Saint Peter's University Winter 2015 Magazine

WINTER 2015

Magazine

Happy!

Big Finish for Students at the Center

S P E C I A L E D I T I O N : Students at the Center Wraps Up

(L to R): Taylor Corretjer ’15, University President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., Nicholas Mederos ’15, Francis McGrail ’79 and Christian Ugaz ’16

PRESIDENT’S

Message

spoiling the ending, the Campaign exceeded its ambitious $62 million goal by nearly $3 million. More than 24 percent of alumni gave during the Campaign and nearly 50 percent of the philanthropic revenue received by Saint Peter’s University in its 143-year history was committed during Students at the Center.

‘Happy’ cannot do this feeling justice.

On December 5, 2014, I waved my hand and $64,239,287 appeared. By year end,

Thank You! Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University came to a joyous and triumphant conclusion on December 5, 2014.

Accompanied by Campaign Chairman Francis A. McGrail ’79 and surrounded by students, University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., announced the final tally to date, $64,239,287!

The Campaign special report begins on page 10.

that total had reached $64,786,810.

Don’t we all wish fundraising was that easy? Of course, when I happily waved my hand, that figure was merely projected on a screen at the front of the elegant Duncan Family Sky Room. Actually, gathering those gifts took more than seven years and the combined efforts and generosity of 9,400 donors.

Those donors represent a wide range of philanthropy, from the lead gift from Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68, for whom the student center is named, to the leadership of Francis A. McGrail ’79 and our founders, Carol Bastek, Ed.D. ’70, Thomas W. Duncan ’65, Hon. Frank J. Guarini H ’94, Brian Maher HA ’07, William J. Marino ’66, Kathleen M. McKenna, Esq. ’75, Robert G. Morris, Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66 and Sodexo, Inc., as well as the thousands of alumni and friends who honored their ties to our University with thoughtful and generous gifts. To all of them, we say “thank you.”

“...those donations took more than seven years and the combined efforts and generosity of 9,400 donors.”

The Campaign focused on six vital University priorities. Giving to each of these priorities directly improves the life and education of Saint Peter’s students.

And, that is why the celebration was structured to give our students an opportunity to thank our generous donors in person and in their own words.

While I invite you to read the inspiring stories of our six student representatives within these pages, I will quote one in particular. Matt Feeney ’15 spoke of our role as a fixture of Jersey City and how the spirit of the Saint Peter’s community has the power to shape the people who study and grow within our halls. “Your generosity has set an example for all of us,” he said. “And helped build—not just the structure we celebrate—but the men and women you see before you tonight.”

As we continue to fulfill the mission of Saint Peter’s University, the success of this Campaign will provide us—not only with important funding—but with the firm knowledge that we, as a community, will always pull together for the University we love. And as a community, we will share our heartfelt gratitude.

In this issue of Saint Peter’s University you will read all about the tremendous success of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University. At the risk of

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President

Saint Peter’s University

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INTHIS THIS IN

Issue Issue

HOW TO REACH US Alumni News and Notes E-mail: alumni@saintpeters.edu Office of Alumni Engagement 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Letter to the Editor E-mail: smalinowski@saintpeters.edu Editor, Saint Peter’s University 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Telephone: (201) 761-6239 Fax: (201) 761-6241 On the cover: Saint Peter’s students have much to celebrate following the conclusion of the University’s largest capital campaign.

FEATURES

CONNECT

8. 10 Minutes With... Saint Peter’s University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. 10. Cover Story: Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University 24. It’s a Wrap: The Campaign Gala 26. Inspired Donors

DEPARTMENTS 3. University News 28. Class News and Notes 32. Then and Now

ADMINISTRATION Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Michael Steinman, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78 Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J. Vice President for Mission and Ministry

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Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05 Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Jeffrey Handler, M.A. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Eileen Poiani, Ph.D. Special Assistant to the President Denton Stargel Vice President for Finance and Business

WINTER 2015 SAINT PETER’S UNIVERSITY Volume 34, Number 3 Editor Sarah Malinowski Ferrary Director of University Communications Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group Contributors & Editorial Assistance Ana Cravo Angeline Boyer Daryl Levy Gloria Mercurio Claudia Pope-Bayne

Photography Michael Marmora Catherine Mernar Saint Peter’s Athletics Saint Peter’s University Archives

Saint Peter’s University is printed on FSC certified paper containing 10% post-consumer waste and was manufactured using 100% Green-e certified renewable energy.

UNIVERSITY

News

Why Big Data is A BIG DEAL

An expert panel explored both the real-world promise and potential threat of Big Data at the 43rd Annual Regents Business Symposium.

Oscar®-nominated film Moneyball, was joined by Hilary

Guests who may have expected a dry, chart-driven

analytics for The Weather Channel; and Kathy Zanowic,

presentation on the importance of data crunching were

vice president and senior privacy officer for Verizon.

delightfully surprised by the mash-up of Hollywood,

Mason, data scientist-in-residence at Accel and scientist emeritus at bitly; Paul Walsh, vice president of weather

DePodesta shared the true story of Moneyball and the

publishing, sports, media and telecommunications pre-

turnaround of baseball’s Oakland Athletics. Using data

sented at the 43rd Annual Regents Business Symposium

analytics, he helped guide one of the worst teams in the

on November 7, 2014.

league to a playoff victory in his first year as assistant

Moderated by former New York Times and current Yahoo

general manager. The panelists then explored both the

Tech columnist David Pogue, this year’s Symposium

promise and the dangers inherent in the unprecedented

explored “Why Big Data is a Big Deal.” Keynote Speaker

quantity of structured and unstructured data being

Paul DePodesta, entrepreneur and subject of the book

produced by today’s technology. While Big Data can be

Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game and the

Continued on next page

Saint Peter’s University

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UNIVERSITY

News

leveraged to improve a company’s bottom line,

regarding business trends, challenges and

it also poses a threat to privacy that demands

best practices. The 44th Annual Regents Business

innovative approaches to consumer and

Symposium will be held on November 6.

business protection.

The timing of this discussion was particularly

UNIVERSITY RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Saint Peter’s University earned a Community Engagement Classification for 2015 from The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a leading education policy and research center that provides evidence-based documentation about institutions of higher education throughout the United States.

Saint Peter’s is one of just 361 institutions in the country and 10 in New Jersey to receive this classification. The University provides many volunteer opportunities that foster relationships and reciprocity with local, national and global associations.

“As a Jesuit university, community service and civic engagement are at the heart of Saint Peter’s mission,” said University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. “We are extremely proud of the ongoing commitment of our students, faculty and staff to community engagement and we are honored to be recognized in this category.”

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Winter 2015

relevant to Saint Peter’s University because of its recent launch of a Master of Science in Data Science with a concentration in business analytics. The discipline integrates scientific methods from statistics, computer science and data-based business management to extract knowledge from data and drive decision-making.

The Symposium, one of New Jersey’s longest-running forums, is designed to inspire and educate professionals of all industries

Jason Sroka of Quanntus and Arial Ramirez ’16 of the data science and business analytics program enjoy the panel discussion.

LONG-AWAITED VETERANS MEMORIAL DEDICATED Tribute to Sacrifice, the memorial to Saint Peter’s

every day as they walk through campus?” asked

University veterans, was dedicated on All Souls

Dr. Donnelly. “Is it not the same message Saint

Day, November 2, 2014. Alumni, family and com-

Ignatius gave to his followers over 400 years ago,

munity members gathered for a memorial Mass

a message of service, of living life for others, of

at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church

putting others first, of sacrificing for others?”

and then joined Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.,

The memorial project was conceived in 2004,

president of Saint Peter’s University, and Thomas

when Rev. James Loughran, S.J., then president of

Donnelly, Ph.D., professor emeritus of sociology, for

Saint Peter’s, authorized Dr. Donnelly to conduct

a dedication ceremony in the courtyard outside of

research into alumni military service. His study

the Mac Mahon Student Center.

discovered that more than 2,000 alumni have

“What message do these Saint Peter’s heroes send to students who pass by this memorial

served in the United States military, 40 of whom have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Members of the Armed Forces stand before the new veterans memorial with Thomas Donnelly, Ph.D., and University President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D. (sixth and seventh from left).

