Alumni Events

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Finding common ground on immigration

America's contentious immigration debate could become less polarized if people of all faiths tried to find common ground through the lens of their religious values and symbols.

That perspective - the subject of initiatives led by Fairfield University's Center for Faith and Public Life - was explored at an event called "Illegal Migration: Faith-Based Social Principles and Secular Policy" in Washington, D.C., early this month. More than 60 Fairfield alumni and others gathered at the offices of Morgan, Lewis and Bockius for the presentation and discussion on how faith-based principles for social life can provide criteria for Catholics and non-Catholics to evaluate current public policies and laws dealing with immigration.

The Center's director and professor of sociology, Rev. Richard Ryscavage, S.J., a renowned expert on immigration and refugees, was the keynote speaker. Fr. Ryscavage was joined by Jocelyn Boryczka, Ph.D., associate professor of Politics and director of the Peace and Justice Studies Program at Fairfield, and Sara Ibrahim, J.D., liaison and information associate of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

The event was hosted by Harry Rissetto '65, P'00, senior counsel at Morgan, Lewis and Bockius; Eleanor Pelta, a partner in the firm's immigration practice; and the Washington, D.C. Alumni Chapter.

"The forum on illegal migration explored an issue that has such profound implications for our country, our children and our grandchildren," reflected Devin J. Doolan, Sr. '62. "Fairfield offering these kinds of events is a service so gratefully received by all of us. The evening represented yet another reason why I am proud an alumnus of a Jesuit university."

Fr. Ryscavage was executive director of the U.S. Catholic Bishops Office for Migration and Refugee Services and head of the Jesuit Refugee Service USA. In 2006, the Vatican invited Fr. Ryscavage to join the Holy See's delegation to the 61st United Nations General Assembly, where he participated as an advisor to the Secretary General's U.N. High Level Dialogue on Migration.

The event builds on a body of work related to different aspects of the immigration issue currently underway at Fairfield's Center for Faith and Public Life. One of these projects is an initiative entitled "Strangers as Neighbors: Religious Language and the Response to Immigrants in the United States," a grant project co-directed by Dr. Boryczka. It has centered on a series of meetings and academic workshops hosted by the Center that brought together some 100 individuals – including religious leaders of different faiths, politicians from different parties, NGO and non-profit organization leaders, advocates, and scholars - to discuss immigration reform. The Washington, D.C. forum kicked off the first of a series of three alumni events on illegal migration, with the next installments planned for February 24 in San Francisco, and June 14 in Chicago.

Another initiative, "Immigrant Student National Position Paper," funded by the Ford Foundation, is studying the problems of undocumented students in Jesuit colleges and universities. It will involve a mixed-methods research study done in collaboration with Santa Clara University and Loyola University Chicago. Please visit the Center for Faith and Public Life website for additional details.

 

Chapter networking events offer alumni and parents an opportunity to connect

This April and May, Fairfield alumni and parents had a chance to network and learn from fellow alumni speakers at a Card Exchange in New Jersey and at Briefcase Breakfasts launched in Chicago, D.C., and Hartford, and held for the twelfth time in Boston, where the Breakfasts began in 2004. "The Briefcase Breakfasts are an excellent way to connect with Fairfield alumni from a variety of classes and across a spectrum of careers," noted Washington, D.C. Career Development Chair Eric Roland '97. "It is an ideal event to bond with classmates while also strengthening our connection to Fairfield."

Joseph F. Walton '75, senior vice president of Global Business Operations &World Wide Human Resources at EMC Corporation, spoke to a crowd in Boston on "Global Citizenship in the Working World." He discussed the challenges and opportunities of a globalized workforce; emphasizing the importance of always acting with personal integrity. Walton shared how his ethics and ideals shape his actions by treating people with dignity and respect. The hallmarks of a Jesuit education have clearly left an indelible mark on Walton and his work.

At Chicago's inaugural Briefcase Breakfast, the Honorable Richard M. Daley, P'95, mayor of the City of Chicago, engaged nearly 60 alumni and parents with a candid update on the economy, activities, and upcoming projects for the city of Chicago. Those in attendance were given the special privilege of asking the Mayor one-on-one questions on their topic of choice for nearly half an hour.

