News

Student Leadership Conference Highlights Global Perspectives on Leadership at Iona University (News 6021)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:31:18 +0000

Student Leadership Conference Highlights Global Perspectives on Leadership at Iona University (News 6021) jhernandez33@g… Wed, 04/08/2026 - 14:31 Student Leadership Conference Highlights Global Perspectives on Leadership at Iona University

The day’s programming reinforced key themes of communication, core values, conflict management and social justice.

April 8, 2026

Students at Iona University explored what it means to lead in an increasingly connected world during the 2026 Student Leadership Conference, held Friday, March 27, on the University’s New Rochelle campus.

Hosted in Romita Auditorium in Ryan Library, the conference introduced students to a global perspective on leadership through a day of engaging and educational programming. The event encouraged participants to reflect on their own leadership journeys while considering how to lead and serve in a more interconnected society.

Keynote addresses centered on the role of self-awareness in leadership and offered practical strategies for leading effectively in a global society. Additional educational sessions gave attendees a more comprehensive view of leadership as it relates to the individual, group dynamics and the wider world.

Barney Carlton, NBA Vice President of Broadcast Strategy

Among the featured sessions were presentations from Barney Carlton, NBA vice president of broadcast strategy and Maria Villon Bustillo, vice president at Goldman Sachs, offering students the opportunity to learn directly from professionals working at the highest levels of their respective industries. In his session, “Building Winning Teams: The Role of Leadership in Creating a Strong Team Culture,” Carolton examined how effective leadership helps shape team dynamics, trust and success. In the same spirit, Bustillo followed with her presentation “Effective Decision-Making with Limited Information,” a session focused on the importance of critical thinking, adaptability and sound judgment in fast-paced professional environments.

“One thing that really stuck out to me was the concept of managers versus leaders,” finance major Dylan Malave ’28 said. “Managers and leaders are not necessarily the same thing, and leadership really comes down to soft skills like motivating others and getting people to work together.”

Together, the day’s programming reinforced key themes of communication, core values, conflict management and social justice, while helping students connect those concepts to real-world leadership challenges and opportunities.

Lucas Quintana ’26 noted "...the importance of listening as a leader."

“For me, the biggest takeaway was the importance of listening as a leader,” said digital media and communications major Lucas Quintana ’26. “Sometimes you have to take a step back and really hear what others have to say, while also knowing when to step up and lead. Balancing both of those things is what really makes you stand out.”

The 2026 installment of Iona’s Student Leadership Conference reflected the University’s continued commitment to preparing students to lead with purpose, integrity and empathy. By creating space for self-reflection, dialogue and learning, the conference helped students strengthen the tools they need to navigate diverse communities and make meaningful contributions both on campus and beyond.

“The idea of expectation versus preparation really stayed with me,” said John Diakakis ’27, a marketing major with a minor in journalism. “To truly lead, you have to be willing to listen and learn from others and stay disciplined and focused on your goals.”

The 2026 Student Leadership Conference was coordinated by the Dean of Students Office, the Gerri Ripp Center for Career Development and the Center for Student Engagement.

The conference reflected the University’s continued commitment to preparing students to lead with purpose, integrity and empathy.

ABOUT IONA
Founded in 1940, Iona University is a master's-granting private, Catholic, coeducational institution of learning in the tradition of the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers. Iona's 45-acre New Rochelle campus and 28-acre Bronxville campus are just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. With a total enrollment of over 4,000 students and an alumni base of 55,000 around the world, Iona is a diverse community of learners and scholars dedicated to academic excellence and the values of justice, peace and service. Iona is highly accredited, offering undergraduate degrees in liberal arts, science and business administration, as well as Master of Arts, Master of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees and numerous advanced certificate programs. Iona students enjoy small class sizes, engaged professors and a wide array of academic programs across the School of Arts & Science; LaPenta School of Business; NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences; and Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Iona also continues to be recognized in prestigious national rankings. Most recently for 2025, Iona has been named one of the nation’s best colleges by The Princeton Review, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and others. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report recognized Iona as one of top for social mobility in the country, while Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) ranked an Iona degree in the top 6 percent nationally for long-term return on investment. Iona’s LaPenta School of Business, meanwhile, is also accredited by AACSB International, a recognition awarded to just 6 percent of business schools worldwide. In addition, The Princeton Review once again named Iona to its “Best Business Schools for 2025,” recognizing both its on-campus and online MBA programs. Connecting to its Irish heritage, Iona also opened a new campus in County Mayo, Ireland, located on the historic 400-acre Westport House Estate. A school on the rise, Iona officially changed its status from College to University on July 1, 2022, reflecting the growth of its academic programs and the prestige of an Iona education.

