Event Focuses on Bridging Generations

Members of The McCallen Society, alumni, and current St. John’s University students enjoyed lively 1940s music in the cabaret-styled setting of the Queens Theatre as they watched the  original play, In the Car with Blossom and Len, on November 13.

A wine tasting, which included finger sandwiches and dumplings, offered students an opportunity to mingle with society members. Adriana Gallardo ’17CPS, who plans to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), enjoyed her conversation with members who know St. John’s alumni who have worked for the agency.

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“I really appreciated their advice,” Adriana said. “I never expected it. I was just planning to come here and have great conversation and food with The McCallen Society.”Saverio Lo Monaco and Savio Monteiro, both new international students at St. John’s School of Law in the year-long masters program, were excited to be among fellow students and society members.

“Since the very first moment I came to St. John’s, I have felt like part of a family,” said Saverio. “I really feel like it’s a great environment.”

“It has been a wonderful experience,” Savio said. “The professors are more like friends. Other students and people on campus are very open. I come from India, where it’s definitely a different atmosphere.”

Susan M. Damiani ’87CBA, Director of Gift Planning and The McCallen Society, spoke about the University’s commitment to its students and alumni. “We’re all a part of St. John’s. This will sound corny, but we really are one big, happy family,” she said. “No matter what your role is at St. John’s, we are all connected.”

Ms. Damiani then introduced Elizabeth Sheehan ’14C, Coordinator of Campus Activities for the Division of Student Affairs. “I love the concept of today, bringing together generations, because I truly love getting to grow up in a house where my parents are also St. John’s alumni,” Ms. Sheehan said. “We really do have a lot to learn from each other.”

After Ms. Sheehan’s remarks, Ms. Damiani introduced Achilles R. Schiano ’55C, an independent copy editor, who spoke about his time on the Lewis Avenue campus. Mr. Schiano’s humor and anecdotes about the school’s newspaper, The Torch, and what life was like at the University six decades ago, had attendees chuckling.

“I’m enthused to be with young people who are very active, energetic, and alert,” Mr. Schiano said. “I think we’re passing the torch—not to be funny about it—to good people.”

In the Car with Blossom and Len, a story about maturity and aging, reflected the relationship some of the society members now experience with their parents. The plot also resonated with the younger generation as they thought about their own relationship with their parents.

If you would like to establish your legacy through a planned gift to St. John’s and become a member of The McCallen Society, please contact Susan M. Damiani at 718-990-7562; [email protected]. Visit  Gift Planning to learn about upcoming events.