Assumption Assumption College Magazine • Volume 6, Number 3 • Summer 2008
Magazine
THE CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION AT
ASSUMPTION, AND BEYOND
PLUS
Red Sox build farm system with scout Ray Fagnant ‘86
Commencement and Reunions 2008
New Admissions House opens
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Inquiry Thrives through the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
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he Spring semester was an especially exciting one for Assumption College with the announcement of the largest gift in the College’s history. Alumnus Don D’Amour ’64 and his wife, Michele, very generously donated $4.2 million in support of some key academic initiatives. The gift will be used to establish the Donald and Michele D’Amour Chair in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition and support faculty development grants to create courses that will introduce students to the Catholic intellectual tradition. Students and faculty alike will have the opportunity to encounter this vibrant tradition and examine how it has helped to shape Western culture throughout the centuries and how it continues to impact life today. As a Catholic college, Assumption encourages vital intellectual inquiry and cultivates a greater understanding of the interaction between faith and reason. This age-old interaction has resulted in the development of the Catholic intellectual tradition, which manifests itself in some of the greatest writers, artists and thinkers of the Western world. By entering into a dialogue with these scholars we come to realize that faith has something to offer to the intellectual dimension of our lives, and in turn that reason has something to offer to the religious dimension of our lives. While some would argue that faith and reason are not compatible, the Catholic intellectual tradition stands in contrast to such a view. As Pope Benedict XVI reminded the leaders of Catholic colleges and universities during his April visit to the United States, “the truths of faith and of reason never contradict one another.” The Catholic intellectual tradition speaks to Catholics and non-Catholics alike. It is essential that the dialogue is open to all in order to fully examine the way God works within knowledge, touches the soul, and enlivens our humanity within the tradition of Catholicism and within other faith traditions as well. Serious intellectual reflection is enriched by the spiritual dimension and broadens the horizon of all of our students. Throughout its history, the Roman Catholic Church and its members have been involved in virtually every kind of human endeavor. Catholics have lived and worked within the context of many of the world’s cultures and Catholicism has evolved and had a significant impact on the formation of culture. The Catholic intellectual tradition, as a living and lived tradition, continues to engage the world with all of its complexity, richness, and diversity. Benedict XVI’s visit with the leaders of Catholic colleges and institutions provided us with a sense of hope regarding our roles in maintaining that tradition. He encouraged our efforts, in the face of many challenges, to provide a quality education that affirms our
President Cesareo attended the April events in New York City and Washington, D.C. when Pope Benedict XVI visited.
Catholic mission. Being in the presence of the Holy Father and hearing his words reinforced the vision that I have been articulating for Assumption College. That experience and the generous gift from the D’Amour’s highlight the importance of the Catholic intellectual tradition within the Assumption educational experience. As we encourage our students to seek wisdom and truth and embrace those values that will transform them, they in turn will transform the world. We begin to examine the Catholic intellectual tradition in this issue of the Magazine, and will continue to do so over time and through various channels, as a way of living out the educational vision of Fr. Emmanuel d’Alzon, “to permeate the world with a Christian idea.”
Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph.D. President
Summer2008 Assumption College Magazine • Volume 6, Number 3 www.assumption.edu/magazine
Features
4 We encourage your feedback. Please address your letters, class notes, and story ideas to: Assumption College Magazine Assumption College 500 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA 01609-1296 e-mail: twatkins@assumption.edu –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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Donald ’64 and Michele D’Amour's Historic $4.2 Million Gift
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Commencement 2008
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2008 Honors Convocation
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The Catholic Intellectual Tradition at Assumption
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Student Athletes Honored at Awards Reception
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Ray Fagnant ’86 Scouts for the Red Sox
Departments
Assumption College Magazine Assumption College ISSN 1089-3903 Summer 2008
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Editor/Coordinating Publisher Troy Watkins
Contributing Writers Sharon Mahoney P’07 Elizabeth Walker
Photography AC Archives AC Athletics Department Joan Burke Rob Carlin Melanie Demarais HA’92 Tony Fiorini, Catholic University of America Jason Hofstein Rob Karosis Lori Lindholm Carol Seitz Tammy Woodard
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Editor’s Page
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On Campus
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Hounds Watch
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Alumni News
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Class Notes
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In Memoriam
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Art Direction/Design Centuria Inc., Belmont, MA Assumption College Magazine is published four times a year (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall) by the office of Institutional Advancement, Assumption College, 500 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609-1296. Telephone: (508) 767-7175. Periodical Postage Paid at Worcester, Massachusetts and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Forwarding address and correction requested. Send address changes to: Office of Institutional Advancement, Assumption College, 500 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609-1296. Printed in the U.S.A. Assumption College is distributed free of charge to alumni, friends, faculty, staff, administration, and parents of undergraduate students.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Alumni Abound
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hen my family and I vacationed in May, the person who checked us into the Disney World resort was Assumption alumnus Fred Dumaresq ’66. We were equally amazed at crossing paths. And, as is the case with anyone affiliated with Assumption to whom I have spoken, I wish I had more time to speak with them. My kids wore Red Sox hats all week, which led to many conversations, but made me wish I had brought along more Assumption clothing to spark a conversation like the one I had enjoyed with Fred. This is a giant leap for me. A diehard Red Sox (and sports) fan, I never thought I’d tire of those topics, but those conversations pale in comparison to what I’ve enjoyed with the fascinating people I’ve met while working at Assumption. With each person to whom I’ve spoken and each class note, mini-profile or feature that I have the privilege to share via this publication, I become increasingly enamored with the type of people affiliated with this institution. Assumption aspires to “graduate those known for critical intelligence, thoughtful citizenship and compassionate service.” I’ve come to realize that this is not simply an idle phrase we add to the bottom of our press releases. It’s true. Take Fred, for example. He joined the Peace Corps after graduation, lived and was a teacher in Africa for some 20 years, has traveled the world and now works in guest services at a Disney resort. He, like many Assumption alumni, embodies its mission.
Letters to the Editor Kristin’s Miraculous Recovery On behalf of our family, I would like to thank you for writing the article on Kristin’s recovery. We obviously feel that her story is inspirational, not only because she miraculously survived the numerous and devastating injuries she incurred, but in the way she has fought back with such strength and determination to overcome the deficits and damages they caused. It was wonderful to read comments made by members of the Assumption community who have worked with her before and since this incredible ordeal. The amazing support system at Assumption College allowed our family to feel that much more comfortable “letting go” when she returned to campus so soon after her accident. Thank you again for allowing her story to be shared and for possibly offering hope and inspiration to others.
So throw on that old College T-shirt, grab your Greyhound hat, pull your Assumption sweatshirt over your head on a cool night and head out on the town. Be proud. Be gregarious. And be ready to share the wonders of Assumption, wherever you may be.
Troy Watkins, editor
By using FSC-certified paper with 10% post-consumer waste for the four publications of 2008–09, we are saving: ◗ 55 trees ◗ 37.9 BTUs, enough to provide almost half the energy needs of one household for a year ◗ 47,752 pounds CO2 (greenhouse gas), as much as emitted by 4.36 cars in a year ◗ 19,972 gallons of water, enough to fill 400 standard size bathtubs ◗ 3,305 pounds of solid waste, about half the amount of solid waste an average family of four will generate in a year
10%
Debbie Kenney P’08, ’11 Sent via e-mail
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ON CAMPUS
Historic $4.2 Million Gift Supports College’s Catholic Intellectual Tradition
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On May 1 at the annual faculty dinner, President Francesco Cesareo announced that Donald ’64 and Michele D’Amour made an historic gift of $4.2 million to the College. The gift will endow a faculty chair and go toward other academic initiatives in support of the school’s Catholic intellectual tradition. The D’Amour donation is the largest gift in Assumption’s 104-year history. “This is truly a breakthrough gift for Assumption,” Cesareo said. “Its magnitude sets a new standard for philanthropy at the College. The entire Assumption community is deeply grateful to Don and Michele D’Amour. Their extraordinary generosity will help us to advance key academic priorities by providing additional resources for our current and future faculty. More importantly, their gift supports and strengthens Assumption’s enduring commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition. This is a tremendous investment in our mission, in our faculty and in our students.” A 1964 Assumption graduate and a former College trustee (1991–99), Don is chairman and CEO of Big Y Foods, Inc., based in Springfield. Michele oversees the independent supermarket chain’s educational partnership initiatives. The D’Amours’ shared commitment to education at every level includes encouraging Catholic schools and colleges to strengthen their Catholic identity and liberal arts core. “Though many colleges and universities have lost their religious roots, Assumption College continues to embrace its Catholic identity and protect the integrity of its mission, while also welcoming students and faculty with a diversity of backgrounds and religious beliefs into its vibrant academic community,” Don said. “Michele and I are very excited about Assumption’s new president and the direction in which he is taking the College. Since he arrived on campus last July, and in his inauguration address, Dr. Cesareo has articulated a vision for Assumption that we wholeheartedly support as essential to its growth. We consider this gift an investment in Assumption’s distinct high-quality offerings for its present and future students.” More than half of the couple’s $4.2 million gift to Assumption will be used to establish the Donald and Michele D’Amour Chair in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. In addition, their gift also endows a distinguished speakers program that will highlight aspects of the Catholic intellectual tradition, increases the endowment for the Fortin/Gonthier Foundations of Western Civilization Program, and establishes a new faculty development grant fund. The grants will provide resources for faculty to develop new courses within the Catholic intellectual tradition, the First-Year Experience and the new core curriculum.
Don ’64 and Michele D’Amour
“Though many colleges and universities have lost their religious roots, Assumption College continues to embrace its Catholic identity and protect the integrity of its mission, while welcoming students and faculty with a diversity of backgrounds and religious beliefs into its vibrant academic community.”– Don D’Amour ’64
The D’Amours issued a challenge to the Assumption trustees to enhance their gift to raise an additional $220,000 for the faculty development grant fund to bring that total to $1 million. The board met that challenge, according to trustee chair Frederick Bayon ’65. “The trustees were thrilled to learn of the D’Amours’ generous gift to Assumption at our March meeting,” Bayon said. “We fully embraced their challenge to increase the faculty grant fund to $1 million, and we exceeded it by raising $225,000 within a month. This fund will benefit the entire Assumption faculty and, by extension, all Assumption students.”
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ON CAMPUS
91st Commencement Celebration Ambassador Nicholas Burns Addressed Graduating Class
Ambassador R. Nicholas Burns delivers the Commencement address.
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he sun came out just in time for the hundreds of families and friends gathered for Assumption’s 91st Commencement exercises on May 17. Seated under and outside of the enormous white tent that covered the H.L. Rocheleau ’24 baseball field, the overflow crowd smiled proudly and cheered loudly as the College awarded 682 degrees and certificates, including 519 bachelor’s degrees, 150 graduate degrees, 13 associate’s degrees and a dozen Certificates of Advanced Graduate Studies.
2008 Senior Leadership Awards These members of the Class of 2008 were honored with senior leadership awards: (Bottom, L-R) Jaclyn Sargent, Maura Cook, Kristin Kenney, President Cesareo, Kathryn Pietrosimone and Allyse Gruslin (Middle, L-R) Angela Martano, Sheena Johnson, Katie DiBuono and Tom Law (Top, L-R) Meghan Lovett, Diane Comstock, Jeffrey Roy and Kevin O’Connell
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Honorary degree recipients Peter Deckers, M.D. AP’58; Sr. Margaret Leonard, LSA ’64; President Francesco Cesareo and Ambassador R. Nicholas Burns
“We send you forth from this beautiful campus confident that you have gained mastery in a field of study,” President Francesco Cesareo told the graduates. “But, this mastery could have been gained at any institution of higher education. Your education at Assumption College has been different because it is an education that affirms a set of values grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and enriched by the charism of the Augustinians of the Assumption.” Ambassador R. Nicholas Burns, former United States under secretary of state for political affairs, who delivered the Commencement address, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree, one of three honorary degrees awarded at this year’s Commencement. An international statesman and trusted advisor to the president, Ambassador Burns was the State Department’s third-highest ranking official. He served as the senior American career diplomat, overseeing and communicating U.S. foreign policy around the globe. He also served as Ambassador to NATO and Ambassador to Greece, among postings that took him to some of the most dangerous places in the world during his 25-year career in the Foreign Service. “As you set out today from Assumption, may you retain the will to take risks, the strength to be courageous, the spirit of optimism and idealism that is particularly American, the importance of defending our great country, and the imperative of keeping alive the dream we don’t talk about enough anymore—the dream of peace—peace here in Worcester, peace in America, a global peace that will reach all people in all countries,” Ambassador Burns told the graduates. “As you graduate today, you join the ranks of a privileged community—the community of the educated. Your Assumption education has changed your life forever. It is the key to the American dream and will help to propel you forward all the days of your lives.” Valedictorian Jeffrey Roy ’08 of Saugus encouraged his classmates to “learn from the past. Live in the present. Let go of the future. Keep God in your heart… I encourage all of you to take risks. Try new things. Most importantly, make mistakes. A passage from the Gospel of John reads: ‘He who follows Me will not walk
in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ When we live our lives in such a way, we are fulfilling the highest potential we have as human beings, or disciples of Christ.” Sr. Margaret Leonard, LSA ’64, executive director of Project HOPE in Roxbury since 1985 and one of Assumption’s first female graduates through the St. Augustine Institute, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for her enduring efforts to move families up and out of homelessness. Under Sr. Margaret’s leadership, Project HOPE has grown from a small emergency shelter to a multi-service center with an array of educational and economic empowerment programs that annually serves more than 1,000 families. She earned a master’s degree in social work at Fordham University. Peter Deckers, M.D. AP’58 was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science for his career-long commitment to transforming medical school training, and for his fidelity and great generosity to Assumption. Dr. Deckers chaired the Assumption Prep Campaign Committee as part of Assumption College’s Centennial Campaign, raising nearly $500,000 to construct the Assumption Prep Auditorium in Kennedy Memorial Hall. He is a 1958 Assumption Preparatory School alumnus and a 1962 graduate of the College of the Holy Cross. Dr. Deckers earned his medical degree at Boston University and recently stepped down from his positions as dean of the UConn School of Medicine and executive vice president of health affairs at UConn Health Center.