Iona University Announces Naming of New Mehmel Green (News 6019)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:15:03 +0000

Iona University Announces Naming of New Mehmel Green (News 6019) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 04/07/2026 - 13:15 Iona University Announces Naming of New Mehmel GreenNewly designed green space honors benefactors Bob Mehmel ’84 and Barbara Mehmel

The naming of the Mehmel Green builds upon a period of significant momentum and growth at Iona.

April 7, 2026

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Iona University is proud to announce that its newly designed upper green will be named the Mehmel Green in recognition of a generous gift from Iona Trustee Bob Mehmel ’84 and his wife, Barbara Mehmel.

Anchored by the Blessed Edmund Rice Chapel, the Mehmel Green reimagines a former industrial area and creates a beautifully landscaped and vibrant green space. Featuring sweeping views of the City of New Rochelle, Mazzella Field and the LaPenta School of Business, the Mehmel Green further unifies campus by connecting to the Murphy Green and the newly renovated LaPenta Student Union in the heart of campus.

“The Mehmel Green deepens Iona’s commitment to fostering community throughout the educational experience,” said President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “Thank you to Bob and Barbara for their dedication to Iona and the values that continue to be at the heart of an Iona education. We are incredibly grateful for the generous gift that has allowed us to create the Mehmel Green.”

Iona Trustee Bob Mehmel ’84 and his wife, Barbara Mehmel.

The Mehmel Green features walking paths, seating areas and a contemplative garden across from the chapel entrance, creating a natural extension of student life. Whether gathering with friends or simply rejuvenating between classes, the new green will elevate the campus experience while significantly expanding Iona’s available outdoor space.

“My wife Barbara and I are thrilled to support the upper green initiative, which will continue the momentum of transformational projects that are creating meaningful spaces that will connect and unify the Iona community,” said Mehmel. “This gift recognizes my gratitude to Iona for providing a high-quality education that gave me the confidence, knowledge and skills to adapt and thrive in a competitive world.”

The Mehmel Green features walking paths, seating areas and a contemplative garden.

“I would also like to recognize one of Iona’s great alums, Bob LaPenta,” Mehmel added. “I was fortunate to work for and gain Bob’s trust early in my career. As I reflect on that life-changing experience, it was a remarkable period of learning and personal growth. It’s a full-circle moment to reconnect with Bob as fellow Trustees and grateful Iona alums.”

A seasoned public company executive, Bob Mehmel currently serves as President and Chief Operating Officer of Griffon Corporation, a diversified management and holding company. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Iona in 1984, and has remained an engaged alumnus and Trustee, supporting the University’s mission of opportunity and transformation for new generations of Gaels.

The new green offers sweeping views of campus and the City of New Rochelle.

The naming of the Mehmel Green builds upon a period of significant momentum and growth at Iona, particularly around campus spaces that build community and support holistic student development. Recent projects include the new dining hall, student lounge and meeting space in the LaPenta Student Union in New Rochelle; the newly renovated Bohm residence hall in Bronxville; and the growth of the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences and the Kelly Center for Health Sciences, among many other highlights. Together, these enhancements advance Iona’s strategic focus on fostering student success while cultivating a vibrant campus life.

“As we stand at the forefront of shaping a modern, Catholic education in the age of AI, spaces like the Mehmel Green are essential,” Carey said. “They remind us that while we embrace innovation in our classrooms, the heart of Iona will always be the human connection—students and educators who learn, question and grow together in a spirit of faith, service and deep shared belief in the transformative power of education.”

Iona University Announces New Family Nurse Practitioner Master’s Degree Program (News 6012)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:50:52 +0000

Iona University Announces New Family Nurse Practitioner Master’s Degree Program (News 6012) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 03/31/2026 - 09:50 Iona University Announces New Family Nurse Practitioner Master’s Degree ProgramHybrid program expands graduate nursing at the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences and helps meet New York’s growing need for primary care providers. March 31, 2026

NEW ROCHELLE & BRONXVILLE, N.Y. — Iona University is proud to announce its new Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) master’s degree program will launch Fall 2026, expanding graduate study within the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences while helping to meet a growing workforce need.

“Launching the Family Nurse Practitioner program is a natural next step for Iona,” said Kavita Dhanwada, Ph.D., founding dean of the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences. “We have built a strong foundation in undergraduate and graduate nursing, and this new program extends that strength into advanced practice nursing, a high-demand area.”

According to the New York State Department of Labor, employment for family nurse practitioners is projected to grow 26 percent between 2022 and 2032, with approximately 440 job openings annually. Nationwide, the rate of growth is even higher.

Applications are now open. Learn more or contact Daniel Gallagher, director of Graduate Admissions for the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences, at dgallagher@iona.edu or (914) 637-7770.

About the Program

At Iona, students gain hands-on experience working with patients across the lifespan—from pediatrics to geriatrics—while learning from expert faculty dedicated to mentorship and real-world application. Small class sizes, personalized support, and strong clinical partnerships ensure every student is prepared to deliver compassionate, high-quality care in diverse settings. Graduates emerge confident, credentialed and ready to meet the growing demand for primary care providers—making a lasting difference in their communities.

The 44-credit FNP curriculum can be completed in 8 to 10 semesters and will be delivered in a flexible hybrid format, making this program ideal for working nurses. Iona’s 28-acre Bronxville campus, located just 20 miles north of New York City, is home to the Kelly Center for Health Sciences, where modern classrooms, simulation labs and virtual reality suites provide immersive, real-world health care training.

Notably, students will also complete 800 direct patient practice hours at some of the region’s premier sites. The clinical placements typically occur in primary care environments such as family practice clinics, community health centers, internal medicine and pediatric offices, urgent care centers, and women’s health practices. Under the guidance of qualified preceptors, students develop the necessary knowledge and competencies to diagnose and manage acute and chronic conditions and to promote health and wellness across the lifespan.

Iona’s nursing students also have an opportunity to participate in global practicum immersions that broaden their worldview while deepening their understanding of global health, diversity, social justice, and nursing practice in the U.S. and abroad. Students may complete faculty-supervised practicum hours alongside international nurses in Ghana or Ireland, gaining hands-on experience, engaging in service-learning and immersing themselves in the host country’s culture.

“With hands-on learning in the Kelly Center for Health Sciences, a flexible hybrid format, and extensive practicum experience, we are preparing nurses to advance their careers and help improve health outcomes across our communities,” said Sherylyn Watson, Ph.D., MSN, RN, CNE, director of Nursing. “Iona students are very dedicated and compassionate. This is going to be a rigorous program, but the outcome is that they will have a chance in their personal and professional lives to advance their careers and continue to make a real impact in the field.”

The Momentum Continues

Since launching in 2020, Iona’s nursing programs have experienced strong momentum not only in enrollment, but most importantly, in student outcomes. In 2025, the University renamed the school the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences to reflect the growth and impact of its nursing programs.

Iona offers a suite of accredited undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, including a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing; Accelerated Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing Education; and Master of Science in Nursing Healthcare Organizational Leadership. Iona’s health science programs are designed to offer a holistic, well-rounded view of care, driven by Iona’s Interprofessional Education (IPE) experiences including students and professionals from Communication Sciences & Disorders, Marriage & Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, School Psychology and Social Work.

At the baccalaureate level, students graduate prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Impressively, 91 percent of May 2025 graduates in Iona’s traditional, four-year bachelor’s degree program and 92 percent of the January 2026 ABSN graduates passed the NCLEX their first time sitting for the exam, both exceeding the national average. In addition, 100 percent of Iona’s undergraduate nursing students are employed within a year.

Graduates of the FNP program will be eligible to sit for national certification exams through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Visit Our Open House, 4/15

Join us at the annual NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences Graduate Open House on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The event will take place on our Bronxville campus in the Kelly Center for Health Sciences, located at 171 White Plains Road, Bronxville. Meet with Admissions staff, hear from our outstanding students and successful alumni, connect with dedicated faculty, and take the next step in your career. RSVP today!

Dr. Vanda Seward '01MS: A Career in Criminal Justice Built on Purpose (News 6011)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:15:22 +0000

Dr. Vanda Seward '01MS: A Career in Criminal Justice Built on Purpose (News 6011) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 03/31/2026 - 09:15 Dr. Vanda Seward '01MS: A Career in Criminal Justice Built on Purpose March 27, 2026

Dr. Vanda Seward '01MS began her Iona journey as an adult learner, balancing classes, raising a family and working full-time. Today, she is a criminologist, researcher and author serving as director of the Criminal Justice Program and professor of criminal justice at CUNY's Kingsborough Community College. With experience spanning frontline public service, senior state leadership and academic instruction, her career reflects what becomes possible when lived experience meets rigorous education.

Seward earned her Master of Science in Criminal Justice in 2001, a milestone she credits with reshaping not just her career, but her entire sense of possibility. She recently released a memoir, “This Wasn't Supposed to Be My Story,” chronicling her journey through the criminal legal system.

