May 31, 2011
From innovating the field of finance to starting successful
businesses, creating scholarship funds to serving those in need,
St. John’s University’s alumni have gone on to do great things.
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To honor some of these outstanding graduates, the University
hosted the
30th Annual Alumni Convocation at St. Thomas More Church. This
year’s event recognized 16 of the University’s dedicated alumni,
acknowledging both their professional accomplishments and
commitment to St. John’s.
The honored alumni and their awards included:
Medal of Honor
Alfred V. Liberti, Ph.D. ’41MS, ’07HON
President’s Medal
Bruce R. Bent ’61CBA, ’79HON
Charles M. Piluso ’76SVC, ’78G, ’86MBA
Pietas Medal
William J. Graham ’56C
Nina Pannizzo Oliva ’56P
Sr. Catherine Thornton, O.P. ’71Ed
Heritage Circle
Robert D. Kelly ’61CBA
Gaynor J. Ryan, Esq. ’57CBA, ’61L
Alumni Outstanding Achievement Medal
Joseph S. Barbaro ’41C
Sebby Borriello ’81C
James E. Costello ’61C
Diane D’Erasmo ’76CBA
Pascal Desroches ’86CBA
Michael A. Dorato ’71P, ’73GP, ’76Ph.D.
Thomas F. Goldrick, Jr. ’61CBA
Joseph M. Mattone, Jr., Esq. ’86L
Joseph Sciame ’71Ed, Vice President of Community Relations at
St. John’s, provided the introductory remarks, welcoming the
honorees and their guests.
“As in years past, the Alumni Convocation allows us to gather in
appreciation of the loyal graduates of St. John’s,” he said. “Of
course, this evening is also an opportunity for St. John’s to say
thank you, to express in a tangible way how our generous supporters
have enhanced the education of every student that has followed in
your footsteps.”
Throughout
the ceremony, a citation was read for each honoree, detailing their
accomplishments and highlighting their strong connection to St.
John’s. Each graduate then received their award from University
President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M.
Fr. Harrington reflected on the recipients in his closing
remarks.
“I thank everyone, all of our honorees,” he said. “Each of you
in your own way has made your mark, or you wouldn’t be sitting here
this evening. Each of you, in your own way, has embodied the St.
John’s story. That’s why this is my favorite evening of the year,
because we get to see St. John’s in so many different shapes and
sizes and so many different embodiments, each one of them so
special and great.”