SUMMER 2010
Saint Peter’s College
The Magazine of The jesuit College of new jersey
Great Minds Caring Hearts The Nurses of the Jesuit College of New Jersey
K EE P IN G T H E F AIT H
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G RATE F U L G RAD U ATES
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I G NATIAN H ERITA G E W EE K
From the President Saint Peter’s College Our Ignatian Identity Saint Ignatius Loyola challenged us to live as “men and women for others.” I am proud to say that we carry out these ideals every day. This issue of Saint Peter’s College magazine is dedicated to our Ignatian identity and to sharing with alumni and friends the many ways in which the College has grown in its mission of service to others. To witness our Ignatian spirit in action, look no further than our generic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program, which graduated its first class of 32 nursing students in May. Building on our very successful R.N. to B.S.N. program, the College set out to address a growing nursing shortage by instituting a generic track in its B.S.N. program that would produce highly-qualified nurses dedicated to serving some of our area’s most vulnerable residents. Guided by a faculty deeply committed to cura personalis, the personal care of each individual, the new graduates have already won acclaim in our local community for a strong work ethic that combines excellence in clinical skills with caring hearts that recognize God in each person they encounter. Others in our community are deeply engaged in social action and raising awareness of our identity as a Jesuit, Catholic institution of higher education. Many of our students regularly participate in local, national and international social justice outreach initiatives to expand their understanding of the Ignatian spirit. This March, the College held its first Ignatian Heritage Week, a weeklong celebration of our Jesuit roots. And when an earthquake devastated Haiti earlier this year, the Saint Peter’s community sprang into action by collecting money and vital supplies to bolster residents of the impoverished nation. This summer, Saint Peter’s student Lory Mentor ’11 is in her native Haiti supervising the distribution of these donations. Of course, our faculty, administrators and staff members play a pivotal role in cultivating the ideals that are central to our Ignatian heritage. As the number of Jesuits on campus has decreased, these dedicated professionals carry our mission forward. The Ignatian Colleagues Program (ICP), a voluntary endeavor, ensures that lay faculty and administrators fully understand the rich traditions of the Society of Jesus and its implications for our students and our community. Together with the Jesuits of Saint Peter’s, they are ensuring that the Ignatian principles that have guided the Society of Jesus and its colleges and universities for centuries remain vibrant and relevant on our twenty-first century campus.
Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President
Administration Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Virginia Bender, Ph.D. ’78 Special Assistant to the President for Institutional Planning Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J. Vice President for Mission and Ministry Michael A. Fazio, M.B.A. Vice President for Advancement Kenneth Payne, M.P.A. Vice President for Finance and Business Terence Peavy, M.S. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Eileen L. Poiani, Ph.D. Vice President for Student Affairs Marylou Yam, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs SUMMER 2010 Saint Peter’s College Magazine Volume 29, Number 3 Editor Lorraine McConnell Executive Director of College Communications Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group Contributors & Editorial Assistance Jamie Bredehoft Ana M. Cravo Leah Leto ’05 Meredith MacDonald Gloria Mercurio Lauren Pantano Frances Salvo ’02 Photography Jeffrey Vock Saint Peter’s College Archives Catherine Mernar SR Smith Sports Photography Juan Cardenas
Saint Peter’s College magazine is printed on an elemental chlorine-free paper containing 50 percent recycled content with 25 percent post-consumer waste. This is a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper.
Summer 2010
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Features 6. Great Minds. Caring Hearts. 10. The Jesuit Zen Master 12. Help for Haiti 14. Keeping the Faith 16. Ignatian Spirit 18. Peacock Connection Hits a Home Run 20. Grateful Graduates
Departments 2. 22. 24. 32.
On the Boulevard Peacock Blue Alumni News and Notes Ad Finem
How to reach us Alumni News and Notes Submit a note online at alumni.spc.edu or send it to: Office of Alumni Relations Cushing Alumni House 2641 Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Letter to the Editor E-mail: lmcconnell@spc.edu Editor, Saint Peter’s College magazine 2641 Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Telephone: (201) 761-6240 Fax: (201) 761-6241 On the cover: Abby Beutel ’10, one of 32 generic B.S.N. graduates of Saint Peter’s College.
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On the Boulevard Saint Peter’s Awards Degrees to 743 at 119th Commencement Commencement photo to come
The Class of 2010
The Class of 2010 celebrated their past and looked forward to the future at the College’s 119th commencement, held on May 23 at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J. Saint Peter’s College awarded 743 degrees to students. Valedictorian Michael Massey ’10 articulated the excitement and uncertainty of many Saint Peter’s graduates as they stepped into the next phase of their lives. “We look towards the future, not ignorant of the challenges we face, but confident in our abilities to meet them,” said Massey, a resident of Jackson, N.J., who majored in political science and history. “However, we do not need to fear the unknown, or to fear what comes next, for we are products of the history and strong foundation of Jesuit education—of a Saint Peter’s education.” Salutatorian Mariya Marinova ’10, an international student from Bulgaria, echoed the sentiment. “The liberal arts Jesuit education trains not only our minds, but also our hearts and consciousness,” 2
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she said. “Jesuit tradition teaches us to be human in the best possible sense.” Alfa Demmellash, recognized as a CNN Hero for her work with Rising Tide Capital, Inc. in Jersey City, gave the commencement address and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, honoris causa. Demmellash, who came to the U.S. from Ethiopia at the age of 12,
co-founded the nonprofit organization that supports struggling entrepreneurs in low-income communities, with husband and Harvard classmate Alex Forrester. She urged graduates to follow their own passions. “All we had was a vision, a passion and a willingness to step into the unknown and take a big risk,” Demmellash said. “I cannot tell you how much of life boils down to the decision to step out into the unknown. If you just don’t give up, you really can achieve anything you’re willing to fight for.” The College also awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, to Dr. H. Friedrich Holzapfel, owner and chief executive officer of 234 Moonachie Corporation, a commercial and industrial building and real estate investment company based in Fort Lee, N.J. Dr. Holzapfel has served as a member of the United Nations’ business council and its advisory board. He has been credited with arranging the first ambassadorial visits to Saint Peter’s College and later assisted the College in obtaining accreditation as a non-governmental organization at the United Nations. The commencement speeches can be read online at spc.edu/CommencementStory.
Pictured left: Alfa Demmellash (middle) receives an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from College President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D. (right). Pictured right: Valedictorian Michael Massey ’10.
Health and Physical Education New major is launched
Richard Petriello, Ph.D.
A new major in health and physical education will debut at Saint Peter’s College this fall, meeting a need in the marketplace for trained practitioners with well-rounded backgrounds in the sciences and education. The bachelor of science degree will
prepare Saint Peter’s students for careers teaching health and physical education, as well as athletic trainers and fitness center professionals. Richard Petriello, Ph.D., who will chair the new program, said the College has received numerous requests from prospective students for the degree program. “We’ve received more than 120 requests for this program,” said Dr. Petriello, who will step down as academic dean to take the reins of the new department. “We decided to take advantage of our strength areas in science, education and athletics and incorporate all three into this major.” Dr. Petriello pointed out that health challenges faced by today’s population have distinct differences from those encountered by previous generations. While advances in medicine have
reduced the illness, disability and death resulting from infectious disease, risks remain from lifestyle choices including the use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs, obesity caused by poor diet and lack of exercise, and diseases such as HIV and STD infections, heart disease, stroke and cancer. The new major will emphasize ways to mitigate these risks in the general population by teaching and promoting wellness and fitness. Studies conducted by the New Jersey Department of Labor Statistics demonstrate that experts in these professions are in high demand. In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for physical education teachers will increase 12 percent over the next few years. “There are definitely job opportunities out there,” Dr. Petriello noted.
Oh Happy Day
Saint Peter’s administrator is part of Grammy winning Gospel group
Sondra Buesing Riley (center) with Jubilation Choir.
By day, Sondra E. Buesing Riley is the director of Cooperative Education at Saint Peter’s College. Through her years at the College, she’s won acclaim for helping to shepherd students toward attaining their personal and career goals. Earlier this year Riley won recognition of a different sort—as a member of the
Grammy-award winning gospel group, Jubilation Choir. The group, which maintains a close relationship with Queen Latifah, backed up the international recording sensation on the title track for Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Music Celebration, winner of this year’s Grammy for best traditional gospel album. “We’ve been flying high ever since,” Riley commented on the recording industry’s highest honor. “Through Queen Latifah, many doors have opened.” Riley’s love of singing in church brought her to Jubilation, a Jersey City-based choir that counts among its members Queen Latifah’s mother, Rita Owens. A soprano, Riley joined the group eight years ago. While Queen Latifah rose to fame as a rap artist, she became involved with Jubilation after the choir’s director coaxed
her into trying gospel. Since then, Queen Latifah has performed often with the group. While Riley was ecstatic over the awards and accolades (she represented the choir at the 41st Annual Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove awards in Nashville, Tenn., where Oh Happy Day was nominated for Special Event Album of the Year), the Saint Peter’s administrator derives even deeper satisfaction from the joy of performing. “It’s just such an incredibly wonderful experience,” said Riley, who also serves as secretary for the choir. “I’m so grateful. I thank the Lord for Jubilation every day and for the ability to sing.”
