Spring 2007 Vol. 8, No. 3

Storing Memories Blending family and success Congratulations Class of 2007! president’s message

Dear Friends,

Those of us who spend our lives within the world of higher education know that summer is a time of retrospection and transition. The more relaxed pace of these few months allows us to evaluate the milestones of the recently completed academic year while considering the opportunities and preparing for the challenges of the one which lies ahead. The 2006-2007 academic year was immensely satisfying, and every indication suggests that the University is poised for even greater success in the days ahead. I thank you, our loyal alumni, for playing such a vital role in everything that we have accomplished. The articles that appear in this issue reflect the undeniable reality that our Vincentian values are as powerful a motivating force today as they were when St. John’s admitted its first students 137 years ago. Those values provide a continuity of purpose that is, at the same time, both subtle and profound, and lives within anyone who has ever been a part of the St. John’s experience. You will read of Leo Pierce, a graduate of the Class of 1939 who rose from humble roots in Brooklyn to found what would become one of the world’s largest business records storage and management facilities. His financial success led him to establish the L.W. Pierce Family Foundation and endow a scholarship at alma mater, giving back to the University that believed in him over 70 years ago. I also call your attention to the profile of Alfred “Fred” Cerullo III, a double alumnus who lives the St. John’s mission of caring for others through his position as president and chief executive officer of the Grand Central Partnership, a not-for-profit corporation that administers programs and services within one of New York City’s largest business improvement districts. Our mission serves as a major premise of the University’s financial planning decisions, because even at the bottom line everything that we do is about people. I know that you will enjoy the article about St. John’s Investment Portfolio, which describes the link between our stewardship philosophy and investment practices. We are a University committed to opportunity and to sharing that opportunity with as many deserving individuals as possible. I am pleased to share this issue of the St. John’s Alumni Magazine with you, and I wish you a happy, healthy and restful summer.

Donald J. Harrington, C.M.

2 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine contents features departments

5 noteworthy 12 chapter happenings 20 14 up front Leo Pierce has • 2007 Commencement ceremonies a family legacy of • Presidential visit love and hard work. • New public relations program • Revamped journalism curriculum • Hurricane help • New center debuts

35 campus briefs • Stadium renamed 36 faculty spotlight 26 42 giving back Fred Cerullo works diligently behind the scenes in one of the nation’s 45 alumnotes largest business improvement districts. 52 a conversation

32 Stewarding the University’s resources to reflect its Vincentian values.

Vol. 8, No. 3 Spring 2007 Visit our Web site for the latest updates, The St. John’s Alumni Magazine is published by the Publisher Contributing Writers news and events at Division of Institutional Advancement for alumni, staff, faculty and friends of St. John’s. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. Thomas Burke ’68C, ’71G President Michael Palladino ’73C www.stjohns.edu/alumni Correspondence: or call (877) 758-ALUM. The Alumni Magazine staff welcomes your thoughts and comments. Please address letters to: Editorial Staff Contributing Photographers Editor, Alumni Magazine, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439 Sheri Welte Adam Bell or e-mail [email protected] Managing Editor John Eisinger Letters and articles may be edited for publication. Lisa France Steve Grimes Editor/Writer Christopher Semetis ’04CPS, ’06MBA Send address changes to: Lisa Capone, Division of Institutional Advancement, Dorothy E. Habben, Ph.D. ’66G St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Contributing Editor Office of Alumni Relations Queens, NY 11439, by fax to (718) 990-1813, Danielle Bushell by e-mail to [email protected] William Schaeffer ‘73CBA or return the enclosed form. Alumnotes Director

Consistent with the University’s mission as a Catholic, Vincentian and metropolitan institution of higher education, the University abides by all applicable federal, state and local laws which prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual On the cover: orientation, marital status or disability in admitting students to its programs or in administering its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, athletics and other institutionally administered programs or activities generally made available to students at the University. In accordance with Leo Pierce ’39C, ’99HON these laws, the University also prohibits retaliation against anyone who has complained about discrimination or otherwise exercised rights guaranteed under on the grounds of his home these laws. In addition, the University continually strives to fulfill its educational goals by maintaining a fair, humane, responsible and non-discriminatory environment for all students and employees. All University policies, practices and procedures are administered in a manner which preserves its rights and identity in Vero Beach, FL. as a Catholic and Vincentian institution of higher education.

Conference in India Puts New Board STJ on World Stage Chair

Thomas McInerney ’64UC, ’01HON has been A three day conference on technology Basilio Gaspar Monteiro, an assistant elected as chair of St. John’s University organized in part by members of the professor with St. John’s College of Board of Trustees. He has College of Professional Studies and held Professional Studies Communications, served as a trustee for the in Goa, India, garnered media coverage Journalism & Media Studies division, past six years. A general in that country and brought together presented a framework for the forum partner at the investment and expressed firm Welsh, Carson, that development Anderson and requires critical Stowe in New York evaluation and must City, both he and ultimately liberate his wife Paula the creative self. He have been ardent suggested that those supporters of present never cease several initiatives to ask what really at the University constitutes the good including the life and consider how Student Managed ICTs can liberate and Investment Fund, empower the the Rome Scholarship human person. Fund, the St. Thomas After the conference, More Church Monteiro said the construction and the more than 90 Institute for Writing Monteiro speaks at the conference. attendees expressed Studies. The couple pleasure in the were honored at participants from around the world substantive nature of the forum. “People the Eighth Annual for a discourse on information and were interested in knowing that the President’s Dinner with communication technologies and how University has not only a global vision, the Spirit of Service they can be used to aid in human but is also interested in local matters,” said Award, bestowed upon development. Monteiro who added that two St. John’s those whose vision, "Information and Communications students also attended the event. “The accomplishments Technologies and Development" held focus was on human flourishing, not just and good works Thomas McInerney in January began with welcoming remarks technological advancements.” embody the essence from Fr. Joaquim Loiola Pereira, director There were various other speakers of St. Vincent de Paul. of the Diocesan Center for Social including Dr. K. Subramanian, deputy McInerney Communication Media of the Archdiocese director general at the National Infomatics succeeds now of Goa and Daman, who called on those Center, Ministry of Commun ications and chairman present to consider ways that information Information Technology in New Delhi, emeritus Denis and communication technologies (ICT) can who gave the keynote address on “ICT aid human beings. He noted that dialogue for India 2010: Empowering through Kelleher ’65CBA, can lead to subtle transformation and that e-Governance” as well as several ’91HON who the ideas can play a role in the making of prominent educators, researchers and University would public policy. Governor S.S. Jamir of Goa lecturers. The Diocesan Centre for Social like to thank then delivered the inaugural address, Communications Media of Goa and for his service, the central theme of which was to call Daman also helped organize the forum dedication and attention to the power of information and Monteiro said there are plans to devotion to communications technologies to improve continue the conversation begun by alma mater. Denis Kelleher people’s resources and contribute to hosting another conference in human development. January 2008.

Spring 2007 5 Founder’s Week 2007 Focuses on Solidarity

Every year, the University sets that exemplify the Vincentian Center in New York; and the it happened to me, I was in aside a week in January for a spirit: The Vincentian Mission President’s Medal to Leonard University,” she reflected. “So to special observation of its heritage. Award to Clover Hall, Ed.D., Baynes, professor and director be here speaking to [students] The 13th annual Founder’s Week vice president for institutional of the Ronald H. Brown Center — this is a message that concerns continued that tradition of research and academic planning for Civil Rights and Economic them, they need to take increasing the knowledge of the Vincentian heritage and imparting the Vincentian spirit and tradition into the lives of members of the St. John’s Guest speaker, Immaculée community today. This year’s Ilibagiza moved the audience with her story of courage and theme “Respect + Compassion = forgiveness as a Rwandan Solidarity” was displayed in genocide survivor. the many lectures, seminars, discussions and other activities held on the various campuses. The week began with a special Mass in St. Thomas More Church on the Queens campus where Rev. John McKenna, C.M. delivered the homily. He implored those gathered to look to St. Vincent de Paul as an example. “Like St. Vincent de Paul, we must see what others don’t see,” he said. “We must be able to see Christ in other people at St. John’s; the Caritas Medal Development at the School responsibility early, knowing — especially the poor.” to Mary and John McCaffrey of of Law. that this belongs to them, that University President Rev. Donald Rockville Centre, NY, for their One highlight of the week this is their story too.” J. Harrington, C.M. served as charitable work through the was the appearance of Rwandan Mary Ann Dantuono ’81L, principal celebrant and noted St. Vincent de Paul Society; the genocide survivor Immaculée associate director for the that the event also served to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Medal to Ilibagiza who moved many with Vincentian Center for Church celebrate the more than 200 Anna Halpine, the 24-year-old her story of courage, survival & Society which organizes recipients of the Founder’s president of the World Youth and forgiveness. The author of Founder’s Week, said Ilibagiza Recognition Award. “The theme Alliance, for her efforts to Left to Tell, her harrowing tale embodied the theme and spirit for this year’s Founder’s Week promote peace and social justice of hiding for 91 days in a of the event. “I think that in is achieving solidarity through through the United Nations and cramped bathroom to escape many ways her story can be respect and compassion,” said other world organizations; first certain death during a massacre looked at as a true modern day Harrington. “Today we offer Frederic Ozanam Award to the in her homeland, Ilibagiza came story of someone who lives special thanks to those who Catholic Migration Office of the to the Little Theater on the through a horror, but since then support our mission.” Bishop Diocese of Brooklyn, which Queens campus to speak of her has taken that and turned it Alfonzo Aristizabal Cabezas, C.M., works to improve the lives of journey before a packed crowd into a very positive experience,” Bishop Emeritus of Villavicencio, newcomers to the United States; that was transfixed by her Dantuono said. “It is so in tune Columbia joined McKenna and the St. Vincent de Paul Medal to powerful and emotional story. with our theme for 2007 Harrington at the altar. John Baynes, for promoting Bringing her message to St. John’s Founder’s Week. Our students The Vincentian Convocation understanding among the was especially important, have been looking at the theme was also held in St. Thomas More Church’s varied ethnic groups Ilibagiza said. “I think because of Respect + Passion = Solidarity Church where the following during his tenure as director this is a Catholic university and and in many ways Immaculée’s awards were presented to of the Office of Black Ministry, I feel it’s important to speak to story is that lived virtue of individuals and organizations at the Immaculate Conception young people, because when solidarity.”

6 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Loving Lewis Avenue by Everton Bailey ’10CPS

It was a day of celebration and longing for the close knit remembrance when the Queens community that was Lewis campus served as the site for Avenue. “I’ve missed the the 49th annual Lewis Avenue camaraderie and the loving reunion in April. Joined by family relationships students had with and friends, alumni of the each other and the faculty,” said beloved Brooklyn campus came Rev. James Kelly, C.M. ’40C. “As together to reminisce about you can imagine, there were not their days as students. as many students in that time as The event began with a Mass there are now. So the teachers held at St. Thomas More Church. and priests got to know the The festivities then moved to students much better than now. Council Hall where the guests So many of our vocation, not were treated to dinner and only mine, came from the From l. Jack Kaiser ’49C; honoree Jack Curran; Lou Carnesecca ’50C, ’60GEd, ’00HON; and John Sherry ’65C, president of Archbishop musical selections from members wonderful relationship with Molloy High School. of the Mixed Chorus. Jack Curran the priests and the students.” ’52C, head coach for Archbishop Theresa Maloney-Reddy ’51Ed DeGray Hall, the gymnasium.” faculty, wonderful students and Molloy High School baseball and said she also missed the family- she remembered. Even though we had a lot of fun,” said Don basketball teams, was presented like environment. ”I was a the Lewis Avenue campus no Zimmer ’49C, ’52L. “I’ve made with the Legacy Award for his cheerleader and I loved seeing longer exists, many of the friends here at St. John’s who contributions to the community. everyone come together to alumni still hold it very close to have remained friends of mine Those gathered spoke of their watch the basketball games in their hearts. “We had a good for all of my life.”

A V.I.T.A.L. Link The Rocket Lands

Alumni who were members of the Vincentian The inaugural Bullpen Club Banquet in Initiative to Advance Leadership (V.I.T.A.L.) January featured a keynote speaker came together for a reunion at the Queens for the record books. campus in February. Future Hall of Famer and seven-time The evening began with a Mass at St. Thomas Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens More Church conducted by Rev. Aidan Rooney, was a star attraction during the C.M. ’78NDC. Attendees then proceeded to a fundraiser held at the New York Athletic dinner and a discussion led by Rooney about Club in Manhattan. Clemens spoke with what the group had been doing since graduation. enthusiasm about being invited. “I was James Behan Jr. ’04CPS is campus minister for excited to take part in this event,” he safe formation and music at the Staten Island said. “I knew of the alumni that have Baseball legend Roger Clemens. campus and said it was important for him to come through St. John’s. They are the attend the event and reconnect with his peers. best of the best.” Also in attendance most outstanding pitchers, at each of his “It helps us to remember one aspect of our at the dinner were former St. John’s four career stops. Most recently, he won St. John’s lives that was so important to us,” he baseball players, New York Met John the award in 2001 as a member of the said. “There’s still a hunger to be in this type of Franco and Craig Hansen of the Boston New York Yankees and in 2004 won his community of people who value serving together.” Red Sox. first NL Cy Young Award with the The goal of V.I.T.A.L., which is offered on Recognized as one of the best pitchers Houston Astros. Clemens spent time the Queens and Staten Island campuses, is in baseball history, Clemens has won with the Red Storm baseball team prior to help students to develop spiritual values, 20 or more games on six occasions and to the event and also met with the Vincentian leadership skills and a strong won the Cy Young Award, given annually media. The banquet raised funds for commitment to service. to the American and National League's St. John’s baseball program.

Spring 2007 7 He’s Hired!

Dr. Randal Pinkett, entrepreneur, million dollar management, ment as a volunteer with several author and winner of season four technology and policy consulting social and charitable organizations. of “The Apprentice” spoke at the firm based in Newark, NJ. After his speech, Pinkett took Little Theater on the Queens At a special reception preceding questions from the audience and campus in February. the event, Pinkett met with a autographed copies of his book, Appearing as part of his select group of students, faculty Campus CEO: The Student duties as a spokesperson for and administrators and reflected Entrepreneur's Guide to Launching EntrepreneurshipWeek USA on what drew him to speak at a Multi-Million-Dollar Business. which is organized and sponsored the University. His hope, he said, Pinkett said he hoped his visit by the Ewing Marion Kauffman was to share an important would serve as an inspiration Foundation, Pinkett lectured on message with the students. for students that hard work, “The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: “I want them to see themselves perseverance and education can From the Road Less Traveled to as following in the footsteps and lead to success. And that is why, the Road Never Traveled.” the tradition of the great legacy even with all he has to do and the During his speech, he entertained St. John’s has established,” he Randal Pinkett greets those many hats he wears as a speaker, gathered at a reception held students with stories of his said. “I grew up in a family author and business leader, he prior to his lecture. entrepreneurial efforts which that stressed the importance of still takes the time to speak with ranged from selling lemonade as education and giving back to including a Ph.D. from Massa - others. “What drives me is what a child to his role as co-founder, others.” Pinkett has put that chusetts Institute of Technology drives St. John’s which is the president and chief executive philosophy into practice as the and a master of science from desire to make a difference in officer of BCT Partners, a multi- holder of five academic degrees, Oxford University, and his involve- the lives of others,” he said.

Professor Honored and Judge Welcomed at School of Law

January was a busy month for Professor Vincent Alexander honored who received the those at the School of Law as ’75L, the Charles M. Sparacio Recent Graduate Service Award the Alumni Association Annual professor of law, was honored for outstanding service to the Luncheon was held at the New at this year’s luncheon with the School of Law and the Alumni York Hilton and Towers and the Dean John J. Murphy Award in Association. Inaugural Honorable Joseph W. recognition of distinguished Hon. Judith Kaye, chief judge Bellacosa Distinguished Jurist-in- service to the public, the of the state of New York, visited Residence Lecture was held on profession and the rule of law. first-year classes, toured the the Queens campus. Donna Furey ’01L was also legal clinics, met with faculty and gave an address as part of the Inaugural Honorable Joseph W. Bellacosa Distinguished Jurist- in-Residence Lecture. Kaye, who was appointed to her current position in 1993 by then Kaye addresses School of Law Governor Mario Cuomo ’53C, ’56L, community. ’75HON and is the first woman to occupy the post, is New York’s Bellacosa ’61L, ’87HON, to bring top judicial officer and presides distinguished jurists to the over the seven-member Court of law school. Bellacosa served for Appeals and heads the state’s 14 years as an associate judge Unified Court System. of the Court of Appeals before The Jurist-in-Residence program returning to alma mater to serve From l. Hon. P. Kevin Castel ’72SVC, ’75L, ’04HON; honoree Alexander; was established by alumni and as dean of the School of Law and School of Law Dean Mary Daly at the luncheon. friends of Judge Joseph W. from 2000 to 2004.

