Topic - Service (92)

More Than a Business: Jen Ritz ’08 Leads with Purpose (News 5456)

ptascio@iona.edu — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 19:12:39 +0000

More Than a Business: Jen Ritz ’08 Leads with Purpose (News 5456) ptascio@iona.edu Mon, 08/18/2025 - 15:12 More Than a Business: Jen Ritz ’08 Leads with Purpose“Owning a successful business is one thing, but using it as a way to help others Fight the Good Fight for their own cause is more than I could have imagined.“ August 18, 2025

Jen Ritz ’08 is the owner of Sweet Tees Custom Apparel Inc. in her hometown of Yorktown Heights, N.Y. She was recently recognized with a New York State Commendation Award, recognizing her significant impact on the local community, and a New York State Empire Award, acknowledging her philanthropic efforts through her business. As a former member of Iona women’s basketball and a graduate with bachelor’s degrees in English and Communications, Ritz continues to use her platform and business to uplift others and give back.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

“In 2013, I helped launch a fundraising effort called Jason's Army in honor of Jason Needle with a goal of giving back to the community who supported him during his battle with cancer. I bought my first screen printing equipment as a way to make fundraising t-shirts. Jason's Army grew over time and went on to raise over $100,000 and, to date, has granted eight wishes with Make-a-Wish Hudson Valley. Sweet Tees was officially born in 2015 and now serves communities throughout the tristate area. We often host free online stores to raise money through apparel sales for various organizations. In 2024, Sweet Tees gave back over $15,000 to schools, sports teams, and charitable causes throughout the Hudson Valley.

I donated to the women's basketball team most recently on Gaels Giving Day. I know Coach Ang's goal was to raise funds towards their new locker room. I loved that goal because, as a player, you spend a lot of time in there. You want it to be a comfortable place where players want to be.”

Learn more about Jen Ritz

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
All my life, one of my favorite things was getting swag from events I went to. Whether it was catching a t-shirt thrown by a cheerleader at a game or getting a free water bottle after running a 5K. My favorite thing about what I do now is I get to create that excitement for my clients whether it's a team, school, business, or event. Sweet Tees is a full-service shop offering all types of printed apparel and more.

How did Iona prepare you for your career?
Iona always felt like home to me and still does. Playing basketball and traveling with the team was one of the best experiences of my life. I think what stuck with me the most, though, is as a student-athlete we learned to balance many things at once. Between workouts, classes, games, and traveling, our schedules were packed. This has definitely translated to being a business owner and the level of multitasking that is required of me.

What advice would you give to a student?
I took a lot of different paths before landing where I am today – take classes that interest you and do your best in them. We have a vast alumni network and a passionate one at that! Get to know the people in school with you as well as alumni. These relationships are the ones that will help you no matter what your career path ends up being.

What’s your fondest Iona memory?
Iona brought me all over the world. I've been inside the Colosseum in Rome and outside of Buckingham Palace in London. I went surfing for the first time on Waikiki Beach. I've stood on the football field at Notre Dame. So many of my best memories are because of Iona Women's Basketball.

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 Freshman Sofia Wyllie ’28 Saves Motorcyclist, Wins Citizen of the Year Award (News 5358)

ptascio@iona.edu — Wed, 14 May 2025 15:27:21 +0000

Iona University Freshman Sofia Wyllie ’28 Saves Motorcyclist, Wins Citizen of the Year Award (News 5358) ptascio@iona.edu Wed, 05/14/2025 - 11:27 Iona University Freshman Sofia Wyllie ’28 Saves Motorcyclist, Wins Citizen of the Year Award May 14, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. – As a motorcyclist lay bleeding on North Avenue, Iona University freshman Sofia Wyllie ’28 sprinted into action. Using her sweatpants as a makeshift tourniquet, police say her heroic actions helped to save the man’s life.

“I just locked in,” recalled Wyllie, a trained lifeguard from Long Island, N.Y. “He was going to bleed out. I had to do something.”

In recognition of her extraordinary response, the New Rochelle Police Department honored Wyllie with its Citizen of the Year Award. An estimated 200 people attended the annual ceremony, held at the Greentree Country Club on May 13, 2025.

Wyllie’s Heroic Actions

On what seemed like an ordinary October day, as Wyllie was on her way to dance class, a motorcyclist was struck by a van and catapulted onto the road, screaming in agony.

It was in that moment that Wyllie’s training and instincts kicked in. Assessing the scene, she stayed calm and knew she had to improvise. The man’s leg was severely injured. She recognized arterial bleeding. This was a critical situation, requiring immediate action.

