Winter 2025 Alumni Magazine

A SHARED VISION

Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., invites you to be part of our new vision. “The future of Saint Peter’s,” he says, “is what we collectively want the University to be.”

Something to Sing About

The Missioning Mass preceding the inauguration of the University’s 23rd president, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., on October 4, 2024, opened a new chapter for Saint Peter’s. Members from three chorales, the Aidan C. McMullen Chorale, VOX: The Men’s Choir of Saint Peter’s Preparatory High School and the Saint Dominic Academy Glee Club, were there to mark the occasion in a unified voice. Coverage of Dr. Benitez and the inauguration begins on page 10.

Reasons to Hope

The opportunity to serve as the 23rd president of Saint Peter’s University is the greatest honor of my career. Since joining this incredible community on July 1, 2024, I can honestly say the first six months have been exceptionally productive and filled with hope and enthusiasm as we start crafting the future of Saint Peter’s together. Working together and collectively is the key to our success. Since day one, I’ve emphasized that the vision for Saint Peter’s is a collective endeavor, one involving every member of our community: students, faculty, staff, administrators, Jesuits, alumni, trustees, regents and our many partners in Jersey City and beyond. We’ve seen broadbased participation in the strategic planning process thus far, which is critical to guiding this University into a new era of growth and long-term sustainability.

“Working together and collectively is the key to our success. Since day one I’ve emphasized that the vision for Saint Peter’s is a collective one...”

I am incredibly optimistic about Saint Peter’s future, and I want you to be, too. First, our mission to serve students who seek opportunities and a gateway to better, purpose-driven lives has never been more necessary and relevant. This fall, we welcomed 535 freshmen, a class that is 34 percent larger than two years ago, and one in which 69 percent are first-generation college students. Our city, state and region clearly need what Saint Peter’s has to offer. Additionally, our faculty and staff are deeply invested in students and the Jesuit, Catholic mission and values that guide everything we do. There is only one Jesuit University of New Jersey. Articulating the distinctions of a Jesuit education and making authentic connections with the

people and communities we want to reach are central to strengthening our brand and reputation.

Finally, the graduates we send into the world are a huge source of hope. I’ve met hundreds of Saint Peter’s alumni over the past six months. Your stories, accomplishments and contributions to the greater good inspire me. You are proof that the world is a better place with more Peacocks in it. Given the challenges all colleges and universities will navigate in the coming years, we have much more work ahead of us. But I have confidence in the ingenuity and resilience of this community.

We’ll have more to share concerning the strategic plan in the coming months. In the meantime, I ask that you think back on the ways Saint Peter’s impacted your life and trajectory: the seemingly insignificant conversations with professors and mentors who made a big difference in your life; the personal time, care and attention generously given; and the scholarship or financial assistance that made your degree and subsequent success possible.

Someone gave back for your benefit. You can ensure that the Peacocks who are here—and all those to come—have the chance to pursue their hopes and dreams. Your support truly makes a difference.

With gratitude,

Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D. President

CONTENTS

10. A Shared Vision for Saint Peter’s: The Inauguration of Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., the University’s 23rd president.

18. 10 Minutes With…Vice President for Mission Integration and Ministry Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D.

20. Reaching New Heights: Recapping Peacocks Rise, the largest campaign in University history.

22. Loyal Donors: There’s a lot of love and loyalty for Saint Peter’s students among longtime donors.

DEPARTMENTS

3. University News

24. Peacock U 26. Class News and Notes

32. Then and Now

ADMINISTRATION

Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D.

President

Katie Arcuri

Director of Athletics

Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78

Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning/Chief of Staff

Angeline Boyer

Executive Director of Communications

Paul Ciraulo

Vice President for Finance and Business

Jeffrey Gant

Vice President for Enrollment Management

Leah Leto, M.Ed. ’05

Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs

Reverend James J. Miracky, S.J., Ph.D.

Vice President for Mission Integration and Ministry

Travis Whisler

Interim Vice President for Student Life and Development

WeiDong Zhu, Ph.D.

Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs

WINTER 2025 SAINT PETER’S UNIVERSITY

Volume 44, Number 1

Editor

Angeline Boyer

Executive Director of Communications

Assistant Editor

Meghan Boyd

Executive Director of Marketing

Editorial & Design Services

Erbach Communications Group

HOW TO REACH US

Alumni News & Notes

Email: alumni@saintpeters.edu

Office of Alumni Engagement

2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306

Letter to the Editor

Email: aboyer1@saintpeters.edu

Editor, Saint Peter’s University

2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306

Telephone: (201) 761-6239

Mission Statement:

Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment.

CONNECT

Contributors & Editorial Assistance

Liliana Huertas Murcia, M.B.A. ’23

Claudia Pope-Bayne, Ed.D. ’16, ’22

Photography

Dan Bassini

Claudia Pope-Bayne, Ed.D. ’16, ’22

Michael Marmora

Maeve McNally-Cullum

Saint Peter’s Athletics

International Cooperation

Global Leadership in Criminal Justice program welcomes second cohort

Now in its second year, the Global Leadership in Criminal Justice program brings 10 currently active police officers from South Korea to Saint Peter’s University for the fall semester to gain global perspectives and exposure to different law enforcement methods. Started by Hyoungah Park, Ph.D., associate professor of criminal justice, the program aims to give the police officers not only academic training, but international experience and the chance to conduct comparative research through visits to local law enforcement agencies like the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and the NYPD Police Academy. While here, the officers—who are in their 20s, 30s and 40s and both male and female—take three

customized courses with Dr. Park and participate in campus life. So far, the students love the welcoming campus in addition to the dining services and Western-style food, Dr. Park noted.

Based on his own experiences as a police officer for 28 years in South Korea, where he rose from lieutenant to deputy inspector, Dr. Park believes the experience will be very helpful for the cohorts who come to study at Saint Peter’s.

“They will learn so many new things. They have already developed good investigation skills, but nowadays we have global, transnational crime. Police officers need to know the differences between the two countries or the other countries’ law systems and processes. I hope they come out of this

Continued on next page

Hyoungah Park, Ph.D., with his students: police officers from South Korea.

Continued from previous page

program really thinking critically.”

Dr. Park also pointed out that the program is mutually beneficial for the South Korean police officers and the University community.

“This kind of cultural exchange is important right now,” he said.

“Many Saint Peter’s students are interested in Korean culture, so they really love meeting the police officers, and the police officers are learning things like international cooperation.” These kinds of cross-cultural learning opportunities, he added, are important because they enable students to dream and think globally.

CLASS OF 2028 IS BIGGER AND MORE DIVERSE

Saint Peter’s University welcomed 535 freshmen to the Jersey City campus in August. This was the second consecutive year freshman enrollment increased by 17 percent; since 2023, the freshman class has grown by a total of 34 percent. In addition to being larger, the Class of 2028 is a diverse group who want to better their lives and uplift communities.

90% of freshmen are from New Jersey.

The class hails from 17 states and territories outside of New Jersey including:

• New York

• Pennsylvania

• Virginia

• Florida

• Puerto Rico

10 different languages spoken at home including:

• Haitian Creole

• Tagalog

• Hindi

• Spanish

• Arabic

• Yoruba

69% of freshmen are first-generation college students.

54% identify as Hispanic

• Psychology 3.10 average GPA

Top intended majors among freshmen include:

• Nursing

• Business

• Biology

Hyoungah Park, Ph.D.

Moving Up in the Rankings

SAINT PETER’S RANKED #1 IN NEW JERSEY FOR SOCIAL MOBILITY

SAINT

Peacocks keep rising in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of colleges and universities. The 2025 Best Colleges list, released in September, ranked Saint Peter’s University first in New Jersey among institutions in the Regional Universities North category for social mobility. The ranking considers the upward professional and career advancement of an institution’s graduates.

President Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., said the distinction reflects the University’s commitment to empowering students from all backgrounds. “Our graduates are not only transforming their own lives, but they are also changing and improving their families and communities where they live. This ranking underscores the transformative impact of a Saint Peter’s education.”

Saint Peter’s also jumped six spots and is now ranked 39th overall in Regional Universities North. Additionally, the University is ranked among the top 10 on the “Best Value Schools” list and has risen to 15th on the “Best Colleges for Veterans” list.

U.S. News & World Report defines a regional university as one that provides a full range of undergraduate programs and master’s programs, but few doctoral programs. The Regional University North category includes institutions in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington, D.C.

PETER’S AWARDED CARNEGIE LEADERSHIP FOR PUBLIC PURPOSE CLASSIFICATION

Saint Peter’s University has a long history of shaping future leaders who advance the common good. In June, the University was among only 25 U.S. colleges and universities nationally to receive the inaugural Carnegie Leadership for Public Purpose Classification. The elective designation was awarded by the American Council on Education, the Doerr Institute for New Leaders at Rice University and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

The classification recognizes institutions that have committed to campus-wide efforts to advance leadership in pursuit of public goods like justice, equity, diversity and liberty. ACE President Ted Mitchell noted that institutions in the inaugural cohort are models in higher education with demonstrated excellence in nurturing leaders who are prepared to address and solve public challenges.

The 25 institutions classified include public and private colleges and universities, as well as two service academies, the United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Naval Academy. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is the nation’s leading framework for categorizing diverse U.S. higher education institutions.

MEET THE NEW MASCOT

Pete the Peacock has a fiercer look and a more determined strut. The mascot makeover was unveiled at pre-game festivities for the first men’s basketball home game on November 20, 2024. The campus community turned out in the Quad to meet the new Peacock, whose design closely aligns with the Athletics rebrand launched in the 2020-2021 academic year.

Over in Run Baby Run Arena, the Peacocks beat Saint Elizabeth University in a decisive win, 116-51. The defeat of the Division III Eagles also marked Head Coach Bashir Mason’s 200th career collegiate coaching victory.

MICHAELMAS CONVOCATION 2024

MUHAMMAD MIR ’15 DELIVERS ADDRESS

It was only a decade ago that Muhammad S. Mir ’15 was one of 10 seniors inducted into the Most Noble Order of the Peacock, the oldest academic achievement society at Saint Peter’s University. On September 25, 2024, he delivered an insightful and inspiring address to the new class of MNOPs at Michaelmas Convocation. “Ten years ago, I sat exactly where you sit now,” said Mir, the cofounder and Chief Commercial Officer at Azend Pharma, a healthcare management services company dedicated to empowering independent pharmacies. After graduating from Saint Peter’s with a degree in biochemistry and a passion for business, Mir became a respected leader in the pharmaceutical industry, recognized for his ability to drive commercial success.

As an undergraduate pursuing a pre-med track, Mir’s left turn to healthcare entrepreneur came about through the mentorship and

guidance he found at Saint Peter’s. “When I decided not to pursue a medical degree, my mother didn’t speak to me for three days,” he said. “I had to make sure the struggle my parents went through to put me through college without any loans was not in vain.” With the support of faculty and administrators, Mir landed selective internships with UBS, PSEG and Pfizer that launched his career. Still, he had to work hard and prove himself with each opportunity. “People will not always see your grit, but it will only lead you closer to success,” he advised. “Remember, grit matters more than talent in the long run.”

“People will not always see your grit, but it will only lead you closer to success.”

Michaelmas Convocation recognized 38 undergraduates from the College of Arts and Sciences, Frank J. Guarini School of Business, Caulfield School of Education, School of Nursing and the School of Professional Studies with Academic Excellence Medals in the gold and silver categories. The following 11 seniors, nine pictured below, attained the highest scholastic average in all their courses for the first three years and were inducted as MNOPs: Chaimaa Aknouche ’25, Ada Andrade ’25, Emily Avila ’25, Isabelle Bautista ’25, Carolina Da Fonseca Guedes ’25, Shereen Hanna ’25, Aakash Pandey ’25, Tabata Patino ’25, Katherine Peña Sanchez ’25, Dakota Pitts ’25 and Kasidy Slusser ’25.

SAINT PETER’S CELEBRATES SPOT ON THE BOARD OF MONOPOLY: JERSEY CITY EDITION

Saint Peter’s University occupies prime real estate on the board of MONOPOLY: Jersey City Edition, unveiled on October 15, 2024, in The Duncan Family Sky Room of the Mac Mahon Student Cen ter. Local officials, business leaders, com munity members and the campus com munity celebrated the unveiling of the new board game that replaces Atlantic City squares (from Boardwalk to Park Place) with Jersey City’s cultural sites, historic landmarks, charitable or ganizations and businesses. Saint Peter’s is located on the lucrative green property group, which corresponds to Pennsylvania Avenue in the Atlantic City version.

President Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., spoke about the University’s long connection to Jersey City at the event. “Though I am relatively new to Jersey City, its reputation as a vibrant and welcoming community precedes itself, and in my short time here, it has been easy to see what a truly special place this is. It’s wonderful to see this city now represented on a MONOPOLY board, with landmarks and local organizations that embody the diverse, resilient and vibrant character of the city.”

During the celebration, guests had the opportunity to take pictures with the Saint Peter’s Peacock and Mr. Monopoly. The game is the only licensed version in New Jersey and was introduced by Top Trumps USA, the American division of Winning Moves International, creators of classic games and

puzzles, and under license from Hasbro, a leading toy and game company.

“My family has a saying that all roads lead back to Jersey City, and never have those words been truer,” said John Marano ’18, a Top Trumps USA representative. “It was such an honor as someone that did a lot of their growing up here to help create a game that captures everything that Jersey City has to offer. This is truly a game made by Jersey City for Jersey City.”

MONOPOLY: Jersey City Edition will be available in stores and online at retail partners, including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Daily Grind Express, Morlees and other local retailers. It can also be purchased online at us.toptrumps.com.

REDEFINING THE SPEED OF SUCCESS

Saint Peter’s University has a new opportunity for ambitious high school students who will graduate from secondary school with an associate degree. It’s called APEX or Academic and Professional Excellence Experience, a first-ofits-kind initiative that is responsive to a growing trend. In 2024, 251 New Jersey seniors graduated from county-based technical schools with an associate degree, and the number is expected to grow.

Students who are accepted to APEX arrive at Saint Peter’s with an associate degree and will go on to earn a bachelor’s degree, two professional certificates, participate in a paid professional experience and pursue a master’s degree during the traditional four-year undergraduate time frame. The accelerated pathway is structured for students to graduate with robust credentials and career experience, while maximizing their state and federal financial aid availability.

Currently in the planning stage, more information about APEX will be available in Spring 2025. Visit saintpeters.edu/apex to learn more.

LAURELS

NATION’S HIGHEST HONOR FOR STEM MENTORSHIP

JEANETTE WILMANSKI, PH.D. ’00 IS A PAESMEM FINALIST

Associate Professor of Biology Jeanette Wilmanski, Ph.D. ’00, is a finalist to receive the 2024 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). A joint initiative between the National Science Foundation and the Executive Office of the President of the United States, the award is the nation’s highest honor for mentors who work with underrepresented groups to develop human resources in STEM.

Dr. Wilmanksi was appointed executive director of the Institute for STEM Experiential Learning in June. Previously, she oversaw Transformational Experiences (TREX grant), a $1.5 million project funded by the NSF to improve undergraduate STEM education for

Hispanic Serving Institutions. Its purpose is to pair STEM undergraduates with paid internships for academic credit. The program was bolstered by The Frank J. Murphy Jr., Esq. ’69 STEM Internship Fund that expanded the range of academic disciplines to include nursing, health sciences, psychology, forensic science and computer science. Dr. Wilmanksi was nominated for PAESMEM shortly after the TREX grant concluded.

From the short list of 32 individual PAESMEM Finalists, 15 awardees will be announced at a future date. “I am super excited about the doors this can open for our students,” said Dr. Wilmanski. “[PAESMEM] is another credential that shows we are doing the right thing for our students. I think it will also motivate our external partners to collaborate with the University more.”

CREATIVE VISION OF FINE ARTS FACULTY ON VIEW

Works by Trish Gianakis, M.F.A., assistant professor of fine arts, Frank Gimpaya, adjunct faculty and Beatrice M. Mady, M.F.A., professor of graphic arts, were featured in a fall exhibition at the University’s Fine Arts Gallery as part of JC Fridays, a citywide arts festival showcasing the talents and perspectives of Jersey City artists. Titled, Creative Vision: Arts Faculty Exhibition, the show explored the dual roles of faculty as educators and practicing artists.

“Through their diverse practices, these artists contribute significantly to the academic and artistic community, offering insights into contemporary art practices and inspiring both their students and the public,” wrote Art House Productions, the organizer of JC Fridays in the exhibition summary. Creative Vision was on view September 13-October 24, 2024.

Frank Gimpaya, Trish Gianakis, M.F.A., Beatrice Mady, M.F.A., and Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs WeiDong Zhu, Ph.D., at the opening of Creative Vision.

Jeanette Wilmanski, Ph.D. ’00 (standing) with students and colleagues in the Institute for STEM Experiential Learning.

AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY HONORS PATRICIA REDDEN, PH.D.

The American Chemical Society will present the 2025 Award for Volunteer Service to Patricia Redden, Ph.D. , professor emerita of chemistry, at its annual meeting this spring. The award recognizes the professor’s exceptional contributions spanning more than 45 years in chemical safety, support for chemists with disabilities and public outreach.

A longtime member of the safety committee for the New York Local Section of ACS, Dr. Redden was instrumental in enhancing safety standards at high schools and colleges in the region. She initiated public programming for children that became an annual event at the American Museum of Natural History for several years, laying the groundwork for National Chemistry Week. Additionally, Dr. Redden served as a long-standing member of the ACS Committee on Chemical Safety and Committee on Chemists with Disabilities.

