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THE!MAGAZINE!OF!MONMOUTH!UNIVERSITY!» !SPRING!" # " $

LEARNING TO LIVE WITH IT Our experts weigh in on what a with COVID-19 may look like. page 30

THE AFROFUTURE IS NOW THE RESILIENT ONE MARLEY & ME A primer on the movement that’s One Hawk’s journey from A former WMCX DJ recalls the sweeping pop culture. homelessness to his Ed.D. legend’s last interview. page 08 page 40 page 54 LOOKING IN

HAWK’S-" EYE"VIEW A moment of relative calm on the quad in front the Great Hall.

photo!!!MATT!FURMAN photo!!!NAME!NAME Spring 2021!!MONMOUTH!!#$ SPRING 2021 » CONTENTS

Features Departments

The Front The Back

Currents tides PLAY Class Notes RESEARCH!&!REFLECTION CULTURE!&!COMMUNITY SPORTS!&!FITNESS ALUMNI!LIFE

08 THE AFROFUTURE 20 ALL GOOD THINGS 14 50 IS NOW Marilyn McNeil, a champion Your primer on the movement for gender equity who trans- that’s sweeping pop culture. formed Monmouth athletics, calls it a career. 11 BRIDGING THE GAP 23 GAME ON Keeping refugee children Keeping Hawks teams and play- connected to their heritage. ers healthy enough to compete during a pandemic has been no 12 ANSWERING small task. THE CALL 24 TWO ON THREES Students deliver telecounsel- ing services to the region. The Hawks’ new and former career three-point record holders talk about life beyond the arc.

12 24

14 AMERICAN 50 A FORCE DREAMING FOR CHANGE One senior is fulfilling the Eileen Gavin is helping to promise of the generations shape how we tackle public before him. health issues.

54 MARLEY & ME 16 CAMPUS BRIEFS Jeff Steinberg recounts being The scene at West Long the last person to interview Branch: new healthcare sim lab, Bob Marley before his death Monmouth adds a third doctor- 40 years ago. al program, and more. 61 UP TO THE TEST 18 AN INSTITUTION Beegle leads production UNTO HERSELF at a Roche facility that makes 26 30 40 44 Pa"i Swannack reflects on 46 250,000 COVID-19 tests per AHEAD OF THE NEXT NORMAL THE RESILIENT ONE OUR MAN IN years at Monmouth. week. THE CURVE What will a post-pandemic Damon Colbert spent his THE PENTAGON Entrepreneur Krish Ra- world look like? From phar- teens and 20s homeless and Christopher Lowman is makrishnan has made a maceuticals to photography, ba"ling personal demons. helping to modernize the career of being in the right faculty weigh in on how Now he helps at-risk chil- U.S. Army. The Rest place at the right time. COVID-19 will leave its mark. dren realize their potential. Looking In, 01. President’s Note, 04. Le&ers, 05. Pop Quiz, 25. Above and Beyond, 47. Alumni Roundup, 52. Celebrations, 57. In Memoriam, 62. Remembrances, 63. Looking Out, 64.

#"!!MONMOUTH!!Spring 2021 photo!!!JOHN!EMERSON Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!#% President’s Note letters “ ideas from members across our University community, I While we am confident that we have pro- have been duced an ambitious yet achiev- Moving on to the letter from I disagree with the opinions stated carefully able blueprint for Monmouth Fred Dente ’65, “Woodrow Wil- in the le"er “Woodrow Wilson managing University’s success now and son Flunks Out of Monmouth,” Flunks Out of Monmouth.” Wilson for generations to come. I feel his assessment is more was not a warmonger. Just the the day-to- While the importance of inte- opinion-based than historically opposite! In fact, he avoided our day details grating excellence and access accurate.... Let us remember that entering World War I for three of operat- has been embraced and popular- the 1918 H1N1 flu is well docu- long years despite the sinking of ized by many colleges and uni- mented as the Spanish flu. But the Lusitania, the number of U.S. ing in a versities over the last decade, I true to current revisionist tactics, merchant ships continually sunk, pandemic, am convinced that Monmouth Mr. Dente places opinion-based and the many U.S. civilian lives we also has all the makings of becoming blame on America, writing taken. Does the writer not see a bona fide leader in this endeav- that the flu “was likely to have the continual taking of American have been or. Our high rankings in various originated in American training lives as a “definitive or convincing keeping our third-party publications point to bases and was then exported reason” to enter World War I? sights the measure of our excellence, to Europe on crowded troop There are an incredible number and our commitment to serving ships.” In truth, actual historical of challenges facing Monmouth firmly a high number of Pell-eligible Black Women and and epidemiological data are not University and other similar-sized focused and first-generation students is the Struggle for adequate to certify the origin schools, especially this year. How- on the evidence of our accessibility. of the Spanish flu. It was early ever, the “canceling” of Woodrow Our new strategic plan, which Civil Rights identified not only in America, Wilson will not solve them for us. future. ofcially launches on July 1, de- Thank you for the insightful but also in France, Germany, and What we need is astute manage- ” tails through six central themes interview with Dr. He"ie Williams the UK. ment by our leadership and an the many innovative ways in (“The Long Struggle”) in which she I’d be interested to see reliably incredible amount of support from Renewable which we plan to become both discussed the ongoing struggle for sourced, pre-2000 documenta- our alumni and friends. more excellent and more accessi- Black equality. I agree wholeheart- tion rather than the popular and —Paul W. Corliss ble. Through an institution-wide edly with her point that the civil shameful trend to blame Amer- Resources commitment to these virtues, rights struggle is about much more ica for everything and see what POSITIONING THE UNIVERSITY FOR our ambition is for Monmouth than just Black Lives Ma"er. Black sticks. Stating something as fact CONTINUED SUCCESS RELIES ON ITS University to become the most people, especially Black women, in one form of media does not Let’s UNFAILING COLLECTIVE SPIRIT. highly ranked institution with very o$en face racism in the make it true, although our country our access measures in our cat- workplace. It can take many forms: is suffering dearly from just that Connect TELL"US" ust over a year ago, the World Health Organization egory, anywhere in the country. unequal pay, unrealistic expecta- means of spreading fake informa- For more content Your ongoing support of Mon- tions, harassment. I know this from tion. There are more than enough and photos, follow WHAT" declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, and the state mouth will help us both to rise in personal experience. The struggles revisionists and cancel culturists us on Twi"er and Jof announced a public health emergency the rankings and to ofer the dis- that Black people face are indeed mostly doing more damage than Instagram: YOU" in response to this growing threat. This has been a tinctive Monmouth experience real, and much work remains to good, but where are those who @monmouthumag to deserving students of all back- be done to end systemic racism in would preserve our history as year that has tested our resolve, but together, we have grounds. America. I’m proud to see my alma wri"en, as something to learn THINK faced these unexpected challenges with great patience, I am grateful that we have mater addressing it in this way. from rather than erase? Email us at magazine@ flexibility, and fortitude. reached this point of the semes- —Lyreshia (Hailstork) Bonds ’04 Buying in to revisionist histo- ter with so few disruptions to the ry and the destructive cancel monmouth.edu, or write I am confident that these whelming desire of our students academic experience. Togeth- In Defense culture, Monmouth’s Board of us at Monmouth strengths, coupled with the re- to return more fully to campus. er, we have persevered through Trustees caved on renaming silience of the Monmouth spirit, While we have been careful- an unprecedented year in mod- of Wilson the former Wilson Hall based magazine, Monmouth will help us successfully navi- ly managing the day-to-day de- ern history, and together, we will Regarding your Fall 2020 maga- on negative sensationalism of University, 400 Cedar Ave., gate through the next several tails of operating in a pandem- find our way in a post-pandem- zine, I am disappointed with your Wilson’s life and administration. West Long Branch, NJ months and transition into a ic, we also have been keeping ic world to best serve the evolv- choice of cover artwork. Is it not Rather than taking an in-depth post-pandemic reality that more our sights firmly focused on ing needs of our students and enough that the mainstream media look at the context of the period, 07764. Submissions for the closely resembles our pre-pan- the future. Though we paused their families. As we hope for a is constantly showing scenes of the board partnered in the tragic Letters page are subject violent riots under the guise of rewriting of historical facts to demic living and learning envi- our strategic planning eforts safe return to near-normal oper- to editing for clarity and ronment at Monmouth. As we last spring when the pandemic ations in the fall, I look forward “protesting for equal rights”? Mon- adapt to today’s hot-button develop plans for the upcom- first emerged, we have spent the to reuniting and thanking you in mouth University is supposed to issues, destroying an import- length and must include ing academic year and beyond, past several months reenergiz- person for your steadfast com- be an educational institution for all ant part of Monmouth’s legacy the writer’s name, address, we are encouraged by increased ing our work in developing the mitment to our exceptional uni- in a broad range of occupational for those of us who used to be and phone number for surveillance testing, widespread University’s next five-year plan. versity community. fields, not acting as an arm of the proud of it. —Dierdre (Hulse) vaccination eforts, and the over- Thanks to thoughtful input and —Patrick F. Leahy, Ed.D., President liberal agenda. Egizi ’97M confirmation.

#(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!MATT!FURMAN Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!#' LETTERS

Great Hall expired. Then, Monmouth’s Bruce MONMOUTH!»!VOL+!(#,!NO+!" GRADUATE STUDIES “Hot Thumbs” Beckman poured Monmouth magazine is published twice Memories in six points and George Gill two annually by the Study carrels were on the main in the five-minute overtime to Division of Enrollment Management. floor, and I had classes throughout put the game in the Hawks’ win the building. It was amazing—mar- column, 72–70. bled steps, chandeliers, and the Beckman wound up with a game- Vice President for Versailles room. It was unbeliev- high 32 points, hi"ing mainly on Enrollment Management able. The name change is good. booming jump shots from 25 to 30 Robert D. McCaig, Ed.D. YOUR FUTURE: —Diana L. DiFerdinando ’69 via feet. He also made two clutch free Facebook throws with 20 seconds le$ to Associate Vice President, give Monmouth a 72–68 cushion. Marketing & Communications I had many classes there in the Walt Mischler scored 18 points and Tara Peters ’94, ’99M ’60s. It was a marvelous building. pulled down 16 rebounds before The Winter Balls held in the Great fouling out late in the second half. Editor MASTERED Hall were fabulous, as was the The Hawks’ 66-inch sparkplug, Tony Marche"i playing of Christmas carols on the Barry Ayers, continually out-hus- magnificent organ. The sound res- tled everyone and wound up with Assistant Editor Virtual Graduate Open House onated throughout all three floors. 10 rebounds. When Ayers fouled Breanne McCarthy There were so many amazing out with two minutes remaining, Design & Layout 6/5 @ 10 a.m. architectural features, as well as Gill, his replacement, stole the ball Dog Ear Consultants the unforge"able marble stair- at half court and dropped in the case. I am glad it’s being opened basket that cut the margin to two Contributing Writers REGISTER: MONMOUTH.EDU/INFO back up to students and hope the points, 62–60. Arning, a 6-foot-1 Pete Croa"o integrity of the architecture and freshman, made several key bas- Nick DiUlio decorations is kept as it was when kets and finished with 14 points. Mark Gola Continue your studies by pursuing a graduate degree I a"ended. —Leah Singer ’69, ’87M That scintillating overtime victory Maureen Harmon at Monmouth University. Programs include: via Facebook propelled the Hawks to prominence Meeri Kim, Ph.D. in NAIA circles nearly 60 years ago. Melissa Kvidahl Reilly • Addiction Studies • History A memorable win Phew! And Mischler went on to Dan Morrell earn NAIA All-American honors. It for the Hawks Steve Neumann • Anthropology • Information Systems was a glorious Monmouth sports Molly Petrilla It was Dec. 1, 1961, prior to anyone moment. —Chuck Hassol ’61A • Clinical Mental Health Counseling • MBA even thinking about awarding Photographers • Communication • MFA in Creative Writing three points for long-range shoot- Paddy’s on My Mind Angela DeCenzo ing. Tiny Monmouth College did Anthony DePrimo • Computer Science • Nursing (MSN, DNP) not yet have a basketball court on Paddy Murray’s was my favorite John Emerson • Criminal Justice • Physician Assistant campus. The Hawks were still prac- hangout during my junior and Ma" Furman ticing outdoors and playing their senior years back in the early days Mike Morgan • Education • Social Work “home” games at Asbury Park’s of Monmouth College. It was in Braxton Wilhelmsen - Teaching, MSEd, MEd, and EdD options • Software Engineering Convention Hall. And they were Paddy’s quiet and comfortable • English hosting what was considered, at surroundings where many of us Illustrators • Speech-Language Pathology the time, a small college basketball would be able to sit at the bar Davide Bonazzi powerhouse—Long Island Universi- or at a small table and carry on Daniel Fishel Graduate scholarships available for eligible students. ty (L.I.U.)—and its All-American, Ed conversations. It was a wonderful Casey Landerkin “Cornflakes” Johnson. place, full of Paddy’s own antiques. Gabriel Meza It was supposed to be no contest. He trusted his clientele within the Brit Sigh NEW PROGRAMS: Many even wondered how Hawks atmosphere he established. There • Doctor of Occupational Therapy Coach/Athletic Director Bill Boy- was no dancing; yes, there was On the cover lan even managed to book L.I.U. on music on the jukebox, but it was 732-571-3452 | West Long Branch, NJ • MS in Data Science the schedule. Tony Benne" (Paddy’s favorite) New York City-based illustrator A bit more than 1,000 fans were or singing “ Daniel Fishel depicts life on hand for the big game, and on My Mind.” Even a rock ‘n’ roll during COVID-19. they were becoming discouraged lover such as myself welcomed when, with just six minutes le$ the quieter atmosphere for many on the clock, Monmouth was still evenings with my Monmouth trailing by eight points. But the classmates. A$er I graduated in DIVE IN. Hawks lit a fire under their fans by 1961, Paddy’s remained the place Register: rallying in the closing moments to to spend an evening until I le$ the 400 Cedar Ave. knot the score 64–64 on a driving area in 1967. It was an original Mon- West Long Branch, NJ 07764 KEP LEARNING! monmouth.edu/summer layup by Hank Arning before time mouth hangout. —Ron Emmons ’61 732-571-3489 • monmouth.edu Explore hundreds of graduate #*!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 summer course options Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!#)

GRAD_Ad-8x10.5_GeneralSummer.indd 1 3/30/21 8:27 AM Currents RESEARCH!&!REFLECTION

NEED TO KNOW » Topics & trends

Future were being imagined as having Reference no future. Within that context, The author Octavia E. Butler real- IN&ADDITION&TO& ly emerged as the leading voice the popular Black in challenging that assumption Afrofuture Panther, Lovecra! by centering science fiction sto- Country, and ries on African American wom- Watchmen, Greason en characters. The second ma- is Now recommends these jor figure that I talk a lot about IS EXPANDING other novels, movies, is Dwayne McDufe, who, with- and TV shows in the in comics, created a company BOUNDARIES AND POSSIBILITIES IN Afrofuturism genre: called Milestone Media that cre- ACADEMIA, ART, AND SOCIETY. ated a universe that was much » Kindred (1979)— more diverse. INTERVIEW!BY!STEVE!NEUMANN! “Octavia E. Butler’s It was that foundation with classic novel ex- those literary and artistic influ- frofuturism—the cultural, political, and plores the intersec- ences in the that inspired aesthetic movement that reimagines tion of the past and work like Star Trek: Deep Space a future filled with arts, science, and present through Nine, which featured an African A the ongoing legacy American commander and had technology seen through a Black lens—is thriving. of racial slavery in many stories that talked about From movies and TV to music and literature, there the United States. It the uniqueness of that heritage defines the principle has been an explosion of –inspired in the future. So that was a mo- of Afrofuturism that ment where people started to works rooted in, and celebrating, the uniqueness and ‘every past was once explore the possibility of a fu- innovation of Black culture. We asked Walter Greason, a future.’” ture that included people from Africa. Ph.D., creator of the popular “Wakanda Syllabus,” » Brother from which was named after the fictional African country Another Planet How has Afrofuturism grown featured in the equally popular Black Panther movie (1984)—“Joe Morton since then? continues to distin- What emerged in the last 15 or and comic books, to explain what the Afrofuturism guish himself as one 20 years is that people like me, boom means for the broad academic discipline of of the great actors of who grew up fascinated with that cultural studies as well as for society as a whole. this generation. His premise, became adults and pro- performance in this duced a lot of new work. The big film revealed the con- one for me is, of course, the Black What was the starting point produced the work to demon- tradictions of racial Panther movie. I spent a lot of for Afrofuturism? strate that history. judgement through time from 2003 to 2016 talking In the early 20th century, Af- But by the early 1990s, a per- the metaphor of about what should be in such a rican American scholars recog- nicious pattern had emerged extraterrestrial alien film. And then, when the concept nized that mainstream academ- within literature. When people experiences.” of the character was launched in ic society assumed there was no wrote fantasy or science fiction, the Captain America: Civil War history in Africa, and that the there were rarely people of Afri- » “Epilogue,” Justice movie for Marvel, I wrote up a peoples of the African diaspora can descent in those stories, the League Unlimited document called the “Wakanda had no useful path to ofer any implication being that at some (2005)—“One of the Syllabus” that talked a lot about kind of productive lesson. The point, all people of African de- greatest animated all the diferent influences that corollary was that for two or scent would somehow disap- had developed and how to use three generations people then pear. People who had no past continued. p. 10 them going forward.

