Inspiring PURPO SE at Seton Hall
ANNUAL REPORT 2025
NEW EXPRESSIONS of our GREATER PURPOSE
SINCE 1856, Seton Hall’s signature education has been rooted in the life and Catholic faith of our patroness, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Today, more than 250 years after her birth, she continues to encourage us as we express her values in all we do. In the past year, our community
The SETON HALL STUDENT
50/50 States and countries represented 54% Diversity rate (more than half of our students identified as students of color) 1/3+ Part of student body eligible for Pell grants
97%
Employed within six months of graduation 81% Students with internships and transformational experiences 90+ Majors and programs
3.68
Average GPA 20% Increase in graduate student enrollment
Inspiring Purpose Through ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
THE IDEA THAT GREAT MINDS
come together to realize their lasting purpose at Seton Hall shows clearly through our student and program achievements over the past year. A life-changing experience such as journalists working at the Super Bowl, a record-breaking achievement as nurses improve patient health — and so much more — reflect our commitment to offer rigorous academics, steeped in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, as well as guided discovery that help students navigate modern challenges.
STUDENT AND PROGRAM INNOVATION
Empowering Future Nurses for Success
Graduates of Seton Hall’s bachelor of science in nursing (B.S.N.) program achieved a 97.4 percent first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for 2024 — significantly exceeding the 92 percent national pass rate average for United States-educated B.S.N. candidates.
“This year’s record-breaking pass rate is a testament to the superior quality of education and training provided by our stellar nursing faculty,” says Interim Dean of Nursing Kristi Stinson. “It also underscores the commitment to preparing skilled nursing professionals, strongly positioning Seton Hall as a noteworthy institution in the field of nursing education.”
A Commitment to Public Service
Sarah Dimichino, a School of Diplomacy and International Relations graduate student, was named a 2025 Harold W. Rosenthal Fellow in International Relations. She is one of 18 students from top universities nationwide chosen for the competitive fellowship that places exceptional graduate students in public service
internships across the federal government. Dimichino interned with U.S. Department of the Treasury in the Office of Investment, Energy and Infrastructure under the Office of International Affairs. This experience provided her the opportunity to see diplomacy in action, along with networks and career pathways that could shape her future in public service.
Among the Nation’s Best Seton Hall’s School of Diplomacy and International Relations ranks among the top programs in the world, according to Foreign Policy, a premier source for international policy and foreign relations news and analysis. In the rankings decided by international relations faculty members, our master’s program came in at No. 30, tied with Cornell, the University of Pennsylvania, University of Toronto and the University of Virginia. This ranking is a testament to the incredible work of faculty and staff to prepare students for a successful career in diplomacy, through meaningful connections to institutions like the United Nations and proximity to highlevel government officials and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
24 Hours of Innovation and Collaboration
Jubilee Hall was abuzz with ideas as undergraduates and graduates from diverse academic backgrounds worked together to solve real-world problems at Seton Hall’s first 24-Hour Hackathon. The winning team, Real Eyes AI, impressed the judges with a deep-fake detection tool that uses artificial intelligence to help users identify altered images and videos.
“This hackathon was more than a competition,” says Manfred Minimair, faculty lead and professor of mathematics and computer science. “It was a community experience that emphasized creativity, teamwork and solving challenges that matter. The students far exceeded our expectations — we can’t wait to see what they’ll create next year.”
Budding Careers in Sports Journalism
Include Super Bowl Highlight Reel Miguel Freire ’25, and Farnsworth Hendrickson Jr. ’25, had the experience of a lifetime in their senior year: a weeklong trip to New Orleans to cover Super Bowl LIX as members of the news media. This opportunity was made possible by
the new Pirates in the Field program, an initiative through the Center for Sports Media within the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media. Alongside more than 6,400 news media professionals from around the world, Freire and Hendrickson covered pre-game activities, including conducting one-on-one interviews with Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Josh Sweat; asking questions during press events with Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and retired coach and sports analyst Jimmy Johnson; and chatting with player-turned-media-personality Michael Strahan at the FOX Sports compound.
