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90th anniversary display celebrates Rivier’s proud history Transformation begins with you
The University debuted its 90th anniversary display during Alumni Reunion Weekend in September, followed by an additional presentation for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members from October 31–November 4. Located in Regina Library, the display included photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia representing Rivier through the decades.
Staff from the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations and Regina Library selected and curated the historic content, including items from the University Archives and thoughtful donations from Rivier alumni. Collection themes within the display included Rivier’s Heritage, the Canonization of Saint Marie Rivier, Rivier Through the Years, Raiders Athletics, and Our Proud Alumni.
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A message of gratitude to our generous and loyal donors
The University published its 2021-2022 Honor Roll of Donors recognizing the generous and loyal support of benefactors.
Donations to the Rivier University Fund and endowed scholarships have ensured that 100% of Rivier students receive financial assistance, setting them on the path to the personal and professional futures they envision.
Support of capital projects like Sylvia Trottier Hall provides a distinctive educational experience that uniquely prepares students for career success. Investment in service projects, athletics, and special programs creates opportunities for students to collaborate as members of the community and experience firsthand Rivier’s mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world. These are just a few examples of the countless ways alumni, friends, and community members make a difference each year.
“It is with deep gratitude that we recognize each of our University benefactors. Transformation of our students and our community is made possible by you,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President.
View the 2021-2022 Honor Roll of Donors online at rivier.edu/thankyou.
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Ceremony celebrates the reimagining of Sylvia Trottier Hall
The University celebrated the complete renovation of Sylvia Trottier Hall with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in September. Local dignitaries, benefactors, Trustees, and the Rivier campus community attended the event, which unveiled new nursing, business, and information technology spaces.
Sylvia Trottier Hall was reimagined through the creation of modern learning spaces, state-of-the-art nursing simulation resources, and advanced technologies. Renovations to the 30,000-square-foot building began in the summer of 2021. The Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center opened in spring 2022, and students were welcomed into the new Business and Security Studies facilities and the University's Tech Hub this fall. Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM recognized the visionary $1 million donation that launched the Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center as well as leadership gifts from members of the Board of Trustees that supported the Business and Security Studies renovation (see page 13).
Dean of Nursing and Health Professions Dr. Paula Williams and Dean of Business and Security Studies Dr. Amir Toosi spoke on behalf of their divisions. Sister Helene Cote, pm, Provincial Superior of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, offered an invocation and blessing, and City of Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess recognized the University as a valuable community resource while expressing pride in Rivier as the city’s leading educational institution.
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Construction begins on Rivier Village
The University broke ground in September on Rivier Village, an apartment-style residential complex, and the next project in the multi-year campus enhancement plan.
The complex will occupy the city block across from the Science and Innovation Center and Muldoon Fitness Center on South Main Street. Pre-existing structures have been cleared from the block along Oldfield Road to make way for the construction of two residential buildings and ample parking for students.
Construction will be completed by August, and Rivier Village will welcome students for the Fall 2023 semester.
5Rivier welcomes new
Director of Athletics
Jonathan Harper has joined the University as Director of Athletics. He will provide leadership for the Department of Athletics and oversee all aspects of intercollegiate athletics for the University’s 15 NCAA Division III programs. He will work collaboratively to further enhance the student-athlete experience and to develop strategies for the next iteration of athletic competitiveness.
“Rivier is delighted to welcome Jonathan back to the New England region as he now joins the Raiders community,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM.
Harper served most recently as the Director of Athletics at Marymount California University. Prior to this position, he was the Director of Athletics at Newbury College and Assistant Director of Athletics at Fitchburg State University in Massachusetts. Harper was the Commissioner for the Little East Conference and East Coast Conference, as well as Assistant Commissioner for the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (New Haven, CT) and Northeast-10 Conference (South Easton, MA).
In addition to his experience in college athletics, Harper served as an adjunct faculty member at Newbury College and Post University teaching courses in sport management, business management, and communications.
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Raiders Athletics sports a new look
Capturing the momentum of the University’s Division III athletics programs, the Raiders Athletics logos were refreshed this fall. New versions were added, and the colors were updated to bring together the University’s royal blue and the navy blue of athletic team uniforms.
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Memorial scholarship honors Rivier’s 30year chaplain
In recognition of the third anniversary of his passing, the Brother Paul Demers Memorial Scholarship was awarded in November to senior nursing major Olivia Garand. A dedicated member of the Rivier community, Olivia shares Brother Paul’s commitment to mission and service.
