Mount Saint Mary College Magazine - Fall 2010

Mount Saint Mary College

magazine Newburgh, New York

Fall 2010

CLASS OF 2010

STELLAR GRADS TAKE FLIGHT

First year journal | Campus upgrades | Knights in the Community | Class of ‘67 pilot

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I’m pleased to inform you that Mount Saint Mary College has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement.

The Corporation for National and Community Service, which administers the annual Honor Roll award, recognizes colleges and universities for their impact.

Honorees are chosen based on factors including the scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation, incentives for service, and the extent to which the school offers academic service learning.

More than 40 percent of our Mount students are involved as part of their coursework in efforts benefiting area residents.

The college is renowned for its nationally accredited programs in health professions and teacher education, placing students into service at schools, hospitals, and other settings.

We also offer studies for psychology and human services, business, and communications for people making a difference for the

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Dear alumni, students, parents and friends of Mount Saint Mary College,

E LEG OL

A letter from the President

INT MARY C SA

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine Volume 32, No. 2

The Office of Community Relations prepares this magazine for alumni, students, parents and friends of the College.

EDITOR Janet Gianopoulos

better. Numerous faculty here involve their students in service, applying what they’re learning.

Additionally, I often hear about our ongoing Knights in the Community initiative, and from places such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Head Start, and other area businesses and non-profits that our students assist regularly.

I’m grateful that Mount Saint Mary College educates minds and hearts, and that our students are active beyond the classroom.

You will find some stellar examples of education and service in the pages of this magazine.

I hope you’ll visit our website at www.msmc.edu for news and updates about our great people, great programs, and great facilities.

Sincerely,

DESIGN & LAYOUT Dean DiMarzo CONTRIBUTORS Jane Hanley Michelle Iacuessa ‘94 Justin Satkowski Meagan Walsh ‘12 Editorial Assistant PHOTOGRAPHY Dean DiMarzo Joan Gambeski Nihal Mahawaduge Kathleen O’Keefe Erroyl Rolle COPYEDITING Sheila Fields Jane Hanley CIRCULATION 7,500 ©2010 EMAIL magazine@msmc.edu

Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM President

Mount Saint Mary College Newburgh, NY 12550 845-561-0800 ADMISSIONS 888-YES-MSMC (888-937-6762)

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Contents

Campus upgrades | 20

For Fall 2010, students were greeted with a new turf field, tennis courts and a remodeled dining hall that brings a whole new level of style and convenience to mealtime at the Mount.

Cover Story Stellar grads take flight | 10

Mount seniors prepare for life, careers and further education by completing internships that meet their interests. The college’s stellar reputation paves the way for new internships every year.

On the Cover: Class of 2010 graduates, left to right, Gianna Cesa, Shannon Sangster, Tom Prodromides and Kyle Grappone.

First Year Journal | Class of 2013 student Tom Kellett Making a difference | Hispanic Studies teacher promotes service News from the Mount | Nursing grant and student successes New faculty | Eight scholars joined the Mount faculty in 2009-10 Commencement | Neurosurgeon and author inspire graduates Going green |College Court building gets solar panel roof Skyline champions | Women’s swim team grabs top spot Lacrosse debut | Women’s lacrosse team off to a good start Pitching & teaching | Teacher returns to school and the mound Knights in the Community | Students lending a hand Humanitarian visits | Dr. Heinzl brings lessons from abroad Class of ‘67 pilot | Dee Alfano Svoboda is still flying high Alumni Notes | The latest news from Mount graduates Anniversary Year Challenge | May the best class win Profile in philanthropy | Kathleen Hirschy Mayer ’74

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Hispanic Studies

yourself “is Being what makes this campus unique ... the diversity that people bring really helps that sense of a warm, welcoming community.

”

Tom Kellett in Founders Chapel

– Tom Kellett ‘13

First Year Journal

By Tom Kellett ‘13

Hispanic Studies major Minisink, New York

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had the opportunity to learn Spanish from kindergarten through 5th grade. Then I took Spanish for the state requirement in 7th grade at Minisink Valley Middle School.

Spanish always came easily to me.

Everyone in my family had a bilingual background. When my grandmother came to the United States from Italy, she got a job in a Christmas ornament factory. A friend there spoke Spanish, and they could communicate. My mom spoke in Italian dialect, and my dad studied German in high school.

Hispanic Studies is broader than the language. One day, my dad was driving me home, and a Mexican man asked if we had a certain tool. I could respond. That really hit home for me: I’m good at this, I enjoy it, and it’s useful. I can help people.

I chose Mount Saint Mary College because the campus is beautiful, and everyone I met was a great person. I go to classes with people

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who take their studies seriously and also enjoy their education. I like the extracurricular activities – seeing and discussing films and poetry, attending the Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra or a play in New York City.

And I found out I could go to Spain as part of the curriculum.

Dr. Karen Eberle-McCarthy is one of my favorite teachers: so knowledgeable about nuances between words, and she definitely brings a lot of passion and experience. My first courses were honors College Writing with Dr. Peter Witkowski, Math with professor Orlando Alonso, U.S. History with Dr. Glenn Reynolds, honors Intro to Psychology with Dr. Rae Fallon, and Conversation and Composition with Dr. Karen Eberle-McCarthy. Once I got past the idea of “this is in Spanish,” I just set my mind to “this is a creative essay,” and it really took off from there.

I am also a history buff. I’m interested in people’s interactions with their countries and governments.

I like the college’s affiliation with Lenovo: I got a laptop for a lot less, and it can be fixed here. Guzman Hall has bigger bedrooms, and it’s a central

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

location, easy to get to classes. The guards are friendly. That’s another thing about the whole campus: it’s a warm, welcoming environment.

I like being a lector at mass. The fact that the mass is mostly my peers, and students do most of the reading, Eucharistic ministry, etc., gives me the opportunity to use something I’ve been given, in a comfortable environment for me. I think it gives me a bigger sense of belonging. I’ve always paid attention in church, but this gives me a chance to be part of the experience.

Mount Saint Mary College gives me a sense of home away from home. I feel secure, I’m surrounded by great people, and it removes that whole thought that I’m away from home, which lets me focus.

I volunteer at the soup kitchen at St. Patrick’s, where I can ask people in Spanish what they’d like. We serve around 100-150 people at a meal.

Five years from now, I see myself teaching English as a second language.

I really want to be able to teach people because it will make their experience easier. They’ll be able to do a lot more if they can communicate.

Above | Karen Eberle-McCarthy’s “Spanish for Teachers” class, from left: Victoria Valencia, Whitney Wade, Stefanie Goodrich, Kelly Mead, Alejandra Gomez, Patricia Neville, Megan Howard, Stella Hindley, and Christina Figueroa.

Left | Planting trees at Newburgh’s Downing Park.

“If you can speak a language, you can step into other people’s shoes.”

– Karen Eberle-McCarthy, professor of Hispanic Studies

Making a difference

Mount students get involved in the community

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utting her knowledge of Spanish to good use, professor of Spanish Karen Eberle-McCarthy is active both inside and outside the classroom, and she serves people through a number of organizations.

Eberle-McCarthy, who has taught at the Mount since 1976, brings her students to a Head Start program across from the Mount campus. They also visit Bishop Dunn Memorial School, where they provide Spanish Enrichment. Service learning is an important component of Spanish courses at the Mount.

“If you can speak a language, you can step into other people’s shoes,” Eberle-McCarthy said. “I want my students to feel at ease with other cultures. Through their work with young children, Mount students are modeling the importance of education.”

In a city where 35% of the residents speak Spanish, Eberle-McCarthy helps people improve the quality of their lives through Latinos Unidos, a group addressing a wide variety of concerns.