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On the Boulevard Applications on the Rise Interest in Saint Peter’s Grows Interest is growing in Saint Peter’s College, with applications soaring 19 percent for the freshman class that will begin its studies in September 2010. Applications have spiked from several areas, including Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and the Virgin Islands. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Terence Peavy chalked up the strong interest in the College to aggressive marketing, which included direct mail, print
and electronic media, and strategic recruitment planning. In addition to applications from prospective freshmen, inquiries from students seeking to transfer to The Jesuit College of New Jersey increased 32 percent over last year. Transfer enrollments for the Spring 2010 semester also rose by 66 percent. As the nation’s economy remained weak, students also became more attuned to college costs, Peavy added. Saint Peter’s assists students who choose to matriculate at two-year colleges through a series of articulation agreements at community colleges in New Jersey. All of this has translated into a strong freshman class for September. “We’ve been successful in raising awareness about the College in the minds of prospective students and their families,” Peavy said. “Teachers, guidance counselors and our strong contingent of alumni have also provided positive reinforcement.”
Two Golden Mics for WSPC Radio WSPC, the Saint Peter’s College streaming radio station, has won national acclaim. At the 70th annual Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Radio and Webcasting Conference held in New York City last spring, WSPC garnered the highest level of recognition with the Golden Mic Award for broadcast excellence. The Golden Mic recognizes stations that maintain the highest standards for radio content and operations. “The students were absolutely ecstatic,” said Joseph Lamachia, who serves as WSPC’s general manager and a lecturer in the Department of Communications. “This has boosted morale 100 times over.” Lamachia noted that more than 1,000 member radio stations competed for the IBS awards. The conference featured speakers and moderators who conducted more than 100 workshops and panel sessions focusing on topics including programming, production, music, community radio and social networking. In addition to the Golden Mic, WSPC won an award for Best Talk Program for 4
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“Rants of Reason.” The program aired Once the studio space was refurbished, during the 2008–2009 academic year the streaming radio station experienced a and was hosted by Gary Young ’09 and renaissance in participation and listenerChristopher DePizzo ’09. ship. Operations Manager Jay Figueroa ’11 “Rants of Reason” is part of a said about 30 students are now involved in programming schedule that includes a WSPC Radio. “All of the hosts are really morning show, commentary, sports, news committed,” she noted. “We’re working and music. Coming soon is “Jesuit Insider,” really hard to make everyone proud.” a program that will examine the personal histories, expertise and world view of the Jesuits at Saint Peter’s. The station hopes to syndicate the show at a future date. In 2006, Lamachia and Communication Department Chair Barna Donovan, Ph.D., revived the radio station as part of an initiative to expand electronic media on campus and enhance the communication program. Lamachia has guided Pictured left to right: WSPC Radio-TV General Manager Joseph students in establishing regular Lamachia, IBS Chairman Len Mailloux, WSPC Operations Manager Figueroa ’11, WSPC Music Director Chris Trenfield ’11, WSPC professional programming, as Jay on-air host Stephanie Danis ’11 and WSPC Business Affairs well as updating the College’s Manager Sushanta Mozumder ’11. studios for both radio and TV.
On the Boulevard
Guarini Lecture SERIES SPOTLIGHT on Crime The Saint Peter’s College Guarini Institute for Governmental Affairs presented its latest in a series of lectures on key public policy issues in April with a presentation on “The Challenges of Crime During a Recession” by Garry McCarthy, police director for the City of Newark, N.J. McCarthy’s lecture focused on the effects of the economic recession and rising unemployment on crime in major cities. Garry McCarthy, police director for the City of Newark’s unemployment rate tops 13 percent, significantly Newark, N.J., presented a lecture about crime higher than the national average of 10 percent. in major cities. The scarcity of job opportunities, as well as budget constraints and social unrest, present unique challenges to the city as it progresses with efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and business districts. Established at Saint Peter’s in 1994 by former New Jersey Congressman Frank Guarini H’ 94, the Guarini Institute for Governmental Affairs aims to provide a non-partisan forum for discussion and analysis of important public policy issues. Other important programs sponsored by the Institute include The Visiting Ambassadors Program, which brings ambassadors to the Saint Peter’s campus for a “diplomatic dialogue” with faculty, as well as opportunities for the College’s students and faculty to attend conferences at and utilize resources of the United Nations. The Institute also sponsors separate Model United Nations events for both high school and college students. Through these programs, the Institute raises awareness of these timely issues and promotes critical thinking and debate. The goal is to encourage today’s students to pursue careers in public service.
MUSIC MAVEN SAINT PETER’S STUDENT HONORED FOR ORIGINAL COMPOSITION “Amazing” is how Molly Rotondo ’12 describes the experience of hearing a live performance of the composition she wrote for the fifth annual New Jersey Arts Collective (NJAC) Student Composition Contest Molly Rotondo ’12 “Pictures 2010.” The NJAC awarded Rotondo an honorable mention prize for “Defeating Enthrallment,” a musical work she created based upon a piece of visual art for the statewide contest. The six winning composers were honored at a concert and awards ceremony held at the
Montclair Art Museum on May 8. “It was exciting,” said Rotondo, a criminal justice major and music minor from Little Falls, N.J. “I’ve had work performed by students before, but this was the first time professional musicians performed one of my compositions. They were able to do everything I wanted and more.” A member of the Aidan C. McMullen Chorale at Saint Peter’s College, Rotondo said it took approximately two months to compose the piece. Although she has been honored by NJAC before, the Saint Peter’s student says she mostly writes for enjoyment and is concentrating future aspirations on criminal justice. “I love my professors and my classes,” said Rotondo. “In the last two years, I’ve definitely gotten a better focus of what I want to do with criminal justice.”
Summer Reading list Saint Peter’s College magazine asked members of the College community, “What’s on your summer reading list?” Here are a few picks from Saint Peter’s faculty and administrators: Mildred Mihlon, Ph.D., assistant vice president for academic administration and assessment • Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See • A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini • Bliss: A Novel by O.Z. Livaneli Daniel Murphy, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy • Hegel, Idealism, and Analytic Philosophy by Tom Rockmore •Analytic Philosophy and the Return of HegelianThought by Paul Redding Kenneth Payne, M.P.A., vice president for finance and business • Lost at Sea by Jason Payne • Chicken Soup for the Soul at Work by Jack Canfield et. al. •The End of Poverty by Jeffrey D. Sachs
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Great Minds. Caring This spring Saint Peter’s College graduated its first class of generic B.S.N. students. Already, the College’s program and its students have made their mark on the nursing profession.
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ukas Simko-Bednarski ’10 has always had a passion for helping people. As a high school student at Saint Peter’s Preparatory School, he signed on as an emergency medical technician in Hoboken. So when it came time to choose a college and a major four years ago, the Bayonne, N.J., resident naturally gravitated toward nursing. At the time, Saint Peter’s College had just launched its first four-year
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.). Simko-Bednarski decided to take a look, and what he found impressed him. “Saint Peter’s College continued the Jesuit ideals I was taught in high school, which I liked,” recalled Simko-Bednarski, who hopes to pursue a career as a flight nurse. “I looked at it as giving me a wellrounded education like I had in high school.” Although the program was then in its
infancy, Simko-Bednarski had immediately picked up on one of the key factors that distinguishes the Saint Peter’s generic B.S.N. from those offered at other colleges and universities. Among the Ignatian ideals emphasized across all majors at the College is “men and women for others,” a natural fit with the nursing profession. “Jesuit education teaches you to care for the mind and the body of others,” said Simko-Bednarski, who was one of
Cover story
Hearts. [ 32 graduates in the College’s first class of generic B.S.N.s in May. “Caring for the whole person, having compassion and being there for others has a direct role in nursing.” Ann Tritak, Ed.D., R.N., associate dean of nursing, explained that, like all other Saint Peter’s students, B.S.N. candidates must complete a full core curriculum designed to make them leaders in their profession and well-rounded individuals. The program, which has become competitive for admission, has grown significantly in the past four years and now enrolls 200 students. The academic program is rigorous, and includes a number of clinical experiences
exceptionally diverse, exceptionally interested “the students are
anD VERY RESPONSIBLE.”
at local hospitals, health care agencies and clinics designed to provide hands-on education. These clinical experiences, begun in the second year of study, include ob/gyn, mental health, pediatrics, medical-surgical and community health at institutions such as Hackensack University Medical Center, Jersey City Medical Center, Christ Hospital and Children’s Specialized Hospital. Abby Beutel ’10 of Oradell, N.J., attests to the rigor of the program and said the graduates formed very strong bonds during their four years at Saint Peter’s. “It’s totally true that when you’re in a nursing program no one understands what you’re going through. We came together with our
complaints, we came together with our joys. We really relied on one another.” “It’s a very difficult major,” noted Dr. Tritak. “Most people think you need to be a kind person to be a nurse, and that’s true. But they don’t realize the challenges of preparing for this career. To succeed, students need a good mind and a good heart.” This spring the seniors completed clinical work at Promise Care NJ, LLC, a provider of home-based skilled nursing and rehabilitative care. Ruth Mitchell, R.N., M.S., lauded the Saint Peter’s program for the professionalism of its faculty, as well as the commitment and dedication of its students. Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 7
Solomon Durojaiye ’10 in the nursing simulation laboratory.
