Happenings Summer 2009

HappeningS MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

Summer 2009 Volume 31, No. 2

TO PRAISE, TO BLESS, TO PREACH GOD

MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A letter from the President

Dear alumni, students, parents and friends of Mount Saint Mary College, I hope you are having an enjoyable summer.

For the first time, our student development personnel have arranged July Summer Orientation sessions for close to 500 new freshmen.

This should be immensely helpful. In addition to meals, icebreakers and teambuilding, incoming students will have the opportunity for advisement and registration by major, and will learn more about campus life and services: before they arrive for studies.

Also in July, we have a couple of Summer Barbecue and Admissions Previews. I ask our alumni to point interested high school students and their families to these. They can register online. And please remember that there is a current or future student depending on your benevolence.

We’re envisioning many strategic enhancements at the Mount, from continuing to hire additional qualified faculty, to raising the bar on the excellence and accessibility of programs and facilities for students, and of course building on the legacy of the Dominican Order of Preachers.

As we plan to celebrate our 50th Anniversary year, the humble seeds and dedicated pioneers of Mount Saint Mary College, and the builders through the years, provide a vision of community. Sr. Agnes Boyle, OP, discerns it this way: “Think of the soul of the College. This is holy ground.”

This discernable quality challenges us to make Mount Saint Mary College even better, and to imbue our world with prayer, with study, with ministry, and with a vision of peace for every other life.

This publication presents some of our efforts: including our Commencement Liturgy and Ceremony. I’m hoping new students will find the activities something to anticipate.

Watch our website www.msmc.edu for more, and don’t forget to share your accomplishments.

Sincerely,

Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM President

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HappeningS Volume 31, No. 2

The Office of Community Relations publishes Happenings for alumni, parents and friends of Mount Saint Mary College. Story ideas involving students, faculty, staff and alumni are welcome.

PRESIDENT Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Janet Gianopoulos Assistant to the President for Community Relations

8 COVER STORY:

Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, celebrated Commencement in all its stages. Above, at the Liturgy, music ministers included Mollie Woodbury (nursing), Erin Knight (mathematics) and Sister Margaret Murphy, OP (religious studies). This issue’s headline, TO PRAISE, TO BLESS, TO PREACH GOD, which appears on a ceremonial banner, is the motto of the Dominican Order of Preachers (OP). Read more about that in coverage of Mount Saint Mary College’s 50th Anniversary this year.

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Brendan G. Coyne Public Information Jane Hanley Web Editor/Writer Michelle Iacuessa ‘94 Alumni Affairs Justin Satkowski Sports

Contents 2 4

President’s Message First Year Journal: Gregory Tyler, Mathematics

6

Around the Mount

8

Commencement

12

On the Job: Ready to Teach

15 18 21

Good to Know

22

Alumni Notes

Nihal Mahawaduge

Spectrum Creative Solutions CIRCULATION: 16,000 © 2009

Campaign/Kaplan family celebrated Sports

Brendan G. Coyne

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

Educators begin again

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PHOTOGRAPHY

EMAIL: happenings@msmc.edu Mount Saint Mary College Newburgh, NY 12550

Chairman of the Board salutes supporters, page 18

845-569-3100 Fax: 845-569-3282 Admissions: 888-YES-MSMC

(888-937-6762) Admissions Fax: 845-569-3438

SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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FIRST YEAR JOURNAL

Greg’s tip for new students:

Student: Gregory Tyler, from Clinton Corners, N.Y. Field: Mathematics By junior year, I knew I wanted to become a math teacher. Secondary education, in a smaller school, so I could get to know not only the students in my class but the whole school.

I was accepted at five colleges, including Mount Saint Mary College. I’d heard so much about the teaching program here, and received a bit more benefits. The rooms here were much, much better.

At a brunch for accepted students, I sat at a table with Dr. Fothergill, and met people with the same major.

When I moved into Sakak Hall last August, it was interesting learning to share space with three people. Personally, I loved it. It grew from a long sleepover to being closest friends. I’m rooming with one of them again this fall.

Sister Pat Sullivan is my advisor. She’s the nicest lady. She mapped out a whole college career, so I got to see what’s in store for me.

My initial courses included calculus with Dr. Fothergill, a familiar face. I ended up giving pointers to people in my class.

I

have a distinct memory of first grade.

We were working on math, and I gave my friend Tyler the answers, and the teacher yelled at me for helping him!

Math came to me easily. And I enjoyed helping others understand it as well.

My dad was mechanically inclined, and my mom was a little more book smart, and I think that combination gave me a good footing. My teacher Jennifer Griffin, at Pine Plains School, taught me not only math, but values. She even let me teach one day.

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“

If you’re hesitant about going to an activity on campus because your friends aren’t, I suggest you do it anyway.

There isn’t an activity that I’ve done that I’ve regretted.

The first year goes by really quickly, so embrace it.

”

As for other campus activities, I went to the Math Jeopardy Night, faculty versus students.

This coming year, I have astronomy lab, which I’m very excited about, because I love astronomy. Calculus III will be interesting, to see how different people teach math. I’ll also be studying the psychology of learning.

College gives you a sense of independence. I only live 40 minutes away, but I haven’t gone home that much. The friends I’ve met make this place better than any other. These are the friends I’ll probably be spending my life near.

I enjoy living with friends and learning from them, and from the activities and choices I’ve made this year. It definitely prepares you for the future.

No matter where you look, you can find something math related. Nature, mountains, the growth rates of trees, predicting the weather. In Fundamentals of Math Reasoning, we’ll present findings to our classmates I’m also in the psychology honors program. Adolescent psychology class, with Dr. Schwartz, is challenging. We talk about related topics, and that’s very beneficial. But I’m more of a visual learner. I took a macroeconomics class, with a lot of formulas and graphs, so I enjoyed it. I’m also studying forms of literature.

Dr. Lee Fothergill (standing) works with (from right to left) Jentil Mansfield, junior, Waldan, NY, Greg Tyler, freshman,1st Year Journal, Norell Louie, freshman, Levittown NY, and Jennifer Schrader, junior, Washingtonville, NY

Knowing the numbers

P

rofessors Lee Fothergill and Michael Daven added a distinctive assignment for the Fundamentals of Mathematical Reasoning course they taught this spring. Mount Saint Mary College students took the Dominican Heritage Walk, and then prepared lessons they could teach to their future elementary-middle-high school students. Among the projects, which involved more than math: Greg Tyler and Stephanie Vazeos were attracted to the lesson in the stained glass windows of the Founders Chapel in Guzman Hall. Guzman, their presentation noted, is the surname of a remarkable family in the Spanish Province of Castile in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. The youngest Guzman brother, Dominic, founded a new religious order of preachers (OP). The Founders Chapel is filled with stained glass windows. The question: What is the least amount of colors you can use to fill this window without any color touching itself?

The Curtin Memorial Library was built in 1963 as an addition to Aquinas Hall. That year, more than 7,000 books were moved from the Villa library. On the exterior of Curtin is a sculpture. Jen Schrader’s math problem: The length from the top of the sculpture to the bottom is approximately 54 inches.

