Winter 2012
Saint Peter’s College
The Magazine of The jesuit College of new jersey
Cura Personalis: Our special brand of EDUCATION
Special Announcement See president’s letter
IN THE CLASSROOM
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MEN AND WOMEN FOR OTHERS
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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
From the President Saint Peter’s College TOWARD UNIVERSITY DESIGNATION Your alma mater is entering an exciting new chapter in its 140-year history. Saint Peter’s scholars and thinkers are breaking new ground in nearly every academic discipline from science to the humanities. Students have unprecedented opportunities to participate in research projects. The Mac Mahon Student Center is rising and loyal alumni who share our vision to be a recognized leader and innovator in Jesuit higher education are stepping forward to support Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College. Central to all of this is our attainment of university status. Later this year, by the time we celebrate our 140th anniversary, we believe Saint Peter’s College will become Saint Peter’s University. Of note is that the original charter from 1872 grants Saint Peter’s all the “powers, functions, and prerogatives of a university.” The formal effort to reach this milestone began four years ago and the decision to seek designation as a university was informed by a critical examination of nearly every program and department that affects our living and learning environment, input from every campus constituency, exhaustive review and analysis, as well as Vision 2015, the College’s strategic plan. In many ways, university designation is a natural reflection of the Jesuit institution we’ve become today. Saint Peter’s now grants bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, and 40 percent of degrees awarded are at the graduate level. Pre-professional programs have grown and our reach has also extended. Industry, government and communities all look to Saint Peter’s for innovation, creativity and a vital source of human capital. The defining principles of a Saint Peter’s education will certainly not change. In this issue you will find example after example of cura personalis, stories that chronicle the personal care afforded to students and the outcomes that emerge when relationships are at the heart of the educational experience. These quintessential Saint Peter’s stories are only going to get better as university designation will afford greater opportunities to students. It will also strengthen an institution that
Administration Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President Marylou Yam, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs 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 and External Affairs Denton Stargel Vice President for Finance and Business Terence Peavy, M.S. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Eileen Poiani, Ph.D. Special Assistant to the President Winter 2012 Saint Peter’s College Magazine Volume 31, Number 2 Editor Sarah V. Malinowski Director of College Communications Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group Contributors & Editorial Assistance Angeline Boyer Jamie Bredehoft Ana M. Cravo Leah Leto ’05 Gloria Mercurio Photography Michael Marmora Catherine Mernar Saint Peter’s College Archives SR Smith Sports Photography Jeffrey Vock
has shaped the lives of 31,000 living alumni. University designation is a key accomplishment that will help increase enrollment, draw more thinkers, leaders and doers to our campuses and bring greater recognition and prestige to what will soon be referred to as The Jesuit University of New Jersey. I am certain that you join me in taking pride in our progress and the promise of a great future as a university. God bless Saint Peter’s!
Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. President
Saint Peter’s College magazine is printed on recycled, elemental chlorine-free paper that is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified and contains post-consumer waste.
WINTER 2012
Features 6. Core Commitment 8. The Power of Cura Personalis 12. Thinking About Movies 14. Men and Women for Others 16. Defying the Trend 20. Veterans Series 32. Then and Now
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Departments 2. In the Classroom 5. On the Boulevard 18. Capital Campaign Update 22. Peacock Blue 24. Alumni News and Notes
How to reach us Alumni News and Notes Submit a note online at alumni.spc.edu or send it to: Office of Alumni Relations 2641 Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Letter to the Editor E-mail: smalinowski@spc.edu Editor, Saint Peter’s College magazine 2641 Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Telephone: (201) 761-6239 Fax: (201) 761-6241 On the cover: Karl Alorbi, Ph.D., assistant professor of business, with Saint Peter’s students.
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32 Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 1
IN the CLASSROOM pre-med Early acceptance Program College partners with Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Peter’s University Hospital
The signing ceremony for the new B.A./M.D. program. Pictured (L to R): Daniel V. Schidlow, interim dean, Drexel University College of Medicine; Marylou Yam, Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs, Saint Peter’s College; Velda Goldberg, Ph.D., dean of CAS/SBA, Saint Peter’s College; Barbara Schindler, vice dean, education and academic affairs, Drexel University College of Medicine; Nayan Khouri, chief of medicine, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, clinical professor of medicine and academic dean for education, Drexel University College of Medicine.
Saint Peter’s College will soon offer students a clear path into medical school. Last November, the College signed an agreement with Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, N.J. Together they will provide qualified undergraduates from Saint Peter’s with the opportunity of entering a new and unique B.A./M.D. program. “This program will give our pre-med students a marvelous opportunity,” said Velda Goldberg, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences/School of Business Administration (CAS/SBA) at Saint Peter’s College. “They are very
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“IT’s an ideal program for
In addition to removing uncertainty with early acceptance, the four-year program at Saint Peter’s prepares students for the rigors of medical school. Following their acceptance into the nation’s largest, private medical school, while at Saint Peter’s, they undergo lessons of specialized MCAT prep and a yearlong internship at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. According to Dr. Goldberg, this participation in hospital research alongside physicians is invaluable experience rarely offered in undergraduate programs. “It’s an ideal program for driven students who are confident in a future in medicine,” she stated.
DRIVEN STUDENTS WHO
ARE CONFIDENT in a future in medicine.”
fortunate to know where they’ll end up at such an early stage of their education.” Dr. Goldberg further explained that qualified students are conditionally admitted into the program as sophomores and once all requirements are met, and they have received their undergraduate degree from Saint Peter’s College, they will enter the Drexel University College of Medicine.
This program, beginning in Fall 2012, will benefit the pre-med students who are accepted and the entire Saint Peter’s academic community. “Having this program and partnership will help recruit high-caliber students,” concluded Dr. Goldberg. “Therefore, it will have a positive impact on the learning environment at the College for everyone.”
FACULTY NOTEBOOK CHEMISTRY The American Chemical Society selected Patricia Redden, Ph.D., professor of chemistry and chairperson of the department of chemistry, as a fellow in recognition for contributions to the Society, the chemical profession and her work at Saint Peter’s College for more than 40 years. There are currently only three other 2
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
fellows representing public and independent colleges in New Jersey. BIOLOGY Laura Twersky, Ph.D., professor of biology, and Jill Callahan, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, are the research advisors for three TriBeta Biological Honor Society Research Foundation grants that were awarded to nine Saint Peter’s seniors. The
national honor society awards were created to support deserving undergraduate research projects. Woheema Parasram ’12, Aviana Mahabir ’12 and Jonathan Nazario ’12 are comparing Ace-031 (an investigational protein therapeutic) and Deflazacort (a synthetic steroid that acts as an anti-inflammatory) for treating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy; Richard Camacho ’12, Stephanie Calabrese ’12
IN the CLASSROOM
SPARKING Academic Success $2.8 million Title V grant establishes dedicated ESL center and CHiSPA Saint Peter’s College is utilizing a $2.8 million Title V grant from the U.S. Department of Education to further improve the retention and academic performance of Hispanic students currently enrolled in the College, and to prepare future undergraduates from minority and low-income backgrounds for success in higher education. Title V grants are awarded through the Department of Education’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) Program and are intended to assist institutions with diverse student populations such as Saint Peter’s in expanding educational opportunities and improving higher education attainment of Hispanic students. “It’s a comprehensive effort,” said David Surrey, Ph.D., chairperson of the sociology and urban studies department, who co-authored the federal grant with Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., professor of psychology. The centerpiece of the initiative is The Center for English Language Acquisition
and Culture, a dedicated facility designed to serve English as a Second Language (ESL) students located on the third floor of the Theresa and Edward O’Toole Library. The Center, which opened in December, is a full service resource offering a Mac computer lab, as well as course-related assistance in an interactive study environment to better support ESL students in their language development.
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“We’re here to
servE
Prior to the official opening, students were already taking advantage of the Center’s services. “In addition to the one-on-one tutoring, we hope to introduce small group writing and language workshops,” said the Center’s director, Lawanna Shelton, Ph.D. “We’re here to serve these students.” The second component of the Title V grant involves extensive outreach to high schools through a program called CHiSPA (College and
and Jennifer Olarte ’12 are investigating the reversal of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli DH5a and Salmonella ser. typhimurium; Sayrah Rauf ’12, Ardiana Mashkulli ’12 and Caroline Moreira ’12 are studying the effects of selected food dyes on the early development in Xenopus laevis (clawed frog). According to Dr. Twersky, the undergraduate researchers hope to present
The Center for English Language Acquisition and Culture
High School Partnership for Achievement), which translated from Spanish means “spark.” An
these students.”
after-school program of academic and cultural enrichment, the program began last fall with a cohort of 24 students from Ferris High School in Jersey City and Union City High School. According to Jennifer Ayala, Ph.D., associate professor of education in the College’s School of Education, instruction consists of language arts and mathematics during the fall term and project-based learning centered on an action research initiative in the spring. Next
their findings at the annual meeting of the New Jersey Academy of Science on April 21 at Seton Hall University. EDUCATION Associate Professor of Education James Clayton, Ed.D., presented a workshop on December 6, 2011 at the Fourth Annual Special Education Conference of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of
summer, the cohort will be invited to take a course for college credit. A host of innovative programming and events are also included that range from cultural events such as poetry slams and film series, and even workshops for families on financial aid and the college application process. The outreach effort will expand to two more high schools next fall: Hudson Catholic High School in Jersey City and Weehawken High School. “Our hope is that the CHiSPA program addresses the issues related to college preparation, provide exposure to college experiences early in their high school careers and projects that engage students in their communities,” said Dr. Ayala.
New Jersey (AMTNJ) in Somerset, N.J. Dr. Clayton’s topic was “Can I Ask Better Questions? Can You Help Me?” John Hammett, Ed.D., professor of mathematics, and a past AMTNJ president, was present, as well as Stephanie Autenrieth, director of graduate admissions. The AMTNJ Special Education conference is scheduled tentatively for Saint Peter’s College in January 2013. Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 3
IN the CLASSROOM Deepening a U.N. Partnership Saint Peter’s College is furthering its ties to the United Nations and creating exciting opportunities for students along the way. Assistant Professor of Political Science Alexander Mirescu, Ph.D., who worked as an in-house research consultant for the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and continues to consult for the international agency, has facilitated the partnership. When the UNDESA commissioned the Saint Peter’s professor for a book chapter on anticorruption matters in Eastern Europe and the post-Soviet Republic, Dr. Mirescu tapped Karla Mendez ’12, a student in the Honors Program, to assist with the project. Visits to the U.N. and roundtables with high-level officials are another recent development. Last fall, students in an introductory political science class toured the Security Council and General Assembly, and the senior seminar class, “Global Inequality” met with Asoka Kasturiachrachi, Ph.D., a senior policy official at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) headquarters. “We had an energetic and stirring conversation,” said Dr. Mirescu. The
professor further explained that the partnership showcases the unique learning experiences available to political science students outside the classroom. Saint Peter’s relationship with the U.N. began in 2004 when the College became a designated U.N. Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). The Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership also assists undergraduate and graduate students seeking internships through the UN/NGO CONNECTIONS program.
