FALL 2018 CALDWELL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

EOFEducational opportunity fund Celebrates 50 Years

Also inside: Bringing Students From Record-breaking number Remembering Sister the Page to the Stage of graduates Vivien Jennings volume 10 ISSUE 2

CALDWELL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE fall 2018 Caldwell University Magazine is produced for alumni and friends twice each year by the News and Media Relations Office at Caldwell University. Its goal is to provide news and information about Caldwell University’s students, faculty, staff, alumni, and administration. We welcome your comments and suggestions! Please email us at [email protected]. 20 Blessed by the Holy Father

Editor Colette M. Liddy ’13 M.A. 28 Writers & Contributors Remembering Sister Vivien Jennings Nicole M. Burrell ’09 Lori Funicello Christina Hall Meghan Moran ’07 John Tagliaferri Copy Editor John Jurich Student assistant Andrew Timothy PHOTOGRAPHY table of contents Pushparaj Aitwal Gene Gabelli 4 Celebrating 50 Years of EOF Prasad Gyawali Marina Maret 14 Commencement 2018: Record-breaking Alan Schindler Number of Graduates Design Graphic Imagery, Inc. 25 Coming Home: Hasani Whitfield Returns to Caldwell to Special thanks Kimberly Reamer Lead the Baseball Program 14 Reference Services & Archives 30 Beatriz Gomez-Klein ’73: Librarian How Scholarship Forged a New Future

Address comments and 32 Caldwell Alumna Builds questions to: Cultural Bridges [email protected] Caldwell University Magazine 120 Bloomfield Avenue Caldwell, NJ 07006 General information COVER: Andrei St. Felix, director of the Educational Opportunity Fund, with EOF students. St. Felix holds the 2018 Caldwell Cup award she received at honors www.caldwell.edu convocation. She says this is also the students’ award because “it is their hard work 973-618-3000 and resiliency that elevate the program and give meaning to what I do.” PRESIDENT’SLETTER

Dear Friends of Caldwell University,

A few short months ago, Caldwell graduated a record number The next time you are on campus, please stop by the newly of students when the university awarded over 500 degrees to renovated lobby in Werner Hall. This summer, Gourmet Dining, undergraduate, master and doctoral candidates. Now, as the our food service provider for the past eight years, created an fall semester begins, we welcome the largest freshman class in exciting new look, expanding the beverage and food offerings in the history of the institution. During a time when high school Café ’39 and refreshing the lobby and stairwell. The updated space graduates are declining, this is fantastic news for the university. now provides additional indoor and outdoor seating for students, faculty and staff. We’re grateful to Gourmet Dining for this In this issue, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Educational investment in the campus. Opportunity Fund (EOF), a program that assists capable and motivated New Jersey students who come from economically Earlier this year, Caldwell University lost one of its visionary challenged and academically disadvantaged backgrounds. Caldwell leaders, Sister Vivien Jennings. Serving as president from 1984- is proud to have 132 EOF students on campus this fall. 1994, Sister Vivien made the historic—and difficult—decision to transition an all-women’s college to a co-educational institution A highlight from last spring was the study abroad trip that Sister that welcomed men for the first time in 1986. You can read more Kathleen Tuite and I led to Rome with students in our class, about the rich intellectual and spiritual life of this Sister of St. Catholic Dominican Foundations: Rome. During that trip, Dominic who had such a tremendous impact on our institution students visited the Mamertine Prison where St. Paul was held later in this magazine. before being beheaded. We also went on the Scavi tour under St. Peter’s Basilica and saw the bones of our first pope. At the As I close my letter, I’d like to invite each of you to come back to weekly papal audience, Stefanie Konboz, one of our students, was campus this fall. I hope you’ll plan to attend Homecoming and personally blessed by Pope Francis—an experience that will long Family weekend on September 22 or maybe our sprint football be remembered by all of her classmates, Sister Kathleen and me. contest against the Naval Academy on October 13. You can find What a moment of grace! the details for these and other exciting campus events in this issue on our website! I know you’ll enjoy the magazine’s feature on Professor Mary Lindroth, who utilizes her love of theatre to enhance her students’ Best regards, classroom discussions. You’ll also read about two shining examples of Caldwell alumnae: the amazing journey of Beatriz Gomez-Klein from Cuba to Caldwell and how she has used her life experiences to Nancy H. Blattner, Ph.D., OPA help others through her work in psychotherapy and Eileen Curtis, President whose career path is marked by accolades in culture and the arts. All three of these women represent the spirit of Caldwell University.

2 CALDWELLMAGAZINE HOMECOMING AND FAMILY WEEKEND 9.21.18–9.22.18

Please join us for an exciting weekend of events with family and fellow alumni!

FRIDAY, SEPT. 21 SATURDAY, SEPT. 22 3:30 p.m.: Music Department concert: Faculty 12 noon: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: Favorites (Alumni Theatre). Reception Homecoming kickoff lunch All-day check-in and late registration to follow. (Student Center Dining Hall) (Alumni Theatre Green) 3:30 p.m.: 6:30 p.m.: 9:30 a.m.: Women’s alumni basketball game Women’s volleyball match vs. Welcome breakfast with the president (Newman Center) Holy Family (Newman Center) (Alumni Theatre Lobby) 3:30 p.m.: 6:30 p.m.: 10:30 a.m.: Class of 1968 “Just US” Class of 1968 dinner at Calandra’s Homecoming Mass followed by the (Reference Room, Jennings Library) Italian Village in Caldwell, New Jersey President’s State of the University Address and Alumni Awards Ceremony 4 p.m.: 8 p.m.: (Alumni Theatre) Reunion class reception Student bonfire 11 a.m.: (Newman Center Plaza) Women’s soccer match vs. Chestnut Hill 4 p.m.: (Soccer field) Alumni soccer matches (Soccer Field) 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: 5 p.m.: Homecoming party on the plaza and Want additional information on the Athletics alumni reception barbecue (Newman Center Plaza) mini-university faculty lectures? (Newman Center Plaza) Curious about the family-friendly 12 noon: 5 p.m.: th activities available at the party? Class of 1968 – 50 reunion lunch Class of 1968 celebratory buffet Need help with accommodations? (The Gallery, Student Center) (Cougar Den, Student Center) Ready to register? 1:30 p.m.: 7 p.m.: Guided campus tour for the Men’s sprint football game vs. St. Thomas For any and all of the above, Class of 1968 Aquinas (James Caldwell High School) please visit 1:30 p.m.: www.caldwell.edu/homecoming SUNDAY, SEPT. 23 Men’s soccer match vs. Chestnut Hill The Office of Alumni Affairs (Soccer field) 9:30 a.m.: Class of ’68 farewell brunch can be reached at 973.618.3352 2:30 p.m.: (Crowne Plaza Fairfield) or [email protected] 50th reunion champagne reception, formerly known as the Golden www.caldwell.edu/homecoming Anniversary Tea (Newman Center Lobby)

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 3 CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT From the Ashes of the 1967 Riots: Hope and the Educational Opportunity Fund In July 1967 the the admissions criteria to attend colleges my childhood memories along with the and universities in the state of New Jersey,” difference committed educators can make residents of the said Andrei St. Felix, director of Caldwell’s in the lives of young people. Dr. Marie city of Newark, the EOF program. Mullaney, historian and professor of history at Caldwell, was also the daughter of a Former Caldwell College President Sister county of Essex and Newark educator and also lived through the Vivien Jennings, O.P., was the founder of the state of New Caldwell’s EOF program. “She cared deeply Jersey were shaken about the education and personal growth of New Jersey children. I share her vision and to the core by the passion for education, and that is why 50 five-day riots that years later we have an EOF program that is strong and continues to deliver on its resulted in 26 deaths, promise to educate New Jersey youth,” said hundreds of injuries St. Felix. and damages in the St. Felix remembers that when the EOF office was in transition, Sister Vivien would millions of dollars. come by every Friday to ask if the staff The Educational Opportunity Fund needed anything. “She wanted to make emerged from the ashes of the Newark sure we had everything we needed for it riots. New Jersey’s chancellor of higher to run efficiently.” education, Ralph A. Dungan, proposed I am the daughter of a Newark public the program for special assistance to high school English teacher, and that students from financially and educationally sad period of history is imprinted in Former Governor Thomas Kean and Andrei St. Felix disadvantaged areas. It stemmed from the at the 2017 tri-state EOF conference. Select Commission on Civil Disorders, known as the Lilly Commission, which made its report to the governor and the state Legislature, recommending programs to address the conditions that underpinned the riots. The Educational Opportunity Fund was enacted in 1968; the legislation was sponsored by Thomas Kean, an assemblyman and future governor. “From that struggle and perilous time was born the opportunity to assist students who were financially and/or academically below

1993 EOF staff members Andrei St. Felix, then secretary; Dorian Douglas, director; Michael Nash, coordinator/ counselor, and Eleanor Davis, counselor.

4 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT EOF EVENTS

Newark riots. “Today, those events I lived through have become the history I teach. The 1960s changed America in many ways.

…The EOF program “ is a beautiful symbol of new life that has made a difference in the lives of so many of our students.” Anwa Khalil and Roksana Korbi stacked up the honors at the annual EOF awards ceremony in May. Our EOF program is a tangible reminder of those days, a wonderful symbol of hope and progress—like a phoenix, the mythical bird that emerges to new life from the death of its predecessor. The EOF program is a beautiful symbol of new life that has made a difference in the lives of so many of our students,” said Mullaney. The Sisters of St. Dominic were involved in the history of that era in other areas, such as the founding of the Link School in Newark. Sister Vivien believed that to alleviate injustices they could contribute what they did best—educate. Members of the 2018 EOF graduating class with Director Andrei St. Felix (front row center) celebrate at the In this edition of CU magazine we awards ceremony. celebrate the 50th anniversary of the EOF and we remember Sister Vivien Jennings, who started the program, a beacon of light that shines brightly for Caldwell students today. n —CL

EOF students and staff volunteer for MESH, Montclair Emergency Services for the Homeless, to help those in need at St. Peter Claver Church in Montclair, New Jersey.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 5 CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT EOF STUDENTS Shanice Edwards Dennis Martin Karla Ventura ’18

