Salem State University Impact 2023

Your Impact 2023 In Action 2023

Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. 2022-2023 Philanthropic Impact Report

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

Table of Contents 3 Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. 2022-2023 Philanthropic Impact Report

9 Meet the Moment™ Campaign Update

Unrestricted Support 13 The Power of Flexible Philanthropy 14 State Endowment Match 15 The Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University

Student Success 17 Honoring Henry Dembowski ’60, ’62G 19 Giving Back In Style: Salem State’s Career Closet

Student Financial Assistance 21 Class of 2023 Graduating Scholars 23 Finding Home: Cassandra Pearson Scholarship 24 Uplifting Communities: The Arthur T. Gerald, Jr. Scholarship Fund

SSU BOLD 25 Proud Moments, Bright Futures: Looking Ahead

2022-2023 PHILANTHROPIC IMPACT REPORT

Meeting the Moment

Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation Cheryl Webster, Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation Chair Annalisa C. Di Palma and President John D. Keenan

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2022-2023 Philanthropic Impac t Re por t

Dear Viking Community, Salem State University isn’t just a university campus, it’s home.

Emergency Fund (615). In just the past year, nine new scholarships were created to help close financial gaps for our talented students.

We have served as the beacon of hope and opportunity across the North Shore since our founding in 1854, continually evolving to meet the needs of our students, our communities, the Commonwealth, and beyond.

We thank you for being our partner in building brighter futures for Vikings– today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

As we reflect on our 170-year history, Salem State’s commitment to improving the lives of current and future generations of Vikings holds true. We’re doubling down on our commitment to student success through our comprehensive $75 million campaign Meet the Moment™ (page 9), with dramatic investments in the university’s strategic plan—including the revitalization of campus—bringing us into the next chapter of our history.

With Viking pride,

It has been an exciting year. We are thriving, and proudly share that the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc.’s (AA&F) endowment has for the first time surpassed $50 million. Since the start of the campaign, 1,459 students have increasingly benefitted from donor-supported financial assistance, including Viking Completion Grants (172) and the Student

John D. Keenan

This is our moment.

Annalisa C. Di Palma

Chair, Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc.

President, Salem State University

Cheryl Webster

Vice President, Advancement Executive Director, Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc.

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2022-2023 PHILANTHROPIC IMPACT REPORT

Fundraising Year in Review Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors Officers

The Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. (AA&F) is pleased to present the fiscal year 2023 annual report. Once again, our generous donors have provided record-breaking financial support for the third year in a row. On behalf of the AA&F and our Viking community, thank you for helping us reach yet another historic milestone.

This is our moment to reflect on all that we accomplished together over this past year. We are proud to share that more than 2,500 Viking alumni and friends contributed over $17 million, a 112 percent increase over the previous year, welcoming 903 new Viking donors into our philanthropic community. Additionally, we publicly launched the largest comprehensive campaign in state university history, with over $40 million raised toward our $75 million Meet the Moment™ campaign goal.

Turning moments into opportunities, your philanthropy has already and will continue to make a tremendous impact on our students, our community and the Commonwealth. Since the start of the campaign, $2,661,092 has been awarded in student scholarships to over 500 students.

Because of you, Salem State can continue its legacy as the beacon of hope for our students and community. Our recordbreaking year is a testament to your belief in our mission, because no other place so close can take you so far.  5

2022-2023 Philanthropic Impac t Re por t

Annalisa C. Di Palma, Chair Louis J. George ’89, Vice Chair Jeffrey V. Cicolini ’94, Treasurer Joseph M. Wamness ’00G, Secretary

Ex Officio Cheryl Webster, Vice President, Advancement and Executive Director, Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. John D. Keenan, President, Salem State University

Directors

Dr. Erik J. Champy ’89, ’94G, legacy member Jake J. Cotter ’12 Alicia Y. Depena ’00 Nancy A. Dias ’09, ’13G Anthony DiVirgilio ’19 Julianna W. Donovan ’20G Kim D. Gassett-Schiller ’83, ’18H Richard J. Gilmartin ’76 David C. Gravel ’78 Dr. Judith Josephs ’63, ’65G, legacy member Josephine E. Kennedy ’72, ’76G, legacy member James J. Lampassi, Jr. ’81, alumni trustee, Salem State University Board of Trustees

Dr. Robin R. Leger ’77 Patricia M. Libby ’71 Andrea C. Liftman ’75G Virginia C. Lyons ’16 Joanne Mendes ’79 Robbie H. Millwee ’09 Paul A. Petrowski ’66 Michael D. Procopio ’12 Katherine E. Reid Joanne O. Ricciardiello ’68, ’19H Stephen A. Rollins, Jr. Kathleen L. Skrabut, board member emerita C. David Surface ’88 Jessica A. Tomlinson ’09 Elaine A. Zetes ’88G

Endowment Management The Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. is proud to share that this year, for the first time, the endowment market value has exceeded $52 million. The fiduciary responsibility is carried out by members of CASH AND CASH the AA&F board of directors’ investment EQUIVALENTS 5% committee, management and staff.

The AA&F distributes four percent of the rolling, three-year average of annual market values of endowed funds to Salem State. This US spending policy is EQUITIES intended to provide 48% stable income to the university for its current needs while maintaining the long-term purchasing power of the endowment. 

INTERNATIONAL EQUITIES 12%

Endowment Asset Allocation as of June 30, 2023 FIXED INCOME 33%

ALTERNATIVES 2%

Endowment Market Value

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2022-2023 PHILANTHROPIC IMPACT REPORT

Fiscal Year 2023 (July 1, 2022– June 30, 2023)

Total Raised:

$17,014,023 Types of Gifts:

$4,661,498

Spendable gifts, both restricted and unrestricted

$10,514,124

Endowed gifts

$1,838,400

Planned gifts pledged in a will, trust, charitable gift annuity, IRA, or other estate plan

2,502 903 Alumni: 1,219 Friends: 881 Employees (current and retired): 192 Corporations and Foundations: 52 Students: 81 Parents: 56 Number of Donors: (of which

gave for the first time)

Areas of Support

$3,445,141 Student Success: $1,682,668 SSU BOLD: $1,403,898 Unrestricted Support $10,482,315 Financial Assistance:

New Funds Endowed in 2023

Cassandra Pearson ’20

Learn more about Cassie’s legacy and the establishment of the Cassandra Pearson Scholarship on page 23.

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• McKeown School of Education Fund • Cassandra Pearson Scholarship • Carol A.G. and William R. DiMento Scholarship Fund • Internship Scholarships • Charlotte Forten Scholarship • Indigenous People’s Scholarship • Sam Cioffi Student-Athletic Wellness Fund • Chris Joyce ’18 Scholarship • Joseph Aiyeku Award • John Finnegan Scholarship Award • Ruth P. Spinale Scholarship • Winifred (Greene) Casey ’44 Endowed Scholarship • Professor Karl A. Wesolowski Scholarship Fund

2022-2023 Philanthropic Impac t Re por t

Highlights Cummings Foundation donated $10 million to Salem State University’s School of Education to support programs and initiatives aimed at diversifying, strengthening and sustaining the next generation of educators. The gift represents the largest cash contribution ever made in the history of the nine Massachusetts state universities. In recognition of the gift, Salem State named its School of Education after alumnus James L. “Jamie” McKeown ’77, establishing the McKeown School of Education. The naming celebrates the legacy of McKeown, a Salem State alumnus, former Cummings Properties president and dedicated community leader who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 41.

Robert “Bob” Hildreth established the La Vida Scholars cohort program at Salem State University, which supports underrepresented students in their quest for a higher education. The cohort model provides financial aid awards, mentorship, comradery, and coaching to student participants. The first cohort of 54 students was welcomed for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Francis “Guy” Spinale MD, PhD recognized Salem State with a planned gift toward a scholarship in memory of his mother, Ruth P. Spinale ’54 (page 14). His gift strengthens his commitment to the Crosby Society, a key group of philanthropic leaders who demonstrate their loyalty to the university through planned giving. The society is named in honor of Alpheus Crosby, the Salem Normal School’s second principal from 1857 to 1865, whose efforts secured the school’s very first planned gift.

The sixth anniversary of Viking Warrior Day (VWD) on May 8 and 9 was truly a momentous occasion as our annual 1,854 minutes of giving celebration included the launch of the Meet the Moment™ campaign (page 9). With Viking pride on full display, a record number of donors participated (484) and $285,776 was raised in support of Salem State students.

The Salem State University Alumni Association and Salem State University Foundation, Inc. came together as a unified board for fiscal year 2024. The newly formed organization, the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. (AA&F), will retain its status as a 501(c)(3) organization with the objective to advance Salem State’s educational mission by fostering strong connections with the university’s inclusive community and by building bridges between students, alumni and friends. Through these partnerships, the AA&F will promote pride in the university and inspire philanthropy to invest in all student success by investing and managing contributions which support priorities not met through public funding.

