Rivier Today / Spring 2024

THE MAGAZINE OF RIVIER UNIVERSITY | SPRING 2024

Making History Rivier celebrates its largest graduating class

Spring 2024

In this Issue

FEATURES

6

EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF NURSES

7

INVESTING IN THE RESIDENTIAL STUDENT EXPERIENCE

9

COMMENCEMENT 2024

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A historic $2 million grant will support undergraduate nursing students for the next five years.

The campus community celebrated the opening of the Rivier Village residence halls.

With 912 degrees conferred, the University’s 89th Commencement was the largest in its more than 90-year history.

CELEBRATING ALUMNI LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE Alumni Achievement Awards recognize outstanding alumni who have made an impact on their professions, community, and alma mater.

DEPARTMENTS 1

Hearts & Minds

19 Raiders Highlights

2

Newsworthy

23 Alumni Spotlight

15 Making a Difference 17

24 Class Notes

Social Circles

President Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM Vice President for University Advancement Karen Cooper ’03G • Director of Alumni Engagement Katie Aalerud Director of Marketing and Communications Griffin Spencer • Senior Writer Michelle Marrone • Graphic Designer Katie Wilkinson Content Coordinator Erin Stanton • Photographers Jodie Andruskevich, Nick Grace, Kyle Prudhomme, Seth J. Dewey Rivier Today is published by the Office of Marketing and Communications, Rivier University, 420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060

Address Changes Update contact and employer information online at www.rivier.edu/alumniupdate.

Contact University Advancement and Alumni Relations • Phone (603) 897-8665 • Email alumni@rivier.edu Mail University Advancement and Alumni Relations, 420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060 Staying in Touch Main Switchboard (603) 888-1311 • Admissions (603) 897-8507 • Financial Aid (603) 897-8488

Message from the President Dear Friends of Rivier, This issue of Rivier Today reflects stories of transformation.

Rivier faculty, staff, students, and alumni are on the move and engaged in the world around them.

The Division of Nursing and Health Professions continues to excel with national rankings and the historic $2 million gift from the Bedford Falls Foundation to launch the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship. This transformative support will increase nursing enrollment over the next five years, giving our students access to the finest faculty and nursing simulation resources to prepare them for the careers they have dreamed of.

You will see and read about the Commencement joy that filled the air as dreams were fulfilled, promises kept, and bright futures lie ahead. This year marked the largest graduating class in Rivier’s history with more than 900 graduates. The distinguished careers of Alumni Achievement Award recipients inspire us all, and Rivier athletics comes to life on the field and courts and in the community as Raiders are recognized within the conference and the region.

University faculty are deeply engaged in preparing the next generation of students to enter the workforce liberally educated and professionally prepared. You will read about Rivier’s new interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree in the humanities and a new bachelor’s degree in computer science.

We celebrated the city’s designation as the top-ranked U.S. city for safety. You will see the excitement of our students as they moved into Rivier Village, our newest residence halls. This fall, our students will experience renovated locker rooms at the Muldoon Fitness Center as we continue to invest in the student experience.

We are thankful for all that you do to support our mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world in your local community and beyond.

Sincerely, Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM President 1

Rivier supports global cancer fundraiser The community gathered at Joanne Merrill Field in April to support the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life global fundraiser. More than 120 individuals and teams walked the designated route to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to the disease, and raise funds to improve the lives of those fighting cancer and their families.

The ACS’s Relay for Life global movement is the world’s largest fundraising event to fight cancer in every community. More than just a walk, the Relay for Life brings together passionate supporters who are committed to ending cancer for everyone.

The event was organized and run by the University’s American Cancer Society Club.

Participants raised $9,650, exceeding the $7,000 fundraising goal. Many Rivier community members took part in the event—students from the Global Scholars Honors Program, Student Nursing Association, Clinical Science Club, and several athletic teams, as well as faculty and staff members.

From the local community, Ciardelli Fuel fielded a top fundraising team.

“Today we celebrated Rivier living its mission,” says Hank Parkinson, Vice President for Student Experience. “A cancer diagnosis can be so isolating.

To see our community come together to support this cause is truly inspiring.”

NEWSWORTHY

News from campus and the world beyond

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Rivier’s hometown named safest city in United States

The City of Nashua has been recognized as the Safest City in America, according to WalletHub's annual rankings. The designation, which was also reported by U.S. News & World Report, follows an extensive analysis that compared 182 cities across the country.

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Distinguished community members named to Board of Trustees

Dr. Mario Andrade and Dr. Tara Levesque-Vogel have been named to the University’s Board of Trustees. Their expertise enhances the University’s strategic vision, providing the Board with experience in additional disciplines.

Dr. Andrade is the Superintendent of Schools for the Nashua School District. He began his 25-year career in public education as a special education instructor before his selection as principal at Central Falls (Rhode Island) High School in 2007. A New England School Superintendent Association board member, he also serves on the Greater Nashua United Way and Nashua Community College Advisory Boards.

Dr. Levesque-Vogel is the owner of Levesque Dentistry in Nashua, a family and cosmetic dentistry

practice. A member of the American Dental Association, New Hampshire Dental Society, International College of Dentists, American College of Dentists, and the American Society of Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry, Dr. Levesque-Vogel was appointed

by Governor John Lynch to the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners in July 2012 and served as its President from 2018-2020.

WalletHub evaluated various factors across three key dimensions: home and community safety, natural disaster risk, and financial safety.

Among the criteria considered were publicly available statistics such as crime rates, flood risk levels, unemployment rates, and employment growth data. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with Nashua scoring 86 points and securing its place as the topranked U.S. city for safety.

