On Commencement Weekend, the Legacy Families of the Class of 2026 gathered with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, and Alumni Society Advisory Board Chair Chris Neumann, Esq. ’87, P’24, P’27, as they prepared to “go forth and set the world on fire.”
Royal Families gather to celebrate over Commencement Weekend.
The University of Scranton will present the President’s Medal to Robert S. ’68 and Marilyn A. Weiss at the President’s Medal Gala Thursday, Oct. 1, at Pier Sixty, Manhattan’s largest waterfront event venue. Watch a short video message featuring Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, announcing the University’s intent to honor Bob and Marilyn here.
The event is the premier annual fundraiser for the University, and proceeds from the dinner benefit the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund, which awards four-year, full-tuition scholarships to incoming first-year students with outstanding high school records and notable community involvement. The University presents the President’s Medal to individuals who have achieved excellence in their fields and who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion for others. All alumni, parents and friends of the University are welcome and encouraged to attend this year’s event.
Scranton has held a special place in the hearts of Bob and Marilyn ever since they met at a “U Dance” at the Gunster Memorial Student Center in 1966. Their 2015 gift of $1.25 million resulted in the creation of the Robert and Marilyn Weiss Pediatric Low Vision Research and Training Suite, and their 2016 gift of $1 million established Robert and Marilyn Weiss Field as a first-class home for Scranton’s soccer, lacrosse and field hockey teams. In 2024, their gift of $10.5 million, the largest single donation in the history of the University, blossomed into the four-story, 90,000 square-foot Robert S. and Marilyn A. Weiss Hall. The building houses the University’s Department of Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology, the Department of Psychology, Student Health Services, the Center for Health, Education and Wellness, the Small Business Development Center, the University of Success, and the state-of-the-art IDEA Center, which features woodworking, 3D printing, laser engraving, sewing and audio recording capabilities.
A native of Lake Ariel, Bob became the first person in his family to attend college when he began studying accounting through the University’s ROTC program. As a U.S. Army Captain, he was awarded two Bronze Stars and the Army Commendation Medal for his service in Vietnam. He became a certified public accountant and began working as an assistant corporate controller in 1977 at Cooper Laboratories Inc., which would eventually become The Cooper Companies, Inc., a multinational manufacturer and marketer of specialty healthcare products with annual revenues exceeding $4 billion.
Over the next 41 years, Bob rose through the ranks at Cooper, serving as corporate controller, treasurer, chief financial officer, chief operating officer, president of Coopervision, and, ultimately, president and CEO. During Bob’s time at the company, Cooper had a number of industry-defining breakthroughs, including the development of intraocular lenses and Lasik surgery, two advancements that have helped millions see more clearly. Under Bob’s leadership, the company sought to address the approximately 50% of children and young adults aged 5-22 who are suffering from progressive myopia, a condition that often leads to eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment and macular degeneration later in life, by developing MiSight, a soft contact lens that was ultimately approved by the FDA in 2019 for myopia management in children aged 8-12. Bob was named the “Most Admired CEO of 2012” by the San Francisco Business Times, and he was recognized with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award for 2017-2018. After retiring in 2018, he became the chair of Cooper’s board of directors through January of 2026, and he remains on its board today.
Bob was honored by the University with the Frank J. O’Hara Distinguished Alumni Award in 2008. As a University trustee, he became informally known as “the pizza guru” due to his unabashed love of and enthusiasm for the pizza of Northeastern Pennsylvania. He also sponsors the Pediatric Refractive Error Training Center, an eyecare clinic in Hanoi, Vietnam, that trains optometrists to fight the growing pandemic of myopia.
A native of South Scranton, Marilyn studied at the University through the Scranton State General Hospital School of Nursing. She served as the head nurse at the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York and as a pediatric nurse at Bayside Pediatrics in Pleasanton, California.
Bob and Marilyn are frequent sponsors of local charitable causes in the San Francisco East Bay area, including Goodness Village, which provides tiny homes and supportive services to the Tri-Valley’s formerly unhoused neighbors, Valley Humane Society, and the Bay Area Military Classic & The Joey Graves Memorial Golf Tournament, which supports Gold Star Families.
The couple are the proud parents of three children, Chris, Kim and Doug, and they are blessed with two grandchildren, Kylie and Jayden. They reside in Pleasanton, California.
An Ambitious Goal
At last year’s gala, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, announced an ambitious University-wide effort to permanently endow the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund by raising an additional $7 million through the 2025 and 2026 President’s Medal Galas, which would bring its lifetime total up to $30 million.
“In 2002, The University of Scranton embarked upon a marathon endeavor when it held its first award dinner in support of the Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund,” said Father Marina in a video announcing the initiative. “We are only $7 million away from securing the future of The Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund and ensuring that our Presidential Scholars will continue to thrive at the University forever.
“Help us write the ending this 25-year marathon deserves.”
Visit this link to support Presidential Scholarships at The University of Scranton.
Registration and sponsorship information will be available soon. For more information on the President’s Medal Gala, contact Associate Vice President of Development Eric Eckenrode at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu or Executive Director, Annual Giving & Campus Partnerships Brad Troy ’02 at bradley.troy@scranton.edu.
University to present President's Medal at Pier Sixty in New York City.
The University of Scranton is proud to announce that it will honor Rev. Bernard R. McIlhenny, S.J. H'98, Dean of Admissions Emeritus, with the Peter A. Carlesimo Award on Monday, June 15, at the 2026 Carlesimo Golf Tournament & Award Dinner at Canoe Brook Country Club.
We are once again partnering with the Quandel Construction Group as the title sponsor for this event. Register for this year's event here.
About "Father Mac"
Rev. Bernard R. McIlhenny, S.J. H'98 arrived in Scranton in 1958 to serve as the fourth headmaster of Scranton Preparatory School, which at the time was owned by the University. While at Prep, he oversaw the school’s relocation to its present site. Fr. McIlhenny was appointed dean of admissions at the University in 1966. Known to many as “Father Mac,” his tenure as dean of admissions spanned 31 years, during which time he is credited with admitting more than two-thirds of the University’s living alumni.
In 1966, the University was all male and mainly comprised of commuting students with a small number of residential students. The campus was just beginning to develop. A special summer program that he attended at Harvard University in 1967 introduced Father Mac to the changing dynamic and future competition of higher education admissions to a “buyer’s market.” In his approach to promoting the University beyond the academic programs to prospective students, Father Mac emphasized the University's family-like atmosphere where students could receive personal attention and make friends for life, a fact that he witnesses presently during class reunions. His impact upon the University and its Athletics program cannot be overstated. He retired from admissions in 1997 and continued to serve the University as minister of the Scranton Jesuit Community.