“Everyone should get to know EOF.” “The EOF staff not only motivates “The EOF program helped me Major: Biology students but also helps them develop as a person.” Hometown: Magnolia, New Jersey understand their potential Major: Nursing and capabilities.” How has the Educational Opportunity Hometown: North Bergen, New Jersey Fund enriched your university Major: Social Studies and Education How has the Educational Opportunity experience? It is a great experience to have “Social studies gives you the chance to think Fund enriched your university so much support from everyone in EOF. logically, ethically, reflectively and morally.” experience? The EOF program helped You can always count on the EOF family me develop as a person. Coming into as your family away from home. I have Hometown: Newark, New Jersey college, I was shy, but I was able to hold enjoyed volunteering with EOF at sites like How has the Educational Opportunity leadership programs, go to leadership the soup kitchen and mentoring younger Fund enriched your university conferences including the U.S. Hispanic EOF students. Everyone should get to experience? I was excited to start my Leadership Institute Conference in know EOF. college experience early by attending the Chicago and graduate as president of the Activities: Campus Ministry Club, Health EOF freshman summer program. EOF Latin American Student Organization. The Professions Clubs, Circle K Club, Rotary really opened my eyes about the autonomy EOF summer college at Caldwell program Club. In planning for my career I have a student has and the importance of before my freshman year attracted me to worked as a pharmacy tech, shadowed learning about balance and thinking about Caldwell. It gave me that little experience physicians, and volunteered at a hospital. In how you live independently. I always think to get to know professors before the start between my freshman and sophomore years that if you are doing something you are of the semester. Once I started the EOF I took part in the Premedical Urban Leaders not supposed to be doing, you are wasting summer program I knew for sure that I Summer Enrichment Program at Cooper money. I love that the EOF staff not only wanted to come to Caldwell. Medical School of Rowan University where motivates students but also helps them Academics at Caldwell: I enjoyed Research I learned about urban health. understand their potential and capabilities. and Creative Arts Day. I also enjoyed the Future aspirations: I want to be a family Future aspirations: I have always admired liberal arts aspect of Caldwell including my physician. I want to advocate for health the job of teaching. My parents did not theology and communication classes. and be able to treat actual internal issues. graduate from high school, but they raised Activities: I was corresponding me to always respect teachers. I notice secretary for the Caldwell University differences in education like when schools Student Nursing Association and class in the inner city do not have recent books representative for EOF. I appreciate the or still use chalk. I would like to teach in mentor I had from EOF and I still keep the urban environment, and in contact with her. Now that I have a I look forward to giving my mentee, I hope I can do the same. I also students the best that attended the spring break study abroad I can. trip to Amsterdam during my junior year. I went through the RCIA program at Caldwell receiving my baptism, first Holy Communion, penance and confirmation. Future aspirations: I plan to become a certified nurse midwife.

6 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT EOF ATHLETES Justice E. Baskin ’19 Elvin Davila ’20 Keshawn Williams ’19

Hometown: Jersey City, New Jersey Hometown: Cape May Court House, Hometown: Middletown, New Jersey New Jersey Major: Secondary Education – Major: Criminal Justice Social Studies Major: Health Science Activities: Activities: Activities: • Track and Field • Track and Field • Sprint football • EOF class representative • Dance team president • Student Athlete Advisory Committee • Student Athlete Advisory Committee • Resident assistant • President of the Criminal Justice/ How has the Educational Opportunity • Postal service (mailroom) employee Sociology Club Fund program enriched your experience How has the Educational Opportunity at Caldwell? EOF has enriched my How has the Educational Opportunity Fund enriched your university experience? experience at Caldwell by keeping me Fund enriched your university The Educational Opportunity Fund enriched updated on campus activities I haven’t experience? The Educational Opportunity my experience at Caldwell in a variety of heard about. I am involved with the Fund has had a huge impact on my college ways. Financially to socially, EOF has given football team, and I was a captain last year. experience. The staff has provided me with me the tools to advance and do well while I am one of the team representatives on the endless support throughout my college attending classes, seminars, conferences and Student Athlete Advisory Committee and career, ultimately becoming a third family internships. Out of all of the different ways participate in community service activities for me aside from my team. my experience has been enriched by EOF, with SAAC. I have been inducted into From connecting you with EOF alumni the most valuable is the support system the National Honor Society of Leadership within your chosen career field to matching I gained due to the relationships I built and Success. Being able to come to college you with an upperclassman in the program throughout my time as an EOF scholar at while being on time to every class and to help tutor you, there is nothing the Caldwell. I now have the ability to access playing a sport helped shape who I staff in the EOF office wouldn’t do for us, a catalog of people who are willing to am today. and I am very grateful to be a part of this give their unconditional support for the amazing program. advancement of my education as well as my life. This catalog consists of alumni, other students, members of the Caldwell family who greatly interact with EOF, and most There is nothing like walking into of all the EOF staff, past and the EOF office and interacting present. There is nothing like “ walking into the EOF office with everyone; it is there where and interacting with everyone; it is there where the university the university becomes a home becomes a home away from home. If it was not for the away from home. Educational Opportunity Fund, I would not be the confident man I ” am today—confident not only in who I am but also in my educational goals.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 7 CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT EOF ALUMNI “EOF is a privilege.” Dhandevi Deokie ’18 Amberly Hernandez ’12 Dr. Patrick Lamy ’91 Career: Career: Career: Technician at Senior auditor Vice President of Newark Beth Student Affairs Caldwell Israel Medical at Bloomfield University Center College degree: B.S. Caldwell in accounting Caldwell University and a minor in University degree: B.S. in management, Degree: B.A. health science M.B.A. with an in Biology and public health education accounting concentration. Caldwell University Activities: President Caldwell University activities: Worked as Caldwell University activities: Resident of the Black Student Union, peer counselor, an assistant in the Office of Financial Aid assistant, worked in the Registrar’s Office, tutor counselor, resident assistant as a work study student. worked at the security desk in the dorm. “I am part of a privileged group of people What did the EOF mean to you when What did the EOF mean to you when with a history that goes back 50 years.” you arrived at Caldwell? you arrived at Caldwell? What did EOF mean to you when you I am the first person in my family to To me, it was basically there to help me out arrived at Caldwell? attend college. My high school counselor financially but when I started and we had EOF was what I considered my family on mentioned EOF as a support system for the summer program, it was so different campus. It was the support system I would college students. As a freshman, I was because there I learned that the EOF staff need to be successful. The EOF office interested in being a part of it. was there to help me out. Any issues I had, really was the most comfortable place on personally, academically, they were there. I was grateful to have the EOF program as the entire campus at the time for me. an extra support system to help guide me What effect did the EOF have on your What effect did EOF have on your along throughout my college years. college and professional experience? college and professional experience? At monthly meetings, they bring speakers What effect did the EOF have on your The relevance of that experience as a in; they talk about motivation and college and professional experience? student and young professional was critical perseverance, things that you don’t think EOF had a very positive effect on my to my career trajectory. about on a day-to-day basis. These people college experience. I received a lot of are in the workplace already. They prepare Why does EOF matter? supportive services such as academic and you and show you that this is what it is EOF is celebrating its 50th anniversary. I career advisement, tutoring, and academic going to be like when you leave Caldwell think that starts the platform for why it skills workshops. The EOF staff always and start your career. should be supported. It makes a difference strove to support us in making our career in our state in a very profound way. People choices, and they did all they could do to Why does the EOF matter? are coming from underserved communities, help their students reach for the stars. As freshmen, you’re going into a new and programs like EOF give students school, meeting new people. We had the What advice would you give to an the opportunity to get the right kind of advantage of already knowing some people, incoming EOF student? support to lead to the path of success. and we became family. We would see each Getting accepted into the EOF program is other around campus and in meetings. What advice would you give to an a big opportunity for students. My advice EOF prepares you. You need to have incoming EOF student? to the incoming EOF students is to take something in mind in terms of who you Understand that you are a part of advantage of the program and all it has to want to become. They helped us narrow something bigger than yourself. Embrace offer. Work hard and strive for excellence. our ultimate goals and focus on those that the opportunities that are in front of you. Enjoy your college experience by trying would mold us into the individuals we College is an experience that goes by very new things every semester, and don’t be were meant to be. quickly. Make sure that every second, afraid to go out of your comfort zone. Take minute, hour, day, week, month, every advantage of everything you possibly can. What advice would you give to an semester, every year is spent wisely. Make Get to know your professors and classmates incoming EOF student? sure you make the right type of investment because at times they can be really helpful. EOF is there to support you, but at the in yourself. EOF is a privilege. Not every Never be afraid to ask for help, and make same time, you need to do your work. student has that level of support. the most out of your college experience. You’re the one that is in charge of your future, so a student needs to want to be in the EOF and want to be a successful person.

8 CALDWELLMAGAZINE SAVE THE DATE MONday, SEPTEMBER 17, 2018

BENEFITING STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS Emcee Steve Adubato, Ph.D. Emmy Award-winning Anchor Thirteen/WNET (PBS) and NJTV (PBS)

Essex Fells Country Club, Essex Fells, NJ Sponsorship opportunities still available! For more information, please contact Stan Kula at 973-618-3447 or [email protected] www.caldwell.edu/golf2018

Your gift to the Caldwell University Annual Fund provides the tools for success that help the students of today become the leaders of tomorrow.

TO GIVE: VISIT: caldwell.edu/donatenow | Email: [email protected] | CALL: 973-618-3447

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 9 CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT STAFF feature Andrei St. Felix: An Education in Passion

took a path that led to her college degree, solid work experience, the directorship and much more. “I love learning,” St. Felix says, her face glowing as she describes her path to higher education. After being hired at Caldwell, St. Felix began attending the college at night, first earning a degree in business administration and then a master’s in contemporary management and another master’s in pastoral ministry. She is pursuing her Ed.D. in the educational leadership program at Caldwell.

I have found my “ purpose, my passion, to educate young people.” St. Felix’s journey is painted with confidence, her goals checked off with fierce determination. That determination to stick to personal goals is central to the success of EOF students. As freshmen, they are asked to identify their long-term educational and career goals. “The goal is to push them,” St. Felix says Everywhere you turn in Andrei St. Felix’s strong goals for yourself and put God at of students, “to remind them, ‘This is the office, you see pictures of students— the center of everything you do. goal.’ We remember what they told us.” smiling, confident groups of young St. Felix has a hunger for education that is people gathered at events and ceremonies, She recalls one student who came into contagious. After growing up in Haiti, she representing the many people who the office and was shocked when St. Felix came to the United States with the goal have passed through the Educational reminded her in detail of her life goals. of obtaining a college degree. When she Opportunity Fund offices. But in the EOF saw a job at Caldwell College posted in program at Caldwell, you don’t just “pass “How did you remember that?” the the Newark Star-Ledger (she still has the through” the college experience. Not if student asked. clipping), she applied and was hired as the Andrei St. Felix has anything to do with it. “I remember because it meant something EOF secretary. The EOF at Caldwell University works to to you,” St. Felix answered. That was in 1992. St. Felix has stayed with provide a full range of career, academic, Life journeys are intensely personal, and the department, learning and advancing financial and spiritual support to its that means something to St. Felix. She from secretary to counselor to assistant students. It is no accident, then, that St. takes time to listen to students, to hear director and in 2009 to director. Thanks to Felix is at the helm of the department. She about their struggles and victories, and strong mentorship from previous directors is a living example to students of what you to gently remind them of the goals that and a determination to grow and learn, she can achieve if you commit to school, set