With shorts underneath, she removed her sweatpants and fashioned them into a tourniquet – twisting the legs as tightly as possible and tying them above the bleeding. She stayed by the man’s side until emergency responders arrived moments later. Next, she consoled the driver of the van, keeping him calm amidst the chaos.

As the ambulance sped off to the hospital, Wyllie prayed on the street. She then calmly stood up, called her dad and walked back across the scene of the accident to attend class.

Despite the outpouring of praise she has received from the community, she humbly downplays her part. Instead, she gives credit to her guiding principle – faith.

“I don’t feel like a hero. I was just an instrument in God’s plan,” she said. “God had me walk into the accident because He knew I could help.”

Called to Make a Difference

Wyllie’s story resonates deeply with Iona’s mission of faith. Founded in 1940 by the Christian Brothers, Iona inspires students to embrace a life of purpose, rooted in community and service to others. Wyllie embodies these values.

Now, as she takes her next steps at Iona – pursing a degree in Health and Wellness and launching her own personal training business – she said her vision is to continue doing God’s work by empowering others to cultivate both physical and mental strength.

“I just want to make a difference,” she said. “No matter if it’s big or small, I try to make a difference every day – whether it’s smiling at a passing stranger or saving someone’s life on the street.”

Watch Now: Sofia Wyllie '28 Featured on News12

No Food Left Behind: Iona University Students Take Action Against Food Waste (News 5347)

ptascio@iona.edu — Fri, 09 May 2025 14:08:09 +0000

No Food Left Behind: Iona University Students Take Action Against Food Waste (News 5347) ptascio@iona.edu Fri, 05/09/2025 - 10:08 No Food Left Behind: Iona University Students Take Action Against Food Waste

Iona’s Food Recovery Network team springs into action to rescue surplus food across campus.

May 8, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. - Iona University students are taking action to address the issues of food waste and food insecurity, helping to recover and donate surplus food that otherwise would have gone to waste across campus.

Launched through the Deignan Institute for Earth and Spirit this past fall, the Iona chapter of the Food Recovery Network has already rescued over 100 pounds of food – and counting.

“The Food Recovery Network encompasses my passions for sustainability, social justice and food insecurity while creating meaningful change within a community,” said freshman Ian Smith ’28. “It is a passion I hope will only spread along our greater Iona community as well as to other institutions.”

Jim Robinson, professor of religious studies and director of Iona’s Deignan Institute for Earth and Spirit, has served as the group’s faculty advisor since its founding in October 2024.

It all started when Robinson suggested that students might pursue this initiative at one of the Institute’s GreenFaith Circle gatherings this past fall. Soon after, Iona’s local chapter began gaining grassroots traction and it now has 25 members.

Smith and fellow freshman classmate Jayden Lopez ’28 immediately expressed a desire to take on leadership roles. Communicating via text chats, the group is nimble and able to respond quickly across campus if there is food to be recovered.

“As a new organization, the response has been amazing,” Robinson said. “Our student leaders have really taken this forward in incredibly powerful ways.”

The Food Recovery Network was originally founded in 2011 by students at the University of Maryland to address two intertwined issues.

The first is the problem of food waste; 40 percent of all food in the United States goes to waste, causing not only food insecurity but also environmental problems. The second issue is the lack of access to healthy food, which affects an estimated 47.7 million Americans.

So far, Iona students have saved over 100 pounds of food and donated it to the Don Bosco Soup Kitchen in nearby Port Chester, N.Y. Additionally, they have partnered with Chartwells, the school’s food service provider, to save even more food that otherwise would have gone to waste.

Iona student Miguel Oliveros, who has been delivering the food, said he was inspired to be part of the initiative to help serve others in alignment with his values.

“Traveling the world and seeing the difference in both wealthy and not so wealthy countries, and the people that live there, I wanted to help those with very little because that is how I was raised, to help those in need,” Oliveros said.

Expanding student advocacy beyond campus, Smith and Iona senior Connor Murray ’25 also recently presented at an environmental summit at The Center at Mariandale on April 26, discussing several ecological initiatives taking place at Iona such as the Food Recovery Network, GreenFaith Circle and others through the Deignan Institute.

As the Food Recovery Network continues to gain momentum, Robinson encourages students and others to join the cause and share their constructive ideas. To get involved, the Iona community can email Robinson at jxrobinson@iona.edu.

