Manhattan University Magazine | Summer 2026

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends, The summer issue of the Manhattan University Magazine is, at its heart, a salute to our extraordinary students. They are, without question, the very best of Manhattan University: young men and women of talent, tenacity and character who will go on to distinguished careers across a remarkable breadth of disciplines, carrying with them the values instilled on our campus. As faculty, staff and administrators, we share the privilege of shaping our students' futures through the transformative power of higher education. We teach them to think critically, question thoughtfully and respect one another's ideas, opinions and backgrounds. We do not always agree, but we hold fast to the Lasallian tradition of respect and inclusive community that has guided this institution for generations and continues to illuminate our path forward. In the pages that follow, you will meet students from the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences, the O'Malley School of Business and the School of Engineering, each pursuing their passions with purpose and distinction. You will also read about our student-athletes, whose accomplishments on and off the field deserve every bit of recognition and reflect the true spirit of the Jaspers. For many of these students, their journeys culminated last spring at Commencement, where we celebrated the Class of 2026 with all the traditional pomp and circumstance. Susan Solie Patterson and Michael J. Kakos '58 delivered inspiring addresses, and we were delighted to welcome best-selling author James Patterson '69 back to his alma mater. This issue also marks two national milestones. This year was the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, which claimed 2,977 lives, including 20 Jaspers. On Sept. 11, our community gathered outside the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers for a prayer service, followed by a panel discussion in Smith Auditorium where four members of the Jasper community shared their memories and joined in an open conversation of reflection and remembrance. We also celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States, commemorated here in a thoughtful essay by Margaret Groarke, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science and Chair of History, Political Science and International Studies. Fittingly, no celebration of America would be complete without its pastime, and this issue honors Manhattan's place in baseball history as the birthplace of the seventh-inning stretch. Closer to home, the University was honored when the City of New York co-named Manhattan College Parkway as Manhattan University Way, recognizing our new name. The street that has welcomed generations of Jaspers to our Riverdale campus now marks our transition to university status, a milestone built on more than 170 years of Lasallian education. Please accept my deepest gratitude for your continued support of Manhattan University. Truly, the Jasper Nation will continue to grow and prosper because of each and every one of you. Sincerely,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D. President

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Contents University News 4 MANHATTAN UNIVERSITY

Celebrates the Class of 2026

5 COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER MICHAEL J. KAKOS ’58, HON 2026

Inspires Graduate Students

6 WILLIAM WALKER ’26

16

A MORE PERFECT UNION

7 SUSAN SOLIE PATTERSON HON 2026

Office Hours

8 MANHATTAN UNIVERSITY

18 GRISHMA SHAH, PHD

10 WHAT'S IN A NAME?

20 MATTHEW JURA, PHD

11 AMANDA ROGERS ’01

Jasper Nation

Awarded Prestigious Gunn Medal Delivers Undergraduate Commencement Address Launches 4 New Degrees and 2 Minors Manhattan College Parkway co-named Manhattan University Way

Honored By ACE Mentor Program

14 25 YEARS LATER, TWENTY NAMES STILL ECHO ACROSS MANHATTAN'S CAMPUS

Lasallian Focus 10 BROTHER ERNEST MILLER, FSC

Captivates Manhattan Campus During Mission Week

43 ALUMNI NOTES 44 ALUMNI CONNECTION 46 ALUMNI CALENDAR 47 IN MEMORIAM

2 S U M M ER 2 02 6

22 JASON SILVA ’26 28 MARIA DEL RUSSO ’12 30 LEWIS FORSTER ’27

Athletics 40 MU'S NATALYE DEBUS ’29 WINS METRO CONFERENCE SOFTBALL ROOKIE OF THE YEAR 41 LACROSSE STANDOUT ANDREW GIANDONATO ’26 HONORED WITH COACH LIAM GLEASON HUMANITARIAN AWARD

24 32 36 NOT SO IDENTICAL

Anais & Brianna Ferguson ’26 Shine Bright

ROAD WARRIORS

BOYS OF SUMMER

Christian Danial ’26 & Joseph Moog ’26 The Birthplace of the 7th Inning Stretch Are In The Driver's Seat

"Just as you have been mentored, you must mentor. Just as you have been inspired, you must inspire." — Michael J. Kakos, ’58, Hon 2026 Manhattan University Graduate Commencement Speaker

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ EDITOR Robert Cole DESIGNER Kyle Willis CONTRIBUTORS Jason Black Claudia Cardona Judy Cooper Jose De La Cruz Zach Dovel Edward Fernandez Margaret Groarke, Ph.D. Ann Gulino Barbara Herlihy Fran Hernandez Joey Jarzynka Seth Kovanic Matthew Perrino Maddie Rosado Pauline Spitzer Amy Surak Chris Tralongo Sam Wofford

Read All About Us PHOTOGRAPHERS Ben Asen Kevin Dale Vincent Dusovic Melissa Kelly Anissa Latif Ryan Montemarano Bella Muccari Ian Peters

We Are Jaspers

Special Publication

COVER PHOTOS BY Melissa Kelly & Vincent Dusovic Standing (left to right): Andrew Berg (’26), Billy Walker (’26), Ivy Jaep (’26), Joseph Brennan (’25, ’26 MBA), Anais Ferguson (’26), Amy Forster (’28), Olivia Mansour (’27), Leticia Fontes (’27) Sitting (left to right): Brianna Ferguson (’26), President Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., Karen Flores (’26), Ryan Craft (’26), Brandon Padre (’26), Myles Brown (’29)

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University News

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH KEVIN DALE

MANHATTAN UNIVERSITY CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2026 AT 184TH COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

Manhattan University’s Class of 2026, graduate and undergraduate students alike, donned their caps and gowns and took center stage in Draddy Gymnasium over the weekend of May 15 and 16, receiving their degrees before cheering family, friends, faculty and staff as they marked the official start of their lives as Jasper alumni. The celebrations opened on Friday, May 15, with the Spring Honors Convocation, where the University’s top scholars were recognized, spring inductees of Epsilon Sigma Pi, the University’s highest scholastic honor, were welcomed, and more than 50 medals and prizes were awarded. The Graduate Commencement followed that day in Draddy. Michael J. Kakos ’58, a noted philanthropist and retired plastics industry executive who earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Manhattan before a two-decade career at the Celanese Corporation and the founding of Resin Express Ltd. in London, returned to his alma mater to deliver the keynote address and receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Science. Kakos and his wife, Aimee Rusinko Kakos, whose $15 million gift in 2022 gave the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences its name, have shaped the University for generations of students, and he offered the graduates a message drawn from a lifetime in business and philanthropy. The graduate students then received their degrees, led by valedictorian Karen E. Flores, who earned an MBA and is herself a Manhattan undergraduate alumna, and who delivered the student address. On Saturday, May 16, the community gathered for the annual 4 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Baccalaureate Mass in the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers, the spiritual opening of the University’s commencement ceremonies, before the Undergraduate Commencement brought the weekend to its crescendo in Draddy. Susan Solie Patterson, an author, photographer, philanthropist, former advertising executive and co-author of the Little Geniuses children’s book series with her husband, delivered the keynote address and was presented with the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. She and her husband, best-selling author and Manhattan alumnus James Patterson ’69, have an extraordinary presence at the University, most recently through the James Patterson Honors Program, which enrolls more than 160 students, making the occasion a family affair in more ways than one. Her speech set an inspiring tone for the ceremony that followed, as the undergraduates crossed the stage, led by valedictorian Gabrielle (Elle) Feneide, a Longmont, CO, native and scholar-athlete who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, a double major in political science and English and a minor in religious studies, and who delivered the student address. Together, the two ceremonies conferred degrees on almost 600 students for the Class of 2026, representing programs across the University’s schools. Congratulations to the newest Jasper alumni as they set forth on the paths their Manhattan education has prepared them for, carrying the University’s Lasallian mission with them into their lives and careers.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH BEN ASEN

Commencement Speaker Michael J. Kakos ’58, Hon 2026 Inspires Graduate Students Delivers a Graduate Commencement Speech for the Real World Michael J. Kakos, a 1958 graduate of Manhattan University, noted philanthropist and former executive in the plastics industry, delivered the keynote address and received an honorary Doctor of Science at the University’s Graduate Commencement on May 15, 2026. A native of the Bronx, NY, Kakos was born to parents of Slovak heritage and received his Catholic education entirely in the Bronx, from grammar school through college (what was then Manhattan College). Kakos received his B.S. degree in chemistry from Manhattan followed by an M.S. in chemistry in 1960 from Niagara University and an M.S. in Industrial Engineering (1971) from the Stevens Institute of Technology (which later awarded Kakos an Honorary Doctor of Engineering degree in 2024). Kakos began his career as a scientist in various commercial laboratories, researching and developing metals and ceramics before finally engineering thermoplastic raw materials at Celanese Corporation labs in New Jersey in 1963. At Celanese, he moved to commercial positions including sales development, product management and international marketing, leading to a position in London in 1975, where he served for 11 years as managing director of its European marketing operations. In 1986, he founded Resin Express Ltd. in London, which distributed the plastic pellets produced by major European chemical firms to molders in the U.K. In 1989, Kakos married Aimee Rusinko of Greensburg, PA. Following her move to London, she served as a director and partner in Resin Express Ltd. In 1997, the Kakoses sold the company to Ravago, a Belgian firm and one of Europe’s largest polyolefin traders. After retiring in 2000, the Kakoses moved to Winter Park, FL, while maintaining their home in London. They now spend their summers in Latrobe, PA. Kakos not only holds several patents, but also serves on the boards of local nonprofit museums and classical music organizations in Central Florida and Western Pennsylvania and has volunteered with local charities that focus mainly on people experiencing homelessness.

L-R: Michael J. Kakos, ’58, Hon 2026 and Aimee Rusinko Kakos

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH KEVIN DALE

WILLIAM WALKER ’26 AWARDED GUNN MEDAL Continuing its hallowed annual tradition, Manhattan University’s 2026 Spring Honors Convocation bestowed one of the school’s top undergraduate honors, the Joseph J. Gunn ’30 Alumni Medal, on William (Billy) Walker ’26. The Gunn Medal, as it’s colloquially known, is considered by many to be the most prestigious award of the year and is given to a graduating senior who has made the most significant contributions to Manhattan University during their undergraduate years through academic accomplishments and extracurricular, co-curricular and off-campus activities, with an emphasis on excellence, leadership and service in the Lasallian tradition — and Walker certainly fits the bill. Since he enrolled at the University, the communication graduate with a concentration in media production and a minor in theater has amassed an extensive, stellar résumé complete with involvement in a broad range of organizations and pursuits. These include serving as president and co-founder of Manhattan Media Network (MMN), a campus media organization in which he produced several popular podcasts from Quadcast to food review segments including Perfection or Rejection; technical director, producer and host at Manhattan University’s own independent, student-run station, WRCM Radio; vice president of Lambda Pi Eta — Psi Beta Chapter, the communication honor society of Manhattan University; vice president of communication for the Student Government Association; and tour guide for the University’s Admissions office. Regarding his Gunn Medal honor, Walker said, “Winning [the award] honestly feels surreal. I think back to my freshman year and would’ve never imagined I’d be receiving an award like this. It just feels like a recognition of every project, every event and every relationship I’ve formed over the last few years. I’ve always tried to throw myself fully into this community, so winning the Gunn Medal feels like a reflection of everything Manhattan has allowed me to become.” Reflecting on his time and experience at Manhattan University — which he proclaims has shaped who he is both professionally and personally — Walker lists some of his proudest achievements of his college career, including co-founding the MMN. “When we first started, there wasn’t a strong online presence at the school,” he recalled. “But now, multiple organizations and departments are embracing digital storytelling and social media, which feels incredibly rewarding. I’ll also never forget 6 S U M M ER 2 02 6

William Walker ’26 is the Content and Community Coordinator for Magnolia Bakery in New York City.

producing large-scale campus events like the livestream for the Lotus Fashion Show or the WRCM Bashes on the Quad.” Walker also notes that some of his other most cherished moments at Manhattan were simply creating projects with his friends, whether it was rehearsals for Into the Woods, jam sessions during Album Class, or hearing fellow Jaspers talk about how much they enjoyed something. For Walker, one performance in particular stands out: seeing a full audience show up for his staged reading of For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls. “As part of my Senior Seminar, watching people engage with something I had poured so much work into creatively and academically was incredibly special,” he said. “Those are the experiences I’ll remember most, seeing people genuinely care about what students were building together.” Now that he’s graduated from Manhattan

University, with the Gunn Medal in hand, Walker plans to continue working in media, content creation, marketing and entertainment production. “I love storytelling and creating experiences that connect with people, whether that’s through video, live production, social media or branded content,” he said. “I’m excited to continue growing professionally and seeing where those experiences take me.” As his professional career progresses, Walker still intends to maintain close ties with his alma mater. “I absolutely plan to stay connected with Manhattan University, especially because so much of what I’ve accomplished came from the mentors and opportunities I found here,” he added. “I would love to continue collaborating with the school, mentoring students involved with media, or helping future student creators find the same confidence and opportunities that Manhattan gave me.”

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH BEN ASEN

Susan Solie Patterson Hon 2026 Delivers Undergraduate Commencement Address Receives Doctor of Humane Letters at Commencement Ceremony

L-R: Best-selling author James Patterson ’69, Susan Solie Patterson, Hon 2026, and their son Jack Patterson

Susan Solie Patterson, author, photographer, former advertising executive and philanthropist, delivered the keynote address and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters at Manhattan University’s Undergraduate Commencement on May 16, 2026. For the past decade, Susan and her husband, James Patterson ’69, have co-authored several New York Times best-selling children’s books in their Little Geniuses series, including Big Words for Little Geniuses, Cuddly Critters for Little Geniuses, and Bigger Words for Little Geniuses, which focus on big words and learning through fun, vibrant stories for kids. Venturing into more personal fare, the Pattersons released The Mother-Daughter Book Club in April, a follow-up to their debut novel and New York Times bestseller, Things I Wish I Told My Mother, inspired by Susan’s own mother and a touching tribute to mothers and daughters.

Ms. Patterson earned both Bachelor of Science (1979) and Master of Fine Arts (1982) degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she specialized in photography and printmaking through the School of Education. She also excelled as a swimmer, serving as team captain, holding a Big Ten Conference record, and earning All-American honors. Along with her academic, athletic and professional achievements, Ms. Patterson serves as a trustee of the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association and as a member of the UW-Madison School of Education Board of Advisors and the Athletic Directors Circle. Previously, she was a member of the President’s Leadership Council at Brown University and chaired the Landmarks Preservation Commission in Palm Beach, FL. MAN HAT TAN. ED U 7

UNIVERSITY NEWS

MANHATTAN UNIVERSITY’S NEWEST DEGREE PROGRAMS: SECURING, UNDERSTANDING, AND LEADING THE DIGITAL AGE Technology is reengineering nearly every industry, and Manhattan University is reshaping how it prepares students for that paradigm shift. This fall, the University introduces six new programs: a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, a Minor in Artificial Intelligence, a Bachelor of Science in Data Science, a Bachelor of Science in Computational Neuroscience, a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication, and a Minor in Sustainability Studies, each designed to give Jaspers an edge in fields defined by rapid change. Together, they reflect a commitment to producing graduates who are technically skilled and equipped to lead with judgment and integrity. “These programs speak to who we are as a University,” said Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., President of Manhattan University. “We are not simply teaching students to use new technologies. We are teaching them to ask hard questions about how those technologies should be used. That is the kind of leadership our graduates have always brought to their fields, and it is more necessary now than ever. Manhattan University's new programs continue to position the school at the forefront of higher education and career preparedness.” Whether it's defending systems from cyberattacks, teaching a machine to learn, finding insight in data, decoding how the brain gives rise to thought and behavior, building campaigns that connect with audiences across every platform, or solving real-world sustainability problems, these six programs share a common thread: technical skill means little without the judgment to use it well. As industries evolve, Manhattan University is ensuring its graduates are ready to lead, not just keep pace. For detailed individual program information, please review the following academic overviews. B.S. in Cybersecurity Housed within the Computer Science Department in the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences, the new 128-credit Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity offers a dedicated path to securing networks, information systems, and digital infrastructure. It complements the University's existing cybersecurity concentration in Computer Engineering, which focuses on hardware design. The major broadens the University's slate of computing and data programs for a changing workforce, whether students want to build the technologies that power today's world or protect the systems and data behind them. Students build programming and math foundations before applying them to cryptography, web security, blockchain, network security, and cyberlaw and ethics, with lab work analyzing real systems and how attackers exploit vulnerabilities. In a senior capstone, student teams design, build, and evaluate a full 8 S U M M ER 2 02 6

cybersecurity solution for a real-world scenario. The program is open to first-year and transfer applicants beginning fall 2026. Minor in Artificial Intelligence Open to students in every major, the new Minor in Artificial Intelligence was developed by faculty in computer science, computer information systems, business analytics, accounting, law, and engineering across all three schools. It provides interdisciplinary instruction in how intelligent systems work, their limitations, and how to apply them responsibly. AI now touches every discipline. Coursework spans machine learning, data mining, deep learning and generative AI, image processing, and AI in business and engineering design, with pathways for students with or without prior programming coursework. B.S. in Data Science The new Bachelor of Science in Data Science likewise draws on the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences, the O'Malley School of Business, and the School of Engineering. Its curriculum builds a rigorous foundation in mathematics, statistics, programming, and machine learning, with electives in data mining, applied machine learning, big data technology, and data policy. The program prepares graduates to lead with data and AI thoughtfully and ethically. Seniors complete a capstone applying data science and AI techniques to real-world problems in health care, finance, and public policy, and examine the privacy, bias, and transparency questions they raise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects nearly 34% job growth for data scientists from 2024 to 2034. B.S. in Computational Neuroscience The new 123-credit Bachelor of Science in Computational Neuroscience explores brain and cognitive function through experiment and theory. Drawing on the departments of Biology, Psychology, Mathematics and Physics, Computer Science, and Electrical Engineering, the major examines how neural systems give rise to perception, cognition, and behavior, and how computational and mathematical models explain biological and behavioral data. Students build a foundation in natural sciences, mathematics, statistics, and programming while studying the brain from neural circuits to cognition and behavior. Core coursework in behavioral, systems, and computational neuroscience pairs laboratory study with modeling, simulation, and data analysis, and electives reach into areas such as physiology, sensation and perception, neurobiology, machine learning, image analysis, and neurotechnology. A senior seminar and capstone project complete the major. Graduates are prepared for advanced study in

neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, and biomedical fields, or careers in neurotechnology, artificial intelligence, data science, and health professions. True to the University's mission, students engage the ethical and societal dimensions of neuroscience and neurotechnology, including mental health, human-machine interaction, and the responsible use of data-driven models of the mind. B.S. in Integrated Marketing Communication A cross-school collaboration, the new Bachelor of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication is offered jointly by the Department of Marketing and Management in the O'Malley School of Business and the Department of Communication, Sound and Media Arts in the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences. Fewer than two dozen universities nationwide offer the degree, and few pair an AACSB-accredited business core with hands-on communication and media production. The 132-credit curriculum prepares students to design, implement, and evaluate integrated communication strategies connecting marketing strategy, storytelling, media production, and emerging technologies. Coursework spans consumer behavior, digital marketing strategy, brand communication, social media strategy, and campaign development. Students choose one of two tracks: Content Creation, which emphasizes multimedia storytelling, design, and production, using the George I. Alden Trust Creative Media Hub, or Artificial Intelligence in Marketing and Communication, which builds competencies in marketing analytics, AI-assisted marketing strategy, and predictive consumer analysis. In a capstone, students develop a full integrated marketing communication campaign, from market research and audience analysis to multimedia messaging and performance analytics. Graduates are prepared for careers in marketing, advertising, public relations, social media management, brand strategy, content creation, and marketing analytics. Minor in Sustainability Studies Open to undergraduates in all three schools, the new 15-credit Minor in Sustainability Studies equips students with the knowledge and applied skills to address complex environmental, economic, and social challenges. After Introduction to Environmental Science and Sustainability, students take two sustainability courses in their home school and one in another, choosing from options such as Environmental Law, Energy Management, and Sustainable Development. The minor culminates in the Urban Sustainability Consulting Capstone, where interdisciplinary teams tackle a real sustainability challenge for a campus, community, nonprofit, public agency, or corporate partner, then deliver a professional consulting report and public presentation.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

We Do Journalism

Manhattan’s The Quadrangle Among Top Honorees of 2026 Catholic Media Association Awards Celebrating over 100 years as the preeminent media outlet and voice for the Jasper community, Manhattan University’s own publication The Quadrangle has been recognized by the Catholic Media Association (CMA) as one of the top winners of the 2026 St. Juan Diego Collegiate Awards. Highlighting excellence in journalism and communications by students and alumni of Catholic colleges and universities, the CMA honors recognized the entire staff of the publication as one of the top two Best Student News Organizations in the country. “It’s an honor to be recognized by such an established organization for our work as a newsroom,” says former Quadrangle editor-in-chief Grace Cardinal, who oversaw the award-winning 2025-26 team. “We’ve received CMA awards over the years for individual articles across news, features and faith coverage, but to be recognized for our work as a whole is some-

thing really special. We’re a small newsroom, and to win an award like this, everyone has to be dedicated to pulling their weight. It means the world to me that the hard work and talent I saw from our staff every single day is seen by those outside of our campus community as well.” Covering campus news, sports, lifestyle, culture and entertainment along with in-depth features and columns, The Quadrangle has abided by the simple, yet stirring mantra, “We Do Journalism” since its inception in 1924. For Cardinal, the latest CMA recognition reinforces and reflects the publication’s mission. “The Quadrangle has always been grounded in balance, fairness, accuracy and truth,” she said. “These values are introduced to every writer on day one of being in the newsroom and become the standard they carry with them throughout their time on The Quad,, and often even into their professional ca-

reers. The commitment to these values and serving the campus community has remained our pillar. To me, this recognition reflects the resilience and adaptability of our staff and reinforces that the unfaltering mission that has guided us for more than 100 years remains as important as ever.”

PHOTOGRAPHS IOANNIS ROUNTOS, LEONARDO TORRES & ANNA SCHMIDT

Presenting Manhattan’s 2026 Student Photo Contest Winners L-R, 1st: Ioannis Rountos ’28, Aerial Views for Days 2nd: Leonardo Torres Arenas ’27, Squeri Hall in Winter 3rd: Anna Schmidt ’26, Music, Movement, and Pure Jasper Energy

The 2026 Manhattan University Photo Contest is in the history books, and once again, students submitted a multitude of stellar images for this year’s event to highlight the beauty of the campus experience through a Jasper’s lens. This year’s top three entries displayed a variety of memorable imagery, including first-place winner Ioannis Rountos ’28, who brought us a stunning aerial view of the campus and provided a whole new perspective in the process; second-place winner Leonardo Torres Arenas ’27,

who captured an arresting, angular shot of a snow-capped Squeri Hall in wintertime; and third-place winner Anna Schmidt ’26, who gave us a vibrant, up-close glimpse of music, movement and pure Jasper energy. It was no easy task to select the winners from all the talent on display, but the submissions overall showcased the unique visions of Manhattan University students, their love for the school, and their incomparable eye for capturing the everyday magic of life at our Riverdale campus. MAN HAT TAN. ED U 9

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY SAM WOFFORD

PHOTOGRAPHS VINCENT DUSOVIC

WHAT'S IN A NAME? Manhattan College Parkway co-named Manhattan University Way On Thursday, September 3, a new sign went up at the corner of Manhattan College Parkway and Waldo Avenue, co-naming it Manhattan University Way in a ceremony as much about history as the future. This isn't the first time the road has changed its name. In 1953, it became Manhattan College Parkway, replacing Spuyten Duyvil Parkway. The University has moved too, from Canal Street to 131st Street and (L-R) Manhattan University President Frederick Broadway before settling in RivBonato, Ph.D., NYC Councilman Eric Dinowitz, erdale in 1923. The latest change Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, and Bronx Community Board 8 Vice Chair Bob Bender echoes 2024, when Manhattan College's corporate charter formally changed to Manhattan University, reflecting its status under New York State law. President Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., framed the recognition as a milestone for the institution and its surrounding community. "We are grateful to everyone who recognized the value Manhattan University brings not only to New York City, but to the state of New York as well, in approving this recognition," he said. "The street co-naming ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate Manhattan University's achievements as an educational institution and a vital member of the New York City community dating back to our founding in 1853." He was joined by NYC Councilman Eric Dinowitz, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, and Bronx Community Board 8 Vice Chair Bob Bender, who also spoke at the ceremony. Professors Mehnaz Afridi, Ph.D., and Margaret Groarke, Ph.D., offered reflections on what the honor means for the University and the community it has long called home. It is a fitting tribute to an institution whose roots run back to 1853, one that shares its name with the street outside its gates, carrying the Jasper legacy forward into whatever comes next.

Lasallian Focus

BROTHER ERNEST MILLER, FSC

Captivates Manhattan Campus During Mission Week

Brother Ernest Miller, FSC 10 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Manhattan University’s Mission Week 2026 was a resounding success, uniting students, faculty and staff in a variety of initiatives to support the school’s local and campus communities while living out the Lasallian call to dignity, justice and care for others. One of the most notable events that helped to kick off Mission Week was a special presentation by Brother Ernest J. Miller, FSC on April 7, 2026, which was the annual feast day of Saint John Baptist De La Salle. Brother Ernest spoke at length about and invited reflection on the University’s shared Lasallian Catholic mission and the ways it calls us to serve, lead and accompany one another in faith and action.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH MELISSA KELLY

Port Authority Exec Amanda Rogers ’01 Earns ACE Mentor Program Honors The career trajectory of Amanda Rogers ’01, P.E., continues to ascend ever higher. The current Director of Construction for Major Capital Projects at the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey — who was also the subject of the cover story for Manhattan University Magazine’s Fall 2025 issue — was one of three honorees at this year’s ACE Mentor Program of Greater New York's Annual Scholarship Luncheon, which was held at Gotham Hall on May 12, 2026. World-renowned structural engineer Charles Thornton II, a 1961 graduate of Manhattan College in Civil Engineering, founded the ACE Mentor Program in 1994 in an effort to promote the study of engineering. Manhattan bestowed an Honorary Doctor of Engineering on Thornton in 2013. Designed as a free after-school program for high school students interested in architecture, construction and engineering, the ACE Mentor Program pairs 15-30 students from different schools with seven to 10 mentors, who guide their students for at least 15 sessions through the fundamentals of ACE management. In the process, they work together to develop a hypothetical design project that the students will present to family and peers at the end of the season. The annual ACE Greater New York Scholarship Luncheon recognizes accomplished leaders like Rogers in the architectural, construction and engineering fields while raising funds for the program, including scholarships for students who will be majoring in ACE-related fields. Along with Rogers, fellow honorees included Sujohn Sarkar, Senior Real Estate Adviser, and Christopher J. Zegler, Vice President & Principal in Charge, Turner Construction Company.

Amanda Rogers ’01, P.E.

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM Brother Ernest currently serves as director of the Adrien Nyel Project, within the Office for Mission and Ministry in the District of Eastern North America of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. The project’s animating motif is the vocation to teach; it facilitates mission education and formation in the Lasallian charism and heritage for teachers and other educators in the Lasallian ministries from Toronto to Bayamón, Puerto Rico. In addition, he engages in other spaces to support educators in the mission field of Catholic education. A native of New Orleans, Brother Ernest has interests that include political and international affairs, human rights, justice education and advocacy, liturgy and ecclesiology.

PHOTOGRAPH RYAN MONTEMARANO

Manhattan University's President Frederick Bonato greets Brother Ernest Miller, FSC

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY BILLY WALKER ’26

PHOTOGRAPHS SADIE FOX ’27

Manhattan Players Bring Into the Woods to the Black Box

As a member of the Manhattan University Players’ production of Into the Woods, I had the opportunity to watch the Black Box Theater in Thomas Hall transform into an enchanted forest, immersing audiences in Stephen Sondheim’s beloved musical. Unlike a traditional stage production, the intimate Black Box performance space placed audience members just inches from the action. Every laugh, gasp and emotional moment was shared between the performers and the audience, making the musical’s themes of family, responsibility and the consequences of our choices feel especially personal. Bringing Into the Woods to life required creativity, collaboration and months of dedication. Under the direction of veteran theater artist and set designer extraordinaire Martin Marchitto, a cast and crew composed of current students and alumni worked together to convert the sparse Black Box into a magical world filled with witches, giants and wolves. As rehearsals progressed, it was a pleasure to witness the dedication of everyone involved in the production. The cast and crew balanced demanding academic schedules, internships and on-campus jobs while committing countless hours to rehearsals and performances. Being part of the process provided a firsthand appreciation for the effort, teamwork and passion that made the production possible. Into the Woods showcased the strength of the Manhattan University community. Bringing together current students, alumni and faculty, the 12 S U M M ER 2 02 6

production reflected the collaboration and dedication that continue to define the performing arts on campus. It was an honor to have been part of a production that not only entertained audiences but also demonstrated what Manhattan University students can achieve when they work together toward a common goal.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY BILLY WALKER ’26

PHOTOGRAPH BILLY WALKER '26

Manhattan’s Album Class Stages Billy Joel’s The Stranger What began as a music course became one of the most anticipated events of the semester.

For the 10th installment of Manhattan University’s Album Class program, professor Andrew Bauer, director of performing arts, selected Billy Joel’s 1977 classic, The Stranger. The course centered on a semester-long study of the iconic album. In the process, the students immersed themselves in the music and explored the stories, themes and every note behind each song while preparing to bring The Stranger to life on stage. The experience also extended far beyond the Manhattan University classroom. Students in the Album Class course, including Olivia Bailey ’26, helped lead a promotional campaign featuring posters, teaser videos, rehearsal footage and creative content inspired by the album’s 1970s aesthetic. As excitement for the performances grew across campus, tickets for all five shows, which took place at the Black Box Theater in Thomas Hall from May 1-3, 2026, sold out within three days of their release. Being part of the course provided the participants with a firsthand

appreciation for the commitment required to bring a project like this to life. What stood out most was the collaboration between students from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines. Regardless of musical experience, role in the production or academic major, everyone contributed to the success of the performances. When opening night arrived, audiences experienced The Stranger performed in its entirety by a company of student musicians and performers. Each performance celebrated not only the enduring impact of Billy Joel’s music, but also the creativity, dedication and talent of the students who spent months transforming a classroom project into a live event. More than just a class, Album Class demonstrated how learning can extend beyond lectures and assignments. By combining academic study with performance, the course created a shared experience that brought together students, faculty and audiences through the power of music and storytelling.

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

STORY MADDIE ROSADO

PHOTOGRAPH RYAN MONTEMARANO

25 YEARS LATER, TWENTY NAMES STILL ECHO ACROSS MANHATTAN'S CAMPUS Manhattan remembers the 20 Jaspers lost on 9/11 The morning was clear and blue, not unlike the one 25 years before it. Outside of Squeri Hall that houses the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers, members of the Manhattan University community gathered for a prayer service marking the quarter-century anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. This was followed by a panel event, held inside Smith Auditorium. During the event, four voices from the Jasper community sat down to do something the anniversary rarely allows: talk about it, together, out loud. Each panelist returned, in their own way, to Sept. 11, 2001, and the ordinary moment just before everything changed. Director of MU's Public Safety Office William Cook, was walking his one-year-old daughter down First Avenue in Manhattan when he saw a crowd gathered at an electronics store window, watching a television inside. By the time he made it to Ground Zero as an NYPD detective, both towers had already fallen. "What I remember most about it is the smell, the fumes, the ash," Cook said. "It was awful. You couldn't see 10 feet in front of you." He spent the next two months working 12-hour shifts at the site, securing the perimeter, searching the rubble, and escorting people in and out of the restricted zone. What stayed with him, he said, wasn't only the devastation but the city's response to it. "The city was really united... it led to positive things that showed the resilience of our city and how we moved on and moved forward," Cook said. Alumna Susan Fiorentino '12 was 10, sitting in her sixth-grade classroom on Staten Island, when her school dismissed students early. Her father and uncle, both first responders, were working in the city that day. "As I got older, I learned about the PTSD from that day," Fiorentino said. "I kind of blocked out a lot of what happened after." The tragedy later led her to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, where she helped build a network for children of first responders, and during the COVID-19 pandemic she self-published a book compiling more than 40 of their stories. "If this tragedy didn't happen, I would have never met these beautiful people who are part of my life forever... we are tied together by this event," Fiorentino said. For Colleen Kelly, co-founder of Peaceful 14 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Tomorrows, the day began with a phone call and ended with the news that her brother Bill was among nearly 3,000 people killed at the World Trade Center. In the years that followed, friendship led her to other bereaved families, and that bond led her to co-found Peaceful Tomorrows, an organization that works to reduce civilian casualties in conflicts worldwide. "It was through friends of mine that I was able to meet other family members who had lost someone on Sept. 11," Kelly said. "We're kind of the best friends that we never wanted to

"This is someone's son. This is still someone's brother," Raynor said, recalling the conversation. "It really humbled me... because I felt my own well of rage coming, and it made me pause." If the panel had one central message, Raynor offered it herself, describing a line she once heard from a theologian: terrorism requires an audience, but healing requires a reliable witness. "Hearing individual stories is what makes things real, it brings it down to a personal level," Raynor said. "That is going to help us keep not only the memory alive but the lessons of that

meet." She added that she has found that same sense of community within the University that she remembered after Sept. 11. "There's a whole spirit within the Jasper community... it deeply feels remembrance and grief," Kelly said. Reverend Andrea Raynor, a member of MU's Campus Ministry and Social Action, was leading a hospice team meeting in Westchester County when word of the attacks arrived. She spent the weeks that followed serving as a chaplain at the temporary morgue at Ground Zero, walking the site during the overnight hours and listening to responders. She recalled a conversation with a young Port Authority officer about the recovery of remains believed to belong to one of the hijackers, and his insistence that they be treated with the same dignity as every other victim.

day alive, so that we don't become hardened to tragedy." Twenty-five years later, Manhattan University continues to remember and honor the members of its community whose lives were lost that day: Robert Baierwalter ’79, Michael Carroll ’84, Joseph Coppo ’75, Michael Duffy ’93, Kevin Frawley ’90, Richard Gabriel ’71, John Gallagher ’91, Salvatore Gitto ’78, Joseph Holland ’91, Lt. Joseph Leavey ’77, Michael J. Lyons ’93, Brian P. Magee ’73, Robert McCarthy ’90, Richard Morgan ’59, Dennis Moroney ’84, Timothy O'Sullivan ’64, James Quinn ’99, Robert Regan ’75, Antonio A. Rocha ’90, and John Tobin ’76.

Essay

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ESSAY MARGARET GROARKE, PH.D., CHAIR OF THE HISTORY, POLITICAL SCIENCE AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT & COORDINATOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGED LEARNING

ARTWORK KYLE WILLIS

Striving for a More Perfect Union: America at 250 Celebrating the country’s 250th birthday is a good time to re-read, and reflect on, our founding documents. Every time I teach U.S. Government and Politics, we begin by reading the Declaration of Independence out loud, with each student taking a couple of lines. Reading it aloud, stopping every now and then, allows us to consider the meaning in a document that packs a lot into about 1,300 words. It is the document in which the makers of the American Revolution announced their intention to be a free and sovereign nation, no more a colony of Great Britain. We talk in class about why they would make a public statement of this — to inform the king, of course, but also to rally support among their neighbors, and also among other nations. Looking back, we may assume that everyone living in the 13 colonies wanted to be free of the king’s rule, but it was not so. Many were Loyalists, proud to be British citizens and committed to remaining so. Many were also unconvinced that revolution would succeed. The independence movement needed to mobilize as many potential supporters as possible if it was to succeed against the powerful British Empire. They appealed for support from other nations of the world. Would other countries be willing to recognize the new nation? Would they be willing to assist, with arms, soldiers and money? Or at least not help the British Empire in putting down their rebellion? France was the most critical ally of the American revolutionaries. Here in the Bronx, we see their contributions memorialized in the names of many streets — Rochambeau and Lafayette, to name two. Most importantly, the Declaration also lays out the basic political theory underlying the establishment of the new nation. The

United States of America was not established as an ethno-state, ruling a people who shared a history, a culture, a language. It was established, in this document, as a nation with a shared political philosophy, uncommon at the time: that the purpose of government was to protect the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness of its citizens, and that this naturally required that said government rest on the consent of the governed. “We hold these truths to be self-evident”: This is the paragraph, unsurprisingly, that we as a class spend the most time dissecting. We think about the directness with which the authors assert that “all men are created equal” and that their rights come not from the beneficence of a generous king, but from their Creator; they have rights merely by being human. The purpose of government, it argues, is not to enrich a king, but to protect the people’s rights. To do so, the social contract that gives power to the government must be based on the consent of the governed. Despite the universal language, these rights were guaranteed to a relatively narrow few when the Declaration was written. Black people were held in slavery. Abigail Adams prevailed on her husband to “Remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favourable to them than your ancestors,” but John Adams and his colleagues did not. Even white men who owned no property were not given the right to vote and therefore consent to being governed. In our class, we recognize those failings, and we consider how Americans have struggled to overcome them. We read documents that demonstrate the ways that Americans throughout our history have used the broad principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution to call for those unalien-

able rights of life, liberty and happiness, and the precious right to vote, to be extended to more Americans. The early women’s movement cleverly modeled its Declaration of Sentiments very closely on the Declaration of Independence, to emphasize their argument that women deserved the same rights as men. They proclaimed, “When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one portion of the family of man to assume among the people of the earth a position different from that which they have hitherto occupied, but one to which the laws of nature and of nature's God entitle them,” and like the earlier Declaration, listed their grievances and demands, among them the right to vote. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. often argued that the civil rights movement was calling for the rights promised to all Americans in the Declaration and the Constitution to be guaranteed to Black Americans. Those documents, he said, were “a promise that all men would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned.” And the civil rights movement proceeded with faith that the American promise could be fulfilled. Our progress as a nation, in living into the fullness of our founding principles, has not always been steady, and there have been setbacks. But in every generation, Americans have taken up the mantle of ensuring those basic values — individual liberties, equal rights, popular sovereignty and democracy — are guaranteed to all. As the nation turns 250, we should celebrate that history, and commit ourselves to maintaining those values. MAN HAT TAN. ED U 17

GRISHMA

O F F I CE H O U RS

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPH AMIT THAKKAR

SHAH

MEETING HER DESTINY AT MANHATTAN

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s an educator, administrator, scholar and novelist, Grishma Shah, Ph.D., certainly wears many hats. However, the current associate dean, professor of management and director of Global Business Studies at the O’Malley School of Business (OMSB) explains that her varied roles are interconnected by a common interest: understanding people, cultures and the forces that shape our lives and opportunities — in essence, our shared humanity and why we all deserve equity. Having spent nearly two decades charting her professional course and establishing her career at Manhattan University, Shah has undoubtedly developed a greater connection and understanding of the campus community over time, especially one that has become more diverse and globally reflective. Thinking globally, in fact, has been the mindset for the India-born, New Jersey-raised Shah ever since she was a teen. “While I was in high school, I participated in a service trip to Honduras that became a defining moment in my life,” Shah recalled. “It sparked a deep interest in international development and the ways in which global systems shape opportunities and outcomes for people around the world.” Shah pursued this passion academically, studying political science, economics and gender studies at Rutgers University before earning a master’s degree in global development and a subsequent Ph.D. focused on international development and emerging economies. By 2008, Shah’s extensive educational experience would translate into a professional career in academia. “My expertise in emerging markets — especially India and China, which were both hot topics in business and economy at the time — and globalization made me particularly attractive to business schools seeking faculty who could help prepare students for an increasingly interconnected world,” she said. “I interviewed for a position in the management department at Manhattan University — then Manhattan College at the time — and joined the faculty shortly thereafter.” Before she joined Manhattan, however, Shah admits that she wasn’t too familiar with the University, but since her job search was focused primarily on opportunities within the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, she discovered the opening through the Academy of Management’s annual conference recruitment process. While the associate dean initially imagined she would spend just a few years at Manhattan developing and honing her teaching craft, the Jasper life and the people immersed in it are what have led her to stay at the University for nearly 20 years and counting. “What attracted me [to Manhattan] initially was the opportunity itself,” she said. “What has kept me here for nearly two decades, however, is the people. From my very first semester, I noticed something special about Manhattan students. There is a kindness, humility, and respectfulness that creates a positive learning environment. Equally important is the culture among faculty and staff. Manhattan is deeply student-centered and there is a shared commitment to mentorship, accessibility and helping students achieve their goals. That combination of a close-knit community,

exceptional students, and faculty dedicated to student success is [why I’ve stayed].” With her lengthy tenure and extensive experience at Manhattan, Shah has seen firsthand how the school has grown and evolved in the 21st century — most notably in terms of the students themselves. “When I first arrived, many students had limited international exposure,” she said. “Today, students arrive with a much broader global perspective and often have prior travel or intercultural experiences. I have also seen a significant shift in the diversity of our student body. Manhattan University increasingly reflects the richness and diversity of New York City, including becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution.” Now that she’s completed her first academic year as associate dean at OMSB, Shah can clearly detail what her experience has been like and what her role entails. “I view my responsibilities through three lenses: recruitment, student experience and outcomes (essentially: input, process, output),” she said. “I spend considerable time working with prospective students and families, ensuring they understand both the academic opportunities available at O’Malley and the supportive community that defines the Manhattan experience. I also focus on student experience, including curriculum, leadership development, networking opportunities and co-curricular programming. Finally, I work to strengthen student outcomes through alumni engagement, mentorship programs, internships, and career development opportunities. At its core, I see my role as helping connect people and creating relationships that help students thrive.” As the 2026-27 academic year at Manhattan University gets underway, Shah is excited about some major developments at the OMSB, including the launch of three new Master of Science programs focused on Business Analytics, Marketing Analytics and Financial Analytics. “These programs reflect growing industry demand for data-driven decision-making and will provide students with highly marketable skills.” Along with the new MS programs, Shah noted, “We are also expanding opportunities for students to engage directly with business leaders through executive speaker series, alumni programming and networking events. In addition, we continue to explore initiatives that strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship across the University and within the broader New York City business community.” With nearly two decades under her belt as an educator and now an institutional leader at Manhattan, Shah — who is also the author of the successful, soul-stirring novel Anagram Destiny — reflects on her proudest achievements at the University. “Without question, my proudest achievements involve the students I have mentored over the years,” she said. “One of the greatest rewards of being an educator is seeing former students grow into successful professionals and thoughtful leaders. Those moments remind me that education extends far beyond the classroom. Sometimes the most important part of our work as educators is simply helping students navigate uncertainty, ask the right questions and find the confidence to pursue a path that aligns with their values. Watching students grow into thoughtful professionals and engaged citizens is one of the greatest rewards of my career.” MAN HAT TAN. ED U 19

O F F I CE H O U RS

M AT H

MAN 20 S U M M ER 2 02 6

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPH RYAN MONTEMARANO

MATTHEW JURA, PH.D. Matthew Jura, Ph.D., got his first taste of teaching at a young age. Raised in a small town in midcoast Maine, Jura realized that he had a knack for mathematics and thoroughly enjoyed the subject. At Medomak Valley High School, he would often help his classmates whenever they had trouble with math. And aside from his teachers, there was no one better to assist them. Jura was in several honors math classes and was a member of the school’s math team, where he competed in mathematics competitions against teams from other high schools in the area. He also graduated as the valedictorian of his class.

As valedictorian, Jura earned the University of Maine’s Top Scholar Award, a scholarship that offers free tuition to valedictorians and salutatorians from Maine high schools. He was also invited to join the school’s honors program. It didn’t hurt either that both his parents and his sister were UMaine graduates, or that one of his longtime friends had decided to go there. Jura enrolled at UMaine as undecided, but in his sophomore year, he became a mathematics major and a German minor. His time there boosted his interest in math. “As an undergraduate student, I learned that mathematics is more about making logically coherent arguments rather than mere calculation,” he said. It was also at UMaine where he was exposed more to teaching. Jura had a work-study position grading homework for the Mathematics Department. He also tutored mathematics and German in his spare time. Jura’s ultimate goal in higher education was to earn a Ph.D. Because UMaine didn’t offer a Ph.D. in math, he was forced to look elsewhere after graduating in 2003. The University of Connecticut (UConn), in particular, caught his eye. “I was drawn to UConn due to their

strengths in mathematical logic,” said Jura. “Professor Manuel Lerman is highly regarded in the mathematical logic community, and he was the director of the graduate program at the time. Before enrolling, I had corresponded with Professor Lerman by email, and from those conversations, it seemed like a good fit.” Jura enrolled at UConn to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematics, focused on mathematical logic. The program also gave him a master’s degree after he passed his qualifying exams. At UConn, Jura was offered a teaching assistantship for nearly every semester of his Ph.D., which paid for tuition, health insurance and some living expenses. As a teaching assistant, Jura taught mostly his own sections of mathematics classes. During the summers, he taught for the Center for Access and Postsecondary Success Program at UConn, an entrance program for historically underrepresented students who had just been admitted to UConn. Jura considers his teaching assistantship at UConn to be his first real teaching position — and he’s been teaching ever since. “My parents raised me to be a moral, just, and kind person, who lives out his faith in Christ,” said Jura. “Through this, I feel the urge to help others, and I feel that teaching is one of the best ways I can do that. It is very satisfying to help someone learn a difficult concept.” Jura’s very first job after graduating with his Ph.D. in 2009 was at Manhattan University (then Manhattan College). “After my Ph.D., I knew that I wanted to work as a professor,” he said. “I applied to Manhattan due to its location, and especially its Lasallian Catholic mission.” Jura began his career in August 2009 as a visiting assistant professor. For 17 years, he’s been teaching math at

Manhattan University. But Jura has also occupied other roles during that time. In 2013, he developed and taught the MATH 099 Summer Online Bridge to Calculus course, which helps prepare first-year students for calculus. Since 2016, he’s been teaching for CSTEP (Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program), a state-funded initiative designed to support underrepresented or economically disadvantaged undergraduate students pursuing careers in STEM. Jura has also served as the chair of the University Curriculum Committee for the past three years. He’s a member of the ad hoc University-Wide Core Curriculum Council and an adviser of the Pi Mu Epsilon (the mathematics honor society) Lambda chapter of New York at Manhattan University. He’s led two undergraduate students in summer research projects and reviews papers for MathSciNet, the American Mathematical Society’s reviews database. In 2023, Jura won the Kakos School of Science Excellence in Service Award for his years of dedication to Manhattan University. “Manhattan has a much more closely knit community among students, faculty, and staff,” he said. “Unlike at a large public institution, everyone knows each other here.” Jura has passions outside the classroom, of course. He enjoys spending time with his wife and dog, meditating and playing fantasy football with friends from graduate school. But after 17 years, Jura has made some of his fondest memories at Manhattan University. “I am always drawn back to the time spent with Dr. Robert Suzzi Valli, who unfortunately passed away in December 2024,” he said. “I have great colleagues in my department and across the University. And teaching students who are really engaged with the material is always a great joy.”

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JAS P E R N AT I O N

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STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPH RYAN MONTEMARANO

A Coin Flip Seals a Jasper's Media Journey

Jason Silva ’26

Destiny seemed to play a role in bringing Jason Silva ’26 to Manhattan University. His cousin, Victoria Corriea ’23, had been a student here. “I helped move her onto campus and visited her a few times,” he said. “In a way, it almost felt like I was meant to be here.” Like his cousin, Silva wanted a college that was near his home in Yonkers, NY. His top two options were Manhattan University and St. John’s University. “That decision wasn’t just about where I would attend,” he said. “It would also determine what I studied.” Silva had heard good things about Manhattan’s engineering program and planned to major in computer engineering if he went there. But if he enrolled at St. John’s, Silva would then be able to study his true passion: media production. It was a tough decision for the young student, but in the end, Silva did what any reasonable person would do: he flipped a coin. “It landed on Manhattan University, and honestly, I was happy with the result,” he said. “It felt like confirmation of what I already believed that I was meant to be here.” Silva began his career at Manhattan University as a computer engineering major. However, he just couldn’t shake that urge to work in media. After all, creating videos had always been a part of Silva’s life, ever since he was a kid. “I was constantly recording, whether it was random clips on my iPad and iPhone or YouTube videos that I took more seriously,” he said. “It’s always been something I genuinely loved doing.” At age 13, Silva taught himself about post-production, which only fueled his passion. He grew up loving films like Mid90s, Boyhood and Fantastic Mr. Fox, as well as directors including Christopher Nolan, Wes Anderson and James Gunn. “Going into media production was always something I knew I wanted, but I was honestly scared to pursue it,” he said. “I didn’t have much knowledge about how the industry worked.” Over time, though, it became clear that computer engineering just wasn’t the right fit for him. Encouraged by his friends and family, Silva started

learning more about what the Communication Department at Manhattan University had to offer. “Meeting the people and seeing the kinds of classes I would be taking made everything click for me,” he said. “I realized I needed to stop denying what I truly wanted. Making the decision to pursue media production was a big step for me. In the end, it turned out to be the best decision I’ve made during my time at Manhattan University.” After changing his major, Silva fully embraced his field of choice. He was involved in the Manhattan Media Network, a student-run television and social media production center. Along the way, he helped shoot several productions, including the Lotus Fashion Show that was held on campus during the 2025-26 academic year. He also assisted the sports media production truck in shooting live ESPN+ MAAC games at Gaelic Park and Draddy Gymnasium. Silva was also heavily involved in Manhattan University’s Sixth Borough Film Festival (SBFF), which was founded by Communication Professor Michael Grabowski, Ph.D., and Robert Cole, Executive Director of the Office of Marketing & Communications. The festival is open to filmmakers across the globe, not just Manhattan University students. In its inaugural year, the SBFF received over 180 entries from 30 countries, including submissions from professional filmmakers. After meeting with Dr. Grabowski, Silva was asked to handle all the post-production related to the festival. This included creating the introduction video to the festival, which would air before every screening, creating a highlight reel for inaugural Vanguard Award recipient Daphne Rubin-Vega and producing and editing the trailer for the festival. “Dr. Grabowski saw something in me and trusted me to handle it and meet his expectations,” he recalled. “Of course, I was nervous, but I knew I could do it. I wanted to make sure I made his vision for the festival come to life, and that

pushed me to test my skills to make it happen.” One of Silva’s biggest challenges was creating the trailer. One hundred movies were ultimately selected for the festival, and Silva watched them all, without skipping a second, to find the right shots to use for the trailer. “I wanted to select the best shots that would fit the narrative of how I wanted people to perceive the festival,” he said. “I wanted people to know what they were getting into if they purchased tickets. I’m a perfectionist, so picking the shots and music wasn’t something that was easy.” In the end, all his hard work paid off, as the trailer wound up garnering more than 11 million views online. “It blows my mind to this day,” said Silva. Creating the trailer wasn’t Silva’s only accomplishment. He also submitted a horror film to the festival called The Company We Keep, a project that he directed, produced and edited himself. “Developing my first film is something that I’ve always wanted to do,” he said. “I’ve worked on many projects before, but developing a narrative and managing a production while directing a room of people was a whole new experience for me. The film didn’t win any awards, but seeing it play in front of an audience, and seeing audience reactions and feedback, felt very rewarding on its own.” Silva considers creating The Company We Keep and the trailer for the festival his greatest accomplishments at Manhattan University. Now that he’s graduated, Silva plans to get to work, with many different options ahead of him, including working on film sets, acquiring a job in the television industry handling live productions or continuing his work as an editor. Of course, directing is always on his mind as well. “I have many ideas of films I want to direct,” he said. “I intend on starting those projects in the next couple years after graduation. My ultimate goal is to leave an impact with the stuff I create. I want to be known as someone who has done big things in the industry.” MAN HAT TAN. ED U 23

JAS P E R N AT I O N

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPHS MELISSA KELLY

Anais & Brianna Ferguson Shine Bright

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’26

Anais Ferguson & Brianna Ferguson It’s not every day that a pair of identical twins graduate from the same university. Funny enough, Anais and Brianna Ferguson ’26 were born on Feb. 22, 2002, just two minutes apart, with Brianna being slightly older. The sisters were raised in Trinidad and Tobago, a twin-island nation in the Caribbean. They grew up in a town called Maracas St. Joseph, which had a beautiful blend of cultures and a deep connection to the sea and natural environment. Life there was slower and more laid-back, and neighbors felt more like extended family. Because of their tight-knit community, it was a challenge when both sisters decided to immigrate to the United States to pursue a wider range of academic programs and opportunities. However, the sisters didn’t grow up with a lifelong plan of attending the same college or studying the same field. And although that’s what wound up happening, the twins’ journeys to commencement weren’t exactly identical.

ture was honestly inspiring,” she said. “Everywhere I looked, there were bridges, highways, tunnels, skyscrapers and ongoing construction projects. I became fascinated by the idea that engineers are responsible for designing and maintaining the infrastructure that millions of people rely on every day. Seeing the complexity and beauty of these structures motivated me

After receiving a scholarship, Anais enrolled at Manhattan University as a civil engineering major. “Civil engineering is not an easy major,” she said. “Throughout my time here, I faced many moments where I doubted myself and questioned whether I would be able to keep up academically.” But Anais persevered, building a strong community of support around her in the process. For two years, she served as secretary for the New York Water Environment Association, where she helped organize environmental cleanups in Van Cortlandt Park. She was also a member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). One of her favorite memories at Manhattan University was participating in SWE for Scouts, where Girl Scouts ages 5-11 visit Manhattan University to learn about engineering in a fun and interactive way. “I enjoyed imparting knowledge about engineering to young girls,” she said. “I believe this will encourage more females to become engineers.”

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nais always had a strong passion for mathematics and physics. As a child, she enjoyed solving problems, understanding how things worked, and challenging herself academically. “Growing up, my parents actually believed I would become a mechanical engineer because anytime a mechanic came to repair my parents’ cars, I would stand nearby, watching everything they were doing,” she said. “That same curiosity carried over into construction and engineering. Whenever there was any kind of construction, repair work or renovation happening around my home, I would always be outside observing what was taking place. I was interested in how structures were built, how materials came together and how people transformed designs into something physical and functional.” At 19 years old, Anais and her family moved to New York City, specifically to Riverdale in the Bronx. And coming here, in turn, blew her mind. “Coming from the Caribbean and seeing the scale of New York City’s infrastruc-

environment,” she said. “The small class sizes and close interactions with professors reminded me of the supportive learning experience I had back home in Trinidad. That familiarity and sense of personal connection drew me to the school almost instantly. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I could have made.”