#.!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 illustration!!!BRIT!SIGH Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!#- CURRENTS

You would also get more work productions ever, ica Great Again,” and talked the table; in Afrofuturism, you have “ Parents and guardians of ref- like Watchmen with Regina King ‘Epilogue’ con- about how the country and the to have elements of all of those. ugee children can use Cradlr and Lovecraft Country with Aun- nects 80 years of world was changed as a result of And you have to have a desire, For refugee to report their child as miss- janue Ellis, both on HBO. You comic and cartoon that ascendancy. Of course ev- a fundamental commitment, to children, ing; upload information such get this explosion of new work narratives, explain- erybody looked at the Trump continue to explore. You have to especially as photos and the child’s med- that would go on for decades to ing the framework campaign and the Trump pres- have the humility that you know young ical and personal history; and come. of the Batman idency to see these kinds of al- that you don’t know all of it, and even communicate with foster mythos. Dwayne legories in the writing that she you’re constantly trying to find children, if families, teachers, or interna- Which musical artists are em- McDuffie’s writing had done. a way to grow, because you’re they grow tional organizations caring for bracing the idea of Afrofutur- shines through Dystopia is very powerful seeking out a bigger and bigger up without their child. The app also allows ism in their work? every moment of the for Butler, but there’s a deep- universe of experience and ideas. current guardians, foster fami- is probably the most episode.” er sense that what we left be- a collective lies, teachers, and rescue work- aesthetically resonant, but also hind as primitive is much more Has Afrofuturism had any im- memory, ers to share information on ref- and Missy El- » Get Out valuable than we appreciate, pact on attitudes and beliefs they’re a ugee children with each other liott. There’s that whole thread (2017)—“Jordan and that is her critiquing nos- around race in America? and with the child’s family. of reimagining reality and ex- Peele’s debut film talgia. A theme for her If you look at a moment like blank page “When I was in China conduct- pressing yourself in a way that transformed the work is that nostalgia is this 1920, the high point of the sec- without ing research, I met a 90-year-old breaks the boundaries of what conventions of the kind of dangerous illusion, in ond Ku Klux Klan, there were family woman who was a wartime ref- we find to be the everyday, and horror genre by that by longing for a romantic dozens of deadly race riots ugee child in Jiang’s school. She that’s tremendously import- emphasizing the past we’re overlooking the re- across the country where white history, had no idea where she was born ant in music, whether it’s , constant suspense ally dangerous and pernicious mobs were destroying Black medical or who her parents were. She , hip-hop, or R&B. I think of racial perceptions aspects that made it a painful, communities and killing any history, et had to come up with a name for most famously in the last de- and negotiations, even deadly reality for difer- family that showed signs of cetera. And herself when she was rescued,” cade is Janelle Monáe, who, on leaving the audience ent people who are not includ- Black prosperity. It was an ex- Zhou says. “For refugee chil- her first , crafted herself gasping in anticipa- ed in that nostalgia. And so the traordinarily horrific time. But I observed dren, especially young children, as “The ArchAndroid,” a wom- tion until the final kind of critique that comes out out of that, the folks who adapt- that kind of if they grow up without a collec- an who could be an entire uni- scene.” of Butler is very similar to the ed and overcame it produced a brutality tive memory, they’re a blank page verse unto herself, and then kinds of stories that gigantic artistic and musical re- without family history, medical constantly pressed the bound- » Star Trek: Dis- you see in movies like Blade naissance that now we look back repeatedly history, et cetera. And I observed ary of expressing and exploring covery (2017–pre- Runner: What is it that we’re on with amazement in terms in my that kind of brutality repeatedly new freedoms. sent)—“Michael really protecting? Do we re- of jazz, poetry, fiction. A lot of research. in my research.” But all of that grows out of mul- Burnham, who was ally represent ourselves hon- of what we’re talking Zhou received the Creative Work tiple generations of writers that portrayed by Son- estly? So Afrofuturism is very about with Black Studies start- ” Award of the 2020 Design Incu- go back before James Baldwin equa Martin-Green, much about revealing truth ed in the 1920s in Harlem, Chi- Bridging bation Communication Design and Ida B. Wells-Barnett, who was the first Afri- and showing stories that had cago, and Los Angeles. So that Educators Awards for her work are all playing with similar ideas, can-American woman not been told. kind of renaissance is what creating the design and vision but largely in terms of politics character to lead we’re in right now. the Gap for the Cradlr project, which is and economics and culture. But a Star Trek series, How does Afrofuturism fit Folks outside of the African a United Nations Academic Im- within music, there’s an attempt realizing the potential into cultural studies? American community—folks from A MONMOUTH PROFESSOR’S AWARD- pact project. With a patent pend- to do things sonically that could presented in the Cultural studies opens the door Europe, folks from Asia—are real- WINNING APP KEEPS REFUGEE CHILDREN ing, she has already donated change those boundaries. original series by to interdisciplinarity, the idea ly embracing this idea of anti-rac- CONNECTED TO THEIR HERITAGE. the platform to multiple inter- Nichelle Nichols. Her that multiple disciplines can ism. They looked at the killing national humanitarian organiza- How would you compare Afro- performances, espe- combine and overlap and create of George Floyd, the shooting BY!BREANNE!MCCARTHY! tions, including the United Na- cially in seasons two futurism to a genre like cyber- new forms of expression. It takes of Breonna Taylor, the Capitol uring the Second Sino-Japanese War, a woman tions, Save the Children, Rotary punk, which imagines a dysto- and three, laid the multiple approaches and ex- Hill riot, and they don’t want International, and the Open So- pian future? foundation for later plores experiences in new ways, to return to a world where that by the name of Jiang Jian ( ) left behind ciety Foundations for potential Octavia E. Butler is definitely speculative break- ways that don’t marginalize dif- is normal. Just on campus, we her afuent life to help wounded warriors and future use. playing with the idea of dystopia throughs of Regina ferent voices and diferent in- read Ibram X. Kendi’s D “There are a lot of unfortunate How to refugee children. Her eforts, which included founding and the basic symbols of cyber- King in Watchmen sights. The initial breakthrough Be an Antiracist, and he spoke situations in this world that punk as a genre. In particular I and Jurnee Smolle" was Black Studies, a demand to campus via Zoom in January. a school and co-establishing a relief and education many of us are lucky to not be in, think of her Patternist series, in Lovecra! Country.” made by students at San Francis- We had another great speaker, association for refugee children, were part of the larger and we often don’t realize how where she deals a lot more with co State in 1967. They said, “We Reginald Hudlin, who was one much people sufer, especially psychology at its core of where want a curriculum that actually of the founders of Afrofuturism Mothers’ Movement in China, which was estimated to children,” says Zhou. “For many the distortions are and how we represents our experience.” in the ’80s and ’90s. Those voic- have helped rescue and educate more than 30 million of us, this type of app might not deal with them. But the most fa- Walter Greason is an Afrofuturism is the natural fruit es are opening up new doors for displaced children during the war. ever be needed unless a glob- mous one is Parable of the Tal- associate professor and of interdisciplinary work, in that all people to build organizations al catastrophic event broke out, chair in the Department Jing Zhou is a United ents, her next-to-last novel writ- of Educational Counseling it requires that you’re familiar and institutions, and a society as Jing Zhou, associate professor inspired Zhou to create Cradlr, a Nations Academic Impact but even for the 13 million refu- ten in the 1990s, where the main and Leadership whose with multiple fields in order to a whole, where everyone has a of art and design, learned of Ji- digital platform that helps keep the representative and serves gee children across the globe to- antagonist is a religious conser- scholarship focuses on enter the conversation. You can’t better chance to succeed, where ang’s eforts through her grand- world’s more than 13 million refu- on the Faculty Advisory day, a platform like this can help racial enslavement, segre- Council for Monmouth’s vative who wins the presiden- gation, and globalization just be a historian or a political sci- equity and justice have a chance parents, who knew Jiang per- gee children connected with their Institute for Global Under- them to preserve their memory cy with the slogan “Make Amer- in world economic history. entist or a musician and come to to prevail. sonally. Her compassion and love families, resources, and heritage. standing. and identity.”

$#!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!ANTHONY!DEPRIMO Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!$$ CURRENTS

under due to pandemic-related The faculty members meet with “ being able to meet people where challenges such as job loss, loss the interns at least once a week they are—in their home, where of insurance, and a shortage of to discuss cases and conduct Even out- they know their environment in-person counseling services, trainings, and one faculty mem- side of the and can talk freely—that’s a re- we knew there was a growing ber is always on call while in- pandemic, ally positive thing for people…. need for accessible telecoun- terns meet with their clients to some peo- It’s very accessible and a reason seling.” provide additional support if why telehealth should definite- Last spring, Mazza worked needed. ple are ly stay.” with Robin Mama, Ph.D., dean For clients, the clinic ofers really hesi- The program has become so of the School of Social Work, flexible hours with counseling tant to get popular that Mazza has re- and several licensed clinical fac- sessions available seven days a ceived calls from other universi- ulty members to develop the week via phone, tablet, or com- counseling ties across the country that are program policies and set up a puter. because interested in adopting a similar HIPAA-compliant video con- Mazza says each person who they may model. ferencing platform. She then calls in is initially screened by In addition, MUCCTC has part- recruited six clinical gradu- a licensed clinical faculty mem- have neg- nered with a number of organi- ate student interns who, with ber before they are scheduled ative con- zations that refer their clients to COVID-19 infection numbers for their first appointment with notations the clinic, including community surging, were having difculty an intern, which they are usual- colleges, family support centers, securing field placements they ly able to book within a week. attached to veterinary clinics, visiting nurs- needed in order to graduate. The interns are able to see an therapy.... es, and agencies providing re- The clinic ofered the students average of five to eight clients So being covery from substance use ser- a way to get supervised, hands- per week, and there are cur- able to vices. on experience in order to ful- rently no time limitations in Mazza says her hope is to grow fill their field education hours, terms of the number of weeks meet peo- the program in order to include while also serving the regional clients can receive counseling ple where more interns and to serve more community. services. Mazza says that even they are—in clients, especially from under- The program, which is open to when an intern graduates, if one served and vulnerable popu- New Jersey residents 18 years of their clients wants to contin- their home, lations like the elderly, who or older who are not members ue receiving counseling they where might have no method of trans- of the Monmouth University will help transition the client they know portation to receive counseling community, launched over the to one of the incoming gradu- services in person. There are summer with interns seeing ate interns. That way the clinic their envi- also plans for expanding the their first patients in July. is able to ofer services contin- ronment program to work with groups Itiesha Glover ’21, one of the ually throughout the year with- and can across campus, like the occupa- graduate interns who helped out having to break from May to tional therapy and the profes- to build the program and do September. talk free- sional counseling programs, to outreach across the state, says To date, the MUCCTC has ly—that’s a make the clinic more interdis- the clinic helped to quickly fill served nearly 100 people from really pos- ciplinary. To meet the growing need for a void left open by the pan- seven counties across the state. itive thing In addition, the interns who counseling services to support demic. Glover, who has worked for graduated have all volunteered Answering people through the pandem- “Right now, everything’s tele- New Jersey’s Division of Child for people. to be part of the steering com- ic, and to provide a hands-on health, but at that point, when Protection and Permanency for mittee to ensure that MUCCTC professional learning opportu- the pandemic hit, telehealth nearly 20 years, says she be- ” remains a leader in providing the Call nity for graduate students, in wasn’t that big of a thing, and lieves telehealth is here to stay. free counseling services across July the School of Social Work trying to convince someone that Therefore, having a program in New Jersey while supporting A NEW TELEHEALTH CLINIC STAFFED BY launched the Monmouth Uni- they can get the same level of which Monmouth graduate stu- the growth of future profession- GRADUATE SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS IS versity Community Care Tele- care [virtually rather than in dents can gain hands-on experi- al social workers. DELIVERING COUNSELING SERVICES TO health Clinic (MUCCTC), a person] was something that ence providing telecounseling, “Our goal is to make this last THE REGION. free, online counseling ser- we were concerned about,” she while being accessible to people forever, to be a resource for the vice available to adults living in says. “But it’s become such a all around the state, is more im- community, but also for our stu- BY!BREANNE!MCCARTHY New Jersey. great program and resource for portant than ever. dents to get one-on-one experi- “We had always wanted to start people, especially in this envi- “Even outside of the pandem- ence working with clients,” says n June 2020, just three months into the COVID-19 some type of free clinic for so- ronment… being able to meet ic, some people are really hesi- Mazza. “We’ve received calls pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and cial work, but we had never re- people where they are. We tant to get counseling because from clients thanking us for this ally considered telehealth be- came right on time, right when they may have negative con- service and referring friends IPrevention released a study that found that 40% of fore,” says Elena Mazza, Ph.D., we were needed.” notations attached to thera- and family members to the clin- U.S. adults reported they were struggling with mental clinic coordinator and director Each intern works closely with py—they don’t want to be seen ic for counseling, and it just of the social work master’s de- four clinical licensed faculty walking in or out of the ofce, makes us so happy to be able health or substance use—a significant increase from gree program. “But between the members, who volunteer their they worry others can hear what to help people when they need similar studies done the prior year. stress people were, and still are, time to support the program. they’re saying,” Glover says. “So it most.”

$"!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 illustration!!!DAVIDE!BONAZZI Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!$% tides CULTURE!&!COMMUNITY

“ My grand- parents and parents sacrificed a lot to make a better life for their children. Meanwhile, Goranites rose to It’s impor- a variety of leadership positions American tant I make on campus, thriving in an envi- ronment that supported him af- them proud ter a history with bullying. He’s Dreaming and show the president of the Student them their Alumni Association, a senior HOW ONE GRADUATING SENIOR IS senator for the Student Gov- FULFILLING THE PROMISE OF THE hard work ernment Association, and pres- GENERATIONS BEFORE HIM. was not ident of MU SPECTRUM, a stu- done in vain. dent club aimed at creating and BY!MELISSA!KVIDAHL!REILLY promoting awareness for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and enior Nick Goranites witnessed the American ” queer/questioning communi- dream firsthand. His Syrian-born mother and ty within Monmouth. “When I his father, a first-generation American, built arrived at Monmouth, my life S changed,” he recalls. “I kept to successful real estate careers—despite never finishing myself and didn’t have the cour- college—thanks to hard work and grit. In so doing, they age or confidence to come out set an example for their son. as gay until I got to Monmouth, and so the University has also “As I got older and entered you don’t have to be born with been a big part of my personal high school, my objective was everything to be successful if journey.” to work hard because my grand- you are willing to be innovative Recently, Goranites landed an in- parents and parents sacrificed a and put in the work. It inspired ternship working for the Minori- lot to make a better life for their me to help others do the same.” ty Republican Ranking Member children,” says Goranites. “It’s With his heart set on a career in Kay Granger on the U.S. House important I make them proud politics, Goranites saw his path Committee on Appropriations, and show them their hard work begin to take shape during his thanks to earning a spot in was not done in vain.” freshman and sophomore years, the Washington Center Intern- Following in his older sister’s when he landed an internship in ship Program. He gathers data footsteps, Goranites enrolled at the ofce of Congressman Chris for staf, helps craft memos and Monmouth University, where Smith, the U.S. Representative briefs, and sits in on hearings. he is pursuing a double major in for New Jersey’s 4th Congressio- “It’s all about learning how to business and political science. His nal District. There, he fielded calls work as part of a policy-orient- interest in business comes from from constituents who needed as- ed committee staff,” he says. witnessing his parents’ entrepre- sistance navigating federal agen- It’s also his first exposure to neurial success, but his interest cies, exposing him to citizens Capitol Hill, where he hopes in political science and foreign from all walks of life as well as to stay after he graduates in afairs is a product of his larger agencies from across the politi- May. family’s experiences, says Goran- cal spectrum. He helped veterans “My dream is to work in the ites. He has family throughout resolve challenges within the U.S. American political system, which the Middle East, some of whom Department of Veterans Afairs, enabled my parents and grand- died or became refugees during assisted seniors with the Social OPPOSITE: Goranites pic- parents to come here, work hard, the Syrian civil war. Security program, and answered tured on the National Mall, and make a change for their fam- one of his favorite spots “The fact that I come from an questions about the U.S. Post- in D.C. “The Mall’s monu- ily,” he says. “I want to be able to immigrant family means I’ve al Service. It was Goranites’ mental scope and majestic contribute to helping the Amer- had close exposure to these is- first professional—and first po- neoclassical architecture ican people thrive through our remind you that you are sues my whole life,” he says. litical—experience, and he want- in the capital of this great system of politics, wherever I “I’ve also seen how, in America, ed more. republic,” he says. happen to find myself.”

$(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!MIKE!MORGAN Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!$' TIDES

The ultramodern facility boasts semesters, including summers. Nursing School four high-fidelity simulation suites Students will take a mix of tra- with attached observation rooms ditional and hybrid courses that Ranked One of the for training with computerized place a heavy emphasis on expe- Nation’s Best manikins in simulated real-life riential learning and hands-on The Marjorie K. Unterberg settings, as well as six standard- training. School of Nursing and Health ized patient exam rooms. The More information is available Studies was named one of “The lab design and equipment incor- at monmouth.edu/OTD. 100 Best Private Nursing Schools porate the latest technology and in the United States” by Nurs- We Just Made the List best practices in simulated learn- ing Schools Almanac. Accord- PR News named Monmouth ing in OB/GYN, pediatrics, medi- Daughter ing to the Almanac, a research University to the inaugural “Ed- cine, surgery, and intensive care. Knows Best team collected data on more ucation A-List” earlier this year. The lab is “a terrific example than 3,000 institutions through- The list showcases the top 35 ed- of the service culture that is at Just how solid was the busi- out the U.S. to evaluate each in- ucational institutions that are the center of Monmouth Uni- ness plan that senior business stitution’s academic prestige advancing the careers of public versity’s mission,” says Presi- management major Lex Walker and perceived value; the depth relations and communication dent Patrick F. Leahy. “We feel submitted for her Small Busi- of nursing programs ofered; BELOW: Ibram X. Kendi professionals in the U.S., and a strong obligation to partner ness Management and Market- and student success, particular- presenting his book How includes Columbia University, with our host communities, and ing class last fall? So solid that ly first-time National Council Li- to Be an Antiracist at Uni- Harvard University, and George- tarian Universalist Church we believe this facility will pro- it persuaded her father, Rob- censure Examination pass rates, in Montclair, New Jersey, town University, among other vide exponentially greater long- ert, to start his own compa- in selecting the top 100 list. in 2019. national institutions. term benefits to health care in ny. “He was kind of thinking our region. To be truly great, of doing it already but was un- we believe universities must be sure if he could make it work,” anchors of community enrich- says Lex. But after reviewing ment, and we are proud of our his daughter’s plan, Robert partnership with Monmouth liked what he saw and opened Medical Center.” a landscape design and supply business in Edison, New Jer- sey. He’s even renting the loca- Abele tion that Lex recommended in her plan. THIS IS MONMOUTH » The scene at West Long Branch Minded Students in Professor Melis- sa Ziobro’s Fall 2020 Muse- Campus ums and Archives Management The Force is Basics class curated a virtu- Strong With al exhibit on Julian Abele, the this One Briefs pioneering African American architect who played a key role Senior communication ma- in designing the building now jor Sean Gerhard’s Star Wars New Campus Sim Lab Takes known as the Great Hall. Their Show on WMCX was named Health care Education into the Future work, which includes an inter- “Most Innovative/Creative Pro- view with Abele’s biographer, gram” in the 2021 Intercollegiate he Linda Grunin Simulation Lab and Learning Dreck Spurlock Wilson, can be Broadcast System (IBS) Media Center, a 7,000-square-foot state-of-the-art viewed at guides.monmouth. Awards. Each week, the broad- health care education and training facility, edu/abele. cast highlights a diferent movie “I think it’s important for us to know that when we say ‘I T from the franchise and features don’t do politics,’ what we’re actually saying is ‘I don’t was dedicated at the University’s Graduate Center ABOVE, CLOCKWISE: music from that film and discus- Specialist Professor Joan do power.’ Politics is another word for power. Think earlier this academic year. The lab, which was created Raso, a certified health We’re down sions of related topics by Ger- simulation educator, with hard and, occasionally, special about what we’re saying when we say ‘I don’t do power.’… through a partnership between the University and two manikins; President with OTD guests. The end of each episode The implication of that is—dominate me. Control me. I Monmouth Medical Center (MMC), with funding from Patrick F. Leahy; Jeremy Grunin, president, Grunin Monmouth University will is reserved for Star Wars news, don’t need to be at the table of my own existence. I don’t the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation, provides hands- Foundation; Jay Grunin, launch its third doctoral de- which most often covered the cofounder and chairman, need to be a voice at the table fighting for justice. Do on learning and training opportunities to students Grunin Foundation; and gree-granting program this newest episode of The Man- Eric Carney, president and summer when it welcomes the dalorian. In addition to his whatever you want to me—I am your slave.” in the University’s nursing, physician assistant, and CEO of Monmouth Medi- cal Center and Monmouth inaugural cohort of the new Star Wars show, Gerhard also occupational therapy programs. It also serves MMC’s Medical Center Southern Doctor of Occupational Thera- serves as the station’s sports —Ibram X. Kendi, speaking with a Monmouth audience via Zoom about the importance of civic Campus cut a ceremonial py (OTD) program. The three- director and was nominated by engagement in the ongoing struggle for racial justice. The award-winning author, who was named resident physicians and medical students, and will be a ribbon to dedicate the new lab on campus; one of the year, full-time OTD program IBS for Best Men’s Basketball one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People of 2020,” delivered this year’s Dr. Martin resource for training local first responders. patient exam rooms. requires 105 credits over nine Play-by-Play. Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Lecture in Social Justice.

