Issuu

RIVIER TODAY THE MAGAZINE OF RIVIER UNIVERSITY | FALL 2021

Making History

The University community celebrated the launch of men’s and women’s ice hockey this fall.

Features

PUCK DROP

WELCOMING ALUMNI HOME

SCIENTIFIC ADVANCES

Celebrating graduation anniversaries, lifelong friends, and many happy memories.

Students and faculty-mentors conduct original research in Rivier’s Science and Innovation Center.

Making history … Raiders Ice Hockey officially launched this fall.

RIVIER TODAY

The magazine of Rivier University

President Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM Vice President for University Advancement Karen Cooper ’03G

Director of Marketing and Communications Sky Croswell ’98 • Senior Graphic Designer Andrea Leary

Senior Writer Michelle Marrone • Content Coordinator Samantha Stamas • Photographers Jodie Andruskevich, Ed Collier, Nathan Cox

Rivier Today is published by the Office of Marketing and Communications, Rivier University, 420 South Main Street, Nashua, NH 03060

Fall 2021

In this Issue Departments 01 Hearts & Minds 03 Newsworthy 19 Making a Difference 21 Social Circles 23 Alumni Spotlight 24 Class Notes 28 University Events 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 • Student Financial Services (603) 897-8510

HEARTS & MINDS SERVING THE WORLD

Message from the President Dear Friends of Rivier, This issue of Rivier Today shows quite dramatically that the University is on the move. The cover highlights the inaugural year of men’s and women’s ice hockey—one of the fastest sports on earth. Raiders took the ice to a packed crowd at Conway Arena, and we were able to raise the roof. This issue also highlights long-standing, nationally acclaimed men’s and women’s volleyball coach, Craig Kolek, as he has now exceeded 1,000 career wins and was named GNAC Coach of the Year. The University celebrates significant grant funding supporting STEM research awarded in the first year of the opening of the Science and Innovation Center and a $1.8 million federal grant to expand educational opportunities for behavioral health professionals. The Davis Educational Foundation has recognized excellent faculty leadership and is providing additional support for educational technology that will strengthen online learning and retention. Rivier alumni and friends renewed old friendships and strengthened memories of past years during Alumni Reunion Weekend and the Golf Classic Fundraiser. A feature on the Office of Campus Ministry highlights the University’s mission and campus engagement and reflects Blessed Anne Marie Rivier’s own words, “Your charity should shine forth in all your words and deeds: it should be the motivating force behind all you do.” As we anticipate the Christmas season and look forward to 2022, may the blessings of family and good health be yours. Thank you for your support of our students and our mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world. Sincerely,

Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM President 1

Remembering Rivier Chaplain Brother Paul Demers In recognition of the second anniversary of his passing, the Brother Paul Demers Memorial Scholarship was awarded this fall to two Rivier students. Created by his dear friend Dr. Ann McGreevy and devoted cousin Mrs. Claire Bilodeau in memory of his life and 30 years of faithful service to the Rivier University community, the scholarship serves as a tribute to his enduring friendships, commitment to service, and lifelong love of teaching and learning. This year’s recipients, Sara Court ’23 (pictured above, right) and Derek Labbe ’23, share Brother Paul’s love of learning and commitment to mission. As an elementary education major, Sarah student-teaches at the middle school level in Nashua and Derry and also works with children at a 21st-century afterschool program in Manchester, where she collaborates to foster an environment that supports their socialemotional learning. A nursing major and Global Honors Scholar, Derek aspires to work in the field of psychiatric nursing and to advocate for the mental health field and the important role of nursing. As an 11-year Scout, service has always been an important part of his life. He has worked with Nashua PAL to host a book drive for infants to high school students and conducted a service project to help the homeless youth population in the Nashua community by increasing access to services and shelters.

Share Your Story How do you live the Rivier mission? Do you work or volunteer for an organization that’s making a difference? Send your story to us via email at alumni@rivier.edu so that we might share it with the Rivier community and encourage others to “shine forth.”

Rivier community lives the mission In-person service this fall has highlighted the University’s unwavering focus on mission and Rivier’s role within the Greater Nashua community. From First-Year Students’ Day of Service to city- and campus-wide events, answering the call for hearts and minds to serve the world and the question ‘Who is my neighbor?’ has held center stage. As many alumni surely remember, First-Year Students’ Day of Service introduces freshmen to our local nonprofit partners in the Greater Nashua area. Longstanding relationships with Nashua PAL, the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter, Boys & Girls Club,

The PLUS Company, and many more organizations provide opportunities for new students to meet their neighbors and provide service to those in need. In addition to hours of deep cleaning inside and fall clean-up outside the organizations’ facilities, this year students worked on bunk beds for the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter’s new homeless shelter and painting at the Corpus Christi Food Pantry. They served breakfast to families and the elderly, and they built new garden beds at the Gateway City Community Garden. Students volunteer each month at the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter

to prepare and serve meals. New this year, Campus Ministry connected a team of students, staff, faculty, and alumni with the Greater Nashua CROP Hunger Walk to raise awareness and funds to end hunger. Our annual Thanksgiving Basket Project and December Toy Drive continue to engage the campus community and alumni, reminding all that “it is in giving that we receive.”

Your charity should shine forth in all your words and deeds; it should be the motivating force behind all you do. –Blessed Anne Marie Rivier

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

NEWSWORTHY News from campus and the world beyond

24th annual Golf Classic Fundraiser drives student-athlete success

This year’s sold-out Golf Classic Fundraiser welcomed 144 players, including a record number of alumni, to Nashua Country Club in September. Presenting Sponsor All Metal Industries, Premier Sponsor People’s United Bank, and many dedicated sponsors and golfers gathered to make a difference. The event raised more than $55,000 for Raiders’ athletic and fitness programs, directly benefitting Rivier student-athletes. Players enjoyed a great day of golf, contests, raffles, and an outdoor reception at the exclusive, private course adjacent to Rivier’s campus. “The continued generosity of our sponsors, friends, and the Greater 3

Nashua community continues to make our annual tournament one of the region’s premier events,” says Karen Cooper ’03G, Vice President for University Advancement. “This generosity shows our student-athletes that they have the support of an outstanding community that respects their effort and determination, which drives their success.”