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
What I love most about what I do is the ability to turn lived experience into something that has purpose. Whether I’m teaching, writing, or working in policy spaces, I’m able to connect people to the human side of systems and help them see possibilities where there were once limitations or a lack of desire.

Why did you decide to study Criminal Justice?
I decided to study criminal justice because my life and work had already been shaped by the system long before I entered the classroom. As a young Black woman and teenage mother, I saw firsthand how deeply the criminal legal system affects families and communities. When I began working inside the system, I realized that experience alone was not enough. I wanted the tools, language, and credentials to understand how decisions were made and how change could be influenced from within. Studying criminal justice allowed me to connect lived experience with policy, theory, and practice in meaningful ways.

What advice do you have for current Iona students?
Take your education seriously, but don’t believe there is only one “right” timeline. Your path does not have to be linear to be meaningful. Use your time at Iona to build strong writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills, which will carry you further than any single job title. Seek out mentors, stay curious, and be willing to do the work both inside and outside the classroom. Most importantly, trust that growth often happens over time. Consistency, integrity, and purpose matter more than speed.

What’s your fondest Iona memory?
One of my fondest memories at Iona came from my criminal law class, taught by a sitting Westchester County judge. On the very first day, he told us that, “if we came to the class expecting to hear fifteen-syllable words, then we were in the wrong place.” He believed that speaking clearly and simply was the best way to ensure everyone understood the law. That lesson stayed with me. More than twenty-five years later, I still share it with my students. We write for the reader, and we speak for the listener. Clarity is not a lack of depth—it is a sign of respect.

How did Iona prepare you for where you are today?
Earning my degree from Iona was a pivotal accomplishment that opened my eyes to the full range of possibilities available to me. It strengthened my confidence, sharpened my critical thinking and writing skills, and affirmed that my lived experience had value in academic and professional spaces. That foundation propelled my career in criminal justice, leading to senior leadership roles focused on public safety and reentry.

Since graduating from Iona, Seward went on to earn a Master of Arts in Journalism from City University of New York Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Capella University. She served as executive director of the Kings County District Attorney's ComALERT program and statewide director of Reentry Services for the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision before retiring from the Kings County District Attorney's Office, where she led the County Reentry Task Force.

Iona’s Rob Kissner Discusses AI in Higher Education at BCW Panel (News 6008)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:55:16 +0000

Iona’s Rob Kissner Discusses AI in Higher Education at BCW Panel (News 6008) jhernandez33@g… Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:55 Iona’s Rob Kissner Discusses AI in Higher Education at BCW Panel

Rob Kissner shared insights on the intersection of AI and higher education.

March 26, 2026

Rob Kissner, Clinical Lecturer at the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Iona University, served as a featured panelist at The Business Council of Westchester’s AI Alliance 360° Impact Summit. The event was held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at the Louis V. Gerstner Center for Learning in Armonk, N.Y.

Kissner participated in the panel “Reshaping Communities, Civic Life and the Human Connection,” where leaders explored how artificial intelligence is shaping everything from education to the arts to daily life.

The event featured an introduction from Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and was moderated by John Ravitz, COO of the BCW, Westchester County’s largest business organization representing more than 1,100 members. Panels and speakers included:

Redefining Markets, the Competitive Advantage and the Way We Work

Andy Bryant — Strategy & Solutions Leader, AI-First Transformation, IBM
Antony Haynes — Partner, Dorf Nelson & Zauderer
Steven Mines — President, The Mines Press
Moish Peltz — Co-Managing Partner, Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP
Oleg Tumanov — Founder and Executive Chairman, Selsa
Paul Tyler — Head of Enterprise Marketing and Innovation, Zinnia

Reshaping Communities, Civic Life and the Human Connection

David E. Gross, AIA — Executive Partner, GF55 Architects
Rey Hollingsworth Falu — President, HGAR
Rob Kissner — Clinical Lecturer, Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Iona University
Kathleen Reckling — Chief Executive Officer, ArtsWestchester
Chad Scholes — Chief Innovation and Logistics Officer, Metro-North Railroad

John Ravitz, COO of the Business Council of Westchester (BCW), moderated the AI Alliance 360° Impact Summit.

From left: David E. Gross, Kathleen Reckling, John Ravitz, Chad Scholes, Rob Kissner and Rey Hollingsworth Falu.

Rob Kissner, center, shared insights on AI in higher education during the "Reshaping Communities, Civic Life and the Human Connection" panel at the BCW Impact Summit.

