees, and not only give back to Iona, but to experience the College’s transformation from a small commuter school to one that offers a full and rich residential college experience.
Iona has been a constant in my life and so much more than an institution that granted me two degrees. Learning from books can be accomplished anywhere. Learning life lessons, making ‘forever’ friends and never wanting to lose touch with your alma mater are very special gifts that I will continue to carry with me for the rest of my life. The teachings in the spirit of Edmund Rice and the Irish Christian Brothers educated me, but it is the great experiences I had outside of the classroom that nurtured me both professionally and personally and shaped me into the person I am today. And, because of that, it has been and will continue to be a wonderful life. Thank you always, Iona.
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About the Honoree: Michael P. Hegarty ’66 Michael Hegarty’s career spans 40 years in the business world and is defined by numerous leadership positions. He served as senior vice chairman and chief operating officer of AXA Financial. In addition, Mr. Hegarty was the president and chief operating officer of Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States, a wholly owned subsidiary of AXA Financial. He was also a member of the Boards of AXA Financial, Equitable Life, Alliance Capital and Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette (“DLJ”). From 1995 to 1997, Mr. Hegarty served as vice chairman of Chase Manhattan Bank, following his position as vice chairman of Chemical Banking Corporation and as senior executive vice president of Manufacturers Hanover Trust. Mr. Hegarty’s management responsibilities covered a broad spectrum of finance, investment and asset management and business operations and technology. In his leadership role in banking, he served as head or co-head of retail and consumer banking including mortgage banking, investment funds management, credit card, consumer and branch operations and products. He also oversaw energy banking, middle market banking and real estate finance. Mr. Hegarty has also been active since retiring. He has served on the Boards of Brookfield Office Property, Rouse Properties, Capmark Financial and Emigrant Bank as well as serving as a trustee of the Mass Financial Services Mutual Funds. Mr. Hegarty has been active in the not-for-profit world. He currently serves as chairman of the Community Preservation Corp, Historic Hudson Valley and chairman-elect of the Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center. He is a trustee of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, co-chair of the Iona Forever campaign as well as vice chairman of the Marine Corps Association and trustee of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. After graduating from Iona College, Mr. Hegarty served as Marine Corps Infirmity Officer in Vietnam and was awarded a Bronze star with a Combat V. Mr. Hegarty, with his wife Anita, resides in Briarcliff Manor. Mike and Anita have three sons, Matthew, Sean and Timothy.
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A note of thanks: Michael P. Hegarty ’66 Thank you to the Iona community and to all of you. Almost 54 years ago, as a 17-year-old first generation college student, I walked on the Iona campus and I could have never envisioned what my life was to be. In the 50 years prior to my coming to North Avenue, the world suffered through two World Wars and the Great Depression and was firmly ensconced in the Cold War, things that our current generation read about in history books. In the 50 years since my graduation, we have avoided a global war but have witnessed all too much conflict and suffering. Today, America is engaged in a national conversation in how we raise up our people. One constant in that dialogue is education. I know that without my Iona education I would not have had the same life that I was fortunate to enjoy. Iona had just turned 25 years old when I graduated. Today, we have just celebrated our 75th year as an institution of higher education. Lots of changes have come to 715 North Avenue during that time...as evidenced by our magnificent campus. But one thing remains as it was...our mission and commitment to bring education to first generation students. Our Iona Forever campaign is designed to ensure that we will be able to continue on our mission. When a first generation student receives a degree, they are given one of the keys to raise up. Not just for themselves but the families that they will create. There is truly a multiplier effect to education. So, I ask you to support the Iona Forever campaign in any way you can. You will be making a great investment. Mike Hegarty
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About the honoree: Nesta Felix ’01 A native of St. Lucia and proud member of a large supportive family, Nesta Felix is excited about her calling to serve the community and youth. Nesta Felix is the executive director and founder of NewFlex Youth Programs Inc., a mentoring, leadership and sports program with its headquarters in Mt. Vernon, N.Y. Ms. Felix is currently being featured on CBS 1010 WINS as the Black History Month Person of the year. Nesta Felix and New Flex Youth were also featured on Good Morning America as its 2014 Holiday Hero for her ongoing work in the community and the impact on hundreds of families. Ms. Felix is driven to serve youth by creating opportunities for the less privileged, and connecting with leaders and programs that are willing to support the cause. She serves, partners and sits on the boards of various organizations, such as Backyard Sports Cares; YLTRAPPED, a sister program in Norwalk, Conn.; Hooperstown LLC, a basketball phenom in Mt. Vernon N.Y., MVP basketball in White Plains; Brant Lake Camp in Brant Lake N.Y.; among others who have provided support, scholarship