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CAMPUS NEWS
Scholarship in Memory of the Late Prof. Ranasinghe to Benefit First-Generation Students
BY JOEL ROSARIO ’24
Last spring, Assumption Philosophy Professor Nalin Ranasinghe, Ph.D., unexpectedly passed away while returning home to Boston from India. His 19 years of teaching at Assumption left an indelible impact on his faculty peers and students. To ensure his legacy will continue to inspire and impact the University community, Prof. Ranasinghe’s wife, Gudrun, established the Prof. Nalin Ranasinghe Scholarship to provide financial aid to a student majoring in philosophy, with a preference for first-generation students.
“Nalin left an impressive body of scholarship – focusing on topics at the intersection of philosophy, politics, theology, and literature – and he will always be remembered for the Socratic passion with which he cared for the souls of his students, urging them to live up to their humanity,” said Christian Göbel, Ph.D., philosophy professor and d’Alzon Chair. “He was able to connect with many of his students on a deeply personal level and forever changed their lives.”
The highlight of his scholarly work was an impressive trilogy on Plato’s Socrates and Platonic thought more broadly, and, at the time of his passing, he was completing books on Homer and Shakespeare, who, along with Plato, were his great sources of inspiration. His book on Homer was published posthumously by St. Augustine’s Press this spring.
Profits earned from the sale of Prof. Ranasinghe’s immense book collection became the foundation for this scholarship fund. The fund will rely on donations in pursuit of full endowment.
Presidential Awardees Recognized for Excellence
In recognition of their dedication and commitment to the University’s mission
and its students, three individuals were honored with 2020 Presidential Awards. Those recognized for achieving a level of excellence that merits this special recognition include the following: Michele Lemons, Ph.D., professor of biology, received the Paul Ziegler Presidential Award for Excellence in Scholarship. Esteban Loustaunau, Ph.D., professor of Spanish and director of the Center for Purpose and Vocation, received the Kathleen Murphy Presidential Award for Excellence in Contribution to the Mission. Christine Lowthert, Ed.D., director of Athletics, received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Service.
Students, Alumni Engage in Lifelong Learning through CTEQ Symposium
A cornerstone of Assumption’s Catholic liberal education is imparting upon
students and alumni the tools and opportunities for lifelong learning. The University’s Core Texts & Enduring Questions (CTEQ) program – a unique and intellectually rich interdisciplinary Great Books experience – launched an Alumni Symposium in which Assumption alumni and undergraduate CTEQ students collaborate and explore perennial questions.
“The seeds of a liberal education need to be cultivated over the course of a lifetime,” said Marc Guerra, Ph.D., ’90, G’94, director of the CTEQ program. “Bringing students and alumni together to discuss enduring human questions and themes is not only a natural fit for the CTEQ program; it also reflects Assumption’s commitment to cultivating an appreciation of lifelong learning in its students.”
The CTEQ program held its first Alumni Symposium in spring 2020 and two additional symposia during the 2020–21 academic year. Each participant invited to the Alumni Symposium receives a copy of the chosen book to read independently and then discuss with the group during 75-minute sessions throughout the day of the event.
“The aim of the CTEQ Alumni Symposium is twofold,” said Prof. Guerra. “We want to institutionalize a concrete venue at Assumption where students can continue to pursue the timeless goals of a Catholic liberal arts education, even after they graduate. And second, to show current CTEQ students that they really can place a Catholic liberal education at the center of their time at Assumption and still become a doctor or lawyer or businessperson.”
Paul C. Verderese ’72, G’74, who believes an education shouldn’t conclude at commencement, hopes more faculty consider undertaking programs similar to the CTEQ Symposium. “Professor Guerra’s design of the program accomplishes many important elements. Among them, he brings together several generations of alumni to study a particular topic or writer,” said Verderese, adding that the group dynamic encourages participants to diligently prepare for the event. “Participants challenge each other to think through the topics more deeply as differing viewpoints are examined during the discussions. The event provides a holiday from the workaday world, allowing for the continued cultivation of the vocation to be a lifelong learner.”
The CTEQ program – established with a donation from Donald AP’60, AU’64, HD’10 and Michele D’Amour HD’10 and supported by subsequent gifts from alumni and friends of the program – provides students the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with fellow students and faculty and to attend national lectures, participate in intercollegiate student research and essay contests, and travel throughout the U.S. and Europe on CTEQsponsored trips.
MARC GUERRA, PH.D., ’90, G’94, DIRECTOR OF THE CORE TEXTS & ENDURING QUESTIONS PROGRAM
Zach Triner ’15 and his wife, Carissa, hold the coveted Lombardi Trophy after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won Super Bowl LV in February.
FROM ASSUMPTION TO SUPER BOWL CHAMPION
One year after achieving his dream of playing in the National Football League (NFL), Zach Triner ’15, long snapper for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is a Super Bowl Champion.
“It feels like a rollercoaster; I know that sounds kind of cliché,” said Triner, explaining that the weeks leading up to the game were stressful, that there was peace during the game, and that the parties, celebrations, and formalities after were surreal. “To finally get home and take a breath, I feel like I have some time to look back at what just happened.”
For Triner, the most memorable aspect of the victory was sharing it with his wife, Carissa, who was able to join him for the victory boat parade. “Being able to share that with her was awesome,” he said.
Triner’s wife has been one of his steadfast supporters through his five-year journey of NFL camps and tryouts (and a stint working for Fidelity Investments) before finally landing with the Bucs. Just as his faith helped him pursue his NFL dream, it also provided him the support he needed to succeed during an unusual season that ended with the ultimate prize.
