SETON HALL Fall/Winter 2025-26
For All, Forever A CAMPAIGN FOR A GREATER SETON HALL
SETON HALL Fall/Winter 2025-26
Seton Hall magazine is published by the Division of University Relations.
features
President Monsignor Joseph Reilly, S.T.L., Ph.D.
20 For All, Forever
Vice President for University Relations Matthew Borowick ’89/M.B.A. ’94 Assistant Vice President, Strategic Communications and Brand Pegeen Hopkins, M.S.J. Associate Director, Strategic Communications and Brand Emily Heric, M.A.
In September, Seton Hall launched For All, Forever; its first comprehensive campaign in nearly 20 years.
28 A Window Into the Past
Seton Hall’s collection of sacred texts connects the community to past centuries of history, faith and culture.
Art Director Ann Antoshak Copy Editors Kim de Bourbon Zachary Cooney ’20 News & Notes Editors Julia Angeliadis Aaron Smith Send your comments and suggestions by mail to: Seton Hall magazine, Division of University Relations, 519 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079; by email to shuwriter@shu. edu; or by phone at 973-378-9834. Seton Hall magazine staff reserve the right to edit submitted content and cannot guarantee that items received will appear in the magazine. Publication of an item does not constitute endorsement by Seton Hall. Cover: Vanessa Nazaire and director
of the RISE Gen 1 program, Darlene Robinson. Photo by John O’Boyle. Facing page: Bayley Hall, South Orange campus. Photo by Earl Richardson.
departments
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2 From Presidents Hall 4 HALLmarks 12 Possibilities
Shayne Simmons ’24/M.P.A. ’25 started volunteering in college. Now he plans to make service part of his life’s mission.
14 Roaming the Hall
Jennifer McCarthy transforms her students into compassionate and capable healthcare professionals through clinical simulation.
16 Profile
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A 20-year career in the Navy led Jonathan Bertera ’04 to a second career teaching ethics at the U.S. Naval Academy.
18 Profile
Tom Arlotto helps bring global discussions and world leaders to Seton Hall through an endowed gift.
32 Sports at the Hall 36 Alumni News & Notes www.shu.edu
44 Last Word
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FROM PRES IDE N T S H A L L | M O N S I G N O R J O S E P H R E I L L Y , S . T . L . , P h . D .
Created for Such a Time as This I HAVE A sign in my office that was given to me by a dear
serves as a North Star to point our way forward for
friend. It is a quote from Esther 4:14:
the next five years. It is mission-focused and studentcentered, grounded in our Catholic identity and the life
“Perhaps you were created for such a time as this.”
and example of Mother Seton. Our campaign, For All, Forever, builds on 170 years of eminence to launch the University into an even more
The quote, which was spoken by Mordachi to Queen Esther, reminds us that God provides us
a Seton Hall education is within reach for everyone
with opportunities in our lives when we can make
who dreams of making a positive difference in their
a significant positive impact.
lives and communities.
That is where we find ourselves as a Seton Hall
We are enriching our education by equipping
community. We are experiencing a graced time, a privileged
Setonians with immersive global skills they need to
time of coming together with desire and opportunity.
thrive in a changing world.
A time when all our dreams and goals are within reach. In September, we launched a strategic plan called Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose. Also that
And we are strengthening our cornerstones with academic excellence, research and faith. In a time such as this, we are called to embrace
month, we debuted the public phase of our historic $225
the enduring values that made Mother Seton and her
million comprehensive campaign, For All, Forever. And
namesake University exemplars for generations of
as a University community, we are celebrating the 50th
students. Just as Mother Seton placed her faith in Jesus
anniversary of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s canonization. It
Christ and made hope at the center of her work, we are
is a special joy to honor Mother Seton, our patroness and
committed to exemplifying her Catholic values:
the aunt of our founder, Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley. During such a time as this, we realize we at Seton Hall have been entrusted with a mission that is bigger than any of us. Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose builds on
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vibrant future. We are preparing leaders by ensuring
Faith and Hope in God are what ground us in the present and propel us into the future.
Trust and Integrity are the good soil that brings forth growth. They give credibility to who we are and what we do.
Courage and Curiosity describe the character
the University’s momentum while preparing us for a
of our educational approach and the conviction to
rapidly evolving higher education landscape. The plan
move forward.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Compassion and Service, born of faith in God and after
Such a time as this calls us to recommit to who we
the example of Jesus Christ, remind us that we live not
are, to what is best about Seton Hall and to what we can
only for ourselves, but to nurture and support the good
give back.
of others.
It begins with faith and hope in Jesus Christ.
Purpose and Resilience are what keep us showing
It is sustained by trust and integrity in how we lead.
up — and reaffirm that our drive to achieve cannot
It requires courage and curiosity to face the future.
be slowed.
It is anchored in purpose and resilience when
Love and Action describe our shared calling of bringing to life and into life the animating love of God for one another. Such a time as this is our opportunity to rediscover what sets Seton Hall apart.
challenges arise. And it is always expressed and manifests itself through compassion, service, love and action. I invite you to learn more about these initiatives and share our excitement. And I ask you to reflect on your
At the heart of that distinction is our commitment to
time here. Think about how this University has been a
forming students of character and conscience. Through
blessing in your life and the lives of your loved ones.
our strategic plan and comprehensive campaign, we
Then imagine the coming generations of students who
are creating and deepening pathways for students
will one day stand where you stood, made stronger
from all walks of life to live out their God-given dignity
because of what we will achieve together. n
and potential.
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In Brief
l A team from the College of Nursing and College of Human Development, Culture, and Media attended the International Council of Nurses Conference, presenting their findings on challenges in chronic illness care and nurse practitioner education. l Study Abroad at Seton Hall has expanded semester-abroad opportunities to 57 campuses in 24 countries as part of the University Studies Abroad Consortium, a nonprofit partnership for premier international universities. l Seton Hall’s M.S. in occupational therapy program in the School of Health and Medical Sciences earned a 10-year accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, the highest review cycle available. l Ann Marie Murphy, Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Foreign Policy Studies at the School of Diplomacy and International Relations, was selected for a Fulbright ASEAN Research Program U.S. Scholar Award for the 2025-26 academic year. ASEAN is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. l The College of Human Development, Culture, and Media earned national recognition for its online graduate programs in K-12 education leadership, management, and policy by the National Education Leadership Preparation.
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l In the Princeton Review’s “Best Business Schools for 2025,” the Stillman School of Business’ M.B.A. programs were highlighted for excellence across three categories: Best Business Schools, Best Business Schools (Northeast) and Best Online M.B.A. Programs. l Amy Rosenfeld, who spent decades in the sports television business — first at ESPN and now at NBC Sports — joined the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media as a professional-in-residence this fall. l Kishon C. Hickman Sr., M.A. ’11, Ed.D., director of Seton Hall’s law enforcement executive leadership master’s program, was honored with the Distinguished Service Award by the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives New Jersey Chapter. l Lori Tarke, executive director of the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute, was appointed the inaugural chair of the new Tri-State Chapter of the National Association of Latino Health Executives. l Susan Nolan, Ph.D., and Fanli Jia, Ph.D., of the Department of Psychology, were part of an international team that developed the International Collaboration on Undergraduate Psychology Outcomes model and curriculum.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Student and Employer Connections The University’s Career Center connected students with
from nonprofits to federal agencies. Organizations
potential employers this spring at a series of three
such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms
“Exploring Pathway” expos.
and Explosives, Equal Employment Opportunity
The events gave students a chance to network, explore
Commission, Community FoodBank of New Jersey and
career paths and obtain internships and full-time jobs
the New Jersey Performing Arts Center were there,
while learning what companies today are looking for in
exhibiting opportunities in marketing, public affairs,
their employees.
law enforcement, education and community engagement.
The Corporate Business and Professional Services
The STEM, Health and Analytics Expo in March
Expo in February brought students from the Stillman
brought together students interested in science,
School of Business together with recruiters from
technology, engineering and mathematics fields as well
industry leaders like Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, PwC,
as health care for an evening of meaningful conversations
KPMG and EY. Companies shared internship and full-
with employers such as Hackensack Meridian Health,
time opportunities in finance, accounting, marketing,
Accu Reference Medical Lab, Delta-T Group and the
consulting and more.
U.S. Army. Students from majors like computer science,
The Communications, Humanities and Government Expo in March drew a diverse range of employers,
biology, chemistry and health care explored roles in labs, healthcare systems and leadership programs.
24-HOUR HACKATHON
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eams of students came together in April for a marathon problem-solving competition that rewarded both creativity and collaboration. The University’s first 24-Hour Hackathon gathered undergraduate and graduate students from diverse academic backgrounds to solve real-world problems in fields ranging from cybersecurity and health to finance, international development and sports innovation. Organized by the College of Arts and Sciences, Stillman School of Business and Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, the event was co-hosted by the student chapters of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and ACM Club and sponsored by Alan Kirshenbaum, a member of the University’s Board of Regents. “It was thrilling to watch our students thrive under pressure and build solutions with real-world potential,” said Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., dean of the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies. “Events like this are key to experiential learning, leadership and preparing our students for the dynamic future of work.” The winning team, Real Eyes AI, earned the top case prize with a deepfake detection tool that uses artificial intelligence to help users identify altered images and videos. Second place was awarded to StatBridge, two international student-athletes who developed a sports performance networking app enabling athletes to collect, share and track data and skill development on an accessible, affordable platform. Their project also embedded a social initiative aimed at empowering promising athletes, especially refugees and those facing unique challenges. The duo was awarded gold smart rings. Other prizes included iPads, gaming monitors and Ray-Ban Meta Glasses for teams recognized in categories such as Most Creative App, Best Security Solution, Outstanding Social Impact and Best Educational or Financial Tool.
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New Distinction for Seton Hall
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he U.S. Department of Education has recognized Seton
The growth in Hispanic enrollment has been steady and
Hall University as a Hispanic-Serving Institution
significant at Seton Hall over the last 20 years. Hispanic
or HSI, a designation noting that Hispanic or
undergraduate enrollment rose from 8.7 percent in 2005 to
Latino students comprise at least 25 percent of full-time
29 percent today. Graduate enrollment has seen a similar
undergraduate enrollment.
climb — from 4.8 percent to 14.4 percent. These increases
This recognition allows the University to apply for
mirror national trends reported by the Pew Research
federal grants that support educational opportunities for
Center, which also reported significant gains in advanced
Hispanic students, strengthening the ability to serve its
degrees among Hispanic men and women between 2000
increasingly diverse student body.
and 2021.
Seton Hall is now one of 650 colleges and universities
Last year Seton Hall became a member of the Hispanic
nationwide recognized as HSIs, which serve more than 5.6
Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).
million students. According to federal projections, Hispanic
“Our affiliation with the HACU helped us achieve our
students will make up 30 percent of the undergraduate
current status as a Hispanic-Serving Institution,”
population across the U.S. by 2030 — a demographic
explained Ghana Hylton, director of campus inclusion and
shift that underscores the growing importance of these
business affairs. “We’re getting the support we need to
institutions.
enrich the experience of all our students.”
Love Your Neighbor
S
eton Hall launched a series of Love Your Neighbor Lent programs that began in March as students returned from Spring Break. Residence Life, Campus Ministry and the Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE) hosted more than a dozen events, each focused on the theme question of “Who is my neighbor?,” adapted from the parable of the Good Samaritan. The programs highlighted the Lenten pillars of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, encouraging the Seton Hall community to recognize peers as neighbors and challenging students to engage with their neighbors on campus and off. The Candlelit Prayer Concert was presented in the outdoor University Center amphitheater. Students enjoyed hot pretzels — the twisted arms of bread being a symbol of prayer — and lit candles to pray, while student musicians played acoustic hymns. The Phone Fast Lunch encouraged people to set aside their phones and speak directly with a friend or a stranger during the meal to promote personal connection over digital distraction. The Clothing Swap gave community members the chance to shop for new-to-them clothing items collected by resident assistants in clothing drives leading up to the exchange, with support from DOVE. The Pirate’s Closet had a special corner for its collection of business-appropriate attire. DOVE also partnered with Residence Life and Campus Ministry to facilitate four resident assistant hosted Service on Saturdays (SOS) volunteer days with North Jersey organizations. Resident assistants from Boland Hall and the Complex also hosted Fast and Curious, a program discussing the fasting customs of Catholics and Muslims during the coinciding liturgical seasons of Lent and Ramadan. And in Boland, resident assistants hosted a trivia game show program called Do You Know Your Neighbor?
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SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
In Celebration of Mother Seton
A
bus full of Seton Hall University pilgrims traveled to Maryland this summer to visit the National
A special Mass in honor of Mother Seton was held at her tomb, with a homily by Father Sertich.
Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, an experience
“Mother Seton spent her short but inspirational life
that both taught and inspired as the group learned more
doing many courageous and selfless acts of love for
about the woman who was the first American-born saint
people in need, and at the heart of everything she did
and, of course, the patroness of the University.
was her Catholic faith and her undying belief that God’s
The trip to Emmitsburg was organized by Father
will was guiding her every action," said Father Sertich.
Nicholas Sertich, director of Campus Ministry, and
“For those of us in the ‘business’ of shaping students’
Nicole Giglia, Ph.D., associate dean of students, who were
minds, hearts and spirits, Mother Seton is the perfect
motivated by their work on Caritas, a new professional
role model for our ministry at Seton Hall.”
development program based on the University’s Catholic identity and mission for Student Services. It was also an occasion to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Mother Seton’s canonization. “In reading more about Mother Seton and seeing how
Following Mass, there was a tour of the shrine’s museum, which includes personal journal entries and letters, as well as a photograph from the University’s archives of Elizabeth’s eldest son, William Seton, and his family.
close the shrine was, I thought, we have to go!” said Giglia.
Then the group toured the grounds of the Saint
“It’s such a unique blessing that we can walk in Mother
Joseph College historic district where Mother Seton
Seton’s footsteps only by taking a bus ride. It allowed for
lived and worked, getting a glimpse into the daily life of
such an incredible way to feel connected to Mother Seton
a woman who was a pioneer in American Catholicism
and even more so to the work we do in her name.”
and a servant to faith and her community.
TOP MARKS
S
eton Hall University was again recognized as one of the top colleges in America by The Princeton Review, and is featured in the 2026 edition of the education services company’s annual guide, “The Best 391 Colleges.” The University also received national recognition in five areas: n
No. 1 Best Student Support and Counseling Services
No. 1 Best College Radio Station n No. 14 Most Active Student Government n No. 14 Students Love Their School Teams n No. 15 Lots of Race/Class Interaction n
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BOOST FOR STEM STUDENTS
S
tudents pursuing degrees in the traditional STEM
said Jonathan Farina, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts
fields involving science, technology, engineering and
and Sciences. “This grant enables them to replace entry-
math got a boost this summer with state funding
level work with research experiences that teach them
for research internships and a $10 million endowed
advanced laboratory skills, teamwork and accountability
scholarship fund.
and cutting-edge knowledge that prepares them for
New Jersey’s Office of the Secretary of Higher Education awarded the University a grant through its
In August, the estate of the late Frank Rubino ’64
2025 Career Accelerator Internship Grant Program, which
established a $10 million endowed scholarship fund for
aims to give students experiential learning opportunities.
STEM students with financial need who also demonstrate
Seton Hall’s Student Services and the College of Arts
an interest in Italian studies, reflecting Rubino’s lifelong
and Sciences collaborated to provide 19 students with
love for his heritage and his long career as an actuary
the chance to become undergraduate researchers as part
with Prudential Insurance. This gift is a significant
of the STEM Connect Program, which gives them hands-
contribution to For All, Forever, the University’s $225
on experience during the summer.
million comprehensive campaign.
Students were selected in the fields of biology,
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great careers.”
“By 2032, it is estimated that there will be more than
biochemistry, chemistry, physics, math, cybersecurity,
11.8 million new jobs in STEM,” said Farina. “Gifts like
computer science, neuroscience and psychology. Their
Frank Rubino’s ensure that we are preparing graduates
projects included studies on brain injury and other
to take advantage of these economic opportunities and
neuroscience topics, antibacterial and antifungal
to serve society in health care, security, technology and
substances, semiconductors, cold plasma, bone injury
innovation. By correlating Italian studies with STEM, this
and recovery, chemical mitigation and materials science.
gift also reinforces Seton Hall’s commitment to educating
“Many Seton Hall students have jobs during the
well-rounded students who excel in both technical
summer and even the school year to make ends meet,”
disciplines and the arts, humanities and sciences.”
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Finding Inspiration in the Lab
A
STEM undergraduate research award has enabled student Reva Pavithran to spend more time in the lab with chemistry professor James Hanson, Ph.D., as the two explore the effects of zirconium dioxide as an oxidizing agent. Before the award, Pavithran had been working in Hanson’s lab, but funding was limited. Undergraduate students have limited free time and often have to work, so they usually can complete only a section of a project and use it for their undergraduate thesis. But the award means Pavithran has been able to be in the lab working on the project more frequently. As a fourth-year psychology major with a minor in chemistry, Pavithran has aspirations of attending medical school. By collaborating on this study, she will have a competitive advantage when applying for admission. With a goal of publishing the outcomes of their project, the team also hope to use this study for a presentation at next year’s Petersheim Academic Exposition at the University. Their work has involved developing zirconium dioxide as a new photocatalyst — they have found it oxidizes materials with less UV light, which could open the door for many new uses.
SHU IN THE NEWS “More than 160 years later, Lincoln’s vision is finally within reach. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern’s recently announced network merger will finally connect America’s coasts, unlocking economic efficiencies for the country in the process.” Danielle Zanzalari, Stillman School of Business, explaining how this private sector opportunity would unlock economic efficiencies and strengthen the U.S. supply chain and rail system.
“Through student support and counseling services, our goal is to help our students be successful. Providing resources beyond the classroom is critically important to student success both academically and personally.” Karen Van Norman, Student Services, discussing how Seton Hall was recognized again as one of the Top Colleges in America, in the 2026 edition of The Princeton Review.
“The level of uncertainty this has created in the market is not typical. If you’re constantly moving the needle, that takes away the opportunity for decisionmakers to make predictions.” Hector Lozada-Vega, Stillman School of Business, Asbury Park Press, discussing consumer behavior and how tariffs have created the most uncertain economic climate since the pandemic.
“It’s not the same, it’s changed [and] it feels really manufactured. … When you open up the app and it’s endless scrolling through Bama Rush, it’s [also] endless advertisements.” Jessica Rauchberg, College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, Yahoo! Entertainment, discussing authenticity and marketing as sororities use RushTok to launch their influencer careers and sell brands.
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G
“Jack” Radano, pillars of the Seton Hall community
&
who both died in 2025.
Father Frizzell helped him start his college career and also
HA LLm a r k s
Building Faith reat men of dialogue and listening. And tremendously respectful. That is how Monsignor Joseph Chapel remembers Father Lawrence E. Frizzell and Monsignor John
Monsignor Chapel, director of permanent diaconate formation for the Archdiocese of Newark and associate spiritual director at Immaculate Conception Seminary, said the dedication of Father Frizzell and Monsignor
who was fluent in Hebrew, Greek and Latin,” Monsignor Guarino said. Father Frizzell was a good friend to the family of
Thomas L. Tran ’78, a member of the Board of Regents who came to the U.S. from his native Vietnam when he was 18. provided guidance and support to two of Tran’s sisters. “We always stayed in touch with him ... he had a really good knack for helping,” Tran said. Su Li, M.S. ’91/Ph.D. ’13, remembers Father Frizzell
Radano to educating generations of scholars, students and
being the first person on campus to greet her when she
colleagues “went beyond developing a sense of tolerance
arrived from Taiwan for her graduate studies. He guided her
to one of understanding and of mutual respect, and
educational and career decisions and baptized her when she
real fraternity and appreciating what’s beautiful in what
became Catholic. “Many people knew Jesus Christ because
we share.”
of Father Frizzell’s love for Christ. He was always there.”
“Both of them were very dedicated to the Second Vatican
Father Frizzell was a columnist for The Catholic
Council — Father Radano to ecumenism and Father Frizzell
Advocate newspaper and hosted the long-running “Kinship
to Jewish-Christian relations,” said Monsignor Thomas G.
of Catholics and Jews” program on WSOU. At the time
Guarino, professor emeritus of systematic theology. “They
of his death, he was writing a book about Monsignor
were very much bridge builders.”
Oesterreicher.
Father Lawrence E. Frizzell
Monsignor John A. “Jack” Radano
Father Frizzell’s passion for education was inspired by
Monsignor Radano grew up in Jersey City, graduated
his mother, a teacher in rural western Canada where
from Saint Peter’s University and entered Immaculate
he grew up. He encountered anti-Catholic prejudice as
Conception Seminary (Darlington). For almost two decades
a child, motivating him to learn how to defend his faith
he taught in the University’s Department of Religious
and respectfully engage with others.