Olivia plays on the women’s volleyball team and has served in leadership roles on campus with the Student Athletic Advisory Council, as Vice President of the Student Nurses Association, a Peer Mentor, and Orientation Leader. She has supported the University’s Sharing the Feast fundraising food drive along with other community events including Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. She serves the greater community as an LNA at Catholic Medical Center.
Created by Brother Paul’s dear friend Dr. Ann McGreevy and his cousin Mrs. Claire Bilodeau, the memorial scholarship recognizes his 30 years of faithful service to the Rivier community, his enduring friendships, and lifelong love of teaching and learning.
From left to right: Mrs. Claire Bilodeau, Olivia Garand ’23, Ms. Evelyn Ferris, and Brother Bert Ouellette.
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Golfers tee off for fitness at sold-out 25th annual event
The University’s 25th annual Golf Classic Fundraiser raised more than $45,000 to support the Raiders Athletics program and health and fitness resources. The sold-out tournament took place following Alumni Reunion Weekend in September and was generously supported by corporate sponsors, alumni, parents, and friends.
“We are grateful to our many longterm supporters including Premier Event Sponsor M&T Bank as well as the more than 40 corporate and individual sponsors who dedicate their support to this fundraiser each year,” says Karen Cooper, Vice President for University Advancement. “Their participation and support make our tournament one of the region’s premier events year after year.”
Golfers enjoyed 18 holes of golf at the exclusive Nashua Country Club, raffle prizes including a grand prize total tailgate experience package, contest holes, and a post-event reception. The full list of sponsors and a photo gallery are available online at www.rivier.edu/golf.
NEWSWORTHY
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Hockey game day celebration
The University hosted a game day party at Conway Arena in November to celebrate the second season of men’s and women’s ice hockey. Students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to cheer on the Raiders men’s team to a win and the women’s team to a tie. Fans enjoyed a reception inside the arena, giveaways, and a visit with the Raider mascot. Root for the Raiders at home games in Nashua or on the road. View team schedules online at www.rivier.athletics.com.
A Saint Among Us
Honoring Marie Rivier’s sainthood, the Rivier community celebrates our namesake.
BY MICHELLE MARRONE
Saint Marie Rivier
Mass of Thanksgiving
On September 18, Bishop Libasci presided over a Mass commemorating Saint Marie’s canonization at St. Kathryn Church in Hudson, New Hampshire. Members of the Rivier University community gathered with the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary to remember Saint Marie in prayer and celebration. At the outset of the gathering, remembrances of her life, vocation, and enduring presence in our world today were shared.
Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President, Sister Helene Cote, pm, Provincial Superior of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, and Linda Robinson ’69/’79G/’94H hosted a forum during Alumni Reunion Weekend in September to discuss the life and spirit of Saint Marie. The University presented Saint Marie Rivier: The Woman Apostle, a video documentary honoring her life and extraordinary gift of healing through the Holy Spirit. Several of the attendees, including current Rivier students and alumni, attended the canonization Mass in Rome and shared the impact of their experiences. Alumni had the opportunity to ask questions and shared their heartfelt affection for the University and appreciation for the difference the Sisters and their Rivier educations have made in their lives.
Later that day, alumni and community members gathered at Heritage Plaza surrounding the sculpture of Saint Marie Rivier to offer a toast to her life, legacy, and mission to care for and educate women and children throughout the world.
Sharing Her Story
Saint Marie᾿s extraordinary story—more than 250 years in the making—is foundational to Rivier᾿s history and mission. In recognition of her sainthood and Rivier᾿s 90th anniversary, the University is proud to share the story of our namesake.
This booklet, created by the University, offers insights into Saint Marie᾿s virtues, miracles, and sainthood in the Catholic Church.
Saint Marie Rivier: The Woman Apostle
The inspirational story of Saint Marie is shared in a video presentation by Sister Helene Cote, pm and Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM.
View the booklet and video online at www.rivier.edu/canonization.
The Honorable Joseph Laplante Trustee Emeritus and Founders Medal Recipient
The Honorable Joseph Laplante was recognized for his many years of sustained leadership and service to the University and its students as a member of the Board of Trustees. He was honored with Trustee Emeritus status and presented the Rivier University Founders Medal at a reception in September. The award recognizes his vision and distinguished contributions to advancing Rivier’s mission and service to the Greater Nashua community. "Judge Laplante is a visionary and strategic leader for the University and state of New Hampshire,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “He has contributed to building a strong, diverse Board of Trustees, always leads by example, and maintains a strong focus on student achievement."
A United States District Judge for New Hampshire and Chief Judge from 2011-2018, Judge Laplante joined the Rivier Board of Trustees in 2009 and has diligently worked to support the University’s vision and mission during his 12-year tenure. Appointed Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Trusteeship Committee in 2013, he has extended the Board’s reach throughout the region and has been instrumental in increasing Board diversity as he led the recruitment of new members from healthcare, banking, technology, manufacturing, and several other industries. He also served on the Mission and Academic Affairs Committees.