A native of Philadelphia, Father Mac is a graduate of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School and St. Joseph’s University. He entered the Society of Jesus at the age of 18 and celebrated his 70th anniversary as a Jesuit in 2014. He remains an avid golfer and maintains close friendships with those alumni whom he knew during their student days. In 2009, the University dedicated the Rev. Bernard R. McIlhenny, S.J. Ballroom in The DeNaples Center in honor of Father Mac’s years of service to Scranton, and the University honored him with the President's Medal in 2016. Last fall, at the age of 99, he hit a hole-in-one, the second of his golfing career, and he celebrated his 100th birthday in March.
Founded in 1901, Canoe Brook Country Club offers 36 holes of championship golf. Recognized as a 5-Star Platinum Club of the World, the club has played host to a number of significant events, including U.S. Open and British Open qualifiers and the U.S. Women's Amateur.
Named in honor of the late Peter A. Carlesimo, former University of Scranton coach and athletics director, the Carlesimo Golf Tournament & Award Dinner celebrates athletics at The University of Scranton and honors a person who has made special contributions to athletics and Catholic education. The Golf Tournament and Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at Scranton.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the event or sponsorship opportunities, contact Eric Eckenrode at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu.
Reserve your spot today.
Join alumni from The University of Scranton, Fordham University, Loyola Marymount University and St. Joseph's University for a Summer JAM Happy Hour on Thursday, June 25, at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar in New York City. Reconnect with fellow alumni, make new connections and celebrate the spirit of the #JesuitEducated community. Admission is $30 and includes two drinks and appetizers. Space is limited.
Reconnect with fellow Jesuit university alumni!
Alumni, parents and friends are invited to join us for an afternoon at the Jersey Shore on Saturday, June 27, from 3–6 p.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club in Belmar, New Jersey.
Hosted by Karen Golding ’91, this gathering is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and enjoy time by the ocean.
Enjoy a day at the beach with your fellow Royals.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
William L. Kovacs ’69, Great Falls, Virginia, published his most recent book, “Congress: An Irrelevant Institution or Guardian of the Republic,” completing his trilogy on reforming the federal government. The book warns that as Congress retreats from its constitutional responsibilities, the separation of powers erodes and executive overreach strengthens presidential power over the nation. His first book, “Reform the Kakistocracy,” received the 2021 Independent Press Award for Social/Political Change. His second book, “Devolution of Power: Rolling Back the Federal State to Preserve the Republic,” was a finalist in the 18th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards in the Government category.
Salvatore A. Luongo '86, Tampa, Florida, was named President and Chief Operating Officer at Red Rock Group Holdings. He also serves as Principal Consultant at Hamilton Grace.
Annmarie E. Andrejko '92, Hudson, was named regional president for Northeast PA and head of Corporate Banking for the region at PNC Bank.
Tina Gallagher ’95 and Cecelia Mecca ’96, G’98 are releasing the first book in their co-authored contemporary romance series, "The Brewhouse Book Society," on April 28. The two alumnae, who did not know each other while at Scranton, connected decades later through the romance writing community and developed both a friendship and a creative partnership. The series is set in a fictional small town in Pennsylvania and follows a group of women navigating love, life, and friendship through a local book club. In addition to writing, they also host masterminds for indie authors, bringing writers together to foster collaboration and community.
Talia Argondezzi ’03 has a new book coming out in August from University of Toronto Press titled "Bedtime Stories for Academics: Quibbles and Squabbles at Typical University." The book is a collection of linked short stories that takes a satirical look at higher education, highlighting both the day-to-day experiences of faculty and staff at universities and the broader social forces affecting higher education.
John R. Patro Jr., OTD, OTR/L, CPAM, FNAP '06, Aston, recently accepted the position of inaugural Associate Dean for Health Sciences at Molloy University Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences. In this role, Dr. Patro oversees a diverse portfolio of health sciences programs and is leading initiatives related to interdisciplinary education, program development, enrollment growth and global engagement. A proud graduate of The University of Scranton, Dr. Patro continues to advance his work in occupational therapy education, leadership and international collaboration. He was recently inducted as a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice and is completing his Ph.D. in Educational Studies with a focus on adult learning and development. His dissertation explores faculty perspectives on cultivating cultural humility in entry-level health professions education. Dr. Patro remains passionate about mentoring future healthcare professionals and creating innovative opportunities.
Megan Thompson G'08, Minneapolis, Minnesota, was selected as iCivics' and the Bill of Rights Institute's Civic Star Challenge Gold Prize Winner.
MARRIAGES
Katie Leithauser '16 to Nick Cassidy
Chelsea Malota ’18 to Sarin Baldante ’21
Julie Weismiller '20 to Thomas Conlon '20
BIRTHS
Robbie and Patricia Cermignano Boushehri ’11 announce the birth of their son, Hugo Patrick, born on October 23, 2025, in London, UK
Colleen '12 and Anthony Cestaro had a baby boy, Anthony John (AJ), on January 24, 2025
Erin Knight Preno '14 and Russell Patrick Preno III '05 welcomed baby Russell Patrick Preno IV on May 19, 2026
DEATHS
John E. Swift, M.D. '58, Bonita Springs, Florida
Joseph R. Rinaggio '63, East Amherst, New York
Edward J. Lynett Jr '65, Clarks Summit
Robert C. McGrath '68, Palm Springs, California
John R. Sebastianelli, M.D. '69, Dorchester, Massachusetts
Bruce P. Ceccacci '73, Jessup
Alexander J. Marchel '76, Old Forge
William R. Cary III '80, Punta Gorda, Florida
Alexandra Lee Hughes Weckesser '10, Bayonne, New Jersey
Share your story with your Royal Family.
The University will celebrate Reunion Weekend 2026 from June 5-7. Register for this year's celebration here. Online registration will close Thursday, June 4, at noon EST.
