Coming Full Circle: A Career, A Calling, and the Albertus Centennial
What initially drew you to Albertus?
Having grown up near New Haven, Albertus was always on my radar. But my first real in-depth look at the school was when my wife Maureen enrolled for her master of science in human services. She had an amazing experience at the College, excelling academically under the guidance of some incredible professors.
Years later, after working my way up at a couple of universities, I was approached about a role on the Advancement team at Albertus. The combination of taking a big leap in my career and being part of a college’s first ever comprehensive campaign, all while helping make a difference in the lives of deserving students–it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.
What is the main charge of the Office of Advancement at Albertus?
Our work on the Advancement team is about forming enduring relationships with people who care deeply about Albertus. While building a culture of philanthropy is a key part of that, we also help alumnae/i, friends, parents, faculty, and staff remain engaged and connected with a place they feel passionate about. Yet, not everyone interested in supporting Albertus will know where to go to begin. Our job is to meet them wherever they may be and help them navigate and engage with the institution in the ways that are most compelling to them.
I am guessing the excitement about the College’s upcoming Centennial Year makes a difference when talking with the Albertus community?
Absolutely! Afterall, not everyone gets the chance to experience and celebrate a milestone like this. The excitement and momentum for the 100th Anniversary Year launching this fall is palpable; it comes up in almost every conversation I have these days. The Centennial is a momentous opportunity to rally the Albertus family–not only to honor the past and embrace the present, but to also look toward the potential of the College’s future.
You’ve experienced a lot of Albertus firsts so far…what are some highlights that come to mind?
One of the highlights just happened on May 18. Commencement exercises at Albertus are always special and full of tradition, but this was my first time processing and being on stage in front of Rosary Hall looking out on the accomplished graduates and their proud families. The fact it was with The Legacy Class, the last graduating class of the College’s first century made it all the more special.
Another memorable highlight was taking part in my first Annual Day of Service. I volunteered with a great team of students and staff doing a spring cleanup at Edgerton Park, which is a beautiful open space near campus where I sometimes spend lunch breaks. The four Dominican Pillars of study, prayer, community, and service are lived each day at Albertus, but it was nice to spend a little extra time doing service in the community.
I have to add the men’s ice hockey team’s thrilling overtime victory against Hobart College, who at the time was the top-ranked DIII program in the country and back-to-back National Champions. Our Falcons snapped Hobart’s 42-game unbeaten streak that night and I lost my voice from cheering so loud.
You have been working in higher education development for a while. What was your introduction to fundraising?
My family suffered a huge loss in 2003 when my brother died unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm at just 25 years old. One of the ways we channeled our grief was by establishing a memorial scholarship in his name at our local high school. To fund the scholarship, we organized annual Wiffle ball tournaments–a favorite backyard game of ours growing up. For 10 years, it was the biggest fundraiser of its kind in Connecticut, and the community really got behind us. We are still awarding annual scholarships in my brother’s memory more than 20 years later, and that feels good.
What’s your favorite New Haven pizza?
If I could only choose one it would be Modern, but Pepe’s is a close second, and they are celebrating their Centennial this year just like Albertus, which is great company to be in.
What are some fun things you and your family enjoy doing?
My wife and I have two daughters, ages 10 and 8, and a rescue dog named River. We enjoy spending time outdoors; going on hikes, bike rides, and camping. We also love going to the beach. Whether it’s at home in Milford, day trips to Misquamicut, or summer vacations to Cape Cod–you won’t find us away from the water for too long.
What books are on your nightstand?
While I enjoy being surrounded by books, over the past several years I have embraced audio books. My favorite genre is historical nonfiction. Currently, I am listening to The River of Doubt by Candice Millard about Theodore Roosevelt’s harrowing 1914 exploration of an uncharted tributary of the Amazon. I recently finished Dead Wake and The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson–all of them are fascinating books.
Do you have any favorite books on leadership?
Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. It’s about the power of building relationships. To me, effective leadership is about cultivating strong relationships to help inspire, motivate, and guide my team.
What advice would you give someone starting in a leadership role?
Find good mentors, ask questions, and listen to others. Also, something I still need to remind myself, have the confidence that others have in you.
As an avid fisherman, what is your dream catch?
Growing up on Long Island Sound, I have always been enamored with striped bass. Catching a 50-pound “striper” would be a dream catch for me.
Where would you love to go fishing if you could go anywhere in the world?
A bucket list trip would be fly fishing for Atlantic salmon in the Scottish Highlands.
Why should someone give to Albertus?
For 100 years, Albertus has been a beacon of hope, providing life-changing education to those who might not otherwise have access. The College not only changes our students’ lives, but often times the trajectories of entire families. It’s a place worth investing in, where any gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Looking for ways to support or connect with Albertus? Please feel free to contact the Office of Advancement to learn more about how you can rise to the moment and help shape the future of Albertus. Please call (203) 773-8502 or email giving@albertus.edu.