and program opportunities for many NewFlex Youth members. Felix received a BA in English with a minor in prelaw from Iona College, in May 2001, and a Master in Business Administration from Monroe College in May 2008. She is an active athlete and women's basketball coach, having played collegiate basketball and volleyball at Iona College, in New Rochelle, N.Y. Felix later went on to assistant coach the five-time Regional Champions and two-time National Championship women's basketball program at Monroe College in New York for seven and a half years. During a brief college coaching hiatus, Felix took on the girls’ varsity team at Woodlands High School in Greenburgh, N.Y. for two and a half seasons and led them to a playoff appearance in both years at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. She then went on to serve as head women's basketball coach at Yeshiva University, where she changed the face of women's basketball in the Jewish community during her three-year tenure, being featured in the Daily News and the Jewish Channel for her leadership and coaching methods. During the 2013-14 season, she was named Coach of the Year for the Division III Hudson Valley Conference. Shortly after, she made a shift in coaching obligations. Ms. Felix has a passion for working with and mentoring diverse female groups. She is currently coaching high school volleyball at the KEIO Academy in Purchase, N.Y.; developing athletes among females in the Andalusia Islamic School, located in Yonkers, N.Y.; and working closely to incorporate young girls at the Yonkers group home facility, Julia Dyckman Andrus Memorial, into her program philosophy of mentoring and leadership. Ms. Felix still indulges herself in post-collegiate competitions, participating seasonally in NY Urban Professional Basketball and Volleyball Leagues, and others tournaments. Nesta Felix is passionate about moving youth and community forward and plays an active role in youth advocacy in Westchester and New York. She believes that sports is the perfect conduit to mentoring and building leaders among our youth.
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A note of thanks: Nesta Felix ’01 I am so elated and humbled by this honor. The experience at Iona College during my four years in undergraduate school plays an enormous part in the individual I am today. The campus student life, sports and academic experiences all were a pivotal part in my creativity and fuels my love for community, youth and family today. I thank those who have supported me and NewFlex Youth Programs, the machine by which God has allowed us to empower youth and community through mentoring leadership and sports programs. I would like to thank: my mother and father, Melcina Felix and Philip Felix, for instilling the values of love and unselfishness which have been the catalyst for caring for the community; my siblings (Erskin, Kesha and Kendall) for loving me unconditionally; the NewFlex Youth Program Board Members who continue to sacrifice their time to advise me and to serve the youth; my friend, sister and fellow Iona alumna, Marian Bobian, who has continued to stand the test of times and has stayed in difficult times; my business brothers and mentors, Danny Bernstein and Jeffrey Donovan, who have stood beside me unconditionally and continue to serve unselfishly from the inception of our vision; my dear friend, Joe Armenio, and the Hooperstown LLC family who continue to provide services for our children, along with other programs that have carried us and saved hundreds of children yearly through their generosity and scholarships; To all other extended family and friends who have endured and celebrated my overwhelming energy and have stepped in the trenches to impact our mission; and finally, to all the NewFlex youth and parents who I am proud of daily when I consider how much they have overcome. Thank you for allowing us to serve humanity and change lives. Thank you again Iona College. This is a wonderful time in my life. Nesta Felix
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About the honoree: Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA Claire Mungiguerra has a long career in the management of health care and nonprofit firms. Currently she is the executive assistant for the chief executive officer at Urban Pathways, a nonprofit organization that helps homeless New Yorkers get back on their feet through supportive housing and services. At Urban Pathways, she supports the CEO, serves as the liaison to the Board of Directors, and assists with the new housing development process. Claire is the former director of operations at Allegiant Home Care and the American Red Cross in Greater New York. Other home health care agencies include Partners in Care and Avalon Health Care Services. Iona provided the education and foundation for Claire to forge a successful career in addition to a lifelong commitment to philanthropy and volunteer service. Claire has been a member of the Iona College Alumni Board since 2007. She has served on the Executive committee as both Vice-president and President. Currently she is an Ex-Officio Member – as Past President of Iona’s Alumni Board of Directors. The New York Junior League, one of the nation’s oldest women’s service and training organizations, is also a nonprofit organization where Claire has volunteered for more than 20 years. She is a past member of the Board of Managers and Executive Committee. In 2003, she was honored with the distinction of Outstanding Volunteer. Claire has also served on the Iona College Advisory Trustees and the Christian Brothers Foundation. She received a bachelor’s degree (magna cum laude) and a Master in Business Administration from Iona College. Ms. Mungiguerra is married to Robert Mungiguerra, a lieutenant in the NYC Fire Department. They reside in New York City. Claire has three step-daughters and four grandchildren.