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ON CAMPUS
New Augustine Scholars
2008 Honors Convocation All of you have excelled—gone the extra mile,” President Francesco Cesareo told the 54 students, including 12 new Augustine Scholars, who received departmental awards and special honors at the 24th annual Honors Convocation held April 21 in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. Keeping with tradition, an alumnus, the Honorable Mark D. Horan ’81, an administrative law judge for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, presented the convocation address. Judge Horan, son of Donald Horan G’67 and father of Sara Horan ’09, spoke about the value of a liberal arts education and encouraged the honorees to “dedicate yourselves to thankfulness.”
Assumption Chorale
Hon. Mark D. Horan ’81
Ashley McMahon ’08 receives the award in human services and rehabilitation studies from Dr. Susan Scully-Hill. Justine Sekelsy ’08 earned the award in psychology, presented by Dr. Regina Edmonds.
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John Edwards ’08 is presented the award in management by M.E. “Pete” Murphy.
Welcome to Assumption College New Admissions House Opens in Former President’s Residence Challenged by then President Tom Plough HA’07 in the summer of 2005 to look for underutilized assets around the campus, Executive Vice President Chris McCarthy said that the 9,000-square-foot president’s home (540 Salisbury Street) was identified. “We wondered if we could put that facility to better use for the College,” said McCarthy, “possibly as a new home for Admissions and Financial Aid offices.” Tom Plough agreed when it was proposed in 2007, followed by the Trustees’ approval. According to McCarthy, the transition between presidents was an ideal time to make the change and the College needed to provide better working space for Admissions and Financial Aid, and a facility to better accommodate prospective students. “This is a 104-year-old college and the only building on campus that was the same age as the College was the president’s house,” he said. This provides prospective and current students an opportunity to use this facility. “We were able to incorporate 90 percent of the ideas provided by the Enrollment Management staff to renovate this facility for their needs and it will bring more students to that side of the campus. “We built a 6,000-square-foot addition to the existing home
and now have 26 people working in first-class space,” McCarthy explained. “I hope that we will be making a much more meaningful first impression on prospective students and their parents. It’s a cliché, but you only get one chance to make a first impression.” The enrollment team is capitalizing on this extraordinary new space to elevate each visitor’s campus encounter. Its goal is to create an experience that is authentic, memorable and informative. “It is our goal to reflect the Assumptionist tradition of hospitality during everyone’s visit to the Admissions House and Assumption College,” explains Vice President for Enrollment Evan Lipp. Plans underway include providing customized information related to the visitor’s interest, developing a “signature moment” for the campus tour, achieving sensory engagement on all levels to immerse the visitors and utilizing the latest technology to set the expectation for the experience. Marketing and reaching today’s students is about experience and authenticity. “It is our intention to exceed the expectations of the traditional college visit through our enhanced experience and this will serve as a form of “viral marketing” for Assumption College.” says Lipp. Your thoughts and ideas are welcomed as we navigate this exciting initiative. Please send reflections on your Assumption experience or ideas to elipp@assumption.edu.
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ON CAMPUS
Faculty Members Awarded Tenure Four members of the Assumption faculty were recently awarded tenure. Carmen Borgia is assistant professor of computer science. He has taught at AC since 2001. He earned a B.M. from the Boston Conservatory and a M.S. from Worcester State. He teaches courses in programming in C++ and Java, as well as networking and graphics programming. David Crowley, Ph.D., has taught at Assumption since 2004. An assistant professor of biology, he holds a B.A. from Holy Cross College and a Ph.D. from Stanford University. For his dissertation, he researched DNA damage inducible responses and mechanisms of DNA repair in Escherichia coli and has published on that topic. Dr. Crowley has worked on several research projects with Assumption students, and was featured in the spring 2007 issue of Assumption WEBLINK Magazine. Nalin Ranasinghe, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, joined the Assumption faculty in 2002. He earned a M.A. from the University of Dallas and a Ph.D. from Penn. State. The author of The Soul of Socrates (Cornell University Press, 2000), he teaches introduction to philosophy, ethics, advanced topics in ethics, Plato, and the philosophy of history. Kathleen Fisher, Ph.D., an assistant professor of theology at AC since 2002, holds a B.A. from the University of Scranton and both an M.T.S. and Ph.D. from Boston University. Her thesis title was “The Mystical Animals of Irish Christianity: a Study in Narrative and Visual Images.” She has published several articles and made presentations in her area of expertise. Dr. Fisher teaches courses such as the Bible, the early Church, Medieval Christian writers and the nature of theology.
Professor Borgia is energetic, flexible, forward-thinking and willingly embraces that computer science is changing constantly. He brings what’s new in the field—and what’s remained true all along— to Assumption students of all levels. –Joseph Alfano, Ph.D., chair of math and computer science department
I love my work at Assumption College for three reasons: my talented and supportive colleagues, the tremendously helpful and friendly staff, and, most of all, the intellectually engaged undergraduates who challenge me to become the best educator, mentor, and scientist I can be. –David Crowley, Ph.D.
Assumption’s exciting curricular initiative will soon offer ambitious students the best Catholic liberal arts curriculum available in Massachusetts. The College has a solid nucleus of faculty deeply committed to bringing the best and most generous insights of the Western intellectual tradition to bear on the challenges facing the 21st century student.
Assumption is a good place to be a teacher-scholar. Here I have the opportunity to work closely and enjoyably with our students, to collaborate with first-rate faculty colleagues, and to be part of a community of kind and generous people. –Kathleen Fisher, Ph.D.
–Nalin Ranasinghe, Ph.D
Interested in faculty publications? The D’Alzon Library staff maintains an online listing of faculty publications at WEBLINK
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www.assumption.edu/dept/library/faculty/facpubs.html
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
New Members Appointed to Board of Trustees The College’s Board of Trustees recently elected the following two individuals for three-year terms: Fr. Claude Grenache, A.A., S.T.L. AP’55, ’59 is the spiritual life director and Catholic chaplain at Bentley College in Waltham. A 1955 alumnus of Assumption Prep and 1959 alumnus of the College, Fr. Claude earned both his S.T.B. and S.T.L. from Universite Catholique de Lyon, France. Fr. Claude has served in Quebec, New York City, Mexico City, and at Assumption College. He was AC’s coordinator of multicultural education (1989–92) before becoming vice president for religious affairs and director of campus ministry (1992–96). A loyal alumnus, he has attended and chaired several class reunions and College events and was previously a member of the Alumni Board. He resides with 10 other members of his Congregation at the Assumptionist Center in Brighton. Ralph L. Pearson, Ph.D., is provost/vice president for academic affairs at Duquesne
Fr. Claude Grenache, A.A., S.T.L. AP’55, ’59
Ralph L. Pearson, Ph.D.
University in Pittsburgh, a position he has held since 2001. He had previously served as vice president for academic affairs at both the University of St. Thomas (MN) and Otterbein College (OH); dean of University College at Loyola University, Chicago and dean of community outreach and services at Northern Kentucky University. He is the founding executive director of the Greater Cincinnati Consortium of Colleges and Universities. In addition to holding faculty appointments in the department of history at the universities where he served as an adminis-
trator, he was on the history faculty at Xavier University (OH) and at the University of Bridgeport (CT). Pearson has published papers on the Harlem Renaissance, the black sociologisteducator Charles Spurgeon Johnson, and the histories of Hartford and New Haven, CT. He earned a bachelor’s in psychology from Gettysburg College (PA); an M.A. in history from New York University; and an M.A. and Ph.D. in history from Johns Hopkins University.
Renee Buisson Named Director of Public Affairs Renee Buisson joined the Assumption community in May as director of public affairs, just in time to experience Assumption’s 91st Commencement. She came to Assumption from Bryant University, where she was executive director of university relations for the last two of her eight years there. She also taught at Bryant as an adjunct professor of communication. Prior to Bryant, Renee was the associate vice president of public relations at Quincy Medical Center, serving there for nine years. Previously, she was director of public relations at Roger Williams Hospital in Rhode Island. Renee brings a wealth of experience in media relations, Web and interactive media, brand development and management, and integrated marketing. At Bryant, she worked closely with virtually every
Renee Buisson
department to develop and implement the University’s brand image. She helped manage and lead the redesign of the Bryant
University web site, and has broad experience in media relations. The integrated marketing communication efforts for undergraduate admission supported a dramatic increase in applications during the past five years. Renee is working closely with the Assumption admissions office, the academic departments, information technology staff and others in the College community to develop and implement an integrated marketing communications plan that will increase visibility for the College. She has a keen understanding of Assumption’s special mission and unique character. A graduate of Marquette University, she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science. She also holds a master’s degree in management from Emmanuel College.
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KNOWLEDGE TRUTH•FAITH REASON THE CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION FLOURISHES ON ASSUMPTION’S CAMPUS
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HAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE HUMAN?
B Y E LIZABETH W ALKER
For more than 2,000 years, that question has sparked a free-flowing, no-holds-barred conversation in which philosophers, theologians and scholars—from Aristotle to Dante to Voltaire—weighed in on human nature and searched for knowledge and truth, love and transcendence. This dynamic conversation continues today within the Catholic intellectual tradition, still drawing the finest minds to examine life’s biggest questions. The Catholic intellectual tradition is the golden thread that gives strength and illumination to the weave of Western culture and Catholic thought and gives expression to what it means to be human. It is a question that crosses academic disciplines and touches every faith tradition.
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“We have, then, a treasury of many components in the Catholic intellectual tradition that should not be left hidden or unexplored… the Catholic intellectual tradition is enriching, supportive, inspirational, and full of insight and wisdom for present and future generations…” –Monika Hellwig
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The late Monika Hellwig, a renowned theologian, describes how the Catholic intellectual tradition helps address the issue of providing depth of knowledge, not just breadth and how it influences the integration of knowledge. “We have, then, a treasury of many components in the Catholic intellectual tradition that should not be left hidden or unexplored…the Catholic intellectual tradition is enriching, supportive, inspirational, and full of insight and wisdom for present and future generations…”
Intellectual Treasury hat intellectual treasury is a vital resource for both Catholics and non-Catholics because it has drawn from such a broad slice of life and culture throughout the centuries. It is a tradition that has stayed vital because it has been carefully preserved, boldly advanced and fully informed by the issues of the day, while being grounded in the faith tradition of Catholicism. It includes great thinkers like Augustine, Aquinas, Dante, Catherine of Siena, Flannery O’Connor and other Catholic writers. But it also considers the contributions of Nietzsche and Voltaire, men who rejected the Catholic tradition, but were formed by it. “The Catholic intellectual tradition is longer than a 2,000year-old conversation,” said Professor Daniel Mahoney, Ph.D., who chairs the political science department. “People can make the mistake of putting too much emphasis on the word ‘Catholic’ and not enough on the broader western intellectual tradition of which it is a part. The roots of the Catholic intellectual tradition are in Jerusalem, Athens and Rome and everything those three cities represent. The conversation is as old as the West itself and engages fundamental questions regarding reason and revelation, ethics and politics, and the best way of life for human beings. “Many people today confuse this rich, tension-ridden conversation with a narrowly doctrinal approach, as if an appreciation of the Catholic intellectual tradition involves the imposition of dogma from on high,” Mahoney added. “The poet Matthew Arnold said that the tradition is the ‘best that has been thought and said.’ Surely, that tradition is unthinkable without the contribution of a distinctively Christian wisdom.” Connecting to the Catholic intellectual heritage through the College curriculum requires a seamless integration. Matthew Arnold’s explanation of the beauty of the Acropolis in his essay, “Literature and Science,” captures the importance of a careful integration. “The glorious beauty of the Acropolis at Athens did not come from single fine things stuck about on that hill, a statue here, a gateway there—no, it arose from all things being perfectly combined for a supreme total effect.” “The Catholic intellectual tradition is a reasoned perspective
“People can make the mistake of putting too much emphasis on the word ‘Catholic’ and not enough on the broader western intellectual tradition of which it is a part.” –Professor Daniel Mahoney, Ph.D.
that marries faith with the reasoning process,” Assumption President Francesco Cesareo said. “You can’t do it in every course. You do it where it is legitimate to do so, where it makes sense to do so. Integration means to seamlessly weave it into what we do. It allows for a much more holistic approach to learning. Integration connects it to overall themes and issues discussed in class. It asks the question, ‘What does it mean to be human?’”