8 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Connecting at Staten Island

March offered opportunities for Center Presidential Room for Staten Island campus students a meet and greet. Alumni in and alumni to meet and network. various fields ranging from Early in the month, the 4th Annual teachers to publishers attended Communications Connection including Jeff Britt ’83SVC began with a bus trip into from Cahners Publishing; John Manhattan where about 30 Paul Conti ’02CPS, from the students visited ABC studios and Metropolitan Museum of Art; met with Emmy award winning Megan Spoto ’93SVC of the editor, Roy Garlisi ’92SVC. The American Federation of Television group toured the network and Radio Artists; Michele Jessie Colon ’08CPS; Professor Matthew Kehoe ’03GCPS; and Mario studio and sat with “ABC World Baxter ’91SVC from WWOR Bullomo’08CPS enjoy the Criminal Justice Connection event. News Tonight” news anchor television; Mara Mantolbano Charles Gibson, for a half-hour ’03CPS of NY1 and Matt Room for the Criminal Justice and experiences. Some of the question and answer session. Pantaleno ’98SVC, executive Connection where students met alumni who participated included The students then continued on director of CTV. with a number of alumni who Hon. Ralph J. Porzio ’80CBA, for a visit to the Museum of Later in the month, more work in the field of criminal ’84L; Hon. Matthew Sciarrino Jr. Television and Radio. than 60 students and alumni justice. Students had the ’90NDC, ’93L; and Anthony In the evening, students and were in attendance at the opportunity to speak with Piscitelli, Esq. ’88L. alumni gathered in the Kelleher Kelleher Center Presidential alumni regarding their careers

Mock Trial Team

The Mock Trial team at St. John’s Mock Trial team has competed celebrated its 15th anniversary successfully, advancing to the with a bid to the nationals, nationals 13 out of the 15 years. though inclement weather This year, the University entered prevented them from competing. two squads in the regional Members of the team finished in event, squad A and squad B, in eighth place at the Atlantic Coast the competition and squad A Regional held on the University’s earned a bid to the nationals Queens campus in February and with squad B missing the were to advance to the National opportunity by only ½ a point. From l. Holt; Peter Metis, Esq. ’92C.; Matthew Mussalli, Esq. ’92C, ’95L; Tournament to be held in Kudakwashe Chibanda ’09TCB Heather Brown ’93C; Sekou Majid ’95SVC; and Helldorfer at the alumni event. Minneapolis in March. and Ronald Sylvestre, Jr. ’09CPS Under the guidance of were selected as recipients of of the team and said students and prevented the team from professors Bernard Helldorfer Outstanding Attorney Awards. devote a tremendous amount of traveling to the national and Oscar Holt III, St. John’s John Lin ’07C was a member time to preparing for the mock competition. “I’m a senior so cases. “This was my first year there won’t be a next year for and I joined because I knew it me,” she said. “But I know that was the most intense academic I will take everything that I program at St. John’s,” he said. learned to law school with me.” “It turned out to be a very During the weekend of significant event in my life and regional competition, a 15th I learned so much.” Nicole Annual Alumni Dinner was also Giambarrese ’07C echoed that held on the Queens campus sentiment and said she was which drew former students, Members of Squad A from l. Kevin Whelan ’10CPS; Giambarrese; disappointed when a late many of whom have gone on Kudakwashe Chibanda ’09TCB; Jessica Termini ’07CPS; Ashley Meadows ’08CPS; and Matthew Knotts ’10C earned a bid to the season snow storm shut down to successful careers in the law national competition. LaGuardia International Airport and related fields.

Spring 2007 9 Deckinger Honored at TCBAA Meeting

Members of The Peter J. Tobin took his class, I was undeclared and that the Vincentian values of product and current advertising College of Business Alumni as a major,” said Rooney who caring and compassion for others situation. Students must research Association (TCBAA) used the went on to head the Student that are such a part of all of our the product and its competition, occasion of their annual board Advertising team which made it lives need to be part of the identify potential problem areas meeting and networking to the finals in 1987 and is now advertising profession as well,” and devise a completely integrated reception to honor beloved senior director of innovation she told those gathered. communications campaign for former St. John’s professor Dr. E. with Kraft Foods Inc. “I think his Deckinger’s son and daughter, the client. Each student team Matthew and Nancy, also paid then "pitches" its campaign to tribute to their father and a a panel of judges. group of former students adapted That evening there was a song from their college days to also the announcement of honor the professor. the formation of two funds Alex Tutundjian ’07TCB is a in honor of Deckinger. The current member of the Student E. Lawrence Deckinger Student Advertising team and said he Advertising Competition Fund and his fellow students wanted was initiated through the to be present to thank the man generosity of Dr. Deckinger who Dr. Deckinger (in St. John’s cap) poses with some of his former students who had done so much for has contributed over $66,000 and attendees at the TCBAA event. St. John’s. “It’s great to meet the and will be used to support the Lawrence Deckinger ’96HON on enthusiasm rubbed off on me person who made [the Student ongoing needs of the St. John’s his 90th birthday. Deckinger and made me identify my career Advertising Competition] available team. The Drs. E. Lawrence and founded the St. John’s Student passion which is advertising and to students,” he said. “This event Adele V. Deckinger Research Advertising Competition team and marketing.” TCBAA president has also offered us, as students, an Fund, an endowed fund of more worked diligently throughout Catherine Camera ’65CBA excellent opportunity to network than $250,000, will support the years to inspire students and welcomed everyone to the event with alumni.” The National advertising research at the colleagues. Terrence “TJ” Rooney and during her remarks hailed Student Advertising Competition University. The creation of the ’87CBA is a former student of Deckinger for his guidance and is sponsored by the American Drs. E. Lawrence Deckinger and Deckinger’s who said the retired exemplary career. “He impressed Advertising Federation and each Adele V. Deckin ger Advertising professor had a tremendous upon our students that there are year a corporate sponsor provides Research Center to be located impact on him both personally definite social and even moral an assignment or case study on the 4th floor of Bent Hall was and professionally. “Before I responsibilities in advertising, outlining the history of its also announced.

LEAD Educators Honored

The 3rd Annual School of (COACH) event where an alumni During the dinner, Dean and 92-98% on the others, with Education Leaders in Education panel advised students on how to Jerrold Ross shared with an overall average of 97% — an Awards Dinner (LEAD) was held in interview for a job in the public attendees that this year’s School average which was above that of the Kelleher Center Presidential and Catholic school systems. of Education graduates achieved the State as a whole. He added Room on the Staten Island campus Patricia Campbell ’54NDC, Mary 100% on the State academic that job placement ranges from in April. More than 150 people Chiapperino ’97GEd, ’02PD, certification exam 97-98%. He also presented each were in attendance to pay tribute Natalie Hendrix ’02Ed, ’03GEd, honoree with a crystal apple as a to honorees Anna Castley ’89GEd; Lisa McSherry ’86Ed, ’99GEd, thank you for their continued Marguerite Moran ’92GEd; and Rose Ann Mezzacappa ’71Ed involvement with the University. St. Joseph by the Sea High School and Ryan Murphy ’03Ed, represented by Msgr. Joseph ’05GEd conducted mock Ansaldi and Sr. Helen McNally. interviews with students Prior to the dinner, 25 students and answered Dean Ross (r.) gathered in the lower level of questions from the and honoree the Kelleher Center to attend a group following the Marguerite Moran Count on Alumni for Career Help presentation. at the event.

10 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine The Quest for Happiness Hello and Goodbye by Everton Bailey ’10CPS As Institutional Advancement bids farewell to a beloved administrator who is leaving their Members of the St. John’s community that the wisdom of any action is equaled midst, they welcome a new leader at the helm. were treated to an enlightening lecture in to the odds of getting what you want Adrian Kerrigan is the new vice president for April by Daniel Gilbert, a Harvard professor multiplied by the value of getting what institutional advancement. Formerly the chief of psychology. He is the author of the you want. “If you knew exactly how likely advancement officer at the University of Detroit critically acclaimed New York Times it was that if you did something it would Mercy, Kerrigan has held positions in both bestseller Stumbling on Happiness which lead to the consequences you desired, development and alumni relations at Fordham looks at what research has discovered as then you would know exactly how much Preparatory School, Saint Peter’s College and to why individuals are so poor at predicting you valued those things and you would Saint Joseph’s University. From 1998-2001 he was what can bring them happiness. be able to calculate, with amazing vice president for institutional advancement Gilbert’s appearance at the Queens precision, whether this was a good or at Syracuse’s Le Moyne College, where he campus was the third event held as part bad decision for you,” Gilbert said. successfully completed the institution’s of the St. John’s College of Liberal Arts Gilbert — whose research has been and Sciences’ Alumni Speaker Series. featured in Time magazine, The New York His lecture, titled “What the Secret of Times, The Los Angeles Times and Forbes Happiness Isn’t,” opened with Gilbert magazine — told the audience that one explaining that for the early stages of problem people have with miscalculating human existence, survival was what life what makes them happy is that they make errors in figuring out the odds and values of what they want. He attributed that as a reason why most people lose so much money Adrian Kerrigan playing slot machines and the lottery. “The odds of $30.5 million capital campaign. He moved on winning the lottery are to Detroit Mercy in 2001 where he was again functionally the equivalent responsible for a capital campaign, this time of taking a dollar bill, surpassing a $100 million goal. At Detroit flushing it down the toilet Mercy he was also responsible for creating a Daniel Gilbert and St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and waiting for millions of and Sciences Dean Jeffrey Fagen. comprehensive institutional advancement dollars to come out,” he said program and for leading the offices of alumni was all about and happiness was a adding that another mistake individuals relations, communications, government and concept that could not be understood. commit is making most decisions based community relations as well as the office of He went on to say that as time went on, on preconceptions. development. happiness became a part of human Gilbert’s lecture left an impression on Kerrigan, a native New Yorker, said he leapt survival. As people began to gain just many of those present. “I’ve learned that at the chance to return to the area and to work about what ever they wanted, the focus the brain definitely makes mistakes and at St. John’s. “I’m thrilled to be coming back to of a large majority shifted to “How can mispredicts a lot of things and now I know New York,” he said. “I’ve been in Catholic higher I become happier than I am now.” why,” said Giovanna Cavalli ’03C, ’04G. education for a while and the opportunity to both Gilbert said today most people believe The topic of happiness is of interest to return to New York and work for a wonderful they are not happy because they are not many people, Gilbert said, and therefore University such as St. John’s was very compelling.” getting what they want. However, when made it a natural for him to study. He takes over from Rob Wile ’99SVC, chief of they get it they come to the realization “Happiness is the Holy Grail for most staff for the Office of the President, who served that they don’t like it and remain unhappy. people and it’s the thing most human as acting vice president while a national search Blaise Pascal and Pierre de Fermat are two behavior is aimed toward,” he remarked. was conducted to fill the role permanently. French mathematicians who developed an “Our actions, both large and small, are The Office of Institutional Advancement would equation to help people find happiness usually quests to maintain or increase our like to thank Wile for his diligent leadership through their own choices and Gilbert share of happiness in life. Given that it’s and express their best wishes to him in his shared a bit about their work during his what people are after why would a student future endeavors. Wile returns full time to his lecture. The formula, Gilbert explained, is of people want to study anything else?” duties as chief of staff, office of the president.

Spring 2007 11 Fans come out

A group of alumni from the Charlotte, NC, area gathered in February for a game watch as the Red Storm basketball team took on Duke University. Those present brought all of their St. John’s spirit to Picasso’s Sports Café in uptown Charlotte where they mingled and cheered on the players. The Charlotte Alumni Chapter is currently seeking members and exists to organize activities that afford alumni in the area opportunities to socialize, network and share memories. Plans are in progress to organize future events including an outing to a minor league baseball game. For more information on the chapter and its upcoming events or to join, e-mail Michael Maroney at [email protected]

Participants attending the Charlotte game watch included from l. Diana Clarke; Michael Clarke ’92CBA; Michael Maroney ’87SVC; Gene Mclaughlin ’71Ed; Darrin Sanchez ’93SVC; Karen Labovitz; and Mel Labovitz ’68CBA.

Phoenix Rising

Members of the Arizona Alumni Chapter were treated to remarks from the new chapter coordinator and learned about the many initiatives and events at the University at an event held in February. Held at the picturesque Aunt Chilada’s Restaurant in Phoenix, the evening of networking included an overview of news from the University given by the Director of Alumni Relations, William Schaeffer ’73CBA. Schaeffer was followed in his remarks by Chapter Coordinator Peter O’Reilly ’69CBA, ’74MBA who spoke about the ongoing operation of the chapter and how the group can best communicate and maintain a connection.

Members of the Arizona chapter pose during the event.

12 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Bigger in Texas

Insightful questions and enthusiasm for alma mater were the highlights of a dinner held in February for members of the Houston Alumni Chapter. Held at the InterContinental Houston Hotel, attendees were treated to a night of mingling with fellow alumni as well as updates on the various events and initiatives at the University. Participants were invited to ask questions and share their thoughts about St. John’s. The Houston chapter is very active and regularly hosts events for alumni living in the area.

Members of the Houston chapter enjoy an evening out.

Northern California Save the Date Save the date now for some of the exciting events being hosted by the chapters:

August 2 Northern California Alumni Chapter lunch meeting at the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco, CA.

August 4 Albany Alumni Chapter Day at the Races at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga, NY.

August 11 Northern New Jersey Alumni Chapter Minor League gathering in Little Falls, NJ.

August 18 Central New Jersey Alumni Chapter Minor League gathering in Lakewood, NJ.

October 4 Northern California Alumni Chapter lunch meeting at the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco, CA. Members of the Northern California alumni chapter showing their December 6 Northern California Alumni Chapter lunch meeting at pride at a luncheon held at the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco are from l. Frank Traun ’63C; Susan Traun ’63Ed; Drew the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco, CA. Miller ’93CBA; Dan Payne ’71L; Hugh McLoone ’59CBA; and Don Reid ’58CBA, ’62L. For more information on these events and the chapters, visit www.stjohns.edu/alumni/community/chapters

Spring 2007 13 up front

Welcome New Alumni

A crowd of more than 19,000 gathered on the Great Lawn at the Queens campus for the University’s 137th Commencement Exercises. The sunny day in May was a time of reflection and looking ahead as graduates celebrated their years at St. John’s and were treated to a stirring commencement address from George Stephanopoulos, chief Washington correspondent for ABC News and anchor of “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” Stephanopoulos offered congratulations to the St. John’s graduates and reflected on the fact that it had been 25 years since his own college graduation. “It’s also humbling for me to stand before a class filled with so George Stephanopoulos speaking at commencement. many people who have struggled against the odds; without the resources that so many appreciate St. John’s very much so it was a Gallagher, who began his studies in 1959 and others take for granted, to be here today,” pleasant surprise and a kind gesture when I left to enter the workforce with 18 credits he said. “And I’m so happy to join all of you learned I was to receive an honorary degree.” remaining to finish. “I decided that if it cost who have now become the first members in William Gallagher ’07TCB was also excited more than a new car to finish, then I wouldn’t your families to get a college degree. What to walk the stage. The 68-year-old do it. But it didn’t, so I came back to finish my an achievement! You’ve done yourselves and Mamaroneck resident returned to St. John’s last year.” Gallagher retired from a successful your families proud.” He also shared with those after 48 years to complete his studies and career in the printing industry in 2005 and present that “Solidarity and love are needed receive a bachelor’s degree in business said he promised his now deceased parents more than ever in a world that confounds us management as his proud family looked on. years ago that he would complete his with contradictions and confronts us with “It’s a feeling of completeness,” said education. Honoring that promise gave him the challenge of living with its paradoxes.” a sense of satisfaction. “I’m just glad “Most of you will not choose politics as I did it,” he said. a profession, but I know that St. John’s has David Hadizadeh ’07C gave the prepared you to dedicate at least part of your student address at Queens before life to practicing that art of the impossible,” a record 2,577 undergraduate and said Stephanopoulos who received an graduate students who were receiving Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. “You’ve their degrees. Joy Pleasants ’07CPS been taught that service, trying to change completed a degree in criminal justice people’s lives for the better; it’s what we’re and said she now looks forward to called to do. Not to create a perfect world obtaining a master’s in forensic in a world of imperfect people, it’s just not psychology. “I’ve loved it at St. John’s,” possible. But a better world.” she said. “The teachers, the people, His father, Rev. Robert G. Stephanopoulos, the atmosphere, it’s all been great.” Ph.D., joined him on stage. The elder At the Staten Island campus, Stephanopoulos, a Greek Orthodox priest The Honorable James R. Nicholson, and adjunct theology professor at St. John’s U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, for more than 20 years, received an delivered a Commencement Address Honorary Doctor of Sacred Theology degree. highlighting persistence, prayer and “I’ve enjoyed my long tenure at St. John’s,” George Stephanopoulos and he said prior to the ceremony. “I admire and Rev. Robert G. Stephanopoulos, Ph.D.

