SUMMER 2019
President Mercer with Emily Brady, Trevor Albertine and Tom Hewitt ’75 of TD Bank preparing for the beach ball toss before the summer concert.
FROM THE DESK of the PRESIDENT Dear Friends, Congratulations to the Ramapo College Class of 2019! Every year, it is an honor to preside over the College’s commencement exercises.
Former Alumni Association President Leo Campbell ’73 enjoys the alumni barbecue with President Mercer.
The weather agreed with our plans on Arching Day, May 16, and it was a pleasure to join so many of our graduates and their loved ones at events including the Academic Achievement Awards, the Students of Color Rites of Passage Pre-Commencement Ceremony, the Nursing Pinning Ceremony, and to tour the displays of undergraduate research and senior thesis projects throughout the campus. Further, the Farewell Reception that followed at the Bill Bradley Center was a welcome opportunity for staff and faculty to take pictures with many of our graduates and to wish them well. On May 17, our undergraduates were celebrated at Prudential Center in Newark where more than 1,000 students and 10,000 guests listened to keynote speaker Tiki Barber, cheered on student speaker Riana Katz ’19, honored alumna Marilyn J. Clark ’79, and crossed the stage to receive their baccalaureate diplomas. A few days later, on May 23, our graduate students packed the Bill Bradley Center and, accompanied by their graduate program directors, faculty, and staff, enjoyed an address by keynote speaker Senator Loretta Weinberg (D-37) and student speaker Amanda Mol ’16, ’19. The graduates then made their way across that stage to be ceremoniously hooded and presented with their Master’s diplomas.
President Mercer congratulates former Student Trustee Karen Aguirre ’19 who received honors at the EOF reception for graduating seniors.
In addition to our students’ and alumni achievements, I am also proud to share that Ramapo College will celebrate its 50th Anniversary this year. With special events ranging from a school-based colloquium series to a week-long student-centered Founders’ Day program, Ramapo’s golden anniversary is sure to engage and inspire us all. Thank you for your support of Ramapo College and Happy Anniversary!
Peter P. Mercer, Ph.D. President, Ramapo College of New Jersey
President Mercer welcomed Ramapo’s first registered student Peter Bell ’73 when he returned to campus this spring.
PRESIDENT’S CABINET Peter P. Mercer, J.D., Ph.D. President Stefan Becker Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Cathleen Davey Vice President for Institutional Advancement Kirsten Loewrigkeit Vice President for Administration and Finance Nicole Morgan Agard Chief Equity & Diversity Officer Christopher Romano Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Michael A. Tripodi Vice President and General Counsel Brittany Williams-Goldstein Chief of Staff and Board Liaison BOARD OF TRUSTEES William F. Dator Chair BOARD OF GOVERNORS Debra M. Perry ’85 Chair Carolyn Merkel ’78 Chair, Alumni Association Board RAMAPO MAGAZINE Cathleen Davey Editor-in-Chief Angela Daidone Assistant Editor Mary Cicitta ’07, ’16 Production Editor Janelle Ferraro ’14 Graphic Designer Carolyn Herring Photography Editor Alexandra Simone Contributing Photographer
(L-R standing): Susan Hangen, dean of the School of Humanities and Global Studies; Ben Levy, director of International Education; Gladys Addai, deputy registrar, KNUST; Wilson Agyare, dean of students, KNUST; Stefan Becker, provost; Peter Campbell, dean of the School of Contemporary Arts; Edward Petkus, dean of the Anisfield School of Business (L-R seated): Andrews Kwasi Boateng, registrar and chief administrative officer, KNUST; Efua Arku, chief of staff, KNUST; Kofi Owusu-daaku, professor of biology, KNUST; Edward Saiff, dean of the School of Theoretical and Applied Science; Aaron Lorenz, dean of the School of Social Science and Human Services
NEW ACADEMIC OFFERINGS IN THE WORKS The deans of the five schools, members of the staff and administration and others convened earlier this summer to discuss possible additions to the academic offerings between Ramapo College and at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana. Dr. Kofi Owusu-daaku, professor of biology at KNUST and visiting scholar and associate professor of biology at Ramapo, led the discussion. Currently, Ramapo has agreements with the nursing and social work programs in KNUST, as well as a visiting exchange program with both institutions’ Student Government Associations.
in this issue SUMMER 2019 | COLLEGE MAGAZINE FEATURES
2 Feature: Celebrating the Class of 2019 DEPARTMENTS 8
Alumni Spotlights
18
10
College News
20 Athletics
15
Foundation/Grant News
22
Alumni News
Class Notes
Elizabeth Brand Angela Daidone Contributing Writers This magazine can be made available upon request in alternate media. 201.684.7611. Alumni contact and change of address: Joanne Favata, Director of Alumni Relations 201.684.7115 Student Relations contact: Melissa Van Der Wall, Dean of Students 201.684.7457 Ramapo Magazine is produced by the Office of Marketing and Communications: Melissa Horvath-Plyman AVP Marketing and Communications
ON THE COVER Board of Trustee Charles H. Shotmeyer, his daughter Jenna Shotmeyer ’19 and President Peter P. Mercer pause for a photo during Ramapo’s Arching Ceremony.
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Emma Lucier-Keller carries the gonfalon for the School of Humanities and Global Studies with Dean Susan Hangen.
Graduates and Nursing Professor Donna Cill celebrate at the Arching Ceremony.
Celebrating the Class of 2019 Students, faculty and staff, along with family and friends, filled Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., to cheer on the 1,326 graduates who received their degrees at Ramapo College of New Jersey’s 2019 Commencement Ceremony on May 17. Graduates were encouraged to savor the special occasion and “realize how special” the day was. “Take a moment and look around and realize how special a college graduation is,” said William F. Dator, Chair of the Board of Trustees in the ceremony’s opening remarks. “This is all about you, it is all for you and you’ve earned every bit of it.” He also acknowledged all the many alumni present in the audience and told the soon-to-be graduates, “That’s a heck of a network.”
Graduates participate in Arching, a timehonored Ramapo College tradition.
In his remarks, Ramapo College President Peter P. Mercer highlighted the diversity of the Class of 2019. There were 84 Educational Opportunity Fund Program participants; seven veterans representing the United States armed forces; 149 graduates affiliated with the Office of Specialized Services; 45 students in the adult completion program; and international students representing Algeria, Bulgaria, India, Kenya, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia and Sri Lanka. In addition, several graduates studied or completed internships abroad that spanned nearly all seven continents. “It has been my privilege to serve as your president and to come to know many of you
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over the past several years whether it be through your classroom work and presentations, your art, music or vocal performances, and your civic and extracurricular engagement,” President Mercer said. “For me, being a part of Ramapo College for the last 14 years has meant being a part of the future, namely your future. I have every confidence in your capacity and your tenacity and I look forward to your many successes.” Tiki Barber, former New York Giants star and CBS Radio personality, was the keynote speaker for the ceremony. Barber, who also is a noted author and advocate for literacy and autism awareness, told the audience that rather than offer “words of wisdom,” he preferred to tell a few personal anecdotes. “Twenty-two years ago, I was in your shoes, anxious and eager to go. I was lucky because I had already been drafted to play for the Giants so I thought I was set. But the problem was, I wasn’t very good and I had to work extra hard,” Barber said. “I learned a great lesson. Sometimes, the opportunity is there — opportunities are all around us — and sometimes it’s not perfect. But if you aren’t ready, that opportunity might not come again.” Marilyn J. Clark of the Class of 1979 received the President’s Award of Merit. Ms. Clark, who could not attend, watched the ceremony via livestream from her home. (see page 8 for story)
Academic Achievements Recognized Fifty-six students were recognized for their outstanding academic accomplishments during the annual Academic Achievement Ceremony at the Sharp Theater in the Berrie Center on May 16. "The Academic Achievement Ceremony celebrates our outstanding students' many successes in their majors and research. Each of the awardees has had an impressive career at Ramapo and has ambitious plans for the future, and it is exciting to honor them in front of their peers, families, and friends,” said Ramapo College Provost Stefan Becker. “We are grateful for the many benefactors for their generosity in providing the awards, including the Ramapo Federation of State College Teachers/AFT Local 2274, the Offices of the President and the Provost, the Ramapo College Honors Program, and an anonymous donor for their contributions." Students were recognized by their respective deans in each of the College’s five schools. In addition, the American Federation of Teachers Local 2774 presented its AFT Graduate School Scholarship Award. This year’s recipient was Rachel Coakley ’19, who is planning to continue her education in Ramapo College’s Master of Social Work Program. Collin McConville ’20 received the Henry J. Frundt Memorial Scholarship Award, given to a second- or third-year student with an interest in labor studies, social justice or Latin American studies. Gabrielle Romano ’19 was presented with the Lee Sennish Prize, given annually to a female student who demonstrates outstanding fulfillment or visibly improved academic improvement over the period of enrollment. Reeve Oliva Harden ’19 received the College Honors Program award. For a complete listing of the honorees and photos, visit www.ramapo.edu/aac
Graduating members of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity celebrate with keynote speaker Tiki Barber. Photo courtesy of Island Photography
Associate Professor of Political Science Rebecca Root presents Reeve Oliva Harden, (right) with the College Honors Program Award.
