Topic - Performing Arts News (146)

Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World (News 5928)

jhernandez33@gaels.iona.edu — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:19:58 +0000

Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World (News 5928) jhernandez33@g… Thu, 02/19/2026 - 12:19 Iona Singers Set to Perform for Global Audience at Walt Disney World

Isabella Ruggiero, Class of 2026

February 19, 2026

For Isabella Ruggiero ’26, finding her fit at Iona University meant creating a space where her passions did not have to compete — they could coexist.

A graduate of LaGuardia High School of Music and Art, and a speech pathology major with a lifelong love of music, Ruggiero knew she wanted to build a career in helping others. She also knew she was not going to let her passion for singing take a back seat.

“There was no way that I was just going to stop singing,” Ruggiero said. “That is definitely why I chose Iona, so that I could do both. And it ended up being such a blessing.”

That decision has shaped her entire college experience; this month, it will take her and nearly 20 fellow students to Walt Disney World.

As president of the Iona Singers and a founding member of the NightinGaels — the University’s a cappella group — Ruggiero has helped lead the ensemble to new heights. From February 19–22, the group will travel to Orlando, Florida, where they will participate in an exclusive Disney recording studio workshop, ending with a performance at Disney Springs for guests from around the world.

The NightinGaels deepen their vocal training through more advanced harmonies, contemporary repertoire, and unique performance opportunities.

“I'm very excited,” Ruggiero said. “I grew up going to Disney with my family, so it is a big win that I get to take the group. I think the energy in the group has stayed extremely high ever since we announced that we are taking this trip.”

Inside a backstage Disney recording studio, students will gain hands-on experience in voice acting and singing while learning how sound and music are recorded for animated films — an immersive look at the intersection of performance, storytelling and technology. They will also take the stage at Disney Springs for a concert featuring NightinGaels favorites alongside beloved Disney classics.

“We have been having Disney-specific rehearsals, and everyone is really excited about it,” Ruggiero said. “When a section gets tough and we have to rehearse it repeatedly, I remind my peers that we are all going to be in Florida together. These are the friends you have made in the group, and now you get to enjoy a weekend with them and show off a little bit.”

"Iona performing arts has proven to be such an accepting place. It is a great place to build community."

Determined to ensure that all members had the opportunity to travel, the group has been hard at work in fundraising as a community.

“I do not think the Singers, at least in my time, have ever taken on something of this scale,” Ruggiero said. “This group has really been showing that we want it. We have been fundraising so enthusiastically and have been working hard to make sure this trip is everything we want it to be.”

For Ruggiero, the group’s dedicated efforts to ensure a successful and memorable trip speak to the character of both the singers and Iona performing arts as a collective.

“I think Iona performing arts has proven to be such an accepting place, and it shows in the Singers,” Ruggiero said. “It has proven to be an onstage and offstage type of group. Whenever there is something rough going on, we show up for each other — outside the concert hall too. It is a great place to build community.”

About The Iona Singers

The Iona Singers organize and participate in several musical productions on campus and off each year. Their concerts include solos and group performances, and are conducted and accompanied by a professional director. You will hear them at many major campus events, such as Homecoming, Commencement, Maroon Madness and more, including performing at the historic Radio City Music Hall.

Iona Singers

About The NightinGaels

The Iona University NightinGaels, part of the esteemed Iona Singers ensemble, are a captivating a cappella group known for their dynamic performances and diverse repertoire. Comprised of talented singers from various backgrounds, they blend harmonies seamlessly, delivering spellbinding renditions across genres. With rigorous rehearsals and a commitment to excellence, they inspire audiences on campus and beyond, fostering a sense of community through their music.

Iona NightinGaels

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’s Aidan Carpenter ’27 Releases Debut Album (News 4476)

ptascio@iona.edu — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:57:49 +0000

Iona’s Aidan Carpenter ’27 Releases Debut Album (News 4476) ptascio@iona.edu Thu, 03/07/2024 - 09:57 Iona’s Aidan Carpenter ’27 Releases Debut AlbumA Star of Stage and Sport, Carpenter Pursues Passion for Soccer and Songwriting at Iona March 7, 2024

New Rochelle, N.Y. - Aidan Carpenter ’27 is not only a Division I athlete on the Iona women’s soccer team, but a musical artist, too. At a young age, she began her musical journey through choirs in her hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. Carpenter has come a long way since then, and recently celebrated the release of her debut album, "Ignite."

