Topic - Capital Projects (99)

Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy Green (Media Mentions 3285)

ptascio — Tue, 24 May 2022 14:09:54 +0000

Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy Green (Media Mentions 3285) ptascio Tue, 05/24/2022 - 10:09 Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy Green May 20, 2022

Iona College Celebrates Opening of Murphy Green (Media Mentions 3284)

ptascio — Tue, 24 May 2022 14:07:29 +0000

Iona College Celebrates Opening of Murphy Green (Media Mentions 3284) ptascio Tue, 05/24/2022 - 10:07 Iona College Celebrates Opening of Murphy Green May 19, 2022

Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy Green (News 3273)

ptascio — Fri, 13 May 2022 19:11:58 +0000

Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy Green (News 3273) ptascio Fri, 05/13/2022 - 15:11 Iona College Celebrates Opening of the Murphy GreenVibrant new green space adds exciting energy to the heart of campus May 13, 2022

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — The heart of Iona College’s campus has come to life with the opening of the Murphy Green.

This vibrant new landscape, complete with a stunning stone promenade and terrace overlooking the lawn, breathes exciting new energy uniting the campus thanks to the generosity of Joseph M. Murphy ’59, ’83H and his late wife, JoAnn M. Murphy ’98H, a longtime Iona trustee.

The Iona community celebrated the opening with a dedication ceremony on May 11, 2022. A joyful, optimistic spirit filled the air, as blue skies gave way to pink under the setting of a warm, spring sun. Iona is busy writing the next chapter in its long and proud legacy, and the opening of the Murphy Green undoubtedly ushered in a new beginning.

“On certain occasions, ideas and people and circumstances align, and they result in something that is transformational. This new space is the result of one of those occasions,” said Iona College President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “I cannot think of a better way to honor JoAnn Murphy and to carry forward the indelible legacy that Joe Murphy has established here at Iona College. We are grateful and honored for all they’ve done.”

Joseph Murphy fondly recalled his time as a student at Iona, as well as the combined 50 years he and his wife served on the Board of Trustees. Passionately driven by a commitment to the arts, the environment, service and student life at Iona, he said the new green is a beautiful culmination of the family’s commitment to the College.

Murphy also credited President Carey for bringing fresh vision to what was previously a parking lot, saying the idea to transform it into a central meeting place for the community was just the kind of new energy the campus needed.

“Seamus Carey comes along and sees this as a quad and says, ‘I can’t believe it – this is the cornerstone of the campus!’” Murphy said. “In fact, this is the cornerstone of the Murphys’ interests in Iona College. And I can’t think of anything that could be more beautiful.”

Designed by the architecture firm SLAM and built by the Consigli construction company, the nearly 30,000-square-foot green space is complete with stone walkways, benches, trees, a terrace area, and of course the focus is a gorgeous green lawn. The space also includes seating built into East Hill, which provides a dramatic setting for outdoor classes and performances of all kinds. Not only does this project beautify the campus, but statistically, campus green spaces correlate with a higher quality of life and higher cognitive and academic performance, making this vision even more relevant.

“When the College announced plans for the Murphy Green last spring, we as students were excited, but to stand here today and see the finished project is simply amazing,” said Aidan Connolly, incoming president of the Student Government Association. “It’s an honor to commemorate the tremendous impact Joe and JoAnn Murphy have had on us, the students. Together, they have created spaces that allow us to express ourselves both inside and outside the classroom. Through their generous acts, they show they care about student success, the arts and creating a vibrant Iona community.”

JoAnn Murphy, who passed away in December 2020, was a longtime and passionate advocate for student life all across Iona’s campus. Among her many positions, she co-chaired the Student Development & Mission Committee of the Board for many years, and in 1998, she received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, honoris causa, for her dedication and support of the arts and cultural events at Iona. She also chaired the Iona College Council on the Arts and is a 2006 recipient of the Brother Driscoll Award for Heroic Humanitarian Service. She was inducted into the Goal Club Hall of Fame in 2012, and Iona College's Mazzella Field was named for her parents. She was also posthumously honored in 2021 with the Legacy Award at the Trustees Scholarship Award Gala.

Joseph M. Murphy, Iona trustee emeritus, was the co-founder and chairman of Country Bank and is chairman of Value Investors. The Murphy Center is named for his parents. This building houses the Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, named in memory of the Murphy’s son, Christopher.