“I think probably one thread that ties a lot of my journey together is the faith aspect of it,” said Triner. “Faith in this context simply means that when you take one step forward, into that darkness or into that unknown, you have no idea what’s about to come, but if you think of the positive outcome that will come from that one step and just believe there is a step there and there is solid ground, if you can understand that one concept, you’re going to be able to do a lot of things in life. Assumption did a really good job of instilling in us that you might not be able to see where that step is, but there is solid ground there, and you just have to keep moving forward. Whether it’s the Super Bowl or making it into the NFL, whether you’re going for your first job or making that one phone call for a deal for your company, none of that action comes from not believing there is solid ground on that next step. To be able to have that mindset is invaluable.”
Triner, who prays before his games, said there were three particular moments during this season when his faith helped him the most: the first game of the season against the New Orleans Saints (“You didn’t really
know what that situation was going to be like without fans; there’s just a lot of added variables,” he said); the team’s first playoff game, also Triner’s first, in which the team played in colder weather in Washington, DC (“With that weather, there are certain nuances and adjustments you have to make in order to be on point, so when it gets really cold and you can’t feel your fingers, faith is important for me,” he explained); and, of course, the Super Bowl.
Triner also shared his experiences playing against “the best returner in the League,” fellow former Greyhound and member of the Saints, Deonte Harris. The image of him chasing down Harris during a return in the NFC Division Championship went viral and will prompt Triner to “switch up my angles next year” in hopes of catching his fast friend.
“It’s just really fun to be able to have another Hound, not only in the NFL but in the same division, that you get to see twice a year," he said, adding that he and Harris spoke after the games and even swapped jerseys.
In April, Triner signed a new contract with the Buccaneers, extending his stay in Tampa Bay, but in the meantime, he’s enjoying the off season with his family, including his new daughter, Indy.
Though he plans to play for as long as he can, Triner is also preparing for the next stage of his career. Last off season, Triner completed a Harvard Business School program and did an externship with a startup in Boston, and he will continue to work on the finance side of the venture while keeping his full attention on football.
Triner noted the similarities between the NFL and the finance industry. “They’re looking for that Ivy League grad, but you just need to articulate the values that Assumption gave you and what you're willing to bring to a company, and you’ll never be out of the race,” he said, comparing his unlikely success in the NFL to that of a finance major’s dream job. “You may not realize this now, but [being from a small school] is an asset because you had to work for it; you’re a step ahead of the game. The journey is just a little bit different. One thing from my own journey that I would hope people realize is that you can honestly do whatever you want, but it is up to you to put the work in and get there.”
Faculty News
Accounting Professor Paul Piwko, MBA, and Alexandra Orlandi ’19 incorporated their National Museum of Mental Health Project (NMMHP), a “museum without walls.” The Museum’s purpose is to form new perspectives and understanding of mental health issues. Initially launched in 2019 after completing a research fellowship at Assumption about mental health exhibitions, Prof. Piwko and Orlandi created the NMMHP to share information and research regarding exhibitions about mental health in the U.S. While their initial mission was to showcase the exhibits developed by others, mainly through op-eds about the benefits of mental health exhibitions, the NMMHP now has an expanded mission that also includes the development of its own virtual exhibitions.
James M. Lang, Ph.D., professor of English and director of the D’Amour Center for Teaching Excellence, published a book about combating distracted learning environments. Prof. Lang’s book, Distracted: Why Students Can’t Focus and What You Can Do About It, concentrates on ways educators can modify their teaching methods and structure their classroom to be a more focused environment for their easily distracted, technologyobsessed students.
Assumption Professors Cinzia Pica-Smith, Ed.D., and Carl Robert Keyes, Ph.D., presented lectures as part of a series on social justice for the Shrewsbury and Tewksbury public libraries, presented in collaboration with Libraries Working Towards Social Justice. Prof. Pica-Smith, associate professor of human services and rehabilitation studies and director of the University’s women’s studies program, delivered a talk titled “The Importance of Interracial Friendships” and discussed her research on cross-race friendships among youth and, in particular, why they are so rare in both children and adults. Prof. Keyes, professor in and chair of the Department of History, presented “Advertising, Enslaved People, and the Role of the Press in Maintaining Slavery in the Era of the American Revolution,” in which he examined what modern audiences can learn about the experiences of enslaved people from advertisements published in newspapers from New England to Georgia during the era of the American Revolution.
Bonnie Catto, Ph.D., who has been a professor of classics at Assumption for more than 30 years, retired at the end of the 2020–21 academic year.
During her time at the University, she taught courses in Latin, Greek, classics in translation, and Roman history.
ASSUMPTION STUDENTS TRAIN AS CONTACT TRACERS SUPPORTING PANDEMIC RESPONSE
When Associate Professor of Biology Aisling Dugan, Ph.D., was developing her special topics course for the spring semester, she sought to create linkages to the global pandemic and its impact on the local community.
“We’re living through a pandemic, which is a pretty remarkable experience and something that is affecting us all so much, including many of my students personally, so I decided to add a community service-learning element to the course to get the students involved in the city’s pandemic response,” Prof. Dugan explained, adding that she reached out to partner with the City of Worcester Division of Public Health’s (WDPH) Academic Health Collaborative to train students to become contact tracers. “This unique way of learning about pandemics provides students with relevant opportunities to become contact tracing volunteers or pursue additional roles in the City of Worcester’s coronavirus response.”
