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Fall 2024’s Multicultural Education Week brings exciting lineup of speakers and events

salvetoday Posted On October 25, 2024

Celebrations are about to begin for Multicultural Education Week (MEW) here at Salve. MEW is celebrated each semester to promote discussions about diversity, equity and inclusion through a variety of events that engage the entire campus.

MEW runs Sunday, Oct. 27, through Friday, Nov. 1, culminating in a grand festival with interactive stations, dynamic performances and a delicious array of foods from across the Americas. This week’s theme is “Our America” with events focused on exploring immigration, indigenous cultures and creolization. The theme aligns with the University’s critical concerns of mercy, and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and celebrating both the experiences of immigrants and the indigenous cultures of the Americas. It also resonates within the broader political context of election season.

Karen Figueroa ’25, a global studies major who has participated in several MEWs while at Salve, finds that it brings the community closer. “Multicultural Education Week is important because it gives us a chance to share our cultures within the Salve community,” said Figueroa. “It gives us a chance to come together and celebrate, all while teaching us the importance of cultural competency and diversity.”

Below is the lineup of speakers and events to help students, faculty and staff join in on cross-cultural conversations. All members of the Salve community are encouraged to participate.

All events can be registered for here.

Multicultural Mass
Sunday, Oct. 27, 5 p.m.
Our Lady of Mercy Chapel

All are welcome to celebrate diverse cultures through a blend of traditions, music and prayers. Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional attire.

Keynote Speaker: Noliwe Rooks
Monday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m.
Bazarsky Lecture Hall

Noliwe Rooks, an interdisciplinary scholar and professor of Africana studies at Brown University will explore the life and legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, a leader in education and social justice.

Taize Prayer for All Souls
Tuesday, Oct. 29, 4:30 p.m.
Mercy Commons

Join us in Mercy Commons for a Taizé prayer service honoring All Souls’ Day. The evening prayer invites reflection on the lives of the departed.

Día De Los Muertos Kites & Calaveras
Tuesday, Oct. 29, 5:15 p.m.
Mercy Commons

Join us for Kites & Calaveras, a vibrant celebration of Día de los Muertos. Led by Father Scott Pontes, the event invites participants to craft giant kites and paint their own Calaveras.

Panel Discussion: Election & Immigration
Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m.
Bazarsky Lecture Hall

Reflect and engage in dialogue around the topics of the United States presidential election and immigration.

Waffleween
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 6 p.m.
Mercy Commons

Co-hosted by Mercy in Motion and the Office of Multicultural Programs and Retention, the event features a waffle bar with delicious toppings. The party ends at 7 p.m., or when the waffles run out.

Cultural Hauntings: Spooky Celebration of Life and Death
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m.
Gerety Hall

This Haunted House event is co-hosted by the Multicultural Student Organization, Black Student Union and the Office of Multicultural Programs and Retention. Journey through traditions of Halloween and Día de lost Muertos, enjoy face painting, crafts and more. Don’t forget to wear your costume!

A Coffee House Celebration
Thursday, Oct. 31, 4 p.m.
Gerety Hall

Enjoy global coffee samples while listening to live performances.

The Multicultural Festival
Friday, Nov. 1, 6-10 p.m.
Ochre Court

Celebrate the vibrant cultures of the Pan-American continent with the Salve community. This semester highlights the rich diversity of North, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Enjoy an evening of cultural exploration featuring interactive stations, dynamic performances and a delicious array of foods from across the Americas.

All events can be registered for here.

Multicultural Education Week is sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Programs and Retention; Multicultural Student Organization; Black Student Union; Student Government Association; Office of Residence Life; Center for Spiritual Life; Office of Student Engagement and the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance.

News

Elections after a national disaster

salvetoday Posted On October 24, 2024

By Dr. Mary Anderson, Brodsky Chair in U.S. Constitutional Democracy and Culture, and professor in the Department of Political Science and International Relations.

This article was originally published as a guest column in The Providence Journal, October 20, 2024.

For those living in Hurricane Helene’s and Hurricane Milton’s path of destruction, the clean-up will last for weeks and rebuilding will take years, yet there is an election in 12 days, and for these communities the challenges in meeting residents’ basic needs and administering an election are substantial. I went through Hurricane Charley in 2004 and here’s what Asheville, Tampa-St.Pete, and other hard-hit areas will face and how the rest of the country can support their citizens’ ability to vote.

Early voting for North Carolina, Georgia and Florida begins in just days. Polling precincts may not even exist anymore in some areas; buildings that served as polling locations may have been destroyed in the storms and some communities are cut off due to collapsed roads and bridges. Residents in these hard-hit areas are rightly focused on securing food, water and shelter, but Election Day 2024 will still arrive on November 5 – the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November – as prescribed by law.

Election officials have a massive undertaking ahead. Disruptions to the carefully planned out process can be difficult but not impossible to manage after a natural disaster. In places where there is outright devastation to communities, where homes, schools and businesses are leveled to the ground – such as I witnessed with Hurricane Charley in Punta Gorda, Florida – the burden on election officials to carry out their duties is extremely challenging. Those who serve as election leaders in these hard-hit areas, along with their staff and volunteers, are some of America’s greatest patriots. They leave personal responsibilities behind to focus on carrying out their charge to uphold free and fair elections.

Hurricane devastation in Asheville, North Carolina. Photo by Bill McMannis.