Care and Continuity y mission and by mandate, Catholic colleges, unlike secular institutions, are free to apply the extraordinary wealth of the Catholic intellectual tradition across the curriculum. A dynamic intellectual heritage, it is richer than simply doctrine, more resonant than a single voice. Those who engage in the age-old conversation must be open and willing to articulate and examine their own beliefs and values. “If we are committed to our tradition, it says to others that faith is important,” Cesareo said. “We hope students of other faiths will become more informed and committed to their own tradition. By exposing students to the Catholic intellectual tradition, whether they embrace a particular faith tradition or not, they are introduced to a perspective, a particular way of thinking. It’s part of the educational process that enriches. Different kinds of questions will emerge. It provides students with an opportunity to broaden their intellectual process. The Catholic intellectual tradition introduces students to the heritage of the Western and the Christian tradition. It connects them to their roots. It also gives the contemporary student and institution a framework through which to examine the issues of the day. The challenge today is, if we don’t introduce students to that tradition, then it will die.” More than any other entities, Catholic colleges and universities are responsible for the “care and continuity of the Catholic intellectual tradition,” Hellwig wrote in Examining the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, edited by Anthony J. Cernera (2000, Sacred Heart University Press). The breadth, depth and diversity of thought included in that intellectual heritage is sometimes underestimated or misunderstood, even by those closest to it.
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"We hope students of other faiths will become more informed and committed to their own tradition. By exposing students to the Catholic intellectual tradition, whether they embrace a particular faith tradition or not, they are introduced to a perspective, a particular way of thinking. It’s part of the educational process that enriches. " –Francesco Cesareo
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“Best that has been thought and said” aving an opportunity to engage his students in the “best that has been thought and said” drew biology professor Biology Professor Steven Theroux, Ph.D., to Assumption in 1992. Theroux, now chair of the department of natural sciences, said he had not had an opportunity to explore questions like, ‘What does it mean to be human?’ with his students before. He welcomes opportunities to explore the complementary roles faith and reason play in the academic enterprise. In 2006, Theroux developed and co-taught a 300-level seminar, “Human Nature,” with philosophy professor Associate Professor of Philosophy Patrick Corrigan, Ph.D. The cross-disciplinary seminar was intended “to increase the understanding and appreciation of the achievements and limitations of biology, philosophy and theology” and “to gain insight into why a pious Catholic can acknowledge that evolution is true,” among other objectives listed on the syllabus. “Each time the course is taught, it’s different, depending on the professors and what disciplines they’re from,” Theroux said. “This makes it a vibrant and dynamic course. We made it clear to the students at the start of the semester that we didn’t have all of the answers either. For many students, it may have been the first time they explored such questions. At a Catholic college, you have the opportunity to explore the relationship between faith and reason, and theology and science, and to integrate that knowledge.” “From its beginning, the Catholic Church has had to address every issue in society that people grapple with,” President Cesareo said. “The Catholic intellectual tradition brings reason informed by faith, and conversely faith informed by reason, to bear on the world’s problems and issues and provides a different or deeper perspective—it affects the conversation that is taking place.”
“At a Catholic college, you have the opportunity to explore the relationship between faith and reason, and theology and science, and to integrate that knowledge.” –Professor Steven Theroux, Ph.D.
REFLECTIONS BY AN ASSUMPTIONIST ON THE CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION
THE CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION is a conversation – a treasury of wisdom
handed down over centuries. We seem to have lost some of the incentives to tap into that conversation. Because we live in an advanced technological age, we might believe that we are more advanced than those in the past. But reading the great authors and thinkers of the past keeps that conversation alive. It encourages students to ask the great questions about life, their lives and about what is a good life. Students are drawn to such reflections. College is an ideal time in their lives for them to ask questions.
In my conversations with faculty or job
candidates, I often ask what they think about working at a Catholic college. I have found that they look forward to being able to raise certain questions that they could not raise at a state school. That makes me more confident that, understood in its fullness, the Catholic intellectual tradition is more freeing than restrictive.
Christianity from the start was
different. Since it presented itself as a “doctrine,” it invited the full use of reason to help shed light upon and clarify its core beliefs. For example: the doctrine of the Trinity. You can’t find the whole form in the Scriptures. It took centuries for that to develop, drawing upon the prayerful reflection of theologians and the faithful to help elaborate the meaning of that central teaching. Christianity is a learned religion that encourages reflection and depends on it.
–FR. DENNIS GALLAGHER, A.A. ’69, VICE PRESIDENT FOR MISSION
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HOUNDS WATCH
SPRING Sports Roundup HONOR ROLL: A record 229 student-athletes earned a 3.0 GPA or higher in the spring semester including seven with a perfect 4.0 GPA – Megan Urban (basketball), Sara Bullock (field hockey), Grace Kennedy (cross country/track), Renee Bigold (track), Trisha Domings (track), Alexandria Orlando (rowing) and Dan Ferry (track). BASEBALL: The team won eight of its last 12 games, including a record-setting 31-hit barrage in a 20-6 win at Bryant. Junior second baseman Mike Baillargeon led the NE-10 in batting (.431), junior third baseman Mike DiReda led the team with 7 homers and 36 BRI and lefty Michael Colebrook finished 6-2 with a 3.19 ERA. All three earned NE-10 postseason honors, as did junior pitcher/outfielder Jeff Barbale, freshman shortstop Shawn Frigon and sophomore outfielder Derek Migrants. The team also became just the second in New England Division II history to record 900 wins. Colebrook, sophomore catcher Matthew Jose and sophomore pitcher Tim DuPuis earned NE-10 all-academic honors. Baillargeon and DiReda played in the New England all-star game at Fenway Park.
MEN’S GOLF: The team won two tournaments (the AC ShootOut and the Dowling Fall Invitational) and finished second in the Northeast-10. Junior Rob Younker led the team with a 77.8 medal average and represented the Hounds at the NCAAs, just the third in team history behind Hall of Famers Frank Vana ’86 and Patrick Dunn ’89. Junior Jamie Farrea shot a 70 in the second round of the LeMoyne Invitational—only the fourth round of 70 or lower in Hound history, Brian Jerome ’72 holds the mark with a 69 in 1970, while Chris Cowell ’05 and junior teammate Tyler Johnson have also carded a 70. WOMEN’S TENNIS: The team advanced to the NE-10 playoffs and juniors Rachael Hansen and Julia Kilgore earned NE-10 all-academic.
WOMEN’S ROWING: The women’s varsity four finished sixth in the New England Fours championship. Its best performance was a second-place finish to a tough Clark team in which they bested Massachusetts Maritime and Roger Williams by more than 30 seconds.
SOFTBALL: Freshman shortstop Marissa Palumbo led the team with a .410 average and was named the NE-10 Freshman-of-theYear, while junior catcher Amanda Monge played every inning of every game and both earned NE-10 all-conference honors. Senior pitcher Lauren Symonick and sophomore infielder Megan Orbon earned NE-10 all-academic kudos. MEN’S LACROSSE: Senior middie Brandon MacNeil led the team with 34 points (12 goals & 22 assists) and finished his career with 95 points as the fourth-leading scorer in Hound history, including a record 70 assists. He also earned NE-10 all academic honors.
WOMEN’S LACROSSE: Senior attack Jenna Goldstein had 27 goals and finished with 101, becoming just the third player in Hound history to reach that figure. Freshman attack Becca Kelley led the team with 31 goals. Senior Lauren Matysiak, playing goalie for the first time, logged more than 800 minutes and was named team MVP.
Brandon MacNeil
Jenna Goldstein
Rob Younker
TRACK & FIELD: The women won the Worcester championship as senior Lauren King won both the 100 and 200 and junior Molly O’Connell won the shot and the discus. ALUMNI-ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME: During Fall Home-coming on September 27, the College will induct five to its Alumni-Athletics Hall of Fame—J.P. Bisceglia ’84 (football), Demetri Beekman ’93 (basketball), Kristen Ladebauche ’00 (softball), Katie Kerr Clive ’00 (basketball, softball) and Brother Armand Lemaire, A.A. ’48 (contributions).
Greyhound Sports News Online For up-to-the-minute Assumption Greyhound sports coverage, visit
www.assumptiongreyhounds.com
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2008 Greyhound Athletics Awards Assumption’s Top Student-Athletes Honored in May Ceremony Rev. Armand Desautels, A.A. Memorial Awards for premier senior student-athletes One of the top defensive players in Greyhound football history, defensive end Jared Kelly ’08 finished his career with 205 tackles and 28 quarterback sacks. He was a two-time captain and team MVP and a Football Gazette preseason all-America. Jared placed third on the team with 71 tackles and eight quarterback sacks and was named an all-star by the Northeast-10, New England Football Writers, ECAC Division II, Daktronics and Football Gazette. He was also cited by the Northeast-10 on its all-academic team and by the College Sports Information Directors of America on its all-region academic team. In addition, Jared was named to the National Football Foundation Honor Society and earned a BA in accounting with a 3.4 GPA. One of the premier players in the College’s history, libero Lauren Raswyck ’08 is the first Assumption volleyball player to be named a Northeast-10 all-star and was also selected NE-10 Liberoof-the-Year. She captained the 2007 team and was also a two-time team MVP. The career leader with 1,930 digs, Lauren led the team to a 13-11 record and its ninth Worcester City title. She averaged 6.21 digs to lead the NE-10 and set a team record with 53 digs against Saint Anselm. She graduated with a BA in accounting and a 3.3 GPA.
Andrew Laska Awards for athletes-of-the-year Junior guard Bethany Plasski led the basketball team to a recordsetting 22-10 record and their third NCAA regional since 2000. She was the leading scorer (15.0 ppg), captain and Most Valuable Player. Bethany became the 16th player to reach 1,000 points and was named a first-team Northeast-10 all-star, WBCA first-team all-region performer and subsequently an honorable mention all-American. Goalie Lauren Matysiak ’08 was named the NE-10 soccer Goalkeeper-of-the-Year for the third time. She finished with a 0.93 average, 39 wins and 31 shutouts to dominate the record book. Last fall, her 1.16 average was among the conference leaders as were her totals of 85 saves and four shutouts. She was named a first-team all-star for the third time. She also played goal for lacrosse for the first time in her career in the spring, playing the second-most minutes in Hound history. She set team individual records for saves (215) and was named the team’s MVP. Forward Corey Diethorn ’08 enjoyed his finest season, leading the basketball team to a 24-11 record and a berth in both the Northeast-10 and NCAA Northeast regional finals, while leading the team in scoring, rebounding and blocks. His two free throws with no time left gave the Hounds a 64-62 win over
Jared Kelly
Lauren Raswyck
Bethany Plasski
Lauren Matysiak
Corey Diethorn
Mike Baillargeon
Marissa Palumbo
Herbert Woodard
Post University—the team’s 1,000th win as a program. He earned Northeast-10, NABC all-region, ECAC all-star honors and played in the NABC East-West National Senior All-Star Game. He finished with 1,175 points, 717 rebounds and the fourth most blocks in team history (168). Junior second baseman Mike Baillargeon has become one of the premier baseball players in the Northeast-10. He led the conference with a .431 batting average while setting a team record with 81 hits. He also became the defensive leader of the infield and hit safely in 23 of the last 24 games with 20 hits in 33 at bats over the last seven games. With 183 career hits he is positioned to become the ninth member of the Hounds’ exclusive 200-hit club in 2009. Next season he will become just the second threetime captain in Hound history, joining AC Hall-of-Famer Willie Chartier ’22 (1920–22).
Freshman-of-the-Year Awards Shortstop Marissa Palumbo led the team in batting (.410) and was the sixth-leading hitter in the Northeast-10. She was named the NE-10 Freshman-of-the-Year and a first-team all-star. Running back Herbert Woodard, earned Freshman-of-theYear in both the NE-10 and the ECAC while rushing for 966 yards and 10 TDs. His best effort earned him the Golden Helmet as the region’s best player for a week. He rushed for a season-high 277 yards on 21 carries and scored a team-record five TDs to lead the Hounds to a record-setting 71-21 win at Saint Anselm. For information about all the student-athlete awards, visit www.assumptiongreyhounds.com WEBLINK
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On the road with Ray Fagnant ‘86, the Red Sox Northeast Regional Scouting Supervisor
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The
Dream
Maker
B Y T ROY W ATKINS
H
e watches more than 500 baseball games, in person, each year. A six-hour car ride from one game to another is routine and there have been many days when he has arrived at a field at 7 a.m. and left it at 1 a.m. It’s just part of the job for Ray Fagnant ’86, now in his 16th year as a scout for the Boston Red Sox. “It’s a labor of love,” he says.
