Mount Magazine Summer 2025

Twice

Two Extraordinary Mount Presidents

Mount Magazine Summer 2025

PRESIDENT

Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D.

VP ADVANCEMENT

Patricia Hill-Callahan, C’87

VP UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS

Elizabeth C. Monahan

AVP & CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Josh Bonner

EDITOR

Donna Klinger

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Melinda D. Church

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Katherine Stohlman Pieters, C'20

WRITERS

Melinda D. Church

Donna Klinger

Laura McCullough

Nicole Patterson, M.Ed.'25

Katherine Stohlman Pieters, C'20

PROJECT MANAGER

Joy Klauder

PHOTOGRAPHY

Cody Cervenka

Avery Ferron, C'25

Donna Klinger

Tom Lesser

Mike Miller, Ph.D.

Corey Nolan

Rebecca Valentine, C'24, MBA'25

DESIGN

ArachnidWorks

PRINTING

Ironmark

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A Beacon of Knowledge, Faith and Hope

MOUNT INAUGURATES

GERARD J. JOYCE, PH.D., AS PRESIDENT page 27

Let’s commit to bold action, unwavering integrity and a collaborative spirit. Let’s keep learning, keep serving and let our work ripple outward, making a difference near and far. Together, we’ll ensure Mount St. Mary’s shines as a beacon of knowledge, faith and hope—not just for us, but for generations to come. This is our Mount, our mission, our future. Let’s rise to it with all we have.”

PRESIDENT GERARD J. JOYCE, PH.D.

INAUGURATION CEREMONY | APRIL 12, 2025

Dear Alumni, Parents & Friends,

THIS ISSUE of MountMagazine coincides with the first-year anniversary of my becoming the 27th president of Mount St. Mary’s. It has been an extraordinary “freshman year,” filled with discovery and learning.

The transition to my new role was aided by several people and events. President Emeritus Tim Trainor was exceptionally generous with his insights, and I am deeply grateful to him. Time spent with faculty, administrators, staff, students and seminarians provided me with a clear picture of what draws people to this remarkable university—and how our centuries-old mission remains as relevant as ever to forming faith-filled lives of purpose and service.

During my first several months on the job, our advancement team held several events across the East Coast that resulted in fast friendships with alumni, who talked about their love for their alma mater. Many of these alumni routinely invest in the Mount through their philanthropy; a few of our generous donors are profiled in this issue of the magazine.

Through the process of developing the university’s new strategic plan, I learned about our academic community’s ambitions for the Mount’s future. Together, we have created a three-year plan, launching now, that includes actions to accomplish two core aims: securing the Mount’s lasting vitality and ensuring our students graduate ready to succeed as individuals and ethical leaders in their chosen professions.

As many alumni know, shortly after I assumed the presidency last July, my wife, Erin, was diagnosed with brain cancer and underwent major surgery and follow-up treatment. The Mount community quickly embraced our family and, as Erin said, “infused us with strength, hope and love.” This incredible caring and support resulted in rapid growth in my love and understanding of the Mount and its culture. As Saint Francis de Sales famously said, and I often repeat, “Hearts speak to hearts.”

Thank you to all the alumni, parents, faculty, administrators and staff who have been there for Erin, our children and me. I am happy to report that Erin continues in her recovery, and our children are thriving. Our son Aidan will be part of the Mount’s Class of 2029.

Some pieces not to miss in this issue of MountMagazine include the accomplishments of President Trainor’s presidency. In the Mount News section, we celebrate our student-athletes’ success during 2024-25, our blossoming entrepreneurship program, the university’s reaccreditation, grants that provide new opportunities to the Mount St. Mary’s University community and more. And I answer questions from alumni, faculty, staff and students about my background and perspectives on the university.

I ask you to join me in thanking Msgr. Andrew Baker, rector of Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, for his stellar leadership of the largest Catholic seminary in the United States, as he returns to parish leadership in the Diocese of Allentown. Some of his impressive accomplishments and the background of our new rector, the Rev. Michael Romano, can be found on page 8.

At my inauguration, which is spotlighted on page 27, I invited our community to work with me to build the Mount’s shining future on Mary’s Mountain. Together, we can ensure that the university, seminary and National Shrine Grotto flourish.

GERARD J. JOYCE, PH.D. President

Mount News

Mount St. Mary’s Earns Reaccreditation

ON HIS FIRST DAY AS MOUNT ST. MARY’S 27 TH PRESIDENT, Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., received notification of the university’s reaccreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

“I am blessed to have received this news at the beginning of my tenure as the university’s president,” President Joyce said in noting President Emeritus Timothy E. Trainor’s significant role in the reaccreditation process. “As someone whose only role in this herculean effort was to listen to the MSCHE evaluation team present its oral report at the conclusion of its visit in April, I was struck by the Mount community’s commitment to our mission, especially to excellence and student success.”

President Joyce shared that the MSCHE report, which followed a rigorous review of the university’s programs, also highlighted the Mount’s strong focus on its mission. “Students at Mount St. Mary’s are served by a core of highly qualified and student-centered faculty and staff who are deeply committed to the mission and goals of the campus, and thus, deliver high-quality, coherent educational programs and student learning experiences which undergo regular assessment,” the MSCHE self-study evaluation visit team stated in its final report.

This process confirmed the strength of the Mount’s mission, academic programs, planning and assessment processes, physical facilities and financial stability. Reaccreditation affirms the university’s quality and its commitment to improvement, as well as helps ensure eligibility to receive federal funding. It is

an important periodic validation of what the university does in service to students, the Church and the higher education community. MSCHE will next assess the Mount in the 2031-32 academic year.

This reaccreditation is the result of a self-study process that began in early 2021, under the leadership of Professor of Spanish Christine Blackshaw, Ph.D., Provost Boyd Creasman, Ph.D., and Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Institutional Effectiveness Jeff Simmons, Ph.D. Together, they guided the reaccreditation process and managed input from a steering committee and working group members, as well as from other interested stakeholders across the Emmitsburg and Frederick campuses. The MSCHE evaluation team that visited campus for three days in April 2024 drew on the comprehensive self-study, as well as its meetings with more than 150 faculty, students, trustees, administrators and staff in preparing its report.

“In meeting the quality standards of MSCHE accreditation, institutions earn accredited status, and this permits them to state with confidence: ‘Our students are well-served; society is wellserved,’” according to the MSCHE website.

MSCHE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation (candidate status) activities for institutions of higher education. The Commission’s geographic area of accrediting activities is throughout the United States.

Entrepreneurship Club Sparks Waves of Innovation

AS FACULTY ADVISOR to Mount St. Mary’s University’s Entrepreneurship Club, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Director of the Palmieri Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) Garth Patterson, Ph.D., has shifted the focus of the club to “idea formation and direct action.” In two years, this change has prompted the first student patent in the university’s history, several successful startups and patent applications, and robust experiential learning.

Former member and leader of the Entrepreneurship Club Nathan Stricker, C’24, was among the students motivated by the club’s approach. He founded Eleven Digital with a childhood friend, after Jose Cornejo, C’97, encouraged him to explore marketing short-term rentals. After less than two years, he has brought to life a thriving marketing agency that includes the largest vacation rental company in the country as a client.

Stricker’s classmates Sarah Purdy, C’24, Mitchell Gallo, C’23, MBA’24, and Grace Frizzell, C’24, are working to obtain a patent for an adaptable hearing device—an idea first floated at an Entrepreneurship Club meeting.

“It’s a true group project,” Patterson said. The day the students had their ah-ha moment, Patterson made a statement about needing a hearing aid for his specific type of hearing loss. “Now the team has developed the mathematical approach to dealing with complex waveforms and are currently demonstrating the efficacy of the system,” he said.

Frizzell realized there was a market for those underserved by conventional hearing aid technology, and she wanted to help

“develop something more customizable and accommodative of a more diverse set of needs and requirements.”

Gallo has first-hand experience on how an innovative idea can change everything: He is also part of the team at ELOS, a startup founded by enterprising Mount students Thunlwyn Garcia, C'24, and Anthony Milazzo, C’24. After developing an innovative insole in response to problems they noticed with their cleats (both were on the Mount men’s soccer team), they received a patent for their product in August 2023. Along the way, they were mentored by Patterson, as well as several Mount alumni, including: Jeffery Link, C’99, managing partner at Quillion Wealth Management; Alicia Russo, C’86, J.D., co-chair of intellectual property at Venable LLP; and Paul Palmieri, C’92, managing general partner and founder of Grit Capital Partners.

All the students agree that Patterson has made a positive impact on their education. “He always pushed me to be a better version of myself,” Purdy said. “He’s been so helpful in informing the technical design of our ideas,” Frizzell shared. “Dr. Patterson is one of the most unselfish and helpful people that I have ever met,” Gallo asserted. “He also has vast knowledge and business experience to go along with his willingness to help—which is a perfect combination.”

Patterson founded Griffin Analytical Technologies, later acquired by FLIR Systems, Inc., and was a principal investigator on multiple projects, including several Small Business Innovation Research awards, one of which resulted in a Tibbetts Award. The award, named after Roland Tibbetts of the National Science Foundation, recognizes the promise and models of excellence in high-tech. Patterson has been awarded more than a dozen U.S. patents and several international patents, all focused on mass spectrometry development; he’s widely published, loves mentoring students and leads the Mount’s Brewing Club.

The Entrepreneurship Club is supported by the PCE, made possible through a generous $1 million donation from Mount alumni Paul Palmieri, C’92, and Diane Loiello Palmieri, C’83. PCE is an innovative student resource that provides skill-building, mentorship and real-world experiences vital to the development of creative and critical thinking. The center and its experiential learning program build upon the Mount’s liberal arts core curriculum to assist students in identifying problems, generating ideas and creating practical solutions.

Change in Seminary Leadership This Summer

AFTER A DECADE of sending down shepherds who have been well-formed as priests, Msgr. Andrew Baker, S.T.D., Rector of Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, has stepped down from leading the seminary following the completion of his second five-year term at the end of June 2025. He is returning to the Allentown Diocese in Pennsylvania for a pastoral assignment.

Archbishop William E. Lori, S’77, chair of the Mount St. Mary’s Seminary Board, has appointed the Rev. Michael M. Romano, S.T.L., as the next Rector of the Seminary, effective July 2025.

Father Romano, a priest from the Diocese of Camden, New Jersey, previously served as the coordinator of admissions and formation advisor at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

“The work of priestly formation, both as a vocation director for eight years and as a formator for the past six years, has been a singular blessing. I love being a priest, this important pastoral ministry in the life of the Church, and all of those I have had the privilege to accompany over the years,” Fr. Romano said. “I pray that I may be a true spiritual father to the seminarians, with the formation team, as we grow in friendship with the Lord together.”

“Fr. Romano is an excellent choice for Rector,” Msgr. Baker said.

“He has experience in priestly formation as a vocation director and a seminary formator. He has spent six years in his present role as coordinator of admissions at the Pontifical North American College in Rome visiting bishops, vocation directors and seminarians all around the United States. Fr. Romano has a keen interest in making sure that the seminary forms happy, holy, wise and zealous priests for the future of the Church."

During Msgr. Baker’s terms as Rector, the Seminary grew to become the largest major seminary in the United States, the Association of Theological Schools reaffirmed the Seminary’s accreditation and the Seminary established a Propaedeutic Stage program. The Propaedeutic Stage seminarians are housed in the C Wing of St. Joseph House of the Daughters of Charity in Emmitsburg, with the facility, renamed as Rother House, renovated to accommodate the program.

“We are grateful to Msgr. Baker for his years of service and his deep love of and dedication to priestly formation,” said Mount St. Mary’s University President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D. “I am thrilled that Fr. Romano has accepted the appointment to serve as Rector and appreciate his considerable experience as a vocation director and seminary formator. We offer our prayerful best wishes as Fr. Romano comes to the Mount.”