The upper-level biology course, Infectious and Epidemic Disease, explored the history, epidemiology, and clinical and biological elements of significant epidemics such as smallpox, cholera, the plague, tuberculosis, coronaviruses, and the current global health crisis. In addition to the coursework, staff from the WDPH Academic Health Collaborative mentored students as they completed the Johns Hopkins University contact tracing program and the Massachusetts training program, MAVEN, then deployed the students to serve as contact tracers late in the semester and as summer interns.
“Through this innovative collaboration, Assumption students engaged in actual projects and research related to the COVID-19 pandemic, rather than conducting hypothetical research and coursework,” said Kelsey Hopkins, coordinator of the city’s Academic Health Collaborative. “We’re grateful for the partnership with the University and the willingness of the students to help the Health Department in its fight to defeat COVID-19.”
Hopkins explained that the WDPH team of 25 individuals focuses on a range of issues relative to public health and the pandemic, and requires additional resources to adequately administer a comprehensive contact tracing program. The city relies on the generosity of trained volunteers and community partners, including college students.
Patrick Travaglio-Romeo ’21 is one of those students – he volunteered to register individuals at the Worcester Mercantile Center COVID-19 testing site during the spring semester – and appreciated the opportunity the course offered him to engage in and support the community. “The community service-learning aspect allowed me to step out of the classroom and into something that actually helped people. It is definitely meaningful and something that Assumption is really good at,” he said.
AISLING DUGAN, PH.D., ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY
Allison Collins ’22 takes notes during one of the hybrid class meetings.
Temi Falayi ’21 said the course provided relevant skills that would be useful in her future nursing career. “I feel like what we learned was very practical, was something I can use at any time,” she said. “A class like this keeps you interested because you’re able to practice what you learn in the classroom in real life.”
Falayi, who will begin the nursing program at Emory University in Atlanta after graduation, has become inspired through the pandemic to pursue a career in healthcare. She learned valuable information about coronavirus through the course. “I feel like we just need more education and more people learning about contact tracing to enhance understanding of how to thwart the transmission of infectious diseases like coronavirus.”
Prof. Dugan said she has many students like Falayi who are interested in pursuing graduate work in health professions, and that this course allowed them to make connections between academic work and real life. “I think showing them that their work can improve the health of people in their community is not only meaningful but really important. It’s about helping our students make that connection from the classroom to the community.”
The AU Mobile App
When Assumption welcomed students back to campus last fall for in-person learning and a residential experience, a comprehensive safety protocol and the new AU Mobile App made it possible. First used to provide students a means to make reservations for the Chapel, library, and Taylor Dining Hall to comply with Commonwealth de-densification measures, the app has been extensively developed to serve a broader purpose: a centralized location for students, faculty, staff, parents, families, and alumni to obtain vital information. Since its launch, it has become a valuable resource for the entire Assumption community.
STUDENTS AND FACULTY/STAFF
• Through the Wellness module of the AU Mobile App, faculty, staff, and students are able to complete a daily symptom tracker, which allows them access to campus, as well as check in for their twice-per-week COVID-19 test appointments. It also provides information regarding the reopening plan, campus entry, travel forms, and the
University’s COVID-19 dashboard. • An Events section, combining the academic calendar and social, academic, and campus ministry events, keeps students, faculty, and staff informed of what is happening virtually as well as on campus. • AU Reserve, a unique online reservation system, allowed students to reserve space in the dining hall, library, gym, and Chapel ahead of time, eliminating the need to stand in line outside upon arrival, as the University complied with the de-densification guidelines of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. • The My Success module provides students with available academic and student life resources at their disposal, whether living on or off campus. • An Academics module features a complete list of all majors and minors, as well as information pertaining to graduate programs and study abroad and experiential learning opportunities. • A Student Clubs module features the University’s clubs and organizations and information on how students can get involved.
PARENTS/FAMILIES
Through the app, parents and families have access to all the important information that is offered to students, with the added feature of sending meals from local restaurants to their sons or daughters living on campus.
ALUMNI
Through the AU Mobile App, alumni can update their contact information, as well as view digital content from Assumption Magazine, old Heights yearbooks, and alumni videos.
The AU Mobile App is available for download on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. When setting up the app, be sure to allow for push notifications to receive important University news and information.
Professors Pivot, Create Virtual Showcase of Students’ Artwork
BY CAITLIN SZE ’24
Julia Gaudette ’21
Elizabeth Cormier ’24
The ingenuity of Assumption’s faculty in the Department of Art & Music ensured that students’
artwork would be exhibited despite the limitations of the pandemic. In an effort to showcase students’ creativity, which traditionally occurs during the annual fall Student Art & Design Show on campus, Visiting Assistant Professor of Art and Design Lynn Simmons, MFA, created a website to share the creativity of 150 students who contributed more than 300 pieces of art.
“Our annual exhibition demonstrates the depth and breadth of Assumption's programs and puts the accomplishments of our students on display,” said Prof. Simmons. “The exhibition is normally held in the d’Alzon Library, but this year, those interested in viewing the creativity of Assumption students may visit our online show to see works in painting, drawing, collage and assemblage, sculpture, photography, graphic design, typography, web design, and motion graphic design.” Though untraditional, Associate Professor of Art History and Chair of the Department of Art & Music Toby Norris, Ph.D., commented that the virtual showcase is an opportunity to share the artistic talent of Assumption students with new audiences. “The pandemic is actually giving us an opportunity to reach a much wider audience than would be physically able to come to campus,” he said, adding that students featured in the show now have the ability to share their work with their extended family and friends.