You are required to shine a spotlight on this sculpture for a presentation. How big would the circle have to be to include all of the sculpture?

Kimberly Baez and Jentil Mansfield described the Dominican Center on the hill: home of the Chapel of the Most Holy Rosary. Their mathematical focus was the exterior door of the building, made up of a rectangle and a semicircle glass window. The length of the rectangle is 99 inches and the width is 134 inches, and the radius of the semicircle is 67 inches.

Problem #1 a) Find the equation of the curve of the semicircle. b) With the equation found in a), find the area under the curve c) Now find the total area of the entrance door.

Problem #2 • Using the equation of the curve, find the arc link.

• Now find the total perimeter.

Norell Louie’s problem, prompted by the Aquinas Dining Hall, appealed to the sweet tooth of elementary school students: If there are four flavors of ice cream (Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, or other), two different ways to serve it (Cone, or Bowl), and there are three different toppings (chocolate sprinkles, rainbow sprinkles, and chocolate syrup), how many different options do you have?

Find the area and the circumference of the spotlight.

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AROUND THE MOUNT

Farce cited “Moon Over Buffalo” enlivened the Aquinas Theatre this spring. Among the cast and crew directed by James N. Beard, professor of communication arts, from left: 1st row: Amber Becker ’09; Lauren Thayer ’10; Paul Colombo ’11;

second row: Brittany Marrone ’12; Victoria Bossi ’10; Alexis Gray, MBA; Kristen Cure ’10; Sarah Cohen ’11; third row: Sean Winchell ’11,; Brian Murphy ’12; David Mossey ’93, MSE ’96; Adam Albert ’10; Monica Matera ’12.

Thankful foursome The Mount realized more than $40,000 through its 31st annual Invitational Golf Tournament June 1 at the Powelton Club in Newburgh. Pictured: golf committee member and 2000 honoree David S. MacFarland, president and CEO of Riverside Bank; Catherine Corcoran Allgauer ‘84, honored for her many years of service to the college; Fr. Kevin E. Mackin; and committee chair and Mount trustee Lou Bach ‘82, president of Spectrum Pension and Compensation.

Tribute to troops Matt Smith, a senior history/political science major; Kristine Lloyd, a senior psychology/ human services major; and Melissa Antinoro, a senior mathematics/secondary education major, were among Mount students who prepared and mailed care packages to 100 soldiers in Iraq. More than 30 student clubs, the mathematics department and other Mount community members gave items, money and time. See www.msmc.edu for information about student organizations!

Honors and essays Madeline Fraser, Amanda Perry and Brandon Roberts, and their faculty mentors Stanley Pycior, Sarah Uzelac and Jenifer Lee-Gonyea, presented and discussed their honors studies culminating in spring. Jerome Wyant, Ph.D., directs the Mount Honors Program. Also, Coleen McDonald, a senior at Mount Saint Mary College, and Samantha Anzalone, a senior at Monroe-Woodbury High, were announced as winners of the Hudson River Essay Contest, sponsored by Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation.

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AROUND THE MOUNT

New leadership Rodney Morrison, director of admissions as of May, previously served as associate director of MBA admissions for the Wharton School MBA Program, and as assistant director of admissions for the University of Rochester, as well as evaluating University of Pennsylvania undergraduate admissions applications.

“Rodney Morrison has solid experience in the admissions field and his leadership and recruitment strategies will only make the Mount stronger,” said Robert Dempsey, dean of enrollment management.

CPA praise Regin J. Naithaloor MBA ’09 (front, left) and Derek A. DeCerbo ’09 (front, right) received awards for their outstanding studies from the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants’ Mid-Hudson Chapter. Lou Fortunato, Mount professor of accounting (behind DeCerbo, right), nominated them.

A face for radio William O’Shaughnessy interviewed Mount Saint Mary College president Kevin Mackin on WVOX 1460 AM in Westchester. The talk covered a number of topics including the Franciscan family, challenges in higher education and programs at the Mount. Fr. Kevin has been getting the Mount Saint Mary College name out in the region and beyond.

IN MEMORIAM - Dieter W. Bussigel, a Mount mainstay since 1987, died suddenly at home on May 14.

The VP for Planning, Research and Information Systems was valued for his hard work, and his love of people. “He offered everything, but never forced anything,” said a niece, during a memorial service which filled the Founders Chapel. Dieter is

survived by his wife Margaret Bussigel, professor of sociology, their children Emily and Peter, and their family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Dieter W. Bussigel Memorial Endowment Fund at Mount Saint Mary College, c/o the Advancement Office.

Top nurses The Mount’s nursing faculty are top teachers and practitioners, and many do important research involving the public impact of their profession.

“The Lived Experience of Military Nurses in Iraq and Afghanistan during the war years 2003-2008” is the most recent study by Dr. Elizabeth Scannell-Desch (she’s pictured during her Army flight nurse days). Dr. Scannell-Desch and Dr. Mary Ellen Doherty, from Western Connecticut State University, have analyzed “Widowhood during Pregnancy.” Dr. Debra Hrelic’s research on “Student Preparation for the NCLEX Exam” has been accepted for podium presentation at the 20th International Research Congress of Sigma Theta Tau in Cancun, Mexico, July 12-17; Dr. Andrea Ackermann was a co-investigator. For more on faculty and student research, see www.msmc.edu.

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COVER COMMENCEMENT STORY

Congratulations and Godspeed to the Mount’s Newest Alumni and Alumnae 88

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F

r. Kevin Mackin, OFM, extended warm greetings to the thousands assembled for Mount Saint Mary College’s 46th annual Commencement.

“Today, our graduates enter into a distinguished assembly of Mount alumni/ae,” he began. “These include health care professionals, educators, businesswomen and men, artists, and more -- yes, many people who are making a difference for the better in our world.

“Now, I invite the class of 2009 to please stand up,” said Fr. Kevin, instituting a new tradition at the Mount.

“Each of you put your right hand on your left shoulder.

And at the same time your left hand on your right shoulder. And give yourself a huge hug for reaching this milestone in your life!”

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education; and so too is moral character,” said the president, as his predecessor Sr. Ann Sakac, OP, enjoyed a seat in the crowd.

“You have had the opportunity at Mount Saint Mary College to form good character, with a rich intellectual reservoir from which you can continue to draw as you define a worthy life. Ultimately, a life lived in accordance with intellectual and moral conscience leaves you at peace with your inner, best self.”

M

ay 16 began with a festive Commencement Liturgy. William Maelia ’09 narrated the offertory procession, with gifts presented by fellow degree candidates from Arts and Letters, Business, Education, Mathematics and Information Technology, Natural Science, Nursing, Religion and Philosophy, and Social Science.

After the conferring of honorary degrees, the Faculty Award was presented to enthusiastic chemistry professor Lynn Maelia.

Then, Jack Abernethy, CEO of Fox Television Stations, delivered the commencement address.

That afternoon, a team of pipes and drums led a stream of students, college personnel and honorees to a huge white tent on Kaplan Field.