Leading the Way Only university in New Jersey named to Honor Roll in four categories The Corporation for National and Community

sleeves and work alongside community members

Service (CNCS) named Saint Peter’s University

to solve problems. By recognizing the institutions

to the 2014 President’s Higher Education

who are leading the way to achieve meaningful,

Community Service Honor Roll in all four

measurable results for the communities they

of its categories: Community Service, Interfaith Service, Economic Opportunity Service and

serve, we also highlight the vital role all colleges and universities play in addressing community challenges

Education. Saint Peter’s was

and placing more students

the only higher education

on a lifelong path of civic

institution in New Jersey to

engagement.”

be recognized in all four categories and joined three Jesuit universities—Seattle

Multiple service initiatives at Saint Peter’s, including Junkyard Dogs, the Healthing

University, Marquette University

Along Program supported by the

and Loyola University Chicago—

Horizon Foundation for New Jersey,

named to the honor roll in all categories.

“Service and higher education go hand in hand,”

the Campus Kitchen, the Clothes and Food Pantry and the Emmaus Project, contributed

said Wendy Spencer, CEO of the CNCS. “These

to the University receiving comprehensive

schools are inspiring young leaders to roll up their

recognition from the CNCS.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT...

Saint Peter’s University celebrated the opening of its Campus Kitchen, a student-led community service project that provides free, healthy meals to local residents by using donated food that would otherwise go to waste. The University’s Campus Kitchen is one of only 42 in the country and the second one in New Jersey. The Campus Kitchen has already served more than 3,000 meals since it opened in September 2014 and, as of press time, was on track to reach 4,000 by the end of February.

FALLEN LEAVES Lost manuscript by Will Durant, Ph.D., Class of 1907, is finally published Shortly before his 90th birthday in 1975, Ameri-

pose to tell, in a very informal way, without the

can writer, historian, philosopher and Saint

grandeur of obscurity, how I feel now that I have

Peter’s University alumnus Will Durant, Ph.D.,

one foot in the grave, about those ultimate riddles

Class of 1907, told the Associated Press he was

that I dealt with so recklessly in my books.”

writing, “a not very serious book which answers

Throughout a 60-year career spent researching

the questions of what I think about government,

timeless questions of philosophy, religion, art and

life, death and God.” That final work was thought

science, Dr. Durant authored numerous books,

to be unfinished or lost when Dr. Durant, and his

including the multi-volume The Story of Civiliza-

wife, Ariel Durant H ’79, died within a few weeks

tion, which Ariel Durant co-authored. The collabo-

of each other in 1981.

ration made the Durants a household name, and

Thirty-two years later, Dr.

the couple received the Pulitzer Prize for Volume

Durant’s granddaughter dis-

10 in 1968. They were also awarded the Presiden-

covered the manuscript and

tial Medal of Freedom in 1978.

Simon & Schuster published

The Saint Peter’s University Archives in the

Fallen Leaves: Last Words on Life,

Guarini Center for Community Memory contain

Love, War and God in December

the Will & Ariel Durant Collection, which includes

2014. It is the scholar’s most

texts written by and about the Durants, scrap-

personal work, as Dr. Durant

books, handwritten letters and honorary degree

wrote in the preface, “I pro-

programs related to Dr. Durant’s literary activities.

Will Durant, Ph.D., Class of 1907, and his wife, Ariel Durant H ’79, sought to write a “biography” of a civilization, including not just the usual wars, politics and stories of famous people, but also culture, art, philosophy, religion and the rise of mass communication. Their Story of Civilization was one of the most popular history series ever published.

Saint Peter’s University

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UNIVERSITY

News

New Leadership for Advancement and External Affairs Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05 has been promoted to the position of vice president for advancement and

A.D.N. TO B.S.N. Qualified students who graduated with an associate’s degree in nursing from Hudson County Community College (HCCC) can transition into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Saint Peter’s University courtesy of a new agreement between the University and HCCC. The affiliation is an innovative response to the demand for nurses with baccalaureate degrees and provides an efficient way for nursing students and nurses with associate’s degrees to develop robust clinical reasoning and analytic skills while earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Increasing the pool of highly educated nurses is expected to raise the career prospects of students and provide a higher level of care for the greater community.

external affairs. The announcement was made on December 9, 2014, by Saint Peter’s University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. “Leah has an impressive track record, having served our advancement department for more than 12 years, most recently as associate vice president for advancement and external affairs,” said Dr. Cornacchia. “She was integral to the success of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University, in which she oversaw the leadership gifts program and personally secured several million dollars for the Campaign.”

Leto earned bachelor’s degrees in art history and French cum laude from Vassar College. She began her career with the Metropolitan Opera Association, later serving in the development and membership offices at The Newark Museum before joining the University in 2002.

Winter 2015

CORRELATION FOUND BETWEEN MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND HEALTHBEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT Stephanie Bryan, Ph.D., assistant professor and director of the health and physical education program at Saint Peter’s University, has published a paper titled, “The Effect of Mindfulness Meditation Techniques during Yoga and Cycling,” co-authored

by Genevieve Pinto Zipp, P.T., Ed.D., Seton Hall University professor, in the December 2014 edition of the journal Alternative and Complementary Therapies.

Research for the paper was conducted at the Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J. Recreational Life Center at the University. The study concluded, “Combining physical activity and mindfulness activities can result in positive mood states and improvements in measures of mindfulness, which, in combination, may enhance health-behavior management.”

Leto earned a master’s in education from Saint Peter’s, with a concentration in administration and supervision, in 2005.

“I am honored to lead the advancement and external affairs team at such a pivotal moment in Saint Peter’s history,” she said.

Leto follows Michael A. Fazio, who had served in the position since 2007. Under his leadership, the University secured nearly half of all charitable gifts given in the school’s history.

Fazio was recently named chief advancement officer at St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark, N.J.

PROFESSOR RECOGNIZED FOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS PAPER Edward J. Moskal, M.M.S. ’79, assistant professor of computer and information science, was Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05

6

FACULTY NOTEBOOK

Edward Moskal, M.M.S. ’79

(L to R): Frances Raleigh, Ph.D., Jill Callahan, Ph.D., Laura Twersky, Ph.D., Jereena Varghese ’15, Mackenzie Sylvester ’15 and Nathalie Staiger ’15

MAKING A SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTION: SIX UNDERGRADUATES AWARDED TRIBETA GRANTS Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta), the National Biological Honor Society, awarded research grants to six Saint Peter’s University students for the 2014–2015 academic year. Since 1998, TriBeta has awarded grants to more than 30 undergraduate research projects involving more than 50 students. Saint Peter’s students have used the funds to conduct biological studies ranging from the effects of cell phone radiation to the antibacterial properties of coconut oil in relation to tooth decay.

“It’s a big endeavor on the students’ part,” said Professor of Biology Laura Twersky, Ph.D. In addition to submitting a competitive grant proposal, students spend long hours preparing and conducting experiments. “It presents a whole range of opportunities,” Dr. Twersky continued. “Students are funding their own work at an undergraduate level, which is pretty unusual.”

