Bonaventure Magazine | Summer 2023

Paying Tribute to a Cherished Uncle

It’s been 70 years since alumnus James Sullivan’s remains were identified and returned to his family following his death in a North Korean prisoner of war camp. May graduate Grace Foley is proud to help keep his legacy alive.

Cover Story

For more than 50 years, Fr. Dan Riley’s words, actions and legendary laugh have left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Bonaventure students.

Crank up the Volume

When we asked alumni about their favorite music during their time on campus, it definitely struck a chord. Tunes from Van Halen, Paul Anka, The Goo Goo Dolls, The Beatles, and of course, The Boss, all made alums’ music hit lists.

Editor, Beth Eberth Contributors

Tom

Jack Steger, ’22, ’23

BONAVENTURE

I’m energized by meeting the Bonaventura famiglia from Allegany to Italy and everywhere in between

You think you learned the basics in elementary school, those indelible lessons that stick in your brain forever, even after you ’ ve hit life’s 55-year mile marker

“Thirty days hath September, April, June and November. All the rest have 31, excepting February alone.”

Little did I realize that the months in a college president’s calendar have like 42 days or so it seemed during my whirlwind first year as the leader of this remarkable institution.

But I want to be clear: As busy as I’ve been, I couldn’t be more thankful for the experiences I’ve had, meeting so many members of the Bonaventure family, both on campus and in our passionate alumni network.

Coming on board last summer with the university on the brink of publicly launching our Bolder Bonaventure campaign, I fully understood that I’d hit the ground running or, more precisely, driving and flying

Including the public launch of the campaign at Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium in September and the Gaudete Awards event May 18 in Washington, D.C., I traveled to 18 events across the country, from Boston to Florida to California, talking about the significance of the campaign for the future of the university

I’m grateful you heard our message. With two full years left in the $125 million campaign, we ’ re more than 75% of the way to goal.

Academic facilities, starting with the renovation of Francis Hall to accommodate the DePerro School of Health Professions, were top priorities in the early stages of the campaign We’re making solid progress on fundraising for the Jandoli School, which is vital to bring the facilities in our revered communication school into the 21st century

Now, the focus of the campaign turns to the athletics pillar. A new weight and performance center, an indoor turf practice facility for outdoor teams, basketball practice facility, and upgrades to the existing turf fields are included in the overall project With more than 20% of our student body doubling as Division I athletes, providing these students with facilities to help them become more competitive in the Atlantic 10 is essential.

Aside from the donor events, I also had the opportunity among many others to share a pint with fans before the Bonnies thumped Notre Dame outside Belmont Park, break bread with friars at St Anthony Shrine in Boston, volunteer in Florida

with BonaResponds students for a day of hurricane relief over spring break, host SBU’s Alumni Council at our Olean home in October, and celebrate the best and brightest of our Jandoli School in New York City at the Hellinger Awards.

No question, it’s been a whirlwind, but a year full of experiences that Betsy and I have been blessed to be a part of

Perhaps the most meaningful trip we made, with some trustees and alumni, was to Italy this spring to visit the hometowns of our patrons, Bonaventure, Francis and Clare. I’ve felt the embrace of our Franciscan spirit since I stepped on campus last summer, but to walk in their historical footsteps gave me an even deeper appreciation of why this university has left such an imprint on so many people

We even had the chance to visit Magliano de Marsi, home of the Pietrobattista family, descendants of the family of Fr. Panfilo da Magliano, our first president Former University President Margaret Carney went door to door in the village more than 15 years ago to find them and invite them to our 150th anniversary celebration in 2008. (They thought so much of their visit that they sent their daughter, Flavia, ’19, abroad to earn her degree from SBU.)

The family could not have been more gracious welcoming us into their home, which didn’t surprise me at all They’re just as much a part of the extended Bonaventura famiglia as the 500 alumni who came home last month for Reunion Weekend

But, make no mistake, my favorite part of my first year has been right here on our beautiful campus Watching our faculty and staff work their magic to provide the essential Bona’s experience and getting to know our incredible students has been inspiring and motivating. Dinner with the friars is rejuvenating. Theater performances, athletics matches, dance performances, concerts, recognition ceremonies and kickball games are just a few of the opportunities that I’ve had to watch our students be extraordinary Bonnies

It’s been quite a trip so far. I can’t wait to see where this year takes me and where, together, we can take St Bonaventure

Dr Jeff Gingerich University President

While in Italy this spring, Jeff and Betsy Gingerich visited the hometowns of the university’s patron saints and first president.

Stephen Mimnaugh named VP for Mission Integration

Fr. Stephen Mimnaugh, O.F.M., has been named vice president for Mission Integration at the university Serving as interim university chaplain since August 2022, Fr. Stephen began his new post May 1

Prior to relocating to St Bonaventure in January 2022, Fr. Stephen was pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa, Florida, a thriving downtown parish of 1,600 families

During his tenure as pastor, the parish was honored by Catholic Charities Diocese of St. Petersburg, Inc. for its steadfast commitment to serving Tampa’s homeless during the pandemic.

After graduation from the University of Vermont, Fr Stephen worked in commercial banking for three years before entering the diocesan seminary But two years later, he discerned that God was not calling him to the diocesan priesthood Transitioning to real estate finance, Fr. Stephen soon relocated to his adopted home of Philadelphia

Ten days after the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Fr. Stephen contacted the Franciscan Friars of Holy Name Province He was ordained in 2009 and spent 11 years ministering in New York City at St Francis of Assisi Church and St Francis Friends of the Poor, Inc. Read more about Fr Stephen at www sbu edu/FrStephen

Alumni Burden, Davis and Mulhern join Board of Trustees

Three alumni who’ve had distinguished professional careers have been named to the Board of Trustees at St. Bonaventure: Donna Burden, Esq , ’84, Joe Davis, ’79, and Mark Mulhern, ’82

They will be officially sworn in at the board’s September meeting on campus

“I can’t thank the Nomination and Board Governance Committee enough for their diligent efforts in the search process for new trustees,” said Michael Hickey, ’84, Board chair. “I look forward to the wisdom and perspective Donna, Joe and Mark will lend to our board.”

Burden is a founding member of the Buffalo law firm of Burden, Hafner & Hansen, LLC.

Davis is the retired managing director of Morgan Stanley Fund Services.

Mulhern retired in 2022 as the chief financial officer of Highwoods Properties Inc., an officefocused real estate investment trust headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina

Ground floor of renovated Plassmann classrooms to be ready for use this fall

Renovation work in Plassmann Hall is continuing this summer as crews replace the original windows in the building and transform basement offices into state-of-the art classrooms that will be ready for occupancy this fall

The entire project includes renovations and space reallocations of the basement, second and third floors of the 64-year-old structure Faculty offices will be moved from the basement to the second and third floors and classrooms will be renovated and resized on the second and third floors in addition to the classrooms added in the basement. The rest of the building will be completed by fall 2024.

The $11 5 million project will create more modern and instructionally appropriate classrooms, add student gathering spaces, student-instructor and student-student collaboration spaces and create faculty offices that allow for proximity to classes and collaborative research among faculty across the liberal arts

SCHOOL OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS

OT program earns accreditation

The Master of Science in occupational therapy program at SBU was approved for accreditation for a full seven-year term by the Accrediting Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE).

Part of the Dennis R. DePerro School of Health Professions, the program welcomed its first cohort of students in August of 2021, operating with provisional ACOTE accreditation as it began the rigorous process of seeking full accreditation.

The ACOTE accreditation report recognizes university leaders for their “vision and commitment” to the OT program, and the importance of the university’s core values

in shaping the program ’ s curriculum. It also cites the university’s financial commitment in providing “outstanding space and innovative materials and technology ”

The School of Health Professions is housed in Francis Hall, which underwent an $18 million renovation project in 2020-2021 in order to provide state-of-the-art facilities for the OT program and the school’s other offerings, which include master’s programs in physician assistant studies, public health and nursing, as well as undergraduate programs in nursing, public health and health science Learn more at www.sbu.edu/OT.

Work this summer in Plassmann Hall includes replacing the building’s original windows

Jerseys of basketball greats Kenville, Lynch, Waltman added to Reilly Center rafters

Three greats of St Bonaventure basketball joined elite company this past year as their numbers were added to the Reilly Center as part of jersey recognition ceremonies

The jerseys of the late Bill Kenville, ’53, the only Bonnies men ’ s basketball graduate to win a championship at the NBA level, as well as women ’ s basketball standouts Kathy Lynch, ’81, and Hilary Waltman were all lifted to the RC rafters during the season

Kenville graduated with five scoring and four rebounding records with the program. His college career merited him All-America Honorable Mention honors in multiple years from the Associated Press, United Press International and Catholic Colleges

During his time at Bona’s, he helped lead the program to the NIT, the top national postseason tournament at the time, in both 1951 and 1952 He was inducted into the St. Bonaventure Athletics Hall of Fame in 1971.

Kenville enjoyed a pro basketball career after being selected by the Syracuse Nationals in the 1953 NBA Draft He played point and shooting guard for the Nationals from 1953-1956 and with the Fort Wayne/Detroit Pistons from 1956-1960 The highlight of his professional career was playing in two championship series with the Nationals, winning the NBA Championship in 1955. He was the high scorer in the seventh and deciding game of the championship.

Kenville’s No 20 jersey was recognized during a halftime ceremony at a November Bonnies game

The No. 22 of Lynch and Waltman

also now adorns the Reilly Center.

Waltman is one of the best players to ever don the Brown and White, ranking as the program ’ s all-time leading scorer with 2,106 points. She remains one of just two players in the 2,000-point club along with Dana Mitchell, ’10. In addition to leading the program ranks in scoring, Waltman stands as the program ’ s all-time leader in steals with 317

She became the first player in Bonnies program history to earn Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team accolades twice, garnering the honor in 1997-98 and 1998-99 after earning a Second Team nod as a sophomore.

Waltman also received Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team honors.

Waltman earned induction into the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.

Lynch was a trailblazer for all fu-

ture Bonnies women ’ s basketball players, becoming the first 1,000-point scorer in program history At the time of her graduation in 1981, Lynch held the program record with 1,029 career points, a feat accomplished before the installation of the three-point line.

Following graduation from St. Bonaventure, Lynch moved into officiating where her career would take her until her retirement in 2020 after more than 20 years at the NCAA level and nearly 40 overall with the whistle. Along with working Division I women ’ s basketball games including powerhouse Tennessee and UConn teams, Lynch also worked NCAA Division II and Division III national championship contests.

