Utica Magazine - Winter/Spring 2024

Reflecting on the achievements of our 9th President

The World is Their Classroom | Lasting Legacies | The Inauguration of

Todd Pfannestiel

LAURA CASAMENTO

FIRST WORDS

Letter from the Editor

Seasons of Change

Change is in the air at Utica University.

The fall season saw the campus once again bustling with activity as students returned for another semester, continuing an academic journey for some and a new chapter of life for others. It seemed only a moment before the vividly familiar red, yellow, and orange leaves were carried off by autumn’s chilly breeze to make way for the snowy days of winter. In the blink of an eye, the Spring semester was here.

A new administration has taken the reins under President Todd Pfannistiel and we say goodbye to President Laura Casamento after her seven years of service in the University’s lead role in addition to her more than 12 years in other positions within the institution prior to that.

Seasons of change at Utica, to be sure - both on campus and within these very pages.

For the past several years, Utica Magazine was under the watchful eye and talented pen of Mary Donofrio. As Mary moves on to greener pastures, the task of overseeing Utica Magazine falls to me. I was a big fan of Mary’s writing, and her skill with the pen (or perhaps skill with the keyboard would be more appropriate in what seems to be an increasingly-digital age) always made me want to be a better writer. While I hope I can do justice to the wonderful stage she has set for us with this magazine, were I to try and replicate her, I’d no doubt come off as a pale imitation at best.

So if things look a little different from time to time, don’t fret. It’s just us moving forward. After all, time only moves in one direction, whether we like it or not. Onward toward the future, with an appreciation for the past.

Though some things may change, one thing remains the same - telling stories - past, present, and future - of the people that make Utica the community it is.

Dave Dellecese Editor

From the Archives

Formal dedication of the Burrstone Road campus on October 19, 1961, concluding the move from Oneida Square to the institution’s permanent home.

MEET THE CHANGEMAKER

Gerard “Jerry” Capraro ’66

Gerard “Jerry” Capraro has never been afraid of change.

Indeed, his long and storied career is testament to the power of pursuing new ideas when the opportunity arises.

Like in 1984, when, after an 18-year career at the Air Force Research Lab in Rome, NY, he and a friend left to open an office for Kaman Sciences, a scientific research firm, in his hometown of Utica, NY.

Or when, a short time later, Capraro parlayed his role as the company’s principal scientist into a faculty position at Syracuse University, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in probability theory, statistics, and information systems.

It happened again in 1993, when Capraro left Kaman and founded Capraro Technologies, Inc., a Uticabased company specializing in research and development for the military, software development, and IT and cybersecurity services.

Then in 2022, Capraro made another big move: He sold his eponymous company to a leading emergency management and disaster recovery firm, Rising Phoenix Holdings Corporation (also headquartered in Utica), on whose leadership team he now actively serves as Chief Scientist.

Through it all, giving back to his alma mater has always been a priority. As a member of Utica’s Heritage Society, Capraro, also a University Trustee, hopes to bolster Utica’s cybersecurity and computer science programs — and support the institution.

“I came to Utica on a scholarship, and I know what a difference that made for me,” he says. “I hope future students can have that same experience.”

With his commitment to philanthropy through planned giving, Capraro doesn’t just embrace change — he makes it.

President

A

Editor

Dave Dellecese

Creative Directors

Aimee Music

Hannah Barley

Senior Writers

Joe Perry ’90

Kelly Adams ’00

Photography

Aimee Music

Victoria DeLuca

Adrienne Smith

Cover photos by

Dan Z. Johnson

Photography (Front)

Nancy Ford (Back)

Class Notes Editors

Tracy Pratt

Benjamin Atwood ’09 G’13

Melissa Foote

Mark Kovacs

Utica is published twice a year by the Office of Marketing and Communications: Kelly Adams, Vice President.

Send correspondence regarding Utica, address changes, and Class Notes to:

Office of Alumni and Parent Relations

Utica University 1600 Burrstone Road Utica, NY 13502-4892 Or call: (800) 456-8278 (315) 792-3025 Or e-mail: uticamag@utica.edu

Dr. Laura Casamento

Everyday Pioneers: Ujjwal Rai ’20

As Ujjwal Rai G’20 prepares to become a member of the Harvard Kennedy School, his heart remains with the community he has helped to foster and create within the Mohawk Valley, pulled together from all parts of the world, much like the foods he has brought to the shelves at Muju International Groceries.

The sign out front says it all: “You are Home.”

Muju International Groceries strives to bring together food items from around the world in one central location - opening up minds and taste buds to flavors that may be unfamiliar, as well as bringing a taste of comfort and home to those in a new land.

Started by Ujjwal and his wife Grace, Muju International Groceries not only sells groceries from numerous countries under one roof, but with the help of friend Ayushi Batra uses the latest technology and Ujjwal’s business acumen honed during his time at Utica to provide a simple and user-friendly website and app that allows customers to have items delivered right to their door, so they can spend less time shopping and more time with their family, friends, and pets.

“The MBA program at Utica University has taught me to have ethics as a top priority and foundation for every business decision and strategy I make,” Ujjwal says. “This very lesson has changed everything for the better as l have been working on a couple of start-ups since my graduation.”

Director of MBA Programs and Assistant Professor of Management at Utica University Dr. Matthew Marmet describes Ujjwal as an integral part in the development of Muju.

“Utica is a very diverse city and Ujjwal sought to open a venue that seeks to represent who and what that city is,”

Dr. Marmet says. “Developing the app to facilitate free delivery within the local area to their customers, Ujjwal and his colleagues are catering to individuals and families regardless of their means. I know he will be an extremely valuable asset to Harvard Kennedy School with much to offer.”

Harvard Kennedy School, officially the John F. Kennedy School of Government, is the school of public policy and government at Harvard University.

Partnering with area Amish farmers to grow locally as many

vegetables from other countries as they can, the couple has found a sustainable way of supporting local producers while still making their buyers from around the world feel at home.

“It all began when Grace arrived in Utica as a refugee. We grew up with rice in the Nepali culture but when she came to America, for months, it didn’t feel like home because she didn’t get rice and other food that she’s used to,” Ujjwal explained in an interview with YouTuber San Kyi. “She had someone come over with Nepali food, and that was the first time she felt home because she got to eat food she grew up with.”

In time, that longing for the food and cultures of home evolved into what would become the idea of an actual store that allows its customers to shop online and save one of the most precious commodities of all - their time.

“We realized if we bring different cultures together, knowing that a lot of immigrants work 15 to 16 hours a day on average, we could help cut their errand time so they can spend time with their family and do other things,” Ujjwal says in his video tour with San Kyi. “We have products from Jamaica, Japan, Thailand, India, Nepal. Going from culture, to culture, we’re just trying to be very intentional about small details. That detail goes into building the community together. That’s a vision we have. It’s not going to be easy, but the challenges make everything exciting.”

As he and Grace turn their vision into reality, Ujjwal says the support he had during his time as a student at Utica has continued well beyond and into all his efforts and ventures to this day, something he remains incredibly thankful for.

“The professors and student body have always been supportive even today,” he says. “The university atmosphere made me feel comfortable from the very first day. As an international student, it is affordable and living expenses are reasonably lower compared to many other cities. I am grateful for everything l learned and the community that l got to be part of.” 

A Man of Character

I want to recognize your announcement of the passing of the Dean of Students, Richard Frank in the recent issue of Utica Magazine.

Dick was an extraordinary man of character, wisdom and compassion. His contributions to Utica University and our entire culture are still felt today.

He was a jazz man with class and grace. His passing is a great loss for everyone whether you knew him or not. He was my mentor and friend. Rest in Peace, Dick.

Paul J. Murphy ’79

“[Dr. Casamento] did an outstanding job through some challenging years - COVID, University designation, expansion. Thank you.”

Frank Maurizio ’77

“Congratulations, [President Casamento], on your retirement. Thank you for all you did for Utica.”

James Hickey ’69.

What Do YOU Think?

“Thanks to the amazing football team that helped our family move in!!! One trip and done!!!”

Tara May Robinson on Move-In Day 2023

“You guys nailed it! What a fantastic experience! We didn’t lift a finger! Thank you for making us all feel so welcome.”

Kristen Poulakis, Parent, on Move-In Day 2023

Share your thoughts on this issue or past issues of Utica via email at uticamag@utica.edu or U.S. Mail:

Office of Marketing and Communications Utica University 1600 Burrstone Road Utica, NY 13502

Celebrating the Class of 2023

Nearly 650 graduates walked across the stage and into a brand new chapter of their lives this past Spring as Utica University held its 74th Commencement exercises.

“This will be my last Commencement as President of Utica University,” Dr. Laura Casamento told the crowd at the undergraduate ceremony. “So in a certain sense, I feel a special connection with the class of 2023, as we mark this moment before moving forward with the next chapter of our lives. And so, to our graduating class, thank you for sharing your journey with me. It is a great honor to walk with you on this momentous day.”

Held at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium, Greg Sankey, widely recognized as one of the most influential leaders in sports, addressed the 425 members of the undergraduate Class of 2023 as Keynote Speaker at Utica University’s Undergraduate Commencement. Sankey is the commissioner of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), a 14-member Division

I athletic conference and a leader on the national landscape for intercollegiate athletics. He was named as the SEC’s eighth commissioner in 2015, after joining the conference as associate commissioner in 2002 before being named Executive Associate Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer in 2012. His career began at Utica, where he served as director of intramural sports.

During the ceremony, Utica University conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree to Sankey.

Thomas John Morreale, a Mathematics / Adolescence Education major from Whitesboro, NY and Salutatorian

Isabella “Isa” Colleen Hudziak, an English / Adolescence Education major also from Whitesboro, NY, were both honored at the ceremony for earning perfect 4.0 grade point averages.

“Thank you for enriching our University community as well as the local community.” President Casamento told graduates. “We are better for your having been here, and I hope that you can say the same about yourselves.”

The following day a ceremony for those earning certificates, masters and doctoral degrees was held at the same location, honoring 219 students, with a keynote address by Ann Ciancia, a 2018 graduate of Utica University who received her undergraduate degrees in Health Studies, Philosophy and Spanish. While at Utica, she was very involved in campus life serving as the first ever female two-term Student Government President along with senior class president. Additionally, she was a Resident Assistant and a leader in many organizations, Greek Life, and athletics. Having earned both an MBA and a J.D., Ann served as Title IX Coordinator and Director of Compliance at Paul Smith’s College. She is now Utica University Director of Contracts and Compliance and Title IX Coordinator.

“I want to extend a special greeting to all the friends and family members in attendance today,” said President Casamento. “Your love and support have been crucial to our graduates’ success, and so we celebrate the important role you have played in making this day a reality.”

Faculty Achievement

Sharon Kanfoush [1] , professor of geology, had a manuscript entitled “Climatic forcing of multidecadal variation in lake sediment characteristics: Teleconnections spanning 1,700 kilometers of North America from Michigan to New York” accepted for publication in the peer-reviewed journal The Northeastern Geographer .

Sharon Kanfoush , Advisory Committee Member of the Institute for the Study of Integrative Healthcare, taught an all-day continuing education workshop on “Yoga and Yoga Therapy for Healthcare Professionals” for over 30 MVHS physical and occupational therapists.

Meredith Madden [2] , assistant professor of education, recently authored the book Dear Students: 10 Letters to Empower and Transform Your Higher Education Journey - a higher education guide that prepares students to authentically and intentionally “do school.” Available from Peter Lang International Academic Publishers, Dear Students uses narratives to illuminate critical topics that will foster the reader’s understanding of valuable matters such as getting noticed and having your experiences centered; building a circle of support; the significance of faculty relationships including building those relationships in spaces like office hours; addressing fears of speaking, disrupting silence, and engaging voice in the classroom; developing deep listening; cultivating community; nurturing belonging;

preparing to participate; and keeping hope alive. Readers will engage moments of critical reflection and leave with many diverse “know-how” strategies that will position them to “do school” from a place of empowerment and for the purpose of transformation.

Hava Turkakin [3] , assistant professor of physics, was awarded a $202,312 research grant from the National Science Foundation to support the project Kelvin-Helmholtz Instability and Magnetosonic Wave Emission Along Bursty Bulk Flow Channel Boundaries: Impacts on Near-Earth Plasma Sheet Dynamics During Substorms. The funding will allow Dr. Turkakin to conduct her research as well as hire an undergraduate research assistant and a high school student, providing them with valuable hands-on research and learning experience. The award will also allow Dr. Turkakin and her researchers the ability to travel to the American Geophysical Union yearly conference.

Janice Ceccucci [4] , assistant professor of nursing, has received a $25,000 grant from the International Association of Forensic Nurses that will enable her to travel to Romania and train medical professionals there on how to provide services to victims of sexual assault. Romania has an extremely high rate of sexual violence, assault and human trafficking.

Utica’s first artist-inresidence featured at the New York State Museum

Throughout 2023, visitors to the New York State Museum in Albany had the opportunity to see the work of Utica University’s first artist-in-residence at the Henry DiSpirito: From Stonemason to Sculptor exhibit.

When Henry DiSpirito emigrated from Italy in 1921 he was already a trained stonemason and bricklayer. In Utica he found work in those trades but longed to devote his life to art. He found his calling in the direct-carving style of sculpture. Most of his subjects were animals or human figures, rendered in fieldstone or wood. He exhibited at the Whitney, MoMA, and SculptureCenter in New York City, and at museums and galleries across the state.

As well as a renowned sculptor, DiSpirito was also an accomplished painter. In 1963, he was appointed the first artist-in-residence at thenUtica College, a position he held until his death in 1995. Through his art, DiSpirito developed a deep connection with students and faculty, as well as the larger community in Utica.