She is also president of the Downing Park Planning Committee, which has been maintaining and improving the historic park less than a mile from

The dedication featured (L-R): Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM; Newburgh Mayor Nicholas Valentine, Karen Eberle-McCarthy, and Dorothea Van Valkenburgh. the Mount campus.

In honor of the Mount’s 50th anniversary, Mount students and organizations planted 10 trees in Downing Park this past spring.

“This tree planting demonstrates the bond between the City of Newburgh and Mount Saint Mary College,” said current senior Dorothea Van Valkenburgh, vice president of the Student Government Association, in the dedication ceremony.

Newburgh Mayor Nicholas Valentine thanked the students and recalled

fond memories of the park as a youngster growing up in Newburgh.

Mount president, Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, commended the students on their community service.

“May these trees provide pleasure and peace to all who visit.” Mackin said.

The college’s 50th Anniversary Committee, chaired by Director of Library Services Barbara Petruzzelli, coordinated the planting along with Karen Eberle-McCarthy, and Chris Tripoli, executive director of the Downing Park Planning Committee. www.msmc.edu

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News from the Mount

Fr. Kevin E. Mackin with U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer.

Mount junior Marcella Sgroi and Assemblyman Stephen Hawley.

Dr. Frances Spielhagen and student Ben Liberatore.

Grant, scholarships for nursing

Internship with assemblyman

Students participate in research

Thanks to the assistance of U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer, the Mount received a $100,000 federal grant for nursing laboratory equipment. “With New York in the midst of a nursing shortage, this project will provide Mount Saint Mary College with the equipment, facilities and training to produce more first-rate nurses,” said Schumer.

In other good news, six Mount students received Sen. Patricia K. McGee Nursing Faculty Scholarships. Awards are made on a competitive basis to nurses enrolled in graduate nursing programs that will qualify them to teach. The students are: Karen D. Doll ’10, Margaret V. Gallagher, Bernadette Ryan, Kristina Santos, Denise Smithem ’10 and Jean Walsh. “I was ecstatic to receive the award,” said Ryan, who is a nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Poughkeepsie and who has begun teaching clinical nursing at the Mount.

Nilaja Sun

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Marcella Sgroi, a Mount junior, interned this spring with Assemblyman Stephen Hawley. Sgroi helped get sponsorship for legislation and drafted correspondence to constituents. “Marcella is a wonderful intern,” Hawley said. “She’s doing a fine job and having a blast.” Sgroi explained that “I learned a lot about how government functions in my textbooks, but you can’t fully understand the process until you come to a place like the state assembly.”

She added that she enjoyed class with Stanley W. Pycior, Mount professor of history. “Professor Pycior is a great teacher,” she said. “He keeps his class interesting and fun.” Sgroi, a double major in history/political science and interdisciplinary studies, is thinking about law school and a political career.

Another Mount student, Tasha Sanders, who received a bachelor’s degree in history/political science in 2008, interned with Hawley in 2007.

Benjamin Liberatore, a junior history major from New Paltz, was selected to attend the American Educational Research Association Conference April 30-May 2 in Denver, Colorado. Liberatore, who is pursuing adolescence education certification in social studies, participated in the Undergraduate Students Education Research Training Workshop, led by early career and senior scholars. “Just to be nominated is an honor and to receive the opportunity is awesome,” Liberatore said.

“My dream is to influence educational policy. I want to be an advocate for students, teachers and the community.”

Liberatore has already worked with children at the Kingston YMCA. Rayna Burke, a chemistry student at the Mount, was selected to participate in a summer research project at Cornell University titled “Spectroscopic Studies of Biological and Chemical Catalysis.”

Grant brings one-woman play to Newburgh

Mount Saint Mary College received a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support the presentation of No Child, a one-woman play written and performed by Nilaja Sun. No Child, which opened in 2006 at the Samuel Beckett Theatre in Manhattan, explores what is happening in many American schools. With rapid-fire precision, Sun transforms into teachers, students, parents, administrators, janitors and security guards. The play will be performed this fall for Newburgh Free Academy high school students and teachers, who will participate in discussions with Sun and Mount student teachers and faculty. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to present No Child,” said Frances Spielhagen, associate professor of education, who secured the grant. The play’s title is a reference to the “No Child Left Behind Act” that requires states to develop assessments in academic skills in order to receive federal funding for schools.

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Above | Louis P. Fortunato, professor of accounting and committee member of Artists on the Campus, at the new gallery.

Mount art gallery opens

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new art space in Aquinas Hall features nine prints by Salvador Dali, best known for his surrealist paintings. The works on display are: “Dali’s Inferno,” “The Dreamer,” “Exploding Madonna,” “Harbinger,” “Impossible Dream,” “Invisible Man,” “The Legacy,” “Messiah” and “Paradise” (Creation of Woman).

The prints are part of a contemporary art collection anonymously donated to the college and exhibited here publicly in June, 1985. Louis P. Fortunato, professor of accounting and a member of the Artists on the Campus Show committee, coordinated the development of the gallery.

Left | “Dali’s Inferno” print in Aquinas Hall.

Mount centers explore adolescence, mental health The Mount’s Center for Adolescence Research and Development (CARD) presented “Adolescence in the 21st Century: Constants and Challenges for the Next Generation,” featuring a lecture by psychologist and educator David Elkind, professor emeritus of child development at Tufts University. Elkind has written extensively about adolescence and helped develop the film, Adolescent Cognition: Thinking in a New Key. The conference also featured research, panel presentations and a Connections and Collaboration Workshop. CARD is a clearinghouse for research initiatives covering psychological, social, cultural, educational and health issues

Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, president; Amanda Maynard, associate professor of psychology; Sarah Uzelac, assistant professor of psychology; Paul Schwartz, professor of psychology; David Elkind, professor emeritus, Tufts and Frances Spielhagen, assistant professor of Education. related to adolescents and young adults.

The Center on Aging & Policy explored “Mental Health Across the Lifespan” with Michael F. Hogan, New York State Commissioner of Mental Health, as keynote speaker.

The forum panel discussed mental health issues and services for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.

The Ravazzin Center on Aging at Fordham University and the Mount student organization, Aging United, co-sponsored the forum. www.msmc.edu

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News from the Mount New scholars add to academic strengths Eight new tenure track faculty joined Mount Saint Mary College during the 2009-10 academic year.

Nursing

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PHilosophy and Religious StudieS

Ann Corcoran

Michael Fagge

Ann Corcoran, M.S.N., instructor of nursing, has taught Nursing 302 as a clinical instructor, and also taught Nursing 111.

Corcoran has been at the Mount since 2001 as an adjunct instructor in nursing and came on board full time last fall. She is currently enrolled as a student in the DNP program at Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts.

“I have enjoyed working with my fellow faculty over these many years, as well as teaching the students in a variety of settings such as the classroom, nursing lab and clinical setting. The Mount provides a quality education in a truly beautiful campus setting.”

Michael Fagge, M.A., instructor of religious studies, has taught Introduction to the New Testament and Introduction to Theology.

His special interests are theological anthropology, philosophical theology, and dialogue between postmodern and medieval theologies.

Fagge has given lectures on the postmodern/medieval dialogue in Belgium and the U.S., as well as public lectures on the sacraments and theological anthropology. He has also done roundtable sessions on teaching methods, in Montreal, Quebec and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“I like the size of Mount Saint Mary College. It is not a big state university where the students get lost in the crowd. I like being able to stop in the MST building and talk with students from the previous semester, and just see how they are doing. I think student-teacher relationships are fostered here at the Mount and that helps everyone.”

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Education

Matthew Hollibush Matthew Hollibush, M.A., instructor of education, has taught courses in education, including Content Literacy, Basics of Literacy, English methods, and reading and literature.