“The caliber of professors and clinical advisors is very strong, so students are getting great feedback and direction,” Mitchell said. “The students are exceptionally diverse, exceptionally interested and very responsible.” The Saint Peter’s B.S.N. will certainly help to address a critical national shortage of qualified nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than a million new and replacement nurses will be needed by 2016. In fact, government analysts have projected that the profession will see a 23.5 percent increase, with 587,000 new nursing positions expected to be created by 2016. That makes nursing the nation’s top profession in terms of projected job growth, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. While the Saint Peter’s program’s first graduates are in the midst of taking their 8
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nursing boards to receive their licenses this summer, Dr. Tritak predicted the B.S.N. will give them an edge in the job market over candidates who hold R.N.s. “Their job prospects look good,” she said. “Our graduates do have an advantage. Most health care providers understand that patient outcomes are better with a baccalaureate degree.”
[
company BD gifted a portable cardiac defibrillator to Saint Peter’s through the Independent College Fund of New Jersey (ICFNJ). Faculty members pair the defibrillator with an advanced patient simulator, Sim-Man, to create several types of cardiac episodes to enhance critical thinking skills. In addition, James J. Daly Esq. ’59, of the McKeen Fund, and a member of
We’re the first class and that we have paved the way for classes “it’s exciting to know that that will follow.”
Benefactors have responded to the program’s mission. The Gladys Brooks and the McKeen Fund made significant awards for endowed nursing schlorships totaling $300,000. The medical technology
the College’s Board of Trustees, recently endowed the School of Nursing Annual Distinguished Lectureship, which will bring national and international health care experts to campus.
Cover story
Lynn Mertz, deputy director of the New Jersey Nursing Initiative, pointed out that the Saint Peter’s B.S.N. program encourages students to pursue studies beyond the bachelor’s degree. Saint Peter’s offers an M.S.N. in nursing, with several concentrations from which degree candidates can choose. The School of Nursing is also in the midst of the approval process for a Doctorate of Nursing Practice program. “Studies have shown that students who start a B.S.N. program are more likely to advance their education,” said Mertz. “These graduates will be poised for strong careers in nursing.” Beutel plans on pursuing an M.S.N. and doctorate in nursing. For now, she hopes to land a job as a medical/surgical nurse to gain exposure to a wide range of medical conditions. “There’s a good support system [at Saint Peter’s] in getting your foot in the door,” she noted. Christina Clarke ’10, a Saint Peter’s B.S.N. graduate, also plans on pursuing her master’s degree to specialize in nursing oncology after volunteering as a nurse with the Christian Appalachian Project in Kentucky. “This has been very exciting,” said Clarke, a South River, N.J., resident. “It’s exciting to know that we’re the first class and we have paved the way for classes that will follow. I think we’ve represented Saint Peter’s well.”
Nursing in the Jesuit Tradition When swimmers from Lightning Wheels, a competitive athletic program for physically challenged kids, arrived at a meet at Rutgers University on February 27, senior B.S.N. students from Saint Peter’s College were there to cheer them on. The connection between these two groups is just one example of a nursing curriculum that has adapted to the Jesuit tradition of helping others in the community. Class of 2010 B.S.N. graduates and Lightning Wheels For the past several years, the athletes at a swim meet earlier this year. Lightning Wheels swim team has held workouts at the Yanitelli Recreational Life Center pool. The sponsor of the team, Children’s Specialized Hospital in Mountainside, N.J., is also where generic B.S.N. students completed one of several clinical experiences. That internship prompted the Saint Peter’s nursing students to become involved, first by organizing a holiday gift drive and then assisting with the team’s practice swim sessions. Jayme Florentino ’10 said the experience was extremely meaningful for the nursing volunteers. “We take for granted the things we can do every day, and I take for granted the things my kids can do,” said Florentino, who is also mom to two children, ages 10 and 5. “It makes you humble as a person.” The Saint Peter’s students presented the athletes with official Saint Peter’s Peacock pins, as well as athletic bags and other small gifts. But the relationship wasn’t one-sided. The young athletes gave the nursing candidates the gifts of insight and inspiration, two important tools that will serve them well in their chosen profession. “We’re getting into careers where we’ll be faced with physical challenges and difficulties,” added Florentino. “It requires patience, for instance, to teach patients about medications. You’re not going to be able to do it for them, they’ve got to do it for themselves.” The 32 generic B.S.N. graduates also contributed a paper on service for a book titled Volunteerism and Philanthropy in Nursing. Papers focus on volunteer efforts with Komen for the Cure for Breast Cancer Research, The Christopher Reeve Foundation for spinal cord injuries and the College-wide response to the recent earthquake in Haiti. “We are very proud of our graduates,” said Ann Tritak, Ed.D., R.N., associate dean of nursing, who contributed to the book along with Lisa Garsman, MS, FNP, B-C, director of the generic B.S.N. program and Kathy Motacki, M.S.N., clinical assistant nursing professor. “We celebrate the graduating nursing students for beginning their lives in a caring profession in the Jesuit tradition.”
Ernest Akwaboah ’10 examines classmate Isaac Adzaho ’10, director of the generic B.S.N. program Lisa Garsman, MS, FNP, B-C, looks on. Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 9
The Jesuit Zen master
Above: Rev. Robert Kennedy, S.J., in the Jesuit Chapel at Saint Peter’s College. Below: Practicing Zen at Auschwitz.
People travel from all over to sit with Rev. Robert E. Kennedy, S.J., professor of theology and practicing Zen Master. As he marks his 40th year of teaching at Saint Peter’s College, the professor emeritus reflects on the classroom, the commonality of Zen and Christian spirit, and living life to its fullest potential. 10
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Question
and answer
You spent the early part of your Jesuit career teaching high school in Japan. Did that experience have a big impact on your life?
practice with them, learn from their method and gain some of the fruits of meditation—Zen sitting.
Father Kennedy: It did. I’d been with the Jesuits since I was 18,
How did Zen bring you to a Nazi concentration camp?
so I was still unformed and unshaped in many ways. And Japan hit me with great force. It’s a magnificent civilization that has nothing to do with Christianity and, in fact, knows Christianity and rejects it. It really shook us up—at least me, anyway. We had to rethink things. We were so used to living in the Christian world and suddenly we were in the pagan world. What was the purpose of sending Jesuit priests to a culture so resistant to Christianity? Father Kennedy: Well, part of it is to hopefully pave the way for future generations. We have excellent schools in Japan and we’re known as educators. In other words, the same men and women who contribute to the life of Japan. Therefore, it might be easier to enter and accept the faith. It’s a long-range program—it’s not for immediate baptism.
I asked if I could go to Japan—it seemed an interesting thing to do and they needed help. I spent two years studying the language and culture. This is a standard Jesuit practice for all men going to foreign countries and it takes time. After those few years I went to Kobe, our Jesuit high school, where I taught English and baseball. You were the baseball coach? Father Kennedy: Yes. And the baseball team won the state championship for the high school. Some of my former students are coming to New York next summer, 2011, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our triumph in 1961. That’s the great thing about the Japanese—the sense of loyalty to old teachers and old friends. You are a Jesuit, Catholic Priest and a Zen Master. How do those two roles complement one another? Father Kennedy: It sounds odd, but when I was in Japan for the
first time, I was sheltered from Zen. So when I was back in the States I developed an interest and started sitting. When I got my first sabbatical at Saint Peter’s, I went back to Japan to study with a Zen Master… and then it just became part of my life. To me, Zen Buddhism is very close to modern physics. It’s not a religion as we understand religion—it’s a practical philosophy of how to live life well. And how to discipline yourself so that you get the most out of the talents that you have. That sounds very close to Jesuit philosophy and values. Father Kennedy: It is. The Jesuits and Zen people have been very
close when they meet. It’s a very practical mindset. You can be Catholic and do this, just as you can be Catholic and be a physicist or pianist. So even though we cannot become Buddhists, we can
Father Kennedy: For years, Bernard Glassman has practiced what’s
called “Engaged Buddhism”—practical, social Zen. Part of that is to go to places and bear witness. So we went to Auschwitz just to sit there, and by our presence bear witness to the terrible things people do. It was very moving. But I’ve also studied with him on the street with the homeless. So we sleep in the park and beg for our food the way the homeless do. It’s an attempt to live more attentively to the plight of these poor people, to pay attention and point to them by our presence. Quite a few Saint Peter’s alumni told us they dreaded theology as freshmen, yet your class turned out to be their favorite. Father Kennedy: It makes me very happy to hear that. I tried to
make it interesting. If you don’t, you’ll be talking to an empty room. They’re not research students, they’re students who are taking a year of theology and it’s important to make it interesting for them so they can get on with the rest of their lives. So what are your plans as professor emeritus? Father Kennedy: Other aspects of my life are kicking in. I’m a
NGO (Non Governmental Officer) and represent a Swiss group here at the U.N. It’s been a great inspiration for me to be involved with people who are completely dedicated to health, education, welfare of children, religious and cultural dialogue. I earned another doctorate in psychology and so I work as a psychoanalyst. And I’ll continue to work as a Zen teacher here. The Zen group you currently sit with is called Morning Star. How come? Father Kennedy: Morning Star is the name for the mother of
Christ and, in Buddhism, morning star is what triggered the enlightenment of Buddha. Also, the work we’re doing right now is a ‘morning star’ in the Church; there are so many people now sitting in the Church practicing the Zen method of prayer. Zen is about getting on with our lives. It’s not a retreat from the world. I love one of the mottos of the Jesuits, “We are not formed or instituted to reform the Church but to serve the world.” And I think it’s really wonderful and close to the Zen sphere also. It’s not inward turning, but outward going. Rev. Robert E. Kennedy, S.J., is a professor of theology at Saint Peter’s College. He is also the author of Zen Gifts to Christians and Zen Spirit, Christian Spirit.
