Salem Statement Winter 2020 by Salem State University

Salem

The Magazine of Salem State University Alumni | Winter 2020

STATEMENT

THE FABRIC OF OUR COMMUNITIES Alumni who hold critical roles in public safety, education, civic leadership, healthcare, and business

The Entrepreneurship Issue

editor Heather Ukstins

PR ES I DE N T ’S LE T TE R

assistant editor Sara Ward

As a lifelong resident of Salem, the deep and far-reaching impact of Salem State throughout the North Shore has never been lost on me. From the nurses who have cared for my family and me, to the teachers in our classrooms and the law enforcement officials protecting our communities, I felt the value of this great institution long before I had the honor of leading it. Each Salem State graduate is a member of the Salem State Alumni Association, a family that is 65,000 strong and growing. Over 53,000 of our alumni have remained in Massachusetts, and of those, 40,632 reside on the North Shore. They are contributing their skills, passion and expertise right here at home. This not only serves our communities, but it creates ongoing opportunities for Salem State students looking to follow in their successful footsteps. Lisa Dana ’88 is a perfect example. Lisa serves as superintendent of Danvers Public Schools and has been supporting the growth of Salem State’s teacher candidates for many years by collaborating with our School of Education on its fellowship program and serving as a role model for current students. You can learn more about Lisa’s leadership and engagement on page 26. Like so many of our alumni, Lisa is giving back by serving as an educational leader and supporting Salem State students looking to do the same. This creates a cycle of success that advances the strength of our region going forward. Along with our faculty and staff, Salem State’s alumni play an important role in guiding and supporting students, from providing internships, job shadowing and career advice to showing students that they, too, can achieve their professional and personal goals. In doing so, our students will be positioned to make valuable contributions to the fabric of our region, just like those highlighted in this magazine and so many more. They will invent, create, lead, and innovate, adding to our successful community and the Viking pride that comes with it. Sincerely,

John Keenan President

design and production Simeen Brown copy editor Speros Zakas ’70, ’76G p h o t o g r a p hy Lea St. Germain ’03 Kati Nalbandian ’15 Mike Sperling Sara Ward writing Rob Beatty ’21 Erica Bourbeau ’15 Nicole Giambusso Joanne Mendes ’79 Michael Mitchell ’07 Brenna Ruchala Heather Ukstins Lillian Wall ’19 Sara Ward Mikki Wilson ’09 978.542.7519 statement@salemstate.edu View the Statement online at salemstate.edu/statement Copyright 2020 Salem State University All publication rights reserved. Send address changes to Alumni Relations 352 Lafayette Street Salem, MA 01970 alumni@salemstate.edu 978.542.7530 For accommodations and access information, visit salemstate.edu/access or email access@salemstate.edu. on the cover Erin Griffin ’87, ’01 has been fighting fires for 25 years, and was the first woman sworn in as lieutenant in the Salem Fire Department.

TAB LE O F C O N TE N T S

News from Campus

Features

12 THE FABRIC OF OUR COMMUNITIES

COMINGS AND GOINGS

Cheryl Crounse was named the VP of Institutional Advancement and executive director of the Salem State Foundation, Inc.; Dr. Cherie Butts was appointed to the SSU Board of Trustees; and Cynthia McGurren ‘83 retired.

BIG BUSINESS ON CAMPUS

Brian Kelly of Kelly Automotive Group and Bill Cummings ‘13H of Cummings Properties spoke to students about their professional experiences with investment management.

16 22 28 34 38

GUARDING OUR SAFETY EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITIES CIVIC LEADERS KEEPING US HEALTHY DRIVING OUR ECONOMY

PREPARING FOR FINANCE CAREERS

The new Cabot Wealth Management Lab opened on campus with 12 Bloomberg terminals, and the Student Investment Fund offers hands-on experience.

Profiles of SSU alumni who contribute to critical roles in their communities across Massachusetts:

CONGRATS, GRADS!

Inspiring quotes from our 2019 commencement speakers, and celebrating honorary degree recipients Joanne ’68, ’19H and Phil ’19H Ricciardiello.

Alumni 48 NOTES FROM THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Welcome to the new alumni association members from the 2019 graduating class; and a message from the board of directors.

49 CLASS NOTES

Get the scoop on what’s new with your friends and fellow Salem State alumni!

Giving Back 45 IT ALL ADDS UP

An annual gift of any size can add up to mean a lot; why alumnus Michael Monteforte Jr. ’98 gives back to SSU; and the senior class of 2019 leaves a legacy of generosity.

47 A SCHOLARSHIP TO HONOR A BELOVED PROFESSOR

Salem State Marketing Professor Joseph Aiyeku made a big impact at Salem State, and we’re funding a scholarship in his honor.

47 A BIG THANK YOU TO DONORS

The second annual Viking Warrior Day drew attention to the many areas on campus that are made possible through donor support.

52 REMEMBER WHEN: WMWM RADIO ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Current student Rob Beatty ’21 looks back at the history of WMWM and shares his personal experience with the radio station today.

54 VOICES OF OUR ALUMNI: JOANNE MENDES ’79

On the 40 th reunion of the Class of 1979, alumna Joanne Mendes remembers the friends and experiences she made at Salem State.

60 SEEN AND HEARD

Photos from recent events on campus; a list of upcoming events you won’t want to miss; and a thank you to our event sponsors.

61 40 UNDER 40—CALL FOR NOMINATIONS!

Nominate yourself or a fellow alumnus for our “40 Under 40” feature in the next issue of the Statement!

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News

Cheryl Crounse chatting with Salem State student Caroline Robitaille ’21 in the Starbucks on campus. Cheryl was appointed to the role of VP of Institutional Advancement in April 2019.

Cheryl Crounse Wants to Build Connections for Us All You’re likely to run into Cheryl Crounse at the Starbucks on campus, talking to the students or alumni in her midst and eagerly listening to their stories. The newly appointed vice president of Institutional Advancement and executive director for the Salem State Foundation, Inc. thrives on connecting with people. In fact, when asked, “What would you like the Salem State community to know about you?”, a broad smile crossed her face. “I want to get to know you,” she enthused. “I love people. Whether it’s coffee, giving you a tour of campus or meeting up at your office—this is the reason I do what I do.” Cheryl explained that the power of these connections and the community she is always building are the foundation of a network that ultimately benefits Salem State University students.

The Need for Philanthropy at Salem State “Our students are so hungry to build their own networks and integrate into their careers,” Cheryl explained. “And many of them have more grit than your average college student. Financially speaking, many are working two or three jobs to pay their way through school, and that makes them great and hard working.” 2

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“Higher education isn’t funded the way it used to be,” she continued. “In the 1980s, college was 76 percent funded by the state; today that’s more like 37 percent. Salem State has always been a university that delivers excellent education at an affordable cost. I want to ensure that continues. Philanthropy is the key to make that happen for our students.”

An Early Passion for Fundraising and Public Education Cheryl’s college experience at the State University of New York at Oswego shaped her early devotion to public higher education. It was also where she first discovered her passion for fundraising when she was a student employee working a phone-a-thon for Oswego’s advancement department. Now, with 23 years of fundraising experience under her belt, Cheryl has leapt into her new role with both feet. “Our goals for the 10,000 Reasons campaign were ambitious and I am very proud of all we achieved. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to meet the substantial needs of this campus and our goals for the future,” she explained about the recent 10,000 Reasons campaign completed in 2016 and her role as the campaign manager. “We are in the planning stages now for a future campaign that will help fill the gaps that remain.”

NEWS

Where Are Those Gaps? “I hate hearing stories about students who are deciding whether to eat or to buy books in order to stay in college,” Cheryl said. “As a university, we’re concerned about how many students sacrifice study time to work multiple jobs to pay the bills. While it’s great that students work while in school—it helps prepare them for their career and makes them really good employees— more scholarships are needed to create a better balance so that academics remain central to their focus.” The university has plans underway to bring its science classrooms and lab facilities up to cutting-edge standards. “Believe it or not, some students are coming from high schools that have better labs than we do right now. So that’s a significant project that we’ll be building support for.” The way she sees it, all these challenges are perfect opportunities to make a difference for the students and people who care about Salem State. But more than anything else, Cheryl’s overarching goals are to strengthen relationships across our alumni community, build on the pride they feel in their alma mater and fuel the network that connects and supports all of us.

Putting It All Out on the Field “As someone who was the captain of her high school volleyball, softball and bowling teams, I’m going to put everything I’ve got out on the field,” she said. “And I hope I can inspire our alumni to put everything they’ve got out on the field too so we can bring Salem State to the next level of excellence.” “We have no choice but to be successful because our students, faculty and this campus are so incredible and so deserving of the benefits that come from support and philanthropy.” n

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT CHERYL CROUNSE 1. She likes a good snow day. Harkens back to her Buffalo roots. 2. Lives in Lynn, Mass., with her husband, Mike. 3. Was a first-generation, Pell-eligible college student and majored in business. 4. Serves on the board of Lynn Museum/Lynn Arts and is a mentor at Girls, Inc. 5. She wants to hear from you! Send her a note at ccrounse@salemstate.edu.

Dr. Cherie Butts was appointed to the Salem State University Board of Trustees in April 2019.

Scientist Cherie Butts Joins the Board of Trustees With a laser focus on advancing our STEM and life sciences programs, including science classrooms and labs, Salem State University is honored to welcome Dr. Cherie Butts to the Board of Trustees. “Cherie Butts brings extensive and highly relevant experience in the life sciences to our board. The entire Salem State community will benefit from Dr. Butts’ training, teaching and leadership skills,” said Salem State Board of Trustees Chair Paul Mattera. Dr. Butts currently serves as medical director and head of human biology research—digital and quantitative medicine at Biogen, where she oversees incorporation of digital technologies in clinical trials. She holds degrees in chemistry and biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University and a doctorate in biomedical sciences with a focus on immunology and reproductive biology from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Appointed by Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker in April 2019, Dr. Butts describes herself as “passionate about ensuring individuals from all backgrounds have an opportunity to contribute to the furtherance of biomedical research in all sectors.” n W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

News

Cynthia McGurren ’83 (lef t) at the conference room named in her honor in the Salem State Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts

Cynthia McGurren ’83 at the Salem State Series in April 2019 with (L to R): President John Keenan; Series presenting sponsor Dennis Drinkwater ’67, ’12H; Red Sox President Sam Kennedy; and moderator Steve Burton from WBZ-T V

Waving Goodbye from the Series Stage CYNTHIA MCGURREN ’83 RETIRES AFTER 32 YEARS AT SALEM STATE When Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy took the stage at the Salem State Series last April, it was Cynthia McGurren’s ’83 last day on the job. An emotional moment —McGurren co-founded the Series as a student at Salem State in 1982 and went on to work at the university for 32 years.

A Life’s Work at Salem State Cynthia’s long career at Salem State University began as a student employee in the public relations department, where she helped plan the first year of the Series. After graduating as a nontraditional transfer student, she went on to become the director of public relations, special assistant to the president, director of college relations, and acting vice president of Institutional Advancement. For the last 14 years, she held the dual roles of vice president of Institutional Advancement and executive director of the Salem State University Foundation. Cynthia was a key visionary of the 10,000 Reasons campaign, which raised over $26.5 million for Salem State. She led the growth of the Salem State Foundation endowment from $5 million to $30 million and the university’s endowed scholarships by 557 percent. A powerhouse of fundraising, she also personally raised nearly $26 million in spendable and endowment funds for the university over her 14-year tenure as chief fundraiser. 4

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Her Name on the Wall In celebration of Cynthia’s dedication to Salem State, colleagues and friends raised over $250,000 for the university’s unrestricted endowment in her name. A conference room in the Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts was named in her honor. In September, just steps away from the newly dedicated Cynthia McGurren ’83 Conference Room, Series speaker Rebecca Eaton took the stage. The Emmy-winning television producer for PBS is behind the successful relaunch of MASTERPIECE and recent hits including “Victoria,” “Sherlock,” “Poldark,” and “Downton Abbey”—the mostwatched drama in PBS history. She was the most recent in a long line of big-name speakers at the popular lecture event, in which Cynthia played a central role in growing and promoting throughout her career. Today, the Series draws thousands of patrons each year. “Cynthia’s incredible achievements have changed the face of campus,” said Salem State President John Keenan to the crowd of friends, colleagues and family at Cynthia’s retirement party in March. “She has helped students achieve their dreams and brought widespread notoriety to our university. She is the embodiment of Viking pride, and has wielded her talent, energy and passion to inspire others to invest in this university and our students.” n

NEWS

Brian Kelly (center) visited Salem State Professor Linda Coleman’s Special Topics in Marketing class last February and discussed his journey to success.

From Lemonade Stands to Car Lots KELLY AUTOMOTIVE GROUP’S BRIAN KELLY SHARES ENTREPRENEURIAL ADVICE WITH BERTOLON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS STUDENTS Brian Kelly made $20 a week at his first lemonade stand in 1960. He then moved on to newspapers, selling so many that he had three other children working for him in the neighborhood. Born and raised on the North Shore, Brian’s entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to his father’s used car lot, doing odd jobs and helping out with the business. He was able to expand on his father’s success and now leads Kelly Automotive Group, which currently has 11 brands and seven locations in Massachusetts. Last spring, Brian visited Salem State Professor Linda Coleman’s Special Topics in Marketing class and spoke about how to be innovative, persevere, do the right thing, take initiative, and pay attention to details. “With all of the technology available today, I believe it’s important to remember that a firm handshake and eye contact is still very powerful,” Brian said. “I really enjoy talking to young people; they are the future!” “He gave us insights on marketing old and new,” said Christine Pimental ’19, a student in the marketing class.