"...this is the cornerstone of the Murphys’ interests in Iona College. And I can’t think of anything that could be more beautiful.” - Joe Murphy ’59, ’83H

“I cannot think of a better way to honor JoAnn Murphy and to carry forward the indelible legacy that Joe Murphy has established here at Iona College. We are grateful and honored for all they’ve done.” - President Seamus Carey, Ph.D.

The new green is a beautiful culmination of the Murphy family’s commitment to Iona College.

The Murphy family was presented with a unique piece of artwork that captures their many contributions to the College.

Fr. Gerard gave a special blessing for the Murphy Green.

The Iona College Singers performed a beautiful rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."

The Murphy Green.

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.

10 Reasons Gael Nation is Fired Up for 2022 (News 3110)

ptascio — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 21:26:31 +0000

10 Reasons Gael Nation is Fired Up for 2022 (News 3110) ptascio Wed, 02/02/2022 - 16:26 10 Reasons Gael Nation is Fired Up for 2022Iona College thrives as it expands programming to support students inside and outside of the classroom February 2, 2022

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — As Iona College launches into another transformative semester, here are 10 reasons Gael Nation is so excited about the year ahead:

1) Iona is nearly doubling its footprint with a second campus in Bronxville, N.Y.

Iona has acquired a new 28-acre campus in nearby Bronxville, formerly home to Concordia College. In addition to establishing a premier school of health sciences, Iona will also add new opportunities in the performing arts, varsity and club athletics and other extracurricular activities.

2) Iona is developing the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences.

Supported by a $20 million gift, the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences is a unique opportunity to shape the future of Iona University, train the next generation of health care professionals and support the communities we serve.

Expected to be a model for mission-based collaboration between higher education and health care in service of the public good, the NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences offers unparalleled access to clinical placements and full-time career opportunities with New York’s #1 hospital, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report’s Best Hospitals.

Degrees currently include Nursing (BS); Social Work (BS); Communication Sciences & Disorders (MA); Mental Health Counseling (MA); Marriage and Family Therapy (MS); and Occupational Therapy (MS). Together, the organizations will continue to develop new programs to meet emerging needs.

3) Iona men’s basketball is off to its best start in 25 years with Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino.

Coach Pitino recently celebrated his 800th college win as the Gaels set out to claim Iona’s 14th MAAC Championship title and go further in the NCAA tournament than ever before.

Coach Pitino has taken four different programs to the NCAA tournament and coached two NCAA National Championship teams. He became the first coach to take three different schools to the NCAA Final Four; became the first coach to win an NCAA Championship at two different schools; and has the third-highest winning percentage in NCAA tournament games (.740) among all active coaches.

4) Iona is expanding extracurricular activities in club sports and performing arts.

Iona continues to expand extracurricular activities to keep students active and engaged beyond the classroom. Launching with great success, highlights include:

Esports: In launching a popular new esports club, the College built an esports room fully equipped with computers, modems, gaming chairs and televisions that offers a high-quality gaming experience. The Gaels have become top contenders across numerous games competing in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).
Irish Dance: Iona’s new Irish Dance team has also come out on top, taking the stage by storm at the 2021 Villanova Intercollegiate Irish Dance Festival in several categories.
Rugby: Iona’s Rugby Football Club reigned supreme as well, becoming the 2021 Liberty Conference Champions.
Iona Players: The fall production of the Addams Family reached capacity crowds for all three performances.
Pipe Band: Already world renowned, the Pipe Band kicked off a new tradition of performing at Iona’s “GaelGates” before basketball games, marching students into the Hynes Athletics Center to cheer on their fellow Gaels.
Pep Band and Dance Team: Who doesn’t love some extra energy? The Pep Band and Dance Team have expanded to bring added Gael spirit to competitions, and the results speak for themselves.
Club Sports: The College has worked to launch various new club sports, including rugby, esports, women’s club soccer, women’s club basketball, a co-ed weightlifting team, men’s club soccer, men’s club basketball and men’s club lacrosse.

5) As a Gael, Iona students have access to one of the best alumni networks in the country thanks to the Gaels Go Further Mentoring Program.

Launched as a pilot program in the fall of 2021, Gaels Go Further Mentoring taps into Iona’s network of over 50,000 alumni across a wide range of industries. Now, Iona is looking to get everyone a mentor.

