Saint Peter's University Winter 2019 Magazine

IN S I D E : $2.5 MILLION GRANT EXTENDS SERVICE TO JERSEY CITY

WINTER 2019

Magazine

Living up to Ignatian Ideals After a Yearlong Mission Examen Journey, Our Jesuit and Catholic Identity is Reaffirmed

Athletics Re-energized

PRESIDENT’S

Message

Turnout was at an all-time high for the men’s basketball home opener on November 7, 2018. Head Coach Shaheen Holloway (pictured left) and Head Women’s Basketball Coach Marc Mitchell, along with assistant coaches and players, canvassed the campus to rally the fan base.

Highlights of the pre-season promotions, plus other progress that has reinvigorated Athletics, appear on page 22.

This issue is filled with stories of our mission in action. Students like Theamaris Ramirez ’20, who played an important role on the Examen Journey Team by engaging classmates in dialogue and discernment.

Cassandra Iverson ’14 and Christopher Giorlando ’11, who’ve made service their life’s work and are setting the world on fire here in Jersey City and on a Native American reservation in South Dakota. Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., and Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D., who not only guided the process as co-chairs of the Examen Journey Team, but showed us how collaboration between Jesuits and laity can lead to new ideas and innovation.

Staying True to Our Jesuit Mission For the past few months I’ve been telling alumni and friends about our Mission Examen Journey, the yearlong institutional reflection on mission and identity that the

Faculty, administrators and trustees who’ve taken greater ownership of our mission because they believe deeply in the power of Jesuit education to elevate students’ lives.

Through this Examen Journey we have learned that our mission and identity are alive and thriving. Yet, the process is also an invitation to growth.

Four Mission Priorities—identified by

“Now that the process has concluded, and our Jesuit and Catholic mission and identity have been reaffirmed, I’m thrilled to show you how Saint Peter’s University is living up to its Ignatian ideals.”

our Examen Journey Team, reviewed by a visiting committee and blessed by the Provincial of the USA Northeast Province and Superior General of the Society of Jesus—will faithfully guide future progress and plans to bolster our standing as a Jesuit and Catholic university. I could not be more excited for this effort and will continue to share news of our journey to strengthen Saint Peter’s and the values we stand for and hold dear.

28 American Jesuit colleges and universities were asked to conduct by the Society of

Sincerely,

Jesus. Now that the process has concluded, and our Jesuit and Catholic mission and identity have been reaffirmed, I’m thrilled to show you how Saint Peter’s University is living up to its Ignatian ideals.

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President

Saint Peter’s University

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Issue

HOW TO REACH US Alumni News & Notes Email: alumni@saintpeters.edu Office of Alumni Engagement 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306

OUR JESUIT AND CATHOLIC IDENTITY IS REAFFIRMED On November 13, 2018, the Superior General of the Society of Jesus reaffirmed the Jesuit and Catholic identity of Saint Peter’s University. This glorious outcome is the result of a yearlong Mission Examen Journey, which we celebrate in this issue.

Letter to the Editor Email: 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 statue of Saint Ignatius Loyola, located outside the Mac Mahon Student Center in Panepinto Plaza, inspires the University community to “Find God in all things.”

10. 10 Minutes with...Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., and Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D.

CONNECT

12. Cover Story: Mission in Action 32. Ad Finem by Rev. Michael Sheeran, S.J., president of the AJCU

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 3.

18.

20.

22.

University News Mentors Matter Donors Who Make a Difference Peacock U

24. Class News & Notes

ADMINISTRATION Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78 Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning Frederick Bonato, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J. Vice President for Mission and Ministry Jeffrey Handler, M.A. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing

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Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05 Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs Eileen Poiani, Ph.D., HA ’17 Special Assistant to the President Anthony Skevakis, Ed.D. Vice President for Student Life and Development Hector Paredes, M.B.A. ’07 Vice President for Finance and Business Miloš Topić, MSIS, M.B.A. Vice President for Information Technology and Operations

WINTER 2019 SAINT PETER’S UNIVERSITY Volume 38, Number 2 Contributors & Editorial Assistance Editor Angeline Boyer, M.B.A. ’15 Sarah Malinowski Ferrary AnnMarie Gervasio Executive Director of University Sarah Lacz, M.B.A. ’11 Communications Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group

Photography GR Productions Michael Marmora Jeffrey Vock Photography

UNIVERSITY

News

People’s Choice

NJBIZ readers have selected the Saint Peter’s University Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree as a top three program in New Jersey. More than 8,000 respondents participated in this year’s NJBIZ 2018 Reader Rankings survey, placing Saint Peter’s third in the Best M.B.A. Program category.

Students can complete a M.B.A. in as little as 18 months, with concentrations available in finance, healthcare administration, human resources management, cyber security, marketing and risk management. Optional international immersion courses in Asia, Latin America and Europe provide a deeper global experience for interested students.

Intrinsic in the value of the Saint Peter’s M.B.A. is its ability

The distinction is notable, demonstrating that the state’s

to evolve to meet changing market needs. In fact, a new con-

working professionals recognize the value the program holds

centration in data analytics will be offered beginning this fall,

for career advancement, according to Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D.,

reflecting demand for managers who can navigate within this

KPMG dean of the School of Business. “The School of Busi-

hot field, Dr. Naatus explained. “We are dedicated to continu-

ness is particularly honored to receive this recognition for our

ally adapting our M.B.A. offerings to keep them flexible and

M.B.A. program from the readers of NJBIZ, as they represent

competitive,” she said. “This recognition speaks to our success

our students, our alumni and the individuals who lead the

in these efforts.”

businesses in our state,” Dr. Naatus said.

The University’s M.B.A. offers flexible scheduling, including

Introduced in 2017, the NJBIZ Reader Rankings award program spotlights the regard the publication’s readers have for the

courses presented in-class, online and hybrid. The program re-

businesses in their communities. This year’s survey ranked or-

cently expanded its in-class offerings with the launch of Saint

ganizations in industries including higher education, banking

Peter’s University at the Meadowlands, the University’s new

and finance, healthcare, real estate and other fields.

adult campus in Lyndhurst, N.J.

Saint Peter’s University

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UNIVERSITY

News

On View at Guarini House Student artwork is reaching a wider audience at Guarini House, the presidential residence at Saint Peter’s University. Since 2015, Beatrice Mady, M.F.A., professor of fine arts and coordinator of the Graphic Arts Program, has been curating an annual exhibition after President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., asked if artwork by Saint Peter’s students could be displayed at the residence.

“It is incredibly gracious of President Cornacchia to show student work,” said Professor Mady. “People have been very impressed with it.” The digital works exhibited remain on view for the academic year.

CONSIDERING CULTURAL IMPACT “Ethics and Cultural Competence as Keys to Achieving Health Equity” was the latest presentation in the Dr. Marylou Yam Distinguished Nursing Lecture Series held on November 13, 2018.

The lecture featured Dula F. Pacquiao, Ed.D., R.N., CTN, professor of nursing at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Dr. Pacquiao is a certified transcultural nurse with extensive experience and research publications in the area of transcultural nursing.

Named in honor of Saint Peter’s University former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Marylou Yam, Ph.D., the lecture series spotlights important topics in the field of nursing. Dr. Yam is currently serving as the 14th president of Notre Dame of Maryland University.

Students in the “Computer Illustrator” course at Saint Peter’s created the following works on view at Guarini House: (clockwise from the top) Precious Braswell ’19, Nabiheh Nadir ’22 and Tristan Johnson ’19.

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Leading Policy Maker Takes the Helm of the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership

at

Sa

ers int P e t er’s U niv

it y

Ginger Gold Schnitzer, Esq., former director of government relations for the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), is the new executive director for the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership. An influential policy maker who spent 22 years at the NJEA, Schnitzer said the Institute was an ideal place to explore public policy issues and inspire the next generation of leaders in public service.

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP WEEK CONFERENCE TURNS FIVE The Ignite Institute at Saint Peter’s University presented its fifth annual Women Entrepreneurship Week Conference on October 18, 2018. Toni Ann Turco ’86 delivered the keynote address on business for social good. The event also included a panel of global entrepreneurs representing a variety of industries.

Pictured above: Panel Moderator Kymberlee Norsworthy, Toni Ann Turco ’86, panelists Smia Bahsoun, Natalia Cabrera, Chéma Gargouri, Chanaz Gargouri, M.B.A., Ph.D. ’98, Fergül Kuzucuoğlu and KPMG Dean of the School of Business Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D.

“This is important work,” said Schnitzer, who started on March 4. “I’m excited to leverage my experiences in state and local politics to raise the bar for the Institute.”

Established in 1994 by Congressman Frank Guarini H ’94, the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership provides a non-partisan forum for discussion of key public policy issues. The Institute also sponsors programs that promote careers in public service and has a longstanding relationship with the United Nations.

CYBER SECURITY ACES A series of cyber security boot camps has strengthened Saint Peter’s University’s reputation as a community resource for the prevention of cyber attacks. Held several Saturdays each semester, the workshops are organized by Cyber Security Aces, a company founded by four Saint Peter’s alumni, Albert Realuyo, M.S. ’18, Mayur Pipaliya, M.S. ’18, Jose Martinez, M.S. ’18 and Steven Wong, M.S. ’18, as part of their graduate capstone class in cyber security. “We love organizing the boot camps,” said Realuyo, an adjunct professor in the Department of Computer & Information Sciences. “We want to see students gain effective tools and encourage them to pursue graduate studies in the field.”

The workshops have covered topics such as protection against cyber attacks in the home, hackers and the dark web and introduction to SIEM

(security information and event management) tools.

The events have attracted more than 50 attendees, including current students, working professionals in the field and members of the local community.

“Our goal is to expose attendees to what we know about cyber security,” explained Realuyo.

“We want it to be informal and engaging, so they’re comfortable asking questions and sharing their experiences. Some of the tools we talk about can also make students more market ready.”

