STJ FinLaw
New member
The Torch twitter feed has info.
Harrington just announced his resignation
- Thread starter STJ FinLaw
- Start date
NYCRedmen
Well-known member
I have mixed feelings about this. I know the criticism of Harrington is warranted. On the other hand, the campus (not just Queens for that matter) is night & day from the Fr. Cahill tenure. I think Harrington always had St. John's best interests at heart, unfortunately, some of his decisions were questionable to say the least.
MarkRedman
Well-known member
Too bad Fr. Maher went to Niagara
Would have liked to see him be the next President at St John's
Would have liked to see him be the next President at St John's
Dear
I write to inform you that I have today advised the University's Board of Trustees of my intention to retire as President of St. John's, effective July 31, 2013.
This month marks the 40th anniversary of my ordination as a Vincentian priest. As I look back on my priesthood, I am struck by the fact that I have spent 29 of those years as a university president, 5 at Niagara University and then 24 here at St. John's. The challenges, satisfaction, and responsibilities of this position have always been considerable for me; what we have been able to accomplish together, as a University community, has given this work meaning and value. And the spirit of collegiality and collaboration that is the hallmark of St. John's has made our progress possible. Nonetheless, for quite a while, I have been thinking about when would be the best time to relinquish the leadership role to younger, perhaps more energetic, individuals. The urgings of many members of the Board of Trustees and others persuaded me to remain longer than I had originally planned. But the difficulties for everyone during the past year have convinced me, after much prayer and reflection, that the time to leave the presidency has now come.
I do this with the firm conviction that the vision I held for this institution has largely been fulfilled. The University has, indeed, been transformed into a "new" St. John's, with enhanced facilities, expanded academic initiatives, and an increasing global presence. The transition to residence life for what had been, for 129 years, an exclusively commuter institution has been achieved. Construction or renovation of more than twenty buildings on both the Queens and Staten Island campuses, including not only residence halls but other major academic and recreational facilities, has enriched the collegiate experience of all students. New academic programs, many of them designed to provide preparation for emerging professional opportunities, have been launched; distance learning has been successfully implemented; and the core curriculum was revised. Acquisition of the Manhattan campus, with its distinguished School of Risk Management, and the Oakdale facility, which has become a vibrant center for graduate study, has increased the University's presence and stature within the New York Metropolitan area. The campus in Rome and the study abroad site in Paris, along with faculty leadership in internationalizing the curriculum, have enhanced the University's ability to prepare students for the 21st century.
For me, programs and projects to deepen and strengthen our mission as a Catholic and Vincentian university have had special significance. St. Thomas More Church, opened in 2005, stands as the physical and spiritual center of the Queens campus. The creation of the Mission Office and development of a broad array of formation programs, including the Vincentian Institute for Social Action (VISA) and the Ozanam Scholars program, have all served to embed our Catholic and Vincentian mission-with its concern for faith-based values, social justice, and service to the poor-ever deeper into the fabric of the institution. The pervasiveness of academic service learning, University sponsorship of Bread and Life, and establishment of the Institute for Catholic Schools have helped St. John's to expand its mission within the broader community.
Enhancing our fiscal profile has assured that we have had the resources needed to accomplish our goals. I am pleased that during each of the last 24 years St. John's has enjoyed a surplus in its operating budget. In March 2013, the University's investment portfolio reached $411 million, highest in our history. As a result of the extraordinary generosity of our supporters, especially alumni, our Institutional Advancement successes have been nothing short of remarkable. Two successful capital campaigns, including the first in the University's history, have raised more than $300 million, and the Annual Fund has grown exponentially. Cash donations to St. John's have averaged in excess of $18 million during each of the past five years.
I will leave the presidency cherishing many memories, none more significant than those associated with the professional and personal relationships that I have enjoyed. My interactions with faculty colleagues have been warm and collegial. My own Cabinet, the deans, the broader university administration, and the staff have provided support and inspiration through their competence and dedication. Trustees, alumni, and friends have shared not only their financial resources, but their time, talent, and wise counsel. And our students, the alumni of tomorrow, are the best!