Pictured front and center is Rob Kissner, joined by fellow industry experts and summit organizers.

Attendees filled the hall for a keynote session at the BCW AI Alliance 360° Impact Summit.

Exploring AI’s Role in the Classroom: Iona’s Aakash Sapru Speaks with The Bronxville School on Embracing Roles as ‘Choice Architects’ in the Age of AI (News 6004)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:53:44 +0000

Exploring AI’s Role in the Classroom: Iona’s Aakash Sapru Speaks with The Bronxville School on Embracing Roles as ‘Choice Architects’ in the Age of AI (News 6004) jhernandez33@g… Wed, 03/25/2026 - 10:53 Exploring AI’s Role in the Classroom: Iona’s Aakash Sapru Speaks with The Bronxville School on Embracing Roles as ‘Choice Architects’ in the Age of AI

Dr. Aakash Sapru discussed the concept of "creative destruction" and the evolution of professional roles in the age of AI.

March 25, 2026

At The Bronxville School’s Superintendent’s Day on Friday, March 20, Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Assistant Professor Aakash Sapru, Ph.D., invited school faculty and staff to think critically about artificial intelligence not as a force that simply happens to education, but as a tool whose impact depends on the choices educators make.

In his presentation, “Educators as Stewards of Human Thought: Redesigning Student-Centered Learning with AI,” Sapru framed educators as “choice architects” with both the power and the responsibility to determine how AI is integrated into their work and learning environments.

Speaking to Bronxville School faculty and staff, Sapru emphasized that major innovations do more than introduce new tools; they also reshape existing ways of working and learning. Positioning AI within that broader context, he encouraged attendees to move beyond viewing artificial intelligence as a single, one-dimensional concept and instead consider the different forms it can take, from generative AI to predictive AI, each with its own opportunities, risks and educational implications.

Audience members discussed classroom innovation in regards to AI.

Central to Sapru’s message was the idea that educators are already designing the conditions in which students learn. From classroom activities to homework and assessment design, he noted that every instructional decision helps shape how students engage with course material, with one another and with AI itself. Rather than beginning with the question, “Can AI do this?” Sapru urged educators to start with a more important one: “What is in the student’s best interest to develop here?” That student-centered approach, he argued, should remain the guiding principle in any conversation about AI in education.

“It was a privilege to speak with the outstanding educators at The Bronxville School about the role of AI in teaching and learning,” Sapru said. “As educators and professionals, we all have the opportunity to serve as ‘choice architects.’ I am excited by the possibilities AI presents in education, especially when its use is guided with intention, responsibility, and a clear focus on what is in students’ best interests.”

Sapru also encouraged faculty and staff to reflect on their own attitudes toward AI, noting that both enthusiasm and skepticism can influence how these tools are introduced and discussed in educational settings. Thoughtful innovation, he suggested, requires not only experimentation — but also reflection, collaboration, and a willingness to engage concerns without allowing them to shut down curiosity or progress.

Dr. Aakash Sapru lead a discussion on the role of AI in education during The Bronxville School’s Superintendent’s Day.

Closing in the spirit of partnership and shared purpose, Sapru underscored his central message: every individual has the power — and the responsibility — to act as a “choice architect.” For educators, that means helping shape how (or whether) AI is introduced into students’ daily lives in ways that prepare them to move through their academic and professional journeys with confidence.

"Dr. Sapru’s keynote at our Superintendent's Conference Day provided guidance in how to navigate the 'creative destruction' of AI by placing educators in the role of 'choice architects',” Bronxville School Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Ann Meyer said. “His framework focused on a student-centered approach that prioritizes cognitive, emotional, and social development. He tasked teachers with always asking themselves what serves the student's best interest. Dr. Sapru has given us a clear roadmap for responsible, thoughtful innovation in our classrooms."

The visit built upon Iona’s ongoing AI@Iona partnership with the Bronxville School, where Iona faculty have engaged K-12 educators in multi-session workshops throughout the school year, made possible through the Gabelli Center for Teaching & Learning. To learn more or get involved, contact provost@iona.edu.

Iona University’s Hynes Institute Inspires Next Generation of Entrepreneurs During Two-Day Entrepreneur Talk (E-Talk) Series (News 6003)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:40:43 +0000

Iona University’s Hynes Institute Inspires Next Generation of Entrepreneurs During Two-Day Entrepreneur Talk (E-Talk) Series (News 6003) jhernandez33@g… Tue, 03/24/2026 - 12:40 Iona University’s Hynes Institute Inspires Next Generation of Entrepreneurs During Two-Day Entrepreneur Talk (E-Talk) Series

The two-day Hynes Institute E-Talk Series featured guest speakers from across the business and innovation sectors.

