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

Employees of Catholic Schools and DU Alumni Are Eligible for Tuition Discounts

Dominican University New York has announced steep new tuition discounts for Catholic school employees and DU alumni who enroll in certain graduate programs. 

Full-time teachers, staff, administrators, and guidance counselors employed at an elementary or secondary Catholic school are eligible for a 33 percent tuition discount for any Master of Science in Education graduate degree program. In addition, alumni who enroll to earn a MS in Education, an MBA, or an online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership & Communication (MSOLC) will receive a 25 percent tuition discount. 

“We want to support our alumni and Catholic school employees who are looking to further their education and advance their career,” said John Burke, Vice President for Student Development. “This is a great opportunity to get a master’s degree at an affordable price.”

For more information, contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at graduate.admissions@duny.edu. 

April 15, 2024

Marketing Instructor Receives IACBE Business Faculty of the Year Award

Matt Schiering, Marketing Instructor, received the Business Faculty of the Year Award from the IACBE.

Marketing Instructor Matt Schiering has received the Business Faculty of the Year Award from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). 

Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Director of the Division of Business, Innovation, and Leadership, nominated Schiering for the award that honors those who show excellence in teaching, model ethical behavior, and conduct scholarly activities.  In his nomination letter, Rudolph-Shabinsky wrote, “He has accomplished a great deal – becoming a favorite professor among students and a valued colleague.  The success of our business program, which has double first -year enrollments and significantly improved retention and graduation rates over the last three years, has been tremendously helped by Matt’s numerous contributions – including developing and running the division’s Instagram account that now has 1,000 followers. “

Rudolph-Shabinsky applauded Schiering for having more guest speakers than any other professor in the program and establishing partnerships in the business community. Schiering was recognized at the Accreditation & Awards Banquet on April 4, 2024, in Memphis, TN.  He did not attend, but sent a video of his acceptance speech. 

April 5, 2024

Dominican University New York Launches Search for its Next President

Dominican University New York has officially launched the search for its next president. The University is widely advertising and inviting interested candidates to apply, after establishing a Presidential Search and Screening Committee and hiring professional search firm, AGB Search.  

In addition, Dominican University has created a webpage with links to a Presidential Search Profile, a search timeline, and information on how to apply for the job. 

“The Presidential Search Profile will guide the search and was drafted with information gathered from Listening Sessions hosted by AGB consultants and a community survey,” said Trustee John F.M. Flynn, Ph.D., Chair, Presidential Search and Screening Committee. “As described in the profile, our ideal candidate will model servant leadership, be emotionally intelligent, culturally competent, inspiring, collaborative, and a visionary leader.”

An earned doctorate, a history of distinction in progressively responsible leadership roles, and a record of scholarship is preferred among candidates. The University’s next president should also be mission-driven, student focused, financially competent, a proven fundraiser, an eager university ambassador, a skilled decision maker, and a committed academic leader. A full list of desired attributes is available in the Presidential Search Profile.

The next president of Dominican University is expected to have the following leadership priorities: 

  • Advance the mission and maintain a relationship with the Dominican Sisters
  • Achieve long-term and comprehensive financial stability
  • Strengthen student enrollment, retention, and success
  • Build community and articulate a bold, unifying shared vision of the future
  • Stimulate a culture of philanthropy among internal and external constituencies
  • Strengthen a commitment to academic excellence and grow academic programs
  • Develop a new Strategic Plan as a university
  • Strengthen campus culture and unity
  • Further diversity and inclusion

Dominican University New York launched its search for a new president, following the retirement of Sr. Mary Eileen O’Brien, O.P., Ph.D. who served as president for a total of 35 years.  The Board of Trustees appointed Sr. Mary Hughes, O.P., Ed.D. to serve as interim president until a permanent replacement is named.

March 13, 2024

New Science Supplies to Be Purchased with Pfizer Grant

A grant from Pfizer will be used to purchase supplies for students to alleviate the financial burden on them.

Pfizer has awarded Dominican University New York a grant of $9,675 to purchase science supplies for students. 