His interests include research in the classrooms of exemplary secondary language teachers, pre-service teacher education, and best practices in language arts education. He has presented at national conferences including the American Association for Colleges of Teacher Education (AACTE), Association of Teacher Educators (ATE), and American Educational Research Association (AERA). He has just begun, in conjunction with Dr. David Gallagher, to design a study on the effects of Project Based Learning on the attitudes of pre-service teachers in content literacy courses.

“The main thing I like about the Mount is the people. The students work hard and the faculty is friendly and supportive.“

BUSINESS

Tracey Niemotko Tracey Niemotko, C.P.A., C.F.E., associate professor of accounting, has taught Auditing, Intermediate Accounting, Notfor-profit Accounting, and Accounting for Managerial Decisions and Control.

She has worked in the field of accounting for nearly 25 years and followed many evolutions and changes.

Accordingly, interests in current trends involve fraud examination, forensic accounting and the effect of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) on U.S. businesses. She is also editing her book, Accounting Basics: A Survival Guide for Students, originally published in 2002 by Kendall-Hunt Publishers, for its second edition.

“I am delighted to teach at the Mount because it is clear that the focus of the College is on the students and teaching. The faculty is very dedicated and the Mount is a wonderful learning environment.”

to teach at the Mount because it is clear that the focus of the College “is Ionamthedelighted students and teaching ... the Mount is a wonderful learning environment. ” – Tracey J. Niemotko, CPA, CFE , associate professor of accounting

Arts & Letters

James Phillips James Phillips, M.F.A., assistant professor of communication arts, has taught Introduction to Theatre, Theatre History, Directing, Acting, Theatre for Schools, and Comedy.

Phillips’ performance interests focus on comedy, mainly physical comedy.

He plans to create and direct an original Commedia del’ Arte piece in the fall.

“The Mount can provide students an opportunity to experience the creative process through classroom work and co-curricular productions. It’s this ability to share the joys and frustrations of the creative process with students that are not intending to become professional artists that is exciting and rewarding.

Creativity is becoming one of the most sought after traits by employers, and the Mount can position itself as a leader.”

NURSING

Anne-Marie Uebbing Anne-Marie Uebbing, M.S., instructor of nursing, has taught Advanced Adult Assessment, Advanced Physical Assessment and graduate Adult Nurse Practitioner Practicum. She taught a clinical practicum this summer, and will teach two undergraduate physical assessment labs and two graduate course lecture and workshop practicums (EKG Workshop, Suturing, Microscopy, Radiology) in the fall.

Uebbing’s areas of interest are adolescent health, infectious disease and primary care.

“I like the spacious facilities and labs of the Kaplan Family Mathematics, Science and Technology Center. And the community feeling and camaraderie of students and staff. I enjoy working with experienced RNs who have the commitment to becoming advanced clinical nurses.”

NURSING

Philosophy and Religious Studies

Angela Wantroba

Charles Zola

Angela Wantroba, M.S., instructor of nursing, has taught Physical Assessment (accelerated) lecture and lab and a Pediatric Clinical/lab at Vassar Brothers Hospital, and two Pediatric Clinicals at Westchester Medical Center. She was also the coordinator for the Accelerated Physical Assessment course.

Her research interests include pediatric obesity: in particular understanding environmental causes of this epidemic related to maternal perceptions of appropriate portion sizes for their children.

“I love working at the Mount because my colleagues are very dedicated to the students and student learning. The main focus is on the students and helping them begin to develop into nurses. In addition, the simulation lab is of superior quality and nationally recognized. This is an important adjunct to student learning that many other schools are seeking to develop.”

Charles Zola, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy and director of the Catholic and Dominican Institute, has taught Introduction to Philosophy, Ethics, Business Ethics, and Medical Ethics.

He’s completed research for community and public service agencies in the area of ethics and elder care ethics. Zola has also presented papers at conferences at the University of Scranton, Pennsylvania and Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio.

“I like the strong sense of community here at the Mount. The small class size affords both students and me a comfortable space where we are able to listen to each other. As a firstyear faculty person, I’ve also found very supportive colleagues and staff. I especially like the sense of collegiality that affords me the opportunity to pursue my research interests with faculty from other disciplines.”

www.msmc.edu

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Commencement 2010

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

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Stellar grads take flight Practical learning and internships are Mount strengths

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ount Saint Mary College students pursue career preparation for business, education, health professions, human services and more.

Nicholas Jurgensen graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in business and a minor in Spanish.

“When I first met Nick,” recalled Kathleen O’Keefe, co-ordinator of co-op and internships in the Mount’s Career Center, “he told me he wanted to work in airport management and wanted an internship in that field. I was able to create an airport management internship with Orange County Airport and Nick flourished.”

Jurgensen explained that “an airport to me is a place with a ton of opportunity. I love airplanes and the way that the industry works. From customer service to processing and managing the airplanes, destinations, and everything else within an airline, it’s all very interesting to me. At LaGuardia Airport in New York City, I will be a customer service representative for AirTran Airways. I will be at the front desk and at the gates.”

AirTran sent Jurgensen to its major hub, Atlanta, for two weeks of training this summer. Then, it’s up, up and away for the Ronkonkoma, Long Island resident.

Since Janet Zeman, the executive director of the Career Center, launched the Mount’s Co-Op and

Nicholas Jurgensen interned at Orange County Airport, assisting the director of aviation with special projects and monitoring the airport.

Internship effort more than 20 years ago, the college has arranged strong experiences that are proving grounds for professions.

Tom Prodromides, an accounting major, interned with the City of Newburgh comptroller in 2009. This spring, he landed a cooperative learning experience with EA Engineering, Science and Technology, also in Newburgh.

Prodromides has thrived in his work, from accounts payable and client billing to general office tasks.

“It’s an environmental consulting company,” he explained. “I work with engineers, scientists, and marketing people in the firm, and I enjoy accumulating thoughts and ideas from everybody. In my office, there are five people. In the entire company, including overseas offices, there are around

400-450 people. We do a lot of work with the Air Force, Army, and Navy.

There are many opportunities.”

The personal environment at Mount Saint Mary College prepared him well, he said. “You get one-toone with your teachers. I followed the Career Center process to get that real world experience you can’t get in a classroom. They were very helpful, and it fit my needs perfectly. The Mount has given me the opportunity to grow as a well-rounded student relating to all aspects of real life: as an employee and a better person, equipped with the tools to be a contributing member of society. It’s an education that’s not just for the workplace.”

Pat Occhiogrosso, regional accounting manager at EA, noted that when the firm was in need of part-

Opposite page | Class of 2010 graduates, left to right, Tom Prodromides, Shannon Sangster, Kyle Grappone and Gianna Cesa. www.msmc.edu

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Business

Education

Louis P. Fortunato, professor of accounting with Shanice Bristol, a senior majoring in accounting.

Dina Martirano M. Ed. ‘05, left, talks teaching with Caitlin Stamp, who

time support in the Newburgh office, “We immediately thought of looking to Mount Saint Mary College for an intern. The Mount’s quality education and student development experience would be a good fit with our company.

Tom hit the ground running and has quickly become a productive employee who is self motivated and readily accepts new responsibilities.

A true professional, he works well with all EA employees, including a Mount graduate of 2003.”

Prodromides plans to return to the Mount to earn an MBA. “I’m excited that it will open up and broaden all the business aspects,” he said.

Shannon Sangster, a senior public relations major with a minor in business, gained experience at St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital,. She processed news about new employees by interviewing them, taking their photos, and writing news releases.