In 2003 Fr. Romano earned a bachelor’s degree at Saint Charles Seminary, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, and an STB from the Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome, Italy, in 2006. He completed his S.T.L. degree in 2008 at the Pontifical John Paul II Institute at the Lateran University in Rome.

Fr. Romano was ordained for the Diocese of Camden in 2007. In addition to his current position in Rome, he has been: a parochial vicar of two parishes (2007 and 2008 – 2011); chaplain at Paul VI High School in Haddon Township, NJ (2009 – 2013); director of vocations and director of seminarians for the Diocese of Camden

(2011 – 2019); and priest secretary to the Bishop (2014 – 2019). He has held various positions on diocesan commissions and boards. Seminary Board Member Barry Knestout, S’89, bishop of the Diocese of Richmond, Virginia, led the search committee. Other members of the committee included: five other members of the Seminary Board, including three bishops and a university alumnus; Mount St. Mary’s University President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D.; a seminarian; a lay Seminary faculty member; a priest Seminary faculty member; a Rector’s Council representative; and a recording secretary.

Introducing the Officers of the

Mount St. Mary’s Board of Trustees

THE MOUNT ST. MARY'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES elected Richard P. Miller, C’74, to serve as chair of the Board and Paul J. Chew, C’89, to serve as vice chair.

Miller, who succeeds Gracelyn McDermott, C’93, is the retired president and CEO of Virtua Health. He previously served as vice chair and secretary of the Board, delivered the commencement address and received an honorary doctorate in humane letters in 2017. Miller has long demonstrated his commitment to his university and local communities and has served on the boards of several community health organizations, including the New Jersey Hospital Association, the American Heart Association and the March of Dimes of Southern New Jersey. Miller lives in New Jersey and South Carolina with his wife, Mary Lee; they have two adult daughters.

His many accolades and awards include Human Resources CEO of the Year by the HR Department of the Year Awards; the CEO IT Achievement Award from Modern Healthcare magazine; Healthcare CEO of the Year by the Philadelphia Business Journal; and the New Jersey Business Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award from New Jersey Junior Achievement.

Chew, chief investment officer at Brown Advisory, is responsible for leading the firm’s internally managed investment strategies and its open-architecture and asset-allocation efforts. Before attending graduate school, Chew worked as a cash manager in the international asset management department of JPMorgan. While completing his MBA, he worked as a research associate for a finance professor specializing in asset allocation.

Chew received a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from Mount St. Mary’s in 1989. He earned a Master of Business Administration from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University in 1995.

“I am excited to continue working with Rich and Paul in their new leadership roles, exploring the university’s many opportunities. They are accomplished business leaders, proud alumni and deeply devoted supporters of the Mount’s mission and its students,” said President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D. “All of our trustees bring diverse and valuable perspectives, experiences and expertise—which will help us move into the future with confidence, strength and vision.”

Houeida Saad, general counsel, compliance officer and privacy officer at URAC, is the new secretary of the Board. David M. DiLuigi, C’92, head of U.S. markets for the wealth division of Wilmington Trust, is now treasurer of the Board.

RICHARD P. MILLER, C’74 CHAIR

PAUL J. CHEW, C’89 VICE CHAIR

HOUEIDA SAAD SECRETARY

DAVID M. DILUIGI, C’92 TREASURER

Mount Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Division of Continuing Studies

MOUNT ST. MARY’S University’s Division of Continuing Studies (DCS) in Frederick commemorated its 25th anniversary in fall 2024.

DCS opened in October 1999 with a Weekend College to help Frederick Community College graduates obtain their four-year degree. By 2003, the division established a facility at 5350 Spectrum Drive to hold classes at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The facility has expanded over the years as DCS grew and the area’s workforce-development needs evolved.

Today, as DCS celebrates its first 25 years, the campus offers students—from high schoolers in dual-enrollment classes to adults seeking career advancement—the opportunity to improve their lives through professional, continuing and online education. In 2024, 86 DCS students earned bachelor’s degrees and 197 received master’s degrees.

Our convenient, flexible and affordable online and evening courses are designed for working community college and adult students.”

- Jennifer Staiger, Ph.D., Associate Provost, Division of Continuing Studies

“Our convenient, flexible and affordable online and evening courses are designed for working community college and adult students,” said Jennifer Staiger, Ph.D., associate provost, Division of Continuing Studies. “Our personalized student-centric approach to advising helps students acquire the knowledge and credentials to live lives of significance.”

At an October 2 celebration of DCS’ 25th anniversary, Mount St. Mary’s President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., toasted DCS for its role in empowering nontraditional learners “to pursue their dreams, expand their horizons and achieve their fullest potential.” He also recognized the faculty, staff and administrators whose commitment to excellence, innovation and student success has been the “driving force behind the Division’s accomplishments.”

Learn More

Learn more about the Division of Continuing Studies and the programs offered at msmary.edu/dcs

In addition, Joyce thanked community partners. “We are grateful to our education, corporate, government and nonprofit partners who collaborate to make Frederick a gateway to lifelong learning and a powerhouse of workforce development,” Joyce said.

Looking back to 1999, Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater applauded Mount St. Mary’s for its timing in establishing a campus where nontraditional students can learn new skills, continue their education and contribute more fully to the community. The Division of Continuing Studies is a “prime example of the kind of partnerships we’re all about in Frederick County,” she said.

State Delegate Kristopher Fair noted Frederick County’s good fortune in having Mount St. Mary’s University, Hood College and Frederick Community College in the community to “show us how to step on the gas and keep growing.” Continued growth is critical to keep up with the training and workforce needs of the region’s everexpanding business, technology and bioscience sectors.

Courses in the Center for Accelerated and Adult Programs, Graduate School, Mount Online and Center for Lifelong Learning (a non-credit professional training resource) can be taken completely online, with the option to take some courses in-person at the Frederick campus.

The largest program at the graduate school level is the MBA, which will mark its 50th anniversary next year. Other graduate programs include: sports management; applied behavior analysis; biotechnology and management; health administration; teaching; instructional leadership; instructional design and technology; and reading.

Undergraduate completion programs include: business; entrepreneurship; communication; history; interdisciplinary studies; human services; elementary education; and special education.

Mount St. Mary’s Receives Major Grants

THE MOUNT’S dedicated faculty work hard, in coordination with the Office of Sponsored Research and Grants, to bring in grants that provide new research and scholarly opportunities to the university community. Below, we spotlight four major grants recently earned by our faculty.

SEED FUND GRANT

The School of Health Professions received a $1 million Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund Grant from the State of Maryland. The funds went toward renovating a wing of the Daughters of Charity’s St. Joseph House to house the School of Health Professions.

NIH ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT

Associate Professor of Chemistry Patrick Lombardi, Ph.D., was awarded an Administrative Supplemental Grant, totaling $52,180, from the National Institutes of Health to purchase equipment for his laboratory. The grant builds upon a $443,997 NIH research grant awarded to his laboratory in October 2023. The Supplemental Grant funded the purchase of an Avanti J26S XP floor centrifuge. The floor centrifuge is an integral part of the research process conducted by Lombardi and the 14 student researchers in his lab, as they work to understand how DNA damage and repair contributes to the formation of disease.

MARYLAND ELEVATES GRANT

The Maryland State Department of Education awarded Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Barbara Marinak, Ph.D., a $297,000 Maryland Elevates Grant. Funds will be used to develop the Mount’s Grow-Your-Own initiative, a project spearheaded by Marinak in partnership with Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). Grow-Your-Own is a response to Maryland’s current and projected special education teacher shortage, and provides flexible, high-quality special education certification to paraprofessionals and uncertified educators.

MICROSCOPE GRANT

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program awarded Angy Kallarackal, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology and director of the neuroscience department, and her colleagues a $616,215 grant to acquire a confocal microscope. The advanced microscope, housed in the newly opened addition of the Coad Science Building, will expose students to state-of-the-art technology that will stimulate enthusiasm for research and support career aspirations in STEM disciplines. The microscope will serve as a regional hub for advanced microscopy, providing students at the Mount and Gettysburg and Hood Colleges, as well as high school students, with invaluable hands-on research experience. The hub will also foster collaboration among the investigators, bolstering creativity and scientific curiosity among faculty and students. High-resolution imaging will enhance research across disciplines, from cancer biology to neuroscience, and allow student and faculty researchers to ask questions not previously possible.

Athletics A Record-Breaking Year in

THE THIRD YEAR in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) has been a charm for the Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers, with multiple teams and individual studentathletes winning titles and breaking records.

Picked 11th in the MAAC preseason poll, the men’s basketball team won the MAAC Tournament—punching a ticket to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021, and winning the first conference championship in any sport since the Mount moved to the MAAC as a full member in 2022. Under firstyear Head Coach Donny Lind, this resilient and cohesive team created multiple memorable moments in beating American in the First Four game and keeping a positive attitude throughout its matchup with Duke in the first round. The Mountaineers’ 23 wins represent the most by the team since moving to NCAA Division I in 1988-89. One of those wins came against the University of Miami, the Mount’s second win in program history against an Atlantic Coast Conference team.

Not to be outdone, the women’s basketball team, led by firstteam all-conference honoree Jo Raflo, made it to the semifinal round of the MAAC Championships for the first time ever, nearly upsetting the eventual conference champion Fairfield, falling by just one point.

Earning a share of the MAAC regular season championship, the women’s lacrosse team secured the No. 1 seed and hosted the MAAC Championships semifinal and final games in Emmitsburg. The team lost a close semifinal with Iona when a shot on goal that would have sent the game into overtime hit the post at the buzzer. Head Coach Lauren Skellchock was named MAAC Coach of the Year, and seven members of the team earned All MAAC honors.

For the second year in a row, the women’s water polo team won its first game in the MAAC Championships before ending its season in the semifinals. Senior Aaron Sorkin of the men’s golf team was named MAAC Men’s Golf Player of the Year, the Mount’s first MAAC Player of the Year since moving to the conference. Both Sorkin and fellow senior Devin Smith topped the leaderboard of at least one tournament during the 2024-25 season, and the team won the Carpetbagger Classic and Fripp Island Intercollegiate titles. (Continued on page 14)

Go Mountaineers!

Keep up with the latest athletic achievements at mountathletics.com

Men’s Basketball Team wins the MAAC Tournament, punching a ticket to the NCAA Tournament

Women’s Basketball Team makes it to the semifinal round of the MAAC Championships

Women’s Lacrosse Team secures the No. 1 seed and hosts the MAAC Championships semifinal and final games

Women’s Water Polo Team wins its first game in the MAAC Championships

A Record-Breaking Year in Athletics (Cont).

The men’s tennis team's 13 wins this season are the most by the Mountaineers since the 2012-13 campaign. This year’s team tied for second place in the MAAC, while first-year head coach Leandros Misdrachis was named MAAC Men's Tennis Head Coach of the Year as he guided the team to its first appearance at the MAAC Championships.

At the MAAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships in May, the men’s and women’s teams finished in second and third places, respectively. Three players took major honors bestowed by the conference. Emelie Beckman earned Women's Most Outstanding Field honors, and Camryn Jones-Howard took Women's Field Rookie honors. Abdulazeez Iyiola took top Men's Track Rookie honors. Winning performances included the 4x100 relay of Torian Neblett, Daniel Reader, Lucas Koon-Perez and Kalani Pu'uloa.

Individual victories include Madelyn Valpy, who came within .01 meters of her school record to take the triple jump. Keighan DeCoff won the discus, while Maeve Parrish finished first in the 800 meters. Abdulazeez Iyiola won the 400 hurdles.

Capping an excellent season, the nationally ranked bowling team placed in the top six of Intercollegiate Team National Championships in Las Vegas.

