the tightrope Walker pg13 alumni Weekend '09 pg14 Honoring Our ...

N i a g a r a U N i v e r s i t yNovember/December 2009 • volume 26 • issue 1the tightropeWalker pg13alumniWeekend ’09 pg14Honoring OurOutstanding alumni pg16

fromthepresidentThe Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M.,with the Most Rev. EdwardKmiec, bishop of the Dioceseof Buffalo, at the President’sDinner Nov. 14. Bishop Kmiecprovided the invocation for theevent, which raises scholarshipsfor Niagara’s students.Each October, alumni from around the countryreturn to Monteagle Ridge to reconnect andreminisce with old friends during our annualAlumni Weekend. I enjoy this special time ofyear because it gives me a chance to meet andreacquaint myself with former students, catchup on what is new in their lives,and participate in ceremonieshonoring their accomplishments.Our alumni are a wonderful reaffirmationof what we do as auniversity, and Alumni Weekendgives us the opportunity to showthem how proud we are of whatthey have accomplished sincethey were students here.In addition to being a reflectionof our past, our alumni representthe future of our university. Theyare our valued partners, and throughtheir support, they advance Niagaraand its mission in myriad ways.Through their generous contributionsof time, alumni help usto prepare students to take their place in theworld. They speak to classes, student clubs andhonor societies, offering firsthand advice aboutapplying to graduate school or managing thejob-search process. They serve as featured speakersfor student-hosted events and participate in oncampuscareer fairs or encourage their companiesto do so. They teach specialized courses, offerworkshops, and direct theater productions. Theywork with faculty to help guide curriculum development,ensuring that the skills we are teachingare the ones most desired in the workplace.Alumni also help our students connect with thebusiness community. From offering internships,co-ops and summer jobs, to hosting off-campusvisits and arranging job interviews, they are acrucial link from the campus to the larger world.Alumni serve as mentors and preceptors, andinvite students into their places of business toexperience a day or two in the field. They arrangetours of top hotel industry properties such asthe Waldorf=Astoria and the New York Palace.Once our students graduate, our alumni oftenoffer them jobs.For students who have not yet decided whetherto attend Niagara, our alumni serve as ambassadorsof the university by hosting or speaking at acceptedstudent receptions throughout the state andrecommending Niagara to students who maybe interested.And many of our alumni pursue their careersat Niagara, using their skills to directly servethe university. Or they choose to volunteer onadvisory boards and alumni councils, helpingthe administration develop plans for the future.They’ve helped the university in developingarticulation agreements with other organizations,facilitating opportunities for transfer studentsto continue their studies at Niagara. Once theyhave retired or have completed their terms ofservice, they continue to be ardent supporters,forwarding the Niagara cause in the community.Of course, alumni financial support is vital.By contributing to your alma mater, you providethe needed funding to advance Niagara’s teaching,research and service missions. Your gifts supportscholarships and financial aid, faculty and curriculumdevelopment, and technology for classroomstudy and research endeavors. Niagara University’ssuccess depends largely on this support. Andas we continue to move forward with ourambitious capital campaign, “The Promise ofNiagara,” your generous contributions are moreimportant than ever to ensure the future ofthis outstanding institution.As I noted at the beginning of this column,Alumni Weekend provides us a wonderful opportunityto reminisce about Niagara’s past andlook to the future. Another opportunity tocelebrate the life and growth of the universityis happening in 2010. The Vincentian Communityhas set aside that year as a year of praise forsaints Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillacin commemoration of the 350th anniversaryof their deaths. Many activities and events areplanned during this observance, which you canread more about in Father John Maher’s Eagle’sEye column on page 9.From our illustrious past to our promisingfuture, our alumni have been and will continueto play key roles in shaping Niagara University.I welcome your comments and suggestions atjll@niagara.edu.Joseph L. Levesque, C.M.President

november/december 2009 • volume 26 • issue 1www.niagara.eduA p u b l i c a t i o n for a l u m n i a n d f r i e n d sOn the coverChristina Crane, ’09, completed an internshipthis summer at WCBS-TV in New York City.While there, she had an opportunity to visit withSean O’Boyle, ’85, executive vice president andgeneral sales manager for NBC Universal’sDomestic Television Distribution Division, andPeter Dunn, ’81, president of CBS TelevisionStations. See pages 8 and 20-21 for their stories.In every issue1316The Tightrope Walker 13Dr. John Stranges, university professor, visits amonument dedicated to alumnus William J.“Wild Bill” Donovan.Alumni Weekend ’09 14A look at some of the people and events that madethis year’s reunion so special.Honoring Our OutstandingAlumni 16Niagara honored 10 of its former students duringAlumni Weekend ceremonies.From the PresidentAround the Ridge 2Niagara Notables 8Eagle’s Eye 9Purple Eagle Pride 10Advancing NU 12In the Spotlight 20Alumni AssociationUpdate 22Alumni Notes 24A NU View 29The Niagara University Eagle is published quarterly by the Office of Communicationsand Public Relations for alumni and friends of the university.Office of Communications and Public RelationsLisa M. McMahon, MA’09, Acting Director/EditorSuzanne M. Karaszewski, Graphic DesignerJean H. Spence, SecretaryEditor’s OfficeLisa M. McMahon, MA’09716-286-8747lmcmahon@niagara.eduAlumni Relations OfficeArt Cardella, Director716-286-8787alumni@niagara.eduwww.niagaraalumni.com

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/newsVeteransWelcome atNiagara UniversityUnder the leadership of BobSwanson, Niagara’s coordinatorof cooperative education, theuniversity has been activelypursuing ways in which it canprovide a supportive environmentfor returning veteranswho wish to begin or resumetheir education. One of thefirst steps in this initiativewas participating in the YellowRibbon Program, a provisionof the Post-9/11 VeteransEducational Assistance Act,which took effect on Aug. 1.This program makes additionalfunding available to veteranswho choose to enroll in institutionswith tuitions that exceedthe highest public in-state tuitionrate. The university has alsocreated an admissions protocolfor veterans and a veterans pageon our Web site (www.niagara.edu/veterans/). Niagara iscurrently working to partnerwith the Erie County VeteransService Agency and the NewYork State Division of VeteransAffairs to obtain a “VeteranFriendly Campus” designation.By meeting this criteria, Niagarawill be positioned as a schoolof choice in Western New Yorkfor returning veterans.For more information, contactSwanson at 716-286-8538 orrps@niagara.edu.2 eagle magazineUpdate — The B. Thomas golisano Center for Integrated SciencesThe Niagara University board oftrustees recently authorized theuniversity to move forward onthe development of constructiondocuments for the B. ThomasGolisano Center for IntegratedSciences. This phase is anticipatedto be complete in March of 2010.In addition, the board authorizedthe university to hire a constructionmanager and a commissioningagent to work with thearchitects on final design decisions.Their involvement will ensurethe best possible planning andthinking on the building andalso work toward achievingLEED (Leadership in Energy andEnvironmental Design) status.These actions are significantmoves toward the constructionof the new science center. Fundraisingon this project, which isthe university’s top capital priority,continues via the “Promise ofNiagara” campaign.SHARINg THEIR ExPERIENCE — Four internationalindividuals representing the diversity of thehospitality and tourism fields addressed industry issuesand offered advice that could be applied to the Buffalo-Niagara region during the ninth annual College ofHospitality and Tourism Management convocationOct. 22. Jean-Claude Baumgarten, president and chiefexecutive officer of the World Travel and TourismCouncil; Carol Coletta, president and chief executiveofficer of CEOs for Cities; Louise Mitchell, directorof Glasgow UNESCO City of Music; and Gerald Lawless,executive chairman of the Jumeirah Group, were alsorecognized for their outstanding achievements throughthe presentation of four special awards established bythe college. The event, which took place in AlumniChapel, was sponsored by The Maid of the Mist Corp.with additional sponsorship for 2009 by Buffalo HotelSupply Co., Inc. Pictured here are Baumgarten andLawless, who discussed the tourism industry withstudents in the college prior to the convocation.

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/newsInnovative Breast Cancer Research Earns grant AwardDr. Mary McCourt, chair and associateprofessor of chemistry (center), acceptsa $150,000 award from the AvonFoundation for Women at the seventhannual Avon Walk for Breast Cancerin New York City Oct. 11. She ispictured with Carol Kurzig, president ofthe foundation (left), and Suze Orman,the foundation’s special ambassador.On Sunday, Oct. 11, Dr. Mary McCourt stoodon a stage at Hudson River Park’s Pier 84 in NewYork City during the closing ceremony of theAvon Walk New York to accept a $150,000 grantfrom the Avon Foundation for Women. The grantwas awarded in support of her research exploringthe development of a new, noninvasive test forbreast cancer. About 450 breast cancer survivors wereamong the thousands who attended the ceremony.“As I stood there in front of all of those survivors,I was overwhelmed with a connection to themand humbled by their faith in my ability to getsome answers,” McCourt, chairperson and associateprofessor of chemistry at Niagara University,says. “It is rare that a researcher has that opportunityto be so close to that experience. It isone that I will have with me my entire life.”McCourt’s research will examine if biomarkerscollected from urine samples can be used todifferentiate healthy breast tissue from diseasedbreast tissue, potentially replacing mammogramsas a primary method of breast cancer screening.McCourt will also investigate the use of thesebiomarkers in identifying metastatic disease,and whether the methodology could be used tofollow the progression of disease and help plantreatment. Dr. Larry Mielnicki, an expert inbreast tumor screens and an adjunct professor ofchemistry at NU, will collaborate with McCourt onthis research, which will be conducted through theuniversity’s Academic Center for Integrated Sciences.“Avon has provided a tremendous opportunityto help us develop a simple urine test for identifyingbreast cancer,” says McCourt. “This inexpensive,noninvasive technology will improve health careand make breast cancer testing available to groupsof women that are not able to access moreexpensive technologies.”Undergraduate students Haley McClory,Charles Smith, Christopher Wirth and BrittanySumbler will “be key players in this project,”McCourt added.“This will be a great opportunity to expandNiagara University’s student-faculty researchmodel to a very important health issue,” notesDr. Nancy McGlen, dean of the College ofArts and Sciences.Niagara’s grant was one of eight awarded tolocal and regional breast cancer organizationsby the Avon Foundation. The organization wasfounded in 1955 with the mission of improvingthe lives of women and their families throughtwo key areas of focus: breast cancer anddomestic violence.— Lisa McMahoneagle magazine 3

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/newsMoretti Teacher’sStudio, ResourceRoom DedicatedDr. Rita Moretti touchedmany lives during her years asan administrator in the NiagaraFalls City School District andas a faculty member at NiagaraUniversity. Her spirit wasfondly remembered during thededication of the Dr. Rita N.Moretti, MS’50 Teachers’Studio and Resource Room,located on the second floorof the university’s library. Aceremony to mark the openingwas held on Sept. 22. The roomincorporates technology andareas for collaborative workamong teacher candidates andfaculty members. It also featuresa collection of vintage educationtextbooks, including a mathematicsbook from 1877, a 1798reader for children in grades fiveand six, and a 1794 printing ofHomer’s “Odyssey” written inGreek and Latin. The bookswere the gift of Dr. Sylvio H.Albert ’53, MA’55, Moretti’sfriend and colleague.REP. LOUISE SLAUgHTER IS FEATUREDSPEAkER AT CASTELLANI gALA — U.S.Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY) addressedan enthusiastic audience of museum patrons at theCastellani Art Museum of Niagara University’s SeventhAnnual Gala, “15 Minutes of Fame! The Andy WarholExperience” on Saturday, Oct. 17. Rep. Slaughter, oneof Congress’ most outspoken and effective advocates forthe arts, noted that she was happy “to recognize theimportant work of both the Castellani Museum andNiagara University as stewards of the arts” at the event,which raises funds for the museum’s many educationaland exhibition-related programs for Niagara Universitystudents and the surrounding community.Slaughter also emphasized the importance of thearts to the economy, noting that “arts and culture areimportant economic assets. They create a hub ofeconomic activity, attracting investments, generatingtax revenues, and stimulating local economies throughtourism and urban renewal.” She added that in herdistrict, there are more than 1,200 arts-related businessesemploying nearly 16,000 people.For the complete text of Rep. Slaughter’s remarks,visit www.niagara/edu/speeches/.Rev. Thomas Mckenna, C.M., Joins NU as Assistant to thePresident for Mission DevelopmentThe Rev. Thomas F. McKenna, C.M., former provincialsuperior of the Eastern Province of the Congregation of theMission, has been named as assistant to the president formission development at Niagara University. In this position,McKenna will assist with the university’s efforts to betterunderstand and fulfill its mission as a Catholic andVincentian institution.A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., he was the vice chairman ofNiagara’s board of trustees from 1999 to 2008. Ordainedin 1970, he received a master of arts degree in philosophyfrom St. John’s University in 1973 and earned a doctoratein systematic theology from the Catholic University of Americain 1982. For 10 years, McKenna taught spirituality as a memberof the department of theology at St. John’s. He has also taughtat Tangaza College in Nairobi, Kenya.McKenna is the author of several articles that have beenpublished in theological journals and has written one book,titled “Praying with Vincent de Paul,” a series of meditationson Vincent’s spirituality.In 2002, Niagara recognized McKenna for his service to the Vincentian Community by awardinghim the honorary degree of Doctor of Pedagogy.4 eagle magazine