March 24, 2026

At Iona University, students graduate not only with the practical skillset necessary to succeed in their chosen field, but with the knowledge of what it looks like to become intentional leaders among their peers.

In this spirit, the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation hosted its annual two-day E-Talk series on March 4-5, bringing leading entrepreneurs in their respective industries to campus to share insights, spark innovation and mentor the next generation of business leaders.

The event featured eleven guest speakers:

Eddy Cruz (Founder, Nine26)
Jean Anne Menna-Cruz, BSN, RN, CHPN (Hospice Nurse & Author)
Anne Sansevero (Co-Founder, Home Care Wizards)
Romelia Flores (Distinguished Engineer & Master Inventor, IBM), Mike Shute ’02 ‘03MSBS, Senior Architect, Master Inventor - Governance, Risk and Compliance Tooling and Maria Tapia ’89, IBM Retiree
Joshua Riley (Owner-Operator, Chick fil-A Scarsdale)
Matt Rizetta ’05 (Founder, Underdog Global Partners)
Alena K. Powell ’95 (Event Specialist, A. Powell Enterprise)
Paul L. Gunn (Founder, KUOG Corporation)
Joy Malone (Photographer, Joy Malone Photography)

View the E-Talk series on the Hynes Institute YouTube

A hallmark of the Iona experience, the latest installment of the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation’s E-Talk series at Iona provided students across all disciplines with the unique opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders who are redefining the business sector.

Iona University alumnus Matt Rizetta discussed community and risk-taking.

Throughout the series, speakers explored themes of community, innovation, and intentional leadership. Matt Rizetta ’05 emphasized the value of community and risk-taking, Anne Sansevero encouraged students to identify gaps in the market while using AI responsibly, IBM panelists highlighted how diverse perspectives fuel innovation and Joy Malone reminded students that storytelling, intention and perspective are powerful assets in building a brand.

Intentionally designed to be highly interactive, the sessions allowed students to ask pointed questions about the challenges of scaling a business and the tenacity required to succeed in competitive markets.

The E-Talk series highlights Iona University’s commitment to providing a transformative education that extends far beyond the classroom, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset that prepares students for their future careers.

Christoph Winkler, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of real-world mentorship.

When reflecting on the impact of this year’s program, founding program director and endowed lecturer at the Hynes Institute Christoph Winkler, noted:

“We are extremely appreciative for each of the speakers who took the time to engage with our students and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs,” Winkler said. “Their presence on campus provides our students with the unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders’ real-world experiences, fostering the entrepreneurial mindset that is at the heart of everything we do within the Hynes Institute.”

Author and nurse Jean Anne Menna-Cruz discussed intentional leadership and healthcare entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneur and founder of Nine26 Eddy Cruz shared his insights with Iona University students.

IBM experts Romelia Flores, Mike Shute ’02 ’03MSBS, and Maria Tapia ’89 lead a panel discussion on innovation and governance.

Mastercard’s Chief Sustainability Officer Talks Purpose-Driven Leadership at Iona (News 5993)

ptascio@iona.edu — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:26:23 +0000

Mastercard’s Chief Sustainability Officer Talks Purpose-Driven Leadership at Iona (News 5993) ptascio@iona.edu Fri, 03/20/2026 - 09:26 Mastercard’s Chief Sustainability Officer Talks Purpose-Driven Leadership at Iona“A View from the C-Suite" Series Welcomed Ellen Jackowski for Engaging Discussion

The event highlighted Iona’s commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and real-world perspectives.

March 20, 2026

Students, faculty, and staff gathered at Iona University’s LaPenta School of Business earlier this month for a special installment of A View From the C-Suite featuring Ellen Jackowski, Chief Sustainability Officer at Mastercard.

Held in Henry Lecture Hall, the event brought the campus community together to hear how one of the world’s leading companies is embedding sustainability and social impact into its business strategy — and what purpose-driven leadership looks like in practice.

With a career built upon leading global sustainability and impact initiatives across major organizations, Jackowski shared how Mastercard is advancing climate action, social responsibility and long-term value creation across its global operations. She discussed how companies can align performance with purpose, pointing to ambitious climate leadership goals, including Mastercard’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2040, as an example of how organizations can “do well by doing good” while driving measurable outcomes.

Following her remarks, Jackowski participated in a Q&A, inviting attendees to explore how sustainability commitments are set, scaled and integrated across teams and functions.