Jereena Varghese ’15 received funding to study the effects of nutrition, specifically anti-oxidants, on delaying or preventing cataracts. The honors biology student, whose research advisor is Dr. Twersky, determined a method and time frame for inducing cataracts in tadpoles during the first phase of research.

The second phase will isolate certain anti-oxidants and measure the outcomes. singled out in November 2014 for a Meritorious Paper Award from the Information Systems Educators Conference for his paper, “A Model for Establishing a Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.”

He was also recently selected to be a reviewer for the Journal of Information Systems Education,

TriBeta grants were also awarded to David Belloso ’15 and Sherif Elkattawy ’15, whose research advisor and collaborator is Assistant Professor of Biology Jill E. Callahan, Ph.D., and German Rojas ’15, whose research advisor/ collaborator is Professor of Biology Frances S. Raleigh, Ph.D. Mackenzie Sylvester ’15 received a TriBeta grant to study the effects of bacterial intrusion of E.coli; her research advisor/collaborator is Dr. Twersky. Drs. Raleigh and Twersky are also research advisors for and collaborators with grant recipient Nathalie Staiger ’15.

In addition to writing and defending their honors theses, all of the undergraduate researchers will present their findings to the New Jersey Academy of Science in April.

Varghese said the original research she is conducting has bolstered her application to optometry school and will shape her future medical career.

“Finding a way to delay cataract surgery would be a significant contribution to the scientific community,” she said. Varghese envisions a future in which she will care for patients and also conduct clinical research or product trials. “I don’t want a static career,” she added. “With research, I can do more than one thing.”

Original cover artwork

by Alicia Cook from Entranced.

SAINT PETER’S POET PUBLISHES FIRST BOOK Alicia Cook, M.B.A. ’12, associate director of admission and communications, recently signed with a publisher for her first book, Entranced.

The book of original poetry was published

by Underwater Mountains Publishing, Inc., in February.

Special and limited editions of the book are also available. Cook designed and painted the cover art on all four editions.

Cook said that she has enjoyed writing since third grade, when she begged her parents for a typewriter. Her work has appeared on CNN and in USA Today, as well as local publications.

a peer-reviewed academic journal that focuses on information systems education.

Prof. Moskal is currently a visiting assistant professor at the University of Notre Dame for the 2014–2015 academic year. Prior to teaching at Saint Peter’s University, he worked in the information technology field for 22 years.

Saint Peter’s University

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10 MINUTES

with...

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.

A Renewed Sense of Who We Are

Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University was in its infancy when Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., became president of the University in 2007. Following its spectacular conclusion, Dr. Cornacchia reflects on the many successes of the $64 million campaign and the ways it has advanced the identity and future of Saint Peter’s.

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Winter 2015

There are many concrete accomplishments and out-

hard and come together. I think it was transforma-

comes of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University. Could you take the 40,000-foot view of the overall impact of the Campaign and tell us how you think it changed Saint Peter’s now and, perhaps, forever?

I think about this a lot. I think what it’s done is given us a renewed sense of who we are. We had kind of struggled or wrestled with somewhat of an inferiority complex for a while, because of rough times in Jersey City, as well as a sense that we couldn’t accomplish big things anymore. I think what this Campaign did was to show people that we could, in fact, set goals that are ambitious and that we could achieve them if we work

tional in terms of not just the physical things that it brought to us, but in terms of our sense of confidence and hope for the future because people are willing to invest in the University.

Alumni, especially, have been hearing about the Campaign for a long time. You are on the road a lot.

How have perceptions of Saint Peter’s changed among alumni? What do they say?

Well, the common theme from the alumni is, of course, how much the institution means to them and how they’re willing to help bring that experience to students today and in the future. There’s a real sense

of commitment to the institution by the alumni and a

Saint Peter’s future is intertwined with the future of

sense of giving back. In fact, just yesterday I received

Jersey City. In what ways has Jersey City changed over

a letter from an alum who hadn’t been back to Saint

the last decade, which was around the time the silent

Peter’s probably since he graduated. He had a business

phase of the Campaign started?

meeting in downtown Jersey City and said, ‘You know,

For years, we’ve talked about linking the University

I can’t be in Jersey City and not go up and look at Saint

more to downtown development. That was some-

Peter’s.’ And so he comes up and sends me this letter

thing we really focused on—we have to find a way to

that said how proud he is of what his institution has

project ourselves east. We’ve done that in little steps.

become, that he was blown away by what’s happened

But more importantly, I think what we’ve come to

here, and that he’s sorry he hadn’t really come earlier

understand during the Campaign is that we don’t

and seen it sooner.

need to connect ourselves only to the downtown area

I think one of the more tangible signs of it is that

to be successful. We are going to be an important and

more alumni children are looking at us and coming to

vibrant hub in Jersey City redevelopment right here.

us, which is a good sign. Now, we have a long way to

It’s already happening with McGinley Square and in

go, I acknowledge that, but that hasn’t happened in a

Journal Square. Now, I think over the last seven years

long time.

or so, people see us as a force, an economic force, a

“I think what this Campaign did was to show people that we could, in fact, set goals that are ambitious and that we could achieve them if we work hard and come together.”

source of social and economic change in the area and one that really serves the community.

Going into the Campaign you were pretty adamant that Saint Peter’s set realistic, reachable goals rather than an overly ambitious plan that gets filed away in a drawer. How did this approach affect your results?

Well, I don’t want to say fundraising is easy, but it’s

How do you think the institution is stronger and

easier when you have a goal that people connect with,

better since the time the parents of prospective

that they really can buy into. We had to succeed. Fail-

students attended?

ure was not an option. I kept saying that to everyone.

Well, we have graduate programs that have expanded dramatically and that’s provided a very strong enrollment base and therefore a level of financial— I hate to use the word security because that can be fleeting—but certainly we’re stronger financially for it. It’s a more sustainable model. Offering graduate programs also helps raise your profile, particularly in the professional business community. I think we’re also stronger because as we’ve moved more vigorously into residential life that provides a level of community and activity that we just didn’t have in the old commuter model where people came, did their thing and

Does what happened change what’s possible?

I think it goes to the idea that we can succeed doing big things. I think we have to be prudent going forward about the next big thing we choose. It has to be a goal that really fulfills a need here. But, I think what we’ve realized is if we’ve raised $64 million, we could raise another big amount. I really do see the success of this Campaign as the foundation for future successful campaigns. Now we’ve done it.

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., is the 22nd president of Saint

went home.

Peter’s University. During the seven-year campaign, he not

How has the feeling on campus changed?

and friends — from Boston, Washington, D.C., Chicago,

Saint Peter’s today is, more than ever in its history, a

San Francisco and Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale, Naples,

community. It’s a real thriving community. Take away

Port St. Lucie, Tampa and West Palm Beach, Florida — but

what’s surrounding us and we stand on our own as a

strengthened ties right here in the Tri-State area, bringing

place where people live and work and socialize. So it’s

the community members back to Jersey City to see how the

a city within a city, basically.

campus has grown. Follow him on Twitter @PeacockPrez.

only traveled all around the country to gather with alumni

STRATEGIC PLANNING UNDERWAY A cornerstone of Saint Peter’s current strategic planning is to achieve greater distinction as the Jesuit University of New Jersey.

Strategies for achieving this goal include: • Advancing excellence in teaching and learning • Expanding partnerships to further integrate academics and real-world learning, leadership development and community engagement • Globalizing the campus and educational experiences • Building on key university assets, including Jesuit identity, metropolitan location and Division 1 athletics • Strengthening enrollment, finances and institutional resources

Saint Peter’s University

9

1. Build Our First Student Center 2. Advance Excellence in Academics 3. Promote Jesuit Mission and Identity 4. Enhance Athletic Programs 5. Grow the Endowment 6. Strengthen The Saint Peter Fund

With a final total of $64,786,810 raised, Students Campaign for Saint Peter’s University has exceeded $3 million, forever changing The Jesuit University of its students. (And the gifts kept coming, even 10

Winter 2015

COVER

Story

at the Center: The expectations by nearly of New Jersey and the lives after the lights went out!)