Studies before he was appointed to the Vatican’s Pontifical
Ordained in Canada, he furthered his studies and teaching in the Holy Land and Europe. He joined Seton
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Dialogue
Council for Promoting Christian Unity, serving as head of its western section.
Hall in 1974 to help design the Jewish-Christian Studies
During his 25 years in the post, he collaborated with
graduate program and to work with Monsignor John M.
people around the world encouraging engagement with
Oesterreicher, founder of the Institute of Judeo-Christian
Lutheran, Reformed, Baptist, Mennonite, Pentecostal and
Studies. Father Frizzell reached out to local synagogues,
Evangelical Christians. “We see with Father Radano the
lectured at the South Orange Library and worked with
strong emphasis on the fraternal relationship between
the Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews
Catholics and other Christians and how to nourish that,
in the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. “He
how to cultivate that, how to overcome misunderstandings
always emphasized the importance of Judaism as the
that have been built up over the centuries,” Monsignor
foundation of Christianity and was ‘a first-class scholar’
Guarino said.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Father Lawrence E. Frizzell
Monsignor Chapel met Monsignor Radano when he was a seminarian at the Pontifical North American College in Rome and remembers the time he gave to the students.
Monsignor John A. “Jack” Radano
my ministry,” said Monsignor Reilly, who has served in immigration and urban ministries. “Monsignor Radano had a passion for baseball, especially
Later, when Monsignor Chapel was studying for a graduate
the New York Yankees, and would fit games into his schedule
degree in Rome, he observed Monsignor Radano’s tact for
when traveling the U.S. for his work,” said Monsignor Richard
diplomacy, attending dinners where Monsignor Radano
Liddy, professor emeritus of religious studies, who often
spoke with religious leaders from different countries.
shared meals with Monsignor Radano and Father Frizzell.
When Monsignor Radano returned to the U.S., he
Monsignor Radano and Father Frizzell were committed
continued his work in interreligious dialogue and as a
to interreligious dialogue and built rich relationships
prolific writer and teacher including teaching courses in
with people of different faiths. “They were a tremendous
the permanent diaconate program. He had an indefatigable
blessing to Seton Hall, a tremendous blessing to the
presence at alumni and campus events.
Church and a tremendous blessing to all of us who were
Monsignor William Reilly of the Archdiocese of Newark was friends with Monsignor Radano since their days as undergraduates. They attended seminary together
privileged to know them,” Monsignor Chapel said. Great men of dialogue and listening. Genuine priests of Jesus Christ.
and were ordained in the same class. “I learned much about ecumenism from Jack, especially in my dealings with so many Pentecostals and evangelicals because of
Colette Liddy is a communications specialist and adjunct in the Department of Communication, Media, and Arts.
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P OS S IB IL I T IES | A M A N D A L O U D I N
WHERE LEADERSHIP MEETS SUSTAINABILITY Shayne Simmons began volunteering in college. Service and sustainability are now part of his life’s mission. 12
S E T O N H ASLEL T M ON A GHAAZLI LN EM A|G AFZAI LNLE/ W|I NST PE R I 2 N 0G 2250- 2 6 4
T
he late Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’,
It might not come as a surprise that Simmons doesn’t
issued in 2015, includes seven goals. Among
sit still for long. He also was a standout on the school’s
them is “ecological spirituality and community
swim and dive team, working his way into the finals at
involvement and participation.” It’s a goal
the 2025 Big East Championships in both breaststroke
embodied by Shayne Simmons ’24/M.P.A. ’25,
and individual medley.
one of four students to receive Seton Hall’s 2025 Servant Leader Award.
Following graduation last spring, Simmons continued investing time in sustainability and volunteerism. “Over
As a graduate student in the school’s public
the summer, I worked on a project in Newark creating an
administration program with a focus on nonprofit
urban farm that provided local, fresh produce in areas
management, Simmons often noticed lines of people at
with little access to it otherwise,” he said.
the local food bank as he walked to campus. As a member of the Environmental Sustainability Committee, Simmons believed there was a way to match this need with student volunteerism, leading to the formation of the campus Sustainability Club. The club’s first big action was forming a partnership with local nonprofit Table to Table, New Jersey’s largest food rescue organization. But that was just the start. “The Sustainability Club applies to environmental
With Table to Table, Simmons and the club spearheaded a campus-wide reduction in food waste, funneling unused food from the dining halls and around campus to the organization.
issues and social sustainability, and it can involve political, charitable or business entities,” said Simmons.
combined in his new career as aquatic director for a new
sustainability is a fit.”
boys and girls club in his home state of Connecticut. “I
With Table to Table, Simmons and the club spearheaded
plan to make a career out of service,” he said. “I realized
a campus-wide reduction in food waste, funneling unused
that my most fulfilling time has been spent helping
food from the dining halls and around campus to the
others. It’s a feeling I love.”
organization. “We collected food that would have been
Simmons credits his time at Seton Hall for inspiring
discarded and got it out to food pantries via volunteer
him in this direction. “I was surrounded by professors
drivers,” he explained. “We estimated that the cafeterias
and staff who were receptive to my ideas,” he said.
throw out about 200 pounds of food every day.”
“I wouldn’t have accomplished this work on my own.”
Student and faculty volunteers coordinated these
He has a stack of medals and awards from his
efforts every other Friday. Simmons estimates that in one
swimming career, all of which are meaningful to him. But
year, they saved more than 1,000 pounds of food from
there was something special about his Service Leader
going to waste. Seeing the impact he could have there,
Award, he said.
Simmons turned his thoughts to other ways he could spark sustainability at Seton Hall. One project involved the addition of a campus Photo by John O’Boyle
Simmons’ swimming career and service work have
“Really, any way that students can help provide
“For the longest time, I came from the perspective that athletics were my priority,” he explained. “Seton Hall made me realize that academics and what I do
biodigester, a machine that composts food waste. After
outside my athletic career matter. College was my first
24 hours, the biodigester produces a nutrient-rich soil
opportunity to make a small difference, and that’s more
additive that volunteers can distribute to the urban
rewarding than any award I’ve received as an athlete.” n
garden plots around campus, another project Simmons helped create.
Amanda Loudin is a Maryland-based freelance writer.
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ROA M IN G T H E HA L L | L O R I ( V A R G A ) R I L E Y
HEALTH CARE SIMULATED
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Jennifer McCarthy shapes her students into compassionate, capable healthcare professionals through clinical simulation.
aving worked as a paramedic for over 35
professionally trained stand-in patients to portray
years, Jennifer McCarthy has experienced life
different healthcare scenarios and be the voices of the
and death in many forms. She has resuscitated
high-tech patient simulators they use throughout clinical
patients in cardiac arrest, responded to
simulation coursework. McCarthy also co-developed a
fatal car crashes and given lifesaving care to
first-of-its-kind leadership simulation focused on conflict
patients slipping into anaphylactic shock.
resolution for the school’s healthcare administration
The vulnerability of life continues to
influence McCarthy at Seton Hall, where she is the
“It’s so important that we go beyond preparing our
founding director of clinical simulation for the School
students to master a checklist of skills,” says McCarthy,
of Health and Medical Sciences. Though she’s no longer
who is one of only about 100 educators globally with
working in emergency settings, she is charting new
advanced-level certification through the International
pathways in patient-centered healthcare education that
Society for Simulation in Healthcare. “For simulation
emphasize the power of human connection, compassion
programming to be truly effective, students need
and communication. Her work uses high-tech patient
experiences that push them to transform as healthcare
simulators alongside humans standing in as patients
practitioners.”
throughout the clinical simulation coursework to bring cases to life.
Transformation, she says, is a purposeful objective. “This is where human vulnerabilities are laid bare,
“Clinical simulation in health care is often viewed
and not only in terms of understanding patients’ life
as some kind of alternate reality, a hypertechnology
experiences. Here we are encouraging our students to
place. Yes, we do have impressive, immersive spaces at
lean into their own discomforts, whether that’s facing
Seton Hall,” McCarthy says, referring to the University’s
an unprecedented or even triggering situation, or having
Interprofessional Health Sciences Campus in Nutley, New
a difficult conversation,” she says. “They will grow into
Jersey. “What distinguishes us, though, is what we are
resilient, capable and confident professionals by tapping
doing within this high-technology enriched environment.”
into their vulnerabilities and allowing themselves to
McCarthy’s commitment to human-centered health
transform. We are here to create that psychologically
care permeates the simulation curricula throughout the school. She collaborates with the faculty and
14
graduate students.
safe, trusting environment to bring that out of them.” Dominique Adornetto, a student in the physical
staff to design programming tailored for each clinical
therapy doctoral program, attests to the impact
professional program: athletic training, occupational
of the clinical simulation programming. She values
therapy, physician assistant, physical therapy and
the hands-on skills training and appreciates the
speech-language pathology. The programs incorporate
presentation of diverse scenarios, such as inpatient
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
“Clinical simulation in health care is often viewed as some kind of alternate reality, a hypertechnology place. Yes, we do have impressive, immersive spaces at Seton Hall.”
and outpatient settings, acute care, pediatric cases,
expanding into healthcare simulation education. She
medical device training and caregiver involvement.
credits her time working in emergency medical services
She says she is grateful for McCarthy’s confidencebuilding mentality and for being a calming presence
Photo by John O’Boyle
before “nerve-wracking” simulations.
for shaping her perspectives on the role of human connections in health care. “All those patients’ faces — a mosaic of their faces
“Her lines ring in your ear when you need them,”
that I see in my mind — inspire me to have the guts to
Adornetto says. “She reminds us to just talk to someone
talk to our students about these moments of human
like a human. That might sound basic, but connecting
connection,” she says. “How these moments can ground
with our patients is the foundation.”
you and give you the grit you’re going to need for
McCarthy recalls a time in her own life when a
whatever you’re going to face.” n
professor’s words deeply affected her, which ultimately led to her exploring a career in paramedicine and then
Lori (Varga) Riley, M.A. ‘06, is a freelance writer living in New Jersey.
15
PROF IL E | C H R I S T O P H E R H A N N
A CALL TO SERVE Decorated Navy SEAL Jonathan Bertera ’04 draws on 20 years of experience to teach ethics at the U.S. Naval Academy.
