Scranton Love Stories: Decades of Music and Meaning

By Elizabeth Vander Neut, student correspondent

The University of Scranton’s Performance Music program has played a key role in fostering lifelong connections, including over 100 marriages through the decades. Among those connections are three alumni couples who found love amidst rehearsals, performances and shared melodies. From the 1980s to the 2000s, their stories showcase how music and the Ignatian spirit brought them together.

Gerry '87, G'95 and Maureen (Kanavy) Zaboski '85

Gerry and Maureen first met in the University’s Singers group, where Gerry had joined to help balance the ratio of male singers. Their connection grew during band and singer outings, including roller skating and hay rides.

How has participating in music at a Jesuit institution influenced your relationship and shared values?

"The Ignatian principle of 'Finding God in all things' allowed us to find that special, spiritual connection between each other and also between all of our friends that shared a love of music. We formed a close bond with a special group of people and that connection lasts even today."

What advice would you offer to students in Scranton's music program who are seeking meaningful connections, both personally and creatively? 

"It’s important to follow your own individual interests. We both happen to love music of all kinds and that has allowed us to create a lifetime of meaningful experiences together while enjoying music!"

Please share a fun/fond memory of Cheryl Boga, Director of Performance Music. 

"There are lots, but one is when Ger and I both got nominated for Secretary of Singers, due to Cheryl’s nominations. We were pitted against each other in the election. Without me knowing, Ger actually went around and told people to vote for me (as I was going to be the senior). Cheryl takes credit to this day for bringing us together!"

Performance Music Profile:
* Maureen, alto in University Singers
* Gerry, baritone voice in University Singers, alto and baritone saxophone in in University Concert and Jazz bands

Where are they now?

The Zaboskis reside in West Wyoming, where they raised two Legacy Royals, Gared '18 and Kyle '21. Maureen works as finance director at Luzerne County Head Start. Gerry is senior vice president with the Office of the President at the University.

Mike '99, G'01 and Heather (Schneider) Swierczek '97, G'98

Music is a cornerstone of Mike and Heather's relationship of 27 years, including 24 years of marriage. They credit their enduring connection to shared creative interests and the Jesuit values that emphasized community and collaboration.

How did you both first meet, and what were your initial impressions of each other?

"I met Mike when the guys from (St. Pius X) Seminary came over to sing with the choir. He was wearing this absolutely crazy shirt with a dragon fighting a knight (which he still owns) and I thought, 'Oh my God, what a dork.'"

Was there a specific event, performance, or project that brought you closer together?

"We happened to both be in Liturgical Musicians and we needed guys for Fall Revue. My housemate at the time was directing, so our other housemate and I decided to flirt with Mike in the hopes of drumming up a vocalist for the show. It worked."

Performance Music Profile:
* Heather, soprano in University Singers
* Mike, bass in University Singers, baritone saxophone in University Concert and Jazz bands

Where are they now?

Today, Heather is a physical therapist and Mike a software engineer. The Swierczeks reside in Pottstown with their four children, two dogs and three rats.

Joseph and Delight (Wilson) Balducci, Class of 2000

Joseph and Delight first became acquainted in their sophomore year through Performance Music and mutual friends. It wasn’t until their junior year, that their relationship deepened. They lived next to each other in Gavigan Hall and spent long nights talking in the lounge.

What were your initial impressions of each other?

Delight: "My initial impression of Joe is that he was very kind and the most thoughtful person I had ever met."

Joe: "I can’t quite remember first meeting Delight, but I’m sure I was quite taken with her poise and beauty!"

Was there a specific event, performance or project that brought you closer together? 

Delight: "One fond memory I have is watching Joe play during the Jazz Band’s performance at La Festa in 1999 – our senior year. Our friends and I made posters cheering on the U of S Jazz Band and I definitely felt like a jazz band groupie watching the cute guy playing alto sax." 

What was your first dance/favorite song played at your wedding?

S’wonderful by George and Ira Gershwin. 

Performance Music Profile:
* Delight, soprano in University Singers
* Joe, alto saxophone in University Concert and Jazz bands
Where are they now?

The Balduccis reside in Alexandria, Virginia with their sons, Benjamin, 15, and Joshua, 12. Delight works as an environmental attorney and Joe as a higher ed instructional technologist.