In 1991, Lynch became the first female member of the St Bonaventure Hall of Fame

Family members of the late Bill Kenville, Class of 1953

Director of Athletics Joe Manhertz congratulates Hilary Waltman (left) and Kathy Lynch

Celebrating a memorable Alumni Reunion

Bonnies, sharing stories, and forging new connections The joy and laughter that filled the air remind us of the lasting bonds you formed at St Bonaventure

The reunion was a whirlwind of reconnecting with fellow

We encourage you to stay connected and continue to inspire one another, no matter where life takes you. Once a Bonnie, always a Bonnie!

u

hundreds

Thank you, Bonnies! BONAVENTURE MAGAZINE 6

Members of the 1967-68 men's basketball team talked about their remarkable 23-0 season that is etched in Bonnies basketball history during “The Perfect Panel: Tales from the Original Iron Man 5 ” Pictured from left are Bill Butler, Gene Fahey, John Hayes, Larry Weise (coach), Vinnie Martin, Art Roberts (manager), and Jim Satalin Watch an archived recording of the discussion at http://bitly ws/JqcW

Marianne (Letro) Laine, ’68, and Dan Collins, ’73, (center) were honored as the 2023 William P “Stax” McCarthy Alumni of the Year during a Reunion Celebration in the Reilly Center that featured food and dessert stations, class photos and live music They are pictured with the late Stax McCarthy’s son, Tom, ’10 (left), and widow, Tena (Skrobacz) McCarthy, ’78

University President Jeff Gingerich (left) and Director of Athletics Joe Manhertz (right) congratulate the Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2023: Megan Van Tatenhove, ’12 (women’s basketball), Andrew Nicholson, ’12 (men’s basketball), Sam Maheu, ’09 (men’s soccer), former baseball head coach Larry Sudbrook, Jessica Jenkins, ’12 (women’s basketball), Adrian Blaszczak, ’06 (men’s swimming), Tricia Cuti, ’98 (women’s swimming), Brian Pellegrini, ’07 (baseball), and Cody Vincent, ’08 (baseball)

Fictional St Bonaventure hero David Brownington and his brainy cohort, JW Gomez, seek to retrieve their invention from the hands of a turncoat in “Heaven Ride, Book Three: Kill Time” by John Eccleston and Kerry Gleason, ’82. The stakes could not be higher in this actionpacked techno-thriller as friends form a rogue band of insurgents who must confront the Russian military and science consortium to complete their mission.

In “Kill Time,” David is joined by allies to embark upon a top secret mission with global consequences The finale provides an alternative vision for what Heaven Ride is and the power it may yield

“‘Heaven Ride Kill Time’ wraps up the trilogy with the same fact-based fiction, which adds to the potential reality of events. David Brownington, being a Bonnie, is a great main character because he’s thrown into conflict between his Franciscan values and pure evil that could devastate the world,” Gleason said.

Gleason is a former editor of The Bona Venture who now lives in Denver.

“The Architecture of Dreams and Other Stories” is a new release from John Callaghan, ’67. The collection of evocative short stories about men and women searching for new lives, peace and freedom is available on Amazon

In the story “Contrails,” a young woman plans an escape from her suffocating life and plots a new beginning for herself and her baby. “Custer’s Last stand” tells of a boy confronting the truth about his grandfather “Razor Blades and Kisses” recounts a puzzling case of adult mutism

The settings take readers to an isolated farm, a suburban community, a Florida condo, a mental hospital, and a hiking trail in the Atlas Mountains

toman Empire Novel” by 1982 alumnus Mark Macedonia takes place in Europe, 1529

In this richly detailed look at a pivotal period from the past, Macedonia weaves an epic romance set against political maneuvers. With lush prose and historically accurate characters, he offers an intimate window into the trials and tribulations of a powerful sultanate battling for European supremacy.

David Rowntree, ’54, shares memories from his 68 years of marriage to his wife, Marge, in his memoir, “Our Lifelong Love Affair ” He found the writing a form of combatting his grief following his wife’s passing in 2018, but also as a way to share the inspiration of their lifelong success with newlyweds or those contemplating marriage

The stories in the book began a few days before David began his studies at St Bonaventure College and recount the couple’s adventures while living on the East Coast, on the West Coast, in Alaska, and in Hawaii. The Rowntrees have a legacy of serving others They have volunteered at their children’s schools and with their churches, helped children receive life-changing surgeries from Shriners Hospitals for Children, and built homes with Habitat for Humanity

Br. Gregory Cellini, O.S.F., ’16, is the author of “Transform Yourself

Transform the World, A Franciscan View of Career” published by Tau Publishing.

The book takes the reader through Br. Gregory’s incredible journey from a 29-year career in big pharmaceuticals to his true purpose as a Franciscan brother His candid exploration of purpose, introspection and reflection provides practical tips on how to create a life and career of deep meaning.

chance to define and embrace a wider view of their contribution and move beyond personal success to actions that transform themselves and transform the world,” he said.

Br. Gregory’s primary ministry is at St Francis College in Brooklyn, where he is director of the Office of Mission, Ministry and Interfaith Dialogue, and an adjunct professor. He also hosts “Thank God For Monday,” a weekly radio talk show about the workplace.

Amy L. Sayward, ’91, is the co-editor of “Understanding and Teaching Contemporary US History since Reagan. ” The book is designed for teachers looking for new perspective on teaching the recent past, the period of U S history that is often given the least attention in classrooms

Less of a traditional textbook than a pedagogical Swiss Army knife, the volume offers a diversity of voices and approaches to teaching a field that, by its very nature, invites vigorous debate and puts generational differences in stark relief. Topics range from social movements around identity and representation to debates about migration, climate change, drugs, education, law enforcement and U.S. foreign policy.

Sayward is a professor of history at Middle Tennessee State University She is the author, co-author or editor of several books, including “The United Nations in International History and Tennessee Histories ”

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“This path I’m walking isn’t just for me It’s for all those who were told that they couldn’t or weren’t allowed to because they were different I’m so grateful that this university has given me the tools, skills and education that I need to move forward on the next part of my new journey.”

Graduate speaker Richard Vara of Houston, Texas

Commencement 2023

Congratulations to the 421 graduate and 406 undergraduate students in the Class of 2023! For hundreds of photos from Commencement weekend events and celebrations, visit www sbu edu/BonaFlickr A photo of Fr Dan Riley receiving his honorary degree appears on page 14

“We are sent out into the world with the love and support of our friends, family, and this university to give that love back to those around us It’s not an easy task, but it is what sets us apart from other graduates.”

Undergraduate student speaker Valentina Cossio Siles of Seminole, Florida

. J A M ES S U L L I VA N

Graduation holds special significance to student who pays tribute to Korean POW

BY BETH EBERTH

Jack Green was born the year his uncle, Lt. James F. Sullivan, ’49, graduated from St. Bonaventure College Four years later Green would be standing graveside, equally scared and excited as a 21gun salute boomed into the Boston air and signaled the end of Sullivan’s funeral

It’s been 70 years since Sullivan’s remains were identified and returned to his family following his death in a North Korean prisoner of war camp And it’s been nearly that many years since Sullivan’s beloved class ring from St. Bonaventure made it all the way from eastern Asia to his family in Massachusetts.

In mid-May, that ring made its way back to St Bonaventure as Class of 2023 graduate Grace Foley proudly kept Sullivan’s legacy alive Foley’s stepmom (and Jack Green’s sister), Bernadette McKinsey, had a brooch created with the stone from the ring, and Foley wore it during Commencement exercises on campus

“I said I would love to wear it and represent him,” said Foley, who is from Somerset, Massachusetts, and earned a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication.

Foley, who has visited the Veterans Monument on campus to see Sullivan’s name etched on the stone, said she wanted to wear the memento as a tribute to McKinsey and her family “because they have been a major part of my life.”

“I wanted to keep the tradition going. Bernadette has been a part of my life since I was in middle school,” she said.

At St Bonaventure, Sullivan would major in art, fall in love, and join ROTC.

Photo by Danny Bush p Grace Foley displays the brooch created using the stone from Lt Sullivan’s SBU class ring g

p At the top of the page, Lt Sullivan’s name on the War Memorial at St Bonaventure; photo by Danny Bush

p Above, an ROTC yearbook photo from the late 1940s, courtesy of University Archives James Sullivan is pictured in the back row, fifth from the left t At left, top, a photo of Lt Sullivan and his Army dogtags; photos courtesy of Green/Sullivan families

According to family history, the class ring was given to Sullivan by a college girlfriend. When his unit was facing combat, the men were stripped of their possessions Sullivan kept the ring under his tongue for days, and gave it to a service member who was returning back to Massachusetts.

At a post-war rally, Sullivan ’ s mother, Katherine Sullivan, was approached by her son ’ s friend, who delivered the ring fully intact.

As a young child, Green recalls his grandmother calling other Gold Star Mothers, sharing remembrances of James and retelling the stories of receiving life-altering telegrams about her only son.

“I think it helped her as some type of catharsis,” Green said Around Dec. 1, 1950, Sullivan’s unit

Grace Foley is pictured following Commencement with her stepmom, Bernadette McKinsey, and her dad, Tom Foley. A strategic communication major, Grace was honored in the spring as the School of Communication’s 2023 Woman of Promise

was out of ammunition and surrounded in a Chinese attack in Kunu-ri Ninety of the men from the unit were withdrawn successfully, but 50, including Sullivan, were listed as missing in action Later that month, Sullivan’s parents would receive a telegram indicating he was MIA.

In a Feb. 11, 1951, letter to his parents, Sullivan wrote, “I am alive and well. I am a POW in North Korea The Koreans and Chinese People’s Volunteers are treating us well and showing us every consideration.”

te of Sullivan’s death is unknown Growing up, Green, McKinsey r two siblings had been told their uncle died of starvation as a priswar Other reports indicate the camp he was being held in may een hit by an Allied Forces airstrike because the North Koreans to mark the area as a POW camp He was missing for a couple of before his remains were identified in 1953.

Born in Boston, Sullivan attended the highly competitive Boston Latin School, where he was an impressive athlete as a member of the football, baseball and hockey teams After high school graduation, Sullivan enrolled at St. Bonaventure, at the time still several years shy of becoming a university, to pursue a degree in art.

Documents sent to Lt Sullivan’s parents

Sullivan’s aunt, Sr. Mary Assunta Leonard, O.S.F., was an important part of the Franciscan community and a top administrator at the nearby St. Francis Hospital This may have been how he knew of the area and decided to attend St Bonaventure. Sullivan’s body was identified by X-rays he had voluntarily given while working as a repair person at St. Francis while he was in college. Green is moved by his niece’s gesture to honor Sullivan’s short but impactful life.

“He had such a short life; the least we can do is spend some time remembering him and respecting his sacrifices at such a young age, ” Green said.

(Beth Eberth is director of university communications at St Bonaventure )

A Path Unimagined

Tim Shaffer had narrowed his college decision to two: big-city Marquette and small-town St. Bonaventure. Hailing from Portsmouth, Ohio, a small city on the Kentucky border the size of Olean, Shaffer’s parents had a clear preference.

“Going to a big city like Milwaukee scared the bejesus out of my parents,” said Shaffer, Class of ’04. “But I was still torn.”