In addition to his service to the University, his community impact extends throughout Greater Nashua and New Hampshire where he has served on the boards of the NH Charitable Foundation (Nashua Region) and Nashua PAL, and currently serves on the board of Southern NH Health Care and the St. Paul’s School ASP Board of Overseers. He has received numerous awards for legal, professional, and civic endeavors.
Created in 2012, the inaugural Founders Medal was presented to Sister Adrienne Beauregard, pm at the celebration of her 100th birthday. A contemporary of Sister Madeleine of Jesus, she was recognized for her founding vision, leadership, and transformative heart and mind in service to the world. Judge Laplante is the first to receive the medal following the inaugural award a decade ago.
REMEMBER RELIVE
REUNITE
Marked by the University’s 90th anniversary and the celebration of the canonization of Saint Marie Rivier, Alumni Reunion Weekend in September provided a special opportunity for alumni to return home. Alumni from 1952 to 2022 came together to remember cherished friendships, share memories, and reconnect with their alma mater.
There was much to celebrate at Alumni Reunion Weekend 2022!
The Alumni Luncheon celebrated all reunion classes with a special recognition for the 50th Reunion Class. Members of the Class of 1972 (pictured below) were inducted into the Rivier University Golden Society and were presented with their commemorative pins by Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM.
Pictured front row: Murielle Gosselin Bennett, Darlene Lauziere Letourneau, Deloris Isabelle Jay, Helene Maheu Lauziere, Linda Trafton Fraser, Sandra Dupuis Hogan, and Rachel Huot.
Pictured back row: Pamela Smith Caton, Mary O’Neill, Anita Roy, Carol Kristofak Lyle, Christine Methé, Pamela Hebert Feeney, Deborah Barbal Guyer, Michele Gigli, Margaret Benn Duckworth, Janet Hogan Scagnelli, and Elaine Behaylo Dastoli.
2022 Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award Recipients
The prestigious Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award was presented to Linda Trafton Fraser ’72/’88G and Catherine Eames ’81. This 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.
A Class Representative and a member of the Alumni Council, Linda Trafton Fraser, Class of 1972/1988G, was recognized for her faith, leadership, and service. Following successful careers in education and business, she currently serves as an interfaith minister, hospice chaplain, and end-of-life doula bringing comfort and compassion in times of need.
A kindred spirit to Sister Madeleine of Jesus, Catherine Eames, Class of 1981, devotes her time and philanthropy to organizations that make a difference in people’s lives. Driven by her experience that a Rivier education transforms lives, she has elevated the student experience through her vision and philanthropy. A distinguished business and community leader, she serves on the Rivier President’s Circle Council advancing connections between the University and Greater Nashua businesses and organizations.
Held jointly with Family Day, the Fall Fest Cookout drew hundreds of students, family members, and alumni who enjoyed the beautiful fall weather at an outdoor luncheon on the Chapel Quad. An annual favorite, many alumni took part in the sign making and wine tasting event as they painted a decorative keepsake while spending time with good friends.
The weekend was made special for alumni as they came together with the Rivier community to celebrate the canonization of Saint Marie Rivier at events throughout the day, including a toast to the University’s namesake at Heritage Plaza in the early evening. Alumni visited the University’s 90th anniversary display in Regina Library, a curated display of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia from throughout Rivier’s proud history.
On Saturday evening, alumni gathered for a New England lobster bake and a dueling pianos show featuring music from a variety of decades. The weekend concluded on Sunday with the annual Reunion Mass in Resurrection Chapel followed by a champagne brunch.
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 that made a Reunion Class gift!
To make a gift today, visit www.rivier.edu/giveonline.
Save the Date Alumni Reunion Weekend 2023! September 30 October 1, 2023
Make plans to join us as we celebrate milestone anniversaries for the Reunion Classes of 1948, 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018.
TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION
New business facilities provide an innovative student learning experience.
BY MICHELLE MARRONE
Rivier’s latest campus transformation reimagined a primary academic building on the Rivier campus with a focus on technology and innovative learning.
The University celebrated the completion of Sylvia Trottier Hall and official opening of the new Division of Business and Security Studies facilities in September. The renovation features high-tech learning spaces, including cybersecurity laboratories that mirror a professional security operations center, as well as collaboration and huddle areas, conference room, and office suite. The technology and space design are consistent with modern office environments.