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Campaign Update

Pioneering the Way

Launching the Largest Fundraising Campaign in Massachusetts State University History

On May 6, 2023, Salem State University, in partnership with the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc., announced the public launch of Meet the Moment™, a $75 million comprehensive campaign

Vice President Cheryl Webster with Campaign Steering Committee co-chairs Kim Gassett-Schiller ’83, ’18H, Midge DeSimone ’76, Nicole Goggin ’14, ’17G Donna Katzman ’78, ’98G, Elliot Katzman ’78, as well as President John D. Keenan

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

“When I was a student in 1983, students paid 30 percent of the cost to attend the university, with the Commonwealth covering the balance. Today’s students pay 70 percent. The Meet the Moment™ campaign will dramatically ease financial hurdles and give hard-working students a bridge to help them earn their degree.”

—Kim Gassett-Schiller ’83, ’18H campaign co-chair

combining deep investments in student success with the revitalization of Salem State’s campus.

The transformational campaign is the largest in Massachusetts’ state university history and will position Salem State to holistically meet the needs of its students and the North Shore region today and for decades to come.

“Members of our community on- and off-campus know that the future of this region, from the opportunities we offer to the vitality of the workforce and its civic leaders, rely on a strong Salem State. Our students go on to become the professionals that our region needs: teachers, scientists, nurses, business leaders, social workers, public servants, and more,” said President John D. Keenan. “We put students first in every decision and dollar we invest in Salem State, and our campaign priorities demonstrate that commitment.”

About 400 students, alumni, donors, and community members came together to learn more about the goals of Meet the Moment™ at the highly-anticipated launch event. An immersive 180-degree screen enveloped a captivated audience inside the O’Keefe Sports Complex where community members shared stories of impact and persistence. At the end of the speaking program, a dramatic Kabuki drop revealed a series of interactive booths highlighting the various funding priorities of the campaign.

Guests mixed and mingled among students, faculty and staff who enthusiastically touted their work. From elaborate costume displays by the theatre and speech communication department to a recreated Esports lounge, the university’s programs and initiatives were on full display.

“Salem State faculty and staff go to great lengths to support students, and we’ve seen extraordinary collaboration across campus in establishing the campaign’s priorities and funding opportunities,” said Ryan Fisher, professor of biology and member of the campaign steering committee. “The philanthropic support we receive through Meet the Moment™ builds on our academic strength and provides opportunities for research, critical resources and equipment that help to aid our scholarly work.”

At the close of the speaking program, President John D. Keenan proudly announced that the university is already more than 50 percent of the way to its $75 million fundraising goal, having raised over $40 million to date.

“Building partnerships in support of this campaign has shown us just how much enthusiasm there is in our community for Salem State’s mission,” said Cheryl Webster, executive director of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. and vice president of advancement. “Salem State is fueling the workforce of the North Shore, and we take great pride in our commitment to engage and support any student who has aspirations of receiving a higher education degree. We know they will go on to do great things for our community and strengthen the region as a result.” 

CAMPAIGN GOALS Unrestricted Support

$20 Million

• Food and housing insecurity • Tools and technology • Supplementing financial aid • Fueling efforts around civic engagement and inclusive excellence as we prepare to thrive as a Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution

Student Success

$25 Million

• Expanding peer-to-peer mentoring and success coaching • Serving students with distinct needs, including first-generation students and student veterans • Providing spaces, programs and academic and social support to enhance the college experience

Student Financial Assistance

$20 Million • Scholarships

• Viking Completion Grants • Student Emergency Fund • Internship Scholarships

SSU BOLD

$10 Million

• State-of-the-art laboratories and simulation labs • Unifying Salem State’s physical footprint • Creating a student-centered campus To learn more about the Meet the Moment™ campaign, visit salemstate.edu/moment.

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Campaign Update

Campaign Progress (July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2023) Unrestricted Support

Raised

Goal: $75,000,000

Goal

$20,000,000 $13,459,937 Student Success

Raised: $40,355,882

Raised Goal

$25,000,000 $8,594,515 Student Financial Assistance

Raised

Goal

$20,000,000 $15,989,247 SSU BOLD

Goal

Raised

$10,000,000 $2,312,183 11

YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

Top Funded Areas To Date

5,791

1. McKeown School of Education 2. Viking Completion Grants 3. Digital Ethnic Futures Consortium 4. SSU BOLD 5. Annual Fund Unrestricted 6. Joseph and Rena Mendes Scholarship Fund 7. Dr. Kathy Murphy ’75 Biology Strategic Endowment 8. Dr. Kathy Murphy ’75 Scholarship 9. Martha Evans and Betty Groce Scholarship 10. Thomas M. Feeley ’68 Fund

Donors

$100

Most Common Gift Size

7 Gifts Over $1,000,000

Gift Types Donors CORPORATIONS, FOUNDATIONS AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS 53%

ENDOWMENT 46%

SPENDABLE 39%

ALUMNI 38%

PLANNED: 15%

FRIENDS 7% CURRENT AND FORMER FACULTY AND STAFF: 2% s alems t a te.e du/mome nt

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Unrestricted Support

The Power of Flexible Philanthropy

Investing in Opportunities Through Unrestricted Giving Since the start of Meet the Moment™, donors have contributed $13,459,937 in unrestricted funds. Gifts such as these are essential for us to meet the critical needs of a thriving institution, seize unexpected opportunities and cultivate an environment of excellence and innovation for our students.