In keeping with Henry DiSpirito’s generous spirit, the DiSpirito family donated a collection of his works to the New York State Museum. The new installation featured nine sculptures and a group of paintings from this collection—with an additional sculpture on loan from Utica University. Historical images and tools from his studio illuminate his creative process throughout the exhibit, which ran through December 31.

Nexus Center rebranded as Utica University Nexus Center

The Upper Mohawk Valley Memorial Auditorium Authority, Oneida County and Utica University announced in March that the new $64 million, stateof-the-art Nexus Center in downtown Utica will be rebranded as the Utica University Nexus Center through an exclusive naming rights partnership.

The university’s investment in this partnership, which will be entirely donor funded, is approximately $150,000 annually for ten years, with a five-year renewal option.

The Utica University Nexus Center will attract nearly 400,000 visitors annually for amateur hockey, soccer, and lacrosse tournaments as well as a variety of other high profile events. The state-of-the-art venue also hosts the Utica University women’s and Utica Jr. Comets Junior A hockey teams, and serves as a practice and training facility

for the American Hockey League’s Utica Comets.

“It gives me great pleasure in saying for the last time, ‘Welcome to the Nexus Center.’ It will now be, ‘Welcome to the Utica University Nexus Center,’” says Carl Annese, chairman of the Upper Mohawk Valley Auditorium Authority.

“As the partnership grows between Utica University and the Auditorium Authority, so do the possibilities.”

“When Oneida County committed $47 million to bring the Nexus Center to downtown Utica, we knew it was going to transform the region, and it has done just that,” says Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “The teams and families it has drawn for youth sports are packing our hotels, restaurants and businesses, and along with the Adirondack Bank Center, is leading to further development in and

around the area. Through its hockey and sports management programs, Utica University has been with us every step of the way, and the new possibilities this naming partnership brings with it are endless.”

“The benefits of this naming partnership go far beyond the significant marketing return on investment that it will generate,” says Utica University President Dr. Laura Casamento. “This destination facility was built on the successful revitalization that is occurring across our region and the promise for more to come. We are excited and proud to be closely associated not only with this state-ofthe-art venue, but with the amazing synergy and passion for progress that have made it all possible.”

This investment further demonstrates Utica University’s commitment to a

project from which its students will benefit tremendously – athletically and academically. In addition to becoming the new home for the Utica Pioneers women’s hockey team and providing practice ice for the University’s men’s and women’s teams, the facility has expanded experiential learning opportunities for Utica students. The facility, which houses classroom, faculty office, and conference room/collaboration space dedicated to the University’s sports management program, will function as a living laboratory, providing students with a distinctive, hands-on experience operating a destination sports venue. Through this partnership, the University hopes to create similar future opportunities for students in other academic programs, including but not limited to physical therapy,

“This destination facility was built on the successful revitalization that is occurring across our region and the promise for more to come.”

dietetics and nutrition, and exercise and wellness studies.

Moreover, this partnership reinforces the University’s contributions to the revitalization of downtown Utica as a vibrant social district, innovation hub, and economic center. The Auditorium Authority and Utica University helped facilitate a $600,000 New York State and Municipal Facilities Grant secured by Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon to outfit the third floor for the University’s sport management program. This further brings to fruition the vision of the Assemblywoman and many others.

As a marketing initiative alone, this partnership presents a unique opportunity to display the Utica University brand exclusively in front of its primary prospective student

audience. The destination venue offers access to an audience not available through traditional advertising channels. In addition to the building name and exterior, interior, and highway signage, the Utica University brand will be featured on all print, digital, and broadcasting promotional marketing and advertising, associated social media and digital platforms, press releases, apparel, stationery, ticket stock and envelopes, and in-ice logos.

As part of the agreement, the University also plans to host select large-scale gymnastics, wrestling, or e-sports competitions inside the new venue, further expanding the venue’s and Oneida County’s reach and reputation as a nationally recognized destination sports complex. 

President Laura Casamento addresses attendees at the announcement of Utica University Nexus Center naming.

Jazmene Molina ’26

Hometown: La Mirada, CA

Major: Psychology/Criminal Justice

Jazmene Molina came to Utica to be a Pioneer – in more ways than one. With three teammates – Ashley Mendez ’27, Gillian Mills ’27, and Sara Sylvester ’27 –the sophomore transfer student from southern California is ushering in the University’s newest intercollegiate sport, women’s wrestling. When Molina learned last year that her college coach, Connor Lapresi, had accepted an offer to come to Utica and build a new program from the ground up, she was intrigued by the challenge, so much that she decided to follow him north to Ferrum College in Virginia. Her goals are not limited to quickly putting Utica University on the wrestling map or individual aspirations of qualifying for nationals, an achievement a late-season knee injury cost her last year. “Women’s wrestling isn’t as big as other sports, but it’s growing. People know it as an exclusivelymale sport, but that’s not true at all. I feel like helping to build a new program here, I can, at the same time, help combat that myth and help other people find their passion toward it.”

Photo by Nancy Ford

Football Team Earns Bowl Victory [1]

The Utica University football team captured its second ECAC bowl championship in program history with a 10-6 road victory over Hobart College November 18 in the Clayton Chapman Bowl.

The win marked the Pioneers’ third-ever postseason victory following wins in the 2018 ECAC Scotty Whitelaw Bowl over Ithaca College and in last season’s NCAA Tournament over Susquehanna University.

Utica’s nine wins on the season were the second-most in a single season in program history behind only the 10 wins set by the Pioneers last season during their NCAA Tournament run. The Pioneers placed 13 players on All-Conference teams, including defensive end John Stroughn ’23, who earned American Football Coaches Association All-American recognition. Stroughn is Utica’s third AFCA All-American, joining Thomas Woodburn ’15, G’17 and Nate Palmer ’22.

Sideline Report

For the second time in program history, the men’s basketball team captured the Empire 8 Championship and an automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament. [2]

The men’s hockey team qualified for the NCAA Tournament for the fourth consecutive season. The Pioneers clinched their second-ever national semifinal appearance with a 4-1 victory over Plymouth State before falling to defending and eventual national champion Hobart 3-1 at the Frozen Four in Hartford, CT. [3]

Jane Fahy captured All-American honors with a second place finish in the shot put at the NCAA Women’s Indoor Track and Field Championships in Virginia Beach, VA. [4]

The girl from Lenox Ave.

President Casamento grew up several blocks – a baseball’s throw – from the Utica University campus

What does it mean to me to have served as president of the university in my hometown?

I grew up several blocks from this campus, on the 900 block of Lenox Avenue. I went to Kernan Elementary for kindergarten and St. Joseph-St. Patrick for grades 1-8. Those were the days when my brothers and sisters and I were each left a quarter a day for the summer months, which covered admission into Addison Miller pool, almost right here behind the Utica campus, and an ice cream on the way home at the shop on City Street. Those were also the days when you left the house in the morning, maybe you returned for a midday sandwich, definitely returned for dinner, and you went back out until the street lights came on.

I am the youngest of six children, and was pretty much a thorn in my older siblings’ side for years. Wherever they went, I had to go too. Whether they liked it or not – and most times, they didn’t like it – I was like the little boat anchor they couldn’t shake. But man, did I ever get an early education in life?

I have to thank my brother Steven for “toughening me up.” When he had no one to play catch with, or even a ball to throw for that matter, he would roll up newspapers, wrap them in electrical tape, grab a glove three times too big for me, and take me out to the backyard to “learn how to play baseball.” I was probably five or six at the time. “Learning how to play baseball” meant I was the catcher –more accurately, I was a human target, and my brother would throw fastball after fastball at me. If I got tired or began to cry, he would walk up to me and ask, “Would Johnny Bench cry?” As a little kid, I was a fan of

the Cincinnati Reds and the Big Red Machine. Of course, my brother knew that I knew Johnny Bench would never cry. So, I would wipe away the tear and we kept going.

Soon, I actually learned how to hit a fastball. A home run for me was anything that landed in the Delugolecki’s backyard. They were next door. For my brother, it was the Yaworski’s yard. They were two houses over. After baseball, it was basketball then football. And soon you could not keep me out of a playground or street game with the boys in the neighborhood.

I have served Utica University for more than 19 years, the past seven as president. I am a prime example of someone who was and is willing to give anything a try, someone who has always been curious and interested in learning new things, someone who has kept her eyes and heart open to life’s possibilities. No one could have ever convinced a young girl growing up on Lenox Ave in the late 60s and early 70s that she would one day grow up to become, first, a bank president, and later a university president - to break that glass ceiling not once, but twice. But as I take pride in telling students, that girl did all of those things, and the world is open to all kinds of possibilities for you, too, if you just seize them as they are presented to you. The easy way out is usually never the best way. Learn how to handle the fastball as early as you can.

To all of my colleagues at Utica University, thank you for joining me every day in the support and love for our students. Utica University is part of the heartbeat of this city, part of the soul of the Mohawk Valley, and forever part of my heart. 

Pop Quiz

With a little help from his friends, we take a deeper dive into Todd Pfannestiel’s Beatles fandom – and, while we’re at it, his wide-ranging research interests and fondness for comic book superheroes, pro wrestling, and hot dogs.

We asked four members of the Utica University community:

How Well Do You Know the New President?

Here are their answers:

If Todd could take the place of one Beatles member for one concert, which of the Fab Four would he choose?

MT: John Lennon

KJ: Ringo Starr

LE: John Lennon

VD: Paul McCartney

Answer: Ringo

What Beatles song would Todd sing first at karaoke?

MT: I Want to Hold Your Hand

KJ: Here Comes the Sun

LE: Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

VD: Here Comes the Sun

Answer: I Saw Her Standing There

What non-Beatles musical group or artist is Todd’s guilty pleasure?

MT: Michael Jackson

KJ: Bob Marley

LE: Aerosmith

VD: AC/DC

Answer: Tom Jones

Who is Todd’s favorite superhero?

MT: Batman

KJ: Batman

LE: Superman

VD: Captain America

Answer: Batman

What Beatles song inspired the customized license plate on Todd’s car?

MT: Day Tripper

KJ: Please Please Me

LE: Hey Jude

VD: Yellow Submarine

Answer: Please Please Me

What is Todd’s favorite actor portrayal of Batman?

MT: Christian Bale

KJ: Keanu Reeves

LE: Adam West

VD: Ben Affleck

Answer: Christian Bale

Which Avengers member would Todd cast himself as in the next film?

MT: (Pass)

KJ: Iron Man

LE: Iron Man

VD: Thor

Answer: Incredible Hulk

Todd the professional wrestler: Face (hero) or Heel (villain)?

MT: Heel

KJ: Heel

LE: Heel

VD: Heel

Answer: Heel

What is Todd’s favorite hot dog topping? (Hint: it’s a combination.)

MT: Mustard and Hot Sauce

KJ: Ketchup and Mustard

LE: Ketchup and Mustard

VD: Mayo and Mustard

Answer: Chili and Cheese

What avid traveler and legendary philanthropist and what 20th century U.S. president are the two primary subjects of Todd’s research?

MT: Stan Lee and George H. W. Bush

KJ: Warren Buffett and Theodore Roosevelt

LE: Andrew Carnegie and Theodore Roosevelt

VD: John D. Rockerfeller and George H. W. Bush

Answer: Santa Claus and Richard Nixon

Mickale Thompson ’24

Leah Easton ’23

Kathi Jabe ’25

Victoria DeLuca ’24

President Casamento looks back on her very eventful tenure at the helm of Utica University Reflections

President Casamento looks back on her very eventful tenure at the helm of Utica University Reflections

Photo by Dan Z. Johnson Photography

My first position at Utica was Vice President for Institutional Advancement, which I held for about five years before I was asked to be a Senior Vice President and then Executive Vice President, when I took on the responsibilities of two other divisions - Financial Affairs and Enrollment Management. That put me in a sort-of Chief Operating Officer role, where I learned a lot. I had already learned quite a bit of how the institution operated from being on the President’s Cabinet, but these roles really allowed me the opportunity to see what was under the hood, so to speak - how this place really functioned. It was an enormous learning opportunity for me.

I was convinced that I would never be a college president, mostly because I never thought that I wanted to be one. That started to change, though, when I went back to get my doctorate degree. I thought that with my background in higher education and finance, a doctorate would really tie things together in terms of what I wanted to do from that point forward. At the time I had no idea when former President Todd Hutton was going to retire, but as it turned out, he chose to step down one year into my doctoral program. So I thought, “If not me, then who will step in?”

I had no interest in pursuing a college presidency in Albany or Rochester or Alabama or California. But this is my hometown. I understood the importance of this place, and I decided that I was going to compete for the job because I knew I could do some good. If they told me I didn’t get it, then perhaps I’d get to work with a really great president and continue the good work I was already doing here. Either way, I really didn’t see any downside.

I’m glad that I took the initiative and made the case for why I should be president. I looked forward to the national search and the opportunity to compete against other strong candidates for the position. I wanted people to know that I was selected because I was the best candidate.

When I talk to my peers around the country and they learn I’m the president of the university in my hometown, they’re in a bit of disbelief as that’s not something a lot of people can say. My

Continued on the following page.

decision to pursue the presidency at Utica was driven by a sense of personal investment. I didn’t feel anyone else was going to be able to come in and understand from day one what we mean to the Mohawk Valley region, nor share my passion for the region. No one, I felt, would be nearly as invested as I am in the success of the institution, of the city of Utica, and of the greater Mohawk Valley and its people. Others might come here, serve as president, then leave the area. For me, this is where I make my home and when I’m done, my home is still here. So it truly matters to me, just as it matters to my children, my grandchildren, my extended family, and everyone here that I’ve grown up with. That’s why I did it.