Friday, June 5
7 p.m. The Frank J. O'Hara Awards Dinner-The DeNaples Center, McIlhenny Ballroom, 4th floor
All alumni and guests are invited to join us for this complimentary signature event to start the weekend. The Frank J. O’Hara Distinguished Alumni Award, presented annually to alumni who have exhibited sustained achievement in a particular field or endeavor, is the highest award bestowed jointly by the University and The Alumni Society. This year's event will honor Christine Blazynski, Ph. D. '76, Justin Murphy '76, Dcn. James Knipper '81, Lawrence R. Lynch '81, H'22, Patricia Byrnes Clarke '86, P'17, '19, James M. Slattery '86, H'23, Elizabeth Madden '96, and Thomas J. Gibbons '96, G'99 in memoriam. Register for this year's dinner or leave a congratulatory note for an honoree here.
9 - 11 p.m. All-Class Welcome Reception
Kick off Reunion Weekend by reconnecting with classmates and friends at the All-Class Welcome Reception, featuring music, food, drinks and a festive atmosphere. Flagpole Terrace.
Saturday, June 6
9 - 10:30 a.m. Class of 1976 Breakfast and Campus Tour Weiss Hall -1st floor
10 a.m. Goat Yoga: A fun yoga session where goats will interact while you stretch, breathe and unwind. Founder's Green
10 a.m. Campus Tour: Departs from the 2nd floor of the DeNaples Center.
11 a.m. - noon Pints with Professors: Enjoy your favorite beverage(s) while sharing stories with faculty, staff and friends. The DeNaples Center, 2nd Floor
11 a.m. - noon Bands and Singers Hanging out in Houlihan with Boga
Noon - Blessing and Dedication of the Rev. J. A. Panuska, S.J. Commons, Linden and Monroe
12:30 - 3 p.m. Reunion Block Party: Enjoy live music, games. food, beer/wine/soda and more. Dionne Green
3 p.m. Campus Tour: Departs from the 2nd floor of the DeNaples Center.
6 - 10:30 p.m. Saturday Evening Celebration: The perfect opportunity to connect with your class! Enjoy cocktails and dinner together, then cap off the evening with everyone at the after-party.
Sunday, June 7
9:30 a.m. Reunion Weekend Mass in Madonna della Strada Chapel
9:30 a.m. - noon Brunch on the 3rd floor of The DeNaples Center
Pick up where you left off with your Royal Family.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
John Zimmerman '67, Okatie, South Carolina, sold his cattle ranch in Shiner, Texas, and moved to Callawassie Island in the low country of South Carolina.
Joseph Sharp '78, Bensalem, was inducted in the Holy Ghost Prep Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing over half a century of support for amateur athletics as an athletic trainer.
Linda Arthur Hebbard '85, Johnson City, New York, retired from the Laboratory at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital microbiology department after 40 years of service.
Scott Antoine, D.O. '89, Carmel, Indiana, has published "The Comprehensive Physician's Guide to the Management of PANS and PANDAS," an Amazon bestselling textbook for physicians. These conditions are subtypes of autoimmune encephalitis that affect children. This textbook has defined the standard of care in these conditions. Dr. Antoine continues to lecture across the United States as a subject-matter expert in these conditions.
Ryan C. Joyce '04, Boston, Massachusetts, was named vice president, development at Burke Rehabilitation. In this role, Joyce will lead the development and philanthropic strategy at Burke in close partnership with hospital leadership and its Board of Trustees to strengthen fundraising performance, deepen donor engagement and expand opportunities across individual giving, institutional philanthropy and government grants.
Andrew F. Prior '08, New York, commanded a New York Army National Guard unit and led the 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, the “Fighting 69th,” in the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, marking the regiment’s 175th time leading the parade.
John McKiernan G'12, Notre Dame, Indiana, has been named executive vice president and chief operating officer at Holy Cross College at Notre Dame, Indiana. When he begins in May of 2026, McKiernan will support President Marco Clark in operationalizing the College's many strengths as an institution for Catholic higher education.
Jeanne Rabel, Ed.D.'12, G'14, Scranton, successfully defended her dissertation, “Navigating Connection: A Case Study on the Sense of Belonging Among Undergraduate Students Experiencing Trauma-Informed Care” at Wilkes University. Dr. Rabel also holds a master’s degree in school counseling from The University of Scranton.
MARRIAGES
Megan Conley '09 to Ryan Arnold
Corey Gorman ‘12 to Ashley Mealey
Ryan Smith '16 to Loren Mastroberti '16
Gregory J. Lacey '19 to Briana N. Moritzen '20
Nora Murray '19 to Zachary Weinberg '19
Bailey McLaughlin '21, G'22 to Bryan Gorczyca '19, DPT'22
Elizabeth Ridge, D.O. '21 to Ed Burk '21
BIRTHS
A son, Bennett Thomas Grueter, to Jonathan '14 and Shannon O’Gorman Grueter '15; grandson to Jacqueline Christie O’Gorman '87 and James Grueter '85
A son, Jack, to Greg '15 and Sara Chapin Schwenk ’16
A son, Lucas Robert, to Jacob '15 and Lauren Stewart
A son, Patrick Thomas, to Christopher '18 and Tiffany Cecere O'Donnell '18 of Madison, New Jersey
A daughter, Emilia Diana, to Jonathan ’18 and Alexa Zirnheld ’19, G’20, Willow Grove
DEATHS
Robert L. Barrowcliff '51, Wilmington, Delaware
Carlo J. Celli '55, Peckville
John E. Swift, M.D. '58, Bonita Springs, Florida
Robert J. Kilgour '69, Conestoga
William M. Naughton '71, Scranton
James G. Burke G'77, Childs
Anne Scully Wettengel '77, Worcester, Massachusetts
Charles R. Costello '78, Brick, New Jersey
Jeffery W. Seitzinger, M.D. '81, Freeland
Jason Daria '91, Philadelphia
Michael Frazier '96, Olyphant
Deanna M. Zarzecki '02, New Milford
Bridget B. Flannery G'09, Binghamton
FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS
Dorothy Riley, mother of Mary Riley Elliott '88, Anne Riley Schiavo '89, and Thomas P. Riley '90, and mother-in-law of Anthony Schiavo '90
Tara Canally, wife of James Canally '95
Share your story with your Royal Family.
Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration is open.
Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.
Be sure to register to secure your spot for this unforgettable weekend.
Reunion T-shirts are also available for purchase at $20 each. When ordering, you can choose to either pick up your T-shirt during Reunion Weekend or have it shipped directly to you.
For more information and to register, visit scranton.edu/reunion.
Make plans to return to campus June 5–7.
Alumni, parents and friends are invited to join us for an afternoon at the Jersey Shore on Saturday, June 27, from 3–6 p.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club in Belmar, New Jersey.
