Saint Peter's University Spring 2013 Magazine

SPRING 2013

Magazine

Our New Chapter The Mac Mahon Student Center Opens

I n s i d e : T h e F i r st J e s u i t P op e

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Spring 2013

Welcome to Saint Peter’s!

“Just spectacular” is how University officials described Accepted Student Day on April 20, when admitted students and their families were introduced to the Mac Mahon Student Center and Saint Peter’s University.

Nearly 1,000 people——­­a new record——attended the exclusive event, which included tours, sessions on academics and student life and special activities in Jersey City. The new student center made a great impression, said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Jeffrey Handler, M.A. “When you combine the wonderful attendance with a new facility that showcased every aspect of the University, everybody was feeling the Peacock Pride.”

President’s

Message

The opening of the Mac Mahon Student Center marks a pivotal moment in the history of our great institution. We are blessed to have loyal alumni who have not forgotten where their success began. They are living the Jesuit ideal of service to others. Their desire to give back, to create opportunity for new generations of students, is what made this building a reality. At a moment like this, it is difficult for me to fully express the gratitude we all feel to you.

There has been a seismic shift in the

“We are blessed to have loyal alumni who have not forgotten where their success began.”

landscape of our campus and now the students are truly at the center.

There is jubilation at Saint Peter’s

Though it was a tremendous amount of work to raise the money for the facility

University. Everyone who visits our new-

and there is still some more to do, I am

ly-opened Mac Mahon Student Center

particularly mindful that this would not

lights up as they tour the nearly 90,000

have been possible without the giants of

square-foot facility, with its circular flow

our past—Reverends Yanitelli, Glynn,

design, abundance of natural light and

Degnan and Loughran—who engendered

beautiful amenities.

such commitment by our alumni to sup-

Those of you whose dining and social experience here centered around the

port the University.

We know that this new space is more

Hudson Room or Pavonia Room will be

than a place for meeting and dining, for

awed by this six-story structure—with a

study and games. It’s about the conver-

new two-story dining facility, expansive

sations, the life-long friendships, the

game room, The Marino Family Fitness

new ideas and perspectives that will be

Center, a café with a fireplace, and

ignited here.

views of the New York skyline from The

If you haven’t seen it yet, I want to

Duncan Family Sky Room. These facili-

personally invite you to come by and take

ties will provide a home for student orga-

a tour. After all, you helped us build it!

nizations and enhance student life.

All of us at Saint Peter’s are gratified by how it turned out and even more gratified by the students’ reaction. As you read our cover story, you will discover why we are so elated: the students love it.

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: The Mac Mahon Student Center as seen from the Glenwood Avenue entrance.

Features

Connect

10. 10 Minutes with Rev. Mark DeStephano, S.J., Ph.D., on the First Jesuit Pope 12. Cover Story: Students are in the Center and Loving It! 18. Celebrating a Transformation: Hearts and Minds: The Saint Peter’s University Scholarship Dinner 32. Then and Now

Departments 3.

22.

24.

26.

University News Donors Who Make A Difference: Anthony Bastardi Peacock U Class News and Notes

Administration Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Marylou Yam, Ph.D. 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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Spring 2013

Michael A. Fazio, M.B.A. 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

SPRING 2013 Saint Peter’s university Volume 32, Number 3 Editor Sarah Malinowski Ferrary Director of University Communications Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group Contributors & Editorial Assistance Angeline Boyer Ana M. Cravo Leah Leto

Cecilia Martinez Gloria Mercurio Photography America Magazine Michael Marmora Rose M. Mercado ’06, ’08 Catherine Mernar Saint Peter’s University Archives SR Smith Sports Photography Matt Rainey Jeffrey Vock 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

New Jersey Needs Them

2012 NJNY Fellows Clint Sevilla ’15 (left) and Matthew Feeney ’15

New Jersey Needs You (NJNY) was looking to award a new two-year fellowship to first generation college students with high potential who were attending New Jersey colleges and universities. The nonprofit found three at Saint Peter’s University.

“Our fellows from Saint Peter’s are as hard working, ambitious, and as intelligent as any other student in our program or any program,” said Pauly Rodney, executive director of NJNY. “No one in their families, and usually no one in their close networks, has been through this experience, so they don’t have as much guidance for college

Last fall, Matthew Feeney ’15, Aileny Santos Cabral ’14

success and choosing a career. That’s what makes our

and Clint Sevilla ’15 were selected for a program that

mentoring so important.”

pairs first generation college students with mentor

Feeney, a Jersey City native double majoring in market-

coaches and provides workshops and opportunities to

ing management and economics, said the program has

help them realize their academic and career potential.

helped him with networking and internships, as well as

“[To have three Saint Peter’s students chosen for this

honing his leadership and professional skills. “NJNY has

program] suggests that we have some highly motivated,

given me the support I need to stay on this road and con-

high achieving students who have overcome great odds

tinue to achieve,” he said. “I’m very excited for the future

to be successful in a competitive and challenging eco-

it will help me create.”

nomic environment,” said Peter M. Gotlieb, Ph.D., associ-

Fellows in the NJNY program earn a $2,500 professional

ate dean for experiential learning and career services at

development grant; access to two summer internships

Saint Peter’s University.

at prestigious companies and organizations; receive Continued on next page

Saint Peter’s University

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University

News

THE Vision NJNY launched in Fall 2012 by recruiting 25 high potential, low income, first generation rising sophomores and juniors from northern New Jersey colleges and universities, including Saint Peter’s. The long-term goal of NJNY is to recruit fellows from all 19 community colleges and 39 institutions of higher education in the state.

individualized support from their mentor

“I’ve been set up with a

coach; obtain in-kind services and products

lot of opportunities and

such as free business attire, free writing and

resources to jump into an

ESL support, subsidized test prep, discounted

internship,” said Feeney,

laptops and tablet computers; and networking

who is currently interning

opportunities with leading professionals.

in the corporate tax depart-

After attending several workshops, Sevilla,

ment of Lehman Brothers

who is working on a double major in political

Holdings, Inc. To date, he’s

science and economics, was paired with a hu-

taken advantage of every-

man resources professional at Goldman Sachs,

Aileny Santos thing from resumé building Cabral ’14

a company for which he hopes to work.

to interviewing skills while his mentor “is really

Making connections with his mentor and other professionals involved with NJNY has helped him better understand his goals, as well

involved in everything I’m doing. The people in the program are great and supportive.”

Santos Cabral, a business management and

as determine the best path to achieve them. “I

accounting major, said she has received great

personally see how to conduct myself and how

career advice and direction from her mentor,

to present myself for internships and other

Mark Jurcevic, an associate in the controller’s

opportunities,” he said. Through NJNY, Sevilla

department at Goldman Sachs. “Being part of a

recently spent a day shadowing professionals at

team that is there to help me is really inspiring

Barclays, while Feeney spent a day on the floor

and admirable,” she said. “It brings me one step

of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

closer to achieving my dreams.”

Celebrating Englewood Cliffs, Past and Future Satellite campus was among the vanguard serving non-traditional and adult students.

The Englewood Cliffs campus serves approximately 341 adult students with courses on weeknights, weekends and online. It offers undergraduate degrees in the School of Professional and Continuing Studies, the R.N. to B.S.N. program as well as advanced degrees in nursing, education and business. Starting in Fall 2013, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Program with a concentration in Professional Sales will be offered.

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Spring 2013

Today, degree programs for non-traditional

great interaction with classmates who were

and adult students are ubiquitous. Thirty-six

also working professionals.”

years ago, when the Englewood Cliffs campus

Cigolini, along with many alumni and Uni-

of Saint Peter’s graduated its first class, higher

versity officials, celebrated the past, present

education programs geared toward adult

and future of the Englewood Cliffs campus at a

learners were difficult to find. For hundreds of

special event on May 3. University President Eu-

working adults, Englewood Cliffs and its degree

gene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., and Provost and Vice

programs were life changing.

President for Academic Affairs Marylou Yam,

“By the time I decided to go back to school I

Ph.D., presented the Petrean Medal for Leader-

was already working and I didn’t want to be a

ship to Katherine M. Restaino, Ph.D., the found-

part of a typical undergraduate class,” recalled

ing dean of the Englewood Cliffs campus. Dr.

