Women’s Bowling Team Captures Programs First CACC Championship
For the first time in program history, the Dominican University New York women’s bowling team captured its first CACC Tournament Championship.
The Dominican University New York women’s bowling team captured its first CACC Tournament Championship on Sunday, March 22, 2026, with a 2-0 victory in the Championship Final round against the #3 seed Felician University.
For the first time in program history, Dominican takes home the CACC title as the Lady Chargers were seeded #1 for the tournament and remained in the winners bracket throughout competition. This is the third season that Dominican has had a bowling team.
With their first ever CACC Tournament Championship, the Lady Chargers earn their first automatic bid into the NCAA National Collegiate Bowling Tournament. You can read more about the game here.
March 23, 2026
University Holds Spring 2026 Career & Internship Expo
Students, alumni, and job seekers from the community came to the Career & Internship Expo to speak with prospective employers.
The Spring 2026 Career & Internship Expo was hosted by the Dominican University Career Development Center on Tuesday, March 10, in the Hennessy Center. More than 180 students, alumni and job seekers from the community attended the event.
Director of Career Development Manuel Juarez said that attendees had the opportunity to explore internships, part-time and full-time work, and graduate school. They also could network with recruiters, or explore possible career pathways in their fields of interest.
“In addition to the employer network, the Expo featured employer-led workshops from the International Institute for the Brain also known as iBrain and TD Bank,” said Juarez. “These sessions were designed to introduce job seekers to each organization, highlight employment and college internship opportunities, and provide a small-group setting with direct access to company recruiters and leadership.”
Attendees could have complimentary professional photos taken at the event to help them strengthen their LinkedIn profiles as they pursue a job.
March 16, 2026
Students Build Homes During Alternative Spring Break
Dominican University students and faculty member Margaret Mulligan in Punta Gorda, Florida where they are helping build a home with Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity.
Dominican University New York students helped to build homes with Habitat for Humanity as part of the Alternative Spring Break Program during the first week of March. Seven students and a faculty member volunteered in Punta Golda, FL with Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity and seven students and two staff members volunteered in Wilmington, NC with Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity.
“Rooted in the University’s mission and pillars, the program focuses on service, leadership, and community,” said Director of Student Engagement Rachel Shaw. “Students not only contribute to important projects, but also return with a stronger sense of purpose, personal growth, and a deeper connection to the world around them.
Dominican University has offered Alternative Spring Break for many years as a way for students to use their break from classes to make a meaningful impact. Students have helped with a variety of hands-on projects, including new construction, repairs, and home improvement to support local communities where they travel.
March 5, 2026
BLAST Scholars Explore Career Options
Dominican University students learn the science behind making ice cream at Penn State’s iconic Berkey Creamery.
Dominican University’s BLAST biology scholars traveled to Pennsylvania State University at the end of February to meet with alumna and mentor Anna Acosta ’22, who is pursuing her Ph.D. in Food Science. During the visit, the Dominican University students toured the campus and got an inside look at the research laboratories and collaborative learning spaces. They also listened to a series of flash talks as graduate students spoke about the diverse paths that led them to their advanced studies.
“This experience allowed our BLAST scholars to see how a biology degree can open doors far beyond traditional pathways. Hearing directly from Anna and the graduate students helped our scholars envision themselves in those spaces and recognize that their journey can take many different and exciting directions.,“ said AnnMarie DelliPizzi, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology, who accompanied the students on the trip along with Richard Flamio Jr., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Biology,
The students also went to the iconic Penn State Berkey Creamery, where they explored the science behind ice cream production and participated in the process, including doing some hands-on “quality testing.”
The BLAST (Biology for Low-Income Aspiring Scholars in Training) Program provides scholarships to high-achieving, low-income STEM students and aims to increase student retention and success by linking scholarships with co-curricular activities, including academic support, mentoring, and undergraduate research. The students meet with scholars from other universities or industries to be exposed to different career paths.
March 3, 2026
President Martínez Appears on Meeting of the Minds TV Show
Meeting of the Minds Co-host Eileen Guzzo interviews Dominican University President Manuel Martinez, Ph.D., on BronxNet TV.