Anthony Giardullo, Cahill Center program coordinator, presents Rachel Coakley (right) with the AFT Graduate School Scholarship Award.
Undergraduate Commencement keynote speaker Tiki Barber
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Students of Color Participate in Rites of Passage Ceremony Ramapo College held its Third Annual Students of Color Rites of Passage Ceremony in the afternoon of May 16, just before the graduates participated in the Annual Arching Ceremony. The Rites of Passage Ceremony is an event that celebrates the academic achievements of students of color who successfully completed the requirements Keynote speaker for the Rites of Passage Ceremony Daniel Jean ’97
Students pay homage to ancestors with the pouring of water.
for an undergraduate or graduate degree at Ramapo. The event recognizes the students’ accomplishments and hard work while simultaneously acknowledging their families and networks of support. The graduates participated in an Affirmation Ceremony, which included a public oath of commitment and a libation ritual, in which several graduates poured liquid in a special pattern in order to pay homage to the ancestors. The Ceremony concluded with a presentation of ceremonial Kente Stoles to each graduate. Ramapo EOF alumnus Daniel Jean ’97 served as the keynote speaker for the event. “I was very pleased to see the number of students in attendance for this event, along with the number of staff and
The Affirmation Ceremony included an oath of commitment to honor ancestors by striving to be their best.
faculty in attendance to support the students,” said Ramapo College’s Chief Equity & Diversity Officer Nicole Morgan Agard. “I feel honored that our office
The Rites of Passage Ceremony recognizes
was able to host this ceremony for our
the students’ accomplishments and hard
of whom are first-generation college
work while simultaneously acknowledging their families and networks of support.
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graduating students of color, many graduates. It is our hope to continue to provide more events such as these to our students and the College.”
Left, Members of the Board of Trustees, the Provost and the Mace bearer prepare for the undergraduate commencement ceremony with keynote speaker Tiki Barber, President Peter Mercer and student speaker Rianna Katz. Below, at Prudential Center and Arching Ceremony
College Holds Lavender Pre-Commencement Ceremony The Lavender Pre-Commencement Ceremony (commonly referred to as Lavender Graduation) hosted by the Women's Center & LGBTQ+ Services is an annual ceremony conducted on college campuses to honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, pansexual and allied students to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements and contributions to the institution. It is a time when LGBTQ+ Identified students and their allies can come together, celebrate and reflect on their time at Ramapo College with other members of the LGBTQ+ community and their supportive allies. Ramapo College celebrated its second annual Lavender PreCommencement Ceremony with 22 students.
The tradition of Lavender Graduation began at the University of Michigan in 1995 with just three graduates. Dr. Ronni Sanlo, then Director of the University of Michigan's LGBT Campus Resource Center, coordinated the first Lavender Graduation. By 2001, there were more than 45 institutions holding Lavender Graduation ceremonies and the tradition continues to expand among colleges and universities across the country. The color lavender plays a historic role in LGBTQ+ history and in the community. It is a combination of the colors pink and black, which were once used to identify and discriminate against gay and lesbian-identified individuals. The LGBTQ+ community took these symbols of hatred and have reclaimed lavender as a symbol of pride and community.
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Student Speaker Highlights Class of 2019 Commitment to Community
Happy EOF graduates prepare to receive their diplomas.
When Riana Katz was chosen to be the Commencement student speaker, she said she was incredibly honored and privileged to address her fellow graduates. That pride shone through in her words, in which she referenced the newest addition on campus and its popular paraphrase, Ramapo runs on Dunkin’. “We all spent hours collaborating with our peers and waiting on very long lines [at the on-campus Dunkin’]. But contrary to popular belief, Ramapo does not run completely on highly caffeinated drinks or sugary donuts,” said Riana, a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast. “Ramapo runs on civic engagement. We registered to vote and continue to write letters to our government officials. We know the power of our voice and how to use it.” She went on to say that Ramapo also runs on inclusivity, citing the campus’ Stigma Free status. “We know the importance of our identity while being accepting of others,” she said. Riana highlighted the Class of 2019’s commitment to giving back to the community and making a sustainable impact. “We were given the tools to impact our campus and the broader community, and we made sure to seize the opportunity to do so through internships, clubs, Greek life and sports teams,” she said, adding, “We were also exposed to a global perspective and were continuously challenged in and outside of our classes. We survived this rigor with the help of our professors, many of whom will now turn into lifelong mentors and friends.” “Along the way, I’m sure there will be a point where we don’t know if we want a regular or decaf…but there is one thing we know for sure: Ramapo empowered us, and gave us a strong foundation. We’re ready to make our mark on whatever we choose to pursue. We will go on to be the healers, storytellers, lawmakers and CEOs of tomorrow.” Riana, who majored in business administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in women’s gender and sexuality studies, is pursuing her passion for writing and diversity and inclusion as a corporate communications specialist at Commvault, a leading provider of data management, where she interned this spring. While on campus, she served as president of ENACTUS, a mentee in the Ramapo Foundation Mentorship Program, a member of the College Disciplinary Board, the Anisfield School of Business Advisory Board and Leaders in Service. She also was a Presidential Scholarship recipient, a participant in the Honors Program and several Greek organizations.
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Janet LaToya Jackson carries the gonfalon for the School of Social Science and Human Services with Dean Aaron Lorenz.
“
…but there is one thing we know for sure: Ramapo empowered us, and gave us a strong foundation.” - Riana Katz ’19
MSN graduate Perliza D. Emde carries the gonfalon.
The Honorable Loretta Weinberg, and Graduate Programs keynote speaker, receives an honorary degree.
Laura Giustacori, Rosa Graham and Victoria Benitez, all from the undergraduate class of 2014, together again to celebrate receiving their master degrees.
Graduate Scott Buhl ’92, ’19 MBA, with his family, his father, former member of the Board of Governors, Tim Buhl (far left), his mother Carol, his wife Jennifer and their two sons.