Sylvia Trottier Hall transformation takes shape

A $1 million gift from a visionary University benefactor launched the transformation of Sylvia Trottier Hall during the summer of 2021. Project Excel and Project Elevate are focused

Architectural renderings of a nursing classroom/lab and the Cybersecurity Lab by Derck & Edson Associates.

3 on providing nursing, business, and security studies students with state-ofthe-art technology that will prepare them for a 21st-century workforce. The 30,000-square-foot renovation will take place in two phases. Phase One includes the build out of Project Excel’s Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center, featuring six new simulation labs and assessment areas, two classrooms, a lecture hall, and a suite of offices and collaboration spaces. The new simulation labs will mirror patient-care settings and allow students to practice patient care scenarios under the direction of faculty. Dr. Paula Williams, Dean of the Division of Nursing and Health Professions, believes the impact that this new Center will have is on the ability of students to enter an environment in which they can truly “think like a nurse.” Project Elevate, which launches in spring 2022, will create new and expanded spaces for the Division of Business and Security Studies. The new space will showcase an

Enterprise Zone for collaboration and innovation, a high-tech Cybersecurity Lab, and a conference room within a real-world office environment, as well as an information technology support center. Director of the Cybersecurity Management program, Russell Norris, looks forward to a cybersecurity lab which mirrors a security operations center (SOC) and where students will work to detect and neutralize cyber threats. Project Excel and Project Elevate renovations will be complete in summer 2022 and will reinforce Rivier’s commitment to transformative learning spaces that provide faculty and students with the tools to focus on creative problem-solving skills and high-impact experiential learning. “The transformation of the learning spaces in Sylvia Trottier Hall promises to substantially enrich the student experience,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM. “Projects Excel and Elevate give testimony to Rivier’s motto, Altiora et Meliora—Higher and Better.”

$1.8M HRSA grant advances workforce education

The U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) has awarded the University a $1,874,606 grant to fund behavioral health workforce education and training through a newly created PIPEline Project (Professional, Interdisciplinary, Psychiatric, Education). The project aims to expand the pipeline of certified behavioral health workers in New Hampshire with a special call to recruit professionals who will practice in rural areas. It will focus on enhancing the education and graduation of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners and behavioral health psychologists to meet the growing need in New Hampshire. Project goals are twofold: to increase student enrollment by 20% over four years in Rivier’s MSN: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Psychology in Counseling and School Psychology programs, and to enroll a diverse population of students to serve high-need populations in high-demand areas. Grant provisions include $10,000$25,000 stipends for PIPEline students during their final practicum semester.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

4 5

NEWSWORTHY

Rivier welcomes largest undergraduate class in eight years

The University welcomed the Class of 2025 this fall, the largest, full-time undergraduate class in the past eight years. Engaged and recruited in the midst of pandemic challenges, the Class of 2025’s story is one of resilience. New students shared how supportive Rivier was in their college search, when many institutions had suspended in-person campus visits. They expressed that being able to take an on-campus tour at Rivier made a great difference. Our Admissions team and everyone at the University extended themselves to achieve this record enrollment,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. 5

Davis Educational Foundation Grant enhances student success

When the COVID-19 pandemic required educators and students to pivot to online learning almost overnight, Rivier’s academic community responded to the challenge. Faculty transitioned their face-to-face courses to online and supported students during an unprecedented time. Recognized for the use of technology and plans for the future, the University has been awarded a three-year, $233,749 Davis Educational Foundation Grant to continue to enhance student engagement and success through the use of educational technology. “While Rivier has long employed a web-based platform to facilitate in-class and online learning, in spring 2020 our professors quickly transitioned from in-person classes to online classes incorporating new audio, video, and collaboration tools to elevate the Rivier student experience,” shares Dr. Brian Ernsting, Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Pollard ’22 and Sofia Pawlusik ’24 were named 2021 GNAC Women’s Volleyball Player and Libero of the Year, respectively. On October 20, the Women’s team claimed victory amid fierce competition from the Johnson & Wales University Wildcats. This match marked Coach Kolek’s 1,000th Men’s and Women’s Volleyball career win. The milestone win follows his 2017 achievement as the only coach in volleyball history at all levels (D1, D2, D3) to reach 400 wins coaching women and 400 wins coaching men. Given his success, it’s no surprise that Kolek was named GNAC 2021 Coach of the Year for the sixth time in his career, in addition to his 2011 induction into the North Eastern Collegiate Volleyball Association Hall of Fame as a coach. This year he celebrated his 23rd season coaching men’s volleyball at Rivier and his 22nd season leading the women’s team. During his tenure, Rivier Men’s and Women’s Volleyball teams have won a combined 22 championships.

5 Craig Kolek brings home 1,000 career wins and GNAC Coach of the Year Award

The grant will fund a multi-year project, Teaching, Technology, and Student Engagement. The project’s main goal is to improve student engagement via the effective use of educational technology, which studies have shown increases persistence, graduation rates, and overall student success. Digital tools will focus on cultivating student connections with faculty, peers, and advisors.

Rivier University Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Head Coach and Associate Director of Athletics Craig Kolek has had a great year—not a good year, but a great year.

In addition to investments in hardware and software for technology-enhanced classrooms, the grant supports training for faculty and academic advisors in the effective use of these resources.