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SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
O
n the crisp September morning in 2001 when
I’m the only SEAL master chief,” he says. “The SEALs,
two hijacked jetliners crashed headlong into
they walk around campus and they look like space
the twin towers of the World Trade Center in
aliens. I walk around campus and I’m a purple-headed
Lower Manhattan, Jonathan Bertera was in
space alien.”
the first month of his sophomore year at Seton Hall. From atop Xavier Hall, the tallest dorm
on campus, known for its views of the New York City
the Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School in Great
skyline, he watched smoke and flames engulf the upper
Lakes, Illinois. Later, in San Diego, he embarked on the
floors of the towers before they cascaded to the ground.
mentally and physically rigorous six-month program
His experience on 9/11 would play a role in Bertera’s
known as BUD/S, for Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL
decision, shortly after graduating with a degree in
training. Bertera’s class consisted of 187 aspiring SEALs.
political science, to enlist in the Navy with a dream
Only 13 graduated.
to become a member of the elite SEALs special operations forces. “I think part of it was to prove something to myself,”
“You’re constantly wet, you’re constantly covered in sand,” Bertera recalls of this training. “The chafing on your body from the sand and the water ... your
he says. “Part of it was curiosity. I definitely know I had
body is completely torn up. I got a ton of photos of me,
this desire for service, and doing something that might
and I look like an alien because I’m just so swollen and
be difficult for other folks. I think it was a combination
chewed up.”
of all those things. I was just kind of looking for that next experience.” A two-time captain of the Seton Hall swim team, Bertera did indeed make it in the SEALs, rising to the rank of command master chief, the senior enlisted leader
Bertera’s first deployment was in 2008, to Iraq. He would spend the next 16 years ferrying between additional training at home and more deployments to the most dangerous corners of the globe. “They all had very different feelings,” he says. “Iraq
of a Navy command. His 20-year career has taken him
was much more in the urban environment. Afghanistan,
on nine overseas deployments, each lasting at least
more mountainous, open spaces. Iraq, you knew where
six months, including three assignments in war zones
you were being shot at from. Afghanistan, sometimes
in Iraq and Afghanistan. Along the way, he earned a
you never even saw the guys shooting at you, it was from
Purple Heart, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal and
such long distances.”
a Meritorious Service Medal. In 2024 he also earned an M.B.A. from the University
Photo by D.A. Peterson
Bertera’s career as a SEAL — part of the Sea, Air and Land force — began with a two-month boot camp at
Two decades later, Bertera looks back on his decision to pursue a military career with no small sense of
of Virginia, although his 22-month master’s program was
wonder. “Honestly,” he says, “at that point in my life I was
interrupted by an overseas deployment. Earlier this year,
like, Hey, let’s give this a try and let’s see what happens.
shortly after returning home from the last of his five
And that’s kind of also how I’ve done my whole career.
deployments in Somalia and reuniting with his wife and
I never went in with the intention of, Hey, I’m going
three young children, Bertera took on a new assignment:
to do 20 years. It was always, Let’s just see how this is
teaching ethics courses to midshipmen at the Stockdale
going. And every time I’ve come up for a re-enlistment,
Center for Ethical Leadership at the U.S. Naval Academy
I do a re-evaluation: Am I still having fun? Do I still feel
in Annapolis, Maryland.
like I’m providing value? Next thing you know, it was
“I found a tremendous amount of fulfillment coming
20 years later.” n
up here,” he says of this newest phase of his Navy career. He is one of only six SEALs teaching at the academy. “And
Christopher Hann in a freelance writer and editor in New Jersey.
17
PROF IL E | L O R I ( V A R G A ) R I L E Y
GLOBAL
Conversations Educator Tom Arlotto ’66 brings global conversations to Seton Hall through an endowed gift.
T
om Arlotto has been on six continents, but he’s
Forum featuring Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia,
always called New Jersey home. A retired educator,
the Permanent Observer to the Holy See of the United
he recalls pleasant memories of growing up in
Nations. Arlotto sees the endowment as a way to
Jersey City, New Jersey, with his large family.
bring heads of state, leaders of internationally active
“I’m one of nine siblings. It was organized chaos,” he
says with a smile. “Really, though, our home was a very
officials, journalists, labor leaders, business executives,
warm and welcoming environment. My parents were
philanthropists, ambassadors and diplomats to Seton
strict, but there was always room for one more at the
Hall to engage in both community and small-group
dinner table,” he says.
student-focused programming.
That familial spirit has influenced Arlotto throughout
“I hope those who attend, especially the University’s
his life. For over 30 years, he taught math to middle
students, will gain more understanding about different
schoolers in Franklin Township, New Jersey. “They were
cultures of the world and can appreciate seeing
my kids. I loved it. I felt needed,” he says.
different people who have different values,” Arlotto says.
The importance of education motivates Arlotto to
He also notes that his gift, purposely named for the
continue making a difference in the field. In addition to
Arlotto Family, is a way for him to thank his parents
volunteering with the New Jersey Retirees’ Education
and siblings.
Association, he provides philanthropic support to higher
“Tom has frequently told me how amazed he is to
education institutions in the state, including Seton
have the opportunity to engage with the dignitaries that
Hall, where he received a master’s degree in business
we host on campus, which is right in line with what
administration before becoming a teacher.
I hear from our students and faculty about the World
Arlotto’s endowed gift to the University supports the
Leaders Forum,” says School of Diplomacy Dean
World Leaders Forum speaker series, a long-running
Courtney B. Smith, who has been with the school since
initiative of the School of Diplomacy and International
1999, when the speaker series launched.
Relations that brings global conversations onto campus.
18
organizations, Nobel Peace Prize laureates, public
“Maybe one of the kids who attends my lecture series
The first program to be funded by the Arlotto Family
becomes, I don’t know, the secretary of state one day,”
Diplomacy Speaker Series was the recent World Leaders
Arlotto ponders.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Arlotto’s endowed gift to the University supports the World Leaders Forum speaker series, a long-running initiative of the School of Diplomacy and International Relations that brings global conversations onto campus.
In terms of his own career path, Arlotto did not set
many meaningful items on display is a linguistics
out to become a teacher. After graduating from college
textbook. Though its cover is plain compared to the
with a bachelor’s degree in economics, he worked at
intricate global décor alongside it, the textbook was
Honeywell in the personnel department. “It wasn’t for
written by his brother, who was a Harvard professor.
me,” he says, noting that firing people was part of his job.
Its prominent display in Arlotto’s home reflects the
He left the corporation and started substitute teaching
invaluable roles that family and education have played
as a way to make money — turns out, he also found
throughout his life.
Photo by John O’Boyle
his calling. “Teaching came naturally to me. I loved it.
“I am privileged to know Tom,” says Smith. “I am
I loved teaching math. It was a very rewarding
especially touched when he indicates that he wishes his
experience,” he says. Arlotto went on to earn a teacher
parents could see him now and witness the experiences
certification and later a master’s degree in education.
he gets to have through his relationship with our school.
In 1991, he was honored by New Jersey Gov. Jim
I smile right back and remind him that his support is
Florio as Teacher of the Year at Franklin Township’s
an essential piece in making these moments happen.” n
Hillcrest School. The award certificate hangs on a wall in Arlotto’s home, which is adorned with artifacts and collectibles from his world travels. Among the
Lori (Varga) Riley, M.A., ’06, is a freelance writer living in New Jersey.
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FE AT U RE | C A R O L A N N E C H A N I K
For All, Forever Inside a Campaign for a Greater Seton Hall
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Photographiy by Michael Paras
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
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FE AT U RE |
O
n the night of September 19, the Bishop Dougherty University Center buzzed with excitement. Hundreds of Seton Hall alumni, faculty, students, friends and family gathered to celebrate the public launch of For All, Forever: A Campaign for a Greater Seton Hall — the University’s first comprehensive campaign in nearly two decades. Kicking off the programming, which included a
support — from tutoring, advising and peer mentoring to
series of brief, energizing talks, videos and musical
community-building activities and financial assistance.
performances, Seton Hall President Monsignor Joseph
“Being a mentor is my favorite thing to talk about,”
Reilly encouraged the crowd to reflect on their time at
Nazaire said. “I oversee a group of RISE students, and we
Seton Hall. “Think about how this University has impacted
meet twice a month to talk about how they’re doing, how
your life. Then imagine the generations of students who
I can help with their studies and even what to wear for a
will one day stand where you once stood, made stronger
professional meeting.”
For All, Forever builds on Seton Hall’s 170-year legacy
scholarship, belonging and leadership, helping students
of fostering academic excellence, personal growth
who are navigating college for the first time feel truly at
and spiritual development, while catapulting the
home. “We’re a big family,” Nazaire said.
University into the future. The $225 million campaign
Nazaire’s own journey reflects that impact. Growing up
sets out to expand the reach of Seton Hall’s mission and
in Union, New Jersey, she never imagined attending college
empower the next generation of talented, innovative
so close to home. Encouraged by her mother and drawn to
and compassionate men and women.
Seton Hall’s 3+3 program — a dual-degree pathway leading
The promise of the campaign is to touch every
to a bachelor’s in Diplomacy and International Relations
member of the University community and every aspect
and a juris doctorate from Seton Hall Law — she took
of campus life. So, what does that look like in the lives
the leap. Generous scholarship support made it possible.
of our students? We set out to explore the campaign’s
“That’s a big reason why I chose Seton Hall,” she said. “It
three pillars — Preparing Leaders Now, Enriching our
made the most financial sense, and without the scholarship,
Education, and Strengthening our Cornerstones —
I would never have met my Gen 1 family.”
through the voices of those they will impact most.
Preparing Leaders Now
Nazaire also credits the program’s director, Darlene Robinson, for creating an environment where students feel deeply supported. “She goes above and beyond her
Vanessa Nazaire lights up when she talks about the
job description,” she said. “Her heart is just so incredibly
students she mentors through Seton Hall’s RISE
big and it’s not just a job for her, it’s a calling.”
(Resilience, Integrity, Scholarship, and Excellence) Gen
22
At its core, Gen 1 RISE fosters a community of
Yet not every first-generation student finds the
1 Program. As both a junior and a Gen 1 RISE scholar,
transition easy. Seton Hall has a long record of
she knows firsthand how transformative the program
supporting social mobility, opening doors for students
can be. Designed for students who are the first in their
who might not otherwise have access. Still, the growing
family to attend college and who come from low-
cost of tuition, housing, books and meal plans places real
income households, the program offers comprehensive
strain on many families.