Dominican University President Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., discussed how the University is preparing students to face a competitive job market during his guest appearance on the Meeting of the Minds TV show on BronxNet TV. Dr Martínez told Co-host Eileen Guzzo that Dominican University students graduated with both “hard” technology skills and the “soft” skills like problem solving, critical thinking, and ethical skills. He also announced a new innovation and entrepreneurial minor at Dominican University and an Innovation and Entrepreneurial Center that will be a hub for entrepreneurs to talk to students. Students will also have the opportunity to consult for small businesses for free.
“What I hope to do is establish these connections between business people in the community and our students so that what we are doing in the classroom is complemented by real world experience that our students will gain before they graduate,” said Martínez. He added that the experience would be certified with digital badges.
The Meeting of the Minds TV show originally aired on February 2, 2026, on Optimum and FiOS at 7:30 p.m., The entire 12-minute interview can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/EKxZjMNdtKE
February 3, 2026
Women’s Flag Football Coming to Dominican in the 2026-2027 Academic Year
Women’s flag football is coming to Dominican University during the 2026-2027 academic year.
Dominican University New York Department of Athletics has announced that women’s flag football will become it’s 20th sport, with its inaugural season in the spring of 2027.
“Flag football is one of the fastest growing sports in the country right now,” said Director of Athletics Joseph S. Clinton. “With it most likely going to be recognized by the NCAA Emerging Sports for Women program, it is the perfect time for us to add it to our roster of women sports.”
Women’s collegiate flag football showcases seven players on a football field that is 40 yards width by 80 yards in length. Each team moves offensively by running or passing a football, while the defense tries to “tackle” by pulling flags on the best of the ball carrier.
Flag football will hopefully be recognized by the NCAA in January 2026 as part of its Emerging Sports for Women program, which fosters opportunities for female athletes and expands competitive options for colleges and universities. More than 65 NCAA schools already sponsor the sport at the club or varsity level, and flag football is slated to debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics.
With the addition of Dominican, the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) will have seven members who sponsor the sport in 2026-2027. Caldwell University, Chestnut Hill College, the University of Bridgeport, Goldey-Beacom College, Holy Family University and Post University have previously announced the decision. The Lady Chargers will compete in the CACC with the hopes of competing the 2027 CACC Women’s Flag Football Championship Tournament.
Flag football is the fifth new sport Dominican University has introduced over the past five years.
November 4, 2025
U.S. News & World Report Recognizes Dominican University on Best Colleges List
Dominican University New York has been named a top National University for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report for 2026. Dominican University was ranked No. 27 for social mobility nationwide among National Universities. Top performers in this category are more successful than other universities at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating many students who struggle financially and are awarded Pell Grants.
Even before being publicly recognized, Dominican University has always advocated that all young people, no matter what their economic background, deserve access to a quality higher education. The University’s student/faculty ratio of 13/1 helps students have the support they need to succeed in the classroom and graduate. A top-notch education at Dominican University will open many doors for students to a successful future.
Dominican University is considered a National University, which is defined as an institution that offers a full range of undergraduate majors as well as master’s and doctoral degrees. In addition to a wide range of undergraduate programs, Dominican University offers master programs in business, nursing, education, occupational therapy, and organizational leadership. It also offers doctorate degrees in nursing and physical therapy. Dominican University is the only university located in Rockland County, New York, 17 miles from New York City.
September 30, 2025
President Martínez Elected to the RBA Board of Directors
Dr. Manuel Martínez joins the RBA Board of Directors.
Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York, has been elected to the Rockland Businesses Association (RBA) Board of Directors. The RBA is a non-profit organization that has been serving the business community of Rockland County, New York, since 1967. It has more than 500 members, from small enterprises to large corporations, and has been a strong advocate for business-friendly policies that will help businesses grow and create jobs.
“I am proud to join such a respected organization,” said Dr. Martínez. “Dominican University educates so many employees in Rockland County, and the University itself is an important employer here in the County. I look forward to finding new ways to partner with and support businesses in our community.” Former Dominican University President Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P. Ed.D. was also a member of the Board of Directors.