14 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Nicholson received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. At the Queens campus, University President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. also conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Dr. Norman C. Francis, president of Xavier University of Louisiana, and presented Patricia Shea ’62Ed, executive director and founder of MOMMAS House, with the President’s Medal. At the Staten Island ceremony the Most Reverend Robert J. Cunningham, the 13th Bishop of Ogdenburg, and Sr. Judith Garson, R.S.C.J., executive director of Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Services, received Doctor of Humane Letters degrees. The Honorable James R. Nicholson, U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and University President The Office of Alumni Relations hosted a Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. at the Staten Island campus ceremony. hospitality tent for the new graduates and service. “If I can leave you, my fellow there when the going gets tough, the their families where light refreshments, classmates, with three important words to power and strength of prayer and the deep t-shirts and alumni relations materials remember today they would be persistence, satisfaction in service to others are the things were offered. prayer and service,” Nicholson said. “The I feel most deeply about in drawing experiences value of being persistent and hanging in from my own life to pass along to you.”  Members of the Class of 2007.

Spring 2007 15 up front

Meeting of the Presidents

The first female head of state ever to visit St. John’s was honored during a special event held at the Queens campus in May. President of Ireland Mary McAleese accepted an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree which was conferred by University President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. at a private convocation ceremony in the School of Law’s Belson Moot Courtroom. President McAleese came to New York as part of a three city, five day tour of the United States. She expressed to those gathered at St. John’s that she was very familiar with the Vincentians as they serve as her current chaplains and from her early teenage years she has been a disciple of St. Vincent de Paul and Frederic Ozanam. “The St. Vincent de From l. Denis Kelleher; his wife Carol Kelleher; President McAleese; her husband Dr. Martin McAleese; and Fr. Harrington at the convocation. Paul Society I founded in my high school in Belfast over forty years ago is still going strong those lacking economic, physical, or social The convocation began with a welcome I am proud to say and like the students of advantages,” President McAleese said. “They from Provost Dr. Julia Upton, RSM ’73G, ’75G St. John’s I can say I have been shaped and are not just lofty words, they are lived words, who was followed by Denis Kelleher ’65CBA, challenged by the Vincentian value system,” for this University has distinguished itself through ’91HON, chief executive officer of Wall Street she said. “I know, without ever being told, the years by providing scholarships to thousands Access, then chair and now chair emeritus of that in this place the service of those in need of students each year who would otherwise the Board of Trustees. “The story of St. John’s is a priority and a vocation.” She hailed be unable to afford the cost of a university University is the story of New York City and St. John’s for the many students it has aided. education.” President McAleese also discussed the story of America,” Kelleher said. “We “It is no surprise to see those Vincentian the many advances in her country including in celebrate our great heritage today and I am values in the University’s mission to “provide education and economy and discussed the proud to stand here as an Irish-American excellent education for all people, especially peace process occurring in Northern Ireland. graduate of St. John’s, and I am most grateful

Answering a Call

According to statistics from the United States in the recent explosion of cases in the media Professional Studies. Classes in writing, Department of Labor, employment of public involving Michael Jackson, Enron, KFC, public relations strategies, law, research relation specialists is expected to grow faster Martha Stewart and Jet Blue, it is clear that and ethics provide a solid foundation of skills than average for all occupations through the communication crises and corporate problems for students exploring all areas of corporate year 2014. In order to meet the need for are dominating the news and with them communications. The faculty for the public trained professionals in this growing field, comes the need for ethical and transparent relations program, which previously was St. John’s launched a new degree program public relations,” DiMarco says. “This new offered as a minor, is comprised of industry in public relations this spring. undergraduate program is focused on professionals from public relations, journalism, Individuals working in public relations serve nurturing public relations students who will be broadcasting and corporate communications as advocates for businesses, organizations skillfully and ethically poised to responsibly who, DiMarco says, bring a wealth of and other clients in building and maintaining create the public and private communication knowledge to their classrooms. Those positive relationships with the public. John strategies that persuade and inform society.” enrolled will also have the opportunity to DiMarco is an assistant professor and the The degree program includes new courses learn about such diverse topics as public director for the undergraduate public relations as an expansion of an already robust relations campaign development, design and program at St. John’s and says the new curriculum offered from the Division of production and speech writing. DiMarco degree comes at a time when highly trained Mass Communications, Journalism, Television says he believes such specialized courses professionals are in great demand. “As seen and Film which is part of the College of will better prepare students for careers in a

16 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Journalism For the 21st Century to President McAleese for her gracious To keep pace with the ever evolving world of media, the journalism curriculum at appearance. This is truly a historic day for our St. John’s has been revamped to expose students to various styles of news writing and University.” A formal citation was read by make them more marketable in the industry. James Pellow, Ed.D., executive vice president Dr. Roger Wetherington, associate professor and director of the journalism program and chief operations officer for the University. and Dr. Judith Cramer, director of mass communications, say that today’s students have Fr. Harrington expressed his pride in conferring to be well versed in reporting and writing not just for newspapers but for the internet, an honorary degree to President McAleese. television, magazines and radio as well. As newspapers across the country struggle to “Ireland has played a very significant role in our maintain readers and compete with electronic media like websites and blogs, students history and many Irish-Americans have led this must be proficient in all of these styles of writing if they are to market themselves institution for 137 years,” he said. “We truly effectively. “The news industry has changed,” Wetherington says. “In the old days [a celebrate their rich tradition here and that is never more evident than when we, as a media company] would send five reporters to cover a story: one for the newspapers in University, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in March. the chain, one for their wire service, one for all their radio stations to get the audio clips, Well, today St. Patrick’s Day has come a second one for the television stations and one for the online site. Someone figured out that it time [in celebrating President McAleese’s visit]. makes better sense to have one reporter cover the story in five different styles.” So I wish you all a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!” Referred to as “convergence,” this new approach to media has many sounding the Ranked by Forbes on their list of “The World’s charge that newspapers may one day become obsolete. For that reason, there is no 100 Most Powerful Women,” President McAleese longer a focus on teaching just newspaper writing, but rather a push to craft a curriculum th is currently serving her second term as the 8 that equips students to be writers across media. So Wetherington, a newspaper veteran, President of Ireland. She was elected in 1997 and Cramer, who has a background in broadcast, have developed a tag team approach and re-elected to a second term in 2004. Prior with the former teaching newspaper writing and the latter instructing on electronic to her election as president she was a member writing for the Newswriting course. There are differences in the styles: newspaper writing of the Catholic Church Episcopal Delegation to tends to be more in depth and detailed; broadcast writing is brief as it can rely on the the New Ireland Forum and a member of the Catholic Church delegation to the North visuals to tell the story; and radio journalism paints the story with words and requires Commission on Contentious Parades. In 1994, listeners to stretch their imaginations to “see” what is happening. “Exposing students she became the pro-vice chancellor of the to the various styles and having them cover stories from the perspective of print, Queen’s University of Belfast, the first woman broadcast and radio, gives them options to grow and learn,” Cramer says. “I think that and second Catholic to hold the position. by changing the curriculum we allow students to have much more control over what their future careers will be,” she says. “This allows them to be more prepared to do more things professionally. Now they will be better skilled and better able to get a job.” This cross platform type of teaching is in many ways easier for the students to adapt to than it is for the professors, Wetherington says. “For us, this is a revolution, but wide variety of industries with public students have been cross platform for as long as they can remember,” he adds. “They relations needs, including health care were into computers, they were into television and all sorts of things and they have marketing, political consulting, sports and been able to master all of them.” entertainment promotions, non-profit There are two tracks in the journalism program, print and broadcast. Copy editing and development and public affairs. fundamentals of graphics are required courses for those on the print track and courses DiMarco, who has years of professional experience as a consultant, designer, on journalism for radio and broadcast are required for those on the broadcast track. researcher and writer, adds that students But Wetherington says he advises students to take both tracks if possible or at least use will be provided with a solid theoretical their electives to take some courses from the track they are not pursuing. Students also framework and valuable skills acquired take courses such as ethics, law and the history of journalism and many benefit from through classroom learning of applied, being in the media capital of the world by securing for-credit internships. industry standard activities. To provide “The curriculum may yet change even more depending upon what the market calls students with real world experience, for and what students will need to prepare them for their careers,” Wetherington says. there will be internships available at “The department is more than ready to grow with the times. Our students don’t have some of the most prestigious firms and a luxury of saying ‘I’m going to be a dinosaur, I want to be a dinosaur,’” he observes. businesses located in the tri-state area. “Not if they want to have a job.”

Spring 2007 17 up front

Aiding the Forgotten by Alice Arvan

Thirty St. John’s School of Law students spent their winter break in January providing legal services to post-Katrina victims in New Orleans. The trip provided a fertile opportunity for followers of the Vincentian mission to make a difference by addressing the rights of the underserved and helping the disenfranchised. Participating students also fulfilled the Vincentian teaching mission of applying classroom learning to real life situations. Professors Ann Goldweber and Keri Gould accompanied the students on the trip. “Eighteen months after Katrina, the justice system was completely broken,” Goldweber says. “I am proud of the small yet integral part that St. John’s students played in the From l. students Chris Conant ’09L; Shaun McCready ’07L; Nathan Kennedy ’07L; Kimberly Shalvey ’07L; Dianne Arrue ’09L; Niranjan Sagapuram ’07L; Debra Smith ’08L; and Roman struggle to restore the legal system and in Shakh ’08L in New Orleans. the fight for victims’ legal rights.” The trip was organized by law student Amanda the dramatic reduction in the number of been reported that day laborers are waiting Golob ’09L in her role as student hurricane lawyers in the region coupled with a mounting for wages and consumer fraud is rampant. network representative at St. John’s. The caseload, lost records and evidence, and St. John’s students worked on four different Network is a nationwide student-run scattered information. Prisoners charged with projects: one group concentrated on clarifying organization founded to provide long-term felonies and even misdemeanors have been home succession rights — a prerequisite for assistance to communities impacted by Katrina. languishing in jail for months without benefit claiming insurance or FEMA payments. The School of Law funded most of the of seeing a lawyer. Monies to help residents Another team interviewed unpaid day laborers students who traveled to New Orleans. In the rebuild their homes are being held up by — many of whom are immigrants from five days allotted, the group met with and legal and bureaucratic technicalities. It has Honduras and Guatemala — and assisted interviewed inmates from the Orleans Parish Prison and helped hurricane victims advocate before FEMA in an effort to protect their housing rights. “Talking face to face with people who survived the hurricane and its aftermath, people who lost everything and are now trying to rebuild what is left of their former lives, was awe-inspiring,” Golob says. She adds, “The legal system down there was already troubled and Katrina’s aftermath not only exacerbated existing problems, but created new ones. To know that my legal education could be used to help those in need, to improve their lives or simply bring long awaited comfort was an amazing feeling. It really showed me how the skills I am learning at St. John’s can be used in the real world to bring positive change to others.” Contributing to the breakdown of the New Orleans legal system is the gap resulting from A neighborhood in New Orleans.

18 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine in filling out wage reports and advising gone months without seeing an attorney. locally, nationally and globally.” contractors of their legal obligation to pay Many students had never interviewed a “The situation in New Orleans is an the workers. A third group started the client before and were shocked to discover extreme example of the problems that process to appeal FEMA’s attempts to take that some people arrested for non-violent institutional racism and poverty can cause in back some of the payments already made to misdemeanors had been incarcerated far a community” says Debra Smith ’09L. Zoe Katrina victims. A fourth group assisted the longer than the sentence they would have Polk ’09L adds that “witnessing this lack of Public Defender’s Office with some students received had they been convicted. According due process first-hand has reaffirmed my working on compiling facts and preparing to Professor Gould, “Students went to New devotion to doing public interest work and case records for misdemeanor cases, while Orleans motivated by the destruction they advocating for social change and equality.” others interviewed people awaiting resolution saw on TV and read about in the newspapers. The experience had a profound effect upon of their felony cases. Students also spent Once there, however, they learned that many participants. “The fractured legal system in time investigating contacts and legal status of the problems result from preexisting post-Katrina New Orleans is a call to arms, a for release purposes, researching legal issues poverty issues exaggerated by Katrina. chance to make a difference by people like for trial and relaying information about case Our students came away understanding the me who are blessed with the tools of a legal status to incarcerated individuals who had importance of public interest lawyering education,” Golob says.

New Center Expands Allied Health Professions Programs

The University’s recent acquisition of Saint their EMS Institute preparing individuals to education program at Saint Vincent’s. “This Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center School of become paramedics and emergency medical is a great thing for both my faculty and my Allied Health Professions in Fresh Meadows, technicians; and will continue to offer students because St. John’s core business is Queens, has netted a series of academic instruction at the site for St. John’s University education,” he said. “We will now have programs that will greatly enhance the course pathologist assistant students as well. better access to the academic environment offerings at the College of Pharmacy and St. John’s was long linked to the medical which means there will be better faculty Allied Health Professions and honor a beloved center through several joint academic programs, development and the students will have member of the St. John’s family. which will now be offered in their entirety by access to more advanced technology.” The The facility, located on Horace Harding St. John’s. The four year physician assistant former Saint Vincent’s faculty will continue Blvd., has been renamed the Dr. Andrew J. program, leading to a B.S., will require two to teach in the allied health professions Bartilucci Center. Dr. Bartilucci served for years of course work on the Queens campus, programs in the Fresh Meadows location that more than 30 years as dean of the College of followed by one year of instruction at the are now sponsored by St. John’s. Pharmacy and established many of the allied Bartilucci Center, and a final year at affiliated Mangione sees great potential in the new health programs that will now be offered in hospitals and clinics. The B.S. in medical structure and is already considering possible the facility that bears his name. Bartilucci technology requires three years of coursework growth. “Looking down the road, EMS could ’44P, ’98HON also served as the University’s on the Queens campus and a final year at be a great feeder for other programs at executive vice president and as a special the center and affiliated hospitals. St. John’s.” He also noted that “physician assistant to the president. When he retired According to College of Pharmacy and assistants play an essential role in health care in 2002, he was named both dean emeritus Allied Health Professions Dean Robert today and will have enhanced significance in and executive vice president emeritus. Mangione ’77P, ’79GP, ’93PD, ’99Ed.D., the the future. We also believe that interest in The new center is located less than two acquisition was in the works for more than a the medical technology program will grow miles from the Queens campus and will year and will greatly aid those already involved because of changes in state licensure add more than 150 students, 20 full-time in seeking these degrees. “In the 2007-08 requirements, and that radiologic technology administrators and faculty, and 35 part-time year, we will begin to look at how we can has the potential to become an associate or and contract staff who will be retained as enhance these programs, which are already bachelor’s degree program that may include St. John’s assumes responsibility for the site. strong,” he said. “Rock-solid stability, additional study in subspecialty areas such St. John’s will continue a number of non- enhancement and possible growth are as nuclear medicine.” He added that an degree programs previously offered by Saint what we are seeking.” assessment is planned to determine whether Vincent’s, including two-year certificates in One alumnus who is thrilled with the other programs and classes could be offered physician assistants and radiologic technology; acquisition is Niels Schmidt, R.P.A. ’98MBA, at the site so as to maximize usage of the a one-year certificate program in medical who served as director of allied health 40,000-square-foot building. technology; a variety of courses offered through education and the physician assistant