In addition to the “flash mentoring” opportunities available via GaelsConnect Networking, the initiative also includes a long-term mentorship opportunity consisting of a two-credit course. This full-year program matches students with dedicated mentors whose professional experience will assist students in advancing their career development.

6) Iona is opening a vibrant new green space in the heart of campus.

The new Murphy Green will transform a parking circle into a lively outdoor landscape thanks to a generous gift from Joseph M. Murphy ’59, ’83H and his late wife, JoAnn M. Murphy ’98H, a longtime Iona trustee. Complete with benches, trees, stone walkways and a terrace area, the focus of the Murphy Green will be a gorgeous green lawn. The space will also include seating built into East Hill, which will provide a dramatic setting for outdoor performances, poetry readings and outdoor classes. The Murphy Green is expected to open this spring.

7) The Iona community completes over 80,000 hours of community service a year, and looks forward to doing even more as pandemic restrictions loosen.

As a mission-driven school with core values for the common good, Iona encourages students to become involved with a wide range of volunteer efforts. Even throughout the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Gaels continued to fulfill their commitment to serving the community by taking part in after-school activities for children, promoting sustainability at local gardens and even biking across the country to raise over $175,000 for people with disabilities. Iona looks forward to continuing to make an impact on the communities we serve while developing civic-minded graduates.

8) Iona’s award-winning Pipe Band will march in the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Founded in 1966 by Brother Charles Quinn and Jack Dooley, the Pipe Band is a unique group of performers dedicated to Iona University and the music of the Great Highland Bagpipe. This award-winning group looks forward to once again leading the College's march up Fifth Avenue during the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade. In 2019, the Pipe Band was awarded first place in the “College and High School Pipes and Drums Division,” a prestigious recognition. The Pipe Band also performs at College events such as Commencement ceremonies, GaelGates and much more.

9) Iona is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 20 “Most Innovative Schools” in the North.

Despite being on the front lines of COVID-19 when the pandemic first hit New Rochelle in March 2020, Iona nevertheless pushed ahead on its path of innovation. The College added new academic degrees; incentivized faculty to reexamine and reinvent the curriculum; expanded student opportunities in performing arts, club sports and service; and even rebranded with a promise to “Learn Outside the Lines.” Iona is a school on the rise, and the momentum is palpable all across campus.

10) Iona is recognized as one of the top colleges for business and entrepreneurship.

Iona’s newly renovated LaPenta School of Business is accredited by AACSB International, a prestigious recognition awarded to just five percent of business schools worldwide.

Highlights of the building renovation include a new LaPenta-Lynch Trading Floor with 27 desktop computers, 16 Bloomberg Terminals and a live, wrap-around stock ticker that can be seen from across campus. In addition to this inspiring new space and leading faculty, the school also recently welcomed a new dean to lead students into the future.

Separately, the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation was also recognized as one of the most outstanding emerging college programs for entrepreneurship. Open to students across disciplines, the Hynes Institute is housed in a 3,800-square-foot, state-of-the-art coworking space at the center of campus and also runs a business incubator program to support start-ups.

Iona College Finalizes Agreement to Acquire Concordia College Campus in Bronxville, N.Y. (News 2822)

ptascio — Tue, 11 May 2021 13:10:01 +0000

Iona College Finalizes Agreement to Acquire Concordia College Campus in Bronxville, N.Y. (News 2822) ptascio Tue, 05/11/2021 - 09:10 Iona College Finalizes Agreement to Acquire Concordia College Campus in Bronxville, N.Y.Iona plans to develop a school of health sciences and expand opportunities in performing arts, athletics and extracurricular activities

Concordia College in Bronxville, N.Y.

May 11, 2021

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. — Initiated earlier this year, an agreement has been finalized for Iona College to acquire Concordia College’s 28-acre campus in Bronxville, N.Y. Concordia will cease academic instruction before the start of the Fall 2021 semester.

The announcement sets the stage for Iona to pursue plans for a school of health sciences on the Concordia campus, furthering Iona’s strategic investment in the field and building upon Concordia’s legacy of excellence in health science education. The deal also creates opportunities for Iona to introduce new student programming in the performing arts, varsity and club athletics and other extracurricular activities, areas where Iona has successfully been engaging students around shared interests.