"I had been working on this album for about a year. I write all the lyrics to my songs and work with a music producer in my hometown. It took a lot of time, energy and mental toughness to release this album,” said the singer/songwriter. “I’m very proud of how it turned out.”

Balancing music, coursework and soccer isn’t an easy feat, but Carpenter uses music as an outlet.

“It’s hard to be an artist, athlete and student 24/7. But music to me is something I do when I’m stressed or need a mental break. So, when I find the minutes in the day, I’m always coming up with song ideas in my head or taking mental notes of cool content I could post relating to my music,” said the Louisiana native.

Luckily, Iona has served as a haven for Carpenter to pursue various passions.

“I love the atmosphere at Iona. When I’m at Iona, I feel comfortable and calm. Since I have a performing arts and athletic scholarship, I am offered vocal lessons, which have given me a better opportunity to grow and strengthen my singing technique,” said Carpenter.

Her musical inspirations include artists such as Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift and Adele.

You can check out her new E.P on Spotify and Apple Music.

We talked recently with Aidan to learn more about her journey. Please enjoy!

Tell me about your musical journey. When did you start to sing, perform and practice music?
I started singing at a very young age. I was in a show choir from 3rd to 5th grade then took a break to get serious about soccer. I started performing again about two years ago after overcoming my stage fright.

Who are some of your musical influences?
Taylor Swift, Adele and Billie Eilish are artists that inspire me and influence many of the songs I write stylistically and lyrically.

Tell us about your new E.P.
My new EP was recently released on January 1, 2024. I had been working on this album for about a year. I write all the lyrics to my songs and work with a music producer in my hometown. It took a lot of time, energy and mental toughness to release this album. I’m very proud of how it turned out.

How do you balance music, soccer and course work?
It’s very difficult but, I think if you have a passion for something it’s less of a chore and more of a gift. There are many days when soccer or school take up a lot of my time and energy. It’s hard to be an artist, athlete and student 24/7. But music to me is something I do when I’m stressed or need a mental break. So, when I find the minutes in the day, I’m always coming up with song ideas in my head or taking mental notes of cool content I could post relating to my music. I subconsciously do it because I love it, so when balancing everything in my life, that aspect makes it easier. Juggling it all is worth it because I have a dream behind it, which propels me to give it my all every day.

What do you love about going to school at Iona? Has Iona helped nurture your musical talents? If so, please share!
I love the atmosphere at Iona. It's not too overwhelming and makes me feel more secure knowing I have all the girls on my team supporting me. It also helps to be a good distance from the city without holding the chaos of it. When I’m at Iona, I feel comfortable and calm. Since I have a performing arts and athletic scholarship, I am offered vocal lessons which have given me a better opportunity to grow and strengthen my singing technique.

Where can people listen to your music? (Are you on any platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)
My album is released on Apple Music and Spotify! The album is called Ignite by Aidan Carpenter. I’m also on TikTok @realaidancarpenter and Instagram @aidancarpenterr.

Ariana Rodriguez ’24 Pursues Life Dream of Becoming a Teacher at Iona University (News 4385)

ptascio — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:24:47 +0000

Ariana Rodriguez ’24 Pursues Life Dream of Becoming a Teacher at Iona University (News 4385) ptascio Wed, 01/24/2024 - 15:24 Ariana Rodriguez ’24 Pursues Life Dream of Becoming a Teacher at Iona University January 24, 2024

New Rochelle, N.Y. — From pretending to play teacher with all her cousins and siblings as a child, becoming an educator has always been a dream for Ariana Rodriguez ’24. Now as an education major at Iona University, that dream is coming true.

“Student-teaching at Iona University has made me realize that being an educator is where I am meant to be,” she said. “Iona has given me a great experience of what my future will look like.”

A Long Island native, she said she decided to study at Iona due to its student-to-faculty ratio, which ensures personalized attention, as well as its close-knit community feel.

“I knew that my courses would be more one-on-one with professors,” she said.

In addition to completing student teaching requirements, Rodriguez wears many hats across campus as a member of the Iona dance team and as the senior representative for the Student Government Association.

“With Iona being such a close community, I can be involved in so much! Being involved on the Iona dance team really elevated my experience here,” she said.

We talked recently with Rodriguez to learn more about her Iona journey. Please enjoy!