Cool Under Pressure

There were certainly challenges early on. My first winter as president was when the (Hutton Sports and Recreation Center) dome collapsed. That was also when the governor at the time announced the Excelsior Scholarship –essentially a program for free four-year public college education. Then we had the terror lockdown of 2018, and not so long after that we were hit with COVID-19.

I remember I was in Florida at an alumni event when I got the call that the dome had collapsed in Blizzard Stella. I was just stunned. My first question was if anyone was inside and if anyone had been hurt. Once I knew everyone was safe, we could move forward. Money is money and buildings can be fixed, but the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty, and staff was far and away the most important thing. It was a moment when the enormity and the gravity of my responsibility for this community as president really hit me.

I reached out to members of the Board and to members of the community

because let’s face it – everything I know about the engineering of an air-supported structure you can put into a thimble. So I knew I needed help. Fortunately, we have this incredible Construction Management Advisory Group and such knowledgeable businesspeople who came together to say, “How are we going to solve this problem?” It was the same thing, but on a different level, after the terror threat. The way this community came together for each other and the level of caring that people showed for one another was inspiring. That’s what got me through the terror lockdown, the dome collapse, and so many other things.

Through events like these you’re making decisions as the president, and sometimes people are not happy with those decisions and other times they are. You’re never going to make everyone happy, but through it all, people really rose to the occasion.

(Former Provost and Incoming President) Todd Pfannestiel talks about how important it is to be cool under pressure when you’re in a role like the presidency. Following the terror lockdown, I had to get in front of the cameras with thousands of people in the street at the end of that day. Stephanie Nesbitt, who was a leader on the emergency management group at the time, said to me as I was walking out to the cameras, “Laura, the way you present yourself right at this moment – that’s the level of faith people are going to have the in the University. You have to go out there, and you have to own this moment.” After that horrible day we had, the responses to questions may have been brief, but we let people know just what we’re doing. Stephanie was so right, and I’ve followed her advice all the way through. Moments like these define how people see the University. As president, it’s on you and how you react.

Could we have gotten through the pandemic if we didn’t come together as a community? If people didn’t feel safe here? For that, I’ve got to give all the credit in the world to my leadership team and our faculty for setting up the systems and testing that we did. We changed the entire way we operate so that we could remain open. We were determined to make certain that our students got the education they came here to receive. Everyone here made sacrifices and worked hard to make that happen.

All For The Students

I have a box full of cards and letters that I received from people all over this community saying how, during the pandemic, they actually felt safer here than at home or other places. Aside from being enormously rewarding to read, those messages represent the deep connection the presidency at Utica University has with our students. Before I was president, I interacted with students, but as president your relationship with the students is on an entirely different level.

I’ve loved inviting students into my office and having my open office hours. Some students are just thrilled with the chance to sit on the couch and tell me what’s happening in their lives. When they need it, I try to figure out how I can help. Of course, there are also students who feel too intimidated to walk into the big office, and I get it, which is why I also held open office hours in the residence halls. I know that’s something that Todd talks about continuing – going to where the students are, being there for their big events and the things they want to do, having them just see your face and know that you’re interested in their lives. Even when you’re getting back to a student to say that, despite your best efforts, things just didn’t work out, I’ve never seen them not appreciate the effort.

“I’m looking forward to whatever comes next for Utica University, forever in my heart.”

I remember times when there was a water issue in the residence halls, or some of the laundry facilities weren’t working. How would I have known that if not for a student telling me how inconvenient it was? Of course it was inconvenient – it’s their home. In some of those cases like that, you can just get it done. There are other times it may be more complicated, but I’ve found that regardless of the circumstances, students love that they’re being heard. They love that you’ve put thought into something and that they get a response, whether it’s a yes or no. They don’t always need to get what they’re asking for, but they want to be heard and they want to be respected.

Hands down, those relationships are the best part of the job. When you’re driving home at night after a 12-hour day, though you may feel totally exhausted, you know this is why we do what we do.

The Right Time

I didn’t have a timeline for this when I started. I thought maybe I could do it for 10 years, but now it’s been seven

and I think personal circumstances, family illness, and running the university through the time of the pandemic – it’s taken a toll. So the decision feels right and at the right time.

A lot has been accomplished these past seven years and there’s plenty to be proud of. For me, one of the biggest is the success of the tuition reset in terms of lowering student debt at graduation by between 25 and 30 percent. The worst thing in the world is to have someone come to school here and have to leave with a bunch of debt and no degree. That is a gut-wrenching situation, so being able to help with college affordability is absolutely number one for me.

Number two is being the president that got to announce that we are now a university. A lot of work went into that under my predecessor, but I can already tell the difference that it’s going to make in terms of our sustainability, because it has opened up so many doors on the international front. We haven’t had this kind of interest in a long time, and I know that the university name has much to do with that.

There’s plenty to be proud of, for sure, but also much that I’ll miss.

I’ll miss the ability to change a student’s life. I don’t mean their entire life, but at a moment in time. I remember a student once coming in to see me in December some years ago, a fantastic student very close to graduating that had a strikingly difficult financial circumstance happen in their life and wasn’t going to be able to stay. We were able to make it so they could stay and finish, and the reaction of that student will never leave me. That’s what it’s all about, making that difference. I’ll miss that part very much.

With newfound time on my hands, I’m looking forward to spending more of it with my family – my husband, children, and grandchildren. I’m also very excited about spending some time on myself. It’s been a long time, not just here, but in my prior work since I’ve been able to make myself personally a priority, and I’m looking forward to that, just as I’m looking forward to whatever comes next for Utica University, forever in my heart. 

“ Community Perspectives on a Historic Presidency

In my role, I’ve seen a different side of what President Casamento faced during her presidency, and it was not for the weak-hearted. In my view, she handled it all with poise, grace, and humility. Throughout her tenure, she was open and transparent, bold, determined, and her heart was in the right place. Above all, she demonstrated many times over that you can be a strong leader, be tough when necessary, and yet have fun. In reflection, I was proud of her, not just for being the first woman president of our University, but for setting a great example for our students, other leaders in our community, and for college presidents across the country.”

– Heidi M. Hoeller CPA ’91, UTICA UNIVERSITY TRUSTEE

“What made President Casamento truly valuable during my time as student body president was her unwavering commitment to honesty and her ability to provide sound advice and guidance, even when it wasn’t necessarily what I wanted to hear. She consistently steered us in the right direction, helping us shape a better student experience.”

– Colby Kusinitz ’23 FORMER SGA PRESIDENT AND FORMER CAPTAIN OF THE UTICA EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

“There could not have been a better time for Dr. Laura Casamento to become president of Utica University, and there could not have been a better person to become president than Laura. Her ascension to the presidency, for those of us who knew her well and worked with her in various capacities, was not at all surprising. Laura was a true leader in everything she did. Her passion for everything at Utica was what always stood out, and in that, she took the community along with her.”

– Anthony Picente ’94 ONEIDA COUNTY EXECUTIVE

“Our community has certainly benefited under the leadership of Laura Casamento. She has provided Utica University and our greater region years of dedicated, thoughtful, analytical, influential, and pragmatic service and perspective, moving us forward in dynamic style. I consider myself fortunate to have had Laura serve as trustee on the Community Foundation board. She has the knack of seeing precisely what needs to be done and never loses sight of the outcomes we are trying to obtain.”

– Alicia Dicks PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF HERKIMER AND ONEIDA COUNTIES

“As I made my way toward Gaetano Stadium to witness the inauguration of Utica’s ninth President, I encountered a woman sitting alone in a golf cart outside the stadium. In that moment, I stopped to say hello to Laura Casamento who looked like the weight of the world was squarely set upon her shoulders. This was a side of Laura I had never seen. She shared with me that she was extremely nervous but filled with anticipation and excitement. I offered a hug and she accepted. I told her that her obvious love for the institution would serve her well during the tough days that lie ahead. She acknowledged the trust bestowed upon her by the Utica community and the Board of Trustees and hoped that she would not let us down. In every encounter during her term, Laura always expressed a deep concern and love for this institution. While some may have differed with her approach, she was unwavering in her dedication to the success of the University and especially our students. Laura’s compassion shone through every time I would bring a student with extraordinary needs to her. She found a way to help. I will also add that she was especially supportive of the Utica University Mock Trial Team. She was integral in the process of locating resources to get the team to the AMTA Regionals. I am forever in her debt for all the support she has shown me and our students.”

– Bernard L. Hyman, Jr., J.D., C.F.E. FACULTY SENATE PRESIDING OFFICER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL CRIME PROGRAMS, PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE - FRAUD AND FINANCIAL CRIME

Lasting Legacies

A lot can happen in the span of seven years, and President Casamento proved that in spades with numerous projects and innovations. In the pages that follow are a few highlights from throughout her tenure.

Brvenik Center for Business Education dedicated

Located on the first floor of the historic Clark City Center in the heart of Utica’s financial District, the Brvenik Center for Business Education in downtown Utica was officially dedicated in a ribboncutting ceremony on Thursday, October 20, 2016. The state-ofthe-art facility for Utica’s business programs was named in honor of Robert Brvenik ’77, former Chair of Utica’s Board of Trustees and major benefactor of the University.

Making higher education more affordable

Utica was one of the first institutions in the country to reset its undergraduate tuition in Fall 2016, lowering the cost by some 42%, leading to an almost immediate increase in enrollment and retention. In addition, the reset, set in motion by her predecessor and overseen by President Casamento, made the entire admissions process more transparent and easier to navigate.

First woman to serve as President in Utica history

Laura Casamento became the ninth president and fourteenth chief executive officer of Utica University on August 1, 2016. She is the second president selected by the independent Board of Trustees and the first woman to serve as president in the 75-year history of the University.

Honored as a NYS Woman of Distinction

On May 9, 2018 State Senator Joseph Griffo honored President Laura Casamento in Albany as a 2017 New York State Woman of Distinction. Dr. Casamento was nominated by Senator Griffo because of her longtime commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable.

“Dr. Casamento’s passion for progress is defined by a lasting bond to her community and a lifetime of hard work,” Senator Griffo said, “and this history of achievement in furthering educational opportunity for future generations is worthy of recognition.”

Pioneer Village offers new apartment-style housing

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, September 13, 2019 celebrated the opening of Pioneer Village. The $14 million-dollar project, a partnership between the Municipal Housing Authority, BBL Construction Services LLC and Utica University, was built by Albany-based BBL, with several Utica Construction Management grads and students assuming leadership roles in the project.

“This partnership has allowed Utica to offer an affordable, premium-level housing option that keeps more students on campus, where they can live and learn alongside their peers as part of the growing campus community,” President Casamento said at the event.

Largest bequest in institutional history

On October 16, 2019, President Laura Casamento announced that the institution had received the largest bequest as well as the largest single cash gift in its history - $2.35 million from the Lotis B. Howland trust.

The gift supported several important initiatives, including funding for the expansion of the Science Center and the new Inter-Cultural and Student Organization Center, as well as a series of initiatives aimed at student persistence and on-time graduation, technology upgrades to more than 40 classrooms, and additional safety improvements on campus.

Students give Utica high marks for handling of pandemic

In 2020, Utica received top marks for keeping its students safe and healthy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a national survey among higher education institutions.

An overwhelming majority of Utica students (89%) who completed the survey said they believed the institution kept them safe and healthy. That’s in comparison to 70% of respondents from all the institutions that participated in the study.

Students’ highest level of satisfaction had to do with Utica’s efforts and ability to hold in-person classes on campus throughout the fall semester thanks to numerous mitigation and prevention efforts, including aggressive weekly COVID testing of all students, faculty, and staff.

Largest endowment helps fund Institute for Study of Integrative Health

President Laura Casamento announced October 27, 2020 that the institution would establish The Institute for the Study of Integrative Healthcare (ISIH), made possible through an anonymous multi-year gift commitment totaling $2.8 million. The gift represents one of the largest charitable gifts in the institution’s history, and the largest single endowment gift since its founding.

The multi-disciplinary institute promotes advanced learning and research in the emerging field of integrative healthcare, bringing together a broad range of practices in support of patient health and well-being.

Monument created to honor veterans

Constructed by the Student Veterans Association and the Student Contractors Association with funding by some donations, Utica University’s new Veterans Memorial includes a granite and bronze monument, 35-foot flagpole, and sidewalk located in front of Strebel Student Center. President Casamento attended the November 8, 2019 dedication ceremony, which featured a keynote address by Major General (ret.) Peter Lennon, recipient of the Bronze Star and a native of Central New York.

Endowed Professorship in Cybersecurity established

With funding provided by Fredericka “Fritzie” Paine, the University established the Karl Zimpel ’75 Endowed Professorship in Cybersecurity in March 2021. It is the second endowed professorship in Utica’s history; the first was the Harold T. Clark Jr. ’65 Professorship, established in 2005.

Largest endowed scholarship in institutional history, Wilcox Center opens

On September 8, 2021, President Casamento announced the largest endowed scholarship in Utica’s history, made possible with a founding gift of $2 million from the estate of Francis A. Wilcox. The announcement was made at the formal dedication of the recently-completed Francis A. Wilcox Intercultural and Student Organization Center.

The Francis A. Wilcox Fellowships provide scholarships of $5,000 annually for 20 students: 10 traditional undergraduate students matriculating directly from high school, six returning or resuming undergraduate studies, and four graduate students. After one year of vesting, the scholarships will be administered by the Office of Financial Aid.