“Dr. Andrade and Dr. LevesqueVogel will join members of our Board of Trustees in recognizing the integrative nature of the student experience and capturing opportunities for continued growth in service, academic distinction, and resources as the University executes the Go Boldly 2024-2030 strategic plan,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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Undergraduate computer science program will be added to offerings this fall

Complementing its established Master of Science in Computer Science program, which enrolls hundreds of graduate students annually, the University is launching a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Fall 2024. Students can tailor their degree to their career interests by selecting a concentration in Data Science, Cybersecurity, Software Development, or Game Programming.

Rivier will also add a computer science 4+1 program that enables students to earn their undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in just five years. Students who pursue the 4+1 program option will be prepared to quickly advance their careers—qualifying for positions of greater responsibility and leadership ahead of their peers.

“The powerful influence of technology underscores its status as the fastest-growing global industry,” says Dr. Kevin Quigley, Interim Dean of Arts and Sciences. “The degree concentrations enable students to explore and focus on their individual areas of interest and advance toward

personally and professionally rewarding careers.”

The B.S. in Computer Science program curriculum provides students with an understanding of computer systems and significant project experience in programming, networking, operating systems, software engineering, web development, and databases.

In addition to developing skills in these areas, students will gain a knowledge of professional practices and explore the ethical dimensions of advancing technologies.

“Rivier’s location in the high-tech hub of Greater Nashua offers students a distinct advantage,” says Dr. John Glossner, Associate Professor and Director of Computer Science Programs. “The computing internships and diverse job opportunities in our area enhance the preparation and success of our graduates.”

More information on the new degree is available at rivier.edu/bscs.

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Rivier’s online master’s degrees ranked best in the Granite State

OnlineMastersColleges.com has recognized the University as offering the top-ranked online master’s degree programs in the state of New Hampshire, according to the website’s 2024 rankings. With 14 online master’s programs offered to students, Rivier provides expanded access for adult learners to advance their education.

“The flexibility offered by our topranked online programs allows our students to achieve professional goals while balancing family commitments and work schedules,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM. “These latest rankings reflect the success of our graduates and the quality of our faculty.”

The OnlineMastersColleges.com rankings are generated by analyzing data from institutions, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). The website also engineers its rankings based upon program availability, affordability, delivery, curriculum, duration, employability, and the return on investment.

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New interdisciplinary major will build on Rivier’s history in the liberal arts

Following the highest fall enrollment in its 90-year history, the University announced that it is establishing a new interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences for the Fall 2025 semester.

This new program of study draws upon the disciplines of English, history, political science, philosophy, religion, and sociology, and will build upon Rivier’s history in the liberal arts. The critical thinking, problemsolving, and clear communication skills students develop will lay the foundation for a variety of careers in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. These include business executive, financial analyst, nongovernmental organization leader, communication manager, and government official, among many others. It will also prepare students for graduate study in any of the humanities or the social sciences disciplines, as well as law and business school.

“This new major encompasses the humanities themes initiated through the Journeys of Transformation core curriculum, which is an essential element of the University’s academic experience,” said Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM. The major’s theme of stewardship, society, and service will provide students with a broad perspective and opportunities to understand current and emerging issues, especially those requiring civic engagement, intellectual knowledge, ethical reasoning, and entrepreneurial drive.

Additional information is available at rivier.edu/humanities.

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Rivier hosts Nashua Sport Management Summit

The University hosted the Nashua Sport Management Summit in partnership with the Nashua Silver Knights, the city’s local collegiate summer baseball team, in February.

More than 300 high school and college students interested in pursuing a sport management career visited campus to learn from industry experts.

Following the keynote address from Chris Valente, the Vice President and Head of Boston Partnership Sales for Fenway Sports Management, the aspiring sport management professionals joined panelist sessions that covered a variety of topics including partnerships, business intelligence and analytics, recruiting, sales and service, event management, and communications.

Students were able to network with top executives and hiring managers from organizations across New England at the Career and Networking Fair held at the Summit, including representatives from the

Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, and the New England Patriots. Other companies such as the New England Sports Network (NESN), BSN Sports, and The Kraft Group also attended, providing a wide range of career opportunities for students to explore.

“The partnership between Rivier University and the Nashua Silver Knights fosters educational and community engagement through sports,” said Dr. Amir Toosi, Dean of Business and Security Studies.

“The Summit connected students and professionals in the sport management field and provided networking and recruitment opportunities with experts and industry leaders.”

Students enrolled in the B.S. in Sport Management degree program at Rivier not only attended, but also assisted with the execution of the event, gaining hands-on experience in marketing, event coordination, and facilities operations.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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Rivier earns No. 1 state and national rankings for Nursing

Following a comprehensive evaluation of U.S. nursing schools for 2024, Nursing Schools Almanac has again ranked the University as the top nursing school in New Hampshire and No. 10 in New England. Rivier also ranks 47th nationwide among private nursing schools.

Additionally, Rivier’s online RN to BSN program was selected as the best in New Hampshire, according to RegisteredNursing.org. Intelligent. com has ranked Rivier’s MBA in Healthcare Management and MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner programs within the top 14 nationally.

“Our nursing faculty have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in nursing education that is reflected in these rankings,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM. “Rivier students receive a transformational educational experience that equips them to make a profound impact in their communities.”

Rivier is home to a recently renovated Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center for hands-on learning for nursing students and nurse practitioners. Opened in 2022, the high-tech skills and simulation labs offer the newest technology for clinical assessment, community nursing, and telehealth simulation.

