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 Breheny is graduation regalia delivering commencement address behind podium
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.

May 23, 2025

Dominican University Named an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classifications

Dominican University New York has been designated as an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classifications, recognizing the University as a model of a campus that fosters student success. Opportunity Colleges and Universities are higher access, higher earnings institutions that prioritize and foster student success before, during, and after enrollment. Dominican University New York is the only institution of higher education in Rockland County to earn this designation. 

The Opportunity Colleges and Universities designation is part of a newly developed Student Access and Earnings Classification published this month by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education. This new classification examines the extent to which institutions foster opportunities for student success by measuring whether institutions are enrolling students reflective of the communities they serve and how the earnings of those students compare to peers in their area. In 2025, 479 institutions have been identified as Opportunity Colleges and Universities, which is about 16% of all U.S. colleges and universities that are in the Student Access and Earnings Classification.

“We are delighted to be identified as an Opportunity College and University,” said Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York. “The University has always supported the belief that all young people should have access to higher education.  Once students are on campus, we support them in the classroom and set them up for success in their future careers. This new designation is recognition of our efforts to prioritize and foster student success and I’m grateful to all of the administrators, faculty, and staff for their part in helping us earn this designation.”    

The methodology for the new Student Access and Earnings Classification uses multidimensional groupings of the 2025 Institutional Classification to evaluate student access and earnings between similar colleges and universities. 

More information about 2025 Student Earnings and Access Classifications, including the methodology, can be found here. 

About the Carnegie Classification

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education is the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education. The Carnegie Commission on Higher Education developed the classification in 1973 to support its program of research and policy analysis, and it was updated in 1976, 1987, 1994, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2018, 2021, and 2025 to reflect changes among colleges and universities. It will next be updated in 2028, with subsequent updates every three years.

About the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

The mission of the Carnegie Foundation is to catalyze transformational change in education so that every student has the opportunity to live a healthy, dignified, and fulfilling life. Enacted by an act of Congress in 1906, the Foundation has a rich history of driving transformational change in the education sector, including  the establishment of TIAA-CREF and the creation of the Education Testing Service, the GRE, Pell Grants, and the Carnegie Classifications for Higher Education.

About the American Council on Education

ACE unites and leads higher education institutions toward a shared vision for the future. With more than 1,600 member colleges, universities, and associations, ACE designs solutions for today’s challenges and advances public policy to support a diverse and dynamic higher education sector. Learn more at www.acenet.edu or follow ACE on X (formerly Twitter) @ACEducation and LinkedIn american-council-on-education.

April 24, 2025

Dominican University Sets New Records for Admissions Applications and Acceptances

Dr. Manuel Martinez, President of Dominican University New York, speaks with current students on campus.

Dominican University has set new records for both the number of admissions applications received, and the number of acceptance offers extended for the upcoming academic year. Prospective students submitted 74.65% more applications this year as compared to 2021 when applications had dropped because of the COVID pandemic. In addition, 73.98% more student applications were accepted this year, compared to four years ago.

“This surge in applications reflects the growing recognition of Dominican University as a top choice for higher education,” said Nick Marter, Executive Director of Admissions. “We love that more students are saying yes to DUNY.”

The heightened demand underscores Dominican University’s reputation for academic excellence, innovative programs, and a student-centered approach. As more students seek a dynamic and supportive learning environment, Dominican University continues to stand out as a leader in preparing graduates for success. 

March 25, 2025

Dominican University Joins 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program

Alumna Leslie Rodriguez ’05 and Sabrina Vargas-Greco of 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program spoke with Dominican University students on campus about the benefits of belonging to the program.

Dominican University New York has joined 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program’s professional membership to give students access to scholarships, conferences, and networking opportunities. The University is also planning to collaborate with 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program on future projects. 

Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York, said, “This new membership will benefit our students by giving them additional tools and guidance to thrive academically and in their professional careers. Thank you to 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program for taking such an interest in our students and being so eager to collaborate on new initiatives.”

“We are delighted to welcome Dominican University New York, Rockland County’s only university, into our program” said Diana López-Infante, President, 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program. “The University has been designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to guiding its students toward excellence in future endeavors. We will work with the University to support students as they strive toward success in their careers.” 

In 1995, 100 Hispanic Women National, Inc. (100HW) was founded by 14 Latina leaders who envisioned an organization dedicated to guiding Latinas toward excellence in leadership by fostering educational enrichment and creating opportunities to promote personal and professional advancement. Today, 100HW is a non-profit, non-partisan women’s organization with members from a wide range of industries and interests. The organization strives to eliminate obstacles and encourages Latinas to be innovative, maximize their potential, create strategic partnerships, promote inclusion, and improve their overall status in the community. The Rockland Program partners with community organizations, local school districts, and colleges to help Latinas advance in their studies and build a brighter future. 

“This partnership opens up new possibilities for Dominican University students,” said Sabrina Vargas-Greco, Secretary, 100 Hispanic Women Rockland Program and Rockland County’s Commissioner of Jurors. “We look forward to working together to establish joint workshops and networking opportunities geared toward mentoring Latina students in their career paths.” 

