Finance majors have new opportunities now that Dominican University has established a Financial Management Association International (FMA) chapter. Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Director, Division of Business, Leadership, & Innovation, said that FMA is a great resource to help students develop skills and navigate the different areas that offer finance careers.
“There are many benefits. For instance, FMA students have access to Wall Street Prep, which provides practice case studies similar to those that investment banks require students to complete when interviewing for analyst positions. Another benefit is the many conferences and networking events organized by the FMA,” said Rudolph-Shabinsky.
The Dominican University FMA chapter will be open to anyone with an interest in pursuing a career in finance. Weekly meetings will focus on practice case studies and guest speakers. In addition, students will raise money to fund trips. Students interested in joining the chapter should contact the student president, Nicolas Arrieta at N.ArrietaGuerra1@dc.edu.
November 29, 2023
PHIT Program Offers EMS and Healthcare Professionals Free Tuition for Winter 2024
The first ten accepted applicants for for January 2024 PHIT program will have tuition waived for the first semester.
Dominican University New York has announced an exciting opportunity for EMS and healthcare professionals. The first ten accepted applicants for the January 2024 Public Health Informatics & Technology (PHIT) program will have tuition waived for the first semester.
This offer aims to alleviate financial burdens and encourage more individuals to pursue additional education and training. Those who earn a Certificate in the Public Health Informatics & Technology program (PHIT) at Dominican will receive the education, support, and internship opportunities necessary to excel in their careers.
The goal of the Health Informatics curriculum is to strengthen the ability of health care professionals to utilize data science to better react to health care emergencies, better collect and analyze public health records, leverage the opportunities provided by today’s technology, and elevate the diversity in the health care workforce, The program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of EMS and healthcare professionals, empowering them to make a difference in the field.
Dominican University is one of only ten colleges nationwide, and the only institution in the tri-state, to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology to develop a PHIT program. The program is supported by consortium members including Bon Secours Charity Health System, CorEvitas, Cornerstone Family Healthcare, EmpiRx Health, Mount Sinai Health System, and the New York State Department of Health.
The PHIT program is led by a team of faculty members who bring their real-world expertise to the classroom ensuring that students receive practical, up-to-date training that is directly applicable to their work in the field. Recognizing the demanding schedules of EMS and healthcare professionals, the program offers flexible learning options, including online classes and evening courses, allowing students to balance their education with their career responsibilities.
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply for the January 2024 class as soon as possible to take advantage of this opportunity. For application details and program information, please click here. Prospective students interested in learning more about the PHIT program should email Assistant Professor Carrie Boericke at carrie.boericke@duny.edu.
This project is supported by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number 90PH0004/01 The Public Health Informatics & Technology Workforce Development Program for grant amount $2.2 million. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by ONC, HHS or the U.S. Government.
November 16, 2023
President Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien Announces Retirement
President Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien has announced her retirement after 35 years of service.
Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D., President, Dominican University New York, announced on Monday, October 2, 2023, that she will be retiring. “It has been a distinct privilege to serve as the president of this remarkable institution for 35 years,” she said, noting that she has not set a definite date for her departure to give the Board of Trustees adequate time to search for a new president and to ensure that there is a smooth transition to new leadership.
In an email to students, faculty, and staff, Sr. Mary Eileen wrote, “Serving as president of Dominican University has never been a job for me; it has been a mission and a calling. I will forever hold the University, its students, faculty, staff, and alumni in my heart.”
Steven Sabatini, Chair of the Dominican University Board of Trustees, thanked Sr. Mary Eileen for her unparalleled service to the University, “Her leadership and vision transformed what was once a small college into a respected university. The campus has greatly expanded with new, modern buildings and academic programs, including those offering master’s and doctorate degrees,” he said. “I am proud to have worked with her for the last 21 years, including the past three as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Sister Mary Eileen will be missed, and we wish her only the best as she embarks on a new phase of her life.” Sabatini said that the Board will be establishing a committee to begin the search for a new president.