The esports program’s Overwatch Team won the MAAC Championship. At the Mid-Atlantic Esports Conference Championships, the Super Smash Bros. team captured first place, while the Rocket League and Overwatch teams finished in the runner-up positions.

Men’s Tennis Team's 13 wins are the most by the Mountaineers since the 2012-13 campaign

Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Teams finish in respective second and third places at the MAAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships

Nationally ranked Bowling Team placed in the top six of Intercollegiate Team National Championships in Las Vegas

Esports Program’s Overwatch Team wins the MAAC Championship

The Way Will Follow in the Footsteps of Saints

THE NATIONAL SHRINE Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes celebrated the groundbreaking of The Way, a path from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary to the National Shrine Grotto in honor of Blessed Stanley Rother, S’63.

The Way will pave and beautify an existing, informal footpath taken by Bl. Rother both during his time as a seminarian and during a weeklong visit to the Seminary shortly before his martyrdom in 1981.

“We are honored to begin the endeavor to restore this sacred pathway, that one of our own walked as he climbed the mountain to Our Lady’s Grotto. So many people have come here to pray, seeking God’s will in their lives, and listening for His voice. It is a privilege to be able to help others do the same,” said Director of the National Shrine Grotto Dawn Walsh.

The groundbreaking was attended by many from the Mount and Grotto communities, including President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., and his family, and, most touchingly, Kathy Rother, a cousin of Bl. Rother.

Born in Okarche, Oklahoma in 1935, Stanley Rother was ordained in 1963 after attending Mount St. Mary’s Seminary. He served for a few years as a priest for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City before being assigned to the archdiocesan mission in Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala.

During the late 1970s and 1980s, Guatemala was embroiled in a violent conflict between its government and paramilitary forces. At the beginning of 1981, Bl. Rother returned to the U.S. for his own safety, after learning that his name was on a paramilitary hit list.

He returned to Guatemala in April of that year, declaring that a “shepherd does not run at the first sign of danger.” Shortly before deciding to return, he spent a week at the Mount Seminary praying and thinking over his next steps, walking up to his beloved Grotto every day via The Way to spend hours in contemplation and discernment.

He was murdered by hitmen in the early morning hours of July 28, 1981, mere weeks after returning to Santiago Atitlan. Bl. Rother was beatified and declared a martyr on September 23, 2017.

“The Way commemorates the pathway America’s first priestmartyr took as he climbed up the mountain to the National Shrine Grotto from the Seminary,” noted Julie Smith, the Grotto Philanthropy Manager. “The path reminds us of Blessed Stanley’s example of hard work, dedication and perseverance in the faith, the priesthood and his commitment to God and to the people.”

The Way commemorates the pathway America’s first priest-martyr took as he climbed up the mountain to the National Shrine Grotto from the Seminary.”

- Julie Smith, Grotto PhilanthropyManager

Learn More

The Way is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025. To give to The Way, please visit the National Shrine Grotto website: nsgrotto.org/theway

Twice Blessed

SOME SAY that the Blessed Mother Mary has interceded twice in the past 10 years to bring two extraordinary leaders—Timothy E. Trainor, Ph.D., and Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D.—to guide Mount St. Mary’s during its third century.

As he prepared to retire from a remarkable 33-year career in the U.S. Army in 2016, Trainor, a brigadier general serving as chief academic officer at the United States Military Academy, ran into fellow West Point alum Jim Nicholson, a former ambassador to the Holy See. In chatting at the West Point parade, Nicholson urged Trainor to meet with Nicholson’s wife, Suzanne, who was a Mount trustee at the time and involved in the Mount’s search for a president. Within a week, Trainor was at the Basilica in Baltimore interviewing with members of the Board of Trustees, including Archbishop of Baltimore William E. Lori, STD, S’77, and thenchairwoman, Mary Kane, C’84.

More than 20 years ago, Rev. Bernie O’Connor, president of DeSales University, encouraged Jerry Joyce, a promising young leader of the university in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to pursue

a doctoral degree. The prescient O’Connor told Joyce that small Catholic colleges would need his leadership in the future. Joyce pursued his doctorate at Catholic University of America, driving past Mount St. Mary’s as he commuted from Allentown to Washington, D.C. In the summer of 2023, Mount Trustee Dave DiLuigi, an uncle of Joyce’s wife, Erin, reached out to alert Dr. Joyce about Mount St. Mary’s search for a president to replace the retiring Trainor. The university’s Board of Trustees selected Joyce as the 27th president of the Mount.

Both Trainor and Joyce brought strengths to the presidency that were needed at the time. In the pages that follow, we look back at the Trainor years and ahead at the opportunities Joyce will be encountering.

Tim Trainor’s Faith Journey Leads to Mount Turnaround

By Gracelyn McDermott, C’93

I BELIEVE the Blessed Mother Mary interceded in bringing President Timothy E. Trainor, Ph.D., to Mount St. Mary’s as its 26th president. In 2016, Trainor was preparing to retire from a remarkable 33-year career in the U.S. Army that took him all over the world and culminated in the brigadier general’s service as chief academic officer at the United States Military Academy. As he was applying for provost positions and mulling the possibility of serving a Catholic university, he ran into fellow West Point alum Jim Nicholson, a former ambassador to the Holy See. In chatting at the West Point parade, Nicholson urged Trainor to meet with Nicholson’s wife, Suzanne, who was a Mount trustee at the time. Within a week, Trainor was at the Basilica in Baltimore interviewing with members of the Board of Trustees, including Archbishop Lori and then-chairperson, Mary Kane. And the rest, as they say, is history.

We are deeply appreciative of, as President Trainor would put it, the way the goodness of the university has spread during his accomplished tenure.

We are deeply appreciative of, as President Trainor would put it, the way the goodness of the university has spread during his accomplished tenure. Between August 2016 and June 2024, he expertly guided the university through two destabilizing periods: the leadership crisis that brought him to the Mount and the pandemic.

Trainor’s turnaround of the Mount has been shared in the media, and his leadership during the pandemic has been recognized with

awards, including a plaque from the Friends of Catholic Education. The plaque reads: "Friends of Catholic Education recognizes faculty, staff, administration and students at Mount St. Mary's University for your ability to devise and implement a plan to transition to distance, hybrid and in-person learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The entire school community deserves immense praise for adapting to the everchanging circumstances with determination and grace!" Trainor’s West Point education and years of experience as an Army engineer were instrumental in the planning effort, involving more than 100 employees, all motivated to ensure that students received the best education possible throughout the pandemic.

Trainor’s response to the pandemic also says a lot about his character. While many colleges and universities experienced turmoil during the shutdown phase and laid off employees, the Mount retained its entire workforce throughout the period, regardless of whether their position enabled them to work remotely. This caring stewardship of the Mount community also helped the surrounding communities. In the fall of 2020, the Mount had its largest firstyear class ever as high school students and their families showed their trust and confidence that the university could safely educate students on campus. Undergraduate and graduate enrollment has grown by more than 10% since 2016.

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I’d Like to Quickly Share Some of the University’s Other Major Accomplishments Under President Trainor’s Leadership:

ADDITION OF NEW UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS , such as: data science; philosophy, politics and economics (PPE); entrepreneurship; cybersecurity and neuroscience; and graduate programs, such as applied behavior analysis.

EXPANSION OF NCAA DIVISION I ATHLETIC TEAMS from 16 to 24 and nearly doubling the number of student-athletes. In addition, the university moved to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, resulting in greater competition and exposure for athletes and coaches and valuable learning opportunities for students through ESPN Broadcasting.

PARTNERSHIPS THAT ENABLE THE UNIVERSITY TO BRING NEW RESOURCES to students and the surrounding community. The Emmitsburg Urgent Care Center, in partnership with Frederick Health, provides health care not only to students but also residents. The Daughters of Charity is a key partner in realizing the vision of the Graduate School of Health Professions, which will be in a renovated space at the Daughters’ St. Joseph House in Emmitsburg. The new school will include a physician assistant program that will help relieve the health care provider shortage. In addition, the Daughters have also provided space for the seminary’s Blessed Stanley Rother House of Formation, for seminarians in the propaedeutic stage of formation.

INVESTMENT IN THE UNIVERSITY’S LIVING AND LEARNING FACILITIES and campus infrastructure, by raising $80 million from donors, government and foundation grants and other benefactors. Projects have included: the expansion and renovation of Knott Academic Center; renovation of the Tower apartment buildings; seminary facilities upgrades; building of the Palmieri Activities Center; a two-story residential cottage; an admissions welcome center and renovation of wings at Saint Joseph House for the School of Health Professions; and the Blessed Stanley Rother House for the propaedeutic stage of priestly formation.

GROWTH AT MOUNT ST. MARY’S SEMINARY , resulting in the seminary’s recognition as the largest Catholic seminary in the country, and including the new propaedeutic stage of priestly formation.

STEWARDSHIP OF THE NATIONAL SHRINE GROTTO OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES , including a year-long refurbishment of the landmark Blessed Virgin Mary statue. The Grotto continues to draw hundreds of thousands of the faithful annually for devotion to Our Blessed Mother and quiet prayerful reflection.

I am grateful that Tim Trainor’s faith journey brought him to Mount St. Mary’s and Frederick County. The goodness that he has spread will continue to germinate for years to come and has ensured a bright future for the university.”

Gracelyn McDermott, C’93, is chair emeritus of the Mount St. Mary’s University Board of Trustees. She is vice president for marketing, sales and business development at Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States. This article is adapted from McDermott’s presentation of the Friends of Catholic Education’s Fr. John McElroy Award to Trainor in October 2023.

LAST SUMMER , we welcomed Mount St. Mary’s University’s new president, Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., right after saying goodbye to President Emeritus Timothy E. Trainor, Ph.D., after eight years of dedicated leadership.

As we close this chapter of the Mount’s history, and look forward to Dr. Joyce’s continued tenure, we gathered reflections from Mount community members on Dr. Trainor’s legacy and what they hope for under Dr. Joyce.

Two Leaders Worthy of Praise President Trainor: Outstanding, Hands-On Leadership

Thank you so much for being such an amazing president! Since freshman year, you navigated COVID perfectly and made the Mount seem like such a safe, welcoming environment. Now, I feel more-than prepared for the real world due to your leadership.”

CLAIRE DOLL, C’24

As an alum and employee of the Mount, I want to thank you for your endless hours of time and dedication in supporting the mission of the Mount. You have brought us to a new place, where collaboration and trust have become the expectation rather than the hope.”

STACEY BROWN-HOBBS, C’85

Department Chair and Director of Teacher Education

Thanks for all your wonderful efforts on behalf of our beloved Mount! You have left us in a much better place, and accomplished all you did in a spirit of friendly collaboration! Your encouraging leadership will remain a model for generations to come!”

SHEILA AND PETER DORSEY, PH.D. Professor of English

Thank you, President Trainor, for all your hard work and dedication to our university. I will truly miss you on our campus and am grateful that you were the president for all my undergraduate years, plus my time in graduate school.”

GRACIELA AMAGUANA, C’22, MBA’24

Orientation & Title IX Programming Coordinator

Thank you for your outstanding leadership, as you guided this university through two crises. Furthermore, you moved the Mount in badly needed new directions, particularly in the natural and health sciences.”

CURTIS JOHNSON, PH.D. Professor of History

I came to the Mount in 2020 during Covid. It was my freshman year, and I was sad about possibly missing my freshman-year experience. President Trainor kept the school operating, and I was able to move in and meet my lifelong friends that year.”

DAMAREA ATKINSON, C’24

President Joyce: Caring, Student-Oriented Leadership

Although this is my last year here at the Mount and I'm skeptical about change, I can say with complete honesty that you have made my senior year so memorable. From the fun events to the care you have for the students, I know that future students will be so lucky to have you as their president.”

