March 30, 2012
When she isn’t at home with her husband and two kids, Stacey
Varghese ’99C is hard at work at her home away from home: St.
John’s University.
This enthusiastic alumna grew up just blocks away from St.
John’s and has always viewed it as an important part of her
life.
“When my family came to America from India, my uncle started the
tradition of going to St. John’s,” explained Varghese, who was one
of the first members of her family born in America. “His two sons
also went here, then two of my other cousins came here and
eventually it was my turn. So it’s definitely been a family thing,
and it’s even more special because it’s rooted right here in the
town where I grew up.”
Her passion for the University has continued to rise, especially
since she started working at St. John’s six years ago. Varghese
currently serves as Associate Director of
The Loughlin Society in the Office of Annual Campaigns,
reaching out to alumni and friends in order to acquire new members
and renew current ones.
Named in honor of John Loughlin, the first Bishop of Brooklyn, The
Loughlin Society is St. John’s leadership giving society whose
members contribute a gift totaling $1,000 or more each year. Their
gifts directly impact the University’s deserving students, helping
to fund improvements to campus facilities, advanced technology and
faculty research.
“It’s so rewarding to raise money that helps our students make the
most out of their time at St. John’s,” Varghese said. “When my
uncle came to America, he didn’t have many resources at his
disposal, so I know what that’s like. I know what those kids are
going through. And just like my uncle and the rest of my family,
who paved the way for me to get a St. John’s education, I’m now
working with donors to help today’s students reach that same
goal.”
Young alumni can join
The Loughlin Society Associates Program for $150 a year – a
reduced criteria that makes giving much more affordable for recent
graduates. And employees can also get involved through
The Loughlin Society Patrons Program, a tiered system that
encourages consistently higher levels of giving.
“The Loughlin Society is special because it calls attention to the
people who make such a huge impact on this campus,” Varghese noted.
“Our members are great people, and we recognize their actions
through dinners and a special
concierge program. Not only do these individuals impact the St.
John’s community through their gifts, but also through their
involvement in events and programs we host each year.”
After graduating from St. John’s in 1999 with a B.A. in English
and Government and Politics, Varghese interned at the White House
in Washington, DC and eventually transitioned to working as a
Financial Analyst at Bear Sterns. But the allure of coming back to
St. John’s always remained strong, and she jumped at the chance to
return to campus in a professional capacity.
“Working crazy hours on Wall Street can be fun,” she said, “but
the family atmosphere at St. John’s is what ultimately drew me
back. I knew I wanted to return to higher education and contribute
to this great cause, and working with such wonderful alumni and
friends has made it a real blast.”
Above all, Varghese has been sure to keep the St. John’s
tradition strong in her family. She often takes her children with
her to University events, such as the
Alumni Great Lawn Party.
“My hobby is my family, so to bring my kids and my husband with me
to our events is perfect,” she said. “It’s my hope that other
alumni and friends can do the same and make St. John’s a major part
of their lives. And through The Loughlin Society and other giving
opportunities, they can feel good to be making a lasting difference
on this great community.”