“St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital has been fortunate to work with such talented students from the Mount,” said Sue Sullivan, the hospital’s vice president of development. “Shannon Sangster and John Barrack (a former intern hired full-time) are perfect examples of students who have leveraged their education in public relations and an interest in healthcare to work with us at the hospital.”

Sangster was very active at the Mount as a student leader and co-cap-

County Department of Health. “My course focuses on making healthy communities, in line with the objectives of Healthy People 2010 (a national initiative),” Sagar said.

Senior Lucy Dornfeld gave a lesson on smoking cessation to students at Wallkill High School. “They were quite attentive,” Dornfeld said. “I told them that cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, including arsenic and acetone. I gave a pre- and post-test on the presentation, and the results showed they were listening.”

Jaclyn Martin demonstrated the importance of hand washing to sixth graders at San Miguel Academy in Newburgh. “I used a Glo Germ kit to show the students how we transfer germs to each other,” Martin explained. “After I touched their hands, they rubbed Glo Germ lotion on them and a black light revealed how germs had passed onto their hands. It was a convincing demonstration.”

Emily Van Niewerburgh taught fifth graders at Nora Cronin Presentation Academy about nutrition and health. “I discussed eating well and exercising,” Van Niewerburgh said.

“We talked about eating lots of vegetables and fruit and getting exercise several times a week.”

Dornfeld, Martin and Van Niewerburgh were all in the accelerated continuing education program at Mount Saint Mary College, which allowed

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tain of the Knights women’s basketball team, helping the team win three conference championships. She was a Skyline Conference all-star three years in a row. “I’m not surprised that Shannon has excelled as an intern,” said James N. Beard, professor of communication arts. “She is not only one of our finest public relations majors; she is one of the finest young persons on our campus.”

Another communication arts major, Gianna Cesa, worked hard throughout the year promoting her senior project and its cause: breast cancer research. She coordinated a “Pink Out” event to raise funds for research.

For Parents Weekend, she arranged a raffle in the Kaplan Recreation Center, featuring 45 custom-made baskets, on behalf of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Raffle winners were announced during the Mount’s popular basketball games. There was also a silent auction for shirts signed by members of the band One Republic and singer Sean Kingston.

Creating healthier communities Mount Saint Mary College nursing students give lessons at local schools as part of the Community Health Nursing course taught by Priscilla L. Sagar, associate professor of nursing. They’ve linked with organizations such as Willcare and the Orange

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Nursing

received her master’s degree in education in May.

Accelerated program nursing students, from left: Lucy Dornfeld, Jaclyn Martin and Emily Van Niewerburgh with Dr. Priscilla L. Sagar.

them to blend a quality Mount education with their busy adult schedules.

with Maria Sita ‘99; Michael Reineke, graduate student, with Kathy Spangler ‘74; Danielle Willwerth, history, with Kimberlee Mahusky ‘95, MSE ‘99; and Stacey Wilson, English, with Patty DeCaterina ‘95, MSE ‘99.

Martirano teaches fourth grade at Round Hill Elementary School in the Washingtonville Central School District. “When I heard that I’d have a student teacher from the Mount, I knew I would be working with someone who was well prepared,” said Martirano.

“We got along really well,” said Stamp, who received her master’s degree May 15, 2010. “I learned so much from Dina. She is extremely well

Head of the class Nearly a third of Mount Saint Mary College students pursue education certification.

Graduate student Caitlin Stamp worked with Mount alumna Dina Martirano, who earned her bachelor’s degree in 2003 and a master’s degree in education in 2005.

Other student teachers paired with area alumni in education included: Sara Crisci, a history major, with Marie Murphy ‘88; Meghan Hammer, mathematics, with Pat Greico ‘92; Nicole Porcelli, Hispanic Studies,

organized. I really think it helped that she was a Mount grad. She understood what was expected of me and the high standards that the Mount sets for students to achieve.”

Martirano is well aware of the role her students play in the student teaching process. “Dina prepped her class,” said Stamp. “They understood that they were helping me learn how to be a teacher.”

Martirano observed that during Caitlin’s first week of student teaching, “Caitlin took the initiative to get involved in every aspect of our class. I was confident that I could give her the responsibility to take over certain aspects of our day within the first week.

We didn’t want Caitlin to leave.”

A winning image Lisa Remer (left) with her first place photograph titled “Curious,” graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in May with a degree in Spanish. Virginia Donovan of RiverWinds Gallery, presented awards at the 35th Annual Artists on the Campus Outdoor Art Show and Sale, June 13 at the Mount. www.msmc.edu

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Dr. James Cotter, professor of English, held aloft the College mace as he led the procession across the campus.

Carson, Clark address graduates

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nder sunny skies this May, Mount Saint Mary College president Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, congratulated nearly 700 bachelor’s degree and master’s degree candidates at the college, as thousands enjoyed what many called the best Commencement ceremony ever.

The 47th annual ceremony saw the conferral of honorary degrees upon hospital CEO Allan E. Atzrott, who spoke at a special Board of Trustees Brunch beforehand; pioneering neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, Sr.; bestselling author Mary Higgins Clark; and Joshua Morgenthau, who promotes sustainable agriculture.

“I’m glad we have such a distinguished roster of guests to honor students’ accomplishments in many fields, and to inspire them and their families,” Fr. Kevin said in his welcome.

For the graduates, he offered a few words of advice. “People’s lives can be inspired by your excellence, your

Noted neurosurgeon Dr. Benjamin S. Carson addressed the Class of 2010. enthusiasm, your reverence for life,” he concluded.

Carson delivered the Commencement Address, emphasizing that dreams are essential to success, and that God is integral to life. He also told the graduates to be proud of America and remember how this country became great: by offering education to all and by caring for each

other.

Mary Higgins Clark followed with her own remarks. She told the graduates to appreciate what others had done for them, and noted that each person is given a special gift to be nurtured and shared.

In a ceremonial highlight, Ed Teall, professor of philosophy, presented the Faculty Award, given by the faculty

“People’s lives can be inspired by your excellence, your enthusiasm, your reverence for life.”

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Former president Sr. Ann Sakac greets Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM.

Mary Higgins Clark compared students’ futures to great novels.

Mary Kay Messenger ‘88 sang God Bless America.

Sr. Catherine Walsh received the college’s Faculty Award.

Workers from Kirchhoff Construction installed solar panels.

Going green

Irene Nunnari, professor emeritus, congratulated graduates.

Happy graduates prepared to recess.

More online

Walsh is the chair of the Arts and Letters program, and a professor of communication arts.

Stating it would not take long to find a student to attest to her enthusiasm and commitment, or a colleague to provide accolades, Teall said “Given the year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the college, we believe it is most fitting that the award go to one of the Dominican Sisters whose life has become woven with the college itself.”

The ceremony concluded with a benediction delivered by James V. McEnery, associate professor emeritus of English and a founding member of the college. As McEnery led the assembly in the Lord’s Prayer, gratitude prevailed.

See the college website at www.msmc.edu for more photos and videos of Commencement 2010.

You can even order a DVD with more great scenes! to recognize the contributions of individuals to Mount Saint Mary College.

“We have chosen a person who has contributed much to the college over the years not only as a faculty member but as a student, alumna, administrator, and even principal of Bishop Dunn Memorial School,” announced Teall. “This year the award is being given to Sr. Catherine Walsh.”

– Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, Mount Saint Mary College president

Mount Saint Mary College is venturing into “alternative energy.”

The central roof at 35 College Court, a newly renovated 12,000 square foot residence hall for 48 students, now sports solar photovoltaic panels.

The work on the 14kW system, which generates voltage when exposed to radiant energy, included mounting and connecting 70 panels (200 watts per panel), along with electric lines, meters and inverters. The system is hooked up to the grid to supplement traditional power.