“Our state-of-the-art facilities allow our students to develop their clinical skills under the direction of our talented faculty,” said Dr. Paula Williams, Dean of Nursing and Health Professions and Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs.

“The rankings are a reflection of our ability to prepare nurses to enter the workforce, addressing the existing shortage of healthcare workers in the United States.”

More information on the rankings and evaluation process is available at rivier.edu/rankings.

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A record level of support raised on annual Day of Giving

Last month on the University’s annual Day of Giving, alumni, parents, and friends across the country and around the world gathered to show an unprecedented level of support for Rivier University students. The annual Day of Giving reached a record level, with more than $125,000 raised for the Rivier University Fund, student scholarships, and the athletics program through the Raiders Challenge.

In addition to surpassing prior years’ fundraising totals, 436 donors supported the campaign this year, an increase of 57 donors over the prior year.

“The impact of each gift on our Day of Giving and throughout the year is far reaching,” says Karen Cooper, Vice President for University Advancement. “Each gift provides opportunities that foster growth, access to technology that brings the classroom to life, and inspiration that helps each student reach their full potential.”

Rivier students shared their gratitude in a video message that can be viewed at rivier.edu/thankyou.

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EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF NURSES Historic $2 million grant to support undergraduate nursing students Rivier has been awarded a $2 million grant by the Bedford Falls Foundation to launch the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship. The largest foundation gift in Rivier’s history, the transformative grant will increase enrollment of full-time undergraduate nursing students over the next five years and support the region’s workforce needs.

The Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship will assist academically qualified students with unmet financial need enrolling in Rivier’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Conway Scholars will receive $20,000 over four years of study, significantly lowering or eliminating out-of-pocket costs to earn their bachelor’s degrees.

“The Bedford Falls Foundation’s impact on the education of nurses at universities throughout the east coast

has been profound,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “This transformational gift will change the lives of our students, providing them with a path forward to their nursing career and lessening financial burden. Rivier is deeply honored to be the recipient of this extraordinarily generous and impactful gift.”

The Bedford Falls Foundation, established by philanthropist and Nashua native Mr. William “Bill” Conway, Jr. and his late wife, Mrs. Joanne Barkett Conway, supports a wide range of charitable and educational causes in the eastern United States. “With a nationwide critical nursing shortage, if you can get a nursing degree, you can get a job, and yet many students struggle to afford the degree,” says Bill Conway.

“By reducing the financial burden for nursing students at Rivier, we hope to give these students an opportunity

for a rewarding career and also to improve the nursing pipeline.”

Additional information on this generous grant is available at rivier.edu/conwayscholars.

Luke Sousa of Barrington, New Hampshire, is one of the first Conway Scholars and recipients of the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship. He is pictured above on the day of his acceptance as a member of the Class of 2028 with Dean of Nursing and Health Professions Dr. Paula Williams and Director of Undergraduate Nursing Dr. Judi O’Hara.

The newest investment in the residential student experience

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The campus community celebrated the opening of Rivier Village The University hosted a ribboncutting ceremony in February to mark the opening of Rivier Village, an apartment-style residential complex and the newest in a series of completed construction and renovation projects.

The opening of Rivier’s newest residence halls for the spring semester followed the highest fall enrollment in the University’s history. Members of the Board of Trustees and local dignitaries including The Honorable Jim Donchess, Nashua’s Mayor, were in attendance along with students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

“The newest investment in the student experience, Rivier Village is a tangible demonstration of the University’s dynamic growth,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “The new residences will accommodate Rivier’s expansion and provide opportunities for upper-level students to experience independent, apartment-style living prior to their transition to professional life.”

Each apartment suite contains fourto-six bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, a living room, a full kitchen, and washer and dryer units.

With an increase in the number of student-athletes as well as business and nursing majors, the two new residence halls proactively address growing enrollments at the University while providing additional oncampus housing options. With this new construction, the University’s residential student population has reached 495.

Rivier Village is the most recent project in the ongoing campus enhancement plan following the construction of the Science and Innovation Center in 2020 and the complete renovation of nursing and business facilities in Sylvia Trottier Hall in 2022.

Phase II of Rivier Village will launch with a groundbreaking in 2025 and will include two buildings with an additional 72 beds.

Left: Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM is pictured cutting the ceremonial ribbon with Vice President for Finance and Administration Steven Perrotta; Provincial Superior of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary Sister Helene Cote, pm; The Honorable Jim Donchess, Nashua's Mayor; and Rivier juniors Sam Tibbetts (Homeland and International Security major from Gray, Maine) and Alicia Martinez (Biology major from Haverhill, Rhode Island).

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COMMENCEMENT 2024 Rivier celebrates largest graduating class in its history

BY MICHELLE MARRONE Thousands gathered at Rivier’s 89th Commencement in May to celebrate 912 associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates.

Seated before the stage, graduates’ brightly colored hoods and tassels dotted the expanse of black robes. A roar of anticipation and excitement rose up as graduates were welcomed to the event.

This year’s ceremony highlighted the importance of diversity, inclusivity, education, and service as catalysts to personal and professional achievement. The University honored Judge Talesha L. Saint-Marc, United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Hampshire, as its Commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient (See page 12).

Sharing her journey to become a lawyer and judge, Judge Saint-Marc challenged students to dream big, to choose courage over comfort, and to be kind as they pursue their life and 9

career goals. Encouraging graduates to forever embrace Rivier’s mission— transforming hearts and minds to serve the world—Judge Saint-Marc offered, “I challenge you to emit kindness and to find ways to create community. Instead of emphasizing the ways we are different, focus on our communal commonality—the desire to improve our current condition and leave the next generation in a better position.”