Sr. Mary Eileen said the fact that the institution attained prestigious university status, and constructed a long-awaited turf field and track for student athletes factored into her decision. “Having recently achieved both these long-term goals, I feel the time is right for me to announce my impending retirement,” she said. The turf field was officially named the O’Brien Field on Saturday, September 30, 2023, in recognition of Sr. Mary Eileen’s years of visionary leadership and service.
Sister Mary Eileen is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt and has dedicated herself to education, congregational excellence, and leadership for more than 50 years. She began her educational career in the Bronx, where she was raised. She taught mathematics at St. Benedict’s School and St. Pius High School before becoming the principal of St. Luke’s School in the South Bronx. In 1977, she was called upon to assist her mentor and former teacher, Sr. Natalie Casey, who was President of what was then Dominican College, Sr. Mary Eileen’s alma mater. Sr. Mary Eileen later served as Acting College President for one year, was elected to serve as College President in 1979, and remained in that position until 1987 when she left to lead the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt for six years. In 1997, she was chosen to serve again as President of the College and has remained in the position ever since. Dominican College was renamed Dominican University New York in May 2022, when the NYS Board of Regents approved the new University status, under Sr. Mary Eileen’s leadership.
Sr. Mary Eileen earned a doctorate degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Fordham University, a master’s degree in Adult and Higher Education from Teachers College of Columbia University, and a master’s degree in Mathematics from Manhattan College. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dominican College. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Journal News/Junior Achievement Business Person of the Year, Rockland Employment Network Lifetime Achievement Award, Helen Hayes MacArthur Award, Annual Award from Rockland Economic Development Corporation (REDC), Women Pioneers in Education Award, Dominican University Hall of Fame, and Our Lady of the Rosary Leadership Award from the New York Archdiocese.
In addition to her dedication to Dominican University and the Sisters of Saint Dominic, Sr. Mary Eileen is active in the local, regional, and national organizations. Some of her involvements include the Helen Hayes Advisory Board, Caldwell University Board of Trustees, Rockland Business Association Board of Directors, Council of Independent Colleges Board, The Commission of Independent Colleges and Universities Board, Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference President’s Council, Dominican Higher Education Council, and Lower Hudson Valley Catholic Colleges and Universities Consortium. She also participates in the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.
Sr. Mary Eileen is one of five individuals to serve as President of Dominican College/University, and the longest-serving President in its 70-year history. Dominican University New York currently serves approximately 1,500 students offering undergraduate programs, master’s programs in teacher education, occupational therapy, nursing, business, and organizational leadership and communication, as well as doctoral programs in physical therapy and nursing.
October 2, 2023
New O’Brien Field Dedicated
Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien and her family at the dedication of the O’Brien Field.
Dominican University dedicated its new turf field and track on September 30, 2023, in honor of long-time University President, Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D. The modern, NCAA regulation-size turf field, with a six-lane track surrounding the field, replaces the old grass field near Forkel Hall. The project also included the installation of permanent bleachers, a press box, and a new scoreboard.
The O’Brien Field was named in recognition of Sr. Mary Eileen’s visionary leadership and service. She served as president from 1978-1987 and again from 1997 to the present day. Under her leadership, the campus expanded and modernized, undergraduate academic programs broadened, and graduate programs in education, business, nursing, OT and PT were established. Sr. Mary Eileen also led the effort for the institution to be upgraded to university status in May 2022.
“Sr. Mary Eileen is not only an amazing leader, but an amazing person. She has been involved and donated her time to many local organizations,” said Steven Sabatini, Chair of the Board of Trustees, at the O’Brien Field Dedication Ceremony. “Given her many years of dedication and service to Dominican University, it is only fitting that this field would bear her name.”
The University’s men’s and women’s soccer and lacrosse teams, as well as men’s and women’s cross-country and track and field teams now have a modern track and field on campus and no longer have to frequently travel off campus as they often did when the field was in disrepair. With the increase in games and meets on campus, it is also easier for student spectators to attend events and support Charger athletes.
