August 12, 2008
A group of loyal St. John’s alumni and friends enjoyed an
exciting weekend at the races in historic Saratoga Springs, NY from
August 1-3, 2008.
Photo Gallery
Select members of The Loughlin Society and The McCallen Society,
two of St. John’s top-level giving societies, who gave the most
generously last year were given an exclusive opportunity to “get
away” for the weekend to this traditional summertime New York
vacation spot. The event was held in recognition of the many
ways the group has supported the University over the years with
their time and resources.
The group of 35 donors started the weekend with a welcome
cocktail reception at the Saratoga Hilton on Friday evening after
check-in. The following day, attendees were chauffeured to
the racetrack where they watched the races from an air-conditioned
suite and were later given a private tour of the paddock.
They also watched a race that was named in honor of St.
Johns. A few took part in the Winner’s Circle presentation
after the St. John’s race and were pleased to have participated in
the weekend. “The races were great and the staff from St.
John’s couldn’t be more accommodating,” commented Loughlin Society
members Jeffry (’73CBA) and Joanne Wengroff. “We really
needed to get away and this was perfect! [The event] came at
a great time!”
On Sunday morning, the guests had breakfast and then enjoyed a
walking tour of Saratoga Springs. After a full weekend where
they relaxed, toured the town and sampled great cuisine at the area
restaurants, attendees departed for their homes with a renewed
connection to St. John’s.
Stacey Philips Varghese ’99C, Associate Director, Loughlin
Society believes that these donors are especially deserving of
recognition from the University. “Our guests this weekend
(Benefactors’ Council and Trustees’ Circle members) belong to the
highest levels in the Loughlin Society, these members give us
leadership level support through their donations,” she said.
“Their commitment and involvement with the university is
inspiring.”
Robert Handal ’57CBA, ’69MBA, a member of both societies, was
thrilled to be part of the weekend’s festivities. “I wanted
to attend because I know Saratoga Springs is a classy place and I
knew I would see friends there,” he shared.
Handal said that his continued relationship with St. John’s is
based on his past experience as a student and what the University
does for the underprivileged in New York City. “I’m from
Brooklyn and I love helping the kids in the city,” he said.
“I’m proud to be an alumnus because I admire what the
Vincentians—and St. John’s are doing for them.”
The McCallen Society is the distinguished gift society whose
members honor the St. John's legacy by including the University in
their estate and financial plans.
The Loughlin Society is our leadership gift society that helps
the University build on the legacy that began