Throughout North Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Tennessee, where power outages are widespread, election officials need to get offices up and running as quickly as possible. They need to resume processing new registrations, send and receive mail ballots, check that voting equipment is not damaged, assess polling places for accessibility, consolidate precincts, find alternatives for residents to return early voting ballots, train and recruit poll workers and continue voter education.

Some groups will try to capitalize on this tragedy for their own benefit. They will prey on voters with false information about the election process and assert claims of fraud, often with limited evidence. Election offices will need to be vigilant in providing voters with accurate information about voting in their communities by working closely with local news outlets and law enforcement to help communicate any changes to the election process, like changes to polling locations, mail-in ballot procedures, and when ballots are due back to election offices, a recent change by the North Carolina General Assembly eliminated the 3-day grace period for returned ballots. Voters need to know these changes.

The road to the White House will likely go through North Carolina and Georgia. So, all of us, whether we were directly impacted by the storm or not, will be affected by the ability of these states to carry out their elections. It is critical that election officials have what they need to fulfill their duties and that voters in those states are not disenfranchised because of the hurricane-caused devastation. We should praise these public servants and election volunteers for their dedication on behalf of the American people and do everything we can to support them.

I hope that over the next 12 days Americans will show mercy for election workers around the country rather than disrespect; that we will applaud and admire rather than criticize and undermine them, that we will rise to the occasion of protecting our most sacred right, the right to vote for all citizens. This is the foundation of our democracy and election workers are some of our truest patriots protecting that precious right.

Arts and Humanities / Event Coverage / News

Theatre program presents beloved musical, “Meet Me in St. Louis”

salvetoday Posted On October 22, 2024

This week marks the opening of the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance’s fall production of the beloved musical, “Meet Me in St. Louis.” Performances will be held Thursday, Oct. 24 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 26 at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. in the Casino Theatre.

Based on the classic 1944 MGM film, “Meet Me in St. Louis” follows the Smith family in the months leading up to the 1904 World’s Fair. The story takes the audience on a journey through touching scenes by screenwriter Hugh Wheeler and songs by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, that have become classics. All of the stage performers are Salve Regina students, and Salve students work across all aspects of the production.

All members of the University community, as well as the general public, are invited to attend. Tickets are $20 for adults; $18 for Salve faculty, staff and seniors; $15 for children 12 and under; and free for Salve Regina students with an ID. To purchase tickets, go here.

The continued importance of the production

The world’s fairs movement captivated audiences for nearly a century before the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, offering a spectacular escape from the realities of industrial change and, later, the Great Depression. These fairs introduced new technologies and provided comfort during uncertain times. While less frequent today, world fairs continue to address global issues, shifting from confronting colonialism to tackling modern environmental crises.

Amidst global turmoil, such as World War I and World War II, the fairs were put on hold, and audiences turned to media for escapism. It was during this time that Sally Benson’s nostalgic vignettes about life in St. Louis were published, capturing the hearts of a war-weary public. These stories, which would later become the novel “Meet Me in St. Louis,” quickly made their way to the big screen, offering a comforting, idyllic portrayal of family life that resonated deeply with 1940s audiences.

Salve actors portraying the Smith family.

From its debut as a novel to the film and 1989 stage production, “Meet Me in St. Louis” has remained a timeless classic. Just as it soothed audiences of the 1940s, this heartwarming story continues to provide respite from the stresses of today – whether it’s a hectic workday or the tensions of the approaching election.

“The majesty and excitement of ‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ stands as a beacon of how the stories we tell let us escape the ones we live,” said Morgan Vreeland ’27, theatre major and the production’s dramaturg.

A feeling of community

This production will highlight the warmth and kindness of a close-knit community and the feeling of family. “It’s something we all need right now,” said Ali Angelone, the show’s guest director and choreographer. A Bristol, Rhode Island resident, Angelone has sought to evoke the sense of joy in community around annual holidays. The musical highlights Halloween and Christmas, and culminates with the grand World’s Fair.

“I grew up going to a Fourth of July parade every year and now bring my children,” shared Angelone. “The sense of community and family that special events in a town can create – this is what I’d like audiences to feel.”

While the feeling of community comes through the production, it is also bursting at the seams behind the curtains, with Salve students taking on costume design, music, lighting and more.

Canevari ’25 programming the lights for the production.

Isabella Canevari ’25, a psychology major, is leading the lighting design, while Lauryn Boone ’26, a theatre major, serves as the head stage manager. This year, students from the course THE- 337 Costume and Props Design, taught by professional costume designer Sydney Hawes, are managing the show’s wardrobe in collaboration with a professional theater rental company.

Additionally, Reed Duncan ’25, a dance major, along with exchange student Tsukiho Orisaka, are dance captains – assisting the choreographer with perfecting the show’s dances. Vreeland has also contributed by researching the history of the production and creating a gallery display for the audience to explore during the performances.

Clang, Clang, Clang went the…RIPTA?

You can’t have a production of “Meet Me in St. Louis” without the iconic “The Trolley Song.” Through a collaboration with the Rhode Island Transit Authority, riders lucky enough to find themselves on the Route 67 trolley in Newport, Rhode Island, Oct. 23 from 4:30-5:30 p.m., will catch a sneak peek into the show.

Tickets are on sale here.

Event Coverage / Faculty/Staff / Featured / News

Salve faculty showcase research in McKillop Library lecture series

salvetoday Posted On October 17, 2024

Salve Regina University’s McKillop Library has long been a beacon for knowledge and learning, and its faculty lecture series provides a platform for instructors to share their groundbreaking research, diverse expertise and innovative approaches with the community. The fall 2024 line-up offers a range of topics – from a history of the Sisters of Mercy in Newport to the power of photography and the importance of community-engaged learning.

