Summer 2017 Ramapo Magazine

SUMMER 2017

RAMAPO COLLEGE MAGAZINE

Celebrating the

Class of 2017

PRESIDENT’S CABINET Peter P. Mercer, Ph.D. President Beth E. Barnett Provost Kirsten DaSilva Vice President for Administration and Finance Cathleen Davey Vice President for Institutional Advancement Nicole Morgan Agard Chief Equity & Diversity Officer / Director of Employee Relations Christopher Romano Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Michael A. Tripodi Vice President and General Counsel Brittany Williams-Goldstein Chief of Staff and Board Liaison

FROM THE DESK of the PRESIDENT Dear Friends, Please join me in extending congratulations to the Ramapo College Class of 2017!

On May 11, the graduating class gathered at Prudential Center in Newark. Joined by family, friends, faculty, staff and members of the Board of Trustees and Board of Governors, the ceremony commemorated the achievements of the largest graduating class in Ramapo’s history as 1,625 graduates earned their bachelor’s or master’s degrees.

We enjoyed audio remarks by Ron Cephas Jones ’78, veteran actor of stage, screen and television, who was unable to attend the ceremony in person due to an unforeseen travel complication, but took the opportunity to remind graduates that their education will help them navigate life’s challenges with honesty, sharing that, in light of his unexpected absence, “…a lot of times that’s what life does, it throws you a curveball.”

We also heard from Michelle Santucci ’17 who delivered remarks on behalf of the Class of 2017. Michelle noted that even with all of the changes around campus in the past four years, “two aspects of Ramapo’s culture have remained constant year after year: (1) the friendly and inclusive environment that Ramapo College fosters for its students; and (2) our fascination with President Mercer’s incredible collection of bow ties.”

Putting my sartorial proclivities to the side, the former clause in Michelle’s remark is essential to the well-being of our students. Over the past year, we have made concrete investments in fostering an environment that is inclusive — from the establishment of the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Compliance, to the delivery of workshops for faculty focused on supporting students on the Autism spectrum, and to the establishment of a published set of Principles for Immigrant Students.

Our achievements this year are worthy of reflection, celebration, and thanks. We recognize our challenges, take pride in our successes, and we thank our friends and partners for their past contributions and future investments in the College.

Thank you,

BOARD OF TRUSTEES George C. Ruotolo, Jr. Chair BOARD OF GOVERNORS Ralph Mastrangelo Chair Carolyn Merkel ’78 Chair, Alumni Association Board RAMAPO MAGAZINE STAFF Cathleen Davey Editor-in-Chief Mary Cicitta ’07, ’16 Production Editor Angela Daidone Copy Editor Janelle Ferraro ’14 Graphic Designer Carolyn Herring Photo Editor Contributing Photographers José Hernández ’98 Alexandra Simone Contributing Writers Elizabeth Brand Angela Daidone Claudia Esker Rachel Pinton ’01 This magazine can be made available upon request in alternate media. 201.684.7611.

Alumni contact and change of address: Joanne Favata, Director of Alumni Relations at 201.684.7115 Student Relations contact: Melissa Van Der Wall at 201.684.7457

Peter P. Mercer, Ph.D. President, Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo Magazine is produced by the Office of Marketing and Communications: Melissa Horvath-Plyman AVP Marketing and Web Administration

Dean Ed Petkus of Anisfield School of Business (L) and President Peter P. Mercer congratulate Trustee Susan A. Vallario who was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society.

(L-R): Thanuka Udumulla ’20, Matt Ravetier ’18, Honorable Tim Eustace ’78 and Professor Ashwani Vasishth

ASSEMBLYMAN EUSTACE ’78 DISCUSSES SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES

Nicole Rothenbucher ’17 with President Peter P. Mercer. Nicole received the Reverend William Mercer Scholarship, named in memory of President Mercer’s father. Dedicated to service of others, Reverend Mercer was an Anglican priest for 75 years prior to his death in 2013.

Ramapo College welcomed Assemblyman Tim Eustace ’78 for a forum on sustainability issues.

Assemblyman Eustace, Chair of the Environment and Solid Waste Committee in New Jersey, participated in a mutual exchange forum with students in the College’s Environmental Studies program, 1Step sustainability club members, and members of the faculty and staff.

“I’m a zealot for environmental issues,” said Assemblyman Eustace. “There is nothing more important in our lifetime than water; it is a finite source. There is a crisis on all seven continents, and I want to make sure that young people, all of us, get the message that we need to be more judicious moving forward.”

The Assemblyman engaged with the audience in an informative exchange of ideas on topics, including solar energy, recycling, wind power, fossil fuel use, rain water collection, community gardens and the concept of “gleaning” – “Taking what you don’t use and repurposing it in another way,” he said, adding “There is far too much waste. We have to learn to think bigger and smarter.”

in this issue SUMMER 2017 | COLLEGE MAGAZINE

FEATURES 2

Celebrating The Class of 2017 | Arching and Commencement

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International Experiences Bring Self-Discovery and Confidence

DEPARTMENTS 10

College News | Enactus, Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards

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Faculty Spotlight | Rikki Abzug

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Alumni Spotlight | Nicole Pacheco Pulliam ’02, Ph.D.

16 Athletics | Softball Success

Chair of the Board of Trustees, George C. Ruotolo Jr., President Peter P. Mercer and Trustee Sharlene S. Vichness at Arching

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Stories of Scholarship

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Business Partner Spotlight | Stryker

ON THE COVER Students celebrate Ramapo’s time-honored Arching tradition. In the forefront is Noel Gordon, who received a degree in Music, with concentrations in industry, performance and production. Noel is attending the Tuck Bridge Summer Business Program at Dartmouth College this summer to complete his final Capstone project, an original composition for orchestral instruments and electronics.

FOLLOW RAMAPO ON SOCIAL MEDIA www.facebook.com/RamapoCollege/ RamapoCollegeNJ RamapoCollegeNJ www.ramapo.edu

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ARCHING | COMMENCEMENT

CELEBRATING THE

<< Class of 2017

S

tudents, faculty and staff, along with family and friends, filled the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., to cheer on the 1,625 graduates who received their degrees at Ramapo College of New Jersey’s 2017 Commencement Ceremony on May 11.

Graduates-to-be are all smiles as they process through the Arch the day before Commencement. At top, one of the many decorated caps.

Graduates, who were among the school’s largestever graduating class, were encouraged to savor the special occasion and “live in the moment.”

“I realize there is an unquenchable thirst to tweet, take a selfie…or text. But instead, absorb every word and visual image,” said George C. Ruotolo, Jr., Chair of the Board of Trustees in the ceremony’s opening remarks. “Today will be over very soon and while there will be photos to remember, experiencing the day in all its grandeur is what should be your ultimate objective.”

GRADS ENCOURAGED TO BE BOLD In his remarks, Ramapo College President Peter P. Mercer highlighted the diversity of the Class of 2017: 92 Educational Opportunity Fund Program participants; eight veterans representing the Navy, the Marine Corps and the National Guard; 124

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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

graduates affiliated with the Office of Specialized Services; nine Ramapo College employees; and international students from Burma, Bulgaria, Nepal, Netherlands, Sierra Leone and Turkey.

Mercer told the graduates that, as they face life and career choices, to keep in mind that the skills of today’s well-educated person are likely to be applied more adaptively than those of their ancestors, borrowing a quote from Albert Einstein: “Any fool can know. The point is to understand.”

“The Liberal Arts are the key to this educated understanding and paramount among them is philosophy, the study of fundamental nature of knowledge, reality and existence. At Ramapo College, we are rededicating ourselves to the study of philosophy,” Mercer said, adding that a recent Forbes Magazine article touted the benefits of hiring liberal arts graduates because “they have the skills to think and analyze across traditional categories and boundaries, so they do not merely know but understand.”

“Be bold, make big plans and preserve your ‘self’ – your character and your integrity,” Mercer urged.

Honorees and College officials at the Academic Achievement Ceremony

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNIZED

Top: (L-R): Rebecca and Rod with their son Ari McVeigh Left: (L-R): The Criscione family: Fred and Debbie Criscione, longtime members of the President’s Parents Council, grandmother Maryann Vitiello and graduate Justin Criscione

Right: Graduates at Arching Below: The first cohort from the Master of Social Work Program

Sixty students were recognized for their outstanding academic accomplishments during the annual Academic Achievement Ceremony at the Sharp Theater in the Berrie Center on May 10.

Ramapo College President Peter P. Mercer presided over the ceremony.

“It is events like this that make my job easy, whether I am advocating for more funding from the legislature, promoting the College to prospective students, or sharing our accomplishments with regional employers and graduate schools,” said Mercer.

Students were recognized by their respective deans in each of the College’s five schools. In addition, the American Federation of Teachers Local 2774 presented its AFT Graduate School Scholarship Award. This year’s recipient was Janna Appelstein, a psychology major in the School of Social Science and Human Services.

Berlyann Rivera ’18 received the Henry J. Frundt Memorial Scholarship Award, given to a second- or third-year student with an interest in labor studies, social justice or Latin American studies.

Ebony Saxton ‘17 was presented with the Lee Sennish Prize, given annually to a graduating female student who demonstrates outstanding fulfillment or visibly improved academic performance over the period of enrollment.

