Anniversary Alumni Honored In
Special Reunion Medal Ceremony
Over 150 alumni celebrating milestone graduation anniversaries were
honored at a Special Medal Ceremony on Saturday evening, June 9 as
part of Alumni Reunion 2007.
Members of the 50th anniversary class of 1957 received a gold
medal, those from the 40th anniversary class of 1967 a bronze
medal, and those from the 25th anniversary class of 1982 a silver
medal. Their medals were presented by St. John’s University
President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. who was assisted by
legendary Hall of Fame Basketball Coach Lou Carnesecca ’50C,
’60GEd, ’00HON, currently assistant to the President at St.
John’s.
Robert D. Wile ’99SVC, chief of staff to President Harrington noted
that, “The alums whom we honor tonight have done much to carry our
message into the world. That’s a great accomplishment, and so
tonight your University says ‘thank you’ for a job exceptionally
well done!”
Although each of the men and women honored have taken different
roads into the world since leaving St. John’s, they all
acknowledged the special bond that has kept them connected to their
alma mater for so many years. That connection began with
their first days on campus, and has persisted and strengthened with
the passage of time.
The ongoing association with St. John’s is incredibly meaningful to
so many alums, especially those receiving anniversary medals.
According to Prof. Raymond Cullen ’82C, “I’d have to say that it’s
the values that St. John’s stands for, the mission statement…it’s
just a wonderful place to be. It’s great to be back after 25
years and to see everybody. I’m looking forward to the next
25 years.”
Joseph Gagliano, Jr. ’82C, ’85L has maintained his connection to
St. John’s since his student days. He sees the Vincentian
charisma and spirit as the most profound element of what has
encouraged him to maintain his ties to the University for the past
quarter-century. “The Vincentians played a very formative
part of my college years. They taught me to be in the spirit
of St. Vincent, to live in the spirit of St. Vincent and to serve
in the spirit of St. Vincent. That’s really become a very
central part of my life.”
View the full event
photo gallery and order prints!
(Click “View Slideshow” to view photos.
Register or Sign in to purchase prints.)