Concordia President Rev. John A. Nunes, Ph.D., said: “As we honor Concordia’s rich, meaningful, relevant legacy, we look with hope to a time of new beginnings: for our graduates, our students, and Iona’s exciting plans for the Concordia campus, all fueled by the transformative power of education.”

Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D., said: “Concordia will forever leave its mark on the history and people of New York. Iona is an institution similarly grounded in faith, and it is our intention to fully honor Concordia’s legacy as we turn the page to a new chapter. With plans to develop a leading school of health sciences on the Concordia campus, Iona hopes to turn these challenging circumstances into a positive development for the students and communities we serve.”

Village of Bronxville Mayor Mary Marvin said: “Bronxville has enjoyed many wonderful decades of partnership with the Concordia College community. Over the years, students, faculty and staff have become our friends and neighbors. They shall be remembered forever with great fondness. As a community, we now step forward confidently and welcome Iona College to our Village. We look forward to building new and lasting relationships resulting in a bright future for all.”

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Preserving access to higher education in Westchester County is absolutely essential not only for our students and families, but for our economy. While it is bittersweet to see the 140-year legacy of Concordia College coming to a close, Iona’s shared commitment to faith, opportunity and the transformative power of education will be a benefit to both Westchester County and New York State. As higher education across the nation is under strain, Westchester County is fortunate to be home to such leading institutions.”

Business Council of Westchester President and CEO Marsha Gordon said: “The Business Council of Westchester applauds Iona and Concordia for reaching this agreement. Higher education is a key driver of economic prosperity not just for students, but for Westchester County and New York State. It is especially encouraging to see Iona’s commitment to preparing future health care professionals, who are so vitally needed in our region and beyond.”

Westchester County Association President Michael Romita said: “Iona and Concordia have long shared in the mission of providing a high-quality, affordable liberal arts education that empowers graduates to go on to successful careers across a wide range of disciplines. My father is a proud Iona Gael, holding both his bachelor’s and an honorary doctorate in humane letters. This transaction reflects Iona’s commitment to developing a world-class school of health sciences that will greatly benefit the region – especially as our demand for trained healthcare professionals is on the rise.”

Founded in 1940 by the Congregation of Christian Brothers, Iona is a 45-acre campus in northern New Rochelle, located approximately three miles from Concordia. Both institutions have a shared commitment to providing students with a nurturing environment to explore their interests, discover their passions and graduate with a well-rounded, liberal arts education grounded in service, opportunity and Christian faith.

In addition to leading the way and providing a safe in-person learning experience through the pandemic, Iona this year forged ahead on its path of innovation. Empowering students to “Learn Outside the Lines,” Iona focused on engaging students in new opportunities that pushed them to grow beyond the classroom.

As part of that effort, Iona hired its inaugural director of Performing Arts, who quickly launched and strengthened programs such as Irish Step, Dance Ensemble, Pipe Band and Pep Band; as well as its first director of Club Sports, who will be developing an array of new athletic opportunities. With the addition of the Concordia campus, Iona is poised to offer even more exciting programs that will help to support and develop the whole student.

“Engaged students get more out of their college experience,” Carey said. “Engagement outside the classroom supports better performance inside the classroom and promotes physical, mental and spiritual maturity. It also leads to lasting relationships that will help them succeed in life. We couldn’t be more excited about the future at Iona, and today is an important step along that path.”

Iona College Unveils Vibrant New Green Space Coming Spring Semester 2022 (News 2793)

ptascio — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 13:52:01 +0000

Iona College Unveils Vibrant New Green Space Coming Spring Semester 2022 (News 2793) ptascio Thu, 04/22/2021 - 09:52 Iona College Unveils Vibrant New Green Space Coming Spring Semester 2022Joseph M. ’59, ’83H & JoAnn M. ’98H Murphy Green Coming Soon!

Complete with benches, trees, stone walkways and a terrace area, the focus of the Murphy Green will be a gorgeous green lawn.

April 22, 2021

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Iona College today announced plans to create a vibrant new green space in the heart of campus, transforming a parking circle into a lively outdoor landscape where students can enjoy a variety of social, recreational, academic and artistic activities. The campus beautification project is made possible thanks to a generous gift from Joseph M. Murphy ’59, ’83H and his late wife, JoAnn M. Murphy ’98H, a longtime Iona trustee.