For more information on 100 Hispanic Women, visit www.hispanicwomen.org

February 11, 2025

U.S. News & World Report Ranks Dominican University New York a Top National University for Social Mobility

Dominican University New York has been recognized as a 2025 top National University for Social Mobility.

Dominican University New York has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a top National University for Social Mobility for 2025. Ever since the new category was introduced in 2019, Dominican University has been recognized by U.S. News for improving the outcome of graduating college students.

In the National Universities category, Dominican University was ranked No. 51 for social mobility. It is among the top three private New York universities in the National Universities category recognized for social mobility.  Top performers in this category are more successful than other universities at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of disadvantaged students awarded Pell Grants.

“Dominican University New York is so proud to be recognized, once again, for our efforts to promote social mobility among our student population,” said Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York. “We believe that all young people, no matter what their economic background, deserve access to higher education. We also make sure that our 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 our 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 & communication.  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.  

Over the past several years, Dominican University has been awarded several large federal grants to enhance STEM programs, launch a new Public Health Informatics and Technology Program, upgrade technology on campus, and fund a new occupational therapy initiative.

September 24, 2024

Women’s Field Hockey is Coming to Dominican University

Beginning in fall 2025, Dominican University will have a women’s field hockey team. This will be the school’s 19th sports team.

Dominican University will have a women’s field hockey team, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. With the addition of field hockey, the University will offer 19 NCAA-sponsored sports, including 11 women’s teams and eight men’s teams. 

Field hockey has been an NCAA fall sport since 1981.  There are 37 NCAA Division II institutions with field hockey teams. “We are excited to bring a new sport to DU,” said Dominican University New York Director of Athletics, Joseph Clinton. “Field hockey continues to grow and we feel we can put a competitive team on the field.”

Dominican University will be seeking a conference affiliation in which to compete and a national search for a coach will begin shortly.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of Division II field hockey to Dominican University New York’s athletic offerings in 2025,” said Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students, John Burke.  “This expansion reflects our commitment to providing diverse opportunities for student-athletes to excel both academically and athletically. Field hockey will not only enhance our vibrant campus life, but also attract talented students who are eager to compete at the highest level while pursuing their education in an inclusive and supportive environment.”

Field hockey will be the fourth sport that Dominican University has added in the last three years.  In 2023-24 school year, the Athletics Department added a women’s bowling team, men’s volleyball team, and women’s rowing team. 

September 19, 2024

Dominican University Business Programs Receive Reaccreditation from IACBE

Business students listening to presentation at Dominican University New York.

Dominican University New York’s business programs have received full, 7-year reaccreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).  The IACBE said that the Division of Business, Innovation, and Leadership has demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in business education.  

Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Director of the Division of Business, Innovation, and Leadership, said, “As part of our accreditation by the IACBE, we go through a rigorous reaccreditation process every seven years.  We not only provide significant assessment data on all our business programs, but also host a team from the IACBE that reviews our programs, speaks to professors, students, administrators, and businesses we partner with in the community to generate a comprehensive view of our offerings and how well we prepare students for careers in business.”

The finance, marketing, business management, and MBA programs all received reaccreditation.  Rudolph-Shabinsky said that the Division also received accolades for the strength of its strategic plan. 

August 30, 2024

Dominican University Awarded Federal Grant for New OT Initiative

The new BCSC Initiative aims to cultivate a diverse and multilingual Occupational Therapy workforce in New York State.

Dominican University New York has been awarded a three-year, $432,714 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education to fund a new Occupational Therapy Initiative. The Building Capacities and Strengthening Communities (BCSC) Initiative aims to cultivate a diverse and multilingual workforce in New York State to support children and families in underserved areas. 

This new initiative has a number of objectives including:

  • Enhancing resources and experiential learning in the OT program.
  • Increasing and strengthening community partnerships.
  • Preparing students to be culturally-diverse learners and future practitioners.
  • Creating a mobile, Pro Bono Occupational Therapy Clinic to bring services to underserved communities.

OT Program Director and Allied Health Division Director Pamela Story, OTD, said, “This new federally-funded initiative presents an unparalleled opportunity to attract a greater number of culturally diverse students to the profession of Occupational Therapy. It will significantly enhance their classroom and clinical preparation, equipping them with the latest and best evidence-based knowledge and skills to provide highly competent services for children and families in underserved areas throughout New York State and the Greater NYC region.”

This initiative was developed and will be administered by a project leadership team of Dominican University faculty, which includes: Project Director Nadia Rust, OTD; Project Co-Director Catherine Cavaliere, Ph.D.; Project Oversight Advisor Pamela Story, OTD; Community Partner Outreach Coordinator Dr. Mary Walsh Roche, DMH; and Pre-OT Admissions Coordinator Dr. Caitlin Sorrentino, OTD.  The project is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education. 

August 7, 2024