Launched in 2016 by Edward J. Moskal, M.S., M.M.S. ’79, associate professor of computer & information sciences and director of the master’s program in cyber security, the boot camp series is presented under the direction of Alberto LaCava, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Computer & Information Sciences.

Saint Peter’s University

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UNIVERSITY

News

FACULTY NOTEBOOK

PRESIDENT’S CONTRACT RENEWED THROUGH 2024 The Board of Trustees renewed the contract of Saint Peter’s University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., for an additional five-year term. Dr. Cornacchia has served as the 22nd president of the University since 2007.

The contract was renewed through 2024.

Frank L. Fekete, CPA ’75, chair of the Board of Trustees, said Dr. Cornacchia’s leadership was the driving force behind the University’s growth and progress over the last 12 years. “The Board of Trustees and the University community look forward to what we will accomplish in the next five years with Dr. Cornacchia at the helm,” he said.

Follow Dr. Cornacchia on Twitter @PeacockPrez.

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PRESTIGIOUS PRIZE A book co-written by Edgar Rivera Colón, Ph.D., director of Latin American and Latino studies and assistant professor of sociology and urban studies at Saint Peter’s University,

NOTEWORTHY IN PRINT Samson in God’s Plan A new book by John Roskoski, Ph.D., adjunct faculty member in the Department of Theology, explores the historical and theological characteristics of Samson through biblical narratives.

In this series of researched essays, The Samson Narratives: The Theological Significance of a Chosen Biblical Hero (independently published, 2018), Dr. Roskoski presents this hero and judge of ancient Israel within the context of God’s plan for the salvation of mankind.

has won the prestigious Barbara Perkins and George Perkins Prize. Presented in November 2018 by the International Society for the Study of Narrative, the award is given annually to the book that makes the most significant contribution to the study of narrative.

Dr. Rivera Colón collaborated on the book, The Principles and Practice of Narrative Medicine (Oxford University Press, 2017), with six faculty members from Columbia University, where he also teaches.

“The Perkins Prize is a wonderful honor, and I think it helps to establish the field of narrative medicine as a new innovation in medical humanities,” said Dr. Rivera Colón.

“Narrative medicine is a movement that makes healthcare more human and aligns with the Jesuit, Catholic tradition of Saint Peter’s.”

Guide to the Big Screen Wiley-Blackwell published Thinking about Movies: Watching, Questioning, Enjoying, Fourth Edition (2018) by Professor of English William Luhr, Ph.D. Co-written with Peter Lehman, the text provides a thorough overview of movie analysis that enlightens and enhances the film experience for both students and movie enthusiasts. This edition includes a new section devoted to the film adaptation of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, as well as indepth discussions of important films such as Citizen Kane and The Silence of the Lambs.

“The Lawyer in the Black Leather Skirt Who Wore Several Hats” in the annual journal of the New Jersey Women Lawyers Association (March 20, 2018). A member of the NJSBA, she was appointed by the organization’s president to co-chair the Lawyers in Transition Committee and to serve on the Membership Committee.

THEY MEAN

BUSINESS

Faculty members from The School of Business have taken the lead in sharing their expertise.

DEFINING LEADERSHIP What makes an effective leader? Media personality Steve Adubato, Ph.D., explored that topic during an October 14, 2018 podcast featuring Raymond T. Butkus, M.B.A., lecturer in the School of Business and founding director of the Saint Peter’s University Center for Leadership Studies.

During the podcast, Steve Adubato’s Leadership Hour, Professor Butkus and Dr. Adubato took a deep dive into the characteristics that define leadership and discussed whether great leaders are born or made.

The series airs Sundays at 2:00 p.m. on AM 970 The Answer. Catch the podcast featuring Professor Butkus on Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

EYE ON ENTREPRENEURS A paper by Lecturer of Business Administration and Interim Director of the Ignite Institute Chanaz Gargouri, M.B.A., Ph.D. ’98, was named best in session at the

Business & Applied Sciences Academy Conference. Dr. Gargouri presented the paper, “Building Entrepreneurial Mindsets in the Classroom,” at the conference, held last August at Baruch College. At Saint Peter’s, she applies her research to structuring the University’s Entrepreneurship Speaker Series and the annual Shark Tank Entrepreneurship Competition.

LEGAL MIND Accountancy & Business Law Department Chair Lori Ann Buza, J.D., is a sought-after expert on the legal profession.

She was invited to speak on her paper, “Mindfulness for Ethical Lawyering,” in November 2018 at the Atlantic County Bar Association, the Cape May County Bar Association and the Vincent S. Haneman American Inn of Court, and also presented a session on “Mindfulness for Ethical and Effective Lawyering,” at the May 2018 annual convention of the New Jersey State Bar Association (NJSBA).

In addition, she published two articles, “Use Mindfulness to Master Lawyering and Live a Balanced Life” in the New Jersey Law Journal (June 18, 2018) and

BUILDING STRONGER BRANDS How to Create and Grow Brand Equity (LAD Custom Publishing, January 15, 2019) is the title of a new book by Robert M. Donnelly, M.B.A., adjunct professor of graduate business, and Robert Adelson, M.B.A., learning technology specialist. It is geared to business owners, CEOs and anyone interested in learning more about building brands and guiding their evolution in a rapidly changing marketplace. Topics include identifying and targeting the right audience, staying top-of-mind with consumers and practical applications in today’s digital realm.

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS Harvard Business School’s Consortium for Operational Excellence in Retailing tapped Joseph Gilkey, Ph.D., assistant professor of business, chair of the Business Administration Department and director of the graduate programs in data science, as a subject matter expert. The event focused on advancing retail operations from a combined academic and business perspective.

In addition, the Jersey City Tech Meetup August 2018 meeting, held at Harborside Atrium in Jersey City, featured Alberto LaCava, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Computer & Information Sciences, as a subject matter expert on “Blockchain and Cryptocurrency.”

Saint Peter’s University

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UNIVERSITY

News

A Place for Children UNIVERSITY TAKES THE LEAD ON ESPORTS Esports, the world of competitive video gaming, is now a booming $1 billion industry. The field needs product managers, marketers, accountants and a host of other professions, which is why the School of Business introduced an Esports specialization for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in business and sports management.

Saint Peter’s University is among the first institutions of higher education in the nation to offer the academic specialization. The program begins this fall and will expose students to planning and strategy, event management, business development, marketing and finance, as well as internships and other real world experiences. The Office of Wellness and Recreation also launched an Esports intramural program in spring 2018 and the University competes in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC).

Parents have a new place to shop for children’s necessities, thanks to a dedicated group of students enrolled in the Saint Peter’s University School of Nursing. The best news for these families, all of whom face economic challenges, is that it’s all free.

Last fall, nursing students identified a need in the Jersey City community for a dedicated space where families could select clothing, toiletries and other children’s items. Working with The Campus Kitchen, they collected new and gently used items, and set out to create a welcoming space inside the former convent at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church. The nursing students partnered with Saint Peter’s art students to brighten up the space called the Kids Corner that is now open on Saturdays.

The Kids Corner also provides opportunities for students to present educational programming on topics such as nutrition to parents, as well as play games with the children. It’s all part of the Jesuit mission interwoven in the School of Nursing’s curriculum, according to Kathleen Motacki, M.S.N., R.N., B.C., clinical professor of nursing. “Our students are following the Jesuit mission of lifelong service to others,” she explained.“Their efforts have been met with overwhelming gratitude from parents.”

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Finding God in all things A nationwide effort is underway to strengthen Jesuit higher education in America. It is called the Mission Examen, an intensive self-study of mission and identity conducted by every Jesuit college and university in the U.S. Guided by the Ignatian principle to “Find God in all things,” Saint Peter’s University embarked on its Mission Examen Journey in fall 2017.

It led to a deeper understanding of mission and opportunities to bolster the Jesuit, Catholic character of the University, which was affirmed by the Very Rev. Arturo Sosa, S.J., superior general of the Society of Jesus. The following stories are dedicated to the Mission Examen Journey and to sharing how Saint Peter’s is living its commitment to Ignatian ideals.

10 MINUTES

with...

Rev. Rocco C. Danzi, S.J., and Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D.

Guiding the Journey

Every successful journey needs a guide. The Mission Examen Journey—a community-wide self-study that reaffirmed Saint Peter’s University’s status as a Jesuit, Catholic institution—was fortunate to have two. Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., and Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D., who served as cochairs on the Examen Journey Team, discussed the intensive yearlong process.

Why do Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. conduct a

Dr. Hamilton: We were very lucky to do it early on. Saint Peter’s

Mission Examen?

was in the second cohort of the Mission Examen, and even

Fr. Danzi: It was actually initiated in Rome by our previous Father

though there was an idea of how to conduct this process, there

General (Rev. Adolfo Nicolás, S.J.) five years ago to assess how well

was no clear model. So, we had a lot of freedom to engage the

member institutions of the AJCU (Association of Jesuit Colleges

entire University community in the process. We had students—

and Universities) are living their Jesuit and Catholic mission.

undergraduates and graduate students—on our Examen Journey

It wasn’t meant to be punitive, but community-centered. Saint

Team and held forums for our students. We were the first and

Peter’s President Gene Cornacchia was part of the early cohort of

only school to do that.

college and university presidents that created the blueprint for each Jesuit institution—28 of them in the U.S.— for the process

How did you come to see this process as a journey?

of self-study, following the principles of Saint Ignatius Loyola.

Fr. Danzi: There was a real intentionality to it. As a committee,

Each school would follow The Spiritual Exercises or the Examen,

we decided to call it a Mission Examen Journey, and that again

where you look deep and ask for that light from God to show you

is from Saint Ignatius. He always saw himself as a pilgrim on a

the truth.

journey and came to believe that God was leading that journey.