For a complete listing of the honorees and photos, visit www.ramapo.edu/aac www.ramapo.edu

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ARCHING | COMMENCEMENT

‘WITH YOU IN SPIRIT’ Scheduled Commencement speaker and President’s Merit Award honoree Ron Cephas Jones ’78 learned the day before the ceremony that he would not be able to join the festivities, citing an airport security incident in Los Angeles and a health issue. However, the veteran actor, who is currently on NBC-TV’s hit show This is Us, sent over a taped audio message that was played during the ceremony. He was certainly missed on stage but his poignant message rang true to everyone in attendance.

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“A lot of times that’s what life does. It throws you a curveball,” Jones said. “My humble apologies for not being able to be there with you, but I am there with you in spirit.”

He recounted the tough road he faced in the early years following graduation in 1978, recalling the many odd jobs he held—driving a bus in Los Angeles, doing building renovations, and working as a gas attendant, in a bookstore and as a waiter and bartender.

“All along, though, I kept my eyes on the prize and kept persevering doing theater in and around until it took me all

over the world,” he said. “Now I find myself on one of the most popular shows This is Us as well as doing Hero for Hire, Mr. Robot and The Get Down on Netflix and others. I guess my advice is, always know when you fall, you can get up. Know that when things get hard, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

I hope all of you have found your spark, the thing in your heart that drives you.”

- Ron Cephas Jones ’78

Jones told the audience that studying theater at Ramapo was the “spark” for his life that never left him.

“The theater program and the people I associated with had so much influence on my life from that point on,” Jones said. “I hope all of you have found your spark, the thing in your heart that drives you. That’s the goal of our lives – to find happiness, to settle into something that we love to do and to be able to make a living at it. You’ll get knocked down but find that place in you that is honest…that is fearless.

And know that you are part of a bigger order.”

Jones added that he has hopes of coming back to the College to do some lecturing and engage in speaking programs. “Hopefully, I’ll be getting a chance to see you guys another time.”

Top left: Professor Rikki Abzug holds the mace to signify the start of Commencement.

Bottom left: The crowd at Prudential Center, Newark.

Top right: 2017 graduates Alec Weissman, Desiree Y. DuBose and Michelle Santucci.

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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

RAMAPO IS ‘FAMILY, FIRST AND FOREMOST’

Top: Color Guard Middle and bottom: Happy graduates at Prudential Center

Commencement and Arching photography courtesy of: Tim Babasade ’98, Carolyn Herring and Alexandra Simone

Commencement student speaker Michelle Santucci kidded that she was going to “ditch her script and just wing it.” She didn’t, but she delivered her address to fellow students and all those in attendance at Prudential Center with the comfort and timing of a stand-up routine.

In fact, President Mercer in his introduction noted that when Michelle speaks, “she brings forward levity, laughter and a wickedly dry sense of humor.”

No surprise. The Washington Township, N.J., resident was wellknown on campus for her quick wit, friendly demeanor and infectious laugh. She speckled her remarks with well-received jokes but made clear that Ramapo College was a family, first and foremost.

“From the day we received our acceptance letters, we not only gained access to a world-class education, but we also became a family,” said Michelle. “And being part of this family has given us so many opportunities to make lasting friendships, create funfilled memories, connect with inspiring mentors and challenge our academic abilities.”

Michelle served as a student senator for the School of Contemporary Arts, was a Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassador, the creative director of The Ramapo News, publicist and business manager for Alpha Psi Omega and a member of the Fooligans Improvisation Comedy Troupe. Her academic accomplishments were serious business.

She majored in Contemporary Arts, with an International Business minor, and completed her degree in three-and-a-half years, earning magna cum laude recognition as well as College Honors.

“Ramapo nurtured us and encouraged our individuality, which helped us grow into who we are today,” Michelle said. “We now know the importance of being an active citizen, and we know that in order to succeed, it is imperative to acknowledge diversity and celebrate it.”

She joked about being a frantic commuter trying to find a parking spot before class or making mistakes like burning popcorn at 3 a.m. in a residence hall. But she quickly reminded her fellow graduates that when times like that happen, they can think back to the feeling of “walking around campus and seeing those friendly Ramapo faces.”

“We now need to be the friendly faces for others and ensure that we apply the values that this College has instilled in us, to better ourselves and the world around us,” Michelle said. “We know that even small acts of kindness and positivity create rippling effects in our communities. I have no doubt that this graduating class will create ripples of optimism, forward thinking and compassion… and those ripples will be more like waves.” www.ramapo.edu

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PHOTO COURTESY: HUIPING LI

FEATURE

MBA students at the Great Wall of China on their capstone China Immersion Trip

INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES BRING SELF-DISCOVERY AND CONFIDENCE By: Teri Gatto Technology has made the world much smaller than it was only a generation ago. Thanks to on-line communication technologies and ease of global travel, today’s students, regardless of which field they plan to enter, can expect to interact with people from a wide variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

“Hiring managers look for candidates who are adaptable and have strong intercultural communications skills,” says Ben Levy, Director of International Education at Ramapo College. “Having a diverse international approach to education helps to prepare our students for success because now, more than ever, graduates need hard skills and experiences in order to compete in the global job market.”

Ramapo’s Roukema Center for International Education provides all majors with a diverse selection of international opportunities.

Students can select from more than 500 programs — ranging from one week to a full year — across 60 countries and six continents.

“Our students can choose from a wide array of programs designed to challenge them academically, provide them with the opportunity to interact with peers, let them participate in meaningful volunteer activities, and take part in excursions that will help them understand the cultural and historical backgrounds of their host country,” Levy adds.

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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

Preparing Global Business Leaders “Students need to be aware of the broader issues facing managers and the cultural dynamics of international business,” says Tim Landers, Assistant Dean and Director of the MBA Program. “Today, thanks to the Internet, new businesses often begin life with an international footprint. You can’t graduate with an MBA without an appreciation for what it is like to manage in a global economy.”

Ramapo’s MBA candidates have the opportunity to gain real-world experience in business through the College’s two innovative programs — the China Immersion Trip and the Capstone Consulting Project.

The immersion trip offers students in-person interactions with prominent business executives and government workers in China, as well as an understanding of national and international business operations. During this international experience, students gain a strong understanding of the society and culture of this complex and influential country.

Capstone pairs a team of students with a company for a 10-week, hands-on experience in a business environment. The student team focuses on finding solutions for a specific business problem by working with the company’s managers and employees.

PHOTO COURTESY: MEGAN BRADY ’17

This past spring, six MBA students and their professor spent 10 days in Vicenza, Italy, acting as corporate consultants to a leading designer and manufacturer of electric motors used in appliances, electric bikes and scooters. The Ramapo group’s task was to determine whether there’s a market for electric bikes and scooters in the U.S. A Ramapo MBA candidate, Matt Mariconi of Rockland County N.Y., had the opportunity to take part in both the China Immersion Trip and the Capstone program this spring. "The China Immersion trip was a cultural experience, and really showed us how Chinese schooling and educational processes differ from those of the U.S.,” he says. “The Italy trip was an opportunity for us to consult with an established company."

Over the years, Capstone has amassed an enviable list of corporate partners and challenging assignments, including BMW, Becton Dickinson, Braen Stone, Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative, Dressbarn, Hackensack University Medical Center, Home Depot, Nickelodeon, Pearson Education, Stone Systems, Stryker Orthopaedics, Valley Hospital, and the Wyckoff Family YMCA.

Left and below: Nursing students at the clinic in Ghana

An International Experience on Campus

PHOTO COURTESY: KATHLEEN BURKE

Student interactions with peers from other corners of the world help to foster good world citizens. Ramapo is at the forefront of this effort, not only sending students abroad, but also hosting students and faculty from foreign universities.

This past winter, Ramapo and Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) established an exchange program with student leaders.

Ramapo students provided their KNUST counterparts with an array of educational, leadership, academic, and social experiences, on-campus seminars covering a wide range of topics, and a tour of the New York City sights.

In the spring, Ramapo’s Anisfield School of Business (ASB) hosted 35 students and three faculty members from the Copenhagen Business Academy. Ten ASB professors and several guest speakers volunteered their time to provide lectures and discussions on cultural issues in international business, U.S. economic history, U.S. financial and capital markets, real estate investment, and financial planning.

PHOTO COURTESY: MICHELLE SANTUCCI ’17

Focus on Social Responsibility

Over spring break, the Ramapo Chorale, directed by Professor Lisa Lutter, spent 10 days in Ghana and was hosted by Kwame Nkrumah University (KNUST). Highlights of the trip included a special performance at the U.S. Consulate in the capital city of Accra, a concert with the University of Cape Coast choir, and a grand finale at KNUST, where Ramapo students performed for an audience of more than 1,000, together with internationally renowned roots highlife master, Koo Nimo, and the 200 voices of the KNUST choir.

The College’s Alternative Break Program is designed to give students a one-week experience during spring or winter break, where, along with a small team of peers, they engage in some type of community service usually focused on a specific social issue such as poverty, education reform, or conservation. The program offers both domestic and international expeditions. To date, students have travelled to various locations in the United States as well as to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador and Costa Rica.