BY SARA WARD

“He emphasized that one of the most important parts of marketing is to give honest service to consumers and have a quality product.” Professor Coleman believes it’s important for individuals like Brian Kelly to visit classes because they add to the learning process, further motivate students and provide an example of the application of business practices. “Business speakers are a separate voice from the professor that can reiterate what the student is learning and emphasize the significance of it,” she said. “Brian Kelly visiting my class is an indication of giving back to the community by a business leader, which is also an important example for the students.” Bertolon School of Business Dean Kathleen Barnes also attended the talk with Brian and felt he related well to the students. “Brian Kelly is very similar to many of our students in terms of his humble beginnings, willingness to work hard and eventually succeed,” offered Dean Barnes. “Brian really connected with the marketing students as a wonderful role model for their careers.” n W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

News

Leading by Example BILL CUMMINGS ’13H SHARES HIS ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPERIENCES AT SALEM STATE’S AGGANIS FORUM BY SARA WARD

Top, Elliot Katzman ’78, lef t, moderated a discussion with Bill Cummings ’13H, right, last April. Above, from lef t, Salem State University President John Keenan, Bill Cummings ’13H, Elliot Katzman ’78, and Dean of the Bertolon School of Business Kathleen Barnes pose at the Agganis Forum. 6

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Entrepreneur, founder, CEO, billionaire, author, and philanthropist—Bill Cummings ’13H is known by many titles, as Elliot Katzman ’78 pointed out during the Bertolon School of Business Agganis Forum last April. At the on-stage discussion moderated by Elliot (a Salem State University alumnus, trustee and entrepreneur), Bill discussed his road to success, what motivates him and his recent book, Starting Small and Making It Big: An Entrepreneur’s Journey to Billion-Dollar Philanthropist. Bill founded Cummings Properties, Inc., which is responsible for buying, building and managing over 10 million square feet of commercial real estate in eastern Massachusetts. During the forum, he spoke about company culture and how important it is to choose the right people for your business. “Leading by example is one of the most important things in establishing culture,” Bill said. “And trying to select people, right from the start, who are looking for a career and not a job, that makes a world of difference.” He and his wife Joyce are also the founders of New Horizons not-for-profit assisted and independent living communities and the Cummings Foundation, Inc., which has distributed over $200 million to Massachusetts charities since 1986. Here at Salem State, the Cummings Foundation, Inc. has had a major impact on the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies (CHGS). In 2014, the foundation established a $1 million grant to support CHGS, making educational opportunities like annual service trips to Rwanda possible for our students. “Bill’s success in the business world has been paired with a significant and admirable commitment to philanthropy,” said President John Keenan during the forum. Bill talked about his focus on philanthropy during the forum but was quick to say that philanthropy doesn’t always mean giving money. “Everybody can’t be philanthropists in terms of giving money, but we can all help out in the neighborhood or help out the great organizations that exist in these communities,” he said. “They’re not giving money away; they don’t need to give money away. They’re giving of themselves.” The Agganis Forum, which brings students, faculty, community, and business leaders together for presentations by noted regional entrepreneurs is made possible with funding from the Michael Agganis Entrepreneurship Fund, established by Madeline A. ’79 and Michael J. Agganis ’66. n

NEWS

“Working with the Bloomberg terminals and the Student Investment Fund has made a huge impact on me. Now I want to be a portfolio manager or work in equity research, and I have the experience to get started.” —Elio Benvenuto ’20

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN FINANCE

Students use the Bloomberg terminals in Salem State’s new Cabot Wealth Management Lab.

BY LILLIAN WALL ’19

New Cabot Wealth Learning to Invest in the Real World Management Lab Hosts 12 Bloomberg Terminals The Bertolon School of Business’ newly installed Cabot Wealth Management Lab allows Salem State students to have the world of finance at their fingertips. The lab is equipped with 12 Bloomberg terminals that are widely recognized as the market standard for software platforms within the financial industry, bringing the industry to the classroom. In the lab, students have access to tools used by leading decision-makers within the fields of business, finance and government. This experience will offer them greater access to internships and full-time job positions at leading firms within the region, positioning them to make immediate contributions to their future employers. “This truly is a group effort among the business community,” said Rob Lutts, Salem State’s Board of Trustees vice chair, and president and founder of Cabot Wealth Management, the lab’s lead donor. Other contributors include the Charles Schwab Foundation, St. Jean’s Credit Union Charitable Foundation, Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation, North Shore Bank, and Salem Five Charitable Foundation. n

Students are using real money to learn about the investment management process. The Student Investment Fund was established in 2019 by Robert and Rachel ’98 Lutts to provide finance students with experiential learning opportunities in portfolio management and the investment management process. Students take on the roles of portfolio manager, chief analyst, student trustee, and analysts. Together they analyze and invest designated funds into a variety of securities. The idea for the fund came from Joel Surette ’19 and other students in the university’s Finance Association, who took the lead on developing the course. “We began drafting documents to support our argument in favor of running the course to the university,” Joel said. “We reached out to other organizations’ student investment funds, like Stetson University’s, which we modeled our fund’s internal structure, student management and curriculum on.” The pilot innovation fund course, Individual Projects in Business Administration, launched in the spring semester of 2019 with 10 business students enrolled and Salem State Accounting and Finance Professor Sanjay Kudrimoti leading the class. The goal of the course is for students to create returns on the fund, therefore growing the assets available to invest, and ultimately creating scholarships for students. n W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

News

COMMENCEMENT

The Maguire Meservey College of Health and Human Services and Bertolon School of Business ceremony took place the morning of May 18, 2019.

This Year, We Salute the Fight for Justice When the speakers were announced for Salem State University’s commencement ceremonies on May 16 and May 18, 2019, President John Keenan introduced the events’ theme of justice: “Our speakers have a powerful, inspiring history of standing up for what is right, for giving those that lack a voice, a platform to speak their truths, and for ensuring that members of our community are protected, empowered and have the opportunity to thrive.” Tarana Burke ’19H, who spoke at the School of Graduate Studies ceremony, is the founder of the ‘me too.’ movement and a social justice activist. She created the ‘me too.’ movement after seeing young people whose lives were affected by sexual violence suffering through abuse without access to resources, safe spaces and support. Jonathan Blodgett ’19H, Essex District Attorney, spoke at the Maguire Meservey College of Health and Human Services and Bertolon School of Business ceremony. Since he was first 8

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elected in 2002, District Attorney Blodgett has been a leader in confronting a range of issues including the opioid epidemic, domestic violence, animal cruelty, underage drinking, auto insurance fraud, and gun violence. William G. Gross ’19H, who spoke at the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education ceremony, serves as the police commissioner of the City of Boston. He was the first African-American appointed as superintendent-in-chief in 2014 and as police commissioner in the City of Boston in 2018. He has been awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Award; the United States Attorney’s Boston Offices’ Award for Outstanding Dedicated Service to the Survivors of the Boston Marathon Bombing during the Trial of the United States vs. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev; the Department of Justice Investigative Achievement Award; and was named one of Boston’s 100 Most Influential People of Color. We hope these quotes from our wonderful speakers inspire you and take you back to your own graduation. n

NEWS

JONATHAN BLODGETT ’19H “You have the power to make things better. You have the power to improve how we all live and interact with each other. This is your time to make your mark upon the world.” WILLIAM G. GROSS ’19H “Take advantage of life’s teachable moments, and trust me there will be many! We learn more from failure than we do success. Pay attention to history and what history has taught us.” LATOYA OGUNBONA ’19G, student speaker at the School of Graduate Studies ceremony “Acknowledging someone’s accomplishments, and diligence, and strength, and resilience is a seemingly little thing that takes nothing away from you but makes a big difference.” LEEANNA SINGLETON ’19, student speaker at the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education ceremony “Trust the process of growth. Although you are anxious, remember that you control your own destiny. You are capable, you are intelligent, you are enough, and you have so much to offer.” TARANA BURKE ’19H “This is a moment to decide that you will give priority to what makes you feel whole and joyful, and create your own definition of success.” NIKOLLA PAPA ’19, student speaker at the Maguire Meservey College of Health and Human Services and Bertolon School of Business ceremony “It pained me to see my parents’ path in life stop short as a result of their lack of a high school diploma or college degree. But where their path ended, mine began. And early on in life, I realized that as a first-generation immigrant, with parents who knew nothing about this country, who knew no one here, who had no formal education, and who couldn’t speak the language, I had my work cut out for me and that I had to venture out on my path alone, with nothing but words of encouragement along the way. So, I set out on my solo journey, collecting the sticks, gravel and stones that I happened to find along the way, and I began constructing a path in life that my parents would be proud of.” W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

Honorary Degrees: Joanne (O’Keefe) ’68, ’19H and Philip ’19H Ricciardiello (holding awards) were honored last May with honorary degrees for their roles as advocates of the university. They’re seen here with (from lef t) Salem State University President John Keenan, Chair of the Salem State University Board of Trustees Paul Mattera, and Board of Trustees Members Ruthanne Russell ’82 and Jamie Zahlaway Belsito ’96.

Salem State Champions Receive Honorary Degrees Joanne (O’Keefe) ’68, ’19H and Philip ’19H Ricciardiello Recognized for Their Volunteer Work and Philanthropy From Florida to Massachusetts, Joanne (O’Keefe) ’68, ’19H and Philip ’19H Ricciardiello have been inspiring alumni and friends for years by helping them stay connected to Salem State University. On May 18, 2019, during the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education Commencement ceremony, the Ricciardiellos received honorary degrees in celebration of their role as advocates for the university. “Through volunteer work and philanthropy, you have not only had a direct impact on students, but you have mobilized countless others to do the same,” said President John Keenan at the honorary degree conferment. The Ricciardiellos helped create the largest active alumni group outside Massachusetts, hosting alumni and friends in Naples, Fla., for over a decade. Because of the large number of alumni in the Naples area, Salem State has taken part in the Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade for over 15 years. Joanne and Phil participate each year in the parade, taking on lead roles in organizing the annual float and helping to make it a success year after year. A member of the class of 1968, Joanne celebrated her 50th reunion in 2018 and served as her class co-chair along with Tim Ward ’68. The 50th Reunion class raised $330,000 for Salem State under their leadership, including establishing the Steve Krajeski ’68 Memorial Scholarship that was named 10

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BY SARA WARD

for a classmate who died in Vietnam. The ground floor lounge in Atlantic Hall was named in honor of the class milestone giving participation during Alumni Weekend 2018. The Ricciardiellos’ philanthropic support of Salem State doesn’t end there. The couple are members of the Sullivan and Crosby Societies, including naming Salem State in their estate plans. During the 10,000 Reasons campaign, Joanne was a member of the campaign steering committee and served as the chair of the alumni and parent subcommittee. This past summer, Joanne became one of the newest members of the Salem State Foundation Board of Directors. “Whether hosting a Sullivan Society event, a class reunion celebration, or an alumni potluck, your enthusiasm and dedication are infectious,” President Keenan said. The O’Keefe Sports Complex is named in tribute to Joanne’s late father who, like her, was deeply committed to the success of Salem State and the community. The Ricciardiello Atrium, located inside the O’Keefe Sports Complex, is named in honor of Joanne and Phil. “Joanne and Philip Ricciardiello, you embody the spirit of giving,” said President Keenan. “For over a decade, you have been among Salem State University’s most ardent supporters. Your efforts have helped our students achieve their dream of a higher education.” n

We’re proud to partner with Salem State University Alumni Association. To learn more about Liberty Mutual auto and home insurance, please call us at 1-800-699-1479, or visit libertymutual.com/salemstatealumni.

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PERB10013 CW 2018/04

F E AT U R E S

THE FABRIC OF OU FRANKLIN 78 0.15% BERKSHIRE 148 0.29% WORCESTER 1,767 3.45%

HAMPSHIRE 170 0.33%

HAMPDEN 170 0.33%

We Are Everywhere. We’re living next door to each other. We pass each other in the street, in the grocery store aisle, in the office, at our kids’ schools. Many of us work in professions that are critical to keeping our communities and states functioning and growing: We are police officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses, advocates, public servants, business leaders, entrepreneurs, mentors, and so much more.

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This issue of the Statement shines a spotlight on some of our fellow alumni and soon-to-be graduates who fill these important roles. Individually, you’re one person making your way in the world. But together, as Salem State graduates, we contribute extensively to the fabric of our communities—across the Commonwealth and New England. Our impact on the region and the state—and all of the people who live here—is significant and powerful.

F E AT U R E S

UR COMMUNITIES ESSEX 27,157 53.07%

Salem State is the largest public university north of Boston, and we’re the largest educator of the North Shore’s workforce. We have a whopping

MIDDLESEX 13,152 25.7%

65,000 80%

SUFFOLK 3,231 6.31%

of us stay right here in Massachusetts.

NORFOLK 1,955 3.82%

BRISTOL 802 1.57%

alumni and

PLYMOUTH 1,451 2.84%

BARNSTABLE 842 1.65% 13,153–27,157 DUKES 36 0.07%

3,232–13,152 1,956–3,231 NANTUCKET 17 0.03%

843–1,955 17–842

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F E AT U R E S

We Salute You

1,559+

Which Salem State alumni generation are you?

veteran alumni If you’re a veteran and would like to be included in veteran news updates and veteranrelated alumni and student events, please let us know! Share your branch of military service and contact information at alumni@salemstate.edu or call the alumni relations office at 978.542.7530.

Silent Generation (1928-1945):

5.8%

Boomers (1946-1964):

21.2% Rockin’ the Vote

65.2% which is nearly 30% Salem State had a student voting rate,

Generation X (1965-1980):

26.8%

higher than the voting rate for all institutions.*

*According to the Institute for Democracy and Higher Education’s National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (2017, p. 3)

Millennials (1981-1996):

26.5% A lot of Salem State alumni support our current students by recruiting on campus for internships, fellowships or jobs ; becoming a mentor; talking to a class or club; and giving to help fund scholarships and other programs. You can help a student by sharing your experience, advice, networking, or other support. Interested in finding out what you can do? Email alumni@salemstate.edu to get involved.

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Gen Z/PostMillennial (1997-2012):

0.4%

and growing!

F E AT U R E S

The Fabric of Our Communities

Salem State is the most diverse and second largest state university in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The following pages shine a proud spotlight on fellow alumni and soonto-be graduates who are:

Picture yourself strolling across campus in your first week at Salem State. Do you think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s different now for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students? Here are a few statistics about students on campus right now:

Educating Our Communities

Guarding Our Safety

Civic Leaders Keeping Us Healthy

2,200

students live on campus in six residence halls

95%

nearly of students request financial aid

Current students represent

35%

are firstgeneration college students

states and

countries

Driving Our Economy

Currently, there are

6,800 1,527

undergrad students and grad students enrolled at Salem State W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

Erin Griffin â&#x20AC;&#x2122;87, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;01 is the first female lieutenant in the Salem Fire Department.

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Guarding Guarding Our Safety Our Safety

Public safety is an enormous responsibility. Putting yourself in danger’s way, every day, to help the people around you to feel safe. And to be there—everywhere—when someone needs your help. The ranks of Massachusetts public safety organizations are filled with Salem State graduates who get up each day, ready to serve and committed to keeping us all safe. They studied criminal justice, fire science or another major that helped prepare them for the important and valuable role they fill. They serve in communities large and small, across every corner of the Commonwealth.

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S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I

WINTER 2020

F E AT U R E S

Guarding

Guarding Our Safety Our Safety ERIN GRIFFIN ’87, ’01 • Majors: History and Political Science (1987); Fire Science (2001) • Lieutenant, Salem Fire Department, Salem, Mass.

