September 14, 2026
Members of St. John’s University’s Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) took part in a special Alumni Beach Cleanup event held on August 29 at Canarsie Park, Brooklyn, NY.
Co-sponsored by NYC H20, a nonprofit environmental education organization, and New York Cares, a nonprofit that connects volunteers with community service opportunities throughout New York City, the day of service also featured a potluck picnic and bingo game in which participants had a chance to win a variety of prizes.
“Service is an important way for our alumni to stay connected—not only to St. John’s, but also to one another and the communities we serve,” stressed Sara Hunt Munoz, Ed.D., Assistant Vice President, Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. “Over the past two years, our alumni beach cleanups have brought Johnnies together around a shared purpose, creating meaningful opportunities to give back while fostering a deeper connection to the University. We look forward to continuing to offer service experiences that put our Vincentian mission into action.”
Beatriz Vera, Assistant Director of Young Alumni and Student Engagement, observed, “The Alumni Beach Cleanup is one of my favorite events because it’s such a wonderful example of the impact we can make when the St. John’s community comes together. Alumni bring their families and friends, making it a true reflection of the St. John’s spirit in action. It’s a wonderful way to give back, connect with others, and feel good about making a difference.”
More than 25 young alumni and their guests participated in the event, which featured an appearance by Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse, District 46, Brooklyn.
Reflecting on the day, GOLD Cochair Hanya Abdalla ’22TCB, ’23M.S., said, “As a St. John’s alumna and GOLD cochair, participating in the beach cleanup was a meaningful way to give back alongside fellow alumni while making a positive impact in our local community.”
She added, “It was rewarding to spend the day connecting with alumni, students, community partners, and local leaders, all united by a shared commitment to service. Events like these embody the St. John’s value of service and help keep me connected to the University long after graduation. They remind me that being a Johnnie isn’t just about the years spent on campus—it’s about continuing to serve, lead, and build community wherever we are.”
“The beach cleanup was a great opportunity to stay connected with fellow St. John’s alumni, while actively supporting the community by volunteering for a good cause. Since graduating, it has been difficult to stay consistent when volunteering for the community as there are so many initiatives, so when GOLD announced that they would be hosting this opportunity, it sounded like a great idea,” stressed Joel Stephen ’24TCB, ’25M.B.A.
He added, “It was a rewarding experience reconnecting with my peers, as well as serving the community. It reminded me of my time at Campus Ministry where I participated in various mission and service opportunities. The St. John’s alumni community is alive and well. They continue to support and guide current students and alumni—and I am honored to be part of that.”