Kenneth Zebrowski, President, RBA, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Martínez to the Board. Dominican University has been a valued partner of the RBA for many years, fostering strong connections between the business community and academia. While we will greatly miss the contributions of Sr. O’Brien, we are confident that Dr. Martínez will elevate our collaboration to new heights.”
Michael Shilale, AIA, Board Chair, RBA, added, “We are excited to welcome Dr. Manuel Martínez to the RBA Board. His academic leadership at Dominican University and expertise in enrollment and program growth will foster stronger ties between our business and educational communities. We deeply thank Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien for her 35 years of transformative service to Dominican University and the RBA.”
The mission of the RBA is to educate, inform, and provide beneficial services to members and actively represent, promote, and support the business community of Rockland County. For more information, visit www.rocklandbusiness.org.
September 10, 2025
Dr. Joan H. Facelle Elected Chair of Dominican University Board of Trustees
Steven Sabatini has stepped down as Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Dr. Joan Facelle is now Chair, effective July 1, 2025.
Joan H. Facelle, M.D. was elected Chair of the Dominican University Board of Trustees effective July 1, 2025, replacing Steven T. Sabatini, who stepped down after serving in the position for six years.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of the Dominican University Board of Trustees and will work with the Board to support President Manuel Martínez, the administration, and faculty to continue Dominican’s proud tradition of promoting educational excellence, leadership, and service,” said Facelle. “This requires the Board to assure the University’s fiscal stability and academic responsiveness to the ever-changing higher educational environment.”
Facelle served with Sabatini as Vice Chair since 2019, and been on the Board of Trustees since 2015. Prior to that, she was the Commissioner of Health for Rockland County from 2001 until her retirement in 2013. As Commissioner, she oversaw more than 240 employees in a department of county government devoted to chronic disease prevention, operation of public health clinics, communicable disease control, administration of early intervention and pre-kindergarten programs for children with developmental disabilities, emergency preparedness, and environmental health and safety.
Facelle received her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine. After serving in the United States Air Force for three years as a general pediatrician, she practiced pediatrics in Suffern and Central Valley, N.Y. In 2003, she received a Masters of Public Health at the New York Medical College School of Public Health.
In an email to faculty and staff, Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York, congratulated Facelle on her appointment and thanked Sabatini for his remarkable service to the University. “Steve worked tirelessly to ensure the success of Dominican University and provide the best for our students,” Martinez wrote. “During his time as Chair, the institution successfully navigated the COVID pandemic, received approval to change from Dominican College to a Dominican University, completed the new O’Brien turf field, and oversaw the transition to a new president.”
Sabatini, who is the retired Chief Financial Officer of Modern Bank’s holding companies, will remain on the Board of Trustees and Chair the Audit Committee.
July 8, 2025
Students Thrive in Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Students in Dominican Universtity’s Summer Undergraduate Research Internship Program presented their research to fellow interns and mentors at the end of the program.
Dominican University New York’s Summer Undergraduate Research Internships give students the chance to delve deep into research while living on campus, and being paid a $4,000 stipend during the initial six weeks of summer.
“The summer research program gives interns the freedom to work on open-ended problems as they gain valuable research experience,” said Colleen Evans, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Project Director. “The interns are exposed to different disciplines and have the opportunity for in-depth study. By the end of the six weeks, participants grow in knowledge and confidence, while learning to work as a team.“
Twelve students from Dominican University and local community colleges participated in the program and studied either biochemistry, organic chemistry. biodiversity, or computational modeling. The program culminated with students presenting their research to fellow students and mentors. The U.S. Department of Education funds the program through the SOHLIS project.
July 2, 2025
Dominican University Named a 2025-2026 College of Distinction
Dr. Manuel Martinez speaks with students outside of the Granito Center on the campus of Dominican University New York.
Dominican University New York has been named a 2025-2026 College of Distinction, a prestigious designation awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.
This recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction’s unique evaluating criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies institutions that make a meaningful impact on students’ lives, not just ones that fight their way to the top of rankings lists.
“We are proud to be recognized by Colleges of Distinction for the past 11 years for creating an environment where students thrive and reach their full potential, because we have a supportive atmosphere, engaged faculty, and provide practical experience for students with clinicals and internships,” said Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York.