I end this message as I have ended so many others-by voicing my deepest appreciation to all of the many members of our University community who have worked with me during these many years to make St. John's stronger and better. Let me also take this opportunity to offer my very best wishes to those who will remain to take the institution on the next phase of its journey.
I write to inform you that I have today advised the University's Board of Trustees of my intention to retire as President of St. John's, effective July 31, 2013.
This month marks the 40th anniversary of my ordination as a Vincentian priest. As I look back on my priesthood, I am struck by the fact that I have spent 29 of those years as a university president, 5 at Niagara University and then 24 here at St. John's. The challenges, satisfaction, and responsibilities of this position have always been considerable for me; what we have been able to accomplish together, as a University community, has given this work meaning and value. And the spirit of collegiality and collaboration that is the hallmark of St. John's has made our progress possible. Nonetheless, for quite a while, I have been thinking about when would be the best time to relinquish the leadership role to younger, perhaps more energetic, individuals. The urgings of many members of the Board of Trustees and others persuaded me to remain longer than I had originally planned. But the difficulties for everyone during the past year have convinced me, after much prayer and reflection, that the time to leave the presidency has now come.
I do this with the firm conviction that the vision I held for this institution has largely been fulfilled. The University has, indeed, been transformed into a "new" St. John's, with enhanced facilities, expanded academic initiatives, and an increasing global presence. The transition to residence life for what had been, for 129 years, an exclusively commuter institution has been achieved. Construction or renovation of more than twenty buildings on both the Queens and Staten Island campuses, including not only residence halls but other major academic and recreational facilities, has enriched the collegiate experience of all students. New academic programs, many of them designed to provide preparation for emerging professional opportunities, have been launched; distance learning has been successfully implemented; and the core curriculum was revised. Acquisition of the Manhattan campus, with its distinguished School of Risk Management, and the Oakdale facility, which has become a vibrant center for graduate study, has increased the University's presence and stature within the New York Metropolitan area. The campus in Rome and the study abroad site in Paris, along with faculty leadership in internationalizing the curriculum, have enhanced the University's ability to prepare students for the 21st century.
For me, programs and projects to deepen and strengthen our mission as a Catholic and Vincentian university have had special significance. St. Thomas More Church, opened in 2005, stands as the physical and spiritual center of the Queens campus. The creation of the Mission Office and development of a broad array of formation programs, including the Vincentian Institute for Social Action (VISA) and the Ozanam Scholars program, have all served to embed our Catholic and Vincentian mission-with its concern for faith-based values, social justice, and service to the poor-ever deeper into the fabric of the institution. The pervasiveness of academic service learning, University sponsorship of Bread and Life, and establishment of the Institute for Catholic Schools have helped St. John's to expand its mission within the broader community.
Enhancing our fiscal profile has assured that we have had the resources needed to accomplish our goals. I am pleased that during each of the last 24 years St. John's has enjoyed a surplus in its operating budget. In March 2013, the University's investment portfolio reached $411 million, highest in our history. As a result of the extraordinary generosity of our supporters, especially alumni, our Institutional Advancement successes have been nothing short of remarkable. Two successful capital campaigns, including the first in the University's history, have raised more than $300 million, and the Annual Fund has grown exponentially. Cash donations to St. John's have averaged in excess of $18 million during each of the past five years.
I will leave the presidency cherishing many memories, none more significant than those associated with the professional and personal relationships that I have enjoyed. My interactions with faculty colleagues have been warm and collegial. My own Cabinet, the deans, the broader university administration, and the staff have provided support and inspiration through their competence and dedication. Trustees, alumni, and friends have shared not only their financial resources, but their time, talent, and wise counsel. And our students, the alumni of tomorrow, are the best!
