November 26, 2013
Citing a “commitment to New York City’s children and their impact on the urban landscape,” the Police Athletic League (PAL) honored St. John’s University and Edward M. Kull ’05MBA, acting vice president for institutional advancement, at their Eighth Annual Real Estate and Construction Luncheon on November 20.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of two New York City staples, PAL and St. John’s University,” said Kull. “Both organizations have rich traditions of providing students with the opportunity to advance on the playing field and in their careers, while also helping them develop as individuals and teaching them the value of giving back.”
PAL also honored Columbia University and Fordham University at the ceremony. Kull, who played PAL baseball as a child, was selected for the special recognition by Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., president of St. John’s University.
At the age of 12, Kull was given the opportunity to compete with PAL’s New York City Friendship Team in Japan. “It was a life-changing experience for me,” he recalled. “For a kid who had never been outside of Queens, that experience made me realize that I could achieve a lot more.”
The event was also attended by Martha Hirst, executive vice president, chief operating officer, and treasurer of St. John’s University; Hon. Raymond W. Kelly ’71L, ’98HON, police commissioner of the City of New York; and Hon. Robert McGuire ’61, PAL vice chairman of the board and former police commissioner.
Kull came to St. John’s in 2003 as associate athletic director for marketing and external affairs. After leaving for a stint in corporate sports and entertainment marketing, he returned to the University as director of development for men's basketball. In September, he was appointed acting vice president for institutional advancement.
Looking back, Kull is quick to credit his experience with PAL for his success at the University. “I learned a lot from the police officers who coached me back then,” he said. “The principles I learned at PAL are what led me to St. John’s.”