Spring 2007 19 A MAN OF t’s funny to think now, but for Leo W. he has fond memories of growing up an IPierce Sr. ’39C, ’99HON success began only child — memories that include having with just a few boxes in his basement. his tonsils removed at home on the kitchen As former chairman emeritus of Iron table and the generous helpings of ice cream Mountain Incorporated, he founded what that came later. His mother’s strong Catholic would become one of the largest and most faith and his father’s urging that a young successful record storage and information Pierce do well in school combined to spur management companies in the world. But him on academically and he was often first his legacy isn’t limited to just the boardroom. in his class beginning in elementary school. Philanthropically, he and his family have His parents insisted on a Catholic school set a standard of excellence in giving and education and he smiles when he recalls Pierce has served as a shining example to the support he received from the nuns and his eight children, 26 grandchildren and priests throughout his matriculation. His 15 great grandchildren (with more on the sweet nature and adorable looks led to his way). It was for his family that he worked being tapped early in his elementary years so hard to build his business and it was to portray baby Jesus in the manger during for them that he triumphed over personal a school Christmas play. Impressed with struggles which he now views through a Pierce’s bright mind and good grades, lens colored with the appreciation of the a priest offered to pay the tuition so the many blessings bestowed upon him. then-teenaged Pierce could attend Harvard Leo Pierce’s story is both unique and very University, but Pierce’s father declined much typical of the St. John’s experience. because he couldn’t afford the living Born at home in Brooklyn to Kathryn, expenses. Pierce attended St. John’s an Irish immigrant, and John Pierce, who Preparatory High School and St. John’s despite leaving school in the sixth grade University on academic scholarships and was self-educated and well read, he early says he appreciates the aid which enabled on learned the value of faith and family. him to earn his degree. “In the 1930s, Life was difficult growing up during the even though tuition was peanuts, my father Great Depression and Pierce counts himself couldn’t afford to send me to school,” fortunate that his father worked as a recalls Pierce, who excelled in math and superintendent in an apartment building philosophy during his college years. “I went which enabled them to have housing. Still, to St. John’s [University] during the summer SUBSTANCE so I was able to graduate in just three and a half years, but with a four year education.” He earned his degree with honors and landed a job with a bookstore in Manhattan that paid him $12 a week with no overtime. The store was named “Barnes & Noble.” “I have no idea if it’s the same Barnes & Noble of today,” he laughs. “I like to say I started Barnes & Noble on their way.” He also worked a stint at Price Waterhouse and had planned to attend graduate school before Uncle Sam came calling in 1941 and he was drafted into the Army. A month before leaving for basic training, he married the former Marjorie (Peggy) Kinnaly who was a childhood schoolmate destined to be his wife for more than 60 years. He had been in the service six months Leo Pierce (circled) as a young student. when Pearl Harbor was attacked and Pierce was selected to enter officer training school where he became a second lieutenant. He was soon transferred to the Chicago ordnance district which was tasked with procuring all of the armament in the Midwest. In Chicago, he was joined by his wife and the couple soon found themselves the parents of three young children. After four years in the military, Pierce left with the rank of major and was recruited to work for Marshall Fields by his former superior in the Army who was comptroller for the company. There, Pierce headed the payroll department before being promoted to accounts receivable. He then left to work briefly for LeFebure Corporation which made custom built bank and filing equipment and he was ecstatic when they asked him to open an office in Philadelphia. “I jumped at the opportunity because at 90 miles from New York it was just close enough to the family,” Pierce says. While he still represented LeFebure, the corporation allowed him to start his own business as an outside representative and so he founded L.W. Pierce Company, Inc. During the following years, five more children were born to the Pierces and they An oil portrait of Peggy Pierce. settled into life in Philadelphia. The family

22 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine “I feel that the education joined a club to play tennis and squash The first client was Scott Paper Company and three of his kids became national and with no storage building initially, I got at St. John’s was very champions in the sports. Pierce kept the records in the basement Things were going well for Pierce. He of his Philadelphia home. important to the rest of was a successful businessman selling filing Then he purchased a warehouse, and his systems and related equipment through children came to work for him, doing my life…The fact that I L.W. Pierce and his family was thriving. everything from driving trucks to stacking got a scholarship [to the But while working hard and playing hard, boxes. “We were very successful, but we Pierce says he began to reward himself with weren’t making any money because every University], and I was a drinking. “By the time I was 40, I was a full time you filled up a building you had to blown alcoholic,” he recalls. “But I was still buy or rent another building,” Pierce young man who couldn’t a workaholic and I would never drink explains. “Then you had an empty building before 5 p.m. — those were 10 tough years with no income from it. We were making have afforded attending if for my wife and family.” Fortunately, Pierce a decent salary, but nothing to spare.” recognized the damage that was being done The business soon grew to include offices not for that scholarship, and with the help of a 12 step recovery in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey program, was able to attain sobriety. He and Maryland. Pierce’s pitch to major is a big reason for my marks that as the point at which his life corporations was simple: rather than wait wanting to offer support.” turned around. “I haven’t had a drink weeks for an employee to comb through since,” he says proudly. “Getting sober two or three years of active files, store with changed my life physically, mentally, his company, save money on the space and emotionally and spiritually. Shortly after, employees needed for record storage and I started a new business which was Pierce receive a guarantee that what was requested Business Archives.” The year was 1969 and would be delivered by the next day or the new company — which evolved from same day if needed. It worked and Pierce L.W. Pierce Company — specialized in Business Archives became more and more archives records management and storage. well known. In 1990, Pierce purchased New

A majority of the Pierce grandchildren.

Spring 2007 23 York based competitor Leahy Business Archives and the new business emerged as the Pierce Leahy Corporation. The newly formed company became the largest business records storage and management business in North America with over 250 warehouse record centers running coast to coast, in Canada and the United Kingdom. Sales continued to increase and Pierce continued to make acquisitions. In 1997, financial gains came when the company went public on the New York Stock Exchange. Always dogged in its organization and wanting to offer the best to its clients, Pierce Leahy attracted the attention of its largest competitor, Iron Mountain. In 2000 the firms merged, with Iron Mountain as the surviving name. By then, Pierce and his wife had retired to Vero Beach, FL, and their son Peter was heading up the company. Pierce and his wife reveled in having the time and resources to do for others, and they turned more of their attention to the L.W. Pierce Leo and Betty Pierce. Family Foundation which they had set up to offer support for worthy causes. One of the first recipients of their generosity, Pierce says, was alma mater where the couple established the Leo W. and Marjorie L. Pierce Scholarship Endowment Fund. It was important to him, he says, that he give back to St. Johns. “I feel that the education I got at St. John’s was very important to the rest of my life,” Pierce now says. “If I hadn’t gone to college, I am sure I wouldn’t have gotten the job at Price Waterhouse. The fact that I got a scholarship [to the University], and I was a young man who couldn’t have afforded attending if not for that scholarship, is a big reason for my wanting to offer support.” St. John’s is not the only organization that has benefited from his generosity. He has a longstanding relationship with Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. presents Pierce the Medal of Honor in 2004. the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of the Treasure Coast based in Vero Beach. Spurred by the memory of his mother dying in a public hospital ward in Brooklyn when he was 13 and touched by the home

24 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Pierce poses in front of some treasured photos and his family tree. care they offered his beloved wife Peggy That same year, he remarried. His wife Pierce is respected as an elder statesman in before she passed away in 2001, Pierce Betty brings a twinkle to his eye and shares his industry and was one of the founders has remained close to the organization. his commitment to philanthropy. The pair of the Association of Commercial Records “Leo and his family wanted to ensure the enjoys attending the theater and lectures as Centers in the 1970s. In 2005, he received sustainability of our hospice residence so well as family get togethers. Mr. Pierce also the first Lifetime Achievement Award compassionate care could be available makes time once a week for lunch with the presented by PRISM International for all in need in our community,” says ROMEOs — which his wife laughingly (Professional Records and Information Kerry A. Bartlett, CFRE, MBA, chief explains stands for Retired Old Men Eating Services Management). He has also helped advancement officer for VNA. “VNA’s Out — a group of his friends who live scores of people maintain sobriety through patients are forever grateful to Leo and his nearby. The Pierces are outspoken in their his many years of volunteer work in the family for their ongoing commitment.” devotion to each other and their life in alcohol recovery field. Yet with all of his Pierce is held in no less esteem at the Florida resembles that of a mini-paradise, many accomplishments, Pierce more than University. In 1995, he was awarded the complete with good friends, sunshine and likely would take a visitor to his home first Pietas Medal and three years ago he lots of love. Their home is much like they to stand before a large framed family tree received the Medal of Honor, the highest are, comfortable, open and joyous, filled on the wall that contains the names of his award that the University can present to with family photos and some of the many beloved. For it is his family that has given an alumnus. accolades and awards he has received. Leo Pierce his roots.

Spring 2007 25 Hon. Alfred C. Cerullo III, Esq. ’83NDC, ’86L makes no secret of the fact that his heart lies across the Upper New York Bay. A resident of Staten Island, he makes the hour and a half trek by car each work day from his home to his office in midtown Manhattan. The rigors of such a commute might be daunting for some — especially given that he lives moments from the ferry and could easily take it into the city — but for Cerullo, the trip comes with the territory as he divides himself between the two areas that hold his esteem. “I love Staten Island and I love Manhattan,” he says, smiling. “As a Staten Islander working in midtown Manhattan, the downside is the Gowanus.” HEART of the

26 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine His affection for New York City is evident in the many years of service he has given. Cerullo, who is affectionately known as “Fred,” has over the course of his career served as an elected and an appointed official, as well as a board member for several non-profit organizations. Today, he is the president and chief executive officer of the Grand Central Partnership (GCP) and a commissioner of the New York City Planning Commission. A not-for-profit corporation, the GCP develops and administers programs and services in one of nearly 60 business improvement districts in New York City under contract with the New York City Department of Small Business Services. The Grand Central Business Improvement District was founded in the mid 1980s and is one of the largest business improvement districts in the United States, comprising 76 million square feet of commercial space in a 70-block area whose irregular borders reach from 35th Street to 54th Street and from Second Avenue to Fifth Avenue. Midtown Manhattan property owners and businesses created the GCP during a period of physical and economic deterioration in the area. To answer the call, the GCP developed a comprehensive plan to specifically revitalize the neighborhood surrounding Grand Central Terminal, which included an ambitious capital improvement program, privately managed sanitation, maintenance and public safety operations, business assistance initiatives, a broad tourism and visitor services program and a social services component. Heading up an organization that has responsibility for such a well known portion of New York City is a heady responsibility and Cerullo takes it very seriously. Not only does the area have some of the most recognizable real estate in the city — places like the Met Life building, Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building and St. Bartholomew’s Church — but millions of CITY “We are a community that balances all of this big and famous with small, hardworking business people. We have these big corporations, yet we are a neighborhood that also thrives on its tiny restaurants and boutiques. There is a very wonderful blend of life that occurs right in the middle of Manhattan.”

people flow through it every day. Yet, even Brooklyn and moved to Staten Island with with the flagship retail stores and the his family when he was two years old. throngs of commuters, the success of Educated in the public school system, he Grand Central is as much about the Mom initially desired to attend college out of Photo: Rosemary Feitelburg and Pop establishments as it is about the state and nurtured dreams of matriculating Cerullo joined his staff on the streets of Midtown in the aftermath of the 2003 Blackout as they Fortune 500 companies, Cerullo says. “We in the balmy climate of California. worked to ensure the Grand Central neighborhood are a community that balances all of this But his parents wanted him closer and was in top condition once the power returned. big and famous with small, hardworking St. John’s Staten Island campus seemed the business people,” he says. “We have these ideal location. “The school had a great big corporations, yet we are a neighborhood reputation,” he says. “St. John’s was a that also thrives on its tiny restaurants wonderful opportunity for me to go to and boutiques. There is a very wonderful school and still be at home.” Ironically, blend of life that occurs right in the given that he would go on to hold public middle of Manhattan.” office, Cerullo switched his major to The commitment, generosity and English and American Studies after he selflessness of the property owners, discovered he didn’t enjoy political science. business people and residents of the Education was much valued in the Grand Central neighborhood make it a Cerullo home where his parents, Alfred C. very unique place, Cerullo says. He takes Cerullo Jr. and Elizabeth Russo Cerullo, pride in the role the GCP has played in instilled a love of learning in their three the transformation of Grand Central from offspring. Fred Cerullo drew inspiration a place where people just came to work, from his mother, who enrolled in college to an area that has a thriving residential at the age of 33 at a time when older community on the periphery and a students were a rarity. “She decided she round the clock lifestyle rarely seen in wanted to be a teacher,” Cerullo recalls. commercial districts. “She started college when the three of us A post such as the one he now holds were in grammar school and I remember was unimaginable for a young Cerullo who me at the age of 10 really admiring her for was born in the Bensonhurst section of going back to school. “His mother went on

28 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Cerullo received the Special Achievement Award at the 2005 New York City Neighborhood Achievement Awards. Pictured from l. are New York City Department of Small Business Services Commissioner Robert Walsh; Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg; Cerullo; former Chairman of Con Edison Eugene McGrath; and Director of Community Relations for Citibank Hector Ramirez.

to teach sociology as an adjunct at St. John’s and it was during his time as a first year student at the School of Law that she became ill and passed away. He now reflects that being able to commute as an undergraduate turned out to be a blessing as it allowed him to maintain a closeness to his parents who found themselves getting to know professors and students at the University as their son became actively involved in campus life. “My family became part of the St. John’s family,” says Cerullo, whose younger brother, Scott (’92NDC) is also a graduate. “At my mother’s funeral, many of the priests from St. John’s concelebrated the Mass. For me, St. John’s was the perfect choice educationally, personally and for my family.” He maintained that University connection in his second year of law school by serving a judicial internship for Hon. Vito Titone ’56L, Cerullo delivered remarks ’84HON. Following graduation from the at a gathering of community School of Law, he began his career as beautification professionals in counsel to the minority leader for then Montreal in June 2006. He was invited to address local business City Council member Susan Molinari. leaders and discuss the Grand Four years later he won his first of four Central Partnership’s success consecutive elections to the New York City in transforming its Midtown Manhattan neighborhood through Council where he represented the South its award-winning streetscape Shore and portions of the Mid-Island improvement program.

Spring 2007 29 Cerullo and New York Knicks legend and NBA Hall of Famer Willis Reed listen as children from St. Ignatius Loyola School read literary passages as part of the unveiling ceremonies for Library Way, a unique attraction on East 41st Street that serves as a dramatic gateway to the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue.

communities of Staten Island while also holding the position of Minority Leader of the Council. In 1993, Cerullo served on Rudolph Giuliani’s Mayoral Transition From l. best friends and Sigma Chi Upsilon Team and was later appointed New York brothers Cerullo; City consumer affairs commissioner where Tom Pontone ’84CBA; he served for two years. In 1995 while and Falcone at the Grand Central still at Consumer Affairs, then Mayor Partnership’s annual Giuliani chose him to also be the City’s culinary fundraiser finance commissioner, making Cerullo Grand Gourmet – commissioner of both agencies for six The Flavor of Midtown. months. During his tenure at Finance, Cerullo took leave from the City administration to become deputy campaign manager for Giuliani’s successful 1997 reelection before returning to work for the city, where he remained until being tapped to lead the GCP two years later. With all of his accomplishments, Cerullo still proudly wears his St. John’s Falcone; Cerullo; undergraduate class ring and marks his and Pontone when they were students years as a student as some of his finest. in 1981. “I made the best friends that I have to this

30 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine “I made the best friends that I have to this day at St. John’s. That was true for both undergrad and law school. It gave me the opportunity to develop life long friends.” Pictured on the set of the Lifetime miniseries “Gone But Not Forgotten” are (bottom row, l. to r.) actress Brooke Shields; actress Patty McCormack; (top row, l. to r.) actor Lou Diamond Phillips; director Armand Mastroianni; and Cerullo.

day at St. John’s,” he now says. “That was passions — acting and philanthropy. He is a true for both undergrad and law school. member of the Screen Actor’s Guild and has It gave me the opportunity to develop life appeared in several daytime dramas, theater long friends.” One of those friends is productions and made for television and fraternity brother Larry Falcone ’85CBA. cable movies. He has also served as vice The pair met while pledging Sigma Chi president of the Staten Island September Upsilon and Falcone says he considers 11th Fund and on the board of directors Cerullo, who in 1983 was awarded the of the Baruch College School of Public President’s Medal and in 1996 the Pietas Affairs Advisory Board, the International Medal from the University, a true brother. Downtown Association and various Photo: Danny Bright “He is probably the most honest and community-based and charitable Fred Cerullo is interviewed for a local news sincere person I know,” Falcone says. “He organizations. He and his GCP staff program at Grand Gourmet – The Flavor of loves St. John’s and that’s how he is in that volunteer with a homeless services provider Midtown, the Grand Central Partnership’s annual neighborhood restaurant showcase that when he belongs to something he puts one with whom they contract as part of the GCP raises funds for homeless services programs. hundred and ten percent into it.” Peter social services commitment and proceeds Kalikow, chairman of the GCP, says Cerullo from GCP’s “Grand Gourmet” event, where brings that same level of commitment to participants get to taste the delicacies from his job. “He is superb in what he is doing,” some of the best restaurants in the Grand Kalikow says. “He has done an absolutely Central area, go to aid those in need. Being spectacular job.” of service is what Fred Cerullo loves to do With his dedication to GCP Cerullo and he sees no need to slow down now. “It’s doesn’t have much spare time, but what a great feeling,” he says. “It’s a continuation time he does have he devotes to his other of the values I learned at St. John’s.”

Spring 2007 31 32 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine DOLLARS for SCHOLARS St. John’s Investment Portfolio Keeps Our Mission Alive and Well

The year was 1870. The place, a small — a trend that is expected to continue for explains. “The three main participants in farmhouse in Brooklyn, where a group the foreseeable future. the investment process are the Investment of dedicated Vincentians gathered to As with any fiscally responsible institution, Committee, which reviews and recommends welcome 46 eager young men to the newly- St. John’s maintains a prudent yet productive to the Board of Trustees an annual policy; established college that would ultimately investment strategy designed to maximize the the Board, which reviews and approves the become St. John’s University. Although impact of its donors’ generosity. According policy including asset allocation, spending our first students were from a variety of to Thomas E. Nedell, vice president for rate, social responsibility and other factors; cultures and backgrounds, they were linked business affairs and treasurer, a major and the Treasurer, who is responsible for by the common denominator of being the component of that strategy is the University administering this investment fund policy product of families bearing the burden of Investment Portfolio which is valued at and implementing any related actions.” financial hardship. nearly $350 million. Nedell notes that the Investments are made with an eye to Today, 137 years later, that reality hasn’t careful and diligent management of the both short-term gain and long-term growth. changed. St. John’s continues to remain portfolio is a multi-faceted undertaking that Instruments include a diversified mix of steadfastly committed to its Vincentian involves the senior financial administrators domestic and international stocks and fixed mission of serving those with the greatest at St. John’s, the Investment Committee of income securities, all of which have been needs. During the current academic year, the University’s Board of Trustees and, thoroughly researched and have proven their 90% of the University’s undergraduate ultimately, the entire Board. fiscal worthiness over time. This longitudinal students are receiving some form of Peter D’Angelo ’78MBA, chairman of the focus ensures that the portfolio will be able financial aid, with nearly $138 million of Board’s Investment Committee, says the to meet the University’s current and future that assistance coming from the University’s interaction of these components is both needs, which are predicted to significantly own funds. The magnitude of that amount simple and highly effective. “The investment increase over time. According to Dr. James assumes even greater significance with the objective is to earn, over the market cycle, a Pellow, executive vice president and chief realization that the level of scholarship compound annual rate of return in excess of operating officer at St. John’s, the simple yet assistance required to serve the educational inflation, the lending rate and fund expenses, profound philosophy that endowments are needs of students has increased every year consistent with moderate risk level,” he perpetual serves as a benchmark against

Spring 2007 33 “Everyone involved with which all investments are judged. “All of us Undergraduate Student Investment Fund, at St. John’s believe very strongly that the worth $1.6 million, perform so well that the investment process principal of our portfolio needs to remain they “…consistently generate income that is is on the same page, intact,” he says. “So every investment decision used to provide scholarships for students that we make needs to be one in which our seeking to pursue their business education because we know that the returns outpace both the rate of inflation as at the University. As with everything at students are the ultimate well as the ever-increasing expenses associated St. John’s, the students are the ultimate with providing our students and faculty with beneficiaries.” beneficiaries of everything an exceptional educational experience. We Investment Committee Chairman consider our endowments to be perpetual, D’Angelo notes that the Vincentian and we do. That’s what the because we know that they will need to Catholic values which drive the University mission of St. John’s has serve our students’ needs for years to come.” also serve as a context for many investment Pellow is particularly proud of the fact decisions. “As a Catholic university, St. John’s always been about, that St. John’s investments, though relatively has also adopted a social investing policy and it’s what we’re all modest when compared to the more heavily which is provided to the managers in our endowed colleges and universities, have portfolio,” he says. “It is our intention to about as well.” consistently out-performed many institutions promote the basic moral values of fairness, with much larger resources available to invest. respect for human life, defense of human “We take our stewardship responsibilities rights and social justice.” Pellow echoes very seriously and make really good use of those sentiments, and credits the vision what our donors have given to us. Everyone and leadership of President Rev. Donald J. involved with the investment process is on Harrington, C.M. for defining the overall the same page, because we know that the context of the University’s investment 15.6% 15.3% students are the ultimate beneficiaries of initiatives. “Our donors believe in the vision everything we do. That’s what the mission of Father Harrington and see that vision in of St. John’s has always been about, and it’s action throughout St. John’s,” he asserts. what we’re all about as well.” “They support what we do because they The University’s investment portfolio know why we’re doing it, and it’s their way realized an annual average return of 15.6% of reaching out, through us, to the students for the three-year period ending June 30, who need our help.” 11.2% 2006, placing it in the top 10% of the 701 Both D’Angelo and Pellow admit to institutions participating in the 2006 National deriving a sense of personal satisfaction from Association of College and University knowing that their investment practices are Business Officers (NACUBO) Endowment furthering St. John’s mission of making a Study. These figures are rendered even more difference in the lives of real people. “As impressive when compared against the chair of the Investment Committee I am performance of portfolios valued at over happy to be helping the University achieve $1 billion, which realized an average return its objectives,” D’Angelo says. “Our recent of 15.3% for the same period, and the capital campaign has augmented the Standard & Poor’s 500, which averaged an Investment Fund and it is my hope that the annual return of 11.2%. Fund will continue to grow through good It is of interest to note that a portion performance and the generosity of alumni of the portfolio is incorporated into the and friends.” “I’m on campus every day and University’s curriculum in the form of student it makes me feel good to see what we’re managed investment funds, designed to doing to help our students achieve their afford students the opportunity to research, dreams,” adds Pellow. “Very few people have invest and manage a real-dollar portion of a chance to be a part of something that gives St. John’s overall investments. According to young people a chance to make a difference St. John’s University investment portfolio John’s St. Standard & Poor’s 500 Poor’s Standard & Performance of portfolios valued at over $1 billion Performance Nedell, the Graduate Student Investment in our world. It makes me realize that even Fund, which is currently valued at though we’re investing in equities, we’re Three year period ending 6/30/06 approximately $1 million, and the ultimately investing in people.”

34 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine campus briefs

Bricks & Mortar Update

Stadium Renamed to Honor Kaiser

A dedication ceremony was held in May to herald the renaming of The Ballpark at St. John’s to Jack Kaiser Stadium in honor of beloved former head coach John “Jack” Kaiser ’49C. Kaiser was honored at the event for his many achievements, having been a part of the St. John's athletics family for nearly 60 years, first as a baseball, basketball and soccer player in the late 1940's, then as a coach from 1952-1973, director of athletics from 1973-1995 and as athletic director emeritus. The stadium, which was originally constructed in 2000 on the site of the former McCallen Field, has seating for 3,500 spectators, a press box, lighting and public address system. Throughout his long career at the Director of Athletics Chris Monasch ’81SVC (l.) and University President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. (r.) applaud Coach Kaiser (c.). University, Kaiser has been one of the baseball program's biggest supporters. He led teams to the College World Series as both a player and a coach, then went on to provide department-wide leadership as the director of athletics for 23 years. An American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) and Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) Hall of Famer, Kaiser remains involved with both the St. John's program and the ACBL, a sanctioned summer league that he co-founded. He also co-founded the BIG EAST Conference in his role as athletic director at St. John's, and the league has commemorated Kaiser's achievements as the namesake for the conference baseball tournament's Most Outstanding Player award. Also in honor of the coach, many alumni, friends and supporters have committed to funding an initiative to make improvements to the stadium, including a new entry way and scoreboard.

Coach Kaiser throws out the ceremonial first pitch.

Spring 2007 35 faculty spotlight

St. John's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Learning and Growing

Dr. Dawn Flanagan, a professor of psychology, Medicine and says her work there is related is passionate when she talks about assessing to training on new instrumentation, new learning disabilities. That’s because she tests for intelligence and how to interpret understands how far the field has come. After these tests in addition to training in the use receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology of the Cross Battery Approach. at the University of Massachusetts at At St. John’s, Flanagan’s classroom Amherst and a master’s in school psychology philosophy is based on her own graduate at Ohio State University, Flanagan completed experience and subsequent research. She an internship and found it less than satisfying. wants to impart to those she teaches what “I worked as a school psychologist for a year they will need once they are working with and I didn’t like it because I had to sit down students, parents and teachers. “I look at my with parents who were very distraught about students and see many of them the same age their children’s learning problems,” she as I was when I started my internship,” she recalls. “I had to tell them that their son or says. “I want to give them the skills and their daughter had a learning disability. I felt knowledge to be able to use testing instruments so inadequate when they wanted answers effectively and appropriately. That will enable and I couldn’t give them any.” Dr. Dawn Flanagan them to derive meaning from these tests to That sparked her desire to continue her give parents and teachers an explanation and education and she returned to Ohio State systematic research since the early 1940s and an understanding of the condition so they University to complete a doctorate in there is a network of learning evidence to are in a better position to help the child.” school psychology. Since then, she has support this theory. It is this theory upon An accomplished author, she has also been studying and conducting research on which most of our major tests of intelligence published 12 books including most recently learning disabilities in an effort to help. She and cognitive abilities is currently based.” Essentials of WISC-IV Assessment and the came to St. John’s in 1992 and in her current She has helped to develop the CHC second edition of Cross-Battery Assessment. research has been studying the structure Cross-Battery Approach to psychoeducational She is also a fellow of the American of cognitive abilities and the validation assessment which takes tests from another Psychological Association and a diplomate of current intelligence tests based on the of the American Board of Psychological Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) Theory of [Flanagan] wants to impart to those Specialties. Cognitive Ability. With all she has learned and gathered The theory consists of 10 broad cognitive she teaches what they will need through the years, Flanagan is miles from abilities and over 70 narrow abilities. These once they are working with the days of her internship when she felt the are considered, from a psychometric stand- need to find better answers. If a parent were point, the structure of cognitive ability. The students, parents and teachers. to ask Flanagan today why their child has 10 cognitive abilities are: fluid reasoning, learning problems, her reply would be much crystallized intelligence, visual processing, battery to supplement an intelligence test different than when she was a young school auditory processing, short term memory, that enables the measurement of a broader psychologist. “I would be able to explain to long term storage and retrieval, processing range of cognitive abilities. “Therefore, you them where the specific areas of cognitive speed, quantitative knowledge, broad reading have more information to properly diagnose processing and cognitive ability deficits are; and writing factors and correct decision a learning disability,” Flanagan says. “This is where the specific areas of strength are rela- speed or reaction time. “This is a theory that most relevant for individuals in schools who tive strengths for the child and then be able is constantly evolving,” Flanagan explains. are referred for learning problems.” Flanagan to give them concrete examples of how to “Like any theory, research leads to refinements is also a clinical assistant professor with the approach learning in a way that bypasses or and revisions. It has been the subject of Yale Child Study Center at the School of compensates for deficiencies,” she says.

36 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine The School of Education

Doing For the Least of Those

For Dr. Richard Sinatra, there really aren’t “I asked ‘What did you learn from our program?’ A sixth grader wrote enough hours in the day for all he does. He is a professor, chairman of The School of ‘I learned there’s more to life than five days.’ Some of the homeless kids say Education’s Department of Human Services they do more in our summer program than they do at school during the year.” and Counseling, a director of special projects such as the University’s Reading and Writing School 216 in Fresh Meadows, Queens and summer and weekend programs have their Education Center and an author. He also a weekend program for homeless children eyes open to more of what the world has to mentors faculty, conducts research and from the Bronx who are bused to the offer, Sinatra observes. Those who come to heads up programs for at-risk children. Queens campus. the Queens campus have the opportunity to That’s quite a few different hats to wear, He says he is indebted to St. John’s for visit and work in the various labs such as but Sinatra is completely committed as it providing some of the facilities and resources chemistry and computer, he says, and his allows him to work in an area that he has for the programs and he adds that he views research involves assessing the programs and great passion for — literacy. “Literacy is so what he does as an extension of the the effects on the participants. Many of the important because it pervades all of our young people have expressed that their lives,” Sinatra says. “Nobody, especially involvement has meant the world to them. modern age children — even with all of their “These kids experience things that they may toys and trinkets and television — they can’t not ordinarily experience in their lifetimes make it without good literacy practices. and it just opens their eyes,” Sinatra notes. Particularly today in not only reading, but “We did an evaluation of our last group from writing and we do a lot with writing in all M.S. 216 and I asked ‘What did you learn of our projects.” from our program.’ A sixth grader wrote Sinatra has been with the University since ‘I learned there’s more to life than five days.’ 1976 and during that time he has lived the Some of the homeless kids say they do more Vincentian mission, consistently striving to in our summer program than they do at provide for those most in need. As one of school during the year.” the project directors of the After-School Sinatra credits his wonderful staff, his All-Stars of New York CampUs program, colleagues and the great partnership with Sinatra helps oversee what has evolved over the All-Stars programs with the many more than a decade into an extremely Dr. Richard Sinatra accomplishments he has seen. Yet with all he ambitious summer program which brings does, Sinatra says he would like to do more. together disenfranchised youth from the five Vincentianism which is the foundation of the He dreams of one day developing a “Career boroughs of New York to the Queens University. “In the Vincentian, metropolitan and Leadership Academy” to service campus and other program sites. Participants missions, it’s just part of the work,” he homeless youth which would run for four receive supervised reading, writing and says. “I just feel like reaching out to these weeks over the summer and aim to provide computer instruction and participate in their communities is so worthwhile.” Those from the group with life skills and career direction. choice of athletic and recreational programs. the University who work with the programs “What’s happening now with the homeless, The program has been so successful that it often also greatly benefit, Sinatra says. “We it’s like a finger in a dike,” he says. “Little has spurred a similar program for homeless have turned many an undergraduates’ life programs here and there, send them away youth held at The City College of New York around,” he reflects. “They may be in another to sleep over camp to keep them happy, but in Harlem and one held at SUNY at Old school or college and then they come and don’t really provide them with a way to see Westbury campus for youth in Nassau work for us for a summer and before you that there are other opportunities in this County. Sinatra also heads up an after school know it they are in The School of Ed.” world. That’s my big wish to [set up the program designed for students at Middle The young participants in the after school, Career and Leadership Academy].”

Spring 2007 37 faculty spotlight

The Peter J. Tobin College of Business

World View

The economy in China is booming and as some from the USA, set up facilities there areas how difficult it is to do business.” Asian markets continue to move to the to take advantage of the low costs and then Liaw notes that his work aligns perfectly forefront of the global economy, the need for export to the US. In addition, there is with the University’s mission to be global. information is also growing. Dr. K. Thomas tremendous demand for financial services That commitment is evident in the fact that Liaw is helping to fill that void with his new to support the burgeoning economy.” That there are a number of students from China book Investment Banking and Investment means a great deal of opportunity for currently matriculating at St. John’s and Liaw Opportunities in China: regularly works with a Comprehensive Guide Liaw notes that his work aligns perfectly with the University’s scholars from China for Finance Professionals mission to be global. That commitment is evident in the fact that who come to the (John Wiley & Sons, University to conduct Inc., 2007) which is there are a number of students from China currently matriculating research with him. scheduled for publication at St. John’s and Liaw regularly works with scholars from China St. John’s enjoys an in July. Written for esteemed reputation market professionals who come to the University to conduct research with him. worldwide, he says. “We and students who are have a good name out seeking knowledge about China, the growth, especially for those who understand there and we are in New York,” which is the book focuses on investment banking and how the market works. financial capital of the world, Liaw explains. investment opportunities in that country. Liaw is one of three faculty members He says he hopes his book adds to that The subject is not an unfamiliar one for currently working with the Student admiration and serves to give students an Liaw. A native of Taiwan, he has lectured in Managed Investment Funds program, a edge in employment opportunities as it will China and is a well respected member of program designed to give students hands-on increase their awareness of global finance — academia who has taught finance at St John’s experience at performing investment knowledge which he believes is essential to since 1988. In 1999, Liaw authored a book research, investing money and managing a future business leaders. “Everything now is titled The Business of Investment Banking portfolio using actual funds initially supplied global,” he says. “Even if the company doesn’t which covered investment banking by generous donors to the University. have operations overseas, most likely the operations in the United States and Europe. Liaw is currently teaching the MBA asset company’s counterparts have a presence After completing the second edition of his management and said his research proved there or are dealing with book in 2005, his editor encouraged him beneficial to his class. For example, someone overseas. In to expand his book to cover China after the China book project was helpful the past, people have noticing an increased buzz about the as students last semester researched said that China is an country’s economy. Liaw put together a a life insurance company based emerging market proposal and what evolved was a book in China. And, even while he is but now it is the which delves into the economic environment imparting knowledge, Liaw said most important in China, information on how to enter the he too has learned a great deal. emerging market market and investment banking as well as “[Chinese government and because it is the direction on how investors in the United businesses] have different ways of biggest.” States can profit from China without going putting up barriers that you often into China. “China has a huge population, don’t see,” he says. “It was quite 1.3 billion people which automatically means educational for me. Even though Dr. K. Thomas Liaw a huge consumer market,” Liaw says in I have been [to China] explaining some of the rationale behind the many times I was growing interest. “Secondly, the costs over still surprised in there are low so a lot of businesses, including certain