Alexander Mirescu, Ph.D., and Karla Mendez ’12
Yellow RibBon Program Grows Since 2009, veterans have attended Saint Peter’s College at little or no cost, courtesy of the Yellow Ribbon program, a government benefit authorized under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act. Under the program, Saint Peter’s matches the U.S. Department of Veterans’ funds dollar for dollar, to pay eligible veterans’ (and their dependents) outstanding tuition and fees not covered by the federal bill. Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing Terence Peavy notes that the College’s comprehensive academic offerings and flexible delivery methods are well suited to veterans. Participants are earning traditional bachelor’s degrees in the College of Arts and Sciences/School of Business Administration (CAS/SBA), M.B.A.s through the Graduate Business program and are completing a number of undergraduate degrees in a blended format of face-to-face instruction and online learning in the School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCS). “It’s really a wonderful benefit that allows veterans to turn their educational goals into action,” said Peavy. “Whether a student is starting college or returning to complete a degree, they’re finding that we’re an institution that does everything across the board.” 4
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
Sports Management and the Jesuit Sensibility As industries evolve, so does the responsiveness of College faculty members like Karl Alorbi, Ph.D., and Richard Petriello, Ph.D., who teamed up to develop a new sports management minor. Dr. Petriello, professor and acting director of health and physical education, and Dr. Alorbi, assistant professor of business administration, took notice of predicted job growth in sports, recreation and fitness over the next decade, and the fact that the industry grosses $194 billion annually. “It is critical to always look for new ways to give your students the competitive edge in the marketplace,” said Dr. Alorbi. The sports management program was first introduced this spring semester, and already, 14 undergraduates have committed to the minor. The minor is available to all students. Dr. Alorbi is confident that students studying sports management at the only Jesuit college in New Jersey will stand out from their peers. “All students taking the minor in sports management are required to go through the Saint Peter’s College liberal arts core curriculum,” he explained. “By giving our students the moral compass to navigate this challenging arena, they will be equipped to lead the sports industry in a more ethical way.” Dr. Petriello is thrilled that the College introduced the program, but at the same time, not surprised because, “I’ve been teaching here for 40 years and Saint Peter’s has always been open to finding new ways to better furnish its students.” “Saint Peter’s College is about grooming leaders for industry and society,” concluded Dr. Alorbi. “We want our students to become socially responsible leaders in the sports management industry.”
ON THE BOULEVARD Taking Names Multiple wins for Gannon Debating Society The Gannon Debating Society is going to need a bigger trophy case. Last fall, the team garnered significant wins and multiple awards, both team and individual, at three major debate tournaments sponsored by the National Education Debating Association (NEDA). At Ball State University in Indiana last October, the team took second place overall arguing the topic, “Are political parties bad for effective government in the United States?” (As a member of the NEDA League, Saint Peter’s students are prepared to argue the affirmative and negative.) Gannon Debaters also took second place overall and second place in crossfire debate at Capital University in Ohio in November. At that 12-hour competition, Maude Sutherland ’14 and Stevi-Lorayn (Vix) Platzer ’14 represented Saint Peter’s College in the final round. “We took a bunch of teams down that day,” said Gannon Debating Society President Sean Block ’13. The final tournament of the semester, held at Anderson University in Indiana last December, was even more successful. There, Gannon Debaters walked away with nine of the 18 speaker and team prizes awarded for the top five places. The second half of the academic year will be even busier as
Some members of Gannon Debating Society following a tournament last fall. Front Row (L to R): Clint Sevilla ’15, Prajjwol Gautam ’15, Steve-Lorayn (Vix) Platzer ’14 and Ayush Neupane ’13. Back Row (L to R): Eric Stout ’13, Giovanni Ronghi ‘12, Sean Block ’13 and Shubham Adhikari ’15.
the approximately 14-active-member team prepares for a series of Lincoln-Douglas Debates on the intercollegiate level. The Gannon Debating Society hosted the NEDA national competition on March 9–10 at the College’s Jersey City campus. Want more details on the Gannon Debating Society’s incredible year? Read an extended version of this profile online at www.spc.edu/news.
EVEN GREENER College sets new standard for sustainability This time next winter, academic buildings on the West Campus will be powered by solar energy and low carbon heat from a state-ofthe-art cogeneration plant, further reducing the carbon footprint of Saint Peter’s College as well as its energy bills. The $6.3 million capital project is the result of a partnership with ENER-G Group, Inc., a global leader in sustainable energy whose green technologies are utilized by the British Royal Family at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. With funding from ENER-G Group and generous grants, the capital project is already underway and requires no upfront cost to the College. Cogeneration is the production of more than one useful form of energy from a single resource, and is highly efficient because it reduces electrical demand while generating low-grade power. The cogeneration unit that is being installed in
the basement of Pope Hall, plus solar arrays on a number of academic buildings, are two of a number of green innovations outlined in the College’s Climate Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality. Since 2010, the Jersey City campus has been powered by 100 percent renewable energy and The Mac Mahon Student Center, currently under construction, will be LEED-Silver certified. “Each green initiative on our campus diverts resources from unsustainable projects to renewable, cost effective ones,” said Saint Peter’s College President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D. “Beyond the savings and the environmental benefits, these initiatives also create learning opportunities for the students and fulfill the Jesuit ideal to be stewards of God’s creation.” Projected completion for the capital project is June. The initiative will reduce the
College’s carbon emissions by 6.4 million pounds per year, which equates to the carbon saving benefits of a 615-acre forest. In addition to funding from ENER-G, the green initiative was underwritten by two grants totaling $1.86 million from the New Jersey Clean Energy Program and Federal Tax Credits awarded to solar power and combined heat and power (CHP) projects.
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Core Commitment Full-scale review leads to new curriculum requirements Some consider Jesuit education to be the greatest teaching enterprise the world has ever known. Over the past five centuries its influence has led to the creation of colleges and universities in more than 100 nations. Central to this extraordinary achievement lies the core curriculum. It forms the framework for preparing students to live meaningful lives as leaders in every endeavor imaginable. It supports a carefully crafted educational home where the doors of one discipline lead to another, where higher levels of learning are held up by a solid ground-floor exposure to fundamentals. And, like any home, it sometimes undergoes minor but significant improvements. 6
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
Such is the case at Saint Peter’s College, which will introduce a revised core curriculum for the fall semester 2012. Noting that the heart of the core curriculum will retain its traditional structure, Marylou Yam, Ph.D., provost, vice president for academic affairs and co-chair of the Core Curriculum Task Force, is excited about the changes ultimately approved by the Faculty Senate. “I want our alumni to know that the new core is consistent with the Jesuit tradition in higher education, that we’ve retained courses in philosophy, theology, modern languages, history, fine arts, social and natural sciences. I want them to know the Jesuit tradition is still alive in the core.” Co-chair of the Core Curriculum Task
Force, Lisa O’Neill, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, said, “We are really pleased with the new core. We aggressively reached out to the college community and delivered a curriculum that held true to the mission and traditions of Jesuit education.” A task force of faculty, administrators and students met nearly bi-weekly from the summer of 2009 through the fall of 2010 to review the College’s current core curriculum and recommendations by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. This exhaustive review included a survey of best practices throughout higher education. While the traditional structure remains intact, the new core will unveil many significant changes.
ACADEMIC FEATURE These include the addition of two writing intensive courses, a course view through the lens of pluralism and another through values, and a “capstone experience” in the student’s major. Scientific literacy was removed as a natural science core curriculum requirement. Changes also included vertical dimension to the requirements, expanded choice in sociology, the natural sciences, history and mathematics, and the addition of specific goals related to faith and spirituality.
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example social work—they look to see if you’ve had a course in diversity or pluralism. This is becoming more and more of a requirement.” By removing scientific literacy as a natural science core curriculum requirement and making values a distributive requirement, the core curriculum will be a total of 54, rather than 60 credits. There is also renewed commitment to writing in the new core with the addition of two writing intensive courses. Though the
new core is consistent with the Jesuit tradition
“I want our ALumni to know that the in higher education...”
The goals—reason, faith and spirituality, justice, ethics and service—are not new. “These values have always been intrinsic to the core curriculum,” explained Dr. Yam, “but now we have actually articulated 26 specific goals to the core to demonstrate how we are honoring those values and that’s new.” For example, she said, one such goal is for students to be able to discern ethical and moral principles to understand more fully one’s role as an individual in the larger community. The revised core created the opportunity to increase the number of disciplines that offer values-certified courses so that more students can study values rooted in the context of their major. Students must also complete either Philosophy I and II or Theology I and II before they can take the values-designated courses. The new core also embraces diversity by calling for students to take at least one pluralism-designated course. Like values, these courses will be designed in many disciplines. Students will use gender, race, ethnicity, class and culture as a lens to analyze the content in the course or to examine the knowledge base in the course. Dr. Yam said this is a response both to the College’s mission and the marketplace. “More and more in many careers and as students go on to graduate study—for
first writing intensive course will be offered in freshman year, students will not be able to take the second until after they complete their first year. “We want them to build their skill over time,” said Dr. Yam. Finally, students will now be required to complete a “capstone experience” in their major area of study in order to graduate. Dr. Yam continued, “This is designed to get students to synthesize the knowledge from the core into their major. How did critical thinking, communication and values translate into your study of political science,
business, nursing, education, biology or criminal justice? How are you going to consider values in the care of your patients, or justice issues in criminal justice? How is it going to impact how you do research as a biologist?” To foster an inclusive and transparent process, the task force created a website that posted minutes of all task force meetings as well as reading resources and relevant documents considered during the review. The task force also conducted several open meetings and held a day-long curriculum conference in January 2010 that featured speakers from Georgetown University, Saint Joseph’s University and Drew University and was attended by more than 80 full-time faculty members. “The goal of our work is ultimately to get students excited about learning,” said Dr. Yam, “and expose them to the breadth and depth of knowledge. That’s the heart of a core curriculum. You can talk about the mechanics and structure of it, but ultimately the core gives students a rich palette to work with, to whet their appetite to question and reflect and discuss now, and for the rest of their lives.” “By creating more flexibility,” said Dr. O’Neill, “the new core will help prepare our students for a more complicated world.”