Rivier graduates Renee Merchant (B.A. in English) and Ezekiel Haradji (M.A.T. in Middle/Secondary Education) spoke on behalf of undergraduate and graduate students, respectively.

Haradji reflected on the transformational experience of education; specifically, the many experiences and people that influence students’ lives. “By the experiences we gained in this community, we realize that it takes only one professor to transform your heart and mind to

serve the world,” shared Haradji.

“For many of us, there are multiple people here today who contributed to painting the picture of who we are.

We are eternally grateful.”

Merchant reflected on the willingness to embrace change as a key factor in intellectual growth and community advancement. “Class of 2024, as we prepare to embark on our individual journeys, as we step out into the world, let us use our education to be agents for positive change. Let us embrace change with open hearts and open minds, knowing that it is through change that we can grow, and together create a better world.”

The ceremony was livestreamed and can be viewed at www.rivier. edu/commencement2024. A gallery of Commencement photos is posted on the University’s Facebook page.

Each 2024 graduate received a

PERSONALIZED VIDEO CLIP from Commencement.

Graduates can check their Rivier e-mail to download their clip, free of charge.

COURTESY OF THE RIVIER UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

An inspirational leader and advocate for higher education In recognition of her service to the State of New Hampshire and Rivier, the University conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree on The Honorable Judge Talesha L. Saint-Marc.

Judge Saint-Marc made history in 2023 as the first African American judge appointed to serve on the federal bench in New Hampshire. Her leadership and many accomplishments demonstrate the power of education, perseverance, and service.

Judge Saint-Marc is a lifelong New Hampshire resident and Vice Chair of the Rivier University Board of Trustees.

Prior to her appointment as Magistrate Judge, she specialized in labor and employment law with Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer & Nelson, P.A. and became a shareholder in the firm in 2019.

Her Honor has distinguished herself in the legal community as an active member of the New Hampshire Bar Association (NHBA). She is a graduate and past chair of the NHBA’s Leadership Academy, as well as past chair of the Labor and Employment Section and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. She has served on the Boards of the New Hampshire Women’s Bar Association and New Hampshire Legal Assistance.

Judge Talesha L. Saint-Marc United States Magistrate Judge

for the District of New Hampshire

Actively engaged with the community, Judge Saint-Marc provides leadership and support to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Nashua, the Bishop Estee and Ida Newman Scholarship Fund, the American Heart Association, and the Circle Program, which provides skills- and confidencebuilding opportunities to girls from low-income families.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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OUTSTANDING BUSINESS LEADER AWARD

OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD

Francis Bourgeois ’13 MBA

Susan O’Hare ’87 B.S.W./’94 M.Ed.

Frank served as a Lieutenant of the Nashua Police Department for more than 20 years before joining the University Police at Bentley where he was named Chief in 2020. He began this role during the COVID-19 pandemic and was directly involved in keeping the campus safe and in compliance with COVID-19 protocols. In 2021, he received the Ralph Avery Leadership Development Award from the Massachusetts Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators. He says that Rivier’s mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world deeply resonated with him as he earned his Master of Business Administration degree in 2013. Frank is committed to building a culture of community engagement and developing relationships where students feel supported and valued by the University Police Department.

Susan O’Hare has been a devoted educator for more than 17 years. She earned her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Rivier in 1987 and returned to earn her M.Ed. in Elementary Education Teaching in 1994. As an instructor for Early Childhood Education at Greater Lowell Technical High School, she teaches close to 600 students and prepares them to earn their early childhood certification by the time they graduate high school. Each year, Susan brings junior and senior students to Rivier for an immersive experience with the Department of Education. Once on campus, students can tour the University and learn about all the opportunities Rivier can offer them. Susan stays involved as a member of the University's Education Advisory Council.

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Celebrating alumni leadership and service Rivier recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of its graduates with the 2024 Alumni Achievement Awards. “The University is pleased to recognize four exceptional individuals who are serving their businesses, organizations, and communities with dedication and pride,” says Karen Cooper, Vice President for University Advancement.

OUTSTANDING NURSE/HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL AWARD

OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

Jackeline Rodriguez ’22 Certificate

Jessica Hagg ’22 B.A.

Jackie Rodriguez has dedicated her career to serving others as a Nurse Officer with the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and as a part-time Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Cornerstone Wellness.

As an outreach specialist with the Commissioned Corps, Jackie educates people about Medicare and Medicaid health insurance programs and services. She earned her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate from Rivier in 2022. She received The DAISY Award for Nurses Advancing Health Equity in 2023 by founding the Depression Support and Alliance Group, which educates women on how to identify and cope with depression and anxiety. She was inspired to create this group after working in women’s shelters and seeing the need for continued care after their time in the shelters.

Earning her B.A. in Education and Community Leadership in 2022, Jess is making an impact as the Director of the Arlington Street Community Center in Nashua. She works with city schools and community partners to promote equal opportunities and eliminate barriers to services for the community. She has filled gaps in those services by creating programs like the Fatherhood Group, Teen Group, exercise classes, and Community Night, a monthly event featuring free activities like bingo or trivia and a shared meal. Jess regularly partners with Rivier to support the Center, often working with student volunteers from the Education Club and Global Scholars Honors Program.

She is on the Board of the New Leaders Council New Hampshire, leads the Queer Connections group in Nashua, and volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

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M

ailaja Mohammed is a Nurse Practitioner in the Emergency Department at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, a Family Nurse Practitioner at Foundation Medical Partners, and a Hospitalist at Holy Family Hospital. A native of Ghana and a member of the University’s Board of Trustees, he earned his Associate of Science in Nursing in 2007 and his Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner in 2016.