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 11
Help for Haiti
Although she now lives in the U.S., Lory Mentor ’11 says her heart is in Haiti. Mentor has strong family and community ties to the country and plans to work with Haitian orphans this summer.
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men and women
for others
When a massive earthquake rocked Haiti in January, Lory Mentor ’11 knew she needed to help. The Saint Peter’s College student emerged as a driving force behind a series of efforts on campus to assist residents of the impoverished nation.
A
t first, Lory Mentor ’11 planned to take a leave of absence from college and fly to Haiti and help family and friends devastated by the earthquake. A resident of Jackson, N.J., Mentor immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 12. She lost three cousins in the natural disaster. But after speaking with Chairman of the Department of Sociology and Urban Studies David Surrey, Ph.D., and Associate Director of Campus Ministry for Community Service Erich Sekel, she decided to remain at Saint Peter’s and help to coordinate a drive through the Office of Residence Life to collect the supplies so badly needed in Haiti. The Saint Peter’s community responded by donating more than 1,100 pounds of clothing, appliances and other supplies that are critical to helping Haitian residents get back on their feet. When the semester ended, Mentor and her father, Jean Claude Mentor, travelled to Haiti to distribute the supplies. She will remain in Haiti until August and plans on working with orphans. “That’s where my heart is at,” explained the double major in French literature and elementary education. “They are innocent and were put in this situation.” Mentor also hopes to assist women affected by the disaster. “I want to speak to the women and children and let them know they’re not alone, that someone cares for them,” she added. Besides Mentor, other Saint Peter’s students and campus organizations also answered the call to help. A crowd of more than 100 students, faculty, administrators and staff came together immediately following the earthquake to begin planning the College’s response. The meeting also became an important outlet for attendees to share their emotions about the tragedy unfolding in Haiti.
The Office of Campus Ministry/Community Service collected donations and the Office of Residence Life sold Valentine’s Day candy grams. The two efforts raised $6,762, which was distributed in Haiti through Catholic Relief Services and the Jesuit Refugee Service. In addition, the College held a Mass of Remembrance and an Interfaith Day of Service and Reflection to pray for those affected by the tragedy in Haiti, which left more than 230,000 people dead and a million homeless. A lecture called “What’s Shaking Stateside in Response to the Haitian Tragedy” conducted by Rev. Jack Martin, founder of the Haitian Solidarity Network, focused on the U.S. response to the earthquake.
[
“I WANT TO SPEAK
TO THE WOMEN AND CHILDREN
and let them know they are not alone.”
“What I’m hearing from the news and from my family and friends are two different things,” Mentor noted. “The news is saying that Haiti is not safe, that there’s a lot of fighting. But my family and friends say it is very peaceful. Everybody is trying to get their lives back.” Sekel said Saint Peter’s efforts were an attempt to help restore normalcy. “This allowed us to give life to the catch phrases in Jesuit education,” he said. “It was also an opportunity to remind people that we can help in our community here at home. It was a chance for people to think about how we live our own lives on a daily basis.”
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 13
Keeping the Faith
Rev. Michael Braden, S.J., Patrick Elliott and Michael Fazio
Lay leaders at Saint Peter’s are embracing a new initiative to help sustain the College’s Jesuit, Catholic character into the future. 14
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
men and women
for others
W
hen Patrick Elliott joined the Saint Peter’s College family as director of athletics two years ago, he had heard about the College’s rich Ignatian tradition. But he sought to further his understanding of that tradition and its implications for the student-athletes he encounters daily. So last summer, Elliott signed on as a member of the Ignatian Colleagues Program
[
“I see this as a
online workshops several times a year to retreats focusing on The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius Loyola, as well as video and Skype conferences with colleagues from other Jesuit educational institutions. Then, they bring their experiences back to their home campuses and share their insights with fellow faculty members and administrators, who work together to strengthen the Jesuit educational experience for students.
call from the Holy Spirit.
It’s critical for the College to build up a core community that really gets it, that is really immersed in thE Society
(ICP), a collaborative effort involving 24 of the nation’s Jesuit colleges and universities to strengthen Ignatian principles. Operating in collaboration with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU), the program is headquartered at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. “As a Catholic, I knew about Jesuit education, but I was curious as to what that really meant,” recalled Elliott. “The Ignatian Colleagues Program has allowed me to get a much greater sense of the tradition and the history of the Society of Jesus. All of us—administrators, faculty and staff—have a responsibility to instill that Jesuit tradition into the work we do.” Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J., Saint Peter’s vice president for mission and ministry, coordinates ICP on campus. “The idea is to recruit leaders who will come back to their positions and help the people who work with them understand the Jesuit tradition and pedagogy,” said Father Braden. “I see this as a call from the Holy Spirit. It’s critical for the College to build up a core community that really gets it, that is really immersed in the Society of Jesus.” ICP participants take part in a series of activities over the course of 18 months, from
of Jesus.”
An immersion experience is central to the process. Saint Peter’s Vice President for Advancement Michael Fazio spent several days in El Salvador through ICP, where he learned the history of human rights violations in that country, including events such as a series of massacres two decades ago that cost the lives of thousands, among them Jesuits and other missionaries. He also learned of the possibilities that exist today for the Central American nation’s future. “These visits are wonderful examples of what it means to be Ignatian because they focus on action,” said Fazio. “We are called to act, and act in a particular way, with an emphasis on justice and a preferential option for the poor. I have spent nearly half my life in Jesuit institutions. But I think now—finally—I’m starting to get it.”
That’s exactly the response Father Braden hopes future Saint Peter’s participants will bring back to campus. “Ignatius had tremendous insight into the way God works in our lives,” he explained. “The idea of finding God in all things is ready-made in a liberal education, and the natural impulse is to return the love you receive. That’s why we ask students to do service. We challenge them to take what they learn in class and put it to work out there.” ICP has received tremendous support from College President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. Dr. Cornacchia is dedicated to strengthening the College’s Jesuit tradition through lay faculty members and administrators who truly believe in and act on Ignatian principles. “It’s very convincing for new faculty members to see their peers talking about our Ignatian tradition as if it’s vital,” pointed out Father Braden. “I see this as a very hopeful sign. The program, to my mind, is the most influential and effective way to help our colleagues deepen their understanding of Ignatian spirituality.” As he continues on the journey through ICP, Elliott appreciates the role he will play in communicating that rich tradition to a new generation of Saint Peter’s students. “This is allowing me to better understand and learn about the Ignatian tradition,” he said. “It provides a vehicle so I can pump this tradition into everyday interactions. As lay people, we can pick up and carry the torch.”
[ Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 15
men and women
for others
Ignatian Spirit A weeklong celebration of Jesuit identity It was a week for dialogue, prayer and even a little fun when Saint Peter’s College held its first Ignatian Heritage Week March 23–30. The event was part of a national initiative adopted by many of the nation’s 28 Jesuit colleges and universities to strengthen the Jesuit mission and principles upon which they were founded. At Saint Peter’s that meant a kick-off scavenger hunt to explore Ignatian symbols throughout the Jersey City campus (“go find the first Pope”) and weightier fare such as a dramatic reading of The Witness, a one-act play about the murder of six Jesuits in El Salvador. The event also featured
16
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
inspiring speakers such as Rev. Greg Boyle, S.J., founder of Homeboy Industries, who discussed his experiences working with inner city gangs and at-risk youth. Students also came together as a community and celebrated a Mass. Jacob Hayden ’10 called it a “good first step for the College.” Hayden, the president of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit honor society of colleges and universities at Saint Peter’s, spearheaded the effort, along with Vice President for Mission and Ministry Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J. Hayden, who will begin graduate studies in pastoral ministry at the University of Dayton in the fall, hopes the event will continue to grow along with student interest in the College’s Jesuit roots. Membership in Alpha Sigma Nu has climbed, with 16 new members inducted in April. The majority are non-Catholic—a fact that Hayden says demonstrates the inclusiveness of Jesuit education. “I think it represents the universality of Jesuit values and spirituality,” he said. “It really speaks to who we are as a college body.”
