December 10, 2008
Hundreds of alumni and their family as well as friends of
the University munched cookies and sweets while sipping eggnog at a
reception held prior to St. John’s University’s 21st Annual
Christmas Concert held on Dec. 6, 2008.
Photo Gallery
The group mingled and chatted at Marillac Terrace, the site of the
event that was graciously hosted by St. John’s Alumnae Association.
Niels Schmidt ’98MBA brought his family including his
three-year-old granddaughter, Riley. Schmidt said he wanted to
share in the festive nature of the event with them. “It’s the
season,” he said. “I wanted to bring them to enjoy the cheer of St.
John’s.”
Attendees of all ages enjoyed their time in the festively decorated
room where a buffet including sandwiches and gingerbread men
cookies offered a treat prior to the concert which has become an
annual tradition at St. John’s. Veronica Wright ’73CBA said she
looks forward to the event. “I’ve come back a number of years in a
row,” she said. “I meet old friends, have a good time and enjoy the
concert. My friends and I enjoy getting together close to
Christmas.”
William Schaeffer ’73CBA, Director of Alumni Relations, welcomed
the crowd and announced the arrival of Santa Claus and one of his
elves who handed out candy canes and took photos with attendees.
Rev. John A. Kettleberger, C.M., University Chaplin and Director of
Campus Ministry for Residence Students, gave an update on St.
John’s and offered the blessing.
Carol Whyzmuzis ’73CBA, ’75GEd, President of the Alumnae
Association, introduced the scholarship recipient of the Veronica
Smith Scholarship Fund, Keri Zachmann ’12P. Zachmann, who
attended with her parents, offered a few remarks and shared with
those present how the scholarship made possible her dream to pursue
her education and future career as a Physicians Assistant. “I’m
very proud to have received the scholarship,” she said prior to her
speech. “I’m very grateful and it really does help. I’m also very
proud to be here with alumni.” Her mother, Jackie Zachmann ’79Ed,
said she was proud of her daughter’s decision to attend her
alma mater. “I was thrilled when she was accepted and
wanted to come here,” Mrs. Zachmann said. “We are happy to be here
and share in this holiday event.” A raffle was held during the
reception to benefit the scholarship fund which honors the memory a
former member of the Alumnae Association.
St. John's University 21st Annual Christmas Concert included
performances from the St. John's University Mixed Chorus and the
Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra, featuring John Easterlin, Tenor of
Metropolitan Opera Fame.