“This is an evolving project, and through conversations with people in the Iona community, we’re working to refine our approach,” Robinson said. “The easiest way for us to do that is by building connections within the community.”

From left to right: Mekias Assefa ’27, Ian Smith ’28, Nathan Mesfin ’27, Connor Murray ’25, and Dr. Jim Robinson.

A Message of Gratitude for Supporting the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund (News 5184)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 20:59:26 +0000

A Message of Gratitude for Supporting the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund (News 5184) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 04/08/2025 - 16:59 A Message of Gratitude for Supporting the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund April 8, 2025

In times of unexpected challenges and unforeseen obstacles, the Iona University community stands together, united by a shared commitment to supporting one another during our greatest time of need. The Friends of Brother Devlin Fund is a beacon of hope and support, designed to provide immediate aid to students facing sudden and urgent financial needs. Named in honor of J. Kevin Devlin CFC, Ed.D., ’61, whose dedication to Iona's mission has left an indelible mark on generations of students, this fund reflects the spirit of compassion and community that defines the Iona experience.

A Message from Brother Devlin, Student Resource Liaison

I want to thank all of our generous donors for your consistent support of the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund. Your kindness has made a remarkable difference in the lives of our students, allowing them to focus on their education rather than worrying about basic necessities.

In the Tradition of Edmund Rice
Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers, established his first school at Mount Sion in Waterford, Ireland, in 1802. With practical wisdom beyond his time, he understood that education alone was insufficient—children needed their basic needs met to truly flourish.
Today at Iona University, we continue this sacred tradition thanks to the generosity of our caring community. Because of you, students overcome obstacles that might otherwise prevent them from completing their education.

The Impact of Your Generosity
I am delighted to share with you the wonderful impact your contributions have made this academic year:

Our campus food pantry has become a beacon of hope, serving approximately 50 individual students with nearly 100 total visits.
Students have received essential support for transportation, educational materials, and unexpected emergencies.
Your gifts have provided not just necessities, but moments of joy through special treats like Nutella jars at Thanksgiving and cookie tins at Christmas.

It’s truly moving for me to witness the students’ reactions when they visit the food pantry. They arrive—sometimes alone, sometimes with friends—but always with smiles of warmth and gratitude. They appreciate not only the assistance itself but the confidential and dignified manner in which it is provided.

Making Education Possible
Your generous support helps the University provide resources for students when hardships threaten to derail their education. This assistance addresses immediate needs and allows our students to succeed academically. By continuing the Edmund Rice tradition of compassionate service, your support transforms lives. As one student recently shared with me, “This fund didn’t just help me eat—it showed me that someone believes in me.”

Our Continued Mission
As we move forward, we remain committed to ensuring that no student must choose between their education and their basic needs. In the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice, we recognize that we cannot “Fight the Good Fight” on an empty stomach.
Thank you for your generous support which embodies the very best of our shared values and mission.

Iona University Students Embark on Mission Trip to Ireland, Honoring Legacy of Blessed Edmund Rice (News 5163)

ptascio@iona.edu — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:42:30 +0000

Iona University Students Embark on Mission Trip to Ireland, Honoring Legacy of Blessed Edmund Rice (News 5163) ptascio@iona.edu Fri, 04/04/2025 - 09:42 Iona University Students Embark on Mission Trip to Ireland, Honoring Legacy of Blessed Edmund Rice April 4, 2025

Iona University students recently traveled to Ireland on a transformative mission trip, deepening their connection to the University’s Irish heritage and its commitment to service. The journey followed in the footsteps of Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Congregation of Christian Brothers, whose legacy continues to inspire Iona’s mission.

Led by student leaders Ryan Murphy and Will Quincy, the group explored the legacy of Edmund Rice, visiting the places where he lived and served. More than a historical journey, the experience was a call to action—challenging students to embrace their role as advocates for service.

"I think part of the mission is to help young people realize their role in society,” said Christian Brother Raymond Vercruysse, “as advocates of justice, as men and women of faith, and as people conscious of our world."

At the heart of the trip was hands-on community engagement. Students volunteered in soup kitchens and shelters, providing support to individuals experiencing homelessness.

“A lot of people can look around and be bystanders, but if we’re able to be a doer then it sets an example for those around us,” said Makena Spatz ’28, a freshman participant of the mission trip. “That’s one of the biggest things I took away from this trip.”

This mission trip exemplifies Iona’s core values of learning, service and justice. It reinforces the University’s commitment to preparing students to make a meaningful impact in the world—whether in New York, Ireland or beyond. Through experiences such as these, Iona students continue to carry forward Edmund Rice’s legacy, ensuring that the work of faith and service thrives in today’s world.