Ignatian Heritage Week: Above, top to bottom: Jesuit scavenger hunt; a dramatic one-act reading of The Witness written by Rev. Ernest Ferlita, S.J., and performed and directed by Saint Peter’s students; students reflected on the College’s Jesuit heritage at a retreat; students gathered for Mass. Left: The statue of Saint Ignatius Loyola, located outside of McIntyre Lounge in Dinneen Hall. Opposite page, left to right: Mohandas Ghandi statue, Rev. Greg Boyle, S.J., (middle) with members of the Saint Peter’s community; On the Irish Waterfront, a book by visiting lecturer James Fisher, Ph.D., who discussed the Jesuits commitment to social justice; statue of murdered Salvadoran archbishop and civil rights leader Oscar Romero. The two statues can be viewed in the O’Toole Library. They are on loan from Peace Abbey, a multi-faith center in Sherborn, Mass.
Saint SaintPeter’s Peter’sCollege College •• Summer 2010 17
Greg Domino ’09 at Major League Baseball (MLB) in New York. 18
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
alumni
network
Peacock Connection
Hits a Home Run S
ometimes, all it takes is one lucky break. That’s how things happened when Greg Domino ’09 landed his first job with Major League Baseball (MLB). As a junior at Saint Peter’s College, Domino was working at a small data entry firm in Jersey City. “I really hated it,” he recalled. The political science major reached out to Sondra E. Buesing Riley, the College’s director of cooperative education, to check out internship opportunities. As luck would have it John Teevan ’62 had contacted the College about internship opportunities at MLB, where his nephew, Mike Teevan, worked. “Are you a baseball fan?” Riley asked Domino. “Are you still interested in public relations and communication?” An enthusiastic “Yes!” was all it took for Domino to land an interview and later, the internship, a five-month gig that allowed him to network and demonstrate his strong work ethic. In December 2009 he earned his Saint Peter’s degree, and he now coordinates public relations and communication for Major League Baseball’s Club Relations Department. His duties include working on American League publications including The Red Book, the annual publication for the league. “When I was younger I always dreamed of getting a job in sports,” said Domino, who is hoping to parlay his current internship into a full-time spot with MLB. “I never thought it would actually materialize.” Domino is one of many Saint Peter’s students to benefit from the connections he’s made through The Jesuit College of New Jersey. In addition to Teevan, a large number of alumni, including Mark Kahrer ’83, vice president of finance for PSEG, and Kathleen Tyrrell, Esq. ’73 have reached out to give students a boost in their careers. Kahrer has mentored students and assisted them in landing internships through the College’s Regents Mentoring Program. Tyrell, the coach of Gannon Debating Society and
member of the College’s Board of Trustees, has steered students to internships at one of the nation’s leading law firms, Patton Boggs, LLC, where her husband, James Tyrrell, Esq., is a partner. “The students I encounter continually amaze me,”
[
“...I always DreamEd
of gETTING A JOB IN SPORTS.
I never thought it would actually materialize.”
said Tyrrell. “It’s very gratifying to see how a little bit of help can impact their lives.” For his part, Domino said he is having an “incredible experience” that has included traveling to Puerto Rico for the 2009 Baseball Classic and working last year’s All-Star Game and the postseason. While he’s never met Teevan, he noted that he’d like to publicly thank the person who has made such a big impact on his career. “I’d just like to thank him for giving me the opportunity to do this,” Domino said. “It has been great and quite an experience.”
Mentor a Student The Board of Regents welcomes alumni who would like to mentor Saint Peter’s students. Medical professionals are especially in demand. Contact Jenny Campbell at jcampbell1@spc.edu.
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 19
Grateful Graduates For some Saint Peter’s students, financial challenges stood in the way of earning a college degree—until the William E. Simon Foundation stepped in with a $100,000 grant to help deserving students complete their educations and graduate from The Jesuit College of New Jersey.
When Nicole Dominguez ’10 withdrew from Saint Peter’s College five years ago, she nearly gave up her dream of earning a college degree. A victim of domestic violence, Dominguez fled an abusive relationship that had left her in financial ruin so deep she couldn’t pay for her final semester of college. Her credit rating ruined and ineligible for loans, she set out to rebuild her life. Dominguez got a job in social work and established her own business, Faith and Hope, LLC, which sent her out to speak at high schools and colleges to raise awareness about domestic violence. Through the years, though, her dream never died. So last fall, she contacted the College and met with a financial aid counselor to see if she could somehow afford to complete her degree. Then, a miracle happened. Dominguez got a call from the College with the good news that help was available through the William E. Simon Foundation. Last winter in response to the plight of college students struggling as a result of 20
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
[
“That grant was my savior. There was no way I would be able to finish my degree without it.”
the nation’s weak economy, the William E. Simon Foundation awarded a $100,000 grant to Saint Peter’s College to distribute to students facing economic hardship and were in danger of not graduating. Student recipients were identified by their appeals for financial assistance and their outstanding tuition balances. The foundation, named for its principal founder, the late Treasury Secretary William E. Simon, assists those in need by providing the means through which they may help themselves. J. Peter Simon, co-chairman of the William E. Simon Foundation, said the charitable organization was honored to assist students who were well on their way to completing their education. “The evidence of their success up to this point and their determination to
complete their degrees is inspiring,” Simon said. “As my father taught us, a hand-up is always more effective than a hand-out. I’m confident that through this assistance these students will be able to apply all that they’ve learned at Saint Peter’s College to become leaders in their respective fields.” Dominguez was one of 23 Saint Peter’s students to benefit from the foundation’s generosity. “I didn’t have another outlet,” said Dominguez, adding that it took years to pay off the debt acquired as a result of her abusive relationship. “That grant was my savior. There was no way I would be able to finish my degree without it.” Of the students who received assistance through the grant, 15 graduated from Saint Peter’s in May, according to Steven
donors who
make a Difference
Pictured left to right: Nicole Dominguez ’10, Michael Bravo ’11, Kyle Hartland ’10 and Jonathan Kazar ’10.
Smith, executive director of enrollment services/registrar. Aspiring lawyer Jonathan Kazar ’10, who graduated in May, paid off outstanding balances from two previous semesters with the award. “The scholarship meant a lot to me,” he said. “With the financial situation of the economy, government aid has been significantly reduced in terms of grants and scholarships.” Several others, including Dominguez, plan to graduate in December. In fact, 18 of the recipients hadn’t even registered for the spring semester because they lacked the funds. “In 17 years in higher education I’ve seen a lot of grants—grants for new buildings, new technology, academic programs—all good things, but none have touched so many students so directly and so deeply as this one,” said Smith, noting that some of the recipients were so moved they cried when they heard about the grants. “Many of these students were at the end of the line and had nowhere else to turn.”
One of those students was Kyle Hartland ’10, a marketing major. Hartland’s father lost his job as a result of the national recession and his mother had suffered a stroke. The family struggled to deal with those crises while taking out loans to pay tuition for Hartland and his sister, Jessica Hartland ’13, a freshman at Saint Peter’s. Then came the news that Hartland had received one of the Simon grants. “It helped a lot,” said Hartland, a member of the College’s cross country and track teams who has also worked a variety of part-time jobs to help pay his expenses. “It really took the burden off of my family.” Like Dominguez, Hartland plans to graduate from Saint Peter’s in December. He will pursue a marketing career in the recording industry. Fellow cross country and track team member Michael Bravo ’11 said he was “shocked” when told that he, too, would receive financial assistance from the William E. Simon Foundation. A junior history major with a minor in secondary
education, Bravo had outstanding debt from previous semesters and had visited the Saint Peter’s Office of Financial Aid seeking to set up a payment plan. He planned to take out a loan, a burden for an undergraduate already in debt. The day he learned of the Simon award, Bravo cancelled his loan application. “The first thing that came to mind when I heard about it was, ‘Why me?’” said Bravo, who wants to pursue both a master’s and doctorate after graduation. “It really helped me a lot. It took the weight off my shoulders.” The Simon grant has also lightened Dominguez’s financial load enough that she is planning for a successful future. The enterprising urban studies major plans to keep her business going while enrolling in Fordham University’s master’s program in social work. “I’m so happy just to be in school,” she said. “I really can’t express in words everything this means to me.”