Elaine Mauro Cigolini ’83, who earned a bach-

Restaino established the campus in 1975 and

elor’s degree in marketing at the campus. “At

also marketed and expanded degree programs

the Englewood Cliffs campus I found a lot of

at the undergraduate and graduate level. She served as dean for more than 20 years.

“Dr. Restaino left a legacy of extraordinary and dedicated leadership,” said Dr. Yam. “She was in the forefront and always an advocate for the adult-friendly learning environment.”

“It was the best job I ever had,” said Dr.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Marylou Yam, Ph.D., Petrean Medal recipient Katherine Restaino, Ph.D., and University President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D.

Restaino. “I thank everyone who was ever associated with the campus as a faculty member or a student, because you gave me great joy and great fulfillment.”

Commencement 2013 Best-selling author Rev. James Martin, S.J., delivers commencement address Rev. James Martin, S.J., a best-selling author, culture editor of the national Catholic magazine America and Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report” chaplain, addressed Saint Peter’s University graduates at the 122nd commencement exercises on May 20 at the PNC Bank Arts Center. Fr. Martin also received a Doctorate of Humane Letters, honoris causa, from the University.

A well-known religious figure, Fr. Martin is the author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything, My Life with the Saints and Between Heaven and Mirth, among other works. He is a regular on-air guest who provided expert commentary to ABC News during the recent papal conclave.

Job outlook for graduates Employers expect to hire 13 percent more new college graduates from the Class of 2013 than they did from the Class of 2012, according to the Job Outlook 2013 survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

The survey reported that the top five bachelor’s degrees in demand by employers are: finance, computer and information science, accounting, business administration/ management and mechanical engineering.

Double-digit increases in hiring are anticipated in pharmaceutical manufacturing, computer and electronics manufacturing, retail, finance, insurance, real estate and management consulting.

The Jesuit’s address was especially significant since the May commencement also marked a new milestone: the Class of 2013 was the first to graduate from Saint Peter’s University.

The University awarded 574 bachelor’s degrees as well as 256 master’s degrees in accountancy, business, criminal justice, nursing and education.

Additional coverage of the 2013 commencement is available at saintpeters.edu.

Saint Peter’s University

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University

News

Future Utopias: An Idea Worth Spreading University hosts first TEDx event What do a Zen teacher, the executive director of an international women’s human rights organization, a Lutheran minister and the author of 1001 Things Everyone Should Know About the Universe have in common? They were all part of an incredible lineup of speakers for the first TEDx event held at Saint Peter’s University on March 21.

TED is a nonprofit devoted to ideas worth spreading. Featuring a combination of live presenters and/or TED Talks videos, the program is designed to spark discussion and connection, which the selected topic for the Saint Peter’s TEDx, “Future Utopias—Realistic and Sustainable Ways to Better Our Societies,” certainly did.

Insights on creating and sustaining a peaceful world were presented by Saint Peter’s Rev. Robert Kennedy, S.J., author of Zen Spirit, Christian Spirit and Zen Gifts to Christians; William Gutsch, Ph.D., distinguished professor of the College of Arts and Sciences who spoke on “Utopias in Space;” and John Ruppert, Ed.M., professor and laboratory coordinator for the biology department, who presented “Love: A Natural Sciences Framework with Social Applications.”

Attendees also heard from Dixie Duncan, executive director and founder of

Wheels to Africa; John McCall, Ph.D., director of the Pedro Arrupe Center for Business Ethics and professor of philosophy and management at Saint Joseph’s University; Paul Levinson, Ph.D., professor of communications and media studies at Fordham University; Walter Wifall, Ph.D., professor of biblical studies in the department of theology at Saint John’s University and a Lutheran minister; Andrew Zwicker, Ph.D., a physicist and science educator; Yifat Susskind, the executive director of the international women’s human rights organization MADRE; and Rev. Simon Harak, S.J., Ph.D., professor of theological ethics and director for the Center for Peacemaking at Marquette University.

The Jesuit University of New Jersey was among more than 70 colleges, universities and organizations in the U.S. that hosted TEDx events in March. Saint Peter’s students Semiray Kasoolu ’13, Prajwal Niraula ’15, Yanitsa Toneva ’13, Ivani Proano ’15, Shaoour Mir ’15 and Shailesh Khadka ’13 organized the event. Faculty advisors were Associate Professor of Political Science Anna Brown, Ph.D., and Rachel Wifall, Ph.D., associate professor of English and honors program director. The honors and social justice programs sponsored the TEDx event.

A Deeper Faith Journey Ten individuals were welcomed into the full life of the Church at the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church on April 21. The group included eight Saint Peter’s students and two siblings of a student. This is the third year that the RCIA Mass welcomed the Most. Rev. Thomas A. Donato, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Newark. Since 2011, 29 members of the University community have completed the RCIA program, a process in which interested adults choose to follow the Roman Catholic faith and prepare for Baptism, Holy Communion and/or Confirmation.

Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., director of campus ministry, directs the program.

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Spring 2013

Reaching Vision 2015 It’s just past the mid-point for VISION 2015,

And while capital improvements and

the strategic plan for Saint Peter’s Univer-

new academic programs get their share of

sity, and many of the aspirations contained

the limelight, less visible action items have

in the plan are now a reality. Since its of-

also made a profound difference. For in-

ficial launch in 2010, innovative academic

stance, the orientation for new employees

programs were introduced, the institution

was reworked to devote more time to the

achieved university status and new and

University’s Jesuit mission. Vice President

expanded facilities such as St. Aedan’s: The

for Mission and Ministry Rev. Michael L.

Saint Peter’s University Church and the

Braden, S.J., then developed an online ori-

Mac Mahon Student Center have trans-

entation for the Board of Trustees to better

formed the physical campus into an excit-

understand their role as stewards of this

ing place to learn and live.

mission. The program has proven so help-

The plan’s focus on four strategic directions (Advancing Excellence in Learning and Living, Building Enrollment, Promot-

ful and meaningful it will later be introduced to the wider University community.

Further developments in the next half of

ing our Jesuit Mission and Identity and

VISION 2015 include the implementation

Strengthening Organizational Effective-

of the facilities master plan, the renovation

ness) has been a critical factor in its suc-

of Dinneen Hall to become the new home

cess, said Special Assistant to the President

of the School of Business and the School of

for Institutional Planning Virginia Bender,

Education and a strategic plan to further

Ph.D. ’78. In fact, 95 of the 110 action items

advance the University’s Division I athletic

identified to achieve the strategic directions

program.

are either completed or in progress.

“It’s helped us prioritize,” Dr. Bender said.

The changes are palpable. Yet, as Dr. Bender noted, “We’re still the Saint Peter’s

“The plan has helped us identify where to

with the same core values and the same

commit resources as well as human capital

concern for the individual student. Every-

and energy to get priorities accomplished.”

thing is enhanced by the plan.”

Driving the Economy If you add it up, Saint Peter’s impact as an economic driver in New Jersey and surrounding communities totaled $381,668,938 in fiscal year 2011–2012. The figure was released earlier this year in a Community Investment Report that detailed the many ways the University drives the economy as an employer and purchaser, as well as through capital projects like the Mac Mahon Student Center. Saint Peter’s impact can also be measured by service and institutional support for students and through attracting grants for research and projects that improve people’s lives.

The report also underscored the University’s role in helping to address critical issues such as New Jersey’s “brain drain.” The State is one of the largest exporters of college students, yet Saint Peter’s continues to attract the majority of its students from the Garden State. More than 18,000 Saint Peter’s alumni reside in New Jersey and the financial power of these graduates continues to affect nearly every aspect of the state economy. To view a copy of the report, visit saintpeters.edu/community-investment.

Peacock Leads the Harlem Shake One week before the Mac Mahon Student Center opened on March 20, Saint Peter’s University Dining Services produced its own version of the Harlem Shake, an Internet meme that went viral on YouTube.

The proud Peacock and a group of very enthusiastic students filmed the Saint Peter’s version outside of the new student center.

The short video is posted on the Saint Peter’s University Dining Services YouTube channel at youtube.com/user/ SPDining.

University

News

Faculty Notebook

Career Fair Sets New Record Fifty-four employers participated in the Spring 2013 Career Fair, held on March 21 at Saint Peter’s University, setting a new record for employer participation.