10 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLSPOTLIGHT led them to college in the first place. Goals, “I am a woman of faith. I am a woman and Hispanic Heritage and Black History goals and then, always, God. These guiding who cares about other people. I am Month activities. factors are never far from her when she is a woman who is liberated, free to do “If you do not know your roots, then counseling students. whatever I want to do. I am a woman something is missing,” St. Felix says. who is not afraid to take risks.” “That is what I like most about Caldwell “That’s where you find your voice—when University. I can talk about God. I can In an era when women more than ever are you know who you are.” listen to students talking about their seeking a place at the table, St. Felix has Armed with that knowledge, the alumni journey.” found hers. Her responsibility to represent from her program have gone on to own herself, black women and all women in Her faith background and her master’s businesses, serve as community leaders and places that lack diversity is not lost on her. in pastoral ministry help St. Felix advise work as doctors, teachers and lawyers. St. It is woven into her identity. students on how to be spiritually present Felix is confident that with well-defined as they go through life. “I am happy to represent. I have a goals and hard work, many more will responsibility,” she says with a smile. achieve their dreams. She will be there to “Being spiritually strong helps you get help them along the way. stronger in other areas of your life.” St. Felix, a wife and a mother of two, has a passion for pursuing higher education. And so this woman, who has boldly woven Knowing their goals and understanding That is a core part of her identity, and she together a tapestry of strong faith, fearless their relationship with God are major is passing it on to the next generation in belief and a hunger for learning, is leading components of a bigger picture that St. her family. forward a group of students who are Felix encourages her students to see. These determined to succeed. factors are a part of each person’s identity, Just as St. Felix’s strong sense of identity has and the concept of identity is second to been a key part of her success, it is a key for “I have found my purpose, my passion,” none at the EOF. her students. In fact, the first workshop the she says with confidence, “to educate EOF runs during its introductory summer young people.” n St. Felix knows who she is, and she program is called “Who Am I?”. encourages her students to embrace their —Nicole M. Burrell ’08 identities as well. During the academic year, St. Felix and her staff promote cultural events on campus, including gospel night, praise dancing EOF STAFF

Sadia Choudhry Miguel Rodriguez Suzanne Tesoro Title: EOF Counselor Title: EOF Counselor/Recruiter Title: EOF Office Assistant Quote: “I am constantly inspired by how Quote: “I get to come to work every day Quote: “What is most rewarding about resilient our EOF students are. These and support my students in accomplishing working for the Educational Opportunity students are some of the most hardworking the very same dream I once had—to be the Fund Department is the students. They individuals I have ever met. Through every first in my family to graduate from college.” really are the center of what the program obstacle, they persist and they rise! I hope represents, which is diverse backgrounds, I can have an impact on them as much as personalities, values and most importantly they impacted me. I am proud to be their the life-changing choices a young person EOF counselor.” makes during college.”

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 11 CALDWELLACADEMICS faculty feature Mary Lindroth: Bringing Students from the Page to the Stage

Dr. Mary Lindroth is passionate about attending theater, dance and the movies. She is equally enthusiastic about bringing the performing arts into her courses. “Everything I know comes from what I’ve read, what I’ve seen on stage; that’s where I learn and I take that back into the classroom,” says Lindroth, professor of English. “In order to teach something, you have to be willing to do that something, so I’m a consummate audience member.” Most weekends Lindroth hops the train to New York City to attend on- and off- Broadway plays, and ballet and modern dance performances. On her trip home, she often ponders how she can bring alive what she has just experienced to help her students develop their talents. The English Department offers three performance classes: Great Drama and Performance, Shakespeare and Performance, and Modern Drama and Performance, and Lindroth has taught all of them. She has also taught just about every other English course from Freshman Writing and Shakespeare to Women’s Studies and Literature for English majors “I was that shy student,” said Haddouche. Lindroth sees similarities between standing and non-majors. “She uses her experiences to get her up in front of a class and being on stage. students to come out of their shells.” Even though she has been teaching for Her style of teaching is focused on guiding many years, like any good performer, she students to learn about themselves, says Lindroth’s classroom is a place where still “gets a little nervous” before she enters alumna Eya Haddouche ’17, who received a students discover how the printed words her stage, the classroom. That is when she Bachelor of Arts in English. “She would say, from a play can come off the page into a draws on advice from her mother, Colette ‘I want it to come from you, not from me.’ performance. “For example, we will take Lindroth, beloved professor emerita of That is a huge part of her ethic as a teacher.” Cinderella and look at the story and then English, who taught at Caldwell for over look at the way the dancers perform it and When Lindroth introduces performance 50 years. “My mother always talks about what goes into it.” to students who are initially shy or it as a high-wire act. You cannot think reticent, she works hard to help them feel Each time Lindroth teaches a drama course about what you are doing before you comfortable on stage and to tap into their it becomes clearer to her how important go in. You just have to do it, and if you interests. “Instead of saying, ‘You don’t performance experiences are for her start looking down, you are going to lose have these skills,’ I say, ‘You do have them. students’ futures, no matter what they are your concentration, lose your focus and They are just buried. Let’s bring them to majoring in. She is gratified to hear from perhaps fall, but if you just go in and do it the fore so that if you need them, you can alumni who tell her how beneficial an without thinking about it, then it becomes call on them,’” says Lindroth. When she introduction to acting has been for them. something else.” asks students to take part in a performance She points to data showing employers And that ‘something else’ often exercise, she knows she has to model it are looking for people who can write, means helping her students see how first. “So if I’m willing to risk it and go out communicate, and present themselves. their classroom content relates to the of my comfort zone, they should as well.”

12 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLACADEMICS

world around them. “I say, ‘Here’s the conversation that is being had right now’… whether it is the #MeToo movement or the anti-gun-violence marches” or other issues, she connects the discipline of English to the culture. When Lindroth was a child, her desire for knowledge was fostered by watching her mother and her father, Dr. James Lindroth, a longtime English professor at Seton Hall University. Her parents were constantly learning; they surrounded themselves with books, always attended the theater, “read all the newspapers and were going to all kinds of (news) outlets.” Hearing her parents’ conversations about books was a “mini- course,” and she gravitated toward that, always wanting to learn more. But teaching English was not Lindroth’s first career choice. “I went into history to forge a route the university. “For me, committee work come to New Jersey she has to impart her of my own.” is important, who is on the committee (is arts wisdom, taking them to the theater important) and having a chance to work and the movies “whether they like it or After earning a bachelor’s degree in history with colleagues on something that will get not—I have that reputation,” she says from Caldwell, Lindroth worked in a law implemented is worthwhile.” with a laugh. office, thought about law school and did fundraising for Carnegie Hall. But the Lindroth values having colleagues “chip When the romantic drama “The Great pull toward English won out, and she in” and work as a team to help each Gatsby” came to the big screen, Lindroth earned her M.A. in that discipline from the other get work done, as when the English took the boys and could not let the University of Iowa. A doctorate followed, Department develops courses that respond experience pass without analysis. “I say also in English, at the same institution. to the increased interest in creative arts. to them, ‘What was happening in the “I’m a humanities person through and “We work well together.” movie?’” With the print version of through. None of these disciplines F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel in hand, she She is proud of the department’s recent are discrete or separate. They are all had them discuss the differences between accomplishments including hosting an interconnected.” Her dissertation focused the movie and the book. “I love spending undergraduate literature conference that on Shakespeare and the time with them.” Renaissance because brought English she wanted to study majors from other Whether Lindroth is with her nephews something she might not Everything I know universities and or with a student, learning must be have read on her own. comes from what I’ve colleges to Caldwell underpinned by humanity. “Teaching “ in 2016. is always about focusing on the human Pointing out that film is person,” she says. “The teaching-student a part of the humanities, read, what I’ve seen In the spring, the relationship is so important. It transcends she appreciates “the department will on stage… the classroom. They are not customers or wonderful opportunity” introduce a new course future CEOs.” Her students appreciate of attending the Saturday that Lindroth created, ” that. Lindroth would take the time to meet morning movie screenings in New York Solo Performance, in which students will one on one for rehearsal, says Haddouche. City hosted by Professor John Yurko for write and perform their own work. The “Her criticism for papers was always the Media Educators Association. “The course grew out of a sabbatical experience focused on helping students strengthen films he gets and the directors he interviews Lindroth had in the fall of 2017 when she what was already there.” enrich my life. “What makes me know that attended a workshop in New York City I’m alive is being part of theater, dance and with solo performer Tim Miller. There In the end, Lindroth wants her students to film experiences.” she and others crafted their work into appreciate the ways the academic discipline Lindroth was chair of Caldwell’s English solo performances that became one work of English can help them in just about Department for nine years and worked on a performed on the stage in Manhattan. every career and walk of life. “We want everyone to know what we know—that number of committees including the Faculty When school is not in session Lindroth everyone should major in English.” n Council and the Prioritization Committee enjoys visiting her three “beloved when President Nancy Blattner arrived at nephews” in Colorado. When they —CL

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 13 CALDWELLACADEMICS

Caldwell University Celebrates Danielle Hamblin, graduate ceremony speaker th Annual comm76 encement with record-breaking

number of graduates Dennis Brady, undergraduate ceremony speaker

“It is up to each individual to define what Bloomfield Avenue,” said Brady. “We are Students are encouraged being amazing is. Can you imagine if we now sent out to find our way in this world to be “amazing” all did?” with the knowledge, and more importantly, the values of Caldwell that are instilled in us Hamblin received a doctoral degree in Caldwell University celebrated its 76th from the day we walked onto the campus.” educational leadership with a special annual commencement May 20 with a Brady received a Bachelor of Arts degree in education concentration. She teaches as record-breaking 502 graduates. communication and media studies with a an adjunct on the college level and is minor in business administration. Danielle Hamblin of White Township, director of special services for the Sparta New Jersey, delivered the student address public schools. President Nancy Blattner presented at the graduate commencement ceremony, doctoral students with their Ph.D.s Dennis Brady of West Orange delivered encouraging her fellow graduates to “be and Ed.D.s, graduate students with the student address at the undergraduate amazing.” Drawing on the words of a their Master of Arts, Master of Business commencement ceremony. “The close-knit motivational speaker she once heard, Administration or Master of Science family that we have grown into over these she said the graduates need to take three degrees, and undergraduates with their four years was something that none of us simple steps to be successful. “Number Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, could have anticipated. Those bonds we one, wake up; number two, be amazing; Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of will cherish forever—the sporting events number three, go to sleep.” It is obvious Science in Nursing degrees. n how to fulfill numbers one and three, said we attended, the community service trips Hamblin, but number two is personal. we went on—it all happened here on 120 —CL

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CALDWELLMAGAZINE 15 CALDWELLACADEMICS Educational Leadership Doctorates

Educational Leadership doctoral students received their Ed.D. and Ph.D. degrees May 20. Danielle Hamblin, who was receiving her doctoral degree in educational leadership with a special education concentration, delivered the graduate ceremony commencement speech. Reflecting on her experience in the doctoral program with other students in the cohort, she said, “Caldwell provided us with mental challenges but not without the support of collegial partnership. I felt amazing when I L to R: Professor of Education and Co-Coordinator of Ed.D./Ph.D. Educational Leadership Joanne Jasmine; graduates Rachel Capizzi, Mary Kate Pretto and Brad Heimowitz; Professor of Education and Director knew I had contributed in meaningful ways of Graduate Studies Ellina Chernobilsky; graduates Humberto Bazquiero and Robert Goman, Professor of to helping others on this journey.” n Education Kevin Barnes, graduates Angela Paster, Danielle Hamblin, and Gail Clarke, and Associate Dean of the School of Education and Co-Coordinator of Ed.D./Ph.D. Educational Leadership Program Joan Moriarty. Students concentrate in K-12 Leadership, Special Education Leadership or Higher Education Leadership. Research and Professional Day Creative Arts Day at JPMorgan

Eva G. Kenfack Ngapgue presented her work on “Reduction of airbone J. P. Morgan executive Alma DeMetropolis hosted a roundtable for Caldwell microorganisms indoors with essential oils” at the second annual Research undergraduate and graduate students at her company’s Summit, New Jersey, and Creative Arts Day on April 25. Ngapgue’s research was one of nearly 150 headquarters on Feb. 23. She is pictured here (front row, second from left) with undergraduate and graduate projects. Among the judges were 27 alumni. Dr. Professor Bernie O’Rourke, associate dean of the School of Business and CIS Barbara Chesler, vice president of academic affairs, said the event was a testament (front row, second from right), and the students. to the Caldwell University community of scholars and the individual attention provided to students to advance their education.“In doing research projects, faculty and students journey together,” said Chesler.