Green Building and Material Supply Inc. and Kirchhoff Green Energy, LLC handled the installation of the system by Sunnyside Solar.

The total cost of the system is close to $100,000. To defray that, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority approved a rebate in the amount of $47,950.

“Renovating the building, and getting the rebate, gave us strong reason to include solar power,” explained Maryann Pilon, director of facilities, who notes that future projects might also be candidates.

The energy savings via solar power should cover the cost of the system within seven to ten years. www.msmc.edu

15

Bringing home the Skyline Championship Perazella and Naudy capture top honors

F

or the second time in three years, the Mount Saint Mary College women’s swimming team won the Skyline Conference Championship. The Knights topped the field with 121.5 points. On the men’s side, Mount Saint Mary College finished second to Maritime College.

Freshman Brianna Perazella led the way for the Knights, winning three individual events en route to being named the Skyline Conference Swimmer of the Year. The terrific rookie kicked off the meet with a victory in the 1000-yard freestyle, setting a new Skyline record with a time of 11:19.45.

Perazella also outdistanced the field

in the 200-yard freestyle (2:06.74) and the 200-yard individual medley (2:22.31).

Mount Saint Mary College received strong efforts from freshmen Kassie Kayal and Jamie Testa, who shared Skyline Rookie of the Year honors.

Kayal was the individual champion in the 500-yard freestyle (6:06.51). Testa took the title in the 100-yard butterfly (1:07.22).

Sophomore Laura Condon was also an individual champion, taking the 200-yard breaststroke with a seasonbest time of 3:04.35. The relay team of Kayal, Perazella, Testa, and freshman Megan Whelan took first place in the

Below | The victorious Knights celebrated their championship.

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

200-yard medley relay with a time of 2:04.70.

On the men’s side, sophomore Enrique Naudy won three individual events and was named the Skyline Swimmer of the Year for the second year in a row. Naudy set Skyline Conference meet records in all three events, including a time of 54.55 in the 100-yard backstroke. The sophomore also touched first in the 200-yard backstroke (1:58.59) and the 200-yard individual medley (2:03.70).

Senior Stephen Ghostlaw won individual championships in the 1000-yard freestyle (11:12.59) and the 500-yard freestyle (5:25.03), shattering

Student Athletes his season-best times in both events.

The Knights also got an individual championship from junior Daniel Courtney who outdueled senior Jay Matushefske in the 200-yard breaststroke with a time of 2:43.27. Matushefske finished in 2:47.05.

Junior Brian Heitman turned in a trio of second place finishes. Heitman was the runner-up in the 200-yard butterfly (2:12.29), the 100-yard freestyle (54.33), and the 100-yard butterfly (59.13).

Back on the women’s side, junior Alex Taliana set new personal bests in three events (50 free, 100 free, 500 free). Freshman Rachel Johnson recorded top times in the 100 backstroke (1:18.13) and the 100 freestyle (1:05.70), while Whelan recorded personal bests in the 100 freestyle (1:02.88) and the 200 individual medley (2:31.50). Sophomore Sarah Pruschki finished the 50 freestyle in a season-best 29.50, while junior Shannon McNally set a new personal best of 2:30.81 in the 200 freestyle.

Rounding out the lineup, sophomore Christina Figueroa scored points in all three of her events, including the 100yard backstroke, the 50-yard freestyle, and the 100-yard freestyle.

The men also recorded a number of season-best times. Junior Anthony Celano recorded a new best in the 50-yard freestyle (28.12), while junior Stephen Bloomer topped out in the 200-yard breaststroke with a time of 3:05.81. The newcomers, senior Shawn Tocidlowski and sophomore Andrew Zunich also set new top times. Tocidlowski finished the 100 yard freestyle in 1:20.74 and Zunich completed the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:28.07.

An already big day for the Knights improved even further with the announcements of the Skyline awards.

Women’s head coach Mary Damm was named the Skyline Conference Coach of the Year, while men’s head coach Gene Damm (Poughkeepsie, New York) was presented with the Skyline sportsmanship award.

Knights prevail in lacrosse debut Mount Saint Mary College’s new lacrosse team is heating up the athletics program.

In the collegiate debut for the women’s team this spring, freshman Kaileen Spadaro from Islip, New York, scored 10 times to lead the Knights to a 17-15 victory over Cazenovia College.

Spadaro scored five times in the first half, including a goal right before the half that tied the game at 10-10. She also gave the Knights their first lead of the contest, netting an unassisted tally at the 17:57 mark to give her team a 4-3 advantage.

Out of the gates in the second half, Mount Saint Mary ripped off the first five goals to seize control of the game. Freshman Sharon Cranwell, a nursing major from Putnam Valley, New York, kicked things off by converting a free position attempt at the 27:23 mark. Spadaro followed up with another free position goal at 26:05, and then found the back of the net again at the 22:17 mark to make it 13-10. Junior Ellen Cashin, a nursing student from Rockaway Beach, New York, continued the

run at the 20:14 mark, putting home a feed from Spadaro. Then, it was freshman Katie Gerdts, a business student from Forest Hills, New York, who found Spadaro for another goal that made it 15-10.

Cazenovia edged to within two in the closing minutes, as back-toback tallies by that team’s Courtney Caldwell, from Black River, New York, made the score, 17-15. Mount Saint Mary did a nice job of possessing the ball in the final two minutes, however, allowing the Knights to earn the first win in program history.

Spadaro finished with 10 goals, 3 assists, and 6 groundballs. Cranwell totaled 5 goals and a team-high 7 groundballs, while Cashin netted 2 goals to go along with 3 groundballs.

Sophomore goalie Emily Folino, a biology student from Staten Island, New York, did an excellent job in the cage, making 14 stops to collect the victory. Sophomore mathematics major Julianne LoStrappo, from Seaford, New York, totaled five draw controls and did a nice job at the defensive end of the field. www.msmc.edu

17

Student Athletes

Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse teams debuted in 2010.

Frank Snyder ’09 helps a student to focus a microscope during a science laboratory period at the San Miguel Academy in Newburgh.

Athletic program continues to expand

A leader on the field and in the classroom

Incoming students have more choices in the Mount’s athletics program than ever before, with Lacrosse and Track & Field teams added in the last 2 years: MEN’S TEAMS • Baseball • Basketball • Cross Country • Lacrosse • Soccer • Swimming • Tennis • Track & Field WOMEN’S TEAMS • Basketball • Cross Country • Lacrosse • Soccer • Softball • Swimming • Tennis • Track & Field • Volleyball

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A

hand-rung bell still marks each class period at the San Miguel Academy in New-

burgh.

Mr. (Frank) Snyder’s seventh grade science class rumbles into the room.

The requisite desk shuffling and chair scraping ensues, but it’s not long before Mr. Snyder seizes control of the classroom.

The boys gather into their laboratory groups, and soon they’re inspecting tissue samples from frogs, birds, and humans. Along with hand drawings of what can be seen through the microscope, the boys must submit answers to questions about arteries, blood, and the rest of the circulatory system. Once they submit lab reports, they’re allowed to start homework.

It’s not a remarkable scene, but the young man at the front of the classroom certainly is. Frank Snyder, a 2009 graduate of Mount Saint Mary College with a degree in biology, has taught part time at San Miguel while also taking graduate classes in the

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Snyder pitched in 10 games during 2010 and was named a Skyline Conference second team all-star.

Snyder supervises students as they observe plant cells.

Mount’s education department. To top it off, Snyder’s a starting pitcher for the college’s baseball team.

“I was kind of thrown into the fire at San Miguel, but it’s been a great experience,” said Snyder. “I’ve had my fair share of frustrating days in the classroom, but the kids are really good and I think they’ve learned a lot this year.”