“The importance of having vibrant outdoor spaces where students and faculty can interact and build meaningful relationships has never been greater,” said Iona President Seamus Carey, Ph.D. “Driven by our strategic plan and our commitment to student success, the Murphy Green will be a beautiful new space that will open up exciting opportunities for students to learn outside the lines and stay engaged beyond the classroom. We are so grateful to the Murphy family for its continued support of Iona College and its students.”

Joseph M. Murphy ’59, ’83H and Iona University President Seamus Carey, Ph.D., with members of the Student Government Association, unveiling a vibrant new green space coming to campus spring 2022.
Photo credit Ben Hider.

Designed by the architecture firm SLAM, Iona’s nearly 30,000-square-foot green space will be located across from Spellman Hall, replacing the non-essential parking circle currently outside of the LaPenta Student Union. Iona plans to break ground this summer and finish the project by spring 2022, pending all permits and approvals.

Complete with benches, trees, stone walkways and a terrace area, the focus of the Murphy Green will be a gorgeous green lawn. The space will also include seating built into East Hill, which will provide a dramatic setting for outdoor performances, poetry readings and outdoor classes. Statistically, campus green spaces correlate with a higher quality of life and higher cognitive and academic performance, making this vision even more relevant.

“This beautiful new green space brings together all of the things that my wife, JoAnn, cared so deeply about at Iona University – student success, the arts, the environment, community and overall health and well-being,” said Joseph M. Murphy. “To see how this new space will not only beautify the Iona campus, but also contribute to expanding student opportunities, is both humbling and gratifying.”

JoAnn Murphy, who passed away in December 2020, was a longtime and passionate advocate for student life on campus. Among her many positions, she co-chaired the Student Development & Mission Committee of the Board for many years, and in 1998, she received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, honoris causa, for her dedication and support of the arts and cultural events at Iona. She also chaired the Iona University Council on the Arts and is a 2006 recipient of the Brother Driscoll Award for Heroic Humanitarian Service. She was inducted into the Goal Club Hall of Fame in 2012, and Iona University's Mazzella Field was named for her parents.

JoAnn Murphy will also be honored posthumously with the Legacy Award at the Iona University Trustees Scholarship Award Gala on June 4, 2021.

This lively outdoor landscape will be a place where students can enjoy a variety of social, recreational, academic and artistic activities.

The space will also include seating built into East Hill, which will provide a dramatic setting for outdoor performances, poetry readings and outdoor classes.

The nearly 30,000-square-foot green space will be located across from Spellman Hall, replacing the non-essential parking circle currently outside of the LaPenta Student Union.

Complete with benches, trees, stone walkways and a terrace area, the focus of the Murphy Green will be a gorgeous green lawn.

Iona College Cuts Ribbon on Dramatically Upgraded Hynes Athletics Center During Homecoming Weekend (News 747)

ptascio — Thu, 21 May 2020 13:53:02 +0000

Iona College Cuts Ribbon on Dramatically Upgraded Hynes Athletics Center During Homecoming Weekend (News 747) ptascio Thu, 05/21/2020 - 09:53 Iona College Cuts Ribbon on Dramatically Upgraded Hynes Athletics Center During Homecoming WeekendIona College Cuts Ribbon on Dramatically Upgraded Hynes Athletics Center During Homecoming Weekend.

The Hynes Athletics Center underwent an innovative redesign thanks to a lead gift from Edward F. Arrigoni '56, '91H.

October 22, 2019

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. - Almost four thousand alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends gathered on Iona College’s scenic campus on Saturday, October 19, to celebrate Homecoming & Family Weekend and the ribbon-cutting on the dramatically upgraded Hynes Athletics Center.

Home court for Iona College basketball and volleyball, the Hynes Athletics Center underwent an innovative redesign thanks to a lead gift from Edward F. Arrigoni '56, '91H.

"Mary Jane and I were happy to make this gift to invest in the future of Iona Athletics. We are excited for our Gaels to continue to build upon their success in an upgraded Hynes Center facility," said Arrigoni.