Students who opt for the Costa Rica experience work in a wildlife sanctuary in Aranjuez, and take part in a variety of projects. “During past trips students fed the animals, helped maintain the trails, built a pool for the sanctuary’s jaguar and an enclosure for its tapirs,” says Levy, who leads the Costa Rica trips.

www.ramapo.edu

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FEATURE

According to Levy, the trip is profound for the students. “They are in a small community and have the opportunity to interact with people who have followed their passion,” he says. “And because we are in a place without too many distractions, they really get to bond as a group and have some in-depth conversations about life and the future.”

Students also have the opportunity to do some fundraising for the organization by selling organically-grown coffee and tea. The profits are either given directly to the organization or the students may purchase supplies for the organization – depending on its needs. “In the past, we bought webcams, timers for the sprinkler systems, and a big ball for the jaguar to play with,” says Levy.

A Life-Changing Experience Health care is a global issue, and it has become imperative that health care workers be able to communicate needs, ideas and solutions quickly and clearly to those in their communities and others who may be thousands of miles away. An international experience gives future nurses an insight into the growing field of international health care and also provides them with the opportunity to examine the cultural, political, and economic forces influencing health care systems around the world.

“When applying for jobs after graduation, an international experience is a very positive resume builder,” says Kathy Burke, RN, Assistant Dean of Nursing Programs. “But more importantly, it is also life-transforming.”

Ramapo’s nursing program has a history of global work. “Initially, we went to Sierra Leone in 2006 at the invitation of the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Sierra Leone,” recalls Burke. “We were asked to assist them in the development and implementation of their curriculum from a diploma model to a baccalaureate model, and by 2008 we began taking our students there.”

The relationship with The University of Sierra Leone continued until 2013 when the Ebola outbreak made it necessary for Ramapo to find another international partner for the nursing program.

(L-R): Director of International Education Ben Levy, President Peter P. Mercer, KNUST students Samuel Amoako-Kusi and Athina Osei Kyeremateng, KNUST Professor Kofi Owasu Daaku and Erin McKenna ’18

“In 2001 we had signed a college-wide faculty exchange agreement with Kwame Nkrumah University,” said Burke. “In 2014, the university offered to take those students who had planned on going to Sierra Leone to Ghana instead. That relationship has been ongoing and has proved to be very successful.”

Students travel to Ghana and visit three main locations in Ghana: Kumasi, Cape Coast and Accra. In all three, visits and guest lectures allow them to interact with members of local and international healthcare communities, as well as Ghanaian college students and academics.

The students, who are in Ghana for two-and-a-half weeks, focus on public heath issues. They participate in public health rounds and shadow nurses and fellow nursing students in a large hospital, a homeopathic clinic and a community hospital. The Ramapo students also conduct community health screenings at a local church.

In addition to the clinical experience, students are exposed to the rich cultural history of the Ashanti region as well as the history of the slave trade in West Africa. “The Ghana trip is an invaluable experience for students,” adds Burke.

Providing an Opportunity for Growth The Century 21 Study Abroad Scholarship, created by Anthony J. Marino, founder and CEO of Century 21 Construction Corporation, provides funding for Ramapo students to study abroad. The scholarship gives top priority to students enrolled in the College Honors program.

MBA Capstone Team test drives electric bikes and scooters imported from Italy. (L-R): Professor Tom Lambrix, Rose Scalabrini ’17, Matt Mariconi ’17, Adele Vigorito ’17, Paul Beaupain of Askoll USA, Antinea Middleton ’17

“

When applying for jobs after graduation, an international experience is a positive resume builder, but more importantly, it

is life-transforming.”

- Kathy Burke, Assistant Dean of Nursing Programs

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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

(L-R): Sarwajaya Prasai ’17, Rajesh Adhikari and Zin Me Ko ’17

RICH, CULTURAL DIVERSITY International students who attend Ramapo College are very much part of the cultural exchange experience in and out of the classroom.

Rajesh Adhikari, Associate Director of International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) at Ramapo, said the College takes pride in welcoming young men and women from more than 30 countries to its campus.

The 2017 recipients of this prestigious award were Adline Tao ’19 of Edison, N.J.; Sara Catherine Lichon ’18 of Long Valley, N.J., and Mandie Mayer ’19 of Pompton Plains, N.J. “I’m passionate about Asian studies, and am proud of the cultural awareness and events I’ve brought to campus,” said Tao, who will be studying in Beijing and Tokyo this summer. “After graduation, I plan to continue traveling as an international journalist.”

A History major and International Studies minor, Lichon has participated in multiple conferences at both the regional and national levels, and has presented a paper on the Ukraine Crisis and Cold War. The paper is currently in the process of being published. Lichon, who plans to continue her education after graduation, is considering a career in either government or arts administration.

Mayer traveled to Costa Rica with the Alternative Spring Break Program in March and participated in various service projects that served that country’s wildlife and people. She is planning on studying in Buenos Aires, Argentina during the fall 2017 semester. “I’m passionate about human rights and also interested in medical anthropology,” says Mayer. After graduating, she plans to teach English overseas for a year.

The Century 21 Study Abroad Scholarship is just one of many Ramapo programs offered to financially help students to travel and broaden their education. “Our focus is to continue to create international opportunities for our students,” says Levy.

“We know from speaking to them and from their evaluations that being in another culture brings with it self-discovery and confidence. The international experience is transformative in every way possible.”

“These international students provide a unique cultural perspective to our student body,” said Adhikari. “It’s also important that all students are exposed to such a diverse cultural perspective.”

Currently Ramapo has more than 90 students who either live on campus or have housing accommodations offsite. Incoming students arrive on campus each year at the end of August and receive a one-week orientation before fall classes begin. Throughout the academic year, Adhikari and the ISSS staff provide a broad range of services including advisement to international students, faculty, staff, and scholars regarding United States regulations and procedures; referrals relating to personal, social, and academic issues; and a full calendar of social and educational programs of interest to international visitors, including an introduction to the on-campus International Student Organization.

Sarwajaya Prasai ’17, who recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance, said coming to Ramapo was the first time he traveled from his home in Nepal.

“Being away from home was a real culture shock at first,” said Sarwajaya. “But it didn’t take long for me to become comfortable and make friends. And I really enjoyed the classes, especially African American literature. It was so interesting.”

Zin Me Ko ’17 of Burma, who also received a bachelor’s degree in finance, agreed. “Everything was so different when I first arrived – the surroundings, the food -- but people here were so helpful,” she said. “My four years at Ramapo were a wonderful experience.” www.ramapo.edu

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PHOTO COURTESY: ENACTUS

COLLEGE NEWS

Ramapo College Enactus team at the regional competition in Washington, D.C.

ENACTUS TEAM REPRESENTS RAMAPO COLLEGE IN NATIONAL COMPETITION Ten students representing Ramapo College Enactus (Entrepreneurial, Action, Us) participated in the Enactus United States Regional Competition in Washington, D.C., where they were named Regional Champions for their outstanding work with local organizations and positive impact on the community. This regional championship qualified them to participate in the National competition in Kansas City, Missouri, in May where they competed with 105 colleges and universities from all over the country. Ramapo’s team, under the guidance of Assistant Professor of Management Tammi Redd, offered an in-depth audiovisual presentation on the projects Enactus members undertook this academic year. The projects included: Oasis, a Paterson, N.J.-based safe haven for women and children.

The students began a sewing program to teach unemployed women a new skill, with a long-term goal of helping the women find jobs in the textile industry. In all, 40 women completed the program. This project was funded through a grant from Walmart Corporation.

New City Kids, an after school program for underserved school children in Paterson, N.J. Ramapo students created Food Science Day to help children learn about nutrition. Students gained interest in STEM and many expressed interest in attending college. This project was funded through a grant from the Ramapo College Foundation.

Bergen County Horse Rescue, home to 22 horses in Mahwah, N.J. Ramapo worked to increase awareness of the rescue facility through a marketing plan and a fundraiser “Trot into Spring” event. The project doubled the rescue’s followers on social media and generated $7,400 in donations with additional monies from fundraising initiatives.

Young Vision Africa, founded by a Ramapo international student from Sierra Leone, works to educate and empower individuals in the African nation. Ramapo students sponsored a village with a microloan to fund the purchase of a food processor on a local farm, which is now making a profit, creating 49 jobs and providing food for the village and surrounding community.

Ramapo Readers, an organization on the College campus, dedicated to increasing literacy through book donations to local schools and community groups. Enactus helped in the collection and distribution of more than 4,000 donated books.

“I am always so impressed by the work of the students on the RCNJ Enactus Team,” said Redd. “As advisor, it is very rewarding to see them use what they’ve learned in the classroom to solve real world problems.”

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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

Pritha Aggarwal ’18 and and Teacher Education Professor Mark Caselli discuss her presentation.

SCHOLARS’ DAY CELEBRATES CREATIVITY The fifth annual “Scholars’ Day: A Celebration of Student Creativity and Scholarship” was held on April 26 in Friends Hall.

Poster exhibits and oral presentations were given at the event.

Sponsored by the Office of the Provost, Scholars’ Day showcases some of the finest faculty mentored student creativity and scholarly activities undertaken in 2016-2017.