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“I got a great four-year Assumption experience, an education that helped me down the road." A talented and recruited baseball catcher coming out of high school, Ray Fagnant chose to attend Assumption after visiting with his father during the spring of his senior year of high school. “I walked on the campus and I just knew it was the right place,” Ray said. “I knew about the College’s reputation from others who had attended, but I remember walking through Kennedy Hall on my tour and passing by a calculus class where they were about to answer a question and I said, “Hey Dad, I know the answer.” It was a brief moment that made Ray feel like he belonged. “I also valued my parochial school education and related to the religious education offered at Assumption. I was very comfortable there. It seemed like a natural progression.” Mike LaBrie ’79, Ray’s legion baseball coach, also steered him toward AC. Ray explained, “Mike said one thing that held true to form for me, ‘Your lifelong friends after college are a function of your freshmanyear geography.’ My closest four friends today were my neighbors on the third floor of Founders Hall my freshman year.” Ray thrived at Assumption and on its baseball team. He graduated as the College’s home run king with 23 career round-trippers (currently 5th all-time). “I got a great four-year Assumption experience, an education that helped me down the road and I was able to play professional baseball.” A hand injury forced Ray to sit out his sophomore year, but allowed him to return after graduating in 1986. He began pursuit of a master’s degree (later earning a MBA from the University of Connecticut) and worked as a graduate resident assistant in what is now Salisbury Hall, while playing his final season at Assumption in 1987. Soon after, he signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates. After two years in the Pirates organization he was released, then picked up by the Boston Red Sox and played in the organization for three years before his release. Ray went back to work at CIGNA, as he had for the previous five off-seasons, putting his math degree to work in the company’s actuarial division. He was called by Bill Enos—a major League
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Baseball scout for more than 50 years and the senior member of the Red Sox scouts. Ray explained, “Bill was retiring and he asked me if I was interested in taking his spot. It was early in the spring and I was waiting to hear from a couple of teams, but I knew that it was what I wanted to do because it was a chance for me to stay in baseball. When I called my girlfriend (Suzanne, now his wife) she said ‘I’m sorry and congratulations.’” She knew how much playing baseball meant to him, but was happy for his opportunity to continue working in professional baseball. He started in the spring of 1993 and today is the Northeast Regional Scouting Supervisor for the defending World Series champion Red Sox. The hours are long and the travel is extensive, but Ray is doing something that he loves and is able to join wife Suzanne and their boys Christian (7), Matthew (4) and James (2) almost every night in their East Granby, CT, home. “The most important thing to me is my family and the Red Sox organization believes in it as well. I’ve brought my family with me to many games and events and we’ve gotten to play and run around the field at Fenway together. Chris has taken pictures into school of him hitting from home plate or pitching from the mound at Fenway. What a thrill for him.” The job has some obvious perks.
“When I go to a game, I know who I’m going there to see but I have been pleasantly surprised by other players.”
Ray’s work has been recognized by the Red Sox, as he was the first twotime recipient of the George Digby Award as Red Sox Scout of the Year in 2002 and 2006. Ray scouts players from all levels—15-year-olds to major leaguers—year round, identifying and/or evaluating players that have been previously identified as professional prospects. He is responsible for New England, New York, New Jersey and eastern Canada. “When I go to a game, I know who I’m going there to see but I have been pleasantly surprised by other players,” he said. “Up until the draft in June, I’m looking at players who are eligible for the draft. Once the draft is over, we start planning for next year.” During the summer, he’ll see numerous leagues, including legion, high school amateurs, the college summer leagues (New York and New England collegiates and Cape Cod) as well as pro leagues from ‘A’ ball to the majors. Over the years the availability of the statistical information on players has increased, which has made his job easier. While Ray used to have stats faxed or e-mailed to him from team officials, now he utilizes web sites to retrieve information and check box scores. The Red Sox also have a very comprehensive system to maintain statistics, evaluations and medical reports for prospects and players. “I’ll see a player, write a report, put it in the system, and upload it to Boston so everyone in the organization has instant access to it,” he said. “We don’t make a player transaction before doing exhaustive statistical analyses, but you can’t scout a player on just statistics or ‘tools’ (talent) alone. Scouting is an opinion, so the more opinions we can get about a player, the better we’re able to evaluate him.” Ray’s work has been recognized by the Red Sox—he was the first two-time recipient of the George Digby Award as Red Sox Scout of the Year in 2002 and 2006. George Digby was a Red Sox scout for 50 years (1944–94) and elected to the team’s Hall of Fame earlier this year. Ray said his performance is evaluated in a way similar to how most workers are reviewed by their supervisors. “Ultimately, they have to decide if I put the Red Sox in the
right position to potentially select these players,” Ray said. “If I properly evaluate a player where I think he should be, there’s a one-in-30 chance (there are 30 MLB teams) of getting him because we need to select him in the draft. We need to find out about the player as a person, his background, character, make-up and family.” Among the numerous professional players Ray has scouted and signed are Lou Merloni, Manny Delcarmen, Craig Hansen, Carl Pavano and Brian Rose. “The first game I ever scouted was Holy Cross vs. Providence and the leadoff batter was Lou Merloni. To scout him and sign him was wonderful. Now it’s 15 years later and he had a very good career, made the most of his ability and was tremendously well respected by his community and everyone in baseball. He’s starting to do some radio and TV work and may become more successful behind the microphone.” Although a vast majority of the players signed by scouts don’t make the major leagues, Ray doesn’t measure his success in that manner. “I’ve never been disappointed to learn that someone I signed, has failed,” Ray explained. “I have been disappointed if they failed for the wrong reasons … such as a lack of effort or conditions that prevented them from succeeding. Some of the kids I’m most proud of are guys that didn’t make it out of ‘A’ ball, but maybe they got a lot out of their ability, they were well respected, or they became high school coaches and just good people.” With the Red Sox’s recent success, Ray is the owner of two World Series Champion rings, though he’s never worn more than one at a time. “Wherever I go, people love to see it. I take it off, let them put it on their finger and take pictures. I’m thrilled to be able to share it. And my oldest son has been so spoiled by the success that he recently said, ‘Daddy, win one more and all three of us boys will have one.’” Keep dreaming, kid … you never know.
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AlumniNews
Reunion 2008 M
ore than 500 alumni, friends and family gathered on campus June 6–8 for Reunion Weekend. The Classes of ’58, ’68 and ’73 enjoyed class dinners on Friday night, while the Classes of ’63, ’78, ’83, ’88, ’93, ’98 and 2008 celebrated with their respective class members at dinner on Saturday evening. Guest were entertained with tours of the campus and Testa Science Center, “gym and swim” in the Plourde Recreation Center, and the Reunion Mass. The day’s events were highlighted by the family barbecue, held on the lawn in front of Hagan Campus Center, where the ‘B Street Band’ and Assumption junior/magician Dan Meunier entertained the alumni and their guests. Classical guitarist Bryan Wrenn ’07 provided some background music in Taylor Dining Hall after the conclusion of the class dinners.
Alumni Awards Ceremony
Alumni Award recipients Tom O’Connor ’68, Michelle Graveline HA’08 and Lionel Lamoureux ’68
On Sunday morning the Golden Greyhounds, alumni graduating 50 or more years ago, enjoyed brunch in Testa Science Center. President Francesco Cesareo addressed the Golden Greyhounds and welcomed the Class of 1958 as the newest members of this prestigious group. Three cherished members of the College’s extended family were honored at Alumni Awards Ceremony on June 7 in Hagan Hall. Michelle Graveline, DMA, received the Honorary Alumnus/a Award. Chair of Assumption’s department of art and music and a member of the faculty since 1984, Michelle is professor of music and director of the AC Chorale, which she has led on 10 national and international concert tours. She and husband Kent Stout have three children. Former student Christine Picard Sawicki ’89 introduced Michelle. “Her contribution is consistent with Assumption’s commitment to the entire person,” she said. “Professionally, she
leads by example. She teaches us to follow and then to become leaders ourselves.” In her remarks, Michelle shared, “This honor says to me that I’ve touched a number of lives … my father (the late Bob Graveline ’46, a former AC Trustee) would have been so proud. Out of all of my faculty colleagues, the one who has truly made it a wonderful experience for me for the past 24 years is my friend and my faculty mentor from the beginning, Fr. Donat Lamothe, A.A. ’57. He was a better teacher than many of the ‘big shot’ music historians whose classes I took in graduate school. He supported and encouraged me when I wanted to add courses, create a band and take a choir tour to Italy in 1986. I know that he and I wanted to share with our students the musical experience that is so much a part of who we are.” Lionel Lamoureux ’68 is this year’s Jack L. Bresciani ’72 Outstanding Alumnus/a Award recipient. Lionel’s volunteer leadership of the Father Bissonnette Invitational golf tournament
Mike Tabak ’68 and Phil Mahler ’68
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Kathy Robinson Sachs ’73, Denise Ebacher King ’73, Susan Mahoney Lynch ’73 and Pat Callanan Carleton ’73
Anne-Marie Kenney ’98 and Monica Albert Potter ’98
Rebecka DeCost ’03, Sara Mayer ’03, Justin Smith ’03 and Joe DiCarlo ’03
has enabled it to raise $1 million since its inception in 1973. A charter member of the President’s Council and a member of the Heritage Society, Lionel has also served on several AC committees for past campaigns. The owner of Lamoureux Ford, Lionel and wife Cindy have two children and one of their three grandchildren, Danielle, is a member of the Class of 2011. Trustee and long-time friend Bob Gray ’65 remembered when Lionel’s parents ran the College bookstore in the early ’60s and Lionel worked there. Bob explained that Lionel went to work for Ford Motor Company after graduation and later bought Barney’s Ford Garage in East Brookfield. “Due to his meticulous attention to detail and customer satisfaction he has earned Lamoureux Ford the prestigious President’s Award from Ford Motor Company for the 14th time,” Bob said. “Lionel’s record has placed him in the top 10 percent of Ford dealers nationwide. He has a gift to make everything he supports a success.” When Lionel became chair of the Father Bissonnette Invitational golf tournament committee in 2000, the tourney raised $18,000 per year. Through his leadership, the tournament has grown and set a record of $92,000 in 2007. Accepting the award, Lionel said, “I’m really proud that I am an Assumption graduate. This is such a fine school and it just feels good to be a part of it. My wife Cindy and I take our responsibility to support the College very seriously. We know how important it is to support academic and athletic scholarships to help provide students with an education they might not otherwise be able to afford.” Tom O’Connor ’68 was presented the Fr. Louis Dion, A.A.’35 Outstanding Achievement Award. He is in his 14th year at George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) as assistant vice president and director of athletics. He was named 2006-07 Southeast Division Athletic Director of the Year, one of only 29 athletic directors nationwide to be recognized. Tom chaired the 2008 Men’s Basketball Championship Committee, served on Assumption’s Athletics Capital Campaign Committee for the Multi-Sport Stadium and is a member of the Washington, DC Area Regional Alumni Club. Former teammate and long-time friend, AC Athletics Director Ted Paulauskas ’67 introduced Tom. He said, “Tom has had a storied and well-traveled career in intercollegiate athletics.” Ted attributed much of this to Tom’s development of leadership skills at a young age. As chair of the Men’s Basketball Committee, he traveled extensively to see all the teams, “so that at the end of the continued on page 28
1983 Classmates Peggy Bond Duffy, Sharon Devine Raden, Karen McGaffigan Feeney, Ellen Moynihan Long, Beth Pullen Soederberg and Beth Waldron Boothe
Tom Moody ’93, Eric Lewin ’93 and Marcus Brucoli ’93
Richard Cloutier ’58, Linda Dupre HA’78, Al Nault ’58 and Fritz Dupre ’58
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Worcester
ALUMNI NEWS
Regional Presidential Receptions Alumni and friends gathered to meet President Francesco Cesareo for receptions in four cities as regional alumni clubs hosted events in Worcester, Boston, New York City and Cape Cod. At the Worcester Club in March, more than 100 alumni, parents and friends attended. Photos from the events appear on the next few pages and additional photos are available on the alumni events page at www.assumption.edu. WEBLINK
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1. Frank Doyle ’80, Ron Fraser ’81 and Jay Sweeney ’80 2. Bob Mercier ’68, Dennis O’Connor ’90 and Jim Moughan ’81 3. Joe '60 and Nancy Lane with Tim Cooney ’62 4. Ryan ’03 and Ali Reyell Murphy ’05, Tina Wrubel Sullivan ’90 and Bill Sullivan 5. Paul O’Connor ’73, Peggy Costello O’Connor ’78, Patti Field Verderese ’73 and Paul Verderese ’72
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Boston
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More than 100 members of the Assumption family gathered in April at the Downtown Harvard Club of Boston. 1. James Shea P’09, Athletics Director Ted Paulauskas ’67 and Tim Shea ’72, P’03 2. Ryan Brennan ’05, Patricia Steele ’05, Rich Graham ’05, Matt Holmes ’05, Michael Saegh ’05 and Frank Woods ’05 3. James Newman ’05, Exec. VP for Finance and Administration Chris McCarthy and Trustee Steve O’Brien ’69 4. Bob Symes ’91, Ed McDonald ’84, President Francesco Cesareo and Mike Sullivan ’83 5. President Francesco Cesareo, Carolyn Clancy ’82 and Sean Silvia ’83 6. Cindy DeNaples Silva ’95 and Andy Viens ’94
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New York City
ALUMNI NEWS
Regional Presidential Receptions 1
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A crowd in excess of 65 attended the May reception at The Princeton Club of New York. 1. The Assumption College Chapel Choir performs 2. Fr. Tim Tighe ’61, Jim Prevet ’63 and Jack Barnosky ’64 3. Christine Wild Howard ’90, Matt Howard ’90 and Matt Bagley ’91 4. Robert Smith ’71 and President Francesco Cesareo 5. Linda and John Kuehhas P’08, Teresa Kuehhas ’08 and Billy Lewand ’08 6. Danielle Dugas Molleur ’83, Denis Molleur and George Bonnici AP’54
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Cape Cod
The Cape Cod alumni reception was held in July at the home of Peter and Elaine Babineau Lomenzo ’76 in Dennis. More than 90 alumni and friends attended. 1. Larry ’70 and Beth Thayer, Trustee Mike Tsotsis ’71 and Roger HD’88 & Gloria Plourde HA’95 2. Reception host Elaine Babineau Lomenzo ’76 with her parents, Helen and Robert Babineau, M.D. ’43 3. Dave ’55 & Nancy Beauchamp, Anne Perrault, President Francesco Cesareo and Michael Perrault ’67 4. Luanne Vardo Proko ’85, Michael ’83 & Margaret Mangaudis, Carolyn Clancy ’82, Anne (Foley) ’88 & Rob Ames ’88, and Melanie Demarais HA’92 1
5. Janet Testa HD’07 and Bob Ravenelle ’86 6. Dave Beauchamp ’55 and Bro. Armand Lemaire, A.A. ’48
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ALUMNI EVENTS
ALUMNI NEWS
Saturday, September 6
from the alumni association president L UANNE V ARDO P ROKO ’85, G’95 Summer arrived on Reunion Weekend! As always, it was a weekend of reminiscing and reacquainting with dear friends and a frequent comment is “Why don’t I come to Reunion more often?” Schedules are busy, but there are never any regrets for rearranging and juggling to make Reunion Weekend. The Awards Ceremony in particular is a significant highlight of the weekend. The speeches given both by the presenters and award recipients are always moving stories that all audience members appreciate for the simple common denominator, a connection with Assumption College. As one recipient simply stated, “Assumption makes good people, and I am honored.” It is never too early to begin considering nominees for next year. Please feel free to contact me or Alumni Relations with your nominations. While Reunion Weekend and other Alumni events are good opportunities for networking I want to encourage everyone to visit our web site and click on the ‘networking’ link for alumni. It is an excellent means to either locate classmates or connect with alumni in your field of expertise. Watch for upcoming events in your area and, for the fall, watch for details regarding Homecoming. We have another large incoming class which continues to add to our growing alumni network of 20,000+ strong. Thank you for your continued support and if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at luanne.proko@nichols.edu.