Hosted by Karen Golding ’91, this gathering is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and enjoy time by the ocean.
Enjoy a day at the beach with your fellow Royals.
At 6 a.m. EST, alumni, parents and friends of The University of Scranton around the globe received a special video communique from Iggy, the Royal Wolf, several University students, and Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president. The message?
“It’s finally 5.06!”
And, with that rallying cry, the University officially kicked off 5.06.26, its 12th annual Day of Giving. Watch the video here.
Since its inception in 2015, 5.06 has evolved into a tradition of profound impact, creating a lasting legacy for current and future University students. As part of the celebration, alumni, parents, friends, faculty, students and staff are invited to show their Scranton pride by supporting the campus programs and causes that ignite their passion for Scranton.
As of press time, more than 1,800 donors had already raised more than $400,000 for Scranton scholarships, service programs, athletics and student organizations; make your gift before midnight to join the movement and help us reach this year’s goal of 2,500 donors.
Make your gift to your favorite Scranton cause before midnight to take part in this year's celebration.
The University will hold the 2026 Carlesimo Golf Tournament and Award Dinner Monday, June 15, at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey. Register here to reserve your spot today.
The University is once again partnering with the Quandel Construction Group as the title sponsor for this event. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the event or sponsorship opportunities, contact Eric Eckenrode, assistant vice president of Development, at eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu.
Founded in 1901, Canoe Brook Country Club offers 36 holes of championship golf. Recognized as a 5-Star Platinum Club of the World, the club has played host to a number of significant events, including U.S. Open and British Open qualifiers and the U.S. Women's Amateur.
Named in honor of the late Peter A. Carlesimo, former University of Scranton coach and athletics director, the Carlesimo Golf Tournament and Award Dinner celebrates athletics at The University of Scranton and honors a person who has made special contributions to athletics and Catholic education. The Golf Tournament and Award Dinner serves as a fundraising event to support and enhance the student-athlete experience at Scranton. All proceeds will directly benefit the Department of Athletics and nearly 600 students it serves. See photos from the 2025 event here.
Register today to secure your spot at Scranton Athletics' premier fundraising event.
Mark your calendars for a fun afternoon at the Jersey Shore on Saturday, June 27, from 3–6 p.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club in Belmar, New Jersey.
Hosted by Karen Golding ’91, this gathering is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and enjoy time by the ocean.
More details and registration information will be shared soon.
We hope to see you there!
Enjoy an afternoon at the shore with fellow Royals.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Jim Rauer ’78 was inducted into the South Jersey Soccer Hall of Fame on March 15 at the Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, New Jersey. Rauer, who is also a member of The University of Scranton Athletic Wall of Fame, was joined at the event by several of his former Scranton teammates and fellow alumni, including Joe Sharp ’78, Dennis Guida ’75, Steve Jiulianti ’78, Kevin McGeever ’78, Ron Rauer ’78, Don Appenzeller ’76, Jack Vogel ’78, and Dan Amspacher ’80. Former Scranton soccer coach Steve Klingman was also in attendance.
Attorney John A. Donovan Jr. ’83, West Pittston, was awarded the 2025 President's Award by the Wilkes-Barre Law and Library Association of the Luzerne County Bar Association.
Lawrence A. J. Spegar, Esq. ’84, Jessup, continues to enjoy a successful career as an attorney, in addition to his pursuits as a sports enthusiast and influencer. In 2026, he attended the College Football National Championship in Miami, Super Bowl LX in San Francisco, and the opening rounds of the men’s basketball tournament in Philadelphia.
Meg Powers '96, Richmond, California, earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia.
Scranton friends share a bond like no other. More than 30 years later, the Class of 1998 friendship remains strong. The “408 girls” (Robin Brooks Johnson ’98, Jennifer Weaver Musser ’98, Andrea Russo Hankey ’98, and Gianna Famulari ’98) gathered in February 2026 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to celebrate more than 30 years of friendship and their 50th year.
Kristen Mucci-Mosier '00, Cranford, New Jersey, had her debut book, Restless: How to Stop Living an If-Only Life, published. The book became available on April 14, 2026, and examines the psychological, emotional and cultural roots of restlessness, that persistent feeling that something better must be just around the corner, guiding readers toward greater presence, clarity and meaning in their lives. After a decade working as a journalist, with roots in her Scranton education and time as a campus newspaper editor, she transitioned into psychotherapy. The skills she honed across both careers are woven into every page of the book.
Peter Castagna '03, West Chester, defended his dissertation to earn his Ed.D. from Saint Joseph’s University.
Bobby Davis ’03, Ed.D., served on the dissertation committee.
Dillon Chorba '15, Red Bank, New Jersey, has been appointed by Vincent Solomeno ’07, New Jersey’s Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, to serve as Chief of Staff of the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs.
MARRIAGES
Matt Nardo '18 to Lea Zaengle '18
Luis Melgar '18 to Catherine Bruno '18
DEATHS
Gerald M. Barbour '58, East Rockhill Township
Elbert H. Rowlands '59, Stroudsburg
Flora M. Cupple '62, Scranton
Charles H. Castellino '63, Pittston
Robert M. Costello '63, Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Rose Ellen Miller G'65, Falls
John W. Nebzydoski, M.D. '65, Fayetteville, New York
Hugh Donald Burns, Ph.D. '68, Harleysville
Rose Mary E. Lynch G'69, Wilkes-Barre
Rev. Gregory N. Maslak '69, Bristol
Gerald J. Reisch '74, Luzerne
Joan Lengel G'75, Roaring Brook Twp.
Robert C. Mesko '75, Scranton
Ann Marie Crow G'78, Harrisburg
Dennis J. Matzoni G'78, Newport Township
Brian P. McKenna '85, Bethlehem
Ann Marie Dixon Bestany '91, Malverne
Share your story with your Royal Family.
Make plans to come together with fellow Royals, parents and friends for an inspiring Day of Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Alumni across the country will unite to give back, strengthen their communities and live out the spirit of service that defines The University of Scranton.
Service opportunities are available in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., offering a variety of ways to get involved and make an impact.
To view a list of confirmed service sites and register, visit scranton.edu/dayofservice, where you’ll find site details and registration information.
Let’s serve together and show what it means to be part of the Scranton community!
Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu
Join fellow Royals in giving back.
Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration is now officially open.
Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.
Be sure to register to secure your spot for this unforgettable weekend.
Reunion T-shirts are also available for purchase at $20 each. When ordering, you can choose to either pick up your T-shirt during Reunion Weekend or have it shipped directly to you.