Until he attended Spring Into Bonaventure, the university’s capstone recruiting event for admitted students

“The thing that really sold me, ” Shaffer said, “ was being in the Reilly Center when Fr Dan (Riley) told us, ‘We want you because the world needs you. ’ That really resonated with me. ”

Today, Dr Shaffer is the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Chair of Civil Discourse at the University of Delaware and director of Civic Engagement and Deliberative Democracy with the National Institute for Civil Discourse at the University of Arizona

For more than 50 years, Fr. Dan Riley’s words, actions and legendary laugh have left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Bonaventure students. His profound impact was formally recognized in May when Fr Dan Bill Riley, as his 1964 classmates know him received an honorary doctorate from his alma mater at the 2023 Commencement ceremony

For more than 50 years, Fr. Dan Riley has inspired countless students and alumni

Fr Dan Riley, ofm, has been a fixture in the student section at Bonnies basketball games

In 1959, when Bill Riley was considering which college to attend, such an honor would have been impossible to foresee. Bonaventure wasn’t on his short list. He had endured what so many legacy students do.

“I was up to here with it, with my uncles and all their stories about Bonaventure,” said Fr Dan, whose uncles were alumni. Thomas, ’30, was a state assemblyman from Monroe County in the ’40s and ’50s and John “Rip” Riley, ’30, played baseball at Bona’s, was scouted by Giants Hall of Famer John McGraw and made it to spring training with the Baltimore Orioles

But his father, James “Jake” Riley, convinced him to visit Bonaventure one summer day before his senior year at Charlotte High School in suburban Rochester.

“I was this grumpy teenager in the back seat of the car on the trip down,” Fr. Dan recalled. “And then we go to the library, meet Fr. Irenaeus (Herscher), meet at least three other friars including Jerome Kelly and I just knew almost right away This was the place.”

Fr Dan didn’t come to Bonaventure with any plans to be a friar, however. Dr. Ray Sommers, a Bonaventure grad of 1932, helped Fr Dan survive a serious case of nephritis (kidney inflammation) when he was 3 years old and his sister, Ellen, survive spinal

meningitis when she was just 6 months old

“Kids, especially boys, were dying from nephritis at that time because there was really no treatment for it, but Ray was one of the best diagnosticians in Rochester so I had a great love for doctors and the healing profession and wanted to be one, ” Fr Dan said

His desire to heal shifted from the body to soul not long into his academic career

“Fr. Gervase White opened my eyes to theologians like Teilhard de Chardin and Thomas Merton and it began to feel like a world that was coming alive for me, ” Fr. Dan said.

p University President Dr Jeff Gingerich (right) and former Provost Dr Joe Zimmer place the doctorate hood on Fr Dan Riley during Commencement in May q Below right, Fr Dan is pictured with family members prior to the Commencement ceremony Below left, Fr Dan is pictured at age 7, as a high school senior and as a college senior

“I read a couple of biographies on Saint Francis and was just entranced by his life It was beginning to romance me ”

Fr. Dan wasn’t as entranced by the rigidity of the Catholic Church and its devotion to ritual over service and engagement, a perspective that diverged from his childhood experience

“What I experienced (as a kid) was a wholesomeness of faith, not an obligation for it,” he said “I remember wanting to go to church because I wanted to be with my family, but I didn’t have to go. I learned the rosary for my family, not because some nun was telling me I had to Too often, religion back then was confined to rules and regulations. It was a moralized way of looking at the world rather than engaging God The Franciscan world is about engagement and that’s what I wanted to do.”

By his sophomore year, he switched his major to philosophy, often visited the chapel in Devereux Hall to “learn prayer by praying,” and became an advocate for civil rights and social justice. Upon graduation from Bona’s, he joined the Franciscan Order in 1965 and professed his first vows in 1966.

WHILE FURTHERING HIS EDUCATION in Washington, D.C., at The Catholic University of America and Washington Theological Union, Fr. Dan was deeply moved by Martin Luther King Jr.’s social ministry, serving as co-chair of the task force of religious for Dr. King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference

“The summer before Dr. King was killed, I lived with a group of guys in downtown D C in a mixed-race community, taking classes, not trying to minister but just living there. It was a wonderful experience,” Fr. Dan said “We were taken into the headquarters of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and they asked if we could come down and be with them because King had been shot; this is before we knew he was killed Even before he was killed, I was committed to working with the Black population and was received well among them as a white guy. ”

Before he was ordained in 1971, Fr Dan’s hope was to be assigned to minister at a historically Black college or university, but the province said, “Bonaventure is basically falling apart with spiritual direction” and he was the only one at Holy Name Province who had a master’s degree in campus ministry

“Fr. Reginald (Redlon, university president) and Fr. Joe Doino, a wonderful friar and mentor of mine, basically said, ‘We need you up here,’” Fr Dan said “I really didn’t want to go, but if that’s where I was needed When you aren’t able to clearly say no, then maybe it’s a yes. ”

In his first stint at Bonaventure (1971-1974), Fr Dan collaborated with friars Dan Hurley, Hugh Eller, Gervase White and Robert White to invigorate Campus Ministries They began taking students on retreats to an old farmhouse that once served as a rectory. The retreats were the seedling that would grow into Mt. Irenaeus a decade later.

“I was the hippie friar so the kids seemed to gravitate toward me, ” said Fr. Dan, who was a minister-in-residence in Devereux Hall for 30 years. “The bonding and reflection that took place on those retreats was amazing.”

Fr Dan oversaw the conversion of the old maintenance building into the Thomas Merton Ministry Center, and the opening of Olean’s first Warming House in 1974, which started as a drop-in center for lonely adults before offering in the early 1980s a meal to hungry, homeless and disadvantaged people.

By then, however, Fr Dan became “burnt out,” disenchanted with the resistance to change at a time that demanded it He left in 1974 to co-found, with other friars, an urban house of prayer in east Boston, doing street ministry, dealing with interracial issues and concerns for the poor He then added to his résumé director of Vocation Ministry for Holy Name Province from 1975-1978

– Fr. Dan Riley

Photos at right from the top: students at the Mountain in 1996; Fr Dan and Br Joe Kotula with Patrick Brutus, ’09; and Fr Dan with Bob McCarthy, ’76

The students have given me so much that I’m barely aware of what I’ve given them. It’s been a gift to be involved in their lives and to see their sincere desire to come alive and experience God in their own way.

“I learned from so many great friars here, but too many of them were resistant to the changes of the times and having a hard time dealing with it all,” he said.

But like Michael Corleone in the “The Godfather III,” the province pulled him back in four years after he left Bonaventure.

Fr. Charlie Finnegan, O.F.M., provincial minister of Holy Name Province, told Fr Dan he’d like him to return to St Bonaventure, but “to take with him this time his dreams for doing regional vocation ministry ” He agreed

“It was different this time,” he said “Fr John O’Connor (Class of ’75) had done a lot of excellent ground work to establish what we ’ re still doing today, and we had a full team of friars and sisters and lay people, maybe eight people, doing this work. We were the only college in the state doing service work to this extent.”

In a life committed to building community, and armed with a promise from his province to grow his regional ministry, Fr Dan revitalized the dream of a retreat center for contemplation and reflection A Mountain advisory board made up of campus and civic leaders was formed in 1981.

Tim Shaffer said that when he was a student at SBU, “Dan gave me a good sense of how you think about something, how you hear other people and you hear the world around you ” Twenty years later their relationship continues

“We had a wonderful combination of people who were vigorous about the idea,” he said, his voice cracking. “This wasn’t just me. We can’t do these things alone.”

In 1984, the Mountain’s board of directors purchased 204 acres in rural Allegany County, 20 miles from campus, to establish Mt. Irenaeus. The project culminated with the dedications of Holy Peace Chapel in 1990 and the Mountain’s signature House of Peace in 1995.

Dedicated to contemplation and simple living for people of diverse backgrounds and all faiths, Mt. Irenaeus has added a significant dimension to the Bonaventure experience for students who’ve embraced its mission

“The Mountain is simply an invitation for us to come alive,” Fr. Dan said

INTRIGUED BY WHAT HE LEARNED in Fr Allen Weber’s Intellectual Journey class, Tim Shaffer, the Delaware professor, switched his major from journalism to theology over Christmas break his freshman year. He quickly became involved in University Ministries and traveled with Fr. Dan to Merton’s Hermitage near the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky and to California for a series of Mountain on the Road conversations.

“It was fascinating and a chance to get more deeply involved in talking about the things that we care about, the factors that are important in people’s lives, and how we are connected to each other,” said Shaffer, who won the Doino Award for Community Service as a sophomore. “Dan gave me a good sense of how you think about something, how you hear other people and you hear the world around you. ”

After completing his master’s in theology at Dayton, Shaffer recon-

p Fr Dan with Br Kevin Kriso, O F M , and the late Fr Dan Hurley, O F M

u With Curtis Middlebrooks in 2009

q Greeting guests at the Mountain’s 30th anniversary celebration

nected with Fr. Dan, who named him the vice president of Ministry and coordinator of Mt Irenaeus Ministries, Programs, and Activities.

“That basically meant I lived at the Mountain (for a year) and I drove the van to bring student groups up to the Mountain,” Shaffer said with a laugh. “But I did lead and organize the programming It was during this time that I really committed to not only the contemplative dimension, but the social action piece ”

What Shaffer admires most about Fr. Dan is that he “values perspectives that aren’t his ”

“He is always about including and not excluding,” said Shaffer, who is working with Fr. Dan on the idea of adding a Center for Civil Discourse at the Mountain “How do we listen deeply to one another and to the wisdom that others have? He’s always been deeply committed to that ”

HAMAAD KHAN, ’20, SHARES Shaffer’s admiration He visited the Mountain periodically as a Franciscan Health Care Professions student and a member of Asian Students in Action. His Muslim faith was never a barrier.

“On his first visit to the Mountain, Hamaad looks over at me, and here’s this vibrant, good-looking guy, relates well with people, and I tell him, ‘I think you ’ re going to be a leader,’” Fr Dan said “And he says to me, ‘Father Dan, I want you to be my mentor.’”

Khan quickly came to embrace Fr Dan’s spirit of inclusion and the ecumenical nature of his trips to the Mountain.

“They weren’t religious events, but spiritual ones, human events where we were all just connecting as people from different faiths and cultures,” said Khan, who’s in his third of four years at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine’s campus in Bradenton, Florida, pursuing a career in physiatry.

Khan’s parents had such respect for Fr Dan’s desire to learn more about their son ’ s faith that on Family Weekend of his sophomore year, Khan’s father handed Fr Dan a paper bag Inside was a copy of the Quran.

“His father said to me, ‘Fr Dan, I’m so glad my son chose you to be his mentor.’”

Fr Dan choked back tears recounting the moment He chokes up pretty easily these days, but Shaffer loves that about him.

“I have always appreciated Dan’s emotional vulnerability,” Shaffer said “He’s helped me, and I’m sure a lot of people, be more transparent in expressing myself, in allowing people to be expressive in a way that ‘society’ might diminish He has such an ability to connect with people in such a disarming way Fr Dan is authentically Fr Dan ”

Fr. Dan has been part of Karen Pulaski’s life since freshman orientation in the summer of 1980.