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A note of thanks: Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA Heartfelt thanks for awarding me the Brother Patrick B. Doyle Award for Distinguished Service to the Alumni Association. I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected among the many graduates. I want to congratulate Linda Bruno, Michael Hegarty, Nesta Felix, Vincent Beni, Matthew Byrne, and Evita Robinson on being recognized this evening as well. Iona College provided an educational environment that helped shape who I am today and for that, I am forever thankful. Iona has always been close to my heart; fellow alumni and professors have always generously provided support, advice and guidance. My Iona family has inspired me to be the best and strive to make a difference in every aspect of my life. To my family, my Mom and Dad, who helped to make it possible for me to attend Iona. They certainly would have been very proud this evening. And to my husband, Robert, who makes it possible for me to give back to my alma mater. I look forward to continuing my support of this wonderful institution and its alumni and students.
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About the honoree: Vincent Beni, Ph.D., ’71, ’74MS Vincent T. Beni graduated from Iona in 1971 with a BA in English and completed his master's in education at Iona in 1974. He earned his doctorate in 1981 from Fordham University. Dr. Beni completed a successful and satisfying 33-year career in public education in 2004. During that career he served as a teacher and basketball coach in New York City and Thornwood, N.Y. Beginning in 1980, he quickly rose through the administrative ranks, becoming an assistant principal and then assistant superintendent in Pearl River, N.Y. In 1987, Dr. Beni became the superintendent of schools in Hastings-on-Hudson, then Southern Westchester BOCES and finally in Irvington, N.Y. In his 18 years as superintendent, Dr. Beni compiled a legacy of significant accomplishments. Among those of which he is most proud include: • Significantly increasing academic achievement and opportunities for his students, resulting in statewide and national recognition for his schools • Working closely with his communities to successfully approve all 18 budgets and five capital referenda which he had proposed • Successfully recruited and developed a diverse faculty and administrative team • Demonstrated a passion and commitment to public education which has inspired eight of his former team members and two students to become superintendents of schools Vin has served in a leadership capacity with several national and statewide organizations, and has received several prestigious awards from organizations throughout the country. Following his retirement from public education in 2004, Dr. Beni embarked on and continues with a very successful consulting and philanthropic career during which he: • Completed 55 superintendent searches across the Northeast • Provided training and guidance to more than 20 boards of education • Developed and patented a boutique software application (CapProSoft) with his partner, and served as chief operating officer for 10 years for their company, Capital Projects Software • Provides services as a marketing consultant to Cenergistic, LLC • Works with the V Foundation (Valvano) for Cancer Research, particularly in the area of pediatric cancer research • Serves as US Ambassador for the Good Work Foundation, a not-for-profit which provides world class digital learning opportunities for children and young adults in remote areas in South Africa Vin has remained close to Iona, currently serving on the Goal Club Executive Committee. He and his wife Michele, Sarasota residents, have provided generous contributions to Iona’s capital campaigns and scholarship funds. Dr. Beni was recognized by the Iona Goal Club with its Donald Walsh Award at the 2015 Hall of Fame event.