In Washington, D.C., the conversation centered on politics and building your network, as John Gizzi '77 gave a talk entitled "A Witness to History: My Life as a White House Correspondent." Gizzi, a political editor and White House correspondent for Human Events, entertained the group with personal tales from the press room and commented on the differences between the Bush and Obama administrations' relationship with the media. A networking guru, Gizzi brought one of his 37 rolodexes to demonstrate the importance of building personal relationships. His tips included never writing off someone because you never know what the future may hold, writing personal notes the "old fashioned way," and remembering birthdays and major holidays to form lasting friendships. These are not just practical tips for career advancement, he noted, but for building personal relationships.

On April 20, 50 alumni and parents gathered in downtown Hartford at the Law Office of McCarter & English for the inaugural Hartford Briefcase Breakfast. The Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut Michael Fedele '80 served as the guest speaker and spoke about the state of the Connecticut economy. The Lt. Governor outlined the main factors contributing to the budget crisis in Connecticut including the loss of approximately 100,000 jobs, the high costs of energy as well as the difficulty in attracting new business to the state. He also discussed how the budget process works and the responsibilities that lay with each branch of the government to pass a balanced budget.

The Northern New Jersey Chapter also launched a networking event called the "Card Exchange" on the evening of May 12. Alumnus and current parent, Jim Lowe '82, P'13, a career consultant with Lee Hecht Harrison, provided tips to a crowd of over 50 guests on "Leveraging Your Network." Lowe commented, "These kinds of networking events are a great way to connect recent grads and more seasoned alumni to share their ideas and resources to assist one another in their career management." Michael Haviland '82, P'13, New Jersey Career Development Chair, also chimed in, "Everyone is so willing to help one another, true to our Fairfield Jesuit roots."

The Briefcase Breakfasts and Card Exchanges continue to inspire Fairfield University graduates and parents by highlighting the successes of the community. If you didn't have an opportunity to attend one of the events this past spring, more are being planned for this coming fall. Be sure to update your contact information in the Online Community to ensure you receive invitations and e-mails about upcoming events in your area.

 

A warm welcome from Texas alumni and parents

More than 30 alumni, parents, and friends gathered at a special reception with University President Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., at Ristorante Nicola in Dallas, Texas, on April 20. Alumni Association Board Member Kelly McClure '81 generously hosted the event and even commissioned a signature drink appropriately named "The Stag." There was no shortage of great conversation and food throughout the evening. Guests gave a warm welcome to Fr. von Arx and were pleasantly surprised to meet fellow Dallas "transplants." For such a big city, there were several connections in the room, including two sets of former Fairfield roommates and another two alumni who live within a few doors of each other and had never met before the event.

Following Fr. von Arx's update on the University, Kelly McClure shared her experience participating in an exploratory alumni service trip to Nicaragua. And in true Texan fashion, Tom Maikowski '77 raised a toast in honor of Fr. von Arx while Kelly McClure presented him with a traditional cowboy hat.

Click here to view some of the photos from the event in the Online Community photo gallery.

 

Spring Chapter events bring Fairfield alumni together in multiple venues

Alumni chapters around the country have been busy organizing a variety of events to engage fellow alumni, generate networking and service opportunities, and enhance venues to explore lifelong learning and spirituality. "Over the past year, Fairfield alumni have come together more than ever before, in more venues, looking to find substantive ways to connect," said Bill Crean '91, the Alumni Association's Regional Chapter Committee Chair and President-Elect. Boston to New Jersey to Chicago, it's been a busy spring. Take a look!

As part of the regional chapters "Faculty-on-the-Road" initiative, Dr. Elizabeth Dreyer, professor of religious studies, was joined by author Dr. Patricia Cooney Hathaway, P'08 in New Jersey for a lively discussion on women's spirituality, based on their books in the Called to Holiness series. The event, generously hosted by Eileen Manning '77 and Leslie C. Quick at the Plainfield Country Club, attracted a crowd of 78 alumni, parents, and friends. Guests thoughtfully reflected on how their spiritual journey has evolved over the years and the role faith has played in their lives.