Photography by John O’Boyle
because of what we build together,” he prompted.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
“Scholarship plays a big role in keeping students at Seton Hall. I’m lucky to receive this support. If more students can afford Seton Hall, more students can stay.” Vanessa Nazaire
Darlene Robinson (left) and Vanessa Nazaire (right)
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“The best way to teach concepts like leadership and to give students a sense of the real world is through experiential learning.” Mary Kate Naatus
24
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
That is why Preparing Leaders Now is the University’s largest fundraising priority within For All, Forever,
about Seton Hall and are impressed with our students.” Because Buccino students come from across the
with a goal of $100 million. Through this pillar, Seton
University, they work in interdisciplinary teams to design
Hall seeks strategic investments in the endowed RISE
solutions for challenges relevant to the campus and
program and undergraduate and graduate scholarships
broader community. Last spring, a group of first-year
tailored to students’ fields of study, athletic programs,
leaders launched Healthy Hall, a project that introduced
hometowns, service commitments and more. By
healthier food options, nutrition information and wellness-
addressing student need, Seton Hall will increase
focused programming to campus. This year, senior Buccino
access, reduce student debt and remain a top choice for
leaders will develop similar high-impact projects.
promising, diverse and hardworking students. “Scholarship plays a big role in keeping students at
Across Seton Hall, applied-learning experiences, academic centers and institutes like Buccino are giving
Seton Hall. I’m lucky to receive this support. If more
students meaningful opportunities to develop their
students can afford Seton Hall, more students can stay,”
skills and engage with the world.
concluded Nazaire.
Enriching Our Education
For example, the National Security Fellowship brings graduate students to Washington, D.C., for high-level research with agencies such as the U.S. Department of
Across campus, students are discovering that learning
Defense. The Center for Sports Media prepares students
often happens beyond the classroom walls.
for a rapidly evolving industry through professional
Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., sees this every day. “The
partnerships, hands-on production opportunities
best way to teach concepts like leadership and to give
and access to major media outlets. And study abroad
students a sense of the real world is through experiential
programs broaden students’ global perspectives.
learning,” she explained. “They grow when they have the opportunity to learn by doing.” As dean of continuing education and professional
These programs are popular among Seton Hall’s student body because they provide the opportunity to explore, interact with working professionals and grow
studies, associate provost for partnerships & global
personally and professionally. Enriching Our Education,
initiatives and associate professor of marketing, Naatus
the second pillar of For All, Forever, with a $75 million
remains deeply connected to the student experience. “I’m
goal, aims to strengthen these experiences through
continuously impressed by our students. They’re hungry
expanded support for academic centers and institutes,
for mentorship and willing to go above and beyond. I see
applied learning and collaborative campus spaces.
that across campus every day,” she said.
For Naatus, the campaign represents an opportunity
One standout experiential learning program under her
to widen the circle. “For All, Forever is exciting to me
purview is the Buccino Leadership Institute, a four-year
because we can expand these opportunities to more
interdisciplinary program that gives a select group of
students, especially those with high financial need,”
students the opportunity to learn, practice and master
she said. “Our world is changing. By growing our
the art of leadership. Now in its 30th year, the Institute’s
experiential learning programs, we can prepare
rigorous curriculum includes team projects, student-
more leaders to navigate complexity with confidence
led initiatives, leadership simulations and professional
and compassion.”
coaching to refine each student’s leadership style. “We have a dynamic team of certified coaches alongside
Strengthening Our Cornerstones
volunteer mentors across industries,” Naatus noted. “Many
Francesca Zaccaron, Ph.D., began her journey with
are alumni, and others are professionals who have heard
Seton Hall more than a decade ago in her home country
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FE AT U RE |
of Italy. In 2012, at a conference in Milan, she
Her role illustrates the importance of endowed
met Monsignor Richard Liddy, then professor of
faculty positions in strengthening Seton Hall’s academic
Catholic thought and culture and director of Seton
foundation. Strengthening Our Cornerstones, the
Hall’s Center for Catholic Studies. At the time,
third pillar of For All, Forever, with a $50 million goal,
Zaccaron was completing her doctorate on Jesuit
seeks to increase endowed faculty positions and expand
philosopher and theologian Bernard Lonergan. Liddy
research opportunities across the University. For Seton
became a mentor, suggesting readings to guide her
Hall, research is not separate from teaching; it fuels
research. “He even invited me to a conference he was
it. Faculty who are supported in their scholarly work
organizing in Oxford with other Lonergan scholars,”
bring energy, curiosity and innovation directly into
she recounted.
the classroom, inspiring students to think and engage
Over the years, she formed deeper relationships
more deeply.
with Seton Hall faculty and leaders, including Linda
A stronger research academy also elevates the
Garofalo and Danute Nourse, directors of the Praxis
institution as a whole. It allows Seton Hall to recruit
Program of Advanced Seminar on Mission. Their
and retain top-tier faculty, researchers and scholars who
conversations and collaborations planted the seeds
want to be part of meaningful academic and scientific
for something more permanent.
discovery, and it gives students the chance to participate
By 2020, Zaccaron found herself longing to teach the Catholic intellectual tradition in a setting where it could
in that work firsthand. “My commitment is to help my students succeed,”
flourish. “I had spent my career steeped in the Catholic
said Zaccaron, reflecting on the importance of this
intellectual tradition, but unfortunately there aren’t
fundraising pillar. “I take it seriously.”
many avenues to teach that at the university level in Italy,” she explained. When the Toth-Lonergan Endowed Professorship
Launching Seton Hall Into the Future Whether through scholarships that open doors,
in Interdisciplinary Studies opened at Seton Hall, she
experiential learning that builds skills or endowed
jumped at the opportunity. “It surprised me because
faculty and research opportunities that shape how
even though I had given a few lectures at Seton Hall
students learn and grow, For All, Forever is already
over the years, so many colleagues remembered me.
strengthening Seton Hall.
It’s really the best community ever.” The Toth-Lonergan Endowed Professorship brings
As the campaign launch event drew to a close that September evening, Monsignor Reilly did more than
a leading Catholic scholar to campus for a year to
stand before the campaign’s ambitious goal. He offered
articulate and strengthen the University’s Catholic
a vision for the road ahead.
mission and its relevance across academic disciplines.
“We can open the doors wider to more students who
This past academic year, Zaccaron embraced that
are called to lead their communities and transform
charge, sharing the teachings of Lonergan with students
the world. We can explore new frontiers with courage
and faculty alike. “Lonergan believed that knowing
and curiosity. And we can live out our values guided by
wasn’t just about memorizing facts. It is a holistic
Christ’s love and compassion,” he said. “This is For All,
process that begins by paying attention to the world
Forever, and it starts now.” n
around us, asking questions, testing ideas and gradually gaining insight,” she explained. “For Lonergan, knowing
26
meant transformation — the very kind of education we
Carolanne Chanik is the director of advancement & campaign
foster at Seton Hall.”
communications at Seton Hall University.
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
“For Lonergan, knowing meant transformation — the very kind of education we foster at Seton Hall.” Francesca Zaccaron
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FE AT U RE | A M A N D A L O U D I N
A Window Into the Past ¿
A tour through Seton Hall’s collection of sacred texts connects us to centuries of history, faith and culture. 28
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
S
eton Hall’s collection of rare books and
THE STUART BREVIARY
sacred texts is a window into history and
Seton Hall’s ancient breviary — the Church’s liturgical
ideas, say Sarah Ponichtera, assistant dean
book of service — came to the school by way of Rome and
for special collections and the gallery,
then later, Fordham University. Its most notable owner
and Jacquelyn Deppe, technical services
was Cardinal Henry Stuart, who served as the Cardinal
archivist, who curate and maintain this collection at the
of York and used the nearly 100-year-old breviary to lead
Seton Hall library.
congregants in prayer with the canons, many of which were
Most of the collection’s 22,000 pieces showcase artifacts from Seton Hall constituents, often reflecting the school’s
particular to the clergy of Saint Peter’s Basilica. Bishop Bayley obtained the book from a bishop at New
deep religious, Italian and Irish ties. But as the University’s
York’s Fordham University, who had likely brought the
schools’ curriculum expands, so does the diversity of the
breviary overseas from Europe, as was standard practice in
collection. There’s a Sufi Muslim devotional book from
those days.
Tunisia, for instance, and a Jewish scroll from Morocco.
Bayley handwrote an inscription at the front of the book
The oldest book dates to 1470, and much of the rare book
detailing its journey to Seton Hall. “This is a good example
collection arrived at the school by way of donation. New Jersey
of a sacred text that is not unique in its contents, but more
resident Bertha Margaret Frick, for example, a mathematics
its personal history and ties to Bishop Bayley,” noted
teacher turned librarian who passed away in 1975, and Rita M.
Ponichtera.
Murphy, one of Seton Hall’s first female students, each donated collections that reflected their personal interests — math in
INCUNABUL A BIBLE
Frick’s case, and Irish culture in Murphy’s.
The Seton Hall library is in possession of six incunabula
A tour through the works demonstrates the evolution of
collection, known as the Summa de potestate eccliesiastica,
people’s experiences with books over the years.
dates to 1473 and was authored by Augustinus de Ancona,
“In the earlier periods, people might only encounter books on occasion, like in a church,” said Ponichtera. “Later Left: Detail from Morrocan Sctoll of Esther. Photograph courtesy of University Libraries
— books printed before the year 1500. The Bible in this
printing and bookmaking, as well as providing a look into
also known as Augustinus Triumphus. The copy matches another located in a university
on, they could pick up a personal-sized book and read it
in Madrid, and that might have been enough information
in their backyard. This collection teaches us how people
to satisfy most people. Deppe, however, noticed its
related to ideas, whether formally or casually.”
unusual dropped initial capital letters and paragraph
Some books include writing in the margins, for instance,
indicators illuminated in red and blue ink, and began
giving readers a look into the owner’s thoughts. Some are
an effort to track down its origins. Her investigation
in good shape and can stand on their own on the library’s
turned up a new finding: “Our copy has a handwritten
shelves, while others require custom boxes to preserve
ownership mark that can trace it to an abbey in Arras,
them. All are available to the student body, and these days,
France,” she said. “We’re not sure how it came into our
students can get up close and personal with the books and
collection, but it’s a unique copy.”
sacred texts through instructional sessions — a special departure for them from today’s digital-driven world. “Students today have so much at their fingertips,” said
BIBLE FROM THE SEMINARY The seminary library includes a rare and valuable
Deppe. “That increases their excitement for encountering
collection assembled by Father Lawrence Porter, who
these physical objects,” she notes, some of which might have
served as its director until 2022. The seminary’s copy
been touched by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley, the founder
of the Clementine Bible, authorized by Pope Clement VIII
of Seton Hall and the Immaculate Conception Seminary.
in 1592, is one of the earliest in existence.