Anais Ferguson

to pursue civil engineering. I wanted to contribute to projects that have a lasting impact on communities and people’s everyday lives.” With that in mind, Anais applied to colleges and universities with reputable engineering programs in America. She was initially accepted into New York University but didn’t feel like she could thrive in lecture halls with over 100 students. Then, she visited Manhattan University. “When I first toured Manhattan University, I immediately fell in love with the

In addition to student organizations, Anais secured several internships during her time at Manhattan University. In her sophomore year, she worked with Associate Professor Walter Saukin, Ph.D., in his summer engineering camp program, which introduces high school students to various engineering disciplines and the many career paths within the field. Anais served as a mentor to four different student groups, guiding students through activities, helping them understand engineering concepts, and encouraging teamwork and problem-solving. In her junior year, Anais secured an internship with construction and development company Skanska. There, she worked on MAN HAT TAN. ED U 25

New York City, specifically to Riverdale in the Bronx. “We moved during the end of fall and the beginning of winter,” she said. “I believe this made the move much harder. I had never lived in a cold climate before, so everything felt new and overwhelming.” Despite the weather adjustment, Brianna was excited for this next chapter in her journey. She applied to colleges all over the country, including Manhattan University. “When I did my tour at Manhattan University, I was blown away,” she said. “I told my mum, ‘This is the school for me.’ My tour guides were warm, the campus scenery was more than I could imagine, and I fell in love with the engineering building (the Higgins Engineering and Science Center) from the moment I saw it.” Brianna was especially attracted to the University’s extensive alumni network, where many graduates work at major engineering and construction companies throughout New York City.

the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project in New Jersey, where she was responsible for reviewing and analyzing contract drawings and developing a master file outlining the structural scope of the project. Anais shadowed a superintendent through daily construction activities, assisting with tracking concrete truck deliveries, maintaining daily report logs, and observing field coordination and site management procedures. Now that they’ve graduated, the twins have gone their separate ways — sort of, as both sisters landed jobs at the construction company Kiewit Corporation. Anais, however, will be moving to Kansas, while Brianna will be moving to Virginia Beach. “I will miss my sister, but thankfully, with today’s technology, she would just be a phone call away,” said Anais. “We already message and call each other at least 10 times a day.” Anais also seems unfazed by the idea of moving from fast-paced New York City to Kansas. “I looked at it as a learning opportunity,” she said. “When you hear you’re moving to Kansas, the first thing you think is what is there to do over there. But there are opportunities to grow and experience life in a different way, make new friends, and explore more of what the U.S. has to offer. You can’t grow in comfort.” In Kansas, Anais will work as a Field Engineer I, performing field inspections and assessments; monitoring daily construction activities to ensure that the work complies with project drawings and specifications; collecting and documenting field data, test results, and service activities; preparing reports and communicating findings to project managers and senior engineers. Beyond that, Anais plans to remain in America while occasionally visiting the family she has back in the Caribbean. She would like to eventually earn her P.E. license and become a superintendent at some point in her career. The ultimate goal, though, is to have her own concrete company. “Manhattan University has exposed me to a wide range of both academic and real-world engineering experiences,” she said. “It has prepared me not only technically, but also professionally and personally for my future career in engineering.”

B

rianna always knew that she wanted to contribute to society in a positive way. But unlike her sister, she wasn’t sure what that entailed. “I always wanted to do something with physics and math,” she said. “I always liked cal26 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Brianna Ferguson

culations and algebra. My sister already knew she wanted to pursue civil engineering. I was very much indecisive.” However, there was one thing that Brianna had decided on: moving to the United States to further her education. “The Caribbean and home will always be a part of who I am,” she said. “I would not change

After receiving a scholarship, Brianna enrolled at Manhattan University. Although she was interested in engineering, she still wasn’t sure which field to pursue and began her journey as an undecided engineering major. One of her professors, Walter Saukin, Ph.D., quickly changed her mind, though, and helped guide her toward civil engineering. As a civil engineering major, Brianna became a part of a close-knit community, just like back home. “One of the things I value most about Manhattan University is how small and connected the community

“Coming from the Caribbean and seeing the scale of New York City’s infrastructure was honestly inspiring... Seeing the complexity and beauty of these structures motivated me to pursue civil engineering. I wanted to contribute to projects that have a lasting impact on communities and people’s everyday lives.” –Anais Ferguson

my childhood, my ethics and my values for the world. However, I knew the United States could offer the kind of exposure, resources, and pathways I needed to mature and grow the way I needed to.” At 19 years old, Brianna and her family became U.S. permanent residents and moved to

is,” she said. “It allowed me to build genuine relationships with classmates, professors and peers within engineering organizations.” One of those organizations was the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), in which Brianna served as secretary. “One of the biggest highlights of my college experience was attending the SWE

L-R: Brianna Ferguson '26, Anais Ferguson '26 Photograph by Kevin Dale

“As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I want to inspire other young women to pursue careers in engineering. I want to show that women can thrive in leadership and technical roles within construction.” –Brianna Ferguson Conference in New Orleans,” she said. “It was an unforgettable opportunity to connect with inspiring women in engineering and network with professionals while representing such a supportive university community.” Brianna was also elected vice president of the New York Water Environment Association, where she led initiatives, coordinated events and engaged with industry professionals. Additionally, she worked as an ambassador in the Admissions Office for Manhattan University, representing the school and mentoring prospective students. During summer 2025, Brianna landed an internship at Mass. Electric Construction Co. (MEC). For two months, she worked in Albany on the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) project as an electrical field engineer, helping deliver electricity from Canada to New York through underground cable installation. “Taking on this role pushed me outside of my comfort zone and required me to manage multiple tasks, communicate with different crews and adapt quickly in a fast-paced construction environment,” she said. “Although it was de-

manding, the experience helped me become more confident in my abilities, improve my problem-solving and time management skills, and showed me not only that I could handle greater responsibility in the field, but that my managers and peers trusted and believed in me.” Brianna’s success at MEC earned her a fulltime role as a field engineer after graduation. Now, she’s working in a hands-on construction environment and handling a mix of technical and coordination duties, from monitoring construction progress and performing site inspections to resolving issues, reviewing plans and drawings, and communicating with project managers and contractors to avoid conflicts. But Brianna won’t be working in Albany this time around. She’ll be moving to Virginia Beach, VA, while her sister, Anais, will move to Kansas to pursue her own engineering career. After all these years, the sisters’ paths will finally diverge. “I will definitely miss her,” said Brianna. “After spending four years in college and being together our whole lives, it feels strange not having her right beside me. But we are both growing in

our own directions. I will always be her biggest cheerleader and supporter.” Beyond that, Brianna plans to stay in America and wants to remain in the construction industry, contributing to major structural or commercial projects. She hopes to eventually reach a leadership position within either an engineering or construction company, overseeing large-scale projects from design through completion. “As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I want to inspire other young women to pursue careers in engineering,” she said. “I want to show that women can thrive in leadership and technical roles within construction.” For now, Brianna’s greatest accomplishment is graduating from Manhattan University, something that she doesn’t believe she could’ve achieved without the support system that surrounded her throughout her journey. “This school has prepared me so much for the future in ways I could have never imagined,” she said. “Manhattan University has helped shape me into a confident future engineer and leader who is prepared to succeed in this tough industry.” MAN HAT TAN. ED U 27

JAS P E R N AT I O N

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MARIA DEL RUSSO

Writing Her Own Happily Ever After

Maria Del Russo ’12

Over the years, Maria Del Russo '12 has established herself as a successful writer. Her own story begins in her hometown of Chester, NJ, which she calls “horse country.” As with most writers, Del Russo's interest in the written word began with reading. “I used to hole myself up in a corner during library time in elementary school and tear through huge volumes of original fairy tales, like Grimm's stories,” she said. Del Russo didn't even realize that she was a talented writer until she attended Mendham High School, after penning an essay for acceptance into an AP English class. “The teacher, Mrs. Palme, pulled me aside and told me that my essay was excellent,” Del Russo said. “She happened to be the adviser for the school newspaper and encouraged me to join.” Mrs. Palme's enthusiasm lit a fuse within the blossoming writer, who fell in love with storytelling, as she soon started crafting her own pieces for the school newspaper. Guided by this newfound passion, Del Russo enrolled at Manhattan University (then Manhattan College) as a communications major and an English minor so she could pursue both types of writing. “I liked that the school was close to New York City, which was the center of the universe to me at the time, but still had a campus feeling,” she said. At Manhattan University, Del Russo met professors who would greatly influence her, most notably Rocco Marinaccio ’81, Ph.D. “I can't even begin to tell you the profound impact that man had on my life as a writer,” she said. “I read Virginia Woolf for the first time in his class. He introduced me to Joan Didion and Philip Roth.” Didion, in particular, was a major influence on Del Russo. “Aside from her style, which is tight, stripped-down, yet incisive, the way she approaches the work is inspirational,” she said. “Most journalism courses teach you to disconnect from your subject, but you can feel Joan in every single word she writes. I love the humanity she brings to her writing, and I try to bring that into mine as well.” Other influential teachers at Manhattan University included Thom Gencarelli, Ph.D., and adjunct professor Marek Fuchs. But perhaps Del Russo's greatest influences, aside from Marinaccio and Didion, 28 S U M M ER 2 02 6

were two books that she read in class. “I always say that the piece of writing that made me a good journalist and essayist wasn't a piece in a newspaper or magazine,” she said. “It was The Wild Party by Joseph Moncure March. It taught me pacing in a way that works of journalism just didn't. [Truman Capote's] In Cold Blood was another book that really changed the way I thought about writing. It showed me that journalism is more than just bland reporting: it's storytelling.” Outside of the classroom, Del Russo served as managing editor at the student newspaper, The Quadrangle, and wrote articles every week. She was also the short stories editor at Manhattan Magazine, where she published a couple of short stories and poems. One of those short stories was one that she'd written in high school. Del Russo rediscovered it, polished it up and submitted it for publication. It wound up winning the Short Story Award for Manhattan Magazine, her proudest accomplishment at Manhattan University. As graduation approached, Del Russo became more serious about turning her passion into a viable career. “I just chose to keep doing the thing that I loved and that I was good at,” she said. “Don't you love the naive confidence of a teenager?” That naive confidence worked out, however. Toward the end of her senior year, Del Russo was offered a job as an editorial assistant at a blog called BellaSugar, which is now part of the media and technology company PopSugar. “The first piece I ever wrote for BellaSugar was a story about Kate Middleton's hair, which was all the rage back in 2012,” she quipped. “The first piece I was genuinely proud of was an essay I wrote for Refinery29 in 2016. It was called ‘I May Never Find Love, and That Has to Be Okay.’ Very melodramatic, but it was my first real piece of essay writing. It went viral at the time, and because of its success, I was offered a dating column at Refinery29. It really set the tone for the rest of my career.” At Refinery29, Del Russo wrote about beauty, sex and relationships while editing other writers' work. “It was a nice balance,” she said. “I love working with younger writers to help them refine their voices.”

After getting laid off in 2017, Del Russo pivoted to freelance writing to pay the bills until she landed her next full-time role. But to her surprise, her freelance gig took off. Del Russo established herself as an essayist and columnist in the sex and relationship space, writing for notable publications like Cosmopolitan, The Wall Street Journal, Elle, Men's Health and The Cut. She even became the first female Playboy Advisor. “As an essayist, I see my work as shedding light on thoughts and feelings that other people have but might not be able to synthesize, communicate, or confront,” she explained. “I report on the messy feelings of being a human in the world, and then I share that with my audience. Sending it out into the world helps me connect with people who feel similarly. I get a lot of feedback from readers that they feel very seen by my work. They feel less alone. It's like I'm building my own private community of deeply-feeling people. My reader feels less alone, and I in turn find community among them. That's what good art does.” Del Russo also published two nonfiction books during this time: Simple Acts of Love and Daily Skincare Journal. Despite worrying that she might never find love, even writing an article that went viral about it, Del Russo did find love. She married her husband in June 2024 and had Dr. Marinaccio from her Manhattan University years officiate the wedding. The pair moved back to horse country, to Gladstone, NJ. During this time, she worked as director of branded content at the female-founded media company Betches Media. Del Russo worked on campaigns for major brands, including Dunkin' and Uber Eats. “My proudest creative for Dunkin' was an iced coffee mitten we produced,” she said. “It went semi-viral. For Uber Eats, we did a huge holiday campaign for their gift delivery service, which included multiple videos featuring The Jonas Brothers, Megan Thee Stallion, Tracee Ellis Ross and Jake Shane. I wrote the scripts for their social and in-app videos and got to be on set with the talent. It was one of the most creatively challenging and fun campaigns I got to work on.” A lot has changed in the world since Del Russo began her writing career in 2012, par-

ticularly when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI). Echoing the sentiments of many in the workforce, aspiring and established writers fear that AI will replace them. Del Russo, however, remains optimistic about the future. “AI is really good at writing basic, foundational content that people cut their teeth on,” she said. “But there is a humanity to the work we do that I don't see AI ever really getting a handle on. AI may be able to read people's experiences, but it will never actually experience those things itself. That experience influences the writing in intangible ways that I think people will still crave. AI doesn't understand nuance, awkwardness or embarrassment. It doesn't actually know what love feels like. It's good at data, but the human experience goes beyond that, and that writing will still be necessary. I am optimistic that AI will spark a real resurgence in appreciation for human-created work.” Beyond AI, Del Russo is looking ahead to the future. She has since moved on from Betches Media and has created her own company, MDR Creative. “After everything I've learned in this industry over the past 15 years, I decided to launch MDR Creative as a way to work with brands I was inspired by while also maintaining my writing practice,” she explained. “I help brands and media companies synthesize their voice and zero in on their main priorities while optimizing their message and creative for the audience they're trying to reach. Having this creative practice lets me really focus on the brands I work with, giving them full access to my creative expertise, experience, and strategy.” Although she's just getting started, Del Russo already has some clients in the pipeline. She's also dipping her toes into fiction for the first time, currently at work on two modern romance novels. “It felt like a natural extension of the essay writing I love to do already,” she said. “It's been a lot of fun translating my voice from essay writing into narrative prose. I'm deeply interested in the tension between societal views on sexuality and women finding themselves through love and romance. My books both explore that tension point.” Regardless of AI, Del Russo is heading toward an exciting new chapter as she continues to write her story, both for herself and her audience.