More than 150 young alumni came together at the annual networking event at the 4th Annual Young Alumni Networking Reception held at the Metropolitan Club in Manhattan, hosted by JoAnn P'96 and University Trustee Jack '67, P'69 Kelly and Eva '97 and J. Ryan '96 Kelly. Sr. Vice President for Academic Affairs Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., greeted the crowd and Eugene P. White '96, Career Development Chair for Manhattan spoke to the crowd on the importance of utilizing your Fairfield network and giving back to the University.

University Chaplain Rev. Gerry Blaszczak, S.J., joined over a dozen of Chicago's alumni and parents for a special Saturday morning Mass and a day of service in the inner city at Christ the King Jesuit College Preparatory School on March 20. Christ the King President Rev. Chris Devron, S.J., concelebrated Mass with Father Blaszczak and several student ambassadors treated our alumni contingent to a guided tour of the school's brand-new facilities. The students joined the Fairfield group for lunch and various service projects both on and near campus.

On March 20, the Manhattan Chapter also gathered for a Lenten Mass and reception at the breathtaking Church of St. Ignatius Loyola on Park Avenue. Over 50 of Manhattan's alumni, parents, and friends attended Mass con-celebrated by Fairfield University President Rev. Jeffrey von Arx, S.J., and Fairfield's Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Rev. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J.  Following Mass, guests had the chance to mingle with friends at the reception held at St. Ignatius School.

More events are being planned for this spring such as regional lacrosse game watches, a reception for Rev. Jeffery P. von Arx, S.J., in Dallas, Texas, and Briefcase Breakfasts in Hartford and Boston. Register for these events and see what else is happening in your area by checking the Online Community event calendar.

Alumni come together in Washington, D.C. for "Reforming U.S. Health Care: A Conversation"

Fairfield's School of Nursing and the Washington, D.C. Alumni Chapter came together in late March for "Reforming U.S. Health Care: A Conversation," presented by Richard Umbdenstock '72, president of the American Hospital Association. The presentation and panel discussion afterward addressed a number of important questions, such as what is right and what is wrong with health care in the U.S. today, the major drivers of health care costs and who pays for them, what has been learned over the past year, and what the role of the nurse will be in a reformed U.S. health care system.

"This was a timely opportunity for a conversation about health reform - the day after the House voted - and it was great to have so many Fairfield colleagues from various walks of life so interested. We brought civil discourse back to D.C.!" said Umbdenstock. The presentation was part of the Alumni Association's new emphasis on lifelong learning opportunities for alumni.

Umbdenstock, who has extensive expertise in health services administration, had visited the University in the fall in preparation for the panel, speaking to students, faculty, and Advisory Board members about the progress being made in Washington, D.C. related to health care reform.

Dr. Jeanne Novotny, dean of the School of Nursing, hosted a special dinner before the event for Advisory Board members in the D.C. area, other Nursing alumni, and members of the nursing faculty - many of whom are also graduates of the School of Nursing. "This is an historic event in so many ways," she said. "The School of Nursing is honored to collaborate with Fairfield's accomplished alumni, and to work in partnership with the D.C. Chapter of the Alumni Association as they launch the first lifelong learning program in the region."

The program was hosted by Harry Rissetto '65, P'00, partner, Morgan, Lewis and Bockius, at his offices. He noted, "The participation of one of our own in this forum, Rich Umbdenstock '72 - a central player on an issue of national importance - made it an occasion for great pride."

One of his colleagues, Joyce C. Cowan, J.D., who has more than 20 years of experience counseling healthcare organizations offered commentary after Umbdenstock's talk that linked the new reform more explicitly to the nursing profession. "An honest, respectful dialogue on health care reform - how refreshing!" she exclaimed. "It was a delight to be included in this important discussion. Once again, nurses pave the road to a fruitful discussion focused on the needs of the patient."

Dr. Novotny and Cathleen Dooley '79, MPA, RN, executive director of Alliance Development and Government Affairs at Johnson & Johnson and Advisory Board member, also joined in the lively dialogue with the audience after the presentation. "The passage of health care reform provides a renewed focus on wellness and prevention," said Dooley. "Nurses are uniquely positioned to have an unprecedented role in the health care delivery system and a leadership role in the delivery of quality health care."