“He has a way of really seeing a person and finding a way to authentically invite someone in all within the first few minutes of meeting them,” said Pulaski, ’84, whose husband died at a young age. “He impacted my faith immediately and over the years I’ve known him, Fr Dan brought God to life for me, and helped my faith move from something I ‘did’ on Sundays to a way of walking through the world ”

Because of the impact Fr. Dan has had on her life, Pulaski decided to live at Mt. Irenaeus the past year.

“He is my mentor and my spiritual adviser,” she said, “but most important, he is my companion, my friend and my brother in every sense of the word through the good days and the bad.”

Despite the reservations he harbored about first coming to Bonaventure as a student, and returning to work in Campus Ministries in 1971 and 1978, Fr Dan, now 80, feels blessed by the relationships he’s developed and nurtured with countless people since 1960.

“It blows me away when they call or text me because I never thought I could make that kind of difference,” he said. “The students have given me so much that I’m barely aware of what I’ve given them. It’s been a gift to be involved in their lives and to see their sincere desire to come alive and experience God in their own way. ”

(Tom Missel is chief communications officer at St. Bonaventure.)

Fr. Dan brought God to life for me, and helped my faith move from something I ‘did’ on Sundays to a way of walking through the world.

Karen Pulaski

Fr Dan talks with Hamaad Khan, ’20

Em

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b r a c i n g t h e

o u t h w e s t

An alum’s love of the Southwest and respect for the history and culture of indigenous people led him to bequeath a stunning collection of Southwestern artwork to the Regina A. Quick Center of the Arts

The contemporary collection from the late David Van Buren, ’69, contains 27 paintings and drawings, 64 pieces of Southwest pottery by artists whose families have been creating pottery in the traditional manner for hundreds of years, and a collection of modern Kachinas that help bring to life the culture of the American Southwest

Van Buren graduated magna cum laude in 1969 from St Bonaventure, where he had majored in English literature and psychology and minored in philosophy and classical languages He later would go on to earn a Ph.D. in criminal justice from SUNY Albany in 1984.

p At the top of the page is a traditional style large olla by Zia artist Sofia Pino Medina (19322010) Above, a handpainted seed pot by James Augustine

“The Van Buren collection adds a new dimension to the University Art Collection,” said Evelyn Penman, assistant director and senior curator at the Quick Center “Premiering this fall alongside other cultural art from our collection, it will eventually be integrated into our contemporary galleries so that it can be acknowledged as the exceptional art that it is.”

Van Buren had a long and prestigious career at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. In 1975, he joined the faculty as an assistant professor in criminal justice. He retired in 2013 after serving as associate vice chancellor and dean of graduate studies for 13 years.

It was while serving as a visiting scholar in criminal justice at Northern Arizona University, researching peacemaking and the tribal courts of the Navajo Nation, that Van Buren fell in love with the American Southwest He embraced its history and culture and spent part of each year traveling and learning about indigenous people, notably the Hopi

Van Buren contacted the Quick Center in 2020 to talk with the director about making his art collection a gift to the art center. When Van Buren died unexpectedly in November of 2022, plans were made to travel to Wisconsin to pack up the artwork and bring it to campus.

Now that the collection is on campus, it is being cataloged and photographed before being assembled into the exhibition that is planned for the Quick Center.

of Acoma, New Mexico

Photos by Danny Bush Senior Multimedia Producer

p Colored pencil drawing titled “Spirits From The Peaks” by Wally Lokakema

q Below left, a Hopi Kachina titled “Maasaw” carved by Lenno Polingyumptewa The Maasaw promised to watch over the Hopi and ensure a smooth passage into the afterlife Below right, a Hopi Corn Maiden Kachina

p Details of a Hopi “Silent Warrior” carved by Gilbert Naseyowna

p “Oyster Catcher” by Tlingit First Nation carver Shawn Karpes of British Columbia u “Flicker and Owl” rattle by Karpes

This is a story of courage and determination.

It is a tribute to Jeannie Bionda, a member of the Class of 1994, who boldly blazed her own path in life and succeeded but who died too young.

And it is the beginning of the story of the powerful difference she will make in the lives of future students.

A daughter’s life’s work

becomes

Jeannie Bionda “ ran at a different speed” than most people, remembers her mother, Donna Bionda “It wasn’t that she lacked patience. Jeannie was just faster than others,” Donna said. “She challenged herself in order to learn confidence. She was determined that there be a point to her life That she be seen That she be heard.”

A Legacy of Possibility

school years. At St. Bonaventure she developed a new skill, a new enjoyment skiing.

She balanced her studies with extracurricular activities like joining the Ski Club and working on the college yearbook, the Bonadieu. Arguably, her most transformative experience was the study abroad trip to Oxford during her junior year through the Francis E. Kelley Oxford Program

“That was life-changing for her,” said Donna

- Excerpt from Jeannie

St.

Bonaventure University became

Jeannie’s chosen path to success Arriving on campus in 1990 as an English major, she made many friends, especially with Jennifer Lange, ’94. Jeannie played soccer during her grade school and high

Jeannie lived and studied at Somerville College of the University of Oxford in England for six weeks. Its origins as one of the few places a female could achieve a degree no doubt intrigued Jeannie. From diving deep into all that Oxford offered, including a reading of Hamlet in a graveyard, Jeannie knew what she wanted to do in life: become an attorney Upon earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English at St Bonaventure, she headed to Villanova University School of Law in the

fall of 1994.

“She had a dreadful first year, ” Donna said. “Law school was coldly competitive, in stark contrast to St Bonaventure’s friendly and encouragingly supportive academic environment ”

But Jeannie persevered.

Not only did she pay her own way through law school, she received the Law Alumni Award upon graduation for having shown the greatest scholastic achievement from the end of her first year to the end of her second year

To celebrate her graduation, Jeannie and her beloved “Bonnie BFF,” Jen, went off to Europe to enjoy what they called their “last student backpacking trip ” She took the opportunity to explore, knowing the results of the bar exam, $80,000 in student loans, and uncertainty about a job awaited her return.

After passing the bar in New York and New Jersey, Jeannie prepared to launch her career Lack of experience presented

“Perhaps one day you’ll understand Why I needed so much more. Though you were warm and safe, I want to make my own roar.”

Bionda’s journal

Jeannie Bionda (at left) and her SBU classmate Jennifer Lange loved the outdoors, whether it was skiiing or backpacking

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

a challenge in securing an opportunity as a young lawyer, but Jeannie was determined She accepted a paralegal job in the Park Avenue New York office of Kaye Scholer, LLP, and after just three months was offered a position as an attorney in the firm’s Corporate Real Estate Department

Eight years later, at 33 years old, Jeannie became a partner In 2017, Kaye Scholer merged with Arnold-Porter, LLP.

Jeannie’s favorite charity was the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and she was a regular participant in its Run for the Wild event to raise awareness of the threats facing wildlife at the Bronx Zoo and around the world From 2012 until 2019, she led a team including her mom and her niece and nephew focusing on the WCS’s Bronx Zoo’s chosen animal of the year. A loving aunt, she let her family choose their team’s name and image (carefully pre-selected by

Bolder because of the Bonaventure Fund

Your backing of The Bonaventure Fund ignites and inspires students to manifest their true potential.

Through your annual gift, you help boost financial aid and scholarship support for deserving students, enhance academic resources, generate an array of extracurricular programs, and infuse learning spaces across campus with the latest technology.

From the freshmen whose scholarships made the difference in bringing them to campus to the seniors who sharpen career goals through the Career and Professional Readiness Center, every dollar you donate helps pave the way to success!

Please make your tax-deductible gift today.

WAYS TO GIVE

Jeannie, herself). She was devoted to her family; her niece and nephew honor their adventures with “Aunt Nini” through continued support of her treasured cause.

For a star that rose fast and shined bright, the end came far too soon. Jeannie was diagnosed with cancer news she kept to herself. She succumbed in February 2021

To celebrate Jeannie’s life-changing Oxford experience, Donna sponsors students via the Oxford Annual Scholarship, hoping future Bonnies are equally inspired like her daughter

Additionally, Donna created the JCB Endowed Scholarship at St Bonaventure, which benefits a female majoring in English in honor of her daughter’s life.

For Donna, the preservation of Jeannie’s legacy continues by putting into action the treasure Jeannie worked so hard to establish. To help others open their own doors To make their own roar

Venmo

Be sure to mention your area of support in the “what’s it for” section Matching

Your employer may match your gift visit www sbu edu/matchinggifts Recurring

Annual Fund gifts aid comprehensive campaign

Your annual gift will also aid in the Bolder Bonaventure fundraising campaign. We call the campaign “comprehensive” because it will benefit almost every area of campus.

Since the beginning of its silent phase in 2018 through May 31, 2023, more than $96 million has been raised toward our $125 million goal Your annual support of The Bonaventure Fund will help the university achieve that goal while meeting the day-to-day needs of pursuing our vision and mission.

Another Bonathon season begins in the fall Add us to your select phone list: (716) 375-2000

Rejoice!

Three standout individuals were honored this past May at St Bonaventure’s Gaudete Medal Celebration at The National Press Club Ballroom in Washington, D.C.

This year ’ s honorees were (from left) Kevin C. O’Connor, D O , FAAFP, ’88, physician to the president of the United States, Janet Bodnar, ’71, editor-at-large, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, and Mark H Tuohey III, ’68, senior counsel, BakerHostetler.

The Gaudete Medal is one of St Bonaventure’s highest awards. It is bestowed to outstanding business and community leaders who exemplify the same spirit expressed through the life and teaching of St. Francis of Assisi. This year ’ s event raised more than $22,000 for student scholarships

Celebration of Excellence

A favorite springtime gathering on campus is the Celebration of Excellence. The luncheon and academic showcase offer scholarship and grant recipients the chance to meet with their generous benefactors.

Deandre Allen, ’23, received the Oxford Annual Scholarship and spent six weeks last summer studying at Trinity College of the University of Oxford He shared highlights of his study abroad experience during the luncheon.

The international exposure expanded Allen’s worldview, helping him realize the diversity of cultures and that he doesn’t have to be “rich or older to travel the world.”

Allen thanked his benefactor, Donna Bionda, who established a scholarship in memory of her daughter, Jeannie Bionda, a member of the Class of 1994

“The purpose of Jeannie’s life continues through giving to another human being,” Donna Bionda said

Giving back with a legacy gift

Alumni give back to St. Bonaventure in a multitude of ways They host events, assist departments on campus, talk with prospective students, and join in the Reunion Class Challenge

For the Class of 1971, they celebrated their 50th Reunion (a year late due to COVID concerns) with a Legacy Gift of $230,000 for Mission Integration. Presenting the check to Janet Glogouski, interim vice president for University Advancement (center), are Vinnie Cartelli, ’71, and Denise Benner,’71.

Luncheon speakers included (from left) Arts & Sciences Dean David Hilmey, former University Trustee Les Quick III, Deandre Allen, and University President Jeff Gingerich Below, Deandre is pictured with Donna Bionda

Our hearts are full!

Photos from these and other events are available at www sbu edu/BonaFlickr

Help build a Bolder Bonaventure

In a constantly changing world, our cherished and timeless Franciscan values are more relevant and more needed than ever before Your investment in the Bolder Bonaventure fundraising campaign will ensure that the university remains a place where students can continue to grow in their moral, intellectual and physical capacities, and where a strong commitment to Franciscan ideals thrives

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CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES

Athletics

The world of the NCAA Division I is ultra-competitive, and while our teams are highly regarded, we are not keeping pace with our Atlantic 10 peers. It is time to transform St Bonaventure’s athletics facilities.

Jandoli School of Communication

A degree from the Jandoli School means not only that our graduates have learned from the best, but that they are prepared to claim their spot among them. While our story is steeped in success, our current facilities in the outdated Murphy Building are woefully inadequate.

Franciscan Mission and Ministries

Our Franciscan charism calls us to inspire the soul. Your support is needed so that we can continue to enhance faith through liturgical programs, sacraments, worship experiences, and spiritual development

Academic Mission and Student Experience

Every initiative at St. Bonaventure is designed to offer students an intellectual journey that explores a larger context for their personal, professional, and civic lives. With your support, we can revitalize the campus, expand academic

Ignite and inspire future generations through your investment in A Bolder Bonaventure.

www.sbu.edu/ABolderBonaventure

programs, increase enrollment, and build a healthy endowment.

The Bonaventure Fund

Gifts to this fund have the most immediate and powerful impact across campus. They enrich the educational experience, strengthen student support programs, and expand financial aid They also position the university for future success by alerting corporations, foundations, and major publications to our strong network of alumni support

DePerro School of Health Professions

The popular DePerro School is a vibrant hub on campus, offering in-demand graduate and undergraduate health care programs While the school’s success is exciting, more support is needed to fully realize a broader health care learning environment

CLASS NOTES

44 SHARE YOUR CAREER NEWS WITH THE BONA NATION!

To submit professional news for the next issue of Bonaventure magazine, drop us a note in the enclosed envelope, fill out an online form at www.SBUmagazine.com or email magazine@sbu.edu. Submissions may be edited for clarity or length.

1962

Joyce (Malerba) Goldstein was honored as the Woman of Distinction by the Staten Island Chapter of New York State Women Inc Thomas Hannon retired “for good” in 2011. He and his wife, Andrea, have been full-time residents of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, since 2020 They have three children and eight grandkids.

1964 Meredith Anne (McConnell) Elmore (center) celebrated her 80th hday at a party with family and friends on Nov. 6, 2022. Among the tributes was a book about her written by her daughter.

1968

Rev. Dr. William Butler is a chaplain with AdventHealth Hospitals Inc and a pastoral care & community minister at the First Baptist Church of Orlando During his career, Butler worked more than 30 years as an ordained minister and more than 30 years as a clinical psychotherapist.

1970

Tom Drinkwater, a four-year member of the SBU and ROTC rifle teams, was honored as a Tom Downing Fellow at the Ruritan National Convention in Kingsport, Tennessee, “in appreciation for selfless personal effort.” The Ruritan national service organization focuses on fellowship, goodwill and community service in local communities. Only 1% of Ruritan members have received this honor. Drinkwater served two years as district governor of the Ruritan Rockingham District in Virginia, as well as two years as commander of his American Legion Post in Woodstock, Virginia. He also serves as district deputy for the Knights of Columbus. Drinkwater joined

the Knights’ Father Tom Plassmann Council while he was a student at St Bonaventure He and his wife, Eileen, live in Fort Valley, Virginia, where he keeps busy with his firearms business and garden since his retirement from the Army civil service

1973

David Resch is marking 50 years in the financial services industry in 2023 and 20 years since co-founding Post Resch Tallon Group, Inc.

1974

Valerie (Wiech) Cronin is vice president of the YWCA Niagara Frontier Board and is a board member of the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas. Robert Lindsey (and ’75) is executive director of International Doctors in Alcoholics Anonymous (IDAA) He is the first nonphysician to head up IDAA. Founded in 1949, IDAA provides an international network of addiction recovery support for doctoral level health care professionals and their families. During his career, Lindsey has worked at the local, state, national and international levels in roles including serving as CEO of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), CEO of Friends of Recovery New York, director of Community

Relations for the Betty Ford Center, and executive director of New York State Council on Alcoholism and Drug Addiction. Lindsey credits his BA in psychology and MS in counseling from St Bonaventure for introducing him to a life of service to others He has received numerous awards for his service, but the most meaningful was the Friars Award from the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement for his decade-long chairmanship of the Board of Directors of St Joseph’s Rehabilitation Center in Saranac Lake. Lindsey and his wife, Cassandra, live in Saratoga Springs

1975

Joe Rakowski marked 20 years at The New York Times in March, having worked on the metro, national, foreign and opinion desks. He lives within walking distance from the Long Island Sound shore in Connecticut with his wife, Terri Yannetti, a writer and editor He has fond memories of St. Bonaventure and the then-Department of Journalism under Dr. Russell Jandoli.

1977

Dr. John Robert Greene (also ’78) retired with the rank of professor emeritus from full-time teaching at Cazenovia College, where he had taught for 42 years.

1978

Kim Yaeckel Dixon is serving as president of Partnering for Peace: Friends of Peace Corps and Rotary International Partnering for Peace supports a formal memorandum of understanding between two organizations with the almost identical goals of friendship and peace throughout the world Peace Corps and Rotary communities work together on joint projects in the U.S. and in the countries of Peace Corps service. Dixon has returned from living in the country of Georgia, first with a Peace Corps assignment, and then on her own

Brown & brawn

Frank Squillace, ’86, and Tom Nash, ’71, are Charlottesville, Virginia, workout buddies

to work with several NGOs. She is remarried and looking forward to showing her husband, Tom Ziko, her old haunts at St. Bona’s.

1981

Patrick Brennan of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, has formed PBrennan Communications Consulting LLC to serve clients with his expertise in accelerating change, reinforcing values and culture, increasing manager effectiveness, and aiding post-merger and acquisition integrations. He is also the executive director of American Dreams, an Advisor Group foundation, which focuses on increasing diverse representation in financial services as well as financial literacy in high school and college students Lori V. Quigley, Ph.D., interim president of Medaille University, was named to the 2023 City & State Higher Education Power 100 list, which recognizes New York’s most influential academic leaders who are making a substantial difference in spurring job

Visiting the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)

Members of Students in Money Management (SIMM) were present for the closing bell on the floor of the NYSE on March 13, along with Bona alums Mary Beth Vigneron, ’84, and Nick Rivera, ’14 The students spent two days meeting various alumni in their Metro New York offices, networking and learning about future opportunities Founded in 2004, SIMM is an experiential learning program in which students in any major can learn about the investment process while helping to manage approximately $500,000 in real financial assets

Frank promoted to three-star general

growth, advocating for policy changes or advising city and state government officials. As a Seneca Nation, Wolf Clan member, Quigley emphasizes integrity and equity in her work. She has been actively involved in advocating for higher education and Native American education for more than 30 years. She serves as the ombudsperson for the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) Board of Directors In that role, she continues her efforts to advocate on a national level to advance comprehensive, culture-based opportunities for Native Americans. In 2004, Quigley earned a prestigious U S presidential appointment to serve on the National Advisory Council on Indian Education, where she served as chair until 2007 She also served as the chair of the Native American Indian Education Association of New York for more than 10 years, and has

Patrick D. Frank, ’89, was promoted to lieutenant general (threestar) and assumed command of U S Army Central in July 2022. Prior to that he served as chief of staff of U.S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida, and before that as the commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana Throughout his career he has served in a variety of command and staff assignments including deputy commanding general and acting senior commander of the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas; executive officer to the commander of Operation Resolute Support of the International Security Assistance Force; and executive officer to the vice chief of staff, U.S. Army. He formerly served as commander of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team “Spartans,” 10th Mountain Division, deployed in the surge of forces to Kandahar, Afghanistan, for Operation Enduring Freedom XII-XIII; commander of 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry “Black

Lions,” 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, deployed to Baghdad as a part of the surge during Operation Iraqi Freedom-V; aide to the secretary of the Army; deputy G-3 and brigade S-3 in the 101st Airborne Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom-I; and had company commands in the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, where he also deployed as a staff officer in support of Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, and during a tour with the 3rd Infantry Division, Germany, in support of Operation Desert Storm. His awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge and Parachutist Badge, and the Expert Infantryman Badge

served as the chair for the Seneca Gaming Corporation Board of Trustees

1982

Anne Sweeney Holliday is the communications coordinator for the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany. She previously worked as the news director for WESB Radio in Bradford, Pennsylvania, for more than 15 years and as a general assignment reporter for The Bradford Era newspaper for several years Fran Machina left the Syracuse University Whitman School of Business to become the director of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) in Rome, New York. He will lead 1,000 employees providing an array of accounting and finance support to the U.S. Army, Defense Health Agency and the U S Special Operations Command

1983

Danielle (Belliveau) Dehm has fulfilled a personal goal of completing a doctorate in executive leadership from St. John Fisher University after a career in education spanning 37 years as a kindergarten teacher, principal at Victor Primary School, adjunct professor, and Region 11 representative to the School Administrators Association of NYS (SAANYS). “A second career as an assistant professor in the Educational Leadership Department at SUNY Oswego and coaching many leaders throughout the state highlights the possibilities in retirement,” she writes Brady Sullivan is a defense attorney in the Veterans Court of Florida He is also a member of southwest Florida’s Team Rubicon, a veteran-led humanitarian organization that serves global communities before, during, and after disasters and crises, and a sailing captain with OceanVenture, which provides team building for veterans.

1984

Dr. Cairenn “Kerry” O’Donnell Broderick retired in 2017 to pursue a second ca-

reer as a labor relations specialist with New York State United Teachers in the Tarrytown Regional Office after a 33-year teaching career, which included 10 years as the president of the White Plains Teachers’ Association. She and her husband, Michael, live in White Plains, New York, and have four sons. Rob Buckla, Ed.D., is leading the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools’ Alumni Relations and Development office as associate director of schools for alumni relations & development. Since May 2017, Buckla had served as vice president of Advancement at Lake Forest Academy, a diverse day and boarding school on the North Shore of Chicago. In that time, more than $34 million in philanthropic investment has been secured through his leadership, including more than $23 million added to the endowment through the Inspire & Invest campaign. Throughout his 37-year career, Buckla has directed or served on the senior leadership of eight capital and endowment campaigns, including the $250 million Fueling Innovation campaign at Illinois Institute of Technology Dr. Mary (Shannon) Colson has been certified by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) as an advanced certified autism specialist Colson specializes in providing mental health services to children and adolescents The goal is to increase available services to her clientele, including autism assessments and Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) services for those with Tourette syndrome. Laura Noe has been leading the all-vol-

Do minick Ma rrone, ’9 1, is an actor in L A who worked on the film “A Man Called Otto” with Tom Hanks, the TV show “American Rust” with Jeff Daniels, and the film “The Snack Shack” with Gabriel LaBelle of “The Fabelmans ”

unteer Branford Refugee Resettlement/Helping Families Settle (BRR/HFS) group in Connecticut for the past two years. Most recently 50 volunteers including Noe collaborated with Integrated Refugee & Immigration Services (IRIS) in New Haven, Connecticut, to assist a couple who had fled Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021 just as the Taliban took control. For a year, the volunteers worked together to raise funds,

1986

find and furnish a home, and prepare for the couple’s arrival. They also threw a community baby shower for the couple and opened a 529 college savings fund for their newborn daughter “One of the many goals of refugee resettlement is helping families belong,” Noe writes

1985

James Libby was elected a Maine state senator to the 131st Maine Legislature representing District 22. Jack Lorenz (MBA, ’88) retired from Cutco Corporation June 1 after 40 years of service Ray Collins and Roxanne Baker were classmates 40 years ago in the journalism program, but today they have a different connection: Realtor and client Collins helped Baker buy her “dream condo” on Sarasota’s Bayfront. Baker is a retired teacher who is now a film critic, does podcasts and works for the independent bookstore Bookstore1Sarasota. Collins is a former TV news anchor who is among the top 2% of residential real estate agents in Florida specializing in relocations, investment properties and second homes.

Dr. Leslie Wilk Braksick was awarded the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) Network of the Association of Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) The award is given to individuals who have fundamentally advanced the understanding or application of behavioral principles in organizational settings Braksick, the co-founder of two companies, author of five books and hundreds of articles, and practitioner for more than three decades, relies on the science of human behavior to enable business and individual success She is often tapped by top executives and boards to provide coaching, insight and advising during times of strategically important transition and intense strategic change MyNextSeason, a company she co-founded and co-leads, helps companies and leaders navigate important career transitions. ABAI has been a world-leading supporter of the advancement of the science of behavior analysis and a hub for the community since 1974 Founded in 1982 as a special interest group of ABAI, the OBM Network develops, enhances and supports the growth and vitality of organizational behavior management through research, education, practice and collaboration

1988

Thomas Berry ran the New York City Marathon on Nov. 6, 2022, and the Boston Marathon on April 18, 2023 He will run the Chicago Marathon in October, which will allow him to complete all three major world marathons in the U S He started running at age 50 as means to stay healthy and has completed more than 100 long-distance races in that time span. Berry works at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch as a vice president in the IT department. He and his wife have five grown children. In his spare time he writes and publishes historical fiction novels, several of which

have won literary awards. Berry is working on his seventh novel, centered on the American Civil War.

1991

Alan Delozier has published articles that feature the works of two important St Bonaventure figures – journalist Roi Ottley and longtime St Bonaventure President Rev. Thomas Plassmann, O.F.M. Delozier and Dr Larry Greene of Seton Hall University published a book chapter titled “Two African American Journalists Confront World War II: Perspectives on Nationalism, Racism, and Identity” that appeared in the book “Reporting World War II,” published in April by Fordham University Press Delozier also published the journal article “ATLA Plus Database: An Examination of Traditional Research Methodology, Diversity of Content, and Modern Usage Trends,” which appeared in the June 2022 issue of Religious Studies Review.

1993

Sean Savery is celebrating his fifth year at Sonim Technologies as the senior director for customer experience. Since COVID allowed him to work remotely, he left San Diego and moved to Cape Coral, Florida, to start traveling the country and exploring new places. Staying 60 to 90 days gave him a chance to see some exciting and beautiful cities, including St Petersburg, Denver, Washington, D.C., and New Orleans. Boise, both Portlands (Maine and Oregon) and international stays in Montreal and Mexico

Laura Noe (center) with refugees Laila and Mosa

Just chillin’ in Antarctica

Col John Valentin, ’75, became a member of the faculty at the Command and Staff College, Quantico, Virginia, after retiring from 32 years as an active duty officer in the United States Marine Corps He and his wife, Col Cynthia J Valentin, USMC (Ret ), continue to travel to exciting destinations throughout the world They inaugurated the new year with a trip to Antarctica, and brought the spirit of St Bonaventure to the “end of the earth Go Bonnies!”

City are on the radar next. “When people ask where I live, I simply say I live on Instagram and Facebook and wherever Delta Airlines takes me!” He invites alums to follow his travels on IG at sps817 and send him ideas on great travel spots he might like.

1994

Michael Dabaie was promoted to publishing editor at WSJ com He has worked for Dow Jones and the Wall Street Journal for more than 22 years

1996

Christine Staley is the senior director of marketing and Fairchild Studio at Fairchild Media Group, overseeing the integrated marketing, event sponsorship and custom content teams dedicated to Women’s Wear Daily, Footwear News, Beauty Inc , Sourcing Journal and Rivet

1997

Jane (Cucinell) Solnick, the “face of Con Edison” in Westchester County, has won Con Edison’s Living Our Values (LOV) award, the company ’ s highest honor. Solnick is the director of Regional and Community Affairs for Westchester. For 15 years, Solnick has helped Westchester through major weather events, from the flooding caused by Hurricane Ida in 2021 to the devastation of back-toback nor ’easters Riley and Quinn in 2018, and Superstorm Sandy in 2012 On blue sky days, Solnick is out and about building and fortifying relationships with the diverse network of elected officials from Westchester’s 39 municipalities in its service territory, the county government and its business and nonprofit leaders. Solnick serves on the board of directors for agencies including the Westchester Parks Foundation, the Westchester County Association, the Business Council of Westchester and the Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber Foundation. She lives in White Plains and has three sons and two grandchildren Rich Maloy is a managing partner at Spring-

Time Ventures, a venture capital fund in Colorado that just raised its second fund. SpringTime’s first fund invested in 35 early stage startups across the U S , including two companies valued at more than a billion dollars. SpringTime was featured in the startup industry’s leading publication, TechCrunch, last November.

2000

Mark P. Frank was promoted to colonel on April 27. In the photo above, his daughter Maria pins the rank of colonel on her father during the promotion ceremony held at the Joint Force Headquarters in Latham, New York. Frank began his military career in 2000, when he graduated from St. Bonaventure as a Distinguished Military Graduate Frank holds a master of strategic studies degree from the U.S. Army War College, a master of arts degree in public administration from Webster University, and a bachelor of arts degree in political science from St. Bonaventure. He serves as the full-time G1 (human resources officer) for the New York Army National Guard. Frank and his wife, Kristin, ’02, have four children

2002

William H. Holzerland, Esq., was appointed to the federal government’s Senior Executive Service (SES) in March and serves as the deputy chief Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) officer for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Mike Neel was elected as the 2023 fire chief of the Bowmansville Volunteer Fire Association in Lancaster, New York. Neel has been a volunteer

It’s a small world after all Monica Penner, ’00, ’02, proves that Mickey is a Bonnies fan!

firefighter/EMT for 25 years and served as the director of MERT during his senior year at St. Bonaventure. He continues to work in information technology as a senior systems engineer at PCB Piezotronics in Depew. Neel lives in Lancaster with his wife, Marissa, and two children. Adam Whiting was promoted to director of operations at Catholic Charities Family and Community Services, a human service agency of the Diocese of Rochester In his role, Whiting coordinates tasks of support teams, including Purchasing, Facilities, IT and other business process units. He directly supervises a team of purchasing specialists serving the agency with wide ranging goods and service procurement needs He is also responsible for the development, implementation and monitoring of agency procedures around these support functions.

2006

Joe Werkmeister was hired by Newsday to cover local government and news on the East End of Long Island. He previously worked as the editor of two community newspapers.

2008

Dr. Alex Cole is executive director of Graduate and Professional Education at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. For the last five years he has worked as the director of admission for Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’ Worcester, Manchester and online students. He lives in Massachusetts with his wife, Laura (L’Esperance) Cole, ’09, and three daughters.

2010

David Seyler is the head brewer of a new brewery, Stones Throw Brewing Company, in Goose Creek, South Carolina

2013

Chris Banasiewicz was promoted to customer service program manager for JLL (Jones Land LaSalle). His client is Delta Air Lines and he works closely with the Delta Corporate Real Estate department located at the corporate campus in

Atlanta. He says the best part of his job is traveling across the country to create and install facility service request QR codes for Delta Air Line facilities and all Delta Sky Clubs. One of his most recent projects incorporates geotagging into the request form so that the location and other data auto populates, saving the user time.

“If you ’ re flying through the Detroit airport, you will see one at your Delta gate,” Banasiewicz writes. He notes he is proud to be on this account, which received the company ’ s Account of the Year Award in 2022. Allie Leis, Ph.D., successfully completed her doctorate in epidemiological science at the University of Michigan School of Public Health in June of 2022 She was immediately hired as a research faculty member in the Epidemiology Department at the UM-SPH Her research focuses on the intersection of cardiometabolic disease and obesity, in addition to long-term outcomes of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV infection.

2020

Jonathan Clancy (also ’21) is coordinator of University Advancement Services at Mars Hill University in North Carolina

Alums reconnect in St Thomas

Members of the classes of 1986, 1987 and 1988 celebrate life, friendship and major life accomplishments in St Thomas, U S Virgin Islands Pictured from left are Tony Dubin, ’86, Mary (Mahoney) Santini, ’87, John “Chooie” Santini, ’86, Jim Mis, ’86, Mary (Gannon) Mis, ’87, Michele (Rouleau) Trietley, ’88, and Rick Trietley, ’86 (who recently completed his Doctor of Education in higher education leadership)

Bonnies tour European holiday markets

Two generations of Bona’s grads experienced the traditional holiday markets in Germany and Luxembourg Katie Czaja, ’09, and her brother, Sean, visited Mike Czaja, ’82, and his wife, Jeanne Schorsch, who live in Kindsbach, Germany During their visit, the family explored the markets in Bernkastel-Kues (Katie and her dad, Mike, are pictured) and Cologne, Germany, and Luxembourg City, Luxembourg Also known as a Christkindlmarkt, or Weihnachtsmarkt, the markets are a fun way to participate in a popular, multicultural European holiday event

BonaResponds to volunteer at medical pop-up clinic

BonaResponds will once again partner with Remote Area Medical (RAM) and other local agencies for a Sept 9-10 clinic in Olean offering free dental, vision and medical care. Visit BonaResponds.org to learn more or watch updates throughout the weekend

Welcome Baby Bonnies!

Jacob Michael to Danielle (Cessario) Binda, ’00, and Dan Binda

Robbi Juno to Amber and Joe Maurer, ’00, ’03

Peyton Grace adopted by Kathleen (Curran) Mazurkiewicz, ’03, ’05, and Jason Mazurkiewicz

Anthony Patrick to Colleen (Smith) Dunn, ’04, and Michael Dunn

Campbell Gray to Katie (Kozsan) Maxwell, ’08, and Brian Maxwell, ’07, ’08

Chase Patrick to Samantha and Adam Corbin, ’08

Benjamin Jack to Erin (Farrell) Gracia, ’07, ’08, and Josh Gracia

Bridget Schrader to Mary (Schrader) Burke, ’11 and Anthony Burke, ’11, ’12

Finley Leigh to Nicole and Nicholas Clancy, ’18

Alumni Deaths

A directory of deceased alumni is available on Bona’s Online Register at www.sbu.edu/alumni

Charles R Colvin, ’49, Naples, Florida

Rev. Owen F. Shanley, ’49, Galway, New York

Joseph G. DeMaria, Esq., ’50, Rochester, New York*

John W Campion, ’51, Jamestown, New York

Dr. Edward G. Emerling, ’51, Honolulu, Hawaii

Edmund L Finley Jr , ’51, Oneida, New York

Francis M. Gardina, ’51, Columbus, Ohio

Donald B Riester, ’51, Kingston, New York

Gerard O. Rocque, ’51, Fredonia, New York

Rev Alexander A DiLella, O F M , ’52, St Petersburg, Florida

Dr. Edwin H. Dombrowski, ’52, Swansboro, North Carolina

Ronald M. Caffoe, ’53, Fishers, Indiana

Robert M Sassone, ’53, Olean, New York

Harold J. Carota, ’54, Watsonville, California

Alexander F Di Lella Jr , ’54, Vero Beach, Florida

Richard D. Grisanti, Esq., ’54, Buffalo, New York

Edward W Habert Jr , ’54, Lynbrook, New York

Dr. Marvin J. Konz, ’54, Yardley, Pennsylvania

Raymond L. Mastoloni Sr., ’54, White Plains, New York

Dr. John B. Muth, ’54, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Rev. Philip A. O’Donnell, ’54, Las Vegas, Nevada

Eugene J Parana, ’54, Havertown, Pennsylvania

James R. Rodgers Sr., ’54, Getzville, New York

John A Kreuz Sr , ’55, Columbus, Ohio*

Henry L. Raiche, ’55, Wappingers Falls, New York

Robert R Raymond Sr , ’55, Naugatuck, Connecticut

Carl P. Saglimben, ’55, Allegany, New York

Francis L. Michelini, ’56, Force, Pennsylvania

Michael J Doyle, ’57, Endicott, New York

Sr. Maureen C. Hall, O.S.F., ’57, Kingston, Jamaica

Dr Thomas J Rainville, ’57, Bedford, New Hampshire

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Howard J. Killian Jr., ’58, Moline, Illinois

David Kleberg, ’58, Syracuse, New York

P. J. Mahoney, ’58, East Hampton, New York

Anthony J Pace, ’58, Ridgefield, Connecticut

James D. Sheffer, ’58, Bradford, Pennsylvania

William K. Sprague, ’58, Allegany, New York

Timothy L Brewer III, ’59, Burke, Virginia*

Col. Franklin T. Gaglione, ’59, Manlius, New York

Dr William O Kerr, ’59, Wiesbaden, Germany

Paul R. Wieland, ’59, Great Valley, New York

Robert G Burns, ’60, Crystal River, Florida

Thomas S. Cembalski, ’60, South Glens Falls, New York

Garrett E. Croyle, ’60, Altamonte Springs, Florida

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Albert J. Erickson, ’60, Rochester, New York

Dr. Donald W. Fornes, ’60, Sarasota, Florida

John R Grussler, ’60, Yardley, Pennsylvania

Terrance H. Kearney, ’60, Breinigsville, Pennsylvania

George J Richardson, ’60, Shaker Heights, Ohio

Joseph F. Carls, ’61, Charlottesville, Virginia

Rev Joseph Gregorek, ’61, Erie, Pennsylvania

Bernard E. Gustina, ’61, Fort Mill, South Carolina

Sr. Robert Mary Smith, ’61, Allegany, New York

Dr. Frederick Wenck Jr., ’61, South Lake Tahoe, California

Richard C. Alence, ’62, Lithia, Florida

Pasquale J Zavaglia, ’62, Elmsford, New York

M. William Corr, ’63, Mesa, Arizona

Joseph D Stevens II, ’63, Altoona, Pennsylvania

*Seraphim Legacy Society member

Rev. Donald W. Buggert, ’64, Washington, D.C.

William F Burns, ’64, Lake Villa, Illinois

Sr. Eva M. DiCamillo, O.S.F., ’64, Allegany, New York

Demetrio Marra, ’64, Olean, New York

Sr. Victoria Masterpaul, O.S.F., ’64, Allegany, New York

E P Rypl, ’64, Canton, Connecticut

John E. Severson, ’64, Glenside, Pennsylvania

N. B. Wydysh, ’64, Berkeley Springs, West Virginia

Sr Paul C Gagne, O S F , ’65, Allegany, New York

Sr. Margaret R. Gilmore, ’65, Allegany, New York

John R Haglund, ’65, Venice, Florida

Thomas G. Warren, ’65, East Rochester, New York

Brian Harvey, ’66, Holtsville, New York

Joan M. (Brown) Kraft, ’66, Irvine, California

Rev Daniel J Kresinski, ’66, Erie, Pennsylvania

David D. Pitcher, ’66, Apalachin, New York

Joseph E. Potter, ’66, Centreville, Maryland

Dr James F Swiencicki, ’66, East Amherst, New York

Dan J. Tobin, ’66, Hobe Sound, Florida

G Martin Iversen, ’67, Wakefield, Massachusetts

Paul E. Stappenbeck, ’68, Utica, New York

James J Welch, ’68, Daniel Island, South Carolina

Sr. Anne H. Wusteney, ’69, Allegany, New York

Francis S. Brieaddy, ’70, Syracuse, New York

Ann M. Dunphy, ’70, Wellington, Florida

E. Patricia Rocco, ’70, Fort Myers, Florida

Lyle R Chastaine, ’71, Stamford, New York

Paul A. Kuhn, ’71, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania

Dr Randolph E Sarnacki, ’71, Ball Ground, Georgia

Steven C. Sockett, ’71, Breckenridge, Colorado

Kathleen A (Lippert) Bloom, ’72, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sr. Irene M. Mulholland, ’72, Allegany, New York

Dr. Neal J. Johnson, ’73, Kinnelon, New Jersey

Michael J. Gleason, ’74, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Robert R. Colombo Jr., ’75, Bradenton, Florida

David R Moshier, ’75, Allegany, New York

William E. Widmer, ’76, Amherst, New Hampshire

Marcia J (Wittmeyer) Duffy, ’77, Eden, New York

Amy G. (Grayson) Pesesky, ’77, Norfolk, Virginia

Kathleen Damp Wright, ’80, Sandy, Utah

JoAnn DeMarco, ’80, Jamestown, New York

Maureen A. (Davis) Batesky, ’81, Allegany, New York

Marianne M (Manning) Decker, ’81, Bridgeport, New York

Francis I. Fatigati, ’81, Rancho Murieta, California

Joseph A Lehosky, ’81, Eldred, Pennsylvania

James F. Mauro, ’83, Niagara Falls, New York

Gerri A Behan Shayer, ’84, Germantown, Tennessee

Gregory McClune, ’85, Rochester, New York

Sr Frances M Bonczar, ’86, Enfield, Connecticut

Mark G. Chilton, ’86, Syracuse, New York

David Close, ’86, Bradford, Pennsylvania

Joseph D Trabold, ’87, Rochester, New York

Sean P. Gleason, ’88, Liverpool, New York

Ruth M Hurd, ’88, Olean, New York

James R. Mathieson, ’88, Portville, New York

Joseph M Pica, ’89, Endicott, New York

Hilary J. (Farnella) Blixt, ’90, Buffalo, New York

Margaret C. De Long-Duch, ’90, Murrysville, Pennsylvania

Robert J. Hodge, ’92, West Rutland, Vermont

Timothy S. Perugini, ’92, Long Beach, California

Alicia M (Regan) Kuranda, ’93, Crystal Lake, Illinois

Daniel C. McGarry, ’94, Ithaca, New York

Cara A (MacDonald) Lindgren, ’97, Marcellus, New York

Michael L. Hart, ’01, Chicago, Illinois

Kellie K (Halgas) Dugan, ’03, St Petersburg, Florida

Sean M. Fleming, ’07, Woodbury, New Jersey

Friends & Parents

James L. Boser, Allegany, New York

Linda Cully, Patchogue, New York

Rita C. Fitzsimmons, Freehold, New Jersey

Carolyn Flanagan, Binghamton, New York

Robert Hamel, Fairport, New York

Sr. Jean Hayes, Allegany, New York

Kim Helper, Franklin, Tennessee

Walter J. Hoag, Celina, Ohio

Jane F Jacques, Portville, New York*

Lorraine Joyce, Andover, New York

Norma Kestler, Burt Lake, Michigan

Suzanne Peraza, Celebration, Florida

Mary Jane Reddington, New Rochelle, New York

Dolores Small, Rochester, New York

In Memoriam

Maureen Brennan, who worked in the housekeeping department at the university from September 1967 until February 2002, died Nov 13, 2022

Adam Dreismeier, a graduate student in the university’s nursing program, died April 12, 2023

Dr. George Evans, a professor in SBU’s School of Communication from 1966 to 1995, died June 12, 2023.

Larry Johnson, an instructor in St Bonaventure’s military science program, died Jan. 27, 2023.

Neal Johnson, Class of 1973, former president and CEO of Special Olympics New York, died Dec. 29, 2022. Johnson was honored by the university with an honorary doctorate in 2014 Thanks to his leadership, the state’s organization grew into the largest Special Olympics program in North America and the sixthlargest in the world. Johnson was instrumental in establishing annual programming between St. Bonaventure and Special Olympics 15 years ago

Carl Saglimben, Class of 1955, a four-year member of the Bonnies, superintendent at Hinsdale Central School for 20 years, and an icon in the local basketball community, died Jan. 22, 2023.

Bob Sassone, Class of 1953, a star player for the Bonnies and an assistant coach during two of the most successful eras of St. Bonaventure basketball, died Feb. 5, 2023. He represented St. Bonaventure in 13 postseason tournaments as a player and a coach. On the sidelines in a coaching role, he was an integral part of the Bonnies’ Final Four team in 1970 as well as the 1977 NIT Championship victory as an assistant coach.

Paul Wieland, Class of 1959 and a former member of the Jandoli School faculty, died Feb. 16, 2023. Wieland taught broadcasting in the School of Communication from 2002 until his retirement in 2017, although he continued to teach periodically as an adjunct beyond his retirement.

Bonaventure Magazine Submission Guidelines

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Don’t forget to notify us of your new name or address! Update your contact information at www.sbu.edu/alumniupdate or send an email to alumni@sbu edu

St Bonaventure University takes pride in its alumni and joyfully shares the news of their lives and achievements.

St Bonaventure is supportive of our Catholic Church’s teachings. Publication of announcements provided to us by our alumni does not necessarily imply an endorsement by the university

Makenzie Bush, ’17, and Alex ander Szakelyhidi, ’17

Grace Neylan , ’17, ’18, and Matt Mattia, ’16

Katelyn Chiccino, ’17, and Jeremy Unterborn

Additional announcement

Me gan Ziemianski, ’12, ’13, and Timothy O’Brien

Jen Stype, ’13, and Adam Hartwig

Kelley Sweetser and Patrick Gill, ’04

Blayn e Marion, ’18, ’19, and Chuck Pierce, ’17, ’18

Nicole Albright, ’14, and Kristopher Jones

Sharon Grier and Tom Franczyk, ’67

Talia Coveleski, ’06, and Vivek Ladsariya

Emily Beilman and Cody Didas, ’16

Kristie Man zella, ’13, and Ted Jarmuz

Emma Riley, ’10, and John Manente

Amanda Naujoks, ’98, and Keith Monaco

Bridget Hogan and David Abriatis, ’09, ’10

Bailey Hatch, ’19, ’20, and Zachary Wartella, ’18

Elizabeth Grady, ’13, ’14, and Kyle Zamiara, ’14

Stephanie Dolliver, ’16, and Ben Marcus, ’16

Elizabeth Erdle, ’10, ’12, and William Scott Harrelson

Nicole Schuman, ’03, and Kevin Nibley

Sandra Andrade and Eric Adornetto, ’08

Mikayla Place, ’16, and Tommy Bellucco, ’15, ’17

Naomi Parekh and David Ross, ’07

Ab igail Koetting, ’18, and Patrick Spadaro

Bridget Tomlinson and Sean Dwyer, ’06

Stacie Emarine and James Walter, ’98

Chyann Piendl, ’18, and Trystan Ru shia, ’17, ’18

The Music Scene

big

of college

Song showed us the way

“Show Me the Way” by Dennis DeYoung transports me back to the University Chapel where we gathered to pray for loved ones in the Gulf War in 1990 Each of us could come forward to mention a soldier we knew in the war One student knew several soldiers and had pictures of them.

This song reminds me of the camaraderie and support from everybody praying for our military and asking God for their return. It plays in my head even now and I can feel my friends hankering for the end of war and peace to come to all nations.

Cisca (Sugiro) Peszynski Class of 1993

Another ‘Beautiful’ weekend

On Friday afternoons my friend Mary Jane and I would walk back from “main campus ” to our rooms in Francis Hall. As we made our way around the Francis Hall Chapel we would be serenaded with the song “Beautiful Girls” by Van Halen.

Music is a

part

life. In the last issue we asked if there’s a song you associate with your time at Bona’s, one that transports you back to campus the second you hear it. Read on – and try not to sing out loud.

Chillin’ with Marley

Hearing anything from Bob Marley’s “Legend” album takes me back to walking by the double-porch house on Main Street and seeing my friends and rugby teammates smiling and greeting people as they walked up.

It brings back memories of springtime at Bona’s, as the weather warmed and the sound of Bob Marley seemed perfectly made to echo its relaxations around friends enjoying a cool one together outside on a Friday afternoon in the warm sun

That music on a sunny day outside can transport me back 30 years, right to that place and moment in time.

’70s ’Skeller soundtrack

Velvet Underground & tea

Whenever I hear the album “White Light, White Heat” by the Velvet Underground, it always reminds of a beautiful sunny spring day in the late ’80s. Jonathon Falls (Class of ’92) and I hosted an impromptu tea party on the porch at Shay-Loughlin. We cranked the Velvet Underground and read poetry Epic carefree times. Here’s a little cartoon memorializing the decadent soiree.

Dialing in a ‘ Wild Weekend’

I was at Bonaventure from 19621966, a golden age of early rock when, aside from vinyl, AM radio was the essential music medium So many songs of that era remain favorites (Thanks, Ron Meyer and SiriusXM.)

Scott Salvato Class of

1993

In creating a soundtrack of the ’Skeller in the early ’70s, countless songs could be included, but three are musts:

“Does Anybody Really Know What • Time It Is?” by Chicago (a good lyric to take back to philosophy class for discussion)

“13 Questions” by Seatrain (a short- • lived but terrific band that appeared in concert at Bona’s and gained many fans)

“If You Could Read My Mind” by Gor- • don Lightfoot (played over and over by John Kerr, ’73, a superb campus singer/songwriter in his own right) Hearing any of these tunes today, I am transported back to campus.

Nightlife melodies

David LoTempio Class of

1991

One I still associate with late afternoons-evenings in second Rob WKBW in Buffalo was our rock station DJ Tommy Shannon adopted the ’63 instrumental hit “Wild Weekend” as his theme song and it played, at least in part, hourly.

Your question brought back a clear memory of hearing that song in the dorm and on the lawns outside open dorm windows A good memory.

Richard Yeazel Class of 1966

The good Journey

“The Sopranos” finale usurped the power over Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” but I really was “the small town girl / livin’ in a lonely world” who couldn’t wait to start my freshman year in fall of 1981

Evan McElroy Class of

1974

In a monthly Zoom meet-up of fellow alumni, this question raised a spirited debate that turned toward the Allegany nightlife.

The indelible memory of the scent of autumn leaves and stale beer from whatever party happened the night before we arrived, and of moving my stuff into Devereux Hall is linked with Neal Schon’s guitar riffs and Steve Perry’s gorgeous voice.

Our Class of 1985’s collective ex-

‘Grove’ was our groove

“China Grove” by the Doobie Brothers was ubiquitous on campus, especially at Bona basketball games. Years later, I had the pleasure of dining with Jeff “Skunk” Baxter of the Doobies and was able to thank him in person for creating something that, to this day, evokes memories of the special times I shared with friends and the entire Bona’s community

I dare anyone in the Class of ’79 to not sing along when they hear that song.

Patrick Hailey Class of 1979

The Boss takes me back

During my freshman year at SBU in 1975, when everyone on my floor (3rd Rob) returned from Thanksgiving weekend, the sounds of Bruce Springsteen’s new album “Born to Run” could constantly be heard

Ever since that time, whenever I hear the first few notes of “Born to Run” I’m instantly back on 3rd Rob in the glow of the Christmas lights with The Boss echoing through the halls. The campus was abuzz with the Merry Christmas Melod h d f nals were glad that memory l ture, oh s

Springsteen live for $10?

“Mack the Knife” always played at least once per night in the Rathskeller.

I lived on 3rd Rob, 3rd Shay and 3rd Francis. Music was always a big part of Bonaventure

I saw Bruce Springsteen in 1977 at the Reilly Center for $5 or $10 See if you can see him for that today!

Peter Frampton’s “Show Me The Way” was the No. 1 hit in the summer of 1976. First semester of my freshman year that song played out of every campus hall.

Mark “Mickey” Gentili Class of 1980

WITW was our MVP

There is no song other than “Wade in the Water” that reflected those incredibly memorable years at SBU

Hearing the first few bars of the song immediately transports me back to the raucous rocking Reilly ears he the the ric gnited ts. It luck! W wonne to e. dahar it? Miller , 1976

Crank up the volume

“Mack The Knife” was in constant rotation at Allegany’s Club 17. And everyone sang along at the top of their voice

I owned a reel-to-reel tape recorder that could play three hours of uninterrupted music. My roommate owned a PA amp with speakers. We would put them in the window, start the tape and lock the door. You could hear the music all the way at Reilly Center.

“Give Me One More Chance” by Wilmer and the Dukes; Neil Young’s “Down By The River;” the “Woodstock” album; Billy Joel’s “Piano Man;” Led Zeppelin’s “Dazed and Confused;” and so many more.

Robert J Lindsey 3rd Dev East Bears Class of 1974

‘Diana’ still stays with me

While I have many favorable memories of my days at St Bonaventure, one of the most memorable was Paul Anka’s song “Diana ” It seemed like that song was playing every time I was in the Rathskeller and I still associate the two in my mind after all these years

Robert Haas, Ph.D. Class of 1960

So much to remember

During my time at Bonaventure, you couldn’t go anywhere without hearing the entire “Crash” album by Dave Matthews Band. The first seven notes of “So Much to Say,” first song on the album, take me back to the Dev hallways, off-campus parties, and lying on a blanket on the lawn of the townhouses, in shorts, trying to catch some rays in 50 degree weather, blasting that song from our CD boomboxes

It played from every stereo in every dorm room and I can’t listen to that album without getting a huge smile on my face, thinking of my closest friends

Lesley (Francis) Stroot Class of 1999

Hammered into my head

Thanks to John Kane, then-general mana of the campus radio station, many of us spe 1962 listening to “If I had a Hammer.” John was enamored with Peter, Paul and Mary, th a little-known folk group, and incessantly played “Hammer” on WOFM

Then, somehow, he finagled to have the gr come to campus and headline the 1963 Fall Festival. To this day, whenever I hear PP&M think of St. Bonaventure and John Kane.

Lee Cop Class of 1

There goes the gray

In the late ’60s, early ’70s, it was common for campus to be covered by a blanket of snow from early November to early sprin There were long periods of gray days and snowfalls.

After a prolonged period of gray days in t early spring of ’70, with snow still on the ground, the campus enjoyed a gloriously cloud-free day and plenty of sunshine. Blas ing from the top floor of the Dev quad and echoing through campus was the Beatles so “Here Comes The Sun ” It was hilarious an every time I hear this song I think of that d

Tom O’Connor Class of 1972

Nightly Mack attacks

I attended SBU from 1970-74 and worked at the ’Skeller as a bouncer, bartender and finally assistant manager

“Mack the Knife” was always played every night, usually late in the night so that the crowd could sing and go crazy. This was also the theme song at Club 17 during my years at SBU and someone would usually be dancing on the tables while it played. I admit, on at least one occasion that table dancer was me. Good memories of great times at SBU.

Spring 2007

Goo Goo Doll lov

December 2022

“Let Love In” by the Goo Goo Dolls

On March 20, 2007, a packed Reilly Center enjoyed a hits-filled set from Buffalo’s own Goo Goo Dolls. We had two other RC concerts during my time In fall ’05, we had Howie Day and a very young Brandi Carlile. Ben Folds followed in spring ’06, playing to fewer than 500 of us midweek

The Goo Goo Dolls was the first concert my girlfriend and I attended together Believe it or not, she agreed to marry me in 2011 and has attended 90 concerts with me It all started with this one.

Joe Centanni Class of 2009

‘ Wade’ fired up the crowd

Joe Costa Third Dev Bears Class of 1978

First, an explanation: I was an undergrad from ’73’75 but didn’t graduate; however, I got my M.A. in history in ’96. So my song memories are from the ’70s

The song I think of the most when I think of Bona’s is Ramsey Lewis’ cover of “Wade in the Water” as the basketball team came out for pregame warmups The pep band would play it from the bleachers behind a basket and Howie Harrison would dunk the ball and fire up the crowd.

And “Reach Out (I’ll be there)” by the Four Tops was THE classic ’Skeller song du jour.

Joe Marren Class of 1996

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