Here, we share some ways unrestricted funds made an impact this year: • Student Emergency Fund awards were provided to 99 students helping with unexpected financial hardships.

• McKeown School of Education’s

Educator-Scholars of Color

cohort supported 24 students.

• Internship scholarships were awarded to 74 students to provide the financial freedom for them to participate in vital experiential learning. (see quote above) • First Year Day of Service engaged 220 student participants in community services projects throughout the North Shore (page 15).

• Building Inclusive Academic Communities engaged 20 faculty and students in what educator and author Bell Hooks calls “education as the practice of freedom.” Now in its second year, the program is organized into pods with a senior and junior faculty member, a graduate student and two undergraduate students. The groups develop anti-racist and inclusive

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

“I would like to work in the nonprofit sector and now I will be very familiar with how things work,” —Rich Esteban ’23, Bertolon School of Business internship scholarship recipient and intern at North Shore Latino Business Association

pedagogy practices and explore how best to make college classrooms inclusive spaces where students of all identities and backgrounds can participate fully in the learning process.

Donors have made it possible for the communities to enter into a third year next fall, increasing the number of participants and pods.

• Employee Resource Groups received program funding to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace that can contribute to better recruiting, retaining and providing a welcoming environment for new employees.

• Our Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution roadmap was developed from knowledge gained through attending national conferences, such as the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education; a crosscollaboration of faculty, staff and students participating in reading groups led by a faculty fellow and expanding financial aid and support resources for students to remove barriers to their education.

State Endowment Match In 2022, the university received unrestricted funding through the Public Higher Education Endowment Incentive Program, which encourages private fundraising and endowment growth by Commonwealth public higher education institutions and foundations.

Last winter, the university chose to utilize this funding to permanently endow a number of scholarships that had not reached the minimum yet.

Ruth P. Spinale Scholarship

Funds that reached endowment through the State Endowment Match include:

Winifred (Greene) Casey ’44 Endowed Scholarship

Professor Karl A. Wesolowski Scholarship Fund

Established in 2008 for economic majors, this scholarship honors the late Professor Karl A. Wesolowski, who taught at Salem State in the economics department for over 37 years.

John Finnegan Scholarship Award Established by his colleagues in the music and dance department in 2018, this scholarship honors the late Professor John Finnegan, who taught at Salem State in the music department from 1966 to 1988.

Chris Joyce ’18 Scholarship

Established for firstgeneration college students in 2018, this scholarship honors the late Chris Joyce ’18, who was a graduating senior in the business administration program with a concentration in accounting when he tragically passed two weeks before graduation.

Established in 2017 in memory of Ruth P. Spinale ’54, who was dedicated to education and graduated from Salem State University with a degree in business education in 1954, the scholarship provides financial assistance to students studying education with lived experiences reflecting the needs of populations historically underrepresented in higher education.

Established in 2005 in memory of Winifred (Greene) Casey ’44, the scholarship is for students studying business who are residents of the greater Lawrence, Mass. area.

Joseph Aiyeku Award

Established in 2014 through a crowdfunding effort by his students and colleagues, the scholarship is for students studying marketing and decision sciences and honors the late Professor Joseph Aiyeku, chair of the marketing department for 10 years.

“Joseph Aiyeku was dedicated to Salem State and its students. A true educator, he believed that teaching and learning go hand-in-hand and that he learned from his colleagues and students every day. We witnessed the benefits of his interactions with students and wanted to keep his legacy of ‘students first’ alive by fully funding this scholarship in his memory. Thanks to the State Endowment Match we were able to reach our goal, and the Joseph Aiyeku Award will continue to provide critical financial support for marketing students in perpetuity.”

—Elizabeth Haran PhD ’71, ’74G

professor emerita

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Unrestricted Support

The Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University Katelyn Adams (far left), assistant director of the Center for Civic Engagement, with Salem State’s 2022-23 Civic Fellows

Thanks in part to donor support, the Center for Civic Engagement was established in 2015 as a nexus for community-based initiatives, civic learning and public engagement at Salem State University. From annual days of service to civic fellowship opportunities, the center creates continuous opportunities for students to feel connected to their campus and surrounding communities.