Assumption Prep Reunion
Saturday, September 27 • Alumni Admissions Day – bring prospective students as well as family members and friends • Fall Homecoming • AC football vs. St. Anselm • Alumni-Athletics Hall of Fame Dinner
Saturday, October 18 President’s Council Dinner For a full Calendar of Events, please visit our web-site at http://www.assumption.edu/ alums/Alumni/events.html
Save the Date: June 5-7, 2009 Reunion Weekend Please visit us online at www.assumption.edu/alums. Regional Club events, locations, times and dates frequently fluctuate so please watch your e-mail or check the Web site often to confirm arrangements and to check added Club events. If traveling, you are welcome to join fellow alumni at regional events! Please make sure we have your e-mail address for electronic invitations and updates/event changes.
Questions? Call (508) 767-7223
News to Share? E-mail alumni@assumption.edu or your class agent (listed in Class Notes). Include photos with names and graduation years of alumni pictured. Please print or type.
Reunion 2008 | continued from page 22 year, as the head of the most important, visible and scrutinized committee, he was above reproach. For him to get to that position from a small school in the middle of Worcester is quite remarkable. Despite the scrutiny, this year was the first in the history of the tournament that the four top-seeded teams all reached the Final Four. Tom is a good ‘son’ of [former Assumption basketball coaches/athletics directors] Andrew Laska HD’90 and the
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late Joe O’Brien ’57 and all the values that they worked so hard to instill, which made Assumption so special.” Tom remarked, “I got the call from Diane Laska-Nixon ’76 who informed me that I would be receiving this tremendous award. After putting up with Jim Nance and Billy Packer and some of those people, to hear Diane’s voice was a thrill. As I reflect upon my time at Assumption, I thought a lot about Andy (Laska). He
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
is just so special. He taught us so much beyond basketball. It really touched me deeply to hear about receiving this award. And I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to get to where I am without the foundation that this College and people like Andy Laska provided. I’ve been to many colleges and worked on many campuses and there is an ‘Assumption way,’ and Assumption does it the right way.”
ClassNotes Assumption College
’57 Louis Leveilee received a 2008 Hall of Fame award from the New England Education Media Association in April, recognizing his hard work and dedication to the library media profession. Louis is the reference and information services librarian at Killingly (CT) Public Library.
life’s possibilities, therein changing lives and transforming society.” The One Family Scholars program provides scholarships, coupled with career development and leadership training, for homeless, formerly homeless and at-risk mothers to attend college. Richard Nelson is living in Arlington, VA with wife Annabelle and their children, Joanna (15) and Chris (14). After retiring from the Foreign Service he operates a financial service practice.
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REUNION CONTACT Ron Coderre (ron.coderre@snet.net)
Louis DeSantis was recently awarded the Sons of Italy 2008 Coaches Award. Lou is a partner of Company Operations at Diamond Staffing Inc. in Worcester. He and his wife of 34 years, Dona, have two children.
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CLASS AGENT
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CLASS AGENT
Dan Micari (dmicari@yahoo.com)
Geoff Smith (staghart30@aol.com)
CLASS AGENT
John Massaro is enjoying his retirement and teaches a course at SUNY-Potsdam each winter—either “Politics of Basketball” or “Political Themes in Springsteen.” Thomas Thompson is heading up the building committee for his parish—St. Brendan the Navigator in Shallotte, NC—which plans to expand the Parish Hall and the Sanctuary.
Maurice “Moe” Boisvert, executive director of Youth Opportunities Upheld (YOU) Inc., was presented the fourth annual Renaissance Award from the Greater Worcester Community Foundation in May. The award honors individuals who devote their time and talents to making Worcester a better place. Moe has directed YOU Inc., a Worcester-based child welfare and behavioral health organization, since 1976.
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Serge DeBari was inducted into the Sons of Italy Hall of Fame in May. He captained the 1970–71 men’s basketball team to the UPI national championship, graduated as the College’s career scoring leader (1,493 points) and was elected to AC’s Alumni-Athletics Hall of Fame in 1978. This year, Serge coached the AC men’s basketball team to a 24-11 record and a berth in the NCAA Regional finals. William Humbert owns a company named RecruiterGuy.com and has gotten his www.RecruiterGuy.jobs site up and running. Mike Tsotsis received the first Ambassadors Award from the American Red Cross of Central MA in March. He has been a member of its board of directors since 1994.
Bob Lambert (lambertlaw@charter.net)
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Sr. Margaret Leonard, LSA executive director of Project Hope in Roxbury and co-founder of the One Family Scholars program received one of the first Legends Among Us awards in April at One Family Inc.’s annual Mothers of Inspiration gala in Boston. One Family’s new Legends awards “honor heroes, known and emerging, who lift us up and open the door to
Michael Chechile, after retiring from teaching high school in Springfield, is a medical technologist for Baystate Medical Center, Transfusion Medicine Service. Michael and his wife of 20 years, Ann, have three adopted daughters from China, four grown children and nine grandchildren.
’73 CLASS AGENT Maureen Ryan Doyle (mryandoyle@aol.com)
Robert Carbonneau is teaching history and spoken English at Sichuan International Studies University, Chongqing, China. Rob wrote that he felt the earthquake that hit China earlier this year and fortunately the school did not sustain any real damage, but the atmosphere was quite anxious during all the aftershocks.
’74
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Anthony Maguire works for TD Banknorth, N.A. as a vice president in the wealth management group selling retirement plans and services.
’75 Ruthann Melancon ’74, principal of Elm Park Community School, was the keystone speaker April 9 at the Women Studies and Multi Cultural Affairs Passport dinner. (L-R) Brenda Safford, director of multicultural affairs; Dr. Regina Edmonds, director of women studies and assoc. professor of psychology; Ms. Melancon, and Dr. Arlene Vadum, professor of psychology.
Keith Krauss recently joined the law firm of Genova, Burns & Vernoia in Livingston, NJ as head of its business law and transactions group.
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
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CLASS NOTES
’80 CLASS AGENTS Mike Robinson (mjrobinson@att.net) Colette Gushue Rowland (rowlandhinge@aol.com) Sarah Thomas Tracy (sjttracy@cox.net)
Jay Owen ’82, Linda Burlingame Rosenlund ’82 and Vee Iannalfo ’82 at the Boston president’s reception in April.
’76
’78
CLASS AGENT
Paula Shuber Evangelista was appointed assistant vice president and market manager of Flagship Bank and Trust Company’s Grafton Street (Worcester) branch in February. Previously a branch manager for Bank of America, Paula resides in Shrewsbury with husband John ’78 and sons Joseph and Nicholas.
Jeff Lagarce (suelagarce@yahoo.com)
Mark Chasse became the first optometrist to receive the Hall Of Merit Award at the CT & Western MA Chapter of The American Diabetes Association’s Hall Of Merit Gala in April. The Gala recognizes individuals for community service and dedication to finding a cure for diabetes. Mark practices at Family Eyecare and Contact Lens Center, Cromwell, CT, which he founded in 1983. John Dirr is working for Zee Medical as the Sales and Training Coordinator for the Northeast region. Patricia Tucker Schmoyer is the principal of South Fork High School in Stuart, FL. She is in her 30th year in education and still loves it.
’79
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Paul Constantino is a case worker in a segregation unit at MCI-Shirley. He counsels prisoners who are locked up 23 hours a day. Paul had coached the West Boylston High School boys’ basketball team to two consecutive Clark Tournament small schools titles. Marc Gervais was ordained to the Order of Deacon by Bishop McManus at St. Paul’s Cathedral in April. Marc is a parishioner of St. Roch Parish in Oxford. He and wife Roberta have three children—Matthew, Stefanie and Joel. Marc is a registered nurse/case manager for Tufts Health Plan.
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’81 CLASS AGENT John C. Shea (johnkimshea@comcast.net)
Jennifer Zook Stanovich was recently honored by the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts at the 16th Annual Women of Distinction luncheon, held in Worcester. She was nominated by her peers for challenging the status quo and bringing positive transformation to her organization and community.
’82 CLASS AGENTS Carolyn Clancy (carolynmclancy@comcast.net)
CLASS AGENTS
Phillip Sarocco (psarocco@gmail.com)
Roy Angel (rangel@massdevelopment.com)
Cynthia Coia and husband Jim Gregory are hosting a foster child, Isaac Santiago (7). He will join sister Katherine (7). They reside in West Hartford, CT. Laurie Whitaker has served as assistant director of development research at Johns Hopkins University since July 2007. She moved to downtown Baltimore and is enjoying the change.
Kevin McSherry (kevin195774@yahoo.com)
’77
Geraldine Beebe Weeks is retired as social service director of a nursing home that specializes in Alzhiemers. She is enjoying retirement, the sunshine and her four great-grandsons from her Ormond Beach, FL home. Donna Gendreau Rajcula lives in Hopedale with husband Stephen and their three children, Stephen, Lauren and Jonathan. Donna is a senior sales director with Mary Kay Cosmetics and a motivational speaker. Nancy Marois Winn was inducted into the Auburn High School Athletic Hall of Fame in March.
Tom Bartholomew was appointed treasurer of the Greater Worcester Community Foundation in May. Brian Lee is vice president for university advancement at Tufts University. Under his leadership, the school successfully completed a $600 million campaign, which significantly surpassed its goal. Juan Mallari is the director of anesthesia at Surgisite Boston/West Suburban Eye Surgery Center in Waltham.
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
’84
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Michael Rochelle joined QuoNova as vice president of strategic marketing and business development in March. Michael has over 20 years of experience in biopharmaceuticals, clinical laboratory and consulting. QuoNova
develops safe and efficacious anti-virulence agents to fight against infection and damage caused by microbial biofilms
’85 CLASS AGENT Sheila Waldron Veideman (ac1985sw@aol.com)
Joann Foster was named executive director of House of Peace & Education (HOPE), Inc. in Lancaster in July. HOPE serves women from across north central Massachusetts in its job training program. Richard Monroe will be appearing in a production of “Anything Coles: The Music of Cole Porter” at Pakachoag Church in Auburn. He is a member of the Nth Stage Theatre Group. Sheila Waldron Veideman was recently honored by the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts at the 16th Annual Women of Distinction luncheon, held in Worcester. She was nominated by her peers for challenging the status quo and bringing positive transformation to her organization and community. Sheila is employed at Southbridge Savings Bank.