The Examen Journey Team

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Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J. Co-Chair Vice President for Mission and Ministry

Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78 Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning

David Bryngil ’91 Executive Director of Wellness & Recreation

Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D. Co-Chair Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology

Christine Boyle Director of Campus Ministry

Rev. Claudio M. Burgaleta, S.J., Ph.D. University Jesuit Associate

Dr. Hamilton: It was definitely a journey with a really well-

The Superior General of the Society of Jesus reaffirmed the Jesuit

thought-out team of faculty, administrators and students. It’s a

and Catholic identity of Saint Peter’s in November 2018. What’s

group that doesn’t always have the opportunity to work together

next in terms of strengthening the University’s mission?

on something so meaningful for an extended period of time.

Dr. Hamilton: We’re trying to build on the momentum the Mission Examen created because the community is so engaged and

Did anything come out of the Mission Examen Journey that

excited. A Ministry Advisory Council is up and running and its

impressed or surprised you on a personal level?

biggest initiative is a strategic plan for mission and ministry.

Fr. Danzi: The student forum was inspiring. The students on the Examen Journey Team ran it; they invited their classmates to

Fr. Danzi: We’re being really strategic in terms of priorities, looking

share what they think about our Jesuit, Catholic mission. It was

at the whole picture of the community, but especially the faculty

amazing to see the committee’s students leading and also to hear

because they are with the students most intensively. We have

what students had to say overall.

eight faculty members taking a new course on Ignatian pedagogy developed by Fr. Claudio Burgaleta, University Jesuit associate.

Dr. Hamilton: It was incredible. Students responded to their peers

Right now, it’s for new faculty members, but we have strategies of

leading the forum in a way they would not have had it been

engaging veteran faculty, as well as adjunct faculty. So there’s a

Fr. Rocco or myself. I was also impressed how the majority of

lot of creativity. This process, it’s the gift that keeps giving. We’re

students were able to articulate that they were more well-rounded

realizing new possibilities and directions.

people and more aware of social justice issues because of our What do you want Saint Peter’s alumni to know about the state of

Jesuit, Catholic mission.

the University’s Jesuit and Catholic mission?

Fr. Danzi: And so many students spoke to how they feel

Dr. Hamilton: The mission is alive and well here. Saint Peter’s

accompanied by faculty here. It makes a real difference for them.

students today are going through an education process that is

What I heard is the amazing love and commitment faculty feel for

very similar to the one experienced by alumni. Our lay faculty

their students, and how time and again, they want to go the extra

and administration are putting every effort into making sure that

mile. Our faculty are just so into the mission.

Saint Peter’s is still a Jesuit, Catholic university in the same way it was when alumni were here. It’s just different people taking on

A Peer Review Committee visited the University last April. What was

different roles now.

most affirming about their feedback?

Dr. Hamilton: What came across the loudest to me in the Peer

Fr. Danzi: One of my favorite lines is, ‘Less is more.’ There are

Review Report is that we are way too humble. People are in awe

certainly fewer Jesuits at Saint Peter’s, and Jesuit colleges and

of our diversity and commitment to first-generation college

universities overall. But that also means a deeper dive by our lay

students. We are really living what Saint Ignatius wanted when he

men and women and an incredibly engaged Board of Trustees. I’m

started this whole thing. Moving forward, we’re trying to work on

very excited by the alumni who sit on the Mission and Ministry

celebrating all we do more.

Committee who want to get in front of their board brothers and sisters to say, ‘Have no doubt. The mission is alive and well.’ So, I

Fr. Danzi: The Committee did comment on the amazing generosity

would want our greater alumni community to know, if you believe

of our community-at-large that works together to accompany

in this mission, support it. Because we are working it.

students. We’re in such partnership across departments and divisions in finding ways to make student engagement around the Jesuit, Catholic mission that much more impactful and meaningful.

Raymond Butkus, M.B.A. Lecturer of Business Administration Jonathan Carrero ’19 Veramarie Jimenez ’19

Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., is vice president for mission and ministry at Saint Peter’s University. Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D., is professor and chair of the Department of Psychology. A University faculty member for 18 years, Dr. Hamilton completed the Ignatian Colleagues Program, a national initiative of the AJCU designed to educate and form administrators and faculty more deeply in the Jesuit and Catholic tradition of higher education.

Kari Larsen, Esq. ’89 Professor and Chair, Department of Criminal Justice

Lisa O’Neill Sanders, Ph.D. Professor and Chair, Department of Philosophy

Elizabeth Long ’10, ’14 Payroll Manager, Finance Department

Eileen L. Poiani, Ph.D., HA ’17 Special Assistant to the President

Joseph McLaughlin, Ed.D. ’77 Professor and Chair, Department of Sociology and Urban Studies

Theamaris Ramirez ’20

Jan Reimer, M.Ed. ’97 Director of Leadership Engagement Rohan Thorat ’19 Ja’Fear Toler ’21

Saint Peter’s University

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Mission in Action

The 7 Characteristics of Jesuit Higher Education, a self-evaluation instrument developed for member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU), guided the Mission Examen Journey. The yearlong ref lection and subsequent peer review confirmed Saint Peter’s standing as an institution that is Jesuit, Catholic, alive and thriving.

“Leadership from the top down embraces the mission. We all have a role to play in leading this institution.”

Leadership’s Commitment to the Mission

Theamaris Ramirez ’20 was understandably nervous. She, along with her peers on the Examen Journey Team, were about to lead a forum of 100 students in The Roy Irving Theatre. Their goal? Gather input on students’ understanding of the University’s Jesuit, Catholic mission and how it impacts their lives.

The student forum, held last March, was one of many organized to engage the entire University community in discerning its Jesuit and Catholic mission and identity. In addition to forums and listening sessions, more than 800 students, faculty, administrators, staff and trustees participated in an online survey.

“The student forum turned out to be pretty successful,” said Ramirez, an active member in campus ministry and softball player from Miami.

“People were shy at first. But everyone likes when their thoughts and opinions can be heard and maybe even acted upon to make a difference.”

The students’ prominent role in the Mission Examen is one telling indicator of the strength of

Theamaris Ramirez ’20

Leadership’s Commitment to the Mission.

“Once they graduate from the University, students will be the leaders who bring our Jesuit values forward,” explained Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78, special assistant to the president for institutional planning. Dr. Bender noted that broad-based participation from the community is the cornerstone advancing Saint Peter’s mission. While the responsibility for Ignatian identity fell mostly to Jesuits a few generations ago, it is a shared partnership today.

“Leadership from the top down embraces the mission,” said Dr. Bender. “We all have a role to play in leading this institution.”

The mindset is manifested throughout the campus. In 2011, faculty and administrators in every department developed mission statements aligned with the University’s Jesuit mission and goals. The Mac Mahon Student Center, which opened in 2013, was purposely designed to promote Jesuit values and education. Trustees actively steward the Jesuit mission through Ignatian workshops and programs. These initiatives and more all work to benefit students.

“I think the Mission Examen showed that the University really cares for the wellbeing of students,” said Ramirez, who was not surprised when the Superior General of the Society of Jesus reaffirmed the Jesuit and Catholic identity of Saint Peter’s. “There’s always room for improvement, but it was clear early on in this process that Saint Peter’s follows the Jesuit mission. I didn’t have any doubts.”

COVER

Story

in shaping the Ignatian character of Saint Peter’s. “Mission and identity is at the heart of everything we do,” said Dr. Bonato. “The end game is for faculty to take what they’ve learned about Jesuit mission and identity and infuse it into their courses and syllabi.”

A Catholic, Jesuit Campus Culture

When the Peer Review Committee came to Saint Peter’s last spring to evaluate the self-study and Examen process, they encountered robust evidence of the University’s commitment to foster Ignatian spirituality. “There is a vibrant, Catholic,

The Academic Life

A new formation program for faculty like John Johnson Jr., Ph.D., assistant professor of history, provides tools to help them infuse Jesuit mission and identity into the courses they teach.

How well does The Academic Life at

University’s Jesuit mission priorities (see

Saint Peter’s University reflect its Jesuit

page 17), identified ways to improve it. Dr.

and Catholic mission? Ninety percent of

Bonato said one priority is building more

faculty and 88 percent of students be-

options into the core curriculum. “Many

lieve the mission is well-integrated with

of the offerings are introductory classes,”

academics, according to the campuswide

he explained. “I see a progression toward

survey conducted for the Mission Examen

adding more choices that allow faculty

Journey. Central to that finding is the

and students to take a deeper dive into

University’s core curriculum, the frame-

subjects. Adding that depth really aligns

work of Jesuit higher education. Provost

with Jesuit education.”

and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Another priority is faculty develop-

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., has witnessed

ment. In recent years, Saint Peter’s has

the ways students’ appreciation for the

sponsored faculty and administrators in

60-credit core, which includes the hu-

the Ignatian Colleagues Program (ICP), a

manities, natural and social sciences, fine

formation initiative of the AJCU. In fact,

arts, philosophy and theology, intensifies

Dr. Bonato and two University colleagues

years after they graduate. “It may take

are enrolled in the ICP this academic year.

time for students to see it,” he said. “But

The Jesuit Mission Seminar extends

the core really requires them to see the

formation opportunities to more people.

world differently and to think deeply

Eight faculty members are taking the

about ideas.”

course, created by Rev. Claudio Burgaleta,

While the Jesuit educational tradition

S.J., Ph.D., University Jesuit associate. The

at Saint Peter’s is clearly thriving, the

hybrid class (participants take it online

self-study team and Ministry Advisory

and in person) is intended to provide

Council, which was formed to oversee the

lay faculty the tools to take a direct role

Jesuit campus culture visible at Saint Peter’s,” wrote the four-member committee in a report that wholeheartedly recommended the University’s Jesuit and Catholic identity be reaffirmed.