The Spring ACS National Meeting and Exposition will be held March 23-27, 2025, in San Diego, Calif.

PRESTIGIOUS WRITING

FELLOWSHIP AWARDED TO ERNABEL DEMILLO, M.S.

Chair and Lecturer of Communications

Ernabel Demillo, M.S., was one of 12 writers accepted to the George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism last July. Medill received nearly 400 applications from accomplished journalists for the inaugural workshop, which aims to help mid-career journalists write their first novels.

Professor Demillo is writing a novel about her mother’s experiences growing up in the Phillippines while under Japanese occupation during World War II. A seasoned broadcaster, Professor Demillo was nominated for a 2024 Emmy.

NEW ALBUM BY JAMES ADLER, M.A.

James R. Adler, M.A., adjunct lecturer in the Department of Fine Arts, released a new album, Reflections, a celebration and reflection upon special friends, composers and works close to the musician’s heart. Professor Adler’s previous album, That Star in the Picture, was a double award winner at the 2024 InterContinental Music Awards in August. Both albums are available on all streaming platforms and from Albany Records.

SUMMER CAMP FOR STEM SCHOLARS

“The whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” as quoted by Aristotle, is certainly applicable to an interdisciplinary STEM initiative directed by Associate Professor of Biology Brandy Garrett-Kluthe, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Education

Michael Finetti, Ed.D. and Associate Professor of Mathematics Rebecca Conley, Ph.D. The trio led a five-day STEM summer camp for a cohort of LEAPS (Leaders Emerging & Pursuing STEM) scholars last August. Students engaged in team building exercises, participated in seminars on resumé writing and interview techniques and spent a day at Liberty Science Center. The STEM summer camp was funded through the National Science Foundation’s S-STEM Grant program.

SALUTI A JERSEY CITY

In a recent issue of Ambassador, Assistant Vice President of Campus Services and Facilities Anna DePaula took readers on a whirlwind visit of her beloved hometown of Jersey City. The article, “Finding Italy in Jersey City,” featured DePaula’s insights and recommendations on exploring Italian neighborhoods, where to enjoy an authentic Italian meal and the best cultural celebrations. Ambassador is the flagship publication of the National Italian American Foundation.

for Saint Peter’s University A Shared Vision

New Student Orientation felt very different this year to Ignacio Manzanero ’27, a student ambassador for admissions. Manzanero worked every one of the summer events that welcome firstyear students and their parents to Saint Peter’s University. Also attending every orientation session: Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., who became the University’s 23rd president on July 1, 2024.

College and university presidents frequently speak to incoming students and families, usually from a lectern with remarks addressed to the crowd. Dr. Benitez prefers to walk The Duncan Family Sky Room, microphone in hand, to connect with people individually. “Where are you from?,” he asks. “What are your hopes and dreams for college?”

“Instead of talking about himself, he wanted to learn about the students,” observed Manzanero, which is a telling comment about how the new president is leading The Jesuit University of New Jersey. Throughout the summer and into fall, the president’s calendar was packed with meetings and events involving every University constituency: students, faculty, coaches, staff, administrators, alumni, trustees, local officials and community and corporate partners. He sees every interaction as a deeper opportunity to engage, gather perspectives and discern the aspirations people have for the institution and themselves. Or as the president himself has said many times, “The future of Saint Peter’s is not about me. It’s about what we collectively want the University to be.”

Building that shared vision for Saint Peter’s, one that is defined by mission, opportunity and faithfulness to Ignatian values and ideals, is already underway. Read on to learn how the Benitez presidency is already forging the University’s next great chapter.

Rev. Thomas Curran, S.J., and Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D.

“

Iprayed for this,” is how Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., introduced himself to alumni at an end-of-summer gathering held at Spring Lake Golf Club. The event was part of the Presidential Welcome Tour, and Dr. Benitez spoke openly about how his faith and vocation was nurtured at Jesuit universities. He completed a Doctor of Dental Surgery at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Colombia, holds a Ph.D. from Saint Louis University and assumed senior leadership posts at Rockhurst University. His own great hope was to one day lead a Jesuit institution of higher education.

Rev. Thomas Curran, S.J., president emeritus of Rockhurst University, recognized Dr. Benitez’s gifts as a lay leader early on. In 2019, Dr. Benitez was president and CEO of Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences. The two leaders collaborated on a partnership that joined Saint Luke’s with Rockhurst University. “I knew from the outset that Hubert was a man of great integrity and devotion,” said Fr. Curran, who later hired Dr. Benitez to be vice president of strategic initiatives and academic innovation at Rockhurst. “He was clearly focused on what was in the best interest of the institution. He works exceptionally hard and knows where he wants to go. I like that about him a lot because knowing where he wants to go is not for the purpose of promoting himself. It’s for the purpose of promoting the mission.”

IT’S A GEM OF AN INSTITUTION

It’s a prodigious time to be president of Saint Peter’s, and Dr. Benitez inherits an institution transformed over the past 17 years. The Jesuit and Catholic identity of Saint Peter’s was affirmed

last August, following the extensive self-study and peer review, the Mission Priority Examen, conducted by every institution in the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Peacocks Rise, the largest fundraising campaign in University history, closed with more than $86 million raised last June. Overall enrollment reached a 25-year high last year and undergraduate enrollment for 2024-2025 increased to 2,238 students, the highest in four years. The 2024-2025 traditional undergraduate enrollment figure also includes 535 freshmen and 97 transfer students.

“I knew from the outset that Hubert was a great man of integrity and devotion. He was clearly focused on what was in the best interest of the institution.”

Still, the landscape of higher education is inherently challenging. Colleges and universities nationwide continue to grapple with the decline in the birth rate and repercussions from COVID-19 that prompted high school seniors to forgo college altogether. In New Jersey, private and public institutions contend with the perpetual “brain drain,” the massive exodus of first-time undergraduates each year that opt to attend college out-of-state.

“I am optimistic about the future of Saint Peter’s,” said Dr. Benitez. “I truly believe this institution is a gem and that’s

why I’ve said very openly the opportunities here are endless because of the way we operate and the students we serve.”

When the president speaks about building a collective vision for the University, it’s always from a fresh perspective. “What I’m looking for in our community is to look at higher education from a new lens, one that is entrepreneurial and focused on our value proposition. We want to create an environment where innovation is critically important.”

EARLY PROGRESS AND ADVANCES

Shortly after Dr. Benitez assumed the presidency, the University made several important announcements. In September, Saint Peter’s formally affiliated with Excelencia in Education, the national organization dedicated to accelerating Latino success in higher education. The affiliation is significant since 41 percent of full-time undergraduates at Saint Peter’s are Hispanic. The University was the first college or university to attain Hispanic Serving Institution status in New Jersey and in the AJCU. In 2019, Saint Peter’s was named a finalist for the Seal of Excelencia for adopting the organization’s framework to intentionally serve Hispanic and low-income students by focusing on data, evidencebased practices and leadership.

As part of the affiliation with Excelencia, Dr. Benitez joined Presidents for Latino Student Success. The diverse network of more than 150 college and university presidents and chancellors represents institutions that lead the nation in enrolling and graduating Latino students. In terms of value proposition, the strengthened connection with Excelencia heightens Saint Peter’s visibility and reputation as a leading HSI

THE 23RD PRESIDENT: BIOGRAPHY IN BRIEF

Unanimously appointed by the Board of Trustees to lead Saint Peter’s University, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., was born in Colombia and spent his formative years in the U.S. He holds advanced degrees from two Jesuit universities; a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Colombia, and a Ph.D. from Saint Louis University.

Prior to Saint Peter’s, Dr. Benitez served as president and chief executive officer of American International College in Springfield, Mass. From 2020-2022, Dr. Benitez was vice president for strategic initiatives and academic innovation as well as acting chief inclusion officer at Rockhurst University. He led Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences as president and CEO, prior to its merger with Rockhurst University.

Dr. Benitez starts every day with prayer in Saint Peter Chapel. A practicing Catholic and person of deep faith, “My personal values follow my faith,” he said. “Coming to Saint Peter’s has felt like I’m returning to the Jesuit values that are so important to me.”

and a gateway for all students who seek opportunity to lead better, purpose-fueled lives.

Every new college and university presidency involves transition, and Dr. Benitez’s early weeks were spent meeting with current Cabinet members and filling essential senior leadership posts. This included naming Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D., to vice president for mission integration and ministry in August (see 10 Minutes With…on page 18). “Our Jesuit and Catholic mission has been reaffirmed through the Misson Priority Examen, which has identified a set of priorities for us to operationalize how we live our Ignatian mission,” said Dr. Benitez. “Fr. Miracky will be critical to this role. I’m grateful he has decided to take this leap of faith and be a part of the senior leadership team.”

“What I’m looking for in our community is to look at higher education from a new lens, one that is entrepreneurial and focused on our value proposition.”

In other key appointments, Dr. Benitez named longtime faculty member and dean WeiDong Zhu, Ph.D., to interim vice president for academic affairs and Travis Whisler, M.Ed., to interim vice president for student life and development. Director of Athletics Katie Arcuri and Executive Director of Communications Angeline Boyer, M.B.A. ’15, were also appointed to the Cabinet.

THE UNIVERSITY’S NEXT STRATEGIC PLAN

All the effort to build a shared vision for Saint Peter’s is work that will inform the University’s next strategic plan. According to Dr. Benitez, the plan will encompass six domains: academics; student life and engagement; institutional advancement and community relations; athletics; financial sustainability and viability; and mission integration and ministry. The strategic planning process began in earnest following the inauguration in October, with the aim of delivering a draft strategic plan to the Board of Trustees in the spring.

Again, the president emphasizes that creativity and resourcefulness will be central to the plan. “Our quest is to

WELCOME TO THE PEACOCK FAMILY

The Benitez family is feeling right at home at Saint Peter’s University. After living out of suitcases in temporary quarters the first few weeks, Dr. Benitez, and his wife, Sandra Lozada, have settled into Guarini House. “You can’t beat the commute,” Dr. Benitez joked. “But you know, we are looking forward to making Jersey City our home.” Members of the Saint Peter’s community can find the couple at Peacock games, and at a host of University events held on and off campus.

“We go to everything” said Dr. Benitez. “Showing up is half the job. It’s not work for us. We truly enjoy it.” The couple have two adult children, Ana Ximena and Daniel, who will also visit Jersey City on occasion.

continue to support students from all facets of life. We will respect the history and legacy of Saint Peter’s, but we move forward doing what is best for Saint Peter’s with a commitment of hope and optimism.”

From his vantage point as a mentor to Dr. Benitez and president emeritus of Rockhurst University, Fr. Curran believes Saint Peter’s 23rd president is, “the right man for the right time,” and advised the Saint Peter’s community to enjoy the journey with its new leader and companion. He added, “With Hubert Benitez, you get the Jesuit trifecta of our educational enterprise: a conversion of the intellect to truth; a conversion of conscience to what is right; and a conversion of the affect which is love.”

Hope & Gratitude

The inauguration of the 23rd president, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., was a day marked by gratitude for the Saint Peter’s University community and hope for the future.

The importance of Saint Peter’s University—to the city, state, region and Society of Jesus—was fully evident at the inauguration of the 23rd president, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., on October 4, 2024.

Elected officials, industry leaders, members of the Society of Jesus and a host of dignitaries joined the University community for the historic day.

Many who spoke at the inauguration addressed the universal challenges and issues facing all institutions of higher education, while pointing to the resilience of Saint Peter’s and its leadership. In his inaugural address, Dr. Benitez, too, alluded to the complexities colleges and universities grapple with today, but chose to focus on opportunity and the limitless possibilities of Jesuit education.

Hope and gratitude were the themes of his address. “I truly believe the world needs more institutions like Saint Peter’s University,” he stated. “Hope is the beacon that guides us through

difficult times and empowers us to envision a brighter future, to strive for our dreams, to support one another in our journey here on this campus.”

As the first Hispanic president of a university where 54 percent of the freshman class is Latino, he acknowledged the milestone by delivering portions of the inaugural address in English and Spanish.

The new president also kept it real with a message directed to current and future students. “You’re seeing a regular guy who was born in Colombia, who worked very hard. I always tell the kids, ‘If a regular guy like me can do this, you can too.’”

The inaugural ceremony was preceded by a Missioning Mass at Saint Aedan’s Church. Rev. Joseph M. O’Keefe, S.J., provincial of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus, was celebrant and homilist for the service. A reception attended by students, faculty, staff, administration, members of the Board of Trustees and Board of Regents, alumni and guests, followed the inauguration.

“We see a leader who embodies the principles of magis and cura personalis, a president who will champion our long history of shared governance and who is engaged in fostering community, collaboration and unity among our administration, faculty, staff and students. We understand the challenges that lie ahead, but we also recognize the immense potential within our community as we welcome you, President Benitez. We invite you to lead among us, to dream with us and to inspire us to reach even greater heights.”

— Brandy Garrett-Kluthe, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and vice president of the faculty senate

“Our goal at Lord Abbett is to cultivate the next generation of leaders at Saint Peter’s University. Dr. Benitez, as you embark on this new journey, I encourage you to continue fostering the spirit of collaboration and innovation that has been the hallmark of Saint Peter’s. To the esteemed corporations present here today, I urge you to consider forming or strengthening partnerships with Saint Peter’s University. By working together, we can create more opportunity for students, drive innovation and contribute to the prosperity of our community.”

— Catherine Tantillo, chair of the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce and global head of social impact, Lord Abbett & Co.

“The Society of Jesus has every confidence that Dr. Benitez, a native of Colombia, will sustain [the] mission along with strengthening this University’s Jesuit, Catholic identity. We look forward especially to his leading this wonderful institution of higher learning to further embrace and embody the four Jesuit universal apostolic preferences: promoting discernment of The Spiritual Exercises, walking with the excluded, caring for our common home and journeying with you.”

— Rev. Joseph S. Costantino, S.J., superior, Saint Peter’s Jesuit Community and Board of Trustees member

“As a member of the Search Committee I was entrusted with being the voice of the students and ensuring that our next University president was for the students and embodies Jesuit values. And President Benitez was just that. Throughout our interactions, I have seen his genuine care for the people around him and his everlasting goal, to make sure every student feels at home on campus.”

— Marquis James ’25, president of the Student Government Association

“Dr. Benitez, I know that there will always be people willing and ready to help you, and they’ll do it with the biggest smiles. I know because they are the same people who helped me to achieve my dreams when I was a student here. I’ll leave you with one last saying, something I used to tell all my first-year residents on their first day when I was a resident assistant. ‘Hi Dr. Benitez! Welcome to Saint Peter’s, we are so excited to have you here today and we can’t wait to see what you achieve.’”

— Rebecca Marcillo-Gomez ’23, ’24, master’s of public administration graduate

Leading the Way on Mission Integration

Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D., became a big proponent of mission integration when he served as assistant provincial for higher education in the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus. The newly appointed vice president for mission integration and ministry at Saint Peter’s University explains what mission integration is and why it’s central to Ignatian identity and to transforming lives.

Jesuit colleges and universities established senior leadership posts to advance mission and identity for some time. Broadly speaking, what is the purpose of the role?

It’s a combination of things. The impetus began in the 1980s and ’90s when it became clearer that there were fewer Jesuit faculty and administration in the community. The old model, ‘Everyone would get Ignatian values by osmosis because students encounter Jesuits on campus,’ was no longer the case. We needed a way to articulate what Jesuit education is about, especially as institutions began serving a more diverse population. We needed to do

a better job of articulating the mission and invite students and colleagues to understand it and adopt it, as well as offer opportunities for deepening it. Across the 27 U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities, the role has different titles and slightly different portfolios.

At Saint Peter’s, the title was recently modified to include mission integration. How did the new title come about?

In conversations with President Benitez, I suggested we change the title slightly to vice president for mission integration and ministry. In my previous job as provincial assis-

tant for higher education for the USA East Province, I visited schools annually, focusing on how each institution was living out its Jesuit, Catholic mission. The more I saw and experienced, it became apparent that mission integration across all areas of a university was a very important part of the job.

The work of mission integration is really about how students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni and trustees come to understand and deepen their appreciation of what our Jesuit, Catholic identity is, how they participate and how they see themselves contributing, regardless of their faith tradition. Incorporating integration also sends a message that the Saint Peter’s community is a vital part of this project of education and this mission sponsored by the Society of Jesus. Dr. Benitez is very much in agreement that we want to permeate the Jesuit mission throughout the institution, so my charge is to move in that direction.

“The work of mission integration is really about how students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni and trustees come to understand and deepen their appreciation of what our Jesuit, Catholic identity is…”

Are there immediate or short-term priorities you’ve identified?

I’m meeting with Cabinet members, University leaders and administrators to ask, ‘How I can help in your individual pursuit of deepening your appreciation of Jesuit values and traditions?’ and ‘How can I help your team?’ My hope is that we get to do more professional development on a national and local level.

I’m hopeful we can continue to have some of our folks participate in the Ignatian Colleagues Program and the Ignatian Leadership Seminar, national programs held over the course of a year, which are resource intensive. I’m also excited about a localized version of the Ignatian Colleagues Program which is shorter, less resource intensive, with a nearby retreat and immersion experience. The Canisius Colleagues Program and Fairfield Colleagues Program have been very successful. I’m hopeful we can come up with the Saint Peter’s model of the program for next year.

Included in your portfolio is DEIJ — diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. How does that align with permeating the Jesuit mission throughout the institution? Jesuits have always believed that any aspect of human experience

and culture—anything you find in the world—has the potential for an encounter with God. Our approach was always to interact with different cultures and engage in a common project of caring for the human dignity of all persons. It’s a natural fit.

Dr. Jennifer Thorndike-Gonzales has been appointed chief diversity officer and executive director of DEIJ. She’ll also be heading the Center for Inclusive Excellence, which is being funded by a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. I’m hopeful that with the DEIJ work here—and also at the national level—we can find more ways of learning from each other by finding common ground.

You served on the University Board of Trustees the year prior to your appointment. What prompted your interest in this position at Saint Peter’s?

It was largely by choice, but also circumstance. As a trustee, I had an idea of what the future vice president for mission integration and ministry role could (or might) look like at Saint Peter’s. As it happened, the announcement came in April that Fr. Andrew Downing (vice president for mission and ministry) would be moving on, just as the board appointed Dr. Benitez president. I thought, ‘Wow. He’s not going to have someone in this position.’ I sent a message to the Jesuit Superior that I would be open to a conversation and things unfolded from there.

I had also really come to love the place from a distance. The way the University lives its mission exemplifies why Jesuit schools were started in the 19th and 20th centuries—to provide education and opportunity to immigrants and first-generation college goers. Saint Peter’s, for the most part, has kept the firstgen, college gateway that I think is exciting.

Anything else you’re thinking about as you dive into the new role? One thing that is true of Saint Peter’s: we are not resource rich, which can make it a challenge for us to accomplish what we’re trying to do. It also gives us a spirit and a culture of doing more with less. I’ve been tasked to think about…if we had more resources, what would we do with them? As the University enters its next strategic planning phase, we’ll be working with the Office of Advancement and External Affairs creatively and effectively on mission-specific types of resources. It will be a challenge, but that’s part of my job, too.

Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D., was appointed vice president for mission integration and ministry in August. His decades-long career has included significant roles at College of the Holy Cross, Loyola University Maryland and as Provincial Assistant for Higher Education in the USA East Province. Fr. Miracky served on the boards of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Fordham University and Saint Peter’s University. He resides with The Saint Peter’s Jesuit Community.

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

The final numbers are in! With the support of nearly 10,000 donors, Peacocks Rise: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s University propelled The Jesuit University of New Jersey to new heights. While the comprehensive campaign concluded on June 30, 2024, we are delighted to share some highlights of what our Peacock community accomplished together.

$86,424,966

Peacocks Rise 2017-2024: $75M goal

$64.7 M Students at the Center 2008-2014

$35.1 M Campaign for Leadership 1996-2002

Peacocks Rise inspired more generosity than the previous two campaigns. Investments in Signature Facilities, Transformational Scholarships, Greater Distinction, Unrestricted Giving, as well as other strategic priorities strengthened the University and set the stage for even greater success in the future.

4,182 donors made their first gift to the University

1/3 of donor-funded scholarships were established during Peacocks Rise

124 donors made a gift of $100,000 or more

12 donors made a gift of $1,000,000 or more

Community-Wide Participation

Alumni 5,623 donors

Friends

donors

Corporations

donors

Foundations

donors

donors

“This campaign’s success underscores the profound impact that collective effort and shared vision can have on the future of our institution. We are deeply grateful to every donor who contributed to this historic achievement.”

— Kathleen M. McKenna Esq. ’75 and Anthony O. Pergola, Esq. ’92, Campaign Co-Chairs

GIVING BY GEOGRAPHY

Alumni and friends from 47 states and more than 1,800 cities nationwide made a gift to Peacocks Rise

Thank you for providing the scholarships, resources, programs and facilities that will help Peacocks take flight. We are deeply grateful for your support. The conclusion of Peacocks Rise and the inauguration of President Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., brings the opportunity to become a better, stronger and even more impactful Jesuit university. We hope you will continue to be our companion in writing the next chapter of Saint Peter’s history.

LOYAL DONORS

CHANGING THE LIFE STORIES OF STUDENTS

Education has always been a priority for Catherine Weiss Merker ’70, a Pavonia Heritage Society member who has supported Saint Peter’s University for more than 30 years. While an undergraduate at Saint Peter’s (and in the first class of women to attend the Day Session full-time), Merker learned she had an aptitude for teaching. After graduating from Saint Peter’s with a bachelor’s degree in natural science, Merker taught high school chemistry and biology for nine years before earning a master’s degree in counseling and personnel services. She also holds an educational specialist degree in marriage and family therapy.

She counseled college students at Ocean County Community College and then worked for the New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund/Office of Multicultural Services as a learning resources specialist. Merker found the work gratifying, especially supporting non-traditional students, like the young mothers who pursued nursing degrees to give their children a better life. She has remained in touch with many of her former advisees.

Making an annual gift to the University, “It’s the best use of my money,” said Merker. “I know from my work with the EOF how vital financial resources can be for students. I’m happy to support the students of Saint Peter’s so they can get the education they need to change their life story.”

STAYING POWER

With 36 years of giving, June and George T. Croonquist ’54 have a strong track record of support for Saint Peter’s University. George has fond memories of his years at Saint Peter’s, where he joined the Aidan C. McMullen Chorale and met June at his senior prom. Yet, at the heart of their Peacock loyalty is a deep sense of gratitude for the Jesuit education that paved the way for George’s successful wealth management career. Now in his 90s, George is senior vice president of the Croonquist Group of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, working three days a week alongside his two sons and grandson.

At first, the couple directed their gifts to The Saint Peter Fund, which helps to meet the University’s general operating costs. Through the years, however, they became increasingly concerned about the debt burden faced by college graduates around the nation. So, in 2018 they established the June and George T. Croonquist ’54 Endowed Scholarship.

“Saint Peter’s students often have greater financial need than those at other colleges,” said George, a former trustee and recipient of the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2004. “Our children and grandchildren were fortunate to graduate without any debt, and we know that’s not the case for everyone.” June added, “We both believe in giving back.”

Consistent giving amplifies the power of your contribution—and over time adds up to a significant impact. Meet three longtime Peacock families who make Saint Peter’s a philanthropic priority each year.

As college students, Patrick Annello, M.D. ’99, and Katrina Sabater, M.D. ’00, faced significant financial challenges.

Dr. Annello’s middle class family lived paycheck to paycheck, while Dr. Sabater qualified for no state or federal financial aid due to her pending immigration status. Saint Peter’s University stepped in with full scholarships. “Saint Peter’s had trust in us,” said Dr. Annello, a pain management physician. “Now, we’re happy to pay it forward.”

For the past 14 years, the Long Island couple—who are married with three children—have done just that with contributions to The Saint Peter Fund, Peacock athletics and several capital campaigns. In addition, both have mentored Saint Peter’s biology majors, while Dr. Annello has served on the University’s Board of Regents. Dr. Sabater, who is an anesthesiologist, said, “If it wasn’t for Saint Peter’s, we wouldn’t be in a position to give. We trust in the University to use our money wisely to help today’s students.”

When it comes to giving, the couple generally direct their contributions to smaller institutions with strong missions. Dr. Annello explained, “At Saint Peter’s, we know exactly where our money is going—to afford students the same type of opportunities that we had. Saint Peter’s is a big part of our family, so supporting the University annually is a priority for us.”

Io Pavo

The Pavo Loyalty Circle celebrates the simple but powerful act of loyal giving by recognizing donors who have contributed at any level for two or more consecutive fiscal years.

Loyal donors are the cornerstone of Saint Peter’s success, providing the means by which the University can carry out its mission of educating a diverse community of learners to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice.

That commitment exemplifies the power of being men and women for others, and the unwavering dedication makes a significant impact on each and every student.

To learn more about the Pavo Loyalty Circle or any of our other donor recognition societies, please visit saintpeters.edu/advancement or contact Claudia Pope-Bayne, Ed.D. ’16, ’22, assistant vice president for alumni and donor engagement, at cpopebayne@saintpeters.edu or (201) 761-6111.

To make a gift online, please visit saintpeters.edu/winter-give or scan the QR code.

International student-athletes representing 24 countries are finding a home at Saint Peter’s University and Jersey City.

Jersey City, known for its vibrant tapestry of cultures and languages, stands out as one of the most diverse cities in the United States, making Saint Peter’s University an especially welcoming home for those from abroad who are seeking new opportunities and challenges. Among them are 54 international student-athletes eager to excel both in their sports and in the classroom. Their unique backgrounds and shared commitment to excellence not only enhance the University’s athletic programs but also contribute to the rich diversity that defines this remarkable city.

Perhaps none has made more of an immediate impact this season than Lucia Mansilla Medina ’25, whose eight assists for the women’s soccer team placed her third among NCAA student-athletes nationwide entering the month of October. Four of those assists came in a single game, a 5-0 victory over Delaware State University that put the Peacocks over .500 for the season.

For Mansilla Medina, a Spanish midfielder from Madrid, known affectionately to her teammates and classmates as Lula, assists are more rewarding than goals because they allow her to contribute to the team’s collective success, rather than focus on her own.

“I’m a player that loves team sports. I wouldn’t enjoy playing something like tennis or any individual sport,” she said. “The

part I love most about soccer is the team. As a midfielder, I have to be the one passing the ball, distributing it and having the vision for the play. And I love making assists.”

Mansilla Medina has been passionate about both soccer and the arts from a young age. When it came time to balance her two passions, she found that opportunities to pursue both were limited in Europe. This led her to make the bold decision to come to the U.S., where she could continue playing soccer while pursuing her academic aspirations.

“I wanted to come to America because in Europe, it’s a bit difficult to combine studies and sports. You have to choose if you want to play professional soccer, basketball, or any sport, or if you want to pursue a degree. So, I decided to come here to try and do both.”

Saint Peter’s has proven a perfect destination for studentathletes from abroad. In return, the University gains international perspective in its classrooms, clubs and organizations, and alumni groups.

“Our international student-athletes embody the spirit of global competition, bringing diverse cultures and perspectives to their sport while pursuing academic excellence,” said Director of Athletics Katie Acuri. “Their resilience and dedication not only enhance their teams but also enrich the entire University community and Jersey City.”

Lucia Mansilla Medina ’25

Off the field, Mansilla Medina has embraced her life in Jersey City, a place she calls “the most diverse city in the world.” She especially appreciates the support from other international students, particularly those who share her Spanish heritage, and she has built a tight-knit community with her teammates, many of whom are also from Europe.

In the classroom, Mansilla Medina is equally passionate about her studies in visual arts, with a particular focus on painting and photography. She dreams of one day opening her own art gallery, where she can exhibit diverse forms of art and give a platform to local artists.

Another student-athlete who is finding a new home in Jersey City is Cleopatra Diakou ’27, a volleyball player and business major from Cyprus, who began her collegiate athletics career at a college in Nebraska before finding her way to New Jersey.

“When I first came to America, I saw corn fields,” she joked. “Here, it’s nice to see people from Europe or other places that I can relate to because they’ve left home and experienced what I’ve experienced, coming here and adjusting to a new culture.”

Diakou, who transferred to Saint Peter’s from Ramapo College, is a key player for the Peacocks. She began playing volleyball at the age of 13 and quickly found her role as a setter, a position Diakou has continued to excel in throughout her career. In her first semester at Ramapo, she made an immediate impact, helping the program go 25-2 and win a conference

championship. When her coach, Fernando Colon, accepted the position of head women’s volleyball coach at Saint Peter’s, Diakou followed him to Jersey City.

“It’s great that Saint Peter’s offers opportunities to international students to come to America, because going to America from Europe is a big deal—it’s not something small,” she said. “Getting scholarships to come play in the U.S. is a huge opportunity for international students.”

COMPETING AGAINST THE BEST

Competing in the United States also allows student-athletes to compete against the best. Swimmer Francesca Vargas ’27 competed in the national championships in her native Mexico when she was 13, but even with that pedigree she was surprised by the average speed of her competition when she first arrived stateside. Vargas specializes in the 100- and 200-yard backstroke events and is aiming to set new personal bests this season.

The student-athlete experience has been especially rewarding for Vargas, who praised the sense of community she feels in the pool and among her classmates and instructors.

“Everyone is very professional and kind, and I feel comfortable talking to them and asking questions. They are always willing to help,” she said. “As for the team, I find it cool how connected we all are. Everyone is on the same track, helping one another. I really feel the joy and unity at Saint Peter’s.”

Cleopatra Diakou ’27

Francesca Vargas ’27

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 class notes to: alumni.saintpeters.edu/newsandnotes or send to: Office of Alumni Engagement, 2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07306.

1956

Peter M. Salandra turned 90 years old last March. He and his wife, Rachael Melillo Salandra, have been married for 65 years. The couple just welcomed their first great-grandchild, William Watson Doyle, in October.

1961

Joseph R. Millichap, Ph.D., recently published These Vivid American Documents (University of Tennessee Press), an analysis of a curated selection of 32 photographs from four photobooks born of the Farm Security Administration project in 1937. The illuminating

book examines works by Archibald MacLeish, Dorothea Lange, Lincoln Kirstein, Paul Taylor, James Agee and Walker Evans, showcasing the realities of the social, individual, political, artistic and economic aspects of that time.

1962

Fred Schweizer worked for Con Edison for 36 years and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation for nearly 20 years, managing the carousel at Willow Park on Staten Island. Married for 62 years, he is the father of two and grandfather of five. All of Schweizer’s children and grandchildren graduated

from college and are working or in graduate school. Treated with chemotherapy for nine years, Schweizer writes that he and his wife, Ginny, “Are looking forward to being together as long as God allows us.”

1963

Richard Loeffler is proud to announce the birth of his first great-grandchild, Jack Michael, on June 10. He has four children and 11 grandchildren.

1964

Richard A. Leister, Ph.D., received the 2024 NJ Urban & Community Forestry Program Achievement Award.

1967

Anthony Ianni is a proud grandparent of 11 grandchildren. He reunites with the Saint Peter’s College Band Company and other members of the Class of 1967 annually.

1968

Christopher Bogart is a retired educator and a working poet and writer. On the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, he released his sixth book of poetry, /Sunflowers, about the war in Ukraine. Proceeds from the book benefit White Stork, an American veterans organization that provides individual first aid kits to Ukrainian soldiers. Bogart is also working on a recorded reading of his book, This Conversation, and is writing the final chapters of his first novel, tentatively titled The Beast. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Peter’s University and a M.A. and M.F.A. in creative writing from Monmouth University.

1969

John Celardo retired in 2005 after 35 years with the New York office of the National Archives. On September 11, 2001, he went to the roof of the building after seeing the smoke from the World Trade Center and photographed the towers. After 23 years, NARA accessioned more than 100 photos he took during and after the attack.

STEM Supervisor Nadia Makar H ’22, is proud to announce that the José Martí STEM Academy was awarded the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Lighthouse Award, the highest honor for high-performing high schools in the nation. José Martí STEM Academy is in Union City, NJ.

1970

Peter Himchak has been employed as the senior fishery scientist for Omega Protein Corporation for nine years. December 2024 marked his 50th year in marine fisheries research, conservation and management. His advice is to “find a career that you enjoy, and I guarantee that as the years go by, you will distance yourself from those individuals obsessed with retirement!”

1974

Michael Bugeja, Ph.D., a distinguished professor of liberal arts and sciences, teaches media ethics, technology and social change at the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication at Iowa State University of Science and Technology. He came to Iowa State in 2003 as director of the Greenlee School and served 14 years, earning college and university top administrator awards and the 2015 Scripps Howard Administrator of the Year Award. The Iowa Newspaper

Association honored him in 2017 with the Distinguished Service Award. Bugeja’s research has been published in Journalism Quarterly, Journalism and Mass Communication Educator, Journalism Educator and many other scholarly publications.

1975

Robert Kennedy, Ph.D., has been teaching biology and ecology part-time at Ramapo College since he retired from full-time teaching in June 2022.

Stephanie Krzysik graduated last May from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, with a bachelor of arts degree (Visual Arts Major) with first class standing.

1976

George Grimm published his third book about the New York Rangers, Undermanned But Undaunted: The Frank Boucher Era New York Rangers 1940-1955.

Ralph Quaglia recorded his first hole-in-one in July at Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course. It was a par 3, 137-yard hole, using a 7 iron. Forty years in the making, the hole-in-one was witnessed by Jack Dotson ’55. The Saint Peter’s alums began playing in a golf league together this year.

Enrico Siano was recently elected as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, St. Theresa’s Parish Council 14615, Little Egg Harbor, N.J.

1977

Lulu Hester-Alexander is proud to announce her seventh grandchild, Johnny Tariq Alexander Moore, was born on January 21, 2024.

1979

Family Promise of Hudson County honored Carmel Galasso on October 16 in recognition of her contributions to assisting marginalized families in Hudson County through efforts in advocating for affordable housing.

1982

Dore Ann and Jay Barratta ’81 celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on June 30, 2024. Their vow renewal was held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Orlando, Fla., which included a weekend celebration with family and friends. Dore Ann has been the managing broker of the Windermere office of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty since 2014 and recently celebrated her 10-year anniversary with the company. In April, she became managing broker of the Winter Park office in addition to her current role in the Windermere office, managing 89 agents across the two offices.

1983

John Kennedy founded the Lwiro Primate Fund to support the vital work of the Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center in the Democratic Republic of Congo. LPRC provides food, safety and medical care to chimpanzees and monkeys rescued from poaching and illegal trafficking in endangered species. Democratic Republic of Congo is home to 90 percent of the world’s remaining eastern chimpanzees but presents unimaginably dangerous and difficult circumstances in which to do conservation work.

1986

Anthony Buccigrossi and his wife, Michelle, welcomed their first grandchild, Isabella Ann, on March 4, 2024.

1987

Jeff Nielsen and his wife, Margaret (O’Connell) Nielsen, traveled to Ireland in August to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Memorable moments from their visit to the Emerald Isle include: a pilgrimage to the Knock Shrine on the 145th anniversary of Mary’s apparition; attending a concert at the National Opera House in Wexford; and swimming in the “Forty Foot” in the Irish Sea. Their “hands-down” personal highlight was successfully climbing to the summit of Ireland’s Holy Mountain, “Croagh Patrick.”

2000

Melissa Prevoznak Brock recently graduated from John Jay College with a master’s degree in public administration.

2001

Brian Kaszuba currently resides in Union County, N.J., with his wife, Molly, and two young boys, Jack and Connor. He works at New York Law School as director of admissions.

2003

Colin Hanley is an English teacher and senior academic advisor at Jesuit College Preparatory School in Dallas, Texas. He was honored with the Cura Personalis Award in May, an award given to the faculty member who displays the most care and concern for the school community. In addition, he was recognized by the University of Chicago with the Outstanding Educator Award, based on nominations by students currently attending the university.

2006

Alberico De Pierro was appointed deputy county counsel at the

Hudson County Counsel’s Office earlier this year.

2011

Jordan Costner has written a series of fantasy novels called the Legacy Series. Currently, three novels of the seven-book series are published. The author is working with film producers to adapt the novel series into a feature film franchise. He will be submitting a short film to the Cannes Film Festival in February 2025.

Alicia McLean landed a job with the Social Security Administration. She also serves with the New Jersey Army National Guard.

2012

Stephen Rasmusson has had the good fortune of traveling the world since graduating from Saint Peter’s. He found a teaching position in Dubai in 2016, where he was lucky enough to meet his wife. With her support and encouragement, he resigned from teaching to pursue his dream of performing standup comedy.

2015

Melanie Campora is a registered representative and insurance agent for New York Life.

Kimberley Yuhas, Ed.D., completed a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Liberty University in May 2024.

2019

Richard Donan became a Jersey City police officer in 2019. He is approaching his sixth year in the department.

Christal Harry, Ed.D., became the assistant dean for undergraduate programs and enrollment services at Rutgers University School of

Criminal Justice after earning her doctoral degree from Saint Peter’s.

Akhilesh Iyer landed two jobs after graduation. He has been promoted twice in the second job and is now working as a senior engineer.

Evelyn Rosario landed a human resources position in Sportservice.

2020

Terichi Bellinger is pursuing her doctorate in higher education administration at Saint Peter’s. She currently works at Rutgers University as the program coordinator for the Animal Science Discovery program.

Genesis Flores graduated from physical therapy school. She landed a job as a brain injury physical therapist at a hospital for acute neurological rehabilitation.

Alexandra Kralowetz is working at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority on the public affairs team after receiving a master’s degree from Saint Peter’s in May 2023. She married in January of this year and is currently maintaining a long-distance

relationship with her husband while he is serving overseas.

Samantha Martinez-Mendoza graduated with a Master of Public Health in May 2024. She is currently working for the Essex County Office of Public Health Management in the Department of Health. She is one of the 22 New Jersey Local Information Network and Communications System coordinators working on emergency preparedness and health education.

Maria Masilang opened the retail store, Pink Lion, in the East Village of New York City.

2021

Arlette Beato landed her dream job as a victim service coordinator for a non-profit organization that offers services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Lara Esteves applied to the accelerated bachelor’s dental hygiene program at NYU College of Dentistry in 2023 and was accepted on the same day as the interview. She will soon graduate with her second bachelor’s degree and officially become a registered dental hygienist.

Recent Events

SPRING LAKE, N.J.

Ellen and Jim O’Brien ’64 hosted alumni and friends at the Spring Lake Golf Club last August to welcome Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., and listen to his hopes and ideas for Saint Peter’s.

After graduating from the Frank J. Guarini School of Business and member of the Honors Program, Andrew Handal moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where he worked for Teach for America and completed a master’s degree in education from Arizona State University. He then served as director of marketing and communications for a non-profit that helps underserved students obtain the necessary resources to pursue higher education. His current work is informed by the research he completed for his honors thesis project at Saint Peter’s. In August, he married the love of his life and will be moving back to New Jersey, where Handal will continue to work with the nonprofit in a remote capacity.

2022

Shania Weatherington is currently a sixth-grade teacher in Atlanta, Ga.

2023

Enrique Lovera landed his first job a month after graduation in a system tech position. He is looking to gain further technical experience to build his resume.

Deivian Paulino is an accountant and has a son who was born at Saint Peter’s University Hospital.

2024

Katelyn Joyce is currently the assistant director for TRIO SSS at Saint Peter’s University.

Yenniffer Nuñez is a selfpublished author and wrote a children’s book that is available on Amazon. Titled Amelia Remembers Papito or Amelia Recuerda a Papito, the book is available in English and Spanish.

Sylvana Serrano is still striving at Hackensack Meridian Health, where she serves as director of clinical operations Receiving her graduate degree, a M.B.A. from Saint Peter’s, gave her the confidence and encouragement to keep moving forward.

Births

Nicole Onello Grabowski ’11 gave birth to her second son, Tyler.

Marriages

Mark Medina ’13 married Julie DeStefano on November 22, 2024.

JERSEY CITY, N.J.

Saint Peter’s MillenALUMs (alumni of the new millennium) had the chance to reconnect at a November 2024 gathering at Zeppelin Hall Biergarten & Bar.

A Slice of Success for Saint Peter’s Journalists

When Adrienne Romero ’20 and Neidy Gutierrez ’20 graduated in the middle of the pandemic, they weren’t too sure what was next for them career-wise. But, both having a passion for writing and creating things, they decided to take a chance on themselves and their talents. Four years later, their award-winning news site, Slice of Culture, is thriving.

“We both noticed that there just wasn’t much coverage of our communities anymore,” Gutierrez said. “Where we live, there are a lot of cultures. A lot of people come from different places and they all have unique stories. We just believe that should be something that’s told.”

It was in those conversations walking between classes that Slice of Culture was born. Wanting to highlight areas in Hudson County that don’t always get coverage, Slice of Culture originally began as a food website but quickly pivoted.

“Someone recently asked me, ‘What is culture?’” Romero said, “And that’s one of the reasons why we chose culture to be in our name—because it’s just such a broad word. You can talk about the fashion culture, the sporting culture, food culture and there’s really no definite answer. So really, I would say the meaning behind our publication is just that it is always evolving.”

Four years into running their publication, Gutierrez and Romero say that their goals are to be a trusted platform for local news in Hudson County and to reach the younger generation. Both communication and media studies majors with journalism minors, they say their experiences at Saint Peter’s shaped the journalists they have become today.

Ernabel Demillo, M.S., chair and lecturer of communications, has been a champion of Gutierrez and Romero, as well as their publication, from the very beginning.

“I noticed that they had been doing some content that pertained to civic engagement and stories about the local communities—the Hudson County community, and specifically Jersey City,” Professor Demillo said. “So when I saw an email from the Society of Professional Journalists about nominating a media site for best grassroots journalism, I said, ‘I think you guys are perfect for this.’ And sure enough, they were awarded Best Grassroots Journalism by one of the most prestigious journalism organizations.”

Along with awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, New Jersey chapter, Romero and Gutierrez have also been awarded three grants in partnership with Saint Peter’s from the New Jersey Civic Information Consortium—the most recent of which has enabled them both to make Slice of Culture their full-time job, as well as hire paid interns.

One of their goals, the women say, is to create a pipeline with universities so that they can bring in interns for civic engagement stories or help with the business or communication side of the publication. To date they have had interns from Montclair State University, Seton Hall University, and of course, Saint Peter’s. Currently Slice of Culture boasts 10 alumni, a former employee and one current Saint Peter’s student on their team who are either interns, contributing members or regular team members.

The number of young people contributing to Slice of Culture is something that Professor Demillo says is one of the most exciting aspects of the publication.

“This kind of journalism is training young people to be good citizens.”

“A strong local news environment is really what you need to have a strong democracy,” she said. “If people don’t know what’s going on in their own community, they won’t know how to vote. So, to have young people, especially, really care about what’s going on with their community, will also make them civically engage and participate. This kind of journalism is training young people to be good citizens.”

When asked what their favorite part of running Slice of Culture is, both respond readily: the people. “We are doing this to share these stories and highlight these businesses. We want to highlight any of the positives here in Hudson County—and be able to inform people. It’s definitely about the people.”

Check out the latest coverage and news on Hudson County at sliceofculture.com.

