Presentation of the Fidelitas Award to Carolyn Ann Sheehan and John A. Sheehan
Science majors are well aware of the many benefits of serious studying. It can lead to good grades, future professional success and, in the case of Carolyn and John Sheehan, an introduction to a future spouse. It was Dr. Alfred Liberti’s Anatomy class that provided the setting for what would become a wonderful St. John’s University love story. Carolyn was organizing a study group for some of her fellow students and John took advantage of the opportunity to join. Seeing something special in each other, they became involved in similar student activities. Both participated in Student Government, and Carolyn chaired St. John’s student book exchange. Following their graduation in 1981, John went to dental school at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Carolyn entered SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. Once the rigorous educational requirements needed for entry into their chosen professions were completed, the Sheehans were married in 1987 at Holy Family Church in Flushing, NY by Rev. Joseph Wilson, one of John’s high school classmates. They quickly embarked upon successful careers, with John distinguishing himself as a talented dentist and Carolyn as a gifted physician. During the course of their life together Carolyn and John were blessed with four wonderful daughters. Recognizing the special place that St. John’s holds in the hearts of the Sheehan Family, two of these young women, Mary and Elizabeth, have chosen to continue their parents’ legacy by themselves becoming St. John’s students, a decision which Carolyn and John proudly endorsed. The Sheehans have demonstrated their love for the University in a variety of ways. They are members of The Loughlin Society and, joined by their daughter Mary, delivered a moving address to their fellow members at The Loughlin Society Winter Reception last December. They are also generous supporters of The Dr. Alfred V. Liberti Endowed Scholarship, a wonderfully appropriate way to show their appreciation for the beloved professor whose class brought them together more than three decades ago. It is with deep affection for these two devoted alumni and in recognition of the 30th anniversary of their graduation that St. John’s University presents the Fidelitas Award to Carolyn Ann Sheehan and John A. Sheehan.