For more information and to register, visit scranton.edu/reunion.
Make plans to return to campus June 5–7.
A few weeks remain to submit a nomination for the Department of Communication and Media Hall of Fame. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2026. Nominations opened last fall at the annual Careers in Communication alumni panel to align with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the department's first graduating class (1975 – 1976).
The University of Scranton Communication and Media Department Hall of Fame honors distinguished alumni, living or deceased, who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions at the highest levels of public service, industry, the military or academia for at least 20 years. Eligible nominees do not need to be retired professionals. All graduates of the University, no matter their degree at the time of their graduation, are eligible for nomination.
The awards will be presented at a special department event in September of each year, with a panel discussion for all students, followed by a networking event and a formal induction ceremony.
To be considered a Hall of Fame candidate, an individual’s nomination should clearly demonstrate the following:
* Superior service and achievement in the nominee’s respective field(s); nominations should highlight merits of accomplishment and may also highlight previous awards and honors.
* Significant impact of professional contributions at the organizational, local, regional, national or international levels.
* Outstanding leadership, character, values and ethical conduct.
* Jesuit model of being men and women for others.
Any area of the communication arts will be considered for this honor. Examples include communications planning, social media, media relations, marketing, public relations, advertising, journalism, business communication, broadcasting, video and audio production and graphic arts.
All packets should include the following:
Questions can be directed to Stacy Smulowitz, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Communication and Media, stacy.smulowitz@scranton.edu or to Richard H. Breen, Jr., Communications Alumni Advisor, richard.breen@live.com.
A few weeks remain to submit nominations for the Department of Communication and Media Hall of Fame. Deadline is April 30.
Reunion Weekend 2026 will take place June 5–7, and registration officially opens on March 16.
Alumni from class years ending in “1” and “6” will celebrate their milestone reunions during this special weekend filled with events, memories and time with your Royal Family in the place where it all began.
Be sure to register when the site goes live and add your name to the “Planning to Attend List” to let your friends and classmates know you’ll be there. For more information, visit scranton.edu/reunion and check future editions of Royal News for updates.
Make plans to return to campus June 5–7.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Belinda Juran '81, Lowell, Massachusetts, was sworn in as a city councilor in Lowell, Massachusetts, in January 2026.
Carol A. Peters '82, Scranton, celebrated 52 years with Peters Design Group Inc. Architectural engineering and Design.
Rich Bevilacqua, DMD, M.D. ’83, was named chief, oral and maxillofacial surgery, Hartford Healthcare and associate chief, craniofacial trauma system, Hartford Healthcare.
Doreen Madeira Matzerath ’83 and Joseph Matzerath ’84, Scranton, celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary last September 2025. Joining them were fellow University of Scranton alumni John Cannon ’85, John Matzerath ’87, and Darsh Dhaded ’15.
Jayden Walsh ’29 and Ruby McGrath ’28 attended the Society of Irish Women’s annual Top O’ the Morn Brunch on Sunday, Feb. 22, along with alumna Catherine Alu ’86. The students, both Reddington Scholars from Ireland, offered grace in fluent Irish, adding authenticity to the cultural heritage event.
MARRIAGES
Mariah Vellek '15, G'16 to Connor Shanahan '15, G’16
Ryan Smith '16 to Loren Mastroberti '16
John “Buddy” Stocks ’17, G’20 to Kaitlin Rush ’18
Nick D’Alonzo '19 to Julia Kerr '19
Kaitlin Memmen '20 to Emery Lease
Briana Moritzen ’20 to Gregory Lacey ’19
DEATHS
Joseph A. Moran '55, Millstone Township, New Jersey
Thomas J. Dougherty '62, Dunmore
Joseph J. Magalski Sr., D.D.S. '62, Forest City
Thomas G. Behonick '67, Endicott, New York
Allen J. Duricko, Ph.D. '67, Gouldsboro
Joseph Sakelaridas G'68, Sugar Notch
Walter P. Andreski '72, Jefferson Twp.
Carl S. Scarantino '76, Pittston
Joseph B. Campbell G'83, Matamoras
Mary I. Herman G'90, Macungie
Jason A. Daria '91, Moorestown, New Jersey
FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS
Valerie Majez Evans, sister of Carol (Majez) Ginster G’84 and Jacalynne (Majez) Lopata '85
Share your story with your Royal Family.
Join us for a Networking Reception with University of Scranton students and alumni on Thursday, April 9, from 5–7 p.m. at McGillin's Olde Ale House.
This reception provides a valuable opportunity for alumni to connect with current students and network with fellow alumni in a relaxed setting.
The cost is $20 per person, and cocktails and appetizers will be served.
Register today to reserve your spot.
Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu
Connect with students and fellow alumni in the City of Brotherly Love.
We are excited to announce the return of our virtual Book Club! This semester, we are once again partnering with the Jesuit Center to read one book together as a community.
Our spring selection is "My Son, the Priest: A Mother’s Crisis of Faith" by Kristin Gilger.
The discussion will be held in two virtual sessions:
Tuesday, April 14, at noon
Tuesday, May 12, at noon
The links to join will be sent prior to each discussion date.
The conversation will be facilitated by Tim Dulle, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Jesuit Center at The University of Scranton. He looks forward to joining alumni, parents and friends for thoughtful conversation and fellowship.
The book is available in print and Kindle formats on Amazon.
We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful community discussion.
If you wish to join our book club, https://bit.ly/RoyalBookClub
Join the conversation with fellow Royals.
Make plans to come together with fellow Royals, parents and friends for an inspiring Day of Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Alumni across the country will unite to give back, strengthen their communities and live out the spirit of service that defines The University of Scranton.
To view a list of confirmed service sites, visit scranton.edu/dayofservice, where you’ll find site details and registration information.
Let’s serve together and show what it means to be part of the Scranton community!
Questions? Email alumni@scranton.edu
Join fellow Royals in giving back.
Members of the Classes of 2022–2026 are invited to the 16th annual Shamrockin’ Eve on Friday, March 13, from 8:30–11 p.m. at the Byron Recreation Complex.
Get ready for a night of food, drinks, green T-shirts and memory making with your fellow Royals! Registration is $40, with $5 supporting the Magis Fund, which provides scholarships and financial aid to current students.
Register today on the Shamrockin’ Eve Alumni Registration Page. Already registered? Invite your classmates to make this year’s celebration even more memorable!
Celebrate with your fellow Royals on March 13.