Utica College becomes Utica University

President Laura Casamento announces on February 17, 2022 that the New York State Board of Regents has approved and endorsed the college’s petition to elevate to university status, effective immediately.

“This day is not just about a name change. It represents the culmination of a decades-long commitment to strategic growth, academic excellence through innovative programs and curricula, and an unwavering belief in providing incredible, life-changing opportunities to all students through higher education,” said Casamento.

State-of-the-art Science Building, Athletic Track open to enhance student experience

The student experience at Utica gets even better! At a time when many put construction on hold amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Utica moved full steam ahead on multiple major construction and renovation projects.

On October 21, 2021 dual ribbon cuttings were held to celebrate the newly constructed Pioneer Track and Field Complex and the new Science Center!

Utica University Nexus Centera unique opportunity for students

On June 24, 2022, President Laura Casamento and Mohawk Valley Gardens CEO Rob Esche announced the University partnership with the Nexus Center, providing a highly innovative, first-of-its kind opportunity for students in the sports management program to gain real, professional experience.

The Nexus Center allows students to have a hands-on, interactive learning experience to help put their foot in the door when searching for employment upon graduation.

“We love when local students can find an opportunity to be educated and find meaningful careers here, raise their families here - that’s what it’s all about. It’s about growing our region. We need young people to stay here; that has been a part of the resurgence of Utica,” said Casamento.

Game on! State-of-theart facility welcomes ESports program

Utica University unveils the highly anticipated Carbone Family Esports Auditorium in October 2022, a stateof-the-art facility, located in Bull Hall - home to the new Utica University Esports Program. Esports is rapidly growing among colleges and universities across North America, and this arena already allows Utica students to compete against some of the top Esports teams in the nation.

Honoring her contributions

On May 10, 2023 Utica University dedicates the Laura M. Casamento Track and Field Complex to honor the contributions of retiring President Casamento. The complex features a brandnew track, bleachers, and a multipurpose turf field. 

Photo by Nancy Ford

The Right Fit

How Todd Pfannestiel

discovered

he was a natural-born Pioneer

The epiphany came as they almost always do – suddenly and without warning.

Todd Pfannestiel was completing his doctorate at the College of William and Mary when the institution offered him the opportunity to do something new and different: teach an undergraduate history course.

Teaching had never been part of his career plan. His driving ambition as a young elementary school student back in Oklahoma, and later as a prolific high school debater, was to enter politics, or even to become President of the United States. Then, after experiencing university life, he was certain that lifelong learner was the role he was best suited for. But by the end of his first 50 minutes as an adjunct history instructor, he knew he had found his holy grail.

“Being a college teacher was an absolute addiction for me, and I loved every minute of it,” he recalls.

It was the start of a new chapter for him. Doctorate in hand, he joined the faculty at Clarion University, and within 15 years he had achieved every milestone that defines a successful professor, from positive teaching evaluations to publications to awards for excellence.

“I was named the Outstanding Faculty Member by the alumni association, which was typically awarded to professors who are much further along in their careers, not at the beginning,” he says. He was also named Outstanding Faculty Member by the Student Athletes Advisory Committee as well as the Student Government Association. “My mentality has always been if you’re going to do something, go the whole nine yards. It’s probably a measure of obsessive compulsiveness that I’ve never been diagnosed with – I am not compulsive, but I am obsessive. That’s why I when I became a professor, I knew I would be college president someday.”

He could have continued along the same professorial path quite happily for another 15 years, but he craved a challenge. As deeply satisfying as teaching was for him, he began to wonder how he could have the same kind of impact on a far greater number of students.

“I wanted to be the best that I could be at whatever I was doing, and I felt that I was reaching that as a professor,” he says. “I found myself asking, what’s next?”

Continued on the following page.

Choosing Utica

Over the next five years, Dr. Todd, as he is colloquially known, served as dean at Clarion, then provost, and for a time, interim president. He had, in fact, already submitted his application for the presidency there when he was offered the provost role at Utica University. “President (Laura) Casamento offered me the job at Utica, so I withdrew my application from Clarion and accepted,” he says.

Relocating and starting fresh wasn’t an obvious choice. He valued loyalty and was reluctant to upend the life and career he had built at Clarion, but his overriding desire to find new opportunities for progress and meaningful change at an institutional level made Utica seem like the right choice at the right time.

“There was a distinct opportunity for me to become Clarion’s president, but I can honestly say that I had reached the one moment in my professional life when I truly felt a change was going to be good for me personally, no matter how scary it might be,” he says. “And when I came up here and met the people, I knew if I was going to make a change and go anywhere, it was going to be Utica.”

Utica felt like home to him. It embodied the same passion for teaching that had taken hold of him from his first moment at the front of that classroom at William and Mary. It had a laser focus on student achievement that resonated with him deeply. Just as importantly, it was founded on a principle of continual improvement and a mission-driven spirit of innovation that was unique in his experience.

“I absolutely believe in the potential and future of Utica because this is an institution that embraces change, which is extremely rare in higher education,” he says. “No matter how hard the discussion is, at the end of the day we will face challenges head on and make changes if it’s right decision to do so. This is an institution that wants always to be better in terms of how we serve students. That’s where I want to be. If I were at an institution that thought it had it all figured out, I’d probably be a little bored.”

Thriving on the unexpected

When he was chosen as Utica’s next president and the announcement ran in his hometown newspaper in Sapulpa, OK, Pfannestiel saw a social media comment by a high school friend he hadn’t spoken with in more than 30 years.

“He always said he wanted to be president,” his old friend quipped. “I guess in some ways he made it.”

Though it was meant as a joke, there was some truth to his former classmate’s post. The presidency Pfannestiel ultimately was chosen for is perhaps uniquely well-suited to a person of his abilities and general outlook.

As a leader, he thrives on having the opportunity to address often unanticipated challenges, likening it to an addiction.

“If you do not like that phone ringing and not knowing who it’s going to be or what challenge is going to be unexpectedly dropped into your lap, you had better not be a university president,” he says. “For me, that’s the adrenaline rush – that same spark that fired in my head when I was in front of a classroom, seeing the light come on for a student. Every time we achieve success, that spark fires again.

“This is why I do this. I do it to keep the University moving forward. I do it for the students, who are the soul of the institution. But I also do it for myself.”

He also gets an enormous charge out of the president’s role as an ambassador and a storyteller.

“If my entire presidency was based around meeting students and supporters of the institution, that would be fine with me. To the alumni and the donors, I can tell the Utica story, because I’m a historian and I love telling a story. And with respect to the students, I love helping them out in much the same way I did as a faculty member,” he says.

When he is no longer president, Dr. Todd wants his last professional occupation to be the same as his first. “The last employment I’ll have before retirement will be teaching in a classroom, because that is the best feeling in the world. I can’t think of a more rewarding profession than being a university professor,” he says.

And when people ask him what he would like to be remembered for, he has a simple answer.

“Absolutely nothing,” he says, modestly but sincerely. “If many people remember a university president by name, it’s just as likely for mistakes they have made, rather than any specific successes. At the end of my tenure, honestly, I would rather people say, ‘Wow, Utica University has really moved forward since 2023. Who was that president guy whose last name I could never pronounce? Forgot him.’” 

A round of applause! Audience members officially welcome Dr. Todd Pfannestiel as Utica’s tenth president at the Friday, September 29, 2023 Inauguration ceremony.

The World is Their Classroom

Students and faculty travel to Egypt

Adventure is the best way to learn.

In early January 2023, 14 Utica University students from a range of health profession majors joined Doctors Thomas Crist, Ashraf Elmarakby, and Ellen Smith on a trip to Cairo, Egypt. This marked the first international offering of the Interprofessional Education program, which was implemented by Dean of Health Professions and Education Dr. Ahmed Radwan, to promote collaborative work experiences and professionalism among healthcare practitioners.

“Dr. Radwan and Dr. Ellen Smith, director of the IPE program, have pursued the delivery of the IPE 505 course in international sites as a means to provide students with unique cultural contexts for learning about interprofessional practice,” explained Associate Provost Daniel Kratochvil. These programs are being developed in conjunction with the Office of International Education under the direction of Associate Provost Kratochvil.

DPT student Emily Joss ’24 described the experience as stepping into a time machine - with moments both pointing to a storied past and others that seemed to be a step into the future. “In every place we visited there was history at our feet that stretched farther back than any other place on Earth, and that was so unbelievably surreal,” she explains. “Then there were other times that we were alongside doctors, creators and students

who were quite literally changing the world with the desert sand.”

Based at the new campus of the prestigious American University in Cairo (a partner of Utica University), several lectures were provided by AUC professors on topics such as healthcare coordination and the Egyptian healthcare sector, plus a roundtable discussion with graduate students from the Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology.

“Every place we went, we were welcomed by people that expressed excitement and compassion like I've never felt before,” Emily says. “At every turn their excitement to share with me their country was something I won't forget. I am grateful for everything I was taught, shown, and given during my time there.”

In addition, several site visits gave the Utica students the opportunity to see firsthand healthcare and social service provision in the Cairo area. These educational opportunities were interwoven with visits to cultural and historical sites such as the pyramids of Giza, the Coptic Hanging Church, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.

“Exploratory trips for developing additional IPE courses in Ghana and Ecuador have already been completed,” says Associate Provost Dr. Kratochvil. “It is anticipated that these courses can run in conjunction with a variety of courses from other departments at the University, including the major in Africana Studies.” 

Students carry the banner and spirit of Utica University with them throughout their travels.

As Dr. Laura Casamento steps down as President of Utica University, she hands over the reins to her successor and a familiar face - Dr. Todd Pfannestiel. Over the past five years, the duo have worked incredibly closely as President and Provost, forming a relationship both professional and personal that has informed the steering of the ship that is this institution. The two sat down with Utica Magazine prior to Dr. Pfannestiel’s inauguration to talk about the presidential transition, working together, and the challenges that face higher education.

Utica Magazine: You’ve been working together for about five years now, but let’s go back to the beginning. What were your first impressions of each other?

Todd Pfannestiel: My first impression of Laura when we met was obviously through the search and it was dinner with Laura and her husband, Phil, and three trustees over at Ocean Blue. And I walked away from that first meeting knowing this is a president from whom I can learn. And that was important to me individually and professionally at that point, because I knew I had aspirations to become a president. And I didn’t want to work for a president who I was simply replicating. I wanted to know somebody whom I can learn important skills from. That was my first impression from that dinner and every day since then, I’ve learned from Laura.

Laura Casamento: It was a dinner for finalists in the search. I had been really pleased with how Todd had interviewed through the search process up to that point. It’s really funny because Todd mentioned [my husband] Phil was there. I told Phil, who has never ever attended those types of dinners, this is one of the most important

the Passing

positions and most important hires a president can make. I really need you to come to the dinner and tell me what you think. And Todd was great. You would have never known that he hated seafood, even though we were at Ocean Blue. There was just an ease about him and an ease about our relationship that you could see. In fact, when we walked away, and we still had a couple more dinners to go to, my husband said ‘you need to hire that guy.’ So it was a good match from the beginning.

UM: A moment ago, Todd, you said you realized when you started that

you could learn a lot from her. What are the standouts of what you’ve learned from Laura in your time here?

TP: I’d say maybe not so ironically, that it reflects what I think our teaching mission is here at the University. And that is we tell students you’re here to learn knowledge, skills and dispositions or behaviors. It’s the same thing I’ve learned from Laura in different ways - knowledge, skills and dispositions. One of the holes in my portfolio in terms of knowledge was macro level budget management. I’ve managed smaller budgets. I haven’t thought about university-wide budget manage-

the Baton

ment. Clearly from her background in everything from finance, banking and advancement, I’ve learned so much from her that I now feel comfortable and not scared, coming into a president’s position and knowing how you work with your financial affairs team to manage a significant budget. So it would be sort of those knowledge pieces. In terms of skill, I think a lot of it has to do with communication skills. I’ve always prided myself on my communication skills, but it’s different when you’re a president and I did not know that until I saw how Laura communicates to different constituent

groups, that it’s not just a one size fits all form of communication.

Then there’s disposition. I think with Laura, it reinforced what I had already learned from previous presidents for whom I worked. The second president for whom I worked, President Joseph Grunenwald of Clarion University, told me 20 years ago - ‘Todd never let them see you sweat. Never. No matter what the issue is.’ Laura hasn’t used those exact words but I’ve watched her and I swear she doesn’t perspire. She’s never let them see you sweat. So watching her for five years has reinforced what President Grunenwald told me 20 years

ago. There’s knowledge gaps that I now feel comfortable with. The skills I understand are different for a president than anyone else. And the disposition is no matter what it is - a deflated dome, an alleged shooting incident - no matter what the answer is, never let them see you sweat because that’s what the community needs in a president.

UM: Now to flip it around a little bit. Laura, is there anything that you can look back on and see that you’ve learned from Todd in your time together?

LC: Todd has really helped me with the patience that you need for strong academic level decision making. It’s not that I didn’t understand that prior to his arrival, but the way he talks about communication is different in every job. He was able to teach me a lot about the strategic communication processes that are really necessary in order to make and enact good decisions on the economic side. And that has been really, really, really valuable to me.

UM: What do you each feel is the importance of a university president within the community?

LC: I don’t think anyone can quite prepare you for being in the seat as opposed to being close to the seat. It’s an incredibly important position because everyone always looks to you. So, you have to have a terrific team. You have to work under a shared governance framework, which is a terrific framework to work within. But still, at the end of the day when the rubber hits the road and decisions are made, people are either happy with you or not happy with you. Everything kind of stops with you. That does take some getting used to.