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Mailaja Mohammed A strong advocate for higher education, Mailaja mentors and encourages others to seek professional advancement.

BY GRIFFIN SPENCER

What initially brought you to the United States from Ghana?

Mailaja: In 1987, I had come to the United States just to visit, and I fell in love with the country. I came back three years later to pursue my education and lived in Brockton, Massachusetts.

How did your NCAA Division I student-athlete career at UNH come about?

Mailaja: Growing up in Ghana, we played football, also known as soccer. When I got to the practice field in high school, they were looking for football players, and I thought “football” meant “soccer.”

I arrived at the field and saw all of these kids in pads, and I thought, ‘OK, this is not the football that I know … I'll give this a try.’ Initially, I was the kicker, and somehow, someway, I was recruited by Tom Coughlin (former Head Football Coach at Boston College and a two-time Super Bowl Championship Head Coach) and Chip Kelly (the current Head Football Coach at UCLA). That's how I ended up at the University of New Hampshire.

What led you to pursue a career in the medical field?

Mailaja: I graduated from UNH with a degree in Animal Science and had the intention of going to veterinary school.

Once I realized it was too expensive, I had to rethink what I wanted to do. I ended up at Winchester Hospital working for Sodexo, the company that ran the food services and housekeeping. For eightand-a-half years, I worked as a Housekeeping Manager.

While I was working in this position, I met lots of nurses. I became friends with many of them, and that's how my journey into nursing started. The nurses encouraged me, telling me that pursuing a career in nursing was possible. I enjoyed seeing some of the things that the nursing staff did, bringing patients back to health and taking care of their patients’ family members. I became very interested in it and decided to pursue a career in nursing.

What first steps did you take to pursue this new career?

Mailaja: To get started, I went to school for a month to become a Licensed Nursing Assistant. To earn an additional scholarship from Winchester Hospital, I had to work a minimum of 24 hours a week in the Emergency Department.

I applied to Rivier and received my ASN in 2007 while working in the Emergency Department and as a Housekeeping Manager at the same time.

What impact has your education had on others?

Mailaja: Most of the people that worked in the housekeeping department were immigrants from other countries. I encouraged them to make sure they go further in their education and not to think housekeeping is the only thing that they can do. Once they learn English, they can do something better. At Rivier’s 2023 graduation ceremony, I witnessed one of my former employees from Winchester Hospital walk across the stage and receive her nursing degree. She came to this country from Haiti and didn't speak any English. I encouraged a lot of the housekeepers to further their educations, not necessarily in nursing but in any field, and a lot of them did.

What advice do you have for prospective nursing students?

Mailaja: For anybody that wants to get into nursing, the best place to learn is to work in the emergency room. You don't know what's going to walk through the door, and you see everything in the emergency room—working there was a huge step for me.

How has Rivier grown over the years through your eyes?

Mailaja: Everything looks new since I was there in 2005. The Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center was completely renovated after I completed my master’s degree in 2016. The new Science and Innovation Center, residence halls, and new sports teams will bring even more students into the University.

What does it mean to you to give back to Rivier through your work on the Board of Trustees?

Mailaja: Through my role on the Board, I'm helping to make sure that students have the best possible experience at Rivier. My input relative to the nursing program and students is always valued.

I have the opportunity to talk to high school students and incoming freshmen who are interested in nursing. I tell them about my experience, and “if I am able to do it, they can do it too.” This means a lot to me … There is a dire need for nurses; we need many more nurses to support our hospitals, and Rivier is the perfect school to educate them.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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SOCIAL CIRCLES Find alumni and friends on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and join the conversation!

TLN @LacrosseNetwork

Don’t mind us; just watching this on a loop for the rest of forever 🤯 (via @RivierMLax)

Rivier University Raiders Some familiar faces from our Rivier University women's ice hockey team made a cameo on the broadcast at last night's PWHL Boston game as the team kicked off its inaugural season!

rivsna Congratulations to the Class of 2024!! Your dedication and passion truly inspire all of us. So excited to see the positive impact you make as nurses!

Holiday Card Challenge Laura Landerman-Garber

So incredibly #thankfulgratefulblessed for the Rivier Campus Ministry partnership and spectacular volunteers in the Service Learning Classes, each and every person stepping up to join the Holiday Card Challenge Community!

Bob Coutoumas Strategic Solutions 603 LLC

Rivier graduate and meteorologist Shiri Spear, Boston25 News, visited the Rivier University Division of Business and Security Studies team this week and spoke to my Business Seminar and Beyond Class. We got the straight scoop on how to be successful. This quote sums it up "If you want to see the sunshine, you've got to weather the storm" Frank Lane - Thanks again Shiri!

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New Hampshire 911 @NewHampshire911

Our Community Outreach team spent the afternoon at @RivUniversity, speaking to students about employment opportunities at #NH911, and other positions within #TeamSafetyNH.

Over the last two years, they have made hundreds of card-prep kits, proofread, counted, and bundled thousands of cards, and created holiday cards for our #Troops, #Veterans, and military families!

chuckmorsefornh It was great to take a tour of Rivier University in Nashua this afternoon 📚✏️

The Day Café at St. Patrick's, Nashua NH A huge thank you to these Rivier University nursing students. The foot clinic was a great success.

Can’t forget to thank Cynthia and Kera; this is a true testament to your dedication to teaching. Also, Vince was in to brief them on the cafe and letting them know all about us and what we stand for, thank you.