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 21
PEACOCK
BLUE
Fall Preview
Women’s volleyball • men’s soccer • women’s soccer • Women’s volleyball
Saint Peter’s athletics teams including women’s volleyball, men’s soccer and women’s soccer are ramping up for a strong season ahead. things, and during spring training she elevated her game already,” Agrest said. “Chloe and Corey are ready to step up. They’re much more prepared this season. I hope their growth will transfer into quite a few more wins for us.” The Peahen home opener is slated for September 8 in the Yanitelli Recreational Life Center. The team will play Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Men’s Soccer
Katie McFadden ’11
Women’s Volleyball
Coach Joseph Agrest is looking to a core of six returning seniors to lead the Peahens this fall. Captain Katie McFadden ’11 and Kim Mendoza ’11 are big reasons why the Peahens are renowned for their strong defense, according to Agrest. McFadden topped the 1,000 mark in digs last season and Mendoza is one of only four players in school history to achieve 1,000 digs and 1,000 kills. “They’re already proven veterans of college volleyball,” Agrest said. “They’re two outstanding players and will be absolutely critical to our success.” Other players to watch will include Shannon Doheny ’11 and Stephanie Phillips ’11, who comes off the injured list this season, along with Chloe Rost ’13 and Corey Haynes ’13. “Shannon Doheny is capable of great
The Peacock soccer team may have lost six graduating seniors, but talent runs so deep in the program that Coach Guy Abrahamson has a ready pool of veterans to take their place this fall. “We have a lot of good returning players,” said Abrahamson, who is entering his fourth season at the helm. “There are probably nine guys who have started for me, so we have a good core coming back. This year’s seniors are probably the strongest since I came here in 2007, and
Braulio Constantino ’11 22
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
that was the year we went to the NCAA tournament.” Abrahamson is expecting big contributions from Assaf Sheleg ’11, Lebongang Pila ’11, Braulio Constantino ’11 and Dmitri Pelts ’11. Consistency and hard work will be the keys for this year’s Peacocks. Abrahamson said he also emphasizes that his players should have fun with the game. “Last year we played against a lot of good teams and got good results. But we didn’t always maintain that momentum,” Abrahamson said. “We also have to work hard and have fun. When we’re having fun, I think that’s when we play our best.” The Peacocks play Bradley University in a home opener on September 1 at Jaroschak Field in Lincoln Park.
Women’s Soccer
Head coach Shawn Tarquinio is banking on a pair of talented juniors to lead the Peahens to a strong fall season. Defenders Dana Grimes ’12 and Samantha Lockhart ’12, who will captain this year’s squad, are top student-athletes who excel both on and off the field, according to Tarquinio. “They’re great students, which is number one,” Tarquinio said. “They’re good soccer players who understand the game and what needs to be done for our team to be as successful as possible.” Tarquinio is hoping to build on last year’s season, which saw the Peahens notching the team’s most wins in the last dozen years. The Peahens lost seven games last season by just one goal. “The gap is closing,” the coach noted. “Our goal is to finish in the top four in the conference and to finish .500. It will require a lot of hard work, but we’d like to represent our conference in the playoffs.”
lleyball • men’s soccer • women’s soccer
Peacocks Look to Veteran Talent for Upcoming Hoops Season
Samantha Lockhart ’12
In addition to the two juniors, Tarquinio will be looking to goalkeeper Caitlin Hoffer ’13 and defender Kaitlin Bondra ’13 to step up. Both earned All-MAAC Rookie Team honors last season. The Peahens play NJIT in a home opener on August 29 at Jaroschak Field in Lincoln Park.
Join Gifts to Peacock Nation can be directed to the College’s 19 intercollegiate athletic programs or the general athletic fund. Call (201) 761-6109 or visit spc.edu/peacocknation.
After posting a strong 2009-2010 season, the Peacocks are looking to a host of returning veterans to spur them to a successful 2010-2011 campaign. Head basketball coach John Dunne says the experience of his five returning players, especially co-captains Wesley Jenkins ’11 and Nick Leon ’10, (who continues his eligibility during the beginning of his graduate studies at the College) will provide a consistent core for the team. “I think for us, everybody needs to improve,” said Dunne, who is entering his fifth season at the helm for the Peacocks. “If we’re going to be a championship caliber team, we have to continue to play very hard. If we do that, we’re going to be a very good team.” The Peacocks ended the 2010 season at 16–13, and 11–7 in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Dunne pointed to breaking the .500 mark in the MAAC, as well as a five-game winning streak in the league including big wins against Canisius and Niagara, as high points of the season. Another huge win was the team’s 58-34 rout of Monmouth, a nationally-televised matchup as part of the ESPN College Basketball Tip-Off Marathon. Saint Peter’s played the 6:00 a.m. game at the Yanitelli Recreational Life Center before a crowd of more than 1,200, many of whom stayed up all night before the contest. “The enthusiasm was great and our guys fed off of that,” recalled Dunne. “When I showed up in the locker room at 4:30, everybody was already there. There was a buzz in Yanitelli Center that I hadn’t heard before.” The season ended in a quarterfinal loss to Rider in the Citizens Bank MAAC Basketball Championships. Jenkins, a junior guard last year, was named to the All Met Third Team by the Metropolitan Basketball Writers’ Association, as well as to the All-MAAC Third Team, while Leon earned All-MAAC Third Team honors and Darius Conley ’13 took home All-Rookie Team berths. The season heats up quickly in November, when the Peacocks leave for a five-day road trip to play in the 2010 U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam at the University of the Virgin Islands. It will be Saint Peter’s first appearance in the tournament. “We’re excited about the Virgin Island trip,” Dunne said. “For us, it’s about taking the next step with the program.”
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 23
News and Notes
Honoring
The Saint Peter’s community paid tribute to two honorees at Hearts & Minds: The Saint Peter’s College Annual Scholarship Dinner held on April 8 at the Pleasantdale Chateau, West Orange, N.J. The College honored Thomas Wickiewicz, M.D., ’72, an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery and professor of clinical orthopedic surgery Loyalty to Alma Mater at Weill Cornell Medical College, for Loyalty to Alma Mater. For 15 years, Dr. Wickiewicz has voluntarily served as the team orthopedist for all of the College’s Division I athletic programs. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey were named Corporate Citizen for their generosity to the College and the greater community. William Marino ’66 accepted the award on behalf of both organizations. Each year, Hearts & Minds helps raise scholarship funds to ensure that deserving students continue to have access to a Corporate Citizen quality Jesuit education.
Thomas L. Wickiewicz, M.D. ’72 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey 24
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
–––––––– 1950s –––––––– –––––––– 1960s –––––––– 1955 Thomas J. Bragen was nominated as an independent candidate for councilman-at-large in Bayonne, N.J. 1957 Dr. Eugene Kray and his wife, Maureen, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 18, 2010. Rev. Martin Henneberry, S.J., dean of the evening school, presided at the ceremony on June 18, 1960, at Our Lady of Chestochowa in Jersey City, N.J.
1960 The article “Early Church Models of Some Elderly Ministries” by James J. Magee, Ph.D., was published in the Spring 2010 edition of Review for Religious. 1965 James F. Donohue, M.D., was named to the Board of Trustees of The American Thoracic Society’s Foundation. 1968 James T. Leman was recognized as a top technology innovator at GoldenNetworking.net’s High Frequency Trading Leaders
News and Notes
Pictured above: (L to R) Thomas Wickiewicz, M.D., ’72, honoree for Loyalty to Alma Mater, Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s College, and William Marino ’66, chairman and CEO of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, who accepted the award on behalf of HBCBSNJ and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey for Corporate Citizen; the dance floor at Hearts & Minds; Thomas Wickiewicz, M.D., ’72 (center) Catherine Amoroso Wickiewicz ’75 (left) and their daughter, Laura Wickiewicz (right). Pictured below: (L to R) AnnMarie Cornacchia, Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., Catherine Amoroso Wickiewicz ’75, Thomas Wickiewicz, M.D., ’72, Paula Marino and William Marino ’66; The Infernos Band; welcoming attendees to Hearts & Minds; program host Dominic Furina ’11.
Forum 2010 for “Innovating and Profiting from High-Frequency Trading in 2010 and Beyond” on May 27, 2010 at the Flatotel Hotel in New York City.
was recently named to the New Jersey Hospital Association Board. The 108-member hospital advocacy group is based in Princeton, N.J.
–––––––– 1970s ––––––––
George Fay, executive vice president of CNA’s (Chicago) P&C claims organization, was recognized in Financial Technology Network as he works toward adapting the military’s use of advanced IT for the carrier claims operations. Fay was previously in the spotlight for his work as the Army’s chief investigator of abuses at Baghdad’s Abu Ghraib prison. Fay has also served as a deputy chief of intelligence and has spent time at
Gary S. Horan ’70
1970 Gary S. Horan, Trinitas Regional Medical Center’s senior executive,
the National Security Agency prior to joining CNA in 2006. 1971 Robert Hurley will be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame on August 13. He is only the third high school coach in history to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Hurley is the basketball coach at St. Anthony High School in Jersey City, N.J. Over his 35-year career he has amassed 23 state championships and more than 900 wins. Hurley, and the St. Anthony team, were also the subject of The Street Stops Here, a documentary that premiered nationally on PBS last March.
1973 Robert C. Novy, managing partner of the law firm Novy & Associates, was named Humanitarian of the Year by the American Cancer Society for his contributions to the society’s Jersey Shore Region.
Robert C. Novy ’73
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 25
News and Notes
ALUMNI gatherings CONVERSATIONS WITH THE PRESIDENT
“Conversations with the President” continued this spring with a Bergen County Alumni Regional Reception hosted by Carol Bastek, Ed.D., ’70 on May 4. New Jersey alumni also had the opportunity to hear about progress at the College at a Union County Alumni Regional Reception hosted by Anthony Pergola, Esq. ’92 and Maureen Pergola ’94 on May 18 in Berkeley Heights, N.J.
