President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA Delivers Commencement Speech With Six Hopes for Class of 2026

Kerry Alys Robinson, President & CEO of Catholic Charities USA, delivered the Commencement Address at the 72nd Annual Dominican University Commencement Ceremony and received an honorary degree of Doctor of Human Letters.

The President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA,  Kerry Alys Robinson, delivered the Commencement Address to the Dominican University New York Class of 2026, offering six hopes for the graduates in six minutes. The 72nd Annual Commencement Ceremony took place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY.  During the uplifting and hopeful speech, Robinson wished the graduates memory, gratitude, inspiration, empathy, joy, and abundance. 

Among her advice to the graduates was to let their lives be informed by the example of those who inspire them. She said she recently brought leaders from the Catholic Charities network to meet with Pope Leo. “His words – in a Chicago accent no less – of encouragement, understanding and appreciation for the work we do to care for poor and vulnerable people, to restore human dignity and to provide hope were deeply meaningful to us,” she said. “But it is the example of his life that captures my imagination and makes me want to be a better person. Pope Leo lives with palpable integrity, courage, and consistency, while bearing the weight of the whole world, standing on a global stage he never sought, reminding us of our collective call to peace, mercy, love of God and love of neighbor. Our Pope is the most admired leader in the world right now. It is hard to explain, but we know goodness and authenticity when we see it.  Find your moral heroes, name the virtues they exemplify, and emulate them. “

For more than two decades, Robinson has played a leading role in strengthening the Catholic Church.  She is the founding Executive Director of Leadership Roundtable, which looks to lay executives to help the Church be more transparent and accountable, and now serves as a member of its Board of Trustees.  Robinson consistently stresses the need for Catholics and people of all faiths to help our most vulnerable brothers and sisters.  She is the author of the prize-winning book Imagining Abundance: Fundraising, Philanthropy, and A Spiritual Call to Service.  During the Commencement ceremony, Robinson was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters for her dedication to the Catholic Church and service to those who are in need.

Dominican University President Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., also addressed the graduates telling them that the world is full of possibilities and it needs them – people unwilling to settle for what is easy over what is right. “Define success on your own terms. Don’t let success be defined by how much you make, the number of followers on your social media, or how fast you get 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.”

Other honorees during Commencement, in addition to Robinson, include:

Margaret R. Kaplen – Kaplen is a nurse, philanthropist, and community leader.  An alumna of Dominican University’s nursing program and President of the Kaplen Foundation, Kaplen has made her supporting nurses and nursing education a central focus of her philanthropic mission.  She was awarded an honorary degree of Humane Letters for her unwavering generosity in advancing the nursing profession and expanding educational opportunities for countless students. 

Mary Bernadette “Molly” O’Donnell ’13 – Since graduating from Dominican University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, O’Donnell has been a model of leadership and service in the Goshen, New York, community.  She is currently the Commissioner of Jurors for Orange County, New York, and was the former mayor of the village of Goshen.  Her tireless advocacy of small businesses civic engagement, and the arts have earned her numerous honors, including being named a Woman of Distinction by the New York State Assembly.  O’Donnell was the recipient of the 2026 Badami Outstanding Alumna Award. 

Dr. Carl Procario-Foley – Procario-Foley serves as the Executive Director of the Center at Mariandale, a retreat and conference center which is a ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Hope. He guides the center in pursing the Sisters’ commitments to care for the earth, support the marginalized, and inform participants of the transformative power of hope.  Under his leadership, Mariandale has begun offering opportunities for students from colleges and universities around the country.  Procario-Foley was presented with the 2026 Veritas Medal. 

There were 349 Dominican University graduates in 2026 who earned 30 doctoral degrees, 90 master’s degrees, 228 bachelor’s degrees and 1 associates degree. 

May 18, 2026

Annual Student Leadership Awards Recognize Top Student Leaders

Pictured above are some of the student leaders who were honored at the Annual Student Leadership Awards in April.

Dominican University New York’s top student leaders were applauded at the University’s 39th Annual Student Leadership Awards on April 23, 2026, in Rosary Hall. 

Director of Student Engagement Rachel Shaw welcomed everyone to the event, “Tonight, we’re gathered to celebrate and recognize the outstanding student leaders, clubs, and contributors who have helped make this academic year so impactful,” she said. “From dynamic campus events to meaningful service and behind-the-scenes leadership, each of you has played a role in shaping a vibrant and inclusive student experience.”

Shaw thanked the students for their dedication, passion, and hard work, that make Dominican University such a meaningful place to be. 