Among the many liturgical, spiritual and social justice programs and activities cited was the array of retreats offered by the Office of Campus Ministry. Open to students of all faiths and tailored to the University’s diverse population, retreat topics and themes are drawn from Ignatian spirituality and Jesuit identity. There are off-campus opportunities—the Ignite Retreat for freshmen, the Agape Retreat for upperclassmen, the Discernment Retreat and Women’s Retreat—as well as oncampus programs designed to bridge faith with daily life. The Busy Persons Retreat, for instance, engages students in prayer and meetings with a spiritual director for one hour each day, over a five-day period.

“There is a vibrant, Catholic, Jesuit culture visible at Saint Peter’s.”

Saint Peter’s University

13

“It’s for students who don’t have the time or funds for a weekend away,” explained Jennifer Monsalve, campus minister, retreats and spiritual life. “Our students are pulled in so many directions between school, work and family responsibilities. They carry a lot on their plate.”

Monsalve hopes to involve

ry and classics from the University, is the educational technology coordinator at the Red Cloud Indian School, a Catholic K-12 school for Oglala Native American children on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Previously, he worked for the Christian Appalachian Project, AmeriCorps and spent two years as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Ethiopia. Both alumni

more students in opportuni-

say their commitment to living the ideals

ties for spiritual reflection.

of men and women for others was fos-

“Prayer is not simply stag-

tered at Saint Peter’s.

nant,” she explained. “It’s

“Being at Saint Peter’s connected me to

being able to discern, take

Ignatian spirituality,” said Giorlando, who

actions and make decisions

served meals to the homeless and volun-

in life. That’s what our students are doing at this stage in their lives.” Campus Ministry has offered a SCHOLA Retreat for the liturgical choir

The Ignite Retreat for freshmen

Giorlando, who earned degrees in histo-

teered for Appalachian Spring Break as an undergraduate. “It started a fire in my heart.”

Iverson, who was active in campus min-

and is exploring a retreat for men based

istry, volunteered on RTJC projects along-

on feedback from the male student body.

side classmates. She kept up the commit-

“It’s wonderful when students vocalize

ment, and when the organization needed

that desire,” Monsalve added. “It tells us

fresh leadership in 2018, Iverson and

that they want to grow with the ministry

several Saint Peter’s graduates stepped

and be a part of it.”

in to fill the void. Currently, seven Saint

Service

Cassandra Iverson ’14 and Christopher

Peter’s alumni and three employees serve on the RTJC board. “It’s a great group,” said Iverson. “It really speaks to Saint Peter’s presence in our life after graduation.”

Giorlando ’11 serve in different parts of the country and world, but their stories speak volumes about Jesuit education’s lasting influence on graduates. Iverson, a graduate of the Caulfield School of Education, is a middle school English and reading teacher at Our Lady of Guadalupe Academy

“Being at Saint Peter’s connected me to Ignatian spirituality.

It started a fire in my heart.”

14

Winter 2019

in Elizabeth, N.J., and is on the board of Rebuilding Together Jersey City (RTJC), a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing communities by providing rehabilitation services to low-income homeowners.

Christopher Giorlando ’11 (center), serving in the U.S. Peace Corps in Ethiopia

COVER

Story

Giorlando is in his third year at Red Cloud, and as an educator, encourages

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

students to grow and develop so they impact the world around them.

“Education needs to provide people with the awareness and tools to go out and build the world we want to live in,” he said. “During my time at Saint Peter’s, I was inspired to be in a place that hadn’t forgotten that and was concerned with showing students like me that true value and meaning in life comes from serving with and among others.”

Just as the University examined ways to be of greater Service to the Local Church through the Mission Examen Journey, St. Aedan’s has done the same.

In 2016-2017, the Church conducted its own yearlong

Service to the Local Church

Examen to look at

Two years ago, students from Saint Pe-

could augment its

ter’s University SCHOLA, the University’s

character as a Jesuit

liturgical choir, and the adult choir of

parish.

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

the parish’s integration with the University community and how it

A Vision Committee,

Church, began singing sacred music

composed of members of

together. Whenever the two choirs (the

the parish and University

adult choir is also known as St. Aedan’s

community, identified recom-

SCHOLA) unite for a Mass or a special

mendations, which Rev. John Hyatt,

occasion, the combined ministries are

S.J., parish administrator, is putting

a powerful testament of Service to the

into practice. The goals include engag-

Local Church.

ing more youth, further cultivation of

Liturgical music at the University

programs like liturgical music to connect

and St. Aedan’s has come a long way in

the two communities and raising greater

six years. University Director of Music

awareness of St. Aedan’s distinctive

Joseph Legaspi, D.M., began the student

identity as a Jesuit parish through the

SCHOLA with a handful of undergradu-

lenses of spirituality, faith formation,

ates in 2013. Today, the choir numbers

justice works and evangelization.

25 and its performances have branched

The partnership between the Univer-

out beyond the University. St. Aedan’s

sity, the Archdiocese of Newark and the

SCHOLA, which is also directed by Dr.

USA Northeast Province, which sends

Legaspi, began in 2017. The intergenera-

Jesuits to St. Aedan’s to minister to the

tional pairing of the two groups is a win-

parish, drew warm praise from Rev.

win, according to Dr. Legaspi. Students

John Cecero, S.J., provincial of the USA

look up to the parishioners for chorale

Northeast Province. “In the Society of

preparation and technique, while the

Jesus, we’re placing greater emphasis

adults find collaboration with college-age

on regional and international collabora-

singers energizing. “Bringing different

tion,” said Fr. Cecero. “St. Aedan’s is a

people together is what Jesuit mission

very clear example of the type of col-

and identity is about,” he said. “This is

laboration we’re looking for in our Jesuit

our way of committing to that.”

colleges and universities.”

“In the Society of Jesus, we’re placing greater emphasis on regional and international collaboration. St. Aedan’s is a very clear example of the type of collaboration we’re looking for in our Jesuit colleges and universities.”

Saint Peter’s University

15

“Saint Peter’s is a fearless and ambitious, mission-driven community that is committed to excellently educating some of the most talented and underserved students in the United States.”

— Peer Review Committee

deeper into our programs and identifying ways to get Jesuit values inculcated into the broader faculty, staff, administration and students.”

The University also deliberately

Jesuit Presence

When Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., became the 22nd president of Saint Peter’s University in 2007, he was only the second layperson appointed leader of an American Jesuit college or university. “I thought it was going to be a lonely club,” Dr. Cornacchia remembered. Today, 16 of the 28 Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) member institutions have lay presidents and the group includes three women.

The transition coincides with the decrease of Jesuit priests in the U.S., and the further empowerment of laity, which Dr. Cornacchia said the University has proactively addressed. “Our hope always is that more Jesuits will be sent to serve at Saint Peter’s because we value their presence, work and witness on our campus and their collaboration with the community,” he said. “While the declining number of Jesuits is certainly a challenge for Jesuit colleges and universities, it also presents opportunities to change, innovate and move institutions forward.”

In the early days of his presidency, there wasn’t a well-established model on how to be a successful lay president, so Dr. Cornacchia created one. “I’m a product of Jesuit education so I got the mission. I wanted to know, ‘who else gets it and how do we communicate it?’ It meant digging

16

Winter 2019

considers Saint Peter’s mission in the hiring process. “We hire for mission and through formation programs, create a

Saint Ignatius Loyola in Saint Peter Chapel

cadre of people who have a deep understanding of Jesuit values and want to proselytize it to others,” said Dr. Cornacchia. “I

The committee is a dynamic vehicle

look around at our leadership team, fac-

that upholds the integrity of the Univer-

ulty and staff and I know that the mission

sity’s mission, identity and values. “We’re

is in good hands. It’s really in good hands.”

not just a bunch of thinkers who talk

“Our job is to make sure the fabric of the mission runs through all corridors of the University.”

Integrity

about our identity as a Jesuit, Catholic institution,” explained Downes. “Our job is to make sure the fabric of the mission runs through all corridors of the University.”

This is accomplished in a number of ways. All trustees are assigned to Mission and Ministry in their first year of board service, which provides the framework to govern in the Ignatian tradition. Board retreats are dedicated to Jesuit values and formation, and Mission and Ministry committee members take an active role in the Alumni Mass, the Veterans Day ceremony and ministries like The Campus Kitchen.

Trustees like Kevin J. Downes, M.B.A. ’73

The committee also oversaw the Mission

are the reason Saint Peter’s University

Examen Journey and participated in listen-

can innovate for a changing world and

ing sessions, committee meetings and the

stay true to its Ignatian ideals. Like many

peer visit with representatives from other

alumni who serve on the Board of Trustees,

Jesuit institutions.

Downes wants to ensure the transforma-

Downes, the regional vice president of

tional education he received is passed on

sales and operations at Staples Inc., said

to present and future generations. “We as a

he feels fortunate to serve alongside trust-

Board of Trustees have to step in, take some

ees committed to this mission.

ownership and provide some of the under-

“We owe Saint Peter’s a lot of the success

pinnings of that formative student experi-

we achieved in life,” he stated. “We want

ence,” said Downes, who serves as chair of

the people behind us to feel the same way

the Mission and Ministry Committee.

and have that same measure of success.”

COVER

Story

The Journey Continues Before the Superior General of the Society of Jesus Very Rev.

we’re taking all of the discovery from that process and turning

Arturo Sosa, S.J., reaffirmed the Jesuit and Catholic mission

it into an action plan.” Currently, a Ministry Advisory Council is

and identity of Saint Peter’s University in November 2018, the

developing a strategic plan for mission and ministry. The plan

University was already putting ideas into motion. “The Examen

will identify a framework, timeline and resources to support

Journey was intense,” said Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78, special

four overarching priorities that emerged from the Mission

assistant to the president for institutional planning. “Now

Examen Journey.

1. Ensure the resources

for Mission and Ministry effectively and adequately support Ignatian formation and programs for the campus laity, the student body and the parishioners of St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church.

2. Develop a proactive

recruitment and retention plan to foster a more diverse workforce that advances the Jesuit, Catholic mission.