The other big surprise for me in the beginning was the true 24/7 nature of

“In the end, no matter how he does things or what the end

this job. Everyone knows it’s 24/7 and you say it’s 24/7 but there is kind of an alertness that’s always there. It never leaves you about what’s happening because you’re responsible for this greater community and that’s a lot of responsibility. It’s wildly rewarding and I am not sure I understood in the beginning how rewarding it was and how rewarding it can be, even in the face of a lot of difficult situations. When you can tell that you’ve made a difference in communication or when you can tell that you were able to ratchet down a situation or you get that nice note from someone that says they feel better about it, it’s amazing. Even if you’re driving away at midnight after a really long day, it makes you say, ‘This is why we do what we do.’ And that is such an incredibly rewarding part of the job. I couldn’t have anticipated that part.

TP: You know, I’ll take a slightly different twist on it. What I didn’t realize and I’m making an assumption here, was how much a president needs wellness care - how much I hope a Laura needs a Todd for those moments when you can’t walk out of the office. And then you’ve gotta be on 24/7 but behind closed doors, Laura can be Laura and Todd can be Todd. And, you know, it’s not a concern, but I need to identify who my ‘Todd’ is going to be. Is it going to be my provost? You know, it’s not always just the provost. In fact, I think we’ve talked to some institutions, that the relationship between the president and provost is very different than the relationship Laura and I have both in and out of the office. We have a personal friendship, as well as a very professional relationship and I think it’s very unusual…extremely unusual. I want that going forward and I need to know who is going to be the person that can play the many roles that I’ve played for Laura as president and as Laura’s friend.

LC: I have to say, and this just popped into my head, I think one of the best things we ever did, which seems so simple now, is move the provost into the suite with the president because when the office is elsewhere, it’s like having to go to another office. I really feel like Todd and I have done a lot of co-leading here. I can walk out and his door’s open or my door’s open and he can come in and shut the door and talk. It’s created a partnership that I think exists with many presidents and provosts, but I think it’s just taking it to another level and it absolutely has made this transition fantastic…just fantastic.

UM: Did the strong working and personal relationship you were able to form surprise you both as time went on?

LC: Well, I can tell you that Todd has one of the best senses of humor of anyone I’ve ever met and in the face of all kinds of nonsense he could just make me laugh at times when you really need to laugh. That’s worth a ton right there. It’s not just the professional stuff, which is hard, and he’s really good at. It’s also the ability to take just the craziest situation on Earth and just to be able to take some breaths and have a reprieve with a good laugh. Then you can breathe and go and face what you have to.

UM: As your working relationship and your friendship grew, what common ground with each other did you find? What kind of differences? And how did they affect the roles you have to play?

TP: For me, obviously, the first common ground is working for a president that is so clear in the absolute passion that Laura has for the success of this institution and its role in this community. I would not have succeeded here, just doing my job as a provost, if I didn’t see that passion. I want that passion in

everybody who works here. But if you don’t have a precedent, you can’t really expect it from anyone else. And so it meant everything every day, no matter what the situation, to always see that passion. It becomes your true northno matter what we do here, students and the institution come first and the students are the institution, period. And to remind yourself of that actually makes some of the decisions easier. The actions are difficult to achieve, but the decisions are really easy when you know exactly what your true north is.

People ask, ‘do you sleep well at night with some of the decisions you made as provost?’ I’ve never had a sleepless night as provost because I know the decisions are focused on one key point. And it’s the same key point that a president reinforces over and over again. So that meant everything to me, coming from someone whom I can work with and I can be friends with. And yet it’s not based on friendship. It’s based on the fact that we both have, I think, the exact same vision for what’s important about this institution.

LC: I definitely think that he and I both have a servant leadership attitude and it’s the way we approach the job. I think most presidents have to have it, but we just see it every day in the interactions with students. If someone says we don’t have the funds for that, we try to personally take care of it. Somebody needs to do that thing, let’s just do that thing. We feel good about that. We don’t say that because we need a pat on the back. It’s just that it’s an enormous part of our lives and who we are.

TP: One of the things she just mentioned was servant leadership. I’ve walked to meetings across campus with Laura, where she sees something on the ground and she picks it up and throws it away. That’s a small part of

goal is, our dream for the University is the same.”

– Laura Casamento on her successor Todd Pfannestiel

servant leadership, even though we have everybody else around here who polices the grounds and everything else, to have the president who has a billion things on her mind stop and pick up the pen that somebody dropped, or the paper towel or whatever it isthat’s who we are. And this institution represents us. That’s the model that I want to fulfill.

UM: Laura, how involved were you in the search for your successor?

LC: I really wasn’t involved at all. I was asked to answer questions for finalists. When finalists came to the area, I was asked to be available so that I could answer any questions that finalists might have. That was primarily my role.

UM: Todd, what was the interview process like for you?

TP: It’s different for an internal candidate than an external candidate, but we came through that search feeling as though I was an external candidate. It’s meaningful because I want to know that if I am selected for the position that it was against excellent competition and that it reflects upon this University to have a highly qualified pool of people. Also, if I’m not selected, it’s because they found someone even better and that would be a damn good president that I get to work with, so I’m cool with that - something I said many times to the search committee as well. So I appreciate the fact that it was an excellent search from start to finish, that I was treated like every other candidate, and I had to prove myself across the board. There were surprises every step of the way and yet at the end of it I felt really, really good. At the end I feel as though I’ve been validated, that I’m ready for this, that a group said ‘we want you and we did it through a national search, not just because we’ve known you for five years.’

UM: How do you both feel that your working relationship, shared visions, etc. will influence the future of the university?

LC: As of August 1, this is Todd’s University. I will always be there if he has questions or if anyone has a need and Todd thinks that I would be helpful, I’m happy to do that. But as far as strategy, it remains an anchor institution in the Mohawk Valley. I think Todd and I are very aligned on how to get there and, though things may change and strategies may alter, Todd’s going to lead a new strategic plan which is completely appropriate given the presidential transition and given that the Middle States Commission on Higher Education [Utica University’s accrediting body] will be here again in a couple of years. I think we were in

lockstep but he’s going to have things thrown at him and situations will change and he’s going to move and pivot and adapt with the board and with the rest of the University community in a way that I know will be successful. In the end, no matter how he does things or what the end goal is, our dream for the University is the same.

TP: And I would say the exact same thing. Moving forward, people from the outside looking in will not see a marked difference. And I think that’s because I and others on the senior leadership team have sat at this table and helped to shape the vision that Laura and the board have. We’ve been working together with others to shape the vision and that’s not going to change because I’m taking on a new role. It’s

“I’m extremely fortunate that the university selected me to be the next leader and feel blessed to have that opportunity.”

– President Todd Pfannestiel

going to be continuing that vision. Some of the strategies will be different moving forward, no doubt, born out of circumstances as they change.

LC: It’s what I’ve always loved about the university - it doesn’t run away from its challenges. It’s really entrepreneurial and pretty bold how it gets through those times. And Todd’s been integral as has the rest of the team in shaping that strategy.

UM: What do you feel are some of the primary challenges that higher education is facing right now and how do you try to get through?

TP: I think the answer is largely the same for both of us. The biggest challenge facing higher education right now and specifically private higher education, as well as public, is sustainability. If you aren’t thinking about the future then the future is going to happen to you and in some cases you go away. But we’re not going to go away because we know what the challenges are and we know how we need to address it. I think the future will see more partnerships and not the type of partnerships we’ve seen in the past with regard to higher education vendors, but with higher education institutions. Who are the other higher education institutions not only in our region, but outside of our region that can complement what we do and not duplicate what we do? Working together, it’s that old saying that a rising tide raises all ships. So for the sustainability of private higher ed and yes for the sustainability of Utica University moving forward, and this ground campus moving forward,

we need to have those discussions in terms of how we work together with other institutions to leverage our strengths.

LC: I think Todd’s right. It’s a sustainability issue, but also the thing that has worried me is just the perception of the value of higher education. There was a recent Gallup poll that said only 36% of the people surveyed in the country thought there was value in higher ed and it was down from like 57% just three years ago. We have to demonstrate to our prospective students and their families if there’s a return on their investment in Utica University. We want them to invest in Utica. We want their children, our students, to be successful. As a student, we want you to be successful. At the end of your journey here, we want to be able to say you are going to be able to go find employment, go to graduate school, whatever, and create a life for yourself that you wouldn’t have had if you didn’t come here. We have to be able to make that case. And right now all of higher education is competing in a time when governments are dropping the requirement for a degree, huge companies like Google are saying you don’t need the degree anymore. So if we’re not making the case that it’s still really valuable, then that’s an issue.

UM: How does it feel, Laura, as you wind things down to know you’re passing the baton on to Todd?

LC: It feels good. When I first announced that I was going to retire, of course, there’s no path. By that I mean, there’s no like easing your way out of that. The year is just full speed

ahead until the end and then it really wasn’t until after commencement that I could start to breathe and think about unpacking the office and about all of these transition plans. But since Todd was named president in February, we started the transition the Monday after the board meeting where it was announced, which makes me feel a whole lot better about getting in the car and driving away just knowing that the institution and the board picked the right person to lead the institution for the future.

UM: How do you feel, Todd, knowing that while letting you do your own thing, Laura has offered to be there if you ever need it?

TP: It’s a trite word, but I think the one-word answer to that is “fortunate”. I’m extremely fortunate that the university selected me to be the next leader and feel blessed to have that opportunity. I am fortunate that I have a president who, in the last year of her presidency, could have easily said ‘I’m a lame duck.’ But she didn’t. I’m fortunate to be following a president who made difficult decisions this past year, who cleared the decks where we could clear the decks so that I’m not necessarily coming into the first six months having to make those same difficult decisions. So I’m doubly fortunate that I was selected, fortunate that working with Laura, we were able to address some of the more challenging questions that were in front of us and have been in front of us, and fortunate that I have her cell phone and when I have questions, I can get a hold of her. 

HONOR ROLL OF DONORS

June 1, 2022 – May 31, 2023

The Honor Roll of Donors highlights the names of those who made a gift to Utica University during the 2022-23 fiscal year beginning June 1, 2022 and ending May 31, 2023. Gifts to the University received after May 31, 2023 will be recognized in the 2023-24 Honor Roll of Donors.

Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and completeness. In the event that an error or omission is found, we sincerely apologize and asked that you contact the Office of Advancement at 315-792-3053 or email advancement@utica. edu so we can correct our records.

For the full list of donors, please visit utica.edu/HonorRollofDonors

PIONEER SOCIETY

The Pioneer Society honors Utica University’s most generous annual donors. The Society recognizes those leadership donors whose commitment and investment in Utica University is critical to the institution’s future. Each year, gifts received from Pioneer Society donors represent more than 80 percent of the University’s total gifts.

Pioneer Society

Chair’s Summit Circle

$20,000 or more

Anonymous

Kenneth Bell ’75 and Anne Veness Bell

Robert Brvenik ’77

Larry ’74 and Cora Bull

John Burkholder III ’75 and Diane Burkholder

Anne Burton ’63

David and Nancy Carlon

Laura and Filippo Casamento

Harold Clark Jr. ’65, H’03 and Bernadette Clark

Steven ’72 and Dorian Critelli

Christopher Crolius ’80 and Cynthia Crolius

Ronald ’66 and Sheila Cuccaro

Harry ’71 and Wendy Cynkus

Frederick ’70 and Connie Degen

John Forte ’73*

Peter ’69 and JoAnn Lekki

Donald Majka†

Theodore ’61, H’99 and Grace Martin

Christian Meyer III ’79 and Mary Beth Welle-Meyer ’79

Wester ’76 and Lorraine Miga

Louis Natale ’59

Mark ’88 and Mary Beth Pilipczuk

James Reagan Jr. ’72

Thomas ’65 and Virginia Rossiter

Tricia and Joseph Rutkowski

Stephen ’83 and Erika Sloan

Stewart Starer ’66

Stephen ’98 and Gina Surace

Kenneth ’80 and Wendy Taubes

Howard Terrillion ’58

Jeremy ’00 and Carrie Thurston

David ’67 and Jayne Wilson

Pioneer Society

President’s Summit Circle

$10,000 - $19,999

Robert Brandt Jr. and Carole Brandt

Gerard Capraro ’66

Don H’14 and Edna Carbone

Thomas Cole ’92

Randolph Collins ’83

Thomas Cox Jr. ’69

Cynthia DeTraglia

Krista ’82 and Louis DiBerardino

Violet Eagan ’73 and J. Christopher Eagan

Allyn Earl ’62

Arthur Golder ’50†

Ronald ’63 and Cecelia ’62 Gouse

Hartwell Herring III and Paulette Herring

Samuel and Nancy Hester

Heidi Hoeller ’91 and Paul Serbaniewicz

John G’13 and Deborah Johns*

Daniel ’97 and Anne-Marie Jones*

George and Pinny Kuckel

Albert ’58 and Elinor Mazloom

Jeffrey and Amanda Novotny

Rinae Olsen ’09

Anthony ’72 and Barbara Paolozzi

Vincent Rinaldi III ’08

Linda Romano and Russell Petralia*

James ’70 and Sharon Samuel

Kyle Sibley ’08

Tanner Stewart ’10*

Charles Teuscher ’84

DeForest ’62 and Arlene ’63 Tinkler

Joseph Watson ’08

Scott Weisman ’77 and Virginia Furth Weisman

Pioneer Society

Burrstone Circle

$5,000 - $9,999

George ’50 and Marilyn Barlow

Bart ’62 and Carol Basi

William and Joan Blanchfield

Joseph ’11 and Barbara Chubbuck

James and Margaret Clifford

Alan Ellinwood ’68 and Susan Emery Ellinwood ’69†

Daniel Fritz ’20

William ’74 and Linda Grammaticas

Robert Greene ’67

Todd and Nancy Hutton

Carol and Robert Keller

Benay Leff ’65

Bonnie ’79 and David Liebers

Wesley Miga ’80† and Karen Stonebraker Miga ’80

Frank Mondi ’62

Risa and Zachary Morrison

Thomas ’69 and Anne ’77 Nelson*

John Perillo ’91

Marianne and Dennis Reynolds

Kathleen Riley Tehan ’76

Jeffrey Senft ’76

Michael and Carol Simpson

Katie ’98 and Richard Terry

Paul ’05 and Catherine Ward*

Matthew Wilsey

Ann Wynne ’58

Pioneer Society

Scholars Circle

$2,500 - $4,999

Anonymous

Andrew Beakman

Linda ’89 and Les Bramblett

Geoffrey Brandt ’07

† deceased *arranged for matching gift

Jim Brock Jr.

