Through Celebratory Events, St. John's Alumni Take Center Stage

In keeping with St. John’s continuing efforts to engage its vast—and loyal—alumni network, the University hosts a number of events that highlight the Vincentian mission, celebrate generous giving, and foster a strong connection to alma mater.

Blessing of the Couples Mass

Alumni couples were invited back to campus on February 4, 2017, for the University’s annual Blessing of the Couples Mass. Traditionally held on a Saturday near Valentine’s Day, this was a special opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon the sacrament of marriage at St. Thomas More Church on the Queens, NY, campus. A dinner reception followed. In addition, the University’s Fidelitas Award was presented, recognizing the recipients’ commitment to alma mater and each other. This year’s honorees were Sharon (’79SVC, ’86P) and John Hajjar, M.D. ’77C; R. Lynn (’67Ed) and John Navarra ’67P; and Thea Graves (’57CBA) and John Pellman ’56CBA.

The Loughlin Society Reception

St. John’s once again welcomes its most generous benefactors at The Loughlin Society Reception at the Queens campus on April 29, 2017. At this event, Conrado “Bobby” Gempesaw, Ph.D., President, will provide an update on University initiatives and express his gratitude to alumni for their ongoing dedication to students, mission, and alma mater.

Grand Alumni Homecoming Weekend

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural Grand Alumni Homecoming Weekend (GAHW), St. John’s is already preparing a second two-day event for alumni and their families at the Queens campus on June 2–3, 2017. Attendees will once again enjoy a 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ Fun Run, Brunch with “Bobby” Gempesaw, a variety of academic lectures, the Celebration Signature Event that includes Mass, an Award Ceremony, and Dinner, and, of course, the Alumni Great Lawn Party. Visit stjohns.edu/alumniweekend for more information.

In addition to these festivities, distinguished alumni will receive a variety of accolades. St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The School of Education, The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the College of Professional Studies will present Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Recipients of the Outstanding Alumni Achievement Medal, Pietas Medal, University Lifetime Achievement Award, Heritage Circle, and President’s Medal will be honored as well.

Attendees can look forward to once again participating in a question-and-answer session with Red Storm Athletic coaches, including the University’s new Athletic Director, Anton Goff.

SJU hopes to exceed last year’s attendance of 1,487 graduates and their families.