I end this message as I have ended so many others-by voicing my deepest appreciation to all of the many members of our University community who have worked with me during these many years to make St. John's stronger and better. Let me also take this opportunity to offer my very best wishes to those who will remain to take the institution on the next phase of its journey.
The Board was notified earlier today by Father Donald Harrington of his intention to retire from his position as President of St. John's University, effective July 31, 2013. This Board has had the privilege of working with Father Harrington as he has led St. John's into the 21st century.
During Father Harrington's 24 years at St. John's, our University has achieved extraordinary advances in its national and international reputation and academic profile. What was a regional commuter school when he arrived, today receives more than 50,000 applications annually, with more than 4,000 students living in campus housing. The footprint of the University today reinforces its identity as a metropolitan university yet includes an exceptional international studies program with premier sites in Paris and Rome. In the past 10 years alone, more than half a dozen major new facilities and academic buildings have changed the landscape of our campuses.
The tenure of Father Harrington as president has been a period of unrivaled growth, expansion and achievement for our University. He has been a transformative leader who guided this institution, nurtured its community, cultivated excellence and generated unprecedented levels of enthusiasm and support. At the same time, the University he departs has remained dedicated to service and education, prime components of our mission since St. John's was founded 143 years ago. Such has been Father Harrington's accomplishment as president - extraordinary, institution-wide progress coupled with unwavering commitment to the heritage that defines St. John's as a Catholic university.
Father Harrington has also embedded the Vincentian mission deeply within the University. St. John's grants hundreds of millions of dollars in financial aid annually; 40 percent of our freshman class each year can be categorized as very high need students; our Vincentian Institute for Social Action allows students to address issues of global poverty and social injustice; St. John's Advantage Academy operates a partnership with the New York City Department of Homeless Services to break the cycle of poverty through education; and St. John's Bread & Life soup kitchen and community-assistance organization is a platform for research and learning that helps 25,000 clients and provides more than 460,000 meals annually. These deeds would not have been possible without Father Harrington at the helm.
An announcement will be made in the coming weeks regarding the transition to new leadership. During this time, I encourage all of us who make up the St. John's community - faculty, staff, students and alumni - to share with Father Harrington our gratitude and best wishes for the next chapter in his life.
Sincerely,
Peter P. D'Angelo '78MBA, '06HON
Chairman, Board of Trustees
During Father Harrington's 24 years at St. John's, our University has achieved extraordinary advances in its national and international reputation and academic profile. What was a regional commuter school when he arrived, today receives more than 50,000 applications annually, with more than 4,000 students living in campus housing. The footprint of the University today reinforces its identity as a metropolitan university yet includes an exceptional international studies program with premier sites in Paris and Rome. In the past 10 years alone, more than half a dozen major new facilities and academic buildings have changed the landscape of our campuses.
The tenure of Father Harrington as president has been a period of unrivaled growth, expansion and achievement for our University. He has been a transformative leader who guided this institution, nurtured its community, cultivated excellence and generated unprecedented levels of enthusiasm and support. At the same time, the University he departs has remained dedicated to service and education, prime components of our mission since St. John's was founded 143 years ago. Such has been Father Harrington's accomplishment as president - extraordinary, institution-wide progress coupled with unwavering commitment to the heritage that defines St. John's as a Catholic university.
Father Harrington has also embedded the Vincentian mission deeply within the University. St. John's grants hundreds of millions of dollars in financial aid annually; 40 percent of our freshman class each year can be categorized as very high need students; our Vincentian Institute for Social Action allows students to address issues of global poverty and social injustice; St. John's Advantage Academy operates a partnership with the New York City Department of Homeless Services to break the cycle of poverty through education; and St. John's Bread & Life soup kitchen and community-assistance organization is a platform for research and learning that helps 25,000 clients and provides more than 460,000 meals annually. These deeds would not have been possible without Father Harrington at the helm.
An announcement will be made in the coming weeks regarding the transition to new leadership. During this time, I encourage all of us who make up the St. John's community - faculty, staff, students and alumni - to share with Father Harrington our gratitude and best wishes for the next chapter in his life.