$*!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photos!!!ANTHONY!DEPRIMO photo!!!MONTCLAIR!FILM!/!WIKIMEDIA!COMMONS Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!$) TIDES

years overseeing the depart- ments of facilities management, campus planning and construc- tion, human resources, student employment, and the University police department. G Under her watch, the Universi- O G ty has performed over $325 mil- L N lion in construction and renova- F O U TI tion projects including, in 1996, the installation of what was then the largest solar energy system in higher education east of the Mis- June 14, 2021 sissippi River. She oversaw proj- ects that forever changed the campus footprint, including the Hollywood Golf Club and construction of four residence Deal Golf & Country Club halls and three academic build- ings; the renovation and addi- Deal, New Jersey tion of the Edison Science Build- ing; the renovation, restoration, and expansion of the Guggen- President Patrick F. Leahy invites you to be part of the heim Memorial Library; the res- inaugural Monmouth University Golf Outing, a new tradition toration of the Great Hall at - Hollywood Golf Club ow Lawn, which included securing that will support the Athletic Director’s Excellence Fund, An institution more than $4 million in preserva- which helps Monmouth student-athletes excel in the tion grants; and the University’s largest construction project, the classroom and on the playing feld. unto herself OceanFirst Bank Center. She also negotiated the contract for, and PATTI SWANNACK REFLECTS ON HER 46-YEAR CAREER Scheduled for June 14, 2021, this premier event will take AT MONMOUTH. oversaw the multiyear renovation of, the University’s satellite cam- place at two of the region’s fnest private clubs: Hollywood BY!BREANNE!MCCARTHY pus at the Monmouth Park Cor- porate Center. Golf Club and Deal Golf & Country Club. Players will enjoy ince she arrived at Monmouth more than four “ During her tenure as vice pres- lunch followed by 18 holes of golf on one of the region’s most ident, the University’s property decades ago, Vice President for Administrative picturesque courses. Following the afternoon round, all I think holdings have increased over 50% Services Patti Swannack ’02 has been witness to golfers will enjoy a dinner reception at Hollywood Golf Club. S we’ve had while its financial obligation for institutional history several times over. utilities has remained flat. Thanks Participants will have an inimitable opportunity to network some great to her eforts, the University has She was working in the hu- the accomplishments she’s had success won numerous awards for being a alongside business, community, and University leaders, man resources department when and the friendships and memo- stories and leader in sustainability. and to partake in an auction featuring frst-rate items and the athletics program celebrat- ries she’s made along the way. Despite her laundry list of ac- ed its move to Division I. She saw “When I came to Monmouth, I’ve made complishments, Swannack says extraordinary experiences. Monmouth welcome its first fe- I’ll never forget, there was one wonder- she’s most proud of the 40 odd male president, her friend and female administrator and she ful friends years’ worth of friendships that mentor, Rebecca Staford. And wasn’t even permitted to wear she’s made during her tenure. Limited spots and sponsorship opportunities remain. she was newly appointed in her slacks,” Swannack laughs. “I nev- whom I will “Every person that reports to current role when Monmouth er expected I’d end up becoming never for- me directly has worked for me for gained University status in 1995. the executive director of HR let get. 18 to 20 years and we’ve laughed, She’s also witnessed the Univer- alone the vice president for ad- we’ve worked through trials and sity community come together to ministrative services. I treasure ” tribulations, through personal is- persevere through trying times in- every moment of my career.” sues, and celebrations,” she says. cluding 9/11, Superstorm Sandy, Swannack was just 19 years old “Even when I was in HR—it was monmouth.edu/golfouting and most recently, the COVID-19 when she began her career as always more than just hiring peo- Deal Golf & Country Club [email protected] pandemic. an entry-level clerk in the hu- ple, it’s helping people who are ex- As she readies for retirement man resources department. She periencing difculties and chal- this June, Swannack, who has quickly moved up the ranks, be- lenges every day, and I think we’ve worked at Monmouth for more coming executive director, and had some great success stories than half of the institution’s his- then, in 1994, vice president, and I’ve made wonderful friends tory, took a moment to reflect on where she has spent the last 27 whom I will never forget.”

$.!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!ANTHONY!DEPRIMO Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!$- PLAy SPORTS!&!FITNESS

University, San Luis Obispo, in 1979. The move across the bor- All good der was difcult personally, but professionally, McNeil was filled with optimism. Title IX legis- things lation had passed in the U.S. in MARILYN MCNEIL, A CHAMPION FOR GENDER 1972, and McNeil was eager to continue her career under the EQUITY WHO TRANSFORMED MONMOUTH warm blanket of equity. She ATHLETICS, CALLS IT A CAREER. quickly learned that perception fell short of reality. BY!MARK!GOLA “They had some real equity is- f there is one thing Marilyn McNeil holds in higher sues at Cal Poly,” says McNeil. “It caught me of guard because regard than relationships, it’s treating those I thought America was much Irelationships equally. Fairness defines both her further ahead than Canada be- character and her leadership style; it is the ideal that cause of Title IX. But the U.S. was behind Canada.” has driven her to create positive change throughout a Uncertain about her future in 53-year career in collegiate athletics. collegiate athletics, McNeil de- cided to pursue her doctorate. “One of my first memories doing what she calls “the great- She figured that a terminal de- from when I arrived at Mon- est job in the world”: coaching. gree would position her for an mouth in 1994 was watching Over the next seven years, she administrative role in athletics, the men’s basketball team de- coached multiple sports at Mc- or strengthen her profile for a part for a conference game on Gill University in Montreal and new career path. a charter bus,” recalls McNeil, the Quebec System of Junior “It was a good decision,” says vice president and director of Colleges before returning to her McNeil. “Writing that disser- athletics at Monmouth. “Not alma mater as the head coach of tation was such a process that far behind them was the wom- women’s basketball in 1975. it’s something you can’t fully en’s basketball team headed to a At Calgary, McNeil quickly built appreciate unless you experi- conference game in a van driven a successful program, earning Ca- ence it. It’s allowed me to have by their part-time head coach.” nadian Coach of the Year in 1979. a connection with faculty that’s That—and so much more—has But it was also there that she got helped build relationships.” changed during McNeil’s 27- her first taste of the inequity of McNeil eventually opted to year tenure, which will come to college athletics. The men’s bas- leave the hardwood at Cal Poly, a close on June 30 when she re- ketball coach, her friend, told her but she remained in athletics. tires. It has been an era of un- what his salary and budget were, Rather than coping with inequi- paralleled growth and achieve- and she couldn’t help but notice ty as a coach, she thought, per- ment for the Hawks’ athletics the enormous gap between the haps she could help bridge the program. Perhaps Krissy Turn- two. gap as an administrator. er, the women’s soccer head “I didn’t ask to be paid the same coach, best sums up the impact as the men’s coach, but I wanted Taking Flight McNeil has had on Monmouth’s to be paid fairly,” says McNeil. “I student-athletes, coaches, and wanted the AD to make a com- with the Hawks the University itself in that mitment to the women’s pro- When former Monmouth Pres- time: “Legendary.” gram, and told him I’d leave Cal- ident Rebecca Staford hired her gary if he refused. Sadly, I had OPPOSITE: “I fell in love in spring 1994, McNeil became to walk away from my alma ma- with sports at a very young the first woman to serve as a col- A Coach at Heart age and have never lost ter.” my passion for it,” says lege athletic director in New Jer- McNeil graduated from the McNeil took over as the wom- McNeil, who was a three- sey. The appointment was major sport athlete, playing University of Calgary and began en’s basketball head coach volleyball, basketball, and news— ran a her career in athletics at age 21 at California Polytechnic State field hockey, in college. &A with McNeil in its national

"#!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!ANTHONY!DEPRIMO Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!"$ PLAY edition—but that didn’t make the having the conversation about “ worked in collaboration with or show proof of a negative test work any easier. how we can get better is so much athletics to achieve significant within five days of their return. “I was the only woman, and easier. It’s about more than wins I wanted to upgrades across campus. High- University leadership also sup- that was reflective of how things and losses. It’s about having an build, not include the 2009 addi- ported a more rigorous testing were in college athletics at the engaged student body, alumni destroy. tion of the OceanFirst Bank schedule than the one recom- time,” says McNeil. “I had two returning to campus with pride, There was Center, home to Monmouth’s mended by the NCAA. young children who I’d just up- and trustees attending events and basketball and track and field Throughout the spring, every rooted from California, and being part of the experience.” this fear programs, as well as the mas- Monmouth athlete is being tested there were times I was treated The change on campus was when I sive 2017 renovation of Kessler once per week, even athletes play- with disdain in my position as a palpable. Kevin Callahan was arrived Stadium, where football, la- ing sports with a low risk of trans- working mom.” one of the two full-time head crosse, and track and field com- mission (e.g., swimming, tennis, When she arrived on cam- coaches at Monmouth when that I was pete. Hesse Field on the Great track and field) in which the NCAA pus, the Hawks had two full- McNeil arrived. He has watched going to Lawn added lights in 2011, al- doesn’t require any testing. Men’s time head coaches: football and the number of full-time coaches blow up lowing the soccer programs to and women’s basketball—classi- men’s basketball; every other grow to 16 while the number of host night games, and field turf fied as a high-risk indoor sport— program was led by part-time sport programs has grown to 23. the men’s in 2014. had their players tested three times coaches. McNeil quickly went to “Marilyn is a fierce compet- programs. “The legacy that she leaves is per week. work establishing relationships itor at heart, and she led this I love men’s how much she cared about us,” Speaking in early March, Rosen- and helping the institution un- department through an evo- says Turner. “She did every- blum said they were averaging derstand the value of athletics. lutionary process,” says Calla- sports thing in her power to ensure more than 300 tests per week, She also needed to battle the han. “She was determined to as much that the coaches had what they and he expected those numbers perception that her agenda was hire quality coaches and has al- as I love needed and the student-ath- to increase. to advance women’s sports at ways fought hard for us. Equal- women’s letes enjoyed the most positive The University also formed a the expense of the men. ly important, she’s fair with her experience possible.” contact tracing team for stu- “I wanted to build, not de- decisions. As coaches we didn’t sports. McNeil’s devotion to equity dents who test positive. Asso- stroy,” says McNeil. “There was always get what we wanted, But I was and advancing women in col- Game on ciate Athletic Trainer Siobhan WITH EVERY HAWKS TEAM BACK IN this fear when I arrived that I but we left every conversation determined legiate athletics has been ex- Huggins-Sullivan is the athlet- was going to blow up the men’s knowing that she was fair in her traordinary. She’s served on ACTION THIS SPRING, KEEPING PLAYERS ics representative, and, accord- programs. I love men’s sports as process.” to build numerous committees, includ- HEALTHY ENOUGH TO COMPETE DURING ing to Rosenblum, “knows how much as I love women’s sports. Hawk coaches learned they a strong ing the Division I NCAA Com- A PANDEMIC HAS BEEN NO SMALL TASK. to get the right answers from But I was determined to build could count on a few things from program mittee on Women’s Athletics people.” a strong program based on eq- their AD. First, she would attend and the Management Coun- BY!MARK!GOLA Athletes are creatures of habit uity and fairness, a program we any event that she could. Mc- based on cil, and also served as president by nature, but adapting has be- could all be proud of.” Neil always wanted to show her equity and of the National Association of he COVID-19 pandemic was indiscriminate in come their new routine. Locker Progress is a process, and Mc- coaches, student-athletes, and fairness. Collegiate Women Athletic Ad- its wrath on collegiate athletic programs. At rooms are used in shifts to avoid Neil had three primary areas of families that she cared. “Why ministrators. large indoor gatherings and focus in constructing a compet- wouldn’t I go to the events?” she ” But her biggest contribution T Monmouth, every player in every sport was maintain social distancing. Ath- itive athletic program: full-time asks. “That’s the fun stuf!” to women in sports might be sidelined for health and safety precautions for most letes must schedule treatment head coaches for each program, She also had an open-door pol- her 27 years of artistry at Mon- of 2020. appointments online. Trainers fair allocation of resources, and icy with her staf. If they had mouth University. What McNeil continue to provide all services enhanced facilities. All three needs or concerns, or just need- accomplished speaks for itself, “It was a difcult time for our duties of athletic training with but have extended ofce hours components would lead to at- ed to bounce ideas around, Mc- and the breadth of her impact is athletes last fall,” says Simon the additional responsibilities to limit the number of visitors tracting quality coaches and Neil was willing to listen. unquantifiable. She came in as Rosenblum, associate athlet- brought on by competing in a at any one time. student-athletes. “She’s a true educator who was the first ever and departs as one ic director for sports medicine. pandemic: performing regular Along the way, Rosenblum Establishing strong relation- able to provide guidance for her of the best ever. “They really struggled com- testing and contact tracing, and has preached common sense ships with administration and coaches without micromanag- “I’ve always believed we need ing to terms with their seasons providing guidance on new pro- when advising athletes about faculty was key to getting buy- ing,” says Turner, who was hired more women in leadership roles, being shut down. Maybe the tocols that keep everyone safe. their behaviors outside the ath- in from the institution. Any- by McNeil in 1998. “Every time and still do,” says McNeil. “We toughest part was there was no “It’s been a little crazy, but the letic arena: Keep your circles time McNeil presented her vi- you left her ofce after a conver- bring a diferent set of values to light at the end of the tunnel.” coaches and athletes have been small, avoid busy places, wear sion for Monmouth athletics, sation, you knew that you were the table and ofer diferent ways Spring is the season of new be- outstanding in modifying rou- face coverings, and don’t hang it came from the heart of a for- heard and that your thoughts of finding solutions. I think all ginnings, and at Monmouth, tines and adjusting to the guide- out with other teams. Players mer coach—but was spoken by a mattered to her.” parties benefit when there is eq- the athletics program is in full lines,” says Rosenblum. “There’s have been receptive to the mes- colleague who had earned a doc- Running an athletic depart- uity and balance. bloom. Every sport—23 men’s a lot more structure to practices, sage, he says: “The athletes are toral degree in higher education ment with integrity is essential, “What’s most important to me and women’s programs—has limits on how many athletes can all too aware that seasons can administration. but a little eye candy never hurt as I leave Monmouth is that I been competing this spring. It’s be in the locker room, and chang- be shut down in an instant, so “The University should feel that either. The Monmouth athlet- accomplished things with in- been a massive undertaking for es in how we schedule training ABOVE: Associate they’re looking out for each oth- Athletic Trainer Siobhan athletics is a part of—not apart ics facilities are symbolic of the tegrity and ethics. I’m proud of athletics support staf, and per- appointments. Athletes had to Huggins-Sullivan (right) er. These kids just want the op- from—the institution,” says Mc- relationship building that Mc- who we are, and I hope Mon- haps no ofce has been leaned on be cleared just to get here.” tends to Jesi Rossman, portunity to play the sport they Neil. “If the institution believes Neil made a priority. University mouth keeps getting better. more than sports medicine. Upon returning to campus last a junior defender on the love, so they’re avoiding the in- women’s soccer team, that athletics is a fundamental administration, alumni, trust- We’ve definitely got a great Rosenblum and nine staf mem- January, student-athletes need- during a match against teractions they’re accustomed piece of higher education, then ees, and community donors all thing going here.” bers are juggling the traditional ed to test negative for the virus Fairfield in March. to as college students.”