38 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions

The Right Formula

Dr. Byron C. Yoburn loves his job. As a began in 2006, is studying the molecular professor of Pharmacology in the Department characteristics of prescription opiate drugs of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the director and the risk for developing tolerance and of the Yoburn Lab, his days are spent teaching dependency. “We have many interesting pro- in the classroom, training graduate students jects at the moment,” he says. “One area we in the laboratory and conducting research are focusing on is a bit of a change in direc- at the molecular level which focuses on tion for us. We are now mathematically understanding opiate drugs. You would modeling the characteristics of the drug think with such a hectic schedule Yoburn when it binds to and activates the receptors. would need some down time, but it is clear What this has shown is that drugs that are that he is devoted to his work and his face not effective in activating receptors lead to lights up with joy as he describes it. “It’s the greater tolerance, while drugs that are very greatest job in the world,” he says. “I get to efficient require binding to fewer receptors think about things that I like to think about and tend to produce less tolerance. This and then I get to do them.” information may be important in formulating Dr. Byron C. Yoburn The Yoburn Lab, located in St. Albert approaches to lessening the development of Hall, is involved in studies that target opioid tolerance to the opioids.” able, he says, to serve his undergraduate and drug action, beginning with the interaction graduate students while still maintaining a of opioids with specific opioid receptors and Yoburn, who is a renowned expert major national and international presence culminating with functional drug effects. As in research. He adds that he is proud of the in the study of opiates, says the with many other neurotransmitter systems, graduate students he has trained who have opioid receptors have dynamic properties long range goal of his research, gone on to forge their own careers at and can be actively regulated by exposure to pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis, agonists and antagonists. Yoburn’s research is “is to develop a fundamental basic Schering-Plough and Regeneron and others particularly important given recent studies understanding of the molecular throughout the country. compiled by experts. The National Institute Yoburn received a two-year fellowship of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has recognized a basis for opioid drug action.” from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, disturbing trend in the United States that Columbia University in their Neuro - shows an increasing incidence of prescription Yoburn, who is a renowned expert in the behavioral Sciences Training Program in drug abuse, particularly painkillers, among study of opiates, says the long range goal of 1981. His work there led him to spend one adults and teenagers. Opiates such as his research, “…is to develop a fundamental year on the research staff at the New York OxyContin, OxyCodone, Vicodin and basic understanding of the molecular basis State Psychiatric Institute. After completing Tylenol with codeine, normally used to for opioid drug action. Since it is clear a one-year fellowship in pharmacology at relieve pain, are being used for non-medical that there is an increasing incidence of Cornell University Medical College he reasons. A 2003 Monitoring the Future prescription drug abuse, we must fully remained there until he was recruited by survey funded by the NIDA and conducted appreciate the mechanism of action of these St. John’s. These days, Yoburn is a standing by the University of Michigan found that drugs in order to rationally treat abuse and member of a review committee for the 10.5% of 12th graders reported using to manage pain.” Yoburn came to St. John’s National Institutes of Health (NIH) and his Vicodin for non-medical reasons and 4.5% in 1987 and his research has been funded nearly 200 publications have appeared in of this group reported using OxyContin almost continuously since then. He says he such professional journals as Synapse, without a prescription. has enjoyed his time spent at the University European Journal of Pharmacology, Dr. Yoburn’s current research, which is which has allowed him to balance both his Molecular Brain Research, Life Sciences and funded by a three year grant from NIDA that love of research and teaching. He has been Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior.

Spring 2007 39 faculty spotlight

College of Professional Studies

Offering Counsel

Ellen Boegel, an assistant professor and “One of the things I really like will be important in their lives,” she reflects. assistant director of the Legal Studies “Business, teaching, social work…everyone Program at the College of Professional about teaching at St. John’s is will give an oral presentation at some time in Studies Staten Island campus, laughs easily that we have such a strong their lives.” The academic atmosphere of as she reflects on how she came to St. John’s. St. John’s is also significant to her, she says. “I was in a Mommy & Me class with core curriculum.” “One of the things I really like about teaching someone who was an adjunct at St. John’s at St. John’s is that we have such a strong core [who told me about the opportunities at the provided her with a wonderful opportunity curriculum that no matter what major any of University.]” In the fall of 2003 she became to return to the field of higher education. our students have they are going to have a a full-time member of the faculty. “I really love teaching,” she says. “It was the strong liberal arts background and specific Boegel, who earned her B.A. from Le right niche for me.” skills that they can market.” Moyne College, a Jesuit college in Syracuse, At the University, Boegel enjoys her role Boegel is also focused on improving NY, says her Jesuit education served her well as moderator of the Moot Court where instruction through the teaching of legal in law school. “The Jesuits offer an analytic students argue the legal merits of a case and citation and legal writing. Legal writing is a type of education…you challenge everything, field the rapid-fire questions of actual judges. precise method of writing that is limited to you question everything and that’s what we As part of the Moot Court, an appellate legal precedent where every statement that is do in the law.” Boegel studied law at the court lawyer faces a panel of judges and made must be supported by legal authority. George Washington University School of responds to their inquiries as they are In addition to teaching legal writing, Boegel Law and was admitted to the Bar on her first presented. After the students have argued for recently wrote a review for The Bluebook: attempt. Instead of signing on to a high one side, they then argue the other side of A Uniform System of Citation which is used paying firm and pursuing a partnership the case as well and face a series of questions by the legal profession as the style guide for track, Boegel took a different path. “My first from the judges. Boegel says this training legal citation. As a member of the American year out of law school I clerked at the United is beneficial for all the students who Association for Paralegal Education’s Writing States Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit participate as it enables them Task force, Boegel researched grading in Manhattan — not for an individual judge, to develop the skill of rubrics, assignment development and but in the Motions Law Clerk Office,” she quick thinking under course content. She is also interested says. “It was a one-year appointment and pressure and allows in legal issues of church and I loved the work because we dealt with all them to conquer any state and has delivered papers areas of the law — criminal and civil, big misgivings they may on the Supreme Court’s Ten matters and small matters.” have about public Commandments rulings and the Her career eventually led her to the Office speaking. “No matter relationship of church and state of Court Administration (OCA) where she what field our posited by Pope Benedict XVI worked in the Counsel’s Office in the New students choose to go in the encyclical Deus Caritas York State Unified Court system. OCA is the into, oral presentation Est in addition to having working administrative arm of the court system, with a professor from the established by and functioning under the Theology Department to auspices of the chief administrative judge form a learning who is responsible, on behalf of the chief community to judge, for supervising the administration address end-of- and operation of the trial courts. While she life issues. loved the law, Boegel found her job stressful and decided it was time for a change. She had worked as an adjunct when her children were younger and St. John’s University Prof. Ellen Boegel

40 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine giving back

Donor Reception Honors Generosity

In April, more than 75 attendees gathered did great deeds while he on the Queens campus for the first ever was alive and was always Scholarship Donor Reception designed to the first to help someone bring together benefactors of endowed and he is still helping,” his scholarships and some of the student mother said. “I was very recipients. At a high tea held in Marillac happy when I learned of Terrace, the two groups mingled and the reception because I shared their experiences as they listened thought it was great idea to classical music and dined on light to have the donors be refreshments and desserts. able to meet the students.” Student Pedro Gomez ’09TCB is a Emanuel Sitienei ’10P recipient of the Daniel and Grace Tully is an international student Scholarship and said he considered it an who plans to go on to honor to meet with those whose generosity medical school. While he had opened the doors for him to attend the was accepted to law

University. “These are the people who have school in Kenya, Sitienei From l. Roger Marti, Manny Calderon and Rosalie Marti enjoy the reception. kept St. John’s going and made it possible said he desired to come for me to get an education,” he said. “The to St. John’s and study pharmacy, a dream said that in the past she has received thank University has been great to me and that’s which would not have been possible were it you letters from recipients which have what keeps the alumni coming back — the not for the financial assistance he received. brought tears to her eyes and she embraced experiences that they had when they were He hopes to be able to repay that vote of the opportunity to speak directly to the here. It’s wonderful to see them giving back.” confidence, he said. “The scholarship I students who attended the event. “I definitely Board of Trustee member Joseph Schwartz received has given me the ambition and wanted to express some sort of encourage- ’70C, ’72MBA attended with his wife Maria motivation so that in the future I will also ment to them and to help motivate them and said giving to him was an expression of be able to help other students,” Sitienei said. towards achieving their goals because that’s remembering his roots at the school he feels Phyllis Bell Lawson ’75C, ’79G attended in what someone did for me when I was has given so much to him. “Maria and support of the scholarship awarded by the attending St. John’s,” she said. I have been the beneficiaries of a St. John’s Black Alumni Association in her name. She University Provost Dr. Julia Upton, RSM education and been on the receiving end of those who gave to us,” he said. “The students are wonderful students — smart, enthusiastic and energetic. The St. John’s campus today is so dynamic and there is a wonderful energy here. There’s a symbiosis here and we feel privileged to be a part of that.” Rosalie and Roger Marti wore photos of their son Michael Anthony Marti ’97CBA, a finance major who they lost during the attacks on September 11th. To honor his memory, they began a scholarship fund in his name and were thrilled to meet recipient Manny Calderon ’07TCB. The group sat together, talking quietly and Mrs. Marti gave a Mass card to Calderon as a keepsake so that he would have a picture of the son whose scholarship made it possible for Calderon to complete his studies. “[Michael] Those present gather for a group photo to remember the day.

42 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Insurance Leader of the Year Dinner

’73G, ’75G welcomed those present and Raises $2 Million introduced three students who shared their The 12th Annual Insurance Leader of the such an impressive gathering of executives. stories of what being recipients has meant Year Award Dinner held in January drew “Our students, most of whom come from to them. Raymond DeVries ’07C is a more than 1,400 industry leaders and diverse and modest economic backgrounds, double major in sociology and history and friends of the University. will be the direct beneficiaries of the high spoke to the audience about his path as The crowd gathered at the New York regard in which Joe Plumeri is held by the a non traditional student who sought out Marriott Marquis in Manhattan to honor insurance industry worldwide,” she said. a degree after years in the workforce in Maryland. “Although my roots were on Joe Plumeri, chairman and chief executive Henry Kravis, founding partner of Long Island and I wanted to come home, officer of Willis Group Holdings Limited, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Inc. served without the generous scholarship that our who was named the 2006 Insurance Leader as honorary chairman for the dinner. The great University offered me none of that would have been possible,” said DeVries who in addition to graduating with honors has served as president of the Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honor Society and participated in a number of service projects. “My life changed overnight when I received that scholarship letter, and I’ve been working to prove myself worthy ever since.” President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. thanked the attendees and spoke of the Vincentian tradition that so thoroughly permeates St. John’s. “Many of the donors here with us at one time experienced the very same needs and faced the same economic realities that our current students face today,” he said. “They came to us with From l. Kravis congratulates Plumeri along with Brandon W. Sweitzer, chairman of the School of Risk the hopes and dreams of a better life, secure Management Board of Overseers, and senior fellow of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. in the knowledge that the University would do whatever we could to help make those of the Year. The event raised a record “Insurance Leader of the Year Award” has dreams come true.” He encouraged the breaking $2 million for student scholarships been presented annually since 1995 and students to look ahead to helping others in and programs at the School of Risk recognizes the contributions of outstanding the future. “I also urge the students here Management (SRM). individuals whose leadership in the today to realize that one day, very soon, At the dinner, Plumeri announced the worldwide insurance and financial services you will be offered an opportunity to reach formation of a student leadership program, industry sets them apart from their peers. out to the students who will follow in your a gesture which was met with gratitude The event is a premier one for SRM. The footsteps,” he said. “You will become a by Dr. Ellen Thrower, executive director School of Risk Management, Insurance catalyst for change in their lives and, of SRM. “Joe surprised us all with his and Actuarial Science was founded in through them, in the lives of everyone to announcement of a generous gift to 1901 as The Insurance Society of New whom they will ever carry the mission and establish a student leadership program to York and, over the years, evolved into a ideals that make St. John’s — and each of be named in honor of his parents, Samuel fully accredited college, The College of us — what we are. “ and Josephine Plumeri,” she said. “What a Insurance. In June 2001, the College The day’s event concluded with a group perfect and meaningful way to conclude merged with St. John’s University and photo and a Mass held at St. Thomas More this dinner.” Dr. Thrower also hailed became a division of The Peter J. Tobin Church. Plumeri as an outstanding leader whose College of Business. selection as an honoree helped to draw

Spring 2007 43 alum notes

30s 50s PHILIP WAX ’66Ed, ’69G retired after having taught Spanish at Harrison High School in Harrison, NY for ALFRED LATORE ’37CBA retired from his accountant MATTHEW HAYES ’57C, a former emergency medicine 39 years, where he served as chairman of the Foreign profession after serving for more than 50 years. physican, retired to rural Ireland and keeps himself busy Language Department for ten of those years. He with woodworking and gardening. He also retired from continues to serve on the board of the Metropolitan 40s the Army Reserve Medical Corps as a colonel and is a Chapter of the American Association of Teachers of member of the Loughlin Society at the University. Spanish and Portuguese. GEORGE DENNIS ’49CBA was elected treasurer of the Nassau/Suffolk Chapter, American Ex-Prisoners of War. RICHARD WILLIAMS ’69CBA retired from JP Morgan 60s Chase after a 30 year banking career and moved to Lincoln, CA. Raising the Bar WILLIAM MALONEY ’62CBA, ’64L is a retired special agent, Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and a retired prosecutor of Suffolk County, NY and Florida. 70s

JOHN DeBIASE ’73SVC is an associate executive Setting a Trend director for The Association for Neurologically Impaired Brain Injured Children, Bayside, NY, which received approval from the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to build senior housing for the developmentally disabled.

ALAN LOBUE ’73L was appointed legal defender for Navajo County in Holbrook, AZ.

THOMAS McMANUS ’73MBA joined Bank of Florida, Southeast as a private banking officer in Fort HON. MAXINE DUBERSTEIN ’45UC, ’46L, ’93HON, Lauderdale, FL. shown here with School of Law Dean Emeritus HON. JOSEPH BELLACOSA ’59C, ’61L, ’87HON, BRIAN GALLAGHER ’74Ph.D. was appointed as a received a Lifetime Achievement Award in April director of Transport Pharmaceuticals, Inc. which is from the Brooklyn Women’s Bar Association, an based in Framingham, MA. He is currently president THOMAS DONOHUE ’63C, ’85HON, chief executive affiliate of the New York State Women’s Bar. A and chief executive officer of Magen Biosciences, officer and president of the U.S. Chamber of former editor of St. John’s News, co-editor of a dermatology-focused specialty pharmaceutical Commerce, was honored at an event in February in Epitome magazine and president of the Squaw company. Washington, DC as the Association TRENDS 2007 Society, she worked her way through school as an Association Executive of the Year. He was honored ALANA EMMET ’75C is an assistant director of the VA administrative aide to the president of Martin’s for his numerous achievements including having Nursing Home for the James J. Peters VA Medical Center Department Store and later served as an assistant helped build the U.S. Chamber of Commerce into in the Bronx. She also celebrated her 25th wedding at King Features Syndicate. Following admission a lobbying and political force with expanded anniversary with her husband, EMILE EMMET ’85SVC. to the Bar, she joined the law practice of Pakus, influence across the United States and abroad. Gordon and Hyman and later became associated CAROLYN JOHNSON ’75MLS, ’80G was chosen AOL In his current position, he established the Chamber with Dezorett and Venner in New York City. Writers’ Community “Host of the Year 2006” for her Institute for Legal Reform and he is a member of Throughout the years, she had held a number of outstanding job as the AOL children’s writers’ chat host. the President’s Council on the 21st Century positions including director of the Brooklyn Bar Workforce as well as the President’s Advisory LEONARD COHEN ’76P earned a master of public Association, chair of the Judicial Section of the Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. administration in healthcare degree from the C.W. Post New York State Bar Association, president of the He is also president of the Center for International campus of Long Island University in Old Brookville, NY. Brooklyn Women’s Bar Association and a member Private Enterprise, a program of the National of the executive committee of the Academy of Endowment for Democracy dedicated to the JOAN FALCONE ’76SVC joined the computer science Matrimonial Trial Lawyers. She was also the first development of market oriented instructions and math department in the College of Professional woman president of both the New York State and around the world, and serves on three corporate Studies as an adjunct faculty on the Queens campus. New York City Associations of Justices of the boards of directors. Supreme Court as well as the Brooklyn Lawyers’ MICHAEL SHAUGHNESSY ’76MBA was promoted to Division of the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies. executive vice president and chief lending officer for She was also the recipient of the Ecumenical CATHLEEN KRAHE ’66UC traveled to Jordan, Syria, and Ulster Savings Bank in Kingston, NY where he will Award of the Brooklyn Catholic Lawyers Guild, the Iran and made a three part series titled “Iraqi Voices oversee all lending functions within the bank. from Jordan” which was shown on Access Roaring Ecumenical Award of the National Conference LOUIS FABRIZIO ’77SVC has been named vice president, Fork and Grassroots TV, Aspen, CO. of Christians and Jews and the Pietas Medal and advertising at The New York Times. He had been an the President’s Medal from alma mater. advertising group director and will now be responsible