Graduate Programs Commencement: Time of Reflection Ramapo College celebrated its Graduate Programs Commencement during a separate ceremony in the Bill Bradley Center on campus on May 23. Hundreds of family members and friends packed the Arena to cheer on the 246 graduates, including five veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, who received their master’s degree in the College’s seven graduate programs. Perliza D. Emde carried the Masters Programs gonfalon to mark the beginning of the ceremony. Perliza, a registered nurse in both New Jersey and New York, received her Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) and was instrumental in getting the College’s FNP program accredited. In his address, President Mercer remarked, “Cast your mind back and ask yourself whether 15 years ago you would have imagined sitting here today. Yet you are — through a combination of skill, drive, adaptability and serendipity, you took advantage of what came your way. And you will do so again, aided by a Ramapo education that has given you
formidable skills that enable you to analyze and solve problems across a broad societal range. You should be confidently hopeful as you gaze forward.” The Honorable Loretta Weinberg, Senate Majority Leader District 37, was presented with an honorary degree. “You all are coming of age when we understand that our goals and aspirations shouldn’t take a back seat to anything,” Senator Weinberg began, revealing that years ago she completed her coursework for her master’s degree but never went back to present her thesis. “Today you are the gifted and the educated. Take a moment to appreciate how truly privileged and fortunate you are to receive an advanced degree from Ramapo College, a renowned liberal arts college that fosters international education and intercultural understanding. Take a moment to reflect on the hard work you put in to get here. Despite all the odds and whatever life threw your way, you made it. You have become a greater version of yourself.” www.ramapo.edu
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
MARILYN J. CLARK ’79 Marilyn joined Ramapo College as a returning adult student, attending classes part-time while working for the Saddle River Day School, where she had a successful career for almost 30 years as director of development. She has two sons, one of whom, Walt, is a Ramapo alumnus, class of 1995. Her late husband, Charles, was a physician who served as director of surgery at Valley Hospital for many years. Marilyn is on the Advisory Board of Paterson Habitat for Humanity and is actively involved in her community with the Green Team and the Shade Tree Committee, for which she was recognized by Congressman Josh Gottheimer as a Hometown Hero in Bergen County. She lives in Woodcliff Lake, N.J. What was your reason for returning to college as an adult? And why Ramapo? As a child, I always wanted to be a teacher. It was not feasible for my parents to send me to college so I became a secretary. When my two sons were 16 and 18, their father died. At that time I was working full-time and decided to go back to school as a part-time evening student. Ramapo was a perfect fit for me, both geographically and because of its offerings and welcoming policy towards adult returning students. Did you find it difficult to adjust to the schedule, workload, etc., especially while working? After being accepted at Ramapo, I took the CLEP tests and earned almost a full year of college credits. That gave me so much confidence that this was something I could accomplish. There was also a great support system at Ramapo for the returning adult student. Help was always available from the professors, and my lunch hour at my job was devoted to studying and writing papers. In some of my courses, we developed a study group that would meet before class, and I also took some Saturday classes during the summer. However, when I look back now I wonder how I did it. Your generous scholarship endowment has helped many students. Was there a particular reason for the specific requirements (a student from a single-parent household)? Having had the personal experience of being widowed with two teenage boys, I knew how difficult it could be to head a one-parent household. There are financial and emotional hardships associated with that situation. When I was in a financial position to make a gift, Ramapo was my choice because of my experience there and my belief in the institution. I understood the challenges young people face who are from one-parent families. 8
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You remain very involved in numerous community projects. How do you find the time? And is there a particular project you enjoy the most? The time is the easiest part of the question to answer. Do you know how much you can accomplish in a day?! I am currently reading The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David Brooks. Brooks talks about climbing two mountains, the first in the beginning part of life and the second at the later stage in life. To quote him, “To climb it (the second mountain) doesn’t mean rejecting the first mountain. It’s the journey after it. It’s the more generous and satisfying phase of life.” That is where I’m at, and I am so grateful! I feel each project/organization I am involved with has merit. Paterson Habitat for Humanity is not only providing the opportunity for home ownership to deserving, hard-working families, but it is helping to bring back a city that was devastated by drugs and the exit of their middle class community. The Woodcliff Lake Shade Tree Committee and the Green Team are helping to address a serious situation our planet faces – climate change. We are planting trees and trying to conserve the trees we have. We are actively addressing and participating in recycling activities. The Woodcliff Lake Senior Association, of which I’m president, offers a great variety of programs and social activities. In the winter season of life it is so important to have a community for activities, intellectual growth, and opportunities to develop new friendships. I’m actively involved in my church, where we support many mission projects and social justice issues, one of which is helping to feeding more than 130 people at the Hackensack Homeless Center.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
JOSH RITTER ’02
“THE BEST THING ABOUT RAMAPO IS THAT THE STUDENTS ALWAYS HAVE ACCESS TO THE PROFESSORS. AND THAT’S SO IMPORTANT...”
Josh Ritter ’02 discovered his passion and eventual career in a roundabout way. He entered Ramapo College and chose to major in literature with the goal of becoming a high school English teacher. Then in 1997, he joined the student cast of “Blood Wedding,” which Professor Steve Perry was producing that fall in the Berrie Center.
Those gigs eventually led to on-screen television spots, including small roles in TBS shows like “Burn Notice” and “Graceland,” and “Truth is Stranger than Florida” on streaming services.
“I remember Josh to be a dedicated, engaged actor—a real member of the company,” said Perry. That foray into stage acting led to a role in the 2000 production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” directed by Associate Professor of Theater Terra Vandergaw.
“The cast was incredible and filming mostly in Miami and the Florida Keys was like being on vacation,” said Ritter, who played the son-in-law to McConaughey’s difficult father character. “He was in character the entire time so I didn’t get to meet the real Matthew McConaughey until after we wrapped, but he was great. And the director kept all my scenes in – didn’t cut them at all – so I felt pretty good.”
“I am so thankful for the professors who showed an interest in me,” said Ritter. “They made it easy for me to have confidence in myself because they had confidence in me. They encouraged me to explore and be creative.” Ritter loved it so much he added to his studies, ultimately majoring in both literature and acting. “I figured I could always teach like I planned if the acting thing didn’t work out,” he said, laughing a little because that hasn’t yet happened. “I thought about quitting acting four or five times, but something always happened, a job would fall out of the sky and I’d get right back into it.” He got several voice-over gigs right after graduation and has done a lot of radio commercials, web and internet ads, commercial taglines and podcast work, mostly in Florida where he now resides with his wife and twin boys, age 7. “There are definitely a lot of opportunities down here, especially with local businesses,” Ritter said.
Despite all the steady work, this year was the breakthrough for Ritter. His big-screen debut was a role in the movie “Beach Bum” starring Matthew McConaughey, Snoop Dogg, Martin Lawrence and Jimmy Buffett, among others.
The world premiere was in Austin, Texas, at the South by Southwest Festival and later opened in Los Angeles, which was “quite a thrill ride.” Next up for Ritter is a serious film, “Critical Thinking,” the true story about a high school chess team that won the national championship in the 1990s. Josh plays the tournament director. The film, due out in theaters in late 2019, is directed by and stars John Leguizamo, who “was absolutely incredible to work with.” “The best thing about Ramapo is that the students always have access to the professors. And that’s so important, because if you’re passionate about something and are willing to accept the difficulties that go along with it, you can draw on those early experiences and find what you were meant to do.” www.ramapo.edu
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COLLEGE NEWS
SIX TO SERVE ON GOVERNOR’S HIGHER EDUCATION TASK FORCE Six representatives from Ramapo College have been appointed by Governor Phil Murphy to serve on a new Student Success Task Force that is part of the administration’s higher education plan, Where Opportunity Meets Innovation: A Student-Centered Vision for New Jersey Higher Education. (L-R): Adjunct Professor Thilmeeza Hussain and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih Photo courtesy of Thilmeeza Hussain
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR APPOINTED MALDIVES AMBASSADOR TO U.S. Ramapo College Adjunct Professor Thilmeeza Hussain was appointed Maldives Ambassador to the United States by Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in a ceremony held recently. Hussain was also appointed as Permanent Representative to the United Nations from the Maldives. Prior to her ambassador post, Hussain, a native of the tropical island nation, taught world sustainability at Ramapo College. She earned her Master of Science in Business Management at Colorado Technical University. “We are ecstatic to see the appointment of Professor Hussain as Ambassador to the United Nations and United States from the Maldives,” said Aaron Lorenz, dean of the School of Social Science and Human Services at Ramapo College. “She has been a cornerstone of the environmental studies major here at Ramapo and, while we will miss her brilliance in the classroom, the Maldives and our planet are better off having her advocacy. Her expertise in climate change and civil society literature will only add to the global discussion on human rights and climate change.” Hussain had previously served as the Deputy Permanent Representative at the Permanent Mission of Maldives to the United Nations, and also held the post of Non-Resident Deputy Ambassador to the United States and Canada. She is the co-founder of the Voice of Women, an NGO based out of the Maldives that focuses on women’s empowerment, human rights and climate change. She is a member of Climate Wise Women, a global organization raising awareness about the impact of climate change on women and has spoken worldwide on the topic.
did you know?
Ramapo International Education has more than 500 study abroad programs in more than 60 countries on six continents.