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/news2009 Class of ROTC Hall of Fame InductedBoy Scouts SaluteFather LevesqueThe Greater Niagara FrontierCouncil of the Boy Scoutsof America honored the Rev.Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., NUpresident, with the “ScoutingSalutes” award at the fifthannual Scouting Salutes AwardReception Dec. 1. FatherLevesque was honored for hisyears of service to the localcommunity and for being astrong advocate for scouting.Family members look on as Lt. Col. John R. Fanelli, ’59, is honored during the ROTC Hall of Fame ceremony.Four Niagara alumni were inducted into theNiagara University ROTC Hall of Fame duringa ceremony on Oct. 10. They were honoredfor their professional achievements and theircontributions to society in the example of St.Vincent de Paul.Lt. Col. John R. Fanelli, ’59, a former medicalofficer and commanding officer of the 18th U.S.Army Security Agency Field Station in Munich,Germany, was commissioned into the U.S. ArmyReserves with the 338th General Hospital andvolunteered with the 302nd Medical Battalionfor NATO. His awards and decorations includethe Army Commendation Medal and a Certificateof Achievement.Col. Martin R. Loftus, ’57, served in a varietyof capacities including executive officer to the deputychief of staff, logistics for U.S. Army Vietnam; legaladviser to the Commander Supreme HeadquartersAllied Powers Europe; and staff judge advocate forvarious major Army commands. His awards anddecorations include the Legion of Merit, BronzeStar, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Medal,Army Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam,Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, andVietnamese Honor Medal First Class.Col. Robert Michael Asiello, ’66, served for 27years in various positions and earned the rank offull colonel. His awards and decorations includeLegion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious ServiceMedal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal,National Defense Service Medal, and the ArmyStaff Identification Badge.Lt. Col. Edmund J. O’Grady, ’56, served as afield artillery officer in various positions includingplatoon leader, battery commander, battalionexecutive officer, and training and security officer.His awards and decorations include the ArmyCommendation Medal, the National DefenseService Medal, Bronze Star, the Vietnam ServiceMedal, Meritorious Medal, Vietnam Cross ofGallantry with Palm, Legion of Merit, and theVietnam Campaign Medal.They join members Lt. Col. Terry K. Crowe,’82; Maj. Vincent J. “Coach” Lombardi Jr., ’88;Brig. Gen. James G. Shanahan, ’42; Lt. Col. JamesR. Kellmurray, ’40; 2nd Lt. William K. Bruce, ’51;2nd Lt. Samuel J. Rangatore, ’51; Col. Fredrick J.Scullin Jr., ’61; Maj. Patrick De Biase, ’42; 1st Lt.Richard J. Dobmeier, ’50; Col. Richard J. McManus,’52; Col. Richard M. Rodney, ’52; and Lt. Col.Daniel J. Pautz, ’80.VARSITy VILLAgE ELECTS SEIBT AS MAyOR — Varsity Village students elected JackieSeibt, a junior from Syracuse, mayor of their “village.” More than half of the 90 residents voted inwhat was the second mayoral election in Varsity Village since the tradition was restarted in 2008.

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/newsNiagara MournsThe Rev. Paul Michael Murphy,C.M., a philosophy professorat Niagara University from 1975to 1981, died Nov. 12 at St.Vincent’s House in Emmitsburg,Md., where he had served aspastor of St. Joseph’s Churchsince February 2007. FatherMurphy, who earned a licentiatein philosophy, was ordaineda priest on May 26, 1960. Hisvaried assignments includedteaching and serving parishmissions, novenas and retreats.A funeral Mass was held onNov. 16 at St. Joseph’s Church,and a Mass of Christian Burialwas celebrated on Nov. 18 atSt. Thomas More Church atSt. John’s University. Intermentwas held at the VincentianCemetery at St. Joseph’sSeminary, Princeton, N.J.FOUR HONORED DURINgNIAgARA’S VINCENTIANCONVOCATION — Two NiagaraUniversity alumni and two otherdistinguished persons were honoredas part of a convocation celebratingVincentian Heritage Week in September.Nerses Krikorian, ’43, a pioneer inthis country’s nuclear arms program,and Joe McCarthy, widely regarded inbaseball circles as one of the greatestmanagers in the game, were inducted asmembers of the third class of “NiagaraLegacy — Alumni of Distinction.”Dr. Nancy McGlen, dean of the Collegeof Arts and Sciences, and Sister BarbaraPfohl, OSF, operations manager for Heart, Love and Soul, Inc. in Niagara Falls, N.Y., were honored withthe Vincentian Mission Award and Caritas Medal, respectively, for their extraordinary service toothers in the example of St. Vincent de Paul. From left to right: Greg Krikorian, representing hisuncle, Nerses; Sister Barbara Pfohl; the Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., Niagara University president;Dr. Nancy McGlen; and Dr. Alan Levy, representing Joe McCarthy. Dr. Levy wrote the autobiography“Joe McCarthy, Architect of the Yankee Dynasty.”SEVERAL HONORED AT ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S DINNER — (L-r) Several individualsand a corporation were recognized for their vision, accomplishments and service to their communitiesduring the annual Niagara University President’s Dinner Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Seneca NiagaraCasino Hotel Event Center in Niagara Falls. (L-r) Joyce Fink, a former member of the Foundation ofthe Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, Inc.; Barbara and Frank Layden, Niagara men’s basketballcoach from 1968 to 1976 and award-winning coach and executive of the Utah Jazz; and the NiacetCorp. of Niagara Falls along with Augusta Brannen, Kelly and Joanne Brannen, and Mary and LarryMontani were honored with inaugural St. Vincent de Paul awards for their charitable endeavors.The event, which benefits the university’s scholarship program, was chaired by Michael, ’80, andCarol Cassell, ’79.Photo courtesy of James Neiss, Niagara Gazette.6eagle magazine

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/newsMajor Increases Made to Academic ScholarshipsResponding to concerns about the rising costof higher education, Niagara University recentlyannounced major increases to all of its academicscholarships for freshmen and transfer studentsentering NU in the fall 2010 semester.Specific increases to the scholarship programinclude freshman awards that range from $7,500to $15,000 per year, and transfer awards thatrange from $7,500 to $11,000 per year. In addition,all awards are renewable each year the studentmaintains satisfactory academic progress.“We know that families recognize the qualityand advantages of private higher education buthave concerns in this economy about financing,”noted Michael Konopski, dean of enrollmentmanagement at Niagara. “These new scholarshiplevels will recognize students’ academic achievementand make Niagara an even more affordable option.”To help contain the cost of attending Niagara,the university also offers its nationally recognizedLevel Tuition Program, which allows freshmanstudents to lock in one tuition rate for all fouryears of attendance. This innovative program isunique in the area, and it gives participants theassurance of knowing that their tuition rate willnot increase over the course of their studies atNiagara. In addition, monthly payment planoptions are available to all students.For more information, contact Niagara’s admissionsoffice at 716-286-8700 or 800-462-2111.BON APPéTIT — Twiceeach month during the academicyear, French faculty in the departmentof modern and classicallanguages host a lunch at theCastellani Art Museum forstudents in their classes. Theprofessors and their studentstake turns preparing authenticFrench cuisine for the table of10, and all in attendance converseexclusively in French during themeal. Here (clockwise from topleft) Dr. Henrik Borgstrom, chairof the department; Daphnaella Joseph; Christophe Parant, who was visiting from Angers, France;Megan Kemple; and Nadêge Petrie enjoyed a menu that included boeuf Bourguignon with fingerlingpotatoes, grilled asparagus, sautéed mushrooms and chocolate mousse at an October luncheon.grant EnhancesCampus SafetyThe university’s effectiveness inresponding to emergencies anddisasters will be improved thanksto an 18-month, $398,000Emergency Management forHigher Education programgrant. This grant will enableNiagara to update and strengthenits current campus emergencyresponse and crisis managementplan so that it provides a comprehensive,integrated, all-hazardsapproach to crisis prevention,response and management. Inaddition, the grant will facilitatea comprehensive systems testingand training of personnel,students, and other individualsand organizations as appropriateto ensure a safer, more securecampus environment.The Eagle Is Now OnlineVisit http://eagleonline.niagara.edu/ for an interactiveonline version of the Eagle alumni magazine. The EagleOnline provides additional photos, videos and podcastsexclusive to the Web version, as well as links to Niagaransin the news, opportunities for reader comment, andRSS feeds for updates. Take a look and let us knowwhat you think!eagle magazine 7

niagaranotablesChristina Crane, ’09Billy Joel sang about taking a Greyhound on the Hudson River line to put him in a NewYork state of mind. Christina Crane was able to get into the same state of mind when shetook a ride on the New York State Thruway to do a television internship in the BigApple last summer.Crane, who received her bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Niagarain 2009, was awarded the unique opportunity to work at WCBS-TV, the local CBStelevision affiliate in New York City, through a Niagara connection she made earlierthis year. In February, 10 communication studies students were invited to a luncheonwith Peter Dunn, ’81, the president and general manager of WCBS. At the lunch, heemphasized the importance of internships and offered Niagara students the opportunityto work at the station. (See page 21 for more on Peter Dunn.)Crane, who had already completed a few internships, including one at Buffalo’sCBS affiliate, WIVB-TV, applied for the internship. “I knew how valuable they were,”she says. “That, and the idea of living and working in New York City were too goodto pass up.” Her application was accepted, and after graduation she was on herway to New York City.Upon arriving at WCBS, Crane dove right into work. “It was a wholenew world,” she says. “Within the first week, I was doing online researchfor stories and had to create a Twitter account as well.” The social mediatool is now becoming a way to get a leg up on breaking news in theindustry, Crane says. Ever the eager pupil, she volunteered to go outon stories with reporters to gain more experience. “I didn’t care if itwas 3 a.m.,” she says. “I’m the type of person that doesn’t like to sitbehind a desk all day.”Crane hit the streets on stories with Magee Hickey, a veteran NewYork City reporter, and Emmy-award winning journalist Jay Dow, doingwhatever was necessary to assist them so that she could learn from someof the best. “I soaked in whatever they told me,” she says.The summer of 2009 was filled with memorable news events, includingthe Bernard Madoff sentencing and the death of Michael Jackson. Cranesaw the reaction to both first-hand. She compares the line to get into theMadoff courtroom to waiting for a very exciting ride at a theme park.“The courtroom only has so many seats,” she says. “You are shoulder toshoulder with people and to hear, ‘you are sentenced to 150 years,’ was striking.No one else knew the verdict until we left the courtroom.”Crane was on hand at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, N.Y., the day “TheKing of Pop” died. “People were crying and others were singing his songs,”she says. “It was a celebration, but also a mourning.”Crane’s whole experience as an intern at WCBS was filled with many greatlessons. “I learned that you have to be determined and stand out,” she says. Asan intern, you cannot just sit back because you will not be remembered, she adds,and it is important to listen to those who have the experience in the industry.“Never say you don’t want to do something or not go out on a story,” she says,“because you don’t know the opportunities you are going to miss.”— Jason Mollica