Once the final bell rings, Snyder goes back to being a student-athlete with the Knights after missing the entire 2009 season with a shoulder injury. “I was in physical therapy for six or seven weeks,” said Snyder.

“Throwing a baseball was the tough part. It took a long time to get past the ninety-foot mark.”

“I’m back because I love the game,” he added, “and I might never get the chance to pitch again.”

Head coach Steve Sosler said Snyder’s a great leader for the Knights.

“In addition to his presence on the mound, Frank has acted as another coach on the bench. With his hard work and determination, he’s provided an excellent example.”

Snyder has worked with many of the younger pitchers on their strength and conditioning programs. He also knows the ins and outs of the Skyline Conference, so he’s trying to pass along knowledge that will help. It’s an experience that mirrors his time at San Miguel Academy.

Back in the classroom, Mr. Snyder’s seventh-graders spark a discussion about their teacher’s ability on the baseball field. Some, including Edward Quinn, speculate that Mr. Snyder’s probably a pretty good pitcher.

Others, including Guillermo Cruz, are less certain. Finally, it’s young Brian Morales who sends the classroom into fits of laughter.

“If he plays baseball anything like he teaches, he must be horrible,” says Morales. It’s a good-natured barb from a seventh-grade boy who has all the respect in the world for his teacher.

Many Mount students, including those on the men’s basketball team and the women’s tennis team, support the local community.

The Knights lend a hand Knights in the Community, a project of Mount Saint Mary College’s athletics program, gets out and about, serving various people in the greater Newburgh area.

Members of the men’s basketball team have been ladling meals and collecting food for St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen in Newburgh.

“The guys jumped at the opportunity for a hands-on experience in giving back to the community,” said head coach Ryan Kadlubowski.

The basketball team partnered with the swimming teams to host Boy Scout Troop and Pack 105 in the Kaplan Recreation Center. The Knights conducted swimming and basketball lessons with the special needs children, and competed side-by-side with the Boy Scouts in contests.

In April, the women’s tennis team offered “A Day at the Spa” to the patients of the Elant Nursing Home, providing massages, manicures, and facials. They also enjoyed lunch with the patients and staff.

“We were immersed in their program for the day,” said head coach Lorraine Brady. “My team really enjoyed the opportunity to work with the elderly and put some smiles on their faces. I think Elant was really

happy to have visitors.”

Sophomore Annie Llewellyn, a nursing major, appreciated the chance to bond with her team while interacting with patients. Freshman Emily Gregory, also a nursing major, liked listening to the stories of patients, especially the ones about their grandchildren.

Freshman Jackie Ivan, a psychology major, particularly enjoyed 102-year old Juliet Kruszenski. The two bonded over their connection to the Binghamton, New York area.

Kruszenski encouraged Ivan to be less cautious in her approach to the massage and facial. “I’m not made of porcelain,” quipped Kruszenski.

The team is in its first NCAA Women’s Tennis Tournament this May. The Knights captured the Skyline Conference title during the fall, with the automatic qualifier to the Division III National Tournament.

Stay tuned for more Knights in the Community news. www.msmc.edu

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Campus upgrades

The remodeled dining hall features warm wood tones, large windows, beautiful lighting fixtures, flat-screen TVs, and a new sound system.

A sculptured “wave wall” in one of the dining rooms sets a tone.

Dining hall gets a stylish renovation Sodexo Food Services gifted the college with $2.7 million for enhancements to Aquinas Dining Hall, including an expanded main area with 9,500 square feet.

Upscale furnishings such as soft-seat booths and semi-circular banquettes create a more elegant and fresh dining experience, and large windows overlook the Hudson River.

Students have many choices from hot meals to a take-out counter.

Students can choose tables, softseat booths, or counter dining.

New turf athletic field and tennis courts An impressive all-weather, synthetic turf field, featuring a scoreboard and lighting, was unveiled this fall. The new field, which permits yearround use, measures 225 feet by 350 feet, and will serve the men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams.

The athletic complex also features six tennis courts and a grass practice field. The tennis courts are surfaced with DecoTurf, the same surface used at the U.S. Open.

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Humanitarian shares lessons from abroad

Dr. Richard Heinzl , founder of the Canadian chapter of Doctors Without Borders

“I

n our borderless world, we see that people are different, and that people are the same.” So said Dr. Richard Heinzl, founder of the Canadian chapter of Doctors Without Borders, as he presented a message of hope to several hundred people at Mount Saint Mary College. His lecture, “Lessons from Abroad: The Opportunities of a Borderless World,” was the 11th in the Samuel D. Affron Memorial Lecture Series.

In a casual but poignant style, Heinzl spoke of the strength of the people he has met in the midst of natural disaster, poverty and disease, in Cambodia, Iraq, Haiti and other countries. As he spoke, he posted images of children, shacks and tent cities that illustrated some of what he has witnessed.

He talked about the devastation in Haiti after its recent earthquake.

“I didn’t hear of panic and despair.

I heard women singing a song of

hope.”

Heinzl told Mount students in the audience that “travel is an integral part of education. Travel offers a way to understand the world.”

He urged them to step out of their comfort zones and take risks.

“You don’t have to be a doctor to make a difference.”

He said that technology, like cell phones, is pulling people together and that the Internet is helping to deliver health care in faraway places.

Reception for Dr. Richard Heinzl

From left: Pamela LaLonde, Dr. Heinzl, Susan Najork, Beverly Mennerich, Nancy Rathbun, Mary McGowan, and Joe McGowan.

From left: Dr. Heinzl and Dr. Andrea Ackermann with members of the class of 2010.

From left: Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, Joshua Affron, Dr. Heinzl, Steven Affron and Sam Affron.

www.msmc.edu

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‘67

The spirit of

Alumni Profile Class of 1967

Dolores Alfano Svoboda

Four decades after the Mount, Svoboda is still flying high

D

olores Alfano Svoboda (Dee) was not a traditional student when she attended Mount Saint Mary College in its earliest days, graduating with her bachelor’s degree and New York State teaching certification in 1967. But then traditional is hardly a word that describes any aspect of her life.

Today, Dee lives with her husband Charles (Chick) Svoboda in Clearwater, Florida. They spend their days flying a Cessna 182 high-performance airplane over the Gulf of Mexico for the Coast Guard Auxiliary and Civil Air Patrol.

It’s a rather non-traditional retirement lifestyle.

A non-traditional student at the Mount, Dee Alfano was married to Joseph Alfano (then president of First National Bank of Highland) and the mother of two boys when she started taking classes in education and

22

chemistry at the Mount in the early 1960s, shortly after the Mount admitted its first lay students. Dee was looking to fill her days by continuing her education while her boys were at school.

Dee recalls being in class in the Villa Madonna (the Villa, today) and her classroom on the east side of the second floor. She also recalls English Professor Emeritus James McEnery.

“He didn’t know quite what to make of me,” said Dee of Mr. McEnery.

“Sr. Genevieve, then the vice president of academic affairs, used to tease

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

me that I just liked taking classes,” Dee recalls with a laugh. “She said that I wasn’t intending on graduating at all.”

Dee proved her wrong, earning her teaching certification and graduating in 1967 in the top portion of her class, when her boys, James and Charles, were 16 and 12 years old. The Newburgh Evening News published a photo of Dee with her two boys, captioning the photo “Marlboro Mother Among Top in College Graduating Class.”

While she was offered jobs with

Mount Alumni

Above | Dee Alfano Svoboda appeared in a local paper with her sons, James Alfano and Charles Alfano, in 1967.

Right | Dee and Charles (Chick) Svoboda in their plane.

Texaco in Beacon and in the school district where she earned her teaching credentials, Dee found she didn’t want to be tied down to a full-time job.