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The Task Force will be divided into five working groups: 1) Creating On-Ramps to College; 2) Making College Affordable; 3) Student Success; 4) Safe and Inclusive Learning Environments; and 5) Research, Innovation, and Talent. Selected for the working groups are student Juliana Florez ’19; Barbara Harmon-Francis, director of the Educational Opportunity Fund Program; Emily Leskinen, assistant professor of social science; Alberta Tamika Quick ’03, assistant director of Equity and Diversity Programs; Christopher Romano, vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs; and Mariella Zijdel ’20, student trustee. “Marked by competitive internship and undergraduate research opportunities, impressive four-and six-year graduation rates, and robust alumni employment, Ramapo College has a rich history and a strong reputation for delivering a high quality, student-centered undergraduate experience,” said President Peter P. Mercer. “The six Ramapo representatives selected to serve on the Governor’s Higher Education Task Force have all contributed to the College’s success and surely have the thoughtful experience and perspective to advance the efforts of the Task Force.” The working group members, who were selected through a formal application process, will provide recommendations related to specific charges for each group by the end of the year. “Many leaders and stakeholders in higher education are committing themselves to coming up with innovative strategies to strengthen our state’s higher education system,” said Governor Murphy. “I applaud the willingness of these talented New Jerseyans to roll up their sleeves on behalf of our colleges and universities and help us refine the state’s higher education plan.” Secretary of Higher Education Zakiya Smith Ellis said, “These work groups will take a comprehensive look at strategies to increase support for students at New Jersey’s colleges and we appreciate their time and dedication to the future of higher education in the state.” A complete overview of New Jersey’s Plan for Higher Education can be viewed at www.state.nj.us/highereducation/stateplan.shtml
Above: 2019 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Honorees Left: (L-R): President Mercer, Honoree Fraidy Reiss and Angelica Berrie
RUSS BERRIE MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD CELEBRATES HONOREES AT 23RD ANNUAL CEREMONY Unsung heroes from throughout New Jersey earned recognition for their compassion and concern for others as part of the 23rd Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award ceremony at Ramapo College on May 3. The top honoree received a cash prize of $50,000; two second place honorees received $25,000 each. Seven awards with a $7,500 cash prize each were also announced. Established in 1997 by the late Russell Berrie, and implemented by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honors Garden State residents whose outstanding community service and charitable contributions make a substantial impact on the lives of others. THE 2019 RUSS BERRIE MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD HONOREES Fraidy Reiss of Westfield founded Unchained At Last to help women in New Jersey and across the United States to resist or escape forced marriages and rebuild their lives. Through Unchained, she has provided crucial, often life-saving services – always free of charge – to more than 500 women. When girls under the age of 18 started reaching out for the same help, Unchained could not help them because marriage before 18 was legal in all 50 states. Fraidy drafted a bill to end child marriages in New Jersey and worked for months to convince
two legislators, Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz and Senator Nellie Pou, to introduce it. Her efforts paid off on June 22, 2018 when Governor Murphy signed the bill and made New Jersey the second state, after Delaware, to end child marriage. For her extraordinary efforts, Fraidy was awarded the $50,000 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award. Karen Monroy of Flemington was the recipient of the $25,000 award for her initiative, Ability2Work, a non-profit that operates Grateful Bites bakery and café, a convergence of chefs who are looking to change the world of food, parents who want an opportunity for their differently-abled children, and a community that supports the cause. Melina Garcia of Union City partnered with the Union City Board of Education in 2012 to launch the Union City Music Project, an after-school program with 50 city pre-school children. For her tireless advocacy, Melina was the winner of the $25,000 award. Cash awards of $7,500 were presented to: Bridget Cutler of North Plainfield; Michael Doliszny of Ocean City; Katherine Evans of Newton; Patrick Finn of Sewell; Alexa Grabelle of Voorhees; Suzann Goldstein of Warren; and Thomas Von Oehsen of Trenton. Complete bios of the winners can be viewed at www.ramapo.edu/berrie-awards www.ramapo.edu
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COLLEGE NEWS
SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IN CUBA Nine students and two faculty members from Ramapo College’s Master of Social Work Program traveled to Cuba this spring to learn first-hand about the history of social work and the role that social workers play in the multidisciplinary health care delivery system in the island nation. The trip was funded in part by a Ramapo Foundation Allocation Grant. “This was an incredibly meaningful experience for our students, one that will no doubt shape their approach to the profession,” said Dolly Sacristan, assistant professor of social work, who organized the eight-day trip along with Ann Marie Moreno, retired director of the Master of Social Work Program at Ramapo. Students attended lectures led by community social workers, local representatives and social security ministries. They also visited a community-based health center, an older adult day care program, a maternal health hospital, the National Center for Sex Education, the Center for Psychological and Sociological Research of Havana and Las Terrazas, a community and nature preserve. During these visits, health care professionals, including medical doctors, psychologists, sociologists, health educators and social workers made presentations about the health care and social work practices in Cuba, highlighting a community-based model of disease prevention and well care. “Our students were exposed to patient care, which included medical and psychological assessments,” said Sacristan. “They were required to complete daily journal entries and debrief during daily meetings, during which the group engaged in discussions about what they experienced and had an opportunity to reflect on issues of cultural competence, as well as make comparisons of health care in Cuba and in the United States. Many students came home with
Social work students and faculty in Cuba. Photo courtesy of Dolly Sacristan
a real sense of humility and gratefulness for all we have here in the United States.” MSW student Danielle Carr ’20 said she returned home with a very different perspective of Cuba. “As my study abroad experience unfolded, I could feel my perspective about Cuba and its people changing,” said Danielle. “Witnessing the impact of the American trade embargo through the weakened infrastructure, limited hospital technology, food rationing, and resource conservation made me see Cuban people as human spirits who were collateral damage in a political war." In addition to the academic-based program, the students also enjoyed excursions to get a sense of local flavor, including arts and crafts, cooking, music and dancing. “This experience was a wonderful opportunity for them to grow and self-reflect, and be immersed in a totally different culture,” Sacristan said.
NURSING PROFESSOR CHOSEN FOR PRESTIGIOUS ASSOCIATION BOOTCAMP Ramapo College Nursing Assistant Professor Anne Marie Flatekval was selected by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) to participate in the 2019 AACN-Apple Digital Innovation Bootcamp: From Content to Action, which was held in June in Austin, Texas. Flatekval was one of only 35 nursing faculty nationwide chosen for the program.
Assistant Professor Anne Marie Flatekval
“It is a very selective process to be included,” said Kathleen Burke, assistant dean of nursing at Ramapo College. “Anne Marie is interested in student support and technology use in such support. She is presently managing a Student Success Project, where students at risk are mentored and involved in tutoring sessions. She is interested in taking this to a next step and possibly integrating technology in the process. In this bootcamp, she worked with “techies” and with faculty from across the country to look at the
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latest technology and how it is being used/or can be used.” AACN launched this initiative to provide new opportunities for nursing faculty to leverage the latest technology to enhance learning in the classroom, laboratory, online and clinical settings. Those invited to participate in this highly interactive event will enjoy sessions on preparing digital content, developing iOS mobile apps and multi-touch books, and creating an engaging learning environment. Program participants come from 21 states plus the District of Columbia and represent an array of institution types, including small liberal arts programs, public and private schools, and large academic health centers. Those attending will share details about their individual projects produced as part of this immersion experience at an upcoming AACN conference.
KATE LEVIN REPRESENTS RAMAPO AT NCAA D-III LGBTQ FACILITATOR PROGRAM Assistant Sports Information Director Kate Levin ’05 was chosen to work with the NCAA National Office as a member of the 2019 NCAA Division III LGBTQ ONE TEAM Facilitator Program. Levin participated in ONE TEAM workshops in the NCAA national offices in Indianapolis in May.
(L-R): Pat Griffin, Professor at UMASS Amherst; Kate Levin, assistant sports information director; and Nevin Caple, member of the Nike LGBT Sports Coalition
“It was a wonderful opportunity for Kate to learn to identify strategies and best practices for our institution and to recognize the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion in college athletics, while helping to create a LGBTQ+ inclusive climate and assisting in developing facilitation and presentation skills for Ramapo,” said Harold Crocker, director of athletics, intramurals and recreation.
The ONE TEAM Facilitator Program was designed to help attendees comprehend the involvement of the NCAA and Division III in LGBTQ+ inclusion. This is the first working group of any kind which has spent nearly two years investigating current programming, resources and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community and its partners in Division III. “I was very excited to be included for this program,” said Levin, one of only 27 individuals chosen across Division III to participate. “As an ally and a member of the Athletic Department here at Ramapo, I interact with all of our student-athletes on a daily basis and I’m excited to bring this program back to our campus.”
“This is really an incredible opportunity,” said Yauw, who saw the position advertised on a strength and conditioning website. “I sent in my resume and did a series of online and phone [via Skype] interviews. I also had to design a conditioning program.” Yauw came to Ramapo College three years ago as Sport Performance Coordinator, hired under a NCAA Ethnic Minority Diversity Grant. Director of Athletics Harold Crocker applauded Yauw for his contribution to Roadrunner Athletics.
SPORTS PERFORMANCE COORDINATOR HEADS TO INTERNATIONAL STAGE For anyone who works out or trains at Ramapo College, Hendro Yauw is a familiar face. He’s the guy running through conditioning drills with the athletics teams in the Sharp Fitness Center of the Bradley Center. He’s also in the weight room at the College Park Lounge, spotting athletes on the bench press or making sure their bicep curls are proper form. You might even see him jogging around campus with a few students. Wherever student-athletes are working out, Yauw usually is there too, pushing them to get stronger, stay more agile and lead a healthier lifestyle. So when the Games of the XXXII Olympiad kick off in Tokyo next summer, look closely when the teams from the People’s Republic of China compete. Yauw might be on the sidelines. He recently signed a one-year contract with China’s Olympic squad to be a strength and conditioning coach with that country’s athletes who will be competing in the 2020 Olympic Games. He left for Beijing in early July.
“Over the last three years, Hendro helped to dramatically change the athletic culture around sports performance and training, which made a significant positive impact on our teams and student-athletes,” said Crocker. “He also took a rarely used space on campus, rebranding the Lodge and turning that into a first-class athletic training facility. Hendro will leave his mark on Ramapo College, our athletic programs and our student-athletes. Our Ramapo Athletics is better because of his effort. We wish him the best with his fantastic new opportunity. He will always be a Roadrunner.” Yauw, who grew up in Los Angeles and received a degree in kinesiology from California State University, Northridge, said he is anxious to go but is nervous about the language difference. “I’ve been listening to an app to learn Mandarin but it is really hard.” He’ll be living in the Olympic Village in Beijing along with the athletes and other coaches, and he isn’t sure yet which of the China teams he’ll be working with, adding, “I’d love to work with the judo or wrestling teams, but table tennis would be very cool.” No matter where his expertise will be needed, Yauw is leaving Ramapo with fond memories. “I loved being here and working with the student-athletes,” he said. “This was home.” www.ramapo.edu
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COLLEGE NEWS
STUDENT FILM TAKES BEST DOCUMENTARY IN PRESTIGIOUS FESTIVAL A short film by Ramapo College student Jennifer Seitis ’20 was named Best Documentary at the Count Basie Center for the Arts Teen + College Film Fest held in Red Bank, N.J. Jennifer’s film “My Name is Anon(ymous)” was selected among a record number of submissions in the annual competition for aspiring filmmakers in middle school, high school and college from New Jersey. “I became interested in filmmaking when I took an independent study in high school,” said Jennifer, a North Brunswick, N.J., native. “And I did some theater as a hobby, so it all fit.” “My Name is Anon(ymous)” follows the behind-the-scenes happenings during a Ramapo College 2018 stage production of Naomi Iizuka’s play “Anon(ymous)” that tells the story of a young refugee named Anon who escapes his war-torn homeland and comes to America in the hopes of finding his family. “I felt this was such an important and relevant topic, especially because of what’s happening in our world today,” said Jennifer, who is a double major business administration/marketing and digital film. “I sat and interviewed the cast and the director and followed them through rehearsals. It was interesting that the message of the show started to weave through their answers and perspectives. At times, it got pretty heavy.” “Jennifer is a fantastic student and a great example of the
Jennifer Seitis
interdisciplinary opportunities our students have here at Ramapo,” said Peter Campbell, dean of the School of Contemporary Arts. “Her work expresses the kind of positive communities artists can create when they take on big questions and aren’t afraid to confront difficult answers.” Jennifer said her biggest challenge was editing hours of footage into a 10-minute film for her submission. “My original film was about 18 minutes, so it was really tough to have to keep editing, but in the end it worked,” she said. To watch Jennifer’s winning documentary, visit www.imdb.com/videoplayer/vi39762457
SUSAN GAULDEN NAMED VICE PROVOST Ramapo announced the appointment of Susan Gaulden, Ph.D., to serve as the institution’s Vice Provost for Academic Programs effective July 1. In making the announcement Provost Stefan Becker said, “Dr. Gaulden has an impressive track record in institutional planning and assessment. Her highly collaborative leadership style, commitment to our mission, and strategic thinking will help Ramapo College continue and further its vision to prepare students to be successful leaders for a changing world.”
Susan Gaulden Ph.D.
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As Vice Provost for Academic Programs at Ramapo, Gaulden will be responsible for a multitude of academic responsibilities including the coordination of assessment efforts, the Middle States reaccreditation process and the oversight of general education, online education, curriculum development and implementation, academic program reviews, academic policies and academic standards. In addition, the position supervises the directors of several centers and programs at Ramapo College.
Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2019
Gaulden previously served as Professor of Mathematics and Executive Director of Institutional Planning & Assessment at Essex County College where she was the Accreditation Liaison Officer and successfully facilitated efforts to reaffirm the college’s Middle States Commission on Higher Education unsanctioned accreditation status. She also established and implemented college-wide training to fully support faculty in embracing assessment of student learning outcomes. Gaulden holds a Ph.D. in Mathematical Sciences from NJIT and Rutgers University, and both a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Stevens Institute of Technology. “I am truly honored and thrilled to join the team at Ramapo. I am already very impressed with the College’s dedication to achieving superior academic standards while providing enriching, dynamic and inclusive experiences for all of its students. I look forward to working with my new Ramapo colleagues and to offering support and advocacy for the many initiatives I will be working on in my new position,” said Gaulden.
“IT WILL BE INTERESTING TO SEE HOW STUDENTS IN CHILE RESPOND TO MY VIEWS…AND I’M SURE I WILL LEARN FROM THEM, TOO.” - IRAIDA LOPEZ (L-R): Professors Iraida Lopez and Elaine Patterson
PROFESSORS ELAINE PATTERSON, IRAIDA LOPEZ RECEIVE FULBRIGHT AWARDS Ramapo College Professor of Nursing Elaine Patterson and Professor of Spanish Language and Literature Iraida Lopez are recipients of a Fulbright award. Patterson will be spending a year in Ghana, where she will teach and conduct research in maternal/child health care. Lopez will be in Chile through November of this year, and will teach and do research in the relationship between Latin American and Chilean culture and history. “I am honored to receive this award,” said Patterson, who will be teaching at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. “As nurses, we have a responsibility to the world to share what we know, share what we have. My motto is, ‘We can improve the world health through education.’ If you care for women and children, you are caring for the world.” Patterson has visited KNUST many times with the College’s nursing students and her fellow nursing faculty. She also teaches
an online master of nursing course with Assistant Dean of Nursing Kathleen Burke. “Elaine was one of the first faculty members to come to Ramapo when the Joint Program [previously staffed by
“AS NURSES, WE HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO THE WORLD TO SHARE WHAT WE KNOW, SHARE WHAT WE HAVE.” - ELAINE PATTERSON UMDNJ nursing faculty] was established in 1993. She has made an indelible impact on the faculty, students and graduates of all of our programs,” said Burke. “She epitomizes the role of the academic nursing educator, through her scholarship, mentoring, cajoling, and teaching.”