Alan Bucholtz ’59

Mikhail Bushinski ’17, G’18

William ’68 and Judith Dowling

Matthew Dziekan ’14*

Erica Eckman ’08

Greg and Denyse Evans

Christine ’92 and Peter Farley*

Richard and Bonnie Fenner

Linda Griffin ’72 and Freling Smith

George Grisham Jr. ’78 and Nancy Grisham

Douglas Gross ’65

Andrew ’69 and Eileen Guzzetti

J. Eric King ’65 and Kathlene Thiel

Jean-Marie ’78 and Richard Kneeley

Robert and Tatyana Knight

Dennis ’13, G’15 and Heather ’12 Labossiere

Carol and Steven Mackintosh

J. Kemper Matt Sr. and Angela Matt

Glenn Miga

Michael Miller ’00

John ’66 and Patricia ’66 Mulhall

Stephanie Nesbitt and Liana Prosonic G’17

Todd Pfannestiel and Aimee Zellers

Solade Rowe ’94 and Chidi Blyden-Rowe

Treesa Salter ’88

Laura Salvaggio

John ’71 and Mary Schalk

Kirsten Ullman ’88 and Brian Bursa

Michael ’66 and Mary Anne Valentine

Eric Watson and Paola Gentry

Pioneer Society

Charter Circle

$1,000 - $2,499

Anonymous

Nicholas and JamieLeigh Accordino

Kelly ’00 and Michele ’01

Adams

Jon ’07 and Amanda Ames

Andrew ’99 and Gina Arcuri

Francisco Ayala III ’94

Alan Balutis ’67

Gordon Bashant Jr. ’55 and Nancy Bashant

Gregory ’83 and Julie Benincasa

Aaron Benoit ’09*

Marlene Bingaman ’01

Ronald Blasi ’68

Holly Boltz ’75 and Daniel Vega

Jacqueline Boulden ’75

Douglas and Catherine Bowne

Joan Brannick ’54

Louis Brindisi

Bryant Buchanan and Sharon Wise

Stacy ’88 and Robert Buckley

Janice Burke ’70

Mary Cahalan ’53

Matthew Carr ’03 and Amie

Lucia ’05

Jeanette Carroll ’50

James ’78 and Catherine Caruso

John Casellini ’81 and Christine Rutigliano

Al Cavo Jr.

Richard ’71 and Paula Chmielewski

Dana Christofferson ’14

Ann Ciancia ’18, G’21

Peter and Suzanne Ciancia

Timothy Coakley ’59

Richard Coffey

Frederick ’73 and Bernadette Conte

Antonia Cortese ’66

Vincent Coyne ’66

Shad and Heidi Crowe

Kathleen ’70 and Gordon ’71

Custodero

Ann Damiano

Mark and Deborah Daviau

Leila Davis ’89

Benjamin De Iorio ’62 and Donald Daniels ’61

Geno Decondo

Rory ’77 and Vanessa ’79

DeJohn

Dennis Donohue

Sharon Douglass ’68

Richard ’65 and Joan Evans

Michael Evolo Jr. ’90 and Melissa Hobika Evolo*

Anthony and Katherine Farrington

Anthony Fasano Jr.

† deceased *arranged for matching gift

Francis Fiato ’72

Anthony Fus Jr. ’04, G’06, G’11

Shanelle Gabriel ’06

Colleen Gaetano

Mary Gaetano

Anthony ’61 and Annemarie ’92 Garramone

Jeffery and Tara Gates

Mark Gauger ‘78

Lawrence Grasso ‘77 and Cindy Moeckel

Gwendolyn and Paul Grech*

Anna Green ’73 and George Stairs

Lisa Green G’16 and Donald Green II

W. James Greene ’54

Robert Gregg

Patrice and David Hallock

Jacqueline Hanifin ’50

Mary Hayes Gordon ’82, G’13 and Dean Gordon

Christopher Healy

Scott ’69 and Paula Healy

Gary G’05 and Jodi Heenan

Kathy Hendel

Sarah Hinman ’77

Stephen Hoffman ’70 and Mimi Santos-Hoffman

John Hollister ’69

Brian ’75 and Susan Hughes

Michael ’73 and Janice ’73 Huss

Richard ’67 and Sally ’68 Jarvis*

Paul and Mairead Johndrow

Edward ’62 and Honore Jones

Barbara Jordan ’75

Robert ’71 and Cindy Julian

Neal Keating ’05

Harry ’73 and Melissa Keel

Christopher ’61 and Virginia Kelly

Richard Kennedy ’97

Barbara Knauf and Arthur Knauf Jr.

Mark Kovacs

John Kuhlmann ’72

Walter ’60 and Gloria Kunz

David ’76 and Martha ‘77 Lamb

Kim Lambert and William Wheatley

Ann Lambert Kremer ’81 and Steven Kremer

H. Thomas Lennon III and Nancy Lennon

Michael Levine ’05, G’12

Terrence Li ’01 and Cat Bui*

Amy Lindner and Michael Failing

Dee London

Arlene Lundquist

Patrick MacDonald ’02

W. Anthony and Carol Mandour

Barbara Marchilonis ’69 and Clyde Evans

David ’88 and Julie Martin

Anthony G’04 and Janice Martino

Nicholas and Susan Matt

Pamela Matt and Francis Matt III

William and Natalie Matt

Denise McVay G’07 and Robin Tayler

Daniel and Pamela Meehan*

Jennifer Miller ’07 and Patrick Buchinski ’08

Carol Montana

Robert ’73 and Lynn Montesano

Richard ’71 and Ellen ’76 Moon

Rachel Netzband ’63

Stephen and Joan Neun

Frank Notarianni ’67

Kristi ’90 and Geoffrey Noyes

Adalgisa Nucci ’67

Peter ’90 and Colleen O’Connor

John ’81 and Kathleen ’83 O’Donnell

Stephanie Opalka

Michael Pandolfo ’78

Rose Patterson ’87

Eric Peterson ’13

Curtis and Joni Pulliam

Joseph Pupillo ’04

Albert Pylinski Jr. ’85

Sterling ’74 and Douglas Remer

Doris Rice ’68

Setsuko Rosen ’87

John Rowe

Barry ’70 and Patricia Ryan

William Salmeri II ’73

James Salsbury ’69

Ashlea and Cory Schad

Kristian Schlottner ’01

Michael Scialdone ’99

Anthony Shaheen ’57

David Shanton ’80

Robert ’74 and Veronica

Sherman

Norman and Ann Siegel

Kevin Smith ’73

Susan Smith

John ’95 and Renee Snyder

Vincent Stefan ’18

Andrew Steiner ’92

HERITAGE SOCIETY

John ’66 and Madeline

Stephenson

Kyle Strife 08*

Ann Marie Teitelbaum

Cassella ’92

Elmus Thompson Jr. ’74

Tracy Tolles-Rueckert ’90 and Donald Rueckert

Joseph Tote ’92

Kenneth ’08 and Noel Visalli

Robert ’72 and Susan ’74

Warwick

Jeffery ’04 and Kalia Whalley

Joseph Wojnas ’88

John ‘68 and Patricia ’68 Zalatan

Ralph Zegarelli ’70 and Lucille

Nickerson

Gerard ’71 and Carolyn Ziehm

John Zografos ’77

Jaime Zusman ’65

We gratefully acknowledge the commitment, foresight, and generosity of our community of alumni and friends who believe so fervently in our mission to educate that they have included the University when planning their philanthropy. Those listed here have either made provision in their estate and/or have taken steps to make a planned or deferred gift at some future point to benefit the faculty and students of Utica University.

Future Planned Gifts:

Lawrence and Linda ’96

Aaronson

Robert ’59 and Elizabeth Babcock

John Bach Jr. ’75

Pat Bamdad ’65

Annette Becker

Professor John C. Behrens†

Bernice Benson†

Leo ’54† and Joan ’54

Brannick

Larry ’74 and Corky Bull

Anne Calabrese ’71

Gerard Capraro ’66

Timothy Coakley ’59

Thomas Cole ’92

Harry Cynkus ’71

Carolyn Dalton ’74

Charles Daniels ’64

Stuart Davis ’58 and Constance Griffith Davis ’58

Frederick Degen ’70

Ron ’61 and May ’60† Duff

Jim DuRoss

Carl Dziekan

Joan Friedenberg ’73

Linda Gigliotti ’69

Robert Greene ’67

Honorable Linda Griffin ’72

Mary Hayes Gordon ’82, G’13

John Hobika Jr. ’91

Eileen Hopsicker

Todd Hutton

Brian Jackson ’85

Daniel Jones ’97

Kevin Kasky ’86

Harry Keel ’73

Kim Landon ’75

Benay Leff ’65

Donald Majka†

Gerald Martin ’71

Sharon White McEwan ’64

Lucy J. McLean†

Wester ’76 and Lorraine Miga

Tim Nelson

Randall Nichols

Adalgisa Nucci ’67

Theodore Orlin

Fredericka Paine

Charles ’63 and Eleda ’65

Roberts

James Samuel ’70

James Sheldon ’67

Henry Spring ’77

William Swick ’70

Ann Marie Teitelbaum

Cassella ’92

Howard Terrillion ’58

Charles Teuscher ’84

Joseph and Evelyn Tierno

DeForest ’62 and Arlene ’63

Tinkler

Hans and Laura Wang

Tina Wiernusz ’79

Walter Williams ’61†

Bequests Received from the Estates of:

Vincent A. Solomon ’60

Wilson H. Tyler ’69

† deceased *arranged for matching gift

ONEIDA SQUARE SOCIETY

The Oneida Square Society honors the visionary leadership of those donors whose lifetime giving to Utica University totals $100,000 or more. Their generous gifts helped build Utica University and lay the foundation for its future.

Genesee Street - $5,000,000 or more

Harold T. Clark Jr. ’65

F. Eugene Romano†

Plant Street - $1,000,000-$4,999,999

Anonymous

Bob Brvenik ’77

Larry ’74 and Corky Bull

Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties

John A. ’57† and Valerie Donohue

The Hayner Hoyt Corporation

Gary Thurston ’68 and Jeremy Thurston ’00

Lotis R. Howland Trust

Thomas J. ’65 and Virginia Rossiter

Dr. Albert ’49† and Gloria ’82 Shaheen

Estate of Francis A. Wilcox

Hart Street - $500,000-$999,999

Adirondack Bank

George I. Alden Trust

ARAMARK

Donald G. ’71† and Bernice F. ’72† Benson

Thomas J. Jr. ’49† and Marion D. Cahill†

The Carbone Family

Ellen Knower Clarke Charitable Trust

Harry J. Cynkus ’71

Edward W. ’50† and Jean M. Duffy†

Jim & Cynthia DuRoss

Charles A† and Connie† Gaetano

Estate of Dr. Jean Halladay ’53

Estate of Ruby Rogers di Iorio

Christopher ’61 and Virginia Kelly

Albert S. Mazloom ’58

John ’61† and Betty Meehan

John F. Millett ’52, DDS† and Margaret A. Millett†

Estate of Professor Wayne N. Palmer

Gerald Starer ’65† and Dr. Stewart H. Starer ’66

Francis Street - $250,000-$499,999

Adirondack Financial Services Corporation

Eugene† and Connie† Corasanti

John ’66 and Ann Costello

Ronald ’66 and Sheila Cuccaro

Fred L. Emerson Foundation

Estate of Joseph P. Furgal ’50

Frank E. Gannett Foundation

Andrew ’84 and Mary Hislop

Estate of Peter Kucherenko and Eugenia Kucherenko

Gary Kunath ’79

LexisNexis

Mac-Clark Restaurants

Theodore E. Martin ’61

Mele Foundation

Christian W. Meyer III ’79 and Mary Beth Welle-Meyer ’79

James ’59† and Katherine Pyne

John F. and Jacqueline C. ’11, G’13 Romano

Linda Romano and Russell Petralia

John and Deanna ’62 Sammon

SBU Bank

Sodexo

Estate of Lt. Col. Edna Stappenbeck ’51

Kenneth J. ’80 and Wendy R. Taubes

Philip ’70 and Barbara ’69 Taurisano

Howard J. Terrillion ’58

Dr. Esat Toksu

Walter W. ’61† and Nancy† Williams

Estate of Gladys W. Young

State Street - $100,000-$249,999

Anonymous

Albert† and Nata M. Augustyn

Bank of Utica

BBL Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Ken Bell ’75 and Anne Veness Bell

Nancy E. Blake ’55

The Honorable Sherwood L. Boehlert ’61†

Robert Brandt Jr. and Carole Brandt P’07

Dr. Leo J. ’54† and Joan F. ’54 Brannick

The Gilbert and Ildiko Butler Family Foundation

Judge Richard† and Catherine Clarke Cardamone

Filippo Casamento and Dr. Laura Casamento P’10 and P’13

John Casellini ’81 and Christine Rutigliano

Thomas J. Cole ’92

Thomas F. Cox Jr. ’69

Professor Virgil C.† and Martha† Crisafulli

Steven M. Critelli ’72

David F. D’Alessandro ’72

Frederick C. Degen ’70

Ronald H. ’61 and May C. ’60† Duff

Professor Allyn R. Earl ’62

Estate of Suzanne J. Finegan ’74

First Source Federal Credit Union

Marianne and Peter Gaige

Gilroy Kernan and Gilroy Inc. Larry and Elizabeth Gilroy

† deceased *arranged for matching gift

Arthur J. Golder ’50†

Isaac Gordon†

Ronald ’63 and Cecelia ’62 Gouse

Friends of Dr. Michelle E. Haddad ’81† Dental Seminar

The William Randolph Hearst Foundation

Dr. Hartwell C. Herring III and Paulette Herring

Sam and Nancy Hester

Heidi Hoeller ’91 and Paul Serbaniewicz

Dr. Todd and Jennifer Hutton

Daniel B. ’97 and Anne-Marie Jones

Estate of Mary S. Kramer ’88

David Lamb ’76 and Martha Sutton Lamb ’77

Estate of Doris ’52 and William Lynch

Sally ’61† and Donald† Majka

Estate of Elvira Marotta

Professor Doris W.† and Walter E.† Miga

Wesley Miga ’80† and Karen Stonebraker Miga ’80

Wester ’76 and Lorraine Miga

Fredericka Paine

Anthony C. ’72 and Barbara Paolozzi

Dr. William F. Pfeiffer Jr.† and Margaret M. Pfeiffer ’89†

Mark ’88 and Mary Beth Pilipczuk

P.J. Green, Inc.