The previous record was set last October when 53 employers were represented at the Fall 2012 Career Fair.

Nestlé, CA Technologies, Hertz Corporation, The Creative Group and Minnie Rose, a luxury women’s clothing brand, were among 17 companies that made their on-campus debut at the bi-annual event.

More than 400 students attended the Career Fair, which marks its 30th anniversary this year.

The Office of Career Services organized the event; corporate sponsors included Enterprise RentA-Car and Hudson City Savings Bank.

Ernabel Demillo, M.A.

Eugenia Palmegiano, Ph.D.

David Surrey, Ph.D.

Emmy Nod for Instructor Lecturer of Communication Ernabel Demillo, M.A., garnered a 2013 New York Emmy nomination for “Science & U!” an original CUNY-TV program that explores the world of science. The nominated piece featured a group of eco-friendly musicians on a mission to teach people to re-use trash.

A lecturer in the Department of Communication, the broadcast journalist has worked for the science magazine show since 2011.

She also worked as a news reader for CourtTV, reporter for MSNBC and reporter and anchor for “Good Day New York.”

The 56th Annual New York Emmy Awards Gala was held on April 14.

professor emerita of history, who co-organized the event; David Surrey, Ph.D., professor of sociology and Ernabel Demillo, M.A., lecturer of communication, who served as panelists on “#FastandFurious on #SocialMedia: From Celebrities to Social Change,” which was moderated by Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., director of campus ministry; and Jerome Gillen, Ph.D., associate professor of history, who moderated the panel discussion “Celebrities: Who Decides?” Two Saint Peter’s undergraduates also participated in the panel.

Members of the departments of communication and history, as well as the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library, served as coorganizers for the event.

The Culture of Celebrity “Star Struck: Creating/Covering Celebrity” was the topic of the sixth annual Media and History Conference held in Pope Hall on April 4.

Scholars from New York University, Quinnipiac University and Saint Peter’s University presented and participated in this year’s conference.

Faculty members representing Saint Peter’s included: Eugenia M. Palmegiano, Ph.D.,

FACULTY SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATED Thirty-two faculty members who have published during the past two years were honored at a reception held in the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library on April 24. Publications included journal articles, book reviews, magazine articles, monographs, essays, editorials and full peer-reviewed papers in conference proceedings.

Saint Peter’s and Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Partner To OFFER RADIOGRAPHY DEGREE Saint Peter’s University and the Englewood Hospital and Medical Center School of Radiography signed an agreement to create an associate degree program that combines coursework at the two schools. Students will attend Saint Peter’s for one year and then complete two years at the Englewood School of Radiography. Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn their associate degree of applied science in health science from Saint Peter’s University, as well as a diploma from the Englewood School of Radiography.

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Spring 2013

Practice for the Real World of Nursing Care

In the Classroom

Lauren Heraghty ’14 has a fever, headache and some blisters following an explosion in the workplace. It’s up to Kristina Romaniv ’13 and Miriam Saquique ’13 to assess Heraghty’s condition and plan an appropriate clinical intervention—STAT. Welcome to the Simulation Lab, the site of an innovative teaching and learning curriculum in the School of Nursing that replicates real life scenarios allowing B.S.N. (Bachelor of Science Nursing) students to learn, practice and apply skills in preparation for clinical practice. The scenario above is part of the fourth-year Community Health Nursing course that includes disaster nursing and an exercise replicating an explosion involving anthrax exposure.

Using mannequins and second-year

B.S.N. students, Andrew Magnowski ’14 and Lauren Heraghty ’14, learn essential skills in the Simulation Lab.

B.S.N. students playing disaster victims, Romaniv, Saquique and other fourth-year

and the NCLEX-RN licensing examina-

physiological elements employed, but

students were tasked with assessing those

tion,” Dean of Nursing Ann Tritak, Ed.D.,

psycho-social and therapeutic commu-

who had been exposed to anthrax, refer-

told Nurse.com, a leading source of

nication concepts are woven through-

ring those in need of immediate medical

nursing news. School of Nursing faculty

out each clinical course for students to

care and triaging patients in the manner

also attended a recent roundtable with

master.”

of first responders at a disaster scene.

the online publication to discuss the

The expectation is that students will

University’s simulation curriculum.

achieve a level of competence prior to in-

“Saint Peter’s School of Nursing faculty has taken the simulation laboratory setting beyond that of just ‘practice.’”

Simulation is integrated into a sig-

The program also utilizes the latest

teracting with actual patients. “The simu-

practices in healthcare to better prepare

lation scenarios developed by faculty have

graduates for clinical practice. Faculty

engaged our students in such creative

have incorporated SimChart, an elec-

learning strategies,” Dr. Tritak continued.

tronic health record system, into the lab

“They are well prepared not only for expe-

and clinical rotations. Lisa Garsman, R.N.,

riences while at Saint Peter’s, but for their

M.S., F.N.P.-B.C., director, B.S.N. program,

professional careers as well.”

nificant number of nursing courses. In

said this provides students with practical

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, for

experience in electronic documentation.

School of Nursing faculty members will

instance, students encountered an assault

“Students complete case studies, which

present their Mental Health Sim curriculum at

victim suffering from post-traumatic

allow them to document care as they

the 12th Annual International Nursing Simula-

stress disorder, and in Care for Adults and

make clinical judgments from one phase

tion/Learning Resource Centers Conference in

Aging, faculty designed a scenario involv-

to the next,” she explained.

June. Assistant Professor Michelle Beckford,

ing older adults with depression and poor

“Saint Peter’s School of Nursing faculty

DMH, Patricia Ahearn, R.N., M.S.N., clinical

have taken the simulation laboratory

lecturer and coordinator of the Simulation Lab,

setting beyond that of just ‘practice,’” Dr.

Michelle Morales, R.N.-B.C., clinical instructor,

simulation in all of our undergraduate

Tritak added. “Our simulation laboratory

and Corinne Ellis, R.N., D.N.P., assistant pro-

clinical courses, our students are

is utilized for instruction, practice, reme-

fessor, will represent Saint Peter’s University.

performing better on classroom exams

diation and evaluation. Not only are

nutrition.

“Because we have incorporated

Saint Peter’s University

9

10 minutes

with...

Rev. Mark DeStephano, S.J., Ph.D.

A Beautiful Vision for the Church

The world was stunned when Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a Jesuit priest from Argentina, became the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church. So was Rev. Mark DeStephano, S.J., Ph.D., who was asked to comment about the first Jesuit pontiff in numerous news outlets.

A few months into the new papacy, Saint Peter’s University sat down with Fr. DeStephano for a deeper conversation about the new pope, new leadership and what it might mean for the Church and the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics.

When the Vatican first announced that Cardinal Jorge

What’s the history behind this sort of governance?

Bergoglio was elected pope, the Jesuit community at Saint

The way that Saint Ignatius, the founder of the Jesu-

Peter’s was stunned. How come?

its, envisioned the order was that we would always be

Because it’s written right within our constitutions that

egalitarian. He always felt that every Jesuit was equal, no

we are not to accept higher office in the Church. A spe-

matter what office he held. For instance, when a man is

cial process can overwrite this, but still, in the mind of

chosen to be a superior of a house, or even provincial, it’s

Jesuits, we are just not supposed to be thinking in terms

a term of six years. After the six years, if you were a high

of those bigger offices. So to learn that we would have

school teacher, you’re back to being a high school

the highest office of all is stunning.

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Spring 2013

teacher. There’s not a sense that you’ll always stay in

What can one pope do to make the Church more inclusive?

power. Ignatius did this because of the context of the

I prayed so hard that God would send us a John XXIII

Church at the time of the Reformation. He just did not

figure, and I am so delighted with this guy because I

want us involved in politics in any way, shape or form.

think he can do it. I saw his full entrance to Saint Peter Square on Easter Sunday…the outpouring of emotion

How do you think this embrace of egalitarianism will

from people. And I’ve seen it in parishes and in the

inform Pope Francis’ leadership?

parish where I work on weekends. It seems like the

I think we have seen countless instances, from day one.

churches are already fuller. Just the fact that he’s open

When he became pope, he came out on the balcony,

and warm…people say, ‘Big deal, so he’s hugging dis-

and the first thing he did was say ‘good evening.’ That’s unheard of in a papal declaration. Then, he asked for the people’s blessing before he offered his blessing.