Visitors were awed by the noticeable improvements, which significantly enhance the game experience for both student-athletes and fans with seating around all four sides of the court, state-of-the-art LED scoreboards, improved lighting and sound, a new playing surface, and further support Iona's ESPN School Productions efforts. In addition to upgrades throughout the facility, the Hall of Fame plaques were transformed into a more visually-appealing, state-of-the-art platform, adding four digital video boards. The Hall was renamed the Arrigoni Hall of Fame as a way to recognize the philanthropic impact of this great Gael, Edward Arrigoni, as well as compliment and recognize the accomplishments of these student-athletes throughout Iona’s history.

“Saturday marked an historic day for Iona College athletics and a great day to be a Gael,” said Director of Athletics Matt Glovaski. “We are truly appreciative to all those who came out to support this momentous occasion. The Iona College community is forever grateful to Mr. Edward Arrigoni for his incredible support in bringing this transformational project to life. On behalf of all our students-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff and the generations of future Gaels who will benefit from this new facility, we thank you.”

The College’s campus was alive with energy all weekend as the Iona community celebrated Homecoming & Family Weekend with games, carnivals, pumpkin painting, food trucks, Heritage tours, Mimosas and Memories – a celebration of 50 Years of Women at Iona College, alumni gatherings, athletics competitions, exhibitions, and many other festivities, including Iona’s rugby team besting Notre Dame by the final score of 45-15. Iona’s volleyball team earned their first win at the new Hynes Athletics Center beating Siena 3-1.

Hynes Athletics Center to Receive Major Renovations in Summer 2019 (News 775)

ptascio — Fri, 22 May 2020 16:31:53 +0000

Hynes Athletics Center to Receive Major Renovations in Summer 2019 (News 775) ptascio Fri, 05/22/2020 - 12:31 Hynes Athletics Center to Receive Major Renovations in Summer 2019New bleachers, playing surface, scoreboards, sound and lighting among items receiving upgrades thanks to generous gift from benefactor. May 9, 2019

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – The Hynes Athletics Center – home to Iona University athletics and the home court of the Gaels' men's and women's basketball and volleyball programs – will undergo transformational renovations following the conclusion of the 2019 spring academic semester. Thanks to a generous lead gift from Edward F. Arrigoni '56, '91H, an innovative design of the facility will maintain the building's current footprint and be completed in time for the beginning of the 2019-20 basketball season.

The renovations will dramatically change the experience for both student-athletes and fans with seating around all four sides of the court, state-of-the-art LED scoreboards, improved lighting and sound, a new playing surface, and further support Iona's ESPN School Productions efforts. A new Arrigoni Hall of Excellence will be created in the front entranceway to showcase Iona’s accomplished student-athletes creating a fitting tribute to the fine men and women who have represented Iona and its athletic legacy.

The investment from the Arrigoni family also calls upon alumni and friends to help complete the $6 million project through raising an additional $500,000 from supporters.

"Mary Jane and I are happy to make this gift and it is our hope that others follow our lead and decide to make their own impact by investing in the future of Iona Athletics. We are excited for our Gaels to continue to build upon their success in an upgraded Hynes Center facility," said Arrigoni.

The Arrigoni challenge provides matching funds, on a 1:1 basis, doubling the impact of each donor's gift.

"We are thrilled to announce the upcoming improvements and reimagining of the Hynes Athletics Center," said Iona University President Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D. "Edward and Mary Jane Arrigoni have always been staunch supporters of all things Maroon & Gold, and once again we are blessed with their generosity."

“We are excited to announce plans to give the Hynes Center a needed renovation. Iona fans can expect an enhanced game atmosphere that looks to aid in our continued success,” said Director of Athletics Matthew Glovaski. “It is thanks to the generous commitment by the Arrigonis and the fans who will answer our call for support that we can realize and bring to life the new upgrades.”

Under men's basketball head coach Tim Cluess, the program has appeared in the NCAA tournament six times in nine seasons, winning five MAAC tournament championships and three regular season titles. Iona's four straight MAAC tournament championships is the longest active streak in NCAA Division I.

"We have enjoyed a tremendous home court advantage at the Hynes Center and look forward to this summer's changes that will help our recruiting efforts to ensure continued success while giving our supporters a more enjoyable experience," said Cluess.

The women's program under head coach Billi Chambers claimed the MAAC regular season title in 2013-14 and appeared in the NCAA tournament following the program's first MAAC tournament championship in 2016.