AALIYAH FERGUSON, C’25

We are glad you and your family are here. I know that there have been unforeseen difficulties for the Joyces at the beginning of this new chapter; if there are ways that my family and I can help you in this transition, I hope you will let me know.

After all, we live in town, too, and are neighbors. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are grateful for all the good you are doing.”

MICHAEL TURNER, PH.D.

Associate Professor of Biochemistry

Congratulations and best wishes always as you become president of our beloved Mount St. Mary’s University. Know of my full support for you and willingness to be of assistance in any way. God bless you and your family and welcome to the Mount.”

DANIEL CURTIN, C’64

Trustee Emeritus

Congratulations, Dr. Joyce! I look forward to meeting you and connecting the Delone Catholic hometown roots! Josie and the Schussler family send their well wishes and congratulations to you, as well.”

WYATT SCHUSSLER

Parent of Incoming First-Year Student

We are so happy you are here!”

PAIGE HOCHSCHILD, PH.D.

Associate Professor of Theology

It’s an honor and pleasure to serve under your administration! I’m excited for what’s to come!”

CHANTEL BROXTON

Assistant Director of Residence Life

President Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., Responds to Your Questions

A few weeks after beginning his tenure as the 27th president of Mount St. Mary’s University, Gerard J. Joyce, Ph.D., sat down to share more about himself with the campus community. Answering questions submitted by Mount alumni, faculty and staff, he shared goals, anecdotes and hopes that reveal his strong sense of dedication, community ties and place.

WHAT IS A SPECIFIC IDEA, TEXT, AUTHOR, PROBLEM OR PROOF THAT HAS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN YOUR DEVELOPMENT: PERSONALLY, PROFESSIONALLY OR BOTH?

I’d like to tie it to me becoming the president of Mount St. Mary’s. Back in 2001, when I was the dean of enrollment management at De Sales University, the then-president, Fr. O’Connor, who’s an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, came to me and said, “I need you to go get a Ph.D.”

My wife, Erin, and I, had just had our oldest child and were expecting our second and I immediately thought there was no way I could juggle all of it.

He went on to say that, someday, he thought there would be great, Catholic liberal arts institutions that needed Catholic laymen and women to lead them, and for me to be able to do that, I’d need a doctorate. So, Erin and I decided we’d go on this journey together and we chose Catholic University of America to continue my education. For two semesters, I’d drive south and then back north from the Lehigh Valley to Catholic University, and I passed this place called Mount St. Mary’s University. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that this was the place that I would end up. I believe it was a blessing, and it was that moment, with Fr. O'Connor asking me to pursue this, that led to me having the opportunity to be here today.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS TO ENSURE THE VIBRANCY OF OUR SMALL, RURAL COLLEGE ENVIRONMENT THAT HAS ATTRACTED SO MANY TO THE MOUNT?

I've had the opportunity over my first two weeks here to tour campus—I mean really have an extensive tour. I've gone into buildings, opened doors, gone down to lower levels in basements and I want to go up into the attics soon! I really want to know what this campus is all about because there is 216 years’ worth of history.

While I certainly would like to ensure that our facilities are toptier and competitive with other institutions, I am committed to preserving the majestic overlooks, historic buildings, peaceful spots and all the significant nooks and crannies that have made this campus home to so many down the years.

DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEAS FOR NEW TRADITIONS FOR THE MOUNT FAMILY?

I have an extensive background in student life, so one of my priorities is making sure that we have robust opportunities for socializing and developing here at Mount St. Mary’s University. To that end, I'm very excited to work with our new Dean of Students Adrienne White, Ph.D., to build on traditions that existed in the past but may have lapsed over time or in the wake of COVID regulations. I plan to learn what was important to the alumni who came before today’s students, and how to best continue those traditions moving forward.

You know, choosing a college is an emotional decision. There are a lot of tangible factors that go into it, but the ultimate decision is about emotion. And it's because it's a new experience for students. But what results from that is that students connect with others who become their friends or role models for the rest of their lives. That's something that we certainly want at the Mount, and I’m eager to help provide students with those experiences.

WHY DOES A LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION MATTER? WHAT DO STUDENTS OF THE LIBERAL ARTS BRING TO THE TABLE?

The liberal arts are the backbone of a Mount education. It fuels our majors, programs and values. The liberal arts also impart those skills that are needed to be engaged, contributing members of society.

I believe that the liberal arts-based Core Curriculum is really what differentiates a Mount St. Mary's graduate from those of other institutions, who may have had the same major or GPA, when they're vying for a job. The writing, researching and debating skills, plus the ability to reflect on information and have intelligent and deep and relevant conversations, is what makes a Mountaineer unique as a graduate.

HOW CAN ALUMNI BECOME INVOLVED AND HELP CONTINUE THE SPIRIT OF THE MOUNT?

First and foremost, I would love for alumni to share their stories with me. I'm going to be the conduit to future generations for this institution, so understanding what your experience was, and what things that emotionally attached you to this institution, will help me as I lead the Mount forward.

Which, as I hope you can tell, I'm really excited about! Our advancement team, under the leadership of Patty Hill-Callahan, C’87, and I are on the road. We're meeting alumni and would love to talk with you. Tell me what your stories are. Tell me what excited you when you were a student here, so that we can incorporate those memories into the future of our community.

IN SERVING AS A HOT DOG SALESPERSON AT VETERANS STADIUM, DID YOU EVER GET A CHANCE TO WORK WITH THE FAMOUS DOGGY MAN, CHARLIE FRANK? WHAT WAS YOUR TIME LIKE?

For anyone who doesn’t know, Veterans Stadium housed the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles. It's now Citizens Bank Park, where the Philadelphia Phillies still play.

I was 14 when I started working for the concessionaire. It was by far the best high school job you could ever have. While Charlie Frank sadly had retired prior to me working there, my job at Veterans Stadium was significant in other ways.

My brother and sister and I were first-generation college students, and it was my parents’ goal to help us get college educations. So, my mom, who worked at the local Catholic high school cafeteria during the day, worked at Veterans Stadium in the evening to pay for our tuition for a Catholic education. When I was 14, I was able to get a job there because of her. My father was a letter carrier, and my parents worked hard to get us through Catholic school. It taught me the importance of dedication and sacrifice. To be able to work in a venue—no pun intended—of something you love, which is baseball and football for me, just really brought my dreams to life.

And I’ve discovered that same culture of dedication to something you love here at the Mount: It's the people that make this place go. And it was the people and the interactions and the relationships I built at Veterans Stadium, some of which I still have today, so many years later, that shaped me, just like the Mount shapes its community members.

Construction Zone

An intense period of construction is nearing completion at three locations, with the ribboncutting ceremony for the first phase of the new wing of the Coad Science Building, the opening of the Blue Peak Center for Applied Behavior Analysis in the School of Health Professions in Emmitsburg and the unveiling of the Lynne Phelan Robinson Concourse and updated Jim Phelan Court at the ARCC. The lights are shining brightly and the floors are gleaming.

COAD SCIENCE BUILDING

Phase I:

Completed first level of new wing, October 2024

• Two computational and neuroscience teaching laboratories

• One neuroscience research lab

• One microscopy lab

• Collaborative spaces

• Renaming School of Natural Science and Mathematics as School of Science, Mathematics & Technology

Phase II:

Complete the buildout of new wing’s second and third floors, underway

• Additional teaching labs

• Dedicated experiential research spaces

• Delaplaine Academic Commons

Phase III:

Renovate Coad Science Building

SCHOOL OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS,

TO BE DEDICATED IN 2025

Blue Peak Applied Behavior Analysis Center, opened in December 2024

• Early, intensive behavioral intervention for children

- Assessment

- Specialized therapy for children with autism

• Training for parents

• Internships for ABA graduate students and undergraduate psychology students

• Boost services available in Northern Frederick County

Physician Assistant Program, first cohort planned to begin in January 2026

• Center for Clinician Well-Being to teach PA students and others to combat burnout using wellness tools and coping strategies

• Care for America, in partnership with the Daughters of Charity, instructs students on how to care for underserved patients by focusing on awareness, service, advocacy and volunteerism

A facelift for the heart of the ARCC, completed in October 2024

• Updated Jim Phelan Court

• Renovated concourse, named in honor of former Athletic Director Lynne Phelan Robinson

• New lighting, flooring and paint

• Graphics that highlight key athletic memories

• Branding in Mount colors

LYNNE PHELAN ROBINSON CONCOURSE AND JIM PHELAN COURT

A Spirit That Could Not Be Broken: Col. Bernard Talley, Jr., C’62

MANY MOUNT ST. MARY’S ALUMNI HAVE SERVED our nation with great distinction, fortified during their service by their faith, character and memories of their families and fellow graduates. One such alumnus is Bernard L. Talley, Jr., C’62, who entered Air Force Officer Training School soon after graduating with an economics degree from the Mount.

After becoming a pilot, Talley volunteered to serve in Vietnam. On his 76th combat mission, he was shot down over North Vietnam. A prisoner of war at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” he endured torture, beatings and solitary confinement. Following more than six years as a POW, he was released in 1973. He was awarded two Silver Stars, a Legion of Merit with bronze oak leaf cluster, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars with Valor and two Purple Hearts, among other honors.

On learning about Talley’s release from the prison camp, Mount St. Mary’s President John Dillon, Ph.D., sent Talley’s parents a telegram offering congratulations. Their return note said, in part, “So many of the boys in his class from the Mount have kept in touch with us through these long years. We shall be eternally grateful.”

Talley died peacefully in his sleep in February 2022. He is interred at Arlington Cemetery.

A Beacon of Knowledge, Faith and Hope

MOUNT INAUGURATES DR.

GERALD J. JOYCE

AS PRESIDENT

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, Dr. Gerard J. Joyce was inaugurated as Mount St. Mary’s University’s 27th president. Hundreds of alumni, students, faculty, community members and friends attended the ceremony in Knott Arena. The day before the ceremony, Archbishop of Baltimore William E. Lori, S.T.D., S’77, celebrated an Inauguration Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

During his remarks, President Joyce highlighted his educational journey, his family and his vision for the university. He urged attendees to:

Keep learning, keep serving and let our work ripple outward: making a difference near and far. Together, we’ll ensure Mount St. Mary’s shines as a beacon of knowledge, faith and hope—not just for us, but for the generations to come.”

Alumni News

NAA President’s Letter

HELLO FELLOW MOUNTIES,

It is summertime at the Mount, and the campus is just as green and beautiful as it always is. I hope you are having a wonderful summer and enjoying time with family and friends.

As I enter my last year as president of the National Alumni Association (NAA), I’ve been reminiscing on this remarkable experience. To spark interest among potential candidates for the NAA’s next president—which will be voted on next spring—my column focuses on some of the highlights of my experiences as president during an era of terrific momentum.

Board of Trustees – The NAA president serves on the Mount’s Board of Trustees, taking a seat at the table in the university’s governance. Our Board includes amazing alumni and friends of the Mount, who keep their eyes on the prize: making this university the best it can be. I encourage you to visit the Mount’s website to see who is on the Board and say hello when you see them at events.

Presidential Transition – Being part of the transition from President Trainor to President Joyce was incredible. The two leaders worked together seamlessly, ensuring a transition without egos or speed bumps. Serving on President Joyce’s Inauguration Committee and joining the ceremony was especially memorable.

President Joyce’s Introduction – The advancement team organized an ongoing series of alumni meet and greets in several cities, enabling alumni to meet President Joyce and share their Mount stories. I’ve seen firsthand how hundreds of alumni are warmly embracing Dr. Joyce.

New School of Health Professions – My Board duties included discussing and approving plans for the new School of Health Professions—a bold move that aligns with our longstanding mission and growing needs in our communities. It will be a joy to join the school’s opening this fall.