eagle’seyewww.niagara.edu/missionLet Us Now Praise Famous Men … and Women!“Let us now praise famous men, and our fathersthat begat us. All these were honored in theirgenerations, and were the glory of their times.”(Sirach 44: 10-11)As you can see, the title of this article is atwist on a quote from the Book of Sirach. Itwas also the title for the groundbreaking 1941book, “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men” byJames Agee and Walker Evans, which chronicledpoverty in Southern sharecroppers.We in the Vincentian family have set aside2010 as a year of praise for two famous people,saints Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac,as we commemorate the 350th anniversary oftheir deaths. (St. Louise died March 15, 1660;St. Vincent on Sept. 27.) But what we celebrateis not the anniversary of death, but a living flameof faith and hope still burning brightly in theirsons and daughters throughout the world.At first glance, Vincent and Louise had littlein common. Vincent was born into a peasantfamily in southern France. He sought priesthoodto escape the dead-end poverty of his peers. Onceordained, he ingratiated himself to the wealthyto attain a comfortable life. Vincent achievedthis as a chaplain to the Di Gondi family, buthe still felt empty. God intervened, placing poorpeople in his life who shook him from his complacency.Also, a famous man of that day, Cardinalde Berulle, served as Vincent’s spiritual mentor.Both the poor and the Cardinal pushed Vincentto embrace a life of prayer and service.Louise, stigmatized because she was born outof wedlock, grew up in sheltered circumstancesand married a kind and wealthy man. Yet she wastroubled with interior doubts, as she was a spiritualsearcher. The sudden death of her husband, lossof income, and care for a difficult young sonintensified Louise’s struggles. Enter Vincent dePaul and his vision for ministry in Jesus’ nameto the poor, and Louise found an outlet for herenergy. Vincent became the spiritual anchorthat kept her moored for life.What was their “genius”? Deep abiding faith,a spiritual friendship, innovative works of charity,communities and institutions enduring 350 yearslater: these are the benchmarks we celebrate inthis Vincentian Jubilee Year. In starting lay groupsof Ladies of Charity and Confraternities of Charity,and two religious orders (the Congregation ofthe Mission and Daughters of Charity), theysucceeded due to Vincent’s grand vision andLouise’s great organizational ability. Both tookto heart the words of Jesus: “Whatever you didfor the least of mine, you did for me.” (Mt. 26:40)Vincent’s genius for networking and Louise’snatural gift for organizationpaved the way to a legacy ofcharity that still exists.Because of the enduringnature of their works, Vincentand Louise are not only seenas “patrons” of charitableworks (an honorific churchtitle), but “prophets” ofcharity, as their work has hadlasting influence on churchand society. Yet, their livestestify not only to how theyenvisioned and deliveredservice to the poor, but also tothe depth of their spirituality.Louise’s simple prayer: “Lord,grant me the grace to spendthis day without offendingYou or failing my neighbor,”and Vincent’s oft-expressedthought, “Three can do thework of 10 when the Lordputs his hand in it,” bothexpress supreme confidencein God as their source andthe summit of all their plans.At Niagara, plans are wellunder way to properly celebratethis 350th anniversary of thelives of saints Vincent andLouise. Lectures, discussions,social events, prayer services,and opportunity for serviceand reflection will fill out thisimportant milestone. But thisoccasion also offers you, as alumni, an opportunityto learn more about saints Vincent and Louise.If you go to www.famvin.org, and click on theicon for the 350th, you’ll be able to read a monthlyreflection that will widen your awareness of Vincentand Louise and the charism of charity that they leftfor us. In an era of “fleeting fame,” theirs is whatI’d call a “keeper.”By Rev. John T. Maher, C.M.University ChaplainDirector of Campus Ministryeagle magazine 9

purpleeaglepridewww.purpleeagles.comFifty-two former club footballplayers attended a specialceremony honoring theprogram and players duringAlumni Weekend 2009.10 eagle magazineAthletics Hall of Fame Honors Club FootballFrom the Ice to the Editing BoothIn the world of hockey, the late Roger Neilson wasdubbed “Captain Video” for his ground-breakinguse of video to analyze other teams. Niagara women’shockey forward Frances McPhail is hoping tofollow in his footsteps.McPhail, a seniorcommunications majorfrom Oakville, Ont., hasbeen editing video forher hockey teams for awhile, but a work-studyassignment as a digitaleditor in Niagara’sOffice of InformationTechnology is enablingher to take her skills tothe next level. “When Istarted editing videos,it was just taking clipsfrom my (hockey)teams with really simpleediting programs andputting them together,”she says. Now, under the guidance of Niagara’smultimedia production specialist, Brian Rock,McPhail is gaining hands-on experience in usingNiagara University Club Football, the alumni who werekey in establishing the program, and several exceptionalplayers were honored at a special ceremony during AlumniWeekend. Organized by Tony Caccomo, ’69, the event wasattended by more than 50 former players and their families.As part of the event, several club football members wereinducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame in recognition oftheir outstanding contributions to the university’s intercollegiatesports program: Mark Johnson, ’79; Jeff Pagels,’81; Jed Pounds, ’77; Ed Renica, ’74; and John Weis, ’78.They were the first to be elected into the Hall of Fame. Organizationco-founders Caccomo and Jim Duquin, ’69; JimDiSanto, ’69; Kathy (Cichy) Mylod, ’69; Patti (Lehman)Burns, ’69; Neil Delisanti, ’67; and Jim Burke, ’67, werealso recognized during the event.Special certificates were given to all former club footballplayers in attendance, and a DVD showcasing highlights ofpast games was distributed. At the end of the event, Caccomowas given the game ball, in true football fashion.In honor of the occasion, the group raised funds topurchase two kiosks in memory of their deceased colleagues.The kiosks, which are located in Gallagher Center andDwyer Arena, showcase the Athletics Hall of Fame members.professional editing software including AfterEffects and Final Cut.One of her favorite projects so far has beenproducing a video for the biology department onalpine research, because it enabled her to be creative.She says that she and Rock “added some differentvideo elements and effects” to footage of a researchtrip to Colorado they received from Dr. DeborahLeonard, senior scientist in the department, andDr. Michael Kotarski, associate professor.McPhail notes that video has changed the gameof hockey. “You are now able to go back and pinpointexactly what is going on with the plays,” shesays. Teams have specific video coaches who recordthe game, so a coach can see what the team hasdone right and what improvements need to bemade. McPhail’s new coach, Chris MacKenzie, isusing edited video of games and practices to helphis team improve.After graduating from Niagara, McPhail, whonetted career highs in goals, assists and points lastseason, is hoping to continue her hockey career asa member of a European hockey league. She’d alsolike to continue her work with digital editing inpreparation for her “dream job” as a video editorfor the Vancouver Canucks.

purpleeaglepridewww.purpleeagles.comStudent Athletes Are Prepared for Life After SportsNiagara University’s Student-Athlete AdvisoryCommittee, in collaboration with the athleticsdepartment and the offices of career development,counseling services and alumni relations, spearheadedthe “Life After Sports” initiative that took placeOct. 2 at the Castellani Art Museum. This unique,first-time program was designed to help prepareNiagara’s student-athletes for “retirement” fromtheir respective sport, cope with their loss of identityas an athlete, and identify the transferable skillsthat can be used to map their career path.“The Life After Sports initiative was driven bythe Student-Athlete Advisory Committee,” saidTheresa Berg, associate director of athletics. “SAACrequested that this topic be considered for aCHAMPS/Life Skills program. After doing someresearch on the topic, I recognized the importanceof offering such a program and began to reach outto the campus community for feedback and support.It grew from there.”Niagara University was awarded a $1,500CHAMPS/Life Skills grant from the NCAA to createor enhance programming focused on student-athleteinitiatives and issues. A total of 95 NCAA collegesand universities applied for the inaugural grants;57 were selected for an award.Niagara’s program featured keynote speakerJohn P. Sullivan, a 1993 alumnus and clinical sportpsychologist who specializesin helping people achieveexcellence in high-stressenvironments. Otherpresenters included Dr.Bernadette Peters, NU’sassistant director ofcounseling services andlicensed psychologist;Dr. Greg Hudecki, ’68;Ann (Quigley) Macaulay,’69; Andy Smith, ’99;corporate recruiter andsponsor Paul Hicks ofWells Fargo Financial, Inc;and Niagara employeerelations coordinator Mike Skowronski. Participantswere given additional information about careerdevelopment and counseling services and a list ofalumni mentors. The program concluded with a socialthat gave the student-athletes a chance to interact andnetwork with alumni and guests in attendance.Feedback on the event from alumni and studentswas positive. One student noted that “It was awesometo meet alumni student-athletes who were once inour shoes. The speakers had great answers and theirexperiences were beyond what I expected.”Niagara alumni returned tocampus to help studentathletestransition to lifeafter sports during a specialprogram held at the CastellaniArt Museum in October.Ann (Quigley) Macaulay,’69; Dr. Greg Hudecki, ’68;and Andy Smith, ’99, offeredtheir insights during apanel presentation.Women’s golf Sets Foundation in Inaugural CampaignSept. 12, 2009, will long be remembered in Niagara University’sathletic department. It was the day that the women’s golf teamteed off for the first time, launching an inaugural season thatcoach Bob O’Malley calls a success.“It was a foundation season that you grow from,” he said. “Forthe seven players, it was the first year of college competition and Ithink we bonded pretty well as a group.”Women’s golf, which competes in the Metro Atlantic AthleticConference, became the 18th Purple Eagle sport in February. Theaddition of this team helped the conference become eligiblefor an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I Women’s GolfChampionship starting in 2012.As the only Division I women’s team in Western New York,Niagara’s program is garnering a lot of interest among potentialplayers in the area. “Recruits are seeing our Web site and followingour progress,” O’Malley, a former assistant athletic director andhead athletic trainer at Philadelphia University, said. “There isa lot of excitement.”Freshman Brittany Siechen, a former two-time Section IIIscholastic champion from East Syracuse Minoa High School,is one of the inaugural members of the Niagara Universitywomen’s golf team.eagle magazine 11

advancingnuwww.niagara.edu/advancementwww.niagara.edu/promiseDid you know?“The Promise of Niagara”capital campaign has raised$6.7 million in scholarshipfunds to date.From Don’s DeskNiagara University launched its capital fundraisingcampaign, “The Promise of Niagara …The next 150 years,” in May 2007. I am happyto report that as of press time, the campaignhas reached a significant milestone: $60,000,000in commitments. The economic climate haschallenged the effort, but Niagara alumni, friendsand corporate and foundation partners haveresponded with enthusiastic support, including11 commitments of $1,000,000 or more and166 above $25,000. While there is much leftto be accomplished, the campaign is on trackto reach its $80,000,000 goal by Dec. 31, 2011.By Don Bielecki, Vice President for Institutional AdvancementAt this point in the campaign, it seems appropriateto take a look at what we’ve accomplishedso far. So the next issue of the Eagle will featurecampus achievements supported by the campaign,personal stories of giving back, and an in-depth,mid-campaign review. These stories will give youa better idea of our progress and vision for whatis the most ambitious capital endeavor in Niagara’shistory, an endeavor that will transform theuniversity and prepare it for its next 150 yearsand beyond.Learn About Niagara’s Endowmentfrom the generation of operating surpluses over thepast years and through fundraising efforts. It providesthe university with financial stability.What does the endowment consist of?Our endowment consists of individual fundsestablished for a variety of purposes. Some aredonor restricted and must be used for the purposesspecified by the donors, such as scholarships. Othersare unrestricted and can be used at the university’sdiscretion. Niagara’s endowment is approximately1/3 donor restricted and 2/3 unrestricted.How is the endowment used?Each year, Niagara University limits its spendingto 5 percent of the average value of the endowment.This allows the endowment to grow over time.Niagara University’s endowment plays a key rolein determining how the university moves forwardwith its strategic and capital plans, yet few reallyunderstand what it is and how it factors intothe operations of the university. We sat downwith Michael Jaszka, Niagara’s vice presidentfor administration–business affairs, to learn alittle more about the endowment at Niagara.What is the endowment, and what is its importanceto Niagara?The endowment is the university’s equivalent ofan individual’s savings account. It was accumulatedHow is the endowment managed?We have an investment subcommittee, made upof five members of our board of trustees, whichprovides advice and guidance. This subcommittee,which meets quarterly, reports to the board’s financecommittee. We utilize the services of an investmentadviser who assists us in determining our long-terminvestment strategy and in hiring individual investmentmanagers. Using multiple managers and investmentstrategies enables us to manage investment risk.How has the current economic situation affectedour endowment?Between May 31, 2009, and May 31, 2008, ourendowment lost nearly 30 percent of its value. Theendowment value is rebounding to the point whereit is now 80 percent of its May 31, 2008, value.12 eagle magazine