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The Stuart Breviary. Photograph courtesy of University Libraries
“It’s clear that Father Porter knows a lot about rare books and assembled an extraordinary collection focused on
The Clementine Vulgate. Photograph by John O’Boyle.
century and exemplifies how the University’s collection shares artifacts from different religions and regions of the world.
Catholic theology,” said Ponichtera. “This particular Bible
Ponichtera obtained the scroll for the library from a
is important because of its history and also its beautiful
private seller, after consulting with colleagues in Judaica
woodcuts, which are incredibly small and detailed.”
libraries about what artifacts might be best suited
The Clementine Bible is an updated version of “The
to Seton Hall. “It’s a lovely text that tells the story of
Vulgate,” the authoritative translation of the Bible into
Esther, which is traditionally read on the Jewish holiday
Latin, first prepared by Saint Jerome. Pope Sixtus V,
of Purim,” she said. “It contains beautiful Moroccan
who served from 1585 until 1590, took up the task of
illustrations.”
authorizing the Catholic Biblical translation in response
The book of Esther is one of the writings that stands
to the Protestant Reformation, which produced several
apart from the five books of Moses that comprise the
vernacular translations. The 250 woodcut engravings in
Torah. But it is a central text that is read every year by
this edition, published by a famous publishing house in
Jewish communities around the world. This scroll also
Florence, are rich in detail and demonstrate the influence
includes just one rod, and not two, as would be the case
of the Renaissance at the time of publication.
for a Torah scroll. The book of Esther is designed for one
Interestingly, Johannes Gutenberg, who invented the
complete readthrough, while Torah scrolls are lengthy and
printing press and printed the first Bible, was Catholic.
read in sections at synagogues. So there is no need for the
Yet his “new technology” had not yet received the Pope’s
reader to find a specific place in the text.
sanction, which led to the authorization of the Vulgate after his death.
In purchasing the scroll, Ponichtera had to take special steps to authenticate it. “Unfortunately, this is critical when buying Judaica because
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MOROCCAN SCROLL OF ESTHER
of the history of looting,” she said.“We wanted to ensure we
The library’s Moroccan scroll of Esther dates to the 19th
bought from a seller who acquired this text ethically.”
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Tunisian Manuscript. Photograph courtesy of University Libraries
TUNISIAN MANUSCRIP T
body. “People consider these experiences with rare books
A Tunisian devotional book by a Sufi author also illustrates
from long ago time periods as something reserved for
how the school is evolving to expose students to other
students at Harvard or Yale,” said Ponichtera. “But Seton
religions and parts of the world. Ponichtera acquired the
Hall is giving its student body — some of whom are first-
Muslim text from a rare books dealer in Fall 2024. At the
generation students — a tier of education they might not
time, little was known about its history.
be exposed to otherwise.”
After bringing the text back to Seton Hall, library
The sacred texts also share some of Seton Hall’s history
staff digitized it and shared it with faculty, including
and evolution over time, as well as that of Catholicism
assistant professor Youssef Yacoubi. Yacoubi recognized
itself. From the collections Bishop Bayley acquired in
the author, Abd al-Jalil bin Muhammad bin Ahmad
Europe to the donations of alumni and friends of the
ibn Azzum al-Muradi al-Qayrawani, a Sufi writer and
school in neighboring communities, the sacred texts serve
historian from the Tunisian city of Kairouan who died in
as a timeline, and as the school evolves, so do its materials.
1553. “There is always more to learn from books like this,
“When students come into the library and experience
that have traveled a long way from home,” Ponichtera
historic sacred texts firsthand, it can be transformational,”
said. “These books provide an opportunity to connect with
said Ponichtera.
people across time and space.” The book even carries a
“There can be an intimidation factor, but we try to make
faint scent of smoke, like a campfire, or perhaps something
it friendly and remind them that these pieces are meant
from the tanning process, transporting the reader to
to be used,” she said. “We encourage people to look at
another world.
the entire object and consider what it might have meant to those who first used it. These pieces can leave a big
THE VALUE OF A COLLEC TION
impression.” n
A rare book and sacred text collection on the level of Seton Hall’s is an important piece of enrichment for the student
Amanda Loudin is a Maryland-based freelance writer.
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S P OR T S | H A R R I S F L E M I N G
Passport to a Professional Career
I
n the eyes of three former women’s basketball
says. The same goes for basketball. “There’s a lot more
standouts, Seton Hall is the chosen family that
technical stuff here. In the States, it’s quick basketball,
provided the roots and wings they needed to play
and more athletic.”
professionally overseas.
Allesch graduated with a bachelor’s degree in
Alexia Allesch, Azana Baines and Sidney Cooks all
business and an M.B.A., and appreciates the lessons
started their college careers elsewhere, but say that
learned in the classroom and on the court. “Coach B.
a strong sense of family and community helped draw
always talked about being on time, being disciplined.
them to Seton Hall.
It helped prepare me for here,” she says. “And I think
Coach Tony Bozzella credits their international
Seton Hall really prepared me for this life.”
success with boosting the Pirates’ recruiting profile. “Everyone wants to have the opportunity, when they first
AZANA BAINES
start college, to play professionally,” he said. “It’s really
A couple of years playing and learning at Virginia Tech and
helped us recruit American student-athletes. They see
Duke left Azana Baines hungry for a different experience,
that if they come to Seton Hall, the coaching staff can
and she found it in South Orange. “All the staff really take
help develop them into the best basketball player they
care of their players, while you’re there and even after,” she
can be.”
says. “That’s something that I really, really value because
For these three, that opened the door to a whole
I’m a family-oriented person. The fact that I could come
new world.
into an environment like that was very important to me.”
ALEXIA ALLESCH
honors after the 2023-24 season.
Baines went on to earn first-team All-BIG EAST A native of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, Alexia Allesch
32
She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology
was the first member of her family born in the U.S.
and plans to pursue a masters in sports psychology,
— her parents and siblings are all natives of Austria.
but meanwhile her basketball journey has taken her a
This summer she represented Austria in the FIBA 3x3
long way from her roots in Blackwood, New Jersey — to
competition, and now she’s playing in Germany’s pro
Spain, and even Mongolia. “Pro basketball has always
league first division.
been a dream of mine, and was always something I knew
Even so, playing and living in another country has
I was capable of doing,” she reflects. “I feel like God just
been an adjustment for her. “It’s a big culture change.
always placed the right people in my life to make sure
Everything’s different — the food, the way of life,” she
that I did the things I needed to do.”
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Azana Baines
s
Alexia Allesch
SIDNEY COOKS
Since earning her master’s in public administration,
Sidney Cooks had enough experience at Michigan State
the native of Kenosha, Wisconsin, has traveled the globe
and Mississippi State to make an enlightened decision
so much — playing in Argentina, China, Mexico, Puerto
about where she wanted to finish college. Friend and
Rico and Taiwan — that she had to get a new passport
former teammate Andra Espinoza-Hunter, who also
when the old one filled up with stamps.
completed her career at Seton Hall, thought the Pirates would be a great fit for Cooks. Photo courtesy of Seton Hall Athletics
Sidney Cooks
She was right. Cooks earned All-BIG EAST first team
She notes that when an American signs with an international team, expectations are high. “They’re expecting you to come in and to immediately impact
one year and second team the other. She hadn’t been
their team, and change the dynamic. It can be a lot of
quite sold on Seton Hall at first, but the University’s
pressure,” she says. She’s adapted nicely, though. “I’m
community and culture convinced her. “I didn’t even visit
definitely living my dream. I am a professional. I get paid
the campus or anything. I hopped on a Zoom call with
to do what I do. This is everything I ever wanted.” n
Coach B., and of course, you gotta love him. His energy is contagious,” she recalls.
Harris Fleming is a freelance writer based in New Jersey.
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S P OR T S | H A R R I S F L E M I N G
34
S E T O N H ASLEL T M ON A GHAAZLI LN EM A|G AFZAI LNLE/ W|I NST PE R I 2 N 0G 2250- 2 16 8
Serving Aces On and Off the Court
T
o call Niamh Campbell a student athlete would
Off the court and out of the classroom, she works as
not be incorrect, just somewhat inadequate. Sure,
much as she can for PSN, where she’s gained experience as
she’s starting her third year on a Division 1 tennis
a production assistant, reporter, play-by-play announcer
team after being voted co-captain by her teammates
and color commentator. Being in front of the camera talking
and was chosen as her class’s Scholar-Athlete of the Year in
to viewers appeals to her the most, and is what she sees
2024-25. Yes, she has a 4.0 grade-point average. But she’s also
herself doing after graduation.
a polished, capable journalist and commentator on Pirate Sports Network (PSN), an enthusiastic cook, an avid movie
daunting: classes in the morning before lunch and
watcher and a Formula 1 racing aficionado.
homework, a couple of hours of team practice followed
It’s hard to figure out how she has time for it all. “She’s
by soaks in the hot and cold tubs, and, some days,
got a 30-hour day that I haven’t figured out how to unlock
working a game for PSN. And then it’s home to finish up
yet,” says women’s tennis coach James Enzler.
any schoolwork and hang out with friends, cooking and
Campbell’s path to Seton Hall was circuitous. She claims two hometowns — Phoenix, Arizona, where her parents live now, and Manchester, England, where she spent time growing up. But she spent her last two years of high
watching a movie. “If I don’t put 100% into something, I feel like I’ve failed,” she says. But her other motivator is more personal.
school at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain.
When Campbell was 10, her parents explained that her
Despite focusing heavily on tennis there, it was
brother had been diagnosed with autism. “They were telling
academics that sparked Campbell’s interest in Seton Hall
me there’s a possibility I’ll have to take care of my brother
after her parents texted her photos of a brochure they
for the rest of my life, and there’s stuff that he’s not going
received in the mail. When she read about the new Center
to be able to do,” she says. “Just hearing that, and knowing
for Sports Media, she knew she had to look more closely.
the responsibility that could potentially come for me in the
She applied and was accepted before even having
future — I just knew that if my brother might not be able to
a conversation with Enzler.
do this, then I want to be able to do it. I want to set myself
When they did finally speak, via Zoom, he was quick to see Campbell would be an asset to the team. As he tells
Photo courtesy of Seton Hall Athletics
Even in the offseason, her daily routine may seem
up in life where I can be successful and be there for him whenever he might need me.”
his players, “talent will get your foot in the door, but then
Her coach takes it on faith that Campbell is prepared
it’s dependent on the calls we have,” he explains. “With the
to meet any challenge. “So many times you hear friends,
maturity she showed during that call I was immediately
players, people just have very large ambitions of what they
like, yes, if you’re coming to Seton Hall, I am happy to
want to do in life,” Enzler says. “She’s a really special player
create a space for you.”