With incoming students facing a host of new decisions at the start of the fall semester, the Center for Civic Engagement and the first year experience office collaborate on initiatives that promote social justice and civic engagement while building social networks. The First Year Day of Service is an opportunity for the approximately 200 first-year and transfer students to find their sense of place within their university community and among their peers. Dozens of community partners host student volunteers to complete much-needed neighborhood projects on the North Shore.

“At the end of the day it is about students connecting with each other and feeling 15

YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

a sense of belonging at Salem State. If students find one person who they can go to lunch with or ask to join a club with them, it feels like a success,” says Cynthia Lynch, assistant vice provost for civic engagement and academic strategic support. “We’re so grateful to our community of donors who provided the structure and support for these well-established campus initiatives.”

Moving Forward Giving Back: First Year Day of Service • 220 students participate each year • 12 percent more persisted to their junior year compared to non participants • 10 percent went on to hold leadership roles on campus and in the community • 86 percent believe it led to meaningful connections with classmates • Since 2016, 56 community partners in seven communities have participated.

The Center for Civic Engagement

In September, the Center for Civic Engagement collaborated to remove invasive bittersweet vines from Winter Island as part of students’ First Year Day of Service.

The civic fellowship is another unique cohort program that provides students with the opportunity to explore their strengths, values and passions in order to form their civic identity and role in social change. The fellows meet twice a month for meetings, service projects, advocacy opportunities, leadership training, and a chance to build a sense of community amongst the cohort.

“The civic fellowship is what made me stay at Salem State, fall in love with the university and community and introduce me to my passions for civic engagement and social change,” says Hannah Levine ’22, who received a bachelor’s degree in social work.

When Hannah first arrived at Salem State she planned to transfer, but then participated in the First Year Day of Service and her attitude quickly changed.

She met like-minded students who became good friends and participated in advocacy initiatives and community service projects. She became invested in the Salem State community and cofounded the SSU Hunger Free Campus Coalition, which advocates on the local and state level for food equity.

continues to strategically align programming and practices with four pillars: community, advocacy, civic learning, and political engagement.

Through these pillars, Salem State is building deeper connections within the region, encouraging dialogue, professional development, networking with local leaders and elected officials, and advocacy–all hallmarks of Salem State, the Commonwealth’s civic engagement university.

The civic fellowship inspired Hannah to become civically engaged in her community, both within Salem State and beyond. After graduating, she served as the campaign manager for State Representative Manny Cruz and is currently a legislative aide after running a successful campaign.

Service Saturdays provide an additional opportunity to volunteer one Saturday a month, helping to develop meaningful and longstanding relationships with community partners and peers.

Whether volunteering at Mack Park Food Farm harvesting vegetables and preparing soil for winter rye or at Newhall Field Community Farm preparing garden beds and harvesting herbs, students learn how organizations on the North Shore address food insecurity and sustainable farming.

These civic learning experiences prepare Salem State students to effectively collaborate within their communities and in the workplaces to address our most pressing social problems, effectively guiding them to become knowledgeable and active citizens engaged in democratic processes. 

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Student Success

Honoring Henry Dembowski ’60, ’62G

Henry and his wife Claire Dembowski share a moment at the 2018 Fine Wines and Fabulous Finds Auction.

Over the years, Henry Dembowski ’60, ’62G served as a Viking volunteer in many facets of university life. He served as Annual Fund chairperson and member of the Salem State University Foundation, Inc., Salem State University Alumni Association Board, Friends of the School of Education, and SSU Board of Overseers.

He played the role of auctioneer at the Fine Wines and Fabulous Finds Auction, spearheaded the planning for many reunions for the class of 1960, championed the Class of 1960 Scholarship Fund, hosted the annual 50th Reunion Society event during alumni weekend, led our 40th anniversary Salem State Series Honorary Committee as a co-chair, and was always there to support the university he loved and valued with his infectious energy and fierce advocacy.

In addition to his immeasurable volunteer impact, Henry and his wife

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

Claire established the Dembowski Family Theatre Endowment Fund in 1999 to provide resources to the Salem State theatre and speech communication department.

“The Dembowski Family Theatre Endowment Fund has allowed us to continue producing exceptional performances, nurturing local talent and engaging audiences in meaningful ways,” shares Jerry Johnson, chair of the theatre and speech communication department. “Their belief in the power of theater has helped us bring stories to life, spark conversations and inspire countless individuals.”