“These lectures remind us all, whether we’re staff, faculty or students, of the reason we’re all here, which is, at its core, the pursuit of knowledge,” said Dawn Emsellem-Wichowski, director of library services. “This slate of lectures highlights what I love about Salve: its focus on student learning, its mission and the strength of its scholarly community.”

A legacy of service

The lecture series began in September with a historical deep dive by Dr. John Quinn, professor and chair of the Department of History, who explored the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy in his talk, “Building Bridges: Mercy Ministries in Newport since 1854.” Quinn highlighted the sisters’ long-standing influence in Newport, well before they established Salve Regina 1947.

“I’d like the community to recognize what an important role the Sisters of Mercy have played over the years at Salve and the Newport community in general,” said Quinn. “Since the sisters are now much fewer in number than they were a generation ago, it’s easy to overlook their significance.”

Quinn presenting his lecture “Building Bridges: Mercy Ministries in Newport since 1854” in September as part of the faculty lecture series.

The Sisters of Mercy first arrived in Newport in 1854 to manage St. Mary’s grammar school, and over the next century, they expanded their work to include a high school, a grammar school in the Fifth Ward, and an orphanage known as Mercy Home. These efforts laid the foundation for their role in founding Salve Regina.

Quinn’s research illustrated how the sisters’ dedication to education and social service shaped Newport’s cultural and civic landscape. By the time Salve opened its doors, the sisters were already deeply ingrained in the local community, having provided educational and charitable services for nearly a century.

To watch Quinn’s lecture, go here.

Visual literacy and personal archives

On a different academic front, Jodie Mim Goodnough, associate professor in the Department of Art and Art History, will bring a fascinating perspective to the lecture series with her presentation “Minding the Gap: Personal Photographs, Institutional Archives, and Visual Literacy in the Classroom,” on Thursday, Oct. 24. As a visual artist with an MFA from Tufts University, Goodnough’s creative work and teaching explores the power of photography, encouraging students to engage with lens-based images critically and analytically.

“Social media has exponentially accelerated how many photographs and short videos we see on a daily basis, and because of that, media literacy is more important than ever,” said Goodnough. “This onslaught can have a flattening effect, obscuring how history constantly impacts present-day events. Slowing down and analyzing photographs carefully and critically allows us to make connections over time and better understand how our knowledge of these events is constructed.”

Goodnough will share insights from her fall 2023 sabbatical, when she delved into her personal archive of 35 years of photographs.

“During my sabbatical, I realized the value of including personal image collections in conversations about archival gaps and biases,” shared Goodnough. By engaging with these collections, she teaches the Salve community to recognize not just what is captured in an image, but what is left out.

Photos from “Stronger and Weaker, More and Less,” an autobiographical collection of photographs that reflect on the death of Goodnough’s father.

Her lecture will reflect on the blind spots in institutional archives, drawing on her own experiences as well as those of other contemporary artists. By weaving personal narratives into her curriculum, Goodnough encourages others to understand how visual materials influence public perception and historical memory.

“My hope is always for people to become more aware of the ways in which photographic images function in their lives, both personally and culturally, and through that awareness find commonality with other people’s life experiences,” said Goodnough. “I hope they go home and look through some images, and maybe call a relative to talk about them.”

Community-engaged learning and preparing students for life beyond college

Sam Sacco, senior lecturer in the Department of Business and Economics, will conclude the fall series with a compelling presentation on “Community-Engaged Learning in an Undergraduate Setting,” on Thursday, Nov. 21.

Sacco’s work at Salve emphasizes the power of community-engaged learning to bridge academic knowledge and real-world application. By involving students in economic impact studies for local organizations, Sacco strengthens the University’s ties with Newport and surrounding communities. These student-led projects provide valuable insights into the contributions local businesses and nonprofits make to the economic health of Aquidneck Island and Rhode Island as a whole, especially in sectors like healthcare, tourism and hospitality.

Along with Dr. Jennifer Bonoff, assistant professor in the Department of Business and Economics, Sacco has integrated community partnerships into the business curriculum, offering students hands-on experience with local organizations. These partnerships, which range from Newport Contemporary Ballet to the U.S. Naval Sea Command, provide opportunities for students to collaborate on projects that have a tangible impact on the community.

Sacco’s student’s working on a report of the economic impact of Salve on Aquidneck Island.

“Our initial study was in response to a request by the Cliff Walk Commission to project the number of annual visitors to the Cliff Walk, and the overall impact of the annual visitors to the Newport and Newport County economy,” shared Sacco. “The students were immediately engaged, took ownership of the project, developed important professional skills, enjoyed the consulting experience, and expressed immense pride in helping an outside organization while being recognized by area business leaders – the success and publicity of the original study created a pipeline of other community clients.”

These partnerships not only benefit community organizations, offering financial insights and service contributions, but also equip students with critical skills in research, analysis and professional collaboration. The experiential education provided through these projects allows students to gain real-world consulting experience, with community studies booked through 2027 – reflecting the lasting impact of the program.

Below is a list of community economic impact studies and partnerships that have been successfully completed by Salve Regina students:

Hope & Main
Newport Hospital
Newport Contemporary Ballet
Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA)
Salve Regina University
Fall River Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall
The Naval Sea Command (NAVSEA)
The Cliff Walk

Sacco’s initiative has deepened the University’s community relationships while preparing students for future leadership roles in a tightly connected local economy.

Connecting past, present and future

The faculty lecture series offers a window into the research that drives the institution’s mission of harmony, justice and mercy. Whether through community-engaged learning in business, the exploration of visual literacy in art or the historical contributions of the Sisters of Mercy, these lectures remind us of the University’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth and civic responsibility.

Through this series, McKillop Library continues to serve as a hub for knowledge-sharing, uniting faculty, students, and the broader community in the pursuit of meaningful dialogue and learning.

“I look forward to each faculty lecture in part because of the diversity of research happening across the disciplines, and because it’s thrilling to see the paths our faculty follow in their pursuit of scholarly inquiry,” said Emsellem-Wichowski.

“These lectures give us all a chance to step out of our daily grind and be inspired by the brilliance and insight of our faculty colleagues.”

Featured / News

Venture into the world with short-term study abroad programs, 2025 applications now open

salvetoday Posted On October 15, 2024

Study abroad programs offer students invaluable experiences that broaden their perspectives and enhance their academic journey. These programs help develop cultural awareness, global understanding and skills that are essential in today’s globalized world.

The Center for Global Education and Fellowships is pleased to announce that applications are now open for nine short-term study abroad programs in 2025. Programs are offered during winter break, spring break or summer break and last one to four weeks. Some study abroad programs are part of on-campus spring courses, while others are entirely in selected study abroad locations.

2025 short-term study abroad programs

Students can choose from programs in Calgary, Ireland, Oxford, Tanzania, France, Rome and Reggio Emilia.

Spring Break in Calgary. This week-long program provides dance majors with the unique opportunity to study at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (DJD) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. DJD is home to a thriving professional jazz company and school with a 39-year history. Students will immerse themselves in classes that explore the jazz continuum through the DJD aesthetic while also gaining insights into the business and artistry of running a non-profit school and company. The program begins with an exciting day trip to Banff National Park, where students will experience the breathtaking Canadian Rocky Mountains, including glacial lakes and streams. Deadline to apply is Nov. 1, 2024.

Public Health in Ireland. This program provides students with a distinctive opportunity to explore and compare public health education, policies and healthcare delivery in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the U.S. By applying theoretical healthcare policy and nursing concepts in an international context, students gain a broader understanding of global health systems. The program covers epidemiological principles, addressing topics such as global health challenges, environmental health, infectious diseases and health disparities across populations in both the U.S. and abroad. Run by Dr. Michelle McCarthy, assistant professor in the Department of Nursing, and Dr. Debra Cherubini, associate professor in the department and Program Director RN-BSN in the department as well, the course begins on campus during the spring semester and concludes with a hands-on experience in Limerick, Ireland. Deadline to apply is Dec. 1, 2024.

Summer Political Economy in Oxford. In this three-week intensive political economy program, Salve Regina students, led by Dr. Adam Witham, assistant professor in the Department of Business and Economics, will accompany Hampden-Sydney College students and faculty to Harris Manchester College at the University of Oxford. This experience offers students the opportunity to explore the theory, history and practical applications of political economy in a hands-on learning environment. The program includes a weekend trip to London, along with excursions to notable sites in Oxford. Deadline to apply is Dec. 1, 2024.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland.

International Sports Tourism in Ireland. In this two-week program hosted by Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland, students will explore the dynamic relationship between sports and tourism, along with the development and management of sports tourism in Ireland. Program highlights include visits to iconic Irish stadiums like Croke Park and TUS Gaelic Grounds, a trip to the International Rugby Experience in Limerick, a hands-on hurling session, guest speakers from the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) leadership, an overnight excursion to Dublin, and more. Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Summer in Tanzania. This program offers students a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices in ecotourism, set against the backdrop of Tanzania’s rich ecosystems. Hosted by the School for International Training (SIT) at their Tanzania location, students will experience a range of activities, including visits to Mto wa Mbu village, Ngorongoro Park, Kibosho village and the iconic Materuni Waterfall. Additional highlights include exploring the Northern Tanzania Beekeeping Company, mountainous regions like Mount Kilimanjaro, guest lectures, an Arusha city tour and visits to various non-governmental organizations. Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Summer in Oxford. This program, offered in collaboration with St. Clare’s College of Oxford, is a four-week summer experience that provides students with a broad selection of academic courses in business, literature, art history and theology. The program includes regular field trips within Oxford and day excursions to notable destinations such as London, Bath and Stonehenge. With a strong focus on experiential learning, students visit key sites that connect to their courses including Alice in Wonderland’s Port Meadow, Jane Austen’s Bath, Christ Church College (the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts), the Mini Cooper plant and the British Museum.

“My Experience in the exchange program at St. Clare’s Oxford was truly nothing I have ever experienced before. At first it was wild to be stepping outside of my comfort zone – it was intimidating to be surrounded by a culture that was significantly different than my own,” shared Bridjet Duffy ’27, a business administration major.

“I ended up having the most amazing experience and made so many friends along the way. Oxford is a beautiful city and holds a special place in my heart, and I would do it all again in an instant.” Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Duomo di Milano, Italy.

Summer in France. In this beginner French language immersion program, students will reside in Pau, a charming town in southwest France, near the French Atlantic coast and the Spanish border. Over just five weeks, students can fulfill their entire language core requirement while experiencing the rich local culture. Hosted at the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) site in Pau, Salve students will join USAC students on excursions to the Basque Coast, the Pyrenees Mountains and enjoy a free weekend for independent exploration. Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Summer in Rome. In this four-week program, students will join the Summer Session I at the American University of Rome (AUR) in Rome, Italy. All participants are required to take the “Philosophy of Science” course with Dr. Condella, professor and chair of the Department of Philosophy, and can select an additional course from AUR’s summer session offerings. This program provides a unique opportunity to fulfill various core or major requirements while immersed in a rich cultural environment. The experience also includes a weekend trip to the Tuscan cities of Florence, Siena, Trequanda and Montecatini, where students will explore cathedrals, palaces and city squares, all set against stunning landscapes. Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Summer in Reggio Emilia. This four-week program, offered in partnership with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), allows students to enroll in a child development course while immersing themselves in the cultural context of Italian childhood. The program features an interactive format, incorporating presentations, readings, guest speakers and tours. Students will have the opportunity to learn from Italian professionals in family services and education, who work directly with children. In addition, participants can select a second course taught by local faculty. Excursions to Bologna and Rimini provide further opportunities to explore the region. Deadline to apply is Jan. 17, 2025.

Next Steps

Participating in a short-term program is an excellent way for students to earn Salve credits, collaborate with faculty and experience international travel without a full-semester commitment.

Students during the 2024 short-term study abroad trip to the Amazon.

Short-term programs cater to a diverse range of students. Whether you are a biology major eager to explore varied species, a nursing student balancing a busy course load or simply looking to fulfill core requirements, there is a study abroad opportunity for everyone.

Students interested in any of the above short-term programs may now open an application on ViaTRM and apply by the respective deadline. Detailed factsheets for each program are available on the program ViaTRM page or in the Center for Global Education and Fellowships, located in Drexel Hall.

News

Claiborne Pell Fellowships advance faculty-student research

salvetoday Posted On October 10, 2024

Conducting research with a professor is an intellectually and professionally transformative experience for undergraduate students. Here at Salve, this experience has been supported and advanced through the Claiborne Pell Research Fellowship, where the focus is on giving undergraduates invaluable research opportunities typically reserved for graduate students.

Funded by Salve trustee Bernard F. McKay and Mary McKay, and administered by the Pell Honors Program, this fellowship has provided funding for faculty to team up with students on research that will result in a peer-reviewed work of scholarship.

In the first year of the program, the award supported a student team project in which Kathleen Mountcastle ’23 and Renee Dube ’25, both history majors in the Pell Honors Program, had the opportunity to interview former president of Ireland, Mary McAleese, during her visit to Salve, and produce an oral history.

One of the faculty-student team projects, undertaken by Dr. Yvan Ilunga, assistant professor in the Department of Political Science and International Relations, with Spencer O’Reilly ’25, a political science major, looked to better understand local communities’ perceptions of United Nations peacekeepers during peace operations. The other, undertaken by Dr. Stephanie Jones, assistant professor in the Department of Psychology, with Sofia Abuin ’24, psychology major and a Class of 2024 valedictorian, explored the ethical implications of punishment-based interventions in the behavior analysis field.

Presenting to professional colleagues as an undergrad

Under Dr. Jones’ guidance, Abuin completed a systematic literature review, developed a manuscript of findings and submitted it to peer-reviewed publications. With the funding provided by the fellowship she was also able to attend and present at several academic conferences.

“The understanding of the literature Sofia was able to achieve through this fellowship has far exceeded what I have seen from many graduate students,” said Dr. Jones. “Her findings were that we can do better, and whenever you talk about human rights, a lot of what you say may end up being controversial. Presenting that experience at conferences significantly built up her competence in informal debates.”

Abuin ’24 presenting to her professors and peers at the Behavior Analysis Research Collaborative (BARC)

“At the conferences we got an incredible amount of feedback that helped inform our manuscript and shaped how we presented the ideas that were heavily related to ethical concerns and progress,” Abuin said.

Beyond advancing the research, the fellowship gave Abuin opportunities few undergraduates get to experience. “When you’re in an undergrad program you’re still trying to figure out what’s important and what you want to pursue, especially when you’re in a field that requires research. Being able to take part in research already underway in your field is crucial. It helped me take those next steps in my graduate career,” Abuin shared.

2024-25 fellowship recipients focus on Newport communities and history

This fall, two new teams are beginning to dive into their fellowship projects. Dr. Tara Brooke Watkins, assistant professor in the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, and Anna Annese ’26, theatre arts major, will undertake “The Stories Behind Newport Neighborhoods,” where they will engage with community members to learn and understand their experiences of living in Newport, and produce a piece for Salve’s theatre arts 2025-26 season.

Dr. Emily Colbert Cairns, associate professor and chair of the Department of Modern Languages, and Leila Martinez ’26, a biology major with a minor in Spanish, will research the papers of Aaron Lopez, a Sephardic Jew from Portugal who escaped the Inquisition and made his home in Newport. The project is designed to shed light on colonial New England culture and result in an edited volume of the complete “Lucerna” letters and digitization of the Aaron Lopez letters.

Featured / News / Salve Spotlights

Analytics and baseball bring David Miller ’10 from Salve to Fenway

salvetoday Posted On October 8, 2024

David Miller ’10 is the assistant director of baseball analytics/major league strategic information for the Boston Red Sox. Seventeen years ago, he was a math major at Salve studying for a dual degree in secondary education and mathematics, with plans to become a high school teacher.

At Salve he was also a member of the Seahawks baseball team. In his senior year, his love of baseball was cemented by a winning season. “The team made a deep run in the conference playoffs,” he remembered. “That season and playoff experience were full of great memories.”

When his undergraduate career at Salve ended, he changed his plans, opting to set his sights on graduate school. Dr. Ernest Rothman, professor and chair of the Department of Mathematical Sciences, remembered Miller’s drive.

“David was a very talented and enthusiastic student, who made the most of his education at Salve. In addition to taking regular classes, he worked with faculty on independent studies. When he entered a Ph.D. program at the University of Connecticut, his natural talent, intellectual curiosity and work ethic ensured his successful completion of his degree,” reflected Rothman.

Miller spent three years after earning his Ph.D. as a tenure-track assistant professor of mathematics at the University of Hartford. While there, he volunteered his time supporting the baseball and basketball teams with analytic insights and learned data science skills. In 2019, Miller was hired by the Boston Red Sox as an analyst in baseball operations.

“After his years in academia, [Miller’s] creative mind combined with his love of both mathematics and baseball secured him a position with the Red Sox. His is a continuing source of pride for our department,” said Rothman.

Rothman noted that Salve has had a rigorous mathematics major for decades. “Over the years our graduates have found employment using their mathematics education. Many graduates have gone on to become mathematics teachers or found careers in software development, consulting, actuarial work, or statistical analysis.”

Although the program was not available while Miller was a student, Salve now offers a data analytics minor and a 3+2 dual degree program in conjunction with the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. The program leads to a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in data analytics from Salve plus a master’s degree in data science from UMass Dartmouth.

Today, Miller manages a team of analysts who provide coaches and players with the data they need to prepare for games and series. He spends his days building predictive models, spending time in the clubhouse and traveling with the team.

Miller believes his Salve experience was a great foundation for his career as a baseball analyst. “Coach Steve Cirella and my advisors – Drs. (Carol) Gibbons, Rothman and (William) Stout – were a major influence on my eventual career. As a math major who played on the baseball team at Salve, what I do at the Red Sox is a perfect blend of my interests.”

Athletics / Event Coverage / Featured / News

Salve inducts five new members into Athletic Hall of Fame

salvetoday Posted On October 3, 2024

Salve Regina celebrated its longstanding tradition of honoring standout athletes, coaches and contributors at the Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony Sept. 27. Since its inception in 1998, the Hall of Fame has recognized the achievements and lasting impact of Salve’s athletic community. Inducted during the University’s Fall Festival and Homecoming Weekend, this year’s class includes Matt Kestler ’99, Lindsay Shorey ’12, Rachel Porter ’13, Abby Tepper ’16 and Steve Cirella.

The ceremony brought together former athletes and coaches from across generations, reinforcing the strong sense of community and shared history that continue to define Salve’s athletic program. With over 100 attendees, including family members, alumni, current students and coaches, the ceremony was a heartwarming celebration of Salve’s athletic history and the future of its ever-growing Seahawk family.

“A key word that comes to mind is ‘family.’ There is a culture of family and connectiveness here,” said Ed Habershaw, director of athletics communications. “It is magical when the class comes together for the induction because it really shows that these connections will last a lifetime.”

The Class of 2024 Hall of Fame inductees

Matt Kestler ’99

Kestler ’99 with family.

Kestler was a core member of the Salve Regina football team across the 1995-98 seasons, achieving accolades such as four-year starter, three-time conference champion and three-year all-conference selection.

Now the head coach of Middletown High School’s football team, Kestler credits his time at Salve with shaping him into the person and coach he is today. “Salve football is part of my DNA,” said Kestler. “Not only did it turn me around academically, but it also taught me better time management, mental toughness and how to overcome adversity.” Initially a baseball player at Salve, Kestler switched to football in 1995, becoming a key member of the team and the 1998 team captain.

Kestler, known for his humility, was deeply moved by the honor. “Linemen don’t really get recognition too much,” he said. “When I got the call from Sean Sullivan, I got welled up –I’m super grateful. I was a part of something much bigger than myself.”

At Middletown High, where his own son plays, Kestler continues to pass on the lessons he learned at Salve to the next generation – where his leadership is already making a lasting impact. “My son wanted to wear my number 73, which was really cool,” Kestler shared.

Lindsay Shorey ’12

Shorey ’12 (right), with director of athletics Sean Sullivan (left).

Shorey credits her college experience to the supportive culture of the women’s basketball team and the broader Salve community. One of her fondest memories was when both the men’s and women’s basketball teams won their respective conference titles on the same day. “Being able to celebrate with both basketball teams was really awesome,” said Shorey.

During her impressive career, Shorey scored 1,329 career points, even after missing half of her junior year with a broken collarbone. She set a new Salve record for the most blocked shots in a single game (14) and in a season (117) to top the Seahawk record books with 313 career blocks. Her senior year, she finished ninth in the nation with 4.3 blocks per game. Despite numerous individual accolades, Shorey emphasized the importance of teamwork.

“Being a college athlete taught me the importance of being part of a team and finding people you can rely on,” she shared. “I wouldn’t be able to be a part of the Hall of Fame without having played with them.”

Now a fifth-grade teacher, she continues to value the sense of community instilled during her time at Salve.

Rachel Porter ’13

Porter ’13 with family.

Despite spending much of her college career as a defenseman, Porter is still the women’s ice hockey program’s all-time leading scorer, a testament to her flexibility and team-first mentality. “Coach Cox asked me to play defense full time, and I was like, ‘yeah, whatever the team needs,'” Porter recalled. Her ability to see the whole ice from the defense position led to numerous assists, highlighting her vision and selflessness as a player.

Porter’s hockey career, which began in childhood, shaped her life far beyond the rink. The sport instilled discipline, perseverance and teamwork, qualities she has carried into her professional life.

Now a nurse, she credits her success to the support of her teammates, coaches and most importantly, her mother, Roberta, who was her biggest motivator throughout her journey.

“She raised me to believe if I want to do something, I can,” Porter said. “She believes in me and my sisters, and she dragged me all over the place to play hockey. Even in my post-grad life, she’s still my biggest supporter. I wouldn’t be here without her, that’s for sure.”

Reflecting on her Hall of Fame honor, Porter feels immense gratitude. “I was so shocked. I never thought I would be nominated… You work so hard for four years, and it pays off,” said Porter. “I’ve been playing since I was four years old – to do something for such a long time of your life and be rewarded for it is crazy. I’m still super grateful and shocked.”

Abby Tepper ’16

Tepper ’16 with family.

Tepper, a dual-sport athlete in field hockey and lacrosse, was initially drawn to Salve for the opportunity to play both sports at the Division III level. “I couldn’t decide which sport I wanted,” Tepper recalled. “Coach Jennifer Foster was willing to let me play both, and being able to double major in elementary and special education made Salve the perfect fit.” Her experiences as a student-athlete not only shaped her college years but also laid the foundation for her coaching career.

After graduating, Tepper pursued her passion for coaching, starting with field hockey at Stonehill College and lacrosse at Roger Williams University. She later coached a DII national championship team at West Chester University and currently serves as the assistant women’s lacrosse coach at Merrimack College. Throughout her athletic and coaching journey, Tepper’s relentless work ethic has been a defining characteristic. “I never wanted to miss anything,” she said. “I was driven by the fear of not making the team and always pushed myself to be the best version of me.”

Now a Hall of Fame inductee, Tepper reflects on the relationships and memories that made her time at Salve so special. “I met my best friends at Salve, and being a part of the University and both programs was an honor,” she shared. Her induction is a full-circle moment, as her legacy continues through the athletes she now coaches, passing on the values of teamwork, dedication and building lifelong connections.

Steve Cirella, former head baseball coach

Cirella (right), with director of athletics Sean Sullivan (left).

As Salve’s all-time winningest baseball coach, Cirella had a 318-win career spanning 14 seasons (2000-2013). During his tenure, Cirella led the team to two conference championships and multiple NCAA appearances, earning three conference “Coach of the Year” honors. However, Cirella’s proudest achievement wasn’t the victories – it was the relationships he built with his players. “It’s not about the wins and losses,” he said. “It’s about the relationships … that’s the biggest thing I can take away from coaching.”

Cirella’s coaching philosophy centered around recruiting hardworking players and fostering a strong team bond. His former athletes still reflect on the lessons learned under his leadership, with 10 of his players even paying his way to attend the 2024 DIII College World Series to witness Salve’s historic run. “I had tears in my eyes,” Cirella said. “Seeing what the baseball team achieved and watching my son, Eric, accomplish so much was remarkable.”

The father-son duo, Steve and Eric Cirella, have guided Salve to 614 wins combined, with Eric taking over the program in 2013. Now, both are members of the Hall of Fame, making the honor especially meaningful for the family.

“This is a rewarding experience for me to be joined by my father in the Salve Athletic Hall of Fame,” said Eric Cirella. “But also gratifying for the rest of my family, knowing how much time and effort he put into the baseball program during his tenure as head coach. And to see where the program is today on a national level; this entire experience is surreal seeing it all go full circle. I think it is especially fitting that he gets inducted a few months after we finish up our best season ever.”

For Steve Cirella, creating a legacy with Salve baseball along with joining his son in the Hall of Fame makes his honor even more meaningful. “This experience will stay with me for the rest of my life,” he said.

Featured / News / Science and Technology

Salve professor receives NIH grant to research new UTI treatments alongside undergrads

salvetoday Posted On October 3, 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infectious diseases in the U.S., affecting about 15 million women a year. They’re challenging to treat, in part because 27% of women will experience a UTI recurrence within 12 months, even after successful antibiotic treatment.

“When you get a UTI, it’s usually treated with antibiotics and it clears up quite quickly,” explained Dr. Susan Meschwitz, professor and chair of the Department of Chemistry. “However, months later it may come back. Simple infections are developing resistance to antibiotics and this has become a growing concern.”

Developing alternative treatments for UTIs has been Dr. Meschwitz’s focus for several years. She was recently awarded a $387,466 grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to research new treatments for the infection, and specifically, to do so alongside undergraduate students. The three-year project is part of a collaborative study that will be conducted with University of Rhode Island’s (URI) Dr. Jodi Camberg and Dr. David Rowley.

A novel approach to a key women’s health issue

“The goal of this grant is to be able to understand recurrent UTIs,” Meschwitz explained. “What we know is that most UTIs are caused by uropathogenic E. coli and the recurrent infection is caused by the same strain that caused the original infection. The bacteria have not evolved to be resistant, but rather enter a quiescent state within the cells of the bladder wall, essentially turning themselves off when the antibiotics were present, and waking themselves back up months later. We want to understand how the bacterium enter and exit this state. That will allow us to develop ways to treat this infection, not just with antibiotics, but with a molecule that prevents or reverses the quiescent state.”

“At a basic level, we’re taking a different approach than an antibiotic does. We’re not trying to kill the bacteria, we’re trying to prevent them from talking to each other.”

Rigorous hands-on training for undergraduate students

The NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award Dr. Meschwitz received funds small-scale, new or ongoing health-related research projects that give undergraduate students an opportunity to gain significant biomedical research experience. As such, a key focus for Dr. Meschwitz’s project will be to train several Salve undergraduate students each year to conduct experiments and analyze data. In her laboratory, they will participate in all aspects of the project including peptide synthesis and characterization, screening and sequencing mutants, and identifying protein targets. Dr. Meschwitz said, “When working with student researchers, I like to start with teaching basic laboratory techniques. The students will learn how to use instrumentation and read the scientific literature. They shadow current students in the lab. We will meet weekly to brainstorm and ask questions: What happened? What does it mean? What should we do next? It’s critical thinking in action.”

The Salve undergraduates will also get the opportunity to work alongside graduate students and faculty at URI where they can get a feel for what graduate school is like. The project will extend across the academic years and summers, and students will have the opportunity to travel to conferences and present their results.

“On this project students will work on new ideas; on things that haven’t been done before. They’re going to be the ones to help find the answers, or the non-answer,” said Dr. Meschwitz. “With NIH support they’re going to receive hands-on lab experience where they will develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This experience will help prepare them for their future, whether they enter the biomedical workforce or continue on to graduate school.”

Event Coverage / Featured / Mercy Mission / News

McAuley Day tradition honors founder of the Sisters of Mercy

salvetoday Posted On October 2, 2024

Each year, Salve Regina University’s annual Mercy Week activities include a much-loved tradition honoring Catherine McAuley, the visionary founder of the Sisters of Mercy. McAuley Day, celebrated this year on Sept. 25, is an occasion to pause, reflect and come together in friendship as a campus community.

“It’s important to remember Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy because they were ordinary people, just like all of us, who did something extraordinary,” said Amy Cady, director of the Mercy Center for Spiritual Life. “Their desire to be of service to the world was so strong that they would not conform to the standards of their time, and this is what I hope for Salve students – to grow into and live their beliefs like Catherine and the first Sisters of Mercy.”

McAuley’s life spanned the late-18th and 19th-centuries. Her childhood was marked by the loss of her father when she was 5 years old and her mother’s passing 15 years later. As a young woman, she managed the household for an elderly couple who eventually left their estate to her – a sizeable gift that could have been used to live a life of comfort.

Deeply aware of the pressing social, economic and religious challenges facing the people of Dublin at the time, however, McAuley used her unexpected inheritance to build a house of mercy on Baggott Street, where those in need could find shelter, welcome, an education and community.

Soon joined by other companions, McAuley founded the Sisters of Mercy in 1831 to continue this important work through a new, active form of religious life where sisters take a vow of service to the poor, the sick and the uneducated. Known as the “walking sisters” because of their compassionate and direct outreach to those in need, the Sisters of Mercy grew into a worldwide network of women whose mission to uplift those on society’s margins led to the establishment of schools, hospitals and shelters around the globe.

Sean Dever ’25 (left), with others celebrating McAuley Day.

As their influence spread across continents, the Sisters of Mercy brought McAuley’s spirit of compassion and service to the United States. That same spirit would inspire the founding of Salve Regina in Newport, Rhode Island, where the institution opened its doors to the first class of students in 1947. Guided by the principles of mercy, justice and hospitality, Salve has remained committed to McAuley’s vision, empowering students to excel academically and to lead with purpose and kindness.

“Throughout my time at Salve, I truly believe that the legacy of Catherine McAuley and the values embodied by the Sisters of Mercy have shaped me into a stronger leader and have strengthened my commitment to leading a life in service of the most vulnerable in our community,” shared Sean Dever ’25, political science major and Student Government Association president. “Mercy, as understood by Catherine McAuley, wasn’t just a vague theological or philosophical principle – it was a way of life. Every day, I find this becoming more true for myself as well.”

McAuley Day is an opportunity to reflect and to advance Salve’s commitment to its mercy mission. This year’s celebration kicked off with a service project – creating birthday banners for the Confetti Foundation, an organization that supplies parties to children who must spend their birthday in a hospital, pediatric oncology clinic or hospice facility. A campus-wide gathering also commemorated Catherine’s birthday, which was Sept. 29, with a ceremonial cake cutting, followed by treats including ice cream sundaes, smoothies and goodie bags. The day’s festive atmosphere continued into the evening with a bonfire and live music.

The statue of Catherine McAuley.

“When we were planning McAuley Day as a team, I kept coming back to the question of ‘what does this mean for the students?’ Yes, it’s a day off from classes but it’s more than that, it’s a chance for us all to come together as a community in the spirit of mercy,” said Dever. “The community that I’ve seen, the conversations that have happened, and the connections formed have been truly heartwarming. It has made me take even greater pride in serving as president of a student body who so evidently care for one another and to see our community grow closer.”

While the events of McAuley Day are filled with joy, the deeper significance lies in the continued relevance of McAuley’s teachings. Her commitment to education as a means of personal and social transformation mirrors the core values that Salve instills in its students today. The University’s focus on service, social responsibility and promoting a harmonious world is rooted in McAuley’s belief that mercy and justice are the cornerstones of a compassionate society.

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