She was the first woman to be sworn in as lieutenant in the Salem Fire Department, and this year she celebrates 25 years of service. Yet the way Erin Griffin ’87, ’01 found her way into fire safety was a little unexpected. She wasn’t born into a family of firefighters, like many of her colleagues, and it wasn’t something she’d always dreamed of. As a student at Salem State, she considered becoming a teacher or a lawyer, but when a family friend told her that the fire department was hiring, it seemed exciting. That’s how she stumbled into a lifelong career—and never looked back.

“

Fire science just wasn’t on my radar in the beginning. I hadn’t found my passion yet. But I made a promise to myself that when I did eventually find it, I would go back to school to be as prepared as I could be. After I joined the fire department, I went back to Salem State and got my fire science degree.

ARE YOU A CRIMINAL JUSTICE OR FIRE SCIENCE GRADUATE?

“When I was at SSU the second time, I took a Spanish class. That professor was old-school; he was tough. But I’m thankful for it. Salem has a large Spanish-speaking population, and now I’m comfortable using basic Spanish to help break barriers and build trust when I’m trying to help someone.

Celebrate with your peers at the annual Criminal Justice Awards on Monday, April 27! To register or for info, contact crj@salemstate.edu, or call Tamara Nohelty at 978.542.6360.

“You see, if we’re out, that means someone is having a bad day. But every day when I come into this job, I try to use kindness and grace and common sense to do my best to help. No matter what the situation is, it’s all about kindness and grace.

The Massachusetts State Firefighter Entrance Exam is coming up in March 2020. Learn more at mass.gov.

”

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F E AT U R E S

PHILLIP TAVARES ’92 • Major: Criminal Justice • Chief of Police, Marshfield, Mass.

From summering in coastal Marshfield as a child to leading its police force as chief, Phil Tavares ’92 has always been committed to his community. And everyone in town feels it. He was recently honored as the Citizen of the Year by the local newspaper and Chamber of Commerce, “for his decades of service to the town, his dedication to residents and his unrelenting urge to make the town a better, safer place.”

“

As a teenager, I had some negative experiences with law enforcement. My response was to want to join the police force and climb the ranks as high as I could in order to make a difference. “I’ve enjoyed every single position I’ve held in the town of Marshfield. I started when I was 18 as the assistant animal control officer, and I got to know the town and the people. After that, I was assistant harbormaster out on a boat, learning maritime law enforcement and search and rescue. Once I joined the police department and worked my way up, I learned important things in every single role. Salem State set me up for success through these different roles in my career by really presenting the full range of possibilities in the criminal justice system, from parole to state, federal and county agencies, corrections, etc. “I always wanted to help the people in the community and solve crimes. I’m really proud that Marshfield is such a safe community. Just this year we were named the sixth safest community in the U.S.

”

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MASSACHUSETTS MUNICIPAL POLICE CHIEFS ARE SALEM STATE ALUMNI: Mary Butler ’81—Salem Donald Cudmore ’89—Georgetown Juliann Flaherty ’94—Arlington Thomas Griffin ’90—Peabody William G. Gross ’19H—Boston Michael Mageary ’90—Lynn Mark R. Murray ’89—Newburyport Eric M. Shears ’99—Merrimac Phillip A. Tavares ’92—Marshfield

F E AT U R E S

Guarding

Guarding OurSafety Safety Our

JOSEPH IANNACCONE ’01 • Major: Criminal Justice • Special Agent, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Boston, Mass.

The first in his family to attend a four-year college, Joe Iannaccone ’01 was committed to creating a professional legacy that would make his family proud. He was fascinated by the legal profession and the detective aspects of police work, which led him to the criminal justice program at Salem State. For 18 years now, he has been working for the U.S. government helping to protect the most vulnerable members in our society.

“

I traveled to Rwanda and Haiti to work on human rights violator and genocide cases on my very first assignment with Homeland Security Investigations in 2009. Then I worked a case involving the Red Terror in Ethiopia. I was one of the agents assigned to locate victims in the Boston area. I found a victim who helped us win the trial against someone involved in the genocide in Ethiopia at that time. “The professors I had at Salem State really helped prepare me for my career. They gave me real-world insight into the many different possible experiences within the field of criminal justice. At that same time, the internships I had during college—one with a juvenile officer in Salem court, and another at the State House—further piqued my interest in the law. “Today, I’m a special agent in the cybercrimes child exploitation group. Unfortunately, there’s a great magnitude of this work right now. But all these cases mean so much to me because we’re protecting the most vulnerable people in society.

”

Read more about Joe’s career journey at salemstate.edu/statement. W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

22%

Education Majors

20,000

of our graduates are making a difference as public school teachers, early childhood professionals, counselors, higher education administrators, community educators, and nonprofit directors.

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SALEM STATE ALUMNI POPULATION

Educating Our Communities

Teachers are the foundation of a community. Their impact lasts for generations— tying us together and raising us up. They hold a special place in our daily lives and memories, and help us discover who we are to become. We are proud that Massachusetts’ schools are among the best in the country, and even prouder still that they are full of Salem State alumni. At all levels and across disciplines—superintendents and school counselors, first-year teachers and those now teaching their former students’ children, kindergarten teachers, college professors, preschool teachers, childcare and daycare professionals, and more—our fellow graduates are educating the next generation, and helping to shape their communities’ fabric, culture and economy. And that’s not all. Many of our alumni also return to campus, year after year, to teach a class to a group of future teachers, recruit new graduates for jobs in their schools and invite student fellows into their classrooms to gain valuable, hands-on experience.

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Read more about Horace Mann Laboratory School and Salem State’s 4+1 education fellowship program at salemstate.edu/statement. Fourth grade teacher Alexa Dacey ’18, ’19G leads a math lesson with her students at Horace Mann Laboratory School in Salem.

ALEXA DACEY ’18, ’19G • Major: Elementary Education • Teacher at Horace Mann Laboratory School in Salem, Mass.

Alexa held a teaching fellowship last year at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School in Revere, Mass., as part of the Salem State School of Education’s 4+1 program. Now in the first year of her teaching career, Alexa was hired as a fourth grade teacher at Horace Mann in Salem. There, she has the support of not one, but two fellows from Salem State in her classroom. Alexa mentors both fellows, Kaylee Steele ’20 and Emily Hall ’20, as they gain the same kind of hands-on experience that she did just one year ago.

“

As a fellow, being in the classroom full-time allowed me to see all the ‘behind the scenes’ work that teachers do on a daily basis: data-driven lessons, attending professional development, learning about standards-based grading, and watching how all personnel communicate and work together for the success of all students. “I was able to take risks and develop my own teaching style in the classroom with the safety net of my host teachers being there for me professionally, and helping me grow as an educator.

”

“Now that I’m supervising two fellows in my own classroom, I can relate to them from firsthand experience. I can’t wait to continue to watch them grow professionally, and to be a part of it. 24

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Teaching fellow Kaylee Steele ’20 works on math worksheets with students.

120

principals in Massachusetts hold degrees from Salem State.

F E AT U R E S

Educating Our Communities SCHOOLS SUPPORTING FUTURE TEACHERS: THE 4+1 FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM Principal Dr. Ruben Carmona ’01G, ’04G talks with teacher Alexa Dacey ’18, ’19G.

DR. RUBEN CARMONA ’01G, ’04G • Majors: Educational Leadership; Business Administration • Principal, Horace Mann Laboratory School, Salem, Mass.

Dr. Ruben Carmona listened to public school administrators talk about their jobs and knew he had found his calling. His experiences during his educational leadership master’s program were the foundation for the work he does now, leading Salem’s Horace Mann Laboratory School. Carmona is a strong supporter of Salem State’s 4+1 education master’s program, and is hosting eight fellows this school year. Carmona also hired two recent graduates, both former fellows, into full-time teaching positions this fall: Alexa Dacey ’18, ’19G and Zayra Martinez ’18, ’19G.

“

Accountability measures for schools and districts are much more stringent now than they used to be. They often don’t account for students’ deficits due to learning disabilities, trauma or for English-language learners. It has required us to think about how to engage teachers in thinking in terms of outcomes, in addition to the day-to-day reality of what happens in the classroom. “The Salem State fellowship program is the best way to bridge the gap between accountability measures and the level of rigor we are required to meet. Fellows aren’t just reading about these issues; they are embedded in the classroom. I can’t think of any other way to train teachers that is as grounded.

”

Through the new 4+1 combined bachelor’s and master’s elementary education degree program, Salem State students earn a master’s degree in education and full state licensure in 5 years, with the last year as a paid, full-time practicum placement in a school. “As college tuition and fees keep rising, it becomes challenging for people to go into significant debt to become public educators,” explains School of Education Professor Francesca Pomerantz. “Having a fifth-year fellowship that pays for a student’s entire year of graduate school is helping to address this social justice issue.” Only in its second year, the program already has 19 partner school districts hosting and sponsoring 48 SSU student fellows this year (up from 41 last year, the program’s first graduating class), and it continues to grow quickly.

“I came to Salem and Horace Mann for the partnership with Salem State. It was coming back to a place that I knew; coming home. This is a place where learning is a unifying force.

Does your school or district want to host a student fellow or pre-practicum student?

Read more about Ruben and Horace Mann Laboratory School at salemstate.edu/statement.

Email Professor Pomerantz at fpomerantz@salemstate.edu. W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

F E AT U R E S

LISA DANA ’88 • Major: Biology • Superintendent of Danvers Public School District, Danvers, Mass.

Lisa Dana ’88 remembers commuting from Lynn to Salem State in the snow and the challenge of trying to find a parking space. As a biology major she had her sights set on becoming a high school science teacher. Now, 30 years later, she’s one of the longeststanding superintendents among Massachusetts’ public school districts. Most superintendents stay on the job for five years; Lisa has been in her role for 15 years and counting. She oversees more than 3,600 students and 270 teachers across seven schools. She also hosts fellows from Salem State’s 4+1 education degree program, and returned to campus last year to teach a graduate class for students working toward their administrator’s license.

“

When I was a student [at Salem State], a professor or advisor would tell me, ‘You need to take this next course,’ and ‘You should go for your master’s degree.’ They gave me ideas for what to strive for and helped me see the path in front of me. “Looking back now, that taught me the important lesson that you may never know the true impact of your influence, and the power of your words. But both are meaningful and important for the people you interact with every day. “I also learned that it’s not as much about the content of the coursework as it is about the process of inquiry; asking questions versus advocating. In my role now, approaching with inquiry gets people to really look at a situation with an open mind and focus on solutions. Read more about Lisa’s career journey at salemstate.edu/statement.

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”

Superintendent Lisa Dana ’88 reads to students in a Danvers public school.

14 6

There are superintendents and assistant superintendents in Massachusetts who are

SALEM STATE ALUMNI.

F E AT U R E S

Educating Our Communities

FIND YOUR EDUCATION ALUMNI FRIENDS! Join other Salem State education alumni to support each other, network and have fun together! School counselors Johanna Smith ’08G (top lef t) and Brian O'Connell ’11 (top right) with some of their students at Lynn Vocational Technical Institute

JOHANNA SMITH ’08G AND BRIAN O’CONNELL ’11 • Johanna’s Major: School Counseling

Join the Salem State Friends of Education. Visit salemstate.edu/alumni to learn more and join!

• Brian’s Major: Sports, Fitness and Leisure Studies • School Counselors at Lynn Vocational Technical Institute, Lynn, Mass.

Most of the students at Lynn Vocational Technical Institute come from low-income backgrounds in underserved communities, and many will be first-generation college students when they leave high school. While Johanna Smith ‘08G started out her career as an English teacher, she soon realized that she could make more of a difference as a school counselor. Her fellow counselor, Brian O’Connell ’11, is a first-generation college student from Lynn who is helping future students like him.

“

I know that a lot of our students are dealing with trauma, poverty and huge obstacles outside of the school,” Johanna said, “So doing what I can to help change the course of their education, to change the course of their day, could eventually change the “ course of their lives.” Brian added, “To see these students who come from very bad backgrounds and go into career fields and college fields that they are really passionate about, to see them grow from 9th graders into 12th graders and graduate, is something that is super motivating for me as a person, as well as a counselor.

”

Attend the upcoming educator pinning ceremony on May 7, 2020. Visit salemstate.edu/news-events.

Get the scoop from the School of Ed on Facebook.

4+1 Alumni: Stay in touch with other 4+1 alumni! On LinkedIn, connect with Professor Pomerantz fpomerantz@salemstate.edu and she will add you to the 4+1 community.

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VIRGINIA “GINI” MAZMAN ’85 • Major: Geography

• Executive Director and Founder of The Haven Project and Director of the Land of a Thousand Hills Café in Lynn, Mass.

Homeless young adults on Boston’s North Shore had few places to turn for help before Gini Mazman ’85 founded The Haven Project in 2012. It was the first (and is still the only) organization in the area that is solely dedicated to helping 17- to 24-year-olds who are housing unstable. Gini and her team—which includes Salem State student Fredy Hincapie serving as the organization’s social enterprise manager, and master’s of social work interns who support its community drop-in centers—provide support, guidance and training to give vulnerable young people the tools to change the trajectory of their lives.

“

When I left high school, I didn’t have the resources or family stability to make a four-year degree seem possible. I planned to go to community college but when I went for the placement exams, it wasn’t challenging. It wasn’t the right place for me. “I made an appointment with a Salem State admissions counselor and convinced him to allow me to enroll right then and there. I started classes the next month. “That experience taught me that passionately and effectively advocating for myself—or someone else—will open doors. That lesson was a turning point. “I founded The Haven Project to do that kind of advocacy for young people who are homeless, vulnerable and are often in dangerous, life-threatening situations. Our next phase is to build 24 units of supportive housing for low-income youth. This is my life’s work: giving struggling young people the opportunities and skills to rewrite their own life stories.

”

Gini Mazman ’85 founded The Haven Project to help homeless youth on the North Shore.

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Civic Leaders

Education is more than learning from a book. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the process of learning how to learn, finding your passions and becoming an active contributor to the world around you. At Salem State, we believe in preparing students to contribute responsibly and creatively to a global society. Our focus on critically engaged civic learning encourages university partners to work alongside community members to examine the root causes of social injustice and promote positive social change. We also ask students to consider the importance of giving back and their own power to make a difference. Some of our alumni have made community service and civic leadership their career. Each day, they go to work striving to realize their vision of a better world. And as they do, they lift all of us up, too.