The program concluded with a networking reception where attendees connected with Mastercard professionals — many of whom are Iona University alumni. In fact, nearly 100 Iona alumni are counted among the ranks of Mastercard, which is headquartered in nearby Purchase, N.Y.

"Iona’s partnerships with global corporations like Mastercard are a gamechanger for student success." - Johnny Hernandez '25, '26MBA

The reception offered students a chance to ask candid career questions, build professional relationships and gain firsthand insight into pathways at a global organization.

Reflecting on the experience, Iona graduate student Johnny Hernandez ’25, ’26MBA said: "Iona’s partnerships with global corporations like Mastercard are a gamechanger for student success. It turns the campus into a launchpad where we are not just learning theory; we are building a professional network before we even graduate. Forging these high-level connections gives Gaels a competitive edge, proving that Iona isn't just preparing us for a job, but for a career at the highest levels of industry.”

Hosted by the LaPenta School of Business Dean’s Office, the event highlighted Iona’s commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and real-world perspectives that prepare them to lead with purpose in an evolving business landscape.

Iona’s collaboration with Mastercard will be further highlighted on April 29, 2026, when the University honors Vice Chair Timothy Murphy at the Trustees Scholarship Award Gala in New York City. Murphy will be presented with the esteemed Iona Legacy Award in recognition of his dedication to service, opportunity and scholarship.

Learn more about Mastercard's environmental and social impact strategy here.

From left: John DeMelis, dean of the LaPenta School of Business, Ellen Jackowski, chief sustainability officer at Mastercard and Tricia Mulligan, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs.

Following her remarks, Jackowski participated in a Q&A, inviting attendees to explore how sustainability commitments are set, scaled and integrated across teams and functions.

The event brought the campus community together to hear how one of the world’s leading companies is embedding sustainability and social impact into its business strategy.

Gaels Giving Day 2026 Surpasses Donor Goal, Showcasing the Power of the Iona Community (News 5991)

ptascio@iona.edu — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:02:16 +0000

Gaels Giving Day 2026 Surpasses Donor Goal, Showcasing the Power of the Iona Community (News 5991) ptascio@iona.edu Thu, 03/19/2026 - 14:02 Gaels Giving Day 2026 Surpasses Donor Goal, Showcasing the Power of the Iona CommunityAnnual day of giving brings the University’s annual giving total for the fiscal year to $2,410,085 from 3,264 donors March 19, 2026

Iona University held its annual day of giving, Gaels Giving Day, on March 10, bringing together alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends to demonstrate “the Power of Iona.” During the 24-hour campaign, 536 unique donors contributed $231,467, helping bring the University’s annual giving total for the fiscal year to $2,410,085 from 3,264 donors. The campaign also marks one of the highest numbers of donors the initiative has seen in recent years.

“Gaels Giving Day is a powerful reminder of what makes Iona so special. Our community believes deeply in the transformative power of education,” said Iona University President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “The generosity of our alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents and friends helps ensure that more students have access to the opportunities that define the Iona experience.”

The campaign exceeded its goal of 500 donors, with both the Fund for Iona and Scholarship Support opportunities also surpassing their individual donor participation goals.

“Gaels Giving Day demonstrates the collective strength of the Iona community,” said Gary Grant, Senior Vice President for Advancement and External Affairs. “When hundreds of donors come together in a single day, their generosity creates meaningful momentum that supports scholarships, programs and the overall student experience.”

The Power of Iona was further amplified by generous matches and challenges offered by lead donors, helping to maximize the impact of every gift:

A challenge gift for the President's Innovation Fund sponsored by Michael P. Hegarty '66, Iona Board of Trustee Chair.
A challenge gift for the Gaels Go Further Mentoring Programs Fund sponsored by Cathy McCabe '85, Board of Trustees member and co-chair of the Gaels Go Further Advisory Board
A challenge gift for the Brother Robert E. Novak Rowing Endowment sponsored by Mike Sasso '75, '80MBA
A challenge gift for the LaPenta School of Business Dean's Excellence Fund sponsored by Ray Anello '86
A challenge gift for the Iona Scholarship Fund sponsored by Victor Stanionis '60
A challenge gift for the Fund for Iona sponsored by Chris Connolly '91
A challenge gift for the Fund for Iona sponsored by Eugene Devlin '68
A challenge gift for the Fund for Iona sponsored by Jacqueline Goode '91
A challenge for the Fund for Iona and Athletics sponsored by Anita (nee Guarracino) '85 and Steve Iaco '83

While Gaels Giving Day represents a powerful surge in donor participation and philanthropy, the University's fiscal year continues through June 30. Supporters who are eager to build on the momentum of Gaels Giving Day can make a gift by visiting the University's donation page.