Student Name: Ariana Rodriguez
Graduate Year: 2024
Hometown: Long Island, N.Y.
High School: Bellport High School
Major: Early Childhood / Childhood Education
Clubs: Education Club E-board, The Iona Dance Team E-Board, Gamma Lambda Rho E-Council, and Senior Representative for the Student Government Association.
Favorite Spot: Hynes Athletic Center

Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I decided to attend Iona University due to its community-like feel. I knew that my courses would be more one-on-one with professors. Also, as a Long Island native, Iona is not too far yet not too close from my hometown. As a dancer, I grew up dancing in the city and in the Bronx, so it’s basically perfect to attend Iona.

What interests you most about your chosen course of study?
Becoming an educator has always been a dream of mine. From pretend playing teacher with all of my cousins and siblings, to the profession running in my family, I have a distinct memory of my childhood education.

I always wanted to fill my 6th-grade ELA teacher's shoes. She allowed me to realize my love for education and the desire to make an impact on students' lives, as she did for me. Children will always be the future.

What distinct advantages have you gained from your Iona experience?
With Iona being such a close community, I am able to become involved in so many clubs across campus. Being involved on the Iona dance team really elevated my experience here at Iona.

Have you interned anywhere? If so, how did you find the opportunity? What did you enjoy most about your internship?
Student teaching at Iona University has made me realize that being an educator is where I am meant to be! Iona has given me a great experience of what my future will look like.

Tell us about your plans for the future. In what ways has Iona prepared you for the next step you will be taking?
My plan is to become the best teacher I can be! I hope to get a teaching job as soon as I can, while completing my master's program. Iona University has prepared me for a career in education by creating such a healthy learning environment. The education program allows so many on-site experiences into what being a teacher is actually like.

Is there a faculty or staff member who has made a positive impact on your future that you would like to mention?
As an education major, I must pick a concentration. In my sophomore year, I chose to pursue a concentration in Spanish. Although Spanish is my family's native language, I was still overwhelmed by the fact that I would be taking these challenging courses.

However, Professor Caballero has created such a welcoming presence throughout the Spanish program. She is exactly what I want to embody as an educator from supporting my presentations completely in Spanish to joining end-of-the-year of the celebrations.

What clubs, organizations or service projects are you involved with beyond the classroom?
As a part of the education club e-board, The Iona Dance team e-board, Gamma Lambda Rho e-Council, and the Senior Representative for the Student Government Association, I’ve had the opportunity to give back to the Iona Community, all while I complete my student teaching.

Academic Excellence on Full Display at Iona University (News 3901)

ptascio — Wed, 03 May 2023 19:53:19 +0000

Academic Excellence on Full Display at Iona University (News 3901) ptascio Wed, 05/03/2023 - 15:53 Academic Excellence on Full Display at Iona University Iona Scholars Day pushes students to “Learn Outside the Lines” of the classroom May 3, 2023

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Over 200 students from a broad array of academic majors came together to present their original research during the 14th annual Iona Scholars Day on April 20. With over 70 poster presentations set up in the Hynes Athletics Center, the event gave students and their faculty mentors a chance to showcase their academic and creative interests. Iona Scholars Day also included a display of self portraits made by visual arts students and a student concert on the Murphy Green.

“All our scholars should feel incredibly proud of their accomplishments,” said President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “The academic excellence on display was a testament to their hard work, curiosity and commitment to expanding their horizons. Also, thank you to all the faculty mentors who guided and motivated our students to achieve at such a high level. Their commitment to supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom is what makes Iona such a special place.”

This year’s Iona Scholars Day reimagined the keynote speech, as the community observed a Q&A session with Iona alumnus Tony Goncalves ’94 and journalism major Niomi Nunez ’24. Goncalves shared insights and advice into college and professional success, highlighting the importance of networking, optimizing your time and making the most out of the opportunities presented to you.

Throughout the day, students enjoyed the opportunity to share their work with their peers and others across campus.

Teodora Mitov ’23

Computer science majors Catherine DiProperzio ’23, Justin Hamilton ’23 and Anaya Potter ’23 designed and coded an entire mobile app dedicated to food, with a concept similar to Instagram. “We all have gotten to know each other really well and build a very cool app. We’re happy to present it here today.”

Teodora Mitov ’23, a double major in political science and media and strategic communications with a concentration in digital media and production, analyzed the political risk that Facebook faced because of the whistleblower situation in 2021 when Frances Haugen released internal documents. “Student research is an amazing thing we have at Iona and it’s great that we get to see what other people are working on. Iona Scholars Day allows us to see everyone’s research and also present our own, which is very fun.”