The University recently released the 2025 edition of its Royal Ornament Collection featuring the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library.
The Weinberg Memorial library is a campus favorite that has been shaping minds and serving the Scranton community for the past three decades. The second entry in the Royal Ornament Collection, it measures 2.5 inches in diameter, and its red ribbon helps to ensure its place as the perfect stocking stuffer for Royals this season. When you make a gift of $35 or more to The Magis Fund, a new fund designed to provide current-year scholarships and financial aid to students to ensure that every Royal can access a Scranton education, you'll receive this exclusive Scranton ornament in recognition of your generosity. Make your donation to receive the 2025 ornament here.
The Royal Ornament Collection debuted in 2024 with an ornamental representation of the Estate. In case you missed last year's inaugural edition, you can still order the Estate ornament by making a gift of $35 or more to The Magis Fund here.
Please note: one ornament per transaction, and shipping is included.
Order this second entry in the Royal Ornament Collection featuring the Weinberg Memorial Library today.
On Dec. 2, more than 500 members of The University of Scranton community celebrated Giving Tuesday 2025 by raising more than $96,000 for campus programs and priorities in a wonderful start to the Christmas season.
"Once again, your generosity has made this year's Giving Tuesday celebration a great success here at The University of Scranton," said Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University president, in a "Thank You" video message to those who donated. "Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for our beloved University."
This year's celebration focused upon two University causes: The Magis Fund, a new fund designed to provide current-year scholarships and financial aid to students to ensure that every Royal can access a Scranton education, and the Scranton Athletics Fund, which helps provide invaluable travel, team-building and leadership development opportunities to the nearly 600 student-athletes at the University.
More than 500 alumni, parents and friends raise more than $96,000 for campus programs and priorities.
The University will hold a reception with Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., University President, Jan. 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Basking Ridge Country Club, 185 Madisonville Road, Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Register here for the event.
Catch up with your fellow Royals and Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., at Basking Ridge Country Club.
The University of Scranton invites alumni, parents and friends to a Day of Prayer and Reflection on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Retreat Center at Chapman Lake, 287 Chapman Lake Road, Jermyn.
This annual tradition offers participants a chance to pause, reflect and reconnect with their faith and with one another in a serene lakeside setting.
Join fellow Royals for a peaceful day of prayer, reflection and community at Chapman Lake.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
John Lyons ’64 and Connie Ruscik Lyons, Marywood ’62, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a party at their home in Jenkintown. The couple was married on October 16,1965, at Sacred Heart Church, Scranton, by Rev. John Albosta. They have two children: John Scott, retired from the FDNY, and Kimberly Ann, of Boise, Idaho, as well as one granddaughter, Kaia, of New York City.
A group of Scranton alumni continued their annual tradition of gathering for a mini reunion in Cape May, New Jersey, enjoying several days of dinner, drinks and music. The special friends who reunited in October 2025 were Gary Beilman ’76, Andrea (Rygiel) Beilman ’76, Roe (Bunting) Murphy ’76, Jim Helhowski ’76, Rose (Lally) Doyle ’76, Donna (Lange) Helhowski ’76, John O’Boyle ’74, Lucy (Burke) O’Boyle ’76 and Wayne Wilhelm ’76.
Ed Burnetta, M.D. '84, Villanova, is delighted that his son, Chris Burnetta, has committed to the admissions process at Harvard as a member of the 2027 Men's Lacrosse recruit group. He will graduate from Haverford School in 2027. Chris will be joining his three older sisters as an Ivy attendee. His oldest sister Isabelle graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013, Kristin graduated from Harvard in 2020, and the youngest sister Sabrina is a junior at Cornell.
Christopher J. Kane '86, Jupiter, Florida, startup co-founder of 3PL-RX, announced a merger with the American Chain of Warehouses, a nonprofit organization founded in 1911. American Chain provides sales and marketing strategies and services for Warehouse Logistics members across the U.S. and Canada. Christopher J. Kane will become president; his son, Zach Kane, will be vice president of Administration and Technology. American Chain is one of the oldest Warehouse organizations whose members are long-established family businesses.
Richard W. Peuser '86, G'87, Brookfield, Maryland, retired on October 31, 2025, from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) after 37.5 years in public service. His final position was director of the Processing and Release Division, National Declassification Center. As branch chief of the Textual Reference Unit, he assisted thousands of researchers, both at the Washington, D.C., building and at the College Park, Maryland, facility. One of the highlights of his career was assisting the late David McCullough on his book, "1776." “It was truly an honor and privilege working at this incredible institution,” he said.
Margot Royer-Johnson ’95, East Providence, Rhode Island, celebrated her 25th year as head coach of the NCAA Division I Providence College volleyball program in August.
Christine Royce, Ed.D. G’95, Newburg, is the recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship to teach and study in Cairo, Egypt, for the spring 2026 semester while on sabbatical from Shippensburg University. As part of this Fulbright, Royce will be teaching at Ain Shams University in Cairo, where her focus will be on the preparation of teachers, specifically in the STEM areas.
Joseph D. Ward '95, Coral Gables, Florida, has been named president and chief operating officer at Quirch Foods.
Glynnis Jones, OTD, OTR/L '02, G'03, Albrightsville, recently authored a peer-reviewed publication in The American Journal of Occupational Therapy: Jones, G., Helsley, S., Fox, R., Tumminello, A., Grasso, A., Potter, A., Wynarczuk, K., Reinson, C. (2025) titled "Parent Perspectives: Menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene Management for Autistic Daughters."
John P. Gray '00, Ewing, New Jersey, has joined the firm Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP as a partner in the Environmental and Energy and Renewable Resources practice areas.
Nicole E. Negowetti ’02, Melrose, Massachusetts, published a new book, "Feeding the Future," which offers a radical reframing of the global food system to address injustices and existential threats.
Five Scranton graduates proudly serve as board or committee members at Lincroft Elementary School in Lincroft, New Jersey: Alexandra (Parlamas) Russomanno ’11, G’12; Lauren (Zumbo) Netksa ’02; Lindsey (Pachuta) Miceli ’08; Danielle (Attanasio) Lemish ’05; and Annemarie (Craft) Champagne ’06, G’07.
Katelyn Mertz '12, Harrisburg, graduated with her MSN in May 2022 and her MBA in December 2024 from Pennsylvania Western University and will start her DNP in the summer of 2026. Mertz recently presented nationally at the International Magnet and Magnet Pathway Conference in October 2025 and will present at the Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) Global Surgical Conference and Expo in April 2026 on her work “Safety Coach Simulation Training: Empowering Nurses to Speak Up in the Operating Room.” Mertz has been the manager of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center’s 39 Level 1 operating rooms since 2022.