Current Saint Peter’s students expressed gratitude for the gift of a Saint Peter’s education. Their stories are on the following pages.

Saint Peter’s University

11

Matt Feeney ’15

“Saint Peter’s offered me a chance to rebuild.

It offered financial help and showed me what people who care can do for each other.”

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Winter 2015

COVER

Story

1. Build Our First Student Center

MILESTONES

The Transformation of Saint Peter’s University

$64,786,810

raised,

making Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University the largest and most successful campaign in the University’s 143-year history.

1872–2014

$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$

2007–2014 Students at the Center

$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$

$135.8 million

$64.7 million

{

50%

nearly of all monies raised for Saint Peter’s.

First complete admission season following the opening of the Mac Mahon Student Center, freshman

581students,107% of goal. enrollment totaled

Saint Peter’s University has transformed student lives along with its own skyline.

Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint

Numbers aside, Students at the Center has had a

ful campaign in the University’s 143-year history,

story of being embraced by Saint Peter’s after finan-

officially closed the books with a final total of

cial setbacks forced him to leave another college.

$64,786,810 on December 31, 2014. The cornerstone

“Saint Peter’s offered me a chance to rebuild. It

project, the $35 million Mac Mahon Student Center,

offered financial help and showed me what people

was the setting for a black-tie celebration held on

who care can do for each other. As this building—

December 5, 2014, in The Duncan Family Sky Room.

the Mac Mahon Student Center—overlooks this

In the state-of-the-art facility that began as a dream

great University and beautiful city, I, too, now see

seven years ago, the capital campaign concluded

the city from a different perspective,” Feeney said.

Rising enrollment and a greater percentage of undergraduates residing on campus underscores the need for a central facility for the Saint Peter’s community. The Board of Trustees approves a campus master plan and identifies the site for Saint Peter’s first student center.

May 2007

With the addition of the B.S.N. program and expansion of graduate programs, the School of Nursing is established.

July 2007

The quiet phase of Students at the Center commences with an initial goal of $50 million. Behind the scenes, a nucleus of committed alumni and friends work to get the Campaign off the ground. Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 is named chairman of the capital campaign.

As predicted, the Mac Mahon Student Center

exceeded its initial ambitious goal of $62 million and

has been a catalyst for a flourishing campus com-

set new records of giving and participation.

munity and neighborhood development. “Students are more involved in activities and in the life of the

money ever given to Saint Peter’s was given dur-

University,” said Student Government Association

ing this Campaign,” President Eugene J. Cornacchia,

President Nicholas Mederos ’15. “Saint Peter’s has

Ph.D., told the hundreds in attendance. The presi-

always been a big staple in Jersey City, but with this

dent expressed gratitude for the generosity of 9,400

Campaign, I think we’ve shown we’re a premier

donors who invested in students and the vision for

Jesuit university.”

Saint Peter’s.

July 2006

its students. Matt Feeney ’15, a business major with deep roots in Jersey City, shared the quintessential

“Think about this. Nearly 50 percent of all the

Saint Peter’s President Rev. James Loughran, S.J., initiates efforts for a future capital campaign. From 2005 to 2006, the late Jesuit quietly raised $2.5 million for what would become Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University.

profound effect on the University and the lives of

Peter’s University, the largest and most success-

with the announcement that Students at the Center

December 2005

October 2007

“I have no doubt that this is Saint Peter’s century,” said Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., in his inaugural address as the University’s 22nd president. Shortly after the inauguration, Saint Peter’s embarks on a 15-month, community-wide strategic planning process.

COVER

Story

MILESTONES

January 2008

A major gift of $2 million from Thomas Duncan ’65 kicks off the quiet phase.

Duncan and six family members attended Saint Peter’s, and the contribution establishes The Duncan Family Sky Room in the new student center. In 2011, Duncan and his wife, Mariana, provide an additional $1 million to Students at the Center.

2. Advance Excellence in Academics New academic programs, university status and the

an academic experience defined by small class size

introduction of education and nursing doctoral

and cura personalis from dedicated faculty members.

programs are visible achievements attained over the

the professors with whom I’ve worked side by side,”

Peter’s University. The Campaign, in conjunction with

Ugaz said. “These connections go a long way.”

strategic plan VISION 2015, has strengthened academ-

June 2009

Ugaz is hardly alone. Undergraduates in a broad

ic culture, sparked innovation and raised the Univer-

range of academic disciplines are finding greater

sity’s visibility as an institution that prepares students

opportunities to conduct original research, whether

to meet the world’s emerging needs.

it’s investigating local economic trends as part of

Top students like Christian Ugaz ’16 are increas-

a $2.8 million Title V grant awarded in 2010 or

ingly drawn to Saint Peter’s for the personalized

biological research funded by TriBeta, the National

learning environment that is undeniably rigorous,

Biological Honor Society.

yet uniquely supportive.

“Coming to Saint Peter’s was one of the best

Vision 2015

“I have benefited from strong relationships with

course of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint

Students at the Center raised nearly $5.5 million to Advance Excellence in Academics. The funds

decisions of my life,” said Ugaz, who carries a

have made a measurable difference to individual

double major in biochemistry and Latino stud-

students and the people and communities they will

ies, while maintaining a GPA of 3.9. Last summer,

go on to serve. Ugaz’s plans include medical school

the Presidential Scholar was accepted to a highly

and serving the Latino/Hispanic community. “I have

competitive internship at the Doyle Research Lab at

seen a lot of injustice,” he said. “My aim is to be a

Princeton University, an opportunity he credits to

bridge between healthcare and patients.”

VISION 2015 is unveiled.

The six-year strategic plan is aligned with Students and the Center and provides a blueprint to Promote Jesuit Mission and Identity, Advance Excellence in Learning and Living, Build Enrollment, Attain University Status and Strengthen Organizational Effectiveness.

August 2009

New academic programs are introduced in environmental and forensic science.

Graduate education programs grow to include the Master of Arts in Special Education and the Master of Arts in School Counseling. Education is also bolstered by the establishment of the School of Education.

University Status Achieved

With the growth of graduate programs and introduction of doctoral degrees, Saint Peter’s is designated a university by the State of New Jersey in 2012.

{796

graduate students

enrolled in Fall 2014, the most in University history.

770

degrees awarded in May 2014, including the University’s doctorates in education and nursing.

1st

Christian Ugaz ’16

“Coming to Saint Peter’s was one of the best decisions of my life.

I have benefited from strong relationships with the professors with whom I’ve worked side by side.”

Saint Peter’s University

15

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Story

MILESTONES September 2009

Peacock Nation forms to support Saint Peter’s 19 Division I athletic programs and bolster school pride.

Through Students at the Center, more than $1.3 million is raised to support student-athletes and more competitive teams.

3. Promote Jesuit Mission and Identity Jesuit values and ideals are a robust part of day-today life as a result of the strategic plan VISION 2015

Retired New Jersey Congressman Frank Guarini H ’94, a great benefactor of Saint Peter’s, commits $2.5 million to Students at the Center. The gift establishes the Guarini Center for Community Memory and further enhances the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership that will be housed in the new student center.

care for the individual—and “men and women

Peter’s University, which raised nearly $1 million

for others,” are concrete principles to learn from

for this priority.

and model. “You start to realize these values

Expanding the campus footprint to include

The Jersey City campus is fully powered with 100 percent renewable energy. In 2014, The Princeton Review’s Annual Guide to 332 Green Colleges includes Saint Peter’s in its roster of environmentally responsible colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada.

when you live them,” she said. “You become very

St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church

connected to what Saint Peter’s stands for in a

and The Joseph A. Kelly, S.J. Office of Campus

very real sense.”