October 1, 2023
Ten Students Chosen to Participate in National Data Mine Network
Pictured above are eight of the ten students chosen to participate in the National Data Mine Network with Mathematics and Physics Instructor Jovan Zigic.
Ten Dominican University students have been chosen to participate in the competitive National Data Mine Network – out of just 122 awards across the U.S. The Purdue University Program, which is funded by the National Science Foundation, gives selected students a $5,000 stipend and real-world data science experience working with corporations. The goal is to provide students at minority-serving institutions access to cutting-edge courses, research opportunities, and industry partnerships.
“The National Data Mine Network allows students at Dominican to become exposed to the intense research conducted at Purdue University, all while continuing to receive personal mentoring from the tight-knit relationships they’ve established with Dominican faculty,” said Jovan Zigic, Instructor of Mathematics and Physics.
This year, Dominican University students have been assigned to work with corporate partners in diverse industries such as aerospace, cosmetics, chemical manufacturing, and healthcare. Data Science is an emerging interdisciplinary STEM field which leverages access to large amounts of data toward creating innovative business or scientific solutions.
September 30, 2023
Redesigned IT Major Gets State Approval
Under the redesigned IT major at Dominican University, students will be able to take more specialized courses.
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) has approved a redesigned information technology (IT) major at Dominican University that will allow students to take more specialized technology courses. NYSED also approved a new cybersecurity concentration within the IT major.
Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Director of the Division of Business, Innovation, and Leadership, said that the revamped IT major is a stand-alone program, “We previously offered an IT major as part of our business program, which required a 9-course business core. Students in the new program will still be able to take business courses, but their requirements will be focused on courses in information technology, allowing students to delve much deeper into the field and into the four concentrations we offer: infrastructure, application development, cybersecurity, and public health informatics & technology “
The cybersecurity concentration will be offered through the Lower Cost Model Consortium (LCMC), which is a coalition of small and mid-sized colleges and universities that have committed to making college more accessible. Under the program, students take almost all classes on campus and then take three to five classes online through the LCMC for a concentration in specialized, high demand fields. Dominican University also offers concentrations in digital marketing, public health, and neuroscience through the LCMC.
September 20, 2023
Founders Week Keynote Address Inspires Students
Sr. Arlene Flaherty delivered the keynote address during the 2023 celebration of Founders Week at Dominican University.
Students attending the 2023 Founders Week kickoff event were inspired by the story of a 20th century Italian university student who has reached the first stage of sainthood. Alumna Sr. Arlene Flaherty, O.P., D.Min., delivered the keynote address on September 19, 2023, in the Lawrence Room of Rosary Hall. She spoke to students about the Dominican tradition and the short life of Giorgio Frassati, a Dominican lay person who cared for the poor and was committed to changing unjust social and political systems.
Sr. Arlene told students that questions such as “Why am I here?” and “What do I want to do with my life?” are critical questions that lead to choosing a vocation. She encouraged the students to think about how they will use their gifts. “Our country is at a crossroads. What will you bring to the work of making America a place of welcome, safety, and a country where all can thrive? To what effort can you add your support — healthcare, earth’s sustainability, children’s rights, teaching, care for the vulnerable, justice work, research? Where are you called to live and work in harmony with your nature?” she asked.
Sr. Arlene has a long, distinguished career working to further education, justice, and peace around the world. Her work has taken her to Haiti, Jamaica, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Ecuador. In Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria she documented the impact of war on children and refugees. She represented the Dominican Family at the United Nation’s Human Rights Commission in Geneva, Switzerland, composing and presenting an oral argument that the war in Iraq and the implementation of crippling sanctions on Iraq constituted a violation of article 13 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
September 19, 2023
Rockland’s Five Town Supervisors Speak to Business Leaders at University
Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny, Haverstraw Supervisor Howard Phillips, and Stony Point Supervisor James Monaghan.
Business executives heard from Rockland’s five town leaders at the second annual Town Supervisor Forum, on Wednesday, September 23, 2023. The event was organized by the Palisades Institute of Dominican University.