Will Craven '19, Scranton, has joined Moses Taylor Foundation, a private foundation with a mission to improve the health of people in Northeastern Pennsylvania, as its operations and grants officer. In this role, he will support the Foundation’s grant management system, lead internal operations, and coordinate organizational initiatives and events.
MARRIAGES
Jaclyn Potapchuk '05 to James D. Vaughan '09
William D. Orasin ’09 to Brittany Strausser
Brenna Anderson ’15 to Francis Degnan ’16
Allison Smith '16, G'18 to Evan DeGraw
Jessica Nickel '16, G'17 to Mitchell Prescott
BIRTHS
A daughter, Maisy Lane, to Matt and Erin Fetsko Johnson '16, Syracuse, New York, and a granddaughter of Frank Fetsko ‘86
DEATHS
James P. McDonnell Jr. '52, Scranton
Vincent J. Mondelli '61, Endicott, New York
Richard J. Flynn, M.D. '63 Bradenton, Florida
Michael J. Mitchko '63, Bluffton, South Carolina
Roman S. Misorek '67, Duryea
Joseph V. Grega '69, Opelika, Alabama
Hon. David J. Wenzel '69, Scranton
Yamini C. Desai '72, Bloomfield, Connecticut
Gardner W. Smith '74, Mechanicsburg
Arnold L. Ligi, Jr. '78, Dayton Beach, Florida
Linda S. Mainwaring G'79, Mountaintop
Susan Brown Otto '79, Bethel, New York
Nadia C. Burns '81, Norfolk, Virginia
Martin J. Barrett G'85, Hollisterville
William H. McDonald '90, Springville, New York
Lauren R. Propst '05, Honesdale
Jennifer L. Murphy '09, Floral Park, New York
FRIENDS/FAMILY DEATHS
Harrison O. Bush Jr., father of Peter Bush '79
Jennifer Quattrocchi, wife of Joseph Quattrocchi ’02
Share your story with your Royal Family.
Pop quiz, hotshot: You’re a public accountant hired at a Big 4 firm fresh out of Scranton, and the managing partner of your office calls you into a private meeting to tell you the firm loves your work, which means you’re going to move up the ladder quickly. There’s just one problem: You spend your off time fighting fires, literally risking your life by running into burning buildings, and the firm is “concerned” that the amount of time, effort and money it will be investing into your career could be canceled out the next time the alarm bell rings at the firehouse. In short, you’re being asked to extinguish your passion so that your profession can thrive. What do you do? What do you do?
If you’re Matt DiLiberto ’96, the alarm bell in your head begins to ring, and you quickly decide you’re going to keep fighting fires and find yourself a new job.
“That was my indication I had to leave,” said DiLiberto nearly 30 years later. “To look at somebody who’s putting their life on the line for the sake of others and tell them, ‘We frown upon that,’ is not a place I want to work.”
DiLiberto shares this story on a call taken in his office at SL Green Realty Corp, New York City’s largest office landlord, where he has worked for the last 21 years; he’s also remained an active firefighter since that fateful meeting all those years ago. As SL Green’s chief financial officer, a position he’s held since 2015, he not only handles its accounting, finance, and cash management, which he describes as “typical CFO responsibilities,” but he also handles its corporate capital market functions and investor relations, something that takes up the majority of his time on the clock by choice.
“I enjoy hearing directly from our shareholders,” he said. “It’s very helpful for me in my role … to be talking to them directly. I know a lot of people might say, ‘Wow, that seems like way too much extra work,’ but I enjoy it, and I enjoy the people.”
While overseeing the financial destiny of a $15 billion company would keep most people busy enough for two lifetimes, DiLiberto, 51, somehow also finds the time to act as the chairman of the FDNY Foundation, the official non-profit of the New York City Fire Department, where, among other duties, he recently oversaw a gala dinner that raised a record-breaking $4.2 million for the foundation.
“We have a very simple directive as the official charity of the FDNY – raise as much money as possible to support the needs of the department,” he said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling, and I’m in awe of the department and the people that work there.”
Factor in the domestic demands of his Rumson, New Jersey household, which he shares with his wife, Amanda, and their three young children, and one might suspect that DiLiberto must have access to a time machine to be able to keep up with everything (he does – it’s called an alarm clock, and we’ll explain more about how he optimizes its functionality later). How does he juggle it all and continue to excel at the highest levels of real estate and philanthropy? The answer, it turns out, is both refreshingly simple to state and notoriously difficult to execute: Matt DiLiberto is unapologetically himself whether he’s in the board room or the firehouse, and he’s been that way his entire adult life.
“I’m more direct … than most CFOs,” DiLiberto said. “They get me, they don’t get somebody else. They don’t get the ‘work me,’ they get me. I am me here in the office, and I’m me at the firehouse.
I speak boldly.”
‘I love the vibe here.’
DiLiberto was born in Binghamton, New York, and spent time in the Syracuse area and on Long Island before his family settled in Whitesboro, a suburb of Utica, for the bulk of his youth. When he was about five years old, his father became a firefighter in Moyer’s Corners outside of Syracuse, and the young DiLiberto began his lifelong love affair with the culture of firefighting.
“I was at the firehouse all the time hanging out in the trucks, hanging out with the guys, eating popcorn,” he said. “It just got in my head at an early age.”
When the time came to look at colleges, DiLiberto had it all figured out: he wanted to go to Penn State. So, he submitted his application, received an early acceptance notice, sent in his paperwork, and figured he was good to go. His mother, however, insisted that he visit a few more schools she thought might be a good fit for him, which is how he found himself stepping onto the University’s campus for the first time. After taking a tour of campus, he was impressed enough to apply to Scranton.
Shortly after, DiLiberto, who played lacrosse in high school, received a call from the University’s lacrosse coach, who invited him to spend some time with the team, and it was that experience that convinced him that Scranton was the right place for him. And, although he never ended up playing lacrosse at Scranton, he credits it with convincing him to become a Royal.
“I had the best time,” DiLiberto said of the experience. “I liked the size of the school, the nature of the people.
“It was a vibe. I love the vibe here.”