Everyone have a great weekend. 🙏

Stay Connected

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Newbury Elementary School VT Celebrations Second grade teacher Bethani Winchester grew up in Woodsville, New Hampshire. She decided to become a teacher while attending Rivier University in Nashua, New Hampshire. She thinks the best part about her job is getting to watch kids grow. Outside of school she loves to spend time with her family and all of her animals! Students love her straight forward manner and awesome sense of humor.

(Twitter) @RivUniversity

LinkedIn linkedin.com/school/rivieruniversity

wpvolleyballclub Congrats to Sydney Warwick on her commitment to further her education and volleyball career at Rivier University!! 🧡🏐🖤

Rivier University Alumni Group

See yourself in the next issue! #rivieruniversity #rivieralumni #rivraiders #rivnation #rivworks RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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RAIDERS HIGHLIGHTS New high-tech locker rooms to benefit student-athlete experience This spring, the University began a major locker room renovation project within the Muldoon Fitness Center designed to enhance the studentathlete experience. The existing locker room spaces used by the basketball and volleyball programs will be demolished and replaced with two brand-new varsity locker rooms and a third locker room to be used by visiting teams.

The state-of-the-art team spaces will feature new wooden lockers with charging stations and secure storage spaces for student-athletes. Coaches will also have access to smart wall technology, allowing student-athletes to watch game film and receive instruction before and after practices and during games and matches.

“These enhancements allow us to provide modern facilities and technology that will support the needs of our student-athletes and coaches,” says Director of Athletics Jonathan Harper. “With each improvement to our facilities, we can continue to elevate the standard of excellence within our athletic programs.”

Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, Vice President for Finance and Administration Steven Perrotta, and Director of Athletics Jonathan Harper are pictured with project managers from Timberline Construction.

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Known by student-athletes and fans alike as “The ’Doon,” the facility was opened to the public in 1984 and received a 7,930-square-foot addition in 2011 that added a new entrance, a fitness room, and athletic training space. This past fall, a new wooden playing surface replaced a 25-yearold floor and updated banners were designed and installed in the facility.

“It is important for our current and prospective student-athletes to see that our facilities are constantly improving and that they are on par with our peer institutions,” says Harper.

“The University continues to make a significant commitment to athletics

and our student-athletes are the beneficiaries of those investments.”

Rivier opened the Linda Robinson Pavilion and named Joanne Merrill Field while also unveiling enhancements to the Raiders softball field in September 2019. The pavilion provides stadium seating, an athletic training room and team gathering spaces for the Rivier soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey teams.

New graphics have been installed at several athletics facilities, including Conway Arena, the home of Rivier ice hockey, and historic Holman Stadium, the Raiders' ballpark.

Potorski joins Rivier men’s ice hockey via Team IMPACT The Raiders men’s ice hockey team recently signed 11-year-old Brayden Potorski through the University’s partnership with Team IMPACT, an organization that pairs children facing serious illness and disability with college athletics teams across the country.

Brayden was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis after attending an ice hockey camp three years ago.

Despite worries about his hockeyplaying future, he is responding well to daily medications and injections and is managing the symptoms of the disease.

“Brayden has displayed great resilience after being dealt a difficult hand and has managed to remain on the ice playing the sport he loves,” says Head Men’s Ice Hockey Coach Shaun Millerick. “I am confident that the impact Brayden has on our team will far outweigh any impression we leave on him.”

Brayden (center) is pictured with his brothers Charley and Andrew, his mother Charleen De Stefano, Rivier Head Men’s Ice Hockey Coach Shaun Millerick, and men’s ice hockey student-athlete Jon Tavella ’25.

Rivier has partnered with Team IMPACT for the past 12 years, matching children with the University’s baseball, men's basketball, men's ice hockey, men's and women's lacrosse, and men's and women's soccer teams.

Brayden and the other Team IMPACT signees participate in many of their team’s activities, including games, practices, and team-bonding events.

Hemmerdinger ’25 earns USA Lacrosse All-America honors Posting 58 ground balls, 55 draw controls, and causing 46 turnovers in 2024, Cassie Hemmerdinger ’25 of the Raiders women’s lacrosse team became the institution’s first USA Lacrosse All-America pick. Named to the organization’s Third Team, Hemmerdinger averaged 3.29 caused turnovers per game in 2024 to rank eighth in the nation in that statistic.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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RAIDERS HIGHLIGHTS Hinkley leads NCAA Division III women’s ice hockey in save percentage Goaltender Rachel Hinkley ’25 of the Rivier women’s ice hockey team posted the nation’s best save percentage in 2023-24, claiming the NCAA Division III statistical championship in that metric.

In 10 games for the Raiders, Hinkley registered a .970 save percentage, making 360 out of a possible 371 saves.

Raiders basketball teams enjoy strong 2023-24 seasons For the first time in University history, both the men’s and women’s basketball programs earned home first-round playoff games on the same day. The women’s team picked up a thrilling 82-73 victory over perennial GNAC power Johnson & Wales while the men followed with a convincing 98-70 win over Colby-Sawyer to open the postseason.

Led by first-year Head Coach Tom Glynn, the Raiders men’s basketball team posted 15 victories and the program’s first home playoff win since 2008. Devin Owens ’24 averaged 16.9 points per game for the Raiders,

earning Third Team All-GNAC honors while helping the team make its first conference quarterfinals appearance in a decade.

Lyric Grumblatt ’24 secured GNAC Women’s Basketball Player of the Year honors for the second time in 2023-24, averaging 25.2 points per game to rank fourth nationally. Leading the Raiders to their third consecutive postseason, Grumblatt was one of just 20 studentathletes nationwide chosen to participate in the prestigious Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Division III Senior All-Star Game, held in Atlanta, Georgia, in March.