Rivier’s Office of Information Technology shares the lower level of Sylvia Trottier Hall, where students receive an exceptional in-person tech support experience at the new Technology Hub. In addition, new offices, collaboration and workspaces, mechanical, electrical, and network rooms were created for IT support personnel and technical services.
“The renovated facility highlights the University’s commitment to real-world, active learning,” says Dr. Amir Toosi, Dean of Business and Security Studies. “The new spaces and advanced technologies simulate professional work environments and interactions. They elevate the student experience creating higher levels of comfort, confidence, and performance in our students as they take on internships and full-time positions in the workforce.”
The Division of Business and Security Studies expanded its degree options in recent years, adding indemand academic programs including Cybersecurity Management.
“The new cybersecurity labs provide state-of-the-art technology and maximize teaching and learning opportunities with partners around the world,” says Russ Norris, Assistant Professor and Director of Security Studies programs. “Our students can work independently honing their individual skills, work in collaborative teams with their peers on campus, and
work with partner institutions to address global challenges. While Rivier students reside in Nashua, New Hampshire, the world is their classroom.”
At the Sylvia Trottier Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in September (see page 4), Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President, recognized leadership gifts from members of the Board of Trustees to create the Croatti Conference Room, a gift of Michael ’09 MBA and Deborah Croatti; the Enterprise Zone, a gift of Sharon McOsker Tamposi ’91/’95 MBA; and the Division of Business and Security Studies Office Suite, a gift of the Hebra-Flaster family.
“The outstanding leadership and generosity of these individuals have created a transformational learning environment for our students as they develop skills that will allow them to launch in-demand careers in the business and global security sectors,” shares Sister Paula.
Advancing Modern Healthcare
Faculty-student biomedical research builds confidence and foundational skills necessary to advance healthcare.
Rivier professors Dr. Tatiana Jones and Dr. Hye Young Shin received 2022 New Hampshire INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) grants to conduct biomedical research with their students. The NH-INBRE program expands and enhances biomedical research within the state; it provides opportunities for promising undergraduate students to experience top-level training while working alongside research faculty.
Students Alexandria Williams ’24 and Nicole Lezon ’22 received paid summer internships through the grant and worked as full-time researchers. Both students presented their research at NH-INBRE’s annual meeting, a statewide gathering for researchers to present their projects and findings.
Research will continue on these projects, supporting Rivier’s commitment to providing hands-on, experiential learning and workforce-ready education. “Our association with NH-INBRE, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Center elevate the University’s focus on biomedical research,” says Dr. Brian Ernsting, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Rivier’s academic programs, resources, and research prepare students for the abundant and high-paying jobs in the biomedical and biotechnology sectors and contribute to the advancement of modern healthcare.”
Project Title: Extracellular RNA upregulates proinflammatory profile of macrophages stimulated with TLR2 and TLR4 agonists.
Researchers: Dr. Tatiana Jones, Assistant Professor of Biology, and Alexandria Williams ’24
Alexandria Williams ’24 - I was fortunate to work alongside Dr. Jones, researching the influence of bacterial extracellular ribonucleic acid on the inflammatory profile of macrophages as part of the NH-INBRE grant. I was given not only the chance for direct research laboratory experience, but also an immeasurable amount of knowledge in the field of immunology. After this summer research experience and working with Dr. Jones, I have decided to apply to medical school and pursue my dream career in pediatric oncology.
Dr. Tatiana Jones - The most exciting aspect of this work is to observe how involvement in research work positively influences our undergraduate students’ intellectual and professional development, makes them more scientifically advanced and mature, enhances their academic progress, and changes their graduate goals to higher standards. Alexandria continues working on this research project through an Immunology course. Next year it will become the focus of her Senior Research Project. Project Title: Detection of Differential Cytokine Expressions in Cancer Stem Cells of Rat glioma and Human glioma cell lines, and its application in finding therapeutics.
Researchers: Dr. Hye Young Shin, Assistant Professor of Biotechnology, and Nicole Lezon ’22
Nicole Lezon ’22 - I was selected to work alongside Dr. Shin, researching glioma stem cells as a part of the NH-INBRE grant. This research experience gave me direct exposure to biomedical research. I learned so much, especially about the procedures of cell culturing which are skills I will use throughout the rest of my schooling and when I enter the workforce and biotechnology industry. At the end of the summer, I applied to graduate schools and was accepted to my top choice, Northeastern University, to pursue a Master of Science in Biotechnology degree. I will start my classes at Northeastern in January.
Dr. Hye Young Shin - INBRE grants provide great opportunities for Rivier students to delve into biomedical research with critical thinking and to obtain essential lab skills so that they can pursue further study in graduate school or a wide range of careers in biomedical research.