""!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!COURTESY!OF!MONMOUTH!ATHLETICS Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!"% PLAY

Deion: Oh, well, I wanted to. I’m Dave: I played football, basket- just shooting from everywhere trying to find ways to get it. ball, and baseball as a kid, so if you around the backyard. We had Dave: It might be in black and asked me then I would have said this hill back there, and I’d go all white, Deion [laughs]. I don’t it was whatever season we were the way up on the hill and start know that we had color back in at the time. But when I got to shooting down on it. when I played. high school, I grew a little bit. I Dave: My sophomore year, I led went to a small Italian Catholic the country in three-point shoot- Who’s your favorite three- high school, which meant 95% of ing. The end of that season, and point shooter to watch? the guys were 5' 10". I was 6' 2". then all ofseason, all the coaches Deion: I’d have to say Steph [Cur- So I was the center on my high would implore me, “Listen, when ry] is the best shooter I have ever school team, and we started four you’re back there, make sure seen. He will take any shot. That 5' 10" guys and myself. We went you’re behind the line, we’ll get an confidence he has, that comes on to win a sectionals champion- extra point for it.” And my junior from just hours of practice—that ship and lost to St. Anthony’s in year was more of a focus of actu- really stands out for me. the state finals. My senior year, ally shooting threes. My last two Dave: My new favorite is Deion. I started getting recruited by years, I made a lot more threes You can see the confidence in his Monmouth, and then was fortu- because it was more of a focus. shot. And I think it’s interesting nate enough, like Deion, to earn that his favorite player is Steph, a scholarship and have my edu- Dave doesn’t seem fazed to because I see some of the quick cation paid for. It was the best de- have relinquished the crown. release that Steph has in Deion. cision for me. Basketball was my If your record falls, Deion, will Like in transition, they’ll ad- life at Monmouth for 24 years. you be happy with that? vance [the ball] to him and he’s Deion: I’m not the type of per- already up into his shot as he’s How did you become a three- son that would ever talk nega- catching the ball. I hope Deion point shooter? tively about people in my sport. keeps playing as long as he can, Deion: My dad is actually a So I’ll probably be like, “How because once you get to my age…. great shooter, and I learned did you do it so quickly?” from him. Growing up I didn’t Dave: I’ll have a problem with it Do you ever get out there any- really have concrete, but I had because I don’t want to be num- more? a hoop, so I’d shoot a lot but ber three [laughs]. I’m used to Dave: Well, David, who’s a ju- couldn’t really dribble. I’d make being the number-two person; nior at Monmouth, has a nine- my own games, all sorts of stuf, that’s what I am at home. year-old brother. So I will do some shooting with him. We have some fun with that. But POP as far as actual playing—even just a 30- or 40-minute game of Quiz TEST"YOUR"HAWK" just three-on-three—the knees don’t feel as good as they do af- SPORTS"KNOWLEDGE ter a round of golf. 1. In April, senior Sergio Martinez became the second Deion, can you imagine your person in men’s tennis program history to be nationally This isn’t the first time the two life without basketball? of you have chatted. Deion: Absolutely not. I’ve ranked when he landed at No. 117 in the Oracle ITA Two on threes Dave: Deion was a sophomore been playing my whole life. Division I Men’s Singles Rankings. Who was the first? when my son, David, was a walk- So it will be hard to live a life THE HAWKS’ NEW AND FORMER CAREER THREE-POINT on freshman, and David al- without basketball. And this is 2. The football team opened its season with a 35-17 victory RECORD HOLDERS TALK ABOUT LIFE BEYOND THE ARC. ways talked very fondly of him: what’s putting me through col- over Charleston Southern and with a true freshman, Tony “Dad, this guy is good. He’s gon- lege right now. I’m blessed to INTERVIEW!BY!PETE!CROATTO na break all your records.” More say I can go to college for free Muskett, under center. Who was the last true freshman importantly, David always talked because of the game I love. If it quarterback to start a game for the Hawks? about what a great person Deion wasn’t for basketball I probably or 30 years, Dave Calloway ’91, ’95M, the former Monmouth is, and how Deion kind of took would have joined the military 3. The men’s basketball program reached a major men’s basketball coach, held the school record for career three- him under his wing. That al- or something like that. milestone on Jan. 10 when it won the 1,000th game in ways stuck with my son, and I’m pointers—until senior guard Deion Hammond broke it on Feb. 7 the history of Hawk basketball, beating F thankful for that. When did you fall in love with when he canned his 261st trey during a 71–69 road win over Manhattan the game? 72-62. When was the program’s first win and what team College. Fortunately, it was a peaceful takeover: The two Hawk greats are Deion, Dave’s record was old- Deion: I started playing when I did the Hawks beat?

er than you. Have you seen any was like four or five, and I knew acquaintances, and were happy to sit down and talk with us about their 51-47. State, City Jersey beat Hawks the 1956, 1, Dec. On 3) 1993. 25, Sept. on Heart highlights of Dave from his right away this was it, and I’ve shared love of the game, who their favorite shooter is, and more. playing days? just stuck with it. Sacred against started Rossback Doug 2) 2017. in 99 No. ranked was Pipoli Nicola 1) ANSWERS:

"(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 illustration!!!GABRIEL!MEZA Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!"' Ahead

ENTREPRENEUR KRISH RAMAKRISHNAN HAS MADE A CAREER OF BEING IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME. OF The

CurveBY!DAN!MORRELL PHOTOS!BY!ANGELA!DECENZO

n a Thursday night in March 2020, while waiting for a flight in a Chicago airport, BlueJeans co-founder Krish Ramakrishnan ’83M, ’19HN got an urgent Ocall from one of his company’s biggest customers, Facebook. With cases of COVID-19 cropping up globally and cities mulling stay-at-home orders, the social media giant was going to shut down its global ofces and have its employees work remotely— and lean heavily on BlueJeans’ video conferencing platform. “You’re going to be the mission-critical connection for us,” they told Ramakrishnan. “Are you ready?” Facebook was the first domino. The sister stayed in the United States. After came from nearby Bell Labs, which is downs. Lots of these can actually pull next day, another Fortune 500 company his father died suddenly, his family con- where Ramakrishnan began his career af- apart a founding team. That never hap- called with the same message. Soon af- vinced him to return to the States, and ter earning his master’s. But he was soon pened with us—we’ve always had that ter, a large, top-ranked public research in 1981, he moved in with his sister in lured west by the promise of Silicon Val- trust, but also a fair amount of empathy university in the Midwest called to let New Jersey. ley. One day in 1987, he packed his bags— for each other.” him know that they would be transition- Once he was settled in, his sister began sight unseen, with no job—and moved to Navigating the downs can be emotion- ing to remote learning. Over the next to ofer counsel. His experience work- California. And while he had never seen ally taxing, though. Periyannan ofers four days, trafc on BlueJeans’ networks ing in construction in India was not himself as an entrepreneur, he found an example from a few years ago, when shot up by 250%. going to help him here—and the same himself wondering about the clunkiness BlueJeans’ growth stalled a bit and the While the pandemic’s instant demand went for his physics degree. “Nobody’s of some of the early internet infrastruc- pair decided it was best to bring on an spike was impossible to predict, Ra- going to recognize any of that,” she told ture he was seeing as he started his ca- outside CEO and have Ramakrishnan makrishnan had been seeing the trend him. “You need to start new.” reer in the Valley. This is archaic stuf, move into an executive chairman role. lines lead here for decades. With in- Long interested in engineering, Ra- he thought. We’re never going to see the “That was not easy,” says Periyannan. creasingly globalized workforces, com- makrishnan enrolled in summer math full promise of the internet without bet- Humility can be a rare trait in Silicon panies would need a better way to con- classes at what was then Monmouth ter tech. Valley, but it’s another reason why Ra- nect with employees working remotely College. When he arrived for the first His outsider’s perspective, he says, helps makrishnan has thrived, he says. “One and expand their talent pool—and vid- class, though, a sign on the door an- him recognize opportunity. “When some- of the things that Krish has taught me is eo, he believed, would be the commu- nounced that it had been canceled. body says, ‘This is the way it needs to be that when you start a company, it’s about nication medium that could make that Peeking into the room next door, he no- done,’ that just rubs me the wrong way,” the investors, the shareholders, the em- happen. ticed some math on the blackboard and he says. “I’m always asking, ‘Why should ployees, the customers—you know, all of Ramakrishnan’s ability to identify these took a seat, figuring there might have it be like that?’” the stakeholders. It’s not just about the kinds of movements in their nascent been a mix-up. There wasn’t: The in- So Ramakrishnan decided to build two founders and what we wanted.” It’s stages is a big part of what has made him structor informed him at the break that something better. In 1993, he launched about doing the right thing, he says, even a successful serial entrepreneur, having it was actually an advanced IBM main- Internet Junction, an early e-com- if it’s the hard thing. built and sold two tech companies be- frame programming class. “Huh, com- merce solution, with two friends. He fore BlueJeans. “If you want to start a puters,” his sister said as she drove him spent his days in tech consulting and company, you need to look at technolo- home that evening. “I think I heard his nights helping to write code for the gy and project it two to three years out,” something good about computers being start-up. (He was nominated by his two n mid-April 2020, BlueJeans an- he says. “You want to create a company important in the future. So maybe you cofounders to serve as the company’s nounced that it was being acquired that solves tomorrow’s problem, not to- should do that.” president—a role he believes he was giv- I by Verizon. In the midst of an un- day’s problem.” The next day, she drove him back to en because he was the slowest coder.) precedented trafc surge that tested Monmouth, and he discussed the pos- Self-funded and lacking any name rec- its mettle, the company was now also sibility of enrolling in a master’s pro- ognition, the startup still managed to in the process of managing its sale, with gram with Gilfred B. Swartz, who at the get the attention of Silicon Valley tech the cofounders ping-ponging between amakrishnan attributes his pre- time was chair of what was then the De- giant Cisco Systems, which eventual- Ramakrishnan arrived, Topspin was in would become BlueJeans—a simpler, more war room calls to address the booming science to an outsider’s perspec- partment of Mathematics and Comput- ly ofered to buy the company. The final disarray. The market for its main prod- user-friendly videoconferencing system. trafc and huddles about the upcoming R tive borne of his immigrant ex- er Science. Naturally, Swartz asked him negotiations were a remarkable scene. uct had collapsed, he soon realized, and (The name BlueJeans is meant to connote acquisition. perience. Raised in a small village in about his prior experience. “I have nev- Ramakrishnan was called in to meet he had no ready fix. “So we either had to its strength and ease of use. Ramakrish- The move ofered the company an in- Southern India, he moved to New York er even seen a computer,” Ramakrish- with John Chambers, Cisco’s legend- return our investors’ money,” which was nan came up with it while driving to a stant influx of cash and the stability of a City in 1971 when his father, a diplomat, nan told him. Swartz made him a deal: ary CEO, who told him he wanted to buy about $14 million of the $15 million it pitch meeting with venture capitalists, Fortune 500 company in Verizon, says was stationed at the Indian Consul- If Ramakrishnan aced the three pro- the company on the condition that Ra- had raised, “or we had to find something listening to Neil ’s “Forever in Ramakrishnan. And as he did when he ate. After his first-ever train and plane gramming courses ofered that summer, makrishnan work there for four years diferent to do.” He divided the company Blue Jeans.”) sold his previous companies to Cisco, rides, he arrived in his new home, which he would write him a recommendation. afterward. There would be a contract, into three teams, each tasked with devis- Again, it would be Ramakrishnan’s job he has stayed on to help with the tran- “might as well have been on Mars.” Ramakrishnan spent long hours in the Chambers said, but what guarantee ing a new idea in 30 days. “All of the ideas to run the company. He attributes his fit sition. “I need to feel that this acquisi- The contrast was striking: Items that Monmouth computer lab that summer, could the founder really give him that were bad,” he says with a laugh, “but one in this role to “a disability of mine.” “I tion has been successful for Verizon,” would have found ample reuse in his finding his way through the work. He he would stick around? “You’re right,” idea was slightly better than everything can’t dive that deep into a subject, but I he says. village—everything from yesterday’s aced the courses and was admitted. Ramakrishnan told him. “No contract else.” The new tech found a market, took can see the forest from the trees. I can see But there won’t be a victory lap. “My newspapers to outdated-but-working The education at Monmouth had a prac- is going to force anybody to stay if they of, and—once again—caught the atten- the pattern,” he says. “My cofounder, Alagu, success has really been about being for- TVs—lay discarded on the streets of tical grounding. Many of his instructors don’t want to stay.” He extended his tion of Cisco. In 2005, they acquired is a very rigorous engineering talent— tunate and being lucky more so than be- his new neighborhood of Forest Hills, hand. All he had was his word: “I don’t Topspin for $250 million. very bright, very articulate. I could only ing smart,” he says. Turning a canceled Queens. The supermarkets floored him, need a contract. You just need to trust After another stint at Cisco, he spent a paint a picture, but he had the where- class into a master’s degree at Mon- filled with unimaginable amounts and “ me.” Chambers took his hand, and the few years at Silicon Valley venture firm withal to construct it.” mouth, chasing a dream in Silicon Val- varieties of foods. “You know how im- When somebody says, deal was done. Norwest Venture Partners, where he met Periyannan says those pictures are im- ley, hoping a handshake would make a migrants will say that when they come ‘This is the way it needs After five years at Cisco, Ramakrish- his BlueJeans cofounder, Alagu Periyan- portant, of course. “My ideas were very viable replacement for a contract— to America, the streets are filled with nan tried retirement for three months. nan. Ramakrishnan had a vague interest broad and focused on how to solve a these are all moments where Ra- gold?” says Ramakrishnan. “It really to be done,’ that just It didn’t take. “Staying at home, learning in doing something in the video space; problem,” he says. “And Krish had a re- makrishnan could easily have failed. felt like that.” rubs me the wrong way. golf—it wasn’t working,” he says. In 2001, Periyannan had relevant experience, in- ally nice way of taking that and creating And while some might naturally attri- He would return to India in 1974 for I’m always asking, ‘Why he became CEO of Topspin Communica- cluding working at Apple on the compa- a story out of it.” bute Ramakrishnan’s success to perse- his undergraduate studies in physics tions, whose tech helped string clusters ny’s QuickTime video application. They Periyannan also heralds his cofounder’s verance, honesty, integrity, gumption, when his father was reposted back to should it be like that?’ of servers together. Or at least, that was hit it of over an initial cofee and spent steadiness: “With any sort of entrepre- or guile, he prefers to attribute it to sim- New Delhi, but his mother, brother, and ” the company’s eventual ofering. When the next several months developing what neurial journey, it’s got many ups and ple good fortune.

".!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!"- THE NEXT NORMAL WHAT WILL A POST-PANDEMIC WORLD LOOK LIKE? FROM PHARMACEUTICALS TO PHOTOGRAPHY, FACULTY WEIGH IN ON THE WAYS IN WHICH COVID-19 WILL LEAVE ITS MARK.

ILLUSTRATIONS!BY!DANIEL!FISHEL A SAFER PUBLIC AND A SPEEDIER DRUG PIPELINE

JEFF!WEISBURG!»&SPECIALIST&PROFESSOR)&BIOLOGY

very time you have these large disease outbreaks, it has a lasting efect on our everyday life. I’m 51, and I was about 13 Eyears old when HIV and AIDS first reared its ugly head. Before that, doctors didn’t wear gloves when they saw you. We didn’t have equipment that covered needles, because you weren’t so concerned about needle sticks. Now it has become part of our everyday life.

The pandemic is going to have a lasting So we saw how the science world could efect, too. There will always be hand come together. THE"RISING"ROLE" sanitizers now in every room in public The other big thing was the smoother, places. I think masks may also become faster FDA approval process for the vac- OF"NURSES"AND" more prevalent in the United States cine. FDA approval for most medications than they ever were before. And I think, is really a long, drawn-out process, and I no matter what, there’s going to be a think that this experience will hopefully TELEHEALTH large number of people who will not go speed up the response for any new med- to large gatherings ever again. ication. Of course, you always want to ANN!MARIE!MAURO!»&DEAN&OF&THE&MARJORIE&K(&UNTERBERG& For the vaccine, we saw collaborative worry about safety, but people complain SCHOOL&OF&NURSING&AND&HEALTH&STUDIES responses, which we’ve never seen be- that—in the United States—we take a lot fore. Johnson & Johnson and Merck longer to approve our medications than worked together; Pfizer and BioNTech most other countries. So I do hope that urses in many states, including New Jersey, do not have the benefit of worked together. Universities got in- this is going to be a norm for the relation- practicing to the full scope of their education and their potential practice. volved, too, with Oxford working with ship between the pharmaceutical indus- Many of these regulations were lifted during the pandemic because of need, AstraZeneca to develop their vaccine. try and the FDA. —as told to Dan Morrell N and there has been a push to keep them of, because evidence shows that health care delivered by advanced practice nurses is more economical, with higher quality outcomes and higher satisfaction. There needs to be more understanding of this at the government level. I’ve lobbied “ for nursing and health care on Capitol Hill a number of times, working to educate I think, no legislators and lawmakers about what it is that nurses do and the value of their work. matter what, The rise of telehealth has also changed care, just as the technology has changed there’s going the delivery of academic courses and many other parts of our lives. I don’t think it to be a large will completely replace in-person care, but it can certainly be an excellent substitute. number of The challenge is that there are people who don’t have access to it. People from people who disadvantaged or underrepresented and minority groups may not have the economic will not go resources for internet service. Elderly people, too, may be more challenged with that to large type of delivery or not trust it. gatherings So telehealth has a real value. We just need to make sure that it’s not another way ever again. for health disparities to proliferate because of a lack of access. —as told to Dan Morrell ”

%"!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!%% THE"GAMES"WILL"GO"ON#"BUT"THE" OPPONENTS"COULD"CHANGE

MARILYN!MCNEIL!»&VICE&PRESIDENT&AND&DIRECTOR&OF&ATHLETICS

oaches have had to adapt their recruiting practices, and I think they may continue VIRTUAL to use some of the new technology they’ve learned during the pandemic. Video INSTRUCTION IS Ccalls (Webex, Zoom) will likely be a tool they use to maintain contact with recruits. NOT GOING AWAY Expressions during a video call can give a coach a better feel for the person, their level of maturity, and interest in the program that you can’t absorb through phone, text, or email JOHN!HENNING!»&DEAN&OF&THE&SCHOOL&OF&EDUCATION communication. common refrain in education has been that the pandemic made Another area that will be given thoughtful consideration is event scheduling and everyone a first-year teacher. The overnight switch to virtual conference realignment. Institutions are going to assess where they’re playing and instruction forced educators to completely reconceptualize their why. Now that universities were forced to take a hard look into travel and the costs and A “ work to accomplish virtually what previously was done in person. What additional risks it incurs, I think there will be a more practical approach to building [The we’ve learned over the last year or so is that many of the technological tools conference and non-conference schedules. pandemic] that teachers had to quickly get up to speed on in order to facilitate remote revealed Athletic departments are also going to have to work hard to fill seats at their events. instruction can—and I think should—continue to be used when all instruction the COVID-19 is going to stick with people for a while, and I think there will be hesitancy in goes back to in-person. potential attending crowded events. We’ve made it very convenient for students and families to that these stay home and watch livestream coverage, and feeling safer at home could give Even before COVID-19, some school districts Change Academy through which our facul- were already experimenting with how to use ty and doctoral students are helping princi- virtual some fans another reason to opt technology to better engage students in the pals and aspiring principals from across the platforms out of attending. classroom. But the pandemic really thrust our region lead innovations in their own schools have for The majority of changes will thinking ahead on that front, and it revealed and districts. the potential that these virtual platforms have There have been other changes brought on increasing apply to the peripheral elements for increasing student engagement with the by COVID-19 that will afect P–12 education student of athletics. Fortunately, I don’t content and giving students more autonomy in the future. The pandemic heightened our engagement think the rules of sports and how over their learning. At the same time, teach- awareness of the importance of social and ers have become increasingly more comfort- emotional learning. A teacher’s presence— with the they are played will be afected, able and adept at using these various technol- their physical proximity to the student, their content and that’s the silver lining. ogies in their instruction. body language—matters so much to learn- and giving Athletes can adjust to limits In some regards, the pandemic provided ing, and we’re seeing the results that our cur- an opportunity for the School of Education rent disconnectedness can have on some stu- students in locker rooms or scheduling to aim our change initiatives at technolo- dents. The pandemic also revealed to a greater more training room appointments gy. We’re incorporating what we’ve learned extent the inequities that so many students autonomy about virtual teaching into our Methods face. We saw that early on with some stu- online. They just want the courses so that our teacher candidates will dents not having computers and internet ac- over their opportunity to compete in the be better prepared for classrooms in which cess, and then later as teachers got to look into learning. sport they love. —as told to technology will play an ever-increasing role their students’ home lives like never before. in student learning. We’re piloting a simu- That greater understanding will remain with ” Mark Gola lated instruction program that provides our teachers when everyone returns to the class- teacher candidates a “safe space” in which room, and it will help better inform their plan- to learn to teach. And we created a School ning and teaching. —as told to Tony Marchetti