The Salem State community experienced a profound loss with Henry’s passing in September 2022. But through that loss, our community came together in Salem State’s Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts to honor this extraordinary Viking,

Salem State University’s 2019 production of “Ragtime”

leading to an incredible fundraising effort that will help theatre students meet their moment.

In the spirit of Henry’s generous devotion to his alma mater, two anonymous donors issued a call to fellow graduates, friends, family, and theatre supporters in the spring of 2023 to join them in giving to the Dembowski Family Theatre Endowment Fund, with each new gift made matched dollar for dollar.

As a result, $73,127.56 has been raised to date, a wonderful testament to Henry’s legacy and proof that when we work together, we can accomplish truly amazing things.

Although he is deeply missed, Henry will never be forgotten and his unmatched passion for Salem State will live on through our award-winning theatre program for years to come. 

Dembowski Family Theatre Endowment Fund: Meeting the Moment for Salem State Theatre • Supported the cost of hiring a professional stage director, Professor Esme Allen, to direct the third play of the 2020-2021 season, “Machinal”

by Sophie Treadwell • Aided the department’s musical production of “Into the Woods” by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine in spring 2022 with the hiring of a musical director, orchestra and a choreographer • Hired a guest sound designer for the spring 2023 production of “OTHELLO”

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Student Success

Giving Back In Style Preparing Vikings To Enter The Professional World

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

Career Closet is offered at no cost and career services staff are available to offer styling advice and tools to help students navigate their job or internship search with confidence.”

Established in the spring of 2020, the Career Closet began as an annual event that has provided access to more than 6,000 free, career-ready attire pieces to over 1,000 student Vikings with the initial goal of helping students navigate their job and internship searches with confidence. The career readiness program is part of Salem State’s mission to foster inclusivity by removing financial barriers so talented and driven students are prepared for interviews, internships, networking events, and more.

As of fall 2023, the Career Closet is now a permanent service at the university. Students can book shopping appointments to access new and gently used professional attire and accessories of all sizes, including gender-inclusive selections. From shoes and full suits to ties and padfolios, students have the opportunity to shop at the closet once per semester.

Included in the service are additional resources on affordable ways to build a professional wardrobe and information on other important career services.

As the North Shore’s comprehensive regional university, with one of the most diverse student populations in the Massachusetts system, Salem State has a proud legacy of unlocking the doors of opportunity, and this program continues to carry out that legacy.

“I’ve had the privilege of supporting our career services team since my tenure at Salem State began over five years ago through initiatives like the annual Job and Internship Fair and Career Closet,” says Nicole Healy, assistant director in advancement, who has donated professional attire to the program.

“This is an opportunity unlike any other, providing students with the confidence and tools that they need to be successful in the everchanging professional landscape.

These critical opportunities help our students close the equity gap and create a safe space for them to reach the career goals they’ve worked so hard to achieve.” 

“It’s a joy to see our students make a memorable first impression with employers as they strive to achieve their career goals. I am proud of how the Career Closet has grown and brought the Salem State community together in support of our incredible Vikings,” says Helaina Polito, associate director of career services. “Every piece in the

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Student Financial Assistance

Class of 2023 Graduating Scholars Dalhaysy Fernandez ’23, ’24G

Kelsey Payne ’23

“Growing up I never saw Latinx representation among my teachers, and I was inspired to go into the field of education to one day inspire children to be whoever they want to be, to do whatever they feel passionate about. At Salem State, I’ve been provided opportunities that allow me to make a difference inside and outside the classroom.”

“I hope to become a nurse that makes a difference in the lives of my patients and inspires them to keep fighting and to stay strong throughout their time in the hospital, no matter how drastic their medical situation may be.”

Hometown: Salem, Mass.

Major: Early childhood education (Combined BS/MEd), and world languages and cultures Scholarships: EducatorScholars of Color, Dr. Francis P. Hunkins ’60 and Patricia Ann Hammill Scholarship, Isabelle Dunne Jannino Memorial Scholarship Fund, Lucie Driessen Lancome Scholarship, Meaghan Noel ’15 Scholarship for Early Childhood Education, Albert J. Robinson Scholarship

Julio Hernandez ’23

Hometown: Chelsea, Mass.

Major: Business administration Scholarships: Viking Completion Grant recipient “Being the second eldest of five gives me more of a reason to finish school and hopefully have a successful life.

I not only want to make my parents proud, but I also want to show my younger siblings that school is important.”

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

Hometown: Everett, Mass.