Iona’s spiritual connection to Ireland has strengthened further with the opening of its new campus in County Mayo in May 2024. Located on the historic 400-acre Westport House Estate, the campus provides opportunities for global learning and deepens Iona’s connection to its Irish roots. Students are set to return this May.

Ryan Murphy ’25 Fuses His Passion for Sports Media and Service at Iona University (News 5069)

ptascio@iona.edu — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 18:20:01 +0000

Ryan Murphy ’25 Fuses His Passion for Sports Media and Service at Iona University (News 5069) ptascio@iona.edu Tue, 02/25/2025 - 13:20 Ryan Murphy ’25 Fuses His Passion for Sports Media and Service at Iona University February 21, 2025

New Rochelle, N.Y. – From standing on the sidelines of basketball games with a camera in hand to spotting him at nearly every Office of Mission & Ministry event, Ryan Murphy ’25 has found his calling by combining sports media and mission-driven work at Iona University.

“I had the opportunity to film a March Madness game live in front of 14,000 people and perform with the Iona Singers at Radio City Music Hall,” said the Millbrook, N.Y., native. “These are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that Iona has made possible for me."

As a media assistant for Iona Athletics, Murphy has gained invaluable hands-on experience that has sharpened his technical and digital production skills. But it doesn’t end there.

When he is not editing content in Ryan Library, Murphy juggles his various roles and interests across campus, one of which is serving as a student Campus Minister.

“Serving as a Campus Minister has provided me with a variety of opportunities,” he said. “Learning about the social justice issues that are prevalent in our country and the world and advocating for the betterment of all human life has been very impactful in my life.”

Through the Office of Mission & Ministry, Murphy has also been involved in several global service opportunities.

In January 2024, he served in Lima, Peru, building a home for a family in need and running a day camp for children in the mountain village of Jicamarca. A year later, in January 2025, he expanded upon that experience, serving as the student leader for the Iona in Mission trip to Ireland, where he worked with the city’s homeless population.

Locally, he also extends his time to support affordable housing efforts with Fuller Center by helping to construct and repair homes.

“We are all called to be more like Christ,” he said reflecting on his Peru experience. “Through this mission, we were able to walk with the poor and be part of their community, which is really how Jesus lived, and that’s how I’m hoping to embrace this trip and continue it into my life.”

As graduation approaches, Murphy is eager to deepen his commitment to community service.

“Being a Campus Minister has opened my eyes to the needs of the community and the world,” he said. “Whether that is a year of service, or providing full-time service, I know I will be serving people around me.”

How Education Can Transform Poverty in Honduras (News 4283)

pmaceli — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 19:02:10 +0000

How Education Can Transform Poverty in Honduras (News 4283) pmaceli Mon, 11/27/2023 - 14:02 How Education Can Transform Poverty in HondurasFather Álvaro Shares His Mission with Iona University Students

Left to right, Sean P. D'Alfonso, Ed.D., Fr. Álvaro Ramos, Fr. Gerard Mulvey, OFM Cap. and Annika Ziels ’24

November 27, 2023

New Rochelle, N.Y. (November 2023) – Iona University’s 2023 Cornelia Lecturer, Fr. Álvaro Ramos, recently met with hundreds of students to discuss his mission to leverage the power of education to transform lives and end poverty in Honduras.

The Central American nation is the second poorest country in the Americas with almost 3 million children who cannot finish their studies due to lack of resources and motivation.

“I prefer to see this not as a major problem, but as a great opportunity to create wealth for society. Every child, if properly cared for, can be a source of talent for the world. It is the lack of opportunities that differentiates us,” said Fr. Álvaro, who in 2019 received the King of Spain Human Rights Award for a mission in Honduras.
Father Álvaro is a former a private equity executive from Spain, with an MBA from the University of North Carolina and experience in the investment banking arm of Bank of America. After visiting Honduras, he quit his job and became a priest.

His visit to Iona in New Rochelle attracted the attention of The Wall Street Journal, who reported on his mission and attended the lecture. During the presentation, Álvaro explained a misconception about poverty.

“The poor cannot expect their government or the international community to change their condition. Instead, the community must take the lead,” he said.
Father Álvaro works with ACOES, a nonprofit organization that empowers Hondurans to eradicate extreme poverty through education.

In Honduras, ACOES is managed by high school and college students from poor backgrounds sponsored by the organization. Today, these young people have grown into a group of 1,000 people across 11 regions Honduras helping 11,500 students and 5,000 elderly and single mothers.