Athletics Conference Move – My Board duties also included discussing and approving plans for the Mount Athletics’ transition from the NEC to the MAAC, which has proved to be a fantastic move. It gives our studentathletes greater national visibility and the chance to test themselves against highly competitive schools. Now three years in, it’s clear this was the right decision.

Men’s Basketball Winning the MAAC – I will never forget the electric atmosphere in Atlantic City this spring when our men’s basketball team clinched the MAAC title. Celebrating with our team and fans on the arena floor after the game was overwhelming. Our women’s team competed at a similar level, coming within one point of reaching the finals. These are only a few examples of how our sports teams have succeeded in the MAAC in a very short time frame.

Major Events Participation – As NAA president, I play a role in some of the Mount’s biggest moments. At Reunion Weekend, I help present the Bruté and Young Alumni Awards. At Winter Homecoming, I help with the induction of new members into the Athletics Hall of Fame. And at Commencement, I welcome graduates into the alumni association.

Seminary Alumni Reunion – Each fall, I attend the Seminary’s Reunion, where I have the honor of presenting the Fr. Fives Scholarship to two seminarians and being a part of the awarding of the John Cardinal McCloskey Award to a Seminary alumnus for outstanding service to the Church. Afternoon Mass before the Reunion Dinner and listening to the seminarians sing, makes me feel as if I’m in heaven.

Service to the National Shrine Grotto – During the weekend of our fall NAA meetings, we hold a clean-up activity at the Grotto. We’ve varnished the wood benches and powerwashed the marble benches, helping this essential part of Mount St. Mary’s shine on for pilgrims and visitors.

Alumni Immersion – Across everything the NAA President does is the chance to connect with alumni. One of the most gratifying aspects of the role is hearing alumni say, “I love the Mount. I need to get more involved.”

So getting involved is what I’m inviting you to do. Please consider running for NAA president, or any of the other positions on the NAA. If you have any questions, please email me at susanjanowiak@comcast.net. Leading the NAA and helping the Mount flourish is a great privilege.

Spes Nostra,

SUSAN JANOWIAK, C’81

National Alumni Association President

Learn more about The Mount’s National Alumni Association

The Rev. Carl J. Fives

Alumni Scholarship

THE NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION established the Rev. Carl J. Fives Scholarship in memory of longtime Alumni Chaplain Rev. Carl J. Fives, C’38, S’42, H’99. The scholarship is awarded to rising university seniors and two fourth-year seminarians based on academic excellence, financial aid and service to the Mount community. Eight students from the Class of 2026 received scholarships. In addition, two fourth-year seminarians received

RHIANNON PERRY

Reunion Weekend 2024

ALUMNI RETURNED TO THEIR MOUNTAIN HOME and were offered a delicious welcome lunch on the Bradley veranda. Some took guided tours of the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and saw the regilded Blessed Mother statue and visited the Richard and Mary Lee Miller Family Visitors Center, including the St. Bernadette’s Gift Shoppe.

Later that evening, members of the Class of 1974 celebrated their 50th anniversary and were honored at the Golden Mountaineer Mass held in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, where the names of their deceased classmates were read and a bell was rung in their honor. Following the Mass, alumni gathered for the National Alumni Association Alumni Banquet in Patriot Hall. (The June 2025 Reunion Weekend will be covered in the next Mount Magazine.)

REUNION RECAP!

2024 Award Recipients

DISTINGUISHED YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

This award brings to the attention of the graduating senior class alumni who—through hard work, perseverance and education— have reached an elevated level of achievement in their chosen professions. In 2024, the NAA presented the Distinguished Young Alumni Award to BRYDEN GRANT PELLETIER, MBA’14

BRUTÉ MEDAL

The Simon Bruté medal is presented to alumni who have distinguished themselves through: their career; their commitment to their community, to the Mount or in service to their fellow citizens; and whose recognition will bring honor to Mount St. Mary’s University. In 2024, the NAA honored three distinguished alumni:

ROBERT J. SMITH, C’64

LYNNE PHELAN ROBINSON, C’79

DANIEL J. MCMAHON, C’80

RW 24

THE REUNION FESTIVAL at the Palmieri Activities Center offered the opportunity to compete in cornhole tournaments, drink and eat food from Emmit’s Street Eats, listen to live music and catch up with friends and classmates.

Reunion Class Photos

ALUMNI ATTENDED CLASS SOCIALS across campus before ending the evening with a party on the quad. The Night on the Mount event featured music from the Flying Ivories Dueling Pianos and a food truck.

The bells rang out at a special memorial Mass on Sunday morning. The name of each friend and classmate who passed away was read aloud. Each year we remember a great lesson: the sacred is in the ordinary. It’s daily life, friends, neighbors and family. It’s what’s right here in our backyard. How lucky are we?

Philanthropy Report

DEAR MOUNT ALUMNI AND FRIENDS,

As I write, the Mount’s 2024-25 fiscal year is coming to a close, and I am reflecting on our community’s exceptional ethos of generosity. Each of us has our own, distinctive reason for supporting the university. For me, it’s rooted in the fact that the Mount is where I met my husband and the foundation of my career—combining my faith and vocation—truly began.

It is a privilege to witness and be part of the philanthropy journeys of our alumni and friends. While our individual motivations and areas of impact differ, there is clearly a growing passion for investing in this one-of-a-kind institution. We see evidence of it in:

• The more than 1,000 alumni and friends who fuel today’s excellence by participating in our One Mount One Day giving effort and annual support.

• The increasing numbers of our closest benefactors, who are fortifying the university’s future by including the Mount in their estate plans and establishing new endowment funds.

• The hundreds of people who have participated in the “Our Mission, Our Moment, Our Mount” campaign, now nearing completion. Donors have joined us to create a new School of Health Professions, expand our STEM programs, reimagine our sciences lab and classrooms and fortify the opportunities provided by Mount Athletics.

The stories of Mount St. Mary’s donors inspired us to launch an effort to profile these remarkable people. Philanthropic leaders advance every aspect of this incredible place, and I am honored to share a few of their stories, whose gifts are a powerful expression of their values and vision for the future.

If you’d like to share your story, please contact me!

PATTY HILL-CALLAHAN, C’87

Vice President for Advancement p.m.hill-callahan@msmary.edu

to share your story.

FRAN AND RICH BECKER, C’75: FAITH, LEADERSHIP, ATHLETICS, SERVICE— AND EACH OTHER

Fran Hecht and Rich Becker met in the summer of 1972, the year Mount St. Mary’s first accepted women as freshmen. Both graduates of the Class of 1975, for more than 50 years their lives have revolved around serving God and their neighbors.

At the Mount, Fran and Rich were student-athletes and student leaders. Rich played basketball for Coach Jim Phelan and was chair of the Student Union Board. Among the first coed class, Fran played basketball and field hockey and helped guide the Mount administration through Title IX federal regulations, which aim to ensure women athletes are treated equally and fairly. Both were honored their senior year with election to Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges.

They were highly successful after graduation. Rich was a leader in the mortgage banking industry and in 1990 was elected President of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Metropolitan Washington. Fran’s final professional role was as executive director of Carpenter’s Shelter, Northern Virginia’s largest program assisting people. In 2007, she was Alexandria, Virginia’s nonprofit leader of the year. “What I received at Mount St. Mary’s in a spiritual way was able to ground me in my day-to-day work with underserved families and adults,” she says.

Today, the Beckers are paying it forward to the university that helped shape their lives. They’re ambassadors for the Our Mission, Our Moment, Our Mount Campaign and generous supporters, with a keen interest in athletics and the mental health of student-athletes. “As I built my business over 45 years, I often would hire former athletes,” says Rich. He cites several qualities forged by competitive athletics: discipline, leadership and “acting for the betterment of the whole.”

SUPPORTING THE SEMINARY’S MISSION TO PRODUCE HOLY PRIESTS

Janice Obuchowski credits many of her life’s blessings—her education, marriage, and career—to “God-coincidences.” Following her extraordinary tenure at the Federal Communications Commission, she went on to serve as Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information at the Department of Commerce under President George H.W. Bush, and as U.S. Ambassador to the World Radiocommunication Conference under President George W. Bush. More than 30 years ago, she founded and has led Freedom Technologies, a leading telecommunications and information consultancy.

God-coincidences are also behind Janice’s volunteer leadership and generous philanthropy to the Mount. When she and her husband were helping their teenage daughter, Juliet Halprin, C’16, identify the right college to attend, a friend and fellow parishioner at St. Luke’s Church in McLean, Virginia stepped in. Suzanne Nicholson was a member of the Mount’s Board of Trustees at the time. Janice explains that Suzanne and Juliet met for tea one Sunday afternoon, and that’s when Juliet came away with her decision that she wished to become a student at the Mount.

Janice joined the Mount’s Board of Trustees many years ago, and when her term concluded she became a member of the Seminary’s Rector’s Council. Janice says she is very devoted to the Seminary, and that it’s recruiting very successfully because of its caliber, leadership and renowned history. As a result, the Seminary is recruiting good brave men and producing holy priests. “It is a very special place that I am honored to support.”

JANICE OBUCHOWSKI:

Philanthropy Report

DAVID BAIER, C’74: SECOND CHANCES AND TRANSFORMATION

As a high school senior in Baltimore, David Baier, C’74, toured Mount St. Mary’s campus and immediately felt at home. But following what he describes as a “not so stellar” freshman year at the Mount, he had to spend 15 months retaking courses elsewhere. Dave asked to return to the Mount and was welcomed back. He made the most of his second chance.

After graduation, Dave began a career in retailing and distribution. Eventually, he became senior vice president of purchasing and logistics of Monro, Inc., and president of its subsidiary, Monro Service Corporation.

Fast-forward to 2024. At a 50th Reunion event with then-President Tim Trainor, Ph.D., Dave heard about the Mount’s plans for a new School of Health Professions. A Physician Assistant (PA) degree to be offered through the school caught his attention, particularly because his health care primarily comes from a talented, caring PA. His passion was ignited immediately, and his generous philanthropy followed quickly. “I want the entire Mount community to understand the impact of this new program,” he says. “It is about people, and it will save lives.”

CHARLENE BALISTRERE: THE NATIONAL SHRINE GROTTO, A SANCTUARY FOR SOULS

Loving the Mount doesn’t require being a graduate of the university or being baptized into the Catholic Church as an infant. Charlene Balistrere became Catholic in the mid-1980s—after 17 years of marriage and around the time her husband, Tom, was hired to plan and oversee construction of the Knott Athletic Recreation Convocation Complex.

As often happens, the Mount’s tentacles grew, weaving throughout the Balistreres’ story. Tom’s career flourished at the university, and he served as Athletic Director for several years. The couple’s son Jeff is a Mount alum, as is his wife, Margot.

Tom and Charlene developed an especially close connection with the National Shrine Grotto, where Charlene’s focus and philanthropy have centered since Tom’s passing. She treasures the unique role the National Shrine plays as a “sanctuary for souls.” She has written moving reflections about the Grotto, including the following passage:

The National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is much more than a place. It is where heaven touches the earth and a person can embrace serenity, comfort, strength, love, family and saintly connections, and especially solace.”

A Sound Bet— and a Strong Investment

Mount St. Mary’s faith in Abby was a bet on her potential. “I’ve struggled all my life with ADHD and other learning disabilities,” she explains. “I don’t test well, but I know the material. It meant a lot to me that they could see through the grades and offer me a scholarship.”

Abby flourished on Mary’s Mountain. She served as senior class president, sat on the Board of Trustees, earned the Class of 2013 Leadership Award, hosted a radio show, led campus tours and wrote for The Mountain Echo student newspaper.

She is the 10th member of her extended family to attend Mount St. Mary’s, a legacy that started with her father (Mike Zinzi, C’94) and mother (Aimie Zinzi, C’97) and expanded quickly.

But, while Abby’s classmates embraced the typical joys of senior year, her reality was far different.