Major: Nursing Scholarships: The Grace L. Nangle 1970s Nursing Scholarship, Genevieve Hope Blaney Scholarship, Mary E. Coppola Scholarship Fund, Powlesland Commager Scholarship Endowment

David Nicastro ’23

Hometown: Gloucester, Mass.

Major: Psychology Scholarships: Perry and Sarah Yanow Endowed Memorial Scholarship Fund

“I have changed my direction in life from 23 years in multiple uniforms, lastly leaving law enforcement, and now pursuing an education in psychology with a career path in trauma therapy and counseling. Thank you for believing in me.”

Walky Lamour ’23

Victor De Leon ’23

“Thanks for your contribution to my education. I will always act in a way that convinces you that your donations contribute to a better world.”

“I plan to pursue a career in either commercial, corporate or investment banking. I recently accepted an offer with Citizen’s Bank for a full-time position on their Commercial Banker Development Program. Thank you again for this amazing opportunity.”

Samman Naz ’23

Erin Delaney ’23G

Hometown: Woburn, Mass.

Major: Healthcare studies Scholarships: Viking Completion Grant, Mass General Brigham Behavioral Health Workforce Initiative

Hometown: Danvers, Mass.

Major: Biology Scholarships: Burns Family Scholarship, McGuigganGeorge Scholarship Fund, Frederick A. Meier Science Award Endowment, Delphine M. and James B. Sullivan, PhD Scholarship

“Because of your scholarships, I will be able to further complete my education in medical school and become a physician one day.”

Hometown: Lynn, Mass.

Major: Business administration Scholarships: Mary, Marilyn and James Flaherty Scholarship Fund

Hometown: Winthrop, Mass.

Major: Special education Scholarships: Boylan Family Scholarship Award, DeSimone Scholarship Endowment “These scholarships provided me with the opportunity of focusing on my education and teaching. I am forever grateful for your support.”

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Student Financial Assistance student or two along the way. In lieu of flowers, we ended up raising $9,000, so we knew we had to do this the right way.”

The Cassandra Pearson Scholarship was established at Salem State in her memory in 2021. At the beginning, it wasn’t about how much the family could raise, but what they could do that would be meaningful to other students.

Cassandra Pearson ’20

Finding Home When Cassandra “Cassie” Pearson ’20 first stepped onto Salem State’s campus, she knew she had found home.

Her father, Eric Pearson, explains that while on a college tour his daughter was instantly drawn to the university.

“She stopped and did a panoramic look around. My wife and I asked her if she was okay, and Cassie said, ‘We can go home now, this is where I’m going.’”

Cassie was particularly interested in Salem’s history and the role it played in the maritime industry and Revolutionary War. Eric says that it called out to his daughter, an avid reader, history buff and aspiring history teacher.

Eric describes Cassie as an “introverted extrovert,” someone who was caring and always saw the good in people.

“Cassie had friends who came from different walks of life. If they were a good human, that’s all that mattered to her.”

During her senior year, Cassie was diagnosed with lymphoma and passed away in late 2020.

“In the aftermath of her passing, we thought about what we could do— maybe raise a little money to help a

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

“Cassie’s intellect, inquisitiveness, empathy, and wit embody the spirit and character of our history majors.

Her commitment to understanding the past and fighting for social justice lives on through the Pearson Scholarship and the generosity of her parents, Eric and Rebecca,” says Andrew Darien PhD, professor of history and Cassie’s mentor.

Eric notes that through her scholarship, even though she won’t physically be inside the classroom, “She will be there in spirit helping students like her get the education they’re passionate about.”

Megan O’Shea ’23, ’24G is the second recipient of this scholarship, relaying its importance, “It’s such an amazing honor to be awarded this scholarship that will help me greatly in the future as a high school history teacher.”

The Pearsons have gone on to host various fundraisers in Cassie’s memory, including a golf tournament in honor of her love of golf. Her father proudly notes that she was the first female to play on Taunton High School’s men’s golf team for all five seasons. 

“Cassie was so selfless. Even after her passing, we found critiqued papers.

She’d read them and provide feedback for her friends out of the goodness of her heart. And now, her mother and I will pay her legacy forward for future generations of Salem State students.”

—Eric Pearson

Uplifting Communities role as associate dean in 2010. In 2009, he and his wife Henrietta ’75 endowed the Arthur T. Gerald, Jr. Scholarship Fund to continue his work of helping students of diverse backgrounds attend, succeed and realize their dreams at Salem State. Students like Keyla RomeroVelasquez ’23 and Sherika Casseus ’24.

Henrietta ’75 and Arthur ’12H Gerald with scholarship recipient Keyla Romero-Velasquez ’23

“If I can help somebody as I travel on, then my living will not be in vain. And if we all live by that mandate, I believe the world will be a far better place for everyone.”

