July 27, 2009
More than 100 alumni and friends gathered to enjoy dinner and a
baseball game at Citibank Park, the home of the Long Island Ducks
in Central Islip, NY on Friday, July 24, 2009.
Photo Gallery
The
game, which attracted alumni of all ages from the Schermerhorn
Street and Lewis Avenue campuses as well as more recent graduates
and their children, was proof that baseball is a timeless American
tradition for the whole family.
Attendees were greeted at the ballpark by staff members from the
Office of Alumni Relations who gave each of them an alumni branded
baseball cap and access to the Entenmann’s Picnic Area for an all
you can eat buffet dinner. Families shared picnic style fare and
spent quality time together before the game began. Alumni could be
heard recounting stories of their student days and reveling in the
tranquility of a warm summer evening.
Whether they have been connected to the University for years or
this was one of their first events in years, alumni found great
value in the evening’s events.
“We appreciate St. John’s planning a family event in Suffolk
County,” shared Alba ('56UC) and Joseph Nastasi '56UC who brought
their grandchildren. “It’s a lot easier than going into the
city.”
“I hadn’t really been that involved up to this point,” noted Ed
Wildermuth '79P who celebrated the 30th anniversary of his
graduation from St. John’s at Alumni Reunion Celebration 2009
earlier this year. “But the fact that [the Office of Alumni
Relations sponsored] a lot of interesting and nice things to do has
stimulated me to get involved.”
The
St. John’s section of the stadium was lively as the group, sporting
their St. John’s red baseball caps, got involved in activities
between innings and enjoyed the camaraderie of watching the game
together.
Although the Ducks did not win against the Bridgeport Bluefish,
the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd could not be dampened. They
were pleased to have been a part of the St. John’s contingent that
night and recalled their college education with a sense of
gratitude. “I am very grateful to St. John’s for the education I
got,” said Joseph Cervia '80C. “I’m very proud to be an
alumnus.”