%(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!%' THE"DANGERS"OF"A" POST-COVID-$%"TOURISM"BOOM KAREN!SCHMELZKOPF »&ASSOCIATE&PROFESSOR)&HISTORY&AND&ANTHROPOLOGY

ourism certainly engenders exposure to other places and cultures—and while the ability to travel has been on hold, the pandemic has opened up the world in diferent T ways. This year we have talked with people we might never have engaged with before on Zoom. We have had the time to watch foreign TV shows and travel documentaries on Netflix. And young people from all over the world are engaging with TikTok, producing their own content and transcending many of the cultural bubbles of more established social media. THE MUSIC In addition, knowing that this is a pandemic—a global phenomenon—has brought some sense of commonality with distant places and people. NEVER STOPS When tourism does resume, one unfortunate possibility is that the vaccine could actually JOE!RAPOLLA!»&&CHAIR&OF&THE&MUSIC&AND&THEATRE&ARTS&DEPARTMENT& help spread COVID-19, because the vaccinated can carry the virus and infect people who are AND&DIRECTOR&OF&THE&MUSIC&INDUSTRY&PROGRAM not. We might see people who are vaccinated taking advantage of the cheap flights and hotel he music business has been disrupted many times, so the industry rooms to go somewhere as soon as they can. Not only could this cause a surge of infections, seems to be well groomed for change and innovation. Just over the but as we are increasingly aware it could also spur variants that are not susceptible to the T last several decades, we’ve gone from a physical product—vinyl, vaccines. eight-track tapes, cassettes, and CDs—to virtual products—such as MP3s and Encouragingly, though, many tourist agencies have been using this time to rethink tourism downloads—to, right now, where we’re essentially an all-streaming, non- and its impact on local people and the environment. Restrictions ownership service-based model. such as limiting the numbers of tourists, encouraging the use of electric cars, using GPS and surveillance technology to But live music has obviously been impacted. have had before and have fans really interact And live music, over the last couple of decades, with the whole concert experience in a video monitor flows of people, and increasing carbon removal and has been one of the biggest revenue chunks game. So the industry has been demonstrat- storage technologies are being proposed. On the other hand, within the overall music industry pie. It used to ing that it is, at its core, a creative industry, the economic impacts on the tourism industry have been be that you put a live tour together to go to the and its creativity is helping it develop new individual markets to expose your music to dif- ways for fans to connect with artists. “ devastating. The incentive to be sustainable may not be ferent fans and get them excited about buying But the pandemic has changed the way we we’re viable in the face of the pent-up demands of tourists and your records. Well, over the last couple of de- will experience live music. There will be more coming cades, people haven’t been buying the records precautions, like the way we incorporated new the economic needs of tourism, resulting in an increase anymore, they’ve been streaming them, turn- travel procedures after 9/11. And there’ll prob- back and in extreme over-tourism after the pandemic is over. ing the live part of the business into a bigger ably be some new safety procedures incorpo- we’re While the duration of the pandemic has given us time part of the pie. rated into the live experience. But we’re com- coming So artists have had to really ramp up their ing back and we’re coming back sooner than to investigate much-needed changes, the end of the use of online and social platforms to try to we think. In fact, in the UK, there are large-scale back pandemic may give us minimal time to bring them fill in some of the gap. They’re finding new, concerts scheduled for this summer that sold sooner about. virtual ways to connect with and perform for out in 72 hours. There’s a pent-up appetite. than we fans to give them somewhat of a live expe- The return will be a little slower in the Unit- However, I am optimistic that with public-private think.... rience. With the student , Blue ed States. Some of the venues are opening alliances and community participation, including Hawk Records, we had live, virtual song re- now at 10% to 50% capacity, and some of the There’s a wearing masks and practicing social distancing, the lease events. And think of Travis Scott’s big promoters like Live Nation are waiting, pent-up pandemic will in some ways prove beneficial for the (April 2020) concert in Fortnite, where but they’re optimistic that 75% capacity shows appetite. you saw an artist using AI to create an ex- are within sight. So I think there’s light at the future of tourism. —as told to Maureen Harmon perience with fans that they would never end of the tunnel here. —as told to Dan Morrell ”

%*!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!%) WORK"FROM"HOME" IS"HERE"TO"STAY

NOAH!HART!»&COORDINATOR&OF&FIRST&YEAR&ADVISING)& WHOSE&RESEARCH&FOCUSES&ON&THE&WORKPLACE

ased on what we’ve seen over the past year, a large percentage of staf— THE ART OF especially professional and technical staf—are working remotely, and the THE PANDEMIC overwhelming majority of that work has gone much better than anyone B COREY!DZENKO!»&ART&HISTORIAN&AND&ASSOCIATE&PROFESSOR)&ART&AND&DESIGN ever expected. So the trajectory of moving into the next 10 or 15 years has really been accelerated. Business doesn’t need to go on as it did pre-COVID-19. ight now, I think it’s too early to know the impact of COVID-19 on What American capitalism is all about is profit, the bottom line, and nonprofits art and visual culture. But what keeps coming to mind is the AIDS want to minimize expense. So what’s happened already, and I don’t see it stopping, R epidemic and the direct parallels that artists are already making is brick-and-mortar organizations—which require that staf be in the ofce at 9 a.m. to COVID-19. Last semester, one of my students, David Rogers ’20, delivered and leave at 5 p.m.—became part of history. a thoughtful presentation about graphic design used for social change. He I think what’s going to really sufer is spontaneous interaction and looked at advocacy designs through the AIDS epidemic, but then he brought spontaneous growth—growth that comes out of personal, in-person relationships, in COVID-19—because in both instances in the United States, we had a federal not on Zoom but over a cup of cofee or during a brief break when you go out government that was ignoring or downplaying the impact of these health and you sit in the sun and think through an issue with colleagues from another crises on the national populace. The first major exhibition to look at AIDS in the area—and eureka. That’s not something that you can schedule; it’s organic. And I United States wasn’t until 2015, and New York Times art critic Holland Cotter think that’s going to be where organizations are going to be challenged. asked, “What took so long?” Why did it take us so long to address this disease “ Management will need to be really innovative and creative, and I think they that impacted such a large part of the population? I think that’s what really will have to borrow from psychology, sociology, and anthropology to There’s a way that art records what’s happen- Driskell was very important in recognizing and learn how to sustain culture. Organizational culture is an intimate thing, ing. There’s a way that artists work through telling the history of African American art. He some and it’s shared, in many ways, what they’re experiencing. There’s a way that died in April. Their voices are now gone. people artists look at their past work as resonating Berger’s husband, curator and writer Marvin don’t informally. So there will need to again now, which I’ve seen. And there’s a way Heiferman, also connected to photography, has be an opportunity for groups that they create this psychological working been sharing his journey of grief through pho- understand to get together and have face through. That’s why I say it’s so early—we don’t tographs on social media, with captions like: about art know the trauma that people are going to come “This is my first day sleeping in our bedroom and visual time—weekly, monthly, or out of this with as a whole. again; this is my first time returning back to our culture. quarterly. The ability to do that We can’t disconnect the trauma of COVID-19 New York City apartment.” He has even shown from the social justice movements like Black Lives images of the ambulance and the emergency It’s not will certainly improve with the Matter that are going on, especially as we see how team about to use a helicopter to take Maurice just pretty vaccine. But even if tomorrow we COVID-19 afects diferent communities dispro- away, but it was too late. pictures have a situation where COVID-19 portionately. The ways that we represent and un- I think that’s what some people don’t under- derstand recent social justice events and the way stand about art and visual culture. It’s not just on your is largely neutralized, I don’t see a that we understand those events are deeply em- pretty pictures on your wall. It’s recording what wall.... It’s wholesale return to pre-COVID-19 bedded and connected to the way we understand things have happened. It’s visual language used visual work. —as told to Maureen Harmon and are experiencing COVID-19 as a disease. to communicate. It’s strange to look at Heifer- Very early on in the pandemic we lost two very man’s photos because it feels, in one sense, voy- language important art history scholars. One was Mau- euristic, but he’s putting them out there for us to used to rice Berger, a curator and an art critic. He was see as he mourns. And then if we just take a step communi- very important in pointing out the racial and back we can see that this is not an isolated inci- class biases in the art world throughout his ca- dent; it connects to the larger public moments of cate. reer. He died in March. Artist and curator David trauma. —as told to Maureen Harmon ”

%.!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!%- The BY!NICK!DIULIO PHOTOS!BY!JOHN!EMERSON

DAMON COLBERT SPENT MUCH OF HIS TEENS AND 20s HOMELESS AND BATTLING PERSONAL DEMONS. NOW, AFTER EARNING THREE DEGREES FROM MONMOUTH IN UNDER A DECADE, HE’S COMMITTED TO HELPING Resil e ntAT-RISK CHILDREN REALIZE THEIR OWN POTENTIAL. t’s often challenging to identify definitive turning points in the path of someone’s life. But Damon Colbert ’15, ’16M, ’20Ed.D. doesn’t hesitate when asked to recall the I exact moment his life took a turn toward trouble. It was the end of his first marking period at Long Branch High School, and for the first time in his life Colbert had taken pride in his grades, which was no small feat. Colbert’s childhood had been mired in disadvantages and obstructions. His father was an emotionally and physically abusive addict who maintained only the faintest pretense of parenting, leaving Colbert’s mother to care for her son and three daughters while One wrestling with her own substance abuse. “Growing up, we really had nothing,” says Colbert. because he was always hard on me, and I would get a “We were dirt poor. My father was running around beating for bad grades. He beat me with a belt or exten- in the streets, neglecting his family, so I had no guid- sion cord until I was in eighth grade. And when I final- ance, no role models or inspirations or anyone giving ly showed him my report card, he shrugged and said, me a sense of positive manly direction or support. ‘Huh. You got C’s. This isn’t nothing.’” My mother was struggling with her own demons and Here Colbert pauses and sighs. spent most of her attention on my sisters. So, I was “I really wanted him to be proud of me, but it wasn’t kind of left to figure it out for myself.” impressive enough to him,” he continues. “That was In middle school this proved extremely difcult. a turning point in my life. I came to him with good Colbert’s grades were awful, his behavior abysmal, grades expecting him to get behind me and be happy and he generally classifies that time as “just barely for me. Instead, I got a shrug. That really hurt. And getting by.” But he vowed to begin high school with things changed. For the worse.” renewed focus and tenacity. He started playing foot- Colbert’s grades plummeted. His behavior wors- ball and actually tried to apply himself academically. ened. And his life quickly spun out of whatever When he got his first report card, Colbert was elated control he’d previously tried to exert over his cir- to see his eforts had paid of. cumstances, eventually ending with him becom- “I had B’s and C’s, maybe even an A in there, but for the ing homeless at the age of 16. And yet the story of first time no D’s or F’s. I was extremely excited,” says Damon Colbert was far from over. In the end he Colbert. “I was even more excited to show my father, would achieve incredible things, including serving

(#!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!($ in the U.S. Army for four years, mar- he Army changed everything. “ rying, and becoming a father to twins, Following boot camp, Colbert and receiving three degrees from Mon- T was stationed in the 82nd Air- I don’t want kids mouth University, including his doc- borne Division in Fort Bragg, North like me to suffer torate in educational leadership last Carolina, and eventually deployed to through almost 30 August. But before we get there, it’s im- Haiti for six months to assist in the af- portant to understand how Colbert got termath of a devastating earthquake in years before seeing there, because his struggles are also 2010. Colbert’s work there as a human an opportunity to of his inspiration. resources specialist impressed his ser- thrive. I don’t want geant major so much that, when the of- ficer’s unit was given orders to deploy these kids to go to Iraq, he stopped Colbert’s orders to through life blind y the age of 16, Colbert’s perfor- a new duty station and retained him for for so long. mance on his high school’s foot- the Iraq deployment. Bball field had propelled him to lo- Here Colbert—typically efusive and un- ” cal celebrity status. As a defensive end, restrained—becomes reticent. He doesn’t walk amongst people with vastly difer- Colbert set a new school sack record like to talk much about his time in Iraq, ent experiences than his own and, just with 29 tackles. He was adored—at least where he served until being medically as importantly, “to understand those during the fall. “Anything outside of discharged following an IED explosion. perspectives while elaborating on my that,” he says, “was horrible.” “There are certain things I don’t want own experiences.” Colbert was missing countless days to open up for myself,” he says. “Prior With his graduate work complete, Col- of school, and when he did show up, he to that deployment I was going to stay bert began working for the New Jersey put forth the bare minimum to keep his in the military for 20 years. I was do- Reentry Corporation, helping recently head above water. Meanwhile, outside ing excellent and it felt like I was where released inmates find employment and the classroom, he’d started “running I was supposed to be. But by the end of housing. After a year there, he accepted around with the wrong people.” He was my time in Iraq, I hadn’t seen my wife in a position as a social worker for the Vet- drinking, smoking weed, and often not over a year and I was extremely ready to erans Health Administration, where he coming home until the early morning come home.” currently case-manages homeless veter- hours, if he came home at all. And, so, Colbert’s life took one last dra- ans throughout New Jersey. “My mother was overwhelmed with matic turn. Following his discharge for Colbert decided to take one last educa- struggling through her substance usage, combat-related injuries in fall 2012, Col- tional leap in 2018, when he returned to caring for my sisters, and trying to stay bert immediately started taking classes at Monmouth once more to earn his doc- strong through heartache,” says Col- Brookdale Community College and pre- torate of educational leadership. For bert. “My dad just left his family, and paring to become a father. And while his two years he worked on his disserta- my mother had no support, no family “I just remember thinking, ‘All right, spanning multiple states, and the sur- ABOVE: Colbert at home with his wife, America, and time in the military had its mix of highs tion, “Examining the Emotional Im- around. It was just her and us, and my things will get better because maybe real, sinuous path of his life during children (from le!) Damon II and Iyliana. and lows, the overall experience was ex- pact on Educators Working with Trau- behavior at the time was completely out when I’m 20 or 21 I’ll be in the NFL and that time contains more multifarious ceptionally transformative. ma-Afected At-Risk Youth,” which he of line. I didn’t follow any rules she put have a nice house and everything will be experiences than can be chronicled “I used to live by the mantra that a sol- completed last summer. And while he’s forth to establish order in her house.” fine.’ I thought that would just happen. here. But sufce it to say, after working dier only needs four hours of sleep, and not entirely sure what the next step in Eventually his mother gave an ultima- No work. No direction. No plan. Life was odd jobs and enrolling for brief stints “I looked a mess—dirty jeans, two that’s how I got my associate’s, bache- his journey will look like, he knows that tum: Be home every night by a certain just going to take care of itself.” at two diferent colleges in the South, hoodies—but I just came up to her and lor’s, and master’s in under four years,” it will, in some way, involve helping chil- time or leave. And so, he left. For a short while Colbert’s sudden home- Colbert found himself, at age 27, back said, ‘Hey, what’s up,’” says Colbert. he says. “I was able to do that because dren who were as disadvantaged as he For almost the entirety of his senior year lessness came with a rush of adrenaline in New Jersey. “We started talking and everything that’s how I operated in the military. It’s was. Whether that means establishing of high school, Colbert was a teenage no- and newfound freedom. But this didn’t “My problem wasn’t about getting a job. was great. I was in a vulnerable state. I the discipline that was instilled in me.” a local after-school program, starting a mad. He’d sleep wherever he could— last long, and he eventually needed to It was that I didn’t know how to live up was technically homeless, heartbroken After Brookdale, Colbert enrolled in nonprofit for at-risk children, or poten- friends’ couches, abandoned cars, train summon a robust work ethic in order to to my responsibilities. All I knew was get from my last relationship, and I think Monmouth’s School of Social Work in tially working for a school one day, Col- stations, alleyways, emergency rooms. He survive. He took jobs wherever he could money, get a room,” says Colbert. “And she could see my pain.” 2014, where he went on to earn both bert knows that some of his greatest ac- even made a regular practice of setting his find them. A gig at JCPenney. Pushing I was drinking and smoking the whole By the age of 29 Colbert was living with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees by complishments are yet to come. watch alarm for 5:30 a.m. so he could use carts at FoodTown. Working for the city time. My lifestyle was similar to an ad- America and finally embracing a stabil- 2016, all the while guided by one abid- “I’ve been through a lot—from the bot- a tucked-away bathroom inside Mon- of Long Branch on the back of a garbage dict. I moved back home to try and make ity he’d never known before. And as he ing passion: to one day help kids who tom of the barrel to the success I see now. mouth Medical Center to wash himself, truck. Whatever it took. sense of everything.” watched his future wife work her way faced challenging circumstances simi- I’ve done a lot of things I’m not too proud get changed, and brush his teeth before “I wasn’t a career criminal and I was Colbert’s life didn’t spontaneously im- up the ranks to supervisor status with- lar to his own. “I don’t want kids like me of. But on the flip side, there’s a lot I am the morning rush of medical staf arrived. of work. Faced with sur- prove when he got back to New Jersey, in Monmouth Medical Center while he to sufer through almost 30 years be- proud of. I don’t think people should be What’s perhaps most striking is that Col- vival and having to eat and have a roof but it did mark the beginning of the end of continued driving produce trucks, he felt fore seeing an opportunity to thrive,” judged on their past. Everybody has po- bert didn’t really give any of this a second over my head all pushed me to get jobs,” his aimlessness. Shortly after getting a job he needed to do more. So Colbert made a he says. “I don’t want these kids to go tential, and sometimes you just have to thought. says Colbert. “But I didn’t take anything at a produce warehouse in Long Branch, pivotal decision to enlist in the Army. through life blind for so long.” unlock that potential. My goal is to pro- “It felt normal because that’s all I knew. into context. I was blind to whatever he met a young woman named America at “I knew that if I stayed on that job, I Looking back, Colbert says he chose vide opportunities for kids to unlock that I wake up and I survive and I go to school. the outcome was. I was living in the mo- a party. The next day he spotted her inside was never going to go anywhere,” he Monmouth because he wanted to chal- potential,” says Colbert. “No one is lost. It wasn’t a matter of wishing I could live ment and not seeing past it.” a fast-food restaurant, so he popped in to says. “I needed to get my [stuf] togeth- lenge himself in an environment that My story is one of trauma, hopelessness, another way because there was no oth- Colbert spent much of the next de- chat with the woman who would eventu- er. America was moving up. I needed to was academically and demographically and struggle, but I like to think of myself er way to compare it to,” says Colbert. cade in various stages of homelessness, ally become his wife. move up too.” outside of his comfort zone. He wanted to as the potential of the struggle.”