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A note of thanks: Vincent Beni, Ph.D., ’71, ’74MS Dear Dr. Nyre, Board Members, Honorees, Alumni and Friends, It is with great pride and humility that I accept the Br. Arthur A. Loftus Award for Outstanding Achievement. I share this award with you, because it was essentially due to Iona College that the accomplishments recognized with this award were made possible. As a poor 10-year-old boy in NYC, whose father passed at 31 years old, leaving behind a 29-year-old widow and five young children, I could never have imagined gaining such recognition. Like many Iona graduates, I was the first among all of my immediate and distant family members to earn a college degree. The scholarship that Iona offered provided me with an exceptional education, and opened the door to a successful and rewarding career which focused on ensuring that all students had the same opportunity that I had. I am particularly pleased with Iona Forever, the wide-ranging vision and plan that Dr. Nyre, with the support of the Board, has brought to the College. Its focus on students and faculty is particularly significant for me. I sincerely hope its message and scope are well-received by all of us who have benefitted from our Iona relationship. In addition to its impact on my career, Iona has provided me with a tremendous outlet for my athletics interests. I have been fortunate enough to be a fan and supporter of the men’s basketball team since 1967, and have attended every post-season appearance except one (blizzard) since 1978. Along the way I have met many wonderful players, coaches, and staff members who have helped Iona gain recognition on the national stage. Thanks again for this honor. I am grateful to be part of the Iona family and will continue to support the College’s mission.
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About the honoree: Matthew P. Byrne ’81 Matty Byrne has been a leader in sales and customer insight for 30 years. His expertise in change management, developing talent and organizational optimization has led him to his current role as senior vice president of North American sales for USG Corporation, the world's leader in building materials and technologies. Matty is a well-respected leader throughout the industry and at USG, a company he has called home for more than three decades. In his role, Matty develops holistic sales plans that align corporate strategy with business objectives and leads key sales initiatives to impact the bottom line. He listens to the customer, and uses those insights to develop new products and campaigns that elevate USG’s position in the marketplace. His team is responsible for nurturing customer relationships and job site support for the entire portfolio of USG products. The magnitude of Matty’s leadership is seen every day through engaged teams, efficient strategies and strong results. Throughout his career, he has held many management positions in areas including national accounts, retail sales, distribution and operations. Prior to Matty’s current role, he held the position of vice president of operations for USG’s distribution subsidiary, L&W Supply Corporation. Matty holds a Bachelor in Business Administration from Iona College, and he is an alumnus of the Kellogg Management Institute of Northwestern University. He has also earned executive certificates from the Booth Business School of the University of Chicago. Matty is a proud member of Iona’s Goal Club Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in hockey, and supports his adopted Chicago Blackhawks. Matty lives in Cary, Ill., with his wife, Debbie, and their two children, Kristin and Matt.