… really special friend, really special teammate. I don’t
She’s risen to No. 1 in doubles on the team, but hopes to get more time on the court in singles this year — if that’s
have a shadow of a doubt that given any opportunity, she’s going to fulfill it.” n
what the team needs. She also runs the team’s social media presence.
Harris Fleming is a freelance writer based in New Jersey.
35
NE WS & N O T ES
alumni
60s 70s
Kenneth F. Kobularcik ’72 has published his latest children’s book, Going For A Walk With Papa: The Beach Story, a tale celebrating the bond between a grandfather and his granddaughters. The release was featured by PR.com in the Christian Faith Publishing section. Anne G. Peach ’76, a dame in the Order of Malta, was elected hospitalier for the American Association. Her husband, Kenneth R. Peach ’76, is a knight in the Order. They both travel internationally and across the U.S. each year to serve the poor and the sick. Edward F. Pohren ’76 retired after 40 years of practicing law in Omaha, Neb., and now serves as president of the board of directors for the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum.
80s
Vincent J. Nascone Sr. ’80 retired after a 26-year career with Bayer Corporation, where he served as senior manager of U.S. Information Technology. He continues to volunteer with Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center’s Oncology/Radiation Department and the American Red Cross Blood Transport Team. Jane A. Vitart ’82 published a memoir and cookbook, C’est La Vie! Life, Love and New Hope: The Ingredients of an Authentic French Bakery. Dennis G. Collins ’87 was named to the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management list for both 2024 and 2025. Dawn M. Mrozak ’89, who has served as a trustee on Capella University’s Board of Trustees since 2023, joined Fairleigh Dickinson’s Advisory Board for Marketing, Management, and Entrepreneurship in 2024, and in April 2025 was recruited as Trinity Life Sciences’ first chief marketing officer.
36
00s
William C. Dwyer, Ph.D. ’63 has published his book, Gentle Inspiration, a compilation of short Christian inspirational messages.
90s
Keri C. Orange-Jones, Ed.D. ’93 co-authored Learners First: Purpose and Practicality in Your Early Years of Teaching. With nearly 30 years of experience in education, she serves as assistant principal at Edison Middle School in West Orange, N.J., and as an adjunct at William Paterson University. She also wrote a blog post “Mission: Putting Learners First,” which highlights themes from her book. Michael J. Parlavecchio ’93/J.D. ’96 was sworn in as a judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey on July 25, 2025, and is assigned to the Essex County criminal division court. Jeanette Peña-Diaz ’94, director of special education and organizational accountability at Union City Board of Education, was appointed by Gov. Phil Murphy to the New Jersey State Board of Education. She was also elected chairwoman of Hudson County Community College, and is the first Hispanic person to hold the position. Maryjean G. Ellis ’96 co-authored the book, Mental Disorders in Social Security Disability Practice.
Daniel J. Galdo ’01 joined Inizio Engage, a healthcare solutions firm, as senior vice president of finance. Christine C. Fitzgerald ’02 was installed as president-elect of the Hudson County Bar Association on January 9, 2025, and as chair-elect of the Family Law Executive Committee for the New Jersey State Bar Association on May 15, 2025. Catherine W. Branco ’03 co-authored the book, Intracoastal Voyage of the Sea Scape. Jennifer A. Smyth ’03 was sworn in as an assistant clerk magistrate at the West Roxbury Division of the Boston Municipal Court in Boston. Jeanette Pine ’03 was honored as Teacher of the Year by Watchung Elementary School in Middlesex Borough. Michael C. Shera, M.A.E. ’03 received his Ph.D. in teacher education and teacher development from Montclair State University in June. Garry D. De Boer ’05 published Taki Souvlaki: A Taste for Gratitude, a children’s book introducing young readers to gratitude through a spirited journey across Greece. Kenneth R. Dorsey ’05 published Kingdom Faith Spirit-Filled Life Understanding Your Divine Self, for Kingdom Service.
10s
Christina Mermigas ’10 was promoted to equity principal at the law firm of Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. Brittany A. Martinez ’12 served as lead producer of the podcast “Camp Shame,” which premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. The series investigates the dark legacy of Camp Shane, the world’s first weight-loss camp for children, and was selected for Tribeca’s official audio storytelling lineup.
20s
Victoria Nicastro, M.S. ’25, was named a speech-language pathology clinical fellow at the Phoenix Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare. She celebrated with her aunt, Kim A. Romola ’83.
PROFILE
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Leading with HOPE
S
heryl Steadman, M.P.A. ’99/M.S. ’19, has put her Seton Hall master’s degrees to use as the founder and CEO of H.O.P.E. Collective, Inc. a nonprofit
organization with a foundation in “Helping Others through Partnerships and Exchanges.” The main objective of the organization is to provide integrated solutions to problems that many rural communities face. Having grown up in a small town in South Carolina, Steadman moved to New Jersey in 1994, working as a compliance officer at Prudential Insurance (now Prudential Financial). After seeing how rural communities never blossom like larger cities do, she decided to pursue an M.P.A. at Seton Hall, drawn to the opportunity to study nonprofit management and work for an organization that aligned with her personal values. “I discovered that I could get an M.P.A. from Seton Hall, and also do something with a specialization in nonprofit management, a sector that I always wanted to pursue,” Steadman says. After earning that degree, then a graduate certificate in United Nations Studies and an executive master of science in international affairs, she moved back south to
University of South Carolina’s School of Entrepreneurship
Atlanta in 2020. But it wouldn’t be until 2021, during the
in the summer of 2024.
Photo courtesy of Sheryl Steadman
height of the COVID-19 pandemic, that H.O.P.E. Collective
Recently, Steadman and her board members
would be born. Speaking about the purpose of the
reassessed how they are serving their community and
organization, Steadman said, “H.O.P.E. Collective itself
put H.O.P.E.’s partnership with Junior Achievement
was designed to bring together different organizations
on hold to look at small businesses and see how
or groups of people that could help us deliver the
they can benefit from having students take part in
services of our pillars to the local community.” The
apprenticeships. “We as a board believe that we have
pillars that H.O.P.E. Collective has built itself on are
to be in alignment with the communities that we serve.
health, education and entrepreneurship.
It is important to make sure that programming we
One of the organization’s first initiatives was partnering with the local Junior Achievement to host
offer is relevant and impactful,” she says. Asked to advise the next generation of nonprofit
a two-week entrepreneurship program at her former
leaders, Steadman says, “It’s important to listen
high school over the summer. Steadman notes that
and engage the communities that you’re serving.
one of the students enrolled in the program was invited
The needs are going to vary from neighborhood to
to participate in an entrepreneurship camp at the
neighborhood.” | Z ACHARY COONE Y ’20
37
NE WS & N O T ES
In Memoriam Gerard A. Nardone ’54 Francis X. Radigan ’55 John F. Bradley ’57 Kenneth C. Dempsey ’57 Louis F. Williams ’57 John F. Callinan Jr. ’58 John J. Kanya ’58 Nicholas J. Moran ’58 Edward A. Szerencsits ’59 Thomas E. Shannon ’59 Maurice W. Lavoie ’59 Arthur T. Fricke ’60 Gerald A. Stefanski ’60 James P. Bailey ’60/Ph.D. ’79 Eileen Connolly ’60 James T. Sehulster Jr. ’60 Raymond M. Wolak ’60 Edward J. Petrus ’61 Mary H. Henwood ’61 Albert T. Cabral ’62 Ronald R. Diener ’62 Marilyn Hart ’62 Tobie J. Vella ’62 William J. Irwin ’62 Thomas A. Reilly ’62/M.A.E. ’67 John R. Bleitzhofer ’62 Walter E. Glodek ’62 Joseph A. Spiotta ’63 Kenneth H. Zilli ’63
38
Lawrence Schmieder ’63 George D. Brown Jr. ’63 Father Michael J. German ’64/M.Div.’75 Joseph F. Hackett ’64 Richard M. Skelly ’64/J.D. ’69 Thomas J. Gilligan Jr. ’65 Mary F. Madigan ’65 Nicholas J. Daugenti ’65 John Blake ’66 Theresa M. Boitano ’66 Patrick J. Breheny ’66/M.B.A. ’68 Joseph T. McDonald ’68 Richard A. Van Sprang ’68 Eugene F. Furey ’68 Susan S. Kinling ’68 Roger W. Ziegler ’69 Susan Carvalho ’69 Michele M. Bertone ’69 Kathleen H. Mathews ’69 Patricia L. Kaplan ’70 Mary A. Lombardi ’70 William T. Conway ’70 Arthur A. Frazzano ’71 Dennis E. Gallagher ’71 James R. Scriff ’72 John J. Ference ’72 Charles P. Weiss ’72 Robert G. Murray ’73 Elaina Rewiski ’73
Dennis O. Dowd ’74 Dominic Mormile ’74 Kathleen Blechar, M.A.E. ’74 Michael Kersey ’75 James M. Maguire ’75 Vera G. Castagna ’75/M.A.T. ’05 Dolores C. Downs ’76 Louis Delauro ’78 Richard Granziel ’78 Susan K. Moskal ’78 Thomas Fantini ’78 Stephen Scypinski ’79/M.S. ’82/ Ph.D. ’84 Meliné Karakashian, M.A.E. ’80/ Ph.D. ’92 Kathleen Kane ’82 Regina A. Reeder ’82 Carmen Saginario ’83 John J. Ficarra ’85 Raymond Rowe ’86 Andrea C. Aluisi, M.P.A. ’87 Robert R. Behn Jr. ’87 Marcia E. Bossart, Ed.D. ’90 Geraldine Mehu-Moore ’92 Jeanne T. Reyes ’98 John E. Pyndus ’01 Roy Krieger, M.B.A. ’02 Steven R. Hendershot ’06 Michele L. Parkins ’09
first invitation to a Christmas presentation
by now-Archbishop Skurla to produce a documentary
at the Immaculate Conception Seminary School
about the Byzantine Catholic Church and its 100th
of Theology, followed by a second invitation a
anniversary in America. As a woman of faith, Diane’s
year later is what propelled Diane Rabiej Grip, M.A. ’19,
strong background with the Byzantine church and Bob’s
to obtain her master’s degree in theology.
career in journalism made them the perfect pair to work
Grip, a native of Rahway, New Jersey, is a lifelong member of the Byzantine Catholic Church of the Ruthenian Rite. Her grandparents immigrated to
on this project, which they titled, Treasury of Blessings. It turned into a two-year labor of love. There were many facets to creating the documentary.