Chair of the Palisades Institute, and former County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef, introduced the forum by pointing out that the Supervisors are in effect CEO’s of the “down home, real government” that people rely on. “You should know, if you don’t, that town government is where the rubber meets the road. It is the government that is perhaps the most important to our people – our citizens. It deals with building. It deals with zoning, It deals with police. It deals with parks and recreation. It deals with highways,” he said.
The participants in the forum included Clarkstown Town Supervisor George Hoehmann, Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips, Orangetown Town Supervisor Teresa Kenny, Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht, and Stony Point Town Supervisor James Monaghan. Among the topics discussed were the need for affordable housing, the fentanyl crisis, rising police costs, and the loss of civility in politics.
September 13, 2023
DU, M&T Bank, and BRIDGES Announce Initiative to Encourage Entrepreneurship
The “Unlocking the Small Business Potential” seminar will be held at Dominican University on September 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Dominican University New York, M&T Bank, and BRIDGES, all leading advocates for economic development and entrepreneurship, have announced a comprehensive three-part initiative aimed at unlocking the entrepreneurial potential in the Lower Hudson Valley. This initiative seeks to empower aspiring entrepreneurs and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
Part One: “Unlocking Small Business Potential” Seminar
Kicking off the initiative is a dynamic and informative half-day seminar “Unlocking Small Business Potential.” This seminar will be held at Dominican University on Friday, September 8, and will equip individuals with the essential knowledge, skills, and strategies to launch and grow a successful small business. Participants will learn from industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and experienced business mentors who will share invaluable insights, practical advice, and real-world examples. Topics will include business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and navigating regulatory challenges. Individuals who have a disability, as well as minority, veteran, and formerly-incarcerated business owners, and those interested in starting a business are strongly encouraged to register for this informative session, which will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Part Two: Small Business Incubator and Case Competition
Participants in the “Unlocking Small Business Potential” seminar will have the opportunity to enroll in a six-week accelerated incubator and competition. This intensive program will provide hands-on guidance and mentorship, enabling entrepreneurs to refine their business concepts, develop robust business plans, and gain a deeper understanding of market dynamics. Throughout the incubator, participants will engage in a case competition, showcasing their innovative solutions to a panel of judges consisting of industry experts and community-based investors. The competition will not only provide invaluable feedback, but also offer participants the opportunity to secure seed funding and other essential resources to launch their ventures. The course will be held on Wednesday evenings (6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.) on Dominican University’s campus. Enrollment will begin in August and is limited to 40 participants, all of whom will earn credit toward an undergraduate or graduate degree. Further details are available from DUNY faculty member Matt Schiering, at matt.schiering@duny.edu.
Part Three: Enrollment in Dominican University’s MBA or MSOLC programs.
Recognizing the importance of continuous education and professional development, the initiative offers participants the chance to enroll in Dominican University’s prestigious AACSB accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or M.S. in Organizational Leadership & Communication (MSOLC) programs. These programs equip students with the advanced business knowledge, leadership skills, and global perspectives required to excel in today’s complex business environment. Through this partnership, aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from a comprehensive academic foundation while accessing valuable networking opportunities and mentorship from industry leaders.
“We believe that investing in the next generation of business leaders right here in our community is a smart business decision; one that supports our mantra of ‘Doing Business Right,’” said Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Director of Dominican University’s Division of Business.
M&T Bank, Dominican University, and BRIDGES are committed to supporting and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Lower Hudson Valley. By providing access to educational resources, practical training, and real-world opportunities, they aim to empower individuals and create a robust network of successful entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and innovation across the region.
“M&T is committed to investing in the growth and development of emerging leaders in our community and we are proud to be able to support this program,” said Tyre Robinson, M&T Bank’s Tarrytown Regional President.