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2018 Employee Honors Albert Schnell, operations manager for the Facilities Department, received the “Mission in Action” Staff Excellence Award, which recognizes the extraordinary contributions and quality service of our university staff and acknowledges their integral role in advancing the mission of Caldwell University.

Dr. Virginia Rich, professor in the School of Business and CIS and program coordinator of healthcare administration, received the 2018 “Excellence in Teaching Award” presented to the faculty member who best exhibits excellence in teaching, passion and enthusiasm for learning, and concern for students’ Catholic History in Spain academic and personal growth. Andrei St. Felix, director of the Dr. Rosa Sanchez (L), assistant professor of Spanish language, literature and Educational Opportunity Fund Office, culture, led the study-abroad course and trip “Catholic Tradition in Spain” in June. Students lived with host families for a month, improved their language received the Caldwell Cup, which is skills and learned about the rich Catholic history and culture of Spain. Here they awarded to an employee who has made are visiting La Cueva de Santo Domingo where St. Dominic prayed during his a unique contribution to the campus, stay in Segovia from 1218 to 1219. Pictured with Sanchez are students Allison has exhibited a superior professional Diaz, Milagros Acosta, Sara Bearden, Genesis Rivas-Mendoza and Aimee approach that goes beyond mere job Jimenez. Not pictured: Emily Valerian. description and that uniquely benefits Caldwell University, and whose positive personal influence demonstrably affects the university community.

Angelina Scimone, Ph.D., professor of chemistry, and Patricia B. Verrone, Ph.D., professor of English, were conferred as professors emeritus, a title that recognizes former faculty members who have distinguished themselves as outstanding teachers, researchers, administrators or professional leaders.

Jennifer Noonan, associate professor of art history, was selected for the Alvin B. Calman Endowed Chair which is based primarily on the faculty member’s prior scholarly activity and the potential for continued high levels of Business in Italy scholarly activity. Exploring global business and sport management in Italy—School of Business and CIS students visited Milan, Rome and Bologna during a winter Graduate Faculty Mentorship Awards were presented to short-term study-abroad trip to learn about business and sport management. The students and Professor O’Rourke, associate dean of the School of Business Thomson Ling, associate dean, School of Psychology and and CIS, are pictured at Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, Italy, where they Counseling, and Tina Sidener, professor of applied behavior learned about the marketing techniques of the iconic Italian luxury sports analysis. The honor is given to a faculty member who exhibits car manufacturer. They also heard about the global soccer business strategy of excellence in mentoring graduate students. The recipient of this Inter Milan at San Siro Stadium in Milan and met with Nike representatives. award furthers the development of his or her graduate students as A special treat in Milan was an afternoon seminar with John Genzale, the founder of the leading U.S. sport media industry publication in sport business, ethical, moral, culturally competent and scholarly professionals. SportsBusiness Journal. They visited the Basilica of St. Dominic in Bologna and the Vatican and the Coliseum in Rome.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 17 CALDWELLFACULTY&STAFF Faculty & Staff Notes Agnes Berki, associate professor of of the similarities and differences between Bob Mann, chair of the Communication biology, was featured in a story on faith Western and Eastern philosophy. Issues and Media Studies Department, and and career on the Hungarian Duna examined included Eastern philosophies in Nick Amabile, studio manager, took Television Network in the March 31 terms of their claims to be guides for life and first place in the talk radio category of the episode of the “Five Continents—One goodness, the philosophies of Confucius Garden State Journalists’ competition for Nation” series (Duna TV: Öt Kontinens— and the major thinkers within his tradition, an episode on Sirius XM. Egy Nemzet). Tao Tse and Taoism, and the philosophical Sister Barbara Moore, O.P., professor connections and challenges in engagement Kyle Bennett, assistant professor of emerita of theology and adjunct with Buddhist and Hindu thought. philosophy, was on a panel on “How to professor in theology, gave the Write—and Love Our Neighbor—When Joanne Jasmine, Ed.D., Edith Ries, reflective presentation “Everyone Loves the World Is Burning” at the Festival of Ed.D., and Ellina Chernobilsky, Ph.D., a Story” on selected biblical figures at St. Faith and Writing at Calvin College in professors of education, presented their Bartholomew’s study group in Scotch April. Bennett and a colleague gave a lecture paper “Action Research as a Tool to Inform Plains, New Jersey, in March. at Yale University in June on “Looking for Pre-Service Teacher Instruction” at the Marie Mullaney, Ph.D., professor of Joy in All the Wrong Places: An Augustinian 2017 annual International Education history, presented the two-part series Guide to Our Anxieties.” Bennett wrote an Conference in Boston. “Catholics in the USA: Trials and article for Public Justice Review titled “The Emma L. Tribulations” on April 18 and 24 at Postures of Public Justice.” Kendrick, St. Rose of Lima parish in Short Hills, Ellina Chernobilsky, Ph.D., director Ph.D., New Jersey. Part one focused on “Catholics of graduate studies and professor of LPC, ACS, in the New World to 1776,” “Building education, co-authored a chapter titled coordinator an American Catholic Community “Perspectives on teacher research: Teachers of graduate 1776-1840,” “The Rise of the Immigrant report challenges in examining classroom programs in Church 1840-1920” and “Catholic and practice” with​ colleagues from William counseling American? 1815-1928.” Part two looked Paterson and St. John’s universities. The and associate at “Reformers and Crusaders 1860-1945,” chapter has been published in the edited professor in the “The Triumph of Catholicism in America book on literacy program evaluation and School of 1945-1965” and “Contemporary Issues development initiatives for P-12 teaching. Psychology and Counseling, and Nadia and Challenges.” Sabeh, graduate assistant, presented Christopher Cimorelli, assistant professor Brenda Petersen, associate dean of the in Atlanta at the national American of theology, convened the topic session School of Nursing and Public Health, was Counseling Association conference. on creation and eschatology for the annual honored at the Institute for Nursing Awards conference of the Catholic Theological Colette M. Liddy, director of media and Scholarship Gala on April 5 for being Society of America, “Grace at Work in the relations, completed the Public Relations nominated for a Beacon of Light award, World,” in Indianapolis from June 7 to Society of America Crisis Communications which recognizes nurses and community 10. He presented a paper titled “Newman, Certificate Program. She had an article members for leadership, excellence in Frankl, and Conscience: Individual published in Aleteia titled “5 Simple nursing and community impact. Fulfillment and Ecclesial Belonging” at the but powerful words of advice for any David Petriello, instructor in the History 2018 gathering of the Newman Association challenge,” reflecting on a section of the and Political Science Department, is the of America, “Newman and 20th Century novel “Late Have I Loved Thee.” author of a new book, “The Dragon at Thinkers,” in Atchison, Kansas, July 26 Mary Lindroth, Ph.D., and Doug War: A General Military History of China,” to 28. Cimorelli has been invited to be Anderson, Ph.D., professors of English, published by Westholme Publishing. a member of the editorial board of the presented papers at the Conference Newman Studies Journal, which is affiliated Kathleen M. Prendergast, MSN, RN, on Women and Gender held at Seton with the National Institute for Newman APN, PMHNP-BC, psychiatric nurse Hall University on March 16. Lindroth Studies (Pittsburgh) and published by practitioner in Caldwell University’s presented a paper titled “A Stage of One’s Catholic University of America Press Counseling Services, co-authored a book, Own: Women’s Bodies and the Solo (Washington, D.C.). “Psychiatric Case Studies for Advanced Performance Form.” Anderson presented Practice,” published by Wolters Kluwer James Flynn, Ph.D., chair of the the paper “‘I Wanna … Watch Him Burn’: in May. A guide to advance practice Theology and Philosophy Department, Grief, Rage and the Problem of Masculinity psychiatric nursing care, it offers real-world presented six lectures on Eastern in Louise Erdrich’s ‘The Round House.’” clinical scenarios and psychiatric evaluations. philosophies at Agudath Israel synagogue in Caldwell, New Jersey, during the spring semester. The series focused on a discussion

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Kenneth F. Reeve, Ph.D., BCBA-D, William A. professor of applied behavior analysis, Velhagen Jr., Several professors in was selected to serve on the editorial board Ph.D., associate the School of Nursing of the journal Psychological Record. He professor and Public Health was a co-author on five published research of biology, presented at the 66th papers on applied behavior analysis. Dr. presented a annual convention of Reeve was a co-author on eight research poster on his the New Jersey Nursing paper presentations at the 44th annual research “The Students Inc. March 1 in convention of the Association for Behavior Development of Atlantic City Analysis International in San Diego where the Tongue and Kathleen Boreale, MS, APN-C, CCRN, he also chaired a symposium on concept Tongue Sheath in ACHPN, adjunct faculty member, spoke formation. He served as an invited panel Colubrid Snakes” at the annual meeting of on “Epilepsy Management: Caring for member on issues pertaining to licensure the Society for Integrative and Comparative Patients and Their Families.” for behavior analysts that was sponsored Biology in San Francisco in January. by the New Jersey Association for Aneesha Jean, DNP, MSN, RN, CNE, Jason C. Vladescu, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Behavior Analysis. assistant professor, presented on NCSP, associate professor of applied “Health Literacy: Improving Patient Sharon A. Reeve, Ph.D., BCBA-D, behavior analysis, co-authored four papers Engagement Strategies.” LBA, professor of applied behavior published in peer-reviewed journals—the analysis, was a co-author on four recently Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, Kathleen Kelley, DNP, MSN, RN, published or accepted research papers. Behavior Analysis in Practice and the CCRN, CNRN, associate professor One concerned the use of computer-based Journal of Special Education—and had and assistant director of the School of training to teach clinicians to evaluate two invited chapters for “The Handbook Nursing and Public Health, presented data graphs; another concerned methods of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for on “Quiet Time Interventions for the for teaching joint attention to individuals Children on the Autism Spectrum.” He Critically Ill Patient—Caring Measures on the autism spectrum; a third involved co-authored 17 research papers presented for the Patient, Family and Staff.” teaching children with autism spectrum at regional and national conferences. Mary Ellen Levine, MSN/Ed RN, disorder to identify environmental stimuli; Vladescu accepted an invitation to join CHPN, adjunct faculty member, the final paper involved using video to the board of editors for the peer-reviewed spoke on “End of Life: A Part of teach exercise to individuals with autism. journal Behavioral Interventions. Nursing Education?” Dr. Reeve was an invited keynote speaker Marie Wilson at the Berkshire Association for Behavior Donna Naturale, DNP, RN, APN, Ph.D., ATR-BC, Analysis and Therapy’s mid-year conference CDE, assistant professor, presented ATCS, ACS, where she spoke about the importance on “Finding Balance: Transitional Care LPC, recently of programming for generalization Nursing, Hospital to Home.” retired professor of skills while teaching children with from the School autism. She was a co-author on seven Brenda Petersen, Ph.D., MSN, RN, of Psychology research paper presentations at the 44th APN-c, CPNP-PC, associate dean and Counseling annual convention of the Association for of the School of Nursing and and coordinator Behavior Analysis International in San Public Health, spoke on “Promoting of art therapy Diego where she also served as a discussant Resilience in Professional Nurse Practice programs, was for the symposium “Considerations in through Mindfulness.” picked as a member of the Disciplinary Maintenance and Generalization Following Hearing Panel for the Art Therapy Behavior Skills Training for Behavior Credentials Board. Members of this panel Cabinet notes Intervention and Teaching Procedures.” are tasked with hearing cases reviewed by President Nancy Blattner chaired Stephanie Sitnick, Ph.D., assistant the ATCB’s ethics officer. the search for the new president of the professor of psychology, co-authored the Caldwell University received Association of Independent Colleges and article “Guided Goal Setting: A feasible a second-place award from the Universities in New Jersey. She spoke obesity prevention behavior change Catholic Press Association in as part of an invited panel to incoming strategy for low-income parents with young the category of Catholic college American Council on Education Fellows children” in the Journal of Human Sciences and university alumni/ae in Washington, D.C., in June. She served and Extension. magazines for Best Personality Profile for as chair of the Middle States accrediting “Bernie O’Rourke: An Irishman’s Passion team for Mount St. Mary College in for Business.” Newburgh in April.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 19 CALDWELLLIFE Dominican Connection