From left, first row: Adrienne Romero ’20, Georgia Kral, Neidy Gutierrez ’20 and Ernabel Demillo, M.S. From left, back row: Madison McCool and Ayinde Merrill of New Jersey Civic Information Consortium

Saint Peter’s University mourns the loss of three gifted faculty members who touched the lives of students and made lasting contributions to their respective fields of expertise.

Scholar. Teacher. Philanthropist. For more than 50 years, Professor Emerita of History Eugenia M. Palmegiano, Ph.D., J.D., was deeply admired by the Saint Peter’s community for her brilliance, mentorship of students and generosity to the University. She passed away on May 14, 2024, at the age of 85.

“We’re partners in the enterprise of learning,” is how Dr. Palmegiano described her approach to cura personalis in a story for this magazine. Undergraduates, often from academic disciplines outside of history, were invited to join the professor’s research projects. “Isn’t that the way it should be?,” she asked rhetorically. “In the life of the mind, that’s the absolute priority.”

A graduate of Georgian Court University, Dr. Palmegiano earned a Ph.D. in history and a law degree from Rutgers University. She specialized in bibliographies of the Victorian era and authored six books on the topic. In recognition of her many contributions, the American Journalism Historians Association named Dr. Palmegiano the 2018 Kobre Award Winner for sustained achievement in journalism history.

The history professor’s personal generosity established the Rare Book Room at the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library this fall. The O’Toole Library honored her contributions and legacy in the exhibition, In Memoriam: Eugenia M. Palmegiano, Ph.D., J.D., Professor Emerita of History

Rev. Oscar Magnan, S.J., once told The Peacock Press, “I don’t have roots in any one place.” Born in Cuba and educated in Europe and Canada, Fr. Magnan, who passed away on July 25, 2024, was deeply connected to Saint Peter’s University and Jersey City for nearly 50 years.

A prolific artist whose works are held by major museums, Fr. Magnan arrived at Saint Peter’s in 1970. He was a professor of fine arts, served as chairman of the Fine Arts Department and directed the art gallery. Fine arts majors remember him as an incredible teacher and guide who helped students develop their own artistic voice and vision.

Many who took Fr. Magnan’s popular figure drawing class did not know that in 1985, the Jesuit was part of an international team of experts tasked with restoring the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Despite the artist’s long and distinctive career, Fr. Magnan found joy in the classroom, telling The Peacock Press in 2014, it’s rare to find a Saint Peter’s professor who doesn’t take care of their students. Fr. Magnan moved to Murray-Weigel Hall, the Jesuit retirement home, in 2019. He continued to paint until he couldn’t. “He was a stellar artist, an excellent teacher and a fine priest,” wrote Rev. Alexander M. Santora ’74 in a tribute for nj.com. “He touched many lives. Let’s not forget his.”

Associate Professor of Sociology and Urban Studies Donal Malone, Ph.D. , understood the circumstances of Saint Peter’s University students because he lived them. Born in Limerick City, Ireland, and raised in New York City, Dr. Malone attended a Catholic high school that did not encourage college, according to his sister, Adeline Malone. Twenty-year-old Donal Malone joined the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. He later attended evening classes at The City College of New York on the G.I. Bill, earning bachelor’s and doctoral degrees.

Dr. Malone arrived at Saint Peter’s in 1988. His classes were lively and infused with the professor’s trademark humor, as well as his passion about the consequences of social change. “Donal could talk passionately and at length, particularly about topics he cared deeply about, such as social justice and urban gentrification,” Adeline wrote in a tribute to her brother. An advocate for community-based urban planning, Dr. Malone published papers on the issue, arguing that stakeholder involvement was the best way to ensure broad-based equitable development in Jersey City and other urban areas.

Following Dr. Malone’s passing on July 9, 2024, the Professor Donal Malone Endowed Scholarship was established by his sister, Adeline Malone. Family and friends have also contributed.

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.

Leonard C. Attisano ’70

Judith Azarow

Theodore Bajo, Esq. ’66

Robert O. Baratta, M.D. ’62

John L. Barbato ’67

Charles T. Barthel Jr. ’61

Richard J. Carroll, Esq. ’65

Richard J. Cavanagh ’63

John R. Cleary, Ph.D. ’63

William D. Costigan Jr., Esq. ’66

Michael Cozine ’56

Costantino T. Donato ’54

William Dooley ’58

William J. Duffy ’63

Thomas J. English ’74

George K. Finckenor ’54

Mary Jane Finnerty

Catherine Forrester, M.D. ’75

James Gagliastro ’75

Vincent M. Gallagher ’56

Col. John F. Jeszenszky USA (Ret.) ’60

William E. Jurcisin ’55

Patrick J. Keenan ’55

David B. Kirkland ’63

Robert K. Kramer ’55

Rev. Oscar G. Magnan, S.J.

Donal J. Malone, Ph.D.

Frank P. Malvasi ’84

John W. Marnell ’64

Robert A. Martelli ’74

John McElroy, Ph.D.

Emmett R. McHugh ’55

William J. McKenna ’79

Margaret McLaughlin ’69

John F. Meehan, M.D. ’66

Ronald J. Morrissey, Ph.D. ’56

Maureen F. Murray

Hon. Thomas R. Murtagh ’66

John E. Nagel ’81

Crisange D. Neidlinger ’08

Robert J. Nilan ’56

Eugenia M. Palmegiano, Ph.D., J.D.

Hon. William J. Pascrell Jr.

Hon. Donald Payne Jr.

John S. Petronick ’63

Mary F. Polino ’74

Albert J. Politowski ’74

Jesse J. Radvansky ’63

John R. Reddy ’52

Paulette Robinson ’82

James J. Scazzaro ’56

John L. Scerbo ’66

Kenneth C. Schneider M.D., M.P.H. ’57

Andrew M. Smakula ’63

Councilwoman Daniela Small-Bailey, Ed.D. ’22

William J. Spendley ’58

Vincent M. Spina ’60

Hon. Chester J. Straub ’58

John C. Tomesch, Ph.D. ’70

Ralph M. Venezia ’70

Howard J. Wilson ’52

How to Make a Gift in Memory of a Loved one

A gift made to honor a loved one who has passed is a meaningful way to ensure their memory lives on. Such gifts offer a lasting tribute while providing family and friends the satisfaction of knowing they have helped future students. For more information on ways to honor a loved one through a current gift or planned gift, please contact Linda Moore, J.D., assistant vice president for individual giving, at (201) 761-6128 or lmoore2@saintpeters.edu.

PRESIDENTS

Who Was Your Saint Peter’s President?

The history and legacies of 22 Jesuit and lay leaders were on view at the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library, September 19-October 11, 2024. Titled, Leadership Legacy: The Presidents of Saint Peter’s, the special exhibition was curated to mark the inauguration of the University’s 23rd president, Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D.

Joseph A. Mulry, S.J. 1911-1915

John McQuaid, S.J. 1880-1888

George B. Kenny, S.J. 1878-1880

James F. McDermott, S.J. 1915-1921

Peter Cassidy, S.J. 1888-1891

Thomas F. Graham, S.J. 1921-1925

John Harpes, S.J. 1891-1900

Joseph P. O’Reilly, S.J. 1925-1931

Joseph Zwinge, S.J. 1900-1902

Joseph S. Dinneen, S.J. 1931-1937

John W. Fox, S.J. 1902-1907

Edward J. McGrath, S.J. 1907-1911

James J. Shanahan, S.J. 1949-1960

Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., H ’24 2006-2024

Edward F. Clark, S.J. 1960-1965

Leo P. McLaughlin, S.J. 1965

Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J. 1965-1978

L. Edward Glynn, S.J. 1978-1990

Denis J. Comey, S.J. 1937-1943

Daniel A. Degnan, S.J. 1990-1995

Vincent J. Hart, S.J. 1943-1949

James N. Loughran, S.J. 1995-2006

Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D.

Victor Beaudevin, S. J. 1872-1874

John McQuaid, S. J. 1874-1878

Today’s Peacocks NEED YOU!

Your gift to Saint Peter’s University directly impacts our hard-working students by providing vital scholarships and invaluable learning experiences that will empower them to thrive and excel. Through your generosity, you will ensure that the next generation of Peacocks is equipped with the knowledge, skills and opportunities they need to succeed. Every gift makes a difference.

You can make a transformative Saint Peter’s education accessible for our students. Make your gift today at saintpeters.edu/winter-give.

To make a gift by mail, please send to: Saint Peter’s University Office of Advancement and External Affairs 2641 John F. Kennedy Blvd. Jersey City, NJ 07306

For more information, contact: Jessica Oudhnarine Director of Annual Giving joudhnarine@saintpeters.edu (201) 761-6109

O ffice of Communications and Marketing

2641 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306

Change Service Requested

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

6:30 p.m. The Grove Cedar Grove, N.J.