A Winning Case for Seton Hall Law
Third-year students Shea Moran and Emme Anderson won the Robert F. Wagner National Labor and Employment Law Moot Court Competition in 2025. The duo also won an award for writing the best respondent brief and Anderson received the Best Final Round Oralist award. They competed against 39 other teams at the event, known as the largest student-run moot court competition and premier national competition dedicated exclusively to labor and employment law. This win marked the second national championship in 2025 for the Seton Hall Law Moot Court Board. In January, third-year students Emma Taylor and Christopher Frey won the Hicks Thomas LLP Moot Court National Championship, marking the first time our students have won that competition. It’s no surprise that Blakely Advocacy Institute ranks Seton Hall’s 44-member Interscholastic Moot Court Board No. 4 in the country.
Seton Hall Law Named a Top School for ROI — and More
Seton Hall Law is a great return on investment, according to a report published by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. Georgetown assessed ROI by calculating graduates’ median income, less law school debt, four years after law school graduation. Seton Hall Law ranked No. 31 out of 186 law schools in the United States —
in the top 17 percent nationwide. One factor leading to Seton Hall’s high ROI is the fact that over 96 percent of students are employed after a clerkship, and more than 65 percent of those join law firms. As a result, Princeton Review has ranked Seton Hall the best law school in the nation for securing a state or local clerkship. Other honors include U.S. News and World Report ranking Seton Hall Law as the ninth best school in the nation for Health Care Law, 48th in the country for trial advocacy programs, and 71st overall, placing Seton Hall among the top 10 of law schools in the tri-state (N.Y.-N.J.-Conn.) area.
Fostering Innovation
In a new collaboration, the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Development and the Stillman School of Business launched a five-part lecture series, “Shaping Digital Futures: Innovation at the Intersection of Art, AI, and Transformation.” Led by professor Giovanni Schiuma, a visiting Fulbright scholar from LUM University (Italy) and an expert in the fields of technology, innovation and organizational transformation, the series addressed topics ranging from the integration of artificial intelligence in leadership to the arts as a tool for organizational transformation — bringing together diverse perspectives on the evolving role of technology in business and society.
FACULTY-LED EXCELLENCE
Seton Hall faculty members pursue their work with passion, striving for excellence in research and curriculum development that enriches both their own professional growth and the lives of their students. Their commitment to continuous learning and innovation ensures that every effort contributes meaningfully to student success and the University’s mission.
Strengthening Democratic Governance
Diplomacy and international relations professor Benjamin Goldfrank is collaborating on an international research project funded by a grant
from the Trans-Atlantic Platform, in coordination
with the National Science Foundation. Part of a team of 25 researchers from 21 universities, he is investigating how cities around the world are reshaping democratic governance through urban participatory innovations. This project will investigate some of the most pressing democratic issues of our time and will impact generations to come. “This network will allow us to better understand the possibilities for strengthening democratic governance in different contexts,” he says.
Revolutionizing Psychology Education
As part of a groundbreaking effort involving over 100 participants from more than 40 countries, psychology faculty members professor Susan Nolan and associate professor Fanli Jia helped develop the international Collaboration on Undergraduate Psychology Outcomes model and curriculum. This initiative sets a global standard for assessing undergraduate psychology education and aims to influence institutions worldwide.
Nolan’s U.S. Fulbright Scholar Award allowed her to spend a semester at the University of New South Wales, further strengthening the collaboration.
A Bioethics Honor
The Hastings Center, the oldest independent, nonpartisan interdisciplinary research institute
of its kind, named legal bioethics expert Carl H. Coleman a fellow. Coleman, associate dean and professor of law, is among 13 Hastings Center fellows recognized in 2024 for their work advancing scholarship and public understanding of complex ethical issues in health, health care, life sciences research and the environment. He joins a select group of about 300 individuals whose work has informed scholarship and public understanding of complex ethical issues in health, health care, science and technology.
GLOBAL SCHOLARSHIP AND RESEARCH
Seton Hall faculty members are engaged with research from a global perspective, particularly through the prestigious Fulbright program. The following faculty members were recently selected as Fulbright Scholars:
Karen Boroff, professor of management and dean emerita, Stillman School of Business, received a
Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award to Madrid, Spain. The project focused on equipping leaders with strategies for change management, as higher education institutions seek to navigate an everchanging landscape.
Tracy A. Kaye, professor of law and Eric Byrne Research Fellow, director of the Dean Acheson Legal Scholar Program and IRS Chief Counsel Externship Program, received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award to Vienna, Austria, expanding her knowledge of European and international tax law.