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A note of thanks: Matthew P. Byrne ’81 Dear Dr. Nyre, Board Members, Fellow Alumni and Friends, First, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Linda Bruno, Mike Hegarty, Nesta Felix, Claire Mungiguerra, Evita Robinson and Vincent Beni for their outstanding accomplishments and well deserved recognition. I am very fortunate to be included among this extraordinary group of alumni. It is with great humility and pride that I accept the Brother Loftus Award for Outstanding Achievement. As a product of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Yorkville and Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx, I feel as though being part of Iona College was the next step in a natural progression in preparing me to move the world. I am constantly reinvigorated each time I come home to Iona. The guests I bring to Iona events are always impressed with the warm welcome they receive and the level of camaraderie they see amongst us; there are no strangers at Iona, just friends we haven’t met yet. I would like to thank my wife Debbie, daughter Kristin, and son Matt (another Gael), as well as my family for all of their support along the way. I especially want to thank the friends I have made at Iona for their counsel and support over the years. Finally, I thank all of the alumni of Iona and the many members of the Gael Nation. Whether it is on the athletic field, in business, or in our personal lives, the road always seems to come back to our Iona. “Fight the Good Fight” Matthew P. Byrne
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About the honoree: Evita T. Robinson '06 Evita Turquoise Robinson graduated from Iona College in 2006 as her undergraduate Commencement speaker, and now holds a Board of Director position with its Alumni Association. Since her first taste of Europe at the age of 21, Evita Robinson (Evie), has been to over 20 countries and lived on three different continents, as well as France, Japan and Thailand. After a year and a half of traveling around the world, she put her degree in television/video production to use, videotaping her life on the NomadnessTV web series. Evie came back to New York on a mission to bridge her love of production and a newfound need for travel. In September 2011, she created the Nomadness Travel Tribe, an online social community for travelers all around the world, who have the similarity of an urban background and were looking for likeminded travelers to connect with around the world. From the success of the online group, Evie thrust herself into the world of entrepreneurship, and in April 2012, launched the business home for all things Nomadness and travel oriented, Nomadness LLC. The group now currently surpasses 10,000 international members, with over 30,000 passport stamps. Based on the success of her business, Evie was named one of Clutch Magazine’s “11 Black Women Inspiring Us To Travel,” and the Tribe’s first ever NomadnessX group trip to Panama was featured in the July 2012 issue of Ebony Magazine. Evita was also featured in the Spring 2013 issue of UPTOWN Magazine, and the January 2015 Daily Beast. Evie has been featured as a travel expert on NewsOne with Roland Martin, Arise TV, and ABC7 in the Delaware, Maryland, Virginia area. On May 22, 2015, Nomadness launched the travel web docuseries, The NOMADNESS Project, executive produced by Issa Rae, and housed on her YouTube channel of over 200,000 subscribers. On August 3, 2015, Nomadness officially announced a merchandise partnership with the popular line, Rue 107, for their first-ever swimsuit collection, again innovating the reach of the travel group. The continuation of innovating the urban travel space has landed Nomadness in the pages of The New York Times, Mashable.com, and with airtime on Arise TV, News One with Roland Martin, NBC4NY, PIX11, MSNBC's Melissa Harris Perry Show, and as an Oxygen Channel feature for their 'In Progress' Campaign. On September 26, 2015, Nomadness spearheaded #NMDN, the first alternative travel conference of its kind, in NYC, during Tribe Anniversary Weekend. Previously, while in New York City, Evita worked in televsion and film production. Her resume included production work with names such as A&E, HBO, MTV, BET, BBC, Turner, the reality travel series Jet Set Zero, and Spike Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks. She now serves as a keynote speaker, and continues her love of travel photography and seeing the world with Nomadness, while writing her first book.
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A note of thanks: Evita T. Robinson '06 There are more emotions wrapped up in receiving this award than may meet the eye. Yes, it's my alma mater. Yes, it's a place that I lived for four years and it helped shape me into the woman I am today. Yes, it's built lifelong relationships. Yes, to all those things. But, to be a first in something is always a unique position. In spearheading the urban travel movement, as the first with Nomadness, I've seen both the beauty and the dark side of firsts. This first, however, is one of the most humbling I've ever experienced, less because of where it came from, less because of what I've done to receiving, and more to the credit of the person it's named after. Brother Durning is not an elusive Iona College figurehead to me. He's a professor who taught my favorite class in my four years. He was a pioneer who stood up, even to the school, for what he believed in. He was a first in many ways too, and I believe he saw both the beauty and the dark side of that as well. Brother Durning was a man, and professor, who put his students first. No question. He allowed us to be us, in the purest of forms. He allowed us to challenge, both him and each other. He simply allowed us to be. This allowed us to become great. There was a bit of pause initially on if I was old enough and accomplished enough to receive an award tonight. I commend the Alumni Board for seeing that the idea of success is changing with the times, and we must evolve with it. I commend the school for acknowledging that we have some younger alumni who are truly changing the scope of the world with their ideas, influence, and work ethic. Iona needs this award, so our young alumni feel supported by the greater Iona community. I am one of these people. I told my mother, senior year in high school, "I want to go to a school and be more than another social security number." My senior year of college I made a silent promise to myself, "Iona will never forget me, and one day one of these buildings is going to have my name on it." From 2006 Undergraduate Commencement speaker at Madison Square Garden, to the Brother Robert A. Durning Rising Star Award 10 years later. Not bad. Thank you, Iona.