Regional Masses for alumni and parents

The Alumni Chapters started 2010 with a series of Masses in Washington, D.C., Hartford, Conn., and Boston, Mass. Braving the cold and snowy weather, Washington, D.C. alumni, parents, and friends gathered for a Mass and reception with University President Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., on Saturday, January 30, at the Chapel of St. Ignatius Loyola at Holy Trinity Church in Georgetown. Service & Spirituality Chair Kristen Earle '06, Career Development Chair Eric Roland '97 and his wife Colleen Griffin-Roland '98, and Eric Walker '04 served as Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, and assisted with the reception logistics.

On February 27, Alumni Chaplain Rev. Charles Allen, S.J., joined Fairfield alumni, parents, and friends at the Church of St. Peter Claver in West Hartford, Conn. to celebrate a special Lenten Mass and reflect on the season. Under the direction of Dr. Carole Ann Maxwell, the Fairfield University Glee Club also performed at the West Hartford Mass. After the concert, Carla Sullivan '88, Alumni Association president, welcomed guests at a reception in the parish hall. Hartford Chapter President Patrick Lamb '00 provided those in attendance with a brief overview of the goals of the Hartford Chapter. "Having Fr. Allen and the Glee Club here at St. Peter Claver really reminded all of us of so many fond Fairfield University memories," he reflected.

On March 1, the Boston Alumni Chapter welcomed Rev. Charles H. Allen, S.J., to celebrate a Lenten Mass at the Church on Arch Street in the heart of the financial district. The gathering of 40 alumni, parents, and friends, enjoyed the opportunity to take time to reflect on their Lenten journey as a community. Following Mass, guests were invited to a luncheon. With his usual wit and humor, Fr. Allen led a reflection on the meaning of the Lenten vernacular to better the understanding of the preparation and celebration of Easter. Attendees expressed their renewed excitement for and interest in more service and spirituality activities in Boston.

Come join us for Mass in Chicago and Manhattan on Saturday, March 20.

All throughout Lent, members of the University community will offer daily reflections on the Gospel. You can view them by visiting www.fairfield.edu/lentenreflections.

Fairfield covers the map this fall with new regional alumni chapter receptions and "Faculty on the Road" events

Chicago ... Boston ... DC ... Philadelphia ... Manhattan ... Northern New Jersey ... It's been a bustling fall season, with Fairfield alumni and parents coming together in their own communities all around the country for new Chapter kick-off receptions and "Faculty on the Road" events.

As of November, the Alumni Association and Alumni Relations have established eight regional Fairfield Alumni Chapters in Boston, Manhattan, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Northern New Jersey, Hartford, and Puerto Rico. Alumni and parents have come out in strong numbers, demonstrating their interest in building or revitalizing a Fairfield community in their local area. Leadership teams for each Chapter have also been created, with president and chairperson positions for specific areas of interest, including career development, living and learning, service and spiritual engagement, and admissions efforts. Each chairperson has assumed the responsibility to connect with alumni in their community and act as a networking resource for those interested in getting involved. Chapter activities include everything from coordinating a Briefcase Breakfast or faculty panel, to more informal gatherings, such as a regional Teddy Bears with Love collection, or watching a Stags game in your area.

University President Jeffrey von Arx, S.J., has traveled with Alumni Relations staff to all of the new Chapter kick-off receptions, thanking alumni and parents for their involvement in a crucial enterprise for the University. "You are our ambassadors," he said at the recent Northern New Jersey kick-off. "It is vital that we invest in greater outreach to our alumni to ensure that our current students will have a strong and vibrant alumni network - a network they can access for their professional, intellectual, and spiritual needs long after they graduate - as well as a web of friendships, both old and new."

New Alumni Chapters & Events

At the beginning of November, Fr. von Arx introduced the Northern New Jersey Alumni Chapter leadership team to an overflowing crowd of over 100 guests at the Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ. Alumni and parents expressed their enthusiasm around having more opportunities to get involved with Fairfield in their own region.

Chapter President Ed Harrison '74, P'11, thanked the attendees, noting that "Fairfield University's special gift is that our common experience brings us all together with a distinctive bond forever. Let's enhance that bond of friendship for the benefit of our University, ourselves, and all who we touch."