Iona’s Dr. Christoph Winkler Named USASBE Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year (News 5981)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:32:28 +0000

Iona’s Dr. Christoph Winkler Named USASBE Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year (News 5981) jhernandez33@g… Mon, 03/16/2026 - 15:32 Iona’s Dr. Christoph Winkler Named USASBE Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year

The USASBE award recognizes exceptional leadership and innovation in entrepreneurship education.

March 16, 2026

Iona University’s commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit across campus has once again earned national recognition. Christoph Winkler, Ph.D., founding program director and endowed professor at the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, has been named the 2026 Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE), one of the field’s highest honors.

The prestigious national award is presented annually to an educator who has demonstrated distinguished leadership in entrepreneurship education. Recipients are recognized for advancing how educators think about and approach entrepreneurship teaching and learning, as well as for making a lasting impact on students, institutions and the broader field.

“It is an honor to be presented with the Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year Award by the USASBE,” Winkler said. “Being an entrepreneurship educator is both a privilege and a responsibility — empowering students to recognize that they have power and that they are capable of pursuing their dreams or discovering new dreams through the entrepreneurial process.”

Winkler’s selection reflects his commitment to bolstering a culture of entrepreneurship at Iona that spans across disciplines and into the Iona community. Last year, the Hynes Institute earned the prestigious 2025 Model Program Award by the USASBE, a recognition highlighting the Hynes Institute’s impactful programs.

Throughout his time at the University, Winkler has led the development of innovative programs and initiatives designed to equip students with the mindset, skills and real-world experience needed to thrive in an evolving economy. Examples include, among many others, the Iona Innovation Challenge business competition; Gael Ventures business incubator program; and partnership with The Business Council of Westchester’s City Labs initiative, offering students first-hand experience addressing problems in the county’s biggest municipalities.

From left: Christoph Winkler, Ph.D., Lendynette Pacheco-Jorge, MS, and Aakash Sapru, Ph.D.

“Christoph has inspired so many educators with his innovative ideas and ability to unite a campus under the umbrella of entrepreneurship,” said Jennifer Capps, CEO of USASBE. “The programs and teams under his leadership will positively impact students and communities at Iona University and well beyond for many years to come.”

Under Winkler’s leadership, Iona has also expanded its degree offerings in entrepreneurship. The Hynes Institute now offers degrees in Entrepreneurial Leadership (BS), Entrepreneurship (BBA), and Health and Wellness - Entrepreneurship (BS) along with undergraduate minors in Entrepreneurship & Innovation and AI, as well as advanced certificates in AI for Business and Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Winkler has also been integral in the development of Iona’s new Healthcare Leadership & Innovation (MS), a collaborative degree offered in partnership between the Hynes Institute, LaPenta School of Business and New York-Presbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences.

“Iona is tremendously proud of Christoph for his leadership and impact through the Hynes Institute and across campus,” said Iona University Provost Tricia Mulligan. “This award affirms what we have long believed — that Iona is a place where dedicated educators inspire our students to think boldly and develop into the innovators and leaders world needs.”

The USASBE is the premier national organization dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship education.

Winkler’s approach focuses not only on launching ventures, but on helping students think creatively, solve real problems and lead with integrity — core elements of an Iona education.

"Christoph has been an extraordinary leader in advancing entrepreneurship education,” said Dr. Sara Cochran, USASBE’s Board Chair. “Through his service to USASBE including serving on the board, directing the Doctoral Consortium, and serving as Executive Editor of Entrepreneurship Education and Pedagogy, he has made a remarkable impact on our field. We are proud to recognize him as the USASBE Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year.”

For Winkler, entrepreneurship education is about more than launching businesses; it is about empowering students to recognize opportunity, create value and lead with purpose in any field they choose.

Winkler was formally recognized in February at USASBE’s annual conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, where educators and thought leaders from across the country gather to share research, best practices and innovations in entrepreneurship education.

About the USASBE and the Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year Award

USASBE is the premier national organization dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship education through bold teaching, scholarship and practice. The Entrepreneurship Educator of the Year award highlights individuals who have provided distinguished educational leadership within the field of entrepreneurship and who have contributed advancements to the way in which educators think about and approach entrepreneurship teaching and learning.

Last year, the Hynes Institute earned the prestigious 2025 Model Program Award by the USASBE, a recognition highlighting the Hynes Institute’s impactful programs.