Student Stefanie Konboz was blessed by Pope Francis at a general audience while she was on the Caldwell University Dominican Foundations Rome study-abroad trip. Blessed by the Holy Father Student living with cancer receives Konboz if she could pray with her, and then middle school and high school, Konboz gift on Dominican Foundations to Konboz’s amazement she heard Blattner told Pope Francis she was a Syriac Catholic say, “With God all things are possible.” and explained her condition. He blessed Rome study-abroad trip It was an affirmation of her prayer. Even her on the forehead, touched her scar and “With God all things are possible.” though Konboz was hoping to receive Pope said, “Benedetto,” which means “blessing” Stefanie Konboz found herself saying Francis’s blessing, she knew that even if she in Italian. The experience was pure joy. “It that scripture verse as she walked into the did not, going to the papal audience was was so surreal. I was smiling from cheek to majestic St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. “still an incredible experience.” cheek,” said Konboz. It was a morning in March, and Konboz, a The group headed outside to the square The blessing was a highlight and a “chance Caldwell student who is living with thyroid to await the Holy Father’s arrival. It took of a lifetime,” and yet many other aspects cancer, had some very special prayers. a conversation of the trip She and a group of six other Caldwell or two with a filled her with University students were on their way gendarme and Being able to participate in gratitude. to Pope Francis’s Wednesday general a Swiss guard Mass celebrated in St. Dominic’s “Every minute audience as part of their spring break and a show of “ I was there I course, “Studying the Foundations of the her medical cell at Santa Sabina was one of was in awe.” documents, but Dominican Tradition in Rome.” Blattner and before she knew the most poignant moments. Sister Kathleen St. Peter’s is closed when there are papal it, Konboz was Tuite, O.P., vice audiences, but the group was with one of being directed around a barricade and ” president for student life, led the course, Pope Francis’s translators, who was taking ended up a row away from the Holy Father. collaborating with the staff at the Lay them through the basilica when it is usually Soon Pope Francis was standing in front Centre in Rome including Professor Donna off limits. A few minutes into their visit, of her. Using the Italian she had become Orsuto and Dr. Lori King. The curriculum Caldwell President Nancy Blattner asked quite proficient in, from years of study in

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focused on the Christian church in Rome, Although the days of touring were how Rome shaped St. Dominic and how physically challenging, Konboz was the Dominicans would affect the Church energized by the beauty of everything she of Rome. Students heard presentations on saw—“the history, architecture, religion.” topics such as the Acts of the Apostles, the Another gift from the trip was the bonds of Dominican Saint Catherine of Siena and friendships members of the group formed church history. Shanice Edwards, a biology while in Rome, which continue now that major, enjoyed the classes. “I liked the they are back on campus, said Konboz. environment at the Lay Centre. They were so welcoming.” The experience proved to be a chance for the students to grow and mature. The group visited the Dominican sites on “I’m more independent. I know my way the Aventine Hill, the abbey and churches around Rome,” said Edwards. “I can figure of TreFontane dedicated to St. Paul out directions without Google maps. I the Apostle where it is believed he was can tackle difficult situations.” Edwards beheaded, the Mamertine prison where calculated they visited roughly 96 chapels, St. Paul was incarcerated, St. Peter’s but “I stopped counting after 42.” Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. They toured the Basilicas She strongly encourages other students to of St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the take advantage of any opportunities they Walls, San Clemente and St. John Lateran, have to travel to the ancient city to probe the Catacombs of Priscilla, the Church more deeply the riches of the Catholic of St. Peter in Chains, which holds the faith and of the Dominican tradition. On the spring break study-abroad trip to Rome, the famous statue of Moses by Michelangelo, And she has one more valuable piece of Caldwell group proudly displays the university flag in front and more. They took the exclusive Scavi advice for future travelers: “Have gelato of Santa Maria delle Grazie a Via Triofale (Saint Mary of the Graces), the titular church of the archbishop of Newark, tour, which includes the necropolis under n every night.” Cardinal Joseph Tobin. St. Peter’s Basilica, where St. Peter’s tomb is —CL located. They spent a day in Assisi learning about St. Francis of Assisi, a contemporary of St. Dominic. Boxtown: Students sleep outside to A special treat was a visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie in Rome, the titular church raise awareness of homelessness of Cardinal Joseph Tobin, archbishop Students slept outside on the Newman Plaza April 12 as part of the Campus Ministry project of Newark. Boxtown aimed at raising awareness of homelessness. They heard a presentation by a speaker Blattner recounted multiple highlights of from the Midnight Run, a volunteer organization dedicated to finding common ground between the pilgrimage. “Being able to participate the housed and the homeless, had a bonfire and took part in a poverty simulation. in Mass celebrated in St. Dominic’s cell at Boxtown took shape when students Maria Lesniewski, Brooke McPherson and Devin Lattuga Santa Sabina was one of the most poignant attended the 2017 Dominican National Preaching in Action Conference at which universities moments. Seeing Stefanie blessed by our were charged with starting social justice projects to bring back to their campuses. The issue Holy Father was another once-in-a-lifetime of homelessness hit McPherson when she was walking around New York City in 15-degree moment of joy.” weather and was appalled to see spikes placed outside of hotel buildings so the homeless Blattner and Sister Kathleen also found could not sleep there. “They are a forgotten group of people,” she said, and Boxtown is a good that in touring Rome they experienced chance “to live in the their faith anew through the eyes of shoes” of those who the students. are less fortunate. “It was a profound experience for me Student Sherif Habib personally because in watching how said Boxtown made inquisitive our group was, that appreciation students pull back and for the knowledge amongst the students consider others. “It grew into a spiritual dimension, which helps you think about opened the door for God to be present,” how the world is a larger picture.” n said Sister Kathleen. Julianna Verso, Brooke McPherson and Jill Salerno after spending the night —CL sleeping outside for the Boxtown project.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 21 CALDWELLDEVELOPMENT Trustees and friends gather in support of the 2018 Presidential Scholarship Gala

Each year Caldwell University inducts honorary members who exhibit excellence in business and maintain strong ties to the university’s business programs into the Dr. Nancy Blattner presents Alma Delta Mu Delta honor society. The School of DeMetropolis, New Jersey market president Business and CIS was proud to induct two of JPMorgan Chase & Co. and New Jersey A group of New Jersey women leaders who traveled distinguished alumni, Miguel Walker ’07 and market manager of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, together on a mission trip to India in 2015 gathered at Rose Ann Labar ’02, ’05. with the President’s Award at the 2018 Gala. the 2018 Presidential Scholarship Gala to honor Alma DeMetropolis. L to R: Daryl Rand, president and CEO of HarrisonRand Advertising; Ann Borowiec, independent director at Delaware Investments Mutual Fund Family and retired JP Morgan executive; Alma DeMetropolis, New Jersey market president of JPMorgan Chase & Co. and New Jersey market manager of J.P. Morgan Private Bank; Dr. Nancy Blattner, president of Caldwell University; Sharon Ambis, senior director of marketing and public relations for RWJBarnabas Health; Linda Bowden, New Jersey regional president of PNC Bank, events and Anoli Patel, president and CEO of Think Reel Films.

GalaIrina Collins; Edward R. Collins ’98, member of the board of trustees; David Disler and Lisa M. Bromberg, Esq. ’80, member of the board of trustees. Olga E. Bradford, Esq., member of the board of trustees, and her husband, the Rev. Keith Owens.

Friends from Essex Fells gather at the 2018 Presidential Scholarship Gala. Back row, L to R: Bernard O’Rourke, associate dean of the School of Business and CIS; John Crawford, member of the board of trustees; Greg Comito; Patrick Miczak; Harry Beatty, member of the board of trustees; Bill O’Brien, member of the board of trustees; Don O’Hagan, Caldwell University’s chief information officer. Front row, L to R: Sheila O’Rourke, Caldwell University vice president for institutional effectiveness; Jennifer Beatty; M.J. Robert Luciano and Dr. Linda Luciano ’73, Crawford; Mary Miczak and Sharon vice chair of the board of trustees. O’Brien.

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The Super Saturday alumni basketball event was held on Feb. 7 in the Newman Center. Over 100 alumni and friends attended.

Jeff Egnatovich ’08 and his family.

Lynne Giachetti Machtemes, Esq. ’98, and Sister Kathleen Tuite, O.P. ’93, vice president for student life.

Thane McKenzie ’09, Khaliah Douglas ’13 and Javier Lewis ’14. VERITAS AWARDS Basketball

Celebrating Veritas Award honorees – Front row, L to R: Nancy Hurtz Soyka ’71, honoree Evelyn Ferrara Major ’68, honoree Jonathan Callahan ’04, honoree the Hon. Marcella Dr. Nancy Blattner presents the Hon. Marcella Matos-Wilson, Matos-Wilson, Esq. ’87, chair Joan Galla Reamer ’69. Back row, L to R: Peggy Jordan Esq. with her Veritas Award for Excellence in Family Law. Romano ’71, Meg Poltorak Keyes ’75, Beatriz Gomez-Klein ’73, Sally Ward Kelly ’57, Dr. Nancy Blattner, Angela Aiello Zaccardi ’58, Helen Babits ’66, Rosemary Hilbert ’96 and Barbara Ziglear Buechner ’76.

Evelyn Ferrara Major accepts her Veritas Award for Excellence in Dominican Charism.