The Women’s Volleyball team had a perfect, 13-0 regular season and advanced to the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Finals. Based on their exceptional performances, Kolek’s players Avery

“My success is from the hard work of the student-athletes,” says Coach Kolek. “They are the ones who spend countless hours in the gym and the weight room working on their game to make Rivier a program to be proud of.” This is a top-down work ethic, shared between coach and players. Having worked together for more than 20 years, Director of Athletics Joanne Merrill offers unique insight on Kolek’s leadership. She shares, “Craig’s success comes from all things inside him—his love and knowledge of the sport, his desire to help all of his players achieve their maximum potential, and finally his character and all he hopes to teach his team not only about volleyball, but about life.” RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

Puck drop

History has been made! Raiders Ice Hockey programs officially launched this fall. BY MICHELLE MARRONE Scores of Raiders fans filled Conway Arena in October to be a part of Rivier history—the launch and season openers for Raiders Ice Hockey. “The inaugural games provided another defining moment for Rivier,” shares Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “We celebrated the launch of two NCAA Division III hockey teams and demonstrated the University’s exceptional commitment to student engagement and athletic achievement.” Building the men’s and women’s ice hockey programs over the past year was a campus-wide effort. From the development of the program to the recruitment of coaches and student-athletes—the University community came together to achieve this pivotal moment in Rivier Athletics. “October 29 was a momentous day to be a Raider,” says Joanne Merrill, Director of Athletics. “The vision, dedication, and preparation that made this launch a reality speaks directly to the University’s belief that teamwork and athletic competition greatly enhance the Rivier student experience.” The University’s Vision 2020 strategic plan was fundamental to the addition of ice hockey to the Raiders Athletics roster. The University’s vision of the future featured a renewed commitment to athletics with the expansion of campus facilities including the construction of Linda Robinson Pavilion, the build-out of a softball venue, and the naming of Joanne Merrill Field. These enhancements were complemented by the opening of the Science and Innovation Center and introduction of new, in-demand degree programs in Sport Management, Health Science, and Cybersecurity Management. 7

The Season Ahead Root for your Raiders at home games in Nashua or on the road. You can view Raiders’ team schedules at www.rivierathletics.com.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

A Vision of Excellence

Game Day Replay The University celebrated each team’s inaugural game with a ceremonial puck drop at center ice led by Boston Bruins’ legend Rick Middleton, Chair of Rivier’s Board of Trustees Brad Kreick, a former Division I college hockey player for Brown University, and Sister Paula. An underdog coming into their first match, the Raiders women’s team played hard but ultimately fell to the Castleton Spartans. Raiders’ goalie Madelyn Morgan of Riverside, CA, had a strong debut with 53 saves. The men’s team trailed the veteran SNHU Penmen 4-1, but the Raiders held strong and rallied to score four consecutive goals to bring home a victory to a standing crowd at Conway Arena.

Celebrating, Raiders’ Style The University hosted a launch party celebration outside the arena between the women’s and men’s inaugural games. Alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends gathered for a barbecue and received commemorative ice hockey pucks. Parents traveled from across the country to support their student-athletes’ first game as Raiders. Jay Newell, father of men’s goalie Luke Newell ’25, made the trip from Colorado. “I was blown away,” says Newell. “When I arrived, the parking lot was packed. There were people everywhere— music, tents, the Raiders mascot, t-shirts, food—tons of fun. The school put so much time and effort into getting the community to come out for the players. It was a great way to start the program!” 9

Women’s Coach Chris Czarnota and Men’s Coach Matt Keating both embrace the Athletics Departments’ goal of achieving excellence on and off the ice. Both coaches agree team culture will play a major role in achieving success. “My vision for the women's hockey program is to create a team culture that revolves around selflessness, respect, and empowerment,” says Czarnota. “The best part of starting this program is having a blank slate and getting to work as a group to achieve our desired team culture.” A positive team culture and sportsmanship complement a strong competitive spirit. "Our opponents can expect to play a team that is relentless, disciplined, mentally tough, and won’t give them an inch,” shares Keating. “But it’s not about wins and losses. It’s about giving the team an amazing experience, helping them develop as young men, being active in the community, earning respect on the ice, and recruiting athletes that love playing hockey and want to be at Rivier. If we do this, the program will have success.” Raiders Athletics’ philosophy is that academics come first. Coaches take an active role in helping studentathletes balance the challenges of academic life with the demands of athletic competition. With this knowledge, Czarnota and Keating are recruiting players that will thrive in this environment. “I am looking for players to be leaders,” Keating stresses. “Doing the right thing, creating good habits, helping teammates and other students create good habits, and getting it done in school. Hockey will take care it itself; we need to establish ourselves as leaders in the community first.” “I am looking for student-athletes that want to be a part of something special,” says Czarnota. “Being new, our program is accompanied by a high ceiling of opportunity for players. Rivier is a special place, and the addition of men’s and women's ice hockey is only creating a more extraordinary university experience for our student-athletes.”

BEHIND THE BENCH Head coaches Czarnota and Keating lead Riv Nation’s ice hockey teams in the fearless pursuit of excellence.

Chris Czarnota

Matt Keating

Head Coach Women’s Ice Hockey

Head Coach Men’s Ice Hockey

Coach Czarnota hit the ice at age 8 as a forward and transitioned to goalie at age 12. Rising through hockey ranks, Czarnota was recruited out of high school by the Norwich University Cadets. He began his professional coaching career upon graduation.

Coach Keating began playing hockey at age 8 and continued to become a Division I ice hockey and baseball player at Northeastern University. Prior to his pursuing his coaching career, he was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the June 2000 Major League Baseball free agent draft and played minor league baseball for five years.

College Team: Norwich University / Northfield, VT

College Team: Northeastern University / Boston, MA

Position: Goaltender

Position:

Honors: One of the most accomplished goaltenders in Norwich history, ranking third all-time with 10 career shutouts.