Raiders to host summer camps The University is once again hosting youth summer sports camps for children aged 7-15. Camps include baseball, basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and softball, with an all-sport option in late July. Campers will improve their skills in a fun environment, with prizes and daily lunch at Rivier’s dining center provided. Register today at rivier.edu/camps.

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Hinkley recorded at least 40 saves in four of her 10 games on the season, including a season-high 57 stops on the road against Worcester State.

She helped the women’s ice hockey program at Rivier qualify for the Eastern Collegiate Hockey Alliance’s championship game for the first time in the team’s three-season history.

Molly Dukesherer ’26, a First Team AllECHA pick, helped the defensive effort in front of Hinkley and contributed nine points with seven goals and two assists.

The Raiders finished the season with a winning record (12-11-3) and will join four other institutions in 2024-25 in the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC)—the nation’s newest women’s ice hockey league is set to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey Championship in 2027-28.

Rivier student-athletes excel in the classroom

Rivier to host 27th annual Golf Classic Fundraiser The 27th annual Golf Classic Fundraiser will be held on Monday, September 23, at the Nashua Country Club. The signature fundraising event includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, contests, raffles, and an outdoor reception at the exclusive, private course adjacent to the Rivier campus.

Through the generosity of the many corporate sponsors, alumni, parents,

and friends who attend and support the tournament each year, studentathletes across all 15 NCAA Division III sports teams have the opportunity to excel.

Nearly $100,000 was raised to support the Raiders’ athletic and fitness programs in the past two years alone.

To register for 2024, visit rivier.edu/ golfclassic.

Student-athletes from the University’s 15 sports teams showcased academic prowess this past semester, posting a 3.34 combined grade-point average in the fall. Men’s ice hockey led the way with a 3.55 team grade-point average while the cross country programs posted a 3.52 GPA. Women’s soccer (3.51), men’s basketball (3.50), and field hockey (3.49) rounded out the top five.

Notably, 33 student-athletes achieved a flawless 4.0 grade-point average for the semester. Additionally, several fall sport student-athletes were named to Academic All-District teams for their combined performances on the playing surface and in the classroom.

First Team All-Conference performers boost spring sports teams The Rivier men’s lacrosse program earned a spot in the GNAC Semifinals in 2024, finishing with 11 victories to reach double-digits in wins for the third consecutive season. Michael Ference ’24 notched a team-leading 78 points on 40 goals and 38 assists and Coby Mercier ’24 was third on the team, posting 63 points via 33 goals and 30 assists­—both earned First Team All-Conference recognition from the GNAC. The Raiders men’s volleyball team made it back to the GNAC title game for the first time since 2019, falling to nationally-ranked Wentworth in straight sets. Rivier finished with 19

wins on the year, fueled by an 11-4 record against conference opponents.

Chris Lezon ’24 earned First Team All-GNAC honors after ranking third in the conference with a .347 attacking percentage and contributing .81 blocks per set, the fourth-highest figure in the league.

Luis Colon ’25 of the Rivier baseball team established a new program

record for doubles en route to First Team All-Conference honors. Playing in 30 games, Colon recorded 44 hits and four home runs, driving in 32 runs with the help of a record 15 doubles in a season. Batting .404 on the season, he averaged one double every two contests, ranking ninth in NCAA Division III in doubles per game.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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Alumni Spotlight

Hamid Habibi ’15G Manager of Conversational Artificial Intelligence at Deloitte in New York City

DRIVING BUSINESS SUCCESS THROUGH AI INNOVATION Hamid Habibi ’15G is the Manager of Conversational Artificial Intelligence at Deloitte, one of the world’s largest providers of audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax services. Hamid spearheads projects in generative and conversational AI and leads teams to deliver innovative AI solutions for the company’s clients. His work with Conversational AI involves using voice or text to understand questions and requests, creating new content, and then providing a response that sounds natural and engaging, like a chat with a friend or colleague.

He believes the potential for AI is vast. “I see AI weaving deeper into the fabric of our lives. We’ll collaborate to create remarkable art, tailor personalized experiences from education to healthcare, and perhaps even tackle some of humanity’s greatest challenges.”

Education: Computer Engineering, Azad University of Zanjan; M.S. Computer Science, Rivier University

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ClassNotes

1970s

Cherene (Fortin) Boyer ’72/’95G has been enjoying retirement. In her free time, she can be found swimming, exercising, camping, being outdoors and meeting new people. She is spending her winters in Florida and summers in Maine. She has six grandchildren ranging in ages from eight to 25.

Allison Gagne ’05 has returned to her alma mater as the Director for Residence Life and Housing. She previously held positions at Merrimack College, Springfield College and Westfield State University. Allison is an active volunteer serving on Rivier’s Alumni Council.

Elise Loiselle ’08 is the founder and CEO of Ellevate Med Spa. She is expanding her practice into a new location in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, where she will have a holistic beauty and wellness center offering medical aesthetics services, traditional spa services and holistic wellness services.

This space will also be home to Ellevate Academy of Aesthetics, offering trainings to healthcare providers.

1980s

Margaret Eileen Moran ’85 married Richard McNeil. They celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary in September.

1990s

Christine Grazio ’93 moved to Traveler’s Rest, South Carolina, in October.

She enjoys exploring and hiking in the northern part of the state, especially running or walking on the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Christine is happy that her move has brought her closer to her parents.

Carie (Austin) Tarte ’94 has started a new position as a Senior Risk Analyst with the University of Vermont. She works to identify risks in University activities ranging from selecting vendors for University contracts to approving student events on and off campus. She works with various campus partners to mitigate, prevent, or reduce the risks identified. She is looking forward to celebrating her 30th reunion with classmates this fall.