Absolutely unheard of. And it has continued. After the conclave, he went back on the bus with the cardinals, refusing the papal limousine. The fact that he did not choose to live in the papal apartments or use the Popemobile and the fact that it’s been open all this time… it’s sending a huge message that he is living out this egalitarian vision.

Do you think this will draw people closer to the Church?

I would hope so. Not long ago, Pope Francis met with an archbishop who had written the document that called together the Second Vatican Council. This year is the Year of Faith, 50 years since Vatican II, and the pope personally thanked the man for all he had done in preparing the Council. I think that was a very strong signal. He said, not just for historical reasons, that Vatican II and everything it stood for is going to be extremely important. The whole thrust of the Council was that every Catholic was to be involved at the deepest level with their faith and as part of the world, penetrating every aspect of culture. We should be in the midst of the most difficult issues. We’re famous for that as Jesuits.

Aside from the pulpit, are there concrete things the new pope can do to engage Catholics in their faith?

Yes, very much so. Again, this happened in the first few days of his papacy. He gave the example of a single mom who brought her child to the rectory to have the child baptized. In a lot of places, a priest would give the woman a hard time: ‘Where’s the husband? Why aren’t you married?’ Francis’ statement right off the bat was, ‘Who cares?’ The important thing is the child. Baptize the child. So I think he can make a lot of these kind of choices and send indications of inclusivity to all of the bishops and through the bishops to local clergy that he wants a Church that’s more inclusive.

Papal Coat of Arms abled people.’ To me, it is a big deal because he doesn’t The papal coat of have to do it. It’s little things, but signs of him saying arms includes the that the papacy is a human institution that is trying to traditional Jesuit seal: do God’s work.

“IHS” surrounded by a sunburst. “IHS” This is the first pope from Latin America. At Saint Peter’s, the student body is about 25 percent Hispanic and Latino. represents the first three letters in Greek What have you seen here on campus? of the name of Jesus.

First, it is an invitation to students, in general, to get This distinctive seal close to the Church again. Most of the Catholics in the is still used today world are in Latin America. So we’re telling them, ‘Since in Jesuit institutions you are the preponderance of the population, we’re givaround the world. ing you someone who is from among your own. And we The seal is similar entrust the Church to you and we have faith that you to the one the pope can guide the whole Church.’ I think it’s also a signal used as a bishop, but to the Asian Church, saying we’re not afraid to give the with the addition of bonds of power to developing nations. That’s an importhe papal mitre hat tant thing. and papal keys.

Below the seal What else are you hoping for from this papacy? is Francis’ motto, I hope this will be a source of a huge influx of voca“Miserando atque tions. I sincerely hope that as we see good results from eligendo,” which this papacy that cardinals and Catholics, in general, will is taken from a continue to see the benefits of pursuing the goals of passage from the Vatican II. I had a Jesuit professor who used to say that venerable Bede, for any Council it probably takes a good 100 years to see Homily 22, on the what the full effects are. When you read the Vatican II documents, they are the most beautiful, moving, sublime, Feast of Matthew, which reads, challenging documents you will ever read. So I’m really praying that this pope, and those that follow him, will re- Vidit ergo Jesus publicanum, et quia ally push the Church to live out the Council, because it’s miserando atque just a beautiful vision for what the Church should be. eligendo vidit, ait illi, ‘Sequere me’. [Jesus Rev. Mark DeStephano, S.J., Ph.D., is chairman and profestherefore sees the sor of the department of modern and classical languages and tax collector, and literatures and director of the Asian Studies Program. He also since he sees by serves as president of the Faculty Senate at the University. having mercy and by Fluent in 15 languages, he will be presenting at two academic choosing, he says to conferences in China this summer. him, ‘follow me’.]

Saint Peter’s University

11

Students are in the Center and Loving It!

12

Spring 2013

Cover

Story

It took years of planning and 17 months of construction, but in a matter of moments Saint Peter’s students felt right at home in the new Mac Mahon Student Center.

“Wow…it’s something,” said Michelle Mohanie Raghunandan ’14, who was among the crowd of students, faculty and staff that attended “Meet Me at the Center,” the opening to the University community of the six-story facility on March 20. “Everyone is here,” Raghunandan, a staff writer for The Pauw Wow, continued. “This is the number one place [on campus] now. More and more people are coming here and I feel I’m going to make

“ Today we have reached a new milestone in the history of Saint Peter’s University.”

more friends this way.”

Many of the Saint Peter’s students in attendance shared a similar sentiment: as the focal point for campus life, the Mac Mahon Student Center will foster an even tighter, stronger University community. “We need it,” remarked Deshanaye A. Alexander ’15. “Having more interaction with everybody, meeting new people…it’s a much more positive thing.”

Dedication held in Panepinto Plaza The day’s festivities kicked off in Panepinto Plaza, located adjacent to the Glenwood Avenue entrance of the student center. “Today we have reached a new milestone in the history of Saint Peter’s University,” said University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., noting the $35 million facil-

(Opposite page): Enjoying a beautiful Spring day on campus. (This page, clockwise from top left): The ribbon cutting of the University store (left to right): Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., David Klein, Follett Education Group vice president, University store manager Mary Carroll, Denton Stargel, Michael Fazio and Sharon Baro, regional manager, Follett Education Group; SGA President Scott Miller ’13 and Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J.; a gathering in Panepinto Plaza

ity was designed, in large part, by students. “I hope a lot of studying will take place in here. But I also know that an awful lot of spiritual reflection, memorable events and community building will take place within these walls, too. Lifelong friendships are going to be made inside this building.”

Saint Peter’s University

13

The centerpiece of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University, the Mac Mahon Student Center elevates the University’s living and learning experience. “Communities are cornerstones,” said Director of Campus Ministry Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., as he greeted students at the new Campus Ministry suite on the first floor. “This is a beautiful, state-of-the-art building that allows us to open up a new chapter. It’s something new and exciting for our students; I’ve been going up and down the stairs and the students are so happy.”

The nearly 90,000 square-foot facility includes The Caroline L. Guarini Living Room and the University store on the first floor; two floors of student dining, including The James N. Loughran, S.J. Dining Room; The Michael E. Maher Faculty and Staff Dining Room; The Bastek Family Office of Student Life and Development; The Eileen L. and Hugo F. Poiani Student Forum for student clubs to meet and collaborate; a game room; The Marino Family Fitness Center; and The Duncan Family Sky Room, a large space for special events with views overlooking downtown Jersey City and Manhattan.

WSPR Radio, The Pauw Wow and the Student Government Association (SGA) also have dedicated space in the student center.

For commuter students, the new center is especially significant. “I’ve been anticipating this building for a really long time,” said Valerie Jean ’14. “I like that you see more students, including more commuter students, in the building.”

14

Spring 2013

The Ignatian Heritage Walk, installed on f ive ffloors of the student center, promotes Jesuit mission and identity.

Cover

Story

The Kelly Challenge Saint Peter’s students don’t have to go far to sign up for a retreat or plan the next CROP Walk. The Office of Campus Ministry is located on the first floor of the Mac Mahon Student Center. The Kelly Challenge is an effort by alumni and spearheaded through a generous gift from Trustee Joseph R. Gromek ’68 to name the suite after the late Rev. Joseph A. Kelly, S.J., director of campus ministry for more than 20 years. Learn more at saintpeters.edu/ campaign, or contact Ana Cravo at (201) 761-6104 or acravo@saintpeters. edu.

(Opposite page): Students wave from the Saint Ignatius Balcony overlooking Panepinto Plaza while other students gather inside in The Caroline L. Guarini Living Room. (Top of page): The University seal as seen in The James N. Loughran, S.J. Dining Room; Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., participates in the blessing of the Mac Mahon Student Center; the view from The Duncan Family Sky Room; Nicole Herrador ’14 and Joel Dilone ’13; a portion of the Ignatian Heritage Walk.

Saint Peter’s University

15

“I’m meeting more commuter students than I’ve ever met before,” Fr. Danzi added. “The feeling is that this is their home and they can relax for a while. They don’t have to go to class and go right home. I think that’s important to build a sense of community.”

Powerful First Impression As the new arrival point for Saint Peter’s, the Mac Mahon Student Center showcases the value and virtue of attending The Jesuit University of New Jersey.