Both of her parents were undergoing treatment for cancer, and she moved back home to Baltimore to help care for them. She commuted while balancing full-time studies, leading her class and holding down two part-time jobs. “It taught me a lot,” she says. “It helped me be a better leader.”

As class president, Abby led the fundraising effort for the traditional senior class gift. Her reasons for giving are clear: “Remember all the times this school has been there for you. You wouldn’t have been able to have those experiences if donors didn’t have your back.”

Today. 1 | 2 | says Abby Zinzi, C’25, echoing a phrase used by alumni across generations. The Mount took a chance on me,”

Scholarships and financial aid unlock opportunities for countless students like Abby. They enable talented young people to test themselves and develop into ethical leaders. Make a gift today to support Mount students. Show them you have their back.

msmary.edu/givemmfe

Class Notes

Find Out What Your Fellow Alumni Are Doing!

Stories are listed by class year, in ascending order to most recent and alphabetically by last name.

Dennis Finnegan, C’72, and Frank Lidinsky, C’72, pose with Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott

Ron Cooney, C’61, Marie Graney, C’08, and Xavi Decaire, C’73

Jeffrey Lawrence, Ph.D., C’85, Retirement Party. Mounties in attendance at the celebration included, from left to right, George Krizmanich Jr., C'85, Dave Close, C'85, Jeff Lawrence, C’85, John Singleton, C'86, MBA'87, and Colonel Joe Anderson, C’85 (US Army Retired).

Accomplishments

JIM CHRISMER, C’66

On September 10, 2024, Jim Chrismer, C’66, was declared a Harford County Living Treasure by vote of the Harford County Council (Maryland), joining his late father, F. Wayde Chrismer, C’30.

DENNIS FINNEGAN, C’72 AND FRANK LIDINSKY, C’72

Dennis Finnegan, C’72, and Frank Lidinsky, C’72, pose with Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott following the 20th annual presentation of The Richard A. Lidinsky, Sr., Award for Excellence in Public Service. The award is named for Frank’s father, whose career with the city lasted 43 years. Dennis is the only committee member who has served continuously since the award was established in 2004.

XAVIER DECAIRE, C’73

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington recognized Xavier Decaire, C’73, with the Msgr. Thomas J. Reese Award for exceptional dedication and unwavering support of local communities throughout his life.

REVEREND PATRICK JOSEPH MCLAUGHLIN, S’74, RETIREMENT

On July 11, 2023, Rev. Patrick J. McLaughlin, S’74, retired after 49 years as a priest for the Diocese of Scranton. In preparation for his retirement, he was appointed Pastor Emeritus of Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

JACK CAUSA, C’76

Jack Causa, C’76, was inducted to the Berks County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame on April 28, 2024.

PAUL WAGNER, C’79

Paul Wagner, C’79, a reporter for NBC4 in Washington, D.C., directed “5 Days on the Pile,” a documentary that won Best Documentary at a film festival in New York City. The documentary is streaming on Apple+ and Prime Video.

JEFFREY LAWRENCE, PH.D., C’85, RETIREMENT

On Veteran's Day, November 11, 2023, a retirement party was held for Jeffrey Lawrence, Ph.D., C’85, in Annapolis, Maryland. In 2023, Lawrence was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal after 36 years of combined military and uniformed service to the United States. Lawrence earned his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California in 1999.

JULIE (WRIGHT) HYLAND, C’89

Julie Hyland was appointed the director of institutional advancement at Archbishop Carroll High School in Radnor, Pennsylvania.

DAVE DILUIGI, C’92

Dave DiLuigi, C’92, was named as head of U.S. markets for the Wealth Division of Wilmington Trust in February 2025.

David DiLuigi, C'92

LAURA MCGINLEY, C’94

Laura McGinley was inducted into the South Carroll High School Athletic Hall of Fame on February 9, 2024.

KEVIN BARLOTTA, M.D., C’95

Kevin Barlotta, M.D., C’95, was appointed associate chief quality officer for the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medicine on May 1, 2024. He serves as the physician champion within safety and mortality domains, helping identify opportunities and drive improvement across the institution. Dr. Barlotta completed his medical degree at Temple University and Emergency Medicine residency at the University of Virginia Health System. He joined the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2006. He is a professor and associate vice chair of Emergency Medicine with board certifications in both Emergency Medicine and Emergency Medical Services. Most recently, he has simultaneously served as the department value officer, physician director of quality and safety, and the medical director for UAB’s Critical Care Transport.

AUDREY VASAUSKAS, PH.D., C’96

Audrey Vasauskas, Ph.D., C’96, started a new position as the associate dean for research and scholarly activity at the Baptist Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Memphis, Tennessee.

ALEXIS SALERNO, M.D., FAAEM, C’11

Alexis Salerno, M.D., FAAEM, C’11, is the 2025 recipient of the Young Educator Award given by the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM). This award recognizes an AAEM member less than five years out of residency for outstanding contributions in educational programs. Dr. Salerno, an assistant professor in the University of Maryland School of Medicine Department of Emergency Medicine, teaches point-of-care ultrasound to fellows, residents, medical students and colleagues in the University of Maryland School of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical System and nationally. She received her award at the April 2025 AAEM Scientific Assembly in Miami.

ERIN CLARK, C’09, MBA’12

Erin Clark, CPA, C’09, MBA’12, was admitted as a member of the firm at SEK CPAs & Advisors on January 1, 2024. Erin leads audit, accounting, and advisory engagements across a variety of industries, including nonprofit organizations, healthcare entities, local governments and financial institutions. She joined SEK upon completing her undergraduate degree in 2009.

MERCEDES CHARLES, C’11

Mercedes Charles recently launched a solo law practice, CHARLAW, PLLC, in Naples, Florida. Her practice area is in family law.

ARCHER O’BRIEN, C’16

Archer O’Brien, C’16, self-published his book BuildingaBrighter Future:AProposalforMarket-BasedUniversalSocialInsurance, in July 2024. O’Brien was inspired by his lived experience and his exposure to Catholic Social Teaching at Mount St. Mary’s. After graduating from the Mount with a bachelor’s degree in history, Archer received his master’s degree in humanities from Hood College and is currently a Ph.D. candidate.

Laura McGinley, C’94

ALEXANDER GRIFASI, C’17

Alexander Grifasi, C’17, completed a Master of Science degree in Chemistry with honors from the University of Colorado-Denver.

REGGIE TURNER, C’19

In July 2024 Reggie Turner, C’19, was included on TheDailyRecord’s listing of Influential Marylanders. Turner is a commissioner for the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture.

ALEXIS MCKAIN, C’21

Alexis McKain, C’21, was promoted to senior associate at SEK CPAs & Advisors. She joined SEK in 2021 and is based in the Camp Hill, Pennsylvania office.

BREANNA RORRER, C’21

Breanna Rorrer, C’21, was promoted to senior associate at SEK CPAs & Advisors. Rorrer is a member of the firm’s Emerging Professionals Committee and SEK University. Currently pursuing her Certified Public Accountant license, she joined SEK in 2021 and is based in the Hanover, Pennsylvania, office.

NICHOLAS LAVENBERG, C’21, CPA, MBA

Nicholas Lavenberg was promoted to a supervisor role in 2024 at SEK CPAs & Advisors. He plays a key role in training new staff and interns and serves as a speaker at the firm’s summer leadership program, ExploreSEK. Additionally, he contributes as a member of the firm’s Audit Efficiency Task Force. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport. Lavenberg is a certified public accountant in Pennsylvania and joined the Hanover, Pennsylvania office, in 2021.

STEPHANIE HALL, C’22

Stephanie Hall, C’22, has been promoted to senior associate at SEK CPAs & Advisors. She splits her time between providing tax services to the firm’s business and individual clients and performing employee benefit plan audits for closely held businesses and pass-through entities. Hall joined SEK in 2021 and is based in the Hanover, Pennsylvania, office.

Alumni Gatherings

NEW YEAR’S EVE ALUMNI PARTY

A group of alumni from the Classes of 1982 and 1983 met up to ring in 2025 at the home of Eileen and Rick Spencer, C’82.

CLASS OF 1986 BIRTHDAY GATHERING

Several members of the Class of 1986 gathered at the Mount on October 19, 2024, to celebrate their 60th birthdays, and over 40 years of friendship begun in college.

Lynch, James Ottenritter, Mark Wharton, John Driscoll, Bill Otterbein, Tom Leverone, MJ Golibart, Mike Walker, Tom Wiegartner, Jack Sellers, Brian Stromeyer.

CLASS OF 1961 MINI-REUNION

Several members of the Class of 1961 gathered at the home of Dick Christopher in Lewes, Delaware, for a mini-reunion on October 7, 2023.

Back row, from left to right: Jerry O’Brien, Ron Cooney, Ray Castaldi, Dick Christopher, Bob Thornett, John Gill, Jack Burdian, Joe Healy, Jack Walsh and Tom Courtney.

Front row, from left to right: Pat Gill, Eileen Carroll, Dixie Richards, Kay Quinn, Joyce McGreevy, Janet O’Brien, Christie Thornett, Pat Kline, Ann Castaldi, Pat Walsh and Norm Richards.

MEMORIAL TREE PLANTED FOR PATTY PACCADOLMI, C’90

In September 2023, Jeanmarie Kline, Lauren Moore, Sandy Anthony and Tom Donegan, all members of the Class of 1990, gathered in Vermont to plant a tree in memory of their classmate, the late Patty “P” Paccadolmi. Patty passed away on June 28, 2023.

CLASS OF 1990 MINI-REUNION

On September 8 and 9, the Class of 1990 held a mini-reunion, hosted by Alison Walsh, C’90, in Seaside Park, New Jersey.

Front row: Jim Morgan, Melissa Dougherty, Bob Molz, Mary Gerard Back row: Kate Breslin, Alison Walsh, Beth Quinlan, JeanMarie Staufenberg, Stacey Meli, Katie Schmidt, MaryRose DeVinceris (C '87).

Pictured are: Maggie D'Agostaro, Fran Holcomb Rosinski, Mary Holley Rollins, Kathy "Tiny" Jillions, Ed Caruso, Pete Longo, Amy Lengel Heim, Suzanne Knoth Golibart, Kim Schultz Wong, Jeanne Hoffman

Not pictured: Tom Barnes & Kevin Lutts.

Back row, from left to right: Jeff Dorso C’83, with Rick Spencer, Jody Heavy, John (Juan) Lynch, Jim Schraf, all C’82.

Front row, left to right: Sean Culkin, C'82, Dedie Giuliani, C'83, Joe DeMino, C'82.

Births

ALEX (CARHART) TIELLE, C’17, AND DAVID TIELLE, C'17

Alexis Tielle, C’17, and David Tielle, C’17, welcomed Olivia Catherine Tielle on February 28, 2023. She was 8 pounds 6 ounces.

Weddings & Engagements

JULIA (TODD) MOSTOWTT, C'13, AND JUSTIN MOSTOWTT, C’12

Julia Mostowtt, C’13, and Justin Mostowtt, C’12, along with big sister Felicity, welcomed Henryk Aloysius Mostowtt, on April 5, 2023.

SOPHIA (LOOKINGBILL) O’BRIEN, C’20, AND ERICK O'BRIEN, C’20

Sophia and Erick O’Brien, both members of the Class of 2020, welcomed Elias O'Brien in March 2024.

COURTNEY CLEARY, C’16, AND MICHAEL O’GRADY, C’16

Courtney Cleary, C’16, and Michael O’Grady, C’16, were married at the Mount’s Chapel of Immaculate Conception by Deacon Michael Herlihey, C’16, on November 3, 2023.

LEXI ZAMBITO, C’22, AND JACOB PINTAR

Lexi Zambito, C’22, and Jacob Pintar were married on May 13, 2023, at St. Lawrence Chapel in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Mount alum Catherine Davis, C’22, and Glennamarie Rivers, C’22, were bridesmaids, and Harry Scherer, C’22, was the emcee.