Carlos Martinez, CEO of BRIDGES, said, “We are thrilled to partner with M&T and Dominican University to bring a strong small business development curriculum to a broad group of aspiring entrepreneurs, and specifically to those representing populations that would benefit most from mentorship and compassionate counsel.” BRIDGES provides resources for people with a variety of disabilities and works to overcome barriers, stigma, indifference, and the quiet prejudice of low expectations.
Registration for the “Unlocking Small Business Potential” seminar is open and will be capped at 100 participants. Interested individuals can visit www.BridgesRC.org to secure a spot. Registration is $98.00, with waivers for those with economic hardships and/or disabilities handled upon request. For more information about enrolling in Dominican University’s MBA program, please visit https://www.duny.edu/mba/.
July 18, 2023
Professor Mike Kelly Receives Prestigious Golden Apple Award for 50+ Years of Outstanding Service to Education
The Mid-Hudson School Study Council has bestowed upon Professor Mike Kelly the esteemed Golden Apple Award, recognizing his remarkable dedication and unparalleled contributions to the field of education.
With over five decades of unwavering commitment, Dr. Kelly has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership and expertise in shaping the landscape of education. As the Director of Graduate Programs in Education at Dominican University, Dr. Kelly has played a pivotal role in elevating the institution’s education program to new heights. His knowledge, innovative methodologies, and passion have inspired countless educators and transformed the lives of students across the region.
Dr. Kelly’s contributions to the field have had a profound impact on the educational landscape, ensuring the provision of top-notch education for countless students. His guidance has shaped the minds and hearts of educators, empowering them to make a lasting difference in the lives of their students.
About the M.S. in Education Programs:
Dominican University’s M.S. in Education programs have been designed in consultation with educators and they are delivered by expert faculty who actively practice in the field. The curriculum is crafted to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the education profession.
To accommodate the busy schedules of working adults, classes are scheduled every other week on Saturdays and Sundays, allowing for convenient participation. The program offers flexibility, enabling students to complete their coursework within a minimum of 18 months or extend it up to three years. All programs adhere to the University’s quarter system, culminating in the Master of Science degree (M.S. in Ed.) and eligibility for New York State Certification.
For more information about our M.S. in Education programs and how to apply, please click here
June 20, 2023
Alum Donates $1 Million to Dominican University
The Granito Center on the Dominican University New York campus.
Dominican University New York has received a $1 million donation from an alum, who wishes to remain anonymous.
“We are indeed grateful for this donor, and all of our benefactors,” said Joseph Valenti, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Thanks to the generosity of our alumni and friends, we are able to offer financial aid packages and scholarships that make an education at Dominican University affordable, even to first-generation college students who make up more than 30 percent of our student body”
All first-time, full-time freshman receive some form of financial aid at Dominican University. In addition, students leave Dominican with 27 percent less debt than the national average.
June 14, 2023
Women’s Lacrosse Captures First CACC Tournament Championship
The Dominican University New York women’s lacrosse team won the first CACC Tournament Championship in Program history.
The Dominican University New York women’s lacrosse team captured its first CACC Tournament Championship on May 7, 2023, with a double overtime victory over the Rams of Thomas Jefferson University 12-11.
Head Coach Rob Grella said, “Being able to win a CACC Championship is an unforgettable experience. This team has worked relentlessly over the past two years to become a top program. It’s a pleasure to coach such a humble and hardworking group of girls and I could not be more proud of them.”
Dominican got off to a strong start with a 5-1 lead after the first quarter. The Rams fought their way back in the second quarter by scoring three goals. The Rams used a strong third quarter to jump out in front over Dominican by scoring six of the first seven goals of the second half. Dominican ended the run with two late goals in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 10-8. Madelyn Grella and Grace DeStasio scored the first two goals for the quarter to tie the game at 10-10. With 8:44 remaining, the Rams got a one goal advantage. Dominican answered with the tying goal and the game entered overtime. In the second OT Period, Jenna Rigo made a pass to Grella who scored the game-winning goal to secure the title. DeStasio was named the Most Valuable Player in the tournament.
The Lady Chargers completed the season 17-2 overall.