’86 CLASS AGENTS Catherine Browne Harrison (cathbrowne@optline.net) Elizabeth Mowry Sabourin (e.sabourin@comcast.net)
Robert Martin is the vice president and senior consultant at Marsh in Boston. He rode in his third Pan Mass Challenge for cancer research in August. Bob and wife Christine Ayers Martin ’86 reside Charlton. The couple hosted an annual 4th of July celebration at their home. Alumni in attendance were: Nikki DiPietro Anterni ’87, Monica Leahy Gow ’87, Chris Ayers Martin, Bridget Hubbard Miles, Joann Clark Rose, Joan Dame Shay, and Vickie Bubnel Thebeau. BIRTHS: Frank Vana and wife Becky welcomed Molly Mae on 4/9/08. She joins sister Erin and brother Jake.
’87
John McQuade ’87, Leonard Feroleto ’87 and Peter Bernard ’87 in NYC in May.
has moved to Wellesley to coordinate the classic and modern languages department for the middle schools. John McQuade is a recruiter with the Secret Service in the New York area. He and classmates Peter Bernard and Leonard Feroleto attended the New York City alumni reception in May. Douglas Smith was named managing director of First Republic Bank’s Boston office in May. He was previously a senior vice president/team leader at Eastern Bank.
’88 Christopher Laudani and his firm Short Ideas were given the Top Performer Award for 2007 by First Coverage for being the second sell-side firm in the U.S. His stock recommendations beat out almost 1,000 individuals at 250 firms. Firstcoverage.com ranks individuals and stock recommendations by average return. Chris returned 30.3% for 2007. Anthony Perry was appointed director of hiring and training with Liberty Mutual in the personal markets SBU. Tony resides in Shrewsbury with wife Maryann and their sons, Andrew and Anthony. Roger Trahan, Jr. unseated the 12-year veteran and never before challenged town moderator in Grafton. Roger will serve a three-year term as the new town moderator.
CLASS AGENTS
’89
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Neil Isakson (neil.isakson@worcesteracademy.org)
CLASS AGENTS
Scott White (scott@swhitecpa.com)
Chris Agro (c-agro@cox.net)
Timothy Eagan has left the Newton school system as coordinator of world languages and
Mike Igo (fromogi@aol.com)
Patrick Dunn has been appointed vice pres-
Executive Director of FTBNL Allyce Najimy ’86 Her sports hero, Jackie Robinson, once said that the importance of one’s life is measured “in the impact it has on other lives” and for the past two decades, Pittsfield native Allyce Najimy '86 has seen firsthand the positive influence that sports can have in the lives others. It is fitting, then, that Paul Epstein, a social worker in the Brookline Public School system, and his twin brother, Red Sox Executive Vice President and General Manager Theo Epstein, recently named Allyce as the first executive director of The Foundation To Be Named Later (FTBNL); a branch of the Red Sox Foundation, launched three years ago, after the 2004 Red Sox World Series win, with the mission of raising funds and awareness for nonprofit agencies serving disadvantaged youth and families. Those organizations are: BELL, City Year, Home for Little Wanderers, Horizons for Homeless Children, Molo Care, Roxbury Youth Works, Steps to Success, West End Boys and Girls Club, Room to Grow and Citizen Schools. The signature event for FTBNL is the Hot Stove Cool Music concert series founded by ESPN great Peter Gammons. Allyce was previously the COO and senior associate director of Northeastern University’s Center for the Study of Sport in Society, which increases the awareness of sport and its relation to society, and develops programs that identify problems, offer solutions and promote the benefits of sport. Through programs geared primarily toward urban youth, the Center promotes the values of diversity, violence prevention, teamwork, physical activity and community service.
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2007
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CLASS NOTES
ident of Sales/Service for Metso Automation. Ann McInerney has joined the coaching staff of the Holy Cross College women’s basketball team. She brings with her 18 years of college coaching experience at area colleges and universities. BIRTHS: Dana and Jill Meunier Perkins welcomed their fourth child, Emily Rebecca, on 5/6/08. She joins Alexander, Lily and Elena.
’90 CLASS AGENTS
’91
Cliff Jefferson (ctjeff@charter.net)
CLASS AGENT
Saturday Fright Special Rick Trottier ’87 Rick Trottier ’87 has taught elementary school for 21 years, but in his spare time he serves as producer/editor/director and PR representative for “Saturday Fright Special,” (SFS) a public access horror-host TV show that has aired on cable stations since July 2006. He has four co-workers for the Keene, NH-based program, which has a host and/or guest hosts and occasional comedy sketches inspired by the public domain horror film at hand, among other features. Rick’s research indicates that SFS is NH’s first home-grown “horror-host” television show. The group was inspired by Boston-area shows from the 1960s and ’70s, such as “Creature Double Feature” and TV 38’s “The Movie Loft,” as well as nationally syndicated shows from the 1980s like “Elvira” and “Commander USA.” “Saturday Fright Special” has become one of the most popular shows on Cheshire TV, a public-access TV station in Keene. SFS runs on a regular schedule on Cheshire TV’s Saturday broadcast day. It also airs on public access in Hartford, CT, throughout Rhode Island, as well as in South Portland, ME; Barre, VT; Leominster and Fitchburg, MA, and Keene, Manchester, Concord, Claremont, Goffstown and Londonderry, NH. He is pursuing plans to expand to other New England communities and beyond. For more info, visit www.saturdayfrightspecial.com.
in May. The award is presented by the International Broadcasters Idea Bank, an elite organization of 100 radio broadcasters located around the world. Charles Parharm started working with Financial Success System on a part-time basis in April 2008. The business system is built around an amazing training and mentorship program, which compresses five businessbuilding years into one.
Bryan Dockett (bdoc96@yahoo.com)
Kevin Henkin has been named vice president and credit department manager of Webster Five Cents Savings Bank in Webster. Kevin and wife Laura Swenson ’91 reside in North Kingstown, RI.
’92 CLASS AGENTS Kerry Haughey Dockett (kdockett96@yahoo.com) Will Waldron (mandwwaldron@verizon.net)
Thomas McAuliffe (above, right), owner of WMRC 1490-AM radio, accepted the 2008 Cary Simpson Award for Community Service
Joseph Curtin was promoted to vice president and investment officer at Wachovia Securities in Plains, PA. Joe, wife Lisa and daughters Caitlin and Alexandria live in Shavertown, PA.
Kerry Haughey Dockett ’92 and Bryan Dockett ’91 at the May president’s reception in New York City.
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Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
’94
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CLASS AGENTS Scott Tomlinson (scott_tomlinson@landon.net) Mike Walsh (mpwalsh@snet.net)
Michael Gondek will direct the production of “Anything Coles: The Music of Cole Porter” at Pakachoag Church in Auburn, MA. He is a member of the Nth Stage Theatre Group. Mike, wife Elisabeth and sons Josef and Frederic live in Spencer. Robin Jucknevics Whitcore is living in Mount Juliet, TN with husband John and their children, Jody, Colin, Ethan and Keira. The couple owns an audio software company called MultiLoops. BIRTHS: Nichole Premo Thestrup and husband Chris welcomed their first child, Richard Nicholas, on 4/1/08. Michelle Maurice Champigny and husband Normand welcomed Nicholas Carlo on 12/7/07. He joins Noelle (2). Michael Scollo '93, Scott Cavallo '93 and Matt Joyce '93 at the April president’s reception in Boston.
’95 CLASS AGENTS
Andrea Gilligan Flaherty was appointed vice president of finance and administration for Ntirety, Inc., a Dedham-based database administration company, in April. A CPA, Andrea was most recently corporate controller at GeoTrust, Inc. She resides in North Grafton. William Hodge a senior account manager at UPS was ranked first among 40 account executives in sales excellence for the East New England District in 2007. Bill resides in South Kingstown, RI with wife Jennifer and daughters Reilly (7), Maggie (4) and Mia (1). Mary Rouleau Piorun completed her MBA from Bentley College in February. William Waldron owns Aquinas Home Improvements, LLC in Manassas, VA. Will resides in Manassas with wife Mary, and their children, Collette (8), Liam (6), Mary Clare (5), Catherine (2) and Rose Marie (1). Kelsa Fuller Zereski has been appointed director of fund-raising and development for The Fallon Clinic Foundation. BIRTHS: Maura Mulligan McCrann and husband Patrick welcomed Emma Jude on 4/24/08. Emma joins Megan (1). Frederick and Eileen Mullins Penney welcomed Ryan James Charles on 10/19/07. He joins Meaghan (4).
’93
Kiersten Chapman Marich (themarichs@verizon.net)
Anthony Durkan joined Banknorth Investment Group as a financial advisor based at TD Banknorth’s Milford branch. He will provide mainly comprehensive retirement and financial planning services. Kevin O’Connor has accepted a position at Providence College as a professor in the Education Department beginning this fall. Kirsten Varin Werme resides in Charlotte, NC with husband Tom and their children, Cameron (7) and Olivia (4). Tom appeared in a featured role on the season finale of the CW network’s “One Tree Hill.” BIRTHS: Joseph Thibault and wife Tania welcomed their first child, Joseph William, on 2/26/08. Ellen Cumming Waltimyer and husband David welcomed William in August 2007.
Jennifer Gagne Garci resides in Durham, NC with husband Erik and their children, Nolan (4) and Nina (1). Paula Richenburg completed her first 5K road race last June. She ran on her company’s team in the Chase Corporate Challenge held in Boston. She is working for Verdasys in Waltham. BIRTHS: Jennifer Murphy Park and husband Chris welcomed their third son, Wyatt, on 4/18/08. He joins Ethan (5) and Payton (3).
Cindy DeNaples Silva (cindy.silva@fmr.com)
’96 CLASS AGENT Wendy Vautour Durkin (wdurkin@comcast.net)
William Moore received a certificate of appreciation and letter from Captain Jim Herrick in Iraq for the phone cards and support of the Masonic Military Support Fund. BIRTHS: Heidi Baker Chambers and husband Walter announce the birth of Emelia Jane on 2/13/08. She joins Jackson (1). Danielle Fornaciari Murphy and husband Patrick welcomed Kennedy Anne on 2/28/07. She joins Campbell Marie (4).
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
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CLASS NOTES
’97 CLASS AGENT Jared Bouzan (jbouz751@verizon.net)
Almost America’s Favorite Mom Lisa Staney Couture ’95 Lisa Staney Couture ’95, a blind mother of three, was a semifinalist in the “Teleflora presents America’s Favorite Mom” contest and special, which aired Mother’s Day on NBC, hosted by Donny and Marie Osmond. Lisa was one of 15 semifinalists nationwide, selected from nearly 20,000 nominations. Votes were cast on NBC.com to select the winners in five categories, including one overall winner. Lisa was a finalist in the “Chairman of Everything Mom” category. As a semifinalist, she appeared on NBC’s “Today” show and was awarded $10,000. She was nominated by her husband of 10 years, Ron, who shared that Lisa sacrificed her career to be a stay-at-home mom before her deteriorating vision forced her to start walking with a cane. She took classes at night over six years to earn an MBA, which she had to complete via directed study due to her vision loss. Despite extremely limited vision, she takes care of her daughter and helps her two sons with their homework. In addition to her family, Lisa has also cared for her father, who had quadruple bypass surgery in 2005. According to Ron, she maintains a positive attitude through all of her challenges. Lisa and Ron are the parents of Dominic (8), Ryan (6) and Madison (4) and reside in Wesley Chapel, FL.
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Jennifer Stockford Denaro obtained her doctorate in psychology degree from the University of Hartford and provides individual and family therapy at Children’s Friend Inc. in Worcester. Kelly Neff will be inducted into the Bartlett High School’s Hall of Fame in November. The ceremony will take place at Thompson Raceway Restaurant in Thompson, CT. BIRTHS: Brendan Boyd and wife Stephanie welcomed Mackenzie Kelleher on 3/3/08. John and Kristen Granger Brady announce the birth of Caitlin Elisabeth on 12/15/07. Keri Smith Demers and husband Roland welcomed Madelyn Gail on 7/14/07. She joins Ava (4). Edward Rose and wife Gianna welcomed Lucia on 3/9/08. She joins Hutchinson (2). Ed is a diabetes consultant for Medtonic, Inc., where he recently won President’s Club and Rookie of the Year awards.
’98 CLASS AGENTS Carl Cafaro (carl.cafaro@bankofamerica.com) Jon Jankowski (jjankows@hotmail.com)
Christopher Corey has joined Eliot Rose Asset Management as vice president and portfolio manager. He will be responsible for identifying and analyzing new investment opportunities and managing existing portfolio investments. Meredith McRae and a group of approximately 10 other AC alumni traveled to Ireland to attend the wedding of an exchange student they met at Assumption. A few of them continued traveling to London and Spain. A memorial golf outing in honor of Dickie WEBLINK Alumni Lennon was held on June 6. in attendance included: Erik Anderson, Brian Aselton ’95, Jeremy Basso, Rob Billings, Tom Daly ’95, Chris McNamara, John Mahoney ’99, Brian McCarthy ’99, Jared Maxwell, Nield Montgomery ’94, Shane McCutchen, Brian
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
Needham ’95, Vinny O’Connor, Andy Quinn, Tom Quinn ’01 and Erin Haughey Teter. BIRTHS: Shane and Heather Vincent Kent welcome their first child, Sadie, on 10/15/07. Jessica Carneiro Mazzaccaro and husband Dave welcomed Paige Maureen on 5/11/08.
’99
10 TH
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CLASS AGENTS Lauren D’Angelo (laurend7@msn.com) Laura Parrillo (lauralei@myway.com)
Jose Cruz, Jr. wed Raflin Howard on 5/10/08 in a traditional ceremony on the island of Guam. Patrick Foran was recently elected chair of the Yarmouth Finance Committee. John Mahoney helped organize a memorial golf tournament for Richard “Dickie” Lennon ’98, who passed away from cancer a year ago. The tournament was held in June in Lakeville. The funds raised will go to various athletic scholarships in Dickie’s name. Pamela Perfetuo married Richard Wheeler WEBLINK Alumni in on 8/10/07 in Marshfield. attendance were Julie Drummey Bergeron, Jodie Blomquist Duval, Amy Kern ’04, Erin Paparo Mathews, Kevin and Lori Troilo McElmoyle ’98, Matthew Perfetuo ’04, Michael Perfetuo ’04, Erica Torrey Quinn ’98, Elizabeth O’Connell Tivnan and Cristin Quagliaroli Wojtas. Jack Young is a WorldTeach volunteer, committed to one year of service in Costa Rica, where he is living with a host family and teaching primary education at a local public school. He has taught in the Boston Public School system for the past seven years. BIRTHS: Michelle Latorraca Liguori and husband Michael welcomed Natalie Christine on 12/10/07. Christina Hallissey Pavlat and husband James welcomed Constantino James on 9/24/07. The family resides in Milford, CT. Karen Stoyanoff Puntillo and husband Vito welcomed daughter Ava in April 2008. She joins Harrison (3). Karen works in the Admissions Office at Assumption. April Gentes Robert and husband Chris announce the birth of their first child, Faith Noel, on 12/11/07.
’03 CLASS AGENTS Joe DiCarlo (jdicarlo05@comcast.net) Erica Tolles (ericatolles@hotmail.com)
Laura DaRos ’02, Tara Acton ’02 and Ryan Dunn ’02 at the Boston president’s reception in April.
’00
Jessica Knapp Mele and husband Dan welcomed Addison Grace on 12/6/07.
CLASS AGENT Doug Brown (Douglas_Brown15@hotmail.com)
Paul Belsito joined Strategic Financial Partners as a financial advisor in March. Jamie Eaton Deignan is the new coordinator of youth ministry for St. Joseph Parish in Belmont, where she lives with husband John and their children, Marey, Sean and Anna. Brandon Killion is the associate producer on a new television show about the timber industry, called AXMEN, for the History Channel. He resides in CA. CLASS BIRTHS: Stacy Gallagher Boumenot and husband Christopher welcomed Ewan Charles on 4/18/07. He joins Colin (2). The family resides in Ashburnham.
’01 CLASS AGENTS Nick Cafaro (nickcafaro@yahoo.com) Tim Monahan (tmm915@hotmail.com)
Jenny Boutiette Lee resides in Worcester with husband Sean and daughter Tess Madeleine (2). BIRTHS: Kyle and Brittney Cass Egress announce the birth of Isabella Anne on 5/13/08.
’02 CLASS AGENTS Amy Beadle (amy.e.beadle@gmail.com) Laura DaRos (laura.daros@gmail.com)
Tara Acton has returned from a Peace Corps assignment in El Salvador and currently works for Pathfinder International. She assists with reproductive health and family planning programs in Latin American and African countries. Tara also volunteers at an organization in Cambridge, helping Salvadorans who have temporary protected status. Mike Borek is teaching at the Goodard School in West Boylston. James Canavan received a letter of appreciation from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Seneca in recognition of his outstanding initiative and performance. Elizabeth O’Donnell is a project manager for Holland-Mark and HM Studios, an ad agency and design firm in Boston. BIRTHS: Alyssa Glod Gray and husband Peter welcomed Keagan Phillip on 2/16/08. The Grays reside in Norton.
Nicole Belair received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, Canada. In addition, she received the American College of Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons and Allan H. Hart/IDEXX Laboratories awards for her surgical and clinical pathology diagnostic skills. Nicole has been accepted into a post-doctoral small animal rotation internship at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. Julie Caparco received a master’s degree in special education from Framingham State College in August 2007. She currently teaches 8th grade special education at Wellesley Middle School. Amy Galindo is a surgical nurse practitioner in bariatric surgery at University Surgical Associates in Providence, RI. Edward McCourt has accepted a new position at Jacksonville (FL) University as assistant professor of English, tenure track and director of writing across the curriculum program. Timothy Morrow is a new admissions counselor at Anna Maria College in Paxton. Ryan Murphy married Alison Reyell ’05 in August 2007. The couple resides in Sturbridge. Justin Smith, a volunteer with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Natick, has taken on the new responsibility serving as a member of the board of trustees and chair of its patient services committee.
’04
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REUNION
CLASS AGENT Ryan Cody (ryanjcody@gmail.com)
Dan Boyle was appointed head football coach at Worcester’s North High School in the spring. Sara Campbell and Jason Marineau were married on 7/21/07 in Smithfield, RI. WEBLINK Alumni in attendance were: Jennifer Berkoski, Carlene Isham, Heather Lowery and Justine Roy. Sara is a school psychologist in Ashland. The couple resides in Brighton. Diana Solari married Richard Chase on 1/5/08. Alumni in attendance included Nicole Blondin Kurnik, Rebecca Carbone, Melissa Crouteau, Amy Leo Flynn, Christine Groccia,
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
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CLASS NOTES
entrepreneurs succeed. She has moved to Sleepy Hollow, NY. Brian House joined the Wethersfield, CT office of Barnum Financial Group as a financial services representative in April. He resides in South Windsor, CT. Kristen Penkala was an AMA volunteer in Chaparral, NM with the Assumption Sisters. She worked primarily with the youth with particular attention to education. BIRTHS: Ashley Daige welcomed James Thomas Booth on 12/25/07. Stephanie Webber announced the birth of Justin Trainor on 1/17/08.
’08 Sheena Johnson was honored at the recent awards banquet “Crossing Boundaries,” hosted by the African-American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian, Native-American, Consortium Support Network. While at Assumption Sheena was the president of the ALANA organization. Jillian Witham ’04 and Deb Bock ’04 at the April president’s reception in Boston.
Lindsay Soulard, Talene Tarvezian, Lisette Tavares and Caitlin West. Jillian Witham is an account development manager with Forrester Research in Cambridge. Jillian resides in South Boston.
’05 CLASS AGENT Natalie DiCecca (ndicecca@suffolk.edu)
Lindsay Fontana completed her Master of Arts in education from Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ. David Merritt graduated from New England School of Law in May. He will begin work as an attorney at the Law Offices of Dolan Connly, P.C. in Boston, practicing in the areas of personal injury, employment law and real estate law. Elizabeth Penta graduated from Suffolk University Law School in May and will begin her career as an attorney with Taylor, Duane, Barton & Gilman, LLP in Providence, RI and Boston. Thomas Reidy is the new boys’ soccer coach at Westboro High School and he is teaching at Shepard Hill Regional High School in Charlton.
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’06
WEBLINK Note: indicates that a wedding photo is available online at www.assumption. edu/alums/Alumni/weddings.htm
CLASS AGENTS Casey Hatten (madhatten45@yahoo.com) Erica Mandeville (emandevi@assumption.edu)
Mark Daniels is a food and beverage manager at the Crowne Plaza in Hartford, CT. Sara Prendeville graduated from Simmons College with a Master of Arts in teaching degree in May. Jon Weaver is working for NeighborWorks HomeOwnership Center in Worcester, helping city residents struggling with foreclosures.
’07 CLASS AGENTS Frank Galligan (fgalliga@yahoo.com) Laura Schredni (lschredni@yahoo.com) Danielle St. Martin (stmartdt@lemoyne.edu)
Patrick Biggins is a graduate assistant in campus ministry and pursuing a master’s degree in school counseling at Saint Xavier University in Chicago. Andria Hoffman began a new position in July as marketing coordinator with Citrin Cooperman and Company, LLP, a tax, accounting and business consulting firm in midtown Manhattan that specializes in helping
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
Assumption Prep
’40 Father C. Romeo Lamothe recently celebrated 60 years in the priesthood. He was ordained in 1948 in Springfield by Bishop Thomas O’Leary. After serving as an associate pastor for various area parishes he was named pastor of St. Aloysius Parish in Gilbertville in 1968. He served there until 1970 and then was appointed pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Blackstone. He retired from active ministry in 1991 and resides in Shrewsbury.
’49 Father Andre Gariepy recently celebrated 50 years in the priesthood. He was ordained in 1958 at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester by Bishop John Wright. He has been serving the Worcester area as associate pastor and pastor of several parishes.
’70 Jaime Figueroa, CEO & managing director of Panama All In One, Inc. was the keynote speaker with his ‘Why Panama?’ presentation at the Investors Capital Annual Conference in Panama City, Panama. Jaime (above, right) met with Shamus Fleming ’75 (left) and His Excellency Jose Herran-Lima AP’67, the Canadian Ambassador to Panama during his visit
Class members gathered February at St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL, to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversaries. (L–R) Richard ’58 and Rita Lariviere, Bernard AP’53 and Terry Cabana, Bishop of Palm Beach Most Rev. Gerald Barbarito, Bob AP’53 and Lorraine Gosselin, Leo AP’53 and Terry Archambault, and Del AP’53 and Jane Cournoyer.
Graduate Alumni
’53 Class members met for their 10th summer luncheon at the Danversport Yacht Club in WEBLINK Attending were Yvette & Bill July. Brunelle, Jane & Del Cournoyer, Doris & Mel Dutremble, Connie & Con Ferland, Lorraine & Bob Gosselin, Barbara & Paul Goulet, Louis Leveillée, Gloria & Norm Marois, Marilyn & JP Pagé, Bob Parent, Alda & Paul Plante, Ann & Roger Racine and Ben Tremblay. They were joined by Bro. Armand Lemaire, A.A. ’48 and Melanie Demarais HA’92. The Class looks forward to its 55th reunion in September and is planning is annual Christmas party for December 21.
’55
G’71
’56 Richard Lamoureux and his architectural firm Lamoureux Pagano Associates received the Paul E. Tsongas Award in May from Preservation Massachusetts for the renovation of the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts in Worcester.
CLASS AGENT Dick Dion (ddion1130@verizon.net)
The spring Class luncheon was held May 8 at Bertucci’s Restaurant in West Springfield. (Pictured, above, right) Classmates attending were: (Front, L-R): Armand Harnois, Remi Branconnier and Raymond Cote (Back, L-R): Richard Dion, Robert Chicoine, Elroy Barber and Roaul Gagne.
Vincent Matulaitis and wife Rosanne recently received the Outstanding Service to Alma Mater Award from Worcester State College. They are the first couple to receive this accolade. John Hodgen, a full-time professor at Assumption and a part-time professor at Mount Wachusett Community College and a published poet, recently won the Grolier Prize for Poetry, the Arvon Foundation Award and the Yankee Magazine Award for Poetry.
G’74 Gaetana Sclafani has been teaching in the Atlantic City (NJ) District for 36 years.
’68 Joseph Gadbois was recently elected to the board of directors of the National Fraternal Congress of America. He is vice president of fraternal services and corporate marketing for the oldest Catholic fraternal benefit society in the nation, Catholic Family Life Insurance, based in Milwaukee.
G’85 Colleen Murphy recently finished a project as a filmmaker that offers an alternative to today’s celebrity role models. As associate producer on “The Frederick Douglas Story,” she
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
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CLASS NOTES
worked in several aspects of production and helped portray an important historical message. The show is the pilot of a series titled “Young American Heroes,” set to premiere nationwide on Public Broadcasting Service in February 2009. Colleen resides in Westport, CT.
G’92
G’98
Melissa Maguire was named director of special education for the Shrewsbury School District in July.
Kathleen Bien (PICTURED) was appointed director of provider relations for Fallon Community Health Plan in June. Debra Lund has been accepted to A r g o s y U n i v e r s i t y Forensic Psychology master’s degree program. She provides counseling to a wide range of male inmates in mental health department at NCCI Gardner. Deb and husband Bud live in Rindge, NH.
G’95
G’88 Joseph Arsenault was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Boston by Cardinal Sean O’Malley in May. “Deacon Joe” retired in 2005 after several years as an assistant professor at Curry College in Milton.