JAS P E R N AT I O N

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPH ANISSA LATIF

How the Javelin Turned an English Athlete into a Jasper

Lewis Forster ’27

"You can always go home, but you can't always go to the U.S." These are the words that brought Lewis Forster ’27 to the United States and, ultimately, to Manhattan University. Though originally from Leigh, a town just outside Manchester in the north of England, Forster was no stranger to America. “I used to go to American car shows and military airshows when I was younger with my grandad, who served in the British Army for 22 years,” he said. Attending these shows inspired Forster’s passion for engineering, particularly regarding cars, military vehicles, jets and even space. Another one of his passions? Sports. Forster had practiced gymnastics during his childhood. However, when he decided one day that he didn’t enjoy it anymore, his parents encouraged him to try another sport. His father suggested the javelin, which he himself had competed in during his own youth. The pair went into the backyard to try it out, and as they soon discovered, the younger Forster had a natural talent for the sport. Over the last 11 years, the Manhattan student has been throwing the javelin while being coached by his father. Along the way, Forster has participated in various competitions, putting his athletic ability to the test. In 2019, he competed in both the ESAA English Schools Championship and the England Athletics U15 National Championship, his first time competing at the national level. During his high school years at Lowton High School, Forster competed for his local club, Leigh Harriers AC. In 2022, when he was only a junior, Forster represented England in his first international competition, the Welsh Athletics U20 International, in Swansea, Wales. Forster came in third place. By the end of high school, he was a four-time Greater Manchester County champion and a two-time North of England champion. Given his success in England, you wouldn’t expect Forster to leave home for America. However, he explained, “In recent years, it has become quite popular for athletes to pursue their education and sport in America.” Forster was eventually contacted by an agency that helps athletes through the recruit30 S U M M ER 2 02 6

ment process, but he wasn’t convinced that he should study in the U.S. Forster expressed this uncertainty to his brother, who was vacationing in Prague at the time. His brother relayed these concerns to a woman he had just met in Prague — an American from California, it turns out, named Sara. "You can always go home, but you can't always go to the U.S.,” she said. These words struck a chord with Forster and helped him make his decision to come to America. It also helped that Forster fell in love with Manhattan University after visiting two of his old teammates, Robert Decker ’24 and Pete Athanailos ’25. “The campus being so close to the city was a big attraction for me,” said Forster. “I had always wanted to go to the U.S. and specifically to New York City. I also thought the campus was beautiful. It gave me a sense of belonging. I also knew the university was well-known for its engineering opportunities, which was perfect for me.” Coming to America, though, wasn’t without its difficulties, as Forster experienced culture shock in various ways. “One of the biggest differences is literally the size of everything,” he said. “Everything is literally bigger here in America — the buildings, the cars, the food portions. Another notable shock was the sheer size and popularity of sports here. Even college football games host an enormous amount of people, unlike anything I had ever experienced before.” Even language left Forster a bit disoriented. “I know that sounds a bit funny to say, considering English is spoken in both countries,” he said, “but English is understood so differently here in the U.S. compared to back in England.” Despite the initial shock, Forster has made a home for himself both in the U.S. and at Manhattan University. Guided by his childhood passions, Forster is currently studying mechanical engineering with a minor in mathematics and plans to add a concentration in aerospace engineering during his senior year. “I have been fascinated by the mysteries of the universe and the amazing feats we have accomplished in history, such as the moon landing, sending rovers to Mars, and getting an image of a black hole,” Forster explained. “All these things together cemented my decision to pursue aerospace

engineering as a career.” To help with this pursuit, Forster plans to work on a research project on the failure mechanisms of composite materials with honeycomb cores, a component that’s used widely in aerospace applications. Outside of schoolwork, Forster keeps himself busy with plenty of extracurricular activities. For starters, he’s currently working as an ambassador in the Admissions Office, mentoring prospective students by sharing firsthand academic and campus experiences and representing Manhattan University to prospective students and families through guided campus tours. Forster is also part of the Management Club, the philanthropy chair for Delta Kappa Epsilon, as well as a member of Manhattan University’s Senate, the International Students Association, the Baja SAE club, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) chapter, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) chapter. But, of course, there’s one activity in particular that he remains very passionate about: the javelin. Forster is currently a member of the Men’s Track and Field team, where he’s seen tremendous success, including taking Metro Conference (formerly MAAC) runner-up over the last two years. Last year — along with his two teammates, Alex Kristeller MBA ’25 and Paul Brennan MBA ’25 — Forster qualified for the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field East First Round Championships in Jacksonville, FL, his proudest accomplishment at Manhattan University so far. After graduation, Forster plans to remain in the U.S. and pursue a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. After that, he hopes to stay stateside a bit longer to complete his Optional Practical Training (OPT), which will allow him to work within the aerospace industry for a year. Forster also plans to continue his athletic career, competing all over the world representing Great Britain. But will he stay here in the States for the long term? “I have yet to decide whether I stay in the U.S. or return home and work there,” he said. “I imagine my experiences coming up will help me make that decision.”

MAN HAT TAN. ED U 31

F E AT U R E STO RY

STORY MATTHEW PERRINO

PHOTOGRAPHS ANISSA LATIF

Road Warriors

Christian Danial ’26 & Joseph Moog ’26

Are In The Driver's Seat

32 S U M M ER 2 02 6

C

hristian Danial ’26 grew up surrounded by mechanics. As a child in Yonkers, NY, he would stop by his father’s auto repair shop every day after school. Although he would be there doing homework, Danial couldn’t help but be captivated by the atmosphere within the shop. “Hearing the sounds of machinery and tools programmed my mind to understand that everything is just a few bolts or clips from being a pile of parts,” he said. “Being able to take those parts and make something was inspiring.” The inspiration led Danial to do some building of his own. As he got older, he built his own ATVs and motorbikes. “Being able to take something I drew on paper to something I can hold and operate was mind blowing,” he said. “That’s what inspired me to pursue mechanical engineering.” The question for Danial at that point was where to study this field. He was encouraged to consider Manhattan University by several Jaspers in his family. His two uncles, Nizar Danial ’95 and Imad Danial ’97, had studied civil engineering, while his cousin, Tina Danial ’22, had majored in mechanical engineering. “I always was impressed with the renowned name that Manhattan University’s engineering program made for itself,” said Danial. He ultimately decided to add another Jasper to the family and enrolled as a mechanical engineering major. Over the years, Danial got more involved on campus, serving as a member of various honor societies, such as Epsilon Sigma Pi and Pi Tau Sigma (the honor society for mechanical engineering). He was also a member of the Crochet Club, the Green Club, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), the James Patterson Honors Program, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Order of the Engineer. But Danial’s favorite extracurricular by far was the Baja Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), a collegiate program where members design and build an off-road, single-seater buggy. “Senior year, you have to choose to do either a capstone or a research project,” Danial explained. “Throughout my time here, along with my background in the automotive industry, I gravitated toward the Baja SAE project.” Every three years at Manhattan, the Baja team builds an off-road vehicle and then spends the next two years modifying it. The 2025-26 academic year was the time frame

Christian Danial

that the team had to build an entirely new vehicle from scratch. Danial was assigned the role of shop manager, often dealing with inventory and equipment, such as 3D printers, metal machinery that could process raw material into usable products and laser cutters that could engrave materials for the car. “This gave me the freedom to not only produce items for the car, but to also practice on side projects that let me learn how to fine-tune my abilities,” he said. Danial, along with 11 other senior mechanical engineers, spent months designing and fabricating the car in the Baja shop on campus. When the car was finished, he and his team captain, Joseph Moog ’26, dressed up in suits, drove their finished product to their last day of class, parked the car on the Quad and walked into class — making for Danial’s favorite college memory. The car was then entered into a competition that includes different driving events to test out the car, along with a four-hour endurance race. The team ultimately competed in the Rochester, NY, SAE competition, June 11-14.

ishing just one year after his bachelor’s. After that, it’ll be off to work, hopefully at a job that he finds fulfilling. “My ultimate goal is to stay away from the stereotypical construction-based mechanical jobs,” he said. “The jobs that have people toil away in an office or doing inspections day in and day out. I would like to find my way into the design and manufacturing field. Being able to take something and engineer a way to make it better is what I want to do.”

J

oseph Moog ’26 has been fascinated by mechanics ever since he was a kid growing up on Staten Island. He would often take things apart just to see how they worked. As he grew older, Moog started working on small engines and building motorized vehicles, such as gas scooters, go-karts and minibikes. At Tottenville High School, he joined the Automotive Technology program, which provides students with hands-on garage experience to prepare them for modern automotive repair and maintenance. In 2019, Moog purchased a broken dune buggy on Facebook Marketplace at a low cost and fixed it up Now that he’s earned his bachelor’s degree, himself. The vehicle now runs just fine. Danial will stay in school for his master’s in Because of his interest in motorized vehicles, mechanical engineering through Manhattan University’s seamless graduate program, fin- Moog knew that he wanted to attend a college with MAN HAT TAN. ED U 33

on the car custom in-house and then purchased the stuff we couldn't make,” said Moog. After the car was manufactured, the team entered it into a competition that included different driving events to test out the car. First, there was a technical inspection to make sure the car was safe and adhered to all the rules made by SAE. Then came a brake test, an acceleration test, a maneuverability track, a hill climb and a suspension and traction test. On the final day, the cars participated in a four-hour endurance race. “The tracks are usually pretty rough on the cars,” said Moog. “Many schools’ vehicles break down and need to be repaired, so hopefully we designed and fabricated our car well this year.” Moog accompanied the team to the 2025 Maryland competition and helped repair the car twice during the endurance test to keep the car in the race when several components failed. This year, the team competed in the Rochester, NY, SAE competition from June 11-14.

Joseph Moog

a Baja Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) team — part of a collegiate design competition in which students design, fabricate and race an offroad vehicle from scratch. He also wanted to stay close to New York City. These requirements led him to Manhattan University (then Manhattan College). After getting accepted, Moog enrolled as a mechanical engineering major. “I always really liked the idea of designing and making things,” he said. “Mechanical engineering has always been the major I wanted to pursue.” Over the years, Moog was heavily involved with Baja SAE, which led to some of his favorite college memories. Every three years at Manhattan, the Baja team builds an off-road vehicle from scratch and then spends the next two years modifying it. During the 2024-25 academic year, Moog played a key role in modifying a previously built car by helping the team fabricate and weld many of the changes. The 2025-26 academic year, however, was the year that the team had to build an entirely new vehicle. Moog was elected team captain of the 2026 Jasper Racing team, which includes 12 senior mechanical engineers. As team captain, he delegated work for the project, made the schedules, coordinated between the design 34 S U M M ER 2 02 6

subdivisions, managed the financials, documented the project and, as mentioned, helped with the various modifications. “I think this makes me sound like I do a lot, but I am working with an absolutely amazing team that has put a ton of time and effort into the design and fabrication of the car,” he noted. The 2026 Jasper Racing team spent the summer and fall 2025 semesters designing the car, including a new frame that was smaller and more compact; a new four-wheel drive drivetrain system that was faster, more reliable and more serviceable; a suspension system that should handle off-road conditions better; and all the sub-systems, such as brakes, electrical, steering, body panels and the seat. Over winter break and the spring 2026 semester, the team fabricated its designs in the Baja shop on campus. “I think we spent almost every day at the shop except for holidays, working eight to 14 hours a day cutting, bending and notching tubes to then be welded into the car,” said Moog. The team fabricated and welded various parts of the car, including the entire frame, the drivetrain components, the carbon fiber body panels and seat, and the suspension and steering components. “I think overall we made around 85% of the parts

This competition, though, wasn’t just about designing, fabricating and driving — it was also run like a business. Each team needed to submit a request for proposal (RFP) as if it were planning to produce 70 cars for a ranch. The RFP included a cost report documenting the parts, hardware and manufacturing process used to build the car, as well as a cost reduction report detailing how they could reduce the cost of two components on the car. “I think it's as close as it gets to owning a business,” said Moog. In addition to Baja SAE, Moog secured two internships in construction. Over summer 2024, he interned at Lendlease and during summer 2025, he landed an internship at Consigli, which actually wound up purchasing a significant portion of Lendlease’s New York and New Jersey operations the year prior. In both internships, Moog worked on site as an intern construction manager. He worked with the trades on site to ensure the construction followed drawings and specifications, recorded daily reports and site progress and assisted site management as needed. “I learned a ton about the management of projects,” he said. “Some of the things I did at the internship I incorporated into the Baja project I’m running.” Now that he’s graduated, Moog has a job lined up working as a field engineer for C.A.C. Industries. But despite these professional accomplishments, it’s his work on the Baja team that remains his greatest and fondest accomplishment. “I am incredibly proud of my team for the design, fabrication and problem-solving skills we used to build the car so far,” he said. “It was incredible to start with some ideas on paper — how we would build the car from scratch with our design goals — and then seeing those ideas become real.”

JASPER GUARANTEE WHAT IS THE JASPER GUARANTEE? The Jasper Guarantee ensures that all undergraduate and transfer students at Manhattan University benefit from a guaranteed fixed tuition rate, set according to the published baseline annual rate for their entry year. The Jasper Guarantee addresses two key concerns for students and families: affordability and transparency in college education costs.

WHY DOES IT MATTER? PEACE OF MIND The Jasper Guarantee gives you predictable costs so that students can focus on academics and opportunities. Many colleges and universities raise tuition each year, but Manhattan University’s Jasper Guarantee means that your tuition is fixed for four years. That’s right, once you enroll at the University, your baseline tuition rate will not increase for eight consecutive semesters — no surprises, no sudden tuition hike. GUARANTEED RATE The Jasper Guarantee is Manhattan University’s commitment to affordability and transparency. For Fall 2027, entering undergraduates and transfer students will benefit from a guaranteed fixed baseline tuition rate of $52,500. Institutional fees are billed separately and may change, but the tuition itself remains locked in. Please note that the Jasper Guarantee covers tuition only. FINANCIAL AID PACKAGES Each student’s financial aid package is individualized, factoring in merit scholarships, federal and state aid, and other criteria. The Jasper Guarantee sets your tuition, but your financial aid package is unique to you. Scholarships, grants, and other aid are applied accordingly. The Jasper Guarantee does not affect eligibility for aid unless scholarship conditions or satisfactory academic progress are not maintained. If you have questions about how your aid works with the Jasper Guarantee, Jasper Central staff can review your individual package, and help you understand your options. For more information or questions, please email jaspercentral@manhattan.edu LEARN MORE Manhattan University has earned top honors from some of the most well-respected publications in the U.S., ranking among the Best Colleges for 2026 by U.S. News & World Report, America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026 by Newsweek, America’s Best Colleges 2026-2027 by TIME, Best Colleges in America for 2026 by Money and placing in the top 10% nationally in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges list. Visit manhattan.edu or contact admit@manhattan.edu for more information.

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PREPARED FOR THE REAL WORLD

Athletics

STORY BROTHER DANIEL GARDNER, FSC, M.A., TWENTIETH PRESIDENT OF MANHATTAN UNIVERSITY

PHOTOGRAPHS VINCENT DUSOVIC

Photo, this page: #11 Guriyandel Salva ’28 Photos, facing page, clockwise: #3 Trey Packen ’26 L-R; #30 Ryan Foody ’28, #26 Trevor Hansen ’26, #40 Colin Basehore ’28, #14 Hunter Sute ’26 #6 Jackson Brinker ’26 #6 Jackson Brinker ’26

The Birthplace of the

7th Inning Stretch The sweltering heat of the afternoon was causing the student fans at a Manhattan College baseball game in 1882 to either fall asleep or lose interest in the game. Br. Jasper of Mary, FSC, the Dean of Students and the head baseball coach at Manhattan, was dismayed by the lack of fan interest even though the contest was turning into an exciting matchup between his college students and a professional ball club, the New York Metropolitans. This was going to be the year for his Manhattan team to defeat their opponents, and a little heat was not going to stop Br. Jasper from getting the Manhattan students to rally behind their team.

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MAN HAT TAN. ED U 37

Br. Jasper was a simple immigrant from County Kilkenny, Ireland, who was shaped by the charism of the Brothers of the Christian Schools to provide a human and Christian education for the young. He became an experienced educator and served in various roles at Manhattan College for over 30 years. This extensive knowledge of students and years of experience allowed him to rely on his instincts to understand what would keep them not only motivated but also in good order. Modern academic kinesiology calls it dynamic stretching, but whatever we call it, Br. Jasper instructed the students in the grandstand to get up in the middle of the seventh inning so they could stretch and regain their enthusiasm and refocus their attention. A tradition was born! The Metropolitans noticed the positive effect of the technique and began to incorporate it into their professional games. Also, it was a great opportunity to sell snacks. Br. Jasper incorporated it into his Manhattan baseball games and soon even one of the team’s better-known opponents, the professional New York Giants, incorporated it into their home games at the Polo Grounds. The Seventh-Inning Stretch became a baseball institution and an American tradition, and Br. Jasper was even recognized as the founder of the tradition by the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Br. Jasper’s commitment as an educator and advocate for school spirit caused Manhattan College to make him its mascot long after his death. The University’s mascot represents the enduring sense of pride that all Jaspers have for this giant of Catholic education who literally created an American tradition. Some historians debate the origin of the Seventh-Inning Stretch and connect it with an apocryphal story of President William Howard Taft standing up to stretch at a game in the 20th century, but any good Jasper out there knows the truth. Br. Jasper was a powerful Lasallian educator, a lifelong supporter of students in the classroom and on the sports fields and the true founder of the Seventh-Inning Stretch.

38 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Top Photo: Brother Jasper of Mary, FSC (center), former Manhattan College Baseball Coach, pictured with members of the 1886 Manhattan Baseball team Historic photos courtesy of the Manhattan University Archives and Special Collections Facing Page: #55 Matthew Steinberg ’29

ATHLETICS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPHS VINCENT DUSOVIC

Manhattan Softball Star Natalye DeBus ’29 Wins Metro Conference Rookie of the Year Honors After an impressive freshman campaign, Manhattan University's Natalye DeBus ’29 has been named Metro Conference (formerly MAAC) Rookie of the Year with a spot on the All-Metro First Team to pair with her accomplishment. Starting all 52 games this past season, DeBus proved to be the team's most valuable contributor with both her bat and right arm as she played third base and pitcher. The San Diego native proved to be the team's undeniable main slugger, smashing 12 home runs and 12 doubles while slugging an impressive .663 — all three figures led the team. DeBus also chipped in a team-high 39 RBIs. In a standout weekend, the softball standout hit two home runs on the same day in the first conference series against Rider on March 14 and combined for four RBIs across two days. In the pitching circle, DeBus tied teammate Karissa Spring ’27 for the most wins among the Jaspers this season with six, while leading the group of pitchers in strikeouts with 68. Furthermore, her 105.1 innings inside the circle along with nine complete games quickly elevated her to the No. 2 starter for the Green and White. In addition to DeBus’ outstanding achievement, her teammate, Lainey Brown ’29, was selected to the All-Metro Conference Second Team. Hailing from Northridge, CA, Brown also matched her home runs and doubles total with nine on each end, while locking in 27 RBIs and a .587 slugging percentage, with each stat coming just behind DeBus. Both athletes started in all 52 games, serving as two of the team's primary contributors on offense — and in DeBus' case, in the circle as well.

Lainey Brown ’29

40 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Natalye DeBus ’29

ATHLETICS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

PHOTOGRAPH MARZIO MASTROIANNI

Manhattan Lacrosse Standout Among Inaugural Metro Conference Humanitarian Award Winners

Manhattan University’s Division I sports programs continue to reflect the Lasallian tradition of service and care for others with the announcement that Men’s Lacrosse star Andrew Giandonato ’26 was among a select group of Metro Conference (formerly MAAC) athletes to receive the inaugural Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award. Established by the Intercollegiate Men's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA) and the Gleason family in order to honor the life and legacy of its namesake, a beloved mentor, leader and former Siena University Men’s lacrosse coach who died in December 2025 at age 41, the Humanitarian Award recognizes student-athletes who exemplify the qualities that defined Gleason’s life and career: leadership, selflessness, unwavering support of teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship and meaningful service to their communities. “Receiving the Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award is one of the greatest honors,” Giandonato said. “Coach Gleason’s impact on the lacrosse community extended far beyond the field. His legacy of selflessness, compassion and commitment to making the people and communities around him better continues to inspire athletes and coaches across the country. To be recognized with an award that carries his name is something I am truly humbled by and deeply grateful for.”

During his lacrosse career at Manhattan University, the Chester County, PA, native played in 42 games with 11 starts — all in 2025 — recording 49 ground balls and 19 caused turnovers. On the educational side, Giandonato graduated in 2026 with a bachelor’s degree in finance, and was recognized by the Metro Conference with multiple All-Academic Team selections. While at Manhattan, the student-athlete was also a proud member of the Manhattan University Investment Fund (MUIF), where he served as the club’s health care sector associate and took part in a weekly Bible study program founded by his lacrosse teammate. For Giandonato, the Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian honor provides a clear reflection of the values he learned and experiences he gained while at Manhattan University. “More than any statistic or title, being part of something greater than yourself, being a Jasper, has taught me that your real impact isn’t just measured by what you accomplish for yourself, but instead what you do for the people around you, whether that’s a teammate having a hard day, a younger player looking for someone to learn from, or giving back to a community that gave me so much. This award reflects every early morning, every late night and every decision to show up for someone else when it would have been easier not to. It reflects a university, a team and a community that believed in leading with character.”

MAN HAT TAN. ED U 41

ATHLETICS

STORY KIRAN ADITHAM

ARTWORK KYLE WILLIS

Manhattan U Expands Division I Presence With 2 New Sports

Having already been established as a prominent NCAA Division I school for decades in sports such as basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, track and field and now men’s volleyball, Manhattan University is further expanding its athletics footprint with the addition of Acrobatics & Tumbling and Women’s Flag Football programs, complete with dedicated, distinguished coaches for each.

Football program is set to take the field for its inaugural 2026-27 season. Leading the charge as head coach will be seasoned flag football veteran Frank Jennaco, who has seen firsthand how the sport has grown and been recognized as one of the fastest-growing in the country at the youth, high school and collegiate levels. The sport was recently added to the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women initiative.

With its inaugural season set to get underway in February 2027, the Acrobatics & Tumbling program — which was officially recognized as a championship sport by the NCAA earlier this year — will be led by Hallie Fowler, one of the sport’s most decorated athletes as a two-time national event champion and National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association All-American. During college, Fowler was not only a four-year starter at Quinnipiac, leading the Bobcats to four straight national semifinal appearances, but also simultaneously served as a gymnastics coach and competitive team director in Connecticut, which laid the foundation for her coaching career. By joining Manhattan University, Fowler now becomes one of the youngest head coaches in Division I. “I am so incredibly excited to take on this position,” she said. “The sport of Acrobatics and Tumbling is growing at such a rapid pace and I can't wait to give student-athletes the same kind of experience I had as a collegiate athlete. Acrobatics and Tumbling is an experience like no other and I look forward to seeing a packed Draddy Gymnasium for our first season.”

Prior to joining Manhattan, Jennaco spent two seasons building the first collegiate women's flag football program in New York City at the College of Staten Island, where he guided the Dolphins to an overall record of 17-3, including 15 shutouts. During his career, Jennaco also held multiple head coaching positions including most recently at Next Level Sports (2015-2024), where he won three Gold Division Championships, and THT Flag Football, leading 17U-level teams that were named two-time NFL Flag Regional Champions and earned a No. 1 ranking for two straight seasons.

Along with Acrobatics & Tumbling, Manhattan’s Women’s Flag

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Now as Manhattan's inaugural head coach of Women’s Flag Football, Jennaco is excited for the team’s future and grateful for how he’s been welcomed by the school since officially taking on the role in early 2026. “The support and commitment from Manhattan has been nothing short of exceptional,” he said. “With the resources, vision, and belief they have shown in our program and in the growth of women's flag football, we are positioned to build something special. Manhattan is poised to become a leader in Division I flag football across the Northeast, and the potential of this program is limitless.”

alumni notes 1959

2000

MICHAEL A. HIGGINS has just finished up an illustrious 60-year career as a structural design engineer and project manager with several consulting engineering firms, reflecting the immense value of his civil engineering degree earned at Manhattan University.

CHRISTOPHER FRENZ recently published his fourth book, The Science of Silence, which covers a subtractive approach to cybersecurity that argues that information security needs to move away from the detect-and-respond model in use today and instead shift to a focus on attack path erasure.

1971 KEVIN CAMPBELL, PH.D., ’71, was among the recipients of Columbia University’s distinguished 2025 Louisa Gross Horwitz Prize for his significant contributions in biological research in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Campbell was one of three scientists whose discoveries revealed the biological causes of this severe genetic disorder, laying the foundation for diagnoses and breakthrough treatments for several forms of muscular dystrophy and related muscular diseases. Campbell's career spans more than 50 years. He earned his B.S. in physics from Manhattan University (then Manhattan College) in 1971 and went on to receive his Ph.D. in biophysics from the University of Rochester, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Toronto. In 1981, he joined the University of Iowa as an assistant professor, where he is now Roy J. Carver Professor and Chair of the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, and director of the Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Center. He is also an investigator emeritus of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

2011 CHRISTOPHER SHEMANSKI recently earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy from Seton Hall University. He currently serves as the director of the First-Year Experience at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, where he leads initiatives to support student transition, belonging, and success.

2015 Dana Manniello '15 and Andrew Crawford were married on September 5, 2026, in North Carolina.

2023 DENIS HAXHIJA, along with several other Manhattan alumni who sit on the Board of Directors of the Riverdale Main Streets Alliance, received the "Cultivating the Bronx" Award from the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance for their stewardship of green spaces around the Bronx neighborhood, including the Northwest Garden of Van Cortlandt Park.

Awarded annually, the Horwitz Prize recognizes investigators whose contributions to biology or biochemistry are deemed worthy of special distinction. Of its 118 previous recipients, 55 have gone on to win the Nobel Prize.

L-R: Christopher Rizzo (Carter Ledyard & Milburn LLP), Denis Haxhija (Brown Harris Stevens), Dr. of Optometry Giordana Avila, Damian McShane (The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey).

1989 GEORGE A. MCGOWAN III has joined Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC, as a Partner in the firm's Tax, Trusts & Estates Group, based in its Red Bank, NJ, office.

1992 HADY MENDEZ is helping women take up space with her new book, Calladita No More. Blending real-life experiences with practical tools, the book is a call to action for career-minded women who are ready to speak up, own their voice, and thrive in workplaces that weren’t built with them in mind.

1993 DANIEL DOBAS was featured in an episode of the Team House podcast, a weekly podcast featuring veterans and experts in the fields of intelligence, law enforcement and the military. Dobas appeared in the episode, “DEA: Pakistan,” which is available on YouTube and Spotify.

Riverdale Main Streets Alliance

MAN HAT TAN. ED U 43

alumni conne ction

The Jasper Alumni Starter Kit 20 ways to connect, stay engaged and make the most of your Manhattan community. Jasper pride! Whether you graduated decades ago or just recently, being an alum means always being a Jasper. Here are some tips to make the most of your connection to Manhattan post-grad or as a reminder that Jasper pride runs deep!

Read Manhattan University Magazine Go ahead and check this one off your list right now!

Update Your Contact Info

To invite you to great events, we need to know where to send our Alumni Connection and invitations. Let Manhattan know how to reach you with updates from campus, news about your fellow alumni and events in your area. If you’re not currently receiving this information, please update your contact information at alumni.manhattan.edu/stay-connected/update-contact

4

Listen to WRCM

5

Get Involved in the Alumni Society

Also, our students call alumni like you to personally invite you to events and thank you if you made a gift to Manhattan. They love to hear about your experiences at your alma mater!

3

Follow the Jasper Alumni Accounts

You probably already follow the University on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, but if you’re not also following @jasperalumni on Instagram and other alumni accounts, you’re missing out on content just for you. We highlight alumni achievements, share Manhattan trivia and throwback pics, as well as post event updates.

6

Manhattan’s fully student-run radio station can be found online at www.wrcm.rocks. Check out the schedule and catch a show. From talk shows and interviews to curated playlists, you’ll get an earful of Jasper vibes.

While you automatically become a member when you graduate, being active in the Alumni Society is an invaluable way to network and help shape activities that you and your classmates might enjoy. All graduates are welcome to attend quarterly meetings, virtually or in person. The Society provides direct feedback to the Manhattan administration regarding alumni issues. The standing committees of the Alumni Society contribute to several key annual events at Manhattan University, including Athletic Hall of Fame (nominate a fellow alum!), Gunn Medal and other awards. Contact the Alumni Relations Office at 718-862-7432 or alumni@manhattan.edu for additional information and to be included on the meeting invite list.

Attend an Alumni Event

Our Alumni Relations Office hosts events all over the country. From happy hours and sporting events to opportunities to meet President Bonato, the deans and prominent alumni, we have it all. This is an easy way to meet Jaspers in your area. You have built-in conversation topics in your shared Manhattan experiences, no matter your graduation year.

www.linkedin.com/groups/133959 @jasperalumni www.facebook.com/ManhattanUniversityAlumni x.com/JasperAlum Follow Manhattan’s YouTube channel as well as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages. You’ll stay on top of all that is happening on campus and with your fellow alumni, and you’ll be able to contribute your accolades and thoughts. 44 S U M M ER 2 02 6

7

Come to Reunion Weekend

There is simply nothing like a Reunion Weekend with opportunities galore to spend time with classmates and professors while checking out the many improvements to campus since you graduated. Every year, hundreds of alumni come back for this special weekend. All alumni are welcome each year, not just those celebrating an anniversary. Visit manhattan. edu/reunion to see what the excitement is about!

14

Host a Job Shadow or On-Site Visit

9

Volunteer for Manhattan Alumni Relations or Development

15

Attend a Career Fair or Post Jobs and Internship Opportunities

10

Send a Message to the Alumni Office

16

Attend a Networking Event or Be a Part of a Career Panel

17

Career Development

18

Sponsor a “Real-World” Project

19

Follow Manhattan Sports Teams

20

Get Your Jasper Swag

8

Take Advantage of the “Grad of the Last Decade” Discount

From event venues and entertainment options to insurance and hotels, Jaspers can get discounts. Check it out at alumni.manhattan.edu/discounts-resources/discountprogram

Consider becoming a regional volunteer host or being on a career panel. Volunteers can also encourage attendance for events and encourage alumni to give back their time and treasure to help our newest Jaspers thrive. Alumni in a reunion year are also needed to encourage classmates to return to Manhattan for Reunion Weekend. Learn more at alumni.manhattan.edu/stay-connected/volunteer

Have you experienced a significant life event and want to share? Let us know what you have been up to while living your Jasper dream! Submit your update and we’ll publish it in the Alumni Notes section in an upcoming issue of our alumni magazine. You can also submit an Alumni Spotlight for someone else! Submit your news to: alumni.manhattan.edu/news/alumnote

11

Become an Alumni Ambassador

12

Become a Lasallian Volunteer

Support undergraduate recruitment by sharing your college experiences, offering guidance and representing the University at events nationwide. Help future Jaspers see the value and impact of a Manhattan education. Alumni ambassadors also connect with accepted students based on their major, interests, and location.

One way to stay involved with the Lasallian mission after graduating from Manhattan is to serve as a Lasallian Volunteer. Lasallian Volunteers is a year-long, post-graduate service program that places people in Lasallian ministries across the United States. Visit inside.manhattan.edu/ offices/mission/post-graduate-volunteer-opportunity to learn more.

Pay it forward and give back — The University relies on gifts of all sizes each year — from $10 to those with more zeros — to provide some form of financial aid to nearly all Manhattan students and so much more.

13

Become a Manhattan Mentor

The Manhattan Mentor Program is an excellent way for alumni to give back to Manhattan University and have a positive impact on younger Jaspers. It is a vibrant program where student mentees are paired with alumni mentors in their desired field for a curated mentorship experience over the course of an academic year. Consider volunteering for the 2026-27 cohort.

Inviting students for a site visit or job shadowing at your workplace allows them to learn what goes on at a real work setting. It’s less time and commitment than the Mentor Program and is very beneficial to students.

Support students and fellow alumni by participating in our career fairs as an exhibiting employer. Introduce your HR contact to the Center for Career Development so they can facilitate participation. You can also support our students and alumni by posting job or internship opportunities on Handshake (manhattan.joinhandshake.com/login).

Provide today’s young Jaspers with a chance to see how their education translates into real-world careers. It’s also an opportunity for you to make new connections.

Whether it’s been a month or a decade since you graduated from Manhattan, you are still eligible to receive help from the Center for Career Development. You can meet with a career adviser to review your resume, engage in interview prep or go over job search strategies, attend our annual career fairs, access our Handshake online job board, or receive graduate school and fellowship advisement. Contact careerdevelopment@manhattan.edu about these opportunities.

Partner with a senior capstone class. Give them a real problem your business is facing. This is a low-cost, high-impact way to vet an entire team of students as they share solutions.

If you were an athlete or enthusiast, follow your favorite team — at home or away in person, online or on social media. Find all the information and links at gojaspers.com.

Show Jasper Pride at the game or at home and stock up on Manhattan gear! Visit www.bkstr.com/manhattanstore or stop by the bookstore if you’re on campus. From the latest T-shirts, caps and sweatshirts to memorabilia, they have it all.

Questions, concerns, ideas for an event? How do you stay in touch with Manhattan? Let us know by emailing alumni@manhattan.edu MAN HAT TAN. ED U 45

alumni ca lend ar Saturday, October 10, 2026 2nd Annual Jasper Alumni Fun Run

Thursday, October 15. We look forward to connecting with fellow Jaspers throughout the Golden State.

Thursday, October 22, 2026 Fall Business Dinner

Open to all Manhattan University alumni, the 2nd Annual Jasper Alumni Fun Run is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with fellow Jaspers while enjoying a day of running through Van Cortlandt Park. The 1.5-mile race begins at 9:55 a.m. and is a cherished part of the 54th Annual Manhattan University Cross Country Invitational. Registration is free for all alumni and includes a complimentary “Jaspers Run NYC” T-shirt. Whether you are running to compete or simply to celebrate the Jasper spirit, don't miss the opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and be part of a cherished Manhattan University tradition.

Join us for Manhattan University's Annual Fall Business Dinner hosted by the O'Malley School of Business. This event brings together students, alumni, and distinguished business leaders for an evening of networking, meaningful connections, and celebrating the strength of our Manhattan University community.

Saturday, November 7, 2026 47th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Brian McGovern '13 - Men's Track and Field Kristen Skonieczny '16 - Women's Soccer Brett Warmington '05 - Men's Lacrosse 2001-2002 - Men's Track and Field Cross Country Team 2003-2004 - Men's Basketball Team

Sunday, December 6, 2026 Lessons and Carols

A beloved annual tradition, Lessons and Carols will be held in the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers on Sunday, December 6, beginning at 3:30 p.m. The event includes musical performances of holiday classics by the Manhattan University Singers and the Manhattan University Orchestra.

Sunday, October 11, 2026, to Thursday, October 15, 2026 Jaspers of California Alumni Tour Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating some of Manhattan University's greatest athletes, coaches, and supporters at the Manhattan University Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Established in 1979, the Athletic Hall of Fame has honored more than 250 Jaspers whose achievements have left a lasting impact on Manhattan Athletics. This year, we are excited to induct and recognize the following distinguished individuals and teams. Manhattan University is heading to the West Coast to reconnect with our incredible alumni across California. Our California Tour kicks off in San Francisco on Sunday, October 11, before continuing to Los Angeles on Tuesday, October 13, Orange County on Wednesday, October 14, and concluding in San Diego on 46 S U M M ER 2 02 6

Bobby Gonzalez - 1999-2006 Men's Basketball Coach Chrissy Gutenberger Hart '12 Women's Lacrosse Kate Bowen Kiernan '14 - Softball Mike McCann '11 - Baseball

Friday, December 11, 2026 Boston Holiday Pops Alumni Outing

Get into the holiday spirit with Manhattan University at one of Boston's most cherished Christmastime traditions, the Boston Holiday Pops. Celebrate the joy of the season with beloved holiday classics, the opportunity to sing along, and a special visit from Santa. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to create lasting memories with your Manhattan Jasper community. To register for our upcoming events, please scan the QR code: If you have any questions or would like additional information regarding the Alumni Calendar, please contact the Alumni Relations Office at 718-862-7432 or alumni@manhattan.edu

IN MEMORIAM

1950

1962

1971

Ignatius Rienzo, 5/12/26

David Cifatte, 3/23/26 James Flatley, 5/18/26 John Fortunato, 5/7/26 Raymond Foscante, 10/28/25 Louis Santero, 5/27/26 Ronald Streiber, 5/6/26

Damien Donnelly, 11/9/25

1951 Theodore Breen, 6/13/26 James Butler, 5/17/26

1953 Albert Ellis, Jr., 5/27/26 Louis Fare, 5/13/26 Michael McEneney, 4/15/26

1954 Patrick Giblin, 3/26/26 Daniel Spigai, 5/27/26

1955 David Briggs, 4/28/26 Kenneth Santucci, 4/13/26

1956 Edward Breitenbach, 6/16/25 Richard Castellani, 4/12/26 Raymond Pecoraro, Sr., 5/22/26 Robert Thomann, 4/19/26 John Totten, 6/11/26

1957 William Bartone, 3/27/26 James Feeney, 3/23/26 John Larkin, 6/30/26

1958 Fred L. Comfort, 9/25/26 Wallace Gantter, 5/13/26

1959 Brian McCormack, 4/5/26 William O’Connell, Jr., 4/28/26 George Roberts, 7/12/26

1960 Michael Sylvester, 5/23/26 Thomas Terry, 12/27/25

1963 William McNamara, 6/25/26 John Murphy, 3/29/26 Richard Rudolph, 4/15/26 John Paul San Giovanni, 5/8/26

1964 Patrick McLaughlin, 5/15/26 Angelo Perini, 5/12/26 Richard Reidy, 4/28/26 Kam Yuen, 6/24/23

1965 Gerald P. McCarthy, 7/28/26 James Piscano, 5/17/26 Dino Pompinio, 4/1/26 John Sullivan, 5/9/26 John Vogt, 3/30/26

1966 Peter Clifford, 7/4/26 James Harrington, 3/21/26 Dennis Larkin, 5/27/26 Gerard Mozian, 5/17/26 William Salter, 12/30/25 Frank Shanny, 4/4/26

1973 John Flynn, 4/27/26 Timothy Sweeny, 5/18/26

1975 Michael Hannigan, 4/24/26 Jeffrey Heath, 4/28/26 Margaret Oettinger, 4/6/26 Patricia Padden, 4/10/26 John Tully, 6/19/26

1976 Bessie Ford, 6/7/26 Charles Lynch, 6/7/26

1982 Maria Migoya, 4/22/26 Suzanne Wenz, 6/28/26

1983 Eileen Burke, 5/2/26 Debra Smith, 3/30/26

1985 Carol (Martin) Buckley, 8/14/25

1988 Sandra Dent, 5/26/26

1967

1990

H. Paul Dietershagen, 4/27/26 Anthony McGinnity, 3/14/26

Donald Bracken, 6/25/26

1968

Robert Scholpp, 4/30/26

Thomas Anderson, 6/3/26 Aldo Consiglio, 3/28/26 Gregory Diaczok, 6/4/26 Michael Lee, 4/30/26

1961

1969

Nicholas Angrisano, 4/28/26 James Blake, 6/26/26 Frank Devaney, 6/2/26 John Duffy, 8/17/25 Michael Hyland, 3/13/26 John Jackson, 4/9/26 Charles J. Lyman, 7/17/26 Joseph Zeccardi, 11/28/25

John A. Bertolini, 8/16/26 Cecelia O’Leary, 5/29/26

1970 Donald Howard, 4/8/26 Leonard Quinn, 5/17/26 Kevin Sarsfield, 3/20/26 Kenneth Smith, 4/19/26

1996

1999 Marysol De La Cruz, 4/25/26

2001 Trevor Johnson, 3/31/26

2006 Stephen McCarthy, 4/5/26

2009 Juan Flores, 5/31/26 MAN HAT TAN. ED U 47

OCTTH 25

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11:30 AM – 3:00 PM

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THE REAL WORLD IS WAITING.

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