Members of the Core Curriculum Task Force The Core Curriculum Task Force was co-chaired by Lisa O’Neill, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, and Marylou Yam, Ph.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs. Members also included: Rev. Mark DeStephano, S.J. Velda Goldberg, Ph.D. John Hammett III, Ed.D. Kari Larsen, J.D. Mildred Mihlon, Ph.D. Edward Moskal, M.M.S. Patricia Redden, Ph.D. David Surrey, Ph.D. Rachel Wifall, Ph.D. Noel Borges ’11
Department of Modern and Classical Languages Academic Dean CAS/SBA Department of Mathematics Department of Criminal Justice Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Assessment Department of Computer Science Department of Chemistry Department of Sociology and Urban Studies Department of English Student Representative
Former members included Joseph McLaughlin, Ed.D., ’77, Department of Sociology and Urban Studies, and Richard Petriello, Ph.D., Department of Health and Physical Education (formerly Interim Academic Dean). Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 7
The
Len Sciorra, Ph.D., and James MacConchie ’11
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Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
COVER story
I Power
of Cura Personalis
Opportunities abound at The Jesuit College of New Jersey where undergraduates take a lead role in scientific research, investigate economic trends for small business and collaborate with faculty on scholarly publications. Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College is a powerful means to help students excel even further while supporting cura personalis, the College’s longstanding commitment to care for the whole person.
Adventurous Hearts When Len Sciorra, Ph.D., asked his Saint Peter’s College colleagues to recommend undergraduate science majors for the Schuh Scholarship program a few years ago, James MacConchie ’11 was at the top of every list. Established in 2006, the program provides stipends to students with outstanding academic credentials and places them in internships with leading professionals in the medical and research field. Many Schuh Scholars conduct research projects at UMDNJ and the University of Pennsylvania Medical School, but MacConchie was keenly interested in the non-embryonic stem cell research led by Dr. Sciorra in the Charles J. Vickers ’47 and Anne B. Vickers Tissue Culture Facility at Saint Peter’s. “I saw it as an opportunity to gain more insight into the world of real science,” said MacConchie. Yet the résumé-building experience wasn’t the only motivation for the Toms River, N.J. native who arrived at the College in 2005 with a Presidential Scholarship and a spot on the Peacock swim team. Initially a history major, MacConchie was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, during his freshman year. He deferred his enrollment, and sought aggressive treatment. When MacConchie was well enough to return to campus, he had a new major, biology, and a new ambition, medical school, to become a pediatric oncologist. “As an 18-year-old I was treated as a pediatric patient along with toddlers and teenagers,” MacConchie recalled. “They didn’t always understand what was going on or what was happening to them. Having that time, even though I was really ill, helped me focus on what I wanted to do.” “I think he’ll be a great doctor,” said Dr. Sciorra, who in addition to his role as researcher and faculty member, chairs the department of applied science and technology. “James is smart, but he also has a good heart and a lot of empathy for sick people. Having faced what he faced at such a young age, he’s got a lot of courage. He’s just a really good product of Saint Peter’s College.” MacConchie is very passionate about the non-embryonic stem cell research conducted on the third floor of Gannon Hall. The team is investigating the conditions and ways to turn skin cells into mature cell types that not only resemble liver and other human anatomical tissue, but can also function as human tissue in order to create cell therapies and other applications to treat disease.
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“It’s a work in progress,” said Dr. Sciorra. “And we’re not the only ones working on this. Some of the best institutions in the world are trying to duplicate the environment cells grow in without causing genetic damage. We’re still anywhere from five to 15 years away from good cell therapies.” MacConchie devoted three years to the project, as an undergraduate researcher and following graduation from Saint Peter’s as a research technologist, while he prepared applications for medical school. He’s conducted data analysis on experiments, designed trials for new studies and managed various aspects of the tissue culture facility. The alumnus clearly values the trust Dr. Sciorra places in students. “He is always asking what we think about the research and what do we want to do next. [Dr. Sciorra] understands that we’re students and that we’re learning.” “The only way students can learn is to get in there and do it,” Dr. Sciorra said regarding his mentoring and teaching style. “I always tell my students that ‘failure is your friend.’ It tells you what went wrong in an experiment and to learn from it. You have to have an adventurous heart and can’t get discouraged doing research.” MacConchie isn’t the first student to benefit from the Schuh Scholarship
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of personal care, can be. “That’s what Saint Peter’s College is great for—it’s a stepping stone,” added Dr. Sciorra. “If you can prove yourself here, you can go and be anything in your life.” As he waits to hear from medical schools, MacConchie is grateful for the cura personalis he received when he needed it most. The alumnus recalls a letter from Rev. James Loughran, S.J., thenpresident of Saint Peter’s, who informed
WHAT WE THINK ABOUT THE RESEARCH AND WHAT WE WANT TO DO NEXT. [Dr. Sciorra] understands that we’re
“HE IS ALWAYS ASKING
students and that we’re learning.”
program and he most certainly won’t be the last. Saint Peter’s graduates have gone onto Robert Wood Johnson Medical School as well as doctoral programs at MIT, Oxford University and Princeton University. Their success, and the contributions they will make to advance science and humanity, demonstrates just how powerful cura personalis, the fundamental Jesuit principle
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Eugenia Palmegiano, Ph.D., and Nicholas Lambrianou ’13
Saint Peter’s College • Winter Winter 2012 2012
the MacConchies that James’ Presidential Scholarship would be waiting whenever he finished treatment and was ready to return to the College. “Fr. Loughran didn’t want my parents to worry about my scholarship,” MacConchie remembered. “That was a really big weight off my shoulders. I knew then that I had to come back and continue my education.”
Investigating the 19th Century Press For Saint Peter’s College students, the benefits of assisting a faculty member on a research project are fairly obvious: valuable knowledge gained in your field of study and experience that can help you stand out for graduate school and fellowships. But as the collaboration between Eugenia M. Palmegiano, Ph.D., professor of history, and mathematics major Nicholas Lambrianou ’13 demonstrates, faculty-student research projects can also be mutually beneficial. “In some ways, the work [Nick] was verifying was more important than what I was writing,” said Dr. Palmegiano, referring to her forthcoming book, Perceptions of the Press in Nineteenth-Century Periodicals (Anthem Press), an annotated bibliography of 19th century British periodicals. The book was well underway when Lambrianou was a freshman in Dr. Palmegiano’s honors history class. He was tasked with researching data on the 48 periodicals examined for the book, as well as confirming more than 700 pages of bibliographic information and crosschecking 4,500 entries to ensure details such as author and date were correct. “Nick verified the authenticity of
COVER STORY
nearly everything a scholar needs,” said Dr. Palmegiano. “In terms of accuracy, he’s been my guardian angel.” Lambrianou’s mathematical background was a definite asset to the project. In addition to verifying the data in Perceptions of the Press, the undergraduate research assistant even detected errors and inconsistencies in a major reference resource used in this field of study. The experience, he says, has been professionally and personally rewarding. “The actual work, in a way, has trained me to pay attention to the smallest detail and how to follow a process correctly,” Lambrianou noted. “On a more personal level, it allowed me to collaborate with another person on their project. The feeling of working toward a purpose is gratifying and one that has just made me better overall.” When the book is published this spring, it will make a significant contribution to the field of media history with a detailed subject index that will help researchers and scholars discover new information. “This has never been done before,” said Dr. Palmegiano, noting that the index was created using her annotations of the text and Lambrianou’s thorough verification of titles and publications.
For Lambrianou, the faculty-student collaboration has turned into so much more than he initially anticipated. “I can go to [Dr. Palmegiano] with any problems I have, so I don’t see her as just someone I’m working for but as someone who genuinely wishes well for me.” His mentor expresses a similar sentiment. “Before anything else, [students] come first,” Dr. Palmegiano said. “We’re partners in an enterprise of learning. Isn’t that the way it should be? In the life of the mind, that’s absolutely the priority.”
GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS Small businesses on Central Avenue in Jersey City Heights come and go. A group of Saint Peter’s student-researchers are trying to determine why. The students, mostly sociology and business majors, began investigating the patterns along the commercial strip last summer as part of a multi-component Title V grant awarded to the College. Through field observations and interviews with business owners, the students are working to identify factors that influence the life history of a business. The ultimate goal is to develop a set of principles and best practices that could
inform the decision-making processes of small businesses in this area, many of which are owned and operated by immigrants. While findings that document the unique challenges and opportunities faced by immigrant-owned businesses could be of great value to merchants and a boost for the local economy, Alex Trillo, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology and faculty co-director of the project, points to its larger purpose. “It’s an opportunity for students to conduct real research on a topic that they can take ownership of. They’re able to get some field and research experience and become research mentors to others.” Already, Dr. Trillo says, he has used this study as a concrete example to motivate and inspire underclassmen. “It’s a conversation piece that I talk to freshmen about,” he said. “The most beneficial part of this project is learning how small businesses get started,” said Alec Torres ’12, a sociology major from Hoboken, N.J. Torres and Giancarlo Antigua ’14 will present their findings (which were developed in conjunction with Katherine Jimenez ’13, who is studying in Spain this semester) at the Eastern Sociological Society Conference in March. Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., assistant professor of business, who also serves as faculty co-director, has observed other benefits among students who participated in the project. “The actual interviews are a bit tough and intimidating at first, but as the students practice and gain confidence, I have seen them really improve not only their interviewing techniques, but also general professionalism and interpersonal skills,” she said. “It was very interesting hearing why the owners [we interviewed] opened up their particular businesses, especially in these hard economic times,” Torres added. The group is currently updating the study’s results and modifying their presentation for the upcoming conference. “Personally, I am excited. To not only present, but to also observe the other projects.”
Central Avenue in Jersey City, where a group of Saint Peter’s student-researchers are helping small businesses. Saint Saint Peter’s Peter’s College College • Winter 2012 11
Thinking About Movies
William Luhr, Ph.D., outside the Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre in Journal Square.
F
ilm students throughout the world study film noir, but Saint Peter’s College is home to the man who wrote the book on it. Professor of English William Luhr, Ph.D., has authored and co-authored more than 10 books on film and literature throughout his career. The Jesuit educated professor is also a dynamic teacher who seamlessly connects his areas of expertise in a way that engages and inspires Saint Peter’s students. His latest book, Film Noir (New Approaches to Film Genre), published by Wiley-Blackwell, is due out in March.
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Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT You have taught at Saint Peter’s College since 1977. Did you always intend on teaching?
Well, teaching and writing. I like it—I like dealing with students. I like a job that allows me to engage in things that give me pleasure. My passions are film and literature, so it’s a good fit. As a professor of both film and literature, do you find that you make connections between the two in your lessons?