"Our student-athletes, coaching staff, and the Iona community should be excited about the upcoming changes as they will pay both tangible and intangible dividends to our performances," added Chambers.

Iona volleyball also plays its home contests at the Hynes Center and enters the 2019 campaign as defending MAAC regular season and tournament champions.

In addition, there will be upgrades to Iona's varsity locker rooms, ticket windows and concession areas. These changes will not occur this summer but will be enjoyed by Iona's student-athletes and spectators at a later date.

The Hynes Athletics Center renovation begins in late May and is scheduled for completion in early October. The approved plans are responsive to community recommendations and will not change the building's footprint, height or occupancy.

Detailed renovations to the Hynes Athletics Center include the following:

ENTRANCE
The new Arrigoni Hall of Excellence will be created in the front entranceway to showcase Iona’s storied past in athletics. It will feature cases displaying championship trophies and memorabilia and showcase all members of the College’s Goal Club Hall of Fame.

SEATING
A needed replacement for Iona's seating areas is one of the more dramatic changes of the project. The current east bleachers, or general admission section, are the original stands from the opening of the then-named John A. Mulcahy Campus Events Center in 1974. The west stands, or reserved seating, were installed in 1998. The east and west bleachers will be replaced with four banks of seating surrounding the main playing court. As a result, the orientation of the court will be rotated 90 degrees to accommodate the new seating. The configuration allows for seating on all four sides of the court for the first time in building history while allowing for a defined student section and band platforms along the east end of the building. Defined accessible seating will also be available with the installation of new seating. Iona's current seating layout contains 225 chairbacks and 40 courtside seats. The new configuration allows for 253 chairbacks on the north side while maintaining current courtside numbers.

The maximum gymnasium occupancy was originally 3,000 several decades ago. In recent years, seating was reduced to approximately 2,600 by upgrades, including a temporary camera platform installed to facilitate television broadcasts, a band platform for Iona's student pep band and a defined reserved seating section on the general admission side for complimentary tickets provided to visiting teams. As a result of the new configuration, the official capacity of the Hynes Athletics Center will be adjusted to 2,578.

PLAYING SURFACE
The playing surface maintains three full basketball courts with north-south orientation for varsity athletics practices. Two additional baskets will be hung for the new main court, which as noted will be rotated to allow for the new seating banks. Iona's bench will be along the south wall, in the southwest corner of the building, near where the team exits from the locker room area. The visiting bench is located on the southeast corner of the facility. An updated look on the floor featuring Iona's primary shield logo in the center will be unveiled with the renovations. The current maple floor was installed in 2008.

SCOREBOARDS
The current scoreboards, which measure approximately 16' x 12', and were installed in 2014, will be reconfigured into fascia ribbon displays along the north and south walls. The 10mm LED display will be made into a 65.6' ribbon along the south wall behind the benches and two 16.4' ribbons along the north wall on either side of the TV camera platform. In addition, four 4mm LED displays measuring 12.6' x 9.45' will be installed in each corner of the building, more than tripling the current square footage of LED scoreboards in the building. The four corner displays, fascia ribbon boards and sideline scorer's tables will be integrated to operate from the same area. Iona has retained its current partner, ANC Sports, for scoreboard installation.

SOUND
A new state-of-the-art sound system replaces the current system, which was installed in 2013. The current system was sufficient to facilitate athletics events, however, with the addition of the video boards a year later, the design was not ideal for assemblies held in the gymnasium. The sound system will be configured to accommodate both athletics contests and events such as admissions and commencement assemblies, convocations and high school graduations that are currently hosted in the Hynes Athletics Center.

LIGHTING
Upgrades to the lighting system will also be made and – as with the sound – will be adaptable to all events taking place in the facility including practices, contests and assemblies. The new lighting ensures better service of our top quality, student-produced ESPN game coverage to television broadcasts. The current lighting system was installed in the early 2000s.

ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS
In addition, there will be upgrades to Iona's varsity locker rooms, ticket windows and concession areas. These changes will not occur this summer but will be enjoyed by Iona's student-athletes and spectators at a later date.