Spring 2007 45 alum notes

JAMES FITZGERALD ’81C was A Gold Star installed as the Nassau County SUSAN BRETTHAUER ’78SVC was sworn in as the first female Dental Society’s 2007 President, assistant chief of police for the Stamford Police Department in Garden City, NY. Stamford, CT in March. As the first woman to ever hold the office in the history of the department, she joins the ranks of an exclusive group of women who have attained an executive management NICHOLAS SIMONETTA ’81C position in law enforcement. According to the National Center for joined Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, Women and Policing and the International Association of Chiefs of P.L.C. as a government affairs Police, women comprise only three percent of the assistant chief of consultant in Phoenix, AZ. police positions and approximately one percent of the rank of police chief. In addition to her degree in criminal justice from St. John’s, she also holds a master’s degree in community counseling from PHYLLIS DANTUONO ’82C is a co-chief operating Fairfield University in Connecticut and attended the prestigious FBI officer of Business Wire in New York City. National Academy in Quantico, VA. During her 23 year career within the department she has excelled in the various positions she has held including patrol officer and supervisor, ANTHONY IMPERATO ’82SVC is a publisher for Country communications supervisor and commander of the police academy. She was also the first woman promoted Home Magazine in New York City. to the ranks of lieutenant and captain. In her current position, Chief Bretthauer will have a direct impact on EDWARD SIEBAN ’82CBA was elected mayor for the the daily operations of the department and will also work to improve the policies and procedures within the Village of East Rockaway and is an attorney for department by researching and implementing innovative techniques of policing practices. Edward T. Sieban, Jr. in Bellmore, NY. for managing The Times's advertising sales in hotels, 80s ANTHONY SIINO ’82C is an ordained deacon and transportation, pharmaceuticals, hospitals, alcoholic musician and released a Christian music CD titled beverages and packaged goods, in addition to managing NEIL MASCOLO ’80SVC, ’91L made partner at the law Thirty Silver Pieces in Long Valley, NJ. The Times's Miami, FL advertising sales office. firm of Bartlett, McDonough, Bastone & Monaghan, LLP of Mineola, NY. MICHAEL CHUDYK ’83P, ’02Pharm.D. satisfied his requirements for certification in the specialty area of SARA MCGEE ’77C is a hematology/oncologist doctor DAVID MILLER ’80C, director of the pharmacotherapy and was designated as a board and started Hematology Oncology Associates of Ocean General Practice Dental Residency certified pharmacotherapy specialist in New York City. City, LLC in Forked River, NJ. Program at Mary Immaculate Hospital and St. John’s Queens Hospital, was FRANK D’AMELIO ’83MBA is an internal director for ROBERT PANAZZOLO ’79NDC was appointed second a 2006 recipient of the Saint Vincent LGS, a subsidiary of Alcatel-Lucent. He is also chief vice president of the board of directors of the Catholic Medical Center’s St. Luke administrative officer and senior executive vice Alzheimer’s Foundation of Staten Island, NY. Medal, Queens, NY. president, integration of Alcatel-Lucent which is based in Paris, France. Taking the Lead MICHAEL BALBONI ’84L, former MICHAEL STRIANESE ’79CBA is chief executive officer and state senator, was appointed by president for L-3 Communications in New York City where he is Governor Eliot Spitzer as New York responsible for the strategic direction and overall management of State deputy secretary for public L-3, as well as the financial structure, strategies and operations. safety and will oversee homeland He served as L-3’s first vice president of finance and controller, security issues, emergency where he played a key role in the company’s formation in 1997. preparedness and response, and law enforcement. He remained in that position before being promoted to senior vice president of finance in 2001 and was appointed chief financial THOMAS CALIFANO ’84SVC, ’88L officer in 2005. He served as L-3’s first corporate ethics officer is co-chair for DLA Piper US LLP in and in that position successfully implemented a comprehensive their Financial Restructuring and interactive ethics and compliance training program. He also serves Bankruptcy practice group located as the L-3 representative to the Defense Industry Initiative. He was in Chicago, IL. formerly vice president and controller of Lockheed Martin’s C3I and Systems Integration Sector, a $6 billion sector consisting of JAMES MAXWELL ’84CBA was promoted to colonel for many of the heritage Loral Corporation businesses that were the United States Marine Corps in Tampa, FL. acquired by Lockheed Martin in 1996, and he served as acting chief financial officer of Lockheed Martin’s Electronics Sector. Prior to Lockheed’s acquisition of Loral, he spent six years with Loral where he held a DANIEL VENTRICELLI ’84CBA, ’87L was promoted to a number of positions with increasing responsibility in the areas of mergers and acquisitions and financial senior level position at FTI Consulting, Inc. in Baltimore, management. Today, he is a member of the Aerospace Industries Association’s Board of Governors where he MD where he specializes in accounting and financial also serves on the association’s finance committee and is a member of the Financial Executives Institute. investigations involving Securities and Exchange

46 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine Commision enforcement and reporting issues, books JACQUELINE HYLAND ’93SVC is DANIEL KNAUTH ’98L is an associate for Epstein and records reconstruction, fraudulent conveyances, the morning anchor at WFAA-TV in Becker & Green in New York City. schemes to divert assets and tracing the flow of funds. Dallas, TX. She was formerly a DERMOT SULLIVAN ’98L was reporter/anchor at WPIX-TV in JOHN GACINSKI ’85CBA is chief financial officer of named partner at the international New York City. Rose Associates, Inc. in New York City. law firm Bryan Cave LLP in New York City. MICHAEL S. McCARTHY ’86SVC is a reporter/columnist DEAN KONTUL ’93MBA is an executive vice president for USA TODAY in New York City. and director of call center sales and service for KeyCorp in Cleveland, OH. CATHERINE REGAN ’87GEd was honored by the TIMOTHY COSTELLO ’99CBA is a senior clerk in the Diocese of Rockville Center on the occasion of her JENNIFER MARMO ’93Ed, ’98GEd is a teacher at market surveillance department of the New York Stock 25th Anniversary of teaching in elementary education PS 221 in Little Neck, NY. Exchange in New York City. and her Silver (25th) Jubilee as a Sister of St. Dominic in Amityville, NY. She is currently a kindergarten teacher at WILLIAM PORR ’93CBA, ’96MBA is a regional St. Thomas the Apostle School in West Hempstead, NY. accountant for Pearl River in Woodbridge, NJ. 00s

DANIELLE DEMATTEIS ’88SVC completed her MPA NOREEN TRAYNOR-McLAUGHLIN ’93CBA, ’98MBA CHARLES CATAPANO ’00MBA is a partner at Merrick degree at Pace University and is the executive director is a supervisor in the benefits department for Barnes & Financial Group in Merrick, NY. of employment services for the Yonkers Chamber of Noble, Inc., in Westbury, NY. BARBARA CORRERA ’00CBA is an assistant vice Commerce in Yonkers, NY. DAVID ACHARYA ’94CBA, ’03MBA joined Apprise president with Merrill Lynch in Hopewell, NJ. CINDY HAZLETT ’88MBA, a licensed customs house Media, a media private equity firm in New York City. broker, was elected to the Board of Directors of the MICHAEL GAMBLE ’00CPS is a New York State certified ANTHONY FALLACARO ’94SVC is director of athletics at International Compliance Professionals Association and real estate appraiser and started his own appraisal firm Post University in Waterbury, CT. is currently a customs compliance analyst for Dole Food called Noble Appraisal Services in Flushing, NY. Company in Westlake Village, CA. BRIAN FRIEL ’94L was named a JUSTIN MATHISON ’00CBA is vice president for MATTHEW GRIMALDI ’89SVC is the new shareholder at the international Wells Fargo in Philadelphia, PA and his wife, SHARON director of athletics at Keystone law firm of Greenberg Traurig, LLP MATHISON ’00Ed, ’04GEd is a third grade teacher at College in La Plume, PA. in Morristown, NJ. St. Joseph Parochial School in Staten Island, NY.

NICOLE SCOTTI ’00C is a science teacher at St. Joseph CHRISTOPHER BEATTY ’95CBA was promoted to Hill Academy in Arrochar, Staten Island, NY. executive director at Morgan Stanley where he works on the Electronic Trading team within the Institutional Equity DANIEL CARLUCCI ’01TCB is a system analyst with 90s Division in New York City. Securities Industry Automation Corp. in Brooklyn, NY. MICHAEL PAGLIUGHI ’90SVC was promoted to inspector KATHLEEN DUDDY ’96NDC is a psychologist in private of the U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional LOUIS CORDANI ’01C is a New York City firefighter practice in Manalapan, NJ. Fugitive Task Force – Long Island Division in Central assigned to Engine Co. 152 in the Rosebank section of Islip, NY. PIETRO FRAZZETTA ’96SVC is a senior foreign Staten Island, NY. exchange trader for Gain Capital Asset Management in JAROSLAW CZARZASTY ’91CBA, ’95MBA was Bedminster, NJ. MARY GUDMUNDSEN ’01GEd is a literacy coach at promoted to vice president, CED data production at PS 45 in the West Brighton section of Staten Island, NY. Reuters America LLC in New York City. DANIEL DIAZ ’97C, ’98G is vice president of communi- WINSTON WILSON ’91SVC is a senior manager of cations, the americas for Western Union in Denver, CO. JENNIFER RAJEWSKI ’01C, ’03MBA is a marketing business development and training for First Data Corp manager with Partners in Care in New York City. JOHN MULLAHY ’97L was promoted to partner at in Atlanta, GA. Kaufman Borgeest & Ryan LLP in Parsippany, NJ. JANET SILVA ’01TCB is a senior accountant for Samson BRIAN PINELLI ’92SVC moved to Prague, Czech Republic Rope Technologies in Ferndale, WA. JOHANNA GIOVANNIELLO ’98P, to assume the title of director of international sales for ’00Pharm.D. is a board certified Verbatim Solutions, a translation company based in Salt BRIAN WALLING ’01CPS is a superintendent with pharmacotherapy specialist and is Lake City, UT. He is also a freelance sports journalist. Turner Construction in New York City. currently working as a clinical MICHAEL BURNSTEIN ’93CBA, ’95MBA became a pharmacy specialist for Ambulatory CHARLES BILEZIKJIAN ’02Ed is a state trooper with the shareholder of the law firm Heller Ehrman LLP in San Care for the VA Connecticut Health New Jersey State Police. Francisco, CA. Care Hospital in West Haven, CT.

Spring 2007 47 alum notes

MARISA CALABRESE ’02C is a speech language KELLY KAZEMIER ’04CPS received a master’s degree in STEPHANIE BECKER ’06C is an executive recruiter for pathologist with the Silver Lake Specialized Care Center school counseling from Long Island University, Heyman Associates in New York City. Nursing Home in Brighton Heights, Staten Island, NY. Brentwood campus, and is a public relations associate at Dowling College in Oakdale, NY. CALEB BISSETT ’06C is a legal advocate for the BRENDAN MERRITT ’02C is a contracts administrator at Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh, PA and ELENA LAMBERTI ’04Ed is a teacher at Port Richmond Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies in East High School, Staten Island, NY. was accepted to the Duquesne University School of Law Hartford, CT. where he will begin his legal studies this fall. PETER LANTRY ’04TCB is a director, data center CHRISTIE CASALINO ’03CPS is a senior account operations with The Rockefeller Group International in JOSUE DE LA ROSA ’06CPS is a research assistant at executive with Carol Fass Publicity and Public Relations New York City. Research Works, Inc. in Hawthorne, NY. in New York City. MARIA LUZZI ’04P is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and is a physician ANNA INGRAHAM ’06Ed is a program associate with MICHAEL GUGLIELMO ’03CPS is an automated logistics assistant with the Emergency Physicians of Staten the College All-Stars program at Urban Dove in New specialist for the U.S. Army and is stationed in Bamberg, Island, NY. York City. Germany. DANIELLE PENNACCHIO ’05Ed is currently teaching PENELOPE NELSON-BISSETT ’06C is completing a 10th and 12th grade English and received a tenure track KENNETH McGRAIL ’03C, ’05G is an investigator with master’s degree in International Development at the teaching position in the Riverhead School District, the City Department of Investigation in New York City. University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public & Long Island, NY. International Affairs and works part-time as a research CHRISTOPHER BOIALLIS ’04Pharm.D. is a staff MAUREEN MITCHELL ’05CPS is a police administrative associate for the Ford Institute for Human Society at the pharmacist for Covenant VNA Infusion Pharmacy in aide for the New York City Police Department in University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Saginaw, MI. Queens, NY.

Storm Trackers Want You

We want to know what’s new with you since you left St. John’s. Have you been promoted? Changed jobs? Received an award? Moved? Started a family? Retired? Please use this form as a guide for submitting personal anecdotes and updated information. Mail your submission to: St. John’s University, c/o Alumnotes Editor, Alumni Magazine, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY, 11439, fax it to (718) 990-6873, e-mail [email protected] or enter online at www.stjohns.edu/alumni/alumnotes

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In Holy Matrimony / In The Family Way In Memoriam Spouse’s Name: First Middle/Maiden Last Year/School (if also an alum) First Middle/Maiden Last

(For “In Holy Matrimony”) (For “In The Family Way”) Yr./School: Date of death: Wedding date: Child’s Name: Date of birth: (If other than family member, guardian or legal executor, submissions to ■ Son ■ Daughter In Memoriam must include a printed obit).

