The 2021 University Convocation

THE 2021The 2021 UniversityUNIVERSITY ConvocationCONVOCATION

Recognizing the recipients of the Bene Merenti Medal, the Archbishop Hughes Medal, and the Sursum Corda Award

Sunday, 7 March 2021 | 3 p.m. VIAvia zoomZOOM webinarWEBINAR Program About the Awards

Master of Ceremonies Dennis C. Jacobs The Bene Merenti Medal was specially struck for the first University Convocation of all faculties Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs on 10 May 1931 by Aloysius J. Hogan, S.J., President of Fordham from 1930 to 1936. On the face The National Anthem Jeff Ryan Miraflor, S.J., FCRH ’21 is a reproduction of the University seal and on the reverse side is the inscription Bene Merenti de Soloist Universitate Fordhamensi and the name of the recipient with the years of his or her service. Robert Minotti Organist The Archbishop Hughes Medal was commissioned by James C. Finlay, S.J., President of Invocation Michael C. McCarthy, S.J. Fordham from 1972 to 1983, to honor members of the administrative staff. This medal carries the Vice President for Mission Integration and Planning name of Archbishop John Hughes, whose ability in administration and devotion to the search for truth through education focused itself upon the founding of Fordham in 1841. Those who Presentation of Awards will receive this medal today serve his vision and his memory. The Bene Merenti Medal Maura B. Mast Dean, Fordham College at Rose Hill Laura Auricchio The Sursum Corda Award, established in 2005 by Fordham’s current president, Dean, Fordham College at Lincoln Center Joseph M. McShane, S.J., recognizes those members of the staff who have made outstanding The Archbishop Hughes Medal Jonathan Crystal contributions to the life and mission of the University. Recipients of the Sursum Corda Vice Provost (translated as “lift up your hearts”) Award have exhibited exceptional dedication and creativity in the fulfillment of their University duties while also exemplifying the Ignatian generosity of spirit Martha K. Hirst defined by men and women for others. Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer Jeffrey L. Gray Senior Vice President for Student Affairs The Sursum Corda Award Jeffrey L. Gray

Remarks Joseph M. McShane, S.J. President

Alma Mater Allyson Lambie, FCRH ’22 Soloist Robert Minotti Organist

Mary E. Procidano | Associate Professor of Psychology Eva D. Badowska | Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and Associate Vice President for Arts and Sciences We celebrate Mary Procidano’s 40 years of contributions to the Psychology Department, the When Eva Badowska arrived at Fordham, her colleagues in the English Department knew that University, and the field. Although she was hired in 1981 with her Ph.D. from Indiana University, they were welcoming a brilliant scholar and a dedicated teacher. But few realized at the time what her time at Fordham began when she enrolled as an undergraduate in Thomas More College, a transformative impact Eva would have on the University. Fordham’s college for women, and then graduated from Fordham College at Rose Hill after Thomas More merged with the College. Early on, she demonstrated a talent for academic leadership, starting with a stint as Co-Director of Comparative Literature and then Chair of the English Department. In 2012, she moved into Mary served as Chair of the Psychology Department from 1996 to 2002, and as Associate Chair the Dean’s Office of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, first as Associate Dean and then before and after that stint. One of her major accomplishments as Chair was revising the as Dean. She stabilized and strengthened the School at its centennial, resulting in a revival of its undergraduate Psychology major, bringing together the best of the different majors at Rose Hill programmatic offerings and student-focused professional development programs. She then and Lincoln Center as part of restructuring. assumed her current role, spearheading an effort to “Reimagine the Arts & Sciences” at Mary served with distinction on the Faculty Senate for 20 years, and as Associate Dean as well. Fordham, aimed at creating a stronger and unified Arts and Sciences voice across four schools Mary is a Clinical Psychologist who has had a private practice for many years. Her main research and two campuses. area is the impact of social support, illustrated by her current work with young adult survivors of Eva has prodded all of us to reimagine on a larger scale and to think more creatively about how we cancer. Mary and her husband, Steve, have three adult children. She is currently on phased can educate students and create knowledge in a changing world. She is a dedicated champion for retirement, and rumor has it that she is thinking about doing some bird watching. Thank you, faculty and a fierce advocate for the principles of liberal education. But most of all, she is a creative Mary, for your leadership, care, and compassion! visionary, combining an idealism about what the University could be with a rigorous analytical focus on how to get there. And all this while keeping a sense of humor and a genuineness that Robert Wharton | Professor of Strategy and Statistics, Gabelli School of Business makes those of us who know her proud and grateful to call her a colleague and friend.

Professor Robert Wharton has served the Gabelli School of Business and Fordham University with Associate Professor of Curriculum and Teaching honor and distinction. He has shown wisdom, expertise, and caring in his roles as Area Chair of Jane Bolgatz | Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Graduate School of Education the Management Systems Area, member of the Faculty Senate, AACSB Faculty Advisor, and current program director of the Master of Science in Applied Statistics and Decision Making. Jane Bolgatz is a gem in the Graduate School of Education whose infectious smile, keen intellect, Bob’s research on the publishing industry was honored with the 2007 Book Award from Alpha and staunch support for individuals of color consistently impress all who meet her. These qualities Sigma Nu and the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities for The Culture and Commerce of have been evident since she joined the faculty of the Division of Curriculum and Instruction after Publishing in the 21st Century, which he co-authored. His students cite his vast knowledge of having taught high school Social Studies and Language Arts for seven years. Her research, statistics, his capacity to explain complicated topics simply, and the evident care he displays in teaching, and service focus on anti-bias pedagogy. This work has helped students, educators, and his teaching. parents navigate incendiary questions of race and racism that impact academic performance and school climate. His colleagues, meanwhile, know him for his thoughtfulness and for his calm, reasoned approach to solving problems. We salute Bob on his 40 years at Fordham and thank his wife, Jane is well-suited to this work, as she is a fearless educator and leader who challenges herself, her Florence, and their son and three grandchildren for sharing him with us for all these years. colleagues, and her students to identify and demonstrate best practices to show respect and give Congratulations, Bob! voice to all. This approach is reflected in her daily interactions with others and in her seminal, award-winning book, Talking Race in the Classroom. Her fearlessness is matched by a willingness to hear and honor others’ perspectives, and to acknowledge and learn from mistakes. As Associate Dean, Jane has shown herself to be a just, capable, and kind administrator who advocates and promotes all that is good in our school community while continually striving for improvement. Overall, to know Jane is to be inspired by her and to commit to doing our part to make Fordham a welcoming home for all. Bene Merenti Medal | Twenty Years Bene Merenti Medal | Twenty Years