Christele Romulus ‘23, a psychology major and dance minor, did an examination of the self, incorporating different dancing groups, styles and music that portrays her Afro-Caribbean and Haitian heritage. “It was a long process. I felt like I went back and forth in my head because I have a perfectionist side as a dancer. This project definitely made me challenge myself.”

Iona Scholars Day was made possible by the organizing committee led by Sunghee Lee, Ph.D., along with professors Benjamin Gaines, Ph.D.; Adam Rosado, Ph.D.; Thomas Ruggio, MFA; Bret Sanner, Ph.D.; and Catherine Smith, Ph.D.

“I am extremely proud of the work these students have done,” said Sunghee Lee, Ph.D., Board of Trustees endowed chemistry professor. “Iona Scholars Day not only allows them to showcase their hard work, but also their passions, creativity and leadership skills. This experience will serve them well throughout the course of their lives. I look forward to seeing what they have in store for us next year.”

Iona University Irish Dance Team Wins First Place in National Championship (News 3899)

ptascio — Tue, 02 May 2023 20:13:54 +0000

Iona University Irish Dance Team Wins First Place in National Championship (News 3899) ptascio Tue, 05/02/2023 - 16:13 Iona University Irish Dance Team Wins First Place in National ChampionshipThe Gaels competed in the inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships on April 15 May 2, 2023

New Rochelle, N.Y. - It’s winning season for the Iona University Irish Dance team. Just shy of its two-year anniversary on campus, the team reigned victorious at the inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships, finishing first in three categories and in the top ten of the remaining competitions. The event was hosted on Iona’s campus on April 15, 2023, and featured the top Irish Dance programs from colleges and universities across the country.

Starting with the 4-hand and 8-hand competitions (group dances performed to traditional Irish music), Rebecca Turley ’26, Tommy Byrnes ’26, Cara Costello ’25 and Brendan Broesler ’23 placed first out of 27 teams for the 4-hand event and third out of 11 teams in the 8-hand.

For the senior and graduate student solo championships, Caitlin Ward ’22, ’24MA, won first place. Ward was previously ranked as a Top 10 National Dancer and also competed at Worlds for seven years. Meanwhile, Broesler won second place of the senior and graduate student solo championships, becoming the national runner-up. Costello was also named the national champion of the sophomore solo championship, and Turley took home sixth place for the freshman solo championship. The team’s fun number, a group circus-themed performance, placed second at the competition.

Iona competed amongst colleges and universities that included the University of Wisconsin, Ohio State University, Northeastern University, Villanova University, University of Vermont, University of Connecticut, Penn State University, Fordham University, Sacred Heart University, and more.

“To see how far the program has come in two years is astounding,” said Kevin O'Sullivan, senior vice president for Enrollment and Student Affairs. “The success of this program would not be possible without the dedication and efforts of Kelly Beyrer, our director of performing arts, as well as Irish Dance Coach Rory Beglane. In addition to building a championship program, they spent countless hours behind the scenes preparing to host the National Championship on campus. Congratulations to Kelly, Rory, and our amazing students on their outstanding achievements.”

Founded in 2021, the Iona Irish Dance team currently consists of 15 members, all of whom came to Iona with previous experience and have since represented Iona at competitions, events and prestigious parades across the country. Most recently, the Irish Dance team led Iona University up Fifth Avenue during the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City. The Gaels also finished first in several categories at the 2021 Villanova Intercollegiate Irish Dance Festival.

Iona University Freshman Brings Home the Gold at Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Regional Competition (News 3872)

ptascio — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 19:34:15 +0000

Iona University Freshman Brings Home the Gold at Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Regional Competition (News 3872) ptascio Tue, 04/18/2023 - 15:34 Iona University Freshman Brings Home the Gold at Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Regional CompetitionThe youngest attendee, Alyssa Green ’26 defied the odds and is moving on to the national competition in Washington, D.C. April 18, 2023

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. & BRONXVILLE, N.Y. — At just 18 years old, Alyssa Green ’26 is making a name for herself – both at Iona and around the world.

Most recently, Green took her singing talents to the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF), a national theater program that invites 18,000 college students from across the country to compete, while enhancing and refining their performance skills. After delivering a powerful solo performance during the KCACTF Regional Festival in late January 2023, Green was crowned the regional winner, rising to the top of 32 performers from New England and Northeast New York.