“I think it’s a great improvement,” said Michael Casio ’13. “With this new student center, I think we’d be able to attract a lot more new students.”

The added pride and confidence that is felt campus-wide since the new facility opened has also made a powerful impression on prospective students.

“The community’s pride and enthusiasm for the student center rubs off on visitors,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Jeffrey Handler, M.A. “There’s a real sense that the University is on the move.”

16

Spring 2013

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Story

Committed to Sustainability Saint Peter’s University has reduced its carbon footprint by 41 percent since 2008, and the Mac Mahon Student Center is aligned with the University’s sustainability efforts. The new facility will be a certified LEED-Silver “green” building.

It features energy and water efficient controls and fixtures, a green roof and storm water runoff; and was constructed with some regionally sourced materials and promotes recycling and HVAC management while reducing waste. The elevators in the sixstory facility also use recycled energy similar to the technology used in the Toyota Prius.

For prospective students, the Mac Mahon Student Center makes a great impression.

(Opposite page): The game room is a popular destination on campus; members of the entire University campus are utilizing The Marino Family Fitness Center. (Top of page): Nearly 1,000 people attended Accepted Student Day; students enjoying the Saint Ignatius Balcony.

Saint Peter’s University

17

“You are the reason we are here tonight.

Not next year, not three years from now, not 10 years from now, but tonight.�

(Left to right): Marie Mangin; Thomas Mac Mahon ’68 and Hon. Albio Sires ’74; the crowd in The Duncan Family Sky Room; Hon. Frank Guarini H ’94 and Joseph Panepinto ’66; John Montone ’76; Kathleen McKenna ’75, William Cozine ’60 and Rev. Michael Braden, S.J.

Hearts &

Minds

Celebrating a Transformation Hearts & Minds honors the Student Center Founders The dream has officially become reality. On April 12, the University honored 10 donors whose leadership and generosity made the $35 million Mac Mahon Student Center possible at Hearts & Minds: The Saint Peter’s University Scholarship Dinner, held in The Duncan Family Sky Room. Forever known as the Student Center Founders for their gifts of $500,000 and more for the construction of a facility that is transforming the Jersey City campus and the surrounding area, the honorees included: Carol B. Bastek, Ed.D. ’70, Thomas W. Duncan ’65, Hon. Frank J. Guarini H ’94, Thomas P. Mac Mahon ’68, M. Brian Maher HA ’07, William J. Marino ’66, Kathleen M. McKenna, Esq. ’75, Robert G. Morris, Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66 and Sodexo Inc. Nearly 400 attendees gathered in The Caroline L. Guarini Living Room in the new facility for the official dedication ceremony and blessing of the building by Vice President for Mission and Ministry Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J. To the honorees, University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., said, “You are the reason we are here tonight. Not next year, not three years from now, not 10 years from now, but tonight. I have been so fortunate to get to know each of you over the past several years. I am so proud to call you Saint Peter’s benefactors, but I am even prouder to call you friends.”

(Clockwise from page 18): John Montone ’76 introduces the event honorees: Joseph Panepinto ’66, William Marino ’66, Thomas Mac Mahon ’68, Catherine Duncan Dziuba ’68, Carol Bastek ’70, Hon. Frank Guarini H ’94, Kathleen McKenna ’75 and Reza Rafizadeh of Sodexo Inc.; the Mac Mahon family; Carol Bastek ’70 and Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D.; the Jesuits of Saint Peter’s; Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D.; Thomas Mac Mahon ’68; Elnardo Webster ’69 (left) and Harry Laurie ’68 (right); peacock ice sculpture.

Saint Peter’s University

19

(Clockwise from top): The performers of Cirque Le Masque; Hon. Albio Sires ’74; the Marino Family; Cirque Le Masque; Renee Brzyski ’13. (Opposite page): Saint Peter’s students; the Duncan Family; Cirque Le Masque.

The founders of our student center are those alumni and friends who have generously supported the construction of the Mac Mahon Student Center with investments of $500,000 or more.

Hearts &

Minds

The event also coincided with a milestone for Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University. To date, the campaign has raised nearly $57 million, 92 percent of its $62 million goal. Its investments have enhanced all aspects of the Jesuit education and experience that Saint Peter’s provides. The total is comprised of 8,100 gifts ranging from the lead gift of $7.5 million, the largest in University history, from Chairman of the Board of Trustees Mac Mahon, to hundreds of others including leadership gifts as well as annual fund and planned gifts.

Mac Mahon is deeply grateful for a Jesuit education that gave him direction and purpose. “When I enrolled at Saint Peter’s in 1964, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life,” he said.

“Over the four subsequent years, something happened. I grew up, received an outstanding education, made lifelong relationships and developed skills I could carry with me for the rest of my life. Most importantly, I was instilled with Jesuit values that continue to serve me until this day.”

Hearts & Minds contributes to the more than $2.5 million raised annually for student scholarships and financial aid. Renee Brzyski ’13, captain of the Peacock’s MAAC (Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) championship indoor track and field team and member of multiple academic honor societies, called the University’s General Scholarship Fund an “amazing blessing.”

“I would not have been able to call Saint Peter’s home for the last four years had I not received academic and athletic scholarships, as well as an abundant financial aid package to pay for my education,” she said.

Master of Ceremonies John Montone ’76, reporter for 1010 WINS, spoke for many when he said, “With contributions to the General Scholarship Fund through Hearts & Minds, the University is able to ensure that those students receive a quality Jesuit education, an education that will allow them—like it allowed so many of us—to achieve our dreams.”

Naming Opportunities Remain With nearly $57 million raised, Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University is approaching the $62 million finish line. But we still need your support to raise the final $5 million. In addition, naming opportunities remain throughout the Mac Mahon Student Center.

To learn more about the progress of the Campaign and ways to participate, contact Leah Leto at lleto@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-6110.

donors who make A

Difference

What a team!

As special advisor, partner and philanthropist, Anthony Bastardi is helping to transform the University’s main campus.

Hands on “We manage everything to death,” is the way Anthony V. (Tony) Bastardi, engineer and chairman and CEO of Strategic Development Group Incorporated, explained how the Mac Mahon Student Center went from groundbreaking to opening in 17 months.

SDG Senior Vice President Christian D. Bastardi, also an engineer and son of Tony and his wife, Marilyn, was on-site full-time during the entire project. “It took an enormous amount of pre-planning and pre-fabrication,” the younger Bastardi said. “That allowed us to build the student center successfully, on budget and in record time.”

As you walk through Saint Peter’s Jersey City campus,

board of the Independent College Fund of New Jersey

Anthony V. (Tony) Bastardi’s contributions are hard to

(ICFNJ) and former chairman of the board of trustees

miss. In his multiple roles as advisor, strategic partner

of Caldwell College.

and philanthropist, Bastardi has helped transform

and philanthropic experience, Bastardi’s counsel

learning environment that supports programmatic

proved invaluable for the planning and financing

excellence and Jesuit ideals.

of the Mac Mahon Student Center. His firm, SDG,

“Tony has been an outstanding friend to Saint

through two years of planning and the 17 months

for Advancement and External Affairs Michael A.

from groundbreaking to soft opening. His official

Fazio, M.B.A. “We are fortunate to have a professional

title at the University is special advisor to President

of his caliber who embraces our mission and vision,

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.

Bastardi wears many hats, including a hard hat—

Spring 2013

managed the nearly seamless construction process

Peter’s in every sense of the word,” said Vice President

and has given generously to help us achieve it.”

22

Because of this unique confluence of professional

the urban campus into a vibrant, unified living and

In addition to the new student center, his expertise helped pave the way for enhancements such as

he is an engineer and chairman and CEO of Strategic

the campus-wide energy initiative, the west campus

Development Group Incorporated (SDG). But he has

tower and parking lot, as well as the acquisition of St.

also held leadership positions in New Jersey higher

Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church. Current-

education, among them former chairman of the

ly, he is spearheading the development of McGinley

Advancement

Square and leading the charge to finance and con-

“Saint Peter’s has always excelled programmati-

struct new high-tech facilities at Dinneen Hall for the

cally in terms of majors, faculty and arming students

School of Business and the School of Education.

with skills that are useful in the marketplace,” he

Since becoming involved with Saint Peter’s six

said. “But amenities are very important to students

years ago, Bastardi and his wife, Marilyn, have also

making a choice about which college they are going to

made significant gifts to the University. They are the

attend, and to the community in which the University

donors who brought The Saint John’s Bible to campus

is embedded. I’m just happy to be part of the effort

and made a multi-year commitment to Students at

that is building new facilities, improving amenities

the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University that

and transforming the neighborhood.”

named the Saint Ignatius Balcony on the second floor of the new student center.