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Alma Mater Iona, Alma Mater, Hail, all hail, to thee! We raise a cry to glorify Thy name where’er we be. To thee we owe allegiance; Abroad we spread thy fame; Throughout the world we praise thee, Proud to bear thy name. Great Columba, trusted patron Guide our College year by year. Founder of the first Iona, Sing we now in accents clear: Iona, Alma Mater, On high thy glories soar; Ionians go forth again To praise thee evermore. - G.P. Lyons, CFC
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Alumni Board of Directors Monica L. Judge ’70 President Carol A. Pagano Farish ’80 Vice President Juliet M. Cefaloni ’05 Treasurer Nicole M. Pawlak ’05, ’08MBA Secretary Directors
Thomas R. Leto, CFC, ’74
Thomas R. Aberle ’85, ’04MBA
Rita C. Mabli ’74, ’76MBA
Anthony Apuzzi ’89
Dahlia L. Madison ’88
Robert C. Baldino ’79, ’86MBA
Scott A. Mangino ’08
Brian P. Beyrer '01
Michael Meade ’02, ’03MBA
Kelly L. Brennan, Ed.D., ’96
Matthew C. Rizzetta ’05
Johnine N. Clark, Esq., ’84
Evita T. Robinson ’06
Tashica S. Clarke, NCSP, ’07, ’10MA
Vincent J. Sorrentino ’12, ’14MBA
Albert J. De Cristino, CFP ’68, ’74MBA, ’81MS
John A. Tangredi, Esq., ’73, ’75MSEd
Guy R. Falotico ’91
Jay G. Wegimont ’13
Jeffrey V. Farina ’83, ’02MBA Heather L. Foldessy ’97MBA
Claire L. Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA
William H. Giles ’73
Ex Officio Member – Past President
Joseph J. Guarracino ’89 Michaela E. Johnson ’05
Theresa A. Gottlieb, Esq., ’78
Michael J. LaPerch Sr. ’79, ’84MBA
Ex Officio Member – Board of Trustees Representative
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Reunion Class Representatives 2016 1956 John P. Gill, Esq. Frederick V. Romano Jr. 1961 John A. Beyrer, Ed.D. Alfred A. Rottino Jr. 1966 George A. Krumenacker Jr. Kevin J. McCullagh Paul J. Miklus Jr. Frank A. Pinto James A. Shea Jr. William J. Sullivan Albert E. Yorio, Esq. 1971 John M. Agostini Charles J. Carlson Joseph A. Mazzella