Iona College Names School of Business After Prominent Benefactor (News 814)

ptascio — Wed, 27 May 2020 19:34:01 +0000

Iona College Names School of Business After Prominent Benefactor (News 814) ptascio Wed, 05/27/2020 - 15:34 Iona College Names School of Business After Prominent BenefactorLaPenta School of Business named in honor of Trustee and Alumnus Robert V. LaPenta ’67, ’00H September 12, 2018

From Left: Dean William Lamb, Robert V. LaPenta ’67, ’00H, and President Joseph E. Nyre

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – Iona University is pleased to announce the naming of its School of Business after Board of Trustee member, alumnus and benefactor Robert V. LaPenta ’67, ’00H. The College's AACSB accredited business program will henceforth carry the name LaPenta School of Business.

"Bob LaPenta represents the values and successes to which many Iona Gaels aspire," said Joseph E. Nyre, Ph.D., president of Iona University. "It is with deep appreciation and in recognition of his indelible impact on the College that we are thrilled to reveal our School of Business will forever bear his name."

"I am truly honored for this distinction bestowed today. My time at Iona University and business degree prepared me well for success and for the ability to positively impact the lives and livelihoods of others," said LaPenta. "I look forward to seeing future students of Iona University receive a robust business education and grow into the future leaders and entrepreneurs of the world."

Like many of Iona's students, both past and present, LaPenta was the first in his family to attend college. He understood the power of a college education and the potential it had to transform his life. Through hard work, he went on to earn his BBA in 1967 from the School of Business which now bears his name. Armed with a vision, passion, innate motivation and an Iona education, LaPenta set out to Move the World, and took that same drive and commitment to his post-college work career, becoming a successful executive and philanthropist, renowned for his leadership experience in the aerospace, defense and electronics industries. LaPenta has more than 40 years of executive management experience and is currently founding general partner of Aston Capital Partners, a private investment company specializing in military intelligence, homeland security companies and companies involved in green technology. He also serves as chairman and CEO of Revolution Lighting Technologies and The Radiant Group. Prior to these endeavors, Mr. LaPenta founded L-1 Identity Solutions and co-founded L-3 Communications.

President Nyre and Robert V. LaPenta share a moment of congratulations.

Also an avid participant in the sport of horse racing as an owner, LaPenta's horses captured wins in the last leg of the coveted Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes in 2008 with Da'Tara and 2017 with Tapwrit. Most recently last month, his horse, Catholic Boy, earned a win at the prestigious Travers Stakes in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

A transformational gift of $17.5 million from LaPenta laid the foundation for the construction of a new School of Business building. A groundbreaking held on July 26, 2018, launched the eighteen-month build of the $37 million-dollar facility that will double the current academic space to more than 67,260 square feet and create a world-class learning environment for Iona's students. The renovated building and addition will feature large new classroom and lecture hall spaces, spaces for collaboration amongst students and faculty, and offices for all business faculty.

"Thanks to Mr. LaPenta and this new facility, for the first time in our history, we will be able to consolidate all of the business school’s activities, faculty, and staff in one location," said William B. Lamb, Ph.D., dean of the LaPenta School of Business. "This will dramatically improve the way our students, faculty, staff, and members of the community interact, collaborate and learn.”

"Bob LaPenta has been a loyal and staunch friend to his alma mater,” added Nyre. "As a member of the Board of Trustees, then in building the Robert V. LaPenta Student Union and the LaPenta-Lynch Trading Floor and in providing for additions to Ryan Library, with the largest gift in College history to build the new LaPenta School of Business building, and with his example of entrepreneurship and service, Bob LaPenta has time and again transformed and enriched the lives of students of Iona University."

Iona University's LaPenta School of Business offers high-quality academic programs in all aspects of business. Students develop broad knowledge and capabilities in general business concepts and develop a deep understanding of the area they choose as their major. The undergraduate business program consists of a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in one of seven business disciplines, including Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Information Systems, International Business, Management and Marketing. Each student in Iona’s BBA program completes a liberal arts core as well as a business core curriculum that is formulated to meet strict AACSB standards to impart knowledge; provide valuable learning experiences, including in areas of entrepreneurship and innovation; and foster student engagement. Iona's business graduate programs provide flexible plans of study and include ample electives. Students can take classes at their own pace. As of fall 2018, Iona has launched an exciting new MBA program which is more flexible, faster, and cost-effective and requires only 39 credits to attain the degree. In addition, the LaPenta School of Business offers three specialized Master of Science degrees.