Raised in the Catholic tradition, Pérez is com-

Student Center are tangible testaments to the

mitted to living her faith through acts of service

University’s mission to educate mind, body and

and social justice. Gifts to Students at the Center

spirit, and ultimately, form students to become

have made it possible for Pérez to pursue her own

“men and women for others.”

unique gifts as an altar server at Saint Aedan’s: The

Ignatian values and ideals were further

Saint Peter’s University Church, coordinator for the

bolstered by the generous gifts that brought a Heri-

Clothes and Food Pantry and Saint Peter’s youth

tage Edition of The Saint John’s Bible to campus, en-

envoy to the United Nations, where she has worked

hanced liturgical and spiritual retreat programs and

with the Global Movement for the Culture of Peace

supported meaningful service opportunities such

founded by Bangladeshi Ambassador Anwarul K.

as the Campus Kitchen Project for local hunger

Chowdhury.

relief and Global Outreach Team trips to Appalachia and Ecuador.

Political science major Michelle Pérez ’16

January 2010

Community-wide values such as cura personalis—

and Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint

Ministry on the first floor of the Mac Mahon

December 2009

develop the whole person within you,” she said.

Working to build global, national and regional partnerships to promote a culture of peace is quite spiritual, Pérez noted. “I’m able to bring what I’ve

appreciates the way Saint Peter’s Jesuit mission

learned as a student educated in the Jesuit tradition

is seamlessly integrated into the classroom,

to the U.N. and vice versa. In many ways, it’s like be-

service and community worship. “It all works to

ing a bridge between the two communities.”

800 16,000

More than students contribute approximately

HOURS

of service annually.

June 2010

Thanks to leadership gifts from trustees, regents, alumni and friends, Students at the Center reaches $30 million in gifts and pledges.

August 2010

New degree programs advance excellence in academics: a health and physical education major, a M.B.A. concentration in healthcare administration and Saint Peter’s first doctoral programs in education and nursing.

16

Winter 2015

42

is one of only Campus Kitchens in the U.S. and the 2nd to open in New Jersey.

1

In 2014, only

New Jersey institution of higher

education was recognized in all four categories of the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll: Saint Peter’s University.

Michelle Pérez ’16

“You start to realize these values when you live them.

You become very connected to what Saint Peter’s stands for in a very real sense.”

Saint Peter’s University

17

MILESTONES

Taylor Corretjer ’15

“At the end of the day, academics are most important to me. Softball helped me get the education I wanted.”

18

Winter 2015

COVER

Story

4. Enhance Athletic Programs

MILESTONES

Student-athletes earned an average GPA of

3.18

in 2013–2014.

8 MAAC

championships in the last five years for golf, women’s indoor track & field, women’s outdoor track & field, men’s soccer and men’s basketball.

19

Division I teams comprising

230+

student-athletes

December 2010

Plans for the student center advance with a pace-setting gift from Joseph Panepinto ’66, president and CEO of Jersey City-based Panepinto Properties and Saint Peter’s trustee.

March 2011

The Archdiocese of Newark announces that Saint Peter’s will assume operation of historic St. Aedan’s Church. As a place of worship and reflection for the campus community and surrounding neighborhood, St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church enriches Jesuit and Catholic ideals so central to a Saint Peter’s education.

April 2011 Softball starter and TriBeta Honor Society student

have served the needs of individual competitors and

Taylor Corretjer ’15 has her priorities straight. She

propelled Peacock teams to greater success.

loves having the opportunity to play for a rising

Since 2010, Saint Peter’s has won eight Metro

National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I

Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championships

athletic program, but biology courses and her goal to

in five sports (golf, men’s soccer, women’s indoor

become a physical therapist take precedence.

track & field, women’s outdoor track & field and

“Saint Peter’s University offered me a lot,” said

men’s basketball), while maintaining an enviable

Corretjer, who competed in the Senior League

academic profile. Peacock players earn an aver-

Softball World Series in high school and received

age GPA of 3.18 and the graduation rate among the

academic and athletic scholarships to attend Saint

University’s student-athletes is 85 percent. At the

Peter’s. “At the end of the day, academics are most

2013 Michaelmas Convocation, five of the 10 seniors

important to me. Softball helped me get the educa-

inducted into the Most Noble Order of the Peacock,

tion I wanted,” she said.

Saint Peter’s oldest and most prestigious scholarship

With more than $1.3 million raised (132.2 percent of the $1 million goal) in support of the University’s 19

The Campaign crosses the $40 million mark. In addition to an earlier gift, Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 commits a total of $7.5 million to the Campaign, the largest gift in Saint Peter’s history.

May 2011

Students at the Center is publicly launched with $42.5 million in gifts and pledges. Its goal: $62 million to Build Our First Student Center, Advance Excellence in Academics, Promote Jesuit Mission and Identity, Enhance Athletic Programs, Grow the Endowment and Strengthen The Saint Peter Fund.

society, were student-athletes.

As Corretjer prepares for graduate school and a doc-

Division I teams, Students at the Center: The Campaign

torate in physical therapy, leaving Saint Peter’s amidst

for Saint Peter’s University has enhanced opportunities

the positive change and progress is bittersweet. “I’m

for student-athletes to excel in the classroom and

a little jealous of the freshman softball players,” she

their chosen sport. Gifts toward athletic scholarships,

admitted with a laugh. “I definitely see great things.

team travel and improvements to athletic facilities

The program is going in the right direction.”

July 2011

Cushing Alumni House is demolished to make way for the student center. Three months later, Saint Peter’s breaks ground on a 90,000-square-foot, six-story facility that will become the Mac Mahon Student Center.

Kayla Paz ’17

“Because of the endowment at Saint Peter’s, I am here to say two things.

To all parents, everywhere, ‘Your child can go to college.’

And to our donors, ‘Thank you for supporting the endowment at Saint Peter’s University.’”

20

Winter 2015

COVER

Story

5. Grow the Endowment

{70+

endowed scholarships offered at Saint Peter’s University today.

MILESTONES June 2012

Broad support from alumni, parents, faculty, administration, staff and friends propels Students at the Center to the $50 million mark.

}

University Endowment

July 2012

Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 is elected chairman of the Board of Trustees. Francis A. McGrail ’79 (above) assumes the chairmanship of Students at the Center.

31

$

MILLION FY 2014

August 2012

With the attainment of university status, Saint Peter’s College becomes Saint Peter’s University. The exciting milestone is celebrated at the Mass of the Holy Spirit in September.

$10 million in cash and pledges was raised for the endowment during Students at the Center,

135.1%

of the original goal.

In many ways, the story of Kayla Paz ’17 is the story

to Grow the Endowment through Students at the

of Saint Peter’s University.

Center truly resonated with alumni, friends and

A biology major from Selden, N.Y., Paz is the first

corporations, who gave a collective $10 million—

in her family to attend college. “But that almost

135.1 percent of goal. Cash gifts, pledges and

didn’t happen,” she told donors at the concluding

planned gifts made to this Campaign priority

celebration for Students at the Center: The Campaign

strengthened the University’s financial position and

for Saint Peter’s University. A family bankruptcy

its ability to attract and retain promising students.

meant Paz was ineligible for student loans. To

Paz is very grateful for the support she found

enroll in the colleges where she had been accepted

at Saint Peter’s and has shared advice on mak-

meant paying tuition and fees entirely out-of-

ing higher education a reality at Open Houses for

pocket. “I started to think, ‘Okay, college is not in

prospective Saint Peter’s students.

the cards,’” Paz later recalled.