1976 Brian M. Cherico, Esq. Richard A. Marcus Margo N. (Kourkoutas) Morea, Ed.D. Maj. Roseanne Visco, Ph.D.
1996 Angela Cimminelo Breda McGowan Dade Brendan O'Rourke Jill Skotarczak
1981 Karen Glynn Corrigan Patricia J. (Reilly) DeLuca Joseph Igoe Edward F. Nicholas, Esq.
2001 Jason M. Ford, CFC Edward P. Keating
1986 Kara R. Martin John V. O'Sullivan George E. Talt 1991 Meg. L. (Turner) Dolan Timothy J. Horohoe Sheila L. Larkin Jennifer A. Moreland Sean G. O'Shea Geoffrey V. Rhett Tricia C. (Collins) Riccio Sean H.T. Waters
2006 Julieann (Benes) Bellor '09MA Anthony A. Carpentieri Matthew P. Cipriano Kristin M. Griffin '09MBA Brett R. Sohns 2011 Corey Fisher Baker Matthew T. Baker Bianca De Leon '13MA
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THANK YOU TO OUR JOURNAL SPONSOR
Rita Mabli ’74, ’76MBA
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Congratulations and best wishes to this year’s Jubilarians and Alumni Award Recipients You make Iona proud! Iona College’s Office of Advancement & Alumni Relations
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Thank you to our beloved Iona College, our alma mater, we love so well. In loving memory of deceased members of the class of 1966. We remember‌ Frank P. Acquanita '66 Joseph A. Aprea '66 Gandolfo G. Badagliacca Jr. '66 Charles M. Beekman '66 William J. Bell '66 Richard P. Biondi '66 Arthur E. Blossom '66 Rev. Gerald A. Boyle '66MA Kevin M. Broderick '66 Joseph J. Burns '66MA Anthony J. Campiformio '66 James R. Carcano Jr. '66 Charles F. Carroll Jr. '66 Rev. Msgr. Vincent T. Case '66MA Angelo J. Castellano '66 James O. Cecora '66 Captain Robert C. Cioffi, USAF, '66 Dr. Louis A. Ciota '66 Rev. Peter J. Cody '66MA Msgr. James F. Coyne '66MA Louis A. Credidio '66, '68MBA Vincent M. Cunningham '66 James X. Curran, CFC, '66 Paul J. Daigneault '66 Alfred W. Davis '66 Frank J. Demeter '66 Joseph A. DeSanto, Ph.D., '66MS Dr. Victor R. DeVita '66MA John P. Dineen, CPA, '66, '82MBA Robert J. Fausel '66 Alan R. Ferrazzano '66 Thomas H. Fitzgerald '66 David P. Ganeles, CPA, '66
Salvatore J. Geraci '66 Kevin J. Gillooly '66 Msgr. James T. Gorman '66MA Rev. Benedict J. Groeschel '66MA Peter Hadhazy '66 Frank D. Hanmer '66 Richard E. Hansen '66 Brendan F. Healy, CFC, '66 Jerome A. Heustis, CFC, '66 Paul E. Hirschauer '66MA Daniel P. Horan '66, '72MSEd Louis F. Jefferson '66 Thomas J. Kain '66 John J. Kavanagh Jr. '66 Lieutenant Richard C. Kavanagh '66 Stanley T. Kolan '66 James F. Kraus '66 Frederick J. Larkin '66 Father Dominic Leo '66MA Rev. Ronald Little '66MA Brian M. Mahoney '66 Rev. Msgr. Anthony L. Maltese '66MA Louis J. Mattaboni '66, '69MBA Mark A. Maus, CFC, '66 Thomas J. McArdle III '66 Rev. James T. McGuire '66MA James J. McKiernan Sr. '66 Rev. Joseph P. Meehan '66MA Stephen M. Melnyk '66 Dr. Anthony S. Milano '66MA Rev. Peter J. Mooney '66MA Martin J. Moran '66, '75MBA Raymond R. Morrison '66
With love and appreciation, Kevin J. McCullagh '66
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Edward J. Mullen '66 William E. Murray '66 John P. O'Rourke '66 Reverend & Mrs. O. Joseph Olas '66 Msgr. Francis E. Oliverio '66MA Dr. John A. Parrella '66 Lt. Francis L. Pearson, USA, '66 Fred W. Peterson '66 Charles J. Quigley '66 Rev. Peter Raich '66MA Edward A. Reynolds '66 Rev. Msgr. Eugene F. Richard '66MA Roger F. Romeo '66 Thomas B. Rutledge '66 Warren G. Sammer '66 Mario A. Sartori '66 Joseph E. Sherwood Jr. '66 John F. Silk '66 Gary R. Slotnik '66 Dr. Kenneth J. Sparks '66 George M. Squires '66 Rev. James E. Sullivan '66MA James W. Sullivan, Esq., '66 Salvatore J. Tripodo '66 Dr. James A. Unger '66 Msgr. Alfred A. Varriale '66MA Louis N. Ventresca '66, '70MBA P. Liguori Vorlick, CFC, '66 Bernard J. Wall '66 Donald E. Walsh '66 Rev. Francis Walsh '66MA
Congratulations to the 2016 Award Recipients and Jubilarians Best wishes for an enjoyable Reunion Weekend The Iona College Alumni Board of Directors
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Thank You for your love... ...for the African wilds, the African Safari experience and your contributions to community development in rural African areas. It has been wonderful to share many great African experiences with you and Michele. Ryan Hilton – Admiral Travel International
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VINCENT T. BENI A True Iona Alum - Even At The Great Wall Of China The Loftus Award is well-deserved as you inspire us all to make a good life great. Your commitment to quality educational opportunities for countless children and adults continues to be significant. Love you because you're you, Your soul mate, Michele Reunion Gala 2016
THANK YOU TO OUR CENTERPIECE SPONSOR:
Hugh P. Harold '80 Reunion Gala 2016
Claire Luppi Mungiguerra Everything about you is distinguished! You possess the very best characteristics of a leader: integrity, dedication, intelligence, and sophistication. It’s been a privilege and joy to volunteer with you and call you our friend.