Left: The Union County Alumni Regional Reception
Pictured left to right: James Dillon ’10, Carol Bastek, Ed.D., ’70, and College President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D.
37th Annual Alumni Golf Outing Saint Peter’s College held its 37th Annual Alumni Golf Outing on May 6 at the Colts Neck Country Club. The event drew 24 foursomes and for the first time, featured a golf clinic.
1975 Richard J. Ensor, commissioner of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), attended the Dr. Condoleezza Rice Champions 4 Women Dinner on April 3, in San Antonio, Texas. Ensor, pictured with Condoleezza Rice,
Richard J. Ensor ’75 and Dr. Condoleezza Rice
26
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010
Pictured left to right: Vincent Scerbo Jr. ’71, Paul Brignola Sr. ’68, Paul Brignola Jr. ’96 and Joseph Brignola
is also a member of the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Committee. Domenick Giancaspro was re-elected to the Board of Education in Hawthorne, N.J. Giancaspro has served on the board for the past 12 years, using his combined 45 years of experience in accounting and finance to help regulate the town’s budget. He has also served as the chief financial officer for the Borough of Carlstadt for 20 years.
Pictured left to right: Frank LaCava, Bill Stein, John Murray ’57 and Jack Collins ’58
–––––––– 2000s –––––––– 2005 Leah E. Capece recently opened a law firm in Elizabeth, N.J, Proskurchenko & Capece, LLC. The firm offers personal and business services in the areas of immigration, family, bankruptcy, real estate (residential and commercial), commercial transactions and municipal matters. Capece has practiced law since 2008.
2009 at St. Mary’s Church in Nutley, N.J. The couple currently resides in Nutley. Daniel Greco ’07 and Sharon Nardiello
Births
Noreen Carnevale Monks ’89 and Rob Monks are the parents of twins, Michael and Madison, who were born at Morristown Memorial Hospital on February 12, 2010. Both weighed 5.5 lbs.
Marriages
Daniel Greco ’07 was married to Sharon Nardiello on July 11,
Michael and Madison Monks
News and Notes
Peacock Love
Billy Joe Mercado ’07 and Rose Cunningham ’06, ’08
Jody Grossman Lemmon ’94 and Charles Lemmon ’94 welcomed their third child, Griffin Charles Lemmon, on May 11, 2010. The Lemmon family currently resides in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
Griffin Charles Lemmon
Billy Joe Mercado ’07 thought he had devised the perfect plan to propose to Rose Cunningham ’06, ’08. A member of the College’s Board of Trustees in 2008, Mercado planned to propose to Cunningham when she crossed the stage at commencement to collect her Master of Arts in Education. “The faculty members had their opinion about that so he did it a little early,” recalled Cunningham. For this Saint Peter’s couple, involving the College in their engagement and marriage was a natural step in their relationship. Cunningham and Mercado met at a campus ministry retreat as undergraduates. Friends for a year, their relationship turned romantic when they worked as summer orientation leaders for the College. “That’s when we really started seeing each other in a different light,” said Cunningham. “When you get to see someone beyond friendship, you see them working in a team, and you see them relating to other people, that really gave me the opportunity to see how awesome a person B.J. is.” “Rose is pretty awesome,” added Mercado. “She really is the other half of me. She really opened my eyes to what’s around me.” The couple was married on May 14 at Saint Peter Chapel by their former English professor Rev. Robert McCarty, S.J. Cunningham, who now works as the director of advisement and counseling at Hudson County Community College, and Mercado, who works for the operations group at Goldman Sachs, say choosing the Chapel for their nuptials was a “no-brainer.” “It’s really special for us,” noted Cunningham. “We’re still connected to a lot of people at Saint Peter’s. It’s what we consider our home community.” Cunningham and Mercado reside in Jersey City. The couple honeymooned in Hawaii and Las Vegas.
26th Annual Spring Career Fair The 26th annual Spring Kamiesha Fields ’04, branch Career Fair reached manager, Hudson City Savings a new record with 45 Bank; Michael Tumminelli ’01, companies and organizamanager, Aflac Inc., Robert Tobey tions participating in the ’85, special detective, New Jersey career-planning event, State Police; John Garcia ’77, held on March 24, at the Northwestern Mutual Insurance; PSEG representative at the career fair Jersey City campus. More Maria Garcia ’90 and Maria than 500 students attended the fair. Also in Marrero ’09, claims representatives, Social attendance were many Saint Peter’s alumni Security Administration; Daniel Buchsbaum representing a host of corporations and gov- ’93, managing director, Tradeweb, LLC; ernment agencies. Hudson City Savings Bank Joseph Traynor ’70, president emeritus, News was the corporate sponsor for the fair. America Marketing International Division; and Notable participants included: Evelyn John Barnes ’76, special agent, United States Rivera ’93, assistant vice president, and Internal Revenue Service. Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 27
News and Notes
Peacock Profile Credit: Star-Ledger photographs ©2010, The Star-Ledger, Newark. N.J.
Ed Cubberly ’87
Like most people, Ed Cubberly ’87 saw the 1991 crime thriller Silence of the Lambs in a movie theatre. When the Hannibal Lecter character appeared in a close-up, wearing the now iconic muzzle-mask that Cubberly created for the film, the Saint Peter’s alumnus nearly jumped out of his seat. “I had no idea how it was going to be used. I saw it for the first time in the movie just like everyone else,” recalled Cubberly, a part-time artist who is known for creating and innovating custom goalie 28
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masks worn by professional hockey players. Cubberly, who works full-time as an operating room (OR) nurse at Hunterdon Medical Center, developed an interest in art and sculpture at an early age. In 1975, he set out to make a custom goalie mask. “There wasn’t anyone making them at the time,” he explained. “There were a limited number of people you could turn to.” Cubberly traveled to Norwood, Mass., on what he describes as a “spy mission” to learn more about the craft from the master of the time, Ernie Higgins. Cubberly had
his head casted by Higgins, but couldn’t afford to buy the mask, something he regrets to this day. He was however, able to build upon what he learned from Higgins. In more than 30 years of trial and error, the selftaught artist has produced 50 custom masks for NHL goalies, including a mask made for Mike Richter of the New York Rangers that is now on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. The whereabouts of Cubberly’s most famous piece of work is unknown. The
News and Notes
story of the mask, worn by Anthony Hopkins in Silence of the Lambs, began with the prop company, Strong Heart Productions. A costume designer from the company approached Cubberly and asked him to create a mask “for a schizophrenic that goes around biting people.” “You want a muzzle,” was Cubberly’s immediate response. “It took me about three minutes to come up with the idea,” the artist added. Since the movie was set in a dungeon-like jail cell, he purposely used the natural color of the fiberglass, so it would look like it had been made in the facility where Hannibal Lecter was incarcerated. Much to Cubberly’s surprise the mask became an icon. He obtained a copyright for the Lecter mask, which is now worn by millions each Halloween. In addition to hockey masks, the artist and sculptor expanded into lifecasting or body molding, a process of creating a sculptural piece from three-dimensional molds taken directly from the body. He also specializes in belly casts of pregnant women. “There’s mixed feelings about that,” said Cubberly. “Some women adore the idea, other women say ‘I don’t want to remember how fat I am.’” A resident of Frenchtown, N.J., the alumnus calls his Saint Peter’s education “a real stepping stone.” A biology major with plans to attend medical school, Cubberly worked as an assistant athletic trainer in the Department of Athletics. “Somewhere in the middle of that I realized that being a doctor wasn’t all it was cracked up to be,” he said. Cubberly became the first male to graduate from the St. Francis School of Nursing, summa cum laude in 1983 and completed his B.S.N. at Saint Peter’s in 1987. Though his days in the OR can be quite stressful Cubberly likes the fact that no two days are every alike. He also appreciates his Jesuit education. “The College treated me well,” he said. “It really laid the groundwork for where I am today and I’m very thankful for that.”
Support
Saint Peter Chapel Dedicate a pew chair in honor or memory of a loved one in one of the most sacred spaces on campus—Saint Peter Chapel. Your gift helps support the renovation of the chapel while commemorating the blessings that a loved one has brought to your own life. Donations are fully tax deductible and will benefit the Saint Peter’s College Annual Fund.
Two levels of support: $1,000—Chair and portable kneeler $500—Chair only For further information, please contact Alissa Giordano ’08, agiordano1@spc.edu.
Saint Peter’s College This unique history of The Jesuit College of New Jersey spans three centuries and is authored by Saint Peter’s own Thomas W. Matteo, Ph.D, associate professor of business administration, and Joseph McLaughlin, Ph.D., ’77, professor of sociology and urban studies.
Order your copy at alumni.spc.edu. Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 29
News and Notes Class of 1960 Celebrates a Milestone
Members of the Class of 1960 with College President Eugene Cornacchia (center) at the 119th commencement.