Then, she sat down with Saint Peter’s Associate

“I’m doing my best to keep myself in school, because my education is very important,” Paz said.

Vice President/Dean of Admissions Elizabeth Sul-

“Funding the portion of tuition and fees not cov-

livan, who put together a financial aid package that

ered by scholarships is still a struggle, but because

made a better future and her dream of becoming a

of the endowment at Saint Peter’s, I am here to

pharmacist possible.

say two things. To all parents, everywhere, ‘Your

Scholarships, a core element of the University

child can go to college.’ And to our donors, ‘Thank

endowment, have been a critical means of support

you for supporting the endowment at Saint Peter’s

for generations of Saint Peter’s students. The appeal

University.’”

March 2013

The Mac Mahon Student Center opens. The $35 million facility becomes the central point on campus, providing new space for a host of activities ranging from WSPR to the Office of Campus Ministry and sparking development and revitalization of the McGinley Square area.

August 2013

Graduate programs continue to grow. Students and working professionals enroll in the Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and the Master of Public Administration. In Fall 2014, the University introduces the Master of Science in Data Science, with a concentration in business analytics.

COVER

Story

6. Strengthen The Saint Peter Fund

MILESTONES

January 2014

Saint Peter’s announces partnership with Sora Development to build a 20-story residential tower in McGinley Square. The $220 million development will provide student housing, jobs and amenities for the neighborhood and new sources of revenue for the University.

Academic and activity scholarships from The Saint

textbooks, upgraded computer labs and provided

Peter Fund enabled business management major

study abroad grants for students to learn within a

Arlene Ganess ’17 to attend college and get the

different culture. Most importantly, since tuition

most out of the experience. On top of a rigorous

and fees cover only 70 percent of the cost of a

course load, Ganess is serving her second year as

Saint Peter’s eduction, the growth of the Fund has

president of the Class of 2017. She is also involved

been instrumental to keeping a high quality Jesuit

with Students of Caribbean Ancestry and has a

education affordable for students.

“The generosity of donors has given students

work-study position managing the men’s basket-

the opportunity to get involved,” said Ganess. “The

ball team.

more I become involved, the more I want to give

“I can honestly say I’m a better person,” said

back to Saint Peter’s.”

Ganess, who is the first in her family to attend

Sustaining the growth of The Saint Peter Fund is

college. “I’m focused, more mature and I’ve

also vital to the University’s future success.

developed leadership skills.”

June 2014

A generous gift from Anthony O. Pergola, Esq. ’92 and Maureen Pergola ’94 pushes Students at the Center over its goal of $62 million.

In addition to helping individual students, an-

“This historic achievement has established a

nual gifts played a vital role in placing Saint Peter’s

solid foundation for Saint Peter’s to continue on its

on the upward trajectory the University enjoys

positive trajectory, but the work doesn’t stop here,”

today. Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint

said Francis A. McGrail ’79, chairman of Students at

Peter’s University raised $18 million for The Saint

the Center. “Ongoing support is necessary to main-

Peter Fund, which surpassed the goal of $12 mil-

tain this momentum and to continue to make a

lion, and provided a collective pool of support that

Saint Peter’s education possible for current and

affects nearly every aspect of University life.

future students.”

Gifts to The Saint Peter Fund have purchased

August 2014

The School of Business and School of Education establish permanent homes in the newly renovated Dinneen Hall.

December 2014

Students at the Center surpasses its goal and raises a total of $64,786,810. The Campaign officially “wraps up” at a celebratory black-tie event in The Duncan Family Sky Room of the Mac Mahon Student Center.

Wrap it Up!

{

9,400

}

donors gave to Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University.

For

3,527

donors, the Campaign marked their first gift to Saint Peter’s University.

BEDROCK OF SUPPORT:

Out of a total

$64+ million raised,

27.7% $18 million

or went to The Saint Peter Fund.

Saint Peter’s scholarship recipient Elizabeth Callahan ’14

Arlene Ganess ’17

“The generosity of donors has given students the opportunity to get involved. The more I become involved, the more I want to give back to Saint Peter’s.”

Saint Peter’s University

23

It’s a WRAP!

The mood was ebullient in The Duncan Family Sky Room of the Mac Mahon Student Center on December 5, 2014. Current Saint Peter’s students joined leadership level donors, faculty and administrators to celebrate “Wrap it Up,” and the outstanding conclusion of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University.

The seven-year Campaign brought the entire University community together to achieve ambitious goals that transformed the physical campus into a vibrant living and learning environment and advanced every aspect of the Saint Peter’s experience. “Thank you,” student representatives said over and over again, as they shared the impact of donor generosity on their lives and the University.

At its conclusion, Students at the Center raised $64,786,810 from 9,400 donors, making it the largest and most successful campaign in Saint Peter’s history. To learn more about the Campaign or to view photos or a video from the gala, visit saintpeters.edu/campaign.

24

Winter 2015

COVER

Story

CT pick w/ a question mark

Clockwise from top left (page 24): Members of The Aidan C. McMullen Chorale; Paula and William Marino ’66; members of The Aidan C. McMullen Chorale; Rev. Eugene Squeo, S.J. ’65; James Loghlin ’64 and William Cozine ’60; Mary Jane Cardiello and Frank Cardiello ’71; Nikki Mederos ’07 ’10; Board of Trustee Warren Fristensky ’74; Robert Donato ’65; Joyce and Eugene Flynn ’80 (seated); Glee Club alumni join Emcee Nicholas Mederos ’15 in singing the alma mater; Dyan and Robert Cutro ’75; Board of Regent Carlos Lejnieks H ’11; Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Retreats and Spiritual Life Victoria Gambone; Director of Student Activities Jan Reimer; Executive Administrative Assistant for Campus Ministry Maria Santiago; Associate Director of Campus Ministry for Community Service Erich Sekel; University President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., and his wife, AnnMarie.

Saint Peter’s University

25

Inspired Donors

26

Winter 2015

ADVANCEMENT

Campaign pushed over the goal line by increased giving in all categories.

Raising more than $64 million demanded the hard work

accumulating a lot of student loan debt.” Moore’s recent

and generosity of a virtual army of passionate benefac-

pledge of $12,000 over two years brings his giving to

tors. In all, 9,400 donors, including 24 percent of Saint

more than $25,000 to date. In addition to his financial

Peter’s University alumni, participated in Students at the

generosity, Moore has twice served as a guest lecturer

Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University. While ev-

for the undergraduate Executive Seminar business class

ery gift, large and small, was crucial to the record-setting

conducted by Edmond Harrison, Ph.D. “Nothing is more

success of the Campaign, certain giving trends had a

invigorating than being around students who want to

particularly powerful impact on the final tally.

learn,” he said.

For instance, an independent post-campaign analysis

Of course, gifts have been earmarked for a wide

discovered that the $10,000 to $50,000 gift range was a

range of University priorities. A $5,000 gift for the Global

particularly striking area of growth. During the previous

Outreach Program, for example, enables more students

campaign, 251 benefactors gave between $10,000 and

to experience a life-changing service trip. “Much of our

$50,000 for a total of $5,061,932.

student body comes from immigrant or working class

Compared to those results, the 425 donors who

families, so international study is off the table for them

contributed at the same levels gave a total of $16,250,000

without this kind of support,” said Dwayne Paul ’08,

during Students at the Center, representing a 69 percent

assistant director of campus ministry for community

increase in participation and a 230 percent increase in

service. “This kind of grant gives students exposure to

giving. Forty-four of those donors gave for the first time

international social justice movements.”

during Students at the Center.

“As a relatively small university these gifts are incredibly significant to us, to our students and to doing important work.”

Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05, vice president for advancement

Jacqueline Sferra Rada honors the memory of her husband, acclaimed realist painter George Rada ’56, by funding the annual $500 George A. Rada Award for the Classics. “George was formed by the Jesuits,” said Rada.

“They recognized certain things in him that inspired him to study the Classics. He was such an example of how a Jesuit education could shape a whole person,

and external affairs, offered examples of how gifts

inspire a love of art and a willingness to reach out and

in this range can mean opportunity for Saint Peter’s

help others.” By consistently supporting the George A.

students. “We have donors who commit $10,000 over a

Rada Award, she hopes to “support other students and

five-year period for a named scholarship. That amount

help keep the Classics alive.”

can help a student bridge the gap between financial aid,

While some gifts feed the spirit and the mind, others

loans and the actual cost of tuition. In some instances,

literally help feed the poor. A generous gift from Univer-

it enables them to complete their degree,” she said. She

sity Trustee Joseph Gromek ’68 for $25,000 went, in part,

believes this type of student experience will inspire

toward the purchase of a van to help deliver meals to

new alumni to return the generosity down the road. “As

local families for the newly-opened Campus Kitchen.

recent graduates become established, they remember

The Campus Kitchen is a student-led community ser-

the generosity of their fellow alumni and are inspired

vice program that provides free, healthy meals to local

to contribute something significant to assist the next

residents by using donated food that would otherwise

generation of Saint Peter’s graduates.”

go to waste.

“I received a Presidential Scholarship when I attended

“I want our donors to know that the impact of these

Saint Peter’s,” said Kenneth Moore ’91, executive vice

gifts is tangible at Saint Peter’s, and that we are deeply

president and chief operating officer in Private Wealth

grateful,” said Leto. “We would not be celebrating a

Asset Management at Jennison Associates. “That meant

successful campaign without them. As a relatively small

I began my career without a ton of debt. By giving back,

university, these gifts are incredibly significant to us, to

perhaps I can help another student get through without

our students and to doing important work.”

Saint Peter’s University

27

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

Send us your news!

Saint Peter’s University wants to publish your good news.

We welcome any and all news about your career, education, family life and reconnecting with other Saint Peter’s alumni.

Submit a note via e-mail to alumni@saintpeters.edu or send to: Office of Alumni Engagement, 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07306.

1959 Msgr. William J. Reilly, Msgr.

John A. Radano, Ph.D., and Rev. Msgr. Vincent J. Doyle will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their ordination in May.

1962 Richard Derrig, president of OPAL Consulting LLC, a firm that provides research and regulatory support to the property-casualty insurance industry, lectured last fall in one of the new Master of Science in Data Science classes.

1963 George Degnon and wife Marge (nee Endemann) were honored guests at the ceremony for son George’s promotion from Colonel

who has supported the cultivation of the traditional city, its architecture and art.

1971

to Brigadier General in the U.S. Air Force. George is an F-16 pilot.

Michael (Mike) L. Averill was elected to the board of directors of two insurance companies, Agricultural Mutual Auto Insurance Company of Fort Worth, Texas, and Dynamic Health Insurance Company of Newark, N.J.

1969

1973

Harry (John) Augliera is a licensed psychoanalyst and a member of the National Psychological Association for Psychoanalysis.

He is a faculty member, training analyst and supervisor at the Center for Human Development in New York City, where he also has a private practice.

Ken Mahon and Henrietta (Fuardo) Mahon ’74 celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in September 2014. The couple met at Saint Peter’s.

Renowned environmental health expert Richard J. Jackson, M.D., M.P.H., received the 2015 Henry Hope Reed Award from the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture. The annual award is given to an individual working outside the practice of architecture

1974 Susan (Natelli) Bredehoft was honored by the New Jersey Foundation for Aging (NJFA) at the organization’s fundraising celebration on December 7, 2014. As treasurer, Bredehoft has provided financial guidance and acumen to the NJFA Board during some fiscally lean years.

1976 Cerebral Palsy of North Jersey honored Francis J. Giantomasi, Esq. at its 2014 Steps To Independence Celebration in October in Livingston, N.J. Dennis Rhodes has just had his third book of poetry, The Letter I, published by Chelsea Station Editions, New York. It is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble websites.

1977 Donald Tretola was elected state chair of the New Jersey Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

1985 S. Vincent Grasso has joined ADM Tronics as chief medical information officer.

1987 Marta Costanzo Youth has worked as a diplomat for the U.S. Department of State for more than 20 years and is currently deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Managua, Nicaragua.

Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner Saturday, March 28, 2015 6:30 p.m.

Saint Peter’s University - Mac Mahon Student Center The Duncan Family Sky Room

For more information, visit saintpeters.edu/halloffame.

Honoring Special Achievement Bob Hurley ’71 Special Services Peter M. Gotlieb, Ed.D. Student-Athletes Tania C. Kennedy ’09 Ryan Knapp ’03 Murphy Wiredu ’08 Candace A. Winder ’03 Honorary Michael Massone Team 1994 – 95 Men’s Basketball Team

Thank You, Saint Peter’s Alumni!

We asked. You gave.

Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University succeeded because of the generosity and support of loyal alumni. Some quick facts:

{

Top Class of

1958

9

Out of a total

Former Saint Peter’s basketball standout Marvin Andrews was inducted into the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Hall of Honor.

1992 Former Saint Peter’s women’s basketball star Joann Balsamo was inducted into the MAAC Hall of Honor.

Carol Weatherall Remsen, long-serving member of the mathematics department at Regis High School, New York, N.Y., was presented the Patricia Hannon Ignatian Educator Award at a Mass of the Holy Spirit on September 5, 2014.

1994 Kenneth Sheehan was named chief of staff at New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.

24

$64+ million raised,

Alumni

64%

percent.

made up of all donors.

Classes in Number of Donors to Students at the Center

Class of

1969

1991

The participation rate among alumni reached

Class of

1970

Class of

1971

Class of

1972

Tracy D’Alessandro opened a retail flower shop, Angela’s Mum, in Bayonne, N.J.

1999 Danny Robayo has been promoted to manager of FlightSafety International Learning Center in Teterboro, N.J.

2001 Carla (Panzella) Tharp earned a Ph.D. in higher education leadership, management and policy from Seton Hall University in 2014.

2003 Luke Drummond is graduating from a basic course for investigators and plans to become a parole officer.

Class of

1973

Class of

1974

Class of

2012

2013

2005 June Chang has been selected as superintendent of Public Schools in Summit, N.J., effective in March.

2009 Andrea Weaver was named director of risk management, quality improvement and corporate responsibility of Bon Secours New York Health System’s Schervier Nursing Care Center in Riverdale, N.Y.

Class of

}

Louisville, Ky. An April wedding is planned.

Marriages David Mojica ’84 married Ayet Gonzalez on October 31, 2014, at St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church in Franklin Park, N.J. In attendance were Migdalia Mojica ’76, Nidia Davila-Colon ’76, Enrique Mojica ’80, Fred Rolon ’80 and Paolo Gonzalez ’07.

Births

2014 Jacqueline Pischettola was named housing coordinator for residence life at Saint Peter’s University in June 2014.

Engagements Janelle Paden MBA ’05 is engaged to Christopher Ross of

David A. Bryngil ’91, director of recreational life, The Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J. Recreational Life Center and the Mac Mahon Student Center, and his wife, Nina, welcomed a baby girl, Daphne.

David Tango ’02 and wife Gina welcomed a baby boy, John Carlo.

Saint Peter’s University

29

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

Bicoastal Alumni Gatherings in Florida

Left: Thomas O’Reilly ’69, Josephine O’Reilly, Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05, University President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., and AnnMarie Cornacchia.