“You should be proud to graduate from this rich institution,” announced Abernethy. “One that in Father Kevin’s words develops both skills of mind and habits of hearts.”

After inviting the Class of 2009 to a group hug, Fr. Kevin cited Gandhi’s caution about “education without character.”

After a humorous high-tech Twitter message for the grads, Abernethy delivered heartfelt thoughts the old fashioned way.

“Yes, academic excellence is an essential ingredient of a Mount Saint Mary College

“The many things you have learned at Mount Saint Mary, and the people who

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have touched your lives, will always be with you. Their voices will come back to guide you. They are a part of you.”

He passed on to the graduates three keys for their journey: persistence, learning from failure, and – echoing Fr. Kevin – character.

“The old fashioned values do work,” said the television executive. “Our media culture glamorizes manipulation, fasttalking, and get rich quick gimmicks.

Trust me, kindness and honesty do work and they will carry you far in good times and in bad.

“You have an opportunity to be the greatest generation of this new century,” he added. “You can be the generation that righted a collapsed economy, minimized war and began to ease the threat of a warming world. These are lofty and overwhelming challenges. But people will solve them, so why not you.”

The Mount conferred honorary degrees on Abernethy and also on William O’Shaughnessy, president of Whitney Media.

O’Shaughnessy, who has led WVOX

In 1964, Mount Saint Mary College commenced its first full graduating class: including Sr. Alice Joseph Sullivan, OP (above right) who as “Sister Pat” would teach mathematics.

radio in New Rochelle since 1965, quipped, “I never thought I would have the privilege of standing here … especially after the Jesuits gave me a 28 in that chemistry exam in high school!”

The font of radio lore gave the grads two ideas from “a failed baseball player with too many vowels in his name known as Mario Cuomo.” Mr. Cuomo observed the major religions – Judaism, Christianity, Islam -- have two ideas at their foundation. The ancient Hebrews called one Tzedakah … meaning we’re all in this together as children of the same, one God. Also, Tikun Olam: God created the world, but didn’t finish it.

Alma Mater Above the mighty Hudson The stately Highlands rise, There Mount Saint Mary College Our Alma Mater lies.

“That’s our job,” said O’Shaughnessy. He summarized in a well known sound bite: “Love Your Neighbor as you love yourself, for the love of Me, for I am Truth.”

He added that he hoped graduates would remember “this magnificent college by the Hudson … and do what you can to help it continue to grow in wisdom and age and stature. Because grow it will, in the care and keeping of its talented and enlightened new president.”

Fr. Kevin then stood to greet each candidate crossing the platform. Many had taken the opportunity for internships, resulting in job offers. Others were

Facing the morning sun, now we In the time of our youth Welcome the light of knowledge And search for the height of truth.

bound for graduate school: either at the Mount for a master’s degree in business, education or nursing, or perhaps onward to medical or veterinary studies. Anticipation was visible on each passing face.

The memories were especially poignant as students contemplated classmates and educators who’ve shared in their joys when they succeed, and would help them when they fall. For these, the Mount is surely a second home: a place where people have become family and wisdom is within reach.

Teach us and make us wise That our life be well begun; Kindle our minds and hearts That our work be nobly done;

Guide us to path of service That we may share what you give; Help us to love Him better In Whose perfect love we live.

Cotter - Fletcher

To order a DVD of the 2009 Commencement Ceremony, visit the campus store or the college’s website www.msmc.edu SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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ON THE JOB

Mount students ready to teach Challenges call forth inspiration The class enrollment is 15. The others are not present for a variety of reasons, some behavioral issues. At one point, a seventh student joins the class, but not the lesson; when offered a book, he says he’ll just listen.

Hayen, who graduated from NFA 21 years ago, works on reading and vocabulary, with Frank Bonham’s Durango Street, which explores the lifestyle of teenagers in gangs. At one point a reader stumbles over the word “accustomed.” So Hayen uses it in a sentence, commenting on her classroom.

“Dr. Frances Spielhagen taught us that behavior management is the key to special education.”

Julie Hayen met the challenges and graduated from Mount Saint Mary College on May 16.

“We are accustomed to people coming in and out,” she said.

I

t takes but a few minutes to observe the challenges Mount Saint Mary College history major Julie Hayen faces as she conducts her special education classroom of six students, black, white and brown, at Newburgh Free Academy.

“These kids inspire me” – Julie Hayen One of the high school students, who has cerebral palsy, is lying nearly prone in a wheelchair. Another student is deaf, and has a sign language interpreter.

Three others show various levels of disinterest, from books overturned to staring in the air. A single student does all the reading.

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As the class neared its end, the wheelchair whirred into an upright position and the assistant opened the door and the student whirred out.

Turning to a visitor, Hayen confides, “These kids inspire me. Especially my student with cerebral palsy. She has so many difficulties, yet she wants to learn.

She epitomizes the human spirit. She helps keep me going.”

Hayen’s special education classes with Dr. Dolores Berlinghoff, a Mount associate professor of education, prepared her for this challenge she said.

“Dr. Berlinghoff has a unique way of putting real issues in front of us. She tells us to keep a sense of humor.”

The Newburgh resident said another Mount professor provided another piece of the special education puzzle.

Mount graduate student teacher William Arduino taught mathematics in an inclusion class at NFA this spring.

“I wanted a math degree so I would have a solid foundation in mathematics before I concentrated on education courses and began teaching mathematics,” he explained.

His Plattekill, N.Y. neighbor encouraged him to do his master’s degree studies at Mount Saint Mary College.

They have a common interest: Dr.

ON THE JOB

Jennifer Bready teaches mathematics at the Mount.

“The greatest strength of the Mount’s education program is its faculty,” said Arduino. “Most faculty members have a great deal of teaching experience. This is not true of all education programs.”

“The experiences I’m having are irreplaceable” – Bill Arduino “The student teaching experience bridges the gap between theory and what really goes on in the classroom,” he continued.

“The experiences I’m having are irreplaceable. Student teaching is the single best preparation I have received for teaching.”

Arduino is making the transition from another field, emergency services, to teaching.

“I want to teach because I enjoy young people. They have a wonderful outlook on life, and I am energized by their exuberance.”

He sees the power of combining that with his interest in mathematics. And he points to the National Science Foundation’s prediction that 80% of the job opportunities in the foreseeable future will involve science, technology, engineering and math.

“I believe that math skills are the single most important skill set that our next generation will need in order to succeed in solving the myriad of problems they will face. Word problems in math are dress rehearsals for making decisions later in life. I want to be part of helping our next generation prepare.”

He earned a master’s degree in education in May.

Mount graduate student teacher Anabel Ressner, who has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing and a culinary degree, “was immediately bitten by the give-and-take between student and teacher.”

In a Regents English class at NFA, Ressner assisted in a lesson on writing an essay on J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. After the teacher reviewed the elements of an essay, Ressner worked with students individually.

The Beacon, N.Y. resident said one of the strengths of the Mount education program is its emphasis on unit planning and lesson planning. Moreover, she added, “One of the important things I’ve learned is that to truly be a good teacher, you must be in a constant state of wanting to learn yourself – not just about educational pedagogy but about people and what makes them who they are.”