Melissa Canoni | Cindy Cathcart | Maria Reina | Saundra Smith | Mary Beth Tully
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Congratulations, Vin and Michele! The Loftus Award for Outstanding Achievement honors not only Vin’s brilliant lifetime work in providing world-class education, but your never-ending devotion to Iona College throughout the years. Your friends at University Park, The Cerjans, Crouchs, Doninis, Grosses, Harmons, Katos, Mantias, Tidmarshs, Tureks and Woods
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is proud to support Iona College and Reunion Weekend 2016
8 N. 14th Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 914.667.2800 | rosepressinc.com Reunion Gala 2016
Congratulations on this prestigious award! Your hard work, enthusiasm, and especially your heart and soul have made this all possible for yourself, others, and your family. With love and pride, Mom, Jim, Pat, Eileen, Gene, Bob, Trish, Rich, Richard, and Robert
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Congratulations to the 2016 Award Recipients Vincent Beni, Ph.D., ’71, ’74MS Linda M. Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd Matthew P. Byrne ’81 Nesta Felix ’01 Michael P. Hegarty ’66 Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA Evita T. Robinson ’06 Your continuous success supports the rich legacy of Iona A very special and warm welcome to our Jubilarians from the class of 1966, and the class of 1991 celebrating their 25th Reunion.
“Certa Bonum Certamen” Paul J. Sutera Senior Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs
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Congratulations Claire! On being honored with the Brother Patrick B. Doyle Award for distinguished service to the Alumni Association. I am so very proud to celebrate your commitment to Iona College and on all your achievements. With love, Robert Reunion Gala 2016
Congratulations on your Award! From your Africa Friends Jennifer & Jim Vett, Celia & Paul Marchese Elizabeth & Herman Weber, Tami & Ron Broadrick
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Congratulations, Matty Byrne! We are so proud of your accomplishments, your commitment to family and friends, and the well deserved distinction of the Brother Arthur A. Loftus Award For Outstanding Achievement.
With love, Mom and Dad Debbie, Kristin and Matt Reunion Gala 2016
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We are proud to recognize this year’s Jubilarians and Alumni Award Recipients for their remarkable achievements and dedication to Iona President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. and the entire Iona College Community
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Celebrating The Iona College Reunion Gala Dinner! Congratulations to Claire Mungiguerra ’75, ’78MBA On being the recipient of the 2016 The Brother Patrick B. Doyle Award for Distinguished Service to the Alumni Association A well-deserved honor! Love always Carolyn T. Murphy ’98MBA and Theresa A. Gottlieb, Esq. ’78
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The Iona College Board of Trustees would like to congratulate fellow Board members Michael P. Hegarty ’66 and Linda M. Bruno ’76, ’79MSEd on the Brother William B. Cornelia Founders Award for Outstanding Service to Iona College
Congratulations to all of tonight’s 2016 Award Recipients and Jubilarians Reunion Gala 2016
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Good Work Foundation Honored to Congratulate USA Ambassador, Dr. Vincent Beni As well as his inspirational contribution to education in America, Dr. Beni has spent time in rural South Africa, visiting education projects that benefit the rural poor. This is part of Dr. Beni’s ongoing role of ambassador for our organization, the Good Work Foundation, a South African nonprofit that delivers digital literacy to adults and schoolchildren who live in rural and isolated areas.
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Thank you Office of Alumni Relations 715 North Avenue New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801 914.633.2390 www.ionaconnection.com Insta
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