Sincerely,
Peter P. D'Angelo '78MBA, '06HON
Chairman, Board of Trustees
beast of the east
Active member
I don't think it's time to rejoice when someone loses his positions, even over indiscretions. I was driving home last night, near where Dr. Andrew Bartilucci lives, which is in a modest home in a nice part of Nassau County. It immediately occurred to me that Dr. Bartilucci, with a PhD and long legacy as the leader who transformed the College of Pharmacy into a school of Allied Health Professions, who served the school as Dean from age 28, and who continues to be a presence long into retirement, never made the kind of money that Harrington bestowed on a neophyte.
The problem with the mindset of a priest thinking himself a CEO, and not as the pastor of a university, I believe had a direct effect on the indiscretions that sullied his successes here. When you are surrounded by a board of trustees, many of whom with net worth well over $100 million, it's easy to think of the "little things" as just little things.
I sincerely hope that the next part of Father Harrington's ministry returns him to his priestly roots, and an opportunity to be a humble servant of God. All in all, he is leaving the university in some ways much better than he found it, most notably in the structures and new campuses in place. Hopefully his successor will have a stronger sense of St. John's as a great Catholic University.
The problem with the mindset of a priest thinking himself a CEO, and not as the pastor of a university, I believe had a direct effect on the indiscretions that sullied his successes here. When you are surrounded by a board of trustees, many of whom with net worth well over $100 million, it's easy to think of the "little things" as just little things.
I sincerely hope that the next part of Father Harrington's ministry returns him to his priestly roots, and an opportunity to be a humble servant of God. All in all, he is leaving the university in some ways much better than he found it, most notably in the structures and new campuses in place. Hopefully his successor will have a stronger sense of St. John's as a great Catholic University.
None of the post that have been posted so far are rejoicing. I believe most felt this was inevitable. Several probably feel it is unfortunate. I know I do on both counts. While I definitely disagreed with the direction that was taken in eliminating some of the sport programs, what has happened under his watch in enlarging the University's reach is unquestionable. Expansion of the facilities on the Queens Campus, the new Manhattan, Oakdale, Rome and Parish Campuses and other improvements all happened under his watch.
However, the lack of self control, oversight and accountability with the scandal is by far a black mark on his legacy. I wish him well and I pray the University will select someone to continue to grow the University in size and quality.
beast of the east
Active member
I didn't intend the comment to be in response to what is posted so far. As a people , especially in the internet age, we seem to take delight when someone prominent crashes, especially due to indiscretions.
Based on Harrington's earliest public statement on this matter, he appeared determined to prevail over these charges and remain at the helm. Given the lack of any mention of the circumstances regarding his resignation, I wonder if there is any contrition for his actions, or is he departing with the arrogance that led to the indiscretions thoroughly reported.
IMO Harrington should be remembered as a man who set modest goals for St. John's University and from time to time met the goals he set.
Does anyone truly believe that the St.John's academic name today has greater respect than it did prior to Harrington becoming President? I don't.
Does anyone truly believe that the St.John's academic name today has greater respect than it did prior to Harrington becoming President? I don't.
NYCRedmen
Well-known member
At least the New York Magazine considers us a "first ranked" university
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligence...tion.html?utm_source=cheetah&utm_medium=email
http://nymag.com/daily/intelligence...tion.html?utm_source=cheetah&utm_medium=email
Moose
Well-known member
You sure love harping on that point. St. John's is what it is. I'm young. Can you or one of the other posters who's been around tell me. Was STJ at one point mentioned with the likes of higher academic institutions? Isn't it the mission of STJ to give opportunities to the less fortunate which in turn will make it often tough to be an elite academic institution?
In response to your question, and perhaps I am not the right poster to respond given my distance from the school, when I graduated exactly 30 years ago the Law School as well and the School of Pharmacy were held in higher standing.