The 12 Gifts of Christmas Brought Together Alumni and Friends

On December 7, 2024, alumni and friends from The School of Education gathered at the Stewart Manor Country Club in Stewart Manor for a "Sip and Shop" from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. It was a day of fun as everyone enjoyed hors d'oeuvres and wine while shopping, a full four-course luncheon, plenty of high-end raffles and a 50/50, as well as quality vendors for their shopping pleasure and much more.

The event organizer and alumna, Carole Schafenberg ‘70Ed, 80PD said, "This event was an opportunity to engage School of Education alumni on a Saturday afternoon in a festive Christmas atmosphere.”

For all that gathered, it was exciting to shop, dine, and reconnect with fellow alumni under the theme, "The 12 Gifts of Christmas." Eighty alumni and friends attended. In all, the event raised $8,000 to fund the luncheon and another $2,470 went directly to scholarships. 

"I cannot thank Carole Schafenberg enough for all she did to make our inaugural Sip and Shop event a great success. We came together in community and directly benefited our students by raising thousands of dollars in scholarships. These are the kinds of events that make St. John's a special place," said James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D., Dean, The School of Education.

“CONGRATULATIONS to Carole and her entire committee for the absolute success of the Sip and Shop,” added Joseph Sciame ‘71Ed, Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board.

It was a great day of community building and philanthropy to support our students.