Lopez will be teaching a post-graduate course in Hispanic-Caribbean literature at Catholic University of Chile in Santiago, the country’s capital city. “Many writers have reflected cultural processes that are unique to the area as a result of the migration from the Caribbean nations including Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic,” said Lopez. “There has been research about the political groups in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as militant groups, which led people to flee Chile, then return to become part of the underground resistance, often leaving their children behind. It will be interesting to see how students in Chile respond to my views … and I’m sure I will learn from them, too.” Lopez is also working on a book of the same subject, expected out by the end of 2019. “I’m excited. I have been working on this project for a few years. This Fulbright hopefully will open doors for me,” she said.
www.ramapo.edu
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FOUNDATION + GRANT NEWS
An Evening at
Darlington Mansion Friends and guests of the College were recently treated to a tour of one of the most distinguished properties in the country, within five minutes of the Ramapo College campus. “An Evening at Darlington Mansion,” raised funds for student scholarships and support, while giving guests a unique opportunity to tour the carefully restored and renovated 50,000 square foot mansion, nestled on over 12 acres overlooking the Ramapo Mountains. The Darlington Mansion tour included a reception in the Great Hall, featuring 30-foot ceilings and a restored 1906 Aeolian Player Pipe Organ. Guests also toured the formal living, dining and tea rooms, a wine cellar and tasting room, luxury spa with an indoor lap pool, and much more. “We were thrilled to open the doors of the Darlington Mansion and give guests the opportunity to experience this remarkable property,” said Sonia Cullaro, Executive Vice President of Special Properties and a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors, who chaired the event. An Evening at Darlington was enjoyed by friends of the College. Honorary co-chairs of the event pictured right: Linda Dator, Sonia Cullaro and Dr. Jacqueline Ehlert-Mercer
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COLLEGE RECEIVES STUDY ABROAD GRANT Ramapo College has been selected to receive a grant as part of the U.S. Department of State’s 2019 Capacity Building Program for Study Abroad. Ramapo is one of 21 colleges and universities from across the United States selected from more than 120 applications to create, expand and/or diversify American student mobility overseas in support of foreign policy goals. The Capacity Building Program for Study Abroad is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by World Learning. Ramapo College, which has a vibrant international program, recently created a new model of study abroad experience called “Global Field Experiences.” These are two-credit courses that involve 7-15 days of travel during winter or spring break in addition to structured activities before, during and after the international component to create meaningful learning experiences. “The Global Field Experience initiative is an embodiment of the Ramapo College mission in action: the commitment to support international, experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning and awareness for our students,” said Stefan Becker, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs at Ramapo College. “We are grateful and proud that our efforts to provide students with meaningful and affordable international learning experiences have been recognized by the State Department's
Capacity Building Program for Study Abroad. Through this initiative, students will have more opportunities for academically rigorous, experiential and project-based learning abroad that will enhance their curriculum and deepen their understanding of global intercultural competence.” The Capacity Building Program for Study Abroad seeks to increase the capacity of accredited U.S. colleges and universities to create, expand and diversify study abroad programs for U.S. students. In addition to the small grants competition, the program will also offer opportunities for faculty, staff and administrators at U.S. colleges and universities to participate in a series of virtual and in-person study abroad capacity building activities. “We are pleased to support U.S. colleges and universities from across the United States as part of our suite of initiatives aimed at increasing American student mobility. We are committed to providing more opportunities for American students to benefit from the rich experience of studying overseas,” said Marie Royce, assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. For further information about other study abroad resources and other exchange programs offered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, please contact ECA-Press@state.gov and visit studyabroad.state.gov/ www.ramapo.edu
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FOUNDATION + GRANT NEWS
(L-R): Jill Nadison, CEO, Reed Foundation for Autism; First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy; and Angela Cristini, Director, Meadowlands Environment Center
MOBILE FOOD LAB GOES TO TRENTON The Mobile Food Lab, part of a partnership between Ramapo, Reed Next, an initiative of Reed Foundation for Autism, and Eco-Spaces Education, recently visited the Statehouse in Trenton, N.J. Lawmakers and administrative officials hopped on the bus to see first hand how students across New Jersey are making connections to food and healthy eating through science, art and cooking. As part of the Mobile Food Lab’s mission to support jobs for adults with autism, Reed Next participants will perform a variety of jobs in and around the bus and it’s home base, the Meadowlands Environment Center and on Ramapo’s campus. For information, visit mobilefoodlab.org
(L-R): Kat McGee, director of Title IX, and President Mercer
COLLEGE RECEIVES GRANT FOR SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION The College recently received grant funding in the amount of $336,339 from the State of New Jersey, Office of the Attorney General, through the New Jersey College & University Sexual Violence Awareness and Response Grant Program. The project, titled “Standing Together to End Sexual Violence at Ramapo,” will expand campuswide services, training and education for sexual violence prevention. Grant funds will also be used to increase direct clinical services available for students. “Ramapo is committed to ending sexual violence,” says President Peter P. Mercer. “This project will provide our students as well as the next generation of students with the knowledge and resources to help reach that goal. By collaborating with middle and high school educators, policy makers, community groups and fellow institutions, we can advance New Jersey as a leader in sexual violence prevention.”
Photo Courtesy of Danielle Richards Photography
SCHOLARSHIP RUN The Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Ramapo College Foundation recently sponsored the 5th Annual Scholarship 5K Run/3K Walk, held on the College campus. Proceeds from the event raised funds for the Mahwah Chamber Endowed Scholarship Fund. The 2019 scholarship recipient was Leah Lindstrom ’20. 18
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A law recently signed by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, middle and high school students will be learning about consent, the first step in preventing sexual violence and assault. Colleges and universities, including Ramapo, have been at the forefront of advancing consent-based curricula. “A ‘yes means yes’ standard means clear, mutual agreement for intimacy, rather than inferring consent from the absence of a no,” says Kat McGee ’06, director of Title IX at Ramapo.
ALUMNI NEWS
FACULTY AND STAFF VISIT ALUMNI AT J & J Edward Saiff, dean of The School of Theoretical and Applied Science; Cathleen Davey, vice president of Institutional Advancement and Joanne Favata, director of Alumni Relations visited alumni at Johnson & Johnson (J & J) in New Brunswick in April. Max Gustafson ’12, who serves as a Senior Financial Analyst with Janssen Pharmaceuticals — a J & J Company in Raritan — assisted in identifying Ramapo alumni employed by J & J. The group met in the New Brunswick offices and enjoyed lunch and reminisced about their Ramapo experiences. Alumni offered perspective on how the College can better prepare our graduates for the working world and shared tips on the company’s hiring process. Ramapo administrators met with alumni leaders from Johnson & Johnson. Photo courtesy of Joanne Favata
ALUMNI ROUNDTABLE EVENTS Alumni and staff from the Anisfield School of Business (ASB) and the School of Humanities and Global Studies (HGS) in the spring held their annual roundtable events on campus. Students representing each of the College’s five schools met with alumni to discuss diverse career choices as well as network-building skills.
HGS Alumni Roundtable (L-R): Stefanie Mauro ’12, Rajeem Brockington ’06, Karlito Almeda ’17, Gretchen Kaser ’10, Victoria Maher ’01, Emily Moore ’15, Jessica Bowman ’18, John Sapida ’14, Rachel Kronenfeld ’13, Daniel Makoski 05, Jesse Bender ’11, Maximilian Gustafson ’12
“Ramapo College does an exceptional job at preparing any eager student to succeed in the ‘real world atmosphere,’” says Antonia Arena ’18. “I found the Alumni Roundtable Event to be very beneficial. What I found most interesting was how each alumnus graduated during a different time period, and how different the economy was upon graduation. It called my attention to the competitive work force which we live in today, and how it’s only getting more competitive!” Karen Norton, assistant to the dean of the Anisfield School of Business, said, “Our amazing alumni return year after year to network with our business students, encouraging them and guiding them in how best to prepare for the workplace. As the alumni share their own experiences and describe their career paths, they also build confidence in our students, and wind up having a tremendous impact on these emerging professionals.” Patrick Hunter ’04, ’05 offers his business card to a student at the ASB alumni roundtable.
www.ramapo.edu
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ATHLETICS
ROADRUNNERS MOVE UP IN FINAL NJAC CUP STANDINGS The Ramapo College Roadrunners finished in fifth place among the 10 competing schools in the 2018-2019 New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Cup standings. This is the fourth year of the rankings. Ramapo placed sixth in each of the previous three years.