There were 37 posters this year, with presentations made by students in each of the College’s five schools. Twenty-two majors were represented, with a wide variety of project topics.

This was a juried event and each poster was recommended by the convening group of the major associated with the project.

In addition, the dean of each school selected one poster to be given as both a poster and an oral presentation.

STUDENTS HELP CREATE TOP BUSINESS ‘PITCH’ Ramapo College business students Matthew Chiusano and David Howard, both seniors in the Anisfield School of Business, helped develop a corporate presentation that was awarded several top honors at a recent entrepreneurial competition held at Rutgers University in New Brunswick.

Howard also was part of the presentation team for BioCurrent Technologies, a sustainable nanomaterials company based in Upper Saddle River, which competed in the annual 1st Pitch Life Science New Jersey event. BioCurrent CEO Mark Miller, who led the presentation team, initiated the idea of collaborating with Ramapo College’s students.

Associate Professor Rick Nunez, who teaches the entrepreneurship course, explained that the students prepared an “Elevator Pitch” for BioCurrent.

“It was an assignment that was part of a larger, semester-long project in which students developed an idea, formed teams to translate the idea into a well-conceptualized business, and then crafted a business model around that business concept,” Nunez said, adding that teams then presented their models to the class in a five-minute Elevator Pitch. The team with the most promising idea was then selected to represent Ramapo College in competition.

BioCurrent was named “Best in Show” by the audience and “Most Fundable” by the panel of investors.

RAMAPO ENTERS TRANSFER PARTNERSHIPS WITH BERGEN AND SUSSEX COMMUNITY COLLEGES Ramapo College has collaborated with two area community colleges with the introduction of the Archway to Ramapo program, effective fall 2017.

PHOTO COURTESY: BCC

The partnership program agreements with Sussex County Community College (SCCC) and Bergen Community College (BCC) are specifically designed to create opportunities for a seamless two-year to four-year transition for students who begin their undergraduate studies at SCCC and BCC. The agreement also provides an alternate route to Ramapo College for students from Sussex and Bergen counties who may not initially meet admissions standards but will benefit from the A.A./A.S. degree at the county colleges. The agreement also expands the work Ramapo is doing under its Educate IPASS Grant, funded by the Bill & President Mercer (far back) meets with BCC President B. Kaye Walter and officials.

Melinda Gates Foundation and the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, and will allow for a Ramapo transfer advisor to be available onsite weekly at Sussex. An advisor already spends two days a week on Bergen’s campus and will now serve in the capacity of these students’ Ramapo four-year advisor.

“We are excited to build on and expand the partnership that Ramapo has enjoyed with Bergen Community College and establish a successful partnership with Sussex County Community College,” said Christopher Romano, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Ramapo College. “The ultimate goal of this partnership is to increase student success. We know that if students receive strong advisement and an outlined pathway to a four-year degree, it increases the likelihood of their success. We’re thrilled to work with both BCC and SCCC to deliver an integrated and streamlined experience.”

Ramapo College will collaborate with BCC and SCCC in providing students with information and academic advising, as well as academic requirements and transfer process. Qualified students must have successfully earned an A.A. or A.S. degree and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM’S VISIT TO SENIOR RESIDENCE A WIN-WIN The Ramapo College men’s basketball team enjoyed one of the best seasons in program history, highlighted by a buzzer-beating winning shot that earned them the conference title and propelled the team into the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament.

Not a moment of the team’s success was lost on the enthusiastic Roadrunner supporters who packed the Bill Bradley Arena throughout the season.

But perhaps the loudest cheers were heard off campus, just a few miles down the road at Brandywine Living, a provider of residential care and services for seniors and a Business Partner of Ramapo College. After learning of the team’s incredible start to the season – the Roadrunners compiled a 14-0 record before suffering its first loss – the Brandywine residents “adopted” the team. They “live-streamed” the tournament games in the facility’s community room, and wore Ramapo sweatshirts, hoisted giant foam fingers and held basketballs in support.

They even sipped a specially-created cocktail dubbed the “Ramapo Roadrunner” and became the unofficial cheering squad, much to the delight of the team and the coaching staff, who recently paid the residents a visit.

“It was a tremendous experience at the Brandywine assisted living home for both my players and me,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director Chuck McBreen. “We were all very thankful for their support throughout the season, and we were glad we could go there and thank them personally for that support.”

The Brandywine residents were impressed by the players and their coach and, after chatting and taking photos, held their own Q&A session, including asking about the team’s off-season practice routines and where the players grew up.

Men’s basketball team and Brandywine Living residents

“The residents are still raving about how nice the players and the coach were,” said Brianne Fuellhart of Brandywine Living at Mahwah, adding the Brandywine residents are already looking forward to next season, and were invited to sit front row at a Roadrunners game at the Bradley Center.

“I am amazed at the way our Ramapo College student-athletes just get it. They always find time during their busy schedules to perform community service and reach out to those less fortunate,” said Director of Athletics Harold Crocker. “Every athletic team has been involved in community service projects all year long, culminated by our most recent partnership with Special Olympics at our track and field event where our swim team led the way. Hopefully we will continue to build on these and other relationships and keep ‘community service’ an important component of our studentathletes’ lives.” www.ramapo.edu

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COLLEGE NEWS

RUSS BERRIE MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD CELEBRATES HONOREES AT 21ST ANNUAL CEREMONY Unsung heroes from throughout New Jersey earned recognition for their compassion and concern for others as part of the 21st Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award ceremony at Ramapo College on May 5. Established in 1997 by the late Russell Berrie and managed and hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honors Garden State residents whose outstanding community service and charitable contributions made a substantial impact on the lives of others.

(L-R): Angelica Berrie, Brenda Antinore, Kurt and Tricia Baker, Bonnie O’Brien and President Peter P. Mercer

Bonnie O’Brien of Paramus was awarded the top prize of $50,000 for her passion to improve the lives of individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society. In 2013, Bonnie purchased a building in Hackensack with her personal funds, and launched Transition Professionals, a collaboration of volunteers with various professional backgrounds, including psychologists, employment specialists, paralegals, not-for-profit professionals, attorneys, licensed social workers, veterans, individuals from faith-based organizations and even ex-offenders.

After losing a child to suicide, Kurt and Tricia Baker of Princeton have dedicated their lives to helping children, teens and young adults avoid struggling with mental health disorders in silence and eliminating the stigma that leads to that silence and, in many cases, a feeling of hopelessness and suicide. The couple established Attitudes in Reverse® (AIR™) in 2010, shortly after their son, Kenny, took his own life after a long battle with severe depression and anxiety. The Bakers are the winners of the $35,000 award.

(L-R): Elaine Adler, Senator Loretta Weinberg and President Peter P. Mercer

Brenda Antinore knows what desperation feels like. In the late 1990s, the Camden woman and her husband were caught in a vicious cycle of drug addiction that nearly destroyed their lives. In time, however, the Antinores rebuilt their family and founded the non-profit Seeds of Hope and She Has A Name (SHAN) ministry, which provides a clean, safe place for women who roam the streets of Camden. For her dedication and caring, Brenda is the recipient of the $25,000 award.

Cash awards of $5,000 were presented to: Joseph Brown of Galloway, Marlene Ceragno of Tenafly, Gilman Choudhury of Paterson, Katelyn Darrow of Pitman, Danielle Gletow of Ewing, Lorna Henkel of Secaucus, Kiersten Miles of Wall, and Charles Valentine of North Arlington.

RAMAPO COLLEGE HOSTS 49TH LIBERIAN STUDIES CONFERENCE Former Liberian President Amos Claudius Sawyer is Keynote Speaker Ramapo College of New Jersey hosted the 49th Annual Conference of the Liberian Studies Association in the spring. This year’s topic was “Governance, Institutional Quality and Elections: Prospects and Challenges for Inclusive Democratic Statebuilding in Liberia.” Educators from across the country, community leaders and students attended the event.

The panel sessions over the two-day 12

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conference included a screening of the film “Out of My Hand,” the story of a struggling Liberian rubber plantation worker who risks everything to discover a new life as a Yellow Cab driver in New York City, and the film’s lead actor, Bishop Blay, hosted a Q&A session following the screening. Guests toured the Haitian Art Collection in the College’s Rodman Gallery, the largest collection of Haitian art in any academic institution in the United States, and the Liberian Women’s Chorus for Change performed during the closing dinner in Friends Hall.

This was the first time Ramapo College hosted the international conference.

The Liberian Studies Association is a nonprofit, scholarly organization created to provide a means for effective cooperation among persons interested in furthering research in all scholarly disciplines, including the sciences, social sciences, and humanities, on topics relevant to the Republic of Liberia and adjacent areas; to encourage interest in Liberian affairs; and to stimulate and facilitate academic contacts and educational exchanges between Liberia and the United States.

COPENHAGEN BUSINESS STUDENTS RELISH ‘RAMAPO EXPERIENCE’ The Anisfield School of Business at Ramapo College of New Jersey recently hosted 35 students and three faculty from the Copenhagen Business Academy, in Denmark, for a two-week study abroad experience. Ten ASB professors and several guest speakers volunteered their time to provide lectures and discussions on cultural issues in international business, U.S. economic history, U.S. financial and capital markets, real estate investment, and financial planning.

