St. John's News

The Future Alumni Association (FAA) welcomed 31 new members on April 25 during the 2007 induction ceremony held in Marillac Terrace on the Queens campus. University President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M., alumni and students attended the annual event of this burgeoning student society.

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Father Harrington commended FAA members on the leadership, support and loyalty to alma mater that they model. He also urged new members to immerse themselves in the University’s Vincentian mission and continue in that dedication even after graduation, maintaining a connection with St. John’s and its values.

The keynote speaker, Hon. Robert Kelly ’61CBA, shared a bit about his life, citing St. John’s as a factor in his success, first as a leading sales executive for Lipton Corporation and then as a legislator in Orange County, where he was re-elected for seven additional terms. Kelly inspired students and alumni alike, with the story of his humble childhood growing up in the South Bronx and the dramatic impact that studying at St. John’s had on his later years. In the spirit of giving back, he also donated $1000 prior to the ceremony to help meet some of the University’s greatest needs.

Dedicated to building lifelong relationships between current students and the University, FAA provides an opportunity for members to gain valuable connections with alumni who can serve to mentor them and aid in their future vocations. Each year, new members are inducted, executive board members are elected and outgoing seniors are recognized for their service.

“We [the executive board] will do our very best to provide you with opportunities to grow as individuals through this organization,” pledged incoming FAA president, Elsen Jacob ‘11P, to new members. “We will continue to uphold the Vincentian tradition of service, whether through FAA-initiated service projects or by linking with other great organizations on campus.”