Ines Angeli Murzaku, professor of religion, Department of Religion, and director of the Catholic Studies Program, studied the diversification of Romania’s multicultural and multi-religious landscape as a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award participant to Cluj-Nopoca, Romania.
Mary Kate Naatus, assistant provost and dean of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, was chosen as one of 10 senior U.S. university administrators to participate in a two-week program under the Fulbright-Nehru Education Administrators Seminar in India. The program is designed to bring higher education leaders to explore India’s academic landscape, while fostering dialogue and collaboration.
Real-World Global Policy Work
Joseph Huddleston, associate professor in the School of Diplomacy and International Relations, spent a sabbatical in Washington, D.C., working for U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) as part of the International Affairs Fellowship. During this time, he drafted policy memos and official statements focused on Africa, allowing him to witness diplomacy in action.
A Global STEM Collaboration
Aligned with Seton Hall’s strategic goal of fostering international collaboration, Fulbright Scholar Mario Milazzo, an assistant professor in science and technology of materials at the University of Pisa, Italy, joined the University in January 2025, bringing with him a wealth of experience in advanced physics, materials science and engineering. Milazzo’s presence on campus is helping foster innovation and inspiring a global conversation as students confront complex challenges in STEM education.
BREAKTHROUGH ADVANCES IN RESEARCH
At Seton Hall, students and faculty work side by side to solve some of the most pressing issues of our time, offering a unique opportunity for growth, networking and hands-on experience conducting independent research. In the past year, the University solidified itself as a high research institution, advancing knowledge in a variety of fields through hands-on learning, securing research grants and awards.
Empowered by Curiosity, Driven by Innovation
Seton Hall was once again recognized as an R2 “high research activity” institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education. The 2025 designation places the University among top national institutions: those receiving at least $5 million in total research and development funding and awarded at least 20 research/scholarship doctorates annually.
“Our strategic initiatives and investments have succeeded in maintaining Seton Hall’s R2 status,” says University President Monsignor Joseph Reilly. “We have surpassed our goals, as we are now a roughly $10 million research enterprise, receiving 18 research awards in the past academic year.”
Faculty/Student Research Thrives in the DataLab
The groundbreaking DataLab project advances research activities across all disciplines at Seton Hall. It accelerates the University’s research productivity and invites students to work on faculty-led research projects, as they explore research visualization and data analysis careers. Since its launch in 2022, DataLab has sponsored 42 projects across disciplines ranging from biology to psychology, sparking faculty research ideas and student career exploration.
Undergraduate Awards Build STEM Leaders
Empowered with a STEM Undergraduate Research Award, chemistry student Orion Cruz ’25, worked with associate professor of chemistry Joseph Badillo, on a study aimed at increasing understanding of photoacids, molecules that become more acidic when exposed to light. Another undergraduate research awardee, physics student Christopher Henderson, is working with Jose Lopez, professor of physics and director of the Office of Grants and Research Services on research they hope can lead to a better understanding of how plasma can be generated.
Inspiring Purpose Through STUDENT ENRICHMENT AND SUPPORT
FROM CUSTOMIZED ACADEMIC
advising that results in highachieving student-athlete scholars year after year to a near 100 percent retention rate in specialized cohort groups, the Seton Hall experience is filled with dedicated attention and intention. In the classroom, in campus life, in career development and so much more, we recognize the dignity and individuality of each student, helping them reach their full potential.
FUELING STEM CAREERS
Instead of working entry-level jobs last summer, many Seton Hall undergraduates conducted real research. Thanks to a New Jersey state grant, 19 Seton Hall students were awarded funding as part of the University’s STEM Connect program. These students worked with Seton Hall faculty on cutting-edge scientific inquiry in the fields of biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, math, cybersecurity, computer science, neuroscience and psychology. The experience helped them develop advanced laboratory skills, teamwork and accountability and knowledge that will help them launch successful STEM careers. Hands-on experiences such as these are integral to cultivating critical thinking, innovation and the problemsolving skills that are essential for making an impact in their future field of work.
FIRST-YEAR SUCCESS — AND BEYOND
From navigating academics and activities to figuring out where to get help, first-year Seton Hall students took advantage of a wealth of resources last year. The Center for Academic Success Program is an awardwinning academic advising program that worked with every first-year student to make sure they set and achieved their goals. Additionally, Seton Hall’s Resilience, Integrity, Scholarship and Excellence
(RISE) Program made it possible for qualified lowincome, first-generation students or students with disabilities to enroll at Seton Hall — and succeed. RISE Program students received not only scholarship support, but also a comprehensive plan that included professional and social support; tutoring, coaching and personal advising; and financial literacy courses, mentoring and career counseling.
WHERE GRIT MEETS GOALS
Seton Hall student-athletes continue to showcase resilience in both their sport and the classroom.
As noted in the Spring 2025 grade report, they achieved a record-high 3.537 cumulative GPA, surpassing a previous high of 3.531. And for the first time, all 14 varsity programs were above 3.30. Additionally, 173 student-athletes made the dean’s list during the Spring 2025 semester, representing 63 percent of the student-athlete population.
Thanks to the staff of the Office of Academic Support Services for Student-Athletes, this marks the 14th time in the last 15 years that Seton Hall student-athletes have produced a record-high endof-year cumulative GPA. This achievement reflects the student-athlete commitment to academic excellence, and a deeper calling to grow as leaders and competitors.
Inspiring Purpose Through TRANSFORMATIONAL SPACES ON CAMPUS
SETON HALL OFFERS
students opportunities to innovate, grow and achieve with intention and purpose. By investing in top-of-theline campus facilities and spaces, we’re giving students room to challenge themselves academically and athletically, explore the depths of their faith in God and push the boundaries of what they think is possible.
THE INNOVATION HUB: WHERE EXPLORATION LEADS TO PURPOSE
Imagine this. A glass-walled entry along Seton Drive that leads to an open study lounge, a Maker Studio for hands-on technology projects, an XR/AI Studio for exploratory learning and dedicated content creation spaces, including a recording studio and three podcast studios. Welcome to the future of Seton Hall’s Innovation Hub, being brought to life on the ground floor of Walsh Library, thanks to a $1.25 million state appropriation and additional investments from the University.
“The Innovation Hub reflects Seton Hall’s commitment to empowering students and faculty with tools and spaces they need to think creatively, explore fearlessly and lead with innovation,” says President Monsignor Joseph Reilly. “This dynamic space will not only enhance teaching and learning but also inspire collaboration and discovery across disciplines.”
A NEW ERA FOR SETON HALL BASKETBALL
After months of construction and years of planning, Seton Hall’s new Basketball Performance Center opened its doors in March 2025, marking a milestone for the University’s commitment to athletic success. Located within the Richie Regan Recreation and
Athletic Center on the South Orange campus, the center is a 44,000-square-foot space for the men’s basketball program, with a 13,000-square foot gym as the centerpiece.
A key part of the University’s 10-year master plan to improve athletics and recreational facilities, the Center features new locker rooms, lounges, offices, sports medicine room, strength and conditioning room, film room and more. The project also includes enhancements to the women’s basketball facilities and freed up indoor space for other teams, such as soccer, baseball and softball – reinforcing the University’s commitment to all athletic teams.
A SAFE HARBOR
Rooted in the love and teachings of Jesus Christ, Campus Ministry at Seton Hall offers a wide range of activities and programs that help students connect, grow spiritually and become actively involved in the community. The Harbor, Campus Ministry’s newly renovated space, is a welcoming spot for all students. Located in Boland Hall, The Harbor is open daily and offers free coffee, snacks, a kitchenette, games and comfortable seating areas for the Seton Hall community to connect. It’s the perfect place to relax, make new friends or take a break between classes.
Inspiring Purpose Through EXPLORING NEW WORLDS
A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY
awaits beyond New Jersey. By exploring new countries, cultures and communities with purpose and intention, Seton Hall students and faculty members are transformed — and so are those they engage with. These global networks help foster deeper connections, wider perspectives and an appreciation for one’s own roots.
EXPANDING GLOBAL TIES IN SPAIN
A group of Stillman School of Business students engaged in a faculty-led program during Spring Break 2025 that included rigorous academic courses and international experiences. Led by Dean Emerita Karen Boroff, students were guided through intentional coursework while experiencing life in Madrid for the week. The program concluded with a landmark memorandum of understanding between Seton Hall and Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, signifying an opportunity for collaborative research and publishing.