NATALIA HINTON, C’17, MBA’18, AND JULIAN WOODS, C’17

Natalia Hinton, C’17, MBA’18, and Julian Woods, C’17, were married on July 14, 2023.

AUTUMN (BURNS) SERVAGNO, C’22, AND SANTINO SERVAGNO, C’22

Autumn and Santino Servagno, both Class of 2022, were married on June 30, 2023.

Weddings & Engagements (Cont).

STEPHANIE (MORAN) BEZIRDJIAN, C'19, AND CONNOR BEZIRDJIAN

Stephanie (Moran) Bezirdjian, C’19, married Connor Bezirdjian on November 16, 2024, at Dulaney’s Overlook in Frederick, Maryland. It was a beautiful day shared with friends, family and Mounties.

From left to right, the following alumni were in attendance: Bob Stankiewicz, C ’90, Jenn Stankiewicz, C’90, Buddy Cooney, C’90, Patty Lindner, C’91, Larry Lindner, C’90, Katie Wineman, C’93, Matt Wineman, C’94, Kirsten Hoffman, C’19, Sharon Pham, C’19, Birhan Alemayehu, C’19, Krysten Peterson, C’19, Lynn (Seminuk) Moran, C’93, mother of the bride, Colby Jews, C’19, Drew Bonner, C’19, Tito Okpalannaka, C’19, Connor Bezirdjian, Stephanie (Moran) Bezirdjian, C’19, Mike McNulty, C’90, Michele (Pinto) Case, C’93, Todd Chairs, C’90, Joe Pinto, C’90, John Birrane, C’90, Glenn Moran, C’90, father of the bride.

JENNIFER MCSPARRON OTWELL, C’14, AND JACOB OTWELL

Jennifer McSparron Otwell, C’14, and Jacob Otwell were married on October 14, 2023, in Hagerstown, Maryland.

Back row, from left to right, are Sarah Cherry, C'14, Nicole Helmick, C'14, Julia Maier, C'14, Kelsey Kettleson, C'15, Jacob Otwell, Jennifer McSparron Otwell, C'14, Antonio Caro, C'14, Jodie McSparron, C’17, maid of honor, Kathryn Phillips, C'16, Katherine Houdek, C'13, Brian Houdek, C'14. In the front row is Clayton Bartles, ring bearer and future Mountie.

AMANDA MALMSTROM, C'15, AND KYLE WENSEL, C'11

Amanda Malmstrom, C’15, and Kyle Wensel, C’11, were married on June 2, 2023, in Glenmoore, PA.

Groom Kyle Wensel, C'11, and bride Amanda Malmstrom, C'15, with their Mount guests: Dan Sinnott, C'77, Ken Wensel, C'78, Richard Bolte, C'79, Tim Pearsall, C'79, Joan (Cooney) Wensel, C'81, Mike Wensel, C'08, Nathan Buckey, C'11, Tyler Fenstermacher, C'11, Dan Noel, C'11, Nick Schlosser, C'11, Kimberly (Kelly) Schlosser, C'11, Matt Waldron, C'11, Scott Farnin, C'11, John Wilson, C'11, Eric Detzel, C'11, Kevin O'Connor, C'11, Joe Recchiuti, C'11, Mary Bogdan, C'14, Zac Turulski, C'15, Sara (Fuss) Marvel, C'15, Jenn (Carney) Danaher, C'15, Taylor Danaher, C'15, Katie (Lane) Ruggiero, C'15, Rebecca Kasda, C'15, Margaret Keffer, C'15.

SUSANNE (HASSLINGER) MAFFEI, C'16, AND NICK MAFFEI, C'17

Susanne Maffei, C’16, and Nick Maffei, C’17, were married on November 11, 2023. Over 20 Mounties were in attendance.

Greg Hasslinger, C'79; Tyler Myles, C'16; Travis Bewley, C'16; Brian Melody, C'99; Tito Miranda, C'15; Julia Melody, C'99; Courtney (Cleary) O'Grady, C'16; Emily (Dees) Hartig, C'18; Sean Hartig, C'16; Tim Steffens, C'16; Rachel (Craig) Steffens, C'16; Caroline Winter, C'16; Liz Thomas, C'16; Jack Spera, C'18; Kelly (McKeon) Miranda, C'16; Kevin Mitchell, C'16; Allie (Parshley) Wade, C'17; Jesse Linsenmeyer, C'18; Brian Mullin, C'16. Not pictured: Matt Drumgoole, C'14; Vince Rapposelli, C'17; Lizzie (Boyle) Rapposelli, C'19; Jack Rotsch, C'17.

ELISABETH LEVI, C’18, AND RYAN WILBURN, C’18

Elisabeth Levi, C’18, and Ryan Wilburn, C’18, met at the Ott House during their senior year and were married on June 1, 2024, at St. Matthew the Apostle Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

Groom Ryan Wilburn and bride Elisabeth Levi are joined by Briana Burley, C’18, Ally Edwards, C’19, MBA’21, Angela Raymond, C’18, John Looney, C’15,

Chris Phillips, C’15, Levi Bean, C’15, MBA’17, Abigayle Bean, C’17, Robert Samuels, C’15, Ian Garrison, C’16, MBA’18, Timothy Bielaski, C’92.

BRIGID COYLE, C’21, AND JAMES CONNELLY, C’21

James Connelly, C’21, proposed to Brigid Coyle, C’21, on August 19, 2023, at Longwood Gardens.

RACHEL DONOHUE, C’21, AND ERIC FIERRO, C’22

After meeting in their social media class during Rachel’s junior year, Eric Fierro, C’22, and Rachel Donohue, C’21, began dating. Eric proposed to Rachel in Punta Cana last February.

Sarah Looney, C’15,

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace, Amen. May their souls and all the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

In Memoriam

Notice Received June 2023 - February 2025

Joseph F. Horning, C’53

December 25, 1931 - January 8, 2024

Joseph F. “Joe” Horning, a 1953 graduate of Mount St. Mary’s University and generous volunteer leader, passed away on January 8, 2024.

Joe served on the Mount St. Mary’s Board of Trustees for 10 years, including two years as chair. In collaboration with other alumni, Joe and his wife, Lynne, in 2007 started the Third Century Scholars program that provides full scholarship support to students from Washington, D.C., who come from economically challenged backgrounds. Currently, several Third Century Scholars are pursuing their education at the Mount. He and Lynne, his now-deceased brother Lawrence, C’65, and other family members supported many other areas at Mount St. Mary’s.

Joe was chairman emeritus of Horning, the real estate development firm he founded in 1959 with his brother Lawrence, C’65. During his 60-year career, he built housing and neighborhood-serving retail in nearly every ward of Washington, D.C.

Joe and Lynne were recognized as Washingtonians of the Year in 2002 and, in 2005, by the Washington Interfaith Conference for their dedication to community service. The Mount recognized his service with the Distinguished Alumnus Award, President’s Medal and an honorary doctorate.

Joe is survived by his wife, Lynne, children Joseph Horning III, Missy Young, Andrew Horning and John Horning, their spouses, and nine grandchildren.

James A. Henderson, C’48

April 2024

William N. Gregory, Jr., C’49

May 24, 2024

Edwin Gibbons, C’50

July 11, 2023

Dr. Leon E. Leshock, C’50 August 24, 2018

Vincent Vito Oliveri, C’50

September 24, 2023

John L. Rossi, C’50

August 13, 2023

Stephen (Steve) Sweeney, C’50

August 27, 2023

Nancy Johnson Koerwer, C’51

Unknown

John J. Collins, C’51

March 18, 2018

Deacon John H. Baker, C’52, January 7, 2025

Joseph F. Horning, Jr., C’53

January 8, 2024

Salvatore M. Angelo, Sr., C’55

June 14, 2024

Thomas W. Kosecevic, C’55

April 14, 2024

Philippe Melroy, C’55

November 1, 2022

Rodney L. Pariser, C’55

May 3, 2024

Frederick Louis Schmitt, C’55

August 25, 2023

James L. Eagen, C’56

July 6, 2024

William Leo Sheridan, C’56

February 17, 2024

William Anderson, C’57

July 15, 2023

John Bolton, C’57

June 9, 2023

Robert S. Vitali, C’57

September 12, 2024

Louis V. RisCassi, C’57

October 23, 2024

John Flickinger, C’58

June 16, 2023

John J. Walsh, C’58

August 30, 2023

James F. Bogan, Jr., C’59

December 25, 2023

Dr. James J. Coyne, C’59

March 15, 2024

Joe Gruce, C’59

August 5, 2023

Edward P. (Ed) McGroarty, C’59

February 11, 2024

Peter R. Burnejko, C’60

August 13, 2019

William V. Dougherty, Jr., C’60

January 27, 2020

Charles M. Dillion, C’60

July 17, 2024

Neil P. Kenny, C’60

September 3, 2023

Patrick J. Rooney, C’60

October 29, 2023

Joseph B. Vaganek, C’60

June 4, 2024

Thomas F. Walsh, C’60

August 31, 2024

George Amman, C’61

January 25, 2023

Robert P. Figarotta, C’61

January 3, 2024

Thomas Gaffney, C’61

July 1, 2019

Robert (Bob) Guilday, C’61

May 5, 2023

Thomas Patrick Hennings, C’61

April 28, 2021

William L. Kelty, C’61

April 8, 2022

Ronald A. Kopczewski, C’61

June 28, 2020

William L. Lupton, C’61

September 17, 2020

John Roth, C’61

August 1, 2018

Ronald E. Zooleck, Sr., C’61

October 1, 2024

(Continued on page 44)

Deceased listed in order by class year.

John “Chub” Walsh, C’58

March 10, 1936 - August 30, 2023

John “Chub” Walsh, a distinguished figure and a cherished alumnus, passed away on August 30, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be celebrated.

Born in Long Island, New York, John was the eldest of four boys. He graduated from Mount St. Mary’s with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1958. John’s patriotic spirit led him to become a Marine reservist. After graduation, John worked at a winery before having a highly successful 40-year career on Wall Street.

John was deeply grateful to his alma mater, and his service and generosity to the university are legendary. According to John, the Mount taught him about his strengths and weaknesses. He served several stints as a trustee beginning in 1991 and ending in 2010, and led the Board as chair from 1998-2001.

In 2010, John was inducted into the Mount Athletics Hall of Fame for baseball. The university also awarded him the Bruté Medal in 1998, the Pride of the Mount award in 1999 and an honorary doctorate in 2004.

Patrick “Pat” Rooney, C’60

March 7, 1939 - October 9, 2023

Patrick "Pat" Rooney left a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. His life was a tapestry woven with dedication, sportsmanship and a profound love for his alma mater.

Pat and his twin brother, John, C’60, shared a special bond. Graduating from Mount St. Mary's, with John also in the class, Pat carried the lessons of those formative years with him throughout his life. He was a treasured member of the Mount’s tennis team. Pat, along with John and their spouses, led philanthropic investment for the Mount’s new Rooney Athletic Performance Center.

Pat was part of the family’s legendary ownership of the Pittsburgh Steelers. After selling his shares in the NFL team, his career focused on the family’s racetracks, which include the Palm Beach Kennel Club, where the Mount proudly hosted alumni events.

In Pat Rooney, we celebrate a man who left an indelible mark on Mount St. Mary's. His spirit will forever resonate at his beloved alma mater and the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness.

James P. Bostic, C’62

March 21, 2024

Joseph M. Callahan, C’62

August 25, 2024

Michael Chrismer, C’62

July 29, 2024

Thomas (Woody) Stoner, C’62

August 9, 2023

Stanley R. Witkowski, C’62

October 26, 2023

Michael J. Nagle, C’62

October 24, 2024

Edward J. Langan, C’62

February 14, 2025

Mary Louise Murray, SJC’63

December 22, 2024

James R. Poling, C’63

January 6, 2025

Alfred E. Costello, C’63

September 12, 2023

John Huges, C’63

July 20, 2023

George Knipfing, C’63

January 5, 2024

Salvatore Thomas (Sal) Salerno, C’63

September 14, 2023

William P. Dowd, C’64

November 18, 2024

Tom Bahash, C’64

January 24, 2019

Dr. Francis J. Bonner, Jr., C’64

April 29, 2024

Thomas B. Finan, C’64 April 3, 2024

Thomas G. Rocks, C’64

April 1, 2024

John C. Umbel, C’65 February 1, 2025

Edward M. Curran, Jr., C’65 May 4, 2024

David M. Davenport, C’65 August 11, 2024

Henry Hayes, C’65 June 27, 2023

Ronald P. Lee, C’65 June 20, 2024

James J. Tuzzi, C’66 2022

Joseph C. Cotroneo, M.D., C’66 August 9, 2023

Robert A. Cronemeyer, C’66 August 27, 2023

Thomas L. Derowitsch, C’66 March 16, 2024

Joseph Esposito, C’66 July 7, 2023

Donald (Slew) C. Lopez, C’66 August 31, 2023

Lawrence T. (Larry) Merchant, C’67 March 13, 2023

Kenneth V. (Ken) Price, C’67 January 12, 2024

Mark J. Regan, C’68

October 4, 2024

Robert P. Duffy, C’68

October 27, 2024

Christopher B. Costello, C’68

January 17, 2025

Thomas F. James, C’68

October 10, 2023

Daniel E. Malloy, C’68

October 2, 2023

William T. Merritt, C’68

September 30, 2023

Walter T. Hennessy, Jr., C’68 February 6, 2025

Ernest R. "Ernie" Shriver, C’68 April 24, 2024

William Tell, C’68 August 4, 2024

Ambassador Njuguna M. Mahugu, C’70

October 13, 2024

Joseph Dougherty, C’70

February 27, 2023

Donald J. Gurley, C’70

February 19, 2024

Rev. John D. Hoke, C’71, S’76 June 28, 2024

Francis (Frank) Sanzaro, C’71 September 19, 2023

Paul G. Mueller, C’71

July 28, 2024

Charles J. Walters, Jr., C’71 March 21, 2021

Dr. Stephen F. Curran, C’72 July 4, 2024

Christopher G. Conley, C’72

January 5, 2025

Hugo “Fred” Bourdon, C’72 December 7, 2024

David Condron, C’73 May 11, 2024

Geoffrey J. Kerwin, C’73 December 27, 2024

John E. McCormick, C’73 November 3, 2024

Stephen J. Hanlon, C’73 July 12, 2024

Anthony Mattessich, C’73 February 26, 2025

Leo G. Donohue, C’74 February 8, 2024

Kathleen A. McCann, C’74 October 12, 2023

William H. Rapp, Jr., C’74 November 16, 2024

Robert A. Cipolla, Ed.D., C’74 June 14, 2022

Joseph A. "Joe" Bella, C’75 December 14, 2023

Robert L. Cardoni, C’75 May 16, 2024

Gerald J. Scallion, C’75 April 17, 2024

John Luntz, C’75

July 22, 2023

Brian M. Sugrue, C’75

January 25, 2024

Mark S. Swanicke, C’75

September 9, 2023

Albert L. Wankmiller, C’75

August 8, 2024

Dennis J. Wynne, C’75

January 21, 2023

Michael J. Gaddis, C’76

December 19, 2024

Nicolas J. Banhegyi, Jr., C’76

October 28, 2015

Timothy L. Blucher, C’76

June 8, 2023

James F. Bremer, C’76

June 6, 2024

Bernard J. Delia, C’76

June 21, 2024

Victoria L. "Vicky" (Cosentino)

Lenny, C’76

August 30, 2024

Richard J. Maguire, C’77

June 16, 2023

Nancy J. Bushey Lambert, C’77

January 23, 2025

Daniel P. Judge, C’77

August 8, 2024

William Patrick Guididas, C’78

October 10, 2022

A. Marie Knobel, C’79

June 30, 2023

Harriet A. Pryor, C’79

August 29, 2023

Priscilla M. Gagnon Morin, C’79

October 20, 2024

M. Kavin Kearney, C’79

February 22, 2024

Michael F. Ryan, Sr., C’79

June 1, 2024

Hugh Daley, C’80

June 9, 2023

Richard B. Gowdy, C’81

February 1, 2020

Anthony J. Cristaldi, C’81

April 6, 2024

JoAnn Dello Buono Hallahan, C’81

September 15, 2023

James B. Power, C’81

August 18, 2023

Michael G. Donahoe, C’82

July 23, 2023

John Batterden, C’83

January 7, 2025

Craig Storm, C’84

July 6, 2023

Patrick J. Henry, C’85

January 21, 2025

Terry Bergdale "Jill" Crawford, C’86

August 22, 2024

Tom F. Menton, C’86

January 13, 2024

Glenn P. Duncan, C’87

February 26, 2025

Thomas E. Martin, C’72, MBA’87

January 25, 2025

Richard M. Topper, C’87

January 19, 2024

Jane Purkis Kearney, C’88

September 11, 2023

John Placido, C’89

March 29, 2024

Michael F. Sheehan, C’89

April 27, 2024

Patricia Paccadolmi, C’90

June 28, 2023

Gregory H. Clough, C’92

July 1, 2024

Lori A. Di Rienzo, C’93

March 12, 2023

Alexander W. Dorsch, C’95

September 26, 2024

Shawn M. Bergeron, C’97

March 2, 2024

Christopher R. Farrell, C’06

April 29, 2010

Melissa Q. Seese, C’08

July 14, 2024

Patrick J. Plastow, C’11

January 8, 2025

Joseph J. Appleton, C’16

October 3, 2023

Paul Keagan Jaravata, C’24

September 6, 2023

Margaret Anne "Peg" Steele Baker

April 8, 2024

William “Bill” Tell, C’68

December 1946 - August 8, 2024

William “Bill” Tell, a strong supporter of Mount St. Mary’s, passed away at home in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, surrounded by his family.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the Mount, Bill started more than 15 businesses, settling in the

Carol Louise Hinds

December 2, 1941 – February 5, 2025

Carol Louise Hinds died at home in Carroll Valley, Pennsylvania, on February 5, 2025.

Professor Emerita of English, Hinds lived by the ethos that the better part of life is “showing up,” which was her way of saying she felt a profound sense of duty toward the people and communities in her life.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Hinds graduated from Pius X High School and then the University of Saint Mary, receiving a bachelor’s degree. She earned a Ph.D. in English literature at the University of Virginia.

In 1995, Hinds was hired as the provost and vice president of academic affairs at Mount St. Mary’s. She was the first female in this role at the Mount, a position she held until 2005, when she was named a University Professor and began teaching English.

She retired from the Mount in August 2023, the same year the University established the Carol Hinds Award for Exemplary Service that is given annually to honor a faculty member for selfless service.

The family kindly requests gifts be made to support the Carol Hinds Award for Exemplary Service. Contributions can be made online at www.msmary.edu/give/online-gift-form.html or mailed to: Mount St. Mary's University, Office of Advancement, 16300 Old Emmitsburg Road, Emmitsburg, MD, 21727.

architectural door hardware industry as president and CEO of a company for more than four decades.

With his big smile and dry sense of humor, Bill was a mainstay at many Mount Reunions and served on various fundraising committees. He was a member of the President’s Council from 2018-2021.

Mount Love Story

Nick Obielecki, C’09, Sam Kacyon, C’09, Slavik Tsimura, C’09, Jordan Bertoglio, C’09, Elizabeth (Trentacoste) Bertoglio, C’09, Tim Connole, C’11, Sara (Brown) O’Donnell, C’09, Stephanie (Dickerson) Connole, C’08, Paula Fitzpatrick, C’82, Elaine (Fitzpatrick) Trentacoste, C’81.

ELIZABETH (TRENTACOSTE) BERTOGLIO, C’09, AND JORDAN BERTOGLIO, C’09

Jordan Bertoglio, C’09, and Elizabeth (Trentacoste) Bertoglio, C’09, are often asked how they met. The reply always starts with “at the Mount,” followed by Jordan sharing that he played the “long game” for 15 years. Jordan and Liz became friends in their first year at the Mount. Over the years, they kept in touch, meeting up with each other and other Mounties on both coasts and at their 10-year reunion in 2019. However, in 2020, during one of the yearly Mountie meet-ups, something was different. Liz and Jordan started dating, at first long distance between New York and North Carolina, but after one year, Liz moved to be closer to Jordan. Shortly thereafter, they got engaged. Jordan and Liz exchanged wedding vows in the Basilica of Saint Mary in Wilmington, North Carolina, on October 1, 2022. They love visiting their “mountain home” and plan on attending their 15year reunion in June 2025.

Email your photo(s) and love story to themagazine@msmary.edu for a chance to be featured!

1808 Society

A Legacy of Love: A Transformational Gift to the Mount

For Susan Bermingham, Mount St. Mary’s is more than a university. It is a place where her family’s legacy will live on for generations to come. Through her incredible generosity and thoughtful estate planning, she has ensured that her children’s memory will be forever woven into the fabric of the Mount.

Bermingham’s journey to planned giving began with a deep personal loss. Her beloved daughter, Rachel Bermingham, tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of 26. Rachel, a successful Mount alum of the class of 1998, was just beginning her professional career at the time of her death. Determined to honor Rachel’s memory, Bermingham and her late husband, James, made a commitment to Mount St. Mary’s through their estate provisions.

Unfortunately, Susan Bermingham lost her husband in 2013 and her only other living child, James Jr., in 2023. At a time of great heartache, she turned tragic loss into a philanthropic vision.

Susan’s son, Jim, was an avid fitness enthusiast. Although he did not attend the Mount, she felt that naming the fitness center space in the soon-to-be Rooney Athletic Performance Center was the perfect way to honor his legacy. The fitness center and weight room, both places where students push themselves to grow stronger, will now carry Jim’s name, reflecting his dedication to health and wellness.

As a lasting tribute to her daughter, Rachel, C’98, Bermingham named spaces in the new School of Health Professions state-of-the-art facility in Rachel’s memory.

In addition to these heartfelt contributions, Bermingham modified her estate provision after the loss of her family members, making a transformational commitment. Upon Susan’s passing, the Mount will receive the largest planned gift in its history to support the School of Health Professions and provide endowed scholarships for students in need. This extraordinary act of generosity ensures that future Mount students will have the resources to succeed, carrying forward Susan’s and her family’s legacy of compassion, resilience and dedication to education.

By making a planned gift, Susan Bermingham is not only honoring her children’s memory but also inspiring others to think about the lasting impact they can make. Her story is a testament to the power of philanthropy: how an individual’s

Create Your Legacy

Contact Laura C. McCullough, CFRE, at l.c.mccullough@msmary.edu or (301) 447-5916 . Please visit www.msmary.giftlegacy.com for more information.

generosity can shape the lives of countless students for years to come. Through her foresight and devotion to the Mount, Bermingham has created a legacy that will echo through the halls of the university for generations. Her children’s names will be remembered, her generosity will uplift students and her love for the Mount will endure forever.

To learn more about creating a legacy gift to support Mount St. Mary’s University, or to have a confidential conversation, please contact Laura C. McCullough, CFRE, assistant vice president of advancement, at l.c.mccullough@msmary.edu or 301.447.5916. You also are encouraged to explore the planned giving tools and resources at www.msmary.giftlegacy.com

Please note: This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. We advise you to work with your financial, tax or legal advisor to determine a charitable giving strategy that fits your situation.