2000s

Steve Lebel ’03 was selected as a 2023 Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) Emerging Leader. The Emerging Leaders program equips educators with the skills and knowledge to take on future leadership roles.

Kelly Gardner ’04/’06G has started a new position with Massachusetts General Hospital as a Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine attendant. She also sees patients at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in New Hampshire.

2010s

Gregory Cook ’18/’20G has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital. With more than 30 years of operations and financial management, he will bring his strong leadership, communication, and clinical experience to the hospital.

2020s

Lali Chand Guduru ’23G has joined Tech Talent Connect, LLC as a .NET Developer. This role involves a broad range of responsibilities from building server-side applications and APIs to creating dynamic and interactive user interfaces on the front end. His proficiency in various technologies allows him to work on diverse projects and contribute to different aspects of the development life cycle.

Srikanth Odeti ’23G began a new position with 3S Business Corporation as a Jr. SAP Consultant. He credits the skills and knowledge he acquired at Rivier for shaping his career and shared that the problem-solving and critical thinking skills in particular set him apart in his field.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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ClassNotes

Weddings

Kimberly Chapin ’13 and Jim Amato September 9, 2023

Meghan Zamperini ’20 and Aaron Cervone October 27, 2023

Chrisanta Chandra ’19 and Efras Soputan September 21, 2023

Samantha Mulvey ’18 and David Cusack ’15 October 28, 2023

Kendall Liggett ’20 and Jay Gallipo October 21, 2023

Kayla Bowker ’07/’14G and Joe Cruciani April 27, 2024

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ClassNotes

Births

Mikaela (Aherrera) Marison ’20 and her husband Matthew welcomed their son Harlow on November 23, 2022.

Christina (Dick) Keefe ’16 and her husband Matthew welcomed their son Callahan on August 24, 2023.

Corey Harrigan ’15 and his wife Mary (Donovan) Harrigan ’15 welcomed their son Mateo Ryan on November 22, 2023.

Kayla Douidi ’21 and her husband Dahniel Rogers ’19 welcomed their son Hayden on January 22, 2024.

RIVIER TODAY / SPRING 2024

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ClassNotes

In Memoriam

Susan Kanak ’82G November 2, 2023

Camilla M. (Baribo Rodrigues) Tierney ’72 January 14, 2024

Elizabeth F. Deysher ’88G November 6, 2023

Kami C. (Buntin) Crawford ’00 February 3, 2024

Claire L. (Beaupre) Leveille ’60 November 7, 2023

Jeanne L. Levesque ’73 February 7, 2024

Maureen (Knox) Buchanan ’69 November 21, 2023

Star L. Rizos ’86G February 11, 2024

Jacqueline (Dupuis) Catello ’69 November 28, 2023

Robert Beaudette ’71G February 18, 2024

Kristen J. (Pratt) Ward ’19 December 2023

James E. Tebbetts ’88G February 22, 2024

Jane M. (McCann) Walsh ‘67 December 2, 2023

Arthur E. Furtado ’83G February 24, 2024

Heidi L. (Letourneau) Proctor ’92 December 6, 2023

Laurentina M. de Melo ’03 March 2, 2024

William J. Mealey ’90G December 11, 2023

William H. Manley ’64G March 9, 2024

Constance M. (Svderski) Francoeur ’62 December 14, 2023

Judith (Mahone) Desrochers ’66 March 11, 2024

Sister Pauline Leblanc, pm ’67 December 17, 2023

June C. (Craig) Robie ’59 March 24, 2024

Patricia A. Francis ’01G December 18, 2023

Sister Muriel A. Pelletier, pm ’69 March 30, 2024

Claudette E. Boisjoly ’78G December 22, 2023 Dexter R. Durant, Jr. ’78G December 23, 2023 Stanley M. Yanis, Jr. ’79 December 23, 2023 Marie Panageotopoulos ’87G December 29, 2023 Maria C. Bola-Ferriero ’96G December 30, 2023 Judith A. Kelleher ’96G January 7, 2024 Thomas E. Mierzwinski ’80 January 8, 2024

Submit your ClassNotes and sign up for our e-newsletter online at:

rivier.edu/alumniupdate

The University reserves the right to edit for content, accuracy, and length and cannot guarantee that all items received will appear in the magazine. Publication of an item does not constitute endorsement by Rivier University.

Rivier’s community has given me a profound sense of belonging. From the classrooms to the lacrosse field, I have found dedicated faculty and staff who are preparing me with the skills and confidence to succeed in my life and career.

My name is Sam, and this is my Riv. A gift to the Rivier University Fund has a direct impact on our students’ experience. Your support helps students like Sam reach their goals and enter the workforce with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Support the Rivier University Fund Scan the QR code, or visit rivier.edu/giveonline.

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ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND

September 27-29, 2024

Remember. Relive. Reunite.

Let’s celebrate! Join us for a fun fall weekend to reconnect with friends and reminisce on your days at Rivier. Rediscover what makes Rivier so special as we honor anniversary classes ending in 4s and 9s.

1949 1954 1959 1964 1969 1974 1979 1984 1989 1994 1999 2004 2009 2014 2019

Registration opens July 1!

RIVIER.EDU/REUNION

NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT #575 MANCHESTER, NH

420 South Main Street Nashua, NH 03060-5086

EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF NURSES A historic $2 million grant from the Bedford Falls Foundation will launch the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship at Rivier University.

This transformative grant will increase enrollment of full-time undergraduate students over the next five years and support the region’s workforce needs.