Member of the Class of 1960, who graduated from Saint Peter’s College on June 6, 1960, were honored at the College’s 119th commencement held on May 23 at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J. Alumni who participated in the academic procession included: Richard O’Brien ’60, Kenneth Mathews ’60, William T. Scott Jr., ’60, Carl Larsen ’60, Joseph Burakevich, Ph.D., ’60,
Arthur Delaney Jr., ’60, Martin Walsh ’60, Edward Gorney, Esq. ’60 and James Shea ’60. Jubilarians also reunited for their 50th anniversary reunion weekend held June 4-6 at the College’s Jersey City campus. At a special Mass, the College awarded Golden Peacock medals to members of the Class of 1960.
a man for others The legacy of Jerome M. Dolan, M.D. If you were born in Jersey City, chances are the late Jerome M. Dolan, M.D., ’44 was the doctor who delivered you. A devoted and well-known physician in New Jersey and New York, Dr. Dolan had a hand in the birth of more than 20,000 babies. A teacher, scientist, doctor and healer, he was truly a man for others.
The Dolan Family. Pictured in this photo are: the late James Dolan M.D. ’44 (back row, center), the late Marguerite Dolan (front row, center), Maryellen Dolan Adams ’73 (back row, far left), John Adams ’71 (back row, far right), and the Dolans’ grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
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Today, Saint Peter’s College students are benefiting from Dr. Dolan’s belief in giving back. His generosity created a scholarship to honor the memory of his late wife, Marguerite Dolan, and a planned gift from his estate helped to ensure excellence in Jesuit education with ongoing support to the Annual Fund. Plan your legacy. To learn more about making a planned gift, please contact: Ana Cravo, CFRE, director of planned giving at (201) 761-6104 or spc.edu/giftplanning.
News and Notes
Requiescant in Pace
Friend to Saint Peter’s Marco Polychronis 1921–2010 Saint Peter’s College lost a good friend recently. Marco Polychronis, a benefactor who supported the Classics and Honors programs at Saint Peter’s College, passed away on February 17 at the age of 88. A tool and die maker for most of his career, Polychronis was a trustee and property manager for the CC Polychronis Foundation, a nonprofit charity that provides learning opportunities for children and students pursuing studies in the Greek languages and arts. The generosity of Polychronis and his family “has played a significant role in promoting the study of Greek language, Greek culture and the classics at Saint Peter’s College,” said Kristina Chew, Ph.D., associate professor of classics. With the foundation’s support, students and
faculty traveled to Greece to learn about the country’s history and culture in 2009 and 2010, purchased learning materials and encouraged more students to study Greek. Born in Jersey Marco Polychronis City, Polychronis was a veteran of World War II. A resident of Pearl River, N.Y., for 41 years, he is survived by his wife, Kathleen Polychronis, sister, Helen Polychronis, son, Jeffrey Polychronis, daughter-in-law, Renee Polychronis, and two grandchildren.
Remembering Donald J. Cannon, Ph.D. The world may remember Donald J. the honors program at Saint Peter’s.” Cannon, Ph.D., as many things. A passionate Dr. Cannon passed away on April 3 history professor. Honorary Deputy Chief at the age of 73. A fixture at Saint Peter’s of the New York City Fire since 1965, Cannon was Department. Devoted remembered at a memorial family man and outrageous Mass at the College on May punster. To many at Saint 11. Colleagues and friends Peter’s College, he was recalled that Dr. Cannon’s the consummate teacherinterests went beyond mentor who inspired academia: he participated as a students to fulfill their Yonkers, New York and New potential. York City volunteer firefighter “Don was a giant,” and authored several books recalled Anthony O. Pergola, Donald Cannon, Ph.D on firefighting. In recent years Esq. ’92, a member of the he switched his volunteering College’s Board of Trustees. “A precious efforts to first aid as a certified EMT and as combination of humor, mischief, wicked a member of an ambulance squad in Glen smarts, wisdom, love, passion, goodness Ridge, N.J. and a little revolution now and then. He Dr. Cannon leaves a wife, Delia was my lever, as my teacher through several Murphy Cannon, and a son, Peter Murphy courses, and my mentor, in his guidance of Cannon.
Saint Peter’s College wishes to extend its prayers and condolences to the families of alumni, members of the College community and friends who have passed away.
Severino Ambrosio, M.D. ’50 James Ard Jerry Joseph Buccafusco, Ph.D., ’71 Rev. Luciano A. Caimi ’39 Donald J. Cannon, Ph.D. Charles Carluccio Jr., M.D. ’49 Michael John Carluccio ’54 Theodore J. Dachowski ’57 Dominick Giangualano ’78 Philip Glackin ’58 James H. Griggs ’57 Gregory J. Higgins ’56 Archibald “Archie” McLaren Hoatson Rosemary A. Judge George F. Koch ’38 Joao Carlos Lopes Thomas R. McBarron ’59 John B. McGrath ’60 Alan L. Mendelson ’66 Arthur E. Monahan ’51 Joseph Monti ’64 James Mulvaney, Esq. ’51 Eugene Munnelly ’54 Eugene Nix Jr. ’56 Andrew Panetta ’65 Marco Polychronis Robert F. Porowski ’60 Vincent P. Ralph Jr. ’45 Robert F. Reiser ’54 Mary Rogovich ’80 Charles John Rooney Edward F. Ryan Richard C. Rygiel ’62 Meyer Silver Virginia Sloyan Philip Stoldt ’76 Edward R. Szalecki, Jr. ’77 Palmer Sze, Ph.D. Teresa Tarzia Raymond Vetter ’42 James F. Walton ’53 Edward F. Wisniewski ’53
Saint Peter’s College • Summer 2010 31
AD FINEM Acting on Faith
Michael Fazio spent eight days in El Salvador last semester as part of the Ignatian Colleagues Program. His mission: to understand what it really means to live the Ignatian experience.
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I came to Saint Peter’s College two and a half years ago with some very clear marching orders: engage our alumni, secure their gifts of time, talent and treasure, and help the College raise its institutional profile. Pretty important stuff. So when I was approached to take part in the 18-month Ignatian Colleagues Program (ICP) I was a bit reluctant. How would I make the time? Would my ICP experience take away from the time I needed to spend on my “real job?” Was it really relevant to what I do? I thought and prayed about this a lot. And then,
“...AS A JESUIT college, our RESponSIBILITY is to be
A FORCE for FAITH AND JUSTICe.” through God’s grace, I remembered one of my favorite lines from Luke’s Gospel: “To whom much has been given, much is required.” I have been blessed throughout my life and count my Jesuit education as one of the greatest gifts ever given to me. Now it was time to learn about Jesuit spirituality more deeply, discover ways to further strengthen the College’s Jesuit identity and impart the Ignatian tradition into the work of the Office of Advancement. With these goals in mind, earlier this year, I traveled to El Salvador and joined about 15 other representatives from sister Jesuit institutions throughout the United States and Belize. We visited Archbishop Oscar Romero’s home and tomb. We toured the Central American University (UCA) and bore witness to the place where six Jesuits and two women were assassinated on November 16, 1989. Representatives from both ARENA and FMLN, the country’s two political regimes, addressed us. We
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heard countless stories of terror and oppression from campesinos whose villages and families were destroyed. And we became agitated. We wanted to do something. But here is the wonderful thing about El Salvador: Despite the heartache, there is great joy and undeterred faith within the Salvadoran people. We met women working to rebuild their communities by opening schools and libraries. We met a man committed to tackling the gang violence issue that has permeated the small nation. And we met workers at a fair trade coffee cooperative who were making a real difference for their local economy. These people went beyond wanting to do something. They were actually doing it. And that’s when it clicked. As a college, our responsibility is to educate. But as a Jesuit college, our responsibility is to be a force for faith and justice. Reflection is not enough. We must act. This is the competitive advantage of Jesuit education. Despite knowing this, I still struggle with what is to come. Rev. Michael Braden, S.J., our vice president for mission and ministry, and I have been discussing the development of an employee orientation to the Jesuit tradition. The Office of Advancement will be taking part in one in July. Father Braden’s office and mine are collaborating on a short book about the College’s Ignatian heritage to be shared with faculty, students, staff and alumni. This is all a start, I suppose. The Salvadorans have a saying: “We make the road by walking.” I hope to continue taking steps to strengthen the Ignatian tradition at Saint Peter’s and in my own life. Michael A. Fazio is the vice president for advancement at Saint Peter’s College. To read his daily blog from El Salvador, visit spc.edu/collegecommunications. To learn more about ICP, visit jcu.edu/ignatiancolleagues.
Save the Date
SAINT PETER’S COLLEGE 39 th ANNUAL REGENTS BUSINESS SYMPOSIUM November 2, 2010 • 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson • Jersey City, N.J.
spc.edu/businesssymposium
Nonprofit Org. US Postage PAID Permit #314 Dover, NJ
I’m invested “My commitment reflects my belief that each of us has a responsibility to invest and steward future generations as past generations have shepherded us.”
Office of college Communications
Saint Peter’s College
invested in and
Pamela Miller, Esq. ’77
Member, Saint Peter’s College Board of Trustees Vice President of Market Strategy and Development, Medco Health Solutions, Inc.
To join Pam in investing in this year’s Annual Fund, please contact Alissa Giordano ’08, annual giving officer, at (201) 761-6109 or agiordano1@spc.edu or log onto spc.edu/giving.
Saint Peter’s College
Annual Fund Investing in Students, Inspiring leaders