“It’s an anchor plan that has tentacles into every aspect of University life and could inform the next strategic plan,” said Dr. Bender. The Peer Review Committee that recommended the University’s Jesuit and Catholic mission and identity be reaffirmed, agreed. The committee wrote in its report:

“You stand as a model for how to stay true to our shared Jesuit mission in trying times.

We are confident that you will meet the challenges head-on and become even stronger.”

3. Integrate more

effectively, and articulate more clearly, Ignatian values across all parts of the undergraduate and graduate curriculum and student experiences.

4. Strengthen our links

to both the local Church and the Northeast Province of the Society of Jesus.

Peer Review Committee Amanda Thomas, Ph.D., Chair Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Loyola University Maryland Joseph A. DeFeo, Ph.D. Executive Director of the Ignatian Colleagues Program Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities Nicki Gonzales, Ph.D. Associate Professor of History Regis University Rev. Daniel Joyce, S.J. Executive Director of Mission Programs Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Peter’s University

17

Mentors

Seated: Elnardo Webster, Ed.D. ’69 and Harry Laurie ’68 Standing: Cassir Bastien and Niya LaBoo ’18 18

Winter 2019

FEATURE

With a $2.5 million grant, Saint Peter’s University is extending its mission to make a difference in the future of hundreds of Jersey City middle school students.

E

lnardo Webster, Ed.D. ’69 understands

established learning centers that can collectively

have on children’s lives. As director for

serve up to 500 students annually in grades six

the Saint Peter’s University Center for

through eight at Jersey City’s Ezra L. Nolan #40 Middle

After School and Expanded Learning

School, Soaring Heights Charter School and Dr. Lena

(C.A.S.E.L.), he administers a $2.5

Edwards Academic Charter School, named for the

million 21st Century Community

late Lena Edwards, M.D., H ’66. “This is the age when

Learning Center grant from the New

students realize they have a voice and a mind,” Dr.

Jersey Department of Education to

Webster said, noting that the program’s theme is

operate learning centers at three Jersey

College and Career Exploration. “In middle school,

City middle schools.

students are really finding themselves, so we need to

The new centers are based on the

Institute of Excellence Model (I.E.M.) for after school programs developed by Dr. Webster, a nationally

make sure we’re serving them holistically, during the day and after school.”

Harry Laurie ’68 and Niya LaBoo ’18 help to oversee

recognized expert in the field of extended day and

approximately 50 Saint Peter’s students who serve as

after school programs. He is also a former member

teaching assistants and mentors to the middle school-

of the University’s Board of Trustees and is in the

ers. A C.A.S.E.L. program administration assistant,

Athletics Hall of Fame. I.E.M. incorporates seven

LaBoo noted that youngsters respond well to mentors

components—nutrition, academics, enrichment/

who are closer to their age. “They feel more comfort-

recreation, field trips, family, community and summer

able speaking to us about personal issues,” she said.

learning—into a year-round mentorship to provide a

“It also helps me to understand the students more.”

comprehensive approach in the personal development of the whole child.

“These after school programs enhance the

Laurie, assistant director of C.A.S.E.L., retired from the City of Jersey City in 2000. He said his current job reinforces the Jesuit mission that has always guided

educational experience of students, not only

his career. “This gives me the opportunity to go into

academically, but in social and emotional areas

schools to work with middle school students and

as well,” explained Dr. Webster, adding that Saint

Saint Peter’s students,” said Laurie, who like Dr. Web-

Peter’s was one of just five recipients for the highly

ster, is a member of the Athletics Hall of Fame. “It’s a

competitive grant. This five-year award is the third

very rewarding process for me.”

21st Century grant received by the University for more than $5.7 million in funding.

Matter

EDUCATIONAL ANCHOR The Center for After School and Expanded Learning (C.A.S.E.L.) at Saint Peter’s University operates after school programs with expanded learning opportunities for students in the surrounding community. The program offers youngsters a wide range of activities, from robotics and drones, to math exploration, computer science, nutrition education, art, college and career readiness, fashion design and recreation.

The University is fortunate to have the following community organizations as collaborators: Urban League of Hudson County, United Way of Hudson County, Jersey City Department of Recreation, National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. Alpha Chapter, Lily Pearl Foundation, Jersey City Public Schools Department of Career and Technical Education, Roscoe Taylor Insurance Agency and CARA SQUARED.

Through the newest grant, C.A.S.E.L. has

the impact after school programs can

Story

The grant allows Cassir Bastien, a C.A.S.E.L. program administrator, to extend the strong Jesuit mission cultivated within him when he attended Saint Peter’s. Through his involvement in similar C.A.S.E.L.-run programs, he’s developed long-term mentoring relationships with former participants.

Sometimes, he’ll invite them to the gym in The Rev. Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J., Recreational Life Center for a pickup game of basketball, just to catch up.

“I want to make sure they continue on the right path,” Bastien said. “I have a real love for all of the students. Knowing you’ve put a smile on someone’s face is one of the best feelings to have.”

Saint Peter’s University

19

Donors Who Make a Difference Following a historic $10 million gift from Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66, meet five more Saint Peter’s University donors with a deep commitment to Jesuit mission.

Accounting for Blessings

whom are first-generation college students or from blue collar families. Saint Peter’s gave me a good framework to join the world.”

Jesuit values were central to the family Jim eventually had with Ellen, his wife of 50 years. In fact, their four daughters are all Jesuit educated. “We believe there is added value to a degree from a Jesuit institution,” she explained. “We have a strong belief in Jesuit mission and have always taught our daughters to give back.”

Through the years, Jim and Ellen have modeled that mission through gifts to organizations including Saint Peter’s, benefiting hard working students, like Sadek. “We know that the accounting program at Saint Peter’s is excellent,” noted Jim, who is retired as chief financial officer of TPG Capital in Fort Worth, Texas. Jim added, “All of these kids have a financial need.”

The gratitude reflected in thank you letters Jim and Ellen have

Accounting Scholars Program recipients: Ryan Quito ’19, Kelly Martins ’20, Nicolas Sadek ’21, Alicia Baez ’20, Khemraj Diaram ’20, Destiny Valle ’22 and Corey Sowinski ’21

received from this year’s Accounting Scholars underscores the life-changing importance of their gift. Scholarship recipient Alicia Baez ’20 said, “This Accounting Scholars Program definitely motivates me to work harder. It enables me to go to school and enjoy my classes, without worrying about the debt. I’m so grateful.”

Last summer, Nicolas Sadek ’21 received a precious gift: a scholarship to Saint Peter’s University. The accounting major had taken out student loans to help finance his freshman year, but this new scholarship will greatly reduce his debt burden after graduation.

Jesuit mission first prompted the Bayonne resident to apply to Saint Peter’s. “I’m a very religious person and Saint Peter’s is a Jesuit university,” said Sadek, an accounting major and business law minor. “I also wanted to challenge myself and knew that Saint Peter’s would provide that opportunity.”

Jim O’Brien ’64 and his wife, Ellen, share Sadek’s appreciation for Jesuit education. The couple recently demonstrated their commitment through a five-year, $500,000 pledge to Saint Peter’s to establish the Accounting Scholars Program. This year, Sadek was one of 10 students to receive the inaugural awards.

Today, Jim credits Saint Peter’s with helping him to launch a successful career in financial services. As a first-generation college student from a blue collar, immigrant family, Jim majored in accounting because “it was a path to a career and a future.”

He added, “I was a lot like today’s Saint Peter’s students, many of 20

Winter 2019

Family Legacy Faith has always been a cornerstone in the life of John Wiegartner ’83. Catholic values were a guiding force during his formative years, at home and in school. Enrolling in a large public college for his freshman year, Wiegartner felt that something was missing, and decided to transfer to Saint Peter’s, alma mater to his father, the late John C. Wiegartner ’50.

ADVANCEMENT

Wiegartner thrived in the small college environment, with its emphasis on cura personalis. “Saint Peter’s was a whole different environment,” he said. “It goes back to interfacing with the Jesuits.

When I had a problem in class, the professors helped out. Plus, there was always the opportunity for Mass. I could share the values my parents had instilled in me.”

After graduation, Wiegartner went on to a successful career in information technology security, retiring in 2016 from Bank of America. Along the way, he met his wife, Jeanette, who shares his commitment to giving back. Together, the Plainsboro, N.J., residents have volunteered as emergency medical technicians and shared their good fortune through charitable gifts.

While they had remembered their favorite charities in their wills, drawn up many years ago, the couple recently decided to reevaluate their estate plan with a financial adviser. “We were

Rob Lorfink ’93 and Maria Laros-Lorfink ’93 with their children

looking for other ways to help people, while sharing our values

Maria aspired to be first-generation college students. They applied

and beliefs,” explained Wiegartner, noting that he and Jeanette

to Saint Peter’s, a stone’s throw from St. Aedan’s, the elementary

are grateful that they graduated from college debt-free. “We see

school where they met. “Both Maria and I were blessed with

the struggles kids have today affording college and not ending up

parents who prioritized education and made tremendous

with huge debt. We decided that we wanted to do more.”

sacrifices for us and our siblings to have a Catholic education,”

The financial adviser suggested changes to maximize the impact of the couple’s gifts while minimizing inheritance tax consequences. As a result, they decided to list Saint Peter’s as

Rob explained. “However, neither of our families had financial resources available for college.”

Saint Peter’s stepped in with a generous academic scholarship

the beneficiary of a sizable IRA. The process was easy and still

for Maria and a significant financial aid package for Rob, who

allows the Wiegartners to continue supporting the University’s

fondly recalled meeting with financial aid and admissions

Saint Peter Fund.

professionals: “At Saint Peter’s, it was clear that everyone saw it

As he reflects on the legacy he will leave at Saint Peter’s,

as their job to make a college degree possible for all who came

Wiegartner can’t help but remember his father. “I’ve been

and who met their academic criteria. And they did it in a way that

blessed in my life, so now it’s time for me to follow in my father’s

built confidence and character. I never felt embarrassed about my

footsteps and help others. I hope to be the man he was.”

inability to afford the tuition. They really lived the Jesuit values

Dreams Fulfilled

and reinforced a sense of charity and community.”

The Saint Peter’s connection runs deep in the Lorfink and Laros

Rob Lorfink ’93 and Maria Laros-Lorfink ’93 are also prime

families—graduates include Rob’s late uncle, John Lorfink ’73, his

examples of Saint Peter’s alumni giving back by establishing

brother, Eric ’99 and sister-in-law, Denise ’98, as well as Maria’s

two four-year, need-based scholarships at the University. A

aunt, Joanne Clemens Kallerges ’72 and sister, Zoe ’95. Maria said,

strong advocate for Jesuit education and member of the Board

“In establishing these scholarships, we reflected on what Saint

of Regents, Rob is chief financial officer of the Diversified Agency

Peter’s had done for our families, and felt an obligation to make it

Services, a division of one of the world’s largest advertising

possible for other students who might face financial hardship to

groups, Omnicom Group Inc. Maria has a master’s in education

be given the same opportunity.”

and has been teaching at Union City High School for 25 years.

Rob added, “When Maria and I were students, Saint Peter’s

She credits her freshman English professor, Loren Schmidtberger,

really looked under ‘all of the rocks’ to find funding for our

Ph.D., with encouraging her to pursue a career in education.

respective educations, including merit and hardship scholarships,

They both cite Saint Peter’s Jesuit, holistic approach to education, commitment to community and the discipline instilled

grants and loans. We are thrilled to provide assistance for this generation of Jesuit-educated students.”

as primary reasons for what they’ve achieved. In addition to being need-based, the only other scholarship criterion is that recipients

If you would like to make a difference with an impactful gift like this or

must be graduates of either Hudson Catholic Regional High

contribute to any of the scholarship funds referred to in this piece, please

School, Rob’s alma mater, or Union City High School.

contact Linda S. Moore, J.D., senior director of leadership and planned

Like many Saint Peter’s students, as high schoolers, Rob and

giving, at (201) 761-6128 or lmoore2@saintpeters.edu.

Saint Peter’s University

21

PEACOCK

U

Big Strides for Athletics Excitement is growing in response to progress achieved by the University’s Division I Athletics program. “Each success breeds greater success,” said Director of Athletics Bryan Felt.

“There’s a renewed sense of pride that has inspired Peacock Nation.”

IMPROVED STUDENTATHLETE EXPERIENCE A new varsity weight room opened in The Rev. Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J., Recreational Life Center in September 2018.

Other enhancements to facilities include the installation of three new scoreboards at Joseph J. Jaroschak Athletic Field, as well as renovations to the men’s and women’s basketball locker rooms.

HALL OF FAME IN THE SPRING 2019 ISSUE! Six new members were inducted into the Athletics 2019 Hall of Fame, which was held on Sunday, February 24. Look for coverage in the Spring 2019 issue of Saint Peter’s University.

22

Winter 2019

COMMITTED TO THE JESUIT MISSION Student-athletes have a big presence at Mass of the Holy Spirit and other traditions that form the Jesuit and Catholic identity of Saint Peter’s. Last fall student-athletes and athletics staff contributed more than 48 hours of service to communities in Jersey City and beyond.

OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE The Peacocks’ continued success in the classroom bolsters Saint Peter’s University’s reputation as a Division I school where studentathletes excel both academically and athletically.

GROWING MORE COMPETITIVE

22

92% 100%

student-athletes in fall sports achieved MAAC All-Academic Honors.

Graduation Success Rate, the highest in University history, according to the 2018 NCAA Graduation Rates.

Graduation Success Rate in eight men’s and women’s sports.

volleyball soccer swimming and 4Men’s 4Women’s 4 Women’s posted the most wins achieved its highest finish diving concluded its in the MAAC since 1998.

regular season 8-1.

soccer 4Men’s qualified for the MAAC

in a season since 1998 and reached the second round of the MAAC Championship.

championships for the first time since 2010.

ENERGIZING THE PEACOCK NATION Anticipation for the men’s and women’s basketball season was already high with the arrival of new Head Coaches Shaheen Holloway and Marc Mitchell. Before their respective home openers in November 2018, coaches and players from both teams pulled out all the stops with refreshments and meet and greets at the Mac Mahon Student Center, a pre-game rally in the Quad and the inaugural Peacock Nation Tip-Off Dinner held on October 18, 2018 at Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City. On February 10, the annual First Pitch Luncheon celebrating the 1994 MAAC Championship Team was held in The Duncan Family Sky Room.

3.

1.

4.

2.

1. Women’s basketball team at the Peacock Nation Tip-Off Dinner.

2. Peacock Nation Tip-Off Dinner: Bryan Felt, Jerry Walker, Shaheen Holloway, Hon. Albio Sires ’74, Hon. Anthony Romano Jr. ’77, Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., Marc Mitchell and Elnardo Webster, Ed.D. ’69.

3. Marc Mitchell serves coffee to students. 4. Briyanah Richardson ’22, Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., and D’Aviyon Magazine ’21 show off season tickets and Peacock gear.

Saint Peter’s University

23

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

Send us your NEWS! Have you…

• Landed your first job?

• Retired from your last job?

• Met the love of your life?

• Celebrated a milestone anniversary?

• Welcomed a child?

• Welcomed a grandchild?

• Reminisced with friends from Saint Peter’s?

• Received a promotion or honor?

Saint Peter’s University welcomes any and all news about your career, education, family life and reconnecting with other alumni. Submit a note via email to alumni@saintpeters.edu or send to: Office of Alumni Engagement, 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07306.

1952 Each July, Jerry Kallman Sr. and his wife, Lorraine, visit Kishermoruak Primary School at the Maasai Mara National Reserve in southern Kenya to plan ongoing renovations. Over the last decade, six new classrooms have been built to keep pace with skyrocketing enrollment at the school.

1958 † Raymond Maguire, M.D., wrote Neighborhood Talk, which was independently published, posthu24

Winter 2019

mously, in September 2018 and is available on Amazon. The story tells of youth growing up in poor neighborhoods.

1960 Four retired New Jersey Superior Court judges came out to support Peacock basketball when the team faced Fairleigh Dickinson on the Knights’ Hackensack campus, Hon. William Meehan, Hon. Peter F. Boggia ’64, Hon. Joseph Rosa ’69 and Hon. John Langan (Fairfield University alumnus).

1962 Terrence Coen recently authored Retirement Italiano: Adventures and Misadventures in a Foreign Culture.

Paperback and eBook versions have been published by Donaldson Bane Publishing and are available through Amazon.

Mike Locascio and Jim Egan ’68 have announced the merger of their insurance agencies.

John W. Petrozzi, M.D., and his wife, Dottie, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in August 2018 on a yacht cruise of the French Riviera. It has been 12 years since he retired as a professor of dermatology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed teaching residents and students, and contributed 50 publications to dermatology literature.

1964 Ken Dinolfo and his wife, Ria, celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary.

William Hazelton USA (Ret.) ’64 celebrated his 50th year teaching as an adjunct at Saint Peter’s.

1966 Mark A. McNulty, Esq., has published a book titled The Scrivener and The Deep State (independently published, 2018), which centers on a conspiracy theory based upon facts. He previously was the secretary of the Delaware Department of Transportation. Before that, he served for 20 years as a deputy attorney general for the State of Delaware, where he most recently retired as legal counsel and child advocate.

1967 Deacon Joe Wisneski and Pat Murphy Wisneski celebrated their

50th anniversary on October 19, 2018. They renewed their vows at a special Silver & Gold Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J. William Gutsch Jr., Ph.D. ’67, H ’95 recently directed recording sessions in Hollywood for a new animated children’s feature that he wrote and co-produced for IMAX. Shows recently written and co-produced by Dr. Gutsch are currently being shown on four continents.

1968 Maureen (Burns) Shannon played Aunt Lily in the world premiere of Tennessee Williams’ play Talisman Roses, September 27-30, 2018, at the Tennessee Williams Theater Festival in Provincetown, Mass. The production was directed by distinguished actor and director Marsha Mason and featured Tonyand Emmy-winning actor Amanda Plummer.

1969 Terri Pisano began a new business to help adult children care for their parents with dementia.

1970 Hon. Patricia (Del Bueno) Cleary, J.S.C., retired as a Superior Court judge of New Jersey, having served on the bench for 26 years.

The Appalachia ’68 reunion that took place September 15-16, 2018 included Ann-Marie Nazzaro, Ph.D., Kathy (McGuirk) Diffley and Marianne (Barrett) Zubryckyj, all of whom served on the committee for the 50th anniversary of women entering Saint Peter’s, which was celebrated in 2016.

1973 Thomas J. Connolly, D.D.S., was recently elected President of the

A Night to Celebrate

1.

Saint Peter’s University is unstoppable. That was the theme of this year’s President’s Reception, an annual event to recognize members of the University’s most distinguished giving society.

Hosted by President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., this year’s reception was held October 11, 2018 at the Pleasantdale Château in West Orange.

The announcement of a historic $10 million gift to the University

by Joseph A. Panepinto, Esq. ’66, president and CEO of Panepinto Properties, Inc., drew a standing ovation. Expressing his gratitude for Panepinto’s generosity, Dr. Cornacchia said, “We take great pride in the unstoppable growth of Saint Peter’s and

2.

the city alike. There is no doubt that leaders like Joe have helped to make this mutual success possible.”

Saint Peter’s students were also in attendance to offer their thanks for the vital support benefactors provide in funding scholarships, academic advancements and campus improvements.

President’s Council members invest $1,000 or more annually in the University. For more information, or to join the President’s Council, please contact Linda S. Moore, J.D., senior director of leadership and planned giving, at (201) 761-6128 or lmoore2@saintpeters.edu.