For Nick Sposato ’22, a graphic design major from Shrewsbury, remote learning has helped him become more comfortable with collaborating virtually. “A good amount of the media and art that we access day to day is virtual, and I think it’s important to be able to share our work that way,” he said.
Brevin Easton ’23
Brett Tibbetts ’22 Julia Gaudette ’21
The body of work presented in the online showcase is most impressive and can be viewed at
austudentartdesignshowfall2020.wordpress.com.
Elizabeth O’Hara, Ed.D.
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING; COORDINATOR OF THE SPORT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Education
Ed.D., Johnson & Wales, 2018 MBA, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 1999 B.A., Elms College, 1988
Classes Taught at Assumption
Undergraduate
Sport Management; Sport Marketing; Sport Media & Communications; Sport Ethics; Introduction to Marketing; Introduction to Management; Introduction to Organizational Behavior
MBA
Business Ethics; Corporate Social Responsibility; Strategic Marketing
How did you get into teaching?
I worked in the corporate world for many years and am someone who is always looking for my next challenge. During my last corporate role, I asked myself, “Is this what I want to do for the rest of my life?” The quest for my next adventure led me to the University classroom, where I realized that teaching is more than textbooks. It’s about the students, who need someone who cares about their learning in and outside of the classroom. I have never regretted leaving the corporate world. Not for a minute.
How does your professional experience impact your students?
I am a storyteller by nature, and stories help students learn. In an academic setting, the students are able to read or hear about “concepts” and “terms,” but being able to relate these to a real-world scenario adds credibility and a deeper understanding of what we are trying to teach. By sharing stories and real-world situations, the concepts become more than words on a page. I’m also fortunate to maintain many of my contacts from my previous business roles, and I’m able to connect students to internships, help build their network, and get a step ahead before graduation. Most rewarding aspect of teaching?
That’s easy: the students. I love watching students as they forge ahead in their careers, find success professionally and personally, and find happiness.
How have you continued to engage students during the pandemic?
FaceTime, Zoom, it’s all about the face-to-face interaction and letting the students know I’m here. Students need to know we care, have their backs, and understand their struggles. Faculty need to be present, empathetic, and do our best to help each other.
Why is sport management a popular subject?
Sport is a great source of entertainment. Few areas of industry or business create such passion. So many students would love a career in the sport industry, but so few understand the skills and tools necessary to get the job. Taking classes in sport provides students with a unique perspective and can perhaps leverage them in a very competitive field.
What does Assumption’s partnership with the Worcester Red Sox mean for the students?
The Sox partnership is a big deal on so many levels. The relationships that have developed and the opportunities that have been provided for and will continue to be offered to our students transcend what I ever could have hoped for this partnership.
You are a mentor for inner-city scholarship students from The BASE. Why is it important for you to connect with them?
The BASE students mean a great deal to me. They are young people who have limitless potential who deserve opportunities to grow, learn, and achieve and people who believe in them. It is my job to support and encourage them. The BASE founder, Robert Lewis, Jr., is one of the most influential people in my life.
LEARNING BY DOING
(above) Ashley Kuropatkin ’24 with Danielle Hebert, DNP, APN, RN, professor of practice of nursing; (left) Dean of the Froelich School of Nursing Caitlin Stover, Ph.D., RN, with Arianna DeSousa ‘24; (below) John Paul Marino ‘24 and Sophia Noel ’24; Kathryn Tilak ‘24; Prof. Hebert runs a nursing simulation with DeSousa and Noel.
New Health Sciences Building Offers Students State-of-the-Art, Hands-on Learning
In November 2020, Assumption completed construction of the 41,000-square-foot Health Sciences Building, a three-story building with a number of state-of-the-art teaching facilities equipped with the latest training tools to benefit those in the Froelich School of Nursing, School of Health Professions, and a number of other departments and majors.
The nursing floor (pictured) features a large nursing skills lab with seven full-sized hospital beds for teaching patient care, as well as four simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins that simulate actual patient conditions that can be controlled remotely by a simulation lab technician
(bottom right).
Four state-of-the-art classrooms were designed for active learning in a realistic clinical environment, and a number of spacious study areas, conference rooms, and lounges located throughout the building encourage collaboration.
Ever Ancient, Ever New: Refounding Assumption
A Bold, Innovative Strategic Plan Will Guide the University into the Future at a Landmark Moment
Since being founded by the Augustinians of the Assumption in 1904, Assumption University has been “refounded” many
times, evolving to meet the changing needs of students and the world beyond its campus while remaining true to its Catholic mission.
For instance, on June 14, 1918, the institution, originally conceived as a high school for young French-speaking immigrants, conferred its first baccalaureate degrees. President Francesco Cesareo, Ph.D., sees a certain symmetry in this.
“Assumption was authorized to confer baccalaureate degrees by the governor of Massachusetts in February 1917. During the 1917–18 academic year, Assumption offered a four-year college curriculum for the first time in the midst of the Spanish flu pandemic,” he noted, “and became a University in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.” On June 10, 2020, Assumption College officially became Assumption University – a landmark moment in the institution’s then-116-year history that sparked another refounding. University status reflects the evolution and growth of Assumption after the institution was restructured into five separate schools, expanded its graduate degree offerings, established a campus in Rome, and significantly broadened the undergraduate academic catalog.