The couple is passionate about education. Their combined decades of service to higher education in New Jersey began when Anthony, a graduate of Stevens Institute of Technology, was asked to join the board of trustees of Marilyn’s alma mater, Caldwell College. There, he led the way on many capital improvements and later, became a trustee of the ICFNJ, where he continues to serve to this day. Marilyn joined the Caldwell board in 2007 and now serves as its chair.

Doing it Again for Saint Peter’s The second time around was even better. 458 alumni and friends responded to “Let’s Do It Again May 10,” a campaign that acquired donors and raised $86,287 in just 24 hours to support Saint Peter’s students. The campaign surpassed its initial goal of 424 donors in an inspiring display of generosity for the University and its mission. Pledges and gifts from this effort ensure that students continue to have access to the life-changing experiences provided by a Jesuit education.

Saint Peter’s fiscal year concludes on June 30. To make a tax deductible gift this year, visit saintpeters.edu/giving.

Bastardi says it’s easy to get behind the vision for The Jesuit University of New Jersey. “To us, it’s the logical and right thing to do,” he said. Saint Peter’s mission and the people leading the institution’s vision also made an impression. “I’ve worked closely with Gene [President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D.] and the members of his Cabinet for a number of years now,” Bastardi noted. “They are passionate and committed to Saint Peter’s and we have formed a close and dear friendship. I view my philanthropy as an extension of that friendship and a way to help them achieve their goals.”

The University’s goals are right on target, according to Bastardi, who also provided input on the soon-tobe-released master plan.

Three of the six campaign priorities have surpassed their targets and Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University has reached 92 percent of its goal. Join this historic effort at saintpeters.edu/campaign.

Saint Peter’s University

23

Moving Up Peacock elected vice chair of National SAAC then moved up to the conference level and became chair of the MAAC studentathlete advisory committee. When he saw an opening for the NCAA National SAAC, a 31-member committee with representatives from every conference in the U.S., he applied and was selected to join a body that represents hundreds of thousands of Division I athletes throughout the U.S. He describes the work as demanding, yet gratifying. “I’m just so passionate about what we do,” Purcilly noted. “I enjoy my role within SAAC so much. It’s really more of a break for me than just another task.”

In addition to these significant responsi-

“We work very hard on legislation that serves the best interests of the student-athletes.” bilities, Purcilly is a member of the Honors Program, president of Pi Mu Epsilon (Mathematics Honor Society) and vice president of Phi Alpha Theta (History Honor Society). His mentors and coaches couldn’t be Magis comes naturally to Adam Purcilly ’14.

a voice,” he said, pointing to a significant

A mathematics and history major with

package of reforms to the student-athlete

a 4.0 GPA, the Peacock baseball player

rulebook passed by the NCAA Division I

personifies the Jesuit ideal to strive for ex-

Board of Directors earlier this year. “We

cellence and always seek more. In January,

had input on all of that and had sit-down

the National Division I Student-Athletic

meetings with the Board of Directors and

Advisory Committee (SAAC) elected Pur-

the Legislative Council. The perception is

cilly vice chair at the NCAA Convention.

that student-athletes are pawns and we

He is the first student-athlete from Saint

don’t have a say, but we work very hard on

Peter’s University and the MAAC to hold

legislation that serves the best interests of

the senior leadership position.

student-athletes.”

Purcilly, who hails from Troy, Mich., is

For this Michigan native, the road to the

clearly excited about his new role and its

National SAAC began with the advisory

impact on improving the experience for

committee at Saint Peter’s, where he has

all Division I student-athletes. “We have

served for the past three years. Purcilly

24

Spring 2013

prouder.

“Adam’s dedication to his academic and athletic success, coupled with his passion to help others, makes him the ideal student-athlete,” said Head Men’s Baseball Coach Sean Cashman.

“He is the epitome of the ideal studentathlete,” said Tara Wuorinen, academic athletic coordinator, who has worked closely with Purcilly as the University’s SAAC advisor. “We are extremely fortunate to have Adam’s leadership and guidance at Saint Peter’s and look forward to him executing these same qualities at the national level.”

Peacock

U

Three Years. Five Championships.

Year for the third year in a row. Team

Women’s Indoor Track and Field wins another MAAC title

members credit their coach with building the championship franchise. “Coach

The Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J., Recreational

Massone really put time, effort and money

Life Center is going to need a bigger

into bringing people who could not only

trophy case.

score, but would progress throughout the

The Saint Peter’s University indoor women’s track and field team clinched its third consecutive Metro Atlantic Athletic

years and help build up the team,” Cherrice Brown ’13 told The Pauw Wow. Stefanny Laureano ’14 said the first

Conference (MAAC) Championship on

championship in 2011 laid the foundation

February 14 at the New Balance Armory

for growth. “It set the mood that victory is possible,” she said. “Becoming the cham-

“We proved by our repeat win that we are truly the MAAC champions.”

pions was not something we were willing to let go without a fight. We proved by our repeat win that we are truly the MAAC champions.”

On May 5, Isaiah Harris ’14 and Shona

Track & Field Center in New York. With the

Potrzuski ’14 each won three events to

three-peat for indoor track and field, plus

earn Most Outstanding Performer, pacing

the MAAC outdoor track and field cham-

the Saint Peter’s men’s and women’s teams

pionships in 2012 and 2011, the women’s

at the MAAC Outdoor Track and Field

team has garnered five titles in three years.

Championships. The Peacocks women’s

Head Coach Michael Massone was also named the women’s MAAC Coach of the

team finished second and the men’s team placed third overall.

STUDENT-ATHLETES CELEBRATED at New York Athletic Club This academic year holds a special meaning for student-athletes as they proudly don University uniforms. But these Peacocks remain just as dedicated to their academics as to their athletic pursuits.

This commitment was honored at a Celebration of Athletics held on February 21 at the New York Athletic Club (NYAC).

“To succeed on the playing field or in life, you need to be committed,” University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., told the more than 80 guests in attendance. “I see commitment at Saint Peter’s every day.”

This commitment is evident in Alex Frakes ’13, men’s tennis, Ali Hassan ’13, men’s swimming, and Jamie Lisanti ’13, women’s soccer, who were inducted into the Most Noble Order of the Peacock in 2012 for attaining the highest scholastic average in all courses for their first three years.

Director of Athletics Joseph Quinlan noted the responsibility of the athletics program to cura personalis——care for the entire person.

“We have more than a half dozen teams who achieved a perfect score in the NCAA’s academic progress report,” he said. “You can’t do any better than that.” Quinlan also praised the Peacocks’ success in their athletic endeavors.

More than half of the admission price for the NYAC event, hosted by Frank McGrail ’79, vice chair of the Board of Trustees and chair of Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University, was donated to the University’s General Athletics Fund.

To learn more about how you can contribute to the success of studentathletes and the athletics program, visit saintpeters.edu/campaign.

Women’s Indoor Track and Field is once again MAAC champions.

Saint Peter’s University

25

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.

1960 Richard J. O’Brien and his wife, Patricia, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 20.

1964 Donald Brennan’s new book, ‘Til Now’ A Family History – Growing Up In Jersey City, will go on sale this spring.

William Steele, Ph.D., was one of three Saint Peter’s alumni to participate in Executives in

Residence (EIR), a three-credit course for graduate students in the M.B.A. program at the University.

Dr. Steele presented at the EIR program on March 12. He is the founder/CEO of KenCast Corp. in Norwalk, Conn., and prior to that spent 14 years with GTE Corporation, with five of those years as general manager of the ImageSpan division of GTE Spacenet. In addition to his vast experience in the satellite and telecommunications industry, he was an assistant professor of economics at Villanova University and taught at the University of Nairobi, Kenya.