A free spirit takes flight Dee did what any recent college graduate with two teenage boys would do: she joined the Mount Beacon Ski Patrol, and skied there on a regular basis, monitoring the park area for skiers who were lost or injured. This position required that she take emergency medical treatment training on an annual basis.

Through the years, Dee achieved a dizzying array of accomplishments.

She managed apartment buildings that she and Joe owned, became certified as an HVAC technician, and then as a licensed arbitrator. Dee and Joe also owned racehorses for a time.

Her two boys grew up and settled in Highland, New York.

Dee fulfilled a lifelong dream when she got her pilot’s license in the early 1990s, while still living in the Hudson Valley. Dee was at the helm of a plane during an historic flight from Israel to Jordan and back again, as the only woman to serve in this capacity. Dee was recognized by King Hussein of Jordan and the flight was covered by

all major news outlets.

In the early 1990s, Dee’s husband, Joe, passed away, and Dee relocated to Florida. She met Charles (Chick) Svoboda at the Clearwater Airport when Chick administered a check ride qualifying Dee to fly search missions for the Civil Air Patrol. Through their conversation, they found they both had lived in Marlboro, New York just four houses away from one another!

Some time later, Dee contacted Chick, only to learn that his wife had recently passed away. Through their mutual love of flying, they continued their friendship, and were married in 2001.

Today, Chick and Dee live in Clearwater, and fly on a regular basis. Their plane is a high-performance model (Cessna 182 with G1000) that suits the needs of their rugged flight missions.

The plane has an all-glass cockpit, and controls are run and monitored by computer. “That plane can practically fly itself,” said Dee.

What’s a regular flight day like?

It’s not unusual for the Svobodas to get a notice from the Coast Guard or Civil Air Patrol in the wee hours of the morning. Up and in flight gear (jumpsuit, boots, and life preserver

vest) within the hour, often Dee and/ or Chick are boarding their plane in darkness.

Their missions can involve search and rescue missions, scoping out potential drug or immigration trafficking, helping with homeland security issues, or conducting flyovers for the Sheriff ’s Department.

The Mount pays a visit Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, president of Mount Saint Mary College, and Joan Gambeski, director of special projects, visited Dee and Chick at the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport this past winter. Dee and Chick showed them their Cessna and demonstrated the high-tech instrumentation and navigation system.

They also spent time reminiscing about the Mount and life in the Hudson Valley.

When the Svobodas next travel to visit family in the region, their agenda will include a tour of Mount Saint Mary College.

The Mount community would love to welcome Dee back to campus. Dee captures the lifelong commitment to learning and serving others that the Mount seems to engender in its students and alumni. www.msmc.edu

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Victoria Ramiza holds sister Sophia Grace

Births Christina (Papale) Ramiza & Evan Ramiza have welcomed another daughter. Sophia Grace was born on December 24, 2009 at 6 lbs. 5 oz.

She joins big sister Victoria at their new home in Cortland, New York.

Share your news with classmates

It’s so easy! Just visit www.msmc.edu/notes

In Memoriam Ludwig Bach, father of Lou Bach ’82 and Susan Bach ’82 passed away on March 22, 2010.

Abraham Lincoln Morehead Jr., father of Brian Morehead ’85, passed away on January 26, 2010.

Susan G. (Charles) Sindone ’09, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City.

Brendan McGrath, spouse of Mary Devine McGrath ’73 passed away on March 13, 2010.

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Jesse Johnson ‘93 chatted with students at the Meet-a-Mentor dinner.

Alumni help students navigate their careers

T

he first Meet-a-Mentor Dinner held at the Mount was a huge success. Juniors and seniors gathered with Mount alumni to hear about their professional experiences and how they got started. Advice and business cards were exchanged and good cheer flowed throughout the night. Jim Sandler, facilitator and coach from The Alternative Board, spoke to the students about conducting a job search in a difficult economy. Dinner was generously donated by the Alexis Diner in Newburgh, New York.

The Meet-a-Mentor Dinner will be an annual event. To participate in the dinner or to be part of the Alumni Mentoring Network, please contact Michelle Iacuessa ’94, director of alumni affairs, at michelle.iacuessa@msmc.edu or at 845-569-3217.

Alumni Notes 1974

Bronwen (Jones) Lewin & husband, David, just moved to New Windsor, New York and they are loving it. Her sons, Chris and Dan, are licensed paramedics working mainly in Orange County.

1977

Nancy (Martini) Slade has been awarded the St. Jude the Apostle award for the Diocese of St. Petersburgh, Florida. Nancy is the coordinator for religious education at St. Stephen’s Parish in Valrico, Florida. The award is based upon loyalty, dedica-

Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

tion and unselfish efforts in assisting others. Nancy resides in Valrico with her husband, Steven and children, Stephanie and Robert.

1997

Christina (Moran) Durcan, after staying at home to care for her six children, is returning to work as a special education itinerant teacher and applied behavioral analysis therapist – behavioral therapy for children on the autism spectrum. She also runs a non-competitive, recreational Irish Dance School, Scoil Rince Moran, in Pearl

River, New York.

Thomas Fuller is married and living in the Albany, New York area. Thomas is a pharmaceutical representative and his wife is an elementary school teacher in the Albany School District. He still plays and enjoys a lot of basketball.

“Hey fellow Alumni, hope everyone is doing well. Good luck and God Bless to all.”

2000

Joseph Polvere continues to work as a teacher in the Tenafly Public Schools and as an adjunct professor at three

Mount Alumni local universities. In addition, he is the vice president of the Tenafly Education Association in New Jersey. His son, Tyler, is 21 months old.

Amy Peluso received the Orange County “Rising Star”Award by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes individuals between the ages of 21 and 40 who are upand-coming leaders in their professional and volunteer lives. Amy is the assistant principal at the Minisink Valley Intermediate School.

2001

Diane (Leinweaver) Brown has been living in Venice, Florida for the past seven years. She married her husband, Jeremy, on July 15, 2006. Diane is currently a first grade teacher and she is loving every minute of it.

2002

Beracah Sullivan is currently employed by New York Dermatology Group as a medical aesthetician.

2003

“Rising Stars” by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.

2004

William Kearney was one of the recipients of the Orange County Rising Star Award by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. Will is currently working at Vanacore, DeBenedictus, DiGovanni & Weddell, LLP. Audra Woodruff is the supervising story producer for the new television show Undercover Boss. The show airs on Sunday nights at 9 p.m. on CBS.

2005

Stacey Mikulak currently works at Homestead-Miami Speedway where she is the manager of corporate partnerships and group tickets.

Mellany Bagtas, a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch, was a recipient of an Orange County “Rising Star” Award given by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.

2007

Nick Shannon was selected as a “Top 40 Under 40” winner by the Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce. Nick is the special events coordinator for the Saint Francis Heath Care Foundation in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Andrew Nikola was selected as one of the Top 40 Under 40 winners by the Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce. Andrew is a first grade teacher in the Wappingers Central School District.

Courtney Kain was promoted to acting director of planning and development for the City of Newburgh.

Courtney was also selected as one of Orange County’s

Joseph A. Meilak graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, where he earned distinction as an honors graduate.

2009

Lauren Todman-St. Onge ’07 and Adam St. Onge ‘06 were married in May of 2008.

Weddings 1996 | Jennifer Tattoli and Albert Faines were married on November 9, 2009 in a civil ceremony in Montague, New Jersey.

2003 | Jenny-Ann Harris married Richard V. Lally on August 23, 2009. Members of the bridal party included Misty (Thornley) Ferguso and Tricia (Falgiano) Nowinski. The ceremony took place in Montgomery, New York.