When women were admitted in 1969, “that was an especially important moment of refounding,” President Cesareo said. In the early 1970s, Assumption began expanding its offerings beyond the liberal arts to explore the possibility of more professionally oriented programs like business, while striving to maintain “the essence” of an Assumption education as one grounded in the tradition of Catholic liberal education. Though much has changed educationally, A lot has happened since Assumption first opened physically, and structurally at Assumption, its doors, requiring the institution to both meet new challenges and remain true to the original vision of its founders. The The strategic plan is a “living document … the fundamental principles of Assumption’s mission remain the same. The University’s newest strategic plan, Ever Ancient, Ever new strategic plan was created to reflect St. Augustine of Hippo’s journey of self- never static.” New: Refounding Assumption, reflects the collective ideas of the University’s community discovery, a rich inspiration for Assumption PRESIDENT FRANCESCO CESAREO, PH.D. as Assumption charts a courageous, innovative in its mission to educate in the tradition of ASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY path forward that is true to the institution’s soul Catholic liberal education. Upon completing and identity, while taking full advantage his journey of restless reflection, Augustine of new opportunities as a University. discovered what he was seeking all along: “Late have I loved you, beauty ever ancient, ever new!” (Confessions, Book X) Though the strategic plan has clearly defined goals, President Cesareo described it as “a living document,” one that is never Like Augustine, Assumption has embarked upon its own journey static. He pointed out that the newest strategic plan had of exploration since its founding and has had the foresight and already outlined ways in which the institution might deliver courage to “refound” itself at critical junctures. During the two education in creative ways by using the most current technoloworld wars, for example, the school had to manage severely gies. While nobody could have anticipated the unprecedented curtailed enrollment and operate on a shoestring budget, given challenges posed by a global pandemic, the University had that Assumption was then an institution for only male students. already begun to consider how to implement remote teaching Many of the faculty members were French-speaking priests who and learning in a way that would be distinctively Assumption. returned to France to minister to troops, posing an additional “Now we can step back and reflect once again on the essence challenge. Assumption refounded itself yet again in the 1950s, of an Assumption education, and think about how we can this time from being an institution where all classes were taught continue integrating technology with in-person instruction to in French to offering bilingual education. Not long after that, the benefit teaching and learning as we move into the future,” he curriculum switched completely to English. said. “The strategic plan was created with the understanding that Assumption will always be responsive as an institution, A decade later, Assumption faced another crossroads in constantly adapting to changing times and the needs of deciding whether to become a coeducational institution. our community.”
A statue of St. Augustine welcomes students like Lily O'Conor ’21 and Taylor Poland ’22 as they enter the Tsotsis Family Academic Center, a reminder of their pursuit of knowledge and a Catholic liberal education.
Strategic Plan Focus Areas
Ever Ancient, Ever New: Refounding Assumption articulates an ambitious vision for Assumption University with five main focus areas:
❶
MISSION
Strengthen the articulation, integration, and engagement of the shared educational mission across every area of the University.
❷
STUDENT SUCCESS & ENGAGEMENT
Foster a culture of student success to promote student satisfaction and engagement.
❸
PROGRAM INNOVATION
Foster innovation and excellence in academic and student programs.
❹
ENHANCE ENROLLMENT
Enhance enrollment through strategic recruitment reflective of mission and market conditions.
❺
FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY & CAREFUL STEWARDSHIP
Ensure the financial sustainability of the institution through careful stewardship of assets and the growth/diversification of revenue streams.
YES! WE HAVE THAT.
Booming Academic Partnerships Offer a Broad Spectrum of Exciting Majors and Career Pathways
David Kenney ’19, who earned a B.S. in chemical engineering through the University’s articulation agreement with Washington University in St. Louis, MO, is now a Ph.D. candidate in chemical engineering at WPI.
Over 20 articulation agreements with colleges and universities across the nation enable Assumption students to earn dual degrees, pursue technical careers, and step on the fast track to accelerated professional and graduate degrees.
Flip on any news channel, and it’s clear that one of the biggest problems we face is how to make better use of our natural resources without harming the environment. That’s why David Kenney ’19, a Ph.D. candidate in chemical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), is researching how to convert waste products into biodiesel fuel.
“What we’re tackling here is both how to reduce our waste problem and how to create national energy independence,” he said. “It’s going to be an interesting and educational ride. I’m very excited to see where this research goes.”
Kenney has already enjoyed an interesting educational ride and not one he ever anticipated when one of Assumption’s former football coaches visited Kenney’s Long Island high school and invited him to attend Assumption’s football camp.
KRYSTIN ALBANO ’20
Krystin Albano ’20 took advantage of Assumption's 3:2 program with the University of Notre Dame, and is in her second year studying chemical engineering in South Bend, IN.
“I’d toyed with the idea of playing football in college,” Kenney said, “but at that point I already knew I wanted to be an engineer, so I didn’t even think of applying to a liberal arts college like Assumption.”
A couple of weeks later, however, his father pointed out that Assumption does, indeed, have an engineering degree: the University offers 3:2 programs in engineering leading to dual B.A./B.S. degrees through both the University of Notre Dame and the McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis.
Qualified Assumption students can earn a B.A. in mathematics, computer science, or one of the natural sciences from Assumption in three years; then at Notre Dame, they spend two years taking courses toward a B.S. in aerospace, chemical, biomolecular, civil, computer, electrical, or environmental engineering. At Washington University, Assumption students either earn a single undergraduate engineering degree in two years or a combination of an undergraduate and master’s degree in three.