(L-R): Joan Hickey, YCS volunteer, Tameka McMillan, YCS Foundation Coordinator, Jennifer Hubert ’18, President, Disney Club, Katherine Strange ’18, Treasurer, Disney Club and Anishke Dissanayake ’20 member, Disney Club e-board.

RAMAPO COLLEGE’S DISNEY CLUB SPREADS A LITTLE ‘MAGIC’ FOR A CAUSE The Disney Club, a student-run organization at Ramapo College, recently held a fundraiser event to benefit YCS (Youth Consultation Service) Fort Lee Education Center, a private, non-profit school that provides educational services, therapeutic interventions and career/ transition experiences for adolescents with behavioral disorders.

The event, dubbed “Pizza Planet,” had a “Toy Story” theme that transformed a student lounge into an arcade with carnival games to win small prizes, video game tournaments, cotton candy and popcorn. Students who attended the event made donations for the cause.

“We hold fundraisers for charities because we recognize it's really important to give back,” said Disney Club President Jenny Hubert ’18. “We want to spread the ‘Disney magic’ to people less fortunate, especially with local organizations like YCS because they are our neighbors who need our help first.”

“The club members first learned of YCS at a meeting earlier this spring,” said Eddie Seavers, Associate Director of Student Involvement at Ramapo who serves as staff advisor for the Disney Club.

"When YCS came to talk to the Club Presidents, the Disney Club was immediately interested. Planning for the event itself was already underway and adding this philanthropic element was of great interest to the students."

Disney Club also was a co-sponsor for the "Be Our Guest Ball" which was selected as one of two “Social Program of the Year” awardees. In addition, the Disney Club was selected as one of two "Club of the Year" winners.

"The Disney Club has a lot of fun, but the ‘magic’ they bring to campus isn't only in the form of fun and games,” said Seavers. “They partnered with other clubs and offices to raise funds during three different events this year. Their ‘Coloring for a Cause’ event at Late Night has become an annual favorite."

Joan Hickey, a longtime volunteer at YCS, said the monies raised would help fund a graduation event for the 28 high school graduates at the Fort Lee location. Funds raised will go toward caps and gowns, yearbooks and a party.

“The students from Copenhagen Business Academy were sharp, engaged, and full of good energy and spirit,” said Ed Petkus, Dean of the Anisfield School of Business.

“They asked insightful questions and embraced every learning experience that we produced for them.”

The Copenhagen students visited the Federal Reserve Bank of N.Y., the New York Stock Exchange, Goldman Sachs, and the American Museum of Finance.

They also attended workshops in the ASB Global Trading Lab, located on campus, and worked on group projects guided by their own faculty. They also sat in on ASB classes.

“This was such a pleasurable visit and very organized,” said Helge Sorensen, Associate Business Professor at Copenhagen Business Academy. “It certainly gave our students a very good idea how education works in the United States, as well as campus life.”

Sorensen’s colleague, Professor Thorkill Jessen, added that the students learned a lot about Ramapo College but also gained a better understanding of cultural differences and business and teaching methodology.

“There was such energy and interest in every presentation,” Jessen said.

“I have nothing but high praise for Ramapo’s staff and faculty for a fantastic job.”

“The guests also had time for a break from the academics,” Dean Petkus added.

“We also took most of them for a hike in the Ramapo Reservation, which they loved because there are pretty much no mountains in Denmark,” he said. www.ramapo.edu

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

RIKKI ABZUG Professor Rikki Abzug’s goal is simple: open her students’ eyes to the notion of sharing their values while pursuing a career.

events for Abzug to find her way into North Jersey and eventually to the campus.

“I want them to know that they can always do more for society no matter what career path they take,” said Abzug, Professor of Management in the Anisfield School of Business. “I like to tell students, ‘You can do well while doing good.’”

“I was living and working in Manhattan when the Twin Towers came down. It was a terrible experience as it was for so many,” Abzug recalled. “Shortly after, one of my young daughters developed asthma from all that dust that was everywhere, and I knew it was time to leave the City.”

Her passion for her students’ success is infectious, and it didn’t take long for her message to be heard. Just two years after arriving at Ramapo College in 2006, Abzug was named “Outstanding Teacher of the Year” in 2008 by Ramapo College’s Business Honor Society students, and she continues to be among the most beloved and respected faculty on campus.

Now, Abzug’s colleagues also have recognized her accomplishments and the sincere dedication to her students by naming her the recipient of the 2017 Fred and Florence Thomases Award.

“To be even nominated meant a lot to me, that my fellow faculty felt so well of me,” said Abzug. “But it was a wonderful surprise to actually win and to be supported on my own ‘turf.’ I’m thrilled.”

Established in 1975 by Ramapo’s founding trustee Florence Thomases and her husband Fred, the prestigious award recognizes excellence in teaching, scholarship and contributions to the Ramapo community. The recipient of the award traditionally serves as grand marshal at the commencement exercises and carries the College mace at the ceremony.

Susan Eisner, Professor of Management, was among Abzug’s colleagues who nominated her for this year’s Thomases Award.

“As the senior member of the Convening Group in which we both serve at the College, I have firsthand knowledge of the difference Dr. Abzug has made as extraordinary teacher, exceptional scholar, leading contributor, and exemplary professional in her more than 10 years here,” Eisner wrote.

Abzug enjoyed a successful career in New York City in the nonprofit and corporate sectors, as well as higher education before arriving at Ramapo. However, it took one of our nation’s most tragic 14

(L-R): Richard King ’18, Rikki Abzug and Bianka Armutiu ’17

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Abzug and her family moved to Oakland, N.J., and she commuted to N.Y.C. for a few years. Her husband suggested she apply to that “beautiful little campus down the road,” and was thrilled to get the call back for an interview. Abzug said she knew immediately that she had found the perfect new home. “Everything about Ramapo just felt right,” she said of that initial meeting.

She continues to make an impact in and out of the classroom.

“Professor Abzug’s great ardor for the course material permeates throughout the classroom,” said Richard King ’17, an Accounting major, who studied Organizational Analysis with Abzug. “That is something that resonated with me and enhanced my learning experience. She has a keen ability to convey material to students through hands-on learning, rather than the intensive study of theory.”

“Ramapo students are very receptive to the notion of doing more for society through business,” Abzug said. “They understand that you can have a life with meaning that also supports them financially.”

She encourages students to think creatively about how to earn a living and follow their passions to become “excellent citizens.”

And she cites internships as a key factor in every student’s college experience.

“They need to realize that one’s major is not their only destiny. I tell students to try on as many guises as possible and find out while they’re in college what they might like or not like to do as a career,” Abzug said. “I ask them what they care about, does a potential employer share the same value? My advice to students is to always follow your passion and the money will follow, not the other way around.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Nicole Pulliam ’02 is, by all accounts, a success story. She was the first in her immediate family to graduate from high school. Despite a strong academic record, she had no plans to attend college, but through the urging of her high school guidance counselor, applied to five schools through the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program.

She was accepted to all five colleges and ultimately choose Ramapo. As an undergraduate, Nicole had a vast support network on campus. “Ramapo was the right combination of tough love and a nurturing environment for me,” she says. Throughout her time at the College she excelled as a student leader. She became a Resident Assistant, and her career trajectory in student affairs was launched.

“I established myself as a leader on campus, and developed skills that I still use today in my role as a professor and program director,” she added. Pulliam graduated from Ramapo in 2002 with a degree in Psychology. She continued her education, earning both her master’s and doctoral degrees in Counseling from Montclair State University.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

NICOLE PACHECO PULLIAM ’02, Ph.D.

“

Ramapo was the right combination of tough love and a nurturing environment for me.”

She went on to work in a variety of student affairs roles spanning over 10 years, including at Ramapo, where she helped advise students in the EOF office and Cahill Career Development Center. Today she is an Assistant Professor and Graduate Program Director for the Educational Counseling program at Monmouth University where she teaches and researches topics related to counseling marginalized student populations. Throughout her career, she has served on numerous task forces, held leadership positions within professional organizations, and has been recognized by her peers for her accomplishments and dedication to students.

“Although I know what I’ve accomplished is significant, I can still relate to what many first-generation college students feel,” she says. Often high achieving, these students may attribute their success to luck, rather than hard work or ability. “They often feel that they’ll be exposed as a fraud, unworthy of their accomplishments,” said Pulliam.

She has advice for Ramapo students, recent graduates and even professionals already established in the workforce who might be grappling with such feelings. “Surround yourself with a support team of people to reassure you,” she says. “The importance of mentors cannot be overstated.

Mentors will keep reminding you that you are worthy of your accomplishments, despite adversity.” www.ramapo.edu

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ATHLETICS

SOFTBALL, WINNERS ON AND OFF THE FIELD The Ramapo College softball team proved their prowess both on the field and in the classroom. The team posted a 32-11 record, earning the top seed and winning the New Jersey Athletic Conference regular season championship, making the program’s seventh appearance at the NCAA Championships, and winning the NCAA Regionals for just the second time in the history of the program. The women also earned the highest team grade-pointaverage with a combined GPA of 3.439.