G’89 Matthew Potter joined Pressure BioSciences, Inc. (PBI) as vice president of sales in March.
Nabil Farooq joined Rollstone Bank & Trust as senior vice president and commercial lender in April.
G’97 Donelle Gomes, a probation officer II at Fall River District Court, was honored at a May State House ceremony as one of five MA recipients of a 2008 Probation Employee Recognition Award.
Assumption
Chic
Can't miss gift ideas for students and alumni
Now with Online Ordering! Visit the Bookstore's redesigned web site for a huge inventory of apparel and gifts, with fully functional online ordering. It's the place for everything Assumption.
http://bookstore.assumption.edu 508-767-7249
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Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
IN MEMORIAM Bro. Stephen Goguen, A.A. AP’57 Sturbridge, MA, died April 19, 2008 Brother Stephen was a dedicated member of the Assumption College Board of Trustees for 23 years (1982–2005) and also worked in the College’s finance office. He will be sorely missed. A Gardner native, Bro. Stephen earned an A.B. as well as master’s degrees in psychology and English from SUNY-Fredonia. He joined the Augustinians of the Assumption in 1960 and served in community assignments as a teacher and administrator at several locations, including Cassadaga, NY; Tampa, FL;
Assumption College and Saint Anne’s Church in Sturbridge. Bro. Stephen also served the Assumptionists as provincial and regional treasurer and as a member of both the provincial and regional councils. He simultaneously served in recent years as a mentor of young Assumptionist candidates and student brothers who resided at the Assumptionist Center in Brighton. He leaves his Assumptionist brothers, as well as nieces and nephews.
Robert Graveline ’46 South Yarmouth, MA, died May 7, 2008 The Assumption community lost a loyal alumnus and proud supporter with the passing of Bob Graveline in May. Bob was a 1943 Assumption Prep alumnus and graduated from the College in 1946. He served his country in the National Guard during World War II. He founded Robert Graveline Insurance Agency in 1949 and became partner in 1952. In 1980, it merged with Crimmins Insurance to become Crimmins-Graveline Insurance Agency in Palmer. Bob was a member of the College’s
Board of Trustees (1983–91) and a member of the President’s Council since 1981. He received the College’s Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1992. Bob championed Franco-American culture throughout his life and was a longtime member of Assumption’s French Institute. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Monica; children Thomas ’72, Paul ’76, Marc, Michelle (AC’s chair of art, music and theatre), Andrea and Rebecca; sister Elaine and nine grandchildren.
Maurice Cyr, D.D.S. AP’39, ’43 Fort Kent, ME, died March 4, 2008 A lifelong Fort Kent resident, Maurice enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943 while a dental student at Georgetown University. He finished dental school, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was commissioned a captain. When his tour was complete, he practiced dentistry in Fort Kent. He leaves his wife of 63 years, Muriel; children Kathy, Ben, and Maurice II; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and a sister, Beatrice.
Gilbert Amyot ’55 Silver Spring, MD, died April 17, 2008 Gilbert was a lawyer who in later years became a playwright. He wrote “The Guest Lecturer,” a play about the life of Maxwell Perkins and “The Spokesman” about Joseph Thayendanegea Brant. Gilbert was drafted into the Army medical corps in 1958 and served overseas in France. He leaves his wife of 49 years, Claudette; children Michele and Nicole; brothers Paul ’52, Robert AP’51 and Charles ’58; sisters Judith and Madeleine and six grandchildren.
Omer DesLauriers ’58, G’60 Dudley, MA, died April 28, 2008 Born and raised in Southbridge, Omer lived in Charlton many years before moving to Dudley. He was an Army veteran of World War II. Omer was a French teacher and then head of the Foreign Language Department for 20 years at Mansfield High School, retiring in 1972. Omer’s wife Marion of 57 years died in February. He leaves daughter, Mary; grandsons Christopher and Jeffrey and was awaiting the birth of his great-grandson.
Raymond Gemme ’55 Millbury, MA, died February 21, 2008 Raymond served in the U.S. Army for two years after college and later worked for 39 years in the Millbury school system as a teacher, guidance counselor and guidance department head before his retirement in 1996. He also taught piano and organ for 50 years. He leaves his wife of 49 years, Anita; children Terese, Claire, Marie, Paul and John; four grandchildren; brother Leo; and sisters Alice and Yvonne. He was predeceased by five brothers, including Bro. Omer Gemme, A.A.
William Dixon, Jr. AP’58, ’62 Middletown, PA, died May 10, 2008 Born in Worcester, Bill resided in Middletown since 1975. He had been employed for the past 20 years with the EPA, Philadelphia Regional Office, as a facilities support specialist. Bill leaves his children Brian, David, Lori and Erin; and three grandchildren.
Robert Grondin AP’50, ’54 Lancaster, NH, died February 26, 2008 Born in Biddeford, ME, Robert worked for Grondin Supply Company (ME) for 10 years and was an agent with various insurance companies for 32 years. After retiring in 1997, he kept active as a religious education teacher and Eucharistic Minister. Robert leaves his wife of 50 years, Julie; children Ann, Linda, Michael, Daniel, Kate, Betty, Denise, and Peter; 13 grandchildren; brother Joseph and sisters Theresa and Precille.
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
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IN MEMORIAM Francis Gardner G’69 West Boylston, MA, died February 21, 2008 Born in Worcester, Francis lived for 37 years in Holden before moving to West Boylston in 2006. A U.S. Army veteran, he served Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester for 41 years as a psychology professor. Francis enjoyed fishing and spending time on Cape Cod with his family and friends. He leaves his wife of 43 years, Joyce; sons Mark and Robert; sister Ann; and five grandchildren. Judith Yoffie G’69 Worcester, MA, died March 4, 2008 Judith gave freely of her time for many years to the city’s religious, civic and academic sectors. With her husband, she owned and operated Worcester Knitting Company, Inc. for many years, retiring in 1986. A president’s council member at Assumption, she was active in numerous local organizations and was the recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Centennial Award of the State of Israel from the Israel Bond Organization for her achievements in humanitarian, community, business and cultural endeavors in 1984. She leaves her sons, Alan, Rabbi Eric and David; brother William; eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. George Fougere G’73 Shrewsbury, MA, died February 19, 2008 A Framingham native, George was raised in Westboro then lived in North Grafton for more than 40 years before moving to Shrewsbury. He served in the U.S. Air Force (1951–60) and retired with the rank of staff sergeant after losing his eyesight. He then earned a BA from Holy Cross College and MA from Assumption. George was a long-time director of volunteers at the Grafton Senior Center. He leaves his wife of 55 years, Evelyn; children Diane, Deborah, Denise, David, and Jennifer; and seven grandchildren. Mary Nadolink CE’74 South Grafton, MA, died February 20, 2008 Mary was born and raised in Worcester and lived in South Grafton for 58 years. She earned a BS in nursing and taught at Worcester City Hospital School of Nursing while practicing as an RN. Mary retired in 1972. She was a WWII veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. Mary leaves her daughters, Stephanie, Mary Jane and Paula; brother Stephen; sister Betty; and two grandchildren. Eleanor Young G’77 Upton, MA, died May 6, 2008 Born in West Virginia, Eleanor lived in Upton for 48 years. She earned a Psy.D. from the MA School of Professional Psychology. She was an outpatient therapist at Riverside Community Care for the past 20 years and had previously worked at other human service agencies in the
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Boston metrowest and Worcester areas. She leaves her husband of 50 years, William; son Jeffrey; daughter Leslie; and two grandchildren.
Frances Richards G’82 Fall River, MA, died June 1, 2008 Frances worked at the Fall River Department of Public Health and helped start up CFC Family Planning. She moved to New Bedford and worked for the Department of Mental Health as a guardian for several clients. She leaves five sisters Hilda, Delia, Mary, Theresa and Madeleine; and several nieces and nephews. John Fontaine ’85 Grafton, MA, died May 12, 2008 John worked as an insurance claims administrator for Sunlife Insurance Co. in Wellesley for several years. He was the producer of GCTV-11 and enjoyed antiquing, genealogy, as well as his trips to Boston and along the seashore. John loved spending time with his family, especially with his nieces and nephews. He is survived by his parents Norman and Elva; brothers Michael ’81, Peter and Mark; and his seven adoring nieces and nephews. Patrick Comer ’94 Worcester, MA, died March 9, 2008 Patrick passed away after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. After graduating from Assumption, he worked for the Rockport Co. as a senior account manager in Chicago, where he lived for several years. He later worked for Putnam Investments in Boston, and both AllState Investments and MainStay Investments in Ohio, before being transferred to Central MA and getting married last fall. Patrick leaves his wife, Andrea; parents James and Cheryl; sister Lauren; and paternal grandmother Gladys. Joseph Riley ’11 Holden, MA, died May 11, 2008 Born in San Antonio, Joseph lived in Dallas and Tampa before moving to Holden in 2003. He died from injuries sustained in a car accident. A 2007 graduate of Wachusett Regional High School, Joe was an accomplished musician in piano, trombone, guitar, xylophone and base guitar and played in a green band, concert band, percussion ensemble and jazz band. He also lettered in cross country and track. He was majoring in biology at Assumption. Joe leaves his parents, Terence and Grace; brother Joshua; paternal grandparents Richard and Barbara; and maternal grandparents Eloy and Mary Lou.
-Friends of the CollegeAlbert Babin, father of Chris ’97; Anne Bacinskas, grandmother of Jen ’03; Leon Bartholomew, father of Stephen ’77 and Thomas ’79; Barbara Bernier, wife of Roger ’66; Sheila Bowler, mother of Julianne ’85; David
Assumption College Magazine • Summer 2008
Calverley, former AC adjunct professor of psychology and continuing education; William Clark, father of Joann Clark Rose ’86, Anne Clark Vetrano ’91 and Kevin ’83; Leona Clemente, mother of Visiting Instructor in Music Peter Clemente; Richard Daigneault, father of Michelle ’08; Loretta Fluet, mother of Connie Fluet Biedrzycki ’75; Charles Gouin, former AC campus security officer; Steven Hynes, brother of Michael ’89; Gregory Johnson, father of Erin ’06; Therese L’Ecuyer, wife of Robert ’53; Paul LePain, brother of AC Professor of Theology Marc ’65; Elizabeth “Betty” Lindstrom, former AC volunteer; Elizabeth Losapio, mother of Joseph ’75 and Arthur ’77; Viviane Mailhot, wife of Roger ’51; Claire Moran, daughter of William Aubuchon Sr. HD’66 and mother of Peter ’74 and Kevin ’72; Deacon Michael Murray, father of Beth ’01; Eileen Ollen, mother of Michelle Ollen Mullane ’79; Phillip Patrone, husband of Eizabeth ’84; Kathleen Rudolph, mother of AC Professor of Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures Mary Beirfeldt G’73 and grandmother of John Bierfeldt Jr. ’96, Meg ’98 and Michael ’00; John Spillane, AC friend and President’s Council member; Lorraine MarcAurele Vachon, wife of Robert AP’50, mother of Suzanne ’83, Jeannine ’86 and Philip ’87, and former AC finance office cashier; Irene Vaudreuil, mother of AC Trustee Fr. Paul, A.A.; Frances White, wife of William ’64.
News to share? E-mail alumni@assumption.edu or your class agent (listed in Class Notes). Include photos with names and graduation years of alumni pictured. Please print or type.
THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESENTS
Fall Homecoming a Alumni Admissions Day
Hall of Fame Dinner
Saturday, September 27, 2008 9:30 a.m. Class agents meeting, Marriott Room 10 a.m.
Alumni Admissions Day – Return to campus with a prospective student (the $50 application fee will be waived for the student) for a private campus tour, continental breakfast and panel discussion!
Noon
Pre-game barbecue (fee), Alumni Pavilion, Multi-Sport Stadium
1 p.m.
Football vs. St. Anselm (fee)
5:30 p.m. Alumni-Athletics Hall of Fame Cocktail Reception 6:30 p.m. Alumni-Athletics Hall of Fame Dinner 2008 inductees: Bro. Armand Lemaire, A.A. ’48 - contributions John “J.P.” Bisceglia, DMD ’84 - football Demetri Beekman ’93 - basketball Kathryn “Katie” Kerr Clive ’00 - basketball Kristen Ladebauche ’00 - softball HOF Dinner is $30 per person – contact Alumni Relations at 508-767-7223 or alumni@assumption.edu to purchase tickets.
Be Part of the Assumption Tradition! For Homecoming information, contact the alumni office at (508) 767-7223 or alumni@assumption.edu or visit www.assumption.edu/alums
500 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA 01609-1296 www.assumption.edu
Higgins Bell Tower Dedicated A gift of the Higgins family estate in memory of Kenneth and Mary and their son, Richard, three new bells cast at the Paccard Bellfoundry in Annecy, France, were added to two existing bells (gifts from the Class of 1995 and the Lamothe Family Trust) to create the customdesigned Higgins Bell Tower. The Tower was constructed in the fall of 2007 and dedicated in June. The bells toll on the half-hour and for special liturgical celebrations.