Loyal Supporters Enjoy Weekend at Saratoga

August 18, 2007

More than 35 members of St. John’s University’s top-level giving societies gathered in style to watch the races at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, NY during the weekend of August 3-5.

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The group, which included members of the McCallen Society, Loughlin Society and Founders Society, was invited to enjoy a relaxing weekend at The Saratoga Hotel and famed historical racetrack in appreciation of their unwavering dedication and generosity to the University.

At the weekend’s start, a cocktail reception and dinner were held to welcome and honor guests.

The group traveled to the racetrack on Saturday where they checked into a luxury suite to enjoy lunch, theater-style seating, and an open-air observation deck, as the races commenced. To further mark the occasion, the sixth race of the day was named in honor of St. John’s and alumnus, Kevin G Langan ’63CBA, who sponsored some of the weekend’s activities, was presented with a commemorative clock by University representatives. 

On Sunday morning, attendees gathered for Mass and breakfast before departing. A sense of gratitude pervaded among guests and those representing the University.

“All of us at St. John’s are incredibly grateful to the members of the Loughlin, McCallen and Founders Societies for their ongoing support of our University,” commented Victor Ramos ’91CBA, ’93MBA, Associate Vice President, Institutional Advancement. “Their generosity, both personal and financial, is a reflection of the Vincentian values of caring and concern for others that serve as the foundation of everything that we do. They can always be counted on to put the St. John’s mission into action.”

The weekend was eventful, as attendees spent time together and connected because of the significance of St. John’s in their lives. “Our St. John’s Saratoga weekend was an unforgettable experience,” shared Frank J. Pannizzo ’59UC, ’62L, a member of both the Loughlin Society and Founders Society. “But even more unforgettable was meeting other alumni, sharing our St. John’s and life experiences and making new friendships.”

The Loughlin Society includes donors who make leadership gifts to St. John’s annually. The McCallen Society is comprised of donors who include the University in their estate plans. And the Founders Society includes donors who make gifts of $1 million and above to the University.