St. John's News

The Hempstead Country Club was the site of the 20th Annual Newman Golf Classic as 164 alumni and friends combined a day of golf with support for scholarships for St. John’s University students.

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Over the past two decades the Newman Golf Classic has become one of the most enjoyable and successful University fundraising events, generating over $2.5 million for scholarships and other types of financial assistance for academically deserving and financially burdened students. According to Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M., president of St. John’s University, that success is directly attributable to the exceptional support of the Committee members and participants over the past 20 years. “St. John’s is what it is today because there are so many people who, each in his or her own way, has made a contribution of their time and talent to this University. Tonight’s gathering is yet another example of that wonderful support.”

During the post-golf reception Rev. Harrington presented the President’s Medal to Rev. James F. Dorr, C.M. for his many years of tireless efforts on behalf of the Newman Golf Classic, noting that “Father Jim Dorr has spent 32 years using his own talents, in his own way, to strengthen the University”. Rev. Harrington also announced that from this day forth the Newman Golf Classic would be renamed The Rev. James F. Dorr, C.M. Golf Classic in honor of Father Dorr’s outstanding commitment to the event.

In accepting the President’s Medal, Father Dorr graciously credited the Committee for the event’s continued success. “It’s the Committee that really should share in this Medal. The Newman Golf Classic has been a success for the University and it’s brought a lot of good friends together for good times.”

Alumni participants were universal in voicing their enthusiasm for Father Dorr and the Classic. “I’ve been involved for 20 years” noted Bob Chrenc ’66CBA. “I was on the first committee. You just can’t say no to Father Dorr. And the scholarships are so important. It’s great to know that we’re helping young people get an education.”

Frank Fusaro ’69CBA agreed. “I’ve been involved in this from day one. Scholarships are critical at St. John’s. It’s our mission and that’s really what this is all about.”

Alumni were also vigorous in their overall support for St. John’s, recalling fond memories that have been formed and strengthened over the years. “I’ve been involved for the past 9 or 10 years and always have a really great time” commented Bob Kalenka ’84CBA, ’91MBA. “I come to support Father Dorr and St. John’s, because they both have a big piece of my heart.”

Everyone agreed that the future of the Classic is indeed bright. According to this year’s Co-Chairman John Desmond ’73CBA, “It’s a combination of the camaraderie of the St. John’s alums and the magnetism of Father Dorr that makes this event unlike any other golf tournament. I’ll be coming back every year for as long as I can play golf.”