Dennis Cappello | Associate Clinical Professor of Law and Ethics, Gabelli School of Business Esther Lomas-Sampedro | Senior Lecturer of Spanish and Spanish Language Coordinator

A proud alumnus of the Gabelli School of Business, where he received his B.S. magna cum laude, Esther Lomas-Sampedro started teaching at Fordham while she was still completing her Ph.D. in Dennis Cappello is a gifted educator and a valued colleague. Dennis is a three-time recipient of the Contemporary Spanish Literature at SUNY Stony Brook. Despite the pressures of simultaneously Faculty Cura Personalis Award for his commitment to Jesuit values, including his dedication to working on her dissertation and teaching at Fordham, Esther devoted much of her time to encouraging students to achieve their full potential. Through the infusion of real-world examples tutoring students, as well as sharing her knowledge about language pedagogy and technology from his career as a CPA and practicing attorney, Dennis has the remarkable ability to bring to life with other language instructors. She has risen through the ranks to become one of the Spanish the words of a textbook. Students love Dennis for his fountain of knowledge, wealth of practical Language Coordinators. As such, Esther has had the singularly important task of designing experience, and accessible pedagogy. course syllabi and supervising all of the Spanish language instructors. Especially last year, with the transition to online instruction, Esther’s spirit of organization, service, and collegiality rose For years, Dennis has served Gabelli students selflessly as Pre-Law Advisor. He is always available to meet the daunting challenge of providing our students with an academically stimulating and to help students with questions and to guide them through the complex law school admissions intellectually rich experience. She worked tirelessly to ensure that language instructors had the process. Dennis is also a dedicated ambassador for the Gabelli School and Fordham. He often technological resources to make students’ language-learning experience come to life. participates in prospective student recruiting events and uses his advocacy skills to successfully persuade applicants to attend the University. As a colleague, Dennis is a role model who inspires As a teacher, Esther’s dedication and patience have garnered praise from her many devoted trust in all those who have the privilege of working with and knowing him. students. As a colleague, she has lightened up the hallways with her permanent smile and good spirit. Her enthusiasm for new projects to enrich teaching has always been contagious and has His devotion to the Fordham community is surpassed only by his devotion to, and love for, his influenced much of Fordham’s Spanish instruction, creating a stimulating and collegial wife of 41 years, Victoria, and their daughter, Elizabeth. Dennis proudly notes that his favorite atmosphere. doctor calls him Dad. Recently, Dennis expanded his family to include a sweet puppy named Percy. A man of integrity, compassion, humility, and decency, Dennis is a gift to Fordham. The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures has much for which to thank you. Congratulations, Esther! Jeannine Hill Fletcher | Professor of Theology Elizabeth Maresca | Clinical Professor of Law, School of Law A Chicago-area native, Professor Jeannine Hill Fletcher served in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and earned her Th.D. at Harvard Divinity School. At Fordham, Jeannine’s work has been suffused by When Elizabeth Maresca arrived at Fordham Law School, she was the perfect choice to launch its her tireless dedication to the Ignatian values of intellectual integrity, justice, and “women and men Tax Clinic for low-income taxpayers in disputes with the IRS—a Fordham College alumna (and for others,” as well as to foster solidarity with grassroots change-seekers, including the Northwest swim team captain!) with a J.D. and L.L.M. in Taxation, a tax litigator with a distinguished career Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition and the Plowshares Peace Movement. in both private and public practice, and someone with the energy and engagement one hopes for in a teacher. In fact, she would contribute far more. Professor Hill Fletcher’s students admire her “extraordinarily genuine search for what is true and just” and “her incredibly rigorous and systematic way of thinking.” A “skilled pedagogue” and an In her more than 20 years at Fordham, Professor Maresca has taught, mentored, and inspired attentive, “empowering teacher and mentor,” her teaching “weaves together critical scholarship hundreds of students, in the courts and in the classroom. Devoted to justice, client service, and an with community-building,” as her classes become “truly shared endeavors in which everyone enriched student experience, she expanded her clinic’s reach from individual tax disputes to learns together.” At Fordham’s Dorothy Day Center in the Bronx—and beyond—Jeannine leads by include law reform and consumer cases, legislative advocacy, and community education. She has example, encouraging faith-inspired work at the frontiers of the study of religions, and of action to also been a supportive and collaborative colleague, full of ideas and ready with hands-on support. combat injustice and promote the common good. Her role as a leader and educator extends outside the Law School, where she has been an Professor Hill Fletcher’s scholarship at the crossroads of Christian theology and issues of important voice among policymakers, lawyers who serve in low-income tax clinics, and consumer diversity—religious, cultural, race, and gender—embodies these same qualities and commitments. advocates. Soon recognized as an engaging national expert on the intersection of tax and Her most recent, widely discussed book, The Sin of White Supremacy: Christianity, Racism and Religious consumer law, Professor Maresca became a much sought-after contributor to legal treatises and Diversity in America, investigates how Christian theologies have underwritten ideologies of white speaker at dozens of national conferences on a wide range of public interest topics in tax and supremacy and how to disentangle them, and explores resources in Christianity for transformative consumer law. She has also trained scores of community-based legal services lawyers and politics and activist practice. participated actively in their tax clinic network. Professor Maresca exemplifies a life being lived “in the service of others.” Bene Merenti Medal | Twenty Years Bene Merenti Medal | Twenty Years

Dana B. Marlowe | Clinical Professor of Social Work David Storey | Associate Professor of Visual Arts Director of Academic Excellence and Teaching Innovation, Graduate School of Social Service David Storey has successfully anchored Visual Arts at Rose Hill for the last 14 years. Invariably open, engaged, patient, and funny, David has made it his mission to turn his classes, especially the For the past 20 years, Dr. Dana B. Marlowe has been recognized as an outstanding professor and foundation courses he regularly teaches, into a gateway for students’ lifelong and fulfilling educator in the Graduate School of Social Service. In the classroom, Dr. Marlowe creates an engagement with the arts. A renowned painter, draughtsman, and print-maker, he is the recipient environment that fosters student engagement and enhances learning. Her pedagogical approach is of a Guggenheim fellowship and eight residencies at the prestigious Yaddo and MacDowell arts innovative and includes creative methods to excite countless students. As a Clinical Professor, her colonies. He was recently commissioned to create 14 mosaic murals in the New York subway, and commitment and dedication to mentoring students promote an atmosphere that enables students his work is housed in major museum and public collections. to grow and thrive as they move toward becoming professionals. Dr. Marlowe’s students David counts teaching at Fordham as one of his proudest achievements. He has made the arts at consistently describe her as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and caring. She is truly a master teacher. Rose Hill (and Lincoln Center too) a key part of a well-rounded Fordham education, sending In her role as Director of Academic Excellence and Teaching Innovation, she provides leadership students into graduate work and the various arts-related professions but also imbuing those to advance the state-of-the-art teaching methods for faculty. Her practice experience is significant. headed into other fields with a lasting appreciation of the joys of art. The son of the well-known Between the years 1992 and 1995, she participated in three humanitarian missions to Belarus, California arts educator James Storey, David shares a deep commitment to teaching with his wife, Russia, to help children affected by the Chernobyl disaster. She has also worked in the health care Jane Kent, the Chair of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Vermont. field, in areas including HIV/AIDS, trauma, and mental health. Currently, Dr. Marlowe’s research David Storey has been a loved, admired, and respected colleague these many years, and we is focused on BRCA and how women cope with having that genetic mutation across their lifetime. happily salute him. Her eyes light up when she talks about her family: her husband, Michael, daughter, Rebecca, and son, Noah. She speaks with pride and love for all of them. Thank you, Dr. Marlowe, for all of your Eileen van Buren | Adjunct Professor of Philosophy remarkable contributions to Fordham. The Philosophy Department has turned to Eileen van Buren for more than 20 years for her very fine teaching in the core curriculum. Instruction in required courses can be challenging for any Artist in Residence Dawn Akemi Saito | professor, but Eileen’s students consistently praise her energy and enthusiasm in the classroom. She displays talent and skill for bringing light to what may seem at first to be obscure theory Dawn Akemi Saito’s contributions to the Fordham Theatre Program are central to its reputation as and allowing students to feel at ease with Aristotle and Immanuel Kant. Moreover, she’s a training ground for young artists who shall lead theatre to its future. Dawn is beloved by current and former students. This regard springs from both her unwavering belief in the distinctive gifts committed to being fully available to her students for advising and discussion. each individual student possesses and her commitment to the arduous work of helping them build One student’s words reflect well the general sentiment: “I found Professor van Buren’s rigorous lifelong practices to cultivate and share their gifts. enthusiasm when teaching the class was super engaging and made the class infinitely more Dawn was recruited two decades ago by the late Larry Sacharow, who recognized that her interesting. Her passion for the subject made me want to hear more about philosophy.” And expertise as a teacher of acting and movement was wed to her wisdom and compassion. Dawn is another puts it concisely: “This professor is amazing!” a shelter in the storm for marginalized students; a fierce advocate for Asian and Asian American Faculty colleagues who have had the pleasure of sitting in on her classes are impressed with theatre; and a lightning bolt of motivation for students who sense there is something beyond the the expertise, clarity, and insight—and wit—she brings to her presentations of key philosophical edges of their comfort but who are afraid to leap. She exemplifies the highest expression of and ethical theories. Having earned her doctorate at Fordham, she has served her students embodied practice as both critical and creative methodology. exceedingly well through the years, and the Department happily joins the entire Fordham Dawn maintains a vital transdisciplinary professional artistic practice and remains an anchor of community in celebrating Eileen with a Bene Merenti medal in recognition of her many New York City’s performance art and off-Broadway theatre scenes. A new generation embraces contributions to Fordham. her work. She is sought after as a collaborator by innovative contemporary artists like Haruna Lee. The hallmark of Dawn’s work is a willingness to walk into the fearsome shadows of human behavior and set up a light to help us all face the truths of our contradictions. She then models how we might move into possibility together. Dawn reflects the soul of Fordham Theatre. Bene Merenti Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Forty Years

An Yan | Professor of Finance Roberta Willim | Assistant Dean, Fordham School of Professional and Continuing Studies Associate Dean of Research and Faculty Development, Gabelli School of Business Few exemplify the tenets of cura personalis as fully as Roberta Willim. Her respect for education, Professor An Yan joined Fordham after earning his undergraduate degree from Tsinghua compassion for others, and full commitment to supporting students in their chosen academic University and his Ph.D. from Boston College. We are grateful to these well-known institutions for pursuits have consistently demonstrated all that is noteworthy in the field of higher education. producing a scholar who has truly become a role model for all colleagues at the Gabelli School of Business. But, alas, nothing in life is perfect, and our dear friend is an ardent Red Sox fan! A graduate of the College of New Rochelle and of the University of Massachusetts, Roberta brought her expertise and counseling abilities to Fordham after an extensive career as a medical An Yan shines in every aspect of academic life, but his true passion is quality research, as social worker with the Family Service Association of Boston, the Bronx Municipal Hospital evidenced by many publications in the most prestigious journals in Finance, several Best Paper Center, and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Her contributions in the Health Careers Awards, editorships in academic journals, and a visiting professorship at a prestigious international Opportunity Program, her first position at Fordham, evolved into her assistant deanship and to university. He also received the Changjiang (Yangtze River) Scholar Chair Professorship, the more than 25 years as an Adjunct Instructor. She was a two-time recipient of the PCS highest academic honor awarded by China’s Ministry of Education to international scholars. His Outstanding Teaching Award, a true testament to her sincere devotion to student development. reputation was instrumental in launching many Fordham programs. Happily, he brings this same high standard to things outside of academia, such as his impeccable taste in red wine. A staunch advocate, Dean Willim advised generations of students with empathy, respect, good humor, and grace, while instilling a spirit of perseverance. Her leadership is built on maintaining Coming from Buddhist parents in Nanjing, An Yan is a kind and generous person, qualities that an unfailing focus on what is best in the service of our students. Adult students are drawn not make him a great academic administrator: Area Chair, Associate Dean of Research and Faculty only by Roberta’s acumen in preprofessional advising but also by her generosity of spirit and her Development, Director of the DPS program with Peking University...the list is long. We wish to ever-genuine concern for them as persons. She is the mother of two sons, Christopher and share this special moment with his parents, with his sister and her family, with Lilly, his wonderful Robert, and the proud grandmother of two grandchildren, London Olivia and Rhyse Oliver. wife and Tsinghua classmate, and with their children, Nathan and Daniel, both rising soccer stars. Congratulations, Dean Willim! An Yan: Great colleague, great scholar, great friend. Congratulations! Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years

Javed Ahamad | Manager of Network Services, School of Law George Bodarky | News and Public Affairs Director, WFUV

Javed Ahamad joined the Fordham Law family in January 2001 as a Support Technician eager WFUV is well known as a music tastemaker but, thanks to George, its award-winning to build a career in IT infrastructure management. Over the years, he has applied his newsroom is also renowned. Like his many students, this highly respected journalist, editor, technology acumen to transform the Law School’s infrastructure and keep it at the forefront and teacher started his career at WFUV. George honed his reporting skills in commercial radio, of academic computing. and then “came back to give back” to subsequent generations of Fordham undergraduates. Under George’s guidance, WFUV’s journalism training is second to none. Fellow university While working part-time to provide technical support to Law students, Javed volunteered with NPR stations often seek his insights to develop their own programs. the Network Services team to learn the ins and outs of server, storage, and network management. Within months, he was offered an opportunity as Network Specialist to match his A kind and patient mentor, George has cultivated hundreds of young journalists, now found at appetite for learning and growth. In 2007, he was promoted to System Administrator to oversee local stations and national organizations. His commitment prompted Fordham’s United Student the School’s back-end infrastructure day-to-day operations. Javed not only modernized the Government to recognize George with its 2020 Beacon Exemplar Award “in recognition of School’s IT infrastructure and made it robust, but he did it with passion, dedication, and a outstanding dedication to inspiring, supporting, and motivating students.” This resourceful, strong work ethic—something he exemplifies to this day. In 2013, he was once again recognized strategic leader has also built relationships with local organizations to spotlight Bronx for his IT leadership and was promoted to Manager of Network Services. As someone who has neighborhoods and the issues that impact them. spearheaded many successful IT initiatives over the last two decades, Javed’s efforts to design George is a boundless source of positivity and creativity, widely appreciated by his WFUV and and relocate the School’s infrastructure to a new building in 2014 are shining examples of his Communication faculty colleagues. When not teaching or interviewing a quirky New Yorker for exemplary contribution to Fordham Law. his program, Cityscape, George can be found running marathons, playing games, or enjoying Besides his devotion to work, his two loves are his son, Herish Ahamad, and his wife, Rakhee himself at WFUV’s dance parties, especially when a song by Madonna is spinning. Dharmo. Congratulations on receiving the Archbishop Hughes Medal. His dedication to his longtime partner, John, and family are conspicuous, and his nephews especially appreciate Uncle Georgie for his famous apple cinnamon cupcakes. Yevgeniya Alkayeva | Laboratory Coordinator, Department of Natural Sciences, Fordham College at Lincoln Center Russ Borris | Music Director, WFUV Dr. Yevgeniya Alkayeva joined Fordham’s Department of Natural Sciences in 2001 as Laboratory Coordinator for all of the core science courses, as well as Laboratory Instructor for Organic Music stations sift through an overwhelming amount of artist submissions to decide what is Chemistry I and II. She received her Ph.D. in Physical Organic Chemistry in 1982 from the worthy of airplay. Possessed of a skilled ear and responsible for WFUV’s overall music curation, Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk (Siberia), one of the top scientific institutes in Russia. Russ capably separates the beat from the chaff. In addition to publishing extensively in scientific journals, she has received many patents for her Russ is respected across the industry and shapes WFUV’s sound in many ways. He is a talented synthesis work, most notably for her efforts to improve the synthesis of folic acid and other show host and interviewer, and a skilled DJ, whose 1980s favorites can pull even the most pharmacologically important compounds. Yevgeniya’s passion for research is further reflected in shoegazing music fans onto the dance floor. It is only natural, then, that this charming man is a the time she spends mentoring countless Natural Sciences majors in her labs, a task well above lifelong Smiths fan. His WFUV colleagues count on him to keep things organized and moving her job description. She is known and respected for both her brilliance and kindness, and non- forward, and he is known for his creative problem solving. Russ has taken generations of interns science students in the core laboratories routinely commend her caring attitude and express under his wing, mentoring them in the ways of the music business, and making introductions their gratitude to her for reducing their anxieties about science. that result in career-starting jobs. Yevgeniya is always willing to step in to assist her fellow colleagues without hesitation. A caring Family (both biological and radio) is extremely important to Russ, and he is supported by his and thoughtful person, she is so much more than a colleague—she is a friend and a valued mom, his wife, Billie, and their beautiful son and daughter. A New Jerseyan and baseball diehard (the Mets, of course) who commutes to the stronghold of the Yankees, Russ holds an astounding member of the Department and is well-deserving of this University honor. range of baseball and music stats in his head. If you ever seek genuine barbecue while in Austin, bring Russ along. You have to love a grown man who insists on celebrating his birthday with Carvel’s Cookie Puss. Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years

Stephen G. Brown | Assistant Dean of Enrollment, School of Law Alexander Del Rosario De La Cruz | TRIO—Talent Search Program Counselor

Over the last 20 years, first as the Director of Financial Aid and now as Assistant Dean of Alexander Del Rosario De La Cruz was born in the Dominican Republic. Like many people, Enrollment, Stephen G. Brown has advised thousands of Law students—talking in earnest with because of family circumstances, he was raised by his maternal grandparents. His grandfather, them as they navigate not only the challenging decision of where to start their legal careers, but a shoemaker and a saddler, and his grandmother, a housewife and home keeper, instilled in him also guiding them through the complex and daunting task of financing their graduate education. a sense of responsibility, honesty, respect, and service, as well as a strong belief in a creator. He is widely recognized in the financial aid community as an expert in his field. He has spoken After graduating from high school, he came to live in New York City with his mother and was at numerous conferences, advised legislative reform, and is constantly called on by peers for his admitted to the City College of New York, where he earned his B.A. in Business Administration. sage advice. In 2018, Steve was honored by the Council on Legal Education with an EDGE While there, he participated in TRIO—Student Support Services, a program for low-income, award, which is given to individuals who have contributed to education, diversity, and greater first-generation, college-bound students, which encourages and supports participants in equality in the legal profession. completing their higher education. After graduation, he was hired by TRIO—Talent Search at Steve is a true son of Fordham. He started as a freshman, already committed to the Jesuit ideals Fordham, where he works as a Counselor, assisting students so they can earn a bachelor’s of service through his work as an Eagle Scout. He met his wife, Nora, in the hallowed halls of degree. While working at Fordham, Alexander completed an M.S. in Education and Counseling the Rose Hill campus, and they now have three children: Nora, Kate, and Tim. In addition to in the Graduate School of Education. In 2011, he became a United States citizen. being a dedicated husband and father, Steve is an avid bike rider—you’ll often see him carrying Since he was young, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in which he could serve and tires into his office. He continues his commitment to the Boy Scouts of America and makes a help others around him to have a better life. His grandparents, without a doubt, left a major mean cheesecake, which is always requested at office holiday events. mark in his life and upbringing, helping him become the citizen he is today. He wants to Today, his colleagues and alma mater thank him for his many years of commitment, service, and acknowledge and thank his mother, Santa De La Cruz, and his colleagues Felix Martinez true dedication to cura personalis. and Jorge A. Martinez Santiago.

Brendan H. Cahill | Executive Director, Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs Jose A. Deleon | Manager of Data Integration, Fordham IT

In 2001, Joseph O’Hare, S.J., then president of Fordham, was presented with an offer he could Jose Deleon—a manager, programmer, software developer, and coder—simply achieves not refuse. The Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs (IIHA) at Hunter College was excellence in all areas. He is a valuable member of Fordham IT and is critical in making sure looking for a new home. When it moved to Fordham, the search for a permanent Executive that our integration framework remains flawless. He is truly talented, with an incredible show of Director took place. This role landed in the very capable and creative hands of Brendan Cahill. integrity, dedication, teamwork, and leadership. Often, you will notice him working extended office hours and weekends performing systems upgrades, building applications, and taking care Brendan is the leader of this unique bridge Fordham offers between academia and humanitarian of software issues, all while maintaining a work-life balance with his wife, Leslie, and son, Alex. efforts worldwide. Not only has he been involved in the mission-centric work of directing and teaching humanitarian programs throughout the world, Brendan has worked closely with the Jose takes pride in being a Fordham alumnus. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics in Arts and Sciences deans to create an undergraduate major in Humanitarian Studies, an 2001 and Master of Science in Computer Science in 2008. After completing his undergraduate International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance, and Master’s Degrees in Humanitarian studies, he worked in various areas of the University. He supervised and trained clerical and Studies and International Humanitarian Action—all with the goal to train and educate current student workers, helped maintain the E-Reserve service, and worked as an Instructional and future aid workers. Technologist for faculty and staff. Besides his work for the IIHA, Brendan sits on the board of the American Irish Historical After completing his M.S., he transitioned into different areas. He has worked as a Programmer Society, an organization very close to his heart. Brendan received his B.A. from Colby College Analyst, as a Senior Business Intelligence Analyst, and as a Senior Programmer Analyst. and his M.B.A. from Fordham University. He is the proud father of four children: Helen, Currently, he is working as a Manager of Data Integration. At times, he also teaches as an Beatrice, Oliver, and Edward. The oldest, Helen, has started her freshman year at the University. Adjunct Professor in the Computer Science Department. Congratulations, Jose, on your 20 years His lovely wife, Christina, has been his rock and supporter throughout his career. Of course, we of service and a job well done! have to mention his faithful dog Layla, too! Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years

Charles D. Elwood | Deputy Director of Athletics Richard Miranda | Manager of Events and Operations, Office of Conference Services

If the Fordham Athletics Department was a human body, Charlie Elwood would be its brain. Richard grew up and attended school in Ridgewood, Queens. He received a Bachelor’s in And its heart. And its soul. For the past 20 years, he has been an integral part of running an Economics and a Master’s in Investment Relations while working in Conference Services at NCAA Division I athletics program at his alma mater. Charlie commenced his Fordham tenure Fordham. Richard arrived as a quiet, unassuming person to apply for a part-time position that in 2001 when he was named Director of Athletic Administration. In 2012, he was promoted to simply called for entering reservations and answering phone calls for the office. Richard took his current position of Deputy Director of Athletics. over the position from other part-time student workers and ran with it. He organized and created a more professional position that involved updating procedures for requesting and Elwood oversees the comprehensive day-to-day internal operations of the Athletics Department. confirming reservations as well as meeting with other department administrators, all while These responsibilities include fiscal management; facility and event management; scheduling; working hard at his part-time courses and finishing his undergraduate and graduate degrees. personnel administration; compliance; assisting in the Department’s strategic planning process; sports information; and the intramural, recreation, and club sport programs. On the national Richard can frequently be seen at his desk sampling the best burgers he found in Midtown and and conference levels, Elwood has served on NCAA, Atlantic 10, and Big East Men’s Soccer on the Upper West Side. He also enjoys working out at the gym during lunchtime or before committees, serving as chair of all three groups. work. After holidays, Richard will come back to the office and share the recipes he prepared for his mother, brother, and grandmother. Elwood received a Master’s in Sports Administration from Biscayne College in Florida in 1981 and an M.B.A. in marketing from DePaul University in 1986. He has worked at DePaul, William Richard is a loyal and vital part of his family and as a member of the Fordham community. & Mary, and St. John’s University, where he served as a Senior Associate Athletic Director before Thank you, Richard, for your commitment to Conference Services and congratulations on your returning to his alma mater. 20 years at Fordham University! A 1980 graduate of Fordham, Charlie and his wife, Carolyn, are the proud parents of two daughters, Blake, a 2019 Fordham graduate, who was a member of the Track and Field team, Mary Nolan | Human Resources Business Partner and Kylie, a senior at Fordham and a member of the Fordham Crew team, making the Elwoods a true Ramily. Mary Nolan has been part of the Office of Human Resources Management for 20 years. She currently serves our Fordham Community as a Human Resources Business Partner. She is kind, hardworking, and dedicated, exemplifying what it means to live out the Fordham mission. She Scott Kwiatkowski | Associate Sports Information Director, Fordham Athletics truly cares about the whole person and treats everyone with respect. That is probably why she will soon be graduating from Fordham with her Master of Social Work degree. When it comes to Scott Kwiatkowski the term, “jack of all trades, master of none,” is only half true. He is truly a master of all trades when it comes to Fordham Athletics. For the past 20 Mary welcomes opportunities to grow. She started her career at Fordham in a clerical position years, Scott has been keeping Fordham Athletics at the forefront of all things technology related, while raising two children, Dylan and Jennifer. Her family continued to grow, as did her energy from sound systems and scoreboards to video streaming. and eagerness to continue to develop professionally. Fast forward to today—Mary’s family has grown to include three more children, Kristie, Mikalya, and Shayna, and she works full time. In Scott arrived at Fordham as a freshman in 1997—and never left. He transitioned from a Student her limited spare time, she earned her undergraduate degree from Fordham. Assistant with the Sports Information Office to Assistant Sports Information Director following his graduation in 2001. In 2011, he was promoted to his current position as Associate Sports Mary is a pleasure to work with, and her willingness to welcome challenges and new projects Information Director. Among Scott’s accolades is the 2008 Jack Coffey Award, which is never ceases to amaze. She diligently works to resolve any situation that arises. The HR team, as presented to a Fordham administrator, alum, or coach for outstanding contributions and well as our Fordham community, can always count on Mary. Congratulations, Mary, on 20 dedication to the athletics program. He was also named the Collegiate Water Polo Association wonderful and productive years at Fordham! Northern Division Sports Information Director of the Year twice—for the 2010 and 2011 seasons. More recently, Scott received an honorary letter at the 2014 Block “F” Dinner. When not working to promote the various Fordham teams, Scott can be found tending to his vast trading card collection and rooting for his hometown Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, along with the New York Yankees. Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years

Kate O’Brien-Nicholson | Associate Director and Marketing and Laura Gibney O’Shea | Assistant Dean for Finance, School of Law Sales Director, Fordham University Press Laura Gibney O’Shea knows everything about the Law School. That’s because every dime that Kate O’Brien-Nicholson has been the marketing force behind Fordham University Press (FUP) is spent goes through Laura’s purview so that it is tracked and accounted. Like an air traffic since September 17, 2001, when she was hired as Marketing Manager. She was promoted to controller, she keeps on top of a never-ending stream of financial comings and goings. She is Marketing Director in 2011 and then promoted to Associate Director and Marketing and Sales the School’s Houdini of managing accounts, always seeking to support students, faculty, and Director in 2017. Her connection to the Fordham community goes deeper than merely being an administrators. employee at FUP for 20 years. After receiving her B.S. in Business Administration from Fordham and working for eight years at various publishing houses in New York, she returned to Laura is also the Law School’s rapid response team, scrambling to perform budget gymnastics Fordham to earn an M.A. in Humanities and Sciences while working full time at the Press. whenever the call comes from Rose Hill—and it comes often. This past year, she has done it all from her laptop in an attic in the Bronx while supervising the schooling of her two children, Kate has deftly navigated the changing landscape of academic publishing with calm and Scarlett and Declan, while her husband, Stephen, is taking care of Fordham through his work steadfast determination and has been instrumental in the growth and success of Fordham in the Facilities Department. University Press. Among Kate’s countless accomplishments, she has overseen the FUP website’s design to give the books and authors increased exposure and helped transition sales and Yet Laura was not always a master of budgets and accounts. She came to Fordham 20 years ago distribution operations multiple times. as a Faculty Secretary. Her precision and her ability to plan and multitask, combined with her tremendous dedication to getting things right, came to the attention of Associate Deans Mike Kate’s dedication to FUP and its mission of publishing boundary-breaking scholarship is Lanzarone and Ann Moynihan, and Laura was conscripted into the budget business. After evidenced by her tireless efforts to create promotional plans and author events, attend academic earning her J.D. from Fordham at night, Laura is now the indispensable Assistant Dean for conferences, develop special web initiatives, and give presentations to the sales reps. Despite the Finance, keeping us all on track through the cacophony of university life. pandemic lockdown, Kate swiftly adjusted to a remote environment, including coordinating online events for FUP authors. In addition to being a wonderful co-worker and strong advocate for academic publishing, Kate is devoted to her husband and two sons. Edward Palermo | Assistant Director of Campus Operations

Twenty years ago, Edward Palermo started at Fordham in the Campus Operations Department Catherine A. O’Hara | Assistant Director of Admissions and Recruitment, as a Supervisor. He quickly established himself as a hard worker with an uncompromising style Gabelli School of Business—Graduate Division for efficiency and fairness. Many of you may not know that Edward caught our attention three years prior to starting with us because he was employed by our moving vendor, Moving Ahead, Cathy joined the Gabelli School of Business in November 2001 and worked closely with the and we were able to see and benefit from his reliability and initiative during that time. NYC Immersions programs. In 2002, she moved to the Executive M.B.A. Program, where she was involved with admissions and recruitment, program planning, and the student experience. Edward’s devotion to Fordham is seen in his commitment to his work and the many extra hours he devotes to ensuring the Department is running efficiently. He comes to work every day, and As Assistant Director of Admissions, Cathy has been responsible for recruiting students into even when we tell him, “You have to take a vacation,” he still comes to work because of his the M.S. in Management and Media Management, as well our International Business Bridge commitment and the love for Fordham. program since 2014. She also plays an important role in building our undergraduate to graduate school pipelines and serves as the liaison between graduate admissions and various Many years ago, Edward came very close to earning his undergraduate degree in Accounting. undergraduate constituent groups at Fordham. In any given year, Cathy engages with more than His dreams may become a reality soon. Last year when his son, Andrew, graduated from high 500 prospective students. school and was accepted at Fordham, Edward became motivated to restart his degree aspirations alongside his son. Edward always demonstrates a thirst for learning, and we are very proud to Cathy embodies the image of a passionate servant leader, and does not hesitate to go above and see his desire to finish. Who knows, maybe those dreams of becoming a stockbroker will come beyond her role. Oftentimes, she finds herself playing the role of counselor, advisor, confidante, to light someday too after all. and cheerleader for candidates seeking to advance their career goals and fulfill their personal aspirations. Anyone who engages with Cathy always remarks on her high energy, enthusiasm, Edward’s dedication, trustworthiness, and commitment have always been clear. Thank you for warmth, and ability to connect with people. In the words of Maya Angelou, “…people will everything you do, and congratulations on your 20 years at Fordham. forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Congratulations, Cathy, on 20 years at Fordham and for being such an important part of the Gabelli School family! Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years

Midge Quinn | Director of Space Systems for Planning and Analytics, Dawn Silvestri | Administrative Assistant, Office of the President Office of the Vice President for Lincoln Center What joy it is to salute Dawn Silvestri on her 20th year at Fordham University! Dawn started Throughout her career, Midge has taken every opportunity to build her professional experience her time at Fordham in the Controller’s Office. She then took on a part-time role in the and meaningful relationships while living by the Jesuit tenet of cura personalis. She began her Political Science Department before taking some time to raise her family. She returned to the journey at Rose Hill as Reservation Coordinator, mastering the Resource 25 reservation system Westchester Campus for a very brief stint before finally returning to the Finance Office as and thriving in supervising student workers and working with event clients. In 2005, as Assistant the Senior Executive Secretary in the Accounting Services Group. Then, a little over a year Director for the unique Ram Van Office, she proved adept at navigating the complexities of ago, things took a momentous turn when she joined the President’s Office as its Administrative scheduling and showed she had the fortitude needed for managing student drivers. Assistant. In 2008, Midge pivoted to Lincoln Center to join Facilities as the Operations Coordinator and Throughout this time, Dawn has shown how extremely gifted she is, demonstrating strong mastered the work order system to coordinate services. In 2011, as Assistant Project Manager, organizational skills and enthusiasm in all she does, as well as superb editing skills. She is truly Midge was an invaluable member of the team that built the new Law School building and an example of living the doctrine of “care of the work.” Her colleagues would agree that any McKeon Hall. With her new advanced skill set, Midge went on to assist with many campus office lucky enough to have Dawn is a more enjoyable place. projects at Lincoln Center. In 2019, Midge found herself uniquely qualified to transition to the role of Director of Space Systems for Planning and Analytics. Midge skillfully navigates the Dawn’s family, including her husband, Joe, and children Joseph, JP, and Maria, all join with us in intricacies of the University’s advanced 25Live Pro reservation system and is entrusted with congratulating her on 20 years of service. We look forward to sharing many more lunches from supporting the stewardship of the valued resource of University space. Tino’s with her in the years ahead. Beloved by her three children and their spouses, Midge shines in her role as “G-Ma” to three Director of Faculty Support, School of Law lively grandsons. She enjoys life to the fullest, especially time at the beach, hiking, and her daily Christian P. Steriti | walks with her faithful dog, Chloe. Christian Steriti started his career at the Law School as a temporary employee in the Office of Faculty Support in 2001 and, since 2011, has been its Director. He moved from a temporary Janeen Shaitelman | Promotions and Marketing Director, WFUV position to being a full-time Faculty Secretary in October 2001 on the strength of his skills and work ethic. Faculty members frequently requested to have him assigned to work with them, and It is difficult to find someone more passionate about WFUV’s mission than Janeen. She is he welcomed the challenge of partnering with some of the most productive faculty members to dedicated to raising awareness of the station and excels at describing it to others. Janeen is well help advance their research and educate their students. connected, with relationships across the cultural community. An accomplished builder of partnerships with concert venues and festivals such as Forest Hills Stadium, the Newport Folk Six years later, when the opportunity came to take on more of a supervisory and leadership role, Festival, and New York City Parks, she works tirelessly to give WFUV a larger footprint in our Christian jumped at the chance and put his organizational and problem-solving skills to good region and beyond. use as Manager. Then, when the Director of the Office left, Christian was the obvious choice to take on the full leadership of the Office. Though humble regarding her accomplishments, Janeen has for decades organized public events including co-producing WFUV’s holiday benefit at the Beacon Theatre, as well as FUV boat and With an eye toward streamlining work and enhancing support, he set about enhancing dance parties. Ever resourceful, she has the rare gift of delivering great impact on a modest workflow and taking on work not traditionally associated with his area. Christian has continued budget. Janeen is a wonderful partner to WFUV’s sponsorship team, opening doors and helping to look for ways to serve the Law faculty. He is particularly proficient at handling challenging clients envision and enhance promotions. situations, as evidenced by his “down-time” spent refereeing basketball games in New York City. Christian is also an alumnus of Fordham’s Gabelli School of Business, where he earned an Most of all, Janeen is great fun. Spend a minute with her and you will discover someone who is M.B.A. in 2009. Congratulations, Christian, on 20 years at Fordham Law! down to earth and who radiates warmth and authenticity. She is devoted to family, community, WFUV, and the Grateful Dead, and is a mentor to Fordham undergrads and high schoolers, whom she cheers on at the office and at station events. A proud Jersey Girl in the best sense, Janeen enjoys spending time down the Shore, seeing Broadway shows with her daughter, gardening, cooking, and playing with her two big dogs. Archbishop Hughes Medal | Twenty Years The Sursum Corda Award

Carolyn Velazquez-Atis | Administrative Assistant to the Dean, Graduate School of Education Anthony Fata | Custodian, Campus Operations at Lincoln Center

Although her official title is Administrative Assistant to the Dean, Carolyn Velazquez-Atis is Anthony Fata started working at Fordham in 1996 and has continually been an integral part of effectively the Chief Operating Officer of the Graduate School of Education (GSE). A calm and the Campus Operations team. He truly represents the meaning of sursum corda. steady presence, Carolyn is the first person most turn to whenever they need a question An indispensable part of the Custodial staff at Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus, Anthony is a answered or a problem solved. Having worked in academic records for over a decade before consummate professional who possesses exceptional leadership and organizational skills. He is joining GSE in 2011, Carolyn has extensive knowledge of Fordham’s systems and processes and dependable, professional, and always willing to go the extra mile. His personable, friendly a flair for efficiency and organization. She has proven indispensable in improving the workflow demeanor is always appreciated and helps alleviate the stress of long, chaotic hours worked of the Dean’s Office. during student festivities, special events, or emergency conditions. Anthony always greets others Ever the consummate professional, Carolyn always strives to go above and beyond for the with a big smile and warm hello, and he has a heart of gold and a wry sense of humor. Beloved School. Generous and loyal, she is GSE’s biggest cheerleader. Even when she is technically on by the Fordham Community, he is always willing to assist others and contributes daily to the vacation, Carolyn happily responds to emails to help students in need. In addition to her blazing success of his Department. intellect and her business acumen, Carolyn is also an excellent judge of character, which is Anthony shares his love of life with his wife, Lorrain, his son, Eric, his dog, Charlie, and his invaluable in ensuring the School is adequately staffed. beloved family and friends. He loves to play sports and is a proud New York Mets fan. When not running the School, Carolyn loves to spend time with her loving husband of 28 years, Anthony is a true gem, a rare find, and the Campus Operations Department at Lincoln Center Sunny, and her son, Christian. She is also a proud mom to two four-legged children—9-year-old is proud, appreciative, and lucky to have him on our staff. Congratulations on receiving this cocker spaniel Mr. Mac and 5-year-old Yorkie Miss Minnie. She enjoys weekend trips to the well-deserved Sursum Corda Award! Poconos and reveling in the Christmas spirit 365 days a year. We truly could not function without you, Carolyn. Thank you! Maureen Keown | Director of University Health Services

Thirty-five years ago, Maureen Keown entered the health care industry because, in her words, she “loved the nursing profession.” She obtained her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the College of Mount Saint Vincent. After almost three decades assisting patients in various roles at Montefiore Medical Center in cardiothoracic and surgical ICUs, gastroenterology, emergency services, and cancer care, Maureen joined Fordham in 2015 as Assistant Director of University Health Services and was subsequently promoted to Director in 2018. To say the least, this past year has been more than challenging for everyone, but especially for the Health Services team involved in addressing the complex health issues and services related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Maureen responded to the many challenges with grace, dedication, competence, and commitment, tirelessly leading her staff to deliver important support services, including an exemplary COVID-19 campus testing program that allowed us to successfully keep our campus community safe, healthy, and open for business. Her professionalism, positive attitude, courage, dedicated work ethic and relentless concern for the well-being of every individual on campus is admired by everyone. Maureen sets the standard of excellence and is a true inspiration to everyone, especially to her loving husband, Charlie, and her three beautiful daughters, one of whom is a Fordham 2017 graduate and another who is currently a sophomore. Our entire community is so appreciative that we have the privilege to have Maureen as our colleague and “Top Doc” on campus. The Sursum Corda Award O Alma Mater Fordham Gil Severiano | Administrator of Campus Ministry Operations

Gil Severiano has served Fordham for 18 years. Starting out as Executive Secretary, she has since taken on many ministerial and supervisory functions. “If there’s a Gil, there’s a way” reads a small wooden sign in her office. It is a gift from grateful student interns acknowledging her personal care for them and a testament to the tireless efficiency they witnessed in her handling of office and ministerial operations. Gil is the first responder of the mission hub and triage center that is Campus Ministry. She attends to the intermittent stream of students, staff, and visitors who drop in with every kind of need and complaint. Gil manages to listen to all with a sympathetic ear and, at the same time, serves as minister to the campus ministers. What began as Gil’s side interest in works of charity and community outreach has developed into a full-blown passion for social justice. Gil has been at the forefront of organizing anti-racist training and teach-ins for justice. She has built strong relationships with Bronx community service organizations as the prime mover of the Pedro Arrupe Volunteers. It is evident that Gil’s personal satisfaction and exceptional dedication to Fordham’s life and mission are a matter of vocation, not just career. We are grateful to Gil’s family for sharing her with us to lift up our hearts!