Helping the poor changed Father Álvaro's life and others can follow his path. Anyone interested in learning more about Father Álvaro's mission can contact him at Álvaroramos@acoes.org.

Sean P. D'Alfonso, Ed.D., director of Iona’s Office of Mission and Ministry, organized the visit as part of Iona’s annual celebration of the life of its first President, Br. William Barnabas Cornelia.

Iona celebrates Br. Cornelia as it commits itself to being a caring academic community, inspired by the legacy of St. Columba, Blessed Edmund Rice and the Christian Brothers, who championed the liberating power of education.

“Both St. Columba and Edmund Rice were men who gave up lives of comfort and affluence to more closely live out their faith with a purpose of promoting education,” D’Alfonso said. “Father Álvaro is a wonderful representation of someone who embodies such a legacy, and whose work inspires us to do more.”

Iona University’s Annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive Serves Over 136 Families (News 4282)

ptascio — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:34:23 +0000

Iona University’s Annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive Serves Over 136 Families (News 4282) ptascio Tue, 11/21/2023 - 09:34 Iona University’s Annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive Serves Over 136 Families Every year members of the Iona Community gather in support of local families living below the poverty line

Iona's Thanksgiving Basket Drive is an annual event that serves families in Westchester and the Bronx.

November 21, 2023

New Rochelle, N.Y. – Iona University’s annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive serves as a crucial form of support and resource for more than 136 local families in Westchester and the Bronx. The baskets are carefully curated and filled with necessary ingredients for families to enjoy their Thanksgiving meals. The event took place in the Mulcahy Gym, where members of Gael Nation contributed baskets of food with a personalized card for families.

In the spirit of generosity, numerous departments on campus and student-led organizations sponsored and collected food items to support families from many of our local community partners: HOPE Community Services, The Big Viv Foundation in New Rochelle, Greyston Foundation Child & Youth Services in Yonkers, and Thrive for Life in the Bronx.

The Secretary of the Inter-Religious Coalition of New Rochelle, George Morris ’70, ’74MA, spoke on behalf of HOPE Community Services. “Where there is love, that’s where God is. Charity is good, justice is better and that’s the next step,” said Morris.

Laura Fairchild, associate director of the Office of Mission & Ministry and Deputy Title IX Coordinator.

The Office of Mission & Ministry strives to exude the Catholic tradition and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice. The event is grounded in the ideals of mind, body and spirit. Brother Kevin Griffith blessed the baskets before they were in route to families.

“As Gaels, we don’t wish for a better world we use our gifts to make it one. This drive isn't just a tradition but an invitation to unite with our gifts and serve our world,” said Laura Fairchild, associate director of the Office of Mission & Ministry and Deputy Title IX Coordinator.

The event demonstrates Iona’s commitment to service and community. It also creates a ripple effect of togetherness and gratitude.

Leading up to the event, Iona students paused to reflect on what they were most thankful for this holiday.

“I’m thankful God wakes me up every day and I am surrounded by family and friends. And I am thankful for my health,” said Zaina Shleiwet ’24.

“This Thanksgiving, I am feeling grateful for the opportunity to grow and improve so I can become a better person and do even better things,” said Joseph Ferrer ’23.

Sean D'Alfonso, director of the Office of Mission & Ministry.

Over 136 baskets were collected, surpassing expectations.

George Morris ’70, ’74MA, secretary of the Inter-Religious Coalition of New Rochelle.

Baskets will support families from many of our local community partners: HOPE Community Services, The Big Viv Foundation in New Rochelle, Greyston Foundation Child & Youth Services in Yonkers, and Thrive for Life in the Bronx.

Kevin M. Griffith, CFC, '83, community partnerships coordinator for Service-Learning.

2X NBA All-Star Allan Houston Talks Faith, Leadership, Legacy at Iona University (News 4175)

ptascio — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:35:27 +0000

2X NBA All-Star Allan Houston Talks Faith, Leadership, Legacy at Iona University (News 4175) ptascio Fri, 09/15/2023 - 16:35 2X NBA All-Star Allan Houston Talks Faith, Leadership, Legacy at Iona University September 15, 2023

New Rochelle, N.Y. – To whom much is given, much is required. For two-time NBA All-Star Allan Houston and his wife, Tammi, that Bible verse provides powerful words to live by.

