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Mercy Mission / Student Life

Students invited to apply to Sigma Phi Sigma, nominations are also encouraged

salvetoday Posted On June 10, 2024

Mercy leadership is celebrated in many ways across campus, but students in Salve’s chapter of Sigma Phi Sigma, the national mercy honor society, offer the University an exemplary model. Students can apply or be nominated to join Sigma Phi Sigma for the upcoming academic year by Monday, July 1. Further details are below.

Established in 1951, Sigma Phi Sigma is known for its service to the Newport community and fidelity to Salve. This past year, members of Sigma Phi Sigma provided support to the Edward King House, God’s Community Garden, the Women’s Resource Center and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center. Sigma Phi Sigma also partners with the Office of University Advancement to set up Salve’s luminaria display each December.

“What makes Salve and Sigma Phi Sigma truly special is the power of community,” former Sigma president Isabelle Cole ’24 shared at the honor society’s annual senior pinning and cording ceremony. “As you continue your journey, remember that your unique gifts — your talents, your empathy, your leadership — are not just assets to be celebrated, but also responsibilities. Embrace the opportunities before you with courage and conviction, knowing that your contributions have the power to create positive change and leave a lasting impact on the world.”

During her time at Salve, Cole received the Living the Mission Award and Voyager Scholarship, as well as the Obama Chesky Scholarship for Public Service, which she utilized to spend a semester in Morocco. She returned to Morocco for the summer of 2023.

Isabelle Cole ’24 speaks at Sigma Phi Sigma’s annual senior pinning and cording ceremony in April.

Many students who join Sigma Phi Sigma are seeking to enhance their engagement and service within the larger community, as well as give back to the campus in meaningful ways.

“I applied for Sigma Phi Sigma because I knew there was something missing from my college experience,” said Samantha Mansolf ’25, Sigma’s public relations coordinator. “I was already so heavily involved on campus and wanted to branch out and assist our community partners. Salve and Newport have given me so much to be grateful for over the past few years, and this organization allows me to express my gratitude through service.”

Jacob Stolberg ’26, Sigma’s vice president, joined the honor society because he wanted to meet like-minded peers who cared about their community. He also works in the Newport community as a mentor in Salve’s Pathways program. “Sigma Phi Sigma has been amazing for meeting fellow students who share my beliefs and engaging with community partners,” Stolberg said.

Sigma Phi Sigma celebrates scholarship and fidelity through a commitment to Salve’s Mercy Week, MLK Week, Earth Week, and Convocation. They hold monthly meetings and often bring in speakers and presenters that further connect students with the heritage and promise of the Sisters of Mercy, such as Angela Howard-McParland, justice resource manager for the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.

Students at Sigma Phi Sigma’s annual senior pinning and cording ceremony in April.

“Coming together with peers to build relationships and live out the mercy mission is something I find great fulfillment in,” said Renee Dube ’25, Sigma’s treasurer. “When people take the time to look beyond themselves and do a little good, it is truly beautiful. I am thrilled for the opportunity to serve as treasurer for my senior year and look forward to seeing all we accomplish.”

Students interested in applying to Sigma Phi Sigma are encouraged to complete the online application by Monday, July 1. Faculty and staff who wish to nominate a student should email sigma@salve.edu with the student’s full name, year of graduation and reasoning for recommendation. Sigma Phi Sigma requires that all members maintain a minimum GPA of 3.4.

Nominated students will be notified and invited to apply for membership. Please email any questions to sigma@salve.edu.

News / Salve Spotlights

Salve student Jacob Stolberg honored as Newman Civic Fellow 

salvetoday Posted On June 6, 2024

Jacob Stolberg ’25, a double major in secondary education and mathematics, has been named to the 2024-25 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education. He will join student civic leaders from 38 states, Washington, D.C. and Mexico.

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. The fellowship is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Dr. Newman’s leadership, each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor, who is invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year. 

Stolberg is engaged in the Student Government Association at Salve and serves as a peer mentor. He also mentors local Rhode Island high school students through his participation in Salve Regina’s Pathways program, focused on guiding first-generation students and their families to high school graduation and college enrollment. His dedication to community service dates back to his high school years — during which he served on the select board of his hometown of Leicester, Massachusetts, participated with the AmeriCorps Generation Teach program, and volunteered as an Eagle Scout. Stolberg believes educators play a critical role in inspiring the next generation to become active participants in their communities.

“Solving civic problems has to start with understanding the perspectives of others, and education is one of the best ways to bridge that gap,” he said. “But that’s just the first step. Action has to follow understanding to bring about real change. I find genuine joy in serving my community and will work to inspire that feeling in others, so they can enjoy being an active part of where they live.”

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides student civic leaders with learning and networking opportunities that nurture their development as civic leaders. Programming emphasizes personal, professional and civic growth that can empower them to collaborate effectively across disciplines and create large-scale positive change.   

The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over three days this fall. The fellowship also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive opportunities, including mini-grants to help fund community projects, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities. 

Salve’s focus on community service was a key reason Stolberg opted to study here.

“Salve isn’t isolated,” Stolberg said. “There are so many opportunities to interact and explore, with business and the community. As an Education major, I had the chance to teach and observe students of different ages, which really opened my eyes to the range of demographics, even on this island. I’m looking forward to bringing what I experienced and learned here to the Newman networking workshops, and bring what I learn there, back here to Newport.”

Bobbie Laur, president of Campus Compact, is honored to recognize such an outstanding group of community-committed students.

“One of the best parts of the Newman Civic Fellowships is the richness of students’ perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds—and how these varied stories all led to their passionate engagement with the social, political, and environmental issues impacting our world,” Laur said. “These students will be the catalysts for change on many levels, and we are privileged to help empower them to create that change.” 

Business and Economics / Graduate News / News

Salve creates new online master’s degree to build expertise in high-purpose leadership

salvetoday Posted On June 4, 2024

Salve Regina has launched a new online graduate program in Organizational Transformation and Leadership, which is now enrolling for this fall. Designed for individuals who seek to broaden their expertise in strategic management, organizational culture, sustainable business and analytical decision making, the 10-course master’s degree program can be completed in 12 months.

In 2024, Forbes recognized Salve as having one of the best Online MBAs in Entrepreneurship. As a mission-driven institution focused on five critical societal concerns, Salve offers an environment where individuals can explore sustainable and inclusive practices that elicit systemic change. To help individuals and organizations navigate the diverse 21st-century workforce, purpose-driven leadership has become essential across industries. This master’s degree program charts the course for a new type of leader to emerge that fosters leadership development by providing cutting-edge content and experiential approaches.

“The most significant contribution leaders make is not to today’s bottom line; it is to the long-term development of people and institutions so they can adapt,” note authors Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner in their international best-selling book “The Leadership Challenge.”

Dr. Teresa Starzecki

“We’ve designed this program to be a gateway to enhanced employability, professional advancement and organizational growth for people at any point in their career or educational journey,” said Dr. Teresa Starzecki, Salve assistant professor and graduate program director in the business and economics department. “The course empowers people to become effective leaders who promote sustainability, ethics and social responsibility, creating a positive influence within their organizations and contributing to a more inclusive and collaborative society.”

Delivered online, the program is a blend of synchronous and asynchronous class meetings that provide the tools to predict, analyze and address current and future business challenges while integrating data-driven best practices. A bachelor’s degree is required to apply.

In addition to the master’s degree, Salve offers “stackable” graduate certificates in business intelligence for organizational progress, organizational culture transformation, and strategic transformation and sustainable management. These certificates can stand alone or be combined with two additional courses to complete the master’s degree. Through combined offerings, qualified Salve undergraduates can earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years.

Salve will host a webinar for those looking to learn more about the new Organizational Transformation and Leadership master’s program on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, from 11 a.m. to Noon. Register here.

Athletics

Salve baseball team advances in College World Series with weekend win

salvetoday Posted On June 3, 2024

The Seahawks posted a 2-0 win over the University of Wisconsin Whitewater Warhawks on Saturday, keeping their season alive as they play for a spot in the Division III College World Series finals on Wednesday, June 5.

All-American pitcher Sean Mulligan ’24 shut the Warhawks down, while offensively, in the second inning, Salve Regina loaded the bases on a one-out walk to Tyler Cannoe ’23, current graduate student, and consecutive singles from graduate students Hunter Yaworski and Wil McCarthy ’23. With two outs, Michael Breen, ’24, lashed an 0-1 pitch through the right side to score the game’s only runs.

Salve faces the Warhawks again today at 1:15 p.m. ET. Tune into the live stream here to cheer on the Seahawks!

Featured photo: Salve pitcher Sean Mulligan completed a nine-inning masterpiece in Salve’s win over the Warhawks.

Faculty/Staff

Celebrating University employees who graduated in 2024

salvetoday Posted On May 30, 2024

Salve Regina celebrates the five employees who received degrees during the recent Commencement ceremonies. Balancing work and studies is a significant challenge, and the University recognizes the determination and effort these individuals demonstrated to achieve their academic goals while continually contributing to the Salve community.

Erin Barry, communications specialist, Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy

Barry earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA). Reflecting on her journey, Barry fondly recalls the camaraderie she felt with her colleagues.

“Several of my colleagues here at Salve were also in the MBA program,” she said. “I loved the sense of camaraderie we’d feel realizing we were in the same classes together and collaborating on group projects late into the evening hours at McKillop Library.”

Barry also received a bachelor’s degree in American studies from Salve in 2019, and her academic journey was significantly shaped by mentors Amy Cady, director of the Mercy Center for Spiritual Life, as well as Dr. Bill Leeman and Dr. Tim Neary, professors in the Department of History. Their guidance was instrumental when she changed her major during her junior year, a decision that opened new academic and professional opportunities — and eventually led to the completion of her MBA.

“Each of them helped me realize changing course was one of the best decisions I could have made,” Barry said.

Throughout her time in the graduate program, Barry found a course in business law to be a favorite — allowing her to merge her interests in history and contemporary business issues. Drafting her final paper, Barry drew parallels between President Theodore Roosevelt’s trust-busting efforts and current opportunities for tech sector regulation, enhancing her perspective on modern issues.

“I’ll always value the context an examination of the past gives me to enhance my perspective on the issues we face today,” Barry said.

Salve’s mercy mission deeply influenced Barry’s approach to her work and studies, instilling in her the importance of aligning values with actions. As she steps into her future endeavors, Barry is excited to apply the skills and insights gained from her MBA to enhance her professional responsibilities within the Salve community.

Catherine Dolan, writer/content strategist, Office of Marketing and Communications

Dolan earned her bachelor’s degree in English communications with minors in marketing and economics in December 2023, and she walked with her class during the undergraduate Commencement ceremony this May. She began working in the Salve community during her junior year as an editorial intern within the Office of Marketing and Communications. When a position opened within the department as she was finishing her last semester, she knew it was fate.

“It really felt like the stars aligned when this position became available,” Dolan said. “Once I found out I had been offered a position, I remember thinking, ‘How lucky am I?'”

As a transfer student during her sophomore year in the midst of the pandemic, Dolan faced a new environment and rigorous academics. She credits the faculty within the Department of English, Communications and Media for their patience and guidance during her time at Salve.

“I couldn’t be more thankful to the English department. Every class I have taken has been so valuable to my role now, and every professor has shown me nothing but compassion and kindness,” Dolan said. “I am eternally grateful – I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through this degree without their unwavering support.”

As a writer/content strategist at the University, Dolan finds herself constantly reflecting on the mercy mission. “I am so lucky to be able to work at an institution I have had the privilege of falling in love with for four years and whose values have shaped both my professional and personal life,” Dolan said. “Salve’s dedication to mercy will forever be something I cherish.”

Teryn O’Brien, senior writer/content strategist, Office of Marketing and Communications

Graduating with her master’s degree in holistic clinical mental health counseling, the journey for O’Brien was both challenging and rewarding as she balanced full-time work with demanding academic and practicum/internship requirements. However, she found great support within the Salve community — and she especially thanks colleagues Mary Edwards, assistant vice president of marketing and communications, and Kate Borgueta, director of content marketing.

“The highlight of my experience was two-fold. I really enjoyed all of the Salve professors within the counseling program, who were dedicated to their jobs and really tried to support us along the way to graduating,” O’Brien said. “I also made a network of connections that I’ll cherish for years to come – not only as professionals but as friends.”

Despite the rigorous demands, O’Brien found joy in the journey, culminating in the pride of walking across the graduation stage. This educational experience of obtaining a counseling degree in particular reinforced O’Brien’s belief in the importance of compassion, actively listening to others, empathy and cultivating resilience, all of which are values she plans to carry forward in her career at Salve and beyond. Mercy — willingly entering into another’s chaos — will also always be present in her mind.

“During my practicum and internship experience, I sat with people’s chaos — their pains, their mental health crises, their traumas,” she said. “That is the heart of therapy, and I’ll never forget the beautiful moments that felt particularly sacred by holding space for people who were feeling so vulnerable.”

Reflecting on her time at Salve juggling many different demands, she advises current and future students to take each day as it comes and stay present.

“You are stronger than you know, and if you truly feel that you want a degree, you will do it,” she said. She knows that this journey to getting a master’s was meant to be a part of her story, leaving an indelible mark on her approach to work and life.

Caitlyn Rubino, admissions counselor, Office of Admission

Rubino earned her Master of Business Administration. During her time as an undergraduate student at Salve, where she received a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies in 2022, Rubino engaged deeply with the Department of Business and Economics, participating in the Options Trading Club and the Entrepreneurship Club. These early connections made her transition to the MBA program smoother.

Balancing work and school was no easy feat for Rubino, who frequently traveled to recruit future Salve students. Rubino credits her professors and mentors for providing the confidence to pursue her graduate degree, despite initial doubts.

“I am thankful for the numerous relationships that I have built in my six years at Salve and would not be where I am without the support I’ve felt from my professors and colleagues,” Rubino said. “Salve is a very unique and special place, and I feel as though I am living the dream.”

With her MBA officially in hand, Rubino urges students to never give up. “Keep working towards your ultimate goal,” she said. “You will have the support of the Salve community to push you towards becoming your best self.”

Rubino’s journey at Salve is a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship and perseverance.

Other employee degree recipients

Erin Beauchemin, media services specialist in the Office of Information Technology, received a master’s degree in administration of justice and homeland security.

Athletics

Salve’s baseball team advances to NCAA DIII College World Series for first time in program history

salvetoday Posted On May 27, 2024

Salve Regina’s baseball team has advanced to the NCAA DIII College World Series for the first time in program history. The team advanced on May 25 after defeating the Salisbury University Sea Gulls 14-12 in game two of the best-of-three Super Regional.

The Seahawks got out to an early lead on Saturday. Brandon Grover ’24 led off the game with a walk and was the first Seahawk to cross the plate when Christian Homa ’26 singled and advanced to second on a wild pitch. With additional offense from Evan O’Rourke ’26 and graduate students Wil McCarthy ’23 and Hunter Yaworksi, Salve Regina led 5-2 after the first inning.

Yaworski hit a three-run homer in the second inning, bringing Homa and Matt D’Amato ’23, current graduate student, to the plate with him. Two players from Salisbury University rounded the bases to make it an 8-3 game at the end of the second. In the third inning, Homa tripled and brought in O’Rourke and Brady Smolinski ’25. By the top of the fourth inning, Salve led 12-4.

The Sea Gulls were dominant in the fifth to tie the game, making up eight runs in one inning. In the ninth, D’Amato singled up the middle and Grover added a run for the Seahawks. The next at-bat brought Tyler Cannoe ’23, current graduate student, to the plate, who reached first on a fielding error. D’Amato advanced to third and Homa made it home to put Salve Regina ahead 14-12. However, with Salisbury as the home team, the Sea Gulls had the opportunity to walk it off in the bottom of the inning. Kyle Carozza ’26 took the mound to close it out for the second day in a row. Two put outs and a fly out to Michael Breen ’24 punched the Seahawks’ ticket to the NCAA College World Series.

In addition to Carozza, four Salve pitchers contributed to the win. Starter Sean Mulligan ’24 held Salisbury to five runs. Graduate student Tommy DelVecchio ’23, Andrew Wertz ’25 and Luis Ortiz ’27 entered in relief, with Ortiz being the pitcher of record.

“I think we showed a lot of resilience bouncing back from the eighth spot in the fifth inning and had a freshman go out there and put up a few zeros and kind of settle the game down,” said Eric Cirella ’05, coach of Salve’s baseball team. “Fortunately, we got some guys on in the ninth, and Grover scored the go ahead run. Just a great team, great atmosphere.”

The Seahawks credit the team culture, work ethic and years of strong alumni that have led the way for this season’s standout success in Salve’s first year in the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference.

The NCAA Division III College World Series will take place in Eastlake, Ohio from May 31- June 7. This is the first Seahawk team in program history to win an NCAA Regional, advance to and win a Super Regional and compete with the top eight teams in the country.

Arts and Humanities / News / Science and Technology

Salve Regina awarded 22 doctoral degrees during graduate Commencement

salvetoday Posted On May 21, 2024

Salve Regina awarded 19 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and three Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees during the graduate Commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 16. These included students in the humanities, international relations and nursing programs.

Doctoral candidates in the low-residency humanities program examined the interdisciplinary question, “What does it mean to be human in an age of advanced technology?” This philosophical exploration interweaves humanities and technology, a relationship that captures society’s attention now more than ever.

The online doctoral program in international relations provides a rigorous education examining the complex questions of international affairs in the 21st century, empowering students to consider cultures around the world and value the wisdom gained through adventurous research in the field of international relations.

Doctoral candidates in the online nursing program explore evidence-based practice, quality improvement and systems thinking – preparing them for leadership roles as advanced practice nurses, managers of quality initiatives, executives in health care organizations, directors of clinical programs, and faculty responsible for clinical program delivery and teaching.

The 22 candidates and their dissertation titles were:

Yaqueline Arjona (nursing): “More Than Magic, Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis Prevention”
Thomas Beall (international relations): “Military Effectiveness, Moral Injury and the Just War Tradition in Western History”
Charles Black (humanities): “Inquiry Into the Transmutation of U.S. Special Operations Forces Social Kinds”
David Blitch (humanities): “The U.S. Special Operations Command’s Hyper-Enabled Team: Daedalus and Icarus Redux?”
Zachariah Dickens (international relations): “Departure From Neutrality: Normative Europeanization, Strategic Alignment and the Path-Dependent Case of Post-Cold War Swedish Integration Into NATO”
Scott Efflandt (humanities): “The Erosion of Civic Virtue: How Recruiting Technology Changed the All-Volunteer Force”
Eoghain Hamilton (humanities): “That Cloudy Place Where Stars Are Born: How the K’Iche’ Maya Construct Meaning From Death Rituals”
Lorenzo Kellam III (humanities): “Empowering the Underserved Classroom: Web Technology as a Conduit for STEAM and Inquiry-Based Learning”
Thomas Kerr (international relations): “State Sponsorship of Self-Determination Movements: Does Sponsorship Really Lead to Autonomy Concessions?”
Ryan Kierman (international relations): “An Analysis of the Challenges of Islamic Vaccination Resistance to Disease Eradication Programs and Recommended Mitigations”
Gerald Krieger (international relations): “China’s Foreign Policy in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Republic of Iran: Exploring China’s Renewed Diplomacy in the Region”
Ramy Makar (international relations): “Unraveling the Pseudo Statehood of Lebanon: A Critique of Consociationalism in Lebanon”
Richard Mumford (humanities): “The Incorporation of an Ethics Framework in the Development of Emerging Information Technology Systems”
Siobhan Mumford (humanities): “The Reading Wars: Ideological and Pedagogical Conflicts Ignited by the Writings of Rudolf Flesch”
April McGrath (nursing): “Evaluation of a Leadership Focused Graduate Nurse Development Program”
Daniel O’Keefe (humanities): “The Politics of Frivolity: American Neopopulism and Decadence”
Daniel Reisner (international relations): “The Russo-Ukrainian Pre-War Crisis: A Comparative Test of Rational Choice, Expected Utility, Poliheuristic and Prospect Theories to Explain the War’s Outbreak”
Karina Stiles-Cox (humanities): “Apping Back to Life: Mobile Phone Mediations in Refugee-Constructed Narratives of Forced Displacement”
Oleg Tatsiyenko (nursing): “Effect of Short-Term Home Follow-Up Visits on Readmissions of Veterans With Heart Failure”
Frances Thayer (humanities): “Ernest Hemingway: The Sustainable Effect of Creative Writing as a Therapeutic Technology Infused by Cubism”
Paul Tilton (international relations): “Sociological Propaganda Through an Ellulian Lens: Developments in Modern China”
Rachel Villari (humanities): “Transcending Dichotomies: Hilma af Klint’s Confluence of Science and Spiritualism in Atom and the Tree of Knowledge”

Event Coverage / News

2024 Salve grads urged to embrace the unexpected at 74th Commencement

salvetoday Posted On May 20, 2024

On May 19 at Salve Regina’s oceanside campus, Dr. Kelli J. Armstrong, president, conferred 530 bachelor’s degrees upon the Class of 2024. A separate ceremony was held Thursday, May 16, for recipients of graduate degrees — with 271 master’s degrees, 19 doctoral degrees and three Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees. In total, this year’s graduating class was the University’s largest ever at 823.

In presenting the Commencement address, Susan Eisenhower — renowned author, scholar and policy analyst and granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower — spoke to students about Salve’s focus on mercy leadership and service.

“As you begin your post-graduation journey, embrace the unexpected — even the assignments that may at first disappoint you,” Eisenhower said. “Learn from them. Reflect on them. Don’t shortchange yourself by living so fast and ambitiously that you miss the enduring lessons that come every day, no matter what job or assignment. You will be the better for it, as will everyone who will come to depend on you.”

Susan Eisenhower, honorary degree recipient, addresses students during Salve’s 74th Commencement in Newport. Photo by Andrea Hansen Photography.

Graduates cheer on classmates as they receive their diplomas. Photo by Andrea Hansen Photography.

To illustrate, Eisenhower shared with the graduates how two of the least-remembered aspects of the career of Dwight D. Eisenhower turned out to be instrumental to his rising to be the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces and President of the United States.

In being assigned to the train the first Tank Corp in the U.S. military and then sent to Europe to write a U.S. Army guidebook on the battlefields of France, “Ike” was disappointed that these desk jobs offered little perceived opportunity for advancement. But he poured himself into each role, and as history has shown, these two assignments came together at key moments and turned out to be assets of incalculable value.

Eisenhower’s recent book, “How Ike Led: The Principles Behind Eisenhower’s Biggest Decisions,” has earned critical acclaim nationally and internationally, highlighting the qualities of successful leadership demonstrated by her grandfather. She is the founder of The Eisenhower Group, Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based consulting company, and chairman emeritus at the Eisenhower Institute. Eisenhower has been a fellow at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics and a distinguished fellow at the Nixon Center, now called the Center for the National Interest.

In addition to Eisenhower, the University awarded honorary degrees to James T. Brett, president and CEO of The New England Council and a former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives; Christine Kavanagh, R.S.M., president of ReFocus, Inc. and member of Salve’s board of trustees; and Gloria Purvis, an author, Catholic commentator, host and activist.

In her address, Dr. Armstrong also spoke to the opportunities unexpected events present, lauding this particular class – many of whom missed high school milestone ceremonies and started college during the pandemic – for its resilience.

President Dr. Kelli Armstrong addresses graduates. Photo by Andrea Hansen Photography.

President Dr. Kelli Armstrong greets graduates as she presents diplomas. Photo by Andrea Hansen Photography.

“It’s amazing to see what you have accomplished and what you have experienced while you were here at Salve,” Dr. Armstrong said. “What I am most proud of is that throughout it all you never lost sight of those in need – our mercy commitment of service to the community was central to your life here. You found ways to serve others, particularly the most vulnerable of our society, even in the midst of a pandemic. At a time where simply showing up and persevering was an accomplishment in itself, you went far beyond expectations.”

U.S. Sen. Jack Reed and Newport City Council Vice Chair Lynn Underwood Ceglie were also on hand to offer congratulations. In his remarks, Sen. Reed said, “I am confident that all of you in the class of 2024 will find a way to make your own mark and serve a purpose higher than yourself. Today, more than ever, our world needs your combination of knowledge, talent, and most of all, mercy.”

Cailin Aline Martin, one of four valedictorians in the 2024 undergraduate class, gave her speech in front of her fellow graduates.

“Our class inspires me and gives me hope for the future and the world, because Salve afforded us endless opportunities as artists, athletes, and scholars — but instead of focusing on personal gain, our class commits to the critical concerns of mercy for earth, immigration, anti-racism, women and nonviolence,” Martin said. “Our degrees prepared us for careers, while the Salve experience transformed us into local and soon-to-be-global community leaders.”

The other valedictorians were Sofia Elizabeth Abuin, Ashley Louise Lefebvre, and Jessica Marie Roberts.

Closing out her address, Dr. Armstrong reminded the class that “we measure our success as an institution by the good that you do in the world,” encouraged them to hold onto what they have learned.

“Use your gifts of a mercy education – of critical thinking, discernment and love for your fellow humans to be the healer and the voice of reason in places of turmoil,” Dr. Armstrong said.

Bilal Omar Omari celebrates as he crosses the stage. Photo by Andrea Hansen Photography.

Featured / News

Meet the four valedictorians for the Class of 2024

salvetoday Posted On May 14, 2024

As Salve Regina prepares to celebrate the Class of 2024, four students stand out as a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. For the valedictorians of this year’s graduating class, the journey through academia has been uniquely marked by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year’s valedictorians are Jessica Roberts ’24, an American history major; Ashley Lefebvre ’24, a marketing major with minors in business administration, economics and global studies; Sofia Abuin ’24, a psychology major with minors in applied behavior analysis and special education; and Cailin Martin ’24, an environmental studies major.

Part of the “Covid Class,” these students not only navigated the complexities of higher education during unprecedented times, but also overcame the disappointment of missing out on their high school graduations in 2020. Their achievements serve as a testament to their unwavering commitment to academic excellence amidst the uncertainties of the past few years.

“Our resilience gives me hope for our futures and the wellbeing of the world — and I am grateful to celebrate this at what will be the first Commencement ceremony for many of us,” Martin said.

Sofia Abuin

Sofia Abuin ’24

Abuin is enrolled in Salve Regina’s combined bachelor’s/master’s program for behavior analysis. She has already started her graduate coursework and recently began work as a behavior technician at her practicum site.

During her time as an undergraduate student, Abuin worked closely with Thompson Academy, an after-school learning initiative through Salve’s Center for Community Engagement and Service. Through this unique opportunity, Abuin learned more about herself and discovered her interests.

“I have had the privilege of meeting and getting to know so many incredible students, coordinators and volunteers,” she said. “Learning about them and from them these last two years has taught me so much about pursuing what you love, understanding others and growing as an individual.”

As one of four valedictorians, Abuin is proud that Salve’s valedictorians are all women. “It is really remarkable to have four female valedictorians from this class,” she said.

Ashley Lefebvre

Ashley Lefebvre ’24

Lefebvre is an intern on the marketing and development team at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County and will pursue her MBA at Salve Regina this fall. As a student-athlete and captain of the field hockey team, she found this experience to be quite rewarding.

“Playing a sport at Salve had a large impact on me,” she said. “Being a part of a college team is an amazing experience, specifically to be able to come into college and have a group of people who have lived on campus and experienced it already that you can go to for help and advice is great. Then being able to be that person for the underclassmen who come in after you and reciprocate the knowledge you gained is a wonderful feeling.”

Lefebvre was surprised to learn she was named a valedictorian for the Class of 2024.

“I was surprised I was able to prove to myself that I could achieve something this big,” she said. “Freshman year was tough on everyone in a different way, and to be able to push through and still work hard to get to this point is impressive. I think all four of us should be so proud.”

Cailin Martin

Cailin Martin

Martin, a Newport native, will represent the Class of 2024 at Commencement as the valedictorian speaker. In her address, she will celebrate the innumerable and incredible successes of her graduating community.

After graduation, Martin plans to explore opportunities in conservation and environmental education.

“I plan on applying the education and work experience I gained during my time at Salve to make environmental education more accessible for people of all ages and abilities while furthering conservation efforts to save native and endangered species,” she said.

Martin was recently named an alternate for a Fulbright award. Should additional funding become available, she will conduct research at the University of Kent through the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, where she has been accepted to the master’s program in conservation biology.

She discovered and nurtured a passion for environmental conservation during her time at Salve. She thanks Dr. Jameson Chace, chair of the Department of Cultural, Environmental and Global Studies, for inspiring her to become a steward of the Earth.

“He was my biggest advocate when I transferred to Salve and he continues to uplift me post-graduation,” Martin said. “His passion for environmental education is the reason I changed my major from elementary education to environmental studies. He is one of the most intelligent, hard-working and selfless people I have had the privilege to know, and I would recommend any of his classes from tropical biology to his expertise, ornithology.”

Jessica Roberts

Jessica Roberts ’24

Roberts plans to take a gap year to study for the LSAT (Law School Admissions Test) and apply to law school for fall 2025, as well as gain relevant work experience. She said her time in the Department of History made a profound impact on her undergraduate journey and has prepared her well for law school.

“The professors truly care about getting to know their students on an individual level in order to help them flourish,” Roberts added. “I would not be where I am today without their support and guidance.”

As her time at Salve Regina comes to an end, Roberts is grateful for the community that turned into family. She recalls presenting her senior thesis as one of her fondest memories.

“I am drawn to this memory because of the people I saw when I looked into the audience — friends that I had made from different aspects of my life and involvement at Salve came to support me during my presentation,” she said. “There is something truly special and unique about the Salve community. The people here really care about one another.”

Business and Economics / News

Newport local Olivia Jones starts two businesses with help from Salve business seniors

salvetoday Posted On May 13, 2024

Olivia Jones, a Newport local who also works at Jazzman Café in O’Hare Academic Building, always had a great love for animals. When she was growing up, she had a variety of pets — ranging from snakes, hamsters and dogs. Jones’ affection for animals remains today, as she currently has four French Bulldogs as pets.

In the spring of 2023, Jones pitched an idea to breed French Bulldogs to Salve’s business Class of 2023 seniors who needed to complete a capstone business project to graduate. Through their business project, Trey Cruz ’23, George Dellaleh ’23, Ryan Gaumond ’23, Robert Gomes ’23, and Justin Klemanchuck ’23 helped Jones both begin and be successful in her business venture breeding French Bulldogs.

Olivia Jones was one of 12 locals awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the Newport City Council in honor of Black History Month at their February meeting.

Jones and business students in spring of 2023 with her French Bulldogs as they helped her with her dog breeding business.

Jones returned to the capstone class in spring 2024 to pitch another idea – to invest the money she’s made in an ice cream cart, which will cater to tourists and locals alike throughout the summer. Royal Sweets and Treats will feature packaged ice cream, two flavors of scooped ice cream, candy bags, water bottles and pup cups — tying in both of her businesses.

Growing up in Newport, Jones remembers only having one ice cream truck around in the summertime, and she thought it would be a great idea to start another business.

“When you’re walking in Newport, you can get a bottle of water or ice cream and a pup cup treat for your dog,” said Jones. “People go crazy for ice cream, and they love their dogs.”

The Class of 2024 students that helped Jones with her ice cream business this past spring semester are Jack Antone ’24, Samantha Curcio ’24, Jacob Dubois ’24, Grace Flynn ’24, Mia Pastorok ’24 and Logan Plowinske ’24.

Jones with Class of 2024 business students this spring with new ice cream cart.

Class of 2024 business students present about how they helped Jones with her ice cream cart business.

“The senior business project makes us develop a good business plan and marketing strategies — including business operations, how to hire people and finances — so we can be successful after graduating from Salve Regina when we work or start a business of our own,” said Pastorok. “It’s exciting that our specific project is something that can be used in the Newport community.”

Plowinske also added that Jones already had the basic idea of her ice cream business, and the students then enhanced her idea for their project with business strategy, marketing ideas and more. “[She] steered us in the right direction,” Plowinske recalled.

Jones is working on her end to get certificates from the Rhode Island Department of Health and more so it can be fully operating by summer. When the students presented on May 3, Jones showcased her electronic bike that will roam the streets of Newport this summer to accompany their vision of the business.

“It’s cool that a local wants to start a business, and it would be great to continue this with another Newport local and Salve students in the future,” said Plowinske.

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