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CELEBRATE SERVICE! Join us for First Year Day of Service! Email alumni@salemstate.edu. Salem State is one of the 119 newly and reclassified U.S. colleges and universities to receive a 2020 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, which indicates significant institutional commitment to community and civic engagement. 30

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WINTER 2020

F E AT U R E S

Civic Leaders

ROSARIO UBIERA-MINAYA ’99 • Major: Communications • Executive Director, Amplify Latinx Boston, Mass.

SALEM STATE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

239

faculty taught, communityengaged courses.

258

communityengaged courses offered.

4,509

students participated in community-engaged courses.

100

percent of academic departments offer a critically engaged civic learning curriculum.

After graduating from Salem State with a degree in communications, Rosario has dedicated most of her career to using art as a tool for engagement, social justice and advocacy—often with a focus on supporting the Latinx community. Today she is the executive director for Amplify Latinx, an advocacy organization that supports and grows Latinx engagement and representation.

“

I moved to Salem as a teenager when my family emigrated from the Dominican Republic, and it became our home. It’s important to me that there is inclusion and opportunities to engage and advance the community that I grew up with there and feel so close to. “Through my role as program director at the Peabody Essex Museum, and my involvement with the Punto Urban Art Museum (a social justice art program created by North Shore Community Development Coalition), I learned just how powerful art can be in creating engagement, relevancy, inclusion, and representation. “I also learned that if there’s something I want to do, but it’s never been done before, not to be afraid to create it. That led me to found Cojuelos’ Productions, which focuses on proudly celebrating all artistic expression through creative and innovative diverse and culturally oriented programming and curated experiences, and why I’m now serving as the executive director for Amplify Latinx. I’m working on leadership representation at all levels and making sure that the voices of the Latinx community are represented at every table.

”

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Armando Martinez ’20 speaks to students, faculty and staff at the 2019 convocation ceremony.

ARMANDO MARTINEZ ’20 • Majors: Psychology and Sociology • Current Student from Mattapan, Mass.

As president of Salem State’s Student Government Association (SGA), Armando Martinez ’20 addressed the newest class of Vikings at this year’s convocation ceremony. During his speech, he asked students to participate in a resilience exercise because he believes it is important to remind students of their own resilience and strength.

“

As part of the resilience exercise, I asked incoming students to stand if they associated themselves with a series of statements, including: I am the first in my family to graduate high school; I have a visible or invisible disability; I have been told by adults in my life that college is not for me; I have spoken up to intervene when someone has been offensive to another; and I am determined to graduate college. “The goal was to help these students acknowledge the challenges and barriers they had already overcome, and to give themselves credit for that. We are often quick to disavow ourselves of the credit we deserve before we give ourselves the chance to receive it. People are more likely to persevere in pursuing their dreams when they are reminded of their unique greatness and exceptionalism.

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“As SGA president, I work with Salem State leaders on creating a more inclusive, social justice-oriented campus. As student concerns arise, my role is also to empower senators to support our fellow students in voicing their experiences. This collaborative approach can contribute to building a stronger, more culturally engaged campus community.

”

“By exploring social justice education here on campus, I have identified my future goal to attend graduate school for higher education and student affairs.

SOME OF SSU’S ALUMNI ELECTED OFFICIALS

Governor Charlie Baker ’08H Attorney General Maura Healey ’15H Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo ’12H Massachusetts State Senator Joan Lovely ’06 Massachusetts State Senator Ed Markey ’14H Massachusetts State Representative Paul Tucker ’87 Massachusetts State Representative Thomas Walsh ’83 Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett ’19H Salem Mayor Kimberley Driscoll ’89 Stephen Dibble ’86, Salem City Council Arthur C. Sargent, III ’81, Salem City Council Tim Flynn ’97, Salem City Council Megan Riccardi ’02, Salem City Council

F E AT U R E S

Civic Leaders

Paul Wilkens ’20 (far right) with a group of students during his internship with Senator Elizabeth Warren

ERRIN DOUGLAS ’18

PAUL WILKENS ’20

• Major: Business Administration

• Majors: Political Science and Government

• Staff Assistant, House of Representatives for Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Washington, D.C.

• Current Student Representative, SSU Board of Trustees, from Marblehead, Mass.

When she was 16 years old, Errin Douglas ’18 began activism work within her own Dorchester community as part of a high school requirement. It quickly became a passion. She was the first high school intern in Ayanna Pressley’s Boston City Council office, and later served on Pressley’s congressional campaign. Since then she has also worked on campaigns for Senator Sonya Chang-Diaz and Representative Liz Miranda.

Paul Wilkens ’20 is serving his second term as the student representative on Salem State’s Board of Trustees, which is responsible for managing the university’s finances and administration. He was elected to the role twice by his fellow students and is a strong advocate for student interests on the board, articulating student concerns and providing a student perspective. Expected to graduate in May 2020, he plans to continue advocacy in a public policy or political career.

“

When I was growing up, I was only around Caribbean people. My community was predominantly black and Hispanic. Coming to Salem State was different. There, I learned how to maneuver in places where I’m not in the majority —how to be my authentic self in any situation. It wasn’t always easy, but it prepared me to be a black woman in politics. “When I met Ayanna Pressley, she showed me that anyone can make a difference. She didn’t graduate from college, she wasn’t from Boston, and there she was—fighting for issues I cared about on the Boston City Council. And she was always so authentically herself. If she can do it for Boston, so can I.

”

“I want to make a change in the world and in my community. My goal is to become the first African-American mayor of Boston.

It’s important that students’ best interests are at the center of the Salem State Board of Trustees’ decision-making process. My responsibility is to articulate student concerns and bring a student perspective to discussions and debates. “In addition to my position on the board, Salem State has allowed me the flexibility and resources to do several internships. I’ve taken online and evening classes to create time in my schedule to intern for a Boston-based regulatory law firm; three different Congressional offices; a local nonprofit; and a federal government affairs firm. Two summers ago, I was an intern in Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office and lived in Washington, D.C., which was made possible by a grant from the political science department. “Thanks to a grant from the Salem State Honors Program, I was also able to join a delegation of about 10 people to meet with indigenous communities displaced by a coal mine in northern Colombia. I have a strong academic interest in global markets from a theoretical lens and public policy lens, and that trip gave me a rare view into the impacts of energy markets.

”

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No one wants to get sick, but all of us do at some point. And in those moments,

we are thankful for the expert care of medical professionals. We are proud to have sent nearly 6,000 nurses out into communities across Massachusetts and New England. And thousands more biology, chemistry, counseling, occupational therapy, psychology, healthcare studies, social services, and social work alumni all together care for our communitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; physical and mental health. These fellow alumni care for us, our neighbors and friends, parents, and children. They give flu shots, set broken bones and help treat cancer patients. Give hard news and hold new babies. They are grace and light in some of our most trying times. They are there for us all, day and night, whenever we need them.

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Keeping Us Healthy

TOTAL NUMBER OF HEALTHCARE ALUMNI:

16,173 Social Work 20.6%

Psychology 20.4% Biology 11.3%

BY MAJOR: • Social Services: 4.5% • Counseling and Psychological Services:

2.8%

• Chemistry: 2.2%

Nursing 36.9%

• Occupational Therapy: 0.2% • Healthcare Studies: 1.1%

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F E AT U R E S

JAYNE CARVELLI-SHEEHAN ’78

DR. MICHAEL GOLDSTEIN ’92

• Major: Nursing

• Major: Biology

• Senior Vice President, System Clinical Integration and Care Coordination, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Mass.

• Associate Chief Cardiologist, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, Mass.

As she grew from her role as a nurse into hospital leadership at Beth Israel Deaconness, Jayne Carvelli-Sheehan ’78 has maintained a love for clinical work. Now as a senior vice president, her decision-making process always considers what’s important to the nurse at a patient’s bedside.

“

My first clinical rotation as a nursing student at Salem State, I was assigned to an older patient who was probably in his eighties. I first started talking to him about his health and the illness he was hospitalized for, and then I asked him a question that would change my perspective and approach to care forever… I asked him about what he’d done in his life.

“

“What I learned in that moment, about who he was and had become over the years, has shaped and enhanced my approach to care and relationships all the years of my life. I found out in that short time that he was a very famous violinist. His illness didn’t allow him to play anymore, and that loss had such an impact on his life in so many, many ways; he felt lost in who he was and how he identified himself. “Had I not spoken with him about his life, nor really listened, I would have missed that important aspect of his care and how I, as his nurse, could do something helpful for him.

Growing up in Russia, Michael Goldstein ’92 thought he wanted to become an engineer. But his education was interrupted when he was drafted into the Russian army. There, a paramedic friend got him interested in medicine. After two years of medical school in Russia, he immigrated to the U.S. as a refugee and began his education anew. After two years at Salem State to complete his undergraduate degree, four years of medical school in Vermont, three years of residency, and three more years of a fellowship—15 years of education in total—he achieved his goal of becoming a cardiologist. I worked full-time to support myself while I got my undergraduate degree at Salem State. I had a job as an orderly in the operating room at Massachusetts General Hospital, working the 3-11 shift. It worked well so I could attend classes, but the required labs were only held in the afternoon and I could never make it due to my work schedule. One of my professors helped me out—he gave me the key to the lab so I could go in on weekends and do the labs on my own. “Now, several of my former professors from Salem State are my patients. We also have a lot of nursing students working at the hospital. Salem State really defines the city of Salem. I love being able to give back to my alma mater as a member of Salem State’s Board of Overseers, and to my community.

“As a caregiver, we are given the chance to enter someone’s life at their most vulnerable times, and with that we can impact their life—sometimes in simple, or sometimes in profound ways. That carries an awesome responsibility that I never forget.

“A lot of my patients come here because I’m bilingual; I speak Russian. I saw 12 patients this morning, and three of them were Russian-speakers. Two of those I knew in Russia before I moved here. We have a large Russian immigrant community, and it helps for them to be able to communicate with their doctor easily.

Read more about Jayne’s story at salemstate.edu/statement.

Read more about Michael’s career journey at salemstate.edu/statement.

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”

F E AT U R E S

Keeping Us Healthy

ANNA KNOX ’20G • Major: Occupational Therapy

GREGORY CONKLIN ’11G

• Current Student from Ossining, New York

• Major: Nursing

A graduate student in the occupational therapy program, Anna Knox ‘20G is conducting a survey that explores whether families with developmentally delayed or disabled children face barriers to engaging in leisure activities within their community. Anna feels her education is not only preparing her for her future career, but also has given her a stronger sense of her role in addressing social justice issues.

“

I work as a developmental specialist in early intervention—a service that supports young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families—in the South Shore. When I read research that children with disabilities access community leisure at a lesser rate than their peers, and that the quality of engagement outside of their homes is impacted, I wanted to do something.

• Nurse Director, Radiation Oncology at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass.

As the nurse director for Radiology Oncology at MGH, Greg Conklin ’11G ’11G oversees 25 nurses, 10 nurse oversees 25 nurses, 10 nurse practitioners, two medical assistants,and andone onephysician’s physician’s assistants assistant across three MGH locations, the department’s main building in downtown Boston, plus satellite facilities at Newtonplus satellite facilities at NewtonWellesley Hospital and Emerson Hospital in Concord, Mass.

“

“My research project for my coursework will look at how young these patterns may occur and why, and whether there are ways that programs such as early intervention can support their clients to make engagement more successful for families. “Once I graduate, I hope to use all I have learned here to make a difference in the lives of children and their families, especially for those with disabilities and/or living in at-risk communities. And one day I’d like to give back to the higher education community through continuing research and becoming a professor in an accessible occupational therapy program.

”

Are leaders born or made? For me, I’ve always gravitated toward leading, even back in high school. I was the captain on several sports teams, and enjoyed teaching others how to do something. “When I became a nurse, I took advantage of small leadership roles as they came along. Eventually, I wanted to go back to school so I could grow into a management role. “It took almost six years to complete my master’s degree at Salem State, since I was working full-time and juggling real life. But my professors were great mentors and helped me stay on track and get my degree finished. That feels so long ago, and now I’m in the position I want to be. I’m focused on continuously improving patient and staff satisfaction with my team.

”

CONNECT WITH OTHER HEALTHCARE ALUMNI! This year is the 50 th anniversary of Salem State’s nursing program! Come celebrate with us during Alumni Weekend 2020 on May 28-31. Help current SSU students by speaking to a class or recruiting new graduates. Email alumni@salemstate.edu.

W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

There are more than 12,000 business graduates from Salem State living and working throughout Massachusetts and New England and many more of our alumni from different degree backgrounds who have started their own businesses, or are essential contributors to companies across the region. Our alumni are entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, accountants and financial advisors, and much more. They may be your boss, or the colleague in the next cubicle. They may run your local donut shop, bookstore or the bank across town. They make contributions large and small to local and state economies every day. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about so much more than dollars and cents. Business leaders are the foundation of our local economies. They create jobs, feed city tax funds, sponsor our kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; town baseball league, volunteer with local non-profit organizations, and drive innovation that carries us all into the future. 38

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

Driving Our Economy

CONNECT WITH OTHER SALEM STATE BUSINESS LEADERS AND STUDENTS! Join the Bertolon School of Business Alumni Network. Visit salemstate.edu/alumni to learn more and get involved.

W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

F E AT U R E S

Want to share your career success lessons with current students and fellow graduates? Email alumni@salemstate.edu.

PETER SHEARSTONE ’89 • Major: Biology • Vice President, Global Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, Mass.

MARK O’CONNELL ’83 • Major: Business Administration; Minor: Accounting • President and CEO at Avidia Bank, Hudson, Mass.

When Mark O’Connell ‘83 started out at Avidia Bank 31 years ago, it was called Hudson Savings Bank. Over time, he steadily worked his way up—from controller to treasurer, senior vice president, chief financial officer, and then president and chief executive officer. In 2007, Hudson Savings Bank merged with Westborough Bank to become Avidia, and this year the institution is celebrating its 150 th anniversary. Mark now leads the $1.6 billion mutual community bank with 10 branches located across northeastern Massachusetts.

“

I felt well prepared to start my career when I left college. Which was a good thing because I got started right away; I didn’t have parents that could afford to support me for months after graduation. My father told me, ‘I hope you have a job when you graduate.’ So, I did. Graduation was on a Saturday in May, and I started working that Monday. “I’ve been the president and CEO here for 15 years now, and Salem State got me started off on the right path with the basics of accounting and business that I’ve needed throughout my career.

”

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

As a biology student, Peter Shearstone ’89 wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his degree. He knew he didn’t want to become a doctor, scientist or teacher but he wanted to help people and do something meaningful. After starting out in scientific sales and then as a lab tech, he found his way into quality and regulatory management. Today, he is responsible for over 5,000 employees globally for the world’s largest life science company.