("!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!(% AS THE ARMY’S SECOND-HIGHEST-RANKING CIVILIAN, CHRISTOPHER LOWMAN IS WORKING TO MODERNIZE THE LARGEST BRANCH OF THE US MILITARY.

BY!MOLLY!PETRILLA

ere’s Christopher Lowman ’94, ’96M, on the phone from his Pentagon ofce, leading the U.S. Army at a level few will ever reach—and explaining his prestigious role for Hthose who don’t quite understand it: “I think it’s analogous to the CMO in He arrived in the role at a time of tran- a large corporation,” he says. “We have sition: after the Trump-nominated un- a secretary of the Army—that would be der secretary left and before a Biden-se- the CEO—and then the under secre- lected, Senate-confirmed replacement tary is really the chief management of- has been named. Until then, Lowman ficer.” That makes Lowman the Army’s will continue to act as the “senior of- second-highest-ranking civilian leader cial performing the duties of under sec- right now. retary of the Army.” “This is a big deal—a job that only the “It’s a big job in a large organization best are selected for,” says Brigadier with a very important mission,” he says. General Martin F. Klein, who has worked But it’s also “a challenge that I think I’ve in the Pentagon for over a decade. prepared for my entire life.” “Both humbling and an honor” is how Born into a family that prized “serving Lowman, a Marine Corps veteran who something larger than yourself,” Low- joined the Army as a civilian employee man spent most of his childhood in Ger- in 1989, describes it. He spent the last many, where his father worked for the 32 years advancing from “an extraor- U.S. Army as a civilian. After enlisting dinarily low position” to eventually be- in the Marine Corps and then following come the acting under secretary on Jan. his dad’s lead into Army civilian service, 20, 2021. Only a few dozen people have Lowman found himself assigned to Fort ever held the title, interim appoint- Monmouth, New Jersey, in 1990. ments included, since its debut in 1947. “That’s when I realized I could rise to a But to those who have worked with certain level, but I was going to need a col- him, it’s not surprising that Lowman is lege degree to progress further,” he says. now one of them. “Mr. Lowman is very So at 22 years old, and working full time well-versed in the way that the Penta- during the day, he enrolled as a fresh- gon runs, and is considered one of the man at Monmouth. Thanks to night- most gifted senior leaders in terms of time, weekend, and lunch-break class- understanding how to steer issues with- es, he zipped through his B.S. in business Our Man in the Pentagon and get things done,” administration and management in just says Klein. “Now he’s in a position to four years. From there, it was straight on make enduring change for our Army to an MBA, also at Monmouth. and for our nation.” “It really was a foundational experi- As under secretary, Lowman heads up ence for me,” he says of the five years three crucial areas of Army management. he spent as a Hawk. On top of impart- The first is “anything related to people,” ing business fundamentals, Monmouth in the he says—and with a million soldiers in granted him flexibility with its of- uniform right now, their 1.2 million de- hours course options for adult learners. pendents, another million veterans, and Now he tries to share that same adapt- roughly 300,000 people who, like Low- ability with his own teams. man himself, work for the Army as civil- “You have to lead with an understand- Lowman (second from le!) speaking with officers in the Afghan National ians, there is no shortage of people-re- ing that all of your employees have chal- Army during his 2017 deployment. lated issues to tackle. Second and third, lenges somewhere in their lives or com- PentagOn he oversees the Army’s commitment to mitments they must meet,” he says. modernizing and its ongoing readiness. “But the mission will go on, and you will

((!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!COURTESY!OF!THE!U+S+!ARMY Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!(' build a better and more cohesive team by fortable, but it forced me to learn a new managing everything around Army op- exercising that flexibility. I really credit discipline very quickly, to think criti- erations and training—right up until he Monmouth with giving me that under- cally, and to defend my position. And I assumed the under secretary role. standing.” credit all of those skills to Monmouth.” The business school’s emphasis on He continued to advance after return- teamwork and collaboration also rein- ing to the United States in 2006, attend- #TheUnderIsListening forced what he’d been learning in the ing the National War College, receiving military—and mandatory in-class pre- an M.S. in national security strategy, peaking in early March, about six sentations “taught me that to profes- and eventually managing Army mainte- weeks into his work as under secre- sionally grow, you have to be a little bit nance programs that totaled $10 billion Stary, Lowman was open about some uncomfortable,” he says. annually and employed over 22,000 of the challenges he and the Army are up While enrolled at Monmouth, Lowman people around the world. against. “The Army is not shy talking about also met Tracey, a born-and-raised Jer- Lowman became a deputy assistant some of the people challenges we’ve had seyan who’s now his wife of 24 years and secretary of the Army in 2015, over- here in the past,” he says, listing of sexu- the mother of their four children. “We seeing acquisition policy and logistics. al assault, sexual harassment, extremism, often joke that there are still fingernail Then in 2017, he asked to deploy to Af- and racism. “We’re tackling those head marks on the Delaware Memorial Bridge ghanistan as a civilian. “Since 2001, I on,” he says, starting with a newly creat- from when I dragged her across the state had watched many of my peer group in ed People First Task Force to help identify line when we moved to Virginia,” he says. uniform deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan problems and build better teams. But they had a good reason for leaving: for multiple one-year tours,” he says, The Army also launched a new mod- the Pentagon had called. “and I really felt that it was my duty to ernization strategy last year. They’re contribute to that.” working to update everything from air For 13 months, he led a few hundred and missile defense to combat vehicles From Monmouth to D.C. experts—surgeons, logisticians, cyber- and field equipment between 2020 and security experts—in rebuilding the 2035. “Because of the scale of the Army, owman became maintenance staf country’s supply chain and medical in- it takes a fairly deliberate process and ofcer at the Pentagon in 1999— frastructure, and expanding its inter- an enormous amount of capital invest- L and he was working in his ofce on net. “It was an unbelievably rewarding ment,” Lowman says. “We have to be Sept. 11, 2001, when a plane smashed into experience to watch the Afghans grasp very careful about what we invest in and the building about a hundred yards away. on to what we were trying to teach them why we are investing in it.” Despite his initial misgivings “It really drove home this notion of ser- and to incorporate those lessons in or- But as he approaches these sweep- about college, Sculthorpe said he vice,” he says, “and also that just because der to build a functioning government,” ing initiatives from one of the top posts, Above and never forgot how fundamental his we worked in the Pentagon, we weren’t he says. Lowman also wants to hear from those at Monmouth education was to his immune to the world’s problems.” Upon returning from Afghanistan, Low- the ground level. That’s where #TheUn- professional success. So as his ca- In 2003, as the U.S. prepared to invade man was awarded the Presidential Rank derIsListening came from. Despite some Beyond reer drew to a close, he sought to Iraq, Lowman accepted a job in Germa- Award for accomplishments leading up early wariness from his PR team, he’s give back to the University that ny supporting all of the Army’s mainte- to and including his work there. been scheduling weekly ask-me-any- ROBERT B. SCULTHORPE TO RECEIVE had given him his start. He served nance and supply operations across 94 At the end of 2018, Lowman became thing-style chats, making himself avail- INAUGURAL PRESIDENT’S MEDAL IN on Monmouth’s Board of Trust- countries. “Preparations from a materi- the civilian equivalent of a three-star able to anyone with a account. RECOGNITION OF HIS EXTRAORDINARY ees in various capacities for more al perspective was not a job I’d held be- general. As assistant deputy chief of Some have tweeted in their complaints SERVICE, PHILANTHROPY, AND LEADERSHIP than a decade, including four as fore,” he says. “It made me very uncom- staf, he shaped strategy and policy, about on-base housing, others want to see OF MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY. chair. And through the years, he postpartum physical fitness testing and has funded a host of initiatives BMI requirements change. “It’s those BY!TONY!MARCHETTI that have benefited students and Lowman in his office real-life, granular questions,” he says. enhanced the cultural and intel- at the Pentagon. “Questions that, while maybe broadly dis- lectual life on campus. cussed down at the ranks, are not broadly rowing up in Long Branch, New Jersey, Robert B. In recognition of Sculthorpe’s discussed at the senior leader levels.” Sculthorpe ’63, ’15HN had his sights set on Wall outstanding service and philan- How long will the tweet go on? No one thropy to Monmouth Universi- knows exactly, but Lowman is well aware GStreet but little interest in attending college. Yet ty, President Patrick F. Leahy will that this job is only a temporary one for thanks to the gentle prodding of his mother, an Italian present him with the first Presi- him. He’s a career civilian, and has been immigrant whose own formal education ended at the dent’s Medal at this fall’s Founders since 1989. So once President Biden nom- Day Gala. The newly established inates his own under secretary and the eighth grade but who understood the importance of event is Monmouth’s premier Senate confirms that person, Lowman attaining a college degree, he enrolled at Monmouth fundraising event of the year, and will return to his previous work. But un- in the fall of 1956. After earning his B.S. in business the President’s Medal represents til then, he’s fully committed to doing all the highest honor the University that he can as the Army’s under secretary. administration, Sculthorpe, never short on gumption, can bestow on an individual. “I’ve told everybody here that as long bootstrapped his way to Wall Street, where he enjoyed “I can think of no one more de- as I’m in this chair, I will press for serving of receiving the inaugu- a storied 35-year career at one of the world’s largest change and continue to help the Army ral President’s Medal than Bob,” move forward,” he says. investment banks and financial services companies. Leahy said. “His extraordinary

(*!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!COURTESY!OF!THE!U+S+!ARMY photo!!!MIKE!MORGAN Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!() leadership and support have pro- the money or the ‘family legacy’ “ Monmouth presidents. “All or- vided countless opportunities for those guys had,” Sculthorpe said. ganizations are measured by Monmouth students through the But what he lacked in pedigree Good their leaders,” said Sculthorpe, H UN UT IV years, and I look forward to cele- and connections, he made up leadership who during his Wall Street days O E M R S brating him this fall as part of our for with initiative and afability— met with chief executives from N I is conta- T O Y Founders Day Gala.” qualities he inherited from his around the world. “Good lead- M mother. “I’ve always been able to gious. It’s ership is contagious. It’s what A first-generation ‘meet people’ very easily, and no what makes makes organizations great. And matter how tough it might be, to Monmouth has had some excep- N 3 organiza- 3 success story E 9 make it work.” tional leaders in my view.” W 1 tions great. J E R S E Y Sculthorpe said his youthful Sculthorpe built a substantial Sculthorpe has particularly en- disinterest in college stemmed business as a broker handling in- And Mon- joyed the opportunity to inter- FOUNDERS DAY GALA in part from not being “smart dividual and institutional clients, mouth has act with Monmouth students enough to see what lay ahead.” and through the years worked his had some through the years, and it is they He assumed his ticket into the way up to become one of the most who have benefited most from his business world would come by influential employees at the com- exception- generosity. His support of Mon- way of working in his uncle’s pany. By the time Morgan Stanley al leaders mouth’s academic programs in- President Patrick F. Leahy is pleased to announce the inaugural clothing store. But his moth- acquired Dean Witter in 1997, in my view. cludes the establishment of the er, Geraldine, who had come to Sculthorpe was director of its In- annual Heidi Lynn Sculthorpe MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY America from Naples, Italy, as a stitutional Equity Division. The ” Memorial Scholarship, which is child, had other ideas. merger created the world’s larg- named in honor of his late daugh- “She was a seamstress, but she est securities company at the ter and funds dozens of student FOUNDERS DAY GALA was much more than that,” time, and Sculthorpe’s role in it research projects each year that Sculthorpe explained. “She was was chronicled in the Harvard make a positive impact in coast- almost a designer, really, and was Business Review. al communities. Many of those October 16, 2021 | OceanFirst Bank Center quite successful in her own right, At Morgan Stanley, Sculthorpe research experiences take place but she didn’t have the educa- took responsibility for numerous aboard Monmouth’s largest re- tion to compete in that world. So business units, including Region- search vessel, also named in she was always encouraging my al Management, Head of Glob- Heidi Lynn’s memory in rec- brother, sister, and me to finish al Private Wealth Management, ognition of another Sculthor- high school and go to college.” Economic and Stock Market Re- pe gift that ensures the vessel’s Join campus and community leaders for Monmouth University’s premier Sculthorpe paid his own way search, and Institutional Equity seaworthiness. fundraising event, the inaugural Founders Day Gala. Proceeds from the through Monmouth by working Sales and Trading. When he re- A staunch supporter of the arts, multiple jobs, and when he grad- tired in 2003, he was vice chair- Sculthorpe made a substantial evening will support the Monmouth Access Fund, which provides critical uated in 1963, he was the first in man and managing director of donation to bring Metropolitan scholarship support to deserving students whose fnancial circumstances his family to earn a college de- Morgan Stanley’s Private Client Opera programming to campus. preclude them from accessing a highly personalized education. gree. “It was a breakthrough for Group in , responsible for He was also an early benefactor us,” he said. all European, Middle East, and of the OceanFirst Bank Center, He still had that glint in his eye Asian private client businesses. helping to launch construction toward Wall Street. “It always held of the facility that today serves During the event, President Leahy will award the frst President’s Medal a romantic place in my mind,” he Reconnecting as the area’s premier venue for to Trustee Emeritus Robert B. Sculthorpe ’63, ’15HN, whose extraordinary said. “I had subscribed to The Wall large-scale concerts and shows Street Journal when I was in high with Monmouth and is home to several Mon- service, philanthropy, and leadership has provided countless opportunities school and loved reading about the Sculthorpe said he never for- mouth athletics programs. for Monmouth University students. markets.” But his first job out of got how “absolutely key” his The list goes on and on. When college was selling insurance. He Monmouth experience was to asked what has inspired him didn’t like the work or the prod- his success. Now free from the to this level of service and sup- uct, and quickly moved into a cor- 50- to 60-hour workweeks that port for Monmouth University, MONMOUTH.EDU/FOUNDERSDAYGALA porate sales position with the H.J. Wall Street demanded, he want- Sculthorpe unassumingly said, Heinz Company. That was a better ed to play a more active role at “I was raised a Catholic, so giving fit, “but I always kept an eye out to his alma mater. back has always been a part of who see if any of the Wall Street firms He was elected to the Universi- I am. And I always thought that to were looking for training program ty’s Board of Trustees the same the degree I could help, I would.” recruits,” he said. year of his retirement and served He will forever have a “soft spot” After a few years, his persistence as treasurer and vice chair be- in his heart for his alma mater, paid of when Dean Witter & Co., fore being elected chair in 2010, a he continued: “I was fortunate Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, the former stock brokerage and position he held for four years. In to find a career I really loved and please contact [email protected] or 732-263-5400. securities firm, hired him. In those 2016 he received trustee emeri- was good at; that it paid well was days, Wall Street was in many tus status. His long service with a byproduct. But none of it would ways reserved for “elite” school the board has given him the op- have been possible without my graduates. “I certainly didn’t have portunity to work with several Monmouth degree.”