1965

1972

Retired President and CEO of Columbia Bank Raymond G. Hallock was a guest lecturer for Executives in Residence (EIR), a three-credit course for graduate students in the M.B.A. program at Saint Peter’s University on March 15. Prior to his appointment as president and CEO, he served in several senior level positions at Columbia Bank. A well-known figure in banking, business and community affairs, Hallock actively serves many local and charitable causes, including as an Advisory Board and Finance Committee member for Paterson Habitat for Humanity, Inc.; as an advisory board member of St. Joseph’s Home for the Elderly; and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey and the American Bankers Association.

Joseph Brannigan, J.D., M.B.A., was inducted into the Monsignor Farrell High School Hall of Fame. Judge Brannigan served in the United States Army and as an Assistant Judge Advocate, then as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in the Organized Crime Unit and in foreign counterintelligence. Judge Brannigan then became a Deputy District Attorney in San Diego County and then Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of California. He also served as Supervising Attorney for the Border Crimes Section, Criminal Division. He was first elected to the Superior Court in 2004.

1968

Join us on Connections are happening every day on our Alumni Facebook page.

Don’t miss out on the action!

facebook.com/saintpetersalumni

26

Spring 2013

Bill Tulko was appointed by Governor Rick Scott of Florida to the board of the Children’s Services Council of Martin County for a four-year term. The council is an independent special district that provides a dedicated funding source of nearly $9 million from collected ad valorem taxes and state and federal matching grants for effective children’s programs in the County.

1970 Gary S. Horan received the Professional Society Award of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Regent’s Award.

1973 Kathleen A. Tyrrell and her husband, James, celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on March 24.

1974 John A. Anderson was elected councilman in the city of New Brunswick last November, in his first bid at elected office after having been appointed to the City of New Brunswick’s Parking Authority.

George Gurdak, CPA, was a guest lecturer for Executives in Residence (EIR), a three-credit course for graduate students in the M.B.A. program at Saint Peter’s University on March 14. Gurdak’s career spanned significant experience at American Express Co., Interpublic Group of Companies, McGraw-Hill Companies

P e a coc k P r of i l e

A Man for Others: Allan S. Stewart, M.D. ’91 Almost all children have a quick answer when asked

to relate to them with experiences.”

In his experience as a student at Saint Peter’s, Dr. Stewart

what they want to be when

was afforded the opportunity to comfortably interact with a

they grow up. Inevitably, this

diverse student body. Those interactions have informed his

answer changes many times

bedside manner. “You get the ability to intersect with a vari-

over the years. Not so for

ety of different cultures and socio-economic backgrounds in a

Allan S. Stewart, M.D. ’91—

place like Saint Peter’s,” he said.

his answer to that age-old

His ability to communicate with his patients has gone far

question has remained con-

beyond the hospital. The physician recounted the first time a

sistent since childhood: he

patient put him up to a challenge. “One of my patients chal-

wanted to be a doctor.

lenged me to a bicycle race, and I thought, ‘I can ride a bicycle,

This early choice of career has led to a better, healthier life for countless individu-

how big of a deal can it be?’ And then when I signed up, I realized I was signing up for the New York City Triathlon!”

This unexpected, but successful, endeavor opened a new

als—including President

door, and a new tradition, for the surgeon. That first triathlon

Bill Clinton, on whom Dr.

paved the way for Dr. Stewart to run the New York City Mara-

Stewart and a medical team

thon every year.

performed open-heart surgery in 2005.

Dr. Stewart, a cardiothoracic surgeon who received his M.D.

“It encourages those who weren’t necessarily even athletes before to have a goal, and to show them that they are, in fact, better than they were before.” Such an experience is very

at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, is

important, particularly for individuals who have undergone

currently attending surgeon at New York Presbyterian Hospital

serious surgery. “Not only are they fixed, but they can get

and assistant professor of surgery at the Columbia College of

more out of their lives and know that they’re not broken, that

Physicians and Surgeons.

their heart is completely repaired,” he said.

Among Dr. Stewart’s earliest influences were his two grand-

On April 25, Dr. Stewart delivered the 62nd Annual Mendel

fathers, one a diesel mechanic and one a carpenter. “They

Lecture, co-sponsored by the Department of Biology, the De-

both taught me how to work with tools and my hands, so I

partment of Applied Science and Technology and the Mendel

knew I wanted to do something with that from when I was

Biology Society of Saint Peter’s University. As former president

eight or so,” he said. By the time he was 11, that desire took a

of the Mendel Society, Dr. Stewart understands what students

more specific turn. He recalled the day like it was yesterday.

look for in the lecture series, and said he put himself in the

“One ‘NOVA’ show featured a heart transplant. I watched and

shoes of those who would attend when he decided on the

said, ‘that’s what I want to do when I grow up,’ and I never

direction of his lecture.

changed my mind.”

Communication with patients is critical in the field of

While he presented information about surgeries and heart conditions, Dr. Stewart also offered advice based on his own

medicine, and Dr. Stewart credits his education at Saint Peter’s

experiences, and encouraged students to invest themselves in

for much of his success in this facet of his work.

relationships, personal interests and hobbies.

“When you interact with patients, whether you’re operat-

“Saint Peter’s, as a liberal arts Jesuit institution, gives stu-

ing on them or you’re taking care of them, whether you’re a

dents the foundation they need to be well-balanced human

pediatrician or an obstetrician or a heart surgeon, they’re hu-

beings,” he said at the lecture. Dr. Stewart is living proof of

man beings, and you have to have a conversation with them,”

that very statement.

he said. “You have to make them trust you. You have to be able

Saint Peter’s University

27

Class news

& Notes

Gatherings Alumni in Law More than 100 people turned out for the

and Arthur Andersen & Co. He is a member of the Board of Regents at the University, and serves on the audit committees for Saint Peter’s University and Saint Peter’s Prep.

Alumni in Law event held April 18 in The Duncan Family Sky Room in the Mac Mahon Student Center. The event featured a Continuing Legal Education (CLE) lecture, “Attorney Ethics: What Clients Should Expect of their Lawyers,” presented by Hon. Edwin H. Stern, retired New Jersey Superior Court judge, and moderated by Hon. Kevin G. Callahan ’69,

Left to right: Hon. Kevin G. Callahan ’69 (retired), Hon. Edwin H. Stern (retired) and Richard T. Nieto ’75

Nancy M. Benecki was accepted into the Master’s Program for Strategic Communications at Columbia University in New York City.

retired New Jersey Superior Court judge and criminal justice professor at Saint Peter’s University. A networking reception followed the CLE lecture, which was also hosted by the Saint Peter’s University Alumni in Law Host Committee.

In addition to Professor Callahan, members of the Alumni in Law Host Committee include: John C. Caulfield, Esq. ’88, Clark C. Curtis, Esq. ’82, Elise J. DiNardo, Esq. ’84, Francis J. Giantomasi, Esq. ’76, Carl M. Losito, Esq. ’80, Frank B. Reilly, Jr., Esq. ’67, Anne M. Ronan, Esq. ’83 and Vincent A. Signorile, Esq. ’81.

Left to right: Anne M. Ronan, Esq. ’83, Michael F. Russo, Esq. ’83 and Guy V. Amoresano, Esq. ’83

1997

For more information, please contact Jenny Campbell at (201) 761-6112.

2003 Thomas Tufaro, M.A.Ed., earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the College of Saint Elizabeth. He successfully defended his dissertation, titled, “Finding Common Ground: Exploring the Connections between the English Language Arts Common Core State Standards and Interdisciplinary Teaching and Learning at the Secondary Level.”

2008

Class of 1963 50th Reunion September 13-15, 2013

Don’t miss out – come help us celebrate your milestone!

Reunite with fellow alumni and the many friends that you made during your college years. Come back to see the changes at alma mater and create new memories to share with your friends and family.

Events planned for the weekend include campus and Jersey City tours as well as a gala in The Duncan Family Sky Room, located in the newly constructed Mac Mahon Student Center.

For more information, please contact Jenny Campbell at (201) 761-6112 or jcampbell1@saintpeters.edu.

28

Spring 2013

Boryana Dimitrova, Ph.D., successfully defended her doctoral thesis at Drexel University. She will graduate in June.

2010 Jenny E. Campbell and her husband, Joseph, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on April 25.

Engagements Mark Checki ’95 and Joanna Pelias have announced their engagement. The wedding will take place on November 2 at St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church in Cherry Hill, N.J. Daniel Sexton ’03 announced his engagement to Nicole Terrano in September 2012.