Behavior management in the classroom is a major challenge. “Dr. Spielhagen has an ease with the classroom that I aspire to,” sais Ressner.

“You must be in a constant state of wanting to learn” – Anabel Ressner She also singled out Dr. J. David Gallagher, and Barbara Butler.

“Dr. Gallagher’s teaching style and knowledge were spot-on, but more than anything, he allowed me to experience the McQuade School (for special needs children) for my fieldwork, and it was life altering.

“Barbara took a subject – testing/assessment - that could have been dry, tedious and torturous, and made it applicable, interesting and malleable.”

In the home stretch, Ressner said the prospect of being able to teach is “thrilling.”

“When I think that I, as a student teacher, may have made a small difference or impression in one of my student’s lives, it is all the reward anyone could ask for in a job.

“I was telling a friend that I thought I had made a slight impact on a student who normally is extremely introverted. He talks to me and tells me things about our reading and his hobbies and that seems significant for his personality. I felt proud of myself and happy for the student - that he felt at ease enough to have a conversation or two in a way he may not have before.

“There is nothing so satisfying, is there?”

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ON THE JOB

Kathleen O’Brien ’80

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Onteora Central School District

K

athleen O’Brien was raised to value education and has always enjoyed teaching, playing and working with children and young adults. She appreciates the opportunities the Mount gave her.

Miller, a 1969 Mount graduate and professor of education, also had high expectations and was a great role model.”

In her freshman year, her father suffered a massive stroke, and she considered dropping out.

But her mother encouraged her to stay.

O’Brien thought the she would earn a master’s and that would be the end of her education.

“But Mount professors encouraged me to aspire for more and that is why I have three master’s degrees and a doctorate.”

“The Mount community quietly guided me through those tough times,” she said.

“I learned very quickly to work very hard and to be disciplined to get the results desired.

Her professors helped her see life in a broader way through liberal arts.

“I learned that I was more than what I thought I was.”

“Kate Lindemann from the philosophy department had high expectations for me to express my thinking in a logical, coherent way. Joannie

Joseph Polvere ’01 MSE ‘02 Elementary Teacher, Tenafly, N.J.

J

oseph Polvere planned to become a history professor. But during his “Orientation to Teaching” course at Mount Saint Mary College, he went into the field to observe a fourth grade class.

“I loved the experience and found that I related well to students at the age level.

After I did student teaching, I knew I belonged in the classroom – at the elementary level!”

Polvere said his Mount teacher preparation was “great.” He was certified in elementary and special education.

“The field experiences required in our courses were extremely helpful, and student teaching truly prepared me for my first teaching position.”

He believes the Mount faculty are “top notch.” He pointed to three in particular.

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“Sr. Jean Rosaire Bedotto was my adviser and was always will to spend time with me, passing on her expertise. I will always cherish the time spent with her.

Polvere had Dr. Richard Nealon for two undergraduate courses, and one on the graduate level. “Dr. Nealon had a wealth of knowledge and became a mentor to me. He also fondly recalled Pamela Giraud, who “brought great knowledge to the classroom and shared her experiences with us.”

“The Mount inspired me to always strive to do my best,” said Polvere. “Looking back, I’m glad I chose the Mount.”

-- Brendan Coyne

TEACHING AT THE MOUNT

The soul of the matter New graduates are not the only ones “commencing.”

Three educators familiar to readers are Beginning again...

Among many projects related to the Mount legacy, Sr. Agnes brought a stirring portrayal of Catherine of Siena (presented by Sr. Nancy Murray, OP, right) to campus

Dr. Nunnari and Dominican Sisters Sylvia and Agnes

I

first met the redoubtable Sister Agnes Boyle, OP, when she interviewed me for an administrative position at Mount Saint Mary College.

Unlike many interviewers who bombard you with questions, Sister Agnes asked few, but the ones she posed were all poignant. She has this uncanny way of drawing you out, of being attentive, of soliciting information gently, almost by indirection.

On the other hand, about herself, Sister is reticent to speak. Sister Agnes, of all the people I have ever known, is the most self-effacing.

She was brought up in Thoroughfare, N.J. This much I managed to wrest from her: she had loving parents. Her mother was quiet and introspective, devoted

to Agnes and her sibling Charles; her father was nurturing, and Sister attributed to him her love of teaching. His aunt Kate was a schoolteacher, and he regaled young Agnes with stories about her classroom experiences.

Agnes enrolled at Glassboro State Teachers College. Then, a nugget of information was dropped: She had played varsity basketball. She played a forward position. How telling! Here, in its nascency, was revealed her fabled competitive spirit.

But, what was her impetus to become a nun? Sister mulled this question over; then, thoughtfully responded that she was looking for a way to serve God and her fellowmen. She had been teaching a few years before she entered the convent; so, hers was not a hasty decision;

rather, it was an informed choice, leavened by the gradual discovery of a vocation. Priests in her parish suggested the Dominican Sisters of Hope. She earned graduate degrees from Fordham University.

Sister Agnes began her history at Mount Saint Mary College in 1963 as chairperson of the division of education. About the fledgling college, she waxed ebullient: “Everyone worked together. What esprit de corps, sisters and lay professors alike! Jim McEnery was there. Jim Cotter started that year.” Dismissive of her own role, she credited others for their contributions—Sister Margaret Michael Maroney in particular.

In 1964, Sister Agnes participated in the college’s first commencement ceremony.

Ten years later, she was appointed academic dean. “We were looking carefully SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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at ways of integrating the liberal arts with career oriented programs, such as business,” she recalled. “This blending of great books and ideas with real world exigencies was the recipe for landing a job after graduation.”

Mount Saint Mary College gained notoriety in New York and surrounding states for providing excellent preparation for careers in business, teaching and nursing. That reputation continues.

Since stepping down as Vice President for Academic Affairs in 2004, Sister has held the position of director of Mission Integration. How appropriate! Embedded in Sister Agnes, like bedrock, is a strong sense of mission as reflected in the four pillars of the Dominican Order: Prayer, Study, Vision and Ministry/Service.

As the subject of her impending retirement came up, Sister was, if anything, even more insightful. “Think of the soul of the College,” she said. “This is holy ground. Men and women, faculty members, students and staff come and go. Each makes a contribution to keep the College alive and well.”

--Jerome Wyant She ‘makes the remembrance dear’ Irene Walsh arrived in 1966, with excellent credentials. Her father had taught classics at the University of Scranton, and her mother served as registrar there. Irene graduated from Marywood College and received a master’s in theater from Villanova University. She had already taught for the Dominicans in Puerto Rico. She later received another master’s in English and a doctorate in theater.

Irene’s love of drama, poetry, speech and literature is so well grounded that it blossoms naturally in her teaching and dialogues.

Some of our best conversations have been about Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets, Hopkins and Eliot, Yeats and Synge. Irene has made her Shakespeare course a memorable experience for students by having them act a variety of roles and by taking her drama classes to Broadway for plays.