Green was nominated for the KCACTF by Kelly McKenna Beyrer ’16MA, Iona’s inaugural director of performing arts, and as Green describes, a valuable mentor who has guided her, kept her focused and believed in her.

“When I recruited Alyssa, I knew that Iona was about to welcome something special,” Beyrer said. “Her talent truly speaks for itself. I’m so proud and excited to celebrate all of her accomplishments – especially one as notable as winning at the Regional Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.”

After her nomination was accepted, Green headed to Hyannis, Mass., where the Regional Festival took place.

“As soon as I got there, we immediately began workshops and one-on-one coaching leading up to the big event,” Green said as she reflected on her experience. “The first round came and only 16 out of 32 people made it through.”

Out of 16 contestants in the final round, Green won.

“It was shocking, I was the youngest and most inexperienced one there,” she said. “Knowing I only had one show under my belt at the time, and still being able to win was really big for me. But it was also humbling. It was at that moment that I realized my efforts had a purpose and singing could really become my career.”

Originally from Hamden, Conn., Green has been singing for as long as she can remember. In fact, musical talent runs in her family – her mother and grandmother are opera singers, her father is a musician, her brother is a producer and she has aunts and uncles who are gospel singers.

“Growing up surrounded by music was a lot of fun,” she said. “My family connects through music and our passion for it really strengthens our bond.”

In addition to singing, Green has mastered 12 different instruments including the piano, drums, guitar and clarinet to name a few. At Iona, she’s also involved in the Iona Players, a theater organization; the Black Student Union Dance Experience; and the Vocal and Instrumental Ensembles.

So, how does she balance such a demanding schedule?

“This is what I love to do so it’s easy to go with the flow of everything I have going on,” she said. “I just put my all into everything I do.”

Next up, Green will take on the KCACTF National Festival from April 19-22, 2023, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., where the winner from each region will compete for awards in design, performance, directing, playwriting, stage management, dramaturgy, arts leadership and theater criticism.

In the future, Green sees herself on Broadway, delving into musical theater before going mainstream.

“I want to get my name out there,” she said. “In five or six years from now, I can’t wait to look back and say ‘I did it.’”

In addition to mastering 12 instruments, Alyssa is also involved in the Iona Players.

In the future, Green sees herself on Broadway, delving into musical theater before going mainstream.

Iona University to Host Inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships April 15 (News 3859)

ptascio — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 20:50:01 +0000

Iona University to Host Inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships April 15 (News 3859) ptascio Tue, 04/11/2023 - 16:50 Iona University to Host Inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships April 15Irish Dance teams from across the country will compete in New Rochelle April 11, 2023

New Rochelle, N.Y. – Iona University is proud to announce it will host the inaugural National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships on April 15, 2023. Over 150 dancers from 11 colleges and universities are expected to compete both individually and as teams in 4-Hand and 8-Hand competitions. The event will take place on Iona’s New Rochelle campus, located at 715 North Ave., New Rochelle, N.Y.

Spectators are invited to enjoy this day of Irish dance starting at 9 a.m. and concluding around 5 p.m. Tickets are complimentary for Iona students, faculty and staff. General admission tickets range from $10 to $20. Click here to secure your tickets today!

Kelly Beyrer, director of performing arts at Iona and founder of the University’s Irish Dance team, said she is proud to welcome Irish Dance enthusiasts from across the country.

“Although Irish Dance is relatively new to Iona, as an Irish Catholic institution, we have tremendous admiration for the tradition and are so proud to host a celebration of both our heritage and student talent on campus,” Beyrer said. “Congratulations to all the dancers, coaches and teams who will be competing from far and wide. The talent on display will be top notch.”

To compete, teams must be members of the College Irish Dance Association, a nonprofit organization founded in 2020. With over 50 member schools, Collegiate Irish Dance aims to give dancers an opportunity to create new friendships based on similar passions while encouraging scholarships to be given by universities who recognize the dedication and intelligence these dancers possess. Their motto is “Dance Another Day.”

Rory Beglane, Iona’s Irish Dance team coach and a founding member of the College Irish Dance Association, said he is so proud to bring this competition to Iona University.

The idea first started in the spring semester of 2012, when he and his fellow Villanova University Irish Dance team co-captain first sought to bring college Irish Dance teams together from across the country. Villanova hosted the first-ever Intercollegiate Irish Dance Festival in 2013. From there, Beglane teamed up with another few collegiate Irish dancers, Zach Warshaw and Megan Dunn-Peters, to evolve the network into what it is today. And it is still growing strong.