“During this entire journey, it was an honor and privilege to coach these young women not just as softball players, but more importantly as people. The character of this group was truly special!” said fourth-year Head Softball Coach Bridgette Quimbo, who was named the 2017 NJAC Coach of the Year.

The Roadrunners acquired NJAC Pitcher of the Year honors, boasted seven NJAC All-Conference recipients, two NFCA All-Region members, and one ECAC All-Star. “I am so proud of this squad. They worked extremely hard this season and made many sacrifices both on and off the field. They were selfless and cared more about the big picture than their own individual accomplishments,” said Quimpo.

Ramapo strung together a 12-game win streak mid-season and climbed to #18 in the nation as they defeated nationally-ranked opponents Kean University, Rowan University, and Ithaca College.

The team went 10-1 at home and led the conference in shutouts while ranking second in fielding percentage, scoring, home runs per game, doubles per game, triples per game, and slugging percentage, and third in batting average, win-loss percentage, and on-base percentage.

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The team’s success and commitment throughout the season earned them a spot to compete at the NCAA Championships for the second time in three years.

Ramapo dominated regionals played in Ithaca, N.Y., opening play with a 4-1 win over Susquehanna before earning two straight wins over host Ithaca College to take the NCAA Regional Title.

On the road at Amherst in the Super Regional Round, the Roadrunners experienced a heartbreaking finale, falling in two straight games to end the season. “It was a tough way to end the season, but this season I witnessed teammates support each other as if each milestone and individual accomplishment were shared successes,” said Quimbo. “I believe these things were a huge part of our team’s successful journey this year.”

Sophomore Erin Fitzsimmons was named NJAC Pitcher of the Year with a 14-4 win-loss record, a 1.80 ERA, with 62 strikeouts in 108.2 innings pitched. Senior Nicole Mahoney joined Fitzsimmons on the NJAC 1st team as she collected a .374 batting average with 46 hits, 23 runs, 37 RBI, and a team-leading six home runs.

Sophomore Harper Patsko, senior Grace Brennan and junior Ally Spellman rounded out the 1st team recipients as Spellman led the Lady Roadrunners, batting .402 on the year. Jackie Howarth earned 2nd Team All-Conference honors and junior Katrina Buczkowski took home honorable mention honors to round out the NJAC award recipients. The accolades continued to pile up as Mahoney and Spellman were honored by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA). Mahoney was named to the 1st Team All-Region and Spellman 2nd Team, while Fitzsimmons was named an ECAC All-Star following the conclusion of the season.

ALL-AMERICAN ROADRUNNERS Juniors Amber Edwards and Jeremy Hernandez shined this season with the outdoor track and field team as they made their way to the national stage representing the Roadrunners. The pair traveled almost seven hours to showcase their talents and compete against the best-of-the-best in their respective events.

After winning an individual championship at the 2017 NJAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships, and earning NJAC 1st Team AllConference honors, Edwards qualified to compete at the 2017 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Championships held Memorial Day Weekend in Geneva, Ohio. The three-day event was hosted by University of Mount Union at the SPIRE Institute. Prior to the competition, Edwards was named an USTFCCCA All-Region team member. Edwards entered the outdoor championships ranked second overall with a mark of 12.46-meters. It was her second appearance at the national competition, her first during the 2017 indoor season where she placed 4th overall, hitting a mark of 12.05-meters and earning her first All-American nod. During her outdoor debut, Edwards brought home a 6th place finish taking her second All-American honor with a mark of 12.12-meters. She competed against 22 competitors in her event. She was named the team’s Most Valuable Player.

No stranger to the national stage, Hernandez made his third-straight appearance at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, his eighth overall, where he finished in 3rd place, earning All-American honors. He went into the event seeded second overall in the 1,500-meter race with a season best time of 3:45.05. Hernandez clocked in with a time of 3:53.79 after making it to the finals with an 8th place finish (3:53.25) in the preliminary round just two days prior. Preceding the NCAA Championships, Hernandez won the NJAC Conference Championships in the 1,500-meter race and was named NJAC 1st Team All-Conference. He was tabbed as the 2017 New Jersey Athletic Conference Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Thomas M. Gerrity Most Outstanding Athlete and earned USTFCCCA All-Region honors at the conclusion of the season. Hernandez was named the team’s Most Valuable Player this season.

Jeremy Hernandez ’18, (wearing number 13) earned his third consecutive All-American ranking.

Amber Edwards ’18 entered the outdoor championships ranked second overall in the triple jump with a mark of 12.46-meters.

STUDENT-ATHLETES, COACHES HONORED BY NJAC; BONACUM NAMED ATHLETE OF THE YEAR The New Jersey Athletic Conference honored the top award winners across the conference for 2016-2017. Ten Ramapo studentathletes and three head coaches were among those honored as the Roadrunners earned 14 individual awards and three team awards.

Junior Thomas Bonacum was named the NJAC Male Athlete of the Year, the first time for any male student-athlete at the College.

Bonacum racked up numerous accolades this season as a member of the basketball team.

Three-time NJAC Athlete of the Year for cross-country and indoor and outdoor track and field, junior Jeremy Hernandez was also honored at the event. This year he traveled to nationals all three seasons. Junior Larysa Iwaskiw was presented with the Women’s Volleyball Player of the Year Award after finishing the volleyball season on top of two statistical categories for all NCAA Division III student-athletes earning the honor of 2016-17 NCAA Division III statistical champion. For the second straight year, junior Emily Wisneski was tabbed as the New Jersey Athletic Conference Goaltender of the Year in field hockey. Sophomore Erin Fitzsimmons brought home her NJAC Co-Pitcher of the Year honor after leading the Roadrunners to a 32-11 overall record. Senior Rob DeAngelis was tabbed as baseball’s Bill Dioguardi Co-Player of the Year.

Head coaches Robert Pichardo (women’s volleyball), Chuck

McBreen (men’s basketball) and Bridgette Quimpo (softball) all received their awards for NJAC Coach of the Year.

This was the fifth year under Pichardo the Lady Roadrunners finished the season with 25 or more wins as they wrapped up the season at 25-6 overall. Ramapo was awarded with its first ever NCAA at-large bid in program history.

McBreen also was named All-Met Coach of the Year, Atlantic Region Coach of the Year by both the NABC and d3hoops.com, and ECAC Metro Region Coach of the Year. The Roadrunners were ranked by d3hoops.com, including the #5 spot in the nation.

Quimpo was named NJAC Coach of the Year after guiding the Roadrunners to the conference regular season championship with a 17-1 record in league play. The team competed at the NCAA Championships for the second time in three years where they won the NCAA Ithaca Regional Championship Title.

Junior Julie Housel (women’s swim) and junior James Dygos (men’s track and field) were given NJAC All-Academic First Team honors while sophomore Harper Patsko (softball) and junior Erik Van Der Wilt (men’s cross country and track and field) took home NJAC AllAcademic Second Team honors.

For complete details and season statistics, visit www.ramapoathletics.com www.ramapo.edu

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SCHOLARSHIP

STORIES OF

Scholarship

Each year, the Ramapo College Foundation awards hundreds of private donor scholarships to the students of the College. For many, receiving a scholarship is crucial to their collegiate success. This year’s scholarship recipients included many first-generation college students, students who have experienced unimaginable tragedies early in their lives, and students who simply wouldn’t be at Ramapo without scholarship support. Here are some of their stories.

(L-R): Nancy and Robert Kossowsky, scholarship donors, and Candace Beboe ’18

CANDACE BEBOE ’18 Scholarships: Michael Buczek Memorial Scholarship, Mary and Salvatore Fanale Scholarship, Jackie and Paul Garber Scholarship, Emily and Sidney Geltman Memorial Scholarship, Anne Glickman Memorial Scholarship, Ruth Johnson International Scholarship, R and N Family Scholarship “My dad was my motivation and my support system, and after he became ill, I knew I had to become my own support system,” says Candace Beboe. To help pay her tuition, she worked an overnight job from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., went to classes the following day, and would grab a nap in her car when she could. She would repeat this process seven days a week. “It was exhausting and humbling, but I became more determined than ever to complete my education,” she says. Despite this schedule, she maintained a strong academic record, and received multiple scholarships. “Scholarships gave me the opportunity to continue my education at Ramapo, and simply put, without them I wouldn’t be here,” she adds.

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(L-R): Sabrina Santamaria ’19 and her mother, Anna Santamaria

SABRINA SANTAMARIA ’19 Scholarship: Angelo Tarallo Memorial Scholarship For Sabrina Santamaria, receiving a scholarship helped take some of the financial pressure off her widowed mother. “My mother has tried to shield me from financial worries, has constantly supported and encouraged my career aspirations, and has insisted on the importance of a proper education,” she says.

Sabrina, who is a Political Science major and plans to attend law school, was determined to succeed academically, not only to make her mother proud but to become eligible for scholarships. “I can’t even put into words how much my scholarship means to me and my family,” she adds.

FRANK ALBERGO ’17 Scholarship: Marion C. Dugan Scholarship Frank Albergo never thought college would be an option for him. “Knowing my financial situation, it just didn’t seem within reach,” he says. A first-generation student in the Educational Opportunity Fund program (EOF), Frank graduated with a degree in Psychology and will be attending graduate school at the University of San Francisco next year.