Lessons learned
Growing up, DiLiberto said he’d always had the “financial mindset” where he loved the concept of making and managing his own money. After taking a few accounting classes in high school and realizing that accounting was an in-demand, high-paying field, he decided to major in accounting and minor in management information systems and history.
“I like numbers and money, so I was like, ‘This seems like the right combination,’” he said with a laugh.
Although his parents paid 100 percent of his tuition and gave him a generous allowance while attending Scranton, DiLiberto worked a variety of odd jobs during his student days, including delivering pizzas, clerking at a grocery store and working at Bank of America.
“I liked to work,” he said. “I didn’t have to build into my work ethic, I kind of always had it, which was helpful.”
On campus, DiLiberto joined the Accounting Society and became its president during his senior year. He also made a point of developing relationships with his professors, especially with Michael Mensah, Ph.D., who was his favorite accounting professor and who would later become dean and dean emeritus of the Kania School of Management. Through his friendship with Mensah and his experiences with his other professors, DiLiberto learned the importance of forging personal relationships, the first of two critical lessons he internalized at the University.
“Don’t just sit at a desk and attend to what you’ve been told to attend to,” he said. “Get up. Move around. Make your own path. Make your own relationships. Learn from those who have been here, and that started at Scranton.”
DiLiberto stumbled upon the other critical lesson when he realized how much work he could get done by combining the serenity of a quiet place with his most productive time of day, which was the morning.
“I’ve always been a morning person,” he said. “I had a corner of the library that probably most people didn’t know even existed, and that’s where I got work done. And so, I encourage people to find a quiet place at the right time of day when they’re most productive to get stuff done.”
Two careers, one mindset
At Scranton, DiLiberto set his efforts toward achieving two goals: securing a position at a Big 4 firm and serving his community as a firefighter. He achieved the first goal before graduation when he was hired as a business assurance associate at that Big 4 firm’s Parsippany, New Jersey, office, and, after relocating to Nutley, New Jersey, for the job, he began working toward becoming a firefighter with the Nutley Fire Department. There was just one problem: the department required all applicants to have established residency for at least a year. While many of us might have sat upon that knowledge and waited a year to begin helping our communities, DiLiberto instead went to plan b and went through the Bergen County Emergency Medical Services Academy to become an Emergency Medical Technician with the Nutley Rescue Squad. Once he’d established residency, he went back to the Bergen County Fire Academy and joined the Nutley Fire Department.
“The most gratifying thing, short of my kids, that I’ve done in my life is all of my firefighting and EMS work,” DiLiberto said.
After deciding to leave that Big 4 firm, DiLiberto began working as a senior financial analyst at Vornado Realty Trust, which gave him a front-row seat to the corporate and public company aspects of a real estate company. He then put in a four-year stint at Chelsea Property Group as controller and director of information management before joining SL Green Realty as a controller and beginning his rapid ascent to the executive level. All the while, he continued to serve various communities as a firefighter and EMT without causing any of the “concern” from his superiors he encountered at the outset of his career.
Which brings us back to that time machine.
Time machine
Given the various demands of his positions, no two days are alike for DiLiberto.
“It’s 50 percent investor relations, 50 percent everything else as CFO, and then 50 percent FDNY – that’s my professional life,” he said. “Today, I’m working on a deal that’s different than the deal I was working on yesterday and could be different than the deal I’m working on tomorrow because (SL Green is) not good at sitting around and enjoying the fruits of past labors – it’s all about what’s next on the horizon.”
In case you missed it, DiLiberto casually mentioned that he utilizes 150 percent of his time, which should be impossible; he does this by setting his “time machine,” aka, his internal alarm clock, to 3:45 a.m. each day and taking full advantage of the quiet time of the morning to get ahead of the curve while most of the world is still asleep. By 5:20 a.m., he’s already out of the house to catch a 5:50 a.m. boat into the city, and he generally arrives at SL Green’s headquarters by 7 a.m. He then leaves the office in time to see his kids before their 7:30 p.m.-ish bedtime, and he’s back up at 3:45 a.m. to do it all over again the next day.
“We’re the opposite of 9-5,” he said. “We are 24/7 and in the office five days a week, so it’s a very stressful but adrenaline-filled and rewarding place to work. You have to have a certain personality for it.”
A man for and with others
Given the prestige of his position, readers would be forgiven for thinking he must sit in a spectacular office with a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the Manhattan skyline; instead, DiLiberto occupies the same small, interior office he occupied before becoming CFO, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I like being around everybody who is doing the job,” he said. “I don’t believe there needs to be this separation between the most senior levels of management and the most junior levels of the employee base. I enjoy those interactions.”
That belief was confirmed this past summer when Rebecca Boyle ’27, a business administration major interning at SL Green on the operations team, reached out to DiLiberto via email to see if she could meet with him, which he charmingly referred to as “bold move number one.”
“Rebecca, to me, is exactly what I look for in young personnel,” he said. “She is whip smart, and, above all else, could have a conversation with me.”
“When I interview people these days … I don’t need to read a resume. Let’s just see if we can have a conversation. She could, in spades.”
Given the amount of time DiLiberto devotes to speaking with his investors and his staff, it’s clear that he enjoys connecting with others, a skill that serves him well in his role as chairman of the FDNY Foundation.
“The gala is our biggest (fundraiser), but we raise money all year long,” DiLiberto said. “I will meet with the fire commissioner and his administration to understand their needs, and I will attend events to represent the foundation.
“There are 17,000 people that work there, so if I can in any way help their efforts, it’s a great pleasure for me.”
And, when asked if he had any advice for current students, DiLiberto was quick to put his mouth where his money is by stressing the importance of financial literacy.
“Take an accounting class,” he said. “The benefits it can have on the rest of your life are immeasurable. Everybody should know the basics of accounting for their own personal financial wellbeing.”
He also advocated boldly pursuing one’s goals today, tomorrow, and the day after that, a bit of preaching he’s practiced since his Scranton days.
“If you want something, whether it’s accounting or real estate, get yourself involved in it,” he said. “If you want to achieve your ultimate goal, you have to get after it yourself. You can’t rely on it finding you.”
Chief financial officer of SL Green Realty Corp. and chairman of the FDNY Foundation credits work ethic, lessons learned at Scranton as keys to his success.
The University of Scranton invites alumni, parents and friends to celebrate the holiday season at a series of joyful regional events. Reconnect with your Scranton community, share in the spirit of the season and enjoy evenings filled with good company, conversation and Scranton cheer.
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with your Royal family!
Join your Royal Family at a festive holiday gathering near you.
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