John R. Pyle Jr. ’50†

Dr. James H. Reagan Jr. ’72 and Garnet Reagan

James E. Reid ’73, Linda P. Reid and Griffin A. Reid ’07

The Retirement Research Foundation

Estate of Esther Reynolds

Jeffrey B. Senft ’76

Stephen R. ’83 and Erika Sloan/S.R. Sloan

Slocum-Dickson Foundation, Inc.

Estate of Dr. Vincent A. Solomon ’60

Charles ’61† and Gretchen Sprock

Estate of Bernard W. Sullivan Jr. ’61

Estate of Wilson H. Tyler ’69

Utica First Insurance Company

Utica National Insurance Group and Foundation

Hans and Laura Wang

David J. Wilson ’67

Women’s Christian Association of Utica

George ’55† and Ann ’58 Wynne

Ronald and Helena Youngs Charitable Remainder Unitrust

Dr. Donald K.† and Doris Zellner†

Welcome Back!

Homecoming 2023

Celebrating Utica University’s rich history and traditions, Inauguration and Homecoming Weekend was held September 29 - October 1, 2023 with a full slate of events that included the inauguration of Utica’s Tenth President, Dr. Todd Pfannestiel, the new Pioneer Path 5k Run and Walk, and ever-popular events such as the carnival, pre-game Tailgate Party, and the Pioneer 5th Quarter Party. Athletic events dotted a beautiful autumn weekend including Women’s Tennis, Volleyball, and this year’s Football Game as the Pioneers triumphed over Hartwick, 48-7. SAVE THE DATE! This year’s homecoming will be held October 25-27, 2024.

Above: Provost Dr. Stephanie Nesbitt addresses the crowd at the inauguration of Utica University’s tenth president Dr. Todd Pfannestiel.

Left: Utica University’s tenth President Dr. Todd Pfannestiel (center), flanked by ninth President Dr. Laura Casamento (left) and eighth President Dr. Todd Hutton (right).

Family TiesThe Meehan Family

John and Betty Meehan have a longstanding history of philanthropy and service to Utica University.

The son of Irish immigrants, John was extremely proud of his heritage. A lifelong resident of Utica, he loved his community and was a dedicated member and servant of it, with roles throughout the year on numerous boards and organizations.

In the 1950s John served in the U.S. Army and after his service, returned to his hometown and with the help of the G.I. Bill, earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from then-Utica College. He put the business acumen he sharpened at Utica to great use as the owner of a State Farm Insurance Agency, and in 1957 he married Betty Eisengrein – a blessed union of more than 63 years.

Long after John graduated, he and Betty remained vibrant and active participants in the Utica University community.

Together, their generous support for the University through the Pioneer Society, the Oneida Square Society, and other initiatives helped to put a top-tier education from Utica University within reach of even more students and potential leaders of tomorrow. Among their numerous legacies is the John and Betty Eisengrein Meehan Scholarship, established in 2010, to provide financial assistance to full-time, first-generation students from Utica’s Cornhill area.

And it’s not just their long history of philanthropy that has cemented their legacy at Utica. They were just as generous with their time. John, a dedicated member and former Chairman of the Utica College Foundation

Board, was a longstanding member of the Utica University Board of Trustees as well. In 1988 John received the University Key Award, and in 2008 he was recognized with the Outstanding Alumnus Award as well as a Pioneer Legacy Award in 2013.

And though he passed in June of 2021, John and Betty’s contributions, their legacy, and their dedication to making Utica University a better place live on.

John’s wife, Betty, their son Dan Meehan, as well as their daughters Kathy Angelucci and Susan Smith were onhand June 15 for the dedication of the John and Betty Eisengrein Meehan Conference Room, located in the Cynkus Family Welcome Center, a symbol of the family’s fellowship and commitment to higher education as well as John’s lasting legacy 

The Meehan Family poses in front of the newly dedicated John and Betty Eisengrein Meehan Conference Room. From left to right: Kathy Angelucci, Sue Smith, Betty Meehan, Laura Casamento, and Dan Meehan

Jeremy Thurston appointed Board of Trustees Chair

The Utica University Board of Trustees formally appointed Jeremy Thurston ’00 as the new Board chair during its meeting on May 12. He began a threeyear term effective June 1, 2023. Thurston succeeds Bob Brvenik ’77, who completed a four-year term as chair.

The Board also welcomed a new trustee, Christopher Crolius ’80 Crolius, a graduate of the construction management program, is founding principal of MARCH Associates Architects and Planners in Utica. He, too, will serve a three-year term.

Thurston is president of Hayner Hoyt Corporation, a Syracuse, NY-based

commercial construction company serving healthcare, higher education, hospitality, entertainment, advanced manufacturing, and other markets.

Like Crolius, he earned his construction management degree at Utica and has been a stalwart champion and benefactor of the program – as well as the University at large – since his graduation. Most recently, he helped establish The Hayner Hoyt Corporation Construction Management Scholarship, which provides $5,000 annually to a Construction Management student, with preference given to female students and those from historically under-represented communities. He also provided leadership financial support to the Jeremy C. Thurston ’00 Center for Career Readiness and the Thurston Hall construction management building, dedicated in honor of his father and the project’s principal donor, Gary ’68 Thurston joined the Board in 2014, after serving on the alumni advisory board that guided the reestablishment of the construction management program after the major had been discontinued in the late 1990s.

“I had kind of a different path,” Thurston says, describing his journey

Dugout Dedication

Through their passion and their outstanding record of service and giving back to the University, Michael Fitzgerald and The Fitzgerald Family epitomize what it means to be a legacy family. They will now be a part of every good moment that occurs on the field and within the dugout walls following the April dedication of the Michael J. Fitzgerald, Class of 1988, Baseball Dugout.

Seen here at the dedication ceremony is Michael Fitzgerald ’88, Matthew Fitzgerald ’19, Patrick Fitzgerald ’21, Daniel Fitzgerald ’24 (current player) and Michael’s Dad, Mike. Also in attendance were Utica University President Laura Casamento, Provost and President-elect Todd Pfannestiel, Vice President for Advancement and Chief Grants Officer Amy Lindner, Director of Athletics Dave Fontaine, and Coach Joe Milazzo.

from the classroom to the boardroom.

“I transferred to Utica when I changed my major from business to construction management, and soon after I transferred in, it was announced that the construction management major was being eliminated. My relationship with the University deepened in the early 2000s when I was approached about championing the restart and the new foundation for the program.

“I really appreciated the opportunity that experience gave me to renew my relationship with the University,” he continues. “I’ve always believed in giving back and trying to support organizations that I believe in. When I was asked to consider the chair position, it wasn’t something I ever thought would happen. My colleagues on the Board having the confidence in me that I would be a good candidate to take on a greater responsibility for the University was an honor and something I don’t take lightly. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive at first, but this is an opportunity I feel really good about, and I very much look forward to working with President Pfannestiel, his administration, and the faculty in moving the University forward.”

Class Notes

Charles A. Bacon, III ’82, Saint Petersburg, FL recently retired from Limbach where he served as President and CEO. Limbach is a building systems solutions firm with expertise in the design, prefabrication, installation, management and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (“HVAC”), mechanical, electrical, plumbing and controls systems. Charlie and his wife sailed up the East Coast from Florida shortly after he retired.

Bret Danilowicz ’89 became president of Radford University on July 1, 2022. He is a graduate of Utica’s Biology program. His proud father, Ron Danilowicz, is a professor-emeritus from Utica University who retired in 2005.

Stacey ShelnutHendrick ’89 is Deputy Director for Public Engagement and Learning at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, VA

Richard Racioppa ’93, Clinton, NY was promoted to Dean of Students at Utica University in January 2023.

Jeremy Butler ’00, Whitesboro, NY, is the Chief Innovation Officer at Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN).

Denise Valdes ’00, Ph.D, Syracuse, NY, is the Director of the Educational Opportunity Programs at Onondaga Community College. She served as the Presidential Inauguration Delegate for OCC during the

Presidential Inauguration of Dr. Todd Pfannestiel.

Laura Prestia ’07, Ph.D., Washington DC, is the Senior Innovation Manager at the National Cancer Institute.

Janette Castro ’08, Saylorsburg, PA, is the Associate Director, Annual Giving and Support Programs at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania.

Michael DeBetta ’08, Washington, DC, is the Vice President of Global Partnerships with Monumental Sports and Entertainment.

Benjamin Atwood ’09, G’13, Waterville, NY, was named Utica University’s Director of Development in August 2023.

Michael Atwood ’09, Albany, NY is Principal Budget Examiner for the New York State Division of the Budget.

Allison Dibble ’09, G’10, Cohoes, NY, is the Admissions Facilitator at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital.

Jillian Doherty ’10, Portsmouth, NH, is Regional Manager of Operations for Veterinary Practice Partners.

AnnaMaria (Cirrincione) Omilanowicz ’10 is the Director of Multicultural Life and Diversity at SUNY Cortland. She served as the Presidential Inauguration Delegate for SUNY Cortland during the Presidential Inauguration of Dr. Todd Pfannestiel.

Kateri Woody ’10, East Haven, CT, is the Manager of Editorial Operations at Marvel Studios.

Sean Phelan ’11, G’13, MBA, Utica, NY, is the Director, Revenue Cycle Services at Mohawk Valley Health System.

Keino Purcell ’11, Boston, MA, is the Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Northeastern University.

Anthony (AJ) O’Hagan ’11, Bronx, NY, is the Sports Information Director for Monroe College.

Greg Caloia ’12, G’22, MBA, Utica, NY, was promoted to Director of Student Success at Utica University in August 2023.

Jeremiah Gillette ’12, G’16 is a 7-12 Math Teacher in Peru, NY. Jeremiah and his wife Emileigh are expecting their first child in February 2024.

Trisha Barone ’13, New Hartford, NY, is Vice President of Administration & Strategic Initiatives at Kelberman.

Catherine Hallock Geniti ’13, Sprakers, NY, is an Educational Opportunity Counselor with Fulton Montgomery Community College. She served as the Presidential Inauguration Delegate for FMCC during the Presidential Inauguration of Dr. Todd Pfannestiel.

Sean Jones ’14, G’18, MBA, Jersey City, NJ, was promoted to Client Service Team Leader for Brown Brothers Harriman Co. Sean and his wife are expecting their first child, a boy, in late 2023.

Linda Madore G’14, New Hartford, NY, is the Director of Talent Management for Utica National Insurance Group.

John Verra ’14 G’18, Niskayuna, NY is a Social Studies teacher in South Colonie.

Sean Behan ’15 G’18, Utica, NY, was named Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach at Utica University in September 2023. He has previously served as the Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach at Medaille University and as an Assistant at the College of St. Rose.

Emily Smith ’15, Ph.D, Colchester, VT, is Program Evaluator for the Division of Family and Child Health at the Vermont Department of Health.

Sara George ’16, East Syracuse, NY, was named Vice Principal of Christian Brothers Academy in July 2023.

Ashley Kelsey ’16, Waterville, NY, was recently promoted to HR Specialist- Education

Services at Upstate Caring Partners. She is highly active in a number of community service organizations, namely programs that support infants receiving care in NICU settings.

Spencer Lasker ’16, Charlotte, NC, is Vice President-Global Lead of Tactical and Vulnerability Cyber Intelligence at Citi, and an Assistant Varsity Football Coach at Lake Norman High School. Spencer and his wife Samantha (Matthews) Lasker ’14, G’15 are proud parents to McKinley, 3 and Colton, 1.

Alyssa Almeida, ’17, G’18, Liverpool, NY, is the Assistant Director of Rehabilitation at Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Syracuse, NY.

Elizabeth Avila ’17, J.D., Bridgeport, CT, is a Judicial Law Clerk at the Connecticut Judicial Branch.