2004 | Donna Moscato was married to Eric Lahl in May 2006. They have a son, Derek, who was born in November 2008.

2006 | Adam St. Onge married Lauren Todman-St. Onge ’07 on May 24, 2008. They have a daughter, Sidney Theresa, who was born on November 26, 2009.

Jonathan Mars married Aimee Wolk on October 3, 2009 in Huntsville, Alabama. The happy couple is residing in New York City. Jonathan is working at AP Images as a senior associate and Aimee is president of Sara Claire & Esther, a women’s wear clothing line she created.

2007 | Tiffany Paul was married to Scott Cohen on August 15, 2009. Her maid-of-honor, Joanna Suppa, and bridesmaid Katie Mayer helped to make the day special.

2009 | Eric Tropin and Jaime Gray ‘08 were married on September 6, 2009 in Central Valley, New York.

www.msmc.edu

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Mount Alumni 2010 Alumni and Family Weekend Anniversary Year Challenge 2010 is an anniversary year for all alumni who graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, or 2005. While the “official” reunion celebration, Alumni and Family Weekend, is not until early October, we have an opportunity to begin celebrating this special time by contributing to our Reunion Class Gift.

It has been a Mount tradition for classes celebrating an anniversary to give towards a Reunion Class Gift.

All donations made between July 1, 2009 and Alumni and Family Weekend 2010 will count towards the total amount. We invite you and your classmates to take part in this challenge.

If you have never made a gift to your alma mater, now is a great time to start. If you are a donor, this is also a great time to consider increasing your support by making a “stretch” gift. Help your class to raise the highest dollar percentage towards the Reunion Class Gift and/or be part

of the class with the highest rate of participation.

Every donation from graduates of your class will count toward your class goal. Class progress will be charted throughout this time and posted periodically on the Mount’s website from now until Alumni and Family Weekend. During Alumni and Family Weekend, special awards will be presented to the classes that have done the best.

The MSMC Annual Fund Please consider making a gift to the MSMC Annual Fund. While all gifts count, the MSMC Annual Fund is a top fundraising priority and provides financial resources for scholarships, academic programs, library resources, athletics, and operations. Gifts to the MSMC Annual Fund benefit all Mount students immediately. We strongly encourage you to participate.

Together, we can make a huge impact on the educational opportunities

available to our future fellow alumni.

Remember the great times you had at the Mount when you were a student? Has your education benefited you since your graduation? Our great memories and our successes were made possible in part because of the generosity of those who graduated before us. Supporting today’s students by making your gift to the MSMC Annual Fund is a meaningful way for us to give back and stay connected to our alma mater. Whether it is $5, $50 or $5,000, every gift makes a difference and is appreciated. Your participation is what matters the most. So please don’t wait. Make your gift today!

Sincerely, Valerie McCloskey ’04 Director of Annual Giving Michelle Iacuessa ’94 Director of Alumni Affairs

SEE YOU AT ALUMNI AND FAMILY WEEKEND, OCTOBER 1 – 3, 2010!

2010 Alumni and Family Weekend Anniversary Year Challenge Yes, I/we would like to support the 2010 Alumni and Family Weekend Anniversary Year Challenge with a gift of $_________ Name:_ _______________________________________________________

Phone:_____________________________

 My check in the amount of $_________________ is enclosed, payable to Mount Saint Mary College  Please charge my credit card: $_________________

 Master Card

Credit Card Number:_ _______________________________________

 Visa

 Discover

Exp. Date:_ _________________________

Signature:_ ________________________________________________  I pledge $__________ and will fulfill my pledge by Alumni and Family Weekend.

 This gift will be matched by my employer (or my spouse’s employer): ________________________________________  Matching gift form enclosed.

You may also make your donation online at www.msmc.edu/giving

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Mount Saint Mary College Magazine | FALL 2010

Philanthropy

Kathleen Hirschy Mayer ’74 Executive Editor, Reading Department Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Publishing

C

elebrating her 25th anniversary at Macmillan/McGraw-Hill and 35 years in publishing, Kathy (Hirschy) Mayer graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in 1974 with a degree in biology, which she has used editing science textbooks. According to Kathy, “I was lucky enough to find a job shortly afterwards.” She went to work at Cambridge Book Company, where she learned a great deal about textbook publishing. She later became the science project editor at Harcourt, Brace Jovanovich, located in New York.

At Macmillan/McGraw-Hill, “I’ve had the good fortune to work with many terrific educators to help publish a slew of elementary textbook programs. Most of the materials I worked on were science texts, as I was the executive editor of the Health and Science Department, but I’ve also been involved in other disciplines, such as social studies and mathematics. For the past few years, since the Science department moved out of the New York office, I’ve been working in the reading department where I am now learning about reading and language arts, for me a totally new subject area.

We recently completed a reading program specifically for the states of California and Texas, as well as a reading program for the national market.

We are presently revising an intervention and an ESL reading program. But we are also looking ahead and trying to see what new and exciting things elementary teachers will want to see in their reading program in the next few years. Let’s just say my education continues in all things digital,” said Kathy.

In 1976, Kathy married Bob Mayer, a Marist alumnus, who has been working in the apparel industry for the past 35 years. Kathy and Bob have two daughters, Christine and Elizabeth.

Christine followed in her mother’s footsteps and attended Mount Saint Mary College, where she received her

degree and certification for elementary education in 2005. Elizabeth, their younger daughter, broke tradition and attended Johnson & Wales in Providence, Rhode Island, where she graduated from in May 2010 with a degree in restaurant management.

Kathy said, “Once Christine graduated from the Mount, she didn’t let any grass grow under her feet. She went to get her master’s in literacy at St. John’s University. While getting her master’s, Christine was also teaching second grade at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in South Ozone Park, New York. Teaching at OLPH for the past 4 years, Christine has put to good use her knowledge of elementary education taught to her by the teachers at the Mount.”

When asked why she supports the Mount, Kathy stated, “The Mount provided both my daughter and me a solid liberal arts foundation. In addition to a strong education, however, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the wonderful friendships that were started at the Mount and have continued all these years. Bob and I treasure our life-long Mount friends—friends who shared with us many of life’s ups and downs. They’ve been there through the weddings, babies, graduations, sicknesses, and vacations, too.

It’s only fitting that we give back some of what we received—and continue to receive—from the Mount.”

Mayer family members Christine ‘05, Bob, Kathleen ‘74, and Elizabeth.

and I treasure “ourBoblife-long Mount friends — friends who shared with us many of life’s ups and downs.

”

Kathleen Hirschy Mayer ’74

To learn how you can support the Mount, Visit www.msmc.edu/giving or contact the College Advancement Office at 845-569-3215.

www.msmc.edu

27

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID NEWBURGH NY PERMIT NO. 229

Mount Saint Mary College 330 Powell Avenue Newburgh, NY 12550

Mount Saint Mary College

Alumni & Family Weekend A 3-day event for alumni, current students and their families

Alumni ... we are listening Mount Saint Mary College’s Office for College Advancement conducted its first comprehensive survey of all Mount alumni. The survey’s goal was to obtain feedback from our alumni regarding the college and their experiences and opinions of the Mount today.

All alumni were sent the survey questionnaire and 900 were completed and returned to us. A random sample of responses was compiled.

Here are some of the results:

94% 91% 87% 86%

of alumni had either a very positive or positive experience at the Mount

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October 1-3, 2010

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would consider recommending the Mount to prospective students. view the academic reputation of the College today as very positive or positive.

viewed the academic reputation of the College as very positive or positive while they attended the Mount.

If you have not had an opportunity to complete the survey and would like one sent to you, please e-mail your name, class year and current mailing address to alumniaffairs@msmc.edu or call 845-569-3286.