September 2024

Friends,

Even as the summer comes to an end, we are all smiles here at St. Thomas Aquinas College because our students are back and the campus is buzzing again!

Our fall semester started yesterday and I was delighted to welcome our students at the front gate (a favorite part of my job) and will teach my first class today (another favorite!). Last week, we welcomed the freshmen — and their families — as they began their “Spartan Journey.” Their 5-day orientation consisted of an exciting mix of activities, games, trips, and team building sessions, while culminating in the New Student Convocation at the blessed Sacred Heart Chapel and procession back to campus yesterday afternoon.

Now, it is time for academics in the classroom … service in the community … experiential learning in the workplace … and lots of smiles. So, please read below and smile with us as we welcome the Class of 2028!

Regards,

PS It is hard to believe that today is the fifth anniversary of the passing of my Mom, Margaret E. Daly. I am delighted to share that, fittingly, on the first day of school, we awarded her scholarship to two new students — Rebekah Larson and Saribel Yanez — and have now raised over $700,000. Please consider giving the greatest gift today — the gift of education — as I know that Mom is smiling down upon us. 

Welcome back, Spartans! Our students kicked off the semester with crisp Fall weather and were able to meet President Daly at the front gate on the way to their first classes.

We welcomed incoming freshman, transfer, and graduate students at our incredible "Spartan Journey" Orientation, which was held August 29 through September 2. "You pack it, we STAC it!" — the Sprint Football, Track & Field, and Cross Country teams joined our Orientation Leaders and Resident Assistants to assist students and families at the dorms during move-in.

During the Spartan Journey, students and their families attended a "Welcome to STAC" event hosted by President Daly and Dean Nesbitt under the big tent. Students were introduced to their Orientation Leaders and parents and families enjoyed a Coffee Chat with President Daly in the Romano Student Alumni Center, followed by a Resource Fair and New Student BBQ. Over the weekend, the STAC community enjoyed the Athletic Tailgate BBQ, Men's Soccer scrimmage, "Roller STAC-ing," and Explore Next Door trips to Six Flags Great Adventure, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Bronx Zoo.

Earlier in August, President Daly hosted an end of summer BBQ for our STAR and HEOP students. Everyone enjoyed great food, fun games, and wonderful conversation!

The College community officially welcomed the Class of 2028 and transfer students at our New Student Convocation yesterday in the Sacred Heart Chapel. The Convocation honored our newest students, who heard greetings from faculty, staff, alumni, current students, and friends of the College. The Convocation concluded with a "new student procession" back to campus in front of our founding Dominican Sisters and a reception on the Romano Student Alumni Center front lawn.

St. Thomas Aquinas College's 2024 STEM Exploration Summer Program was a success! This year, we welcomed 22 amazing high school students from all over New York and New Jersey, and even from as far away as Maryland, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island — and a special video from sponsor Veolia highlighting the week can be seen here.

President Ken Daly has been featured in Newsday’s first-ever Musings section, where he discussed the importance of a College education.

President Daly noted: "We first need to ensure that we eliminate barriers so that all individuals have access to an affordable college education. The best approach is to provide today’s students with a well-rounded education, which provides a liberal arts foundation while also preparing them for tomorrow’s careers in business, education, STEM, and other growing fields."

St. Thomas Aquinas College is proud to announce its recognition by Money as one of America’s Best Colleges.

This prestigious ranking highlights the College's commitment to affordability, academic excellence, student success, and career preparation.

Money’s analysis evaluates over 700 four-year colleges based on key metrics such as graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid availability, and alumni salaries. This comprehensive assessment helps families make informed decisions about their investment in higher education by focusing on both affordability and student outcomes.

The East Coast Conference (ECC) announced its Presidents Council Executive Board and Athletic Directors Council Executive Board for the 2024-25 academic year. We are thrilled to announce that our very own President Ken Daly has been appointed as Treasurer!

It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of our beloved sixth president of St. Thomas Aquinas College, Dr. Donald T. McNelis.

The College has flown our flags at half mast and held a moment of silence at Convocation to honor Dr. McNelis. On behalf of our founding Dominican Sisters, we will invite the entire STAC community to join us as we remember and celebrate the life of our dear friend Don at a special Memorial service here at the College in the Fall.

Please visit our website to read more about Dr. McNelis and his incredible achievements and service to St. Thomas Aquinas College.

Check out St. Thomas Aquinas College's feature on three of our incredible Spartans! We are delighted and proud to introduce you to the following individuals:

Vincent Vazquez

Assistant Director of Admissions

Cindy Anab '27 Biology Major

Nina Luppino '07

Women's Golf Association of New Jersey