Honors: Numerous honors and awards including All Star recognition and Most Valuable Player.

Starting Forward

COACHING EXPERIENCE

COACHING EXPERIENCE YEAR 1

TEAM

LEAGUE

ROLE ON TEAM

YEAR 1

TEAM

LEAGUE

ROLE ON TEAM

2015-16

Tufts University

NCAA III (M)

Goaltending Coach

2010-11

Bentley University

NCAA I (M)

Assistant Coach

2016-17

Tufts University

NCAA III (M)

Goaltending Coach

2013-18

Tufts University

NCAA III (M)

Assistant Coach

2017-21

Norwich University

NCAA III (M, W)

Assistant Coach

2018-21

Babson College

NCAA III (M)

Assistant Coach

2021-

Rivier University

NCAA III (W)

Head Coach

2021-

Rivier University

NCAA III (M)

Head Coach

Czarnota has held NCAA Division III assistant coach positions for men’s ice hockey at Tufts University (NESCAC) and Norwich University (NEHC). In the past three years, he helped lead the Norwich Cadets to two league regular season titles with both championship teams advancing to the NCAA tournament. He served as goaltending coach for both the men’s and women’s ice hockey teams at Norwich. In 2019, Czarnota also coached at the USA Hockey Select U15 Development Camp in New York. Czarnota has a record of developing talent. He mentored the 2019-2020 Sid Watson Award, Division III National Player of the Year winner, who went on to set five NCAA Division III goalie records. He also mentored two NEHC Goalie of the Year selections.

Keating brings more than ten years’ experience in coaching and player development to the program. He joined Rivier after serving as the NCAA Division III top Assistant Coach and Recruitment Coordinator for men’s ice hockey at Babson College (NEHC) and Tufts University (NESCAC). He helped lead Babson College to a third-place finish in the conference standings during his first season with the program in 2018-19. The following year a second-place finish in the NEHC brought Babson to the NCAA Tournament, and the team finished its 2021 campaign at 8-0 with top Division III rankings—#1 in scoring offense, #1 in scoring defense, #4 in power play percentage, and #5 in penalty kills. In addition to coaching, Keating served as a scout for the Madison Capitols (USHL). RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

alumni

WELCOMING

HOME

The University welcomed two years of Reunion Classes back to campus for a festive Alumni Reunion Weekend celebration in September.

For some, it was the first time back to campus in decades and an opportunity to tour a campus with vibrant new landscapes and state-of-the-art facilities including the new Science and Innovation Center, Heritage Plaza, Linda Robinson Pavilion, and Joanne Merrill Field. Alumni came from near and far to remember cherished friendships, relive precious memories, and reunite with each other and their alma mater. On Saturday afternoon, alumni joined together with hundreds of students and families for the Fall Fest Cookout on the Chapel Quad and in the Sharon

McOsker Tamposi Alumni Legacy Garden. They enjoyed a barbecue lunch while socializing at the beer garden, participating in games and activities, and more. Reunion Class alumni attended the Alumni Awards Luncheon in recognition of their milestone anniversaries and joined the celebration as the Classes of 1970 and 1971 were inducted into the Golden Society in honor of their milestone 50th Reunion. A spirited group participated in the sold-out sign making and wine tasting event and enjoyed making a custom decorative

sign while spending an afternoon filled with good friends and conversation. On Saturday evening, alumni gathered on the Dion Center patio for a traditional New England lobster bake and a dueling pianos show featuring hits from a variety of decades. The weekend concluded on Sunday with the annual Reunion Mass in Resurrection Chapel followed by a champagne brunch and time to connect with the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, a longtime Reunion Weekend tradition.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

Honoring a lifetime of achievement

Kathleen Sughrue Conole (left) and Cheryl Cummings (right) received their Sister of Madeleine of Jesus Award citations from Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President, at the Alumni Awards Luncheon.

Rivier honored Kathleen Sughrue Conole and Cheryl Cummings, members of the Class of 1970, with the prestigious Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award in recognition of their exceptional leadership and service to the field of education. The award is bestowed on Rivier alumni who have distinguished themselves, in the spirit of the University’s mission, through outstanding service and contributions to their communities, their professions, and their alma mater.

Celebrating our Golden Graduates Members of the Classes of 1970 and 1971 were inducted into the Rivier University Golden Society in honor of their milestone 50th Reunion and received their commemorative pins. The University was privileged to recognize the continued dedication of these alumni fifty years after their graduation. Class of 1970 Kathleen Sughrue Conole and Cheryl Cummings (pictured above). Class of 1971

 Pictured front row: Sister Claire Provost, pm and Barbara-Ann Czaja Lisien-Juliano; Back row: Diane Marcelais King, Kathleen Kelley Lynch, Linda Picceri, and Helene Laliberte Bickford.

Members of the Class of 1966 traveled from as far as California to come together for their 55th Reunion celebration. Pictured front row: Madeleine Brault LaRose, Sister Lucille Thibodeau, pm, and Courtney Hall; Back row: Irene Goulet Leader, Denise LaMontagne Winston (Class Representative), Jane Mackey Rioux, Ann Romanowsky, and Jane Lynch Romanowsky.



Class of 2020

Class of 2021

Celebrating our newest graduates Recognizing that the Classes of 2020 and 2021 missed many special moments due to the pandemic during their senior years, the Student Government Association sponsored several events for them during the weekend. Sister Paula led a champagne toast in their honor in the Sharon McOsker Tamposi Alumni Legacy Garden, followed by a recognition dinner at the DoubleTree in Nashua on Saturday evening. Awards were presented and the collective achievement of the Classes of 2020 and 2021 were celebrated. Spirit Awards were presented to Danny Sciolaro ’20, Julie Williams ’21, Angela Tafone ’21, Cecilia Souza ’21,

Kelsey Fisher ’21, and Ian Wade ’21 received Special Recognition Awards. The REACH Award was presented to Emily Gorman ’21 in recognition of her embodiment of the values of respect, engagement, accountability, compassion, and honesty. The Dr. Jamison Gilder Hoff Medal is presented each year to a student who, like the former Chair of the Board of Trustees, leaves Rivier with a lasting legacy of leadership and service. Savannah Montgomery ’21 and Hope Cataldo ’20 were honored as recipients for their dedicated leadership and service and many impactful contributions to the Rivier community.