“

Getting my science degree 30 years ago helped me start my career. For STEM graduates today there are significant opportunities at life science companies. Hundreds of companies in this space exist worldwide, and they’re all looking for talented, motivated staff. “As a blue-collar kid who couldn’t afford an expensive, private school and worked lots of jobs to support myself, this career track has been very rewarding. For students who work hard, get involved and graduate, there’s no stopping you. “My career has been focused on helping the world get healthier. Whether it is getting the right diagnosis, doing the right research, protecting the environment or helping our first responders, I find my work very rewarding. And now I want to help other students find the kind of career opportunities I had.

”

Read more about Peter’s career journey at salemstate.edu/statement.

F E AT U R E S

$ VIRGINIA VIRGINIA LYONS LYONS ’16’16

JOEL SURETTE SURETTE ’19 ’19 JOEL

• • Major: Major: Accounting Accounting • Senior Financial • Senior Financial Services Consultant Services Consultant at Ernst & Young, at Ernst & Young, Boston, Mass. Boston, Mass.

Attending a conference on a weekend isn’t something most college students would get excited about, but Virginia Lyons ’16 knew that it would be worthwhile. At one of those conferences, she connected with a head recruiter from Ernst & Young. That impromptu meeting led to an internship, and later to her career in accounting and financial consulting.

“

I tell the students that I mentor: go to conferences. I don’t care if it’s Saturday at 6 am. Go to the conferences. If you’re not willing to wake up early one morning to go after what you want, the next person in line will take that job. “I travel a lot for work, but I also make time to mentor other high school and college students as the student affairs chair for the National Association for Black Accountants (NABA) Boston chapter, and for the Ernst & Young College Map program. This is how I give back. A lot of people have given back so much to me.

”

• Major: Finance • Major: Finance • Equity Research Intern at • Current Student, from Cabot Wealth Management, Swampscott, Mass. Salem, Mass.

Securing a $25,000 donation to initiate a Student Investment Fund at Salem State is an impressive achievement, especially as a student, and Joel Surette ’19 didn’t stop there. He also advocated for the creation of a Bloomberg lab at Salem State, which was recently unveiled as the new Cabot Wealth Management Lab on campus. Joel’s work in both these projects, and the relationship he developed with SSU trustee Rob Lutts (president and CEO of Cabot Wealth Management of Salem, Mass.) led to an internship with Cabot Wealth Management and later, a position as a research analyst with the firm.

“

“It’s been a huge journey for me at Ernst & Young; just like in college, you’re trying to find yourself. I started out in the accounting group and then moved to financial services consulting. All along the way, EY has supported who I am and what I want to do. “Salem State provides the tools to be successful, but it’s all about taking the opportunities and making your own success. Today, I’m proud to be contributing my experience back to Salem State as a member of the university’s Foundation Board of Directors.

Driving Our Economy

At Cabot Wealth Management, I’m learning how business models work and why some businesses are or aren’t profitable,” Surette said. “Down the road, my ideal situation would be to create a national service to elevate financial literacy for marginalized social groups.

”

Read more about the Cabot Wealth Management Lab and the Student Investment Fund in the “News” section of this magazine.

Gain professional career skills at the Enterprise Center at Salem State. Visit enterprisectr.org to check out current programs and upcoming events.

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Salem State University Alumni Association, together with DiVirgilio Financial Group, is pleased to offer you LegalShieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benefits. PROTECT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WITH AFFORDABLE LEGAL AND IDENTITY THEFT PLANS. Unexpected legal questions and identity theft issues arise every day. For one flat monthly fee, enjoy access to qualified law firms and attorneys on any personal matter without worrying about high hourly costs. Certain Will documents are also included at NO additional expense as part of your membership. Small business owners plans, home business riders, trial defense riders and CDL plans may be available, depending on state of residency. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also have more peace of mind and security with licensed private investigators skilled in identity theft monitoring and restoration, with a $1 million Protection Policy and an Unlimited Service Guarantee. Protect you and your family with LegalShield and IDShield today. The above is for illustrative purposes only. See website and policies for rates, full details, and exclusions.

Log onto LegalShield.com/info/SalemStateAlumni for more information.

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

F E AT U R E S

Driving Our Economy

Women Entrepreneurship Week Panel In October, the Bertolon School of Business invited successful women alumni entrepreneurs with different industry backgrounds to Salem State to share their stories and challenges with students. Students were able to gain inspiration and ask questions as they embark on their own journeys as the next generation of entrepreneurs.

PHYLLIS LEBLANC ’82 • Major: Business Administration

LINDA SARIS ’15H

KATHLEEN A. MURPHY ’75 • Major: Biology

• Major: Economics and Urban Studies from the University of Pennsylvania

• Former CEO and Owner, Chi Solutions, Inc., San Diego, Calif.

• Executive Director, LEAP for Education, Inc., Salem, Mass.

As a woman in business, Kathleen felt it was difficult to earn recognition in a male-dominated industry and had to learn the unnatural art of “shameless promotion.” “Ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results in business through hard work and persistence,” she told students. “That was my secret to success.”

Linda offered advice to students in the audience looking to become entrepreneurs one day. “Expand your network, find yourself a mentor, get involved in your community, build your social capital, innovate and collaborate,” she said.

NANCY L. GERARDI ’91

• Owner and Chief Executive Officer, Harbor Sweets, Salem, Mass.

• Northeast Regional Director, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, Salem, Mass.

Phyllis LeBlanc’s career with Harbor Sweets began when she was still a student at Salem State in 1977. She thought the part-time chocolate dipper position sounded like fun, and over time she worked her way up in the company to become the president, and later as its owner and chief executive officer. “Leading Harbor Sweets has been quite an adventure,” she said during the panel. “I think entrepreneurship is an exhilarating experience.”

• Major: Business Administration

Nancy says her greatest accomplishment is achieving her academic and career goals while being a single parent raising three dynamic and independent daughters. “I encourage you to answer the door when opportunity comes knocking,” Nancy told students, “ask for help when you need it, and always start with ‘yes.’”

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Giving

Michael Monteforte, Jr. ’98 with his wife Jill ’98 and their children

Helping Seniors and Students Alike “The best part of my day is when I tell somebody, ‘I can help you,’ and I watch the weight fall off their shoulders,” said Michael Monteforte, Jr. ’98. Michael graduated from Salem State University in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and as a member of the Summa Cum Laude Honors Society. He later went to law school at Suffolk University, where he graduated with a Juris Doctorate in Law. From there, he worked at a law firm in Lynn until he progressed as far as he could, realizing that the only way to be able to support his family while also being able to spend time with them, was to start his own law firm. So, he created the Law Offices of Michael Monteforte Jr., located in Wilmington, Mass. At first, he took every case that walked through the door. It wasn’t until his grandparents needed to move into an assisted living facility, and he saw just how difficult it was for them to keep their life savings during this process, that he found his true passion: estate and elder law. People come to him in trying times, hoping he can help prevent their parents from losing their entire life savings. 44

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Michael has experienced great success in the past 13 years, and says he owes much of that success to his alma mater, Salem State University. Salem State not only enabled Michael to have an extremely successful career; it also gave him another great opportunity: meeting his wife. Jill Monteforte ’98, also a Salem State alum, met Michael in a speech class their sophomore year. “Bottom line, Salem State is where I started my life, and made everything possible,” Michael points out. “I am forever grateful.” Michael is also thankful for the donors of the scholarships he received that made it possible for him to attend Salem State. Without them, he may not have been able to afford college, and never would have been able to help people the way he does now. His gratitude spurred him to set up the Michael Monteforte Jr. Scholarship Award at Salem State University for students pursuing a degree in criminal justice, history, political science, or sociology. “If I can make college easier for even one student, I’ll know I’ve made an impact,” Michael said. n

GIVING

Tom ’68 and Joan Feeley

Tony ’93 and Catherine ’93 Zelano

It All Adds Up

Frank ’64 and Sandy ’64 Lillo with President Emerita Patricia Maguire Meservey

THE COLLECTIVE POWER OF MAKING AN ANNUAL GIFT Tony Zelano ’93 and his wife Catherine ’93 Zelano met as undergraduate students on campus. After graduating, the couple became Salem State University donors in 1994 with their first contribution of $5. What began as modest annual gifts have grown, now totaling thousands of dollars over the years. “Entering college at Salem State, my goal was to learn how to sell so I could become an insurance salesman in my father’s business,” Tony recalled. “I was shy in the beginning, but my college experience taught me the social skills I needed to succeed. I bought the business 10 years ago, and my brother and I have grown it two-to-three times bigger than it was. My success is all based on my experience at Salem State—the friends I made there, I met my wife there and the person I became through the years I spent on that campus. All of that is why I give to the annual fund every year.” Many alumni demonstrate their pride, support and passion for Salem State by giving what they can every year, but they may not realize how powerful this support becomes over time. Frank ’64 and Sandy ’64 Lillo both had long careers in teaching after graduating from Salem State in 1964. Frank retired after 35 years of teaching in Revere, Mass., and Sandy taught in several locations over the years and retired from Salem High School. The Lillos made their first gift of $100 to Salem State in 1984 and have continued their support of the university every year since—35 years of consecutive support. “We were both the first generation in our families to attend college, and our whole careers were in education. We appreciate that Salem State prepared us so well for successful careers.” Through gifts of all sizes, donors to Salem State’s annual giving fund make an amazing collective impact and are a vital

way for every member of our alumni community to make an impact at the university. Tom Feeley ’68 graduated from Salem State with a bachelor’s in business administration. After founding his own public accounting and consulting firm in Boston, Feeley and Driscoll, P.C. (which merged with BDO in 2016), Tom and his wife Joan made their first donation to Salem State of $250 in 1983. That first contribution started an annual tradition of giving. The Feeleys have supported a variety of Salem State causes, funds and campaigns every year for the past 36 years. Tom’s greatest philanthropic commitment is giving unrestricted funds to support the university’s greatest needs. “I give to organizations I value, and Salem State is at the top of that list,” Tom explains. “I feel strongly about the mission of this university —to provide a high-quality public education to students from across the Commonwealth. I give unrestricted because I deeply trust in the university’s leadership, and this is the best way I can help move the university forward.” Last year, 3,921 gifts were made by students, alumni, parents, and friends to Salem State. Over $910,000 was raised for the annual fund in fiscal year 2018-19, which provides both unrestricted and restricted support to scholarship awards, departments, student groups, colleges, initiatives, and programs. n

HOW CAN I MAKE A GIFT? Visit salemstate.edu/makeagift to give to the Annual Fund. Thank you for your support! W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

Giving $7,005 A SNAPSHOT $6,935 OF RECENT $5,357 377 SENIOR $ 5,755 DONORS 334 CLASS 322 DONORS $5,380 DONORS 293 GIFTS $3,950

$1,484

181

DONORS

236

DONORS

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

The class of 2019 presents a donation check for Salem State’s Senior Class Gif t Scholarship. Pictured (L to R): Vice President and Executive Director Cheryl Crounse, Christopher Corrente ’10, ‘12G, Debra Lee Surface ’05, ‘19G, and President John Keenan.

Recent graduate Sara Libby ’19 received the Senior Class Gif t Scholarship in 2015, and this year became a donor for the same scholarship.

A New Senior Class Tradition: Leaving a Legacy The Class of 2019 may have graduated and walked across the stage heading toward a new chapter in their lives, but their legacy and generosity continues to make an impact on campus today. The class donated a substantial $6,935 toward the Senior Class Gift Scholarship. This scholarship was established by the student philanthropy council to support an incoming first-year student at Salem State University, offering them the opportunity of a higher education that they may not otherwise afford. The Senior Class Gift Scholarship has now been awarded every year since 2014 due to the philanthropy of the last seven graduating classes, building a tradition of impact. This year, Sara Libby ’19 was one of those graduating seniors. Sara started at Salem State in 2015 and received the second Senior Class Gift Scholarship to be awarded. 46

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BY ERICA BOURBEAU ’15

“Receiving the scholarship my freshman year helped relieve some of the financial burden that comes with higher education,” Sara said. “As a first-generation student, finances were a major concern for me and my family. This scholarship helped to take away some of that stress and let me enjoy school.” When it came to her senior year, Sara was happy to pay it forward by becoming a donor to the very scholarship that helped her. “I didn’t think twice about giving to the senior class gift. So many generous people donated to the scholarship so that I could attend my dream school, of course I wanted to return the favor and give that same opportunity to another deserving student.” n

GIVING

Never Forget: Professor Joseph Aiyeku “I was not the most ‘focused’ student,” said alumnus Rafael Barbosa ’09, “but Professor Aiyeku saw something in me that I did not see in myself at the time.” Marketing Professor Joseph Aiyeku was an important influence on many of his students. He taught marketing in the Bertolon School of Business from 1994 to 2014 and served as chair of the marketing and decision sciences department. Professor Aiyeku also served as an advisor to the African Student Union at Salem State, and was involved with an exchange program with Nigeria, opening his home and sharing his expertise with participants. “I learned a great deal from him,” Barbosa recalled, “including the importance of giving back and being humble... I have no doubt he touched many with his generosity.” After his death in 2014, a scholarship was created in Professor Aiyeku’s honor. Over $13,000 has been donated already, but $12,000 is still needed to fully endow the $25,000 scholarship. The scholarship will help support current and future marketing students at Salem State. “Joseph Aiyeku was dedicated to Salem State and its students,” said Dr. Elizabeth Haran ’71, professor emerita in the Bertolon School of Business and a former colleague of Professor Aiyeku. “A true educator, he believed that teaching and learning go hand-in-hand and that he learned from his colleagues and students every day. We witnessed the benefits of his interactions with students and want to keep his legacy of ‘students first’ alive by fully funding this scholarship in his memory.” n

HOW YOU CAN HELP Make a gift to help endow the Professor Joseph Aiyeku Scholarship Fund. Visit salemstate.edu/aiyeku today to provide financial support for marketing students.

Students write thank you notes to Salem State donors on Viking Warrior Day 2019.