“It’s been a journey to get to this day, and we are incredibly excited to have our inaugural championships. Personally, I am thrilled to have Iona as the host, a school that has meant so much to me since my days at Iona Prep,” Beglane said. “College Irish Dance is about so much more than competing; it is providing students a way to share a passion and continue beyond their high school years in a fun and creative way. There aren’t words to capture what this competition means for the validity of Irish Dance as a whole, with so many institutions recognizing the importance of this sport and culture.”

Brendan Broesler ’23, captain of the Iona Irish Dance team, has been dancing since he was 3 years old. As part of Iona’s first-ever team, he has led Iona to victory on stages from Villanova to Dayton, Ohio. To be able to compete in a national competition on his home campus is not only a thrill, but an honor, and he looks forward to representing the University with distinction.

“Irish Dance is so important to the person I am today,” Broesler said. “To be part of the Irish Dance team at Iona University has been a transformative experience, and one that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Our team is like a family.”

Iona University’s Liam Geer ’21 Honored as 2023 Irish Top 40 Under 40 (News 3721)

ptascio — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 20:22:15 +0000

Iona University’s Liam Geer ’21 Honored as 2023 Irish Top 40 Under 40 (News 3721) ptascio Thu, 02/02/2023 - 15:22 Iona University’s Liam Geer ’21 Honored as 2023 Irish Top 40 Under 40 The Irish Echo selected Geer as a rising personality of Irish America February 2, 2023

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (February 2023) — Iona University’s Liam Geer ’21 has been named as one of the nation’s “Irish Top 40 Under 40” award winners by the Irish Echo.

Widely celebrated as the director of the Iona University Pipe Band, Geer was chosen for his dedication, innovation and achievements as an up-and-coming leader of Irish America. He will be recognized at the Manhattan Manor at Rosie O'Grady's in New York City at the Irish Echo’s 16th annual award ceremony on February 24, 2023. Vote for Geer to also win the “People’s Choice Award” at the event by clicking here!

“Thank you to the Irish Echo for this recognition,” said Geer, who currently serves in Iona’s Office of the Registrar. “Being selected as an Irish Top 40 Under 40 Award winner is a tremendous honor. I’m proud to be amongst such accomplished Irish-American leaders, but I’m also proud to represent Iona, where being a Gael has allowed me to celebrate and amplify my passion for my culture.”

Originally from Newport, R.I., Geer’s interest in music, especially the Highland pipes and drums, began at a young age. Once at Iona, Geer spent his time outside of the classroom supporting the Office of the Registrar, while also being a member of the Pipe Band. He received his bachelor’s degree in international studies, and is currently a degree candidate for a Masters of Business Administration in management.

Among his many affiliations, Geer is an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), an Irish-Catholic fraternal organization with the motto, “friendship, unity and Christian charity.” Geer is currently the vice president of the New Rochelle Division, recording secretary of the Westchester County Board and serves on the AOH NYS recruitment committee. Geer is also an instructor for the Pelham Regional Pipe Band.

Directed by Geer since 2022, the Iona University Pipe Band is a unique group of performers dedicated to Iona and the music of the Great Highland bagpipe. Founded in 1966 by Brother Charles Quinn and Jack Dooley, this award-winning group leads the University’s march up Fifth Avenue during the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade. In 2019, the group won first place in the “College and High School Pipes and Drums Division.”

“Thank you to the AOH and Iona University for all of the support I’ve received in light of this special recognition,” Geer said.

The Irish Echo is the nation’s most widely circulated Irish-American weekly newspaper. Each year, they present these awards to celebrate Irish culture and highlight the distinguished young professionals making a difference across all walks of life, from every part of the nation. See this year’s distinguished class here.

Iona University Dance Team Finishes Among Top 10 in National Championship (News 3672)

ptascio — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 21:25:47 +0000

Iona University Dance Team Finishes Among Top 10 in National Championship (News 3672) ptascio Tue, 01/24/2023 - 16:25 Iona University Dance Team Finishes Among Top 10 in National ChampionshipFifteen Gaels competed for the first time on a national stage in Orlando January 24, 2023

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Making a mark in their first ever competition season, the Iona University dance team competed at the UDA (Universal Dance Association) College Nationals at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla. Taking the stage on January 14, the Gaels placed 10th nationally in the Division I hip-hop category, and were a national qualifier in the Division I jazz category.

