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

Dominican University New York Names Vice President for Mission and Ministry

New position created as University prepares to welcome first lay president

Sr. Jennifer Schaaf will fill the new position of VP for mission and ministry. (Photo courtesy of Nina Filippone at Saint Thomas More, Yale University.)

Dominican University New York today announced that Sr. Jennifer Schaaf, O.P., D.Min., will be filling the newly-created position of vice president for mission and ministry as of September 1, 2024.  Sr. Schaaf is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt and has been working for the past 11 years as assistant chaplain at Saint Thomas More, the Catholic Chapel and Center at Yale University in New Haven, CT.

“After many years in campus ministry at Yale, and previously at Ohio Dominican University, I am excited to take on this role, which brings together my past experience of ministry, my research focus on charism formation in higher education, and my passion for the future of Dominican life,” said Sr. Schaaf. “I know that I am following in the footsteps of many beloved sisters who have served at Dominican University throughout the years and shaped it into the institution it is now – one that truly cares about the students and their success.”

A new professional field of mission integration has emerged in Catholic higher education in response to the growing number of universities founded by religious communities that now have lay leadership.  Earlier this month, Dominican University announced that Dr. Manuel Martínez from Mercy College of Ohio will become its first lay president as of July 15, 2024.  Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D., retired as of January 1, 2024, after serving a total of 35 years as president, and Sr. Kathleen Sullivan, O.P. will be retiring at the end of the month, after serving more than 55 years in a number of positions including chancellor and president.

Sr. Mary Hughes, O.P., Ed.D., Interim President of Dominican University, said she was delighted to welcome Sr. Schaaf to Dominican University. “Sr. Jenn represents a new younger generation, and the future of the Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt.  Dominican University is prepared to carry on its proud tradition, while changing with the times to provide the best education for its students.“

Sr. Schaaf said, “In my new role as V.P. for mission and ministry, I will help Dominican University transition from the long-standing leadership of Sr. Mary Eileen and Sr. Kathleen into a new era through working with students, faculty, staff, and administrators to continue the four pillars of Dominican life – prayer, study, community, and service – and the specific charism of the Blauvelt Dominican’s care and compassion for marginalized communities and individuals.” 

Sr. Schaaf received a Doctor of Ministry from Seattle University. She also has a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry from the University of Portland.  Prior to becoming a sister, Sr. Schaaf taught music at a Catholic elementary school and then was campus minister at Ohio Dominican University. As she was beginning to discern whether to enter religious life, Sr. Schaaf worked as director of communications for the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Blauvelt, NY, for four years.  She ultimately decided to join the order and was a canonical novice at the Collaborative Dominican Novitiate in Saint Louis, MO.  Since 2013, Sr. Schaaf has worked as assistant chaplain at Saint Thomas More Chapel at Yale University

June 25, 2024

Dominican University New York Names New President

Dr. Manuel Martínez from Mercy College of Ohio Will Become the First Lay President of Dominican University New York

Dominican University New York has named Dr. Manuel Martínez, Ph.D., as the new president of the University, effective July 15, 2024.  Martínez replaces Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D., who retired as of January 1, 2024, after serving two separate terms as president, for a total of 35 years.

After Sr. Mary Eileen announced her retirement, the Dominican University Board of Trustees launched a nationwide search for a new president, with the help of the professional search firm AGB Search, and tapped Sr. Mary Hughes, O.P., Ed.D., to serve as interim president, while a permanent replacement was chosen. 

“We are grateful that talented candidates from all over the country applied for the position and were interested in guiding Dominican University into the future,” said Steven Sabatini, Chair, Dominican University New York Board of Trustees. “Dr. Martínez rose to the top of the candidates because of his impressive academic and administrative experience in higher education and his knowledge of and commitment to a Dominican education.”

Martínez will be the first layperson to lead the University in its 72-year history. Since Dominican University New York was founded in 1952 as Dominican College, there have been five presidents who were all members of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt. 

Martínez is the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Dean of Faculty at Mercy College of Ohio, a Catholic College which specializes in healthcare professions. Prior to arriving at Mercy College of Ohio in 2022, he spent 18 years at Ohio Dominican University in Columbus, Ohio, working his way up from an Instructor of Spanish to Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Dean of Undergraduate Studies, and finally Vice President for Academic Affairs. He has extensive experience working on programs aimed at increasing enrollment. Martínez also understands the importance of balancing the benefits of a liberal arts education with workforce development. 

“I am so honored and grateful to be chosen as the next president of Dominican University New York,” said Martínez. “When I spent time on campus recently, it was very clear to me that Dominican University is a very special, welcoming community that is centered on student outcomes. I have always believed that institutions of higher education must be student-centered to be successful.  For me, that means educating the whole person and providing both the professional, technical preparation and the soft skills that go hand in hand.” 

Martínez holds a number of advanced academic degrees including: a Ph.D. in Spanish and Latin American Literature from the University of Cincinnati; a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from Ohio Dominican University; a Master of Arts in Spanish and Latin American Literature from the University of Cincinnati; and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing from the University of Miami. 

“I am delighted that Dr. Martínez has accepted the position of president and I feel confident leaving Dominican University in his hands.” said Sr. Hughes.  “Dr. Martínez is a terrific fit for this special community, and I believe the University will flourish under his leadership. He has extensive academic, enrollment, and financial experience, and is a genuine, thoughtful individual, as demonstrated during his meetings on campus. Since Dominican University is a Hispanic Serving Institution, it is also wonderful that Dr. Martínez understands the culture of many of our students and can communicate with their families in their native language.”  Sr. Hughes said she will remain in her role as interim president until July 15, and expects to work with him to ensure a seamless transition.

“The entire Dominican University community is so appreciative of Sr. Hughes for providing stability to the University during this time of transition,” said Sabatini. “Sr. Hughes began as interim president in the middle of the school year, working long hours and making critical decisions. She quickly endeared herself to everyone on campus, including students, faculty, staff, administrators, and board members.  We are forever indebted to her and consider her part of the Dominican University family.”

Dominican University conducted an extensive search for a new president, widely advertising and inviting interested candidates to apply, after establishing a Presidential Search and Screening Committee and hiring AGB Search. Many candidates were interviewed by the Search and Screening Committee and three finalists spent a full day on campus, meeting with and answering questions from individuals throughout the Dominican University community who were then able to provide feedback to the Board of Trustees before the Board made its final decision.                                                                                                                                                           

June 3, 2024

Dominican University New York Celebrates the Class of 2024

Watch the Live Stream

Dominican University New York celebrated the Class of of 2024 at the 70th Annual Commencement Exercises Held on Sunday, May 19, at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Renowned Cuban-American composer Tania Leon delivered the Commencement Address. Leon is the Composer-in-Residence for the London Philharmonic Orchestra and was awarded the 2021 Pulitzer Prize in music for her orchestral work Stride.

Leon told the graduates, “Just as a symphony is made up of individual notes coming together in harmony, each one of you has contributed your unique talents, experiences, and perspectives to create the beautiful tapestry of this graduating class.”

Leon has deep roots in the New York City area as a founding member and the first Music Director of the Dance Theatre of Harlem and the founder of the Brooklyn Philharmonic’s Community Concert Series. During the Commencement, she was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Fine Arts.

Others honored during the Commencement include:

  • Edward Doering – Philanthropist and businessman Edward Doering founded and owns Umbra Stages, Motorcyclepedia Museum, and V-Twin Manufacturing in Newburgh, New York. He received an honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service.
  • William Keenan – William Keenan is a former teacher, musician, and triathlete who was left paralyzed by a surfing accident.  He has spread his story and message of resilience and hope to thousands of people. Keenan was awarded the 2024 Veritas Medal. 
  • Melissa Lucido – Alumna Melissa Lucido ’95, is a dedicated elementary school teacher who was named Teacher of the Year in her New Jersey district in 2016.  At Dominican University, she was a member of the Aquin Players, and loved acting and dance. Since 2001, Lucido has been coming back to the University to serve as a co-director and choreographer for the University’s spring musical.  She was awarded the 2024 Badami Outstanding Alumna Award. 

A total of 363 students earned doctorate, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees.  This was a particularly special graduation ceremony for the undergraduate students who graduated from high school at the height of the pandemic and were not able to have traditional celebrations.

May 20, 2024

Past President and Chancellor of Dominican University Honored

Sr. Kathleen Sullivan and Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien

The Past President and Chancellor of Dominican University New York were honored at the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt’s Annual Hearts Afire Gala for their amazing contributions to the field of higher education.  Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D., Past President, and Sr. Kathleen Sullivan, Chancellor of External Affairs, received the 2024 Mother Mary Ann Sammon Award at the April 28, 2024, gala.

“Together they have been a dynamic duo, whose creative vision brought Dominican College from a small liberal arts college to university status, set on a beautiful campus,” said Sr. Mary Flood, O.P., M.D., Ph.D., who presented the award. 

Sr. Mary Eileen retired at the end of 2023, after serving a total of 35 years as President of Dominican University.  In accepting the award, she spoke about the Foundress of the Order, Mother Mary Ann Sammon.  “It has always moved me that her mother died when she was only four, and she never had the chance for a formal education, and yet when she came up to Blauvelt within three years we had a building that took care of providing a home for hundreds of children, a chapel, and a school,” she said. “She’s a wonderful example for all of us not to let anything hold us back.  When you have the will, you’ll find a way.” 

Sr. Kathleen Sullivan will be retiring at the end of June after 56 years at the University in a variety of positions, including Foreign Language Instructor teaching French, Director of Admissions, Academic Dean, President, and most recently, Chancellor of External Affairs,  When she accepted the award,  she turned the attention to the professors at Dominican University,  “What we are celebrating today as well is the brilliant dedication of the faculty here who have made the opportunity of Dominican education available to our new generation of eager learners.”

The Chair of the Montefiore Nyack Hospital Board of Trustees Mark Jacobs was also a recipient of the 2024 Mother Mary Ann Sammon Award. 

April 30, 2024

Director of Honors Program Wins NRHC Honors Professional of the Year Award

AnnMarie DelliPizzi accepts her award for being named the 2024 Honors Professional of the Year in the Administrator Category.

Dominican University Honors Program Director AnnMarie DelliPizzi, Ph.D., has received the 2024 Honors Professional of the Year Award in the Administrator Category from the Northeast Regional Honors Council (NRHC) for her dedication to raising the standard of honors education.

Four of DelliPizzi’s colleagues wrote letters nominating her for the award, saying they are impressed with her energy, her enthusiasm, and her commitment to the students. In addition, Thomas Nowak, Ph.D., Academic Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs, said, “As the heart of the program, Dr. DelliPizzi embodies tireless enthusiasm and passion, constantly striving to enhance the academic experience for our best and brightest minds.  Her tireless efforts in guiding students through their scholarly pursuits, offering invaluable mentorship, and fostering a vibrant intellectual community are truly commendable.  Her relentless dedication not only ensures the success of the program but also leaves an indelible mark on the lives of students, shaping their academic journey and preparing them for future success.” 

In addition to directing the Dominican University Honors Program, DelliPizzi is a Professor of Biology, the Health Sciences Coordinator, and the Health Professions Advisor.  She accepted her award at the NRHC Awards Ceremony on April 7, 2024, in Albany, NY. 

April 26, 2024