The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to the Johnnies Blog—where your college journey comes into focus. Designed for prospective students and their families, this space brings together authentic student voices, expert perspectives, and practical guidance to help you explore opportunities, navigate decisions, and build a meaningful path forward.
United National Leader of Accelerator Labs Gina Lucarelli Speaking on Social Entrepreneurship

Making an Impact through Social Entrepreneurship: UN Leader Insights

Are you ready to create a positive impact through social entrepreneurship? In this video, Gina Lucarelli, leader of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Accelerator Labs, the world’s largest learning network, explains how social innovation, sustainable development, and global collaboration can tackle pressing challenges and ignite positive change. Whether you look to launch a startup or scale your impact, this conversation equips you with the tools and motivation to make a real-world difference.
 

St. John's Entrepreneur Alum Wearing Professional Attire

Entrepreneurship Development Success Story: Meet Albert Bateh

Albert Bateh ’16TCB, a graduate of The Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s University, is a noteworthy alumnus renowned for his inspiring journey in entrepreneurship development. Born into a family running a flourishing textile business for over a century, Mr. Bateh grew up with a strong interest in the field. During his senior year at the University, he launched his first venture, EZ-Net Hair Care, which began his successful entrepreneurial journey.

Group of St. John's Students practicing their faith through service

Embracing Faith through Service: Q&A with Elvira Garcia ’20Ed

St. John’s University alumna Elvira Garcia ’20Ed has successfully integrated faith and service into her life and shared her extraordinary journey with us to commemorate Founder’s Week, an annual event honoring the University’s Vincentian and Catholic traditions.

Headshot of an Senior Actuarial Science St. John's University Alum

Exploring a Career in Actuarial Science: an Expert Q&A

Are you interested in risk assessment, financial forecasting, and strategic decision-making? If so, get ready to explore the fascinating world of actuarial science. In this Q&A, we talk to St. John's University alum Brandon Alcaide,’19C, ’20GSRM. He is a Senior Actuarial Associate at TIAA, a well-known Fortune 100 financial services company providing extensive financial solutions.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Female, nonprofit leader looking out into the city view

Driving Social Impact: Alumna’s Path to Nonprofit Leader

In this inspiring Q&A, we explore the remarkable professional and academic journey of St. John’s alumna Bobbie L. Brown ’10G. With more than ten years of experience in community development, criminal justice, and education, Ms. Brown is passionate about investing in the principles of social impact to address the needs of under-resourced communities.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Woman standing and holding books

Restoring Generational Wealth through Education and Empowerment

Ebony (Rentas) Beckford ’03CPS, transformed life's challenges into opportunities for personal growth. Through self-reflection and the supportive community she nurtured as a student, she discovered her strength. Now, as the founder of Fin Lit Kids, Ebony illustrates how her transformative journey fuels her mission to empower future generations with the tools for financial success.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli