Alumni Medical Mission Visits Haiti
Four alumni doctors and five students traveled to Haiti on the University’s Medical Alumni Council’s (MAC) annual medical mission in January. Similar to previous trips, the team worked with Rev. Richard Frechette, C.P., D.O., a Passionist priest and physician, as well as a 2007 honorary degree recipient from the University. He is the director of St. Damien Hospital, a pediatric facility in the country’s capital city of Port-Au-Prince.
Led by Hartford, Conn., maxillofacial surgeon Richard Bevilacqua, D.M.D., M.D. ’83, the team spent a week providing much-needed medical care to the underserved people of Haiti. Joining Dr. Bevilacqua on the trip were Pamela Taffera, D.O., M.B.A. ’02, Chris Andres, M.D. ’89 and Chris Jones, M.D. ’02. University students Nick Cucci ’14, Moriah Diamond ’13, Brian Entler ’13, Lucie Henry ’13 and Dana
Muller ’13 also joined the team on the mission.
Since 2002, members of the MAC have teamed with current Scranton students to travel to the Republic once a year, offering medical support, supplies and care. The mission’s goals are twofold: providing medical support to those in need and educating Scranton’s future physicians.
Swimming, Diving Alumni Reunite, Take a Few Laps
More than 45 alumni of the University’s men’s and women’s swimming and diving squads came together to cheer on the current teams at this season’s last home meet on Jan. 26. The male alumni carried on the tradition of pulling on their swimming suits and jumping in the pool for the alumni meet. After the meet, the teams, alumni and parents gathered in Redington Hall for a social.
‘Beyond the Commons’ Continues Success
“Beyond the Commons” – a dinner series that gives members of the senior class an opportunity to connect with Scranton alumni – has become one of the most popular student-alumni engagement programs hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations.
Members of the senior class committee select dinner discussion topics, ranging from “Careers in Medicine” to “Finances 101.” In October, Brian Goldsack ’09 and Tina Cognetti ’12 shared their “Do’s and Don’ts of Senior Year” and provided insight to being a member of the Scranton Alumni Society. Another dinner in November provided a unique opportunity for seniors to learn about completing a year of service after graduation from Kelly Miguens ’10, a former JVC member and current campus minster at Scranton, and four current JVC members serving in the city of Scranton. In February, a group of seniors had dinner with Shawn Lamb ’11 and Rita Dileo ’11 who shared their transition from being an active college student to a career within student affairs and higher education.
If you are interested in participating in this program, contact Kristi Cordier ’09, class affinity coordinator, at kristin.cordier@scranton.edu.
Alumni, Players Gather, Hit the Hardwood
On Feb. 9, nearly 100 alumni, players, parents, family and friends of the Lady Royals attended the women’s basketball reception after the team’s last home game against Catholic University. It was a great evening to celebrate the senior class and the University’s loyal alumni. Those in attendance walked down memory lane as they looked through old media guides and pictures.
In addition, the men’s basketball alumni game tipped off on Jan. 12. More than 20 alumni laced up their shoes and took the Long Center court prior to the Royals’ home game against Goucher College.
Calling All Entrepreneurs
Celebrate the entrepreneurs among us! Visit scranton.edu/ASBI to browse the online directory of more than 200 restaurants, stores and businesses owned by fellow Scranton alumni. If you are a Scranton graduate who owns a business, submit your information to be included in the directory.
Welcome Parties Create Scrantastic Summer
Join hundreds of Scranton alumni for some summer fun as we welcome the newest generation – class of 2013 – to the Alumni Society. Our Summer Welcome Parties are designed to welcome recent graduates to the Alumni Society and introduce them to alumni in their region. If you would like to help plan a welcome party in your area, email alumni@scranton.edu. For more information, visit scranton.edu/welcomeparties.
Spread the Word: Alumni Benefits & Services
As a graduate of Scranton, you and your family have access to exclusive discounts, programs and services through the Alumni Society. Whether you need career advice, car insurance, or just want to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip with Scranton friends, your use of these alumni benefits can help, and at the same time, support alumni activities. The Alumni Society provides access to comprehensive and affordable short-term medical coverage for new graduates to keep them insured throughout the job search, as well as auto and renter’s insurance. Read more about the benefits at scranton.edu/alumnibenefits.
Students Helping Students
It’s inspiring to hear our fellow students speak from the heart about why they love Scranton and why they chose to make a contribution during student philanthropy week held last fall. As student philanthropy officers, we remember those conversations, and that is what motivates us to continue to raise funds in order to help as many students as possible.
In the fall, responding to student feedback, we started raising money that will go toward textbook scholarships for students in need. Students donated whatever they had available, from $1 to $5 bills, and more often, the spare change available on their desks or in their wallets and purses. This project was a great success, and perfectly reiterates our motto for the year: “No gift is too small to make a difference.” Last year we raised more than $7,000, and we are eager to reach our new goal of $10,000 in the coming months.
– Jack Hambrose ’13, Samantha Lia ’14 and Melissa Przewlocki ’15