THET I G H T R O P EWALKERBy John B. Stranges, Ph.D. ’59Niagara University professorWhile attending a conference atColumbia University last spring,I took time to visit a monumentin the law school plaza dedicated to thecelebrated General William J. “Wild Bill”Donovan. The bronze sculpture, 14 feet talland set on a 7-foot pedestal, was commissionedby Donovan’s friends, created by theDutch artist Kees Verkade, and unveiled in1979. I had completed my graduate studiesat Columbia a decade earlier, and had seenthe piece a few times while attending conferencesthere in later years. Recently, thesculpture had been featured in the Columbiaalumni magazine, so I decided to take acloser look. In preparation for his work,Verkade studied Donovan’s life closely,and concluded that the “controlled daring”of Donovan’s life would best be expressedby a tightrope walker, in which one figurebalances himself precariously on the shouldersof another as the two of them walk thelength of a cable.William J. Donovan, as many Niagaransknow, was born in Buffalo to a family livinga step away from poverty. He entered Niagarain 1899 and for the next three years distinguishedhimself as a scholar and orator, atthe same time earning the captaincy of thevarsity football team. Donovan transferredto Columbia College in New York to preparefor entrance to the Columbia Law School.There, he met and befriended FranklinDelano Roosevelt, who later launched himon a career that led to the creation of theOffice of Strategic Services, a revolutionarynew organization for gathering intelligenceand waging unconventional warfare, andwhich served as predecessor to the CentralIntelligence Agency. One of Donovan’syoung protégées at OSS was Allen Dulles,later the CIA chief under Presidents Eisenhowerand Kennedy. Dulles remembered Donovan’s“vast interest in the unorthodox, the novel,and the dangerous,” and his success inassembling brilliant and daring minds fromacademe, business, and the arts — indeedany source — to find unique ways ofdiscovering the mind of the enemy andsabotaging his war effort. Donovan’s exploitsas founder of OSS and father of the CIA aretoo detailed to narrate here. But his legacycontinues. General David Petraeus, the headof U.S. Central Command and architectof the new counterinsurgency strategy inIraq, is a long-time admirer.But it was Donovan’s heroism in Franceduring World War I that lifted him to neariconic status on the Niagara campus. Heseemed the embodiment of the spirit ofOld Niagara — intelligent but possessed ofcharacter above all. His fierce individualityseemed to have no boundaries; he couldrally his men as well as save them fromdeath. He could sustain wounds but refuseto leave the battlefield. And he did it allwith a sly half-smile. His decorations inFrance are a remarkable testimony to hiscourage: The Distinguished Service Cross;the Distinguished Service Medal (with oakleaf cluster); the Purple Heart (with twooak leaf clusters); and the Medal of Honor.Niagara’s young stalwarts had often modeledthemselves after public figures. In 1919,Dr. John Stranges at a monument honoringGeneral William “Wild Bill” Donovanat Columbia University.William Donovan was their man. His returnto campus in June of that year to receivean honorary degree at commencement wasan absolute triumph. When he was awardedthe National Security Medal for his servicein World War II, Donovan became the onlyAmerican to have received our nation’s fourhighest military decorations.When I think of the triumphs that characterizedDonovan’s military and governmentservice and the long absences and familytragedies — the accidental deaths of adaughter and then a granddaughter — thatso marked his personal life, I am convincedthat Verkade chose his design wisely. Somehow,Donovan always managed to preservehis equilibrium in the face of heart-piercingproblems. And as a soldier and spymaster,few men were more calculating. Donovanwas no daredevil if, by that term, we meansomeone given to recklessness and chance.He disliked the nickname “Wild Bill,” as itseemed to mock his arrival as both a gentlemanand strategist, and he could not explainits origin. But the nickname stuck.Law students at Columbia have beenknown on occasion to place a mattressbelow the tightrope walker inscribed withthe words: “just in case.” Bill Donovanwould probably smile appreciatively at thegesture, knowing all the while that hewould always get to the other side.eagle magazine 13

AlumWeeke(L-r): Kevin Daley, ’85, Jim Merrill, ’85, and Bob Hazelet, ’82, on the 18th hole.More than 600 alumni returned to Montand 11 to celebrate the anniversary offeatured a variety of events that providreacquainted with old friends and recampus life.The weekend started with the 25th annat the Niagara Falls Country Club and cand Celebration, an exclusive event foralumni took advantage of the tour of tmuseum’s recently acquired Andy Waother exhibits. The Friday night Welcomthe weekend’s “official” kick-off, featopportunity to catch up with former claAlumni were treated to an intimate tour of the Castellani Art Museumby Kate Koperski (in red), director of the museum.Saturday’s activities included the ROTCof marriage vows in Alumni Chapel, thespecial luncheon for members of the uthe nursing alumni reception and Sigmof the campus and a special spiritualthat afternoon. In the evening, membeduring a private reception that precedhighlight of the weekend’s activities.Rounding out the weekend were NU ThFriends and Other Plays by Horton FMemorial Mass.Golden Eagles — Class of 1959Alumni from the former College of Nursing showed their prideduring the weekend by gathering for a group photo.Lt. Col. Ivan Evans, chair andand Father Joseph L. Levesqu14 eagle magazine

nind ’09eagle Ridge the weekend of Oct. 9, 10their graduation. Alumni Weekend ’09ed opportunities for attendees to getive some of their best memories ofRenewal of Marriage Vows 2009ual Alumni Weekend Golf Tournamentontinued with the Golden Eagle Massmembers of the Class of 1959. Manyhe Castellani Art Museum to view therhol Legacy Award photographs andPaul, ’69, and SheilaGraham Pickering, ’70John, ’59, andMillicent KosierJohn, ’84, andMaureen Polinge Back Party in the Gallagher Center,ured a band, refreshments, and thessmates.Hall of Fame induction, the renewalpresentation of the Deans’ Awards, aniversity’s club football program, anda Theta Tau induction ceremony. Toursty and service program were offeredJoseph, ’59 andNancy Conleyrs of the Class of 1984 were honoreded the annual alumni dinner-dance, aatre performances of “The Dearest ofote” and a Sunday morning AlumniPeter, ’59, andMargaret CulkinMaureen O’Malley Bodensteiner, ’85, Joe Bodensteiner, ’84,and Meg Finnerty Segrue, ’83, at the Silver Eagle reception.professor of military science,e, C.M., Niagara’s president.Silver Eagle receptioneagle magazine 15

Profiles by Susan Mikula Campbell and Joseph Kirchmyerone of the highlights of Alumni Weekend is the opportunityto recognize several of our outstanding graduates for theirexceptional professional success and service to thecommunity. each dean selects an honoree or two from theirrespective colleges, and alumni are also chosen for theDunleavy and Alumni awards. These alumni exemplify theleadership and compassion that Niagara instills in itsstudents, serving as inspiring examples and reaffirmingNiagara’s mission. This year, the following 10 alumni werehonored during the weekend’s activities.16 eagle magazine

Dunleavy AwardRocco L. LaRocca, ’39Dr. Rocco LaRocca has spent a lifetime serving his family, hisprofession, his church, his community, and his country. Adentist by profession, LaRocca started his practice in 1953 atthe request of the late Msgr. Pascal Tronolone, pastor of St.Joseph’s Church at the time, who was looking for a dentist toserve the Italian-speaking population in Niagara Falls. LaRoccawas also a dental officer to the U.S. Navy in World War II, wherehe served in the Pacific Theatre and was part of the Iwo Jimaand Okinawa campaigns; and in the Korean War, where he wasstationed at naval bases in both the United States and in Korea.LaRocca’s volunteer work is exceptionally notable. He is aEucharistic minister and an altar server, and assists at funeralsfor his parish, Divine Mercy in Niagara Falls. He has served theSt. Vincent DePaul Society at Our Lady of Lebanon parish since its foundation in 1976, andvolunteers at its food pantry, collecting fresh fruit, produce and bread to deliver to individualsthroughout the community. LaRocca is also a member of the Niagara Falls Emergency ResponseTeam for disaster preparedness, and coordinates with first responders to give support and medicalcare, if needed.Dr. Rocco LaRocca, ’39, with his daughter, Barbara, andthe Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., Niagara’s president.Alumni AwardTeresa, ’84, and Margaret Niedda, ’85Teresa Niedda, ’84, and her sister, Marge, ’85, have dedicatedtheir lives to addressing the plight of the poor, exemplifyingNiagara University’s Vincentian heritage.Teresa’s focus has been on farmworker rights. As director ofthe Farmworker Health and Safety Institute, a uniqueconsortium of three community-based farmworker organizationsin the United States, she oversaw the development andimplementation training, as well as the policies andprocedures, regarding migrant farmworker rights. And as amember of the state of New Jersey’s Pesticide ControlCouncil, along with other local and national groups, she is anadvocate in addressing the environmental and healthconcerns of farmworkers.Recently, Teresa began working with the Vincentian SolidarityOffice in Philadelphia, assisting the Congregation of the Mission with obtaining funds for itsevangelization and service of the poor worldwide. These funds are then used to provide microprojectgrants to mission and poor areas where the Vincentian Community serves in order to meetthe needs of the poor.Marge Niedda, ’85 (left) and her sister, Teresa,’84,with the Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., Niagara’spresident, and Howard Morgan, director of advancementservices at Niagara.As a volunteer with the Vincentian Service Corps in Philadelphia, Marge became more aware of theneeds of the poor and how important it was to direct attention to their situation. Once her year ofservice was over, she became a member of the VSC governing committee, a position that enabledher to develop programs, select volunteers and their placements, and evaluate the results of theirwork. Her efforts enabled the program to expand, eventually becoming the largest VSC of the threenational centers.Marge eventually joined her sister in serving farmworkers. She is an administrator of theFarmworker Support Committee, part of the Farmworker Health and Safety Institute. In this role, sheadvocates for farmworkers and assists with the production of quarterly newsletters and theorganization’s fundraising efforts.eagle magazine 17

Nursing Alumni Council AwardsAnne M. Patterson, ’79Clinical Excellence AwardWhether she’s administeringa research project, implementinga new program, orfinding ways to cut costs, AnneM. Patterson, ’79, has learned,“The fact that I’m also a nursegives me an edge.”Patterson is currently clinicalresearch officer for the NewHanover Regional MedicalCenter in Wilmington, N.C. She oversees theadministrative aspects of research studies toensure that the medical center’s interests areprotected, resources are used appropriately, andbusiness objectives are met.Back in the late 1970s, Patterson was part of acommuter group coming to Niagara from Buffalo.After graduating magna cum laude with a BSNand working a year as a registered nurse inBuffalo, she went on to Duke University inDurham, N.C., for a master’s degree in healthadministration. Her career has been in theCarolinas ever since, focusing on the clinicalaspects of care, much of it in clinical research andfinancial management. Her hospital operationsresponsibilities have covered the alphabet, fromanesthesia and bone marrow transplant totrauma service and vascular laboratory.Despite a busy schedule, Patterson hasn’tforgotten the Vincentian tradition of service shelearned at Niagara University. Everywhere she haslived, she has been involved in her community,serving groups such as Hospice, the AmericanHeart Association, United Way, YWCA, PTSA andChamber of Commerce. She is currently presidentof the Cape Fear Center for Inquiry and chairmanof its Strategic Planning Committee.Dr. Sheila A. Gorman, ’59Academics AwardA classmate describes Dr.Sheila A. Gorman, ’59, asnot only very warm andgenerous, but very unassumingand low-keyedabout what she’s done inher remarkable career.After seeing Gorman’s morethan nine-page résumé,the classmate exclaimed, “I realized I knewher and didn’t know half the things she’saccomplished!”Gorman is now clinical professor emerita in theDepartment of Health Policy and Management,Mailman School of Public Health at ColumbiaUniversity. After receiving her BSN from Niagara,she served in various nursing public healthpositions in Buffalo, New York City and LosAngeles before arriving at Columbia University in1972. She also continued her academic studiesthere, eventually earning a Ph.D. in 1982. Sheserved in Columbia’s public health programthroughout her career, in positions ranging fromco-director of the Ambulatory Care Institute, tofounding director of the Executive Master ofPublic Health Program, to clinical professor.That multipaged résumé lists many honors,board memberships, and grants to studyeverything from the implementation of MedicaidManaged Care in New York City to trainingregistered nurses for management positions incommunity health organizations, as well as along list of publications, research reports andpresentations made across the United States.Now retired, in true Vincentian spirit, Gormanvolunteers in a health center in East Harlem,teaching reading to little children and English asa second language to adults. “That keeps mesmiling,” she says.Deans’ AwardsDr. Carlos R. Jaén, ’79College of Arts and SciencesWhen referring to Dr.Carlos Jaén, ’79, ahighly respected familyphysician and educator,terms such as “wellrounded”and “multitalented”are somewhatof an understatement.His accomplishments,honors, degrees, professionalappointments, certifications, licenses,memberships, and service to his profession andthe public, if listed here, would undoubtedly costseveral trees their lives. Fortunately, Jaén is allabout saving lives. After receiving his B.S. andM.S. degrees in biology from Niagara University,he went on to earn his doctoral degrees fromthe University at Buffalo. Today he is apracticing family physician at the Leonard G.Paul Family Health Center in San Antonio,Texas, professor and chairman of theDepartment of Family and CommunityMedicine, and professor of epidemiology andbiostatistics at the University of Texas HealthScience Center at San Antonio. Since 2002, hehas been selected to the Best Doctors inAmerica. Perhaps the only thing moreimpressive than his well-deserved titles arehis interests, which include improvingpreventative care for individuals of all agesand preventing complications from chronicdiseases such as diabetes, high bloodpressure and heart disease. Jaén is passionateabout building and studying high-performanceprimary care offices, and has even served onpanels that helped set accepted guidelines forsmoking cessation. Jaén has devoted his lifeto improving the lives of countless others. Andeven though his new home of San Antonio andthe Niagara Region are separated by roughly1,500 miles geographically, this college isnever far from his thoughts.Jay S. Albanese, ’74College of Arts and SciencesYou could say that Dr.Jay S. Albanese, ’74,wrote the bookon criminal justice.Currently serving asprofessor and chair ofthe Department ofCriminal Justice atVirginia CommonwealthUniversity, oneof the largest CJ departments in the country,Albanese has authored or edited 14 books onvarious crime topics. His textbook, “CriminalJustice,” is the leading student textbook in thefield and is currently in its fourth edition. Whenhe’s not in the classroom or writing, Albanesefinds other ways to contribute to the growth ofhis profession through countless hours ofresearch, consulting, speaking engagements,presentations and volunteerism. He is also afounding member of Criminologists WithoutBorders, a group of criminologists, researchers,professors and others working in the field whoseek to apply scientific findings and bestpractices to the policies and operations of crime18 eagle magazine

prevention and criminal justice systems. Afterreceiving his bachelor’s degree from NiagaraUniversity, Albanese went on to earn his M.A.and Ph.D. from Rutgers University. He returnedto Niagara University in 1981 as a professor inthe department of political science and criminaljustice, and would later be appointed to chair hisdepartment and develop its curriculum.Albanese’s impressive background also includesthe position of chief of the International Centerat the National Institute of Justice, the researcharm of the U.S. Department of Justice, from2002 to 2006 while on loan from VirginiaCommonwealth University. In this capacity, hewas responsible for the development oftransnational crime and justice researchprojects and coordination with United Nationsefforts in these areas.John D. Craig, ’89College of EducationLearning has changed, andJohn D. Craig, Ph.D. ’89,has been in the forefront ofthis transformation. He haspioneered the concept ofeducational programming asa far-reaching, lasting educationalstrategy, applying whathe’s learned in the classroomto the greater community. Asdirector of education and outreach for WNED,Craig oversees the public broadcast station’slearning services, which include outreachprograms tied to WNED and PBS televisionprogramming, an opportunity that presents“many creative ways to bridge the gap inachievement and success for all individuals,”Craig has said.Craig spent his early career years servingour country in the U.S. Navy. Following a sixyearterm of military service, he would go onto receive both his B.S. and M.S. degreesfrom Niagara University, and then pursue acareer in teaching that began in 1990. Heearned his Ph.D. in Education Administrationfrom the University at Buffalo in 1999. Inaddition to his two decades as an educator,Craig has taken an active role with numerousWestern New York organizations, benefitingthe community with his impressive volunteerism,fundraising and outreach skills. Oneof his favorite causes is Lockport CommunityServices, Inc., a nonprofit organization thathas revitalized and created public recreationfacilities, including a pool and skateboardpark. Additionally, Craig has recently completeda 60-hour documentary on the topic of youngadults and financial literacy, and is alsoinvolved with WNED’s ThinkBright youthliteracy program.Joseph V. Cresci, ’84College of Hospitality andTourism ManagementThe term “role model”is handed out alltoo easily in today’ssociety, in many caseswithout being earned.Frequently, we seeand hear the termassociated with professionalathletes, televisionand movie stars,and those who crave the media’s spotlight. Andthen there are the deserving, those individualswho embrace responsibility yet shun thespotlight’s glare. Their names may not be knownworldwide, but their efforts are certainlyremembered and greatly appreciated. Joseph V.Cresci, ’84, is that kind of individual ... a rolemodel to his country, to his industry, and toNiagara University.A member of the Niagara ROTC program, Cresciwent on to attain the rank of captain in theAdjutant General Corps of the United States Armyand earned the Joint Service CommendationMedal and an honorable discharge in 1998.Professionally, Cresci took the skills that helearned at Niagara University and carved animpressive career in the hospitality industry. In2000, he founded a company called FoodManagement Search in Springfield, Mass.,where he manages the day-to-day operations forrecruitment and employment search projects fororganizations within the food and hospitalityindustries throughout the United States andCanada. While Cresci currently resides inLongmeadow, Mass., Niagara has always felt like“home,” he says. That could explain why, 25years after his graduation, Niagara continues tobenefit from his generosity and talents. Whetherassisting the Alumni Association, participating inCareer Day, mentoring students, or helpingrecent graduates and alumni in the job searchprocess, Cresci always answers the call.Robert M. Fitzgerald, ’74College of Business Administration“Learn, serve andlead.” These four simplewords accurately describethe mission ofNiagara University’sCollege of BusinessAdministration; yetincorporating thosewords into one’s ownlifestyle is no easytask. Robert M. Fitzgerald, ’74, took on thatchallenge with vigor, and he is living proofthat actions speak louder than words. Likeso many other Niagara University graduates,Fitzgerald knows the importance of givingback to the community. Among the recipientsof his generosity is the university itself.Whether it’s assisting the alumni relationsteam, working diligently on “The Promise ofNiagara” campaign or just lending a helpinghand as needed, Fitzgerald is never selfishwhen it comes to giving of his time andnumerous talents. But Niagara Universityisn’t the only institution that benefits fromFitzgerald’s community involvement. Nowretired and residing in Southern California,Fitzgerald currently serves on the board oftrustees for Hathaway-Sycamores Child andFamily Services, an organization thatprovides hope for children in vulnerablesituations and guidance for familiesstruggling through tough times. Additionally,he is a member of the finance council for theMission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, anational shrine.He is also a member of the board of directorsof College Savings Bank of Princeton, N.J.,and serves as chairman of the bank’s auditcommittee. He also serves as a trustee forBrandes Institutional Funds, and has servedon the board of trustees of the Hotchkis andWiley Funds since 2004, where he is alsochairman of the audit committee of the Funds.His professional life is equally impressive. A CPAin New York, Arizona and California, Fitzgeraldwas formerly the CFO of PIMCO Advisors, a $300billion asset management firm. Prior to histenure at PIMCO, he was the chief administrativeofficer at Mechanics National Bank and an auditpartner in PricewaterhouseCoopers’ FinancialServices Group.eagle magazine 19

inthespotlightwww.niagaraalumni.comEditor’s note: Sean O’Boyle, ’85, and Peter Dunn, ’81, have a lot in common. Both came toNiagara University because of what they had heard about the school from friends; both wereinspired by family members to pursue careers in television; both hold high-level positions at thenetwork level; and both recently returned to their alma mater to see the campus and speak tocommunication studies students. We had the opportunity to sit with each of them to learn a littlemore about their journeys to their current positions and why they love what they do.Sean O’Boyle, ’85Sean O’Boyle knew he wanted to go into thetelevision business when he enrolled at Niagara asan English major in 1981. He was fascinated by thebehind-the-scenes work he had seen his uncle, whoworked at CBS in New York City, do, and saysthat “being around cameras and just the makingof television was interesting to me.” What he didn’tknow was that this interest would propel him intoone of the top spots at NBC Universal.Currently executive vice president and generalsales manager for the network’s Domestic TelevisionDistribution Division, O’Boyle oversees all day-todaydomestic broadcast sales of first-run and offnetworksyndicated programs throughout the UnitedStates. It’s a job he didn’t know existed when hegraduated in 1985 and took a position as a gofer inthe CBS newsroom in New York City. His entréeinto syndication work came a couple ofyears later, when he took a job as a salesassistant at the New York office ofOrbis Communications, a smallsyndication company. A salesmanager recognized that O’Boylehad a knack for conversationand asked him if he’dbe interested in pursuing acareer in sales. He was.His career quickly took off— he was transferred in 1989to the company’s Chicagooffice, where he sold moviesand shows like “Joker’s Wild.”Two years later, he took aposition with Group WProductions, the broadcastingdivision of Westinghouse ElectricCorp., as Midwest regional salesmanager. In 1996, he accepted the position of vicepresident of sales at Eyemark Entertainment/KingWorld Productions, where he helped launch firstrunstrip programs including “Martha StewartLiving” and off-network sales of “Everybody LovesRaymond.” From there he moved on to NBCEnterprises as vice president of Midwestern sales,selling such shows as “Access Hollywood” and “TheChris Matthews Show.” In 2004, following themerger of NBC with Universal Studios, O’Boylereturned to New York City when he was named tothe newly created position of senior vice presidentand national syndication sales manager for thedivision. In this role, he was instrumental in thelocal broadcast sales of series including the first-runlaunch of “Deal or No Deal” as well as “The JerrySpringer Show,” “Maury” and “The Steve WilkosShow.” In October of 2008, O’Boyle was appointedto his current position.O’Boyle says he enjoys the work, especially perkslike meeting the cast of “The Office” and visitingMartha Stewart at her home in Connecticut. Hehas discussed parenting issues with Howie Mandelland introduced the late Tim Russert at an event thatincluded Hilary Clinton among its guests. “It’s allpart of the job,” he says.The White Plains, N.Y., native credits Niagara’ssense of community with helping him develop thevalues and the people skills he needed to successfullypursue his career. Niagara is also where he met hiswife, the former Sheila Finnerty of the Class of1985. In April, O’Boyle returned to MonteagleRidge to discuss his career with students in thecommunications studies program, giving theminsight into a field that he, himself, discoveredonly by chance.— Lisa McMahon

inthespotlightwww.niagaraalumni.comPeter Dunn, ’81Peter Dunn’s arrival at WCBS-TV was a homecomingof sorts. Dunn, ’81, is president and general manager*of the CBS flagship station for the network for whichhis father worked decades before.“That’s the job my mom always wanted for me,”Dunn says, noting that he has childhood memoriesof coming to work with his father, who was anengineer at the station. “I feel like I grew up at CBS.”The journey home took longer than expected,however. Dunn had contacted WCBS’s generalsales manager shortly after graduating from Niagara’scommunication studies program, but the GSMnever returned his call. So Dunn took a job atWUTV in Buffalo, then accepted a national salesmanager job at WHEC-TV in Rochester and atKATZ-TV in Boston. In 1987, he returned toNew York City as an account executive with theABC Television Network for both ABC Spot Salesand WABC-TV.“This is where my career really started,”Dunn notes.In 1997, the Long Island native joined WNBC-TV, starting as an account executive and workinghis way up to executive vice president of sales ineight years for NBC TV Stations Group.Dunn’s career took a slight turn in 2004 whenhe was hired to oversee the operations of CBS’sPhiladelphia duopoly KYW-TV and WPSG-TV.Under his leadership as president and generalmanager, KYW became one of the fastest-growingstations in the country. This success led to his currentrole as head of WCBS-TV’s flagship station, whichhas jumped in the ratings to the number two spotunder Dunn’s watch.While his focus is on growing ratings and offeringnew ways to deliver news (in 2008, the stationlaunched a partnership with local blogs and socialmedia sites serving metro New York to offer embeddablenews widgets), Dunn is also committed toenhancing the station’s community-service efforts.WCBS is one of the local presenting media sponsorsfor the annual Susan G. Komen New York CityRace for the Cure 5K Run/Walk each year, andDunn encourages all staff members to participatein a variety of charitable events.“We really have a focus on the community at ourstation,” Dunn says. “We do so much and that is whatseparates us from the other stations and the nationalcable networks. I think that if you don’t do it, youmiss out on both a business and a personal level.”Dunn is equallycommitted to hisemployees, who sharehis passion for thework that they do.He says that hisleadership style isinspired by theexperience he hadat Niagara, wherepeople were treatedwith respect. Dunnextends that respectto his team andfacilitates an environmentwhere informationis sharedamong all members.“There’s nothingbetter than havinga great team andlearning from oneanother,” he says.Dunn also enjoysthe opportunity tomentor others, notingthat much of hissuccess is due to thementoring relationshipshe had with hiscolleagues. “I wasvery fortunate towork with some greatpeople,” he notes.This summer, Dunn helped several NiagaraUniversity students obtain competitive internshipswith his network, and is now working with thecommunications studies department to make theseinternships an ongoing opportunity. (See page 8 toread about one student’s experience.)“Based on my experiences, I knew that thefour students we hosted this summer at CBSwould be well-rounded and well-schooled,” Dunnsays. “I hoped to provide them with real-lifeexperiences that would complement their curriculumat Niagara and give them a competitive edgein this all-too-tight job market. Students todayneed every advantage to help break through andsucceed. It was a pleasure to be able to providethat opportunity.”— Lisa McMahon*As of press time, Peter Dunn was named president ofCBS Television Stations. In this position, he will overseethe network’s 29-station portfolio.Peter Dunn, ’81, with CBS EveningNews anchor Katie Couric.eagle magazine 21

alumniassociationupdatewww.niagaraalumni.comAlumni AssociationBoard of DirectorsGregory Hudecki, ’68PresidentThomas Summers, ’84Vice PresidentNancy Langer, ’78SecretaryFather Stephen Denig, C.M., ’71Alumni ChaplainArt CardellaDirector of Alumni RelationsMaureen Becker, ’90Shannon Bloomquist, ’07Martin Byrne, ’78Timothy Carroll, ’84Carol Cassell, ’79Ashleigh Cirilla, ’02James Collard, ’74Frances Crosby, ’67Jeffrey Dann, ’74Kimberly Dreier, ’09Frank Fiannaca, ’85James Hart, ’69Anthony Lista, ’80Loretta Madia, ’86Barbara Malinowski, ’59Mary Lou Markowski, ’90Paul McCarthy, ’60Dianne Moll, ’89Michael Moll, ’89Robert Sheehan, ’85Lavisse Smith, ’75Melinda Smith, ’78Lisa Sparks, ’95Jason Stein, ’93Iasha Stone, ’08Michelle Van de Loo, ’01Greg Hudecki, ’68, talks with Alan Levy, author of therecently published biography, “Joe McCarthy, Architect ofthe Yankee Dynasty,” before the Vincentian HeritageConvocation. Levy accepted the Alumni of Distinctionaward on behalf of McCarthy.Fellow alumni,What do you do when the games stop?When the practices no longer await and“life after sports” begins? This was thefocus of a pilot program for junior andsenior student-athletes introduced thispast October at Niagara. This mandatoryprogram was developed by Niagara’sassociate athletic director, Theresa Berg,and sponsored by the offices of alumnirelations, counseling services and careerdevelopment; Niagara’s Student-AthleteAdvisory Committee; the NCAA; andWells Fargo Financial, Inc.The program’s keynote speaker, JohnSullivan, ’93, a clinical sport psychologist,told the student-athletes about sportsconsulting services and teamed up withNiagara’s Dr. Bernadette Peters, assistantdirector of counseling/licensed psychologist,for an interactive group session. I waspart of an alumni panel for the questionand answer period that followed. Other panelists included Ann (Quigley) Macaulay, ’69; AndySmith, ’99; and Jessica Turner, ’06. Corporate recruiter and sponsor Paul Hicks, district managerat Wells Fargo, gave an empowering talk addressing how participating in athletics gives applicantsan advantage in the interviewing process; and Mike Skowronski, employer relations coordinator inthe career development office, ended the program by encouraging our graduates to use Niagara’snetworking and mentoring opportunities. For more information on this unique program, see thestory on page 11.Our Niagara University Alumni Association, through the Eagle’s Nest, has launched a new CareerCenter titled “Alumni Jobs.” This new program features a job search function that lists more than800,000 jobs and offers tips on writing résumés, cover letters and other career guidance. The programalso enables you to post jobs and network with other alumni, and participate in a mentoring program.As American politician John C. Crosby once stated, “Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen,and a push in the right direction.” If interested, you can register at the Career Center on the Eagle’sNest at www.niagaraalumni.com.Also, when you visit campus, be sure to check out the “Wall of Fame” in the atrium of BisgroveHall, where all of the Niagara Legacy–Alumni of Distinction recipients’ plaques are displayed. Andkeep in touch with NU through the Eagle’s Nest for upcoming events all around the country.Sincerely,Dr. Greg Hudecki, ’68President, Niagara University Alumni AssociationAlumni ChaptersAlbany ChapterBob Sheehan, ’85518-441-2758rjsheehan2002@yahoo.comAtlanta ChapterMelinda Smith, ’78404-934-6135 or 770-935-4511msfundraiser@bellsouth.netBoston ChapterTony Lista, ’80508-951-2641tonylista@aol.comNiagara University Is going SouthStaff from Niagara’s alumni relations office, along with theRev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., university president, will betraveling throughout Florida from Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, 2010,with stops in West Palm Beach, the Villages, Tampa, Sarasotaand Naples. Dates and venues to be announced — look for amailing and/or check out the Eagle’s Nest at www.niagaraalumni.com. We’re looking forward to catching up with alumniin the Sunshine State, so plan to attend one of these events.We would love to see you!22 eagle magazine

alumniassociationupdatewww.niagaraalumni.comMark Your CalendarWe have a lot in store for our chapters in the months ahead. Please mark these dates on your calendar andcheck out the Eagle’s Nest at www.niagaraalumni.com for more information.*January9 Albany — NU vs. Siena basketball game and reception14 Central New York — Holiday party23 Tri-State — NU vs. Quinnipiac hockey game and reception29 Rochester — TV game watch: NU vs. Canisius basketball gameand receptionFebruary1-6 Florida — NU is Going South: alumni events throughout Florida8 Delaware Valley — NU vs. Rider basketball game and reception12 Buffalo-Niagara — N-Zone event: dinner followed by basketball andhockey games26 Tri-State — NU vs. Manhattan basketball game and receptionMarch4-8 MAAC basketball tournament in Albany, N.Y.12 Tri-State — St. Patrick’s Day party12-14 CHA hockey tournament atNiagara University*Event calendar subject to change. Check the Eagle’s Nest at www.niagaraalumni.com fordetails on these events and additional activities.Take Networking to the Next LevelThe new and improved alumni job board ishere! The Eagle’s Nest has partnered withExperience.com, a leader in the field of careerplacement, to launch our new job board withmore than 800,000 listings. This partnershipsignificantly enhances the features of our onlinecommunity and provides you with:• Personalized job matches based on yourindividual member profile• The ability to post jobs and job details tothe Career Center• Career guidance, including articles, blogs,industry insight, as well as personalizedcontent based on your member profile• Networking capabilities for business WebCards,mentoring and résumés• A portfolio tool to define accomplishments,recount personal experiences and upload filesthat demonstrate qualities and skills beyondwhat’s listed on a résuméAlumni Jobs is free of charge, but is availableonly to registered members of the Eagle’s Nestcommunity. If you have already registered, youcan use your same user name and password tolog in to the system. If you have not registered,the process is a simple one and takes about twominutes to create your account.Visit the Eagle’s Nest at www.niagaraalumni.comand check out your new job board today!Buffalo-Niagara ChapterNancy Langer ’78716-836-5188nmlanger@aol.comShannon Bloomquist, ’07716-316-5873shannon.m.bloomquist@gmail.comCentral New York ChapterMarty Byrne, ’78315-424-7139Byrneirish7@aol.comLisa Sparks, ’95315-622-3443 or 607-316-1884Lisa.Sparks@Hilton.comCentral Maryland ChapterMaureen Becker, ’90410-744-2400maureen@ipmba.orgCharlotte ChapterJason Stein, ’93704-332-8407jstein@carolina.rr.comChicago Chapter“Windy City Purple Eagles”Lavisse Smith, ’75630-410-8597Lavisse.Smith@jostens.comCleveland ChapterTimothy Carroll ’84216-479-8655tcarroll@ssd.comMary Lou Markowski, ’90mlmarkowski@roadrunner.comDelaware Valley ChapterAshleigh Cirilla, ’02585-766-1690acirilla7@yahoo.comFrank Fiannaca, ’85856-665-5600ffiannaca@usapayrollnj.comRochester ChapterMike Moll, ’89585-924-2414mmoll2@rochester.rr.comDianne Moll, ’89585-924-2414dmoll@admin.rochester.eduTri-State ChapterMichelle Vandeloo, ‘01917-685-1675michelle.vandeloo@aig.comWashington NationalCapital ChapterPaul McCarthy, ’60703-931-6478paulmccarthy@earthlink.neteagle magazine 23

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comDid you know thatphotos of alumnievents from aroundthe country can befound on the Eagle’sNest at www.niagaraalumni.com? Just clickon Photo gallery tosee your old friends!classnotesCA&S = College of Arts & SciencesCBA = College of Business AdministrationCE = College of EducationCN = College of NursingCH = College of Hospitality & Tourism ManagementITHRA = Institute of Travel, Hotel & RestaurantAdministration (pre-CH)TTT = Transportation, Travel & Tourism (pre-ITHRA)1950s DonaldDeLutis, ’56 (CBA/General Business),left, San Francisco,took part in theSummer NationalSenior Games atStanford University,the largest multisportingevent in the history of the Bay Area. He wasa part of the NorCal Sharks, a basketball teamcompeting in the 75-79 age division.Walter Engels, ’59 (CA&S), and his wife, MaryJo (Cofrancesco) Engels, ’61 (CN), Garden City,N.J., were elected trustees of the Norman RockwellMuseum in Stockbridge, Mass., for a second year.1960s Marna Kathleen Flaherty-Robb, ’68 (CN),West Linn, Ore., retired from Oregon Health ServicesUniversity in 2008. She consulted with the Universityof Michigan School of Nursing from 2008 to 2009before beginning her new role as chief nursing informationofficer at University of Michigan Health CareSystem in Ann Arbor, Mich., in September.Glenn G. Viele, ’69 (CBA/Accounting), Albany,N.Y., retired from the New York State Departmentof Taxation and Finance after 20 years as a taxprocessing manager. He has been a CPA since 1976.1970s Richard J. Herdlein, ’70 (CA&S), Snyder,N.Y., was selected for a Fulbright Specialists projectin France at the Catholic University of Lille in October.Kenneth P. Giambattista, ’71 (CBA), Las Vegas, hasretired from the gaming industry after a 28-year career.John J. Plant, ’73 (CE), Brooklyn, N.Y., received theFDNY Capt. Timothy Stackpole Award at the GreatIrish Fair 2009 in Coney Island this past September.Frank N. Ingegno, ’76 (TTT), Carmel, Ind.,was promoted from United Airlines airbus aircraftlanding gear and hydraulic systems engineer toflight operations engineer. His responsibilitiesinclude ensuring airline minimum equipment listprocedures meet FAA requirements and managingspecial engineering projects.Joseph J. McCauley, ’77 (CBA/Accounting),Rochester, N.Y., has been promoted to professor ofbusiness administration and economics at MonroeCommunity College.Chris Dixen, ’79 (TTT), Moon Township, Pa.,has accepted the new position of vice president ofasset management with FFC Capital, Pittsburgh.Virginia (Augstell) Taylor, ’79 (CA&S), Lyndonville,N.Y., has accepted the position of vice presidentfor student and enrollment services with GeneseeCommunity College. She also received the 2009Bernice Potts Award from the Western New YorkNetwork for Women Leaders in Higher Education.1980s Bernadette (Gaughan) DePrez, ’81 (CN),Ooltewah, Tenn., is serving as the chief nurse andoperations officer at SkyRidge Medical Center.Gerard Sclafani, ’81 (TTT), Brooklyn, N.Y., hasbeen promoted to the position of corporate director oftravel industry sales with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts.Jim Connolly, ’82 (CA&S/SocialScience), Aurora, Ohio, has acceptedthe position of senior vice president— retail division, with TechnicalConsumer Products, Inc.Frank Lupisella Jr., ’83 (CBA/Accounting), Basking Ridge,N.J., was appointed to theboard of trustees for the WellnessCommunity of Central New Jersey, an internationalnonprofit organization whose missionis to help people affected by cancer.Arthur Bentley, ’84 (CA&S/History), Pleasantville,N.Y., was appointed to the new position of directorof business development by J.J. Baker & Bro. Inc. Hewill work on strategic initiatives designed to drivethe company’s customer-focused profitable growth.Chris R. Inzinga, ’89 (CA&S/International Studies),Webster, N.Y., was promoted to manager of businessstrategy of the global business and strategic marketinggroup at the Xerox Corp. He was also elected to athree-year term on the Webster School Board ofEducation in July 2009.1990s Jennifer (Jackson) Pierce, ’90 (CA&S),Niagara Falls, N.Y., was promoted from metalsgroup manager to laboratory/operations managerat Test America in January 2009.Joseph M. Falbo Jr., ’91 (CBA/Accounting), GrandIsland, N.Y., was installed as secretary/treasurer bythe New York State Society of Certified PublicAccountants in May 2009. He is also a tax partnerwith Tronconi Segarra & Associates, servicing thefirm’s three offices in the Western New York area.24 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comStephen Cook, ’92 (CA&S/Biology), Fairport, N.Y.,was recently selected president of the Rochester Boardof the American Heart Association.Jennifer (Park) Missland, ’93 (CN), Cheektowaga,N.Y., obtained her CCRN certification in May 2009.Wendy (Astridge) Adams, ’94 (CBA/Management),North Tonawanda, N.Y., was re-elected to a secondterm as president of the American Business Women’sAssociation, Niagara Falls chapter, in June 2009.Kathy (Eddy) Gorton, ’95 (CN), Watsontown, Pa.,received the Nursing Excellence Award at GeisingerMedical Center in Danville, Pa., in recognition ofher dedication and compassion for her patients.She is a surgical oncologist coordinator.Bridget (Foran) Lujan, ’95(CA&S/Theater Performance),Juneau, Alaska, has been promotedto director in the tax division forElgee, Rehfeld & Mertz.Abigail Mitchell, ’95 (CN),Youngstown, N.Y., wrote adissertation that became a pilotprogram at DeGraff MemorialHospital in North Tonawanda, N.Y. The dissertation,“A formal mentoring program for the novice nurse,”was later adopted by Buffalo General and Women’sand Children’s Hospital of Buffalo as well. Sherecently received the WNY Nurse of DistinctionAward for 2009 and serves as the president of SigmaTheta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing,Gamma Theta chapter.Phil DiPofi, ’96 (CBA), Castle Rock, Colo., waspromoted to chief banking officer for COBank,Greenwood Village, Colo.Barbara Panza, ’96 (CA&S), Richardson, Texas,had an article, “His Word Was His Bond: The Roleof the Oath in Thomas More’s Trial,” published inthe June 2009 issue of the academic journal Moreana.Leslie Good, ’99 (CA&S/Math), Rochester, N.Y.,graduated in May 2009 with an Ed.D. in teachingand curriculum from the University of Rochester.She is currently the director of STEM at PenfieldCentral School District in Penfield, N.Y.Sabrina Nuciarone, ’99 (CBA), Kiel, Wisc., is anadjunct faculty member at Fox Valley TechnicalCollege, teaching written communication.2000s Lee V. Pierce, ’02 (CE/ElementaryEducation), Lockport, N.Y., was appointed principalof Sheridan Hill Elementary School in the ClarenceCentral School District.Gretchen Dizer, ’05 (CA&S/Theater Performance),Albany, N.Y., has been a member of the New YorkLottery draw team since June 2008.Elineth (Sanz) Moreira, ’05 (CA&S/CriminalJustice), Harrison, N.Y., graduated from the ThomasM. Cooley Law School in May 2009. She was onthe dean’s list and earned a certificate of merit ininterviewing and counseling.Kathryn Sarzyniak, ’05 (CE/English), NorthTonawanda, N.Y., graduated in December 2008from Buffalo State College with a master’s degreein literacy education as a literacy specialist 5-12and was a finalist for the college’s Action-BasedResearch Award. She recently wrote and publishedher first book, “Attitudes Affecting the Black-WhiteAchievement Gap,” which was based on herhonors thesis for Niagara University.Cara Turner, ’05 (CH/Tourism Management),Lewiston, N.Y., has been named special events managerat the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.Jennifer Maria (Kemak) Brown, ’06 (CE/Math),Manassas, Va., received her master’s degree ineducational leadership from George MasonUniversity, Fairfax, Va., in May 2009.Stacey McQuade, ’08 (CE/Mental HealthCounseling), Majuro, M.H., recently acceptedthe position of coordinator of the counselingcertificate program at the College of the MarshallIslands, a small country five degrees north of theequator in the Pacific Ocean.Julie Metz, ’09 (CBA/Accounting), Lockport,N.Y., has accepted the position of staff accountantwith Gaines Kriner Elliott.Brenna Zerfas, ’09 (CBA/Accounting), WestValley, N.Y., has accepted the position of staffaccountant with Gaines Kriner Elliott.militarynewsMaj. Gen. Vincent E. Boles,’76, Ft. Myers, Va., was awardedthe Distinguished Service Medal,a certificate of appreciation fromPresident Barack Obama, and hisofficial retirement orders in aceremony before more than 200people at the Pentagon in July.Lt. Col. Joseph DiChairo, ’86,Ft. Drum, N.Y., recently completed a 13-monthtour of duty in Iraq as the chief of staff, 10thMountain Division.marriagesChristine Suter, ’82, Fairport, N.Y., to GeorgeWallace, Rochester, N.Y., June 20, 2009.Margaret Mary Battaglia, ’95, Fairport,N.Y., to Sebastian Curatolo, Pittsford, N.Y.,May 2, 2009.Placement andCredentials FilesThe Office of Career Developmentis reviewing its archive ofplacement/credentials files toensure the information is accurateand to provide the bestpossible service to alumni.Effective Sept. 1, 2009, credentialsfiles established with theuniversity that have had noactivity (e.g., updating materials,requesting to send credentials,etc.) for 10 years or more will bedestroyed and discarded.Alumni who established credentialsfiles in 1999 or earlierand wish to keep their filesactive may do so by submittinga signed, written request byDec. 31, 2009, to the Officeof Career Development, P.O.Box 2041, Niagara University,N.Y. 14109-2041.The career development officeprovides a wide range of servicesto alumni, including résumécritiques, practice interviews,career counseling and more.See www.niagara.edu/careerfor more information.eagle magazine 25

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comFond MemoriesClub football player Ed Renica, ’73, with coach Roy Crysler in this picture circa 1970.Lori Boccaccio, ’98, North Tonawanda, N.Y.,to Eric Alstrom, Sept. 5, 2009.Keanna Maxwell, ’00, Fredericksburg, Va.,to Kenneth Norman, ’01, Queens, N.Y,May 15, 2009.Joseph Trentley IV, ’00, Altamonte Springs,Fla., to Kathryn Gaiser, Lewiston, N.Y.,Aug. 21, 2009.Christopher Michael Brogan, ’02, Baldwin,N.Y., to Taturi Cava, Baldwin, May 17, 2009.Sarah J. Cashimere, ’06, Rochester, N.Y.,to William T. Warren III, ’06, Rochester,Aug. 15, 2009.Gregory L. Witul, ’08, Niagara Falls, N.Y., toMary Lanham, Williamsville, N.Y., June 14, 2009.Felicia Coffey, ’09, Mesa, Ariz., to AdamKinney, March 31, 2009.Victoria Derby, ’09, Bowling Green, Ohio, toRichard Carhart, July 4, 2009.birthsadoptionsSandra Paul, ’77, North Tonawanda, N.Y.,adopted brother and sister, Nicolas David andWendy Vanesa, from Bogota, Columbia, thispast spring.To Mr. and Mrs. Scott Pierce (JenniferJackson, ’90), Niagara Falls, N.Y., a son,Anderson John, May 9, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bucklin, ’91, Geneva,N.Y., a son, Matthew Joseph, June 1, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Justin O’Brien (Krista Holtby,’93), Westminster, Md., a son, Preston Robert,Jan. 28, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. William Crago (Victoria Roty,’93), North Tonawanda, N.Y., twin sons, MasonWilliam and Chase Edward, July 19, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Luis Torres (Renee Asplin,’94), Orlando, Fla., a son, Austin Peter,March 5, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Tony Overy (Pam Olewine,’94), Macedon, N.Y., a daughter, Marisa Emily,Sept. 1, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Leskiw (Barbara Panza,’96), Richardson, Texas, a son, Henry Austin,July 23, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Todd Galusha (Leslie Reisinger,’96), Rochester, N.Y., a daughter, Lucia Marie,July 28, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. K. John Bland, ’98 (CaraSlatterick, ’98), Williamsville, N.Y., a son,Adam Lincoln, July 14, 2009.26 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comTo Mr. and Mrs. Tonra (Kelley Butler, ’98),Avon, N.Y., a daughter, Matilda Margaret,May 13, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Duane Rinkus, ’98 (ShannonGraham, ’98), Denver, N.C., a son, BeckettDennis, May 4, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. James Sacco (Jenny Lannier,’98), Liverpool, N.Y., a daughter, LaurenJennifer, June 28, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. AJ Melanson, ’99, Atlanta,a daughter, Caroline, May 8, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Steven Goforth, ’00 (RachelBeck, ’00), Rochester, N.Y., a daughter,Abigail Grace, Aug. 7, 2009.To Steve Shragge and Michelle Crawley,’00, Ottowa, Ontario, a son, Samuel Peter,Aug. 12, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bradley Jr., (CarlyCrisafulli, ’00), Niagara Falls, N.Y., a daughter,Teaghan Marie, Aug. 20, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Rob Agan (Erica Doland,’00), Elmira, N.Y., a son, Trevor Robert,March 11, 2009.To Mr. and Mrs. Tom Leonardo, ’00 (KristinWolff, ’00), Rochester, N.Y., a daughter,Addison Elizabeth, Sept. 4, 2009.To Renee Marie Neward, ’01, Williamsville, N.Y.,a son, Jackson Andrew Kenneth, April 30, 2009.deathsTo have a Mass celebrated at Alumni Chapel,call NU’s campus ministry office at 716-286-8400.Domenick A. Iannuzzi, ’34, Lewiston, N.Y.,Aug. 21, 2009.Rev. Msgr. Lawrence E. Giblin, ’40, Binghamton,N.Y., Sept. 26, 2009.Paul C. Stolzenfels, ’42, North Tonawanda,N.Y., May 10, 2009.Kenneth B. Wolfe, ’42, Lowville, N.Y.,Sept. 17, 2009.Rev. Msgr. Casimir Zak, ’45, Lancaster, N.Y.,July 22, 2009.John A. Reehill, ’49, Trenton, N.J., May 6, 2009.George F. Ciampa, ’51, Coronado, Calif.,Aug. 28, 2009.Rev. Charles A. LaPenta, ’51, Toledo, Ohio,Aug. 1, 2009.Jerauld J. LaBarber, ’52, Sunnyvale, Calif.,April 16, 2009.Donald R. Schreiber, ’53, Supply, N.C.,Sept. 3, 2009.Edward O. Darwin, ’54, Sykesville, Md.,May 8, 2009.Norma Anne Ganter-Lipniarski, ’54, NiagaraFalls, Ontario, Sept. 1, 2009.Rev. Stanley F. Nowak, ’54, Buffalo, N.Y.,July 15, 2009.Edward O’Grady, ’54, Marcus Hook, Pa.,Jan. 19, 2009.Edward P. Reilly, ’54, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,July 17, 2009.Rev. Thomas S. Greene, ’55, Granby, Conn.,Sept. 9, 2009.Joseph B. McNamara, ’56, Rochester, N.Y.,Aug. 17, 2009.Richard A. Tschiderer, ’56, Wyomissing, Pa.,Sept. 25, 2009.Barbara (Schraft) Murray, ’59, Baton Rouge,La., Aug. 14, 2009.John B. Breen, ’61, Lowell, Mass., June 28, 2009.Paula (Scanio) Gunther, ’66, Tinley Park, Ill.,Sept. 6, 2009.Peter P. Gunther, ’67, Tinley Park, Ill.,April 25, 2009.Michael M. Landers, ’69, Spring Lake, N.J.,July 17, 2009.William F. Tessitore, ’69, Saratoga Springs,N.Y., Sept. 17, 2009.Michael Brown, ’71, Santa Barbara, Calif.,Sept. 9, 2009.John J. Pidgeon, ’71, Bellport, N.Y., May 21, 2009.Paula Jo Centofanti, ’75, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,July 26, 2009.Elaine Marie (Adler) Parkinson, ’76, Leesburg,Va., Sept. 22, 2009.Elizabeth (Larkin) Hebborn, ’79, Eggertsville,N.Y., May 31, 2009.Michael W. Gravelle, ’81, Pittstown, N.J.,Sept. 29, 2009.Christine Tamburrino-Barber, ’85, NiagaraFalls, N.Y., July 11, 2009.Richard W. Baxter, ’87, Howell, Mich.,Aug. 29, 2009.Juanita (Jenkins) Smith, ’94, Niagara Falls,N.Y., Sept. 26, 2009.Gregory L. Witul, ’08, and MaryLanham wed June 14, 2009.We Would Loveto Hear From youAlumni Relations OfficeP.O. Box 2008Niagara University, N.Y. 14109716-286-8787alumni@niagara.edueagle magazine 27

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comEveryone IsWaiting for youIt’s never been easier to join thefun! Check out the new way toconnect and communicate withyour friends on the Eagle’s Nest,Niagara’s online alumni community,at www.niagaraalumni.com.Groups have arrived at the Eagle’sNest. They are very similar towhat you find on Facebookgroups, so you’ll be able to:• Join an existing group orstart your own• Invite your friends to joinyour group• Share your video, photos,links, comments, and eventinvitations with your group• Post your thoughts via theWhite Board• Chat instantly with othergroup members• RSVP to group events• Subscribe to updates aboutother group members.So visit the Eagle’s Nest andget started today … everyoneis waiting for you.withsympathyTo Lorraine (LaBarber) McInerney, ’54, SanJose, Calif., on the death of her brother, Jerauld J.LaBarber, ’52, April 16, 2009.To Marilyn (Forker) McCarthy, ’60, Buffalo,N.Y., on the death of her son, Charles McCarthy,Aug. 24, 2009.To Thomas Hogenkamp, ’63, Buffalo, N.Y.,on the death of his wife, Eileen Hogenkamp,Sept. 13, 2009.To James Hart, ’69, New York, N.Y., onthe death of his mother, Marion Hart,July 13, 2009.To Madonna (Miller) Pidgeon, ’69, Bellport,N.Y., on the death of her husband, John J.Pidgeon, ’71, May 21, 2009.To Marjorie (Stolzenfels) Dehlinger, ’71,Jefferson, Md., on the death of her father,Paul C. Stolzenfels, ’42, May 10, 2009.To Michael Dehlinger, ’73, Jefferson, Md., onthe death of his father-in-law, Paul C. Stolzenfels,’42, May 10, 2009.To Ronald Papa, ’74, Williamsville, N.Y., on thedeath of his brother, Gary Papa, June 19, 2009.To Laurie (Stolzenfels) Kornaker, ’78, Ocoee,Fla., on the death of her father, Paul C. Stolzenfels,’42, May 10, 2009.To Marty Salanger, ’79, Syracuse, N.Y., on thedeath of his father, John Salanger, Oct. 15, 2009.To Patty (Salanger) Costello, ’81, Syracuse,N.Y., on the death of her father, John Salanger,Oct. 15, 2009.To Mary Anne (Cali) Pappalardo, ’81,Youngstown, N.Y., on the death of her mother,Anne Cali, July 24, 2009.To Brendan Dowd, ’82, Kenmore, N.Y., on thedeath of his father, James Dowd, Sept. 12, 2009.To Colleen (Colpoys) Dowd, ’82, Kenmore,N.Y., on the death of her father-in-law, JamesDowd, Sept. 12, 2009.To Dave Salanger, ’83, Syracuse, N.Y., on thedeath of his father, John Salanger, Oct. 15, 2009.To Colleen (Salanger) Scherer, ’85, Syracuse,N.Y., on the death of her father, John Salanger,Oct. 15, 2009.Carol (Salanger) Harris, Syracuse, N.Y., on thedeath of her father, John Salanger, Oct. 15, 2009.To Harry Hardenstine, ’94, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,on the death of his mother, Teresa Hardenstine,Aug. 22, 2009.To Gordon Slipko, ’00, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,on the death of his mother, Rose Marie Slipko,Aug. 7, 2009.To Sharon Hardenstine, ’03, Niagara Falls,N.Y., on the death of her mother-in-law, TeresaHardenstine, Aug. 22, 2009.To Ryan Brunner, ’05, North Tonawanda,N.Y., on the death of her mother, PamelaBrunner, Dec. 1, 2008.To Nicholas Moley, ’08, Newfane, N.Y., on thedeath of his sister, Kristina Moley, July 21, 2009.ROTC Hall of Fame Nominations SoughtNominations for the 2010 ROTC Hall of Fameclass are now being accepted. Nominees musthave graduated from NU and participated inNU ROTC with military service ending inan honorable discharge, retirement or funeral.In addition, one or more of the subsequentprerequisites must be met:• Performed military service that set astandard as an exemplary model.• Lives or lived in the model of St. Vincentde Paul (embracing service to the community,the poor and the downtrodden).• Made a significant contribution to thebetterment of society.• Reached a high-level position of authority,either civilian or military, that is worthyof recognition.To make a Hall of Fame nomination, pleasesend a narrative of the individual’s achievements,any corroborating documents, and a 5”x7”photo of the nominee (digital preferred) to:Master Sgt. Ian P. Bush, P.O. Box 2024,Niagara University, N.Y. 14109, or e-mail toibush@niagara.edu no later than May 1, 2010.Please include contact information with yournomination. Awardees and/ or their familymembers will be notified in June and theinduction ceremonies will be held duringAlumni Weekend 2010.28 eagle magazine

anuviewkorea Revisited 1953-2009The 1988 Olympics in Seoul, Korea, gave a cluethat significant transformation had changed theface of the country. In the early 1950s, as welooked over our shoulders boarding the trooptransports, the devastation seemed unredeemable.The buildings were derelict and so were thesociety and the people who composed it.Fast forward 50 plus years. While revisitingSeoul as the guest of the Korean War veterans,I saw the tangible results of freedom in the handsof a people whose diligence knows no bounds. Iwas immediately struck by the massive buildings,both commercial and residential, and the infrastructureof roads, bridges, utilities and all thesupport systems necessary for an American-likelife style.Make no mistake about it — the Korean peoplehave aligned themselves with the West in general,and America in particular. For example, I didn’tsee a single residential window without an airconditioner in it. The business dress of the malepopulation is right out of Wall Street, while thewomen go to work fashionably dressed and favordesigner jeans and stiletto heels for recreationalwear. I was so impressed that I didn’t know whatto look at next.The occasion for all this was the commemorationof the onset of the Korean War, June 25,1950. During the ceremony, Lee Myung-bak, thepresident of Korea, presented veterans of the United States (including me), Belgium and Columbiawith the Korean Medal for Peace. His emotional presentation included an expression of his gratitudefor all that the United States has done for his country over the years, starting with giving them the giftof freedom. Many diplomats and military representatives in the consortium allied to them, including theAmerican hierarchy, were in attendance. After the ceremony, a wreath was laid at the American monument.During my time in Seoul, I visited the Korean War Memorial, where I spotted the names of ourNiagara KIAs on their respective state plaques. I also went to Panmunjom and the Truce Building,the landing beaches of Inchon, now occupied by the docks and buildings of a busy port. Unfortunately,I was not able to visit my primary battle site, “Old Baldy.” Believe it or not, the trenches and bunkershave been dismantled and 50 years of growth have made the scene almost pastoral.I encourage any Korean War veterans to consider a trip to Seoul. It will put your life in properperspective, regardless of your achievements in the civilian world. If you served in Korea fromJune 25, 1950, through Dec. 31, 1953, you are eligible to take the tour, which is organized byMilitary Historical Tours (703-590-1295).By Jack Mitchell, '51Jack Mitchell, ’51 (right), withLt. Gen. Joseph Fil, commandingofficer of the eighth Army, at aluncheon during which KoreanWar veterans were presentedwith the Korean Medal forPeace by the president ofthat country.Have something to say?We’re looking for topical personalessays for “A NU View.” Articlesshould be approximately 700words on the topic of your choice.Send them to: Lisa McMahon,Editor, Office of Communicationsand Public Relations, NiagaraUniversity, N.Y. 14109 or e-mailto lmcmahon@niagara.edu.eagle magazine 29

Office of Institutional AdvancementNiagara University, NY 14109Nonprofit Org.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDNiagara University, N.Y.Permit No. 1CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTEDYou never call …You never write …How many times have you thought about your friends from college,but didn’t have a clue about how to actually reach them?The Eagle’s Nest alumni online communitywww.niagaraalumni.comwill help you get and STAY connected.• Alumni Directory: e-mail an old NU friend and update your personal information.• NUws and Events: get the latest news from the Ridge and register for upcoming alumni events.• Post Class Notes: update your profile on your accomplishments and milestones.• Career Center: search jobs, post jobs, network, find a mentor and career guidance.• And much, much more: message boards, photo albums, and chats!To register on the Eagle’s Nest, visit www.niagaraalumni.com and click“First-time Login”* in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. Follow theon-screen prompts and you’ll be reconnecting with old friends in no time!Call us at 716-286-8787 or e-mail us atalumni@niagara.edu with any questions.*Your first-time login code is located above your name on the address label above.