—Reverend Arthur T. Gerald ’12H, campaign steering committee member Reverend Arthur T. Gerald ’12H first joined the Salem State community in 1972 as the advisor to the AfroAmerican Society. The following year, he became the director of the minority affairs program, with the mission of helping to recruit additional students of color. It quickly became clear that bringing students of color to campus wasn’t enough—the school also needed to provide resources to help them succeed on campus. Arthur’s position was shifted from student life to academic affairs, and the focus became persistence and support. He and his colleagues helped develop a summer program for incoming students and created what was then called the Learning Center—now the Center for Academic Excellence—to ensure that every student not only had a place at Salem State, but also had the academic support they needed to thrive in the classroom.

Arthur remained an important voice for inclusivity from the moment he stepped foot on campus until he retired from his

Already the first in her family to graduate high school, Keyla was determined to earn her college degree. “I pay my own bills and buy my own food. For a while, I was working 30 to 40 hours every week at Starbucks on top of going to class, but I had to stop because it was taking a toll on my mental health,” says Keyla, an interdisciplinary studies major. “I want the Geralds to know their contribution to my education is deeply appreciated.”

“With this scholarship I will be able to continue my education in hopes of working in the school community to provide a more culturally relevant curriculum for all students in the United States,” says Sherika, an education major with a concentration in educational studies and community education. “I hope those that made this a possibility for me stay blessed.”

Making the decision to support student scholarship was simple for Arthur. “I’m indebted to all those who helped me get where I am in life,” he says. “And as I have been helped, so must I help others.”  “Reverend and former Dean Arthur T. Gerald Jr. is not only a mentor but he is the embodiment of inspiration, leadership and compassion. His legacy is not measured in years, but in the countless lives he has touched and the trails he blazed.” ­— Shawn Newton ’96

Associate Vice President and Dean of Students

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SSU BOLD

Laura Laranjo PhD with her students

Proud Moments, Bright Futures “On graduation day, professors make tons of noise when our students’ names are called,” says Laura Laranjo PhD, assistant professor of biology. “We know their journey, and we know their struggles— it’s an incredibly proud moment.”

Professor Laranjo has enjoyed her share of proud moments since she began teaching at Salem State. For example, two of her students won the Kathy Murphy Endowed Biology Research Award, using the funds to collaborate with Laranjo to research harmful DNA mutations caused by taking certain FDA-approved drugs.

“It gave my students the funding they needed to go beyond my vision, to create and explore their own hypothesis.

From the experiments they set up with this funding, they have presented their findings in six different virtual national

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YOUR IMPACT IN ACTION

conferences during the pandemic. This was an opportunity that they would not have had if they did not have this award.

I am so thankful I was able to guide them in these experiments and that we had the funds to try out their ideas.”  “The more we can mirror what students, like me, will find in the workplace, the more prepared we will be to meet our moment.”

—Evie Holden ’25, nursing major

By modernizing our facilities and unifying our campus, SSU BOLD represents a dramatic leap forward for our campus and our university.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Collaborative Workspaces SSU BOLD takes a multi-pronged approach in consolidating Salem State’s campus footprint and providing for state-of-the-art laboratories that will energize our curriculum and enhance the career preparations we offer. The renovation of the Horace Mann building and the addition onto Meier Hall will offer much needed modernized, flexible high-intensity teaching labs to train and recruit the next generation of students.

The design phase of SSU BOLD is underway with an anticipated completion date of fall 2026. *Renderings are potential orientations and are not final designs.

8,200 square feet

of new simulation and skill labs

9,500 square feet

of new science teaching labs and prep space

10-minute

walking radius between campuses BOLD reduces the need for motorized transportation between any of our campuses while increasing academic collaborations.

Salem State enrolls more students in biological and biomedical sciences, physical sciences, health professions, and related programs than any other state university in the Commonwealth.

Top picture: A two-story addition onto Meier Hall will add additional classroom space, including six new labs.

Middle and bottom pictures: The renovation of the Horace Mann building will add flexible classroom space, student hubs, office suites for faculty, an occupational therapy lab, bed skills labs, and nursing simulation labs.

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NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

352 Lafayette Street Salem State University Salem, 01970-5353 AlumniMassachusetts Association and Foundation, Inc.

PA I D

PERMIT NO. 130 SALEM, MA

352 Lafayette Street Salem, Mass. 01970

salemstate.edu/moment

Student athletes Kelli McCarthy ’22 and Melanie Mason ’23 participating in the Build-a-Bed service project.