It happens all of the time. As a portion of my Victorian Literature class, I’m showing the Hughes brothers’ film, From Hell. It’s about the Jack the Ripper era and it has some very interesting things to say involving racism and class structure in the Victorian period. A simple hook on which to hang it—it’s a film by the Hughes brothers; two guys whose careers before this have been entirely based on contemporary African American masculinity. For them to suddenly leap into a film that takes place in Victorian England, in which there is not a single black character, and yet the film is centrally about race is quite remarkable. It’s about Victorian England at the height of its power, and the dominant race is literally consuming itself. It’s a strong statement about racism. Which of your books did you enjoy writing the most?
Probably Raymond Chandler because it’s come back so many times. It came out in a second edition years after I wrote it. I just wrote a piece for an Italian journal because they had a conference in Verona on Raymond Chandler 50 years after his death. They asked me to do the keynote address so it enabled me to dive back into the work I did and I still find it very interesting. The work on Chandler (a novelist and screenwriter who influenced the American hard-boiled detective fiction) helped a lot with the work on my film noir book that’s coming out this spring. It was probably my most fun book. Why does film move you?
I guess that I love it because I love it. I’ve enjoyed it since I was a child. My father is 95 and it’s an area where we can still bond; we differ on many things like politics, but I still call him to tell him about obscure things that are on TCM (Turner Classic Movies). He was an usher at the Stanley in the 30s so he’s always loved film. It’s entertainment for me, but it also makes me rethink what’s going on around me. I enjoy it culturally, I enjoy it aesthetically— it keeps the balls bouncing. Who is your favorite filmmaker?
I’d say my top three are John Ford, Jean Renoir and Blake Edwards. I co-authored two books on Edwards. He was Hollywood from birth. For me he was a barometer of mass media for the past three quarters of a century. He died last year, but for the last 25 years or so when he was making a film, he would invite me out to spend time watching it being made.
What’s it like being on the set of a major motion picture?
It’s endlessly fascinating. They taught me many practical things. One of my first revelations was how boring a production can be to an outsider because it’s mostly standing around. Secondly, most of film production is a blue-collar job. Most of the people on the set are the technicians. Most of the time, the only person that knows how the whole thing fits together is the director. So they all have incredibly interesting things to tell. I would spend an afternoon with Bruce Willis or a cameraman and say, “treat me like a three-year-old—why did you just do what you did?” It was just fascinating how many of them didn’t know what the end product would look like—it’s not what they were there for. They simply focused intensely and professionally on their piece of the mosaic. You’re there for a week witnessing constant work being done, and when you see the final film, it was like four minutes of what was shot. Your upcoming book is about film noir, can you define it for us?
It’s a genre. For me, it’s the most protean and influential form of all American genres, even more so than the Western. It appeared during World War II, and for me it very much depicts the dark side of the American Dream. Films noir aren’t happy, they don’t have happy endings (although many are darkly witty) and they’re not about success stories. They don’t fit the traditional paradigm. They are systematically stories of failure, depression, betrayal and torment and they appeared at a time when these topics were transgressive. They’re basically the flip side of the “Greatest Generation.” Your “Today’s Film Scene” class is a little unusual. You take your students to theaters to see films before they open to the public. What was the most recent film that was shown?
Recently I screened My Week with Marilyn for them. It was intriguing to see the students’ reactions because Marilyn Monroe is an archeological figure to them. Yet they were able to get it. Not on the basis of general interest or prior knowledge of Monroe, but in the way the film presented her as a cultural magnet. How do you react to your students enjoying a classic film?
It’s a rush. It’s an absolute rush. To have them laugh at all of the right places. When we’re walking out of the theater I’ll say, “What are you doing, Mary?” and she’ll say, “I’m texting my friend to tell her that she has to see this film.” For these films to still have potency with them, it’s a great rush. William Luhr, Ph.D., is a professor of English at Saint Peter’s College. He received a B.A. in English from Fordham University and a M.A. and Ph.D. from New York University. Other works by the film scholar include The Coen Brothers’ Fargo, Raymond Chandler and Film and Thinking About Movies: Watching, Questioning, Enjoying, co-authored with Peter Lehman. Dr. Luhr also serves as co-chair of the Columbia University Seminar on Cinema and Interdisciplinary Interpretation. Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 13
Fostering Futures Saint Peter’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties cultivates the missions of both parties as it transforms the lives of those involved. In 2008, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties expanded from a Newark agency to one of the largest mentoring agencies in the country. Having the sole intent of helping community youth realize their potential and build their futures, it targets disadvantaged children in the urban areas of Newark and Jersey City. Immediately, the organization knew that developing a partnership with Saint Peter’s College would be a vital resource of quality mentors. “To be successful, you lead with partners,” said Michele Williers, vice president of program operations at BBBS of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties. “We strive to partner with what we consider to be ‘mentor-rich’ organizations. We reached out and without hesitation, Saint Peter’s was our first college partner.” According to Williers, the College’s Jesuit model and its emphasis on community service gives it the qualities of a ‘mentor-rich’ organization. “Community service has
Tara Domke ’11 and her “Little” at Tara’s Saint Peter’s graduation.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 1414Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 2012
men and women
for others
always been their mission,” she said. “But Saint Peter’s President Cornacchia wanted to provide the student leaders and faculty members with an opportunity to act more around this mission.” In 2009, when BBBS conducted its first information session at the College, 116 children were in the need of mentors. Today, that number has grown to 1,127, and Saint Peter’s continues to be a key contributor of mentors. According to Lakasha Street, the senior mentor manager overseeing the College’s matches, Saint Peter’s students are favored by the “Littles” and are also ideal representatives of the organization’s mission. (BBBS children are commonly referred to as “Littles” and their mentors as “Bigs.”) “They are very consistent with their meetings, and it’s rare to ever see their Littles disappointed,” she said. “Particularly, I love that they are not afraid to ask questions. If they run into a difficult situation, they’ll always reach out for our help.” Students interested in becoming Bigs submit applications at the annual information session. After undergoing the interview process and a thorough background check, BBBS works to find their perfect Little match. “We aim to manage mentors’ preferences and skills to ensure lasting matches,” said Williers. “This is a relationship. It requires a thoughtful process of trying to determine the dynamic of what works, and what meshes well.” When Megan Hunt ’13 wanted to be more involved at Saint Peter’s, she saw the information session as her opportunity. After being mentored herself as a high school student, she was compelled to join BBBS’ mission, but this time, from the other side of the cafeteria table. “Right away, I told myself I had to join,” she said. “I love being a mentor.” After one year of weekly visits with her Little, Hunt says that being a mentor has
had a positive effect on both of their lives. “It’s an all-for-one relationship. If she needs help, she texts me—she knows I’m always there,” she said. “And it brings me joy. It’s what defines who I am as a person.” This moment of inspiration is a common trend among Saint Peter’s mentors. “When we took over this agency with no young people served in Jersey City, we had few friends much less any partners. It was fitting that after we reached out to a number of potential partners, Saint Peter’s College—with its focus on service—was the first to respond and commit themselves to our children,” said BBBS President and CEO Carlos Lejnieks.
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retention with their matches.” Due to Bigs’ influential role in building their Littles’ futures, BBBS strives to foster long-lasting relationships. Tara Domke ’11, similar to Hunt, became emotionally committed to the bond. Domke however, continued to mentor her match long after graduating from Saint Peter’s. “During my childhood, I was always on the line of falling through the cracks,” she said. “I thought being a Big would be a great way to be there for a child the way that I needed someone in my life.” Domke, an advocate of all forms of community service, stated that this helped her choose Saint Peter’s. “The whole
“It’s an all-for-one relationship. If she needs help, she texts me.
SHE KNOWS I’M ALWAYS THERE AND IT BRINGS ME JOY. It’s what defines who I am as a person.”
Since then, Saint Peter’s College has grown to be the largest provider of mentors of any institution of higher education in the state. Lejnieks, who is now also chairman of BBBS of New Jersey, noted “Saint Peter’s is not only doing right by our children in Jersey City but they are really leading the way throughout the state!” With sights set on providing mentoring services for 1,300 children, BBBS of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties is taking steps in soliciting more mentors from the entire Saint Peter’s community. In particular, they aim to attract those who can provide enduring guidance. “We’re currently working to have an information session geared toward Saint Peter’s faculty,” said Williers. “We would like to expand on these relations—there’s a lot more to tap into, and faculty mentors would have greater
concept of going to a Jesuit college is to not only get a great education, it’s ‘Men and Women for Others,’” she said. “Students should be more involved in community service, especially in great programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters.” Saint Peter’s classrooms may be things of her past, but Domke continues to learn and strengthen her devotion to her Little through the Jesuit principle. “I love her as a ‘real’ sister would, and I gained responsibility in a positive way,” she said. “I’ve been given a unique gift to help steer a child to better pave her future. It’s hard to describe the feeling—it’s awesome—I’m blessed.” BBBS of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties will receive the Service to Community Award at Hearts & Minds: The Saint Peter’s College Annual Scholarship Dinner on March 29.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 15
Defying the Trend Saint Peter’s students are graduating with a well-respected diploma, an excellent Jesuit education and a brighter debt picture than most.
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he nation’s list of woes grew a little longer last October when the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and others reported that the amount of student loans taken out last year had crossed the $100 billion threshold. The total loans owed is expected to exceed $1 trillion this year and for the first time in history, student loan debt in the U.S. surpassed credit card debt. The Project on Student Debt also 16
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
reported that approximately two-thirds of bachelor’s degree graduates in 2010 borrowed to complete their education, with those students graduating with an average debt of $25,520, a five percent increase over the previous year. For John Rocchio ’12, the sobering news further affirmed his decision to attend The Jesuit College of New Jersey. “I recognized that going to Saint Peter’s College would give me an opportunity to
get through college without taking out any loans,” said Rocchio an economics and psychology major from Saddle Brook, N.J. “I think that the flexibility of being debtfree is the best part. I can start to plan for the future.” Affordability and a high quality education isn’t limited to Presidential Scholarship recipients, an annual award that covers full tuition for students with top academic credentials.
Leading EDUCATION For the last two years, Saint Peter’s College has held the top spot among New Jersey institutions in the Need-Based Aid category and was ranked as one of the most affordable institutions in the North for Least Debt according to the U.S. News & World Report 2012 Best Colleges guide. The most recent data available also shows that the average debt accumulated by Saint Peter’s graduates is lower than the national average for private colleges. In 2010, graduating seniors who borrowed for education completed their degrees with an average of $24,781 in student loans, 11 percent lower than the national average.