Above: Alumni and friends at the Naples alumni event.

In Naples on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Josephine and Tom O’Reilly ’69 hosted a luncheon and Mass, celebrated by Rev. Michael Braden, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry, on January 18. Alumni and their friends and families were greeted by Saint Peter’s University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., and Board of Trustees Chairman Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68 was on hand to discuss the growth and change that has taken place at the University. He urged alumni to visit their alma mater. “You’d be very proud as alumni to see the changes that have taken place,” he said.

In Ft. Lauderdale, a luncheon hosted by the University was held at a local restaurant on January 17. In Port St. Lucie, John Murray ’57 H ’02 hosted an alumni luncheon on January 19.

Education: The Investment of a Lifetime

(L to R): Director of Planned Giving Ana Cravo, Ellen Salerno, Tom McDonnell ’61, Tony Jaswinski ’61, Barbara Gallagher Cahill ’74, Ellen Albert ’73, Joe Guerra ’57, Lorenzo Canizares ’69 and Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Gloria Mercurio at the Ft. Lauderdale alumni gathering.

A

great teacher is one that inspires the minds of their students.

The founding father of our School of Education and a model of an inspiring teacher, Patrick J. Caulfield, Ph.D. ’47 or, ‘Doc’, taught of educating not only the mind but of educating the soul.

The time is now to help to name the new School of Education facility in Dinneen Hall in his memory and support Education: The Investment of a Lifetime. Gifts made to the School of Education will help to enhance existing and new teacher training initiatives.

For more information, please contact Sharon Morrissey at smorrissey@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-6126, or visit saintpeters.edu/campaign/schoolofeducation.

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Winter 2015

REMEMBRANCES

Requiescant in Pace Saint Peter’s University wishes to extend its prayers and condolences to the families of alumni, members of the University community and friends who have passed away.

CHAMPION OF PROGRESSIVE CAUSES on the Economy, a letter asking Mario M. Cuomo H ’85, the government to take a bigger former New York governor role in helping the nation’s poor. and champion of progressive “There are more homeless causes, died on January 1 at the than at any time since the Great age of 82.

Depression,” said Cuomo in the In 1984, millions watched April 1985 address. “We have Cuomo deliver the legendary an obligation to bring what we “Tale of Two Cities” address at believe to bear on the mundane the Democratic National Conactivities of our day-to-day lives, vention. Nine months after that a duty not just to put up with the famous speech, the governor revisited the theme when he spoke world but, to live in it, to love, to recreate it.” to an audience of 1,500 at Saint Cuomo served three terms Peter’s as part of the University’s as governor of New York. He “Prophet and Profit” series. The died just hours after his son, governor, who received an honorary degree from then-president Andrew Cuomo, was sworn in for a second term as governor Rev. Edward Glynn, S.J., comof New York. mended the Bishop’s Pastoral

Honor Roll of Donors

Alfred Aronson ’48

Arthur M. Mahoney Jr. ’69

Salvatore A. Barone ’50

Robert M. Mathews ’57

Michael Bober ’71

David T. McDonald ’55

Michael J. Boncich ’03

Kenneth J. Meade ’60

Dom R. Chiarieri ’70

William R. Mueller ’77

Suchow Chowtavi ’73

John B. O’Hara Jr. ’51

Sam Costantino ’74

John G. O’Neill Jr. ’56

Sheldon F. Eldridge ’40

Francis A. Paul, Esq. ’72

Lawrence Finckenor ’51

Dennis J. Piatkowski ’65

Rexford C. Finegan ’62

Thomas E. Potter, M.D. ’50

Paul A. Gerber ’75

Thomas F. Quinlan ’58

John R. Givens ’59

Joseph M. Rabbia ’63

Michael J. Gullace ’91

Ronald S. Rock ’71

James J. Harrison, J.D.

John J. Ryan ’52

Joseph C. Heinzmann ’57

Joseph F. Scott, Ph.D. ’49

Rev. John F. Henry, S.J. ’43

John J. Sein, Ph.D.

Lawrence J. Iannuzzelli ’59

Martin R. Semon ’64

Walter Kaczkowski ’50

William F. Spaide ’61

Denis P. Keegan ’76

James M. Stine ’50

Gregory P. Kernahan ’64

Raymond M. Sullivan ’69

Bill Koenig ’54

Walter T. Tulp Jr. ’50

Thomas P. Lang ’60

Thomas J. Verdon ’56

David G. Leahy ’59

Theresa A. Walls, D.O. ’71

Lawrence J. Magliocca ’62

Thank you to our loyal alumni and friends for their generous gifts to the University and for their continued support of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University. The generosity of our devoted benefactors provides the resources Saint Peter’s needs to enhance programs, advance its Jesuit mission and develop the leaders of tomorrow.

The Honor Roll of Donors – now an online publication as part of the University’s commitment to green initiatives – lists the contributors who have supported Saint Peter’s University during our last fiscal year (July 1, 2013-June 30, 2014). To view the Honor Roll of Donors, visit saintpeters.edu/campaign/honorroll2014.

Haven’t had a chance to stop by the Mac Mahon Student Center to check out the Campaign Wall of Donors? Visit saintpeters.edu/campaign/campaignhonorroll to view a virtual version, which honors those who gave at leadership levels to the capital campaign.

If you have trouble viewing the report or have any questions, please contact advancement@saintpeters.edu.

THEN AND

Now

Timeline of a Transformation: Student Center Rises Over the course of 18 months, the Saint Peter’s community witnessed the transformation of a campus parking lot into the state-ofthe-art Mac Mahon Student Center. A time-lapse video of the construction can be seen at saintpeters.edu/campaign/construction.

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Winter 2015

Calendar 2015 Tuesday, March 24, 2015 Alumnae in Action Inaugural Event “Women at Saint Peters: Then and Now” 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

McIntyre Conference Center Saint Peter’s University Thursday, March 26, 2015 Make an Impact — A Day of Giving Saint Peter’s University Saturday, March 28, 2015 Open House Saint Peter’s University saintpeters.edu/openhouse

Bob Hurley ’71

Saturday, March 28, 2015 Hall of Fame 6:30 p.m.

The Duncan Family Sky Room Mac Mahon Student Center Saint Peter’s University

March Sunday, June 14, 2015 Class of 1960 55th Reunion and Brunch The Duncan Family Sky Room Saint Peter’s University

Monday, June 15, 2015 St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church Fundraiser and Wine Dinner Amanda’s Restaurant, Hoboken, N.J.

Thursday, April 23, 2015 Alumni in Finance 6:30 p.m.

School of Business Saint Peter’s University Saturday, April 25, 2015 Accepted Student Day (by invitation only) Mac Mahon Student Center Saint Peter’s University Tuesday, April 28, 2015 Alumni in Education 6:00 p.m.

School of Education Saint Peter’s University

April Wednesday, May 6, 2015 42nd Alumni Golf Outing 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start Galloping Hill Golf Course Kenilworth, N.J. Saturday, May 30, 2015 Saint Peter’s University Peacock Day Turtle Back Zoo West Orange, N.J.

May

June To register for any of these events, visit alumni.saintpeters.edu/events. For questions or more information, contact Claudia Pope-Bayne, assistant director of alumni engagement, at (201) 761-6111 or cpopebayne@saintpeters.edu.

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2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Change Service Requested

PLEASE JOIN US FOR ...

Make an Impact A Day of Giving • March 26, 2015

This online event will inspire and support the students of Saint Peter’s … and build on the exciting momentum of our University. Make your gift on or

by March 26 by visiting support.saintpeters.edu/day2015.

If you have any questions about this event, please contact Donna Lindsey at dlindsey@saintpeters.edu.