Jonathan Callahan, Excellence in Entrepreneurship honoree (center), with L to R: students Thomas Elliott-Smith and Connor Foor, Matt Mustachio, adjunct faculty member in the School of Business and CIS, and Bernard O’Rourke, associate dean of the School of Business and CIS. Veritas CALDWELLMAGAZINE 23 CALDWELLDEVELOPMENT You, like Dot, Can Make a Difference in the Lives of Future Caldwell Students

Dot Cacchio ‘61 is grateful for her time at Caldwell University and wanted to ensure that others benefit from the same education and experiences she did, and so she decided to include a gift for Caldwell in her will. You, like Dot, can make a difference in the lives of future Caldwell students.

To learn more about ways you can support Caldwell through your will or estate plan, visit http://plannedgiving.caldwell.edu or contact Lori Funicello at [email protected] or 973-618-3226.

The Saint Catherine of Siena Circle gratefully recognizes Caldwell University alumni and friends who have supported the university through their will or estate plans.

& Announcing 2018 Sprint Football Schedule

Sept. 15 cornell 2 p.m.

Sept. 22 St. Thomas Aquinas 7 p.m. • Over 100 pages of new poems A JOURNAL OF CATHOLIC POETR Y

• 20+ book reviews Sept. 29 @ Post Noon & • This edition includes interviews with John F. Deane and Mary Szybist Oct. 13 u.S. Naval Academy 1 p.m. and essays by Dana Gioia and Oct. 20 @ Penn 1 p.m. Lisa Ampleman.

To order: www.catholicpoetryjournal.com Oct. 27 @ Mansfield 1 p.m.

Inviting submissions for Presence 2019, Nov. 3 chestnut Hill 1 p.m. August 1 – October 1, 2018 Visit www.catholicpoetryjournal.com Home games, in red, are at James Caldwell High School for submissions guidelines.

24 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLATHLETICS Coming Home: Hasani Whitfield Returns to Caldwell to Lead the Baseball Program

Caldwell in the top 20 in the nation for stolen bases as well as two-time ACBA/Rawlings University the past two seasons. He previously worked Northeast All Region honoree in 2004 and welcomed back as the assistant coach at Union CC from 2005. His teams were also successful as the Hall of Famer 2012 to 2016. In four seasons in that Cougars won their first CACC regular- and baseball position, he was the primary hitting coach season title in 2003 and captured the 2004 alumnus Hasani and worked with the outfielders. conference tournament title to advance to Whitfield ’05 the NCAA Division II Northeast Region “It means a lot to be able to return to my this spring as Tournament for the first time. alma mater as the head coach of a program the next baseball that is very special to me,” said Whitfield. In 2003, Whitfield had one of the most head coach. “I’m grateful to Mr. Corino, the Athletic successful seasons not only in Caldwell Whitfield, a Department and everyone involved in the history but in CACC history. As a standout four- process. I look forward to working with sophomore, he ended the season with a year player for the Cougars, was inducted the current players and alumni to energize .462 batting average, which placed him into the Caldwell Athletics Hall of Fame the program.” seventh in the nation for Division II. in 2012. Whitfield ended his career as Caldwell’s Whitfield was an outstanding hitter on Whitfield returns to Caldwell after serving all-time career hits leader and ranks in the some of Caldwell’s best teams, ranking as the head baseball coach at Union top five in program history in home runs, among the all-time leaders in several County College for the past two seasons. RBI, hits, doubles, triples and stolen bases. categories during his time on the diamond While leading the program, Whitfield from 2002 to 2005. He was selected Whitfield earned his bachelor’s degree in had three All-Region players for the first Central Atlantic College Conference Player criminal justice with a minor in psychology time in 10 years in NJCAA Region 19. In of the Year as a senior. Whitfield was a in 2005. n addition, the 2018 team ranked third all three-time CACC All-Conference selection time in home runs, and his teams finished —JT Veteran Coach Jim Kelly to Lead Sprint Football Program

Veteran New Montclair State from 2005 to 2012. While in his first season. Kelly has placed over Jersey football he was an assistant coach, Montclair State 85 student-athletes in college football coach Jim won two New Jersey Athletic Conference programs during his tenure as a head coach. Kelly joined titles and made two trips to the NCAA He has been a television station manager the Cougars Division III playoffs. and instructor for 20 years at Nutley this summer Kelly has a long track record of coaching High School. In 2014, he received the as the success on the high school level. He served Governor’s Educator of the Year Award. university’s as an assistant coach at Parsippany Hills Kelly’s efforts in the classroom were next sprint (1987-88) and Montville (1989-90) and recognized again in 2016 when he was football spent two seasons as an assistant for the honored with the NJ JAM Award for the coach. Kelly Clifton High School Mustangs before best-produced campus sports talk show. brings over becoming head coach in 1992. In his 30 years of A graduate of Montclair State, Kelly fourth season at Clifton, Kelly led his coaching earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast team to the NJSIAA state playoffs, the first experience communications and has taught television appearance for the school in 13 years. Kelly including eight seasons as an assistant broadcasting at Nutley High School for was selected as the All-Area Coach of the coach at Montclair State University. He 20 years. He holds a master’s in counseling Year by the Herald News. was an award-winning teacher in the from New Jersey City University. He resides Nutley school district. In 1997, Kelly returned to his alma mater, in Nutley with his wife, Mary Ann, and Nutley High School, where he roamed their two children, Christine and Natalie. n Kelly served as the head varsity coach at the Raiders’ sidelines for seven seasons, Queen of Peace High School in 2015. Prior —JT receiving All-Area Coach of the Year honors to that, he was part of the coaching staff at

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 25 CALDWELLATHLETICS

Spring Highlights The softball team celebrates as CACC champions for a second straight season.

Softball Team Repeats as CACC Champion H Women’s Basketball Team Returns to NCAA DII Tournament The softball team won its eighth 18-12, in the opening round before falling the NCAA tournament for the second time Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference in the semifinals. Junior Rachel Lucia in program history. Senior Sharell Sanders championship this spring and second (Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey) (Dorchester, Massachusetts) was named the straight with a 10-7 win over Dominican earned CACC First Team All-Conference CACC Defensive Player of the Year and College in the championship game. honors for a second consecutive season. was also a Second Team All-Conference Freshman Paige Sandoval (Aliso Viejo, Sophomore Arden Kassaleh (Pompton selection. Senior Kristen Drogsler California) earned tournament MVP Plains, New Jersey) was selected to the (Middle Village, New York) was a CACC honors as she blasted a walk-off three-run CACC Second Team and broke the First Team All-Conference selection for a home run to win the CACC title for the program’s single-season points record. second consecutive season. Drogsler earned Cougars. Caldwell won its fifth straight Kassaleh became the first player in school Division II Conference Commissioners regular-season title as it finished 24-2 in history to reach the 100-goal plateau. Association Second Team All-Region conference play and completed the season honors and Women’s Basketball Coaches Track and field athletes turned in with a 35-18 overall record. Association Honorable Mention All- outstanding performances this spring American recognition. Drogsler was selected Sophomores Christina Misiur (Sayreville, season as the men’s team finished in fifth to the Metropolitan Basketball Writers New Jersey) and Sara Bearden (Ewing, place, while the women’s team came in Association First Team, while Sanders New Jersey) and freshman Kaileen Cain seventh at the CACC championships. The earned MBWA Second Team honors. (Hauppauge, New York) earned CACC men’s team posted 14 top-10 finishes First Team All-Conference honors. at the conference meet, while the women The men’s basketball team ended the season Senior Marisa Monasseri (Monroe, New had nine top-10 finishes. Senior Victoria with a 16-13 record and finished in third Jersey), freshman Maya Rodriguez (Fort Thaler (Millville, New Jersey) earned place in the CACC North Division with Lauderdale, Florida) and Sandoval were all-conference honors as she won the a 13-6 conference record. Senior Derek named to the CACC Second Team. The 400-meter hurdles event. The women’s Dorn (New Rochelle, New York) earned Cougars earned their eleventh consecutive team was honored for a second straight CACC Third Team All-Conference honors. appearance in the NCAA Division II season with the CACC Team Sportsmanship The bowling team posted a 4-14 record championship tournament. Award for demonstrating outstanding in Northeast Conference play during character and class throughout the season The women’s lacrosse team earned the the winter season. Senior Daniele Roca and at the CACC championship meet. first post-season victory in the program’s (Garden City Park, New York) was named five years to advance to the final four in The women’s basketball team returned to the NEC Bowler of the Week in February, the CACC championship tournament. the NCAA Division II tournament for a while the team earned the NEC Bowling The Cougars ended the season with a 6-9 second straight season after posting a 24-7 Team Sportsmanship Award for a third overall record and finished in fourth place overall record. The Cougars tied for the straight season. n in the CACC with a 5-4 mark, earning North Division regular-season title with a —JT a home playoff game for the first time. 16-3 conference mark. Caldwell reached the Caldwell defeated Wilmington University, CACC tournament semifinals and made

26 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLATHLETICS Women’s Basketball Alum Danielle Ciresi Murphy ’91 Inducted to CACC Hall of Fame

Caldwell University women’s basketball alum Danielle Ciresi Murphy ’91 was inducted into the third class of the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Hall of Fame on Feb. 17 at the Cougars’ home doubleheader against Jefferson University. The CACC Hall of Fame was established in 2015 to honor the legendary players and teams in league history. Ciresi Murphy joined men’s basketball standout Matt Stuart ’94 as the only Cougars named to the hall of fame. Ciresi Murphy rewrote the Caldwell record books during her outstanding collegiate career. During her senior season, Ciresi Murphy broke the school scoring record and surpassed 2,000 career points in the same game with her former teammate and record holder, Gina Borea ’88, in the Student Center stands. She went on to score 2,491 points, which at the time ranked her fourth all-time among college women’s basketball players in New Jersey. Ciresi Murphy led all New Jersey college players in scoring her junior and senior seasons. As a senior, she was named the CACC Co-Most Valuable Player and received All-American honorable mention honors. Her scoring average of 31.7 points per game as a senior led the nation and was fifth all-time in NAIA scoring history. n President Nancy Blattner, Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics Mark A. Corino, CACC Hall of Famers Danielle Ciresi Murphy and Matt Stuart, and —JT CACC Commissioner Dan Mara at Ciresi Murphy’s induction.

Broadcasts Basketball Games

On Feb. 17, the Caldwell University men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted Jefferson University in a Division II basketball showcase doubleheader streamed live on ESPN3 and the ESPN Watch app. The campus came alive with tremendous fan support, and both games were sold out. The Cougars were successful as the women’s team defeated the Rams, 69-59, and the men’s team claimed a 73-63 victory. Men’s basketball head coach Mark Corino was honored by Caldwell President Nancy Blattner and Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Commissioner Dan Mara with the game ball from his 1,000th game as a head coach, a milestone he reached the prior month. n —JT CALDWELLMAGAZINE 27 CALDWELLALUMNI

Remembering Sister Vivien ister Vivien Jennings, O.P., former board of trustees when Sister Vivien president of Caldwell College, was president. “She was a quiet, moving Spassed away on May 5. She served as individual who had extraordinary results.” president of the college from 1984 to 1994. One of those results was Caldwell’s rising Sister Vivien paved the way for many enrollment. By the time Sister Vivien left historic firsts at the college. She was the presidency in 1994, enrollment had president when the decision was made in grown from 400 to nearly 1,000. 1985 to transition from an all-women’s One reason for the increase was the institution to a coeducational college. support she provided in expanding She expanded intercollegiate athletics, intercollegiate athletics. Former chaplain was the first director of the Educational Father Bob Stagg recruited Mark Corino, Opportunity Fund, a professor in the and Sister Vivien hired him to coach the English Department, a director of men’s basketball team and to build the continuing education and started the athletics program. She trusted that Fanjeaux study-abroad experience, which Corino’s vision was equal to that of the allows members of the campus community institution. “She and Sister Patrice Werner to learn in depth about the Catholic played great roles in allowing athletics to be Dominican tradition. a part of the college’s vision,” said Corino, Her former colleagues and friends reflected assistant vice president and director of on her accomplishments and how she athletics. “Sister Vivien had outstanding was courageous in moving the college leadership qualities and understood the

forward while caring about the well-being value of athletics.” 1 of employees. “She had a way of making Sister Michel Rodgers, O.P., held several everyone feel important and validated, “small” to describe the college because, positions including sociology professor, signs of a great leader,” said Sheila although we may have fewer students than residence life director, assistant academic O’Rourke, vice president for institutional some other institutions, we are big in ideas dean, and vice president of student life. effectiveness, who first worked with Sister and vision.’ Since that time, I have spoken She recalled how early on when one of Vivien starting in 1991. at many open houses to students and the teams won a championship and the parents, and I have never used the word. Dr. Marie Mullaney, professor of history, Athletics Department did not know how it I have always remembered and respected remembers how Sister Vivien would say, could afford travel for the team members, that,” said Verrone. “‘In higher education, to stand still is to Sister Vivien said, “I will find the money regress, to go backwards.’ This was an and they will go.” Sister Vivien held a bachelor’s degree especially important in English from Caldwell, a master’s Dean Johnson, approach that guided in English from Catholic University, associate director the college decision to She had a way of making a master’s in communications from of athletics, was become coeducational.” everyone feel important Syracuse University, and a Ph.D. in “ hired by Sister English from Fordham. Sister also saw the Caldwell University and validated, signs of a Vivien in 1990. value of emerging media and worked in President Nancy “She is one of the telecommunications at Barry University Blattner, Ph.D., great leader. big reasons we are and at the Catholic Telecommunications said that Sister as successful as we Network in New York City. In the early Vivien’s decision to ” are today, with our ’80s, knowing that communications transition Caldwell to coeducation “was growth in enrollment, added athletic teams was an expanding field, she founded a understandably controversial at the time,” and improved facilities.” communication arts certificate program at but “positively changed the institution in Al Neiman, professor of accounting and Caldwell and then in 1988 when Professor terms of our student body, the degrees we an accountant, remembers Sister as being Bob Mann was hired she had him work offered, and our place in the field of higher “an inspiration, humble and grateful.” toward the creation of the Communication education in New Jersey.” Trish Verrone, professor emerita of English, Department and major, a goal achieved in Sister Mary Joseph, O.P., was a member recalled how once at an all-campus meeting 1995. “Sister Vivien and Sister Patrice were of the executive administration and the Sister Vivien said, “‘Never use the word constant advocates of the creation of the

28 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLALUMNI Decades of “personally heartwarming and professionally stimulating” lunches with Sister Vivien Marilyn Mancino Maguire ’66 remembers having Sister Vivien Jennings, O.P., as her English professor and her prefect in the dormitory at Caldwell College. Her high standards were a bit of a “shock to our systems,” said Maguire, but what felt like “penance” at the time became wonderful life lessons. “What is the point of aiming for mediocrity?” was an idea Sister Vivien instilled in her students. She wanted the students to see “that if we were going to do something at all, it was worth doing as well as 3 we could,” said Maguire. Over time and with more maturity, Maguire and her classmates realized this mindset was a gift for the rest their lives. Sister Vivien had such an impact on her students that many maintained relationships 2 with her later in life and visited with her often. “After a bit of a hiatus” from being in touch (launching a work life, getting married, starting a family), Maguire and her Caldwell College roommate Lori Majewski LaCorte reconnected in the 1980s with Sister Vivien

4 and Sister Rita Margaret Chambers, O.P., who was also their English professor. From Communication Department and major,” 1 Newark Archbishop Peter Gerety, Sister those renewed relationships, blossomed said Mann. Vivien, Dr. Edward Goldberg, then friendships that would last for decades. She assistant chancellor for academic affairs and LaCorte would take Sister Vivien and At Sister Vivien’s funeral on May 9, of the state Board of Higher Education, Sister Patrice, prioress of the Caldwell and the Rev. Edward Andrew McElwee, Sister Rita Margaret out for long lunches pastor of the First Presbyterian Church that were “personally heartwarming and Dominicans and former president of of Caldwell. Caldwell serving after Sister Viven, spoke professionally stimulating.” of her mentor and friend as a “preacher of 2 Sister Vivien with Jane Burgio, then secretary of state of New Jersey, and Along with checking in on each other’s truth, the valiant woman.” Dean Gallo, then a U.S. representative families, showing pictures and sharing stories from New Jersey, at her inauguration as about children, nieces and nephews, they Even in her later years despite frailty, she the sixth president of Caldwell College. continued “to stand tall in the life of the would also have professional conversations— congregation she loved so much, still 3 Sister Vivien and George Imperial, then that were “so stimulating and so useful.” the mayor of Caldwell, throw up the They would trade ideas and ask for advice, sharing her knowledge and Dominican ceremonial ball at Caldwell College’s and the Sisters would tell their former vocation with others, fully involved in first men’s basketball game, against community activities,” said Sister Patrice. Bard College. students about the exciting projects they were engaged in. As educators themselves, Maguire 4 Sister Vivien is pictured with Sister Ann That was evident just two weeks before Marie Rimmer, then major superior and LaCorte said it was a wonderful sharing Sister Vivien’s passing when she spoke to and chairperson of the board, as Sister of perspectives, “They were our teachers for a class of undergraduate students about Vivien receives the alumni Veritas Award a few years and our friends for almost 40,” in 1994 for Excellence in Leadership and the great Dominican saints—Dominic, Contributions to Education. remarked Maguire. Thomas Aquinas and Catherine of Siena. “There were so many dimensions to Sister This is yet another generation of students Vivien that we wouldn’t have known as who will remember Sister Vivien for students only.” Sister Vivien’s expectations sharing with them the ageless truths of were certainly high but her “capacity for love the Dominican tradition. n and understanding was just as remarkable,” said Maguire who knows that her life is that —CL much richer for having known Sister Vivien and for being able to call her a friend. n

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 29 CALDWELLALUMNI

Beatriz Gomez-Klein ’73: How Scholarship Forged a New Future

I was holding on to a post to keep from This period falling down,” Beatriz Gomez-Klein ’73 of solace did remembers. “My cousin, still a child not last long. herself, had her arms around me, trying When Castro to comfort me. There was a bucket at our confiscated all feet. The smells and the rocking of the ship private property were making us so very sick.” in the 1960s, the school was closed This is how Gomez-Klein recalls her and the sisters journey from Cuba to the United States were ushered out in 1962 in the aftermath of the infamous of the country. Bay of Pigs Invasion and Fidel Castro’s rise Her father hired to power. tutors to teach “My cousin and I traveled alone. My his daughter father and sister could not leave Cuba. at home. “He They didn’t want to leave my 20-year- was afraid that I would be old brother, who was in prison there for the courage to tell the guidance counselor indoctrinated at the public schools.” his involvement with the underground that I wanted to go to college. She resistance against Castro’s regime,” recalls He feared for his daughter’s future as must have thought I was insane! I had Gomez-Klein. well and sent her in the Bay of Pigs cargo no money.” exchange ship. Gomez-Klein’s oldest This was not the first time she had The counselor looked at her thoughtfully brother was already in the United States. experienced loss. At the tender age of and said she knew a priest in the area He met the girls in Miami. seven, she lost her beloved mother. “She who might be able to help. The counselor was my idol,” Gomez-Klein says, her “I stayed awhile there, but there were so made an appointment, and Gomez-Klein’s sorrow still apparent so many years later. many Cubans aunt accompanied her. He gave her an At the time, in Miami application for Caldwell College. that I wasn’t Gomez-Klein Caldwell offered her a full scholarship. My cousin and I traveled alone. making was attending “Without the scholarship, I could never enough a school run My father and sister could not have thought about going to college.” by the Order “ progress in of the Society leave Cuba. They didn’t want learning Her new start was marked by more tragedy, of the Sacred English, and however. Only a few weeks into her Heart. She to leave my 20-year-old brother, so I traveled freshman year, her father passed away. adored her to Louisville, who was in prison there for his “At that point, I felt as though my loss was school. When Kentucky, complete. By the age of 19, I had lost my the grief- to live with involvement with the underground mother, my school, my country, and then stricken child an aunt and my father.” Far from her childhood home asked her father resistance against Castro’s regime. uncle there.” and new to college, Gomez-Klein doubted if she could Gomez-Klein her ability to continue. board there, ” soon moved to New Jersey from Louisville he agreed. The kindness and faith “I immersed myself in everything— to live with another maternal aunt. She of the sisters provided the comfort becoming a Gamma Theta Lambda sister, enrolled in Newark’s Barringer High Gomez-Klein so desperately needed. joining the Spanish Club and serving as its School. “I still don’t know how I got up treasurer, writing for the college’s Spanish

30 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLALUMNI newspaper.” The sense of sisterhood and Gomez-Klein’s community service community at Caldwell gave her hope. includes work with bereavement groups “We had so much fun. When we had free at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church Advocating on Capitol time, we would put on little plays and in Little Falls and as a behavioral health Hill for International skits. Even the sisters would play along!” consultant for Notre Dame parishioners in North Caldwell. Gomez-Klein remains in close touch with Humanitarian Aid her Caldwell classmates, a group that She received the Visiting Nurse includes the dear cousin. Association Achievement Award in 1996 and the University Health Care While studying sociology, she considered Excellence Award from UMDNJ in entering the Dominican Order and took 1999. Caldwell University recognized her on religious studies as a second major. accomplishments with the prestigious She graduated cum laude and with Delta Veritas Award. Today, she is supportive Epsilon Sigma and Kappa Gamma Pi of her alma mater, serving on the Veritas honors, even while shouldering the Award Selection Committee. She has responsibilities of class president in her included the university in her legacy senior year. plans as well. “I want to give back to the Although Gomez-Klein ultimately chose institution that gave me so much.” secular life, her sense of vocation remained Among her many achievements, Students Brittany Guale (right) and Yaskayra strong and she pursued a master’s degree Gomez-Klein considers receiving the Gonzalez (left) and Caldwell Director of at Seton Hall University in education C-Pin in her freshman year at Caldwell Campus Ministry Colleen O’Brien attended the with a focus on rehabilitation counseling. the greatest Catholic Relief Services Student Ambassadors She earned a honor she Leaders Together summit in July in Baltimore second master’s has ever and Washington D.C.. They joined student degree and I immersed myself in everything— received. groups from across the country to learn how an advanced becoming a Gamma Theta Lambda “At that to advocate for policy change on international certificate “ humanitarian issues such as global migration time, C-Pin in clinical sister, joining the Spanish Club and recipients and hunger. social work were chosen from Rutgers serving as its treasurer, writing for the On Advocacy Wednesday, July 18, they visited by their University lawmakers on Capitol Hill and urged them to classmates. and New York college’s Spanish newspaper. maintain 1 percent of the federal budget for Earning it University, international assistance so programs addressing meant that respectively. ” poverty and hunger can continue. “Actually you were considered to be the shining going to Capitol Hill and advocating was a Gomez-Klein’s professional experience example of the Caldwellian woman.” chance to get our message out there and let includes serving as a rehabilitation Anyone who has ever met Beatriz our voices be heard for those who do not have counselor and later as a psychotherapist at Gomez-Klein would be inclined to that voice to ask for change themselves,” said the University of Medicine and Dentistry agree: she remains a shining example Guale. Gonzalez says they look forward to of New Jersey (UMDNJ). In 1976, of a Caldwellian woman! n bringing what they learned to campus and Governor Brendan Byrne appointed her raising awareness about the Caldwell Catholic to the board of trustees of the New Jersey Relief Services Student Ambassador club. Youth Correctional Institute. She served as a field instructor and supervisor for the baccalaureate social work program at Seton Hall University and on the UMDNJ Alumni News Brief Clinical Records Review Committee. In the 1990s, Gomez-Klein worked for the Terry Ginther, who received a master’s in Visiting Nurse Association of Essex Valley pastoral ministry from Caldwell, was appointed as a case manager for elderly, disabled and Beatri0z Gomez-Klein chancellor for the Diocese of Trenton by Bishop AIDS individuals. Life’s greatest achievement? David M. O’Connell, C.M. She is executive In 2001, Gomez-Klein opened her own Graduating from Caldwell College. director of the diocesan Office of Pastoral Life and Mission where she oversees the practice in psychotherapy. She works Most influential book? with individuals and couples who want to “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Department of Pastoral Planning, the diocesan learn to cope with depression, anxiety or Viktor E. Frankl. Department of Pastoral Care, the Department interpersonal relationships. Her bilingual Advice for today’s Caldwell of Youth and Young Adults, Department of skills and her natural compassion allow her student? Evangelization and Family Life, campus ministry to reach a diverse community. Persevere when things get rough. and movements and retreat houses.

CALDWELLMAGAZINE 31 CALDWELLALUMNI Caldwell Alumna Builds Cultural Bridges What do an author, a musician, a radio executive, a writer and a chamber of commerce CEO have in common? This intriguing range of titles belongs to a she wanted to single woman: Eileen Donigan Curtis ’68. work again, We caught up with Curtis recently to talk and she wanted about how her career began. something new. Curtis initially chose Caldwell for practical Thinking the reasons. “I was a scholarship student. My local chamber family could not have sent me to college of commerce without financial support.” might be a good place to start, she Her ambitions surfaced quickly as she showed up at a took on 27 credits in her first semester, meeting wearing including two off-campus courses and a name tag that honors-level study in English and history. said “Jobseeker” As a music major, courses in voice and and introduced piano demanded hours of practice. In herself to the addition, she held a part-time job. Over chamber’s time she developed a deep interest in the president. history and theory of music, which led to graduate study in musicology. “He saw my name tag and asked if I was blog and write a second book, possibly a comfortable talking to new people,” she travelogue.” She also plans to spend more A chance conversation pointed Curtis said. “I told him about all the celebrities, time with Marshall, her husband of 43 toward a career in radio when she princes and heads of state that I had years, and her three daughters and five contacted WGMS, a Washington, D.C. n interviewed over the years. Before I knew grandchildren. “I am blessed.” classical music station. She lacked radio it, I was hired!” experience, but her pianist fingers aced the typing test and she was hired as an assistant Under Curtis’s guidance, the Herndon music director, later becoming the station’s Chamber grew into the 700-member music director. Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce and is now known for its commitment While at WGMS, Curtis earned a Peabody Eileen Donigan Curtis to diversity and for its contributions to 0 Award for a series on the history of STEM initiatives. Curtis, now retired, American music. She covered the Bergen Cherished Caldwell memory recounts the challenges and rewards of Studying writing with Sister Vivien. Festival as a guest of the Norwegian her chamber career in her self-published government, book, Motto and worked with “Chamber Don’t be afraid to try new things: jump in! the German I told him about all the celebrities, Tales: A government on Greatest achievements Memoir of Receiving the Peabody Award and the a program about princes and heads of state that I “ Commerce, Caldwell University Veritas Award. major German had interviewed over the years. Community composers. She Extraordinary adventures and Stunning received Austria’s Walking the Camino de Santiago in Before I knew it, I was hired! Forces of Silver Medal for Spain; visiting the jungles of Peru; Change.” the Arts for her ” attending a Buddhist retreat in Nepal. coverage of the Vienna State Opera’s first- What’s next for Curtis? You can bet it won’t Favorite sight on campus ever visit to the United States. be your typical retirement. “I want to fill in Sister Gerardine’s stained glass windows. the gaps in my knowledge base, particularly Curtis transitioned out of radio in the on topics that are important to humanity: Advice for students 1990s when the station changed hands. the environment, the divisiveness in our STEM and the liberal arts are equally By then she was busy raising a family communities. I would like to begin a important! and working as a freelance writer. But

32 CALDWELLMAGAZINE CALDWELLALUMNI Alumni President Letter from Alumni Association Board President MAry Sellitto-Curcio ’83 in memory of… Dear Fellow Alumni, This past spring we celebrated a final Mass in Please remember these our Mother Joseph Residence Hall chapel, which deceased alumni and family was founded by the Sisters of St. Dominic. This chapel was lovingly created, and physically members in your prayers. worked on, by the Sisters, with a joyful first Mary Ann Rush Walsh ’47 Mass celebrated on Christmas Eve, 1961. This beautiful chapel, with stained glass windows Elizabeth “Pat” Conway Knodel ’51 depicting Dominican saints, designed by Sister Rev. John Patrick McSpiritt, S.T. Julia Marie Moore, will now be centrally located Brother of Catherine McSpiritt Kelleher ’51, by the Newman Center, allowing better access for Anita McSpiritt McCudden ’49 and all on campus. The stained glass windows will be Marian McSpiritt ’45 moved to adorn our new chapel and other places Barbara Rustia Fox ’53 on campus. Jane Tassielli Speck ’54 Contemplating this change along with the recent June Dwyer Castano ’55 passing of our beloved Sister Vivien Jennings Carol Dunn Shehadi ’56 brings to mind our rich past and boundless future. Gail Keenan Hendricks ‘59 I am reminded of how very fortunate we are to have been blessed with the presence of our Sister Vivien Jennings, O.P. ’60, founding Dominican Sisters. They are the core and most integral part of our Caldwell family. Former president of Caldwell College For our alma mater, the value our Dominican Sisters bring is clear and vital to our ongoing Ed Beneville Jr. success. Our motto, Sapientia et Scientia (wisdom and knowledge), personifies their ongoing Husband of Barbara Kolakowski Beneville ’63 gift to all of us. Through their vision and because of their leadership, teachings and faith in Donald L. McNamara God, we as alums can each hope in some small way to emulate their spirit of love. Since our Husband of Mary O’Donnell McNamara ’65 beginnings in 1939, the commitment of the Sisters of St. Dominic to our students, alumni, Ed Lonyai faculty and staff has been inspiring; they have passed on their talent and depth of character Husband of Elaine Tweedus ’66 to all of us. Pamela Senkier Scott ’66 We ask for continued blessings for our beautiful Caldwell University. Marilyn Pinaud ’69 Sincerely, Grace Dannhardt Mother of Barbara Dannhardt DeChiaro ’71 and Kathleen Dannhardt Rooney ’75 Mary Sellitto-Curcio ’83 Barbara Buse President, Caldwell University Alumni Association Mother of Kathleen Buse ’72 Genevieve Ahlmeyer Mother of Alyse Ahlmeyer Casciano ’78 Jerry Commisso 2018-19 Caldwell University Alumni Association Board of Representatives Husband of Colette Fleming-Commisso ’78 Valerie Stuart ’80 PRESIDENT MEMBERS Mary Sellitto-Curcio ’83 Roxanne Knott-Kuczborski ’03 Mary Westervelt Mother of Helen Westervelt ’80 and Patricia Melanie Krause ’95 VICE PRESIDENT Westervelt Bator ’84 Elaine Bauer Zabriskie ’73 Javier Lewis ’14 Jonni Lucas ’96 Bernice Codey Hartwyk ’89 SECRETARY Lynne Giachetti Machtemes, Esq. ’98 Virginia Kolnacki Wilson ’04 Rosemary Hilbert ’96 Sundra Murray ’04 Cozette Ruddy ’05 Student Representative Nina Neglia ’89 Loriann Calogero Maria Conroy-Covin ’19 Anna Nelson ’88 Adjunct instructor, communications and Hritesh Regmi ’17 media studies Noel Ruane ’70 Stephanie Faust James Stark ’14 Student

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save the date HOMECOMING ADMISSIONS EVENTS Graduate information sessions and AND FAMILY WEEKEND undergraduate open houses Friday and Saturday, Sept. 21 and 22 Graduate – 10 A.M. • Undergraduate – 11 A.m.

Saturdays, OCT. 13 and NOV. 17 th 30 annual Cougar Campus Day and Instant Decision Day Golf Outing Thursday, Nov. 8 • 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 17 • Essex Fells Country Club Art Exhibitions Sept. 10 to Oct. 9 concerts “PLAY: An Iconography of Sport” Faculty Favorites Artist’s talk: Wednesday, Sept. 12 • 5 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22 • 3:30 p.m. • Alumni Theatre Opening reception: 6 to 8 p.m. Jazz Ensemble at Rockn’ Joe Thursday, Nov. 1 • 8 p.m. Oct. 22 to Nov. 27 “Valley of Ashes: Lizbeth Mitty and Jazz Ensemble Concert Matthew Conradt” Thursday, Nov. 15•7 p.m.•Student Center Gym Artist’s talk: Wednesday, Oct. 24 • 5 to 6 p.m. Solo and Chamber Concert Opening reception: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28 • 7 p.m. • Alumni Theatre

Christmas Spectacular Friday, Dec. 7 • 7 p.m. • STUDENT CENTER GYM MASSES Sept. 12 • Noon Mass of the Holy Spirit • Student Center Gym

LectureS Sept. 22 • 10:30 a.m. with MSNBC’s Steve Kornacki Homecoming Mass • Alumni TheatRE Thursday, Sept. 20 • 7 p.m. Nov. 1 • Noon Sister Maura Campbell lecture All Saints Day and Mass of Remembrance “Who Is This Dude Called Benedict?” Motherhouse Chapel with poet and journalist Judith Valente Thursday, Oct. 4 • 4:30 p.m. Dec. 5 • Noon Advent/Christmas • Student Center Gym

Jan. 28, 2019 • Noon Caldwell Day Saint Thomas Aquinas Feast Day Friday, Sept. 28 Motherhouse Chapel

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