The following is a list of the 2026 Student Leadership Award recipients: 

Club of the Year

  • SOL (Student Organization of Latinos)

Club Advisor of the Year

  • Margaret Mulligan, Rotaract Club

Living the Mission Award Recipients

Ana Rojas Memorial Award

Recognizes a senior Resident Assistant who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment, and impact within the residential community.

  • Shannon Kelly, Major: Biology

Vaughna Jarvis Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to two nursing students entering their sophomore year who demonstrate strong academic achievement and commitment to community service.

  • Auria McCallister, Major: Nursing
  • Hannah Greiner , Major: Nursing

Sr. Barbara McEneany Award for Spirited Involvement in Campus Life

Recognizes a student who demonstrates strong school spirit and active involvement in campus life.

  • Christopher “CJ” Dringus, Major: Information Technology (Cybersecurity)

Fr. Ronald Stanley Award for Service to the Community

Honors students who exemplify dedication, compassion, and leadership in service to others.

  • Amy Anil , Major: Nursing
  • Cristian Victoria, Major: Marketing

Sr. Kathleen Sullivan Award for Significant Contribution to the Academic Life of the University

Recognizes students who have made meaningful contributions to their academic program through leadership and engagement.

  • Riley Ranzino, Major: Biology
  • Samantha Meehan, Major: Social Work and Criminal Justice

Dohn Harshbarger Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Life of the University

Honors students with outstanding involvement and impact across multiple areas of campus life.

  • Aidan Mallon , Major: Business Management
  • Brianna Salmon , Major: Psychology and Criminal Justice

Hennessy Family Scholarship Award in Honor of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt

Recognizes a junior student leader who demonstrates exceptional leadership and academic achievement.

  • Madison Wood, Major: Criminal Justice and Psychology

Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien Award for Citizenship and Service to the University

Honors a student who exemplifies leadership, integrity, and commitment to the University community.

  • Eslian Henriquez Flores, Major: Social Sciences

May 11, 2026

President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA is the 2026 Commencement Speaker

Kerry Alys Robinson will be the Commencement Speaker at the 72nd Annual Dominican University Commencement ceremony.

The President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, Kerry Alys Robinson, will address the Class of 2026 during the 72nd Annual Dominican University Commencement.  Robinson is well known as a powerful voice of compassion and love and is a sought-after speaker and writer.

For more than two decades, Robinson has played a leading role in strengthening the Catholic Church.  She is the founding Executive Director of Leadership Roundtable, which looks to lay executives to help the Church be more transparent and accountable, and now serves as a member of its Board of Trustees.  Robinson consistently stresses the need for Catholics and people of all faiths to help our most vulnerable brothers and sisters. 

Robinson has been an advisor and trustee of more than 25 grant-making foundations, charitable nonprofits, and family philanthropies. She is the author of the prize-winning book,”Imagining Abundance: Fundraising, Philanthropy, and A Spiritual Call to Service.” During the Commencement ceremony, Robinson will be awarded anhonorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters for her dedication to the Catholic Church and service to those who are in need.

Other honorees include:

Margaret R. Kaplen – Kaplen is a nurse, philanthropist, and community leader.  An alumna of Dominican University’s nursing program and President of the Kaplen Foundation, Kaplen has made her supporting nurses and nursing education a central focus of her philanthropic mission.  She will be awarded an honorary degree of Humane Letters for her unwavering generosity in advancing the nursing profession and expanding educational opportunities for countless students. 

Mary Bernadette “Molly” O’Donnell ’13 – Since graduating from Dominican University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, O’Donnell has been a model of leadership and service in the Goshen, New York, community. She is currently the Commissioner of Jurors for Orange County, New York, and was the former mayor of the village of Goshen. Her tireless advocacy of small businesses civic engagement, and the arts have earned her numerous honors, including being named a Woman of Distinction by the New York State Assembly. O’Donnell is the recipient of the 2026 Badami Outstanding Alumna Award. 

Dr. Carl Procario-Foley – Procario-Foley serves as the Executive Director of the Center at Mariandale, a retreat and conference center which is a ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Hope. He guides the center in pursuing the Sisters’ commitments to care for the earth, support the marginalized, and inform participants of the transformative power of hope.  Under his leadership,  Mariandale has begun offering opportunities for students from colleges and universities around the country.  Procario-Foley will be presented with the 2026 Veritas Medal. 

Commencement will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 12 noon at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, New York. 

April 30, 2026

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

A male and female student are at the Career Expor stopping at a table to get Information from a prospective employer
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

Student volunteers and a faculty member with tools standing inside the shell of a home they are helping to build.
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

Students wearing hair nets and rubber gloves in a kitchen mixing ice cream.
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

Two male students headed into the Granito Center on campus

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