1,854 Minutes of Giving

Second Annual Viking Warrior Day Raises $58,914 BY ERICA BOURBEAU ’15

On May 1, 2019, the Salem State University community came together for the second Viking Warrior Day! This year, the day was extended to 1,854 minutes in honor of Salem State’s founding year. During that time, Vikings rallied like never before to celebrate what it means to be a Viking and feel pride in our community. Signs and banners were hung all over campus to draw attention to the many areas on campus that are made possible through donor support. Our donors are an invaluable part of our community, and we wanted to thank them in a big way. You could not walk a few feet without seeing a sign thanking our generous donors for their contributions and for helping drive Salem State forward. Events took place all over campus to bring people together, and posts were shared on social media throughout the day to create a virtual celebration for those who couldn’t make it to campus. In the span of 1,854 minutes, donations were received from 320 alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends to support our ongoing efforts of creating an affordable and excellent educational experience for our students, totaling $58,914—a 72 percent increase over the previous year. We couldn’t have done it without you. Until next year —go, Vikings! n W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

ALUMNI

WELCOME TO THE CLASS OF 2019! As the newest members of the Salem State University Alumni Association, we hope you’ll accept our deepest congratulations on your graduation from Salem State! Being a member of a family that numbers greater than 65,000 is something we can all take great pride in. As alumni, you have access to a number of different events, programs and opportunities

that are worth taking advantage of. We are always so proud to see our alumni changing the world, and we hope you will keep in touch as you continue to do amazing things. To learn more about the Alumni Association, please visit salemstate.edu/alumni and remember you can always email alumni@salemstate.edu if you ever have a question. GO, VIKINGS!

The Collective Power of Viking Alumni A Message from the Alumni Association Board of Directors BY MIKKI L. WILSON ‘09

It feels like yesterday when the Salem State community celebrated raising $26.5 million in the successful 10,000 Reasons campaign. Yet for many dedicated alumni, giving back isn’t tied to a campaign. It’s part of our lifelong relationship with our alma mater. Viking alumni seem to share a common perspective: Salem State gave us so much that we feel drawn to pay it back. That payback usually comes in the form of paying it forward, benefiting new generations of Vikings who follow in our footsteps, ready to make an impact like so many fellow alumni before them. Salem State University’s Alumni Association has over 65,000 active members, with alumni across the country and world. As alumni, we each have our way of contributing to our alma mater. For many of us, that comes in the form of volunteering time, talent and resources. As an association, we hold a collective power in supporting our next generation of graduates. We impart a campus culture that inspires students, pursues innovation and connects communities. Having the privilege of working closely with Salem State’s Alumni Association since my graduation, I’ve witnessed firsthand a college transform into a university. When it comes to impact, an article by student Zhanna White ’20 best 48

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describes the value of the Salem State Alumni Association and its robust network. She participated in the university’s Annual Day of Service program, which allows more than 200 first-year students an opportunity to move onto campus early by volunteering in a community service project. It was her “way to give back to a community that supports Salem State students.” Zhanna grew up in Naples, Fla., and while attending the 2017 Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade with her parents, she connected with many Salem State alumni including Rob Millwee ’09, who became a friend and role model. She admits that she wouldn’t have gained a fantastic alumni friend in Millwee had she not marched in the parade. “I am very impressed with this elite group of alumni and hope I can follow in your footsteps. Your stories have encouraged me to work harder and take advantage of the superior education Salem State has to offer. And maybe I can become part of the alumni base that makes a huge difference in communities around the world.” Enough said. Since the beginning, Salem State has been committed to making higher education a reality for students who might have otherwise lacked the opportunity. Giving back helps grow the power of our alumni network worldwide and cultivates the next generation of future alumni. By building bridges between students and alumni through recruitment, volunteering, mentorship, and hiring, we continue to strengthen our alumni network, foster meaningful relationships, stay connected, and develop stronger communities. n

C LAS S

CLASS NOTES

Notes

’44 DR . EDNA ANNE MAURIELLO

was posthumously inducted into the Salem State Civic Engagement Hall of Fame. Individuals are recognized for their efforts in addressing social and environmental challenges facing our communities.

’49

ROBERT ST. PIER RE was recently

awarded the lifetime achievement award by the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame. He served in many leadership roles for the Wareham team.

’55

DR . NOR MAN DEL ANEY had

an article in the August issue of Naval History magazine. It is titled Did Whiskey Bombs Fall on Texas? and solves a long-standing Civil War mystery.

ANDRE A C. LIF TMAN ‘75G

was appointed to the Salem State Foundation Board of Directors.

’76 K AREN KOCH HAMOND ’07G

MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

recently earned her doctorate in educational leadership from New England College. Karen is part of a SSU family, marrying N. Roy Hamond ’75. Two of her four children earned degrees from SSU: Jeremy Hamond ’08G and Jennifer Hamond ’12.

’68

’78

’60 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 6 0 T H REUNION WEEKEND :

JOANNE O. RICC IARDIELLO ‘19H

’54

was appointed to the Salem State Foundation Board of Directors.

’70 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 50 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

’71 THE CL ASS OF 19 5 4 was awarded

the new Charlotte Forten Legacy Award in June. The award is dedicated to those who best exemplify a legacy of commitment to the mission and purpose of Salem State University. This centennial class of Salem State is the only graduating class to celebrate a reunion every five years since commencement.

KEN BE ATON has published his next

book, “A Toddler’s Picture in His Uncle’s Helmet,” available on Amazon. The book explores the travel of Ken’s uncle who was killed in the battle of Monte La Difensa during World War II.

’75 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR

MIKE CONNOLLY ’78G released his

latest book, “But Few Were Chosen: A Different Path to Coming of Age,” in July 2018. He has authored four books so far, as well as many articles that have appeared in numerous journals.

’79

DEBR A SENSENEY married Gary Senseney on September 1, 2018, in Waterford, Conn.

4 5 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 ! W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

S AV E T H E D AT E

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2020 REUNITE AND RECONNECT.

MAY 28â&#x20AC;&#x201C;MAY 31

Visit salemstate.edu/alumniweekend20 for a full listing of events!

P OM P 20

Annual Party on McKeown Plaza

Join us for games, reunions, food and beverage trucks, and live music. 50

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May 30, 2020

Visit salemstate.edu/POMP20

CLASS NOTES

’80

TOM THIBODE AU ’8 4 G was

SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 4 0 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 ! RICHARD CERBONE recently

earned a graduate gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America in New York City. Richard was first introduced to gemology by the late Salem State Professor of Geology, Dr. C. W. Wolfe. R AYMOND ST. CYR published

his latest book, “God Wants You!: All Are Welcome at His Table,” in September.

’81

completed her term of service on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

service in surrounding communities. The 2019 Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce commended Awilda for her business assistance; The Latina Center honored Awilda with the “Inspirational Mother 2019” Outstanding Educator Award; and Awilda received The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Official Citation from the Massachusetts Senate for Business Assistance Award; the city of Lynn Official Citation of the Mayor’s Office in recognition of 2019 Outstanding Educator; and the 2019 Business Assistance Award from the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce.

’83

’86

awarded the Dr. Marilyn J. Flaherty ’54 Distinguished Alumnus Award during Alumni Weekend 2019. The award is presented to an alumnus/a who, upon graduation from Salem State University, has distinguished himself or herself through their outstanding professional achievements.

’82 GIR ARD HE ALY

was elected president of the Brattle Film Foundation. JANET MER RIMAN recently

CYNTHIA MCGUR REN recently

retired as vice president of Institutional Advancement and executive director of the Salem State University Foundation, Inc. after a career that spanned more than 32 years. LINDA CONNELL ’8 9G was inducted

into the Northeast Regional Educators Hall of Fame in the Salem State Alumni category. This inductee must be a graduate of Salem State University and an exemplar of best practices.

MARY BUTLER was honored with

a Community Service Award at the Anti-Defamation League New England’s Essex County Law and Education Day. Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll ’89 praised Butler, who has been Salem police chief since 2015, for standing up “to bigotry and hatred in all forms.”

’85 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 35 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 ! AWILDA IR IZ ARRY is a senior

business advisor in the Small Business Development Center at Salem State, and received many awards for her

MITCHELL BECKER retired in

December 2018 after 32 years of protecting our country working with U.S. Border Patrol and Federal Air Marshal Service; and 32 years defending the nation with U.S. Marine Corps (Pfc./Lt. Col.) Active and Reserve. W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

ALUMNI

VO I C ES O F OU R STUDE N T S

On Campus Today: My WMWM Experience During my freshman year, I had no intentions of joining a group. I was unaware Salem State even had a radio club (the station fittingly hidden in the basement of the Ellison Campus Center). But a friend knew somebody on WMWM’s e-board and wanted to get involved. With such a vague connection, I was not expecting to enter one of the biggest parts of my career at Salem State University. As the meeting kicked off and people began introducing themselves, I thought, “Oh! Here are my friends, the people I want to spend my college time with.” Since then, I’ve begun my own radio show, “Batcave Salem”; DJ’d live events; was elected as music director; flew to California to see a band discovered from the show; and more. Three years into WMWM and I have only become more passionate. On- and off-air, my most interesting times at Salem State are spent with friends from the station. During my radio show, my co-host and I are lucky enough to have friends stop by and jump in. This always evolves into something worth listening to: a whining contest over Bauhaus versus Joy Division; an almost physical confrontation on which type of dog is the best (a Corgi, obviously); or an improvised live rendition of Shakespeare’s least esteemed play, “Snow Dogs.” Everyone throws out suggested songs to play and by the end of the show, listeners have a multitude of new songs to 52

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BY ROB BEATTY ’21

explore. Afterward, we often make a trip to Forest River Park, where we laugh at the mistakes we made on air and the funny ideas that arose from the ridiculous stuff we said in the moment. Along with the fun, I am also slowly realizing that the station is a tool for us students. Along with having a platform for student voices, the club is always looking for social media support and news reports (hello, media and communication majors) and technical help (speaking to you, music technology students). WMWM offers a quirky and diverse community that places a spotlight on the great aspects of Salem. You can hop on and play your favorite tunes or just speak. Listen to local jams, or 30-minute ambient tracks. You’ll hear groups stuffed into the recording booth lively battling politics, and drivetime sports shows. Some people are recording punk bands live, while others are reading poetry in such a manner that you find yourself reading poetry again. WMWM is part of the Salem and SSU community. There is something for everyone, which is why I am proud to be part of WMWM. You can listen to 91.7FM online at WMWMSalem.com. Current president Annabelle Dionne is planning a live show centered on nonconformity that is set to happen on campus in March. n

C L A S S ANLOUTM EN SI

Remember When? WMWM: Radio Life on Its 50th Anniversary In 1968, Salem State’s first on-campus radio station was WSSC AM 640, and it could only be heard by students in the dorms. It broadcasted infrequently out of a tiny room that is now a janitor’s closet. In 1978, a year with so many mishaps that the station was expected to close for good, the club got lucky by adding an engineer to the team and securing a grant that allowed them to buy the proper equipment they needed to finally upgrade the space. If it wasn’t for this change, the FCC would have shut down the club due to its new broadcasting laws and it would have likely never returned. With this new and improved station came the new name: WMWM Salem. The next transformation was to create an online presence through streaming (now on WMWMSalem.com). In 2008, this transition welcomed anyone around the world with internet access to listen to WMWM. While the DJs still

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regard it as a local Salem station, now friends, family and alumni around the world can listen in, even if they live outside of WMWM’s signal range. Even as access has gone global, the content is still very much local: A lot of the music is still local to Salem, along with discussions about Salem State and the city itself. The station celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. During the party, we acknowledged how much of the spirit that the radio station started with in 1968 has remained the same— and how much has changed and been achieved in the years since. We’re proud and appreciative of the many people who have been part of WMWM, including those who continued on to a career in radio and entertainment: Anngelle Wood is now with WZLX; Chris Kennedy with WFNX and WROR; Keith Knight recently had a television show of his picked up by Hulu; and many others who have gone into the business. n

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GENER AL DONALD C. BOLDUC

PETER M. MORGANTE is a

is an esteemed member of the U.S. military and an advocate for the mental health of soldiers, who graduated from Salem State University with a degree in sociology. He is working to remove the stigma of PostTraumatic Stress Disorder and other related challenges. He is the recipient of a multitude of awards, including the Canadian Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation (something never received by any foreign military unit before this).

partner and co-founder of Nuttin Ordinary, New England’s first plant-based cheese company. The company is located in Peterborough, N.H., and cultures cashew cheese with a proprietary probiotic blend, giving it a distinct and natural cheese flavor. Products are available in Whole Foods Market, Wegmans and more. GUY CLINCH recently completed

his term of service on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

C. DAVID SURFACE was awarded

the Elizabeth Williams Wade Award during Alumni Weekend 2019 for outstanding service and contributions to Salem State. David was also appointed to the Salem State Foundation Board of Directors.

’90 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 30 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

The live-action/animated comedy, “Woke,” created by alumnus and award-winning cartoonist KEITH KNIGHT will be a series on Hulu. The series is currently in production. “Woke” is about a cartoonist on the edge of fame whose comics take a sudden turn from mild and fun to serious and political after a surprise encounter with a police officer leaves him “woke.” The series combines Knight’s comedy with his more serious work on race, class and political issues. Mo Marable has been chosen to direct the pilot, and Lamorne Morris will star in the series. Starting as an art major at Salem State University, Knight went on to produce cartoons including “The K Chronicles,” “The Knight Life” and “(th)ink,” as well as voice acting in “Revengeance” (2017) and releasing multiple albums as well. “The K Chronicles” ran for multiple years on Salon.com and in the San Francisco Examiner. W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

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VO I C ES O F OU R ALU M N I

The friends at Senior Week in 1979 (L-R: Susan (Guilmette) Matson; Deborah (Burnes) Stephenson; Betsy (Taf t) Choate; Joanne Mendes; and Anne Marie (Duff y) Farragher)

Joanne Mendes and her lifelong friends from Salem State reunite for a weekend in Vermont. Lef t to right, Betsy (Taf t) Choate; Joanne Mendes; Deborah (Burnes) Stephenson, Anne Marie (Duff y) Farragher. In back, Susan (Guilmette) Matson)

Remembering 40 Years It’s hard to believe that 40 years have gone by since I graduated from Salem State. When I reflect upon my time here, the first image that comes to mind are my friends and I, so young, so full of promise and so grateful to have the opportunity to attend college. Like many of my fellow students, my parents’ opportunities to continue their education were limited. By the time they reached their early twenties, they had lived through the Great Depression and survived a World War. Sacrifice was all they knew. But their child would be given opportunities they never had, and that meant attending college. Since state college was the only option on the menu, I chose Salem. In September 1975 I began my journey. I arrived at Peabody Hall, armed with only a foot locker, a clock radio and a lot of false bravado. Little did I know that the girls I met that first weekend would still be in my life 44 years later. I am grateful to Salem State for many things: an affordable, substantial education that prepared me for life; lively campus experiences, many of which I can’t print here (hey, it was the ‘70s); and lasting friendships. When I look at a recent photo taken on our last trip, I see the girls we were and the strong, independent and beautiful women we’ve become. Three of us have careers in business, one in law and me, public affairs.