Class of 2020 and 2021 award recipients are pictured above. Front row: Kelsey Fisher and Hope Cataldo; Back row: Savannah Montgomery, Cecilia Souza, Julie Williams, Emily Gorman, Daniel Sciolaro, Angela Tafone, and Ian Wade.

Thank you for your Reunion Class gifts!

Gifts to the Rivier University Fund in honor of your milestone Reunion help make the Rivier experience as meaningful for today’s students as it was for you. Thank you to all those who made a Reunion Class gift this year! To make a gift today, visit www.rivier.edu/giveonline.

Save the Date Alumni Reunion Weekend 2022! September 24-25, 2022 Make plans to join us as we celebrate milestone anniversaries for the Reunion Classes of 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

Scientific Advances Rivier joins a prestigious biomedical research collaboration and enhances faculty-mentored research. Rivier’s commitment to innovation in the sciences has expanded opportunities for the University and for original faculty-student research. Rivier became the newest member of the state’s IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (NH-INBRE) this year.

“Rivier’s vision to more deeply engage students in STEM research and innovation is coming to fruition.” – Dr. Brian Ernsting, Vice President for Academic Affairs

NH-BRE is comprised of 11 partner institutions and supports facultystudent original scientific research through grant funding and shared resources among network institutions. NH-INBRE research grants are funded by the National Institutes of Health, the nation’s medical research agency. The Network is led by the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire and is designed to develop a coordinated network of biomedical research and training. More than 200 student-researchers at New Hampshire colleges and universities benefit from NH-INBRE-supported projects annually. NH-INBRE research is “intended to enhance the caliber of scientific faculty at research institutions and undergraduate schools …” and “to augment the science and technology knowledge of the state's workforce.” “Ingenuity, support, and space came together to advance scientific research on campus,” shares Dr. Brian Ernsting, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Our faculty’s expertise supported by NH-INBRE’s resources made possible the research in Rivier’s new Science and Innovation Center. Rivier’s vision to more deeply engage students in STEM research and innovation is coming to fruition.” In spring 2021, three grants were awarded to Rivier professors, who had submitted original research proposals. In addition to technology and supplies, the grants funded paid positions for Rivier student-researchers. With the

support of their faculty-mentors, Biology majors Allison Alton ’22, Aaron LePoer ’24, and Maegan Sheehy ’22 worked full-time in the University’s Science and Innovation Center labs this past summer. “The primary goal of our research is to provide undergraduate Biology students the opportunity to conduct clinically relevant biomedical research working alongside full-time faculty members,” Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Tatiana Jones shared when the grants were awarded. “Being actively involved in these research projects will allow students to develop experimental and analytical skills to advance their academic progress and to expand their career opportunities.” The research projects required the student-researchers to think critically about not only the scientific process of conducting the experiments and developing proper experimental protocol skills, but also interpreting and presenting their results to others. Alton and LePoer attended the Network’s Annual Meeting held in late summer where all NH-INBRE students presented their research and findings. “The Annual Meeting was nerveracking, but a great experience,” shared LePoer, who worked with Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. William Schmidt. “In addition to presenting our work and seeing all the other research projects, we were able to network with present and past NH-INBRE students and to meet representatives from industry

research facilities and businesses.” Alton added, “Working with Dr. Jones helped me develop my skills and gave me greater confidence in my abilities. I plan to pursue a research career, and the entire experience really opened my eyes to the opportunities available to me.” Participation in NH-INBRE expands Rivier’s faculty experience, as well. “My biggest take-away from the songbird project is experiencing the collaborative nature of research. For the scope of this project, several disciplines overlapped requiring biologists and chemists to work together,” says Assistant Professor of Chemistry Dr. Brian Patenaude. “In addition, there was collaboration between two different facilities, Rivier University and Dartmouth College, to collect and analyze the required data.” Rivier’s focus on innovation in the sciences and NH-INBRE membership will continue to create opportunities for faculty and students to pursue original scientific research, to collaborate within the University setting and with other regional research institutions, and to provide leadership and careerpreparation experiences.

The New Hampshire IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (NH-INBRE) grants were received through an Institutional Development Award (IDeA), P20GM103506, from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the NIH.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

NH-INBRE Faculty-Student Research Rivier University professors and students conducted authentic scientific research projects in the University’s Science and Innovation Center labs during the summer of 2021.

Pictured left to right: NH-INBRE researchers Dr. Tatiana Jones and Allison Alton ’22; Aaron LePoer ’24 and Dr. William Schmidt; Dr. Brian Patenaude and Maegan Sheehy ’22. Project Title: Extracellular RNA can Change the Proinflammatory Profile of Cultured Monocyte-Derived Cells

Project Title: Lysine Acetylation of Tropomyosin Impairs Binding to Filamentous Actin

Project Title: The Influence of Elements Associated with Urbanization on Stress and Immune Responses of Song Sparrows

Researchers: Dr. Tatiana Jones, Dr. Brian Patenaude, and Allison Alton ’22

Researchers: Dr. William Schmidt and Aaron LePoer ’24

Researchers: Dr. Michelle Beck, Dr. Brian Patenaude, and Maegan Sheehy ’22

Investigation: The research project explored how extracellular ribonucleic acid (RNA) can influence the activities of macrophages, the white blood cells responsible for primary immune defenses. The goal was to discover how these cells are involved in the responses of the immune system to different pathogens, including viruses. Outcomes: Stimulation of macrophages with self exRNA in these experiments resulted in lower expression by macrophages of one of the most important antigen-presenting molecules along with altered expression of inflammatory signals. Alton is continuing this research as her Senior Research Project to understand how self exRNA can influence the responses of innate immune cells to the different pathogens and the mechanisms of complications related to cells damaged by bacteria or viruses.