Marriages Evgeniya “Jenny” Pavlova ’08 married Matthew Miller in Roswell, Ga., on February 9. Her college roommates, Megan Craven ’08, Jolie Hoppe ’08 and Andrea Hoversland ’08 were bridesmaids.

Births Jaclyn Jaccodine-Puleo ’99 and her husband, Anthony, welcomed their first child, Anthony John, on December 10, 2012. Anthony weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 19.5 inches long at birth.

140 Years of Helping Others Teresians Celebrate Milestone Anniversary 2013 is a momentous year for the Teresians, a Catholic women’s sodality that supports scholarships and other worthy efforts at Saint Peter’s University. The lay society celebrated the 140th anniversary of its founding on April 27 with a Mass at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church and luncheon in The Duncan Family Sky Room in the new Mac Mahon Student Center.

“It was absolutely beautiful,” said Ann McGovern ’61, president of the Teresians.

Founded in 1873 at St. Peter’s Church in Jersey City, Teresians helped feed and clothe the poor and volunteered for civic duty during World War I. When Saint Peter’s moved from downtown Jersey City to its present location, the organization narrowed its focus and now solely supports the University. Over the years, funds raised by the Teresians helped build Saint Peter Chapel and the group supports the Teresian Scholarship. The group also made a gift to Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University.

“It’s a real dedication,” noted McGovern, one of the first female graduates of Saint Peter’s Evening Division, which allowed women to matriculate before the Day Session went

co-ed in 1966. The approximately 100 Teresian members commit to attending a monthly Mass and meetings and supporting the sodality and its good works. Besides financial support, the group also has a strong affinity with Saint Peter’s. Several members are also alumnae of the University including Mary Quinn ’72, Vera Taylor ’77, Rita Prezioso ’74, Barbara Tansey ’68 and Faith Dimatteo ’67.

Commemoration of the Teresians’ 140th anniversary will continue, with two more luncheons to be held later this year and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December that will honor the organization’s Jubilarians marking 25, 40 and 50 years of service. Said McGovern, “It will be a sweet ending to an important year.”

Jean-Marie Ake, Teresians’ first vice president, and Ann McGovern ’61, president

We are now accepting event reservations for The Duncan Family Sky Room in the Mac Mahon Student Center.

For more information, contact Lauren Montemarano at lmontemarano@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-7214.

Saint Peter’s University

29

Class news

& Notes

Sun Shines on Alumni Golf Outing

Gracie Mansion Alumni Tea Tour

It was a beautiful spring day on the green for the 40th Annual Alumni Golf Outing held on May 2 at The Colts Neck Golf Club in Colts Neck, N.J. Alumni and friends of Saint Peter’s University

Susan Mitchell-Abbate ’72, Board of Trustees member (right), with guests Nance Storelli, Sarah Muhlane and Patricia Enright

Join fellow alumni for a tour of Gracie Mansion, one of the most celebrated landmarks in New York City and among the oldest structures standing in Manhattan. Enjoy tea service in the ballroom and a private guided tour of the house, given by Dyan Cutro, wife of Trustee Robert Cutro ’75. Then relax in Carl Schurz Park or take in the magnificent views along the East River promenade.

played in 20 foursomes throughout the day.

Contests were held for the closest to the pin, longest drive, low gross and low net. Following the golf, 25 additional

Wednesday, September 25, 2013 1:00 p.m. - $30 per person

attendees joined the golfers at a cocktail/ dinner reception filled with fun, raffles and

For more information or to register, please contact Gloria Mercurio at (201) 761-6125 or gmercurio@saintpeters.edu.

prizes.

(Left to right): Mark Kahrer ’83, Matt Doherty ’83, Mike Kahrer ’79 and Kevin Guckian ’83

An Alumni and Friends Evening of Doo Wop Featuring

Kenny Vance & The Planotones “Looking for an Echo”

Jay Siegel & The Tokens “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”

Lewis Lymon Original Lead Singer of the Teenchords “I’m So Happy”

Shirley Alston Reeves (original lead singer of The Shirelles) “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”

Linda Jansen (original lead singer of The Angels) “Cry Baby Cry” and “Til”

Saturday, November 16 • 8:00 p.m.

$50

General Admission $10 of every ticket sold will support St. Aedan's: The Saint Peter's University Church

The Duncan Family Sky Room in the Mac Mahon Student Center 47 Glenwood Avenue, Jersey City

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit

http://alumni.saintpeters.edu/event/doowop.

30

Spring 2013

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.

Thomas J. Ames ’50 Harry A. Anderson ’73 Raymond T. Armstrong ’59 Edward R. Brinski ’49 Michael J. Chelik ’00 Bernard W. Colaianni ’48 John E. Cowen ’62 Francis H. Darragh, M.D. ’43 Michael K. Devaney ’74 Emil P. Dochych ’72 Jane F. Durkin ’92 Claude Felts, Jr. ’76 Richard L. Fiore ’76 James F. Fox, Sr. ’55 Thomas D. Garille ’56 Michael J. Izzo, Jr., Esq. ’66 Joseph G. Jackson ’76 Edward J. Kahrer, Sr. Michael J. Kane ’56 Robert F. Klein ’52 Anthony D. Lancia ’71 Harold C. Lang ’57 James V. Mahoney, Jr., Ph.D. ’56 Marianna McCarthy ’87 Phoebe B. Meiss ’84 Alphonse S. Noviello ’73 Lillian O’Connell Frank J. Pandolfo ’55 Joseph A. Puglisi ’42 William J. Quinn ’52 Walter F Skerrett, Jr. ’56 Paul M. Suter ’59 Leon A. Szmitkowski, CPA ’70 Robert J. Tiedemann, Esq. ’56 John F. Varley ’50 Slawko Yadlowsky ’54 Gerald A. Yates ’60 Frank A. Zegar, CPA ’61

REMEMBERING FR. LOUGHRAN In a letter in the Fall 2006 issue of this magazine, the University’s 21st president, Rev. James N. Loughran, S.J., articulated the great need for a student center: “To attract [residential] students and to give them, as well as our commuters, a high quality campus experience.” He went on to say, “Your generosity in the past makes us optimistic that these hopes will become realities.”

Hopes did indeed become realities, and now students, faculty, staff and even prospective students visiting the Mac Mahon Student Center can enjoy a meal in the facility’s own James N. Loughran, S.J. Dining Room. The Board of Trustees voted to name the dining area after Fr. Loughran to honor the late president and to recognize his role in establishing such a huge milestone for the University.

“Fr. Loughran often said that our purpose at Saint Peter’s was ‘to make good things happen in the hearts and minds of students,’” said University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. “This is a very good thing for our students. It seems only fitting that a place where students can gather to dine, socialize and enrich their overall experience should be named in honor of Fr. Loughran.”

Fr. Loughran led Saint Peter’s from 1995 until 2006. During his tenure, the institution saw far-reaching growth, including expanded academic offerings, a tripled endowment and several momentous construction projects, such as the renovation of Gannon Hall and the construction of the Saint Peter’s pedestrian bridge that links the East and West sides of campus.

Saint Peter’s University

31

then and

Now

1964

The Permanence of Change The buildings keep changing, but the mission remains the same. Our first campus (if you could call it that) was situated in downtown Jersey City. The College closed during the Great War due to declining enrollment, but was resurrected in 1930 on Kennedy Boulevard (then Hudson Boulevard). Over the years, old buildings came down as new facilities were erected to better serve the needs of students. Such was the case when the venerable Cushing Alumni House gave way to the new Mac Mahon Student Center. We will always cherish the memory of the three-story home, named for His Eminence Richard Cardinal Cushing, that served alma mater well for some 50 years.

2013 32

Spring 2013

Introducing the Mac Mahon Student Center

The Mac Mahon Student Center is finally here!

This nearly 90,000 square-foot facility has literally become the “center of attention� for our community. Please join the 8,100 other donors who have supported Students at the Center:

The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University.

Giving has never been easier. Visit our secure online giving site at saintpeters.edu/giving to make your gift or pledge today!

Donna Lindsey | Manager of Annual Giving | (201) 761-6109 | dlindsey@saintpeters.edu | saintpeters.edu/giving

Office of University Communications

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