(.!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!(- Class notes ALUMNI!LIFE

“ When I see something

THE CHANGEMAKER » Alumni making waves that’s not working to class with younger students, so I could have easily been dis- correctly, couraged,” she says. “But I was A force for I always very much encouraged and pro- want to moted by the faculty to be a change agent.” That support and change it. recognition she received from change Whether nursing faculty members, partic- FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE’S OFFICE TO THE it’s ularly Associate Professor Lau- STATEHOUSE, EILEEN GAVIN IS HELPING TO ra Jannone, gave her the confi- SHAPE HOW WE TACKLE PUBLIC HEALTH systematic dence to take on the state-level ISSUES. or just advocacy work, she says. personally, When the pandemic struck last BY!MOLLY!PETRILLA March, Gavin worked with her I want to local health department to de- onfronting public health issues has always see how we velop a training video and webi- nar for school nurses across the been a top priority for school nurses. During can do it better. state who, like her, were suddenly Cher 17 years working in the Middletown, New tasked with contact tracing. Jersey, school district, Eileen Gavin ’03, ’10M has helped ” As a legislative co-chair for the New Jersey State School students dealing with mental health issues, abusing Nurse Executive Board, she drugs, and grappling with food scarcity at home. also urged State Senator The- resa Ruiz to propose a state-lev- “Everything that happens in were terrified that their kids el school nurse consultant posi- our communities is reflected in might overdose. tion—something 44 other states our schools,” says Gavin, “and She wanted the opioid rever- already had in place. Ruiz wrote school nurses have their fingers sal drug Narcan available in the proposal and Gavin testified on the pulse of it all.” schools. With support from her on it multiple times. Gov. Phil Never has that been more evi- then-superintendent William Murphy signed the bill into law dent than the past year, as count- George ’97M—now a Teaching on Sept. 14, 2020. “To be part less school nurses landed on the Fellow at Monmouth—Gavin of legislation from conception front lines of the COVID-19 re- developed Narcan protocols to when it’s passed is probably sponse. They prepared school re- and procedures for her own dis- one of the highest honors,” says opening plans, screened students trict that were later replicated Gavin. for symptoms, and even con- throughout the state. She also In the final days of 2020, tact-traced outbreaks. For Gavin advocated for legislation re- Gavin was reflecting on these personally, 2020 was also the year quiring that Narcan be made bright spots within a tumultu- she threw herself deeper into ef- available in all New Jersey high ous year—and preparing to ad- fecting change, through both leg- schools. “That kind of propelled minister COVID-19 vaccines as islative eforts and COVID-19 me into the limelight as an ex- a volunteer through the Mon- strategies. pert,” she says now. mouth County Health Depart- “When I see something that’s She was ready for it, thanks ment’s Medical Reserve Corps. not working correctly, I always in part to her multiple degrees Whether she’s working inside want to change it,” she says. from Monmouth. Gavin com- a school, testifying in the State “Whether it’s systematic or just pleted her B.S. in nursing in 2003 Senate, or soon, administering personally, I want to see how we and continued on to a Master of lifesaving vaccines to people can do it better.” School Nursing degree, followed in New Jersey, “I’m a nurse ev- Gavin has been a nurse since by a post-master’s certificate in ery day, 24/7,” she says. “People 1983, but her state-level activ- advanced practice nursing, all are always texting me, emailing ism ignited in 2014, shortly af- while working as a nurse, volun- OPPOSITE: Gavin says me questions. Neighbors even she’s immensely grateful ter she participated in a health teering at a clinic for uninsured for the scholarship that come to my door if their child is leadership program through patients, and raising her three covered the entire cost of hurt. Being a nurse is just part of Johnson & Johnson. The opioid children. her Master of Science in my DNA. It’s a sense of service, Nursing degree program: epidemic was surging, and she’d “Monmouth is a small school, “[It] played a big role in and I think a lot of nurses have been hearing from parents who and I was an adult learner going my career.” that in them.”

'#!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!ANTHONY!DEPRIMO Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!'$ CLASS!NOTES

snarky look at the foibles of online of the University of North Carolina versity of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio; tion. The Broadcast Education As- writing. Reinaldo is the founder of at Greensboro’s Speaking Center, and at DeVry University, headquar- sociation named Harmon the New Word Czar Media, which specializ- has been awarded the 2020 tered in Naperville, Illinois. Jersey Sportscaster of the Year in es in editing, proofreading, writing Service Engagement Award from 2007, 2011, 2012, and 2013. coaching, and more. the National Communication As- » Tara Clark ’96M was appointed sociation, the largest professional the mayor of Hazlet Township on » Martin Saltzman ’82 is co-host organization of the communication Jan. 5, 2021. Clark, who served of It’s Your Money with Jo Ann & studies academic discipline. Cuny as deputy mayor in 2020, was Martin, which seeks to educate was recognized for a partnership appointed to a one-year term. A viewers on all aspects of financial she formed with Peacehaven member of the township com- )'''s planning and investment topics, Community Farm, an 89-acre sus- mi"ee, she has served on the from mortgage forbearance to tainable farm in Whitse", North communications commi"ee, envi- » Steven Chadwick ’03 is an a"or- retirement plans for small busi- Carolina. For the past five years, ronmental commission, and library ney at Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & nesses. The show is broadcasted she and her students have been commission during her tenure. Lampl, LLC in Pi"sburgh, Penn- by RVN TV and can be viewed helping adults with intellectual and She has worked as an educator in sylvania, serving as counsel in the through Apple TV, Roku, and developmental disabilities improve the East Brunswick Public School real estate, corporate, and energy Amazon Fire TV. Saltzman is the their communication skills. District in East Brunswick, New practice groups. Alumni principal/chief operating officer Jersey, for the past 24 years. of AFM Investments Inc. in Toms » Mike Farragher ’88 and Barbara » Eileen Gavin ’03, ’10M, co-lead River, New Jersey. (Miskoff) Farragher ’89 launched » Communication specialist nurse for Middletown Township roundup Love Le"ers Profiles, a writing professor Ma& Harmon ’96, ’04M Public Schools; Cathy Grano ’14M, LISTED BY GRADUATION YEAR » Guy Pedelini ’84M was elected service specializing in career pro- earned his Ed.D. in sports man- co-lead nurse for Middletown president of the board of directors files, résumés, and dating profiles. agement from the United States Township Public Schools; and 31, 2020, from the University of for Court Appointed Special Mike, who has lectured on humor Sports Academy, headquartered Karla Manchester, who complet- North Carolina at Greensboro Advocates (CASA) of Lancaster writing, is the author of This Is in Daphne, Alabama. For nearly ed her New Jersey School Nurse $%('s (UNCG) in Greensboro, North County, Pennsylvania. Pedelini Your Brain on Shamrocks, a series 20 years, Harmon has directed certificate at Monmouth and is » Kenneth F. LePosa ’71 and his Carolina, at the end of a 42-year has been a human capital senior of essay books, and Barbara is an Monmouth’s sports communica- a school nurse for Middletown wife, Barbara Ann (Lagro&ieria) teaching career. At UNCG, Fisher executive for diverse global organi- internationally known voice-over tion minor. He serves as an advisor Township Public Schools, were LePosa ’72, proudly reported that served as department head of zations including RCA, GE, Bayer, artist and radio DJ. to the Surf Club and is co-advisor recently featured on the cover of their son, Ken; daughter-in-law, theatre from 2007 to 2014 and is and Bowne Inc. He is currently to the Sports Industry Club. In the National Association of School Michelle; and grandsons Giovan- the recipient of many awards for president of Double Black Human » Barbara (Miskoff) Farragher ’89. the classroom, Harmon teaches Nurses newsle"er. ni and Vincent donated food to teaching and his scholarship, which Capital Solutions, a full-service See note for Mike Farragher ’88. a wide array of courses in sports feed 50 families in the Camden, includes 19 books and many essays human capital consulting firm. and communication. He is the play- » Nicole (Virgilio) Smith ’04 and New Jersey, area this past holiday and reviews. He is also an actor Pedelini holds a Bachelor of » Brian M. Schwartz ’89 married by-play announcer for the New her husband, Sean, welcomed season. and director, staging over 150 Science in business administration Michele Morra on Oct. 30, 2020, York Red Bulls Radio Network, the their second child, Jameson Cash, theatre productions in his career. from the University of Delaware at The Westmount Country Club Monmouth Athletics Digital Net- on Aug. 28, 2020. Their son joins » Sandra Eber-Noble ’71 has Fisher lives in Greensboro with his Lerner College of Business & in Woodland Park, New Jersey. work, and the Shore Sports Net- big sister, Piper Ann. worked in the field of elementary wife, Dana Warner Fisher, and he Economics in Newark, Delaware, Several alumni were in a"endance work. Harmon is an active member and preschool special education is the father of two children, Dan- and is a graduate of the Villano- including Peter Simpson ’88, Jef- of the National Sportscasters and » In September, artist Nicholas for 49 years, in both New Jersey iel and Anna. At Monmouth, Fisher va University certified Project frey Gibs ’88, John Haluska ’93, Sportswriters Association and the Bautista ’05 debuted new paint- and New York, including directing was a speech and drama major Management Institute in Villanova, and Kent Smith ’89. National Sports Media Associa- ings in the group exhibition, a special education preschool and was a communication alumni Pennsylvania. and evaluation site. She currently academy award recipient in 2015. works for Kids-Centric in Brooklyn, » In April 2019, Siemens Demag New York, supervising and training Delaval Turbomachinery Inc. preschool special education teach- closed its doors in Trenton, New ers. Noble has a master’s degree Jersey, and sent manufacturing $%%'s in special education and a second back to Germany, so, a$er 30 bachelor’s degree in education $%&'s years of service as a manufactur- » Kenneth Long ’95M is the inter- supervision and administration. ing manager, Thomas Fryc ’87 was im president at East Stroudsburg She received an art-in-therapy » Deborah Capasso ’80 retired fortunate to land a new position University (ESU) in East Strouds- certificate from Turtle Bay School from the Federal Aviation Adminis- as the director of facilities and burg, Pennsylvania. Prior to that, of Music in New York City and tration William J. Hughes Tech- grounds with the Bordentown he had served as ESU’s vice NOT TO MISS » This three-session virtual course Thursdays, enjoys songwriting and performing nical Center a$er 39 years and 9 Regional School District in Borden- president of administration and fi- May 13, 20, and 27 taught by English professor and her original songs. months of service as a mathemati- town, New Jersey. Fryc says he’s nance since 2013. Long, who holds director of Monmouth’s Visiting cian/computer specialist providing privileged to work in his hometown a Bachelor of Arts degree in math Poetry » Barbara Ann (Lagro&ieria) support to our nation’s air traffic and at his high school alma mater, and political science from Drew Appreciation Writers Series, Michael P. Thomas, LePosa ’72. See note for control systems. where he graduated in 1983. University in Madison, New Jersey, provides attendees with an Kenneth F. LePosa ’71. previously worked in university ad- introduction to the craft of poetry. » Veteran editor Rob Reinaldo ’80 » Kim Cuny ’88, a communication ministration at Kutztown University » James Fisher ’73 retired on July published Why Editors Drink, a studies professor and director in Kutztown, Pennsylvania; the Uni- Register at monmouth.edu/events.

'"!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!'% CLASS!NOTES

WHAT IT’S LIKE » Firsthand accounts Marley was in Germany receiv- kinds of worldly music? “I enjoy “ star Robert Nesta “Bob” Mar- didn’t tell me I couldn’t tell any- ing treatment for the cancer all music, but to tell you the truth I didn’t ley, at the age of 36, has died this one!” The phones rang all day when I interviewed him. I was I am not into the punk business, morning in Miami, Florida, with long. at home for Passover, and my fa- but I like some of the new wave think many his family by his side, and we’re I played reggae music well into MArley & Me ther told me he would be talking music. I like the Police, some of people going to do a tribute and play the afternoon and aired parts of FORTY YEARS AGO THIS MAY, BOB MARLEY to Bob and perhaps I could talk to the music of dem do.” What’s the would be Bob Marley music all day.” Then the interview, which ended up him if he was willing. Bob didn’t message you are trying to portray I played Redemption Song. being Bob’s last, and is likely the DIED, AND JEFF STEINBERG ’84 WAS THE listening, LAST PERSON TO INTERVIEW THE REGGAE want to talk to anybody at that in your music? “Peace, love, and I didn’t think many people last recording of his most pre- point. So in the beginning of the harmony.” Before I knew it, the but within would be listening, but within cious and beautiful voice. At the LEGEND. HERE, HE RECOUNTS THE CALL recording you can hear my dad interview was over. minutes the minutes the phonelines lit up, end of my interview with him, AND BREAKING THE NEWS ON WMCX. asking, and Bob says, “No, no, I’m Fast-forward about two weeks. and I remember thinking, “Oh I had asked him to say, “This all out of time.” My father persist- It’s Monday, May 11, and I’m phonelines no, I’m in trouble.” We were get- is Bob Marley, and you’re lis- BY!JEFF!STEINBERG ed. “Please Bob, it will take just a back on campus studying for a lit up.... ting calls from the AP, CNN, and tening to WMCX in West Long few minutes, he’s all hooked up final when I got a call from my We were MTV. I talked with Pete Forna- Branch,” which he did. But for y connection to Bob was through my father, on the phone.” “OK,” Bob said, father saying that Bob had died. tale, the legendary disc jockey me, the best part of that inter- who was his longtime attorney and friend, so “Let’s hear what he have to say.” I was incredibly sad, of course, getting from WNEW in New York City. view—then and now—is the end. it wasn’t just luck that I tracked Marley down I got on the phone and started but my first instinct was to run calls from The wire services started report- After I hopped of the phone M firing away with my questions: to the station. I kicked the disc ing that WMCX had announced with Bob, he and my father had the AP, CNN, for my first interview as a freshman disc jockey. Who created reggae music? “Reg- jockey of the air and made the and MTV. Marley’s death. At some point this beautiful exchange, and the By then, everybody knew Bob was sick. Most people knew the story: In 2006, Steinberg’s gae music was created through announcement at 9:25 a.m. “We I picked up the phone, and it last thing you hear on the re- He had discovered acral lentiginous melanoma in his toe after a soc- interview with Marley was the environment.” Where is the have some really sad news to was my father on the other end. cording is Bob faintly saying, submi#ed to the archives ” cer injury in 1977 but didn’t want the toe amputated due to his Ras- of the Rock & Roll Hall Rastafarian movement headed? pass along,” I said. “I just found “What the bleep did you do?” he “Good mon. Bye-bye.” —as told tafarian faith, and the cancer eventually spread throughout his body. of Fame. “Africa.” Do you enjoy any other out that international recording shouted. And I was like, “You to Breanne McCarthy

'(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 illustration!!!CASEY!LANDERKIN Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!'' CLASS!NOTES

“Turn a Leaf” at Agora Gallery in assurance group and has exten- They celebrated with family and 1 New York City; it was his first New sive knowledge of U.S. Securi- friends, many of whom are Mon- 2 York show. He also exhibited more ties and Exchange Commission mouth University alumni—including new work in October, as well as a (SEC) reporting requirements for Sandra Meola ’12, ’15M who was a full solo show in early 2021, both at companies ranging in size from bridesmaid. Agora Gallery. small to large accelerated filers. A licensed CPA in the state of New » Samantha DeAlmeida ’12, ’14M, » Adam Powley ’05M was named York, Jones was recently honored ’18M was recently named to The the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year with an Emerging Leader Award by 2020 Insider 100: Millennials, at Eastern Christian High School M&A Advisor. Insider NJ’s listing of the most (ECHS) in North Haledon, New influential up-and-comers in New Jersey. He teaches 11th grade » Heather Donato ’11 and Robert Jersey politics. DeAlmeida, who American history and has been Donato ’10 welcomed their sec- earned her bachelor’s degree in with ECHS for 15 years. ond child, Amelia Joy Donato, on political science and two mas- May 15, 2020. ter’s degrees in public policy and » Chrissy Skudera ’05 was homeland security at Monmouth, promoted to senior director of » Morganne (Firmstone) Dudz- was recently named the second curriculum development at Inde- inski ’11, ’13M is associate director vice president and government pendent Electrical Contractors for the New Jersey Association affairs liaison for the Associated (IEC), a national trade association of State Colleges and Universities Builders and Contractors of New 3 4 5 6 for merit shop electrical and sys- (NJASCU). In her new role, Dudz- Jersey. She previously served tems contractors. In this role, she inski will develop, propose, and ad- as the New Jersey government serves as quality control for all IEC vocate for state higher education relations director for the American educational products, including its policy recommendations on behalf Cancer Society Cancer Action four-year electrical apprenticeship of NJASCU’s seven member insti- Network, where she worked to program. tutions, while also contributing to achieve legislative support for the the association’s communications organization’s initiatives, resulting » Anthony Campanile ’08 won and media relations. Previous- in several bills being signed into the Deal Golf and Country Club ly, Dudzinski was Monmouth’s law by Gov. Phil Murphy. Prior to Championship held in Deal, New director of news and public affairs that, DeAlmeida served as deputy Jersey, in September, beating and was responsible for creating, director of government relations out Monmouth sophomore Ma" implementing, and managing a and policy for the New Jersey McCormick in a 36-hole match. strategic media relations plan to Hospital Association, and as a 7 8 9 10 Campanile is a former member expand the University’s visibility, policy analyst for the New Jersey of the men’s golf team while Mc- strengthen its reputation, and State Legislature. DeAlmeida Cormick, who knocked off several build support among key constitu- also works as an adjunct political highly skilled golfers to get to the encies. Dudzinski, who previously science professor at Brookdale finals, is currently a member of the worked as an adjunct instructor Community College and serves as team. in the Department of Political the director for a nonprofit that Science and Sociology, served as provides equine-assisted therapy » Tina (Teresi) DiFazio ’08 and captain of Monmouth’s Division 1 to veterans with PTSD. Michael DiFazio welcomed a field hockey team. daughter, Ruby Evangeline DiFazio, » Melissa Mehrer ’12 wed Lee on April 23, 2020. » Anthony Mauro ’11. See note for Simone&i ’09 on Jan. 7, 2021. The Gina Columbus ’12. couple met while playing so$ball at » Lee Simone&i ’09. See note for Monmouth. They moved to North Melissa Mehrer ’12. » Maria Mazzone ’11, ’14M is Carolina, but when they were engaged to wed James Berner. visiting New Jersey for the holidays The couple met in Asbury Park, in December 2018, Simone"i took New Jersey, in 2009 when Berner Mehrer to the beach to propose to CELEBRATIONS worked for Mazzone’s father at his her a$er they had enjoyed dinner at BIRTHS: 1. Tina (Teresi) DiFazio ’08 and Michael DiFazio welcomed a daughter, Ruby Evangeline DiFazio, restaurant, and they started dating their favorite spot, Brickwall Tavern )'$'s in 2017. They were engaged on in Asbury Park, New Jersey. on April 23, 2020. 2. Heather Donato ’11 and Robert Donato ’10 welcomed their second child, Amelia Joy Dec. 28, 2019, in Ventura, Califor- Donato, on May 15, 2020. WEDDINGS: 3. Gina Columbus ’12 wed Anthony Mauro ’11 on Aug. 29, 2020. » Robert Donato ’10. See note for nia, and are planning to wed on » Christina Forrest ’13 was 4. Melissa Mehrer ’12 wed Lee Simonetti ’09 on Jan. 7, 2021. 5. Oscar Sanchez ’13 wed Cameron Withers Heather Donato ’11. Nov. 13, 2021. promoted to account director at Violet PR, a boutique, New on Oct. 31, 2020. 6. Kristen Harz ’14 wed Michael Parisi ’14 on Aug. 7, 2020. ENGAGEMENTS: 7. Maria » Daniel Jones ’10 is a manag- » Gina Columbus ’12 wed Anthony Jersey-based public relations firm Mazzone ’11, ’14M is engaged to wed James Berner. 8. Julie Green ’17 is engaged to wed Vinny ing director of UHY Advisors, a Mauro ’11 at the Jacques Recep- specializing in economic develop- leading professional services firm. tion Center in Middletown Town- ment, professional services, and Mazzone ’15. 9. Sarah Marie Lewis ’17 is engaged to wed Bradley Meyer ’16. 10. Stephanie Holtje ’18 He is a leader of the audit and ship, New Jersey, on Aug. 29, 2020. social good. As account director is engaged to Dominic “Dino” Marino ’18.

