St. John's University Athletics
Student Development For Athletes Holds Second Annual Graduation Reception
5/15/2008 12:00:00 AM | General
May 15, 2008
QUEENS, N.Y. - On Thursday afternoon, the St. John's Department of Athletics Student Development for Athletes unit held its second annual reception for the graduating student-athletes and support group members.
The end of the year celebration was an intimate gathering with light refreshments followed by congratulatory and encouraging remarks by Faculty Athletic Representative and Dean of the School of Pharmacy and Allied Health Robert Mangione, St. John's Director of Athletics Chris Monasch, and Director of Academic Support for Athletes Eric Rienecker, followed by a blessing from Fr. Tri Duong, the Campus Minister for Athletics.
"It's a nice opportunity to say thank you to the student-athletes for all they've done on the field, in the classroom and in the community," said Monasch. "We talk a lot about family here and hopefully this will be just the beginning of a lifelong relationship with St. John's. I wish them well for what we know will be a very successful future."
"This is a great day for Student Development for Athletes to celebrate an accumulation of four years of working with the student-athletes," said Rienecker. "Each one of the seniors has worked with their advisor since their freshman year, so it is a good way for us to honor all their accomplishments."
After the reception, the student-athletes were invited to take photos with their coaches, academic advisors, friends and families and were given a parting gift to help them make the transition from the classroom to the boardroom.
"It was very nice to end my journey with St. John's with an event like this," remarked women's tennis senior Maria Zivcicova.
"This event was a good way to provide closure to our academic and athletic careers at St. John's and it was great to see my peers before graduation," said men's lacrosse senior Jack Rosson.
Fifty-four Red Storm student athletes will graduate this spring and summer. Notable seniors include Jeff Stepan of the men's soccer team and Julianna Cohen of the women's soccer team who will be among four seniors of the entire Class of 2008 to receive special recognition at this weekend's commencement exercises.
"It's a wonderful chance to congratulate our graduating student-athletes and celebrate their achievements over their four-year careers," said Lucy Pesce, Associate Director, Leadership Development Special Events.
Players Mentioned