“This team exceeded every expectation in our first competition season,” said Kelly McKenna Beyrer ’16MA, Iona’s inaugural director of performing arts. “Our team is proud to represent Iona on any stage, whether it’s a basketball court or national competition – and they give 100 percent every time. This was our first time at the UDA College Nationals, but it won’t be our last. I’m very proud of them and it’s rewarding to see all of their hard work pay off.”

"The growth I have seen in this program since my freshman year has been surreal. To be a part of this and experience it has been incredible." - Alyssa Lewandowski ’23

The dance team is comprised of 15 members: Alyssa Lewandowski ’23, Victoria Shinnick ’23, Ariana Rodriguez-Genao ’24, Breanna Baker ’25, Leila Capelo ’25, Sophia Fragomeni ’25, Michela Lepore ’25, Samantha Mirasola ’25, Sophia Quintero ’25, Victoria Biordi ’26, Alyssa Colorio ’26, Grace Forlenza ’26, Sofia Polzella ’26, Elizabeth Riccio ’26 and Cadence Vizza ’26. The team is led by Kristie Botti ’17, the dance team’s coach and former captain.

“I am so proud of this team,” Botti said. “They have worked harder in the last four months than any team I have had the pleasure of coaching. They pushed themselves and each other. I will never forget the moment they ran out of the castle [in Orlando] for the first time in Iona University history. I also want to give credit where credit is due. I can’t thank Kelly enough for everything that she did for us to get to this point. She challenged me to be a better coach and mentor and for that I am eternally grateful.”

The Gaels placed 10th nationally in the Division I hip-hop category, and were a national qualifier in the Division I jazz category.

The dance team also competed regionally on January 7 at the Battle of the Northeast Dance Challenge in Philadelphia, Pa. The Gaels placed third regionally in the Division I hip-hop category and placed second in the Division I jazz category.

“If you would’ve told me three years ago that I would get the opportunity to compete amongst the most prestigious college dance teams in the nation, I would’ve never believed you,” said Lewandowski, senior captain of the dance team. “The growth I have seen in this program since my freshman year has been surreal. To be a part of this and experience it has been incredible. As Kristie said, none of this would be possible without our biggest advocate, Kelly. We also wouldn’t be here without our Coach Kristie always believing in us and pushing us harder. I am beyond grateful for them both.”

For any Iona student interested in joining the dance team, spring tryouts will take place on Sunday, April 16, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 5 a.m. in the Hegarty Room in Hynes West. Registration is required.

Iona University’s Iona Singers Perform at Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular (News 3588)

ptascio — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 14:37:24 +0000

Iona University’s Iona Singers Perform at Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular (News 3588) ptascio Tue, 12/13/2022 - 09:37 Iona University’s Iona Singers Perform at Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular December 13, 2022

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Iona University’s Iona Singers performed at Radio City Music Hall during its renowned holiday stage show, the Christmas Spectacular. Starring the Radio City Rockettes, the Christmas Spectacular is a holiday staple for New Yorkers and visitors alike, drawing a crowd of about one million people per year.

“The Iona Singers are a group of immensely talented, hardworking students,” said Kelly McKenna Beyrer ’16MA, Iona’s inaugural director of performing arts. “I’m proud and grateful that we were invited to such a prominent stage, and I’m excited that they had the opportunity to share their gifts with so many.”

Performing classic Christmas songs including, “Carol of the Bells” and “Joy to the World,” 50 students of the Iona Singers took the stage during the December 10 show, directed by Dana Celestino.

“Singing at Radio City Music Hall was a dream come true,” Isabella Ruggiero ’26, a freshman soloist, said.

“Singing at Radio City Music Hall was a dream come true,” Isabella Ruggiero ’26, a freshman soloist, said. “I watched the Christmas Spectacular as a child and having the chance to perform for it was incredible. Thank you to all who made this possible.”

The Iona Singers organize and participate in several musical productions at Iona each year; their concerts include both solo and group performances. They also perform at major campus events such as Homecoming, Commencement, and more.

Current Iona students and future Gaels can look forward to the University’s growing investment in performing arts, with expanded creative offerings coming in 2023 on Iona’s new Bronxville campus. Any interested student may audition to join the Iona Singers as auditions are held throughout each semester.

The Iona Singers performed classic Christmas songs including “Carol of the Bells” and “Joy to the World.”