He relied on a team of people at Ramapo to help him navigate his college experience. “My mentors at Ramapo helped me develop as a person and a student,” he says. Scholarships helped bridge the financial gap for Frank. “One of my paychecks from my oncampus job went right back to the College to pay my tuition, so the scholarship was a huge relief and helped ease that burden for me,” Albergo says. As he pursues his master’s in higher education, his hope is to one day be a mentor for students, just as his Ramapo family has mentored him.

Front row (L-R): Linda Diaz, Frank Albergo ’17 and Tamika Quick Back row (L-R): Rick Brown, Tanadjza Robinson McCray, Eric Montgomery and Melissa Van Der Wall

ABDULAI GAD SWARAY ’17 Scholarship: Milton & Granville Gittens ASB Scholarship Separated from his mother as a young boy during the brutal civil war in Sierra Leone, Abdulai Gad Swaray was found by missionaries roaming the streets and taken to an orphanage. As a teen, he returned to the village that he once called home and found that everything was destroyed. “When I saw the conditions, and realized that the people had nowhere to live, it made me want to help,” he recalls. He started raising funds to help the villagers rebuild their homes, and managed to pull together a network of aid to provide food, clothing and health services.

For Abdulai, scholarship support gave him the impetus to forge ahead.

“Scholarships at Ramapo have meant that someone thought of me as somebody who can positively create change in the world,” he says.

(L-R): President Peter P. Mercer, Abdulai Gad Swaray ’17, and Dr. Jacqueline Ehlert-Mercer

www.ramapo.edu

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Stryker recently held a team-building robotics competition at Ramapo.

The real winners were the students, who got to take the kits back to their classrooms.

(L-R): Paterson School for Science and Technology students Eddie Cuba, Michael Mejia and Jeremy Gomez work on their robots with Stryker employees Anthony Cardone and Neil Zieselman.

MEET OUR BUSINESS PARTNER: STRYKER This spring, students in the Ramapo College MBA program conducted a case study for Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies. The students were tasked with identifying factors behind price weaknesses in the medical manufacturing industry, and with finding ways to mitigate those weaknesses.

students, on advisory boards and as guest lecturers. In the Adler Center for Nursing Excellence, the specialized hospital beds in the nursing simulation labs were provided by Stryker. The company also provides financial contributions to sponsor the Summer Concert Series, the Distinguished Citizens Dinner, the Annual Golf Outing and the Performing Arts Dinner Series.

The students met with Stryker executives at the company's offices in Mahwah, N.J., and returned to the classroom to start formulating their business plan. They presented their findings as part of a Capstone Consulting Project at the end of the semester. "We learned as much as the students did," says Michael McCarthy, Senior Director, Finance. "The time and energy they put into the project was remarkable, and the team’s recommendations were spot-on."

The relationship between Stryker and Ramapo College highlights the value of the Business Partners Program. Members can tailor the services the College provides to their individual needs, whether it be reduced rates for use of College facilities or access to student interns.

This is just one example of the mutually-beneficial relationship Stryker enjoys with the College as a member of the Business Partners Program. Stryker has been a member of the program since 1996, gaining student interns and off-site space to hold conferences, retreats, and team building events. Stryker has also found a resource in Ramapo for quality employees, with a total of more than 45 alumni currently working at the company in a number of functions from finance to marketing to operations. "Ramapo graduates add value to what Stryker does," continues McCarthy, who also serves as a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors.

On the Ramapo campus, Stryker executives serve as mentors to 20

Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

Membership provides valuable unrestricted support for the Ramapo College Foundation and its work to provide student scholarships, faculty research grants, and other campus projects. In addition to Stryker, members include businesses and organizations from throughout northern New Jersey, such as Brandywine Senior Living, TD Bank, and UPS. “As a Business Partner with Ramapo, we provide critical unrestricted philanthropic funding, and at the same time, we can draw from an incredible talent pool, have access to a variety meeting and retreat spaces on a beautiful campus, and offer our employees an array of cultural and special events, right down the road from our offices,” adds McCarthy. “It’s an exceptional and valuable partnership.”

For information on becoming a Business Partner, visit www.ramapo.edu/giving/business-partners

FOUNDATION

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SPEND A MINDFUL DAY ON THE RAMAPO CAMPUS

KRAME CENTER

for Contemplative Studies and Mindful Living at Ramapo College

In May, 25 high school students enrolled in an elective psychology class in the Ramapo Indian Hills School District, Oakland, N.J., came to a retreat at the Krame Center for Contemplative Studies and Mindful Living.

“Anxiety is rampant among this population,” said the students’ teacher, Christine Kamper.

“My hope was that they could walk away with at least one strategy for reducing stress.”

The students spent the day learning about mindful practices such as yoga, body scanning, and meditation. A guided movement exercise followed by a walking meditation helped the students link the

pace of movement to breath. Even lunch was eaten in a mindful way, with students focusing on where the food came from, who made it for them, and the food’s texture and taste. The closing workshop featured a talk about compassion. All of the day’s sessions were guided by Krame Center staff.

“As teens I didn’t expect them to jump right in,” added Kamper, “but being on campus for the entire day put the students in the right mindset.” Feedback was positive, despite the students’ initial misgivings. “One participant who didn’t like a technique we learned during one of the sessions found that a technique learned later in the day worked better for her,” said Kamper. “And we have practiced mindful breathing in the classroom when everyone is amped up or stressed out.”

For some students, the strategies they learned have helped them manage pre-test stress. “Right before a test, I take a few

Students get colorful for the Fourth Annual Run with Color.

SGA/FOUNDATION: RUN WITH COLOR On April 23, the Student Government Association and Student Governors of the Ramapo College Foundation, Princep Shah ’17 and Sarah Brown ’18, organized the fourth annual Run With Color. More than 350 students, alumni, parents, faculty/staff, and friends were “showered” in a rainbow of colors during the 5K run/walk through the College’s campus.

This student-led event raised $4,500 for the Annual Fund of the Ramapo College Foundation and promoted the importance of student philanthropy on our campus. The Annual Fund enables the College to fund student scholarships, faculty research grants and special campus projects.

moments to close my eyes and breathe,” says Mariel, a senior from Oakland, N.J. “It helps me to focus better.”

In addition to the retreat for high school students, the Krame Center offers an array of programs for the College community and the general public. Weekly meditations, silent retreats, and yoga classes are regular features of Krame Center programming. A Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course is offered multiple times during the year. “Every community should offer a class like MBSR,” says participant Mary Shortall.

“The guided meditations, reflections, and non-judgmental atmosphere are very restorative, and demonstrate the forwardthinking culture at Ramapo.”

The Krame Center worked with the College to create a new minor in Contemplative Studies for Ramapo students.

For more information on the Krame Center, visit www.ramapo.edu/kramecenter

(L-R): Seated: Board of Governors members Linda Dator, Elaine Adler and Michael McCarthy.

Standing: Board of Governors member Thomas J. Shara, Board of Trustees Vice Chair William Dator and Representative Josh Gottheimer

BUSINESS PARTNERS LUNCHEON The Ramapo College Foundation Business Partners held its Spring Luncheon in May and featured newly-elected U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer as its keynote speaker. The event brought together representatives from many of the area’s most successful companies to network and learn about legislation that will promote and impact the business community. In attendance were Stryker, Special Properties, Lakeland Bank, Terrie O’Connor Realtors, Beattie Padovano, BD, Konica-Minolta, TD Bank, All Things Media, Brandywine and representatives from the Foundation Board of Governors. The Business Partners program raises tens of thousands of dollars each year in unrestricted funding for the Foundation. www.ramapo.edu

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ALUMNI | CLASS NOTES

&

WHERE WE ARE what we are up to 1997

MAYA VOVCHUK (Psychology) has joined Sterling National Bank as senior vice president and head of cash management.

Prior to joining Sterling, Maya was senior vice president and head of GFI referral services at Wells Fargo Bank. She also held leadership positions at Global Correspondent Banking International, Wachovia Bank, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Commerzbank AG and Primerica Financial Services.

1999

ELI G. EASTERBROOK (Business Administration) was named West Milford Township's "Volunteer of the Year" for his work on expanding and improving the West Milford Youth Organization as well as his role as director of player development for the league.

Eli is also involved with the Township's Little League.

Eli is a manager with Bayer Healthcare.

2006

CHRISTIE GIACOBBE (Psychology), a student assistance counselor at Livingston High School, was named "Education Services Professional of the Year" by the Livingston Public School District.

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2007

GLEN TICKLE (Contemporary Arts/Digital Filmmaking) is a comedian and writer and has recently released his debut comedy album “Yes, Really.”

2011

ASHLEY SCALES (Theater) has been promoted to assistant director of admissions at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, N.Y. She joined the college in 2012 as an admissions counselor.

ALLISON L. SNYDER (Mathematics) is a mathematics teacher at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School in Iselin. She is also a seasonal cast member at Walt Disney World.

Allison earned a master’s in industrial and systems engineering from Rutgers University in May 2017.

Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

2012

MARRIAGES

CLIFTON SHAMBRY, JR. (Business Administration/ Management) is the first in his family to graduate with any degree, a huge testament to the support that he received from Ramapo. Clifton earned his M.A. in Higher and Postsecondary Education from Teachers College of Columbia University in 2014.

MARTIN R. KAFAFIAN (Music 2007) married Gina Marie Castellano on April 1, 2017 in Tarrytown, N.Y. Marty is a litigation attorney at Beattie Padovano LLC in Montvale. He is a member of the Ramapo College School of Contemporary Arts alumni advisory board; he also serves on the board of West Bergen Mental Healthcare in Ridgewood. He received his law degree from Rutgers University.

2016

BIRTHS

SYDNEY HOPEN (Literature) is currently working at Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown Massachusetts.

JAMES TICCHIO (Law and Society) is currently pursuing his J.D. from Georgetown Law.

ALLYSON MCKENNA (History 2010) and her husband, Alex, welcomed their third son, Gannon Louis, on December 31, 2016.

He joins big brothers Aiden and Jaxson.

ALUMNI

IN MEMORIAM PETER S. BARTLETT ’78 MICHAEL T. LAHENEY ’83 GERALDINE A. MEYER ’92 ROBERT FALLON ’94 MEREDITH JOY KAWER ’97

STAFF ALUMNI In May, the Ramapo College Foundation hosted a reception for the 70-plus staff members who also are College alumni.

“There was much reminiscing about the swimming pool, families who worked here and sent their kids here, guest speakers over the years, and other fun stories about the College,” says Director of Alumni Relations Joanne Favata.

“I had no idea that so many of my colleagues were fellow alumni,” says JJ Belle, Ramapo’s Associate Director of Financial Aid, who graduated from Ramapo in 1997 with a degree in Economics. After graduation, Belle got a job working for AT&T, but was often back at Ramapo performing in plays with friends who were still undergraduates. While on campus he saw a position open in the Bursar’s Office, applied, and was hired. During the past 19 years he has steadily worked his way up to his current position. What makes him stay? “This place is my home.”

RAMAPO ALUMNI KICK OFF SUMMER 2017 Ramapo College alumni “took flight” as they kicked off the summer of 2017 at The Dog & Cask microbrewery in Rochelle Park, N.J., on May 25. As guests arrived, they enjoyed an array of delicious pub foods and took part in a beer tasting with a flight of assorted types of beer: pilsner, stout and lager. Then they chose the flight of their liking. It proved to be a great after-work networking opportunity as well as a lot of fun.

(L-R): Thomas Campbell ’05, Barbara Piccinnini ’15, Pam Dorsett ’16 (MBA), Lab Director Joan Roberts, Asa Whitaker ’15 and Warren Andersen ’83

STRYKER ALUMNI TOUR LAB FOLLOW RAMAPO ALUMNI www.facebook.com/RamapoAlumni/ www.linkedin.com/groups/97348 @RamapoAlumni

Ramapo College Alumni who are employed by Stryker Corporation recently visited the campus’ new Nursing Simulation Lab. The group took a tour of the Lab, lead by Joan Richards, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE, the College’s Nursing Simulation Lab Director. Stryker Alumni enjoyed lunch in the Trustees Pavilion and learned about Ramapo’s vision for a new Learning Commons and upcoming alumni events. www.ramapo.edu

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PHOTO COURTESY: IRA SPAR

ALUMNI

Members of the Art and Archaeology excursion

TRAVEL WITH RAMAPO PROFESSORS: ISRAEL The Alumni Office launched a Travel With Ramapo Professors program this year, pairing some of the College’s most dynamic professors with international travel. An excursion to Israel and Jordan, titled “Art and Archaeology,” was led by Professor Ira Spar and took place in June.

Spar teaches courses in archaeology, ancient history, religion and ancient law at Ramapo, and is a research Assyriologist at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. A few weeks prior to the trip, Spar met with the participants for an introductory dinner on campus in the Birch Mansion. Here the members of the group got to know each other and were able to ask questions about the itinerary and logistics.

The journey began with six days in Jerusalem, with visits to the Western Wall, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Mount of Olives and other sights. Over the next ten days the group visited the Dead Sea, a nature reserve, Masada, Tel Aviv, Petra and other famed cities of the ancient world. Spar shared his extensive knowledge of ancient civilization in lectures throughout the trip, which were augmented by the services of a professional guide.

“Because of the combination of lectures and hands-on experiences, we learned so much,” said one participant at the reunion dinner. “None of us knew each other before starting this trip, but we got along so well and had a wonderful time.”

SCHOLARSHIP HONORS MEMORY OF MARY FUHRMAN, A RETURNING ADULT STUDENT After her mother’s death in 2013, Marie Fuhrman established the Mary Fuhrman Memorial Scholarship. Mary Fuhrman ’82 enrolled at Ramapo after raising her six children. On the first day of class, the young man in the seat next to Mary started slinking down in his chair to try and avoid her notice.

When Mary turned to greet him, he said, “Hello, Mrs. Fuhrman, I went to school with your youngest son.” Mary was unperturbed by the age difference between herself and her classmates, and, in fact, her years of experience added to class discussion. After she earned her degree in American and International Studies, Mary began working in the Potter Library on the Ramapo campus, as the specialist in charge of government documents.

Because of her love of the College and education, and her belief that “we are never too old to pursue an education,” the scholarship is intended for returning adult students. Betina Lewin ’17, a Contemporary Arts/Professional Communication major, was the recipient this year. Lewin earned her degree in Ramapo’s accelerated degree completion program and graduated in May. 24

Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2017

(L-R): Betina Lewin ’17 and Marie Fuhrman

UPCOMING EVENTS AT RAMAPO The wildflower meadow is home to several dozen species of flowers.

TD BANK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Concert is free; parking is $5 per vehicle. In case of rain, concert will be held in the Bradley Center Arena. For more information, call 201.684.7093 “FRONTIERS” - THE ULTIMATE JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND Thursday, July 13 | Bandshell | 8 p.m.

Fireworks rain date (from July 6 if needed) “UNCHAINED” - VAN HALEN TRIBUTE Thursday, July 20 | Bandshell | 8 p.m.

“LONG LIVE THE BEATLES SHOW” - THE MAHONEY BROTHERS Thursday, July 27 | Bandshell | 8 p.m.

KRAME CENTER MINDFULNESS TOOLS-FIVE-DAY RESIDENTIAL MBSR INTENSIVE PROGRAM August 10 - 15 | Trustees Pavilion In collaboration with the Center for Mindfulness UMass Medical School. For information and/or to register, email mindfulness@ramapo.edu.

FREE WEEKLY MEDITATIONS Monday and Thursdays | ASB-420 | 1:10 - 1:45 p.m.

Wednesdays | ASB-420 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

FOUNDATION EVENT 30TH ANNUAL FOUNDATION GOLF OUTING AND THE HAVEMEYER PRESIDENTIAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS DINNER Honoring Terrie O’Connor and Terrie O’Connor Realtors Monday, July 17 | North Jersey Country Club, Wayne, N.J. For more information, email lkloak@ramapo.edu or call 201.684.6834.

ADMISSIONS UNDERGRADUATE OPEN HOUSE Sunday, September 24 | McBride House For more information, visit www.ramapo.edu/open-house PERFORMING ARTS DINNER SERIES MICHELE BALAN & EDDIE BRILL Saturday, October 14, 2017 | Sharp Theater | 8 p.m.

MARRIED TO BROADWAY Saturday, December 2, 2017 | Sharp Theater | 8 p.m.

YESTERDAY & TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE Sunday, March 11, 2018 | Sharp Theater | 7 p.m.

A.J. CROCE: TWO GENERATIONS OF AMERICAN MUSIC Saturday, April 28, 2018 | Sharp Theater | 8 p.m.

For more information and/or to register, contact lkoak@ramapo.edu or visit www.ramapo.edu/dinner-series

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

505 Ramapo Valley Road Mahwah, N.J. 07430-1623 www.ramapo.edu

OPENING CONVOCATION Featuring guest speaker Jon Ronson, author of the 2017 First-Year Seminar summer reading book,

So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed Tuesday, September 5, 2017 | 2 p.m.

Arena, Bill Bradley Sports and Recreation Center

YOUR ANNUAL FUND GIFT MATTERS One gift to the Annual Fund can help transform the life of a student. Together, donors help provide life-changing opportunities for students. For that, we thank you.

“I am the youngest of three siblings and the first to graduate in my family.

Commitments from donors helped me succeed and make my parents proud.”

“I hope that those who support Ramapo know that their contributions truly do make a difference and help students succeed academically.”

- Achyut Gautam ’19

- Monica Torres ’17

“I strongly believe in the mentality of ‘pay it forward’.

Support from donors means so much to me since it enables me to continue my education so I can help others in the future.”

“As much as I love physics, the degree comes with a price.

Scholarships at Ramapo have helped lessen the burden of tuition and allow me to focus on what matters most…school.”

- Stephen Geerlof ’18

- Lindsey Gray ’18

Questions? Contact Dawn Lozada, Director of the Annual Fund, at dlozada@ramapo.edu or 201.684.7141.

The fiscal year is July 1 to June 30.