Investigation: The project investigated the targeted modification of muscle proteins to identify potential biological mechanisms that could be modulated to alleviate or prevent disease. The goal was to determine if modification of a key muscle protein influences specific molecular interactions that determine muscle function, thus identifying the protein as a potential target for consideration in future drug discovery and design studies. Outcomes: Modification of muscle proteins had a noticeable effect on the ways proteins act, especially related to muscle binding and function. The experiments’ promising results encourage more research to replicate and expand on initial findings.

Investigation: This study examined the concentrations of several essential and non-essential elements along an urbanization gradient (a range of landscapes from urban to rural) and to document any physiological effects associated with element contamination in song sparrows. The project sought to quantify concentrations of essential and non-essential elements in feathers, blood, and soil samples, and then determine if concentrations of these elements are associated with measures of the innate immune response or stress hormone concentrations. Outcomes: Stress and immune responses did not differ between urban and rural habitats. Work continues on the analysis of the element concentrations and their potential effect on birds’ immune responses. Results suggest that corticosterone, a hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that functions in stress and adaptation, modulates immune response, and this relationship should be addressed further.

Reach Stars for the

The Rivier University Alumni Association represents more than 24,000 alumni who are serving local communities, businesses, and organizations with dedication and pride. The University is honored to recognize their achievements in a variety of fields and industries.

Alumni Achievement Awards

The following awards are presented to outstanding alumni who have utilized their Rivier education to make a difference in their profession and have maintained a continued connection with their alma mater. OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD This award recognizes a Rivier graduate working in the field of education who has demonstrated a commitment to teaching excellence and distinguished himself/herself by fostering an exceptional educational environment as a classroom teacher, counselor, administrator, or education advocate.

OUTSTANDING NURSE/HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL AWARD This award celebrates a Rivier graduate working as a nurse or as a healthcare professional who demonstrates a commitment to excellence and service to patients, as well as professional achievement in the healthcare profession.

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL/ COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD Honoring a Rivier graduate who has distinguished himself/ herself as a business or community leader, this award is given to an individual who demonstrates a commitment to ethics in the workplace and to excellence demonstrated by achievement within his/her profession or industry.

OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD This award recognizes a Rivier graduate within the last ten years who has distinguished himself/herself as a young professional within their profession or community.

Submit nominations online at www.rivier.edu/alumniawards by January 31, 2022. Recipients will be recognized in the spring issue of Rivier Today. RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Anna Molettieri and Campus Ministry Club President Vincent Swierk ’23

nna Molettieri is the University’s Director of Campus Ministry. She serves Rivier students by fostering faith, fellowship, and service within and beyond the campus community. 19

ANNA MOLETTIERI

An inspirational campus leader, Anna creates an environment for students to explore and grow in their faith and to work together for justice and peace. BY MICHELLE MARRONE

How would you describe your role as the leader of Campus Ministry? Anna: I see my position fully in the context of Rivier’s mission. Our mission speaks to educating the whole person in all that we do in and out of the classroom as well as a strong emphasis on Catholic social teaching. I work to provide students with opportunities to reflect on their spiritual growth and ways in which we can serve our community and be caring and engaged neighbors. I have the privilege of meeting students where they are on their faith journey and accompanying them on their path during their time at Rivier. How does Campus Ministry support “educating the whole person”? Anna: Through education, reflection, and experience. I teach a course for firstyear students that explores Christianity, Catholicism, and other religious traditions. There are opportunities for worship including a regular Mass schedule, a student-led rosary group, and seasonal prayer opportunities in Advent and Lent. I also connect students of different religious denominations to local area houses of worship. Fellowship events, retreats, and community service all contribute to the student experience.

Do you see a transformation in students as they explore and reflect on questions of faith?

How does Campus Ministry’s community outreach extend students’ worldview?

Anna: For many students, this is their first time to think about their own faith independent of that of their family. College is a time when they can look at what they truly believe and claim faith as their own. I see this coming to life when students reflect on their own vocation. The “four big questions” that guide our core curriculum—Who am I and what is the world? Who is my neighbor? How shall we live? What, then, must we do?—allow students to reflect on where they have been and also begin to draw a map of where they are going.

Anna: Anytime we can enter into someone else’s experience we learn a bit more about what it means to be human. Service opportunities provide our students with a way to step outside their own lives. Many times, this leads to questioning and learning about the underlying causes of poverty and threats to human dignity. It is exciting when students, through their service, uncover a passion toward a cause.

How does Campus Ministry support students’ spiritual growth on campus? Anna: This aspect of my work takes on different forms. At times, I meet with students one-on-one to provide support and guidance. Small group faith sharing connects students with one another to discuss topics of faith. Gathered over a meal, students explore how they see God working in their lives. We also offer opportunities for worship through a daily and Sunday Mass schedule. The students also plan social activities that allow for fellowship.