ESPORTS AND GLOBAL BUSINESS IN SOUTH KOREA
South Korea is home to one of the world’s most dynamic gaming markets. In partnership with Gen.G Esports, a Forbes-ranked global esports organization, students completed the 2025 Gen.G Practicum Abroad, a three-week program in Seoul. Collaborating with industry professionals at headquarters and the Global Academy in Gangnam, students gained real-world esports experience by completing projects and attending workshops, building marketable skills and their professional network.
FAITH AND NURSING CONVERGE IN MEXICO
Inspired by the tenets of the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, a service trip to Mexico gave students
a chance to witness how faith in God, service to others and health care converge in communities with limited access to medical resources. Led by Mary Ellen Roberts, chair of the graduate nursing department, the trip embodied the College of Nursing’s mission to educate compassionate, culturally competent nurses prepared to meet the healthcare needs of a global society. Eleven undergraduates from multiple majors attended lectures on Mexico’s public health system and toured hospitals in Puebla and Mexico City, giving them a first-hand experience of healthcare infrastructure on a global scale.
“Service trips like this are transformative for our students,” says Roberts. “They not only deepen their clinical knowledge and cultural awareness but also ignite a lifelong passion for service and global health. It’s a beautiful demonstration of how faith and professional practice can intersect to make a real impact.”
GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE ON DENTAL CARE
Aneesa Brelvi, a junior biology major, traveled to India last summer to gain a broader perspective on dental care in a different culture. She learned about global health disparities and patient education, and completed a dental externship. Once back in the United States, Brelvi interned at another dentist’s office, allowing her to compare what she observed in India.
Inspiring Purpose Through FAITH AND DEVOTION
AS A CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY,
Seton Hall leads with purpose and intention to embrace joy, cultivate the whole person and serve others. Through faith-infused programs shared with our community, and academics integrated with Catholic Social Teaching and a commitment to respect and honor each other, the University embraces faith in God as a hallmark of our mission.
A TRANSFORMATIVE LENTEN EXPERIENCE
Seton Hall kicked off its inaugural Love Your Neighbor Lent series as students returned from Spring Break. Since Ash Wednesday fell during break, it was the perfect time to come together at more than a dozen events hosted by Residence Life, Campus Ministry and the Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE). Each gathering centered around the guiding question “Who is my neighbor?,” adapted from the parable of the Good Samaritan. The three pillars of Lent — prayer, fasting and almsgiving — were represented by special programs, including a Phone Fast Lunch, a clothing swap and community volunteering opportunities. The events challenged students to engage with their neighbors on campus and in the local community.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SEMINARIAN
As the sun rises over the South Orange campus, Deacon Andrew Rubinich begins his day at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology (ICSST). He dons his Roman collar and heads to chapel for Morning Prayer and Holy Mass. Rubinich is one of three transitional deacons featured in the Seminary’s new video, “Insights: A Day in the Life of a Seminarian,” which follows the men through a typical day, giving viewers an inside look into the journey of priestly formation.
“The integration of spiritual formation with academic rigor is the cornerstone of our seminary’s
mission, guiding our students towards a holistic understanding of their vocation,” notes Monsignor Gerard McCarren, rector and dean at ICSST.
For Rubinich and others, the experience has been full of passion and joy. “This campus is a special place for me,” he says. “It’s home. I feel safe here. I feel loved here. I feel like I’m doing what God is calling me to do here and now.”
A PILGRIMAGE TO HONOR A LEGACY
Three dozen employees embarked on a pilgrimage in June to the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Activities illuminated Mother Seton’s profound contributions to the Catholic Church, Catholic education in the United States and her lasting influence on generations of believers. At the heart of the experience was a special Mass in honor of Mother Seton, the first American-born saint and the University’s patroness, at her tomb. This pilgrimage was an opportunity for participants to build fellowship and community, while honoring the life and impact of Mother Seton.
CHARTER DAY HONORS MISSION AND SERVICE
Each year the Seton Hall community gathers to celebrate Charter Day, a tradition that honors the University’s founding in 1856 and the granting of its charter by the State of New Jersey in 1861. Participants also reflected on the enduring influence of the University’s
patroness, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton and recognized Setonians who embody her example of service, faith and resilience. Later that afternoon, many attended the annual Convocation Ceremony, another Charter Day tradition, which recognized recipients of the Bishop Bernard J. McQuaid Medal for Distinguished Service and the President’s Award for Student Service, as well as Servant Leader Scholars.
SPIRITUAL CONNECTION AND GROWTH
Whether students were looking to join a fun event, participate in a meaningful retreat or find a quiet space for reflection, there was something for everyone at Campus Ministry this past year. Events included the September Freshmen Retreat, Dorm Room Blessings, Liturgical Minister Training and a 9/11 Memorial Mass. Evening events featured CONNECT, a time for food, live music and great company; and Moonlight Mercy Wednesdays, a weekly hour of music, prayer and confession. The goal of Campus Ministry at Seton Hall is to engage with the vibrant community on campus and foster a space where students can deepen their relationship with God through reflection, relationships and more.
DOVE CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE
The Seton Hall community collected and donated 1,500 toys to children in need this past winter. The University’s Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE) wrapped and delivered gifts to several schools and agencies in Newark, the Maplewood South Orange School District and the Don Bosco Youth Center. DOVE also delivered gifts to children in Appalachia, as they have for over 25 years. At a Christmas party run by Seton Hall staff and alumni in West Virginia, Santa Claus handed children the brightly wrapped gifts made possible by a generous network of donors.
Inspiring Purpose Through LASTING CONNECTIONS
THE CONNECTION TO SETON HALL
doesn’t end with student graduation. Alumni keep our University in their hearts and minds — and often in the family, through generations of Seton Hall students. Students connect with alumni for guidance and mentorship; alumni give back to the community that set them up for success; and in the process of lifting each other up, the legacy of achievement continues.
A STEADFAST COMMITMENT TO SUCCESS
On Giving Day 2025, Setonians once again hit a historic high. Surpassing the one-day goal of 1,856 donors (a nod to the University’s founding year), 2,070 Pirates and Seton Hall community members gave over $2.2 million. These results mark the highest levels of both funds raised and donor participation since Seton Hall’s Giving Day began in 2018. More importantly, they reflect the pride and dedication of our community. Beyond the dollars raised, these funds make a lasting impact in the lives of Seton Hall students and shape the bright future of opportunities for our community. Anthony Bellucci, M.B.A. ’18, associate vice president of alumni engagement & philanthropy, says it best: “The incredible support we saw this Giving Day, from every corner of our community, reminds us that great things happen when we stand as one.”
FINANCE FORUM CONNECTIONS
Finance was the topic and the Seton Hall community couldn’t wait to talk about it. Over 140 students, more than 50 professionals and many Seton Hall alumni from financial services, banking and major corporations, joined the conversation at the annual Finance Networking Forum. Students
gained insights into industry trends, learned about potential career paths and discovered job opportunities. Alumni and other industry professionals offered invaluable advice to students, met with potential interns and recruits, all while making connections of their own.
MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CHAMPS
Seton Hall alumni at some of the world’s leading companies, like Viacom, Novartis, Univision, iHeartRadio and Johnson & Johnson have mentored more than 200 of our top students since 2010. The Honors & Alumni Mentor Program of the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media (CHAMP) is behind this success. In collaboration with the Career Center, the initiative gives students a competitive career advantage but also offers a special opportunity for alumni to give back to the next generation of leaders and the community that helped them achieve professional success.
“I’ve had the opportunity to guide some very bright minds who will make a tremendous impact on my profession,” says Joan Bosisio, vice president, Summit Global Health. “Being part of the CHAMP now gives me a chance to inspire future stars as I was inspired myself.”
ACCOUNTING AND ANALYTICS
MUTUAL ADMIRATION
“You never know who you’ll meet or what advice you’ll get.” That’s what student Carey Werheim says after the speed networking event at the Roundtables in Accounting and Analytics at Seton Hall. More than 40 professionals from 17 organizations and more than 80 students and alumni met and mingled while making valuable connections.
“There was so much energy in the room,” says associate professor of accounting and taxation Theresa Henry, accounting club adviser. “Our industry partners and students all walked away from the event feeling it was time well spent.” The feeling was mutual on the professional side.
“We love coming to Seton Hall University to meet the talented accounting students,” says Jonette Senko from accounting and consulting firm CohnReznick. “It’s always a great experience.”
WHAT MAKES A LEADER?