Class of 2019 inductees
ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTS CLASS OF 2019 The Ramapo College Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner and Ceremony was held in April at the Bill Bradley Sports and Recreation Center. The Class of 2019 included Corey Brown (men’s basketball), Dr. Walter Brown (service), Andrea (Pastiglione) Buser (softball), Clavon Byrd (football), Michelle Favre (track & field), Chuck McBreen (coaching) and Rob Santaniello (men’s soccer). A four-year member of the College's men's basketball team, Corey Brown ’05, who majored in finance, was inducted his outstanding contributions on the court from 1997-2001. He is a 2001 graduate of the College where he earned a degree in Finance. Dr. Walter Brown was inducted into the Hall of Fame posthumously after many years of service to Ramapo College. He served as a professor of history and international studies from 1973-2006. Brown taught for the college until he unexpectedly passed away in March. Andrea (Pastiglione) Buser ’06 saw success on the softball field from 20022006 and graduated with a degree in communications with a concentration in graphic design. Her stellar career included helping to lead the Roadrunners to the NCAA College World Series in 2006.
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Clavon Byrd ’83 was a four-year member of the College's football team from 19771980 where he played as a running back and defensive back. He was a member of the 1978 team which was ranked #1 among National Club Football Teams by the National Collegiate Football Association. He graduated with a degree in business administration. A national champion for the Roadrunner track and field team, Michelle Favre ’13 had an outstanding career in the field from 2009-2013 where she competed in the pole vault. She earned her degree in Biology. Head Coach Chuck McBreen was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his exceptional coaching career at Ramapo. He began at the College in 1998 and continues to lead the nationally ranked men's basketball team as they recorded a historic season in 2017-2018 making a trip to the NCAA Final Four. Rob Santaniello ’13 quickly made his mark at Ramapo as one of the top men's soccer players in history. He played for the Roadrunners from 2009-2012 and continues to hold the record for goals in a season and career goals. He graduated with a degree in business administration and finance.
Ramapo earned 86 points during the 2018-2019 season. Men’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s basketball, baseball, men’s indoor track & field, women’s indoor and outdoor track and field, men’s volleyball, men’s tennis and softball all finished in the top four of their respective conference standings. This is the highest finish and point total for Ramapo in the four-year history of the award. In the yearlong competition, each full-member institution is scored based on its finish in the final regular season standings or in the championship meet (for cross country, indoor track & field, and outdoor track & field) in each of the 21 sports that are sponsored by the conference. NJAC conference tournament results, NCAA postseason results, and ECAC postseason results are not factored into the scoring. The number of points awarded in each sport is determined by the number of conference participants in that sport.
Tyler Plitt ’22
Judanika Julceus ’21
Shannon Eagan ’21
SPRING ATHLETICS HONORS BASEBALL Junior Kyle Buser was named to the 2019 All-ECAC Team, receiving an Honorable Mention. Buser started in 36 of Ramapo's 40 games and boasted a .331 batting average with a team-high 35 RBI. He tallied 45 hits, 28 runs scored, nine doubles, seven triples and three home runs. He recorded a .566 slugging percentage and a .422 onbase percentage and while on defense he posted 49 putouts and one assist. He also earned NJAC First Team All-Conference. WOMEN’S LACROSSE Sophomore Shannon Eagan was named to the 2019 NJAC Women's Lacrosse All-Conference Team. Eagan, who earned NJAC Honorable Mention All-Conference, started all 15 games for the Roadrunners who posted a 7-8 overall record, the most wins since the 2011 season. She led the team with 44 goals including 15 assists for a team high 59 points. SOFTBALL Senior Erin Fitzsimmons and sophomore Carli Egan were named to the 2019 All-Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) softball team, each earning an Honorable Mention. Fitzsimmons led the team in almost every pitching category this season. She holds a 1.79 ERA with 31 appearances, 20 starts, 17 complete games, and two shutouts. Fitzsimmons tallied a 13-10 record with 101 strikeouts in 156 innings pitched. She also earned NJAC First Team All-Conference and NFCA Second Team AllRegion. Egan, who started in 35 of Ramapo's 36 games this season, led the team with a .419 batting average and a team high 49 hits, including nine doubles, two triples and one home run while leading the team with 30 RBI. Egan also earned NJAC Second Team All-Conference and NFCA First Team All-Region. MEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD The Men’s 4x800 meter relay team set a new school record with a time of 7:52.04 at the All-Atlantic Region Championships held at SUNY Cortland in New York. The team members were Chris Andersen, Jose de la Cruz, Christopher Stephenson and Jason Rodriguez.
Senior Dillon Fisher and rookie Chris Andersen were named to the 2019 NJAC Men's Outdoor Track & Field All-Conference team. The all-conference honors were based on performances at the 2019 NJAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships, which were held at Stockton University. Andersen earned NJAC First Team AllConference and was crowned NJAC Champion in the 800-meter run with a time of 1:55:12. This marked the fifth straight Roadrunner champion in the event. His time is fourth best on the Ramapo top 10 list. Fisher earned NJAC Second Team All-Conference in the 400-meter hurdles. At the championships, he placed second overall in 55.17 seconds, which is third best on the top 10 list at Ramapo. WOMEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD Three members of the Ramapo College women's outdoor track and field team earned a place on the 2019 USTFCCCA All-Region Team, which recognizes the top five individuals in each event from each region. Sophomores Judanicka Julceus and Mikayla Sasson earned USTFCCA All-Atlantic Region in the 100-meter dash. Julceus' time of 12.26 was fourth best in the region. Sasson posted a time of 12.27 at the NJAC Championships, which was fifth best in the region. Both athletes’ performances were a Top 40 time across NCAA Division III. Rookie Kristina Langan has the top pole-vaulting mark across the Atlantic Region when she cleared 3.90-meters at the NJAC Championships. Her mark is tied for fifth best across NCAA Division III. MEN’S VOLLEYBALL Tyler Plitt earned NJAC Co-Rookie of the Year and third-year head coach Mike Hrehovcik was chosen as NJAC Co-Coach of the Year in Men’s Volleyball. Junior Eric Van Thuyne and sophomore Conor Charlow were named NJAC First Team All-Conference and rookie Josh Titus received an Honorable Mention All-Conference. The Roadrunners will compete as an affiliate program in the Skyline Conference for the 2019-2010 season.
www.ramapo.edu
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Class Notes
WHERE WE ARE & WHAT WE ARE UP TO
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ROBERT C. PARKINSON (Human Ecology) recently celebrated 50 years of employment with Davis Plumbing Supply in Paramus. Bob started working at the store at age 15 and continued there after graduating from Ramapo College. The Record marked the milestone with an article published on May 16, 2019, calling Bob “a local legend” and detailing his long service to the store and its customers.
KEITH DAWKINS (Communication Arts), a former executive at Nickelodeon, has created a new media, entertainment and sports consulting firm, Rock Hill Media Ventures. The company is partnering with Believe Entertainment Group to develop children’s programming. Keith gives back to his alma mater as a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors.
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JAMES M. CLEMENTI (Mathematics) has been appointed assistant men’s soccer coach at Siena College in Loudonville, N.Y. Jim had been head soccer coach at Wells College and spent two years as assistant coach at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He began his coaching career at Ramapo College following graduation. As a student, he served as captain of the men’s soccer team for three seasons. Jim holds an M.A. in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University Irvine.
RONALD A. FLEMING (Marketing) has joined Gauge Telematics, LLC in Indianapolis, Ind. as vice president of business development. Ron was founder and principal of MaxKinetics, LLC and also served as vice president of business development at CEDIA.
JOSEPH J. REGINA (Music) is the new band director at Thomas County Central High School in Thomasville, Ga. Joe received a music educator certification from Valdosta State University and was a student teacher at Thomas County Central High School.
DANIEL H. LONDON (American Studies and History) has been named a National Fellow by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation at the University of Virginia, a distinction awarded to only seven students at leading universities across the country. The Fellowships recognize Ph.D. and M.B.A. candidates who demonstrate outstanding achievement and the highest promise as scholars, teachers, public servants and business leaders. Daniel is a Ph.D. candidate in American history, urban history and comparative political culture at New York University; he also holds an M.A. in history and philosophy from CUNY Graduate Center.
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MATTHEW J. VANDER WYDEN (Marketing) joined Wareck D’Ostilio Real Estate in Branford, Conn. as a sales associate. In addition to his experience in real estate, he was an executive in the fashion industry for many years with Calvin Klein and Hanes Brands, among others. Matt and his family live in Guilford, Conn.