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I

WINTER 2020

BY JOANNE MENDES ’79

We’ve supported each other through good times and bad, marriages, health scares and death. We are bonded forever. Salem State was our launching pad, preparing us with a solid education and a roadmap for life. Living away from home for the first time, we learned to be tolerant and respectful of our fellow students. Our professors weren’t just academics. Many had life experiences in their field that they passed on to us. Some even helped us find internships and jobs. That’s the kind of community Salem State was back in 1979. Today, the campus has changed dramatically, as has the student population. Diversity is a given, and students have brand-new classrooms, a library, an updated athletic complex, new dorms, and a performing arts center. But what hasn’t changed is Salem State’s commitment to its students. That is due in a large part to insightful leadership, dedicated staff, committed educators, and generous alumni. Salem State provided me with a good foundation to excel in my chosen career. But I have to thank my parents, Joe and Rena Mendes, for the sacrifices they made so that I could have every opportunity they didn’t. They taught me well by living their faith and giving back to their community. The best way I know how to honor their memory is to pay it forward. That is why I continue to support Salem State University. n

ALUMNI

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MAR ZIE GAL A ZK A was appointed

Swampscott’s first community and economic development director.

’95 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 2 5 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

’03 GEORGE L ABONTE was

promoted to Wrentham’s new deputy police chief.

’05 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR

S AV E T H E D AT E

15 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

’00 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 20 T H REUNION WEEKEND :

Upcoming Events Visit salemstate.edu/alumni

MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

for a full listing of events.

DANIEL BOUDRE AU , the geospatial

systems lead at GeoEnvironmental, Inc., was named co-chair of the Geographic Information System Certification Institute.

Thursday, March 5

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O’Keefe Complex, Salem, Mass.

Spring 2020 Job and Internship Fair Gassett Gymnasium,

March 12–14 DEBR A LEE SURFACE ’19G

Naples St. Patrick’s Day

was inducted into the Salem State Civic Engagement Hall of Fame. Individuals are recognized for their efforts in addressing social and environmental challenges facing our communities.

Weekend Events

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Wednesday, April 29 Viking Warrior Day

Wednesday, May 6 Veterans Stole Ceremony

MIKE MITCHELL received JAMES FOR REST released his latest

album, titled “Gamma,” in early 2019. He recently moved to Copenhagen, and the songs explore the idea of transition. He is getting used to living in a different part of the world while also learning how to take care of his twin daughters, all explained in his dream-wave style.

the Rising Star Award from the Salem State University Alumni Association during Alumni Weekend 2019. The award is presented to an alumnus/a of the last 15 years who is already making significant contributions to greater society through professional and philanthropic work.

Thursday, May 7 Educator Pinning Ceremony

May 28–31 Alumni Weekend 2020

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THANK YOU, EVENT SPONSORS! Sponsoring an event with Salem State University is the perfect opportunity for your company to make an impression on one of the largest Greater Boston alumni and friend networks—more than 80,000 strong. We offer several special events for you to network at and advertise your products and services to the Salem State community of alumni, faculty, staff, donors, and friends. Event sponsorship packages for 2020 range from $500 to $25,000 and are fully customizable. Contact Brenna Ruchala at 978.542.2642 or bruchala@salemstate.edu for more information.

Salem State Series 2019

TEDxSalemStateUniversity

Presenting Sponsor

Presidential Sponsors

First Year Day of Service

Benefactors

Friends

• Bane Care Management, LLC

• Camelot Special Events & Tents

• The Hotel Salem • KVAssociates • Salem State Alumni Association • Salem State University Student Government Association • Solomon Metals • St. Jean’s Credit Union 56

• North Shore Bank • Peabody Essex Museum • Ronan, Segal & Harrington • Salem Five Charitable Foundation • Staples Advantage

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

Family Orientations

CLASS NOTES

’05 With an undergraduate degree in history and a graduate degree in higher education and student affairs from Salem State, MIKE VELL A ’0 8G spent time as a high school teacher and college advisor after graduation. Since then, he has transformed his career and become a successful senior talent acquisition manager at UniFirst, a leading supplier of uniforms, workwear and facility service. The fast pace of talent acquisition is something that Mike enjoys, “I’m very go, go, go,” he said.

He started out his career at UniFirst as a learning and development specialist and was promoted to talent acquisition and development manager six months later. He took on the role of talent acquisition manager in 2018 after rapidly growing training and recruiting initiatives in order to focus solely on talent acquisition. As of February 2019, Mike was promoted to senior manager/ head of talent acquisition. In January 2019, he was named one of the HR Superstars by HRO Today, who are nominated for leading the charge in HR transformation and innovation at their respective organizations. Mike develops and implements all strategic talent acquisition initiatives for UniFirst’s 250 nationwide facilities and oversees the talent acquisition team in Wilmington, Mass.; the talent engagement team in San Antonio, Texas; and UniFirst’s Recruitment Process Outsourcing partnership with

’09 MARIA

completed the New York City Marathon in November 2018 with fellow Salem State alumna Kacie (Ferguson) Sabella ’09. EDDIE BYNUM was inducted into the

MASCAC Hall of Fame in recognition of his impressive track and field career. SCOT T MICHAEL SAL AME was

the production designer for “After Forever,” which won an Emmy for best daytime digital drama series in 2019.

While his career field has changed significantly since his time at Salem State, Mike hasn’t forgotten his alma mater and often recruits Viking graduates to UniFirst. “I wasn’t really targeting them; it started out with just one,” Mike explained. Since that first hire though, he has continued to hire Salem State graduates, calling them “young, hungry professionals.” He has now hired seven professionals from Salem State, and he credits the university with preparing students for their future careers and making them viable candidates for hire, helping future workers to become independent and hard-working. “It’s definitely a school where you get out of it what you put in and that translates well at UniFirst,” he said.

K AC IE ( FERGUSON )

JOSH GUNDERSON has written a

SABELL A ’0 9

memoir titled “You’re Doing It Wrong: A Mixtape Memoir.” He says that his time spent at Salem State played a role in him writing it and that it’s been a labor of love since he graduated.

completed the New York City Marathon in November 2018 with fellow Salem State alumna Maria (Jimenez) Gage ’09.

(JIMENEZ ) GAGE

Sevenstep, a globally recognized leader in recruitment outsourcing.

MIKK I W ILSON started a

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marketing consulting business in February 2019, Dot Connector Consulting, LLC, which delivers affordable solutions to small business owners and entrepreneurs.

’10 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR 10 T H REUNION WEEKEND : MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

CASEY CAR ROLL married JACQUELINE POPOLOSK I ’17G on

September 8, 2018. Casey received his bachelor’s degree in art, while Jacqueline received a master of education in elementary education. W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

CLASS NOTES

EMILY TAYLOR studied coral

JENNEY DALE

reefs and many endangered species while also learning the methods communities are using to sustain them in Belize. Emily lives in Hampton, N.H., and is a graduate student in Miami University’s Advanced Inquiry Program.

HOLL AND

and her husband Donald Holland welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Lydia Rose, on August 18, 2019.

JAKE COT TER was recently appointed

to the Salem State University Alumni Association Board of Directors. STEPHANIE MOREY- BAR RY was

inducted into the Northeast Regional Educators Hall of Fame as the 2019 Rising Star Recipient. Inductees must have three to 10 years as an educator, promote the mission of education through work in any capacity and demonstrate early evidence of significant contributions to their respective school or university organization.

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SHAYNA AND TOPHER MOR RIS

welcomed baby Madelyn Clare Morris on September 24, 2018. BRIANNE MCDONOUGH ’14 G

was recently appointed to the Salem State University Alumni Association Board of Directors.

’19

’15 SAVE THE DATE FOR YOUR

MARY BERTR AND

married Derek LaPlaca in November 2018. Mary was a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors and a student trustee at Salem State. Derek is a 2013 graduate from Worcester State. BARBAR A BAGGS ’13G was named

the George H. Ellison ’54 Volunteer of the Year during Alumni Weekend 2019. The award is presented to an alumnus/a who has made outstanding contributions through volunteer service to Salem State University. 58

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consent culture on campuses. They build empathy through theatre, sharing true stories written by real young adults, and talking frankly and accessibly about sex, consent, bystander intervention, and sexual assault. Speak About It programs aim to give students practical, tangible skills for supporting survivors, communicating boundaries and desires, and intervening in unsafe situations. Jeo is performing and touring as an actor-educator, and Adrian is serving as an assistant director for the 2019-2020 academic year.

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

5 T H REUNION WEEKEND MAY 28 - 31, 2020 !

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VIRGINIA LYONS was appointed

to the Salem State Foundation Board of Directors.

’17

NIKK I VERGAKES hosts “We Went

There Podcast,” which launched its second season on Tuesday, April 2, 2019. This follows the successful first season that ran in March of 2018. ADRIAN PEGUERO and Jeo Tover ’21

were welcomed to the Speak About It team, an organization in which actoreducators tour the country engaging students in the hard work of building

Congratulations to the first cohort of 40 students graduated from the SCHOOL OF EDUCATION’S NEW 4 +1 PROGR AM ! The five-

year program combines a bachelor’s degree with a master’s degree in education. In addition to traditional student teaching, some 4+1 students received fellowships to work fulltime in a classroom with one of 15 partner school districts. In exchange, students either have their tuition paid for by the hosting school district or receive a stipend.

CLASS NOTES

survivor-centered sexual violence policies. Kimberly wanted to make sure that students had access to the kinds of information and strategies that she had to learn through trial and error as a young activist and survivor experiencing stress and trauma. She was also able to learn a lot about social justice work and theory, discussing readings and media from a wide variety of artists and activists with her supervisor and other fellows weekly. “It was impactful for me as a recent graduate to know that you can hold space in the professional world for discussion and learning, and I really enjoyed hearing the other fellows’ opinions and experiences,” Kimberly said.

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Over the summer, K IMBERLY BARBOZ A held a fellowship with the organization End Rape on Campus (EROC) in Washington, D.C. The organization has a threepronged approach to ending campus sexual violence: direct support for survivors; prevention education; and policy reform at the campus, local, state, and federal levels. Kimberly’s fellowship focused on policy research and projects at the state level. “Sexual violence survivor advocacy was something I’d worked on with the Salem State Women’s Center as part of our programming, and I wanted to focus on it further,” Kimberly explained.

Kimberly feels it’s important that organizations like End Rape on Campus exist because we live in a society where sexual violence is often not recognized for what it is. “EROC recognizes that it doesn’t have to be this way, that having an educational experience free from violence is entirely possible, and they are committed to working towards that goal every day,” Kimberly said. “I view EROC’s work as bold, transformative and driven by the many wants and needs of survivors. Work like that is not just important—it is vital.” One of the projects she is most proud of is a toolkit that teaches students, survivors and allies how to contact their state-elected officials and advocate for

Kimberly recently finished a 40-Hour Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Advocate training and was hired as the inaugural coordinator of the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics and Civic Engagement, a new initiative housed in the Center for Civic Engagement at Salem State. She’ll be working to engage and inspire students and community members to pursue careers in political and public service through programs, events and trips.

Tell Us: What’s New With YOU?

We want to hear about your new job, recent achievements, personal updates, and other news! Send photos if you have them, too.

alumni@salemstate.edu 978.542.7530

Can we reach you?

If you’ve moved to a new home, changed jobs or gotten a different phone number update your contact info with us so you don’t miss any future news!

salemstate.edu/alumni

W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

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EVENTS

Class of 1969 The class of

1969 recently celebrated their 50 th Reunion and capped off a wonderful weekend with a donation to Salem State of $135,000!

Stole Ceremony Right, graduating student veterans are seen here during their 2019 Stole Ceremony.

Educator Pinning Ceremony Pictured below are newly licensed educators during the 2019 Educator Pinning Ceremony.

Lowell Spinners Alumni in the southern New Hampshire and Merrimack Valley areas attended their second annual Lowell Spinners game last summer.

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 19

ALUMNI

ARE YOU

POMP19 Celebrating its fif th anniversary, Party on

McKeown Plaza (POMP) was sold out this year!

UNDER

40?

Be in the next issue of the Statement… 40 Under 40! Are you a recent Salem State graduate who has accomplished great things? Do you know a fellow grad who is inspiring, a rising star or blazing new trails in their field?

Alumni Awards Pictured here are four of the 2019 Alumni Association

award recipients (L-R): David Surface ’88, Barbara Baggs ’13G, Mary Macera Wescott ’54 (accepting the Charlotte Forten Legacy Award on behalf of the class of 1954), Mike Mitchell ’07, and President John Keenan. Tom Thibodeau ’81 is not pictured. Awardees are recognized at the Jazz Brunch during Alumni Weekend each year.

We want to recognize impactful young leaders who have graduated from Salem State and gone on to do great things.

To nominate yourself or someone else, go to: salemstate.edu/40under40 Nomination criteria include: • Must have earned an undergraduate or graduate degree from Salem State • Must be under the age of 40 as of December 31, 2020 • Have made significant contributions to his or her respective professional disciplines, communities and/or Salem State University • Is willing to submit a photo, if selected, that can be published by the university

Class of 1954 The Class of 1954 recently celebrated its 65

th reunion during Alumni Weekend 2019, and was also named the first recipient of the Charlotte Forten Legacy Award for class contributions to Salem State.

• Resume and supporting information will need to be provided The deadline for nominations is June 30, 2020. Salem State’s 40 Under 40 will be celebrated in the next issue of the Statement.

ALUMNI

O B I T UA R I ES Right, Edna as a professor at Salem State College Far right, Edna, right, with her sister, Dot Foley ‘48 at the 2018 Jazz Brunch

Barbara E. Damon ’59

Edna Mauriello ’44

June 30, 1937–March 27, 2019

February 27, 1923–December 26, 2018

Born and raised in Danvers, Barbara E. Damon graduated from Salem Teachers College in 1959 and left an incredible mark on the school’s athletics. While at Salem Teachers College, Barbara was active as a member of six different sports: field hockey, soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, and swimming. The SSC Women’s Athletic Association (WAA) cited Barbara as a member of its “honor teams” each year she participated in field hockey, soccer, basketball, and volleyball. A dean’s list student all four years, she served on the WAA Executive Board her senior year. She was inducted into the Salem State Athletics Hall of Fame in 1990 for her efforts performing and contributing at the highest level of intercollegiate athletic competition while at Salem. Following her graduation, Barbara taught as a third-grade elementary school teacher in Connecticut for many years until continuing her education at Oberlin College in Ohio, where she received her master’s degree in religious education. She then began a long career with the YMCA organization, finishing as the associate executive director, camping services of the Boston YMCA from 1981 to 1982. For many years following, Barbara could be found working as a substitute teacher at Danvers High School, where she was devoted to helping students reach their highest potential. A naturalborn leader, Barbara devoted many years and much time to mentoring and teaching students through athletics. She shared her passion for swimming, softball and field hockey through coaching and administrating many teams throughout her life.