Assumption’s articulation agreements are part of the University’s commitment to affordable education and opening doors to more career pathways. Through academic partnerships with affiliated colleges and universities, Assumption students have the opportunity to earn degrees in specialized topics or areas Assumption doesn’t offer. A handful of these agreements provide guaranteed scholarship money and preferred admission, too.
Ironically, Kenney decided against playing college football, but chose Assumption anyway, “knowing that the opportunities a dual degree would present me in the future would outweigh anything football could give me.”
Engineering isn’t done in a vacuum, noted Kenney, who earned his B.S. in chemical engineering at Washington University, where he did research that involved looking at atmospheric conditions from satellite data.
“My department head was conducting studies on everything from cancer to solar cells,” Kenney said. “There aren’t any boundaries to what you can do as a chemical engineer. Having a foundation in the liberal arts helps you think about the impact of the engineering you do at every level and to communicate better,” he said. “It’s a broader perspective than what I could have gotten if I’d only studied engineering.”
A Broader Perspective and Greater Career Options
That broader perspective is one distinct advantage of the dual-degree programs offered through Assumption’s more than 20 articulation agreements with different institutions around the country, said President Francesco Cesareo, Ph.D.
“By combining a liberal arts undergraduate experience with a more specialized program or an advanced degree, our students have the best of both worlds. They’re getting the framework they need for a career while benefiting from the breadth and depth of a liberal arts education,” he said.
These academic partnerships also give students access to more majors. In addition to engineering, Assumption offers articulation agreements with other universities leading to dual degrees, professional degrees, or graduate degrees in fields as wide ranging as chiropractic medicine and law, marine science, and biotechnology (see page 32). For instance, Assumption is one of 35 institutions that participate in Duke University’s Marine Science Education Consortium, and Assumption students are eligible to study at Duke’s state-of-the-art Marine Laboratory in Beaufort, NC.
These academic partnerships also benefit the University, allowing Assumption to attract students who might not otherwise choose to matriculate here. One of those students is Krystin Albano ’20 of Hawaii, who is currently a second-year student at Notre Dame in chemical engineering after spending three years at Assumption as a chemistry major.
“Notre Dame was always a dream school for me,” said Albano, who learned about Assumption’s 3:2 engineering program from her high school counselor. “When I arrived at Assumption and was greeted by students at the front gate wearing blue sweatshirts, I immediately felt that sense of community everyone talks about and felt right at home,” said Albano, who knew she wanted to attend a smaller college where she could be assured of small class sizes and getting to know her professors personally.
She was also attracted to the idea of a liberal arts education. “My dad is an electrical engineer. We’ve talked a lot about how technical schools are great, but give you a very narrow focus, whereas at a liberal arts school you can explore lots of different things.” Although she majored in chemistry, some of her favorite classes at Assumption were theology, philosophy, music, and business.
In addition, at Assumption she learned a key skill: writing. “I always thought I was a decent writer, but then I came to Assumption and realized that I needed to work on that,” she said. “Writing an essay about the history of Europe, for instance, is a lot different from writing a lab report for chemistry class. It gives you a whole new skill set.”
A True Quality Undergraduate Education
For Veronica Johnson ’21, who is currently applying to engineering programs at both Notre Dame and Washington University, the idea of learning so-called “soft” skills like writing and critical thinking was precisely what attracted her to Assumption, even though she’d already made up her mind to pursue an engineering career.
“A true quality undergraduate education gives you opportunities for intellectual, social, and personal growth,” she said. “As a small liberal arts university, I knew that Assumption would allow me to become a part of campus life and know my professors on a personal level.”
For instance, as a vocal scholar, Johnson sings in various campus groups and even traveled to Ireland with the Assumption University Chorale to perform concerts in different churches and cathedrals and experience Irish culture firsthand. She also works as a math and chemistry tutor at Assumption’s Academic Support Center. “It’s been a way for me to give back to this wonderful community,” she said.
Johnson was inspired to study engineering after a family friend was partially paralyzed in a tragic accident. “I’d always loved science and math, but when I saw how this friend was able to walk again through the help of biomedical engineers who developed an exoskeleton, I knew that engineering was the right field for me.”
Now that she has completed her courses for a chemistry major at Assumption, she’s looking forward to continuing her studies in chemical engineering. “Assumption has prepared me to succeed because the classes here are academically challenging, and the personal experiences have given me a lot more confidence,” she said.
Her liberal arts background will allow her to be a better chemical engineer one day, Johnson believes. “I hope to design products that will have a positive impact on society,” she said. “Having a liberal arts degree from Assumption in addition to an engineering degree from another institution will open doors to countless opportunities. I think that it is beneficial for engineers to have both technical degrees and a solid foundation in the humanities.”
The number of articulation agreements with other institutions will likely continue to increase over time, said President Cesareo. “We’re always assessing what our students and prospective students have an interest in studying, and we want to be ready to take advantage of opportunities that will meet those interests and be beneficial both to our students and Assumption University.”
VERONICA JOHNSON ’21
Veronica Johnson ’21 had the opportunity to travel to Ireland with the Assumption University Chorale, and is looking to take advantage of one of the University’s articulation agreements.