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The Office of Financial Aid is also student-focused and transparent with students and families about the actual out-of-pocket cost and any loans needed to attend Saint Peter’s. “Counselors hold financial planning meetings with families,” Dr. Bender continued, “so that they understand their own investment. Students have to realize they are primarily responsible for this obligation and we work with them to make it affordable. The commitment is embedded in our mission and is reflected in the College’s economic diversity.” “Saint Peter’s was the best choice to keep me out of debt,” said Wilton
“I think that the FLEXIBILITY
OF BEING DEBT-FREE
while keeping tuition and fees competitive. Currently, Saint Peter’s tuition and fees are the fifth lowest among the 28 member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges & Universities (AJCU). Growing the endowment, a critical priority outlined in Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College, will strengthen the debt position and make the College an even more attractive choice. “The more scholarships we can fund, the more students that are helped,” said William J. Cozine ’60, a member of the Board of Trustees and chair of the Finance Committee. “Anything we can do to relieve the amount of debt when they graduate is good for students and good for the College.”
IS the best part. I can start to plan for the future.”
Virginia Bender, Ph.D., ’78, special assistant to the president for institutional planning, points to a host of factors that contribute to a brighter debt picture for Saint Peter’s students. Here, the great diversity of the campus (U.S. News & World Report ranked the College first in Campus Ethnic Diversity in the Regional Universities North division in 2012) comes into play. Historically, the College has served many first-generation students and continues to draw students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Many are eligible for federal and state financial aid as well as institutional scholarships and merit awards. “Paying for college involves coordinating the resources of students and their families with federal and state aid, institutional merit and need-based grants, work-study and loans. We work diligently to put those resources together into an affordable package,” said Dr. Bender. “We definitely are leaders in this area,” said Terence Peavy, vice president for enrollment management and marketing. “We do an aggressive job to match a student with the appropriate profile for a scholarship so that they can come into our community.”
Wilson ’13, who is paying his way through college with a combination of financial aid, scholarships and work study. Wilson is also chair of the Student Advisory Committee of HESAA (Higher Education Student Assistance Authority) that advises the HESAA Board on the student perspective with regard to policies and regulations governing financial aid programs. Wilson’s involvement is a prime example of the advocacy efforts undertaken by members of the College community. Faculty, students and administrators are active proponents for student aid programs and take leadership roles in issues that affect student debt. Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry, serves on the HESAA Board. Saint Peter’s robust Cooperative Education and Internship Program, now in its 36th year, also offers significant opportunities for students to pare down debt. During the 2010–11 academic year, average internship earnings were more than $10,000 and used by many to defray the costs of attendance. And green initiatives that lower energy costs and reduce non-instructional expenses help the College deliver an excellent Jesuit education
Entering the Homestretch When it comes to preparing students to successfully graduate from college, Saint Peter’s addresses the whole picture. In addition to ensuring that graduates are in good financial shape, the College held its first “Entering the Homestretch” event on November 9, 2011. Geared to juniors and seniors, academic advisors and college support service staff were on hand to assess academic progress, devise personalized plans for timely graduation and discuss postgraduation plans. The inaugural event received positive feedback from all sectors of the College community and “Entering the Homestretch” will become an annual occurrence for upperclassmen.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 17
VERTICAL
GOING The Mac Mahon Student Center Begins to Rise
The Saint Peter’s College landscape is experiencing an immense transformation. Following the groundbreaking ceremony for The Mac Mahon Student Center on October 26, 2011, the facility began to show its face when crews began erecting the steel frame for the six-story, nearly 90,000-square-foot structure in December. Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College 18
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
provides a live view of the construction of the signature facility on its website. The interactive camera allows visitors to navigate and zoom for close-up perspectives of the Center’s progress. Viewers can also watch a time-lapse movie of the entire process to date. To see up-to-the-minute developments, click on the link for the construction camera at www.spc.edu/campaign.
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
Sunshine State Shines on Campaign Florida Alumni Keep Faith with $3.6 million commitment to Saint Peter’s This January, Saint Peter’s College officially kicked off Students at the Center: The Campaign for Saint Peter’s College for the state of Florida with two launch events in Naples and West Palm Beach. The receptions served as exclusive events for College alumni and donors to gather and hear about the Campaign and what the future holds for Saint Peter’s College. At each event, President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., announced a goal of $4 million. Thus far in Florida, alumni and friends have given more than $3.6 million. “We owe a debt of gratitude to our Sunshine State alumni. I have no doubt they will answer this call,” Cornacchia said.
Robert Baratta, M.D. ’62, chairman and CEO of Ascent Surgical Partners, and his wife, Carol, hosted a Campaign reception at the PGA National Members Club in West Palm Beach. (L to R:) President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., with Carol Baratta and Dr. Baratta.
Please join this historic effort. To make a gift offline or for further information, contact Jamie Bredehoft, director of annual giving, at (201) 761-6114 or jbredehoft@spc.edu. For updates, visit www.spc.edu/campaign.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 19
Serving Their Country
Second in a three-part series
January 12, 1951 marked the beginning of an important chapter in the history of Saint Peter’s College. The Cold War was heating up and the U.S. Army approved a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at the College, a program that trained and commissioned hundreds of officers for active duty in Korea and Vietnam.
J
oseph Guerra ’57 was one of the early members of the corps. After graduating from Saint Peter’s Prep in 1951, Guerra began his college studies the same year that ROTC training became mandatory for full-time freshmen and sophomore male day students. After two years in the ROTC, Guerra made a decision. “I wanted to go to Korea and serve my country,” he said. Guerra enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and arrived in Korea in early 1954 after the ceasefire. The marine was assigned near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) as an artillery forward observer. In Fire for Effect!: Artillery Forward Observers in Korea, author Anthony Sobieski describes forward observers as the “eyes of the artillery” who lived, ate and slept on the front lines, ready to respond to an attack or defend friendly troops and positions. Guerra, who returned stateside in 1955 and was able to complete his Saint Peter’s education on the G.I. Bill, has never regretted the decision. “It all happened pretty naturally. It was just something I wanted to do and so I requested Korea.” 20
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Two initiatives are underway to honor Guerra and the thousands of Saint Peter’s veterans who made sacrifices on behalf of the nation. A Tribute to Service is an ambitious effort to publish online the names of all alumni who served in the military. The site will also contain the stories and experiences of veterans, as well as information about units within the ROTC, such as the Pershing Rifles Company N-8, a military honor society dedicated to leadership and precision drill that for four decades brought great honor and recognition to the College. More than 100 alumni of Company N-8 returned to campus last November for the official unveiling of a commemorative plaque that hangs in the Quad of the Jersey City campus. The second initiative, A Tribute to Sacrifice, is a memorial to be built on campus to honor and remember Saint Peter’s veterans who lost their lives in the line of duty. To date, the effort has identified 2,400 veteran alumni who served in wars ranging from World War I to the present day. Thomas Donnelly, Ph.D., a professor
emeritus of the College who is working with the Office of Alumni Relations on the effort, has uncovered another 500 graduates ranging from 1890 to 1941 whose names will be researched for military service. The data for a Tribute to Service has grown exponentially as more veterans reconnect online and through College events such as the Pershing Rifles commemoration. The project has also identified 43 alumni who were killed or missing in action for the veterans memorial.
Fallen hero The heroics of some of Saint Peter’s fallen are well documented. In November 1965, 457 men of the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry were dropped into the la Drang Valley, which marked the first significant engagement between the United States and the North Vietnamese Army. Capt. Myron F. Diduryk ’60 was among them. The alumnus, a former brigade commander in the ROTC, demonstrated fearless leadership under fire. In the critically acclaimed account of the battle, We Were Soldiers Once…And Young, Battalion Commander
Veterans Series Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore portrayed Diduryk as a consummate leader who was, “eager and aggressive yet totally professional; over the next three days he would emerge as the finest battlefield company commander I have ever seen, bar none.” Following the Battle of la Drang, Diduryk was promoted to major. He visited the ROTC cadets at Saint Peter’s in 1966 and gave a firsthand account of the battle before returning to Vietnam for a second tour of duty. On April 24, 1970, the major ordered his helicopter to land near an abandoned fire base by the Cambodia border. The enemy opened fire and Diduryk was struck and killed in the helicopter doorway.
wartime experiences influenced many Saint Peter’s alumni to become leaders in their professions and communities. “This generation of soldiers were people who just felt that they had to do their duty,” he noted. “Some of them did it extremely well. They are true Americans and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.”
To contribute information to A Tribute to Service, contact Jenny Campbell in the Office of Alumni Relations at (201) 761-6112 or visit www.alumni.spc.edu and click on the Veterans tab. The final installment of the Veterans Series, the 1980s until the present day, will appear in the next issue of Saint Peter’s College magazine.
A Turning Point By this point, the country was in turmoil over the war. “It was gung-ho when I went in,” recalled Robert A. Cutro ’75, who was an evening student when he was drafted into the Army in 1966. “When I got back, the tide had changed.” Cutro served with the 9th Infantry Division as a “tunnel rat,” a dangerous position that involved planting explosives in the underground labyrinth of underground complexes built by the Viet Cong. Following his tour of duty, Cutro, a specialist E5, taught Officer Candidate School (OCS) until his honorable discharge from the Army in 1968. He began a long and successful career with the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and returned to the evening program at Saint Peter’s to complete a degree in economics. “Not all veterans were as lucky as I was,” said Cutro, who was awarded the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal last May. “I’m not saying that the Vietnam experience was good, but it was good for me. The discipline I learned…how responsible I was at age 21, that gave me the stamina to work on the Exchange all day and go to school at night. The experience itself wasn’t a pleasant one, but a lot of good came out of it. It helped me throughout my life.” Dr. Donnelly points out that these
Above: During its 40-year history, the ROTC at Saint Peter’s College produced more than 1,700 commissioned officers for the U.S. Armed Forces. From the 1953 Pauw Wow are four Saint Peter’s lieutenants who were commissioned for the United States Marines Corps Reserve. Right: President Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., and members of the Pershing Rifles Company N-8 unveiled a commemorative plaque last fall.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 21
PEACOCK
BLUE
Record-Breaking Career Four years ago, few within Division I intercollegiate swimming had heard the name Lovro Bilonic ’12. Breaking records and winning titles has put the Saint Peter’s swimmer and the Peacocks on the map.