Alexis Bell ’17 (CEO) and Paul Dunlop ’19 (COO) launched their new Šóta Signal Analytics product at the Synapse Summit at Amalie Arena on February 14, 2023. Šóta Signal Analytics helps organizations that value transparency in company financial statements by providing an early warning system of otherwise hidden risks of material financial misstatements and potential corporate fraud.

Elliott Coleman ’17, New York City, NY, is the Human Resources Manager for New York City Tourism and Conventions.

Hnin Phyo ’17, G’18, MBA, Houston, TX, was promoted to Manager at MorganFranklin Consulting in early 2023.

Tuan Tony Nguyen ’17, G’18, MBA, Houston, TX, was promoted to Audit Manager of PKF Texas in July 2023.

George Archundia ’18, Oneonta, NY, was recently named the Associate Director of Move-in, Orientation, and Welcome at SUNY Oneonta.

Dorentina Binaku ’18, G’23, Utica, NY, was named as the Young Scholars LPP Assistant Director in January 2023.

Ann Ciancia ’18, G’21, JD, MBA, Utica, NY returns home to join Utica University as Director of Contracts & Compliance, Deputy Title IX Coordinator and Adjunct Lecturer for the School of Business and Justice Studies.

Kaleigh (Congdon) Verra ’18, Nisyauna, NY, is the School Nurse at Oak Hill School.

Dannielle Commisso ’19, Syracuse, NY is an attorney for Pillinger Miller Tarallo, LLP.

Shannon Cool ’19 G’21, Utica, NY, is an Associate Advisor, Strategic Retirement Plans, at Strategic Financial Services, Inc.

John M. Hanlon, G ’19. DPT, an orthopedic resident at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Rehabilitation Institute presented at the Institute’s combined programs Grand Rounds where he discussed management principles for the dreaded “stiff knee” (arthrofibrosis status post ACL reconstruction surgery).

Allison Matlak (Wagner) ’20, Utica NY, is a Counselor in Athletics at Utica University. Allie and her husband Eddie are expecting their first child in October 2023.

Dr. Regina Luttrell ’98 named Outstanding Alumna by Raymond Simon Institute

Dr. Regina Luttrell ’98 was recognized as the 2023 Outstanding Alumna by the Raymond Simon Institute (RSI) for Public Relations and Journalism at the institute’s annual Public Relations / Journalism Awards Brunch on Saturday, April 22 in the Utica University Library Concourse.

The award is given to a Journalism or Public Relations graduate who has achieved noteworthy professional accomplishment.

Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications Associate Dean of Research and Creative Activity, Dr. Luttrell dual-majored in Journalism and English at Utica before going on to receive her master’s degree from the College of Saint Rose in Albany and her doctoral degree from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco.

Recognized as an innovative educator and higher education academic dean, Dr. Regina Luttrell is a distinguished scholar and an experienced academic leader with a track record of supporting cross-departmental and interdisciplinary collaboration, leading complex research projects, and advocating for faculty in multiple capacities.

She has authored numerous scholarly publications, including several books. Two of her popular higher education textbooks are Social Media: How to Engage, Share, and Connect and Public Relations Campaigns: An Integrated Approach. Recently, she expanded her scholarship into popular culture with her book Wonder Woman: Disruptor, Warrior, Feminist Icon, in which she argues that Wonder Woman’s journeys are a reflection of each wave within the feminist movement and her impact on culture and society continues to be felt today. Currently, she is working on books about social media activism and converged media writing for public relations.

Dr. Luttrell is a recognized leader in inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility at Syracuse University. She has created a number of programs including Empowering Stories of Indigenous Women and Sistas of Media.

The RSI Outstanding Alum is chosen by Public Relations and Journalism alumni from Utica University’s RSI Advisory Committee members and past Outstanding Award recipients.

The Raymond Simon Institute for Public Relations and Journalism was established in 1985 in honor of Professor Raymond Simon who taught at Utica University for 36 years and was a key contributor to establishing modern public relations educational practices. The RSI’s mission is to enhance and support the Public Relations & Journalism educational programs within the Communication & Media (CMM) degree program and the Public Relations-Marketing major at Utica University.

In Memoriam: Kay Hobaica

A longtime and beloved member of the University’s Student Affairs staff, Kathleen ‘Kay’ Hobaica passed away July 1, 2023 at the age of 90.

Kay played a major role in advancing the deeply student-centered culture for which Utica is known. She remained closely connected with the University well into her retirement, regularly attending campus events and maintaining close relationships with generations of alumni.

A 1950 graduate of T.R. Proctor High School in Utica, she married the love of her life, Elias C. Hobaica in St. Louis Gonzaga Church on July 3, 1954 - a loving and blessed union of 48 years until his passing on July 25, 2002.

Kay began her work career as a Certified Dental Assistant from 1960-1970 before joining then-Utica College where she worked from 1970-1993, retiring as the Assistant Director of Student Activities.

Haris Nadarevic ’20, Utica, NY is a Senior Analyst I at AML Rightsource.

Akemi Reyes ’20, G’22, Washington, DC is a Cybersecurity Consultant with FTI Consulting.

Daniel Tette ’20, G’21, Irondequoit, NY, is a Tax associate at RSM US LLP. He is also an avid hiker who just became Adirondack 46er- number 14487.

Oah Mi Dah ’21, G’23, MBA, Herkimer, NY is a program supervisor for the Center for Family Life and Recovery in Herkimer, NY.

Mara Delgado ’21, G’23, Utica, NY is a 2nd grade teacher at Conkling Elementary School in Utica, NY.

Anthony DiCunto ’21, Westmoreland, NY, is the Health and Wellness Coordinator, Assistant Varsity Football Coach, and Assistant Women’s Varsity Basketball Coach for the Westmoreland School District.

Madison Judge ’21, Clifton Park, NY, is a Social Media Content Specialist with DiRAD Technologies.

Katherine Tejada ’21, G’22, Utica, NY is a Health Teacher in the Utica City School District.

Zion Keitt ’22, Philadelphia,

PA is a cybersecurity CORE (Career Opportunities & Rotational Experiences) associate with Comcast NBCUniversal, embedded in teams that enable NBCUniversal to securely create and distribute compelling content by delivering innovative Cyber Security defenses and services.

Thao Lam ’22, is a Construction Inspector for Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson.

Sean O’Malley ’22, New York City is a stage manager at SportsNet New York, the linear and digital home for all things New York sports. From their state-of-the-art facilities at 4 World Trade Center, SNY develops original NY sports news and entertainment content.

Dr. Quinn Roderick ’22, Schenectady, NY is a physical therapist for Circle of Friends Preschool.

Vanroth Meas ’23, Utica, NY, is a proud Young Scholars LPP and Utica TRIO alum. In August 2023, he joined Utica University in the Office of Enrollment Operations as an Enrollment Operations Assistant.

BIRTHS & ADDITIONS

Michael Atwood ’09 and his wife Jessica welcomed a baby boy, Oliver Damrath Atwood, in July 2022.

AnnaMaria (Cirrincione) Omilanowicz ’10, and her husband Nick, Mattydale, NY, welcomed their son, Peter Gabriel, in June 2023.

[1] John Verra ’14 G’18 and Kaleigh (Congdon) Verra ’18, of Niskayuna, NY welcomed twins Estelle Marie and Michael John on May 2, 2022.

[2] Jonathan White ’14, Utica, NY, and his wife Briana welcomed their second daughter, Iris Noelle, in July 2023. They are also the proud parents of Journey Olivia, 2.

[3] Dave Chirco ’15 G’17, and his wife Macy, of Boone, NC, welcomed their daughter Blake in May 2023.

WEDDINGS

[4] Alexander Dawes ’12, G ’21, MBA, married Dr. Laura Bowman on August 4, 2023.

Allison Matlak (Wagner) ’20, Utica NY, and her husband Eddie, were married in early 2023.

IN MEMORIAM

Frank Widor ’49, Utica, NY, December 22, 2022.

Arthur J. Golder ’50, Utica, NY, February 20, 2023.

Francis J. Sisca ’50, Greenwich, CT, April 2, 2023.

Richard C. Bremer ’52, Rome, NY, March 17, 2023.

Dr. Thomas J. Cianciolo, Jr. ’53, Clarence, NY, October 1, 2022. 4 2 3

Paul P. Powers ’53, Rome, NY, May 6, 2023.

Carl Del Buono ’54, New Hartford, NY, February 25, 2023.

Dr. Juris G. Draguns ’54, State College, PA, January 17, 2023.

Blanche Duff ’56, Mesa, AZ, November 10, 2022.

Mario L. Rocci ’56, Utica, NY, July 16, 2023.

Robert C. Thomasch, Sr. ’58, Vernon, NY, February 7, 2023.

Frank P. Chiffy ’59, Utica, NY, June 1, 2023.

S. Joan Miner ’59, Clinton, NY, December 20, 2022.

Curtis A. Richardson ’59, Owasso, OK, February 16, 2023.

Clyde H. Lane ’60, Rome, NY, May 11, 2023.

Patricia A. Midura ’60, Reston, VA, February 28, 2023.

Dr. Vincent A. Solomon ’60, Columbus, OH, March 3, 2023.

Martin A. Slagel ’61, Camillus, NY, January 30, 2023.

Celia C. Bulinski ’62, Whitesboro, NY, December 23, 2022.

Clarence D. Forness ’62, Depew, NY, February 21, 2023.

Joanne C. Reppel ’62, Utica, NY, May 9, 2023.

Harry A. Hertline ’64, New Hartford, NY, January 15, 2023.

Walter G. Pratt ’64, New Hartford, NY, November 18, 2022.

Paul A. Wereszynski ’64, Kingston, NY, May 17, 2023.

Dr. Linda K. Pier ’65, Syracuse, NY, April 17, 2023.

Vito C. Rizzo ’65, Rome, NY, April 23, 2023.

Nancy C. Stark ’65, Liverpool, NY, January 3, 2023.

John A. Okunski ’66, Cazenovia, NY, July 26, 2023.

Bonnie D. Polsin ’66, Liverpool, NY, January 11, 2023.

Taras Bodnarczuk ’68, Lower Swatara Township, PA, April 27, 2023.

Peter Falzarine ’68, Canajoharie, NY, April 6, 2023.

James A. Arpante ’69, Pittsfield, MA, March 13, 2023.

John Hollister ’69, Ballston Spa, NY, June 18, 2023.

Ruth Berkowitz ’70, Utica, NY, November 3, 2022.

Gail Miller ’70, Utica, NY, August 13, 2023.

Donald J. Mills ’70, Ballston Lake, NY, April 18, 2023.

Christine B. Deuss ’71, Lowville, NY, February 16, 2023.

Carol A. Panuska ’71, Forest City, PA, October 28, 2022.

Walter R. Rowe ’72, Bel Air, MD, March 12, 2022.

W. Kimberley Nelson ’73, Farmingdale, NJ, April 16, 2023.

Priscilla L. Storm ’73, Utica, NY, June 10, 2023.

Mary Ellen Smith ’74, Manlius, NY, December 3, 2022.

Richard C. Dorn ’75, Deming, NM, March 14, 2022.

Betty H. Martin ’75, Westmoreland, NY, November 11, 2022.

Bruce E. Wagner ’75, Utica, NY, April 19, 2023.

Theodore M. Zalewski ’75, Utica, NY, June 18, 2023.

John J. Bolos ’76, Little Mountain, SC, July 6, 2023.

Paul R. Kindler ’78, Rome, NY, April 30, 2023.

Marguerite B. Parsons ’79, Floyd, NY, January 13, 2023.

James L. Glenn ’81, Boonville, NY, July 17, 2023.

David J. Legare ’81, Ava, NY, April 5, 2023.

Timothy J. Patten ’81, Broadalbin, NY, October 27, 2022.

Girard A. Plante ’88, Auburndale, MA, February 14, 2023.

Melissa L. Stetson ’91, Bernardston, MA, November 25, 2022.

Victoria Bokser ’92, Hoboken, NJ, March 10, 2022.

Donna Wright ’93, Ohio, NY, March 28, 2023.

Kenneth C. Buhrmaster ’94, Saratoga Springs, NY, February 13, 2023.

Laurie A. Hotaling ’94, Peoria, AZ, November 22, 2022.

Charles P. Carey ’96, Yorkville, NY, May 5, 2023.

Bonnie L. Carver ’97, Oneida, NY, June 2, 2022.

Jason J. Tagliaferri ’05, Rome, NY, May 23, 2023.

Timothy P. Rushold ’10, Windsor, CO, November 8, 2021.

Adam E. Miller ’12, Tallahassee, FL, November 4, 2022.

Edgar L. Schloop, III ’13, Utica, NY, June 22, 2023.

UTICA UNIVERSITY FACULTY, STAFF, AND FRIENDS WHO HAVE PASSED

Dr. Louis A. Angelini, professor emeritus of music, New Hartford, NY, December 4, 2022.

Robert H. Cross, Jr., retired director of environmental health and conservation, Woodgate, NY, December 1, 2022.

Kathleen A. Hobaica, retired assistant director of student activities, Utica, NY, July 1, 2023. (see sidebar)

Randall Huta, professor emeritus of accounting, Piseco, NY, February 7, 2024.

Jane F. Metzger, adjunct professor emerita of theatre, Utica, NY, July 1, 2023.

Stephen Reynolds, Dining Services team member, Remsen, NY, February 22, 2024.

Richard Rosen, professor emeritus of history, San Francisco, CA, December 29, 2023.

Barbara Taurisano, longtime administrative staff member, Utica, NY, November 22, 2023.