Edna Mauriello ’44 was truly a leader and pioneer in the fields of education, pedagogy and language immersion, and we were saddened to learn of her passing after a brief illness on December 26, 2018. While a student at Salem Teachers College during World War II, Edna taught African-American and white Appalachian soldiers to read. She always felt it was her life’s work to help others. After graduating, she achieved a doctoral degree from Boston University. During those studies, she conducted groundbreaking research in the areas of early childhood and special education. She later went on to start the counseling center at Salem State. Edna’s spirit for learning, love of education and kindness towards all will forever be the hallmarks used to remember the brilliant life of this treasured Salem State alumna. A long-time professor of education, the first dean of women at Salem Teachers College, and a lifelong volunteer for the Alumni Association, Edna’s impact was immeasurable and will be missed tremendously.

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Margaret “Peggy” Mullane ’50 November 28, 1927–April 8, 2019

In April 2019 we said farewell to an alumna and longtime friend and supporter of Salem State University. Peggy Mullane ’50 served as president of the Salem State University Alumni Association from 1956 to 1957 and created a legacy at Salem State in partnership with her late husband, Vincent Hawes. She lived a long life devoted to the happiness of her children and kindness to others while rooting for her favorite team, the Boston Red Sox. She enjoyed regular get-togethers with her former classmates from Salem State and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

James “Jim” Moroney ’60 November 19, 1930–October 29, 2019

Salem State lost a dedicated alumnus and friend when Jim Moroney ’60 passed away on October 29, 2019. Jim, together with his wife Jane ’60, ’62G and several other loyal alumni volunteers, started the annual Salem State St. Patrick’s Day parade tradition in Naples, Fla. An army veteran, retired Sears salesman, real estate agent, and active member in his community, Jim will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

ALUMNI

From November 1, 2018 to October 31, 2019

Alumni

Andrew T. Ducheneau ’09 Peter R. Duncan ’74 Cheryl A. (Sly) Alaire ’83 Patricia J. Dye ’70G Suzanne M. Allan-Calota ’81 Walter W. Elicker ’08G Jean (McCarthy) Anderson ’73G Elizabeth “Betty” A. (Kline) Fahey ’79 Elaine (Katsos) Antonakes ’74G Valerie C. (Miller) Faxon ’57, ’71G Jean (Billows) Bailey ’62 Francis “Frank” J. Ferreira ’60, ’64G Michael D. Baker ’17 Joanne “Jo” (Carr) Field ’87 Michael Balian ’19 Robert “Jeffrey” Fiske ’69 Timothy M. Barry ’86 Margaret M. Fitzgerald ’81 Thaddeus M. Baxter ’04 Kathryn P. (Mullen) Forbes ’74 Joyce E. (Brown) Bell ’62 Doris T. Fournier ’56, ’69G Frederick “Fred” E. Berry ’06H Joseph “Joe” C. Furtado ’72 Priscilla D. (Logothetis) Betses ’56 Faye E. Gardner ’84 Donald “Don” H. Botsch ’69G Eleanore “Enid” E. Daniel J. Brady ’73 Gateman ’05, ’09, ’14G Donald M. Brannelly ’08 John I. Gaythwaite ’00, ’02 Keith A. Bransfield ’79 Marianne L. (Bath) Gerlach ’87 William “Bill” F. Brennan ’62, ’67G Joseph “Joe” P. Gibney ’06 Gordon W. Brown ’58 Joel “Topo” B. Green ’74 Joseph A. Buchanan ’68G Susan A. Grilk ’82G John S. Buckley ’88 Mabel M. (Lamott) Gross ’56 Robert L. Bushway ’84 Therese M. (Finnegan) Haberman ’79 James “Jim” E. Callahan ’65G William M. Habib ’77 Richard W. Campbell ’88 Kathleen “Kathy” L. (Chase) Harrington ’68 John J. Capomaccio ’57 Douglas “Doug” J. Hatem ’73 George W. Carroll ’94 James E. Healey ’64, ’67G Charles “Charlie” P. Carroll ’64G Donald P. Healy ’94 Myles A. Carroll ’68, ’74G Michael S. Hennessey ’74 Gary J. Chinchillo ’80 Ann “Jackie” J. Hennessey ’54, ’59G Kathryn R. Chisholm ’69, ’88G Ellen P. (Conway) Hilton ’79 Ramona (Lazar) Chudigian ’52 Gerard Hosman ’73 Patrick H. Clapham ’18G Kathleen M. (Donahoe) Howe ’78 Jennifer May (Downing) Colarusso ’03, ’12G Mary F. (Lysaght) Hubbard ’51 Bryan L. Corbett ’03G, ’06G Robert “Bob” A. Hunter ’60G Joan E. (O’Leary) Costa ’68 Joseph “Joe” M. Hyland ’68 Elizabeth “Betty” M. (Murphy) Layne M. Ingraham ’77 Cousin-Lerwick ’44 Charles E. Jones ’61 Arlene “Terry” M. (Avallone) Judith “Judy” A. (Losano) Creech ’60 Juffre ’66, ’77G Barbara A. (Holmes) Cronin ’81G Thea P. (Dantos) Daniel A. Cronin ’72 Karamourtopoulos ’80 Mary C. Cunningham ’62 Peggy A. (Hammonds) Kastner ’60 Joseph “Joe” K. D’Amore ’86 Virginia M. (Grace) Kautz ’56, ’73G Peter J. D’Antonio ’73 John J. Kavanaugh ’72, ’76G Diane E. Dandreta ’67 John “Jake” P. Keane ’91 Mary C. (Ellard) Danforth ’82, ’05 Carolyn M. (Young) Kelley ’48 Carlene E. (Erickson) Darby ’73G Kathleen (Harrington) Kelliher ’84 Jean L. Davin ’84 Anita H. (Humphrey) Kester ’69 Michelle R. (Pelrine) Day ’87 Wayne M. Koch ’73G Pauline “Polly” A. (Calia) DeConto ’46 Grayce M. (Bick) Kushmerek ’01G James “Jim” S. Demakis ’67G Louise A. LaFlamme ’78 Joanne (Carrara) dePina ’74 Doreen E. (Shediac) Lam ’92 Philip “Phil” C. DeRobertis ’65, ’70G Susan C.l Langmaid ’98 Ruth A. (Carbrey) Devarenne ’49 Cynthia “Cindy” F. (Callahan) Langton ’69 Cynthia L. (Cole) Devonshire ’66 Raymond A. LeBrun ’62 John J. Doyle ’54 ’58G Maryellen R. (Reiss) Driscoll ’79G Mantina “Tina” Lefthes ’40

Moira (White) Leith ’79 Charlotte (Robinson) Lemay ’56 Jacqueline “Jackie” O. (Ouellette) Livingston ’49 Waldren “Dinny” P. Lojko ’49 AnnMarie F. (Farrell) Longley ’70, ’79G Richard E. Lynch ’67G John G. MacLennan ’70 William “Bill” D. MacLeod ’75 Amie M. (Leonard) Maddalone ’01, ’07G Tara M. (Cote) Mahoney ’93 John J. Malone ’85 Michael P. Marashian ’73 Carmen “Melena” H. Martinez ’91 Evelyn “Elizabeth” M. Matarese ’65G Joann McCarthy ’85 Robert “Bob” E. McGinness ’62 Susan N. (Moore) McLean ’77 Mary I. (Kavanagh) McMurrer ’54 Thomas “Tom” P. McNulty ’86 Ralph “Bumpa” M. Merry ’56, ’58G Cleodis L. Miller ’96 Barbara H. (Delpero) Miller ’82 Janet A. (Finigan) Minihane ’61 Virginia “Ginny” M. (Kelley) Mitstifer ’67 Phillip A. Molea ’87 Kathleen “Kathie” M. (Curtin) Molenaar ’67 Donna L. (Proulx) Mulcahy ’67 Jean Murphy ’72G Corinne M. (Ryan) Nelson ’86G Eileen R. (Quirke) Neville ’49 Cheryl “Cherry” M. Newton ’78 Michael “Mike” J. Noone ’13G Joseph “Joe” A. Novello ’78 Ronald “Ron” F. Novello ’89 Barbara A. Noymer ’75G William “Bill” P. O’Donnell ’80 Elaine M. (Devarenne) Oliver ’04G Patricia “Pat” E. (Pevear) Oliver ’49 Gwendolyn L. (Clute) Orcutt ’39 Leona G. (Glazer) Ornstein ’48 Marjorie W. (Trask) Parker ’86G Florence S. (Schwartz) Parrino ’70G Marilyn L. (Collins) Pauley ’63, ’68G Neal O. Paulsen ’00 Karen G. (Gerasimowicz) Peake ’92, ’03G Neil C. Pellegrino ’96 Shirley (Knight) Phillips ’36 Vincent J. Piro ‘64, ’66G Lisa M. Rabbitt ’14 Susan J. (Abbott) Rand ’81 Charles “Charlie” L. Rando ’66, ’73G David A. Rawson ’90 William “Bill” A. Reale ’85 Elaine M. (Morfis) Rice ’71

Francis E. Rich ’71 Mary S. Ridge ’72G Carol J. Riley ’81 George “Artie” A. Roach ’62 Kathleen “Kathy” M. (McWade) Robinson ’47 Lillian M. (Daigle) Robinson ’56 Mary E. (Lemieux) Roche ’59 Joseph “Joe” R. Rogers ’50 Lillian “Lil” G. Ronan ’79 Ira J. Rosenberg ’14H Richard “Dick” M. Rozzi ’67G Letty P. Russo ’50 Mary I. (Grimes) Ruth ’69G John “Jack” H. Schlegel ’59, ’65G Ronald F. Selzo ’74 Elaine M. (Caselden) Sheehan ’81 Brenda Simon ’76G Marshall M. Sloane ’88H Dolores L. (Landry) Smithers ’78, ’82G, ’90G Myrna E. (Rosenfield) Sparks ’64 Lewis A. Spates ’71 James P. Speliotis ’73 Harry T. Spence ’03H Carol E. (Coombs) Standley ’56 Mary “Beth” E. (Lowe) Stantial ’87 Frederick I. Sutton ’79 Gregory “Greg” P. Swinson ’76 Robert “Bob” A. Szypko ’64G Phyllis D. Tanen ’51 Joanne C. (Schultz) Tarason ’63 Eileen M. Thomas ’83 Robert J. Tysz ’92 Harold “Harry” E. Vient ’80 Barbara J. (Curley) Vinitsky ’74 Roger W. Washburn ’61 John M. Watson ’75 Thomas “Tom” M. Webb ’80 Doris A. Wheeler ’61 Frances D. (Lawnsby) Winslow ’56 Mary L. Wonson ’97 Frederic “Fred” H. Wood ’90G

Faculty/Staff Richard “Dick” T. Anderson ’58 Phyllis A. Arouth Elvin “Al” M. Fowell Beverly (Fink) Gerson Helen Glikman Harold Harutunian Peter “Cappy” C. Kappotis Richard “Dick” A. LeBel Ralph D. Lewis Rose I. (Olivito) Pareti Timothy M. Quigley Suzanne T. (Marier) Rogers

W I N T E R 2 0 2 0 I S A L E M S TAT E M E N T

Proud Partner

CLASS NOTES

2019-2020 SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Joseph Wamness ’00G, president Debra Lee Surface ’05, ’19G vice president of administration Christopher Corrente ’10, ’12G vice president of outreach Mikki Wilson ’09, secretary Pamela A. Doherty ’92, immediate past president Midge DeSimone ’76, alumni trustee

Salem State University is once again proud to partner with VSP® Vision Care, to provide you the opportunity to access high-quality, full-service, Individual Vision Plans from consumers’ #1 choice in vision care.1

Contact us at: www.salemstate.edu/alumni-and-friends/access-your-alumni-benefits 1. 2017 National Vision Plan Member Research. ©2019 Vision Service Plan. All rights reserved. VSP is a registered trademark, and VSP Individual Vision Plans is a trademark of Vision Service Plan. All other brands or marks are the property of their respective owners. 60649 VCCM

MEMBERS AT LARGE Barbara L. Baggs ’13G Edward J. Brzychcy ’15 Brian K. Castellanos ’16G Jake Cotter ’12 Grazia Crivello ’09 Stephen A. Daly ’84 Kathryn E. D’Amour ’63, ’67G, ’81G Nicole Goggin ’14, ’17G Amanda Kennedy-Paige ’12 James J. Lampassi Jr. ’81 Robin Leger ’77 Patricia M. Libby ’71 Kristin Macek ’07G Georgianna Marks ’74, ’84G Teury Y. Marte ’00 Brianne McDonough ’14G Jessica Tomlinson ’09 Hope M. Watt-Bucci ’96G LEGACY MEMBERS Erik J. Champy ’89, ’94G Eileen Smith Connolly ’59, ’77G Judith Josephs ’63, ’65G Josephine E. Kennedy ’72, ’76G Frank A. Lillo ’64, ’69G Jane E. Moroney ’60, ’62G Frederick A. Sannella ’64 Deirdre A. Sartorelli ’83 STUDENT MEMBERS Armando Martinez ’20, student government association president Paul Wilkens ’20, student trustee Julianna Donovan ’20 graduate student representative

S A L E M S TAT E M E N T I W I N T E R 2 0 2 0

YOU CAN HELP STUDENTS MAKE IT TO GRADUATION "Receiving a scholarship helped relieve some stress and worry, and allows me to focus more on my academics. Salem State University was my first choice, and everyone here has gone out of their way to help me succeed. I’m doing well in my classes and am working toward my goal of becoming a school psychologist." —Trinady Jackson ’22

Almost 95 percent of our full-time undergraduates request financial aid. But right now, there isn’t enough to help everyone. And even though many Salem State students are working two and three jobs—while going to class and studying—many can’t make ends meet. Sometimes, that means they have to drop out. Current students need your help to continue to fight for their education. When you donate—any amount you can—it helps fund scholarships for students like Trinady. You may have experienced a similar struggle as a student and know that every dollar counts when you’re trying to fight for your dreams. You can help make that fight easier.

THANK YOU!

salemstate.edu/makeagift

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