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here are many words that can describe Peacock swimmer Lovro Bilonic’s pool time at Saint Peter’s—triumphant, exciting and historic are the first that come to mind. During his time at Saint Peter’s, Bilonic has won six Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) titles and five Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) titles. He set two MAAC records, two ECAC records, five College individual records and five College relay records. Last summer, the student-athlete, who hails from the Adriatic city of Split, Croatia, won the Croatian National Championships 22
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
in two events and qualified for the World Championships in Shanghai. As he prepares for his final season with the Peacocks, and a possible shot at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, Bilonic credits the College for preparing him both athletically and intellectually. “Coaching Lovro has been an excellent experience,” said College Aquatic Coordinator and Head Swim Coach Mohamed Abdelaal. “Working with such a high level athlete, you learn from each other.” “Athletically speaking, my favorite memory was representing Saint Peter’s
at the NCAA Division I Swimming and Diving Championship in Minneapolis, Minn., where I was the first swimmer from the MAAC ever to qualify for the NCAA Championship,” said Lovro Bilonic ’12. “I can vividly remember the feeling of accomplishment when I looked up the pool deck and saw Saint Peter’s competing amongst some of the U.S.’s most famous universities.” Lovro Bilonic ’12
Interim Director of Athletics Named JOE QUINLAN TAKES THE HELM Bilonic’s path to victory was in no way short. The aquatic star transplanted himself to study and swim at Saint Peter’s, nearly 5,000 miles away from home. With his only familiarity being the chlorinated waters, Bilonic encountered a cultural transition like no other. “I grew up in a very homogeneous town,” he said. “I was shocked to meet so many different people with unique styles and diverse mentalities, but with a little time and the help of my teammates, friends and coach, I can say that I’ve been Americanized.”
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Bilonic’s work ethic and determination have had a positive impact on the entire pool. “He elevates everyone’s training ability,” said Abdelaal. “Lovro lives and breathes swimming, and his results make his dedication contagious.” Looking to the future, Bilonic is planning to further his education at Saint Peter’s College. He will graduate in May with a bachelor of science in accounting, and intends on returning to the College to pursue a master’s degree. He hopes to one day become a Certified Public Accountant.
“It never ceases to amaze me HOW WONDERFULLY
has improved
my life
both as a student and an athlete.”
Bilonic views his intellectual growth at Saint Peter’s as a key contributor to his swimming success. “It never ceases to amaze me how wonderfully my life has improved as both a student and an athlete,” he said. “I have gained motivation and inspiration to reach personal goals, break many swimming records and always reach for excellence.”
According to Bilonic, his name would not be in the record books without the support of his peers and the Saint Peter’s College community. “It means a lot to us athletes to know our efforts and hard work are noted and appreciated,” he said. “I don’t know how many more opportunities I will get to say this to all of my fellow Peacocks and Peahens, but thank you.”
2011 Athletics Hall of Fame Eight individuals, two teams honored Eight members of the Saint Peter’s College community and two teams were inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame 2011 class on February 11. The honorees included former men’s basketball star Keydren “Kee-Kee” Clark ’06, the sixth player in NCAA Division I history to reach the 3,000-point milestone; Peacock offensive linemen Walter Greenhalgh ’71; Sean Mayers ’06, a standout in both football and track; and Peahen softball pitcher Sandy Attanasio ’02. Rounding out the induction class were: women’s basketball star Tonya Gertrude ’97, bowler Michelle Spratford ’03, Hudson County Schools of Technology assistant superintendent Joe Sirangelo and Eileen Poiani, Ph.D., special assistant to the president, who has served as an administrator and faculty member at Saint Peter’s for more than 40 years. The 2001 football team and the 1996–1997 women’s basketball team were also inducted. The Peacocks went 10–1 in 2011 and the squad’s defense led the NCAA in five statistical categories. The Peahens are the first women’s squad in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) history to go undefeated in the league’s double round robin format. Look for coverage of the annual Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony in the next issue of Saint Peter’s College magazine.
Saint Peter’s College’s new Interim Director of Athletics Joseph Quinlan is happy to be wearing Peacock Blue. “I am thoroughly enjoying my time at Saint Peter’s,” said Joe Quinlan Quinlan. “This school has such a tremendously hard-working staff and nearly 300 excellent studentathletes who are great citizens. There’s such a high level of energy.” Quinlan was appointed to the position last November after former Director of Athletics Patrick Elliott accepted the top athletic job at SUNY Binghamton. Quinlan, who has worked in college athletics since 1984, joins Saint Peter’s after serving five years as director of athletics for Seton Hall University. With his previous stint as Rutgers University’s deputy director of athletics, Quinlan brings a wealth of experience having managed and led two of New Jersey’s largest collegiate-sport programs. Outside of the state, he also held positions at St. Bonaventure University and Loyola College in Baltimore, Md. According to Quinlan, the rich, Jesuit mission drew him to the College. “I view it as a great benefit,” he said. “It is very important for students and athletes to be well-rounded individuals, and with such strong and noble goals, the mission is advanced.” The interim director spent time as the NCAA’s Assistant Director of Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, served on the BIG EAST Championships and Competition Committee and directed the Meadowlands Organizing Committee for the 1996 NCAA Final Four. His immediate priority is to keep the forward momentum going for all 19 Peacock and Peahen teams. “I plan to use my experience to help all of our coaches,” said Quinlan. “In doing so, I plan to reinforce the College’s principles in developing our student-athletes into fine citizens, who are well-prepared for their futures.” Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 23
News and Notes
T
he Saint Peter’s College community will honor Frank D’Amelio ’79 and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties (BBBS) at Hearts & Minds: The Saint Peter’s College Annual Scholarship Dinner to be held on March 29 at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange, N.J. The annual event pays tribute to individuals and organizations for contributions to industry or profession, service to the greater community and demonstrated support of Saint Peter’s College. Hearts & Minds also generates significant scholarship funds to ensure that deserving students continue to have access to an excellent Jesuit education. D’Amelio, executive vice president, chief financial officer and business operations of Pfizer Inc., is the recipient of the 2012 Professional Achievement Award. A senior executive with the pharmaceutical corporation since 2007, D’Amelio is responsible for finance, business operations and global manufacturing, as well as leading the integration of Pfizer and Wyeth. Institutional Investor magazine ranked D’Amelio among America’s top CFOs four times in the last seven years and the Saint Peter’s alumnus was also selected as one of the top 10 leaders in his field by Treasury & Risk magazine in 2002. D’Amelio serves on the Board of Directors of Humana, Inc. as chair of the Audit Committee, and on the board of the Independent College Fund of New Jersey (ICFNJ). He graduated with a degree in accounting from Saint Peter’s College and earned an M.B.A. in finance from St. John’s University. D’Amelio and his wife, Cam, reside in New Jersey.
–––––––– 1940s–––––––
–––––––– 1960s–––––––
1948 Lawrence A. Musella recently attended a family wedding with his sons, Lawrence J. Musella ’69 and Thomas Musella ’80. Three of Musella’s sons are Saint Peter’s College graduates: Lawrence, Thomas and the late Anthony Musella, D.M.D., ’67.
1960 Anthony P. Terracciano was appointed Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Monmouth Medical Center, one of New Jersey’s largest community teaching hospitals.
(L to R): Thomas Musella ’80, Lawrence Musella ’48 and Lawrence Musella ’69. 24
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
James Magee, Ph.D., is the author of Paradox for Life Review: A Guide for Enhancing Older Adults’ Self-Esteem, (Rowman and Littlefield, 2011). Dr. Magee is professor emeritus of Counseling and Gerontology at The College of New Rochelle, where he taught for 30 years. 1964 John B. Wefing was appointed to the Governor’s Council of Higher Education in April 2011.
1965 James F. Donohue, M.D., stepped down as division chief of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine of UNC’s School of Medicine on July 1, 2011. He remains a full-time tenured professor and will assume other senior administrative duties. He will continue as a researcher and clinician–educator, and serves as the chairman of the Foundation of the American Thoracic Society.
James Donohue, M.D., ’65 (far left) and colleagues.
Raymond G. Hallock announced his retirement as president and CEO of Columbia Bank after a 33-year banking career. Hallock will remain a member of Columbia’s Board of Directors. 1967 Thomas D. Harvey was named president of St. Aloysius School, an innovative, pre-kindergarten through eighth grade Catholic, Jesuit school, located in Central Harlem, whose mission is to educate at-risk, inner-city children, on June 14, 2011. 1969 Neal Goodman, Ph.D., professor emeritus sociology, is providing global leadership training to the top 150 future leaders of
News and Notes
MARATHON MEN
Frank D’Amelio ’79, the recipient of the 2012 Professional Achievement Award. Tom Whelan ’68 and John Carroll ’68
The couple has three children, Dana, Joseph and Alexa. BBBS will be honored with the 2012 Service to Community Award. Saint Peter’s and BBBS have built a strong and meaningful partnership since the nonprofit organization began its expansion to reach more young people in New Jersey’s urban areas in 2008. Today, BBBS is one of the largest mentoring agencies in the country. For tickets or further information about Hearts & Minds, call (201) 761-6109 or visit alumni.spc.edu.
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Singapore, Warsaw and Boston. Dr. Goodman writes a regular column on best practices in Training Magazine and recently published articles on global leadership, global diversity and cross-cultural competence. He also provides cross-cultural and globalization consulting to private and nonprofit organizations ranging from Catholic charities to Johnson & Johnson. Dr. Goodman taught at Saint Peter’s College for 33 years.
–––––––– 1970s––––––– 1971 James J. Clayton, Ed.D., was granted tenure and promoted to associate professor in the School of
Education at Saint Peter’s College. PSEG named Kathleen Fitzgerald vice president – corporate communication, effective January 9, 2012. In addition to overseeing all internal and external communications for PSEG, Fitzgerald will assume an active role in PSEG corporate responsibility and the PSEG Foundation. The alumna is the former global communications leader for KPMG and has held positions of leadership at Lucent Technologies and AT&T. 1973 NBC Entertainment named Len Fogge President, Marketing for NBC Entertainment last August. Fogge is responsible for leading all
John Montone ’76 of 1010 WINS will serve as emcee.
strategy, branding, creative, paid media, digital/social media and partnership marketing initiatives for NBC’s Primetime, Daytime, and Late Night. The alumnus is the former EVP, Creative, Marketing, Research, & Digital Media for Showtime Networks. 1974 Mary Carmel made her Solemn Profession of Perpetual Vows as a Poor Class of Perpetual Adoration at St. Paul Shrine/Adoration Monastery in Cleveland, Ohio.
Congratulations to three Saint Peter’s Marathon Men, Thomas J. Whelan, Esq. ’68, John Carroll ’68 and Raymond C. Maguire, M.D., ’58. Whelan and Carroll ran in the Dublin Marathon on October 31, 2011. The race draws approximately 11,000 runners annually, about half of whom are from overseas. The day before, Dr. Maguire ran in the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) and earned his finisher’s medal. Dr. Maguire ran his first MCM in 1985. Held annually since 1976, the MCM is known as “The People’s Marathon” because it is open to all runners ages 14 and above and is the largest marathon not to offer prize money.
Joseph A. Conti was appointed vice president, Regulatory Affairs for the North American Zone of Ceva Animal Health. 1975 Robert A. Cutro was awarded Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 25
News and Notes Building Tomorrow’s Economy Today
1.