'*!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!') CLASS!NOTES at Violet PR, Forrest will manage 1 2 media relations, content develop- ment, and social media programs for clients including Pi"sburgh International Airport, Biggins Lacy Shapiro & Co., Kansas City Area Development Council, Luis Vidal + Architects, and the New Jersey Business Action Center, among others. Forrest was named a “Top 40 Under 40 PR Professional” by the NJ Ad Club in 2020, and has led 15 award-winning campaigns recognized by Bulldog Awards, the Public Relations Society of Ameri- Join us in June to relive ca (PRSA NJ), and PRNEWS. your Monmouth moments. » Oscar Sanchez ’13 wed Cameron Withers on the beach in Fort Lau- derdale, Florida, on Oct. 31, 2020. Learn more about our in-person and virtual The couple enjoyed an intimate 3 4 ceremony surrounded by a small events at monmouth.edu/alumniweekend. gathering of family and friends. ALUMNI They plan to celebrate with a large reception of family and WEEKEND friends—including several alumni Opt in to receive updates by texting and Monmouth University staff members—on Oct. 30, 2021. JUNE 11 – 14 “Hello” to 732-314-5837.

» James Berner ’14. See note for Maria Mazzone ’11, ’14M.

» Kristen Harz ’14 wed Michael Parisi ’14 on Aug. 7, 2020. Family and friends—including a handful of fellow alumni who were in the wedding party—were able to a"end the ceremony and small backyard reception, both of which were held in Toms River, New Jer- sey. Alumni in the wedding party included , Andrea (Harz) Maturo ’10 SAVE Kristin Chevrier ’14, Christina CELEBRATIONS THE Zalot ’14, Ma& Laduca ’14, Joe DATE Bruno ’14, and Tyler Driscoll ’14. ACCOLADES: The couple plans to hold a big 6 -11-21 Martin Saltzman ’82 is co-host of It’s Your Money with Jo Ann & Martin, celebration in June 2021. 1. to 6-14-21 which seeks to educate viewers on all aspects of financial planning and » Michael Parisi ’14. See note for investment topics. Kristen Harz ’14. 2. Mike Farragher ’88 and Barbara (Miskof) Farragher ’89 launched Love » Keilynn Alicea ’15M recently set Letters Profiles, a writing service specializing in career profiles, résumés, the record for the fastest known time running a round-trip course and dating profiles. on New Jersey’s Appalachian Trail 3. Steven Chadwick ’03 is an attorney at Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & Lampl, (AT). New Jersey is home to 72 straight miles of the AT that runs LLC in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving as counsel in the real estate, from the New York/New Jersey corporate, and energy practice groups. border near Wawayanda State Park in Hewi", New Jersey, to the 4. Chrissy Skudera ’05 was promoted to senior director of curriculum New Jersey/Pennsylvania border development at Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).

'.!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!'- near Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. » Bradley Meyer ’16. See note for » Justin D. Okun ’17 passed the of copies of a small portion of the vi- Alicea ran the “out and back” Sarah Marie Lewis ’17. Pennsylvania bar exam in October rus’s genetic material to make it much course—running the full course 2020 and recently began prac- easier to spot. one way, then turning around » Julie Green ’17 is engaged to ticing as an a"orney for Farrell & The cobas SARS-CoV-2 & Influen- to traverse the same course wed Vinny Mazzone ’15. The Associates in Pi"sburgh, Penn- za A/B test looks for genetic materi- back—covering a of 144 miles couple met through friends at sylvania. He graduated from the al from the viruses that cause both in three days, 19 hours, and 52 Monmouth University in 2014 and University of Pi"sburgh School of COVID-19 and the flu in order to dis- minutes. have been together ever since. Law in Pi"sburgh, Pennsylvania, in tinguish which illness a patient has. A October 2020. straw made up of packets of chemicals, » Vinny Mazzone ’15. See note for » Sarah Marie Lewis ’17 is engaged along with the patient sample, pops Julie Green ’17. to wed Bradley Meyer ’16. The cou- » Stephanie Holtje ’18 is engaged into a toaster-sized analyzer called the ple met at Monmouth during their to Dominic “Dino” Marino ’18. The cobas Liat System. Results are ready » Victoria Elizabeth Esler ’16 was last year of college when they were couple met at Monmouth in 2016 in just 20 minutes with an accuracy of appointed assistant prosecutor for group project partners in their se- and, upon graduating, started their 95% to 98%. the Ocean County Prosecutor’s nior perspectives course on video careers—Holtje is a teacher and “When you put the patient sample Office in Toms River, New Jersey. games; they became friends before Marino is an officer in the Marine into the analyzer, it’s breaking those going their own ways beginning Corps. The two moved in together packets up in a certain order and doing » Margaret Evans ’16M has been their careers. Months later, they while Marino was stationed in San the mixing and processing right in that selected as one of 25 inaugu- reconnected and, while ge"ing to Diego, California, and, a$er a year straw,” she says. “At the end, it performs ral Fellows of the Social Work know each other, noticed the un- of living together and exploring the PCR and gives you a positive or neg- Futures Lab at Portland State deniable connection they shared. their new home, the groom-to-be ative result.” University in Portland, Oregon. They have been together for more proposed on the cliffs overlooking Beegle first put the skills she learned in The project is a national program than three years and were engaged the water at sunset on Aug. 21, Monmouth’s labs into practice as an ear- of the Robert Wood Johnson at their favorite beach spot in front 2020. The couple plans to wed on ly-career scientist at Sanofi and Shisei- Foundation. Evans is a program of the University Bluffs in Long July 22, 2022. do after graduation. In 2000, she landed officer at the U.S. Commi"ee Branch, New Jersey, on Sept. 19, a position at Roche doing quality con- for Refugees and Immigrants 2020. “Being Monmouth alumni, » Dominic “Dino” Marino ’18. See trol for PCR devices. That launched a (USCRI), based in Arlington, naturally we had our first date at note for Stephanie Holtje ’18. 20-plus-year career at one of the world’s Virginia. In this role she manages the beach, and it has always been largest biomedical corporations. programs, provides technical ‘our spot,’ which holds even more » Miles Austin III ’19 is the wide “I was in the quality control area for assistance, and further advances meaning now,” Lewis says. “We receiver’s coach for the New York Up to the test 13 years,” she says. “First, I was doing gender equity in partnership and are filled with love and happiness Jets. Austin is a former offensive ADELE BEEGLE LEADS PRODUCTION AT A ROCHE the testing, then I was reviewing and collaboration with over 22 refugee for is to come.” The couple quality control coach for the San approving the data, and eventually I rese"lement agencies across the would also like to thank Assistant Francisco 49ers and former wide FACILITY THAT MAKES 250,000 COVID-19 TESTS transitioned into managing the whole U.S. Her work as a Futures Fellow Professor of Art and Design, Corey receiver who spent the majority PER WEEK. 40-person team.” will focus on the future of gender Dzenko, Ph.D., for, “playing a role in of his 10-year NFL career with the Today, Beegle leads the manufacturing BY!MEERI!KIM justice and the intersections of our love story,” Lewis says. “We will Dallas Cowboys. Prior to his career team responsible for supplying Roche’s white supremacy and capitalism never forget the first time we met in the NFL, Austin was a standout ontainment is key during the early stages of an outbreak, test to the global market. Once the test wide receiver for Monmouth from that influence and hinder gender and the project we worked on that and the first step is identifying those who are infected. When received its Emergency Use Authoriza- justice in the U.S. and globally. started it all.” 2002 to 2005. During his four tion in September, her team ramped up years, Austin helped lead Mon- Cthe COVID-19 pandemic hit, it became clear that testing on a production to a 24-hour operation. She mouth to back-to-back Northeast massive scale was desperately needed. had to juggle the hiring of employees Conference Championships in NOT TO MISS » for a new overnight shift, competition Saturday, Oct. 2 2003 and 2004, and was the But how do diagnostic tests get made “There weren’t many COVID-19 tests with other companies to get the chemi- Hawks all-time leader in receptions, in such chaotic times? As quickly as at the time, and it’s been exciting that cal raw materials, and the installation of Home- receiving yards, and touchdown possible, says Adele Beegle ’98, senior we were able to launch this so quickly,” new and complex equipment—all while coming catches. Austin, who was elected operations manager at Swiss biomedi- says Beegle, who graduated from Mon- trying to prevent a COVID-19 outbreak to Monmouth’s Board of Trustees cal giant Roche. mouth with a degree in biology. “Ev- from occurring at the site. in July 2020, was inducted into the In 2020, Beegle and her colleagues de- eryone feels a sense of pride that what Roche plans to scale up production Monmouth University Athletics Hall veloped, manufactured, and received we’re doing is really important.” within the next year and expand man- of Fame in 2016. an Emergency Use Authorization from Beegle traces her career in biotech- ufacturing to a COVID-19–only test as the Food and Drug Administration for nology back to her undergraduate well. Despite the long hours, she push- » Kayvon Paul ’19 was recently a point-of-care COVID-19 test in only years at Monmouth, where she first es through, knowing the significance named to The 2020 Insider 100: four months. The term “point-of-care” learned about polymerase chain re- of her role in the midst of a global pan- Millennials, Insider NJ’s listing of Save the date for Monmouth refers to testing that can be done out- action (PCR), the revolutionary, No- demic. the most influential up-and-comers side a central laboratory, such as at a pa- bel Prize–winning technique used in “What’s exciting is that now everyone University’s Homecoming! Details of in New Jersey politics. Cited for tient’s bedside or a doctor’s ofce. She Roche’s diagnostic test. Without PCR, knows what PCR testing is, since it was the event are still being developed and his background working on political leads a Branchburg, New Jersey–based detecting the presence of a virus with- all over the news,” says Beegle. “When- campaigns and Garden State team that produces 250,000 COVID-19 in a patient sample is like finding a nee- ever we go to parties again, I won’t have will be shared in the coming months Equality, Insider NJ described Paul tests per week, with plans to double dle in a haystack. PCR acts as a “molec- to explain to people what I do. That’s at monmouth.edu/alumni. as “a rising star at [Trenton-based that amount later this year. ular photocopier” that creates millions pretty cool.”

*#!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!JOHN!EMERSON Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!*$ CLASS!NOTES lobbying firm] MBI, focusing on IN Memoriam REMEMBRANCES helping nonprofits navigate the » ALUMNI& Joan C. Hall ’73M (Aug. 26, 2020) government process.” In Septem- SEND" Jack Burke ber, Paul le$ MBI to complete an Stacia E. Apostolos ’41A Elise Ann Gonzales ’74 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR AND CHAIR, (Sept. 7, 2020) externship with Michael A. Shipp, US" (Sept. 10, 2020) DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC AND THEATRE U.S. District Court Judge for the James “Jim” Elmer ’61 James W. Breitbach ’75M ARTS, 1945–2020 District of New Jersey. He has an YOUR" (Oct. 30, 2020) (Dec. 4, 2020) interest in copyright and trademark Richard Fuhrmann ’63 Mary DeRidder ’77M (Oct. 5, 2020) law and hopes to eventually work (April 30, 2020) As a master teacher, Jack expected the best from his stu- with minority-owned businesses, NEWS James B. Golden ’78 dents. He applied his professionalism to every aspect of Wayman F. Smith III ’63 entrepreneurs, and start-up com- » Online: (Oct. 17, 2020) theater production, from auditioning to the notes he would panies. While earning his bache- monmouth.edu/ (Sept. 15, 2020) give on a play’s final performance. He expected students Barbara J. McCarthy ’79 lor’s degree in political science at ClassNotes Sydney S. Brooke ’64 to work hard, but most importantly, he urged them to care (Nov. 25, 2020) Monmouth, Paul also worked as a (October 2020) about their work. research assistant for the Mon- » By email: Edward “Ed” P. Draney ’64 John H. Newsome ’79M He applied the same standards to his classes, including the mouth University Polling Institute, classnotes@ (Nov. 26, 2020) (Sept. 8, 2018) history of theater and acting for non-majors. He engaged stu- creating datasets for congressional monmouth.edu William “Bill” Esler ’82 dents personally so that they could use theater and acting house races across the country Susan C. Koestler ’64 (Sept. 14, 2020) to understand themselves. He taught them tools for reflect- for the 2018 midterms. He is also » By mail: (Aug. 25, 2020) ing on their lives that they could use for their lifetime. He a founding member of the Asbury Class Notes, Thomas W. Wright ’64 (1980) Kathleen Hauck ’90A showed them how acting ofered them many practical ways (December 2020) Park Young Democrats and the Monmouth University Aaron B. Cohen ’65 to better themselves. Those of us who are teachers know how Monmouth University Democrats. Magazine, (July 26, 2020) Kathleen Holevinski ’94M self-sealed so many college students are and how much dif- 400 Cedar Ave., (Oct. 18, 2020) culty they have in opening up. Students in Jack’s classes were West Long Branch, Robert W. Landis ’65 given the great opportunity to learn how to see themselves NJ 07764-1898 (Nov. 13, 2020) Veronica Freeman ’95 from the outside and the inside. Richard (“Dick”) H. Topham ’65 (Aug. 23, 2020) —Stanton Green, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology and (Sept. 17, 2020) Catherine “Cathy” Villani ’96M Former Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences )')'s James F. Isacson ’66 (Jan. 18, 2021) (March 21, 2020) Patrick J. Duva ’20 » Erica DiNapoli ’20 is an assis- Monmouth University encourages alumni to Sarah (George) Arndt ’67 (Nov. 5, 2020) tant editor for OncLive, a web share news regarding resource for physicians and health career changes, awards (Sept. 2, 2020) professionals that’s part of MJH and honors, marriages, anniversaries, births, Robert Freyman ’67 (Feb. 10, 2021) »&FACULTY&AND&STAFF Life Sciences, a full-service medi- and other life events for Denise Fronapfel ’67 cal media company. She joined the inclusion in Class Notes. John “Jack” Burke (former asso- All submissions are subject (Oct. 19, 2020) ciate professor and chair of company in 2020 and now assists to editing for clarity and in editing and publishing both length. We welcome sub- Linda C. Greene-Feinberg ’67 the Department of Music and videos and informational articles missions of high-resolution (Sept. 11, 2020) Theatre Arts) Dec. 10, 2020 Margaret “Margot” Warters digital images for possible PHILANTHROPIST, 1930–2021 to the website, as well as assisting inclusion with your class William A. Berger ’68 (April 2020) Richard J. Pirchner (associate in managing the company’s social note; however, we reserve William Eugene San Filippo Jr. ’68 professor emeritus of computer media platforms. Prior to joining the right not to print sub- Margot was always a kind, inquisitive, and supportive pres- mi#ed photos due to space (Aug. 29, 2020) science) Oct. 3, 2019 MJH Life Sciences, she held two limitations or issues with ence on campus, and her light shone brightest when she marketing internships at United image resolution. Patricia F. Waldman ’68A Dianne McKinney Van Arsdale ’75 spoke with our students. Her thoughtful investments in In addition to the news (Dec. 7, 2020) (former longtime adjunct in the Teletech Financial Federal Credit items sent by alumni, the scholarships for promising scientists were instrumental in Union and Trendse"er Media & University receives press William “Bill” Salandi ’69 School of Nursing and Health the dramatic rise in the caliber of students Monmouth has Marketing. releases from businesses Studies) Aug. 26, 2020 recruited and retained in recent years. and organizations an- (Oct. 31, 2020) Her generosity touched the lives of so many budding young nouncing alumni achieve- Paul J. Abrams ’70 (Dec. 4, 2020) Karen Wyant (assistant registrar » Basketball forward Mustapha ments, and subscribes to for academic affairs) Dec. 30, scientists, and Margot cherished the time spent with each, Traore ’20 signed a professional an online news clipping Joseph F. Dennis ’70 (June 1, 2020) hearing about their goals, ambitions, and research. We all service that provides news 2020 contract with UMF Skallagrimur items about alumni. These Douglas H. Ewing ’70 will miss Margot at the annual School of Science Summer Re- Borgarnes in Iceland. Traore, who items are edited and search Program Symposium, and we recall fondly the many placed in the appropriate (Aug. 27, 2020) played in 123 games in four seasons conversations she had with her scholarship recipients. She class section. Monmouth Jean S. Lizo"e ’70 (April 28, 2014) »&FRIENDS for the Hawks, starting 83 of magazine staff members would walk from poster to poster, reviewing the research and them, ne"ed 611 career points and try to verify the accuracy Sharlene Wach ’70 (July 7, 2020) Patrick S. Clay (former student) asking challenging questions. She always told me how proud of this information; Sept. 3, 2020 grabbed 520 career rebounds while however, the University Jay K. Andrews ’71M she was of our students. blocking 47 shots in his time. UMF cannot be responsible for Peter Cartmell (friend) Feb. 22, Margot and her late husband, Bill Warters, who was a past incorrect information con- (Oct. 12, 2020) Skallagrimur Borgarnes competes 2020 chair of the Board of Trustees, had been close members of the tained herein. If you would Shirley G. Carpenter ’71 in the D1 division of the Icelandic like us to correct any inac- Monmouth family since 1970. Bill and Margot’s family com- Charles Sills (friend) Aug. 28, 2020 Basketball Association under the curacies that have been (Nov. 10, 2020) mitment and support were enormously influential over the printed, please contact the umbrella of International Basketball magazine at magazine@ Sharon Rose (Monaghan) Mallikar- Margot Warters (friend) Jan. 15, past six decades, and their legacy will live on through Mon- Federation (FIBA) Europe. monmouth.edu. jun ’72, ’82M, ’01M (Oct. 1, 2020) 2021 mouth’s students. —Beth Brody, Director of Development

*"!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 Spring 2021!!!MONMOUTH!!*% LOOKING OUT

GREAT"&" GETTING" BETTER Below the Great Hall’s stained glass skylight, work continues this spring to return the campus’s iconic building to a central hub for students.

*(!!MONMOUTH!!!Spring 2021 photo!!!NAME!NAME photo!!BRAXTON!WILHELMSEN NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY

400 Cedar Ave. West Long Branch, NJ 07764 monmouth.edu

1,000 WORDS » A story in a picture What’s your Favorite Spot on Campus? Perhaps it was a quiet place to which you retreated to study, or someplace you knew you would always bump into friends and classmates. Regardless, we want to know where your favorite place on Monmouth’s campus is (or was) and why it will always be special to you. Write us at the address above or email us at [email protected].

photo!!!NAME!NAME