September 07, 2010
Acknowledged as the gold standard in the world of professional
tennis, the excitement of the US Open was in the air as more than
200 alumni and friends of St. John’s University gathered on
Thursday, September 2, 2010 to enjoy the fourth night of this
annual classic. Some of the biggest names in tennis were on the
court as Maria Sharapova defeated Iveta Benesova in straight sets
and Novak Djokovic, ranked number three in the world, bested
Philipp Petzschner.
Photo gallery
A number of St. John’s most outstanding alumni were present to
enjoy the event, including University Trustee Patricia A. McLernon
Castel ’74Ed, ’77L, ’04HON, former Trustee Dr. Peggy Murrain ’83
Ed.D, ’98 HON, Board of Governors member Salvatore J. Zizza ’67UC,
’72MBA, ’07HON, Founders Society member Ronald T. Schroeder ’69C,
’73MBA, ’93HON and United States Tennis Association Chief Financial
Officer Harry R. Beeth ’67CBA, ’70MBA.
Many alumni spent time socializing and networking at a reception in
the spacious USTA Training Center, which had been converted into an
exclusive hospitality center. The reception included an array of
delicious food and a private bar and featured a live pianist
throughout the evening.
“This is a wonderful way for alumni to get together and
enjoy an event that is such a part of the contemporary sports
scene, attracting some of the finest athletes from all around the
world,” remarked William G. Schaeffer ’73CBA, Director, Office of
Alumni Relations. “I’d especially like to thank Harry Beeth who did
so much to help make this evening possible.”
Professor John Clarke ’55CBA, ’57L enjoyed the trip to the US Open
for a variety of reasons, one of which was that it offered him an
opportunity to introduce Victoria L. Shoaf, Ph.D., newly-appointed
Interim Dean of St. John’s The Peter J. Tobin College of Business,
to the alumni. “It’s always good to come out and see other alumni
and former students,” he said.
For some of St. John’s younger graduates, it was not only their
first time at the US Open but also the first time that they
participated in an alumni event. They were quick to express their
appreciation for the opportunity to get together with other members
of their University family in such a unique location.
“It was great to come out here and see old friends and reconnect
with people,” said William Goodwin ’04CPS, ’06MBA, “and this is a
great event to be able to do it.”
“This is my first event and also my first time at the US Open,”
noted Laura Burlacu ’06C, ’08G. “I definitely think I’ll be coming
out to more alumni events.”
At the end of the night, the excitement experienced by the
attendees was as much about being with their fellow alumni as it
was about the action taking place on the court. “I brought my
daughter out with me today and we’re having a great time,” remarked
Michael R. Bart ’85CBA. “It’s a wonderful turnout and everyone
really seems to be enjoying themselves. This is a special event to
come out to, and it’s always good to see friends and other
alumni.”
For information about other events of interest to alumni, please
call Mark Andrews, Associate Director, Office of Alumni Relations
at (718) 990-5897 or e-mail andrewsm@stjohns.edu.