Regents Business Symposium Commemorates 40th Year Nearly 360 people attended the 40th annual Saint Peter’s College Regents Business Symposium (RBS) on November 4, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency on the Jersey City waterfront. The College’s signature event focused on New Jersey: Building Tomorrow’s Economy Today. Leaders from business, government and media spoke on trends and challenges and provided practical solutions for business growth. “It’s simple,” Neil Cavuto, host of “Your World With Neil Cavuto” on the Fox News Channel, said in the keynote address. “We don’t have enough money to pay for what we’re doing globally, so either we raise taxes an incredible
amount, or cut spending.” Other speakers included New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, Patricia Russo, former chairman and CEO of Alcatel-Lucent and Thomas Bracken, president and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. The event set a new record of $125,000 raised for scholarship support. The 40th annual RBS was made possible by Patton Boggs, LLP, a presenting sponsor, and the United Way of Hudson County, a platinum sponsor, and more than 35 corporate and individual sponsors. The 41st Regents Business Symposium will be held on November 2, 2012.
6.
2.
5.
4.
3.
(Clockwise from top): 1. Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s College; Keynote Speaker Neil Cavuto; Thomas Bracken, president and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce; Patricia Russo, former chairman and CEO of Alcatel-Lucent. 2. New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno delivered remarks. 3–6. The 40th Regents Business Symposium was attended by alumni, friends, students and members of the business community.
the State of New Jersey’s Distinguished Service Medal for distinguished meritorious service in ground operations during the Vietnam War and the Vietnam Service Medal in recognition of patriotic and dedicated service in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam Conflict. The awards were presented on May 7, 2011. Jim Fusilli recently authored Narrows Gate (AmazonEncore, 2011), an epic novel set in the first half of the 20th century in the ItalianAmerican community of Hoboken, N.J. Fusilli has authored six novels and is the pop and 26
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
Edward C. Meier, Ed.D., was named Bergen County Counselor of the Year in June 2011.
rock music critic for The Wall Street Journal. Catherine A. Wickiewicz and fellow classmates reunited on Facebook and organized a small alumni weekend in Bay Head, N.J., last September. “It certainly did not feel like 36 years had passed as we reminisced about classes, professors, clubs, campus jobs, old boyfriends and the wonderful four years we spent at Saint Peter’s,” wrote Wickiewicz. “We are also all married to Saint Peter’s grads that we met as students or after graduation! I had the most news about alma mater as Tom and I are still often on campus during basketball season!”
–––––––– 1980s––––––– Pictured (L to R): Carol Gelsomino Casey ’75, Janet Petrocci Wagner ’75, Anne Koles Michals ’75, Kathy Adams Porto ’75 and Diane Scala Porto ’75. Catherine Wickiewicz ’75 is seated center.
1976 Edward A. Hogan, Esq. of the law firm Norris McLaughlin & Marcus was named, along with the firm, to Chambers USA’s 2011 list of leading firms and lawyers in New Jersey. Hogan and members of the firm were ranked Bank 1, the highest ranking awarded, for their work in the Environment and Healthcare sections.
1980 George A. Drozdowski, Lower Township elementary school district business administrator of Robbinsville and Cape May Courthouse, N.J., was recognized by the New Jersey Association of School Business Officials (NJASBO) with a Distinguished Service Award for his long-term, continuous exemplary service on June 21, 2011. 1981 Timothy F. Kinsella, risk management, financial services and alternative energy professional, joined PowerGuard Specialty Insurance Services, a managing Continued on page 29
News and Notes
Five Saint Peter’s Alumni Join Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees of Saint Peter’s College recently welcomed five alumni to its ranks. Richard P. Libretti ’65 brings more than four decades of financial expertise to the Board of Trustees. He is a principal of Sandler O’Neill and Partners, L.P., and currently works Richard Libretti with mid-tier financial ’65 institutions offering advice on balance sheet management and strategic planning. Prior to joining Sandler O’Neill in 1991, Libretti served as senior vice president of Tucker Anthony, and is a former partner of I.F Rothschild & Co. Libretti graduated from Saint Peter’s with a bachelor’s degree in economics and philosophy. He is married to Lois J. Libretti and resides in Chatham, N.J. Robert A. Cutro ’75 is the former NYSE Floor Broker for Barclays Capital, Inc. During a 40-year career on Wall Street, Cutro worked as managing director of NYSE floor operations Robert Cutro ’75 for Lehman Brothers and served as NYSE Governor from 1996– 2002. He also held a seat on the NYSE for nearly 30 years until the Exchange went public in 2006. Cutro retired from the financial industry in 2009. Cutro received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Saint Peter’s College.
A highly decorated veteran (see story on page 20), he is married to Dyan Cutro. The couple lives in New York, N.Y. Susan Mitchell-Abbate ’72 is a former executive vice president-human resources for CIT Group. In this role, Mitchell-Abate oversaw human resource strategy, compensation, benefits Susan Mitchelland organization Abbate ’72 development. Prior to her employment with CIT Group, the Saint Peter’s alumna worked as the sector human resources officer for Manufacturers Hanover’s asset-based financing sector. Mitchell-Abbate retired from CIT in 2006. She received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Saint Peter’s College, holds an M.B.A. in finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University and completed further professional development at the University of Michigan in the Advanced Human Resources Program. She is married to Thomas L. Abbate and resides in Upper Saddle River, N.J.
Frank Fekete, CPA, ’75
Frank L. Fekete, CPA ’75 is managing partner of Mandel, Fekete & Bloom, CPAs where he is responsible for managing the tax and auditing practices of the firm. He is also lead director for Provident Financial Services,
Inc., and serves as chair of the Audit Committee. Fekete joined Mandel, Fekete & Bloom in 1981 and became a partner in 1982. He has served as managing partner since 1984. Fekete graduated from Saint Peter’s with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He is married to Adeline Fekete and has two adult children, Maria and Frank. Fekete resides in Short Hills, N.J. Sarah Chu ’11 graduated from Saint Peter’s College last spring with a bachelor’s degree in marketing management with minors in management and business law. While at the College, she served as president and vice president of the Business Law Association, a Brother of Delta Sigma Pi International Business Fraternity and as the Public Relations Officer for the Asian American Student Union. Chu is currently a Global Customer Support Representative at Bloomberg LP in New York, N.Y. Following the tradition of newly graduated students, Chu will serve a one-year term on the Board of Trustees. The recently elected alums will serve a three-year term. “We are so honored and pleased to welcome such a devoted group of alumni,” said Kathleen McKenna, Esq. ’75, chairman of the Board of Trustees. “In addition to their great love for Saint Peter’s, these newest trustees bring impressive experience, talent and wisdom to the Board. They will be a great asset in charting the future from Saint Peter’s College to Saint Peter’s University.”
Annual Report Omissions With our apologies... The Fiscal Year 2011 Honor Roll of Donors, which appeared in the Fall 2011 edition of Saint Peter’s College magazine, omitted the following donors:
President’s Council — Patron Annette D. Corbin ’84 and Peter Corbin
Dean’s Society Ann Marie Gillespie ’84 Dennis J. Hayden ’84 Catherine M. McCabe ’84 Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 27
News and Notes
ALUMNI NETWORK Finance: Business Leaders Headline Two Network Events
John Licata ’95
Joseph Gromek ’68
If you tune into business news on CNN, CNBC and Bloomberg Television you may have caught Blue Phoenix, Inc. CEO/Chief Commodities Strategist John Licata ’95 discussing marketplace shifts resulting from the debt ceiling crisis or the future of oil prices. Members of the Saint Peter’s College Alumni in Finance Network were treated to an inside peek of future commodities when Licata spoke at the fall Network event on October 19, 2011 at Bayard’s in New York. Prior to founding Blue Phoenix, Licata held research, strategy and trading positions
at Dow Jones, Salomon, SmithBarney, Brokerage America and R&M Futures. An economics major at Saint Peter’s, he received the Wall Street Journal Award for Economic Excellence. Licata currently serves as a member of the College’s Board of Regents. Talent and expertise within the Alumni in Finance Network runs deep and the spring event, held on March 6 at the Columbus Citizens Foundation in New York, featured Joseph R. Gromek ’68, president and chief executive officer of the Warnaco Group, Inc. A leading professional in the fashion industry for more than 25 years, Gromek is a former president
and CEO of Brooks Brothers, Inc., and has held senior management positions with Saks Fifth Avenue, Limited Brands, Inc., and the Ann Taylor Stores Corporation. The Alumni in Finance Network was launched in 2010. The alumni community meets to learn from one another and exchange ideas, expand professional relationships and further connections to the College. To connect online, visit LinkedIn.com and search “Saint Peter’s College Alumni in Finance.” Alumni can also visit alumni.spc.edu for upcoming events.
Healthcare: Affinity Group Launched with Networking Event Some wanted to stay informed of current trends in healthcare. Others were looking to reconnect with classmates and network with professionals in their field. The inaugural Alumni in Healthcare Network event drew a broad representation of students and graduates representing a diverse range of healthcare fields to the Hyatt Regency in Jersey City on November 30, 2011. Of the College’s 31,000 living alumni, healthcare professionals comprise the second largest group of graduates following business professionals. The network was founded by Angelo A. Caprio, M.D. ’74, chief medical officer and vice president of medical affairs at Hoboken University Medical Center; Nikki Mederos ’07 ’10, director of external relations and patient relations at Palisades Medical Center; Gary S. Horan, FACHE ’70, president and chief executive officer of Trinitas Health and Trinitas Regional Medical Center; and Joseph P. Pieroni ’68, president and chief executive officer at Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. (retired). The Network strives to unite graduates from all eras and provides opportunities for alumni to share information, expand and explore new professional relationships, and to connect and engage with the College. The next Alumni in Healthcare Network event will be held 28
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
The founders of the Alumni in Healthcare Network. (L to R): Nikki Mederos ’07 ’10, Angelo Caprio, M.D. ’74, Gary Horan, FACHE, ’70 and Joseph Pieroni ’68.
in May. To learn more, join the Network on LinkedIn (search Saint Peter’s College Alumni in Healthcare). Interested alumni can also stay informed by visiting alumni.spc.edu.
News and Notes
HIGH HONOR Tony Limbardo ’63 (pictured right) was invested as a Knight of Malta at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, N.Y. The Order of Malta is a worldwide, lay, religious order of the Roman Catholic Church that seeks to glorify God through work with the sick and the poor, and the defense of the Catholic faith.
