September 10, 2012
For two weeks every year, New York City is transformed into the
tennis capital of the world. And it’s only fitting that St. John’s
University, another fixture of the city, would join the action,
hosting two events during opening week – one for Red White Club
members and another for alumni and friends.
Photo gallery
At
the St. John’s US Open Tennis Gala, members of the Red White
Club had the opportunity to mix and mingle during the night
session of the tournament’s opening day. Guests chatted with St.
John’s Men’s Tennis Head Coach Eric Rebhuhn and Women’s Tennis Head
Coach Taka Bertrand, and all proceeds from the event supported Red
Storm Tennis.
“I’m a big fan of the sport,” said Harry R. Beeth ’67CBA, ’70MBA
who, along with his wife, Vanna, helped organize the event. “I used
to work for the United States Tennis Association, so a night like
this is a natural fit for me. St. John’s was instrumental in my
success, and I always jump on any opportunity to give back and help
out.”
Given that the US Open is one of the game’s signature events, it’s
no surprise that the stars were out in full force. Alumni and
friends enjoyed an opening performance from former American Idol
winner Jordin Sparks and even got to meet St. John’s great Chris
Mullin ’98CBA, who handed out autographed copies of his book, Inner
Game Basketball. And the matches themselves featured past champions
Roger Federer and Kim Clijsters.
Later in the week, St. John’s hosted another event at the US Open,
welcoming all alumni and friends for a private reception before the
evening session of matches.
For
Andrew Janosick ’02C, it was the perfect opportunity to have some
fun and make business connections.
“I don’t really follow tennis,” Janosick said, “but the US Open is
always an incredibly unique experience right in my backyard. Plus,
networking with all of my fellow St. John’s alumni is a lot of fun,
and it creates a great atmosphere here at Flushing Meadows.”
James J. LaPiedra ’81NDC, ’93CBA won tickets to the event during an
auction at the Staten Island Golf Outing, and this dedicated double
alumnus was glad to be staying connected to his St. John’s
family.
“My son, James R. LaPiedra, Jr. ’10TCB, recently graduated from the
University, so my family has been part of the St. John’s community
for decades now,” he said. “It’s great to go to events like this
because it lets you touch base with your friends and keep you close
to your roots. And since my wife loves tennis, this is always a
fantastic opportunity.”