A week after the New Jersey event, the Washington, D.C. Alumni Chapter hosted their kick-off reception, with Chapter President Maureen Mooney '96 announcing the new Chapter's leadership team.

This past weekend, the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter welcomed 50 alumni and parents at Old St. Joseph's Church for a Mass celebrated by Fr. von Arx. S.J. After Mass, the Glee Club performed a brief concert, and guests enjoyed a reception with special guest and former Philadelphian Dr. Mark Reed '96, MBA'03, Fairfield's vice president of Administration and Student Affairs.

Be sure to find out all that is happening with your local Fairfield Alumni Chapter by visiting the event calendar frequently. Get involved! Reach out to your Chapter leadership about getting more involved in activities in your area, including our annual Teddy Bears with Love campaign, which is currently underway.

Also, make sure you're a registered member of the free Alumni Online Community! Reconnect with classmates through the online directory, check out the photo gallery from our recent events, search/post job listings, and offer to share your career experience with students and alumni by joining FAN - the Fairfield Alumni Network.

"Faculty on the Road"

Dr. Elizabeth Dreyer, Fairfield professor of religious studies and editor of a nine-book series entitled Called to Holiness, traveled to Chicago in October for the next stop of the "Faculty on the Road" event series. There, she was joined by one of the authors in the series, Beth Knobbe, M.Div., and more than 75 alumni and friends for a lively discussion on women's spirituality, moderated by Nancy Murray, OP. Mickey Murray, P'07 kindly hosted the event. Dr. Dreyer has been "on the road" with this successful series in Boston, Mass., Washington, D.C., and Greenwich, Conn. and is slated to present in New Jersey in the spring.

Genzyme Corporation's state-of-the-art research facility in Waltham, Mass. was the perfect site for another "Faculty on the Road" presentation in October. Hosted by Dr. Edmund J. Sybertz '72, Senior Vice President - Scientific Affairs, Genzyme Corporation, and Dr. Robbin D. Crabtree, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, this session explored how Fairfield University is making a difference in innovations in cancer research. Dr. Shelley Phelan, associate professor of biology, and Dr. Min Xu, assistant professor of physics at Fairfield discussed the findings of their research projects, both of which were funded by the National Institutes of Health. Current Fairfield students Katie Sullivan '11, a biology major, and Bianca DeAngelo '12, a physics major, were part of the panel and impressed the audience with the breadth of complex research that Fairfield students are engaging in today.

Briefcase Breakfasts in Philadelphia and Manhattan

More than 40 alumni and friends attended the Philadelphia Chapter's inaugural Briefcase Breakfast in October. The event, hosted by Suzanne S. Mayes '88, took place at the Law Office of Cozen O'Connor where she is a partner. Guest speaker Kristin Kane Ford '04, senior technical recruiter for Kane Partners, LLC, presented on "Maximizing the Fairfield University Alumni Network for Business Connections and Career Opportunities." Ford is also the Career Development Chair for the newly established Philadelphia Alumni Chapter.

"I was excited to see the number of alumni and parents who gathered to network," said Mayes. "This is only the start of a thriving Philadelphia Alumni Chapter." Following the presentation, attendees seized the opportunity to introduce themselves to each other as they worked to build their Philadelphia Fairfield network.

The Manhattan Alumni Chapter's Career Development Chair, Eugene White '96, welcomed a crowd of nearly 80 alumni and guests at the third annual Manhattan Briefcase Breakfast, held at Pfizer World Headquarters on 42nd Street. University Trustees Brian Hull '80, P'13 and Clint Lewis '88 emphasized the importance of utilizing the alumni network, staying in touch, and giving back to the University.

"The presentation reminded me that our alumni community's goal is not to market the University or ourselves for our own self-interest but, rather, to better our current environment with the principles, values, and leadership we learned at Fairfield," said Rob Barisciano '04.

Boston also hosted its 11th Briefcase Breakfast in early November, featuring guest speaker Kathleen Murphy '84, one of Fortune Magazine's "50 Most Powerful Women." Murphy, who is president of Personal Investing at Fidelity Investments, provided insight into "The Impact of Volatile Markets on Retirement & Savings."

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