April 28, 2007
The Future Alumni Association (FAA) welcomed 31 new members on
April 25 during the 2007 induction ceremony held in Marillac
Terrace on the Queens campus. University President Rev. Donald J.
Harrington, C.M., alumni and students attended the annual event
of this burgeoning student society.
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Father Harrington commended FAA members on the leadership,
support and loyalty to alma mater that they model. He also urged
new members to immerse themselves in the University’s Vincentian
mission and continue in that dedication even after graduation,
maintaining a connection with St. John’s and its values.
The keynote speaker, Hon. Robert Kelly ’61CBA, shared a bit
about his life, citing St. John’s as a factor in his success, first
as a leading sales executive for Lipton Corporation and then as a
legislator in Orange County, where he was re-elected for seven
additional terms. Kelly inspired students and alumni alike, with
the story of his humble childhood growing up in the South Bronx and
the dramatic impact that studying at St. John’s had on his later
years. In the spirit of giving back, he also donated $1000 prior to
the ceremony to help meet some of the University’s greatest
needs.
Dedicated to building lifelong relationships between current
students and the University, FAA provides an opportunity for
members to gain valuable connections with alumni who can serve to
mentor them and aid in their future vocations. Each year, new
members are inducted, executive board members are elected and
outgoing seniors are recognized for their service.
“We [the executive board] will do our very best to provide you
with opportunities to grow as individuals through this
organization,” pledged incoming FAA president, Elsen Jacob ‘11P, to
new members. “We will continue to uphold the Vincentian tradition
of service, whether through FAA-initiated service projects or by
linking with other great organizations on campus.”