MEGAN KNOWLTON BALNE (History and Theater) is the 2019 recipient of the New Jersey State Bar Association’s Professional Achievement Award. Megan is a senior associate with Hyland Levin Shapiro LLP. Megan serves on the board of Maternity Care Coalition which serves families in need with young children in the Philadelphia area. For many years, she served on the board of Haddonfield Plays and Players, and she volunteers for the organization, running its educational programs for children. She has also directed and performed in numerous plays. Megan earned a law degree from Rutgers Law School-Camden.
Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2019
2009 THOMAS W. LANZA (Sociology) is studying to enter the priesthood at St. Mary Seminary and University in Baltimore. He was ordained to the transitional diaconate by the Catholic Diocese of Metuchen in June 2019.
2011 CYNTHIA DIXEY (Clinical Laboratory Sciences) received an Omicron Sigma Outstanding Service Award from the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), New Jersey Chapter. Cynthia is a graduate of the dual degree program with Rutgers University School of Health Professions.
2014 VERONICA A. TEKLAI (International Business) is a 2019 Women of BMW Movement honoree. Veronica is senior specialist, ConnectedDrive CarData for BMW of America LLC in Woodcliff Lake.
2016 ERMANNO J. MORELLI (MAEL) is the new principal at Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey; he is an alumnus of the school. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in history from Boston College and a master’s degree in teaching and curriculum from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education. Manny had been dean of students at Regis High School, and he taught at Westwood and Cresskill High Schools as well as Newark Academy.
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MARRIAGES
LIZANNE COYNE (MAEL) has been named the principal of St. Mary Academy in Manahawkin, formerly known as All Saints Regional Catholic School. Lizanne was the assistant principal at St. Joseph’s School in Oradell. She earned her undergraduate degree from Providence College, and she holds a master’s in education, curriculum design and teaching from Columbia UniversityTeachers College as well as a master’s of education in athletic administration from Norwich University.
2018 EUNICE CANUBAS (Clinical Laboratory Sciences) received an Omicron Sigma Outstanding Service Award from the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), New Jersey Chapter. Eunice is a graduate of the dual degree program with Rutgers University School of Health Professions. AMANDA SILVERS (Psychology) was recognized for her volunteer service to youth with the N.J. State Governor’s Jefferson Award in Trenton on May 19. She was nominated by the N.J. Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders for her many years of advocacy, working to improve the lives of children and teens with these conditions. Amanda was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome as a child and, as a teenager, she became involved in advocacy; she has continued this work as a young adult. The Jefferson Awards are the nation’s oldest and most prestigious recognition program for volunteer/public service. The N.J. State Governor’s Jefferson Awards is a joint program administered by the Community Foundation of New Jersey, the Star-Ledger Powering NJ.com and the Governor’s Advisory Council on Volunteerism.
Barbara Willette Fish ’83, Dianne Byron Boras ’83, Judy Katz Hoffman ’84, Jim Lanning ’82, Annette Castellanos Lanning ’83
KATELYNN KURGAN (Nursing, 2014) and SAM WEINBERGER (Law and Society, 2012) were married on May 24, 2019. They met as students at the College through Greek Life and have been together since 2011. Eight fellow alumni were members of their bridal party. ALYSHA M. SNOOK (Literature, 2013) and Tyler David Wecht were married on October 13, 2018 at Trout Lake Retreats in Stroudsburg, Penn. Alysha is an English teacher at Bergen Science Charter School in Hackensack. Tyler is a groundskeeper for the Roxbury school district.
IN MEMORIAM FRANCIS X. O’TOOLE ’73 NOEL J. MCGOWAN ’76 THOMAS E. SCHECK ’78
“Thirty-nine years ago, we met while we were students at Ramapo College, and we have gone away together annually for many years,” said Diane Byron Boras ’83. The group recently vacationed together in Lake Tillery, North Carolina, and shared this photo with Ramapo Magazine.
Save the Dates 50TH ANNIVERSARY LECTURE SERIES Wednesday, November 6, 2019 | Trustees Pavilion Part I of IV: Professor Emeritus Tom Dunn will moderate “The Evolution of the College Presidency” with Keynote remarks by President Peter P. Mercer and President Emeritus Robert Scott RAMAPO ALUMNI AND PARENT ENGAGEMENT RECEPTION AT THE NJEA CONFERENCE IN ATLANTIC CITY Thursday, November 7, 2019 Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel FOOTBALL AT WEST POINT’S MICHIE STADIUM to honor Ramapo’s alumni veterans Saturday, November 9, 2019 Army Black Knights vs. UMass Minutenmen Football Catered brunch, round-trip bus transport and a ticket to football game. For more information, please call the Office of Alumni at 201.684.7115
RICHARD C. FRY ’78 WILLIAM B. GRIFFIN ’79 BRIAN TOBIN ’96 JACQUELINE N. THOMAS ’14
SHARE YOUR NEWS Ramapo encourages alumni to send us news to share with your fellow Roadrunners. Visit, www.ramapo.edu/alumni/submit-class-notes to submit your news.
www.ramapo.edu
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celebrating five years
KRAME CENTER FOR MINDFUL LIVING Chris Germer, Ph.D., renowned meditation practitioner and author, will be presenting “The Power of Mindful Self-Compassion for Emotional Well-Being” as the Krame Center for Mindful Living at Ramapo College begins its five-year anniversary celebration. The event will take place on September 23 at 7 p.m. in the Angelica and Russ Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts on the College campus. 3.
Germer, a clinical psychologist and teacher of mindfulness and compassion in psychotherapy and everyday life, is the co-developer of the Mindful Self-Compassion training program. He is a founding faculty member of the Institute of Meditation and Psychotherapy as well as the Center for Mindfulness and Compassion, Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School. In addition, he teaches and leads workshops internationally on mindfulness and compassion, and he has a private practice in Arlington, Massachusetts.
WHAT IS MINDFULNESS?
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Mindfulness, a practice that involves being fully engaged in whatever is going on around you, has been shown through research to improve mental and physical health and well-being. For five years, the Krame Center has served as a place for mindfulness and meditative learning, through a variety of programs including Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR), self-compassion and meditation courses, silent retreats, speaker series, yoga teacher certifications and workshops, and contemplative studies. The Center, which is open to the public, offers weekly meditation sessions and programs that benefit K-12 educators, business and local organizations. To register for the Chris Germer presentation and for more information, schedule of upcoming events or to sign up for the mailing list, visit www.ramapo.edu/kramecenter
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Ramapo College Magazine | Summer 2019
1. Real Men Meditate campaign | Photo courtesy of Angelica Pasquali ’19 2. Wyckoff School District “Mindfulness in the Classroom” training 3. Nine-Day MBSR Teacher Training 4. Introduction to Mindfulness at Net-A-Porter, Ltd. 5. Speaker Sharon Salzberg with Krame Center Managing Director, Catherine Magner
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2019 Stay in touch! ramapo.edu/alumni
HELP RAMAPO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS RAMAPO COLLEGE ANNIVERSARY LAUNCH Wednesday, September 4 The Grove | 3 p.m. The Launch will feature special remarks, 50th anniversary branded merchandise and giveaways, and provide attendees with a more detailed glimpse into the exciting year ahead. LEARNING COMMONS CELEBRATION: GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY Wednesday, September 4 Site of the Learning Commons | 4 p.m. FOUNDERS’ WEEK Monday, November 4 - Friday, November 8 A week-long program brimful with student-led events and activities including the curated Photo Exhibit: A Pictorial of the History of Ramapo College, a Birthday Cake Cutting, an Alumni and Parent Reception in Atlantic City, a Salute to Ramapo Veterans/Tailgate Celebration at West Point. For more information and events, visit ramapo.edu/50
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505 Ramapo Valley Road Mahwah, N.J. 07430-1623 www.ramapo.edu
Ramapo is celebrating 50 years! Alumni, please send us your favorite Ramapo tradition to help us compile the Top 50 Traditions. Send to 50th@ramapo.edu First 10 to respond will receive a commemorative 50th t-shirt.
GOVERNOR MURPHY VISITS CAMPUS FOR NEWS 12 BROADCAST
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy was on the Ramapo College campus for a News 12 live broadcast of “Power & Politics: Ask Governor Murphy” on July 22. The hour-long broadcast was held in the College’s Sharp Theater in the Angelica and Russ Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts.