February 8, 2017
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.
Related News
Alumna Charts the Direction of Staten Island’s Largest Hospital
As a young adult, Meagan Sills ’06C aspired to a career in law enforcement. But as the newly promoted president of Staten Island University Hospital (SIUH) said, sometimes the road to happiness includes a detour or two.
President’s Dinner Raises $4 Million
St. John’s University’s 28th Annual President’s Dinner raised a record-tying $4 million in student scholarship aid—but that is not the entire story. According to Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President...
Once a Johnnie, Always a Johnnie: StormFest Welcomes Families Home
St. John’s University hosted its annual StormFest celebration on October 18 on the Queens, NY, campus. This joyful event brings together a wide swath of the University community, including students, parents, alumni, and employees, in a festive atmosphere marked by music, attractions, campus tours, college presentations, a Men’s Basketball exhibition game—and, most importantly, fellowship.