Colleges of Distinction also named Dominican University as a Catholic College of Distinction and recognized Its undergraduate business, education, and nursing programs for excellence. The University earned the Business College of Distinction, the Education College of Distinction, and the Nursing College of Distinction honors for 2025-2026. In addition, Dominican University received a new award from Colleges of Distinction which gives special recognition to colleges and universities that provide stellar support for international students. In the 2024-2025 academic year, Dominican University New York enrolled 44 international students from 24 countries.
“We’ve never believed in ranking schools,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operation Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Our goal is to celebrate institutions that help students find their place, their purpose, and their potential.”
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
June 12, 2025
Renowned Conservationist and Director of the Bronx Zoo Delivers Commencement Address
James J. Breheny delivering the Dominican University Commencement Address.
Commencement Speaker James Breheny told the Class of 2025, “This is the end of one chapter for you, but the dawn of a whole new life with infinite possibilities” Breheny is a renowned conservationist and Director of the Bronx Zoo, one of the largest and most respected zoological institutions in the world. He also serves as Executive Vice President of Zoos and Aquariums for the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), overseeing operations at all five WCS zoological parks in New York City, including the New York Aquarium. He spoke to graduates at the 71st Annual Dominican University New York Commencement at the Westchester County Center on May 18, 2025.
Breheny explained to the graduates how his journey started as a 14-year-old working at the Bronx Zoo and his passion for wildlife and animals has now taken him around the world to South America, Africa, and Asia. He has worked on reintroduction programs for species facing extinction – including American bison, the Roti Island snake-necked turtle, and the Kihansi spray toad. Breheny also collaborated with Animal Planet on the groundbreaking docuseries The Zoo, offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the work of Bronx Zoo staff.
Breheny told the Class of 2025 that the graduates should imagine what they could do. “As I look out on all of you today, I see me. You have the same opportunity for success. You can each write your own ticket,” he said. “To do that, just find something that you are passionate about, something that you love, something at which you excel. Set a goal and work towards it.”
During the Commencement ceremony, Dominican University confered upon Breheny an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of his transformative leadership in zoological management, his deep understanding of animal behavior, and his unwavering commitment to biodiversity.
Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York, also addressed the graduates and told them to define success on their own terms — not to base it on on their salary, their number of social media followers, or how quickly they are promoted. “Instead, let success be measured by the lives you touch, the injustices you challenge, how you carry yourself, and the effort and energy you put to achieve your goals,” he said. “Let success be measured in the way you listen to those who don’t have a voice. The way you lead with care and humility. The way you show up – even when there’s no applause.”
In addition to Breheny, other honorees at Commencement included:
Raymond H. Hill, M.E.M. – Philanthropist and businessman Raymond Hill is an accomplished rower who as Chairman and CEO of COREvitas, a biotechnology firm focused on real-world data autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Hill led the company to a nine-fold revenue growth over eight years. His leadership culminated in the company’s acquisition by Thermo Fisher Scientific for nearly $1 billion. He continues to shape the future of healthcare as an Operating Partner at Arsenal Capital, advising on pharmaceutical and bioscience investments. Hill received an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
Mardochee Julien-West M.S., RBT – As a student as Dominican, Mardochee Julien West excelled in the classroom as an English major and co-led Verbal Asylum, Dominican’s Poetry and open mic club where she helped cultivate a creative, inclusive space. Her professional path recently brought her to the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) where she now serves as both a Qualitative Research Analyst and Success Coach, while also pursuing a Doctor of Management degree focused on community college policy and administration. Julien-West received the 2025 Badami Outstanding Alumna Award.
Howard Goldin and Edward J. Frank – Vietnam veterans Howard Goldin and Edward Frank co- founded a nonprofit organization called S.T.E.P or Schools to End Poverty, which is sponsored by the Spring Valley Rotary. Over the past 20 years, S.T.E.P. has built three schools in Vietnam, as well as schools in Jamaica, Honduras, and Ghana. In addition, two orphanages have been constructed in Vietnam with a third orphanage planned. The orphanages house physically-challenged children and young people who were abused, abandoned, or both. Goldin and Frank were awarded the 2025 Veritas Medal.
A total of 371 students earned doctorate, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees.