3.

4.

1. Joseph Panepinto, Esq. ’66. 2. Devin Varela ’20, Ja’Fear Toler ’21, Elizabeth Doody ’19 and George Kourmousis ’20. 3. Joseph Panepinto, Esq. ’66, Stefania Panepinto and Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D. 4. Lia Finnegan ’20 and William Armbruster ’71.

Saint Peter’s University

25

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

American College of Dentists at their 98th meeting in Hawaii.

Joseph DeFazio, Esq., will be awarded the Rick Antonelli Award by the New Jersey State Bar Association for professionalism in the practice of law.

1974 Gef Flimlin Jr. was recently selected by the Barnegat Bay Partnership as a recipient of the 2018 Guardian of Barnegat Bay “Lifetime Achievement” award. This recognition is presented annually to an individual who has made significant, long-term contributions to the protection and restoration of the Barnegat Bay. John Molino announced the publication of his suspense novel, Murder Gets Even (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2018). It is available in print and electronically through Amazon.

1975 Richard Beck, C.S.W., was elected president of the International Association for Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes.

Dennis Danilewicz was recently featured on the SCORE Business Points program on WBNJ 91.9 FM. He spoke about motivating employees in a small business environment.

The North Jersey Chapter of the American Payroll Association also honored him with a certificate of recognition at the annual holiday dinner.

1976 Michael Londrigan had two textbooks published, one being a second edition of Menswear: Business to Style (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, a division of Amazon).

William Matthews Sr. recently retired as senior vice president operations, quality and regulatory from CryoLife, Inc.

1978 Joseph P. Napoli is celebrating his 40th year as choir director at Saint Dominic Academy in Jersey City.

1979 Ed Garland has been elected to the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Bowling Advisory Committee, representing South Florida.

1980 Louis Ruvolo ’80, ’08, director of graduate business programs at Saint Peter’s University, was elected to a two-year term as president for the Middle States Region of the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

1983 John Kennedy, Esq., recently retired after spending 26 years as a prosecutor for the State of New Jersey. He has opened his own firm, Kennedy Vuernick, LLC, in Rutherford, N.J.

1998 Jeanmarie (Huze) Gorski recently led a team of medical professionals from ConvenientMD Urgent Care on a medical mission trip to Ti Palmiste, Haiti.

2008 Joseph Galbo was named in Adweek’s 2018 Creative 100 as “One of 11 Branded Content Masterminds Elevating The Art of Marketing.”

Peacocks in the Hall

Flocking to Florida Over 50 alumni and friends gathered in Florida on January 20 to mingle and learn more about new developments at the University. Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry, celebrated Mass at the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, which was followed by a brunch hosted

by Josephine and Thomas O’Reilly ’69. During brunch, guests heard from Elizabeth Sullivan, associate vice president of enrollment management and marketing, who discussed the University’s upward enrollment trajectory, and Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University, who presented an overview of additional new developments.

26

Winter 2019

Saint Peter’s University alumni were well represented at the Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony on November 1, 2018. Held at Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City, the 24th annual event honored local athletic legends, including players, coaches and teams.

Peacock athletes selected as part of the hall’s Class of 2018 are Kim (McDonough) Huaranga ’01, basketball; Angel Ramos-Romano ’12, baseball; Eugene P. O’Connell, Esq. ’70, basketball; Charles “Buddy” Matthews ’77, baseball; and the 1967-68 Saint Peter’s Men’s Basketball Team, which advanced to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) semifinals.

Also inducted were David T. Griffin, M.Ed. ’10, Marist High School football, and Maritza Rodriguez Dortrait, former Saint Peter’s assistant women’s basketball coach.

The awards were presented by Hudson County Freeholders Hon. Anthony L. Romano Jr. ’77 and Hon. Kenneth Kopacz ’02.

The sky is the limit inside The Duncan Family Sky Room.

Saint Peter’s University Receives the 11th Annual WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award® in Jersey City Consider alma mater for your next corporate function or personal gathering. As a special benefit, we offer Saint Peter’s alumni a 20% discount off facility rentals on all event spaces including the University’s premier event space, The Duncan Family Sky Room.

For more information or to book your event today, please call (201) 761-7414 or visit saintpeters.edu/specialevents.

2014

Births

Robert J. Valas, CPA, has been admitted a partner (shareholder) in the firm of LB Goodman & Co, effective January 1.

Bob Savasta ’59 has welcomed into the world his 15th great-grandchild.

Engagements Bill Pettigrew ’11 became engaged to Nicole Terrigno on December 23, 2018.

Marriages Renee Brzyski-Mathews ’13 married Robert Louis Mathews III on March 10, 2018. She enjoys traveling, hiking, being in nature and taking photos.

Joe DeSciscio ’67, former human resources director at Saint Peter’s University, and his wife, Judy, welcomed their second granddaughter, Camila Hope, on December 4, 2018.

On September 13, 2018, Bob Steeves ’68 and his wife, Barbara, became great-grandparents to Elena Lynn Romero.

Anthony Galindo ’01 and Erika Cedeno ’04 welcomed their second child, Evan Anthony Galindo, on August 17, 2018.

In August, Dimana (Neykova) Kornegay ’11 and her husband, Kamal, welcomed their first child, Kalina.

Renee Brzyski-Mathews ’13

Saint Peter’s University

27

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

Capital Conclave

Thomas J. Whalen, Esq. ’60 hosted a reception at the University Club of Washington, DC for Saint Peter’s University alumni.

The October 29, 2018 event provided an opportunity for graduates to meet with President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., and hear the latest updates about the University. Alumni also witnessed the unveiling of the official University seal, which is displayed in the Keefer Memorial Library of the University Club.

Business Matters

1.

The Saint Peter’s Business Network hosted a reception at India House in Manhattan on December 4, 2018, featuring Frank D’Amelio ’79, chief financial officer and executive vice president, global supply and business operations at Pfizer Inc. The network brings C-Suite speakers to intimate settings, uniting graduates and friends of the University to share insights, offer mentorship and engage with Saint Peter’s University.

Saint Peter’s Business Network will host a conversation with Terry Finley, president & CEO, West Point Thoroughbreds, Inc. and James M. Conti ’93, managing director, Goldman Sachs on Monday, April 22 at Battello, Jersey City. To register, please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at (201) 761-6122 or alumni@saintpeters.edu.

28

Winter 2019

2.

1. Leandis Cedeno ’21, Deepak Agrawal and Adriana Ramirez ’22.

2. Sean Glennon ’79, ’93, Frank D’Amelio ’79 and Dan Joyce ’79, who all played football together at Saint Peter’s. 3. Frank D’Amelio ’79 and KPMG Dean of the School of Business Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D.

3.

C AT C H I N G U P W I T H . . .

Jamie Lisanti ’13: Scoring the Job of Her Dreams my love for sports.”

Her job has its advantages, including meeting a personal hero or two.

“I had the opportunity to interview Mia Hamm,” she recalled of her time with the now retired professional soccer player, two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time FIFA Women’s

“I’ve found over the years that I can apply tactics I have learned to my own life, specifically confidence, time management skills and staying in the game no matter how difficult it may be.”

World Cup champion.

“This was definitely a pinnacle moment for me. I had her poster on my wall growing up.”

Lisanti’s work experience has also influenced her life beyond writing, providing her with an up-close and personal opportunity to see how

Jamie Lisanti ’13 has transitioned from scoring goals on

some of the world’s top athletes train to be the best at what

the soccer field at Saint Peter’s University to achieving them

they do. “I’ve found over the years that I can apply tactics

in life.

I have learned from them to my own life, specifically con-

When Saint Peter’s University last checked in with Lisanti

fidence, time management skills and staying in the game

in spring 2015, she had just launched her career as a web

no matter how difficult it may be,” she said. These skills

producer and writer with Sports Illustrated. Today, as special

definitely come in handy in an industry Lisanti describes as

projects editor for the publication, Lisanti oversees content

constantly changing.

and experiential elements of large projects like Sports Person

Whether it was writing assignments for The Pauw Wow or

of the Year, the Super Bowl and March Madness for both the

the opportunity to enhance her experience through intern-

digital and print versions of the magazine, a staple for sports

ships in nearby New York City, Lisanti’s time at Saint Peter’s

fans since 1954.

played a significant role in her career trajectory. She pointed

One of Lisanti’s most significant career achievements was

to Ernabel Demillo, M.S., lecturer in the Department of Com-

landing an internship at Sports Illustrated just two weeks after

munication and Media Culture, as a pivotal mentor: “She

earning her master’s degree at the Columbia University Grad-

introduced me to Columbia University and encouraged me

uate School of Journalism. Her career journey has allowed

to attend. Without her guidance, I likely would not have pur-

her to marry her love for sports with her lifelong passion for

sued that opportunity, which has ultimately led me to where

writing. “I feel lucky that I am able to not only tell traditional

I am today.”

sports stories, but also focus on other aspects, like fitness

Lisanti’s advice for budding journalists? “Write every sin-

and fashion,” she said. “Growing up, I had always thought I

gle day to hone your reporting skills. And read everything.”

would work at a women’s magazine to focus on these topics,

Now, that’s a great assist.

but now I get to do that here and also continue to focus on

Saint Peter’s University

29

CLASS NEWS

& Notes

Mike Brown ’56 Alumni

GOLF OUTING Thursday, May 30

William J. Murray Peacock Athletics

GOLF OUTING Monday, June 17

Forest Hill Field Club Bloomfield, N.J.

Maplewood Country Club Maplewood, N.J.

For more information, contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at (201) 761-6122 or alumni@saintpeters.edu.

For more information, contact Anna Pitingolo at (201) 761-7300 or apitingolo@saintpeters.edu.

Hoops Reunions Peacock basketball alumni spanning several generations had the opportunity to visit campus and catch a game at special reunions held this season for graduates of the men’s and women’s teams.