DAVID KENNEY ’19
Assumption University has developed agreements with universities that offer students wide-ranging options in undergraduate majors and accelerated graduate degrees at the following institutions:
BIOTECHNOLOGY
B.A./Master of Science in Biotechnology (M.S.B.) Northeastern University Graduate School Program B.A./Professional Science Master's Degree in Biotechnology (P.S.M.) Framingham State University
CHIROPRACTIC MEDICINE
B.A./Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) New York Chiropractic College
COMMUNICATIONS
B.A./M.S. Organizational and Professional Communication Regis College
ENGINEERING
B.A./B.S. Engineering University of Notre Dame B.A./B.S./Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) The McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
B.A./Master of Environmental Science Management (M.E.M.) B.A./Master of Forestry Management (M.F.) Duke University Nicholas School
LAW
J.D./Juris Doctor Duquesne University University of Massachusetts School of Law University of St. Thomas School of Law Vermont Law School Western New England College School of Law
MARINE SCIENCE
Duke University Marine Science Education Consortium (semester of study)
MEDICINE
B.A./Master of Exercise Science, Concentration in Strength and Conditioning/Doctor of Medicine American University of Antigua Medical School B.A./M.S. Molecular Imaging and Therapeutics Regis College
OPTOMETRY
B.A./Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences New England College of Optometry
PHARMACY
B.A./Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCHPS) University of St. Joseph
PHYSICAL THERAPY
B.A./Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCHPS)
PODIATRY
B.A./Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Barry University
Karen Stoyanoff ’99
When Karen Stoyanoff ’99 applied to Assumption as an undergraduate, little did she know that she would eventually return and spend 17 years (and counting) as part of the University’s administration. Assumption is a significant part of her life (her father also is an alumnus), which made it an easy decision to include the University in her estate plans.
Stoyanoff, who currently works as the director of recruitment and graduate admissions, was an accounting major and theology minor. She embraced the liberal arts aspect of an Assumption education, seeking out opportunities like a month-long summer archaeological dig in Israel, a Harvard-sponsored program she participated in at the encouragement of her anthropology professor, Prof. Linda Ammons, Ph.D. “It was an enriching experience that I will forever be grateful for,” she shared. “My experiences with Prof. Ammons and the many business faculty were the highlights of my Assumption education and one of the reasons I enjoy working closely with graduate faculty today. I would not have had the same Assumption experience without the dedication and passion of my professors.”
Stoyanoff, a mother of two, said including Assumption in her estate plan is an easy way of giving back and thanking the institution that gave her so much: an excellent education and now a wonderful work experience.
For more information on how you can support Assumption with a legacy gift, contact Melanie Demarais at 508.767.7332 or visit www.assumption.edu/plannedgiving.
Spring 2021 Sports Highlights
Alison Foley ’21 Olivia Angelo ‘21
HOUNDS WATCH
The Women’s Lacrosse team finished the 2020-21 season with an 8-3 overall record. The Greyhounds defeated Southern New Hampshire University 17-3 in the first round of the Northeast-10 Conference Divisional Championship before their season ended at Bentley University in the NE10 Semifinal game. Five student-athletes earned NE10 All-Conference recognition: Jenna Joseph ‘23 was named the NE10 Northeast Division Rookie of the Year and earned placements on the All-Conference Third Team and All-Rookie Team; Allison Foley ‘21 and Marran Oakman ’21 were named to the AllConference Second Team; Allison Collins ‘22 was named to the All-Conference Third Team; and Olivia Catanzarite ‘24 earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team. Collins was also named the NE10 Goalkeeper of the Week and the IWLCA Defensive Player of the Week while Catanzarite earned NE10 Rookie of the Week honors twice during the season.
Samuel Maciel ‘24
The Men’s Lacrosse team defeated Saint Michael’s College 10-7 in the first round of the Northeast-10 Conference Divisional Championship. They went on to compete at Saint Anselm College, dropping the NE10 Championship Quarterfinal game. After placing second at the Northeast-10 Conference Championship, the Men’s Golf team
finished the 2021 season with an appearance in the NCAA Division II East/Atlantic Regional Tournament in North East, PA. The Greyhounds placed 11th at the regional tournament.
Women’s Golf
competed in three tournaments this spring. They earned second place at the College of Saint Rose Invitational and second place at the Assumption University Invitational before finishing the season placing third at the Northeast-10 Conference Championship.
Ryan Fillebrown ‘21
Julia Chappell ‘21
The Women’s Track & Field team placed eighth at the Northeast-10 Championship. Peri Lynn Snow ’23 earned second place and set a new Assumption school record in the women’s 800-meter run with a time of 2:15.84. The team finished 21st overall at the NEICAAA Championships, where Victoria Steffon ’22 earned first place in the100-meter dash.
Abigail McKeown ‘22
Women’s Tennis picked up a 6-1 victory over American International College in the Northeast-10 Conference Divisional Championship First Round game before falling to Adelphi University in the NE10 Quarterfinal game. The Greyhounds earned victories over Bentley University, Saint Michael’s College, Saint Anselm College, and AIC this season. Caitlin Sze ‘24 was named to the Northeast-10 Conference All-Rookie Team.
Joseph Santos ‘21
The Men’s Track & Field team placed sixth at the Northeast-10 Conference Championship held at American International College. Cameron Donoghue ‘21 led the Greyhounds with six first-place finishes at the meet. The team finished 10th overall at the NEICAAA Championships, with Donoghue breaking a school record in the men‘s decathlon event.
The Women’s Rowing team competed in two races on Lake Quinsigamond this season. They placed second behind Connecticut College on April 10, and the Greyhounds’ Varsity 8 boat earned first place over Mass Maritime and Johnson & Wales on April 17. Softball finished the spring season with a 16-10 overall record. They defeated Saint Michael’s College 1-0 in the Northeast-10 Championship First Round game before falling in the Conference Semifinal game at Franklin Pierce University. Three student-athletes earned NE10 All-Conference recognition: Alyssa Beaton ’21 was named First Team AllConference; Corin Mahan ‘24 earned a spot on the Second Team All-Conference and was joined by Jordan Dwyer ’23 on the All-Rookie Team.
Mia Nowicki ‘21
sports spotlight
Hounds Host First Official Game at Polar Park
The Assumption University Baseball team, in partnership with the Worcester Red Sox, played the first official baseball game at Polar Park on Saturday, May 8, three days before the Woo Sox’s first-ever Opening Day. In what was recognized as the 5-0-8 game (taking place on 5/8 in the 508, Worcester’s area code), the Greyhounds defeated Southern New Hampshire University 10-5, recording Polar Park’s inaugural victory. Graduate student Matt Schneider ‘20 and R.J. Libby ‘21 hit Polar Park’s first home runs in the third and fifth innings, respectively.
The Greyhounds defeated Stonehill College 10-4 in the Northeast-10 Championship First Round game before falling to Southern New Hampshire in the Semifinal game. Three players were named to the 2021 Northeast-10 All-Conference Teams: Cole Chudoba ‘21, NE10 All-Conference Second Team; graduate student Derek Adamson, All-Conference Third Team; and Jared Berardino ‘24, All-Conference Third Team and All-Rookie Team.
ALUMNI NEWS
Hello, Greyhounds!
Fellow Alumni Ambassador leaders Bob ’86 and Chris (Ayers) Martin ’86, Artie Rogan ’04, Kevin Peterssen ’08, Christina Graziano, Esq. ’10, and I would like to congratulate the Class of 2021 on becoming the newest members of the Assumption alumni community.
Building upon what we accomplished in 2020, the Alumni Ambassador program has continued to offer wonderfully engaging virtual programming so far in 2021. This has included a number of events in partnership with the Career Development & Internship Center (CDIC) to provide opportunities for alumni to share their expertise during Career Networking Nights, a major-specific webinar series, and the annual Career and Internship Fair. We engaged with the Admissions Office to explore new and innovative ways to recruit future Hounds to the University. The Alumni Office has also been hosting virtual programming featuring alumni speakers, giving the alumni community a chance to engage, participate, and reconnect. Alumni from all over the country have attended these events; it’s truly been inspiring to witness, and we hope to continue this type of programming in the future, as it’s a great way to reach alumni both near and far. Please continue to check your email and monitor the social media channels for announcements about future virtual programming.
I wish everyone a wonderful second half of 2021, and I hope to see you at another Assumption event very soon!
Remember, we’re always welcoming new Alumni Ambassadors. If interested, please visit www.assumption.edu/alumni or email us at alumni@assumption.edu to sign up.
Thomas E. Wales, Ph.D. ’98
For more information on the Assumption Alumni Ambassador program, please contact: Amy Logue Gontarz ’01, G’08 Director of Alumni Relations alogue@assumption.edu / 508.767.7011
ALUMNI CONNECT AND SHARE VIRTUALLY ACROSS THE COUNTRY
The Office of Alumni Relations continues to connect with alumni all over the country through a variety of virtual programming. Alumni had the opportunity to start off the New Year relaxed and refreshed with a yoga session led by Lauren D’Angelo ’99, learned how to network during a pandemic through the Professional Development Series, and much more.
Have an idea for programming? Please send an email to alumni@assumption.edu. Visit assumption.edu/alumni/events for a list of virtual events and programs.
Elaine Ingalls ’17
Elaine Ingalls ’17, a disaster service worker for the County of Santa Cruz, CA, shared her firsthand experiences with the California wildfires, in particular the California CZU Lightning Complex fire, during a virtual conversation with fellow alumni.
Megan Evangelista ’13 Lise Keeney ’10 Jon Weaver ’06, G'17
For years, alumni have shared their expertise and knowledge with students through the annual Career Networking Night (CNN) and Alumni Networking Series. This year’s CNN keynote speaker, Megan Evangelista ’13, provided insightful information on how to define one’s personal brand and how to set oneself apart from others during a virtual presentation to students.
Caroline Rufo, Ph.D. ’11
Through the Alumni Office’s Professional Development Series, several alumni shared advice on career development, such as how to improve networking skills and how to overcome the challenges of searching for a job during a pandemic. The series featured presentations by Megan Evangelista ’13, diversity team lead for university relations at Dell Technologies; Lise Keeney ’10, a communications consultant; Caroline Rufo, Ph.D. ’11, senior manager of investment relations for Relay Therapeutics; and Jon Weaver ’06, G’17, president and CEO of Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives and a current member of the Assumption Board of Trustees.
Tom Leary ’75, a Foreign Service officer with over 30 years of U.S. State Department public affairs experience in eight countries, including nine years in Russia, shared his reflections in the lecture “Russian Society, Government, and Relations with the United States.”
Tom Leary ’75
Stephen Knott, Ph.D.’79, HD’13
Christina Graziano, Esq.’10
Stephen Knott, Ph.D. ’79, HD’13, shared insights on his book, The Lost Soul of the American Presidency, during a lecture moderated by Washington, DC-based lawyer Christina Graziano, Esq. ‘10. During the lecture, Knott, who is a professor in the National Security Affairs Department at the U.S. Naval War College, discussed the idea of the American presidency and how it no longer resembles the institution it was meant to be.