“It was always bigger than basketball. I knew that I had talent, but I was always taught that the talent was for a bigger reason and purpose,” the former Knicks shooting guard said Wednesday night. “Life is perspective. It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you perceive it and what you do with it and how you move forward from it that matters. You win first from within. The scores and the trophies and everything that comes after is all from your preparation.”

Speaking to a crowd of students, faculty and staff in Thomas J. Burke Lounge at Iona University, the Houstons shared words of wisdom about their personal and professional journeys, including parenting seven children as well as launching a social impact brand, FISLL.

Named after the five fundamentals that inspired Allan Houston on the court and in life, FISLL emphasizes the importance of faith, integrity, sacrifice, leadership and legacy.

“I was on the plane one day and I just wrote down those five words,” Allan Houston said. “Faith is a big part of our identity. I am always listening to my spirit, listening to God’s voice. I encourage you all to take quiet time and just listen, just reflect. Because it’s in those quiet moments that you receive the most power.”

“You are going to learn a lot of information from your professors and your classrooms,” he added. “But wisdom comes from God. And it comes from how you apply that information you’re going to get.”

Sharing stories from the NBA sprinkled in with laughs about parenting and deep truths about trust, faith and so much more, the Houstons kept the room captivated by their clear and passionate insights into success and leadership.

“What he’s telling you, he has lived,” Tammi Houston said. “They say walk the talk. But I want you to know – this talk, we have walked it. Whatever you put your mind to, you have to put your mind into doing it well. You have to have the highest standard for yourself. Otherwise, why do it?”

Alison Munsch, Ph.D. , Iona’s chief officer of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, organized the opportunity and led the discussion. Her thoughtful questions helped to guide the conversation toward key takeaways that people could apply toward success in their own lives. There were countless nuggets of wisdom throughout the fireside chat.

“Your life is an opportunity to lead where you stand. It becomes a lifestyle,” Tammi Houston said. “When you know you’re a winner, you’re going to act like a winner, you’re going to lead like a winner, you’re going to show up like a winner. Actions always speak louder than words.”

“You have to have a desire to get better every single day. We don’t know what the future is going to look like, but we can show up today,” Allan Houston said. “The question I want to start and end with is this: How do you want to show up?”

The Houstons shared words of wisdom about their personal and professional journeys, including parenting seven children as well as launching a social impact brand, FISLL.

Allan Houston spoke to a crowd of students, faculty and staff in Thomas J. Burke Lounge.

From Left: Allan Houston, Alison Munsch, Ph.D. , Iona’s chief officer of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging and Tammi Houston.

Iona University Criminal Justice Professor Honored for Public Service to the Bronx (News 4011)

ptascio — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 17:10:28 +0000

Iona University Criminal Justice Professor Honored for Public Service to the Bronx (News 4011) ptascio Fri, 06/23/2023 - 13:10 Iona University Criminal Justice Professor Honored for Public Service to the BronxDr. Tyron Pope received NYC Council Citation for his 20 years of service with the NYPD and continued commitment to the community

Tyron Pope, Ed.D.

June 23, 2023

Bronx, N.Y. – In recognition of his commitment and service to the people and communities of the Bronx, Iona University Criminal Justice professor Tyron Pope, Ed.D., received a New York City Council Citation and served as the featured speaker commemorating the history of Juneteenth during a ceremony on June 18, 2023.

Pope, who teaches Introduction to Criminal Justice as well as courses that explore research methodology in criminology, is a retired member of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) with 20 years of service in various capacities, including Sergeant Supervisor, Detective Squad.

Councilmember Marjorie Velázquez and Bronx Community Board 11 presented the citation at Brady Court in the Bronx. The event also served as a celebration of Father’s Day, bringing the community together around history, unity, food, music and more.

“It is with sincere humility and appreciation that I say thank you to NYC Councilmember Marjorie Velasquez and Community Board 11,” Pope said. “It was an honor to receive this citation and to be the featured Juneteenth speaker, surrounded by family, friends and fellow community members dedicated to serving the Bronx.”

Pope received his Doctor of Education from the Executive Leadership Program of St. John Fisher University with a focus on social justice issues.

His dissertation focused on African-American, K-12 male school principals’ shared decision-making during crisis planning, restorative justice and disciplinary issues dealing with school safety and gun violence.

Iona officers a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice, as well as a combined BA-MS degree. Learn more about the Criminal Justice & Sociology programs at iona.edu.

Left to right: Iona University Criminal Justice Professor Tyron Pope, Ed.D.; Bronx County District Attorney Darcel Clark; NYC Councilmember Velázquez; and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.