I would like information on: ■ Arts & Enrichment Series ■ Annual Giving Opportunities ■ Chapter Gatherings ■ Other

News submissions will be published in the order received. Submissions may be edited for space and style. LUKE AMATO ’55CBA wrote the pamphlet “Scriptural 90s 90s Meditations for the Dominican Rosary and the JENNIFER MARMO ’93Ed, ’98GEd and husband, JENNIFER MARMO ’93Ed, ’98GEd to WILLIAM Franciscan Crown." WILLIAM MALAVE ’03CPS, a son, Anthony John MALAVE ’03CPS – December 4, 2004 – October 31, 2006 WILLIAM PORR ’93CBA, ’96MBA to Carina Flynn DANIEL GILBERT ’69MBA, THOMAS MCLAUGHLIN ’93SVC, ’98G and wife, – June 3, 2006 using the pen name Dan NOREEN TRAYNOR ’93CBA, ’98MBA, a son, DANIEL DIAZ ’97C, ’98G to Lillian Marcela Solis FitzGerald, has published Liam Gerard – September 12, 2006 Valenzuela – October 24, 2004 his second novel, Hidden MICHAEL RAGUSO ’94SVC and wife, VERUSHA Agendas: A New York • North DANIEL KNAUTH ’98L to Anna Huang PALCZYNSKI ’97SVC, a daughter, Ava Natalia – November 18, 2006 Carolina Novel (Authorhouse, – March 17, 2007 2006). His first novel was Paul TIMOTHY COSTELLO ’99CBA to Jennifer Puca Dolan Kilcoyle which was published in 2005. JANINE SPINNATO ’94L and husband, Sean, a son, – December 2, 2006 Joseph Terence – February 15, 2007 OMAR REID ’99SVC to NICKLETTE SEARLES ’00CBA CHRISTOPHER BEATTY ’95CBA and wife, Juliet, a son, MICHELANGELO DELFINO ’72C – July 9, 2006 Andon – December 22, 2004 co-authored his second book, Cancer: We Live and Die by AVIANCA HANSEN BOUCHEDID ’95SVC and husband, 00s Radiation (MoBeta Publishing, Dany, a daughter, Skyler Hayden – February 12, 2007 BARBARA CORRERA ’00CBA to Christopher DiToro 2006) with Mary Day. CORRINE LANZA ’95NDC and husband, Louis, a son, – November 10, 2006 Avery Christopher – September 24, 2006 NICOLE SCOTTI ’00C to John Perry ALEXANDER GALLARDO ’76Ph.D., STEPHANIE PETRELLESE ’95SVC and husband, – November 11, 2006 using the pen name Natalio Christopher, a daughter, Rebecca Grace Feliciano, authored the mystery – December 26, 2006 DANIEL CARLUCCI ’01TCB to Jaclyn Whelan – November 4, 2006 The Lady Waved Goodbye BRIAN KIGHTLINGER ’96SVC and wife, JENNIFERANN (iUniverse, 2006) which KIGHTLINGER ’96C, ’01G, a daughter, Emily Ruth LOUIS CORDANI ’01C to JENNIFER RAJEWSKI ’01C, features private detective – March 31, 2006 ’03MBA – October 29, 2006 Ramon Lull Lopez. DANIEL DIAZ ’97C, ’98G and wife, Lillian, a son, MARY GUDMUNDSEN ’01GEd to Bryan Faherty Daniel Andres – March 25, 2007 – October 27, 2006 ROBERTA BEARY ’78L has written her first collection JEREMY BURG ’98CBA and wife, Deborah, a son and BRIAN WALLING ’01CPS to Joyce Lucchese of short poems, The Unworn Necklace (Snapshot Press, daughter, Benjamin Jacob and Alexandra Faith – December 2, 2006 2007). She was the first place winner of the 2006 – February 23, 2007 CHARLES BILEZIKJIAN ’02Ed to Erica Stern Snapshot Press Competition and in 2005 was the JESSICA JONES ’99SVC and husband, Patrick, – November 3, 2006 grand prize winner of the Kusamakura Haiku a daughter, Erin Elizabeth – September 23, 2006 Competition which included a trip to Kumamoto, MARISA CALABRESE ’02C to Michael Romano – March 10, 2007 Japan for the awards ceremony. 00s CHRISTIE CASALINO ’03CPS to William High – November 11, 2006 MICHAEL LYNCH ’80SVC is the author of Big Prisons, JUSTIN MATHISON ’00CBA and wife, SHARON Big Dreams: The Failure of the U.S. Prison System MATHISON ’00Ed, ’04GEd, a daughter, Kiersten Sharon KENNETH MCGRAIL ’03C, ’05G to MARIA LUZZI ’04P as a Response to Crime (Rutgers University Press, – January 12, 2007 – October 7, 2006 2007) which provides a critique of the American CONSTANTIA ROUSIAMANIS ’00CBA and husband, CHRISTOPHER BOIALLIS ’04P to Lauren Wasson prison system. Bryan, a daughter, Isabella Diana – December 5, 2006 – December 11, 2005 ELENA LAMBERTI ’04Ed to Nicholas Capofari DANIELLE MIRANDA ’01CPS and husband, Steve, MARK MATOUSEK ’84CBA, ’87Ed – December 29, 2006 a son, Christian John – December 15, 2006 wrote Broken Trust: Stories of ELIZABETH AUBE ’05CPS to Bryn VanPatten ELIZABETH AUBE ’05CPS and husband, Bryn, Pain, Hope and Healing from – January 21, 2006 Clerical Abuse Survivors and a daughter, Olivia – May 19, 2006 LISA CHASE ’05MBA to Christopher Tobin Abusers (Crossroad, 2007). – August 26, 2006

MICHAEL GUGLIELMO ’05CPS to Susann Keller – November 3, 2006

Spring 2007 49 alum notes

30s 60s James Needham ’51CBA, ’72HON Aaron Hausner ’34L Edward Brady ’60CBA James Needham served as the first full time, salaried head of the William Sturner ’34L William Hoh ’60CBA New York Stock Exchange. A native of Queens, NY, he served in the Anthony Falcone ’37L Carol Robertson ’60Ed Navy during World War II and after graduation from St. John’s joined the Anthony Marsloe ’37L Mary Bradford ’61Ed accounting firm of Price Waterhouse. He later became a partner at Thomas Nally ’39C, ’46L Thomas Smith ’61CBA A.M. Pullen & Co. and in 1969 became the first accountant appointed to Sydney Stein ’39L Mary Enright ’62CBA the Securities and Exchange Commission. Three years later, he was Robert Wickman ’39C, ’45C Joseph McCann ’62L named chairman of the stock exchange as part of a major reorganization David Morison ’62Ed intended to strengthen the role of the public, investors and listed James Irish ’64G 40s companies in governing the exchange. Under the reorganization, the Fred Burdi ’65CBA William McKeever ’40C 33-member board of governors was replaced by a 21-member board of Eugene Spatola ’65UC Orlando Nunziata ’40C directors with 10 public members. He headed the exchange until 1976. Richard Weiner ’65Ed.D. Alfred Geisinger ’41L He served on the Southampton Town Council from 1990 to 1994 and Martin Conroy ’43C James Dunseith ’66MBA taught as an adjunct at alma mater. In 2001, he was presented with Anthony Maceli ’43C Mary Roseline ’67G the Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award. Patrick O’Brien ’43C, ’56L Joseph Billotti ’69C Allen Storch ’43UC Robert Zawoluk ’52C Alfred Guttman ’44P 70s Bob Zawoluk was an All American center and a longtime career scoring Josephine Vorel ’47CBA Norman Bernstein ’70GEd leader while playing basketball at St. John’s in the early 1950s. He led Nicholas Coffinas ’48L John Leyden ’71C St. John’s into the National Invitation Tournament at Madison Square Vitold Standish ’48CBA, ’62MBA Robert Meinhold ’71MBA Constance Neeley ’71GEd Garden in all three of his seasons and the University made an appearance 50s John Boyle ’72L in the NCAA tournament final in 1952, during his senior season with the Maryanne Lipinsky ’72GEd team losing to Kansas. Born and raised in Brooklyn, the 6 feet 6 ½ inch Aaron Mansbach ’50L Thomas Mackenzie ’73C player averaged 20.1 points a game and scored 1,826 points, a Thomas O’Connor ’50CBA Paul Suplicki ’73NDC St. John’s career record eclipsed in 1984 by future NBA player Chris Edward Kraemer ’51L Barbara Kaiser ’74Ed Mullin ’85CBA. In 1950, Zawoluk set the single-game scoring record for John Sweeney ’51L, ’52UC St. John’s with 65 points in a game against St. Peter’s. After graduation, John Garbarino ’52L 80s Marcel Letourneau ’53L he dealt with a host of personal issues that included substance abuse Shane Burke ’80GEd Dorothy Monetti ’53UC and some well publicized legal issues. In 1998, he was hired briefly as Robert Koch ’80L Eugene Rogers ’54CBA an assistant coach for Lehman College in the Bronx. Catherine Nugent ’80P Edward Gilligan ’56CBA William Terracino ’80CBA Kathleen Rooney ’56G, ’66NDC Gregg Petrocelli ’90SVC, ’95GEd Robert Pavlica ’85Ph.D. Corinne Wojtala ’56NEd, ’59GNEd Gregg Petrocelli lived the Vincentian spirit and died while doing what he James Pean ’85Ph.D. Rose Fischetti ’57UC loved. One of the most respected high school girls basketball coaches in Ana Escobar ’88L Gabriel Graziosi ’58UC Long Island, he collapsed while coaching the Elmont Memorial High James Hutcherson ’58L 90s School’s Spartans in a Nassau Class AA semifinal game. After his passing, Dorothy Watt ’58NEd players and students spoke glowingly of him as a friend and mentor who Lewis Yesner ’90Ph.D. Anthony Loria ’59CBA even opened his home to them. “Petro,” as he was lovingly known, was remembered in several local newspaper articles and columns for his selfless dedication to the sport and the giving nature which made acts like bringing a bouquet to a player from an opposing team who had broken her nose during a game typical for him. As a testament to the esteem in which he was held, rival coaches helped raise funds for his Submissions to In Memoriam must be received by letter, e-mail or as a printed family since a bout with cancer earlier in life left him unable to obtain obit from a family member, guardian or legal executor to: Lisa Capone, Division of life insurance. In his honor, his team finished out the season, but did Institutional Advancement, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY, 11439 [email protected] or via fax to (718) 990-1813. not make it to the finals.

50 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine alum notes

Howard (’61C) and Anita ’62Ed Minnick and John (’63CBA) and Ann Lucas ’62Ed

For two St. John’s couples, a touch of spring fever ignited a lifetime of love. It was beautiful day in March 1960 when students Jay Lucas, Ann Pfuelb, Howard Minnick and Anita Rau found themselves debating the merits of attending class as opposed to taking a break. Cutting class won out that day and the group of friends soon evolved in to two couples. Jay and Ann married in 1962 at Immaculate Conception church in Jamaica, NY, and began a life that would entail a few relocations due to job transfers. The couple lived in Norwich, NY, before moving to New Orleans, LA, for two years, Indianapolis, IN, for two years and Cincinnati, OH, for 12 years while Jay used his chemistry degree. During that time, they had two daughters and Ann taught school as a substitute teacher for several years before settling into a permanent position at St. Ann School in Cincinnati. The couple then moved to Columbia, SC, in 1986, Atlanta, GA, in 1988 and finally to Nashville, TN, in 1994. Ann stopped teaching, entered the business field and retired from Ann and Jay Lucas on their wedding day. Howard and Anita Minnick the day they married. Willis North America, an insurance broker firm last year. Jay retired from a restaurant chain in Nashville as the operations manager for the commissary of O’Charley’s. Howard and Anita married in 1964 at Sacred Heart Church in Glendale, NY, and eventually had three children. Anita worked as a teacher for two years in the New York City school system, three years in the South Orangetown, NY, system and 17 years for Our Lady of Mercy in Parkridge, NJ. She retired in 2005. Howard retired after more than 30 years in sales with The Scotts Miracle Grow Company and these days the couple is actively involved in volunteer work for Our Lady of Mercy where Howard drives a bus for seniors twice a week. The Minnicks also enjoy traveling and spending time with their four grandchildren. Despite the miles between them, the two couples continue to be close friends and visit with each other whenever possible. And they still enjoy hanging out on a beautiful day. From l. Anita Minnick, Ann Lucas, Jay Lucas and Howard Minnick enjoy the lovely weather.

Norman Jardine ’69C, ’73CBA and Joan Dukes ’68Ed, ’71G

Norm Jardine and Joan Dukes have the makings of a deep faith and the many interests they shared, they sweet love song. The pair met in either 1965 or 1966 obtained annulments and were married in November (they still debate that fact) on the risers of Glee Club 2005. On their special day, their children served in rehearsal in Marillac Hall. Joan, an alto, stood in front the wedding party and Joan presented Norm with her of Norm, a bass. They each went on to marry others father’s wedding ring which her mother had given and in 1993 they ran into each other at the St. John’s her. They found poignancy in the inscription 12/11 Alumni Reunion. By 2002, their respective marriages which had been her parents wedding date given that had ended and they both found themselves at the they were being married on 11/12. Life together has Spirituality for Singles event at St. Aidan’s Parish in been blissful and Norm, who is executive vice president Williston Park, NY. Joan spotted an empty seat, sat and chief financial officer at Global Bank in New York down and introduced herself to the man sitting next City, and Joan, a retired teacher who has been to her. “Joan, it’s me, Norm,” he replied. teaching as an adjunct at area schools, feel especially They chatted and later had their first date at the blessed. And even though love didn’t find them when annual balloon inflation event the night before the they were students, Norm says they still consider Joan Dukes and Norm Jardine on their Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Bonded by their themselves “the world’s oldest teenagers.” wedding day.

If St. John’s played a role as matchmaker in your life, we want to know about it. If there are several generations of St. John’s graduates in your family, we want to know that also. Share your story with the Alumni Magazine readership by contacting the Editor at (718) 990-5482 or at [email protected]

Spring 2007 51 a conversation

Legal Eagles

Love of the law may very well be in the Balkin family genes. Still, I was fortunate to work for employers and in work conditions Hon. Pauline Balkin ’44L and her daughter Hon. Ruth Balkin ’76L that were wonderful for me. share the connection of not only being St. John’s alumnae, but It has often been said that there is a barrier to women becoming also accomplished and respected jurists. The elder Balkin served judges because of the “old boy network” which prevents for several years as a beloved judge of the Nassau County Family women from effectively networking. Have you found that to be Court after having worked for 15 years with the Nassau County the case? PB: I came to the bench because I had been working Attorney’s Office where she was assigned as deputy county in the family court for years and everyone knew me. A group of attorney to the family court and later bureau chief. From her court monitors made the recommendation that a woman was younger years of clerking for an insurance company during World needed as a judge in the family court and the powers that be War II to her judgeship which she left in 1992 after reaching chose me. Was I lucky? Yes, but I had also put my time in. mandatory retirement age, Balkin’s law career has been exemplary RB: I have worked in private law and in government and I worked and she has served as a stellar role model for women in her field. very hard and was able to break through. I did network effectively Her daughter and her son, Jules Balkin ’77L, followed her to and was able to work with some really wonderful people and alma mater and into the legal profession. Like her mother, Ruth mentors. Balkin also donned the black robe as a family court judge in Nassau County and last year was appointed as a justice of the In this country, have we reached the stage yet where there is Supreme Court Appellate Division, Second Department for New equality for women within the legal profession? York State. Known for her sharp legal acumen, easy manner and PB: I would say there is always room for improvement. In the passion for the judicial system, she has been honored numerous early days, my salary was always lower than the men and salary times and is a popular lecturer with both professional and civic wise I don’t believe women have yet caught up with the men. associations. The mother-daughter pair didn’t at all object to taking RB: The difficulty for women has been in balancing home life some time out recently for a chat with the Alumni Magazine. with the career. You have things like women losing partnership What first drew you to the legal profession? PB: My brother tracks as they try to have that balance and these are issues the Harry, who was 14 years my senior, graduated from the law school profession has to overcome. at St. John’s and I always looked up to him. I knew I wanted to In your opinion, what has been one of the most important be a lawyer when I was five years old. legal gains for women in the past century? RB: Women ascending RB: Obviously my mother. She was and remains a role model to me. to the judiciary. It’s important to have a diverse bench that Entering the law was something I gave a great deal of thought to. adequately reflects the law and society. Who, if anyone, was your inspiration in your field? PB: In my What do you hope your professional legacy will be? day, you looked up to [Louis] Brandeis and [Benjamin] Cardozo PB: That I was a judge who really cared about helping people. [the first two Jewish United States Supreme Court justices]. I think I was able to dispense justice with a sense of humor. They were the heroes of the time. RB: While with the family RB: My mother was inspirational. I was very fortunate in that not court, I worked to help only was she a fabulous attorney and judge, but she is also a superb families with issues like mother who was able to balance her career and having a family. substance and drug Was it difficult balancing your profession as a judge with having abuse. I worked to a family life? PB: I wasn’t working for a firm or the government reunify the families when I first had the children so I stayed home. Later on, I was and to get them very fortunate in that my mother lived with us so she was able resources. As a judge, to help me with the kids when I went to court. to be able to assist families is something How have attitudes towards women in the legal profession I am very proud of changed since you first entered the field? PB: I really never had and something a problem. I was very accepted in 1944 because there was a war I hope will be going on and people were just happy to see a lawyer. When I part of my answered an ad for Loews Inc. [in the cinema company’s legal judicial department], they grabbed me up because the person whose legacy. position I was taking was away at war. RB: I entered the field about 30 years ago and I was extremely fortunate in that I had wonderful opportunities. When I first started, I was working for a criminal litigation firm and it was unusual then to have a woman working in criminal defense. The Honorable Balkins

52 St. John’s University ■ Alumni Magazine

20 07

Caribbean Cruise

September 16 – 23 ■ Departs from San Juan Seven day cruise to St. Thomas/Dominica/Barbados/St. Lucia/Antigua Prices starting at $493.60 total per person cruise only (double occupancy – taxes included). A deposit of $250 per person is required to secure a confirmed reservation. Full and final payment is due by August 31. All major credit cards accepted.

The Little Mermaid Tuesday, December 18 ■ 8 p.m. ■ Lunt-Fontanne Theatre ■ New York City Based on one of the most beloved Disney films of all time and the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, this musical features some of Disney's most popular songs including “Part of Your World,” “Kiss the Girl” and the Academy Award®-winning Best Original Song, “Under the Sea”— by the songwriting team of eight time Academy Award winner Alan Menken and the renowned Howard Ashman. The stage adaptation also features new songs by Menken and Glenn Slater. $94.25 per person* – front mezzanine seating ■ $70.25 per person* – mid mezzanine seating

For more detailed information on this and all other alumni events, log on to: www.stjohns.edu/alumni

For more ticket information or if your group is interested in tickets for other events not listed, please contact Susan Bunatta at (718) 990-2356, toll free at (877) 758-ALUM or e-mail [email protected]

*$5 of the event price will be donated to the University

8000 Utopia Parkway Queens, NY 11439