The men got together for a pregame reception in The Duncan Family Sky Room on December 8, 2018, then cheered on today’s players as they faced LIU Brooklyn. On February 9, it was the women’s turn for a pregame reception, followed by attendance at a game as the Peacocks faced Manhattan. These inaugural reunions are the first in a series of events designed to reconnect former Saint Peter’s student-athletes with the University.

30

Winter 2019

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.

Ray Rainville, Ph.D., (pictured center) from the Fall 2010 issue of Saint Peter’s University

UNFORGETTABLE For more than 15 years, criminal justice courses taught by Raymond Rainville, Ph.D., were always filled to capacity. The reasons for the professor’s enduring popularity were manyfold.

Dr. Rainville, who passed away on November 16, 2018, was a highly respected scholar and criminologist who brought more than 20 years’ experience as a chief probation officer to the classroom. But it was his embodiment of Jesuit values, particularly cura personalis, which endeared him to Saint Peter’s University students and faculty alike.

More than 100 members of the University community attended “The Memorial Celebration of Dr. Rainville’s Life,” organized by students in Alpha Phi Sigma, the national criminal justice honor society, on November 29, 2018.

Department Chair Kari Larsen, Esq. ’89 said the late professor’s impact on students, faculty and the University was profound. In fact, Dr. Rainville made a point of knowing every one of the department’s 300 majors. “Ray would stay late almost every afternoon, long after his classes and office hours had ended,” Professor Larsen recounted at the memorial celebration.

“For the students, Ray was so much more than a learned professor and career advisor. He was a wise confidant and very valuable source of emotional support and comfort.”

From the moment he arrived on campus in

2002, Dr. Rainville became an unforgettable presence. The associate professor of criminal justice was advisor to the Saint Peter’s chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma and led study abroad trips to enrich the student experience. He also chaired the Criminal Justice Department for nine years and played a lead role in founding the University’s master’s program in criminal justice, always striving for higher levels of excellence. “The Jesuit ideal is to make the world better,” he told this magazine in 2010, for an article on the criminal justice program.

“We’re providing better administrators, better police officers and better intelligence analysts who can deal with more complex problems and situations.”

“Ray was a gem,” said Professor Larsen.

“He held a high standard, and he always raised our spirits with his sense of humor. Through his example, he inspired us to work harder and longer to serve the needs of students beyond the classroom.”

A resident of Red Bank, Dr. Rainville was a deacon at Saint Agnes Church in Atlantic Highlands. He earned an undergraduate degree from Monmouth University, a master’s from Rider University and a doctorate from Fordham University. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; three daughters, Dawn (Paul), Denise and Lisa (Paul); two sons, Ray Jr. (Heidi) and Anthony; and 11 grandchildren.

Edward J. Bonner Jr. ’95 Patrick J. Bradley ’74 John J. Cina ’54 James L. Collins ’58 Rev. Charles L. Currie, S.J., H ’16 Thomas J. Dunn ’57 James Flanagan Kathleen Gutch Thomas F. Hanrahan ’63 Alan P. Healy ’69 Jeffrey Huguenin, Ed.D. ’15 William J. Kemple ’67 Stephanie Kuzminski ’19 Rev. John J. Lester ’54 Susan B. Locasio Joseph J. MacDougall ’51 Joseph G. Mancuso ’61 Frank Manfredi Col. James G. McCormick, USMC (Ret.) ’52 George A. Meluso ’64 James F. Mullaney, Esq. ’50 Richard A. Murno ’68 Raymond J. Nakielny ’68 Edward T. Nauer ’72 William E. O’Dowd ’64 Edward J. O’Gara ’61 Daniel P. O'Neill '50 Lewis G. Pascalli Jr., Esq. ’64 Vincent J. Quagliana ’59 Raymond R. Rainville, Ph.D. Michael R. Reimer ’98 Dolores S. Rupinski Jean E. Schmidt Peter A. Scocca ’55 James P. Seymour Sr. ’60 John A. Stinziano ’74 Hon. Robert J. Stolarik ’51 Josephine Tighe ’95 Victor J. Tricarico, M.D. ’69 James J. Tunny ’50 Joseph Urciuoli Joseph Wells (Wegrzynowicz) ’63 David R. Williams, M.D. ’70

Saint Peter’s University

31

AD

Finem

Back Story on the Mission Examen

by Rev. Michael J. Sheeran, S.J. In the late 1960s, American Catholic colleges and universities

The Saint Peter’s MPE, completed during the 2017-2018 aca-

began to add lay people to their previously all-clerical boards of

demic year, is a good example. An internal self-study team was

trustees. The intent was to enhance each institution’s ability to

appointed by Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint

offer degrees that better responded to the economic needs of a

Peter’s. Led by a lay woman (Maryellen Hamilton, Ph.D., professor

given city. Almost immediately, the lay members of the Jesuit

and chair of the Psychology Department) and a Jesuit (Rev. Rocco

college and university boards became effective ambassadors

Danzi, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry), the self-study

for their schools to their fellow civic leaders. These lay trustees identified how their institutions’ curricula could be tailored to local aspirations, and helped the schools to raise much more money than ever before for buildings and program expansion.

But there was a problem. When boards

panel organized small listening sessions where faculty and administrators could talk frankly about both of Fr. Nicolás’ questions.

The panel had no trouble giving a strong “yes” to the first question. They next evaluated current priorities of the University and struggled with deciding which goals for the next few

were composed of Religious vowed to obedi-

years would best fit with the Saint Peter’s stu-

ence to a Religious superior, it was easy to

dent body, its history and financial strength, in

presume that the schools were under the ultimate control of Church officials. But, since lay board members didn’t have such vows, the formal relation of a given school to the Church became more ambiguous. Church officials agreed not to attempt to

order to make the school more effectively Jesuit.

Meanwhile, the self-study team visited with His Eminence, Joseph William Cardinal Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, asking him for his ideas on what Saint Peter’s does well for the Church of Newark; what might

resolve the ambiguity until the real impact of the new lay trustees

be good changes to make; and how the University could be more

had become clear.

effective as a Jesuit, Catholic institution. He followed up on the

Jump ahead to 2014. Rev. Adolfo Nicolás, S.J., then Jesuit superior general, noted that more than 40 years had passed since

discussion with a thoughtful and very helpful letter.

Now came the hard part as the self-study committee consid-

boards expanded to include lay leaders, and maybe it was a good

ered the suggestions of the Cardinal, faculty, staff and administra-

time to come to a more explicit understanding of how the Ameri-

tors. Working with the president and the board, they developed

can Jesuit colleges and universities should assure their appropri-

four Jesuit mission priorities for the next few years and gradually

ate relationship to the Jesuit Order’s traditional manifestation

achieved consensus on them. Next, the self-study committee

of the Catholic Church. He wanted to go beyond legalistic docu-

suggested four peers from other Jesuit colleges and universities to

ments about control to a regularly renewed and updated sort of

come to Saint Peter’s for a few days, where they would review the

commitment from each institution’s faculty and administration

proposed Jesuit mission priorities in light of the discussions with

to live out their Jesuit, Catholic sponsorship, so that the institu-

faculty, administrators and staff to be sure there was solid sup-

tion could keep rethinking and reapplying its tradition as new

port and enough assets to implement the priorities.

civic and academic issues arose. Fr. Nicolás discussed this ap-

With the blessing of the president and board, the priorities

proach with the Vatican’s office for Catholic higher education and

were sent for consideration to the Provincial of the Northeast

found enthusiastic agreement with the approach.

Jesuit Province and the president of the Jesuit Conference of

So, in 2015, Fr. Nicolás invited the American Jesuit provincials

Canada and the United States, both of whom sent their own

and presidents to separately review his proposal and then put

letters to the Jesuit Superior General, registering their agreement

it into action, with the expectation that a few of the 28 schools

or disagreement. Four months later, both the president and

would try out the process in each of the next five academic years.

board chair of Saint Peter’s received from Fr. Nicolás’ successor,

Dubbed the “Jesuit Mission Priorities Examen” (MPE for short),

Very Rev. Arturo Sosa, S.J., his affirmation of the proposed Jesuit

the process is based on two questions from Fr. General:

mission priorities and his judgment that the University definitely

1. Do you want your school to continue to call itself a “Jesuit”

continues to be Jesuit and Catholic.

institution?

2. If so, what are a few things you’d like to focus on in order to make your school more Jesuit?

32 32 Fall Winter 20152019

Rev. Michael J. Sheeran, S.J., has served as president of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) since 2013.

Whether you Graduated in 2018 or More than 50 Years Ago, Jesuit Values Last a Lifetime You can foster the continuation of Jesuit education. Here are some simple and popular ways in which many of our supporters have increased their investment in our mission: • • • •

Remember Saint Peter’s University in your will through a bequest Designate Saint Peter’s University as a beneficiary of your IRA Donate appreciated stock to Saint Peter’s University Purchase a charitable gift annuity through Saint Peter’s University and receive income for life

To learn more, contact: Sharon T. Morrissey, M.B.A., M.Ed. '13 Director of Planned Giving (201) 761-6126 or smorrissey@saintpeters.edu plannedgiving.saintpeters.edu

Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Newark, NJ Permit No. 118

2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, New Jersey 07306

N

Honoring

SKIN A M G OU U D

EN

E

The Saint Peter’s University Scholarship Celebration

R ST

IAL • T U N

Change Service Requested

Niurka “Nikki” E. Mederos ’07, ’10

Director of the External Affairs/Outreach Community of Hackensack Meridian Health Palisades Medical Center

Service to Community

TS’ P O T

Friday, May 3, 2019 6:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Mac Mahon Student Center

Eugene T. Paolino, Esq. ’69 Partner, Genova Burns LLC

Professional Achievement Register at saintpeters.edu/2019hm or call (855) 772-1000.