America from present-day Ukraine, and keeping alive
“It involved considerable travel, archival research and
the traditions of the holy days and customs within the
developing the narration as well as finding the music to
church has always been important. “I’m blessed because
tell the story,” she says.
both my husband and I are Byzantine Catholic ... It’s been a blessing.”
Treasury of Blessings was released in October 2024, and broadcast on EWTN (Eternal Word Television
During her adult life, Grip has lived in New York City
Network). Reflecting on what it meant to be a part of
and Phoenix and now lives in Fairhope, Alabama, always
the church’s 100-year anniversary, Diane said, “It’s
keeping her faith close to her. After volunteering with
very humbling and emotional too, because this is who
the church as a catechist for many years, in 2002, Bishop
we are. And it’s to be shared.”
William Skurla asked her to work for him. “It’s always
Grip says her time at Seton Hall allowed her to grow
been a very humble experience working closely with the
even deeper in her faith and keep an open mind to all
bishops, pastors, the women religious and lay people,”
there is to learn. “I don’t think that learning has any age
she says.
limit. That’s what I found at the Immaculate Conception
In 2022, she and her husband, Bob, were approached
Seminary at Seton Hall.” | Z ACHARY COONE Y ’20
Photo courtesy of Diane Rabiej Grip
PROFILE A Labor of Love
A
SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
39
NE WS & N O T ES
Pirate Babies 1. Adrianna M. (Bertoldi) Spinelli ’17, M.S.N. ’23, and Vincent A. Spinelli ’12 welcomed their daughter, Sabrina Rose Spinelli, on May 30, 2025. 2. Cora E. (MacLean) Turenne ’01 and Louis M. Turenne ’02 welcomed their daughter, Audrey Elise Turenne, on January 12, 2025. 3. Megan A. (Francis) Curto, M.A. ’11, Ed.S. ’13, and Alexander S. Curto ’12, along with big brother Owen, welcomed a daughter, Emmarie Grace Curto, on May 6, 2025.
1
Tag us in your Wedding, Baby or Pirate Pride photos @setonhallalumni or email us at alumni@shu.edu
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SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Pirate Pride 1. Carmela (Cirilli) Ginefra ’18, Olivia L. DeMeo ’18/’20, Christopher Prast ’18 and Vincent G. Ginefra ’18, best friends who met at Seton Hall and are now couples, celebrated the Fourth of July with a round of golf.
1
2
2. Susan C. (Weber) Welch ’91 celebrated more than 30 years of friendship with classmates Donna M. (Robinson) Taylor ’91, Dianne B. (Stack) Dougherty ’91, Catherine A. Gilvey-Manning ’91 and Sharon M. McGrath ’91 on a weekend trip to London, including a visit to Windsor Castle. 3. John J. Montemayor ’90 completed the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in May 2025. This photo was taken in Santiago, Spain, at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the site where the remains of Saint James are believed to be buried. 4. Nancy (Beckett) Duffy ’89 and friends Anna (Karnish) DeGennaro, Dani (Simon) Florence and Yolanda (Stancati) Monteverde, all alumnae from the Class of 1989, celebrated their annual Roommates Weekend in Atlantic City — still inseparable after more than 40 years.
5
4
3
4
Correction: In a previous issue, we misstated details in a caption. Sandra Coyle DeRose ’75 submitted the article but did not attend the trip, and several alumni were not named. A group of eight WSOU radio station alumni, including (front left) Mark C. Cataldo ’80, Trish (Stewart) Ferretti ’80, (right) Gail Casale DeLuca ’80, Denise (Coyle) Hajjar ’81, Jim Ward ’80 and (not pictured) Suzanne E. Haluska Getz ’80, Lynn (Cadden) Breitner ’80, MaryAnn (Clarke) Alvine ’81, along with some of their partners, reunited in Italy this summer after purchasing a Tuscany villa stay at the WSOU 75th Anniversary Dinner silent auction. Nearly 50 years after first meeting at Seton Hall’s station, they explored Rome, Florence, Siena and Cortona while celebrating Italian culture and lifelong WSOU friendships.
41
NE WS & N O T ES
Tying the knot 1. Christina A. (Dunham) Agrusti ’17 married Scott Agrusti at Seton Hall’s Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on June 20, 2025. 2. Kristen M. Rinaldi ’18/M.S. ’20, and Eric Ciaglia Jr. ’18/M.B.A. ’19, were married on June 21, 2024, in West Point, N.Y. 3. Amanda L. (Rebelo) Artista ’19 and Alessandro V. Artista, B.S. ’19/M.S. ’20, tied the knot in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on August 3, 2025. The couple met at Pirate Adventure in June 2015. 4. Lauren E. (Machalany) DeSantis ’20 and Peter F. DeSantis ’20 were married in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on April 27, 2025.
1
2
5. Kayley N. Mullooly ’21 was married in April 2025 and celebrated with her Seton Hall friends. 6. Allison T. Powers ’19 and Alex Gibbons ’21 married in May 2025. 7. Kathleen “Katie” M. (Lynch) Thompson ’18/’20 married Ryan Thompson on June 28, 2024, at Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes, N.J.
3
Tag us in your Wedding, Baby or Pirate Pride photos @setonhallalumni or email us at alumni@shu.edu
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SE TON HALL MAGA ZINE | FALL/WINTER 2025-26
Matthew A. Skopak ’08 married Marianna Anastasiou on July 20, 2024, in Corfu, Greece. Several family members and Seton Hall graduates joined them for the celebration.
Share your news... 5
Have you been promoted? Earned an advanced degree? Been honored for professional or personal achievements? Recently married? Added a baby Pirate to the ranks? We want to know. Send news to: Department of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy Alumni News and Notes 457 Centre St., South Orange, NJ 07079
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L AS T WO RD | P E G E E N H O P K I N S
Space for Innovation at Seton Hall An Innovation Hub is coming to Walsh Library to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities fueled by access to emerging technologies. Located on the ground floor, the hub will include open study space, technology consultation areas and studios to explore virtual reality and artificial intelligence (AI) as well as content creation, including a recording space and podcast studios. The project was made possible through state appropriations and University funding. Seton Hall magazine editor Pegeen Hopkins spoke with chief information officer Paul Fisher to learn more about the initiative.
designing a model create the structure in a 3D printer.
What is Seton Hall’s history with technology and innovation?
A design student could test the output of a 3D design to
In the late 1990s, Seton Hall recognized the impact
see if it holds up the way they believe it might. Or see if
technology would have on higher education — in both
it collapses because they didn’t get the mechanics right.
teaching and learning — when the Internet and the
For communications majors, the new space will have
microcomputer became standard. We launched a mobile
three podcast studios they can explore in.
computing initiative then, and today we’re still one of the few colleges nationwide to ensure our students have a standard baseline with a foundational piece of technology. Since then, we’ve been first movers in embracing e-portfolios and using virtual reality, well before these became mainstream technologies in education. We’ve
We envision the space being open and available to students 24 hours a day. They’ll have access to state-ofthe-art technology along with ample open collaboration, study and gathering spaces. Another part of this project’s mission is to make clear how to access the valuable library space on the main
delivered pioneering simulation experiences to students
floor. The entrance will feature an obvious connection to
— starting in virtual reality’s earliest days through to
the main floor where the circulation desk, information
the University’s new, state-of-the art medical simulation
commons and other important services are.
center that includes operating rooms, triage centers and more. Our continuing partnership with Adobe software ensures students and faculty have access to critical technology every 21st-century technology worker needs to be fluent with in order to succeed. Now we’ve committed to a migration of Seton Hall’s operational systems, moving the student information system to the Ellucian cloud by July 2027, which will allow us to be more agile and responsive as an institution.
44
create and build. We could help a physics student
What sets Seton Hall apart in empowering students in integrating technologies into their lives and work? Our faculty genuinely understand the benefits technology brings to our students and they readily incorporate new advances into their teaching; they see its value in reinforcing fundamental, cross-departmental skills — like writing or creating, for example. Another differentiating factor for Seton Hall is that we don’t innovate for the sake of innovating; we innovate to meet a specific student, faculty or administration-related
What is the vision for this new space?
need. We are mindful of being good stewards of the
Our vision is to leverage Seton Hall’s strengths and enable
University’s resources and innovating where it makes the
students to use 21st-century technologies to research,
most impact. n
UNLEASH YOUR LEGACY!
Include the University in your estate plans and make a gift to support
For All, Forever: A Campaign for a Greater Seton Hall.
Helen and Robert E. Wright ’67 are making an impact in the lives of our current students through the Robert E. Wright Accounting Scholarship. Through their thoughtful estate planning, they will endow the scholarship in perpetuity for our future students. To learn more visit our website: setonhall.planmygift.org C ON TAC T The Office of Gift Planning Sharon T. Morrissey 973.378.9878 Sharon.Morrissey@shu.edu
Bob and Helen Wright, right, with Dean Joyce Strawser, Ph.D., Stillman School of Business. Above, the Wrights' dog Eloise enjoys her campus visit.
PRESORTED STD NONPROFIT US POSTAGE PAID STRASBURG, VA PERMIT #201
Division of University Relations 519 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079
S AVE TH E DATE
ALUMNI WEEKEND 2026 39th Annual Many Are One Gala • June 5
3rd Annual Reunion • June 6-7
2nd Annual Alumni Golf Outing • June 8
Celebrate our distinguished Pirates.
Relive memories with classmates.
Tee off with fellow Pirates.
Seton Hall University has embarked on For All, Forever, a historic campaign that will strengthen every corner of our community for generations to come. Alumni Weekend plays a vital role in this vision by bringing Pirates together to celebrate, reconnect and give back. Proceeds support the RISE Endowed Scholarship Fund, empowering low-income, first-generation or students with disabilities to thrive. Scholarship support remains our highest fundraising priority, and your participation helps make it possible.
To stay connected and explore our full schedule of alumni events, scan the QR code or contact us at alumni@shu.edu or 973-378-9822.
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