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Teresians Annual Luncheon Alumnae enjoyed the Annual Teresians Luncheon held at Liberty House Restaurant on July 7, 2011. Pictured (L to R): Eugene Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s College, Catherine Surdovel, Ed.D. ’69, Barbara Tansey ’68, Catherine McCabe ’84, Rita Prezioso ’74, Mary Quinn ’72, Ann McGovern ’61, Vera Taylor ’77, Eileen Finnegan ’79, and Lori Costello ’10.
general agent and Lloyds cover holder specializing in unique insurance and risk management solutions for the wind and solar energy industries, in Irvine, Calif. Kinsella joined the company as a business development executive last September. Kinsella brings 30 years of experience to PowerGuard in building new businesses, improving operational efficiency and leading growth initiatives. 1985 John A. Gibney was appointed assistant vice president/branch sales manager of the Valley National Bank’s Atlantic Highlands and Keansburg branches. Gibney received a bachelor’s degree in business management from Saint Peter’s College. 1989 Kari E. Larsen, Esq. was appointed the new director of
the master’s in criminal justice program at Saint Peter’s College.
&
Hurry! Drawing takes place May 1, 2012. adding up to be a successful business of her own.
–––––––– 1990s––––––– 1991 Fausto Rotundo, CPA was elected to the Board of Governors of the Investment Advisor Association. 1994 Michael Kilgallen was promoted to managing director, Equity Products of the CME Group, on August 8, 2011.
–––––––– 2000s––––––– 2003 Katrina Harrell was named Entrepreneur of the Week by Black Enterprise Magazine. For Harrell, helping small-business owners manage their books is
Optometry last June, Dr. Gurdak begins his professional career in eye care and wellness. 2008 Jeff Kane was accepted to Yale University Law School and began classes in Fall 2011.
Katrina Harrell ’03
2005 Rachel Grygiel, M.A., was recognized at Princeton University’s 2011 Commencement for demonstrating an exceptional career in teaching. 2007 Anthony D. Gurdak, O.D. joined the optometric practice of Madeline L. Romeu O.D., F.A.A.O., ’74 located in West New York, N.J. as a practicing associate. After successfully completing his doctorate in
2010 Rezma Shrestha is attending a Ph.D. program at Princeton University. She began classes in Fall 2011. Christopher Giorlando is a longterm volunteer with the Christian Appalachian Project in Kentucky, where he helps repair homes for the elderly. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in education in Fall 2012. Giorlando graduated summa cum laude from Saint Peter’s College, with a bachelor’s degree in history and was an active participant in campus ministry. Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 29
News and Notes ‘The MAAC Experience’ Honors Star Alumni
Head Basketball Coaches Stephanie DeWolfe ’97 and John Dunne at “The MAAC Experience” display in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
L
egends of the court are enshrined in “The MAAC Experience,” a new exhibit showcasing the 31-year history of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference’s (MAAC) 10 Division I basketball programs at the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. Not surprisingly, the names of Peacocks and Peahens are prominent throughout. In addition to artifacts, memorabilia and a “Day in the Life,” a documentary chronicling the dedication and drive of
[
Elnardo J. Webster, Ed.D., ’69
Sharon Pastore ’73
“THE NAMES OF PEACOCKS
AND PEAHENS ARE PROMINENT throughout the MAAC Experience exhibit.”
student-athletes today, is the MAAC Honor Roll that recognizes one female and one male student-athlete from each member institution. Elnardo J. Webster, Ed.D, ’69 and Sharon Pastore ’73 represent Saint Peter’s College. A member of the College’s Board of Trustees, Webster’s name still dominates the Peacock record books with more than 40 mentions. He was a fourth-round pick by the New York Knicks in the 1969 NBA Draft (54th overall) and a member of the “Run, Baby, Run” team that defeated Duke
30
100–71 in the NIT quarterfinals in 1968. Pastore, also a member of the Board of Trustees, was a charter member of the College’s first women’s basketball team. Her influence helped build a program that has since won nine MAAC Women’s Basketball Championships. Among the pieces of basketball history displayed at “The MAAC Experience” is the jersey of former Saint Peter’s star Keydren “Kee-Kee” Clark ’06. The infamous “3” represents the player who led the NCAA in scoring in the 2003–2004 and 2004–2005 seasons. Clark’s legacy lives on, as he is one of seven players in NCAA history to surpass 3,000 points. Head Basketball Coaches Stephanie DeWolfe ’97 and John Dunne led the Peahens and Peacocks into the 2012 MAAC Basketball Championships, March 1–5 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. For further information, visit spc.edu/athletics or maacsports.com.
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
Richard Ensor, Esq. ’75, commissioner of the MAAC, and son Kiernan visited “The MAAC Experience” to tour the 31-year history of the conference’s 10 basketball programs.
News and Notes
Engagements
Alyssa Sommers ’00 is engaged to Brian McGovern of Jersey City. McGovern, a graduate of Hudson Catholic and Bloomfield College, is a New Jersey State Correction Officer. The ceremony will take place at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s College Church on July 14, 2012.
Marriages
Matthew C. VanDeursen ’09 and Deirdre T. Power ’09 were married on December 31, 2010 in West Hartford, Conn.
Deirdre T. Power ’09 and Matthew VanDeursen ’09.
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Requiescant in Pace 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.
Matthew F. Amato, Jr. ’72 Barbara Archipolo Richard A. Arias ’74 Dr. Joseph F. Artusio ’39 Claire M. Baker Patrick A. Barry ’60 Hon. William J. Bate ’55 Lt. Col. Cornelius Behan ’56 Lillian M. Bezgela Walter J. Bischak ’64 Charles F. Blum ’49 Edward J. Boyle, Jr. ’53 Rita M. Boyle Joseph Brancatella William K. Breuel ’43 Mary Caiezza Robert J. Callamari ’60 Sarah Campbell Barbara Canellis Milliard F. Carey Matthew W. Chambers ’72 Martin T. Cifaraelli, Jr. ’69 Ralph G. Clark ’51 Robert Cobban ’54 Michael R. Cole ’66 Dr. Marjorie M. Collier Lester Concannon ’55 Maurice H. Connelly ’64 Thomas H. Connolly ’41 Alice Fallucchi Corring ’91 Hubert L. Costigan ’39 John Daneri ’52 William G. Davis ’57 James Davis ’51 Michael J. DeBartolo ’73 Julio DeQuesada ’81 Christopher DeSalvo ’73 Richard L. DeVoto ’61 Artenzio A. DiOrio ’72 Josephine Doria Catherine T. Downes Patrick C. Duffy ’48 Bernice E. Edwards ’71 Matthew Fedorochko ’90 Olympia Ferrino Rose Fine Grace Fisher Kenneth G. Fitzpatrick ’60 Edward F. Flannery, Jr. ’50
Helen Madelyn Flimlin William J. Foltyn ’63 John “Jack” P. Ford ’62 Thomas J. Gallagher ’47 Robert W. Gardner ’62 Hector M. Gesualdo ’74 Patricia Gogarty Joseph M. Greene ’57 John J. Guidera ’47 Joseph P. Gulbin ’60 Charles J. Gutka ’54 Mary Gutsch James Hackett ’60 Eleanor Hartnett Willie Haynes ’89 Ken Hudlund ’57 John F. Henning ’59 Frank V. Hermo ’54 Donald Hevehan ’60 Frederick Ihnken ’51 Herbert J. Jackson ’42 Kenneth E. Jasinkiewicz ’66 Lamont Lee Johnson, Sr. ’74 Michael Joseph Kevork Karagozlu Anne V. Kelly ’80 David J. Kelly ’77 Terence J. Kennedy ’66 Mary V. Kinahan John Kinelski ’73 Alice Kruse Walter L. Kudlacik ’68 Walter Lehman Barbara J. Lehmann ’73 Frank P. Link ’70 Rev. Paul Locatelli, S.J. Thomas F. B. MacNamara ’56 Horace J. “Hoddy” Mahon ’54 James T. Mahon ’76 David Marvuglio John Massarelli ’47 James Mazzouccolo ’65 Alan A. McBride ’71 Richard C. McDonnell ’59 Michael D. McDonnell ’66 James F. McGlinchy ’51 J. Thomas McKnight ’54 Dr. Henry D. McNierney ’57 Raymond E. McSorley ’61
Richard J. Meehan ’59 Goachim Mele ’92 Ramon Menendez Vincent J. Miller ’52 Joseph E. Monaghan ’67 Charles P. Moore ’51 Ira J. Moreto ’58 John J. Mulholland ’55 Gertrude Murphy Timothy F. Murphy, Jr. ’48 John P. Navarro ’73 William Noll ’60 James A. O’Connell, Jr. ’53 Brian P. O’Connor ’65 Francis X. O’Connor ’51 Gerard M. Okal ’51 Douglas O’Neill Thomas J. O’Shaughnessy ’67 Peter J. Palmadesso ’61 Walter W. Pearsall ’70 John T. Petrowski, Jr. ’51 Josephine Picarelli Carmen N. Pontillo Joseph A. Pope ’49 John M. Preolo ’57 Bernard F. Puy ’60 Robert G. Reese ’66 Loretta W. Reilly ’78 Caesar Ricciardelli ’42 John “Gene” Schmid ’58 Richard O. Scott ’57 Eric P. Seitz ’77 Charles F. Shaughnessy John R. Sliwicki, Jr. ’61 John F. Spellman ’60 Rev. Jack St. George, S.J. George Szweada Theodore B. Talis Gregory Tomaszewski ’73 William A. Tracy, Sr. ’69 Kathleen Tricarico Lucille Susan Verdoni Ted von Gerichten Willard Wadleigh ’75 James T. Whalen ’62 Frederic N. Williams ’60 Bernard R. Woods ’61 Raymond F. Wysolmierski ’60 Zygmund E. Zwierchows ’77
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012 31
Then and NOW
THEN AND NOW With the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge as a backdrop, construction workers assemble steel on the new student center at Saint Peter’s College. The six-story, nearly 90,000-square-foot student center is the largest construction project at the College since the Yanitelli Recreational Life Center (left) was completed in 1975. 32
Saint Peter’s College • Winter 2012
There’s strength in numbers. Saint Peter’s alumni participation rate, or the percentage of alumni who give to the College, is 10%. This is the same as the national average. As you know, Saint Peter’s is decidedly better than average and we need to show it. Giving back strengthens the value of your Saint Peter’s College degree, impacts critical rankings such as those found in U.S. News & World Report, and shows your confidence in the future of alma mater. There’s strength in numbers. Gifts of all sizes matter. Please make your gift today.
(201) 761-6114 | jbredehoft@spc.edu | spc.edu/giving
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AdvAnce excellence in
Academics Advancing Excellence in Academics is one of six critical priorities within Students at the Center. By focusing additional resources on enhancing the academic experience for students, the College will raise its profile, advance its reputation as a leading Jesuit institution in our region and support its strategy to build enrollment. To learn more, see page 8 or visit www.spc.edu/campaign.
www.spc.edu/campaign