President's First Visit to Staten Island Brings Campus Community Together

Demonstrating a commitment to unity among campuses, Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., S.T.D., president of St. John’s University, addressed more than 100 members of the Staten Island campus community at special brunch at the Kelleher Center.

“I have learned, in my short time here, that this place is driven by its people,” Fr. Levesque said at the November 10 event. “You are what makes the Staten Island campus so special, so unique, so warm and nurturing for our students and all who make their home here.”

Fr. Levesque applauded the caring, Vincentian environment the campus provides for its students and its positive reputation in the local community.

Following his remarks, Fr. Levesque broke bread with students, faculty members, and administrators. “He was very open-minded and receptive to students’ ideas,” commented Kyle Kirkland ’14CPS. “I truly believe Fr. Levesque will be an asset not only to the Staten Island campus, but to all of St. John’s, too.”

“Fr. Levesque captivated everyone and was especially successful in engaging with students and student leaders,” said Jerrold Ross, Ph.D., dean of The School of Education and academic vice president of the Staten Island campus. “He has a warm, supportive presence, and contributed greatly to the general good feeling students, staff, and faculty have for one another.”