Local service opportunities include a monthly dinner shift at the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter, toy and food drives, and volunteering at local non-profit agencies. Beyond Greater Nashua, we organize an annual Alternative Spring Break Trip. In 2022, we are traveling to the Romero Center in Camden, New Jersey, to participate in the Urban Challenge Program, which is an inner-city, servicelearning, immersion experience rooted in the Catholic faith tradition. From what do you draw inspiration? Anna: I have a quote pinned up at my desk from St. Ignatius of Loyola that reads, “Let us find God in all things.” I try to center my life and my work on this awareness. Sometimes in the busyness of our lives, we can use a reminder that in the hectic or in the mundane, God is there.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

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

Susan L.J. This is my first week back at college—as I embark on a new life path towards obtaining my Doctorate in Nursing Practice. @Rivier University #Nursing #DNPproud

@greater_nashua_chamber

A big thank you to Nashua PD and the U.S. Secret Service for this very informative seminar. Thank you to Rivier University for hosting us and everyone who attended!

Paul Clark Beautiful day on Monday to help support the Rivier University athletic programs by being a Corporate Sponsor of their soldout 24th Annual Golf Classic. Enjoyed a great day golfing with Joe Mari, Robert Cotter, and David Janeczek. We didn't have the top score, but we weren't at the bottom either! #clarkandlavey #riviergolfclassic #supportnonprofits

Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter, Inc. Thank you to our friends at Rivier University for their University Day of Service! Volunteers disassembled beds and removed hardware from doors in our Spring St. building to be repurposed in the renovations for our new shelter. #community #thankyou

@rivserves

Thank you to @rivierdanceteam for donating water bottles to Nashua PAL and putting on an amazing recital. The kids loved watching you and learning their own little number!

Lisa Reilly Cuoco Family Day at Rivier University! 0-3 loss to tough opponent Johnson and Wales. Our girl did notch a stick save today! Say it isn’t so… she’s a senior! [...]

Nashua Division of Public Health & Community Services It was a great afternoon for our COVID-19 vaccination clinic held at Rivier University! #VaccinateNH #SleeveUpGreaterNashua

@theayamba

Stay Connected

I now have a Master’s Degree. Everything I have is because God gave it to me.

Facebook www.facebook.com/RivierUniversity www.facebook.com/RivierUniversityAlumni

Instagram rivieruniversity rivieralumni

Twitter @RivUniversity @RivierAlumni

@plamondon_jacob I am very excited to announce that at the conclusion of my senior year of high school, I am going to continue my academic and athletic career to play baseball at Rivier University! Thank you to Coach Bernardini and Coach Shanahan for this amazing opportunity! Go Raiders!

www.linkedin.com/school/rivier

@nursingprocess We are happy to announce that @RivUniversity offers 2021's Best ASN program in #NewHampshire. We evaluated 11 nursing schools in the state, and Rivier University scored the highest 96.39% among all in our ranking methodology. Kudos!

See yourself in the next issue! #rivieruniversity #rivieralumni #rivraiders #rivnation #rivworks

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

Alumni Spotlight

Matt Blair ’09/’11G Assistant Athletic Director at Malden Catholic High School

GIVING BACK TO EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY

Matt Blair, Classes of 2009 and 2011, is the Assistant Athletic Director at Malden Catholic in Malden, Massachusetts. He works to further the mission and values of the school: humility, simplicity, compassion, trust, and zeal. In his words, “I am grateful for the academic experiences and leadership opportunities at Rivier that allowed me to come out of my comfort zone and grow as a strong servant leader.” Matt is involved with a variety of different service projects. “I am an active member of Project Blackout Pediatric Cancer. I facilitate local youth and high school multi-sport athletic clinics. And I advise the Student-Athlete Leadership Team (SALT) at Malden Catholic to facilitate student growth as athletic and community leaders.” Education: B.S. Human Development and M.A. School Counseling, Rivier University; Certified Registered Athletic Administrator, National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association

ClassNotes

1960s Barbara (Martone) Eldridge ’65 is celebrating 30 years as Owner and Founder of Mind Masters, a membership organization that provides support and guidance to small business owners as they face challenges in an everchanging marketplace. Barbara is now also offering licensing opportunities that help support growing entrepreneurs and business owners.

Allyson (Krogmann) Jordan ’08 has been named Principal of Creekview Elementary School in The Woodlands, TX. She credits her success as a campus administrator, early learning coach, professional development presenter, and curriculum specialist to the invaluable experience she received during her time at Rivier. Her education provided a solid foundation for understanding how to support all learners and sparked a passion for special education and intervention.

Mary Judith Gedroiz ’67 is excited to announce the birth of her first grandson, Porter Stephen, on August 23, 2021.

Clint Whelan ’09 recently became a Project Manager II at Armanino, LLP, one of the top 25 largest accounting, consulting, and technology firms in the U.S. In this role, he serves as the primary authority figure and business ambassador on client projects. Clint also manages cloud software implementation projects and provides weekly reporting on project economics, project schedule, resourcing, and client satisfaction.

1990s Ivan P. Edwards ’99 is a physician based in San Antonio, TX. He was recently featured on the cover of Top Doctor Magazine. In the article, he spoke on the importance of holistic care and utilizing a comprehensive approach in treating the sick. His approach involves spiritual attentiveness, mindful meditation, diet, exercise, and medication.

2020s

2000s Tracy Hautanen-Kriel ’00G has worked for Evernorth/ Cigna for twelve years and has recently accepted a role in the Express Scripts division. As an Architecture Senior Manager, she leads data design and manages a team of data modelers, mappers, and developers. “I am eternally grateful to Rivier for leading me into an incredibly successful career in data modeling,” Tracy shares. This past summer, she moved to Florida with her family (pictured at left).

Jennifer (Hamilton) Forrest ’20 celebrated with fellow Rivier Class of 2020 alumni at her wedding this past October. From left: Joy Ingram, Desiree Fazio, Olivia Gannon, Katie Casey, Jennifer (Hamilton) Forrest, Brianne Fleury, Danielle Riley, and Jackelyn Robarge.

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

ClassNotes

Weddings

Kayla Doyle ’14/’19G and John Corsetti — September 10, 2021 In attendance (left to right): Kathleen Stravinskas ’18, Deidre Fallon, Kimberly Courtney ’17, Amy DeSimone ’13, Tiffany Fabiano ’14, Nichole Lyons ’14 (back), Nicole Cucinotta ’14, Brittany Bisson (back), John Corsetti, Kayla Doyle ’14/’19, Mercedes McCauley ’14, Samantha Deglaoui, Stephanie Quinlan, Nico Spadorcia (front left), and Jordan Hunt (front right). Shannon Weideman ’19 and Caleb Ward — July 3, 2021

Jennifer Hamilton ’20 and Christopher Forrest — October 22, 2021 25

Kala Boudreau ’12 and Alex Avalos — July 24, 2021

ClassNotes

Births

Caroline M. (Zak) Leahy ’11 and her husband Kevin welcomed their son Jett Kevin on May 2, 2021.

Brittany L. (Bowen) Picard ’13 and her husband Jonathan welcomed their daughter Savannah Jeanne on July 21, 2021.

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.

At Rivier, you are given every resource you need to be successful and to see what life will be like on the other side when you enter the workforce. As a Cybersecurity Management major, I have learned how to help businesses and organizations realize their technology weaknesses and strengthen their security.” – My name is Andrew Turner, and this is my Riv. When you support the Rivier University Fund, you provide Andrew and his classmates with resources that ensure their academic experience is the best it can be. Andrew is gaining hands-on experience working for a cybersecurity contractor and is looking forward to a full-time role after graduation.

Support the Rivier University Fund rivier.edu/giveonline

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

ClassNotes

In Memoriam Paige R. Parkinson ’18 June 9, 2021 Mildred G. Schappals ’69G June 9, 2021 Eugene E. Holley ’88G June 11, 2021 M. Cathy Blackwood ’90 June 24, 2021 Anita Domingue Paradis ’48 June 26, 2021

Ahead of the Curve Alicia Leap Class of 2019

Operations Team Lead January 2021 – Present

From Intern to Director of Customer Service Operations Team February 2020 – January 2021 Lead in three years, Alicia is steadily Revenue Enablement Specialist advancing her December 2018 – February 2020 career at PT United, Intern an organization September 2018 – December 2018 that assists private practice physical therapists in delivering better, faster, and more affordable care. Alicia met PT United’s CEO during her junior year at the Business majors’ Pitch Contest, where he volunteered as a judge. “After getting to meet him and introduce myself, I took a leap of faith and asked him if he had any open internships for fall 2018. He joyfully exclaimed ‘Yes’ and welcomed me with open arms.” The staff at PT United were so impressed with Alicia’s work as an intern, they offered her a full-time position after just a few months and agreed to flexible hours so she could finish her degree. “I breathed a sigh of relief, as I knew I did not have to go through the extensive job search most students do when they graduate. I knew that this was the first step in my career, and I was so excited for it to begin.” Alicia attributes her success to her Rivier education, hard work, acknowledging shortcomings and working to overcome them, and advocating for greater challenges. “Rivier holds a sweet place in my heart, and I cannot say good enough things about the University,” Alicia shares. “I am truly thankful for the people that I have met and the things I have learned along the way that have set me up for success.“ 27

Roberta (Karbowniczak) Violette ’66 June 30, 2021 Ruth Dunigan Dooley ’58 July 2, 2021 Norman V. Carr, Sr. ’80/’84G July 12, 2021 Catherine A. Cray ’03G July 15, 2021 Ann Killelea Pare ’67 July 17, 2021 Julie Mailhot Patterson ’95G August 1, 2021 Michael A. Deschenes ’93G August 5, 2021 Precille M. Grondin Beebe ’64 August 8, 2021 Sister Lorette Soucy, pm ’64/’72G August 25, 2021 Sister Roberta Croteau, pm ’60 September 21, 2021 Sister Elizabeth Ann Tonroe, DC ’69G September 27, 2021 Doris R. Karkota ’74/’79G September 27, 2021 Sharon Ann (Whitehead) Lonnroth ’88 November 5, 2021 Alice Elizabeth (Ells) Splaine ’75 November 5, 2021

Join the Rivier community of lifelong learners Offering in-person and online courses for Spring 2022! The Rivier Institute for Senior Education (RISE) is a vibrant and collaborative learning environment for adults ages 55 and older offering courses in history, literature, writing, music, religion, current events, foreign languages, art, technology, physical fitness, and more. There are no grades, no tests, and no credit! Members thrive in an environment with no pressure and lots of encouragement. Registration for Spring 2022 RISE courses opens in January. Join a class or inquire about facilitating a course.

Visit rivier.edu/rise

TEACHING TRIPS Join faculty, staff, and students on these educational trips.

May 16 – 26, 2022................ Lima, Peru: From Cusco to Machu Picchu December 27, 2022 – ......... Tanzania, Africa: Global Health Acute Care and January 7, 2023 Cultural Immersion

Wishing you a joyous Christmas season! The Rivier community gathered to light the University Christmas tree and usher in the season. View photos of the celebration on Rivier’s Facebook pages.

www.facebook.com/RivierUniversity www.facebook.com/RivierUniversityAlumni

For more information on trips, email globalengagement@rivier.edu

RIVIER TODAY / FALL 2021

NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT #575 MANCHESTER, NH

420 South Main Street, Nashua, N.H. 03060-5086

Thank you! A message of gratitude to our generous and loyal donors

Transformation … made possible by you! When you support Rivier University, you have a direct and lasting impact on students like Avery, Pharaoh, and Linnea, and their many classmates, teammates, and friends. You turn their possibilities—their hopes, dreams, and goals for the future—into reality. For that and so much more, we are grateful to you.

View our 2020-2021 Honor Roll of Donors online at

rivier.edu/thankyou