“We will be using the funds to buy lab goggles, dissecting kits, graphing calculators, and lab coats,” said Regina Alvarez, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology. “We are so thankful to Pfizer for helping to reduce the financial stress on our students.”

The grant will benefit students who enroll in science courses such as Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy and Physiology. 

March 8, 2024

Local Business Leader Pledges $1 Million Gift to Dominican University

A local business leader, who wishes to remain anonymous, has pledged a $1 million gift to Dominican University New York. 

Joseph Valenti, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, said the University is very grateful for the generous donation, “This gift will go far to aid the University in its efforts to keep the cost of higher education within the reach of all students. Dominican University is nationally recognized as a leading university for social mobility with many of its students being the first in their families to attend college.”

All first-time, full-time freshmen at Dominican University receive some form of financial aid, thanks to the generosity of benefactors, alumni, and friends of the University.   

March 6, 2024

Dominican University and Albertus Magnus College Reach Agreement to Help Aspiring Physical Therapists

Under a new agreement, qualified Albertus Magnus College graduates can enroll in Dominican University’s DPT program.

Dominican University New York and Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, CT, have announced a new partnership where qualified Albertus graduates with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology can enroll at Dominican to pursue the Doctor in Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

Dominican University New York is one of only a few institutions across the country that offers the DPT in a weekend format. Students in the DPT program attend class Friday through Sunday, every other weekend, throughout the year, for 3.3 years to earn their doctorate degree. The intensive weekend program allows students to continue working part time and maintain family responsibilities.

“Albertus Magnus College is excited about this collaborative partnership,” said Mark Barreuther, Ph.D., Professor of Biology and Chair of the Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. “It is a testament to the quality of an Albertus education, a liberal arts, values-based education where experiential learning takes a central role in the journey of our students and prepares them to enter graduate and professional programs like the DPT at Dominican.”

Emil Euaparadorn, DSc, Director of the DPT Program at Dominican University, said the University is ready to welcome Albertus Magnus students, “I know that students from Albertus Magnus College will excel in our program. We have more than 300 clinical relationships with premier hospitals in New York and New Jersey, allowing students to gain invaluable, hands-on experience. Dominican University is also very proud that recent graduates from the DPT program have a first time pass rate of 100 percent on the PT licensure exam – the best in the nation. On top of that, 100 percent of our former students are
employed within six months of graduation.”

Prior to admission, Albertus Magnus students with a 3.0 GPA must complete prerequisites in biology, anatomy and physiology, physics, chemistry, psychology and statistics. In addition, they must document at least 60 hours of voluntary or work experience in settings where a licensed physical therapist is employed. Students who are interested must apply and submit all documents online through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (TCAS) or submit a letter of intent by October 1 in order to be considered for placement the following academic year.

Dominican University recently opened a new, state-of-the-art physical therapy research laboratory. The Gallucci Physical Therapy Research Laboratory has all the necessary equipment for cutting edge research. In addition, students attend class, have practical exams and hold a Pro-Bono Physical Therapy Clinic in the lab. There are three exam rooms in the laboratory that allow faculty to observe students in real-life scenarios.

March 4, 2024

O&R Grant Funds Upgraded Technology in Chemistry Labs

A Dominican University New York student using equipment purchased with an O&R grant.

The technology in Dominican University New York’s Chemistry Teaching Labs has been upgraded thanks to a grant from Orange & Rockland Utilities.  O&R awarded Dominican University $14,879 to purchase LabQuest 3 Advanced Chemistry packages.

“We are very grateful to O&R for funding these new supplies, which are being used by students majoring in biology, health science, teacher education, and environmental studies, in addition to those minoring in chemistry,” said Colleen Evans, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Chemistry. “The new supplies allow students to collect data such as pH, light absorbance, conductivity, pressure, and current. “

The equipment includes sensors, probes, a drop counter, a constant current system, and a spectrophotometer. The LabQuest 3 Advanced Chemistry packages allow students to have improved lab experiences in General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry classes.  

March 1, 2024