Her friendship with Frederica Von Stade brought that Metropolitan Opera star to the Aquinas Hall stage. Under Irene’s leadership, the Cultural Center featured the Vienna

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Boys Choir and celebrities like Marcel Marceau, Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy and Dave Brubeck.

Irene nurtured close friendships with her fellow teachers. Sister Joan Roberta also directed plays, taught and shared many ideas and tales. Helen Hayes became a frequent visitor through Sister JR’s friendship.

Florence Price was a wonderful helper at the Cultural Center. Louis Fletcher proved to be indefatigable in his involvement in the classroom and directing musicals, as well as annual Christmas Vespers. Jean Tuthill in the registrar’s office was a close companion and advisor.

Many of Irene’s friends are still on the campus scene, including Sister Ann Sakac, Sister Catherine Walsh, Jamie Beard, Woody Entrekin, Virginia Davidson, Jean Minuta, Harry Steinway and Ann Damiano.

Joe Nunnari was a patient suitor, and Irene and Joe sealed their vows in the Holy Rosary chapel “on the top of the hill” at Thanksgiving, 1981. Their son Patrick has been the subject of many tales of motherly joys, trials and errors, told as always with Irene’s unique style of humor and timing.

Why I love teaching at Mount Saint Mary College Students, students, students! Over the years our college has attracted students who are eager to work hard, eager to learn, eager to care. Much of my classroom experience has been with those seeking NYS Education Certification. They are bright, creative, talented, focused and unflinchingly dedicated to their goals. In times of crisis, our students are deeply caring.

In times of fun, they are zany. In times of challenge, they rise to the occasion.

I have had over four decades at our splendid college, working among beloved friends and revered leaders, but I will miss our students most of all.

– Irene Nunnari

Irene Nunnari will remain a permanent presence at the Mount because she is ever loyal to her past. Devotion to her family in Scranton and her role as a Marywood alumna have kept Irene on Interstate 84 in all kinds of weather, as Joe knows too well.

So the trip to Powell Avenue will still be often traversed in, according to Irene’s calculations, eight minutes. Fortunately for all of us, Irene keeps her energy, spontaneity and humor for the colleagues and students who have been blessed to know and love her over the years.

- -- James F. Cotter A Portrait of the Artist as a Jersey Girl On paper she’s an octogenarian, but Sister Sylvia Bielen is the poster child for the young at heart. She relishes the past but always looks forward to the future. She has mastered the fine art of living.

Dr. Irene Nunnari’s mellifluous voice has intoned the names of thousands of grads as they’ve crossed the commencement platform

Born in Perth Amboy, N.J., Sr. Sylvia grew up in an idyllic town with a warm and wonderful family. “There was always music and art in our house. My two sisters were wonderful musicians, and my brother Steven, who went on to become a priest, was a gifted artist and an accomplished pianist.”

“I went to a public high school where I took my first art courses. That was my first love. Art.” Calligraphy and Sr. Sylvia were meant for each other. She went on to practice it and teach it at the Mount.

Dunn. Eight years later, she was off to the Garden State again, teaching at Pope Pius XII High School.

And then her phone rang. It was Sr. Ann Sakac. She hoped Sr. Sylvia would consider coming back to the Mount, this time as a full-time art instructor. That was 35 years and hundreds of students ago.

In her years as the Mount’s artistic muse, Sr. Sylvia has shared her love of art with students from all disciplines,

bringing out the creative side of each one of them. She also had the time to start Artists on the Campus, a yearly event that attracts art lovers from near and far.

While Sr. Sylvia is packing up her art equipment, she already has visions of the Jersey shore. She remarked that even though she is now in the sunset of her life, she is moving toward a rising sun. “I am happy,” she said.

“And blessed.”

When asked what made her finally decide to enter the religious life, Sr. Sylvia summed up the reason with one word. Emptiness.

“I was working and joining in the activities of people my age. I found those activities enjoyable, but I always came away with this empty feeling. I got my first hint when I read the life of St. Therese, the Little Flower. I was inspired by her life story. I started collecting spiritual books, finding what I was missing from my life.

“I came across the story of St. Dominic and I wanted to learn more.”

With her brother’s encouragement she wrote a letter to Sr. Clare at the Dominican Sisters in Newburgh. On a cold December morning she took the trip up to visit. She never looked back.

Sr. Sylvia joined 26 other novices in 1945 on a journey that would carry her to a number of locations as a teacher, but never far from the Mount.

“The Mount is really my spiritual and creative home,” she reflects. “I found my calling here as a sister and an artist.”

Sr Sylvia, who then went by the name Theresa Clare, took art courses in Whittaker Hall when it was known as the Domus Angelorum.

After some teaching assignments in New Jersey, she was back in Newburgh, but this time (1963) as a teacher at Bishop

Mount students in fields from biology to business have been influenced by Sr. Sylvia’s arts

SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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MILESTONE AT MST

Campaign concludes this Center: with ‘smart classrooms,’ biology and chemistry labs, science research and experimentation labs, computer labs, and office suites for faculty with study tables for students.

M

ount Saint Mary College marked a milestone when the “Answering the Call” campaign was capped with a fete recognizing the Kaplan family.

John M. Donoghue, Esq., chair of the Mount Saint Mary College Board of Trustees, led the dedication of the Mathematics, Science & Technology Center – a construction which benefitted from the campaign -- in the name of the Kaplans.

When the campaign was announced three years ago, the Kaplan Family Foundation led the way with a pledge for $5 million.

In all, the college raised over $11 million for the important campus asset. The new structure opened in 2007.

College president Fr. Kevin Mackin, welcoming distinguished guests to the dedication and naming this May, called the Kaplan Family Mathematics, Science & Technology Center a “catalyst.”

“In fact, the Center brings together people from various disciplines,” he added.

“Ultimately, we recognize that buildings such as this are all about people. People who invest themselves at the College -- who support and celebrate the Dominican tradition of study, prayer, community and mission -- are a catalyst for good. And I can’t think of better catalysts than the Kaplan family, and especially William Kaplan. He and his late wife Elaine have left indelible marks.”

Fr. Kevin turned the microphone over to Sr. Ann Sakac, president emerita, who recalled a serendipitous visit to Mr. Kaplan’s house, which led to a cluster of major gifts to the Mount.

During Sr. Ann’s decades as president, William Kaplan served on the Board of Trustees, and was instrumental in enabling the Mount to build enrollment growth.

In science, he explained, a catalyst is an agent which provokes important action.

The Kaplan family -- including daughters Joan, Sheila, Deborah and Amy -- has spearheaded facilities projects at the Mount as well as supporting scholarships.

“Teaching and learning are strengthened at Mount Saint Mary College, thanks to

Along with the speeches and blessings and ribbon cutting, Bryan Maloney was

inspired to arrange a special item. Harkening to the presentation of a sports jacket at the dedication of the Elaine and William Kaplan Recreation Center, this year’s gift – a white lab coat emblazoned “Dr. William Kaplan” – will help the honorary doctoral degree recipient feel even more at home alongside students training for health professions.