“What advice would you give to current students who are struggling to get their foot in the door of competitive industries?” This was just one of the questions posed by students to panelists at the Buccino Leadership Institute annual guest speaker event. The thoughtful responses did not disappoint. The panelists each brought their own unique backgrounds and experiences to the event. They each shared their own leadership journey, along with key skills necessary to be successful after graduation. Following the panel, students and panelists had the opportunity to connect and discuss insights and lessons.
Inspiring Students Realizing
A GREATER PURPOSE AT SETON HALL
WHAT ARE
YOU called to do? How do you choose to spend your time and energy? What kind of affect and influence do you have on the people around you — and in the greater world? At Seton Hall, open hearts and minds come together with intention to realize their true purpose — in ways both great and small. They find meaning and define relevance. They strive to serve others and make a difference. They seek what is true and imagine what is possible.
BRIDGING THE GAP: NURSING AND CATHOLIC STUDIES
When nursing majors consider potential minors, many think of psychology, sociology, language or math. Reilly Williams, B.S.N./R.N. ’25, discovered the immeasurable benefits from minoring in a different field: Catholic Studies. “I spend most of my time in nursing listening to lectures and applying clinical skills, but my [theology] classes explore a world outside of nursing,” says Williams, who served as senior co-president of the campus Student Nurses Association. “This improves my critical thinking skills and makes me a well-rounded student.” Williams, a member of the Buccino Leadership Institute, says her education in Catholic Studies has also deepened her capacity for empathy and prepared her to take on the challenges of both student leadership and a career serving those who are suffering or vulnerable. “I have learned to listen to and value various perspectives, which is helpful in both nursing and leadership positions.”
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY FOR ALL
As a child, Sean Miele needed help to complete certain tasks, including tying shoes, managing a backpack, socializing and emotional regulation, to name a few — help he got from occupational
therapy. At Seton Hall, Miele quickly joined the Student Occupational Therapy Association, serving as the program’s student representative to the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association and presented his research at the association’s 2024 annual conference. His paper, “Promoting Exercise for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” highlights the importance of physical activity for individuals with disabilities. It recapped research results he co-authored with fellow students in Seton Hall’s M.S.O.T. program, which requires students to develop community advocacy projects aimed at improving the health and well-being of underserved populations. Miele’s team created a karate-based exercise program. After graduation, Miele plans to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam and begin his career in a cognitionfocused rehabilitation setting. His long-term goal is to open a multidisciplinary rehabilitation clinic and eventually launch a nonprofit, making occupational therapy more accessible to children who need it — like he did.
WALKING THE WALK
Walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. That’s how you gain empathy and understanding of others. For student Shayne Simmons, the one-mile walk
to campus from his Newark apartment changed his perspective, his life and the lives of others. On that walk, then-junior Simmons noticed people from his neighborhood, people he said hi to every day, lined up around the block for donations from the Community FoodBank New Jersey. That’s when he knew he had to take action. As part of the Seton Hall Environmental Sustainability Committee, Simmons established a partnership with local food pantries to deliver food from the dining hall that would have been thrown out. He then founded Seton Hall’s Sustainability Club to target ways to reduce the University’s overall waste
footprint. For three years Simmons, B.A. ’24/ M.P.A ’25, focused his studies and volunteer efforts on food security, sustainability and community empowerment, which ultimately earned him Seton Hall’s 2025 Servant Leader Award.
“A lot of people feel that they are powerless over certain situations or see something that they don’t like. They feel like they can’t do anything about it. That’s not the case” he says. “It takes that person’s actions to start something bigger. I didn’t recognize that until coming here to Seton Hall, but I’m so glad that I did.”
A Strong FOUNDATION
Since Seton Hall’s founding in 1856, the University has attracted people whose lives and careers reflect a deep desire to live with purpose and intention — people passionate about improving the world. This past year was no exception. Professors earned prestigious honors and accolades as they shared new insights with students. Researchers from around the world collaborated with us to make ground-breaking new discoveries. And students worked diligently to develop into tomorrow’s servant leaders, while successful alumni and donors graciously opened doors for them, leading the way.
At Seton Hall, we blend academic excellence with a faith-centered ethos — informed by the time-tested Catholic Intellectual Tradition. With this bedrock foundation, we inspire our community to live, learn and work with purpose — in mind, heart and spirit — so that they may be the change agents who make the world a more just and prosperous place.
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