Welcome to our newest Mount Saint Mary College Trustees:

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Sr. Margaret Anderson, OP, LSCW, director of guidance at Good Counsel Academy, White Plains

Harrison H. Buxton, III, CTFA, senior vice president at UBS Financial Services

Thomas C. Donahoe, J.D., chief risk officer for Angelo, Gordon & Co. L.P.

Joan P. Millens, vice president of B. Millens Sons, Inc., and a dedicated educator at Kingston High School

Robert Murphy, founder and CEO of Murphy Healthcare Group

Sr. Ann P. Stankiewicz, OP, who most recently taught at Providence College from 1981 to 2008

VOLUME 31, No. 2

SPORTS

Kaplan Center’s first game C

an you name the team that played against Mount Saint Mary College in the first basketball game at the Elaine and William Kaplan Recreation Center? Need some help guessing?

You might decide to guess another college located in the Hudson Valley, maybe Vassar or SUNY New Paltz.

Or, you might guess a long-standing rival, such as Manhattanville College or the College of Mount Saint Vincent. Maybe you would reach for a more obscure opponent, possibly Hunter College or the College at Old Westbury.

All would be fine guesses, but all would be incorrect.

Give up? The correct answer is, of course, the national team from Lithuania.

After 18 months of construction and five million dollars of investment, the Elaine and William Kaplan Recreation Center opened to a near-capacity crowd of 1,300 people on Friday, November 20, 1992. The Lithuanian National team defeated Mount Saint Mary College, 86-70, in an exhibition contest.

Several months removed from winning the bronze medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain and making a splash with their tie-dyed uniforms, the Lithuanian

National team toured the United States, playing 14 exhibition games.

While not including any of the players from the 1992 Olympics, the Lithuanian team consisted of young, national-caliber athletes who were being groomed to compete in the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Eric Moore, a sophomore from Ronkonkoma, N.Y., led the Blue Knights with 18 points, connecting six times from three-point range.

Brian Weaver, a senior from Troy, N.Y., contributed 12 points, while Mike Vita, a senior from Poughkeepsie, N.Y., chipped in with 11. 

Top Left: Ribbon cutting Top Right: First game at Kaplan, 1992 Left: Groundbreaking for the Elaine and William Kaplan Recreation Center

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SPORTS

Meet Joe Meilak A business management major at Mount Saint Mary College, Meilak maintained a career grade point average of 3.20. He works full-time as the assistant store manager at an auto parts store in Middletown.

The Greenville, N.Y. native also commits to a fitness regimen that is designed to keep him in shape for when he joins the United States Air Force this summer.

And in his spare time, he’s a darn good college tennis player.

C

ombining the rigors of a full academic course load with the challenges of being a collegiate athlete can be difficult.

Throw in a full-time, 40-hours-a-week job and things become nearly impossible.

Finally, add some physical training in preparation for a future career in the military and you have Joe Meilak, a graduate of the class of 2009.

The lone senior on the Blue Knights team in 2009, Meilak closed out the spring season with a 10-1 singles record and was named to the Skyline Conference first team. He was 6-1 against conference opponents: with his only loss coming in the first match of the year against Yeshiva University. With 10 singles victories, Meilak became the College’s all-time record holder for singles wins in a career with 43.

Meilak was ready to commit to the military life right out of high school, but his

parents convinced him to attend the Mount and earn his degree before making a decision.

“I’ve always been in tune with the military lifestyle and spoke extensively with an army recruiter while I was in high school,” said Meilak. “I was hesitant to come to the Mount at first, but I’m glad that my parents convinced me to stay. It was definitely a good decision and I’m very happy with my Mount Saint Mary College education.”

Four years later and bachelor’s degree in hand, Meilak is still ready for the military life. He was sworn in to the United States Air Force in January and is headed to basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas on October 13. After basic training, he will attend the USAF Pararescue School, which concludes at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, N.M. “Go big, or go home,” said Meilak about his career choice. “I’ve lived by those words during my four years at the Mount. Why stop now?”

New Coaches!

Ryan Kadlubowski came to the Mount in April as head coach for the men’s basketball program. The native of Hilton, N.Y., brings a wealth of collegiate experience: including head assistant coach at the University of Rochester. Rochester was 56-23 during Kadlubowski’s three years and made two appearances in the NCAA Tournament, reaching the Sweet Sixteen during the 2007-08 season.

“I’m very excited for the opportunity to coach at Mount Saint Mary College,” said Kadlubowski. “I think my time spent as a player and as an assistant coach has prepared me to succeed as a head coach and to further the development of a highly successful program at the Mount.”

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Rachel Simone is the head coach for the newly established women’s lacrosse program.

Simone, a native of Syracuse, N.Y., brings two years of collegiate coaching experience at Springfield College in Massachusetts, along with a wealth of playing experience as a four-year, two-sport student-athlete at Cazenovia College, competing for the lacrosse and volleyball teams.

“I’m so excited to have the opportunity to start a program from scratch at Mount Saint Mary College,” said Simone. “Lacrosse is a growing sport and the Mount is perfectly located right in the middle of prime lacrosse country.”

Steve Sosler has been named head coach of the baseball program. Sosler, who graduated from the Mount in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in business management and administration, has served as an assistant coach since 2004, primarily working with the Blue Knights pitching staff. He and his wife Nicole reside in New Windsor. Sosler’s assistant coaches will be Mount alumni Jerry Puccio ‘06 and Jared D’Aleo ‘04.

“I want to thank John Wright (athletics director) and the College for the opportunity to continue the great tradition of Mount Saint Mary College baseball,” said Sosler. “With a strong core of players returning, I am looking forward to the season and building on the solid foundation that has been established.”

— Justin Satkowski

GOOD TO KNOW

Toward a Stress-free life Mount students have profited from Dr. Rae Fallon’s stress management course since 1995. Not only do students approach stress management from an academic perspective, the course includes a number of techniques, that once learned will last a lifetime.

Stress does not discriminate. It affects all of us. The pressures that come from living in a fast-paced society impact the lives of Mount students. And according to Dr. Fallon, associate professor of psychology, the negative effects are ever-increasing.

at every intersection of our lives. And while we might not be able to eliminate all the stress from our lives, we can learn to manage it.”

That’s her philosophy. Learn to manage stress and you’ll live a fuller and happier life.

“It’s also important to re-connect live and in person with those around us. Far too many students are totally engaged in high-tech communication, at the loss of establishing meaningful relationships. “

“We live in a world of stress,” she said. “From the time we wake up in the morning until late at night, stress is lurking

Dr. Fallon adds that living a fuller life has to begin within.

“Always remember to treat yourself with kindness. Take the time to count your blessings. Enjoy the now.”

Living a long, healthy life

long, healthy life. We do this by educating them. We make our presence known on the campus.”

It’s comforting to know that the Mount community has access to a state-of-the art health and wellness center. Under the expert direction of Beth Roeper, the center does a mammoth job keeping everyone healthy.

The Health Services Wellness Center offers massage therapy, acupuncture and chiropractic services, all dispensed under the supervision of professionals.

“I believe maintaining a healthy campus is our primary task,” Roeper said, “but we do more than give out flu shots, bandages and the equivalent of chicken soup. The Mount’s health and wellness center takes a proactive approach when it comes to providing our students with the tools to live a

And because our resident students live in close proximity to one another, Roeper added, any cases of infectious diseases are tracked and treated appropriately. “We also monitor the health situation on other campuses in the event that a health risk might affect our students. We want to make sure our students have every reason to attend class.”

Food, Glorious Food Gone are the days when one menu fit all, said Chris Van Damm, the director of Food Services for Sodexo at the Mount.

“We’re not here just to feed students, we’re committed to partnering with the college in providing a complete nutritious menu. We’re also here to educate students about making good food choices.” if a student learns how to eat well during his/her time at the Mount, there’s a good likelihood those habits will continue.

Van Damm went on to say that “Sodexo is not the food police.

We have burgers, fries etc. on our menu. We also have a full salad-bar, fresh fruit and low calorie entrees. We post calorie information, too. ”

Sodexo is committed to using only the finest ingredients and is mindful of food allergies. If a product uses nuts or contains peanut oil, the student will be aware of this.

“If a student has some very specific dietary needs,” Van Damm explained, “we do our best to accommodate these students whenever possible.”

Providing healthy choices is well received by the students, who are encouraged to comment about improving the food service. Sodexo is also green conscious. “From the products we use to our food preparation, we are always thinking about the environment. We also believe we have an obligation to encourage students to avoid wasting food. With starvation a global issue, we’d be negligent if we didn’t make our students aware of how blessed they are to fill up their plates.”

SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

ALUMNI NOTES

Alumni Notes Dear Fellow Graduates: It is time to celebrate! The 2009/2010 academic year will mark Mount Saint Mary College’s 50th Anniversary! During the year, a series of special events will help to mark this milestone.

Alumni Weekend, September 25th- 27th, is no exception. Events include a “ghost walk” on Friday evening lead by Sr. Catherine Walsh, and a 50th Anniversary Dinner in the Kaplan Center hosted by the Reunion Committees on Saturday evening. Please plan to help us celebrate the Mount’s 50th Anniversary!

The Classes of 1964, 1969, 1974, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, and 2004 will celebrate anniversary years and all alumni will receive the official Alumni Weekend invitation in early August. In the meantime, for the latest information or to fill out your Reunion Book Survey, please visit the Alumni Affairs page of the Mount’s website: www.msmc.edu.

To be kept in the loop, it is important to keep your contact information current with the Alumni Office. If your mailing address, email address or cell phone number changes, please phone us at 845-569-3286 or email alumniaffairs@msmc.edu We don’t want you to miss any issues of Happenings or opportunities to catch up with your classmates or network with fellow alumni.

Have a wonderful summer!!

Warm regards,

Michelle A. Iacuessa ’94

Director of Alumni Affairs

u been What have yo ? up to lately e your Why not shar ily career and fam r u news with yo ! es at classm

Simply fill out the form and mail it to: Office of Alumni Affairs, Mount Saint Mary College, 330 Powell Avenue, Newburgh, NY 12550. Or complete the form online at www.msmc.edu/alumninotes Name:_ __________________________________________ Class Year:__________ Address:_____________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip:________________________________________________________ Home Phone:_ _______________________________________________________ Email:_ _____________________________________________________________

Note:_______________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

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ALUMNI NOTES

1969

Geralyn Peterkin wrote Italy I Love You!, published by Xlibris in March, 2009. A statement for a love of a country, Italy: I Love You takes you on a personal tour of the fascinating country of Italy. Geryalyn and her husband Roger are leaving for their 27th trip to Italy and will tour Sicily; two of their grandsons will be joining them.

1970

Ann Marie (Pennes) Murray, Ph.D. was inaugurated as the third president of Herkimer County Community College on Friday, April 17, 2009. She was appointed by the SUNY Board of Trustees in June 2008 and began work as president in August. Herkimer County Community College is located in Herkimer, NY. 1971

Joe O’Connor had the distinct honor and privilege of giving a presentation on “Stress Relief” to the staff of The Jeanne Jugan Residence in Throgg’s Neck, Bronx, NY, where his 92-yr old mother is a resident.

It went over so well, that he was invited to return a second time. The staff at The Jeanne Jugan Residence is extraordinary. They contribute to his mother’s happiness on a daily basis, for which his family is grateful.

1980

Joan (Scottie) Forster Comstock became the Activities Director at Carillon Assisted Living in Southport, NC in July, 2008 and loves spending her day with the residents of the facility. She recently won the corporate award for best media coverage of an activity, with newspaper coverage of their beaded jewelry activity. The residents, all in their 80’s and 90’s, are making the most outstanding necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Many of their materials have been donated by local artisans as a result of both the article and word of mouth about their project. She is so proud of her residents and of the fact that she makes a difference in their lives.

Gerri (Walotsky) Cass just returned from a fantastic 10 days in Costa Rica!

From the capital, San Jose, we headed to the Carribbean, then to the Pacific. We toured coffee, pineapple and banana plantations. The howler monkeys were our alarm clock! Gerri loved the Caymans, Toucans and even the Jesus Christ Lizard! She highly recommends this fascinating country. In July she will be heading to Las Vegas for a reunion on DODDS teachers. “Would love to hear from anyone I know in Vegas!”

1973

Kathleen O’Brien was name the new Assistant Superintendent of Onteora Central School District in January 2009.

Frances (Cannova) Oddo, a kindergarten teacher at Beaufort Elementary School, has been recognized by Cambridge “Who’s Who” for showing dedication, leadership and excellence in all aspects of primary education.

Kathy (Hand) Murin has been very busy, thanks to her children. Her oldest daughter, Pam, is the mother of her two granddaughters, SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

ALUMNI NOTES

1982

1984

2006

Cheryl Rogowski delivered the commencement address at Sussex County Community College’s May 21 graduation ceremony. Cheryl also has her own radio talk show titled “Agriculture -- It’s Not Just Farming.”

Frank Kosteczko made his theatre debut in the Off Broadway Play, “Shower Frown” on December 3, 2008 and January 6, 2009 at the Producers Club in Manhattan. In April 2009 he appeared in the play, “Tow Town”. In Spring of 2009 he will be working on his own independent film, while still performing in the Mountjoy projects.

Frank has appeared as a background actor in various TV shows, such as “Law & Order SUV”, “Ugly Betty “and “Life on Mars”. He can also be seen in the movie “The International”. Frankie has also launched his own business, FrankieK - 7 Deadly Sins, a line of clothing apparel. The website is www. frankiek.com.

2001 Dr. Michael J. Fraser has been working with some of the top teams in the country as a sports psychology consultant. His list of clients includes Syracuse University Softball Team, Texas State University Softball Team, College of Saint Rose Basketball Team, Union College Basketball, Field and Ice Hockey Teams, Skidmore College Basketball Team, Quinnipiac College Tennis Team and the University of Louisville Field Hockey Team.

Elaine (Stankiewicz) Aulogia was recently recognized by Catholic Daughters Court Patricia #195 as the “force” behind their recent food and clothing drive for Veterans.

Jeffrey M. Durant is the new Dean of Students /Athletic Director for the Saranac Central School District in Saranac, NY.

Marriages 1992

Sean Creighton married Ayanna Bascombe on November 14th, 2008 at the Shiloh Baptist Church in New Rochelle, NY. The reception took place

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at The V.I.P. Country Club, also in New Rochelle. Several former Mount students were part of the wedding party: Derrick Brown ’91, Arthur Johnson, Dave Flowers and Chris Rose ’94.

Also in attendance were: Delor Johnson ’92, Scott Denson ’95, Sonya Brown ’92, Carl Robinson ’94 and Timothy Bynum. Sean and Ayanna are currently residing in New Rochelle, NY. Sean is the Founder and Managing Director of BoulevardOne Marketing Consultation and an Adjunct Professor of Communication at Westchester

Community College. Ayanna recently won an Emmy Award as a producer on the Tyra Banks Show, is now working on her Masters in Special Education at Manhattanville College.

2005 Eddie Cunningham married Katherine Horrigan on November 19, 2008. Katherine’s mother, Sheila (Harty) Horrigan ’75 is a graduate of MSMC! Eddie and Katherine are residing in Connecticut.

MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

ALUMNI NOTES

Births 1992

1998

2001

Kerry Ann (Ryan) and Christopher Troy announce the birth of their daughter Katherine Elizabeth Troy born August 9, 2008. Katherine joins big brothers Ryan (10) and Conner (9) at home in Long Beach, NY. 1994

Daniel Allen and his wife, Maureen, welcomed their second daughter, Erin Grace, on December 9, 2008. She joins big sister Lauren, who turned three this year. Erin was baptized on April 18th, 2009. Serving as godfather was Bill Trutt. Dan is godfather to Bill’s younger daughter, Courtney. Bobbie Allen ’67 a.k.a. Nana, is now the VERY proud grandmother of five beautiful little girls!

Beth (Berardi) Black and her husband, Tony, would like to announce the September 24, 2008 birth of their second daughter, Abigail Ann. She joins big sister Makenna in their Kingston, NY home. Beth teaches 1st grade in the Kingston school district.

Michele (Murphy) Palmer and her husband, Paul, recently had their second daughter, Erin Grace. She was born on January 23, 2009 and weighted 8lbs and was 20 inches long. Erin joins her big sister Maraline at home.

Christina (Morris) Caron and her husband, Dan, would like to announce the birth of their second daughter, Emily Grace, on November 5, 2008.

Their first daughter, Samantha Marie, is elated with her new sister!!

2003 Ronnie (Dowling) Shupe and her husband, David, welcomed a son, Daniel James, on March 30, 2009.

He joins his big sister Abigail at home.

2004 Alexandra (Herrera) Curto and her husband, Salvatore Curto II, announce the birth of their first child, daughter Cassandra Curto, on March 19, 2009. They are currently residing in Orlando, FL.

In Memoriam Hildegard Bach, mother of Lou Bach ’82, MSMC Board of Trustees, and Susan Bach ’82, passed away on May 7, 2009.

Charles Bond, father of Michelle Bond’99, passed away on January 25, 2009.

Leonard Cavicchio, father of Evelyn Cavicchio ’04, passed away on March 12, 2009.

Sr. Mary Regis Corcoran O.P. ’71, of the Dominican Sisters of Hope, passed away on March 18, 2009 at the Dominican Sisters of Hope Center, Newburgh, NY. Mark Makarewicz ’96 passed away on December 18, 2008.

Helen McAteer, mother of Patricia (McAteer) Arrucci ‘90, passed away on March 28, 2009.

Robert P. Rachinsky ’98 passed away on December 25, 2008. He is survived by his wife Melissa Mortimer and young son Reed.

Ann Twomey, mother of Dan Twomey, Associate Director of Athletics, and grandmother of Daniel Twomey ’01 and Brendan Twomey ’04, passed away in February 2009.

SUMMER 2009 HAPPENINGS

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SPRING 2009 HAPPENINGS

MOUNT SAINT MARY COLLEGE

ALUMNI PROFILE

T

homas DeLuca, who graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in 2006, has been working for a custom software development company, Parse3 in Warwick, N.Y., ever since.

His Mount education prepared him.

With support from the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Association for the Visually Impaired, a simple screen magnifier, and some typical on-the-job training, Tom was ready to go to work upon graduation, and Parse3 got an enthusiastic 10th member of their team.

It also became easy for Tom to walk back and forth to work each day, as his company is in the heart of the village.

Since that time, Parse3 has grown to be one of the larger employers in Warwick.

Pictured, from left: Yolanda Rihlmann, AVI; Tom DeLuca; Peter Ladka

Company recognized for employing Mount alum

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DeLuca’s employer, Peter Ladka, founder of Parse3, attributes his company’s success to several factors, but most especially to the exceptional work of development team members like Tom, who’s a user interface developer.

When Ladka received a “Breaking Barriers Award” from Baruch College and the Metropolitan Placement Consortium for granting equal employment opportunities to the blind and visually-impaired he replied, “Tom deserves this award more than I do. He has been able to overcome difficult challenges his whole life. We feel very lucky to have him with us.”

CREATING LASTING LEGACIES… THE MSMC DESMOND CAMPUS Alice Curtis Desmond was a prominent citizen in Balmville, where she lived with her first husband, New York State Senator Thomas C. Desmond, who died in 1972.

Mrs. Desmond’s relationship with Mount Saint Mary College began when she visited with her second husband, former Congressman Hamilton Fish, Sr., who was lecturing on campus. She remained in contact with the college, and met Sister Sylvia Bielen, professor of art, who illustrated some of Mrs. Desmond’s photographs with calligraphy.

When Mrs. Desmond passed away, she left her home to the Mount, along with a trust fund to help offset the cost of maintaining and operating the property.

In leaving her estate to Mount Saint Mary College, Alice Curtis Desmond found a way to sustain her interests in literature, writing, art and history. She is helping countless others to learn and enjoy the truth and beauty she found in these subjects.

The Desmond Society was established to honor the inspirational generosity of Alice Curtis Desmond and recognize the transforming effect that planned gifts can have on the college.

Membership in the Desmond Society is afforded to those who: - Provide for a gift to the Mount through their will or estate plan.

- Fund a Mount Saint Mary College Charitable Gift Annuity.

- Establish a charitable trust to benefit the Mount - Designate the Mount as beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement fund.

Why Not Create a Legacy of Your Own…To learn more about including the Mount in your estate or financial plan or to receive information to share with your attorney or financial advisor, please contact the Office of College Advancement, at 845-569-3215 or online via our website www.msmc.edu

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage PAID Newburgh, NY Permit No. 229

Address service requested

Paying It Forward With graduation just around the corner, a group of alumni gathered at a networking reception hosted by the Office of Alumni Affairs and the Mount Saint Mary College Career Center for graduating Mount seniors. The networking reception was designed to make the transition from college student to young working professional a little easier for the Mount’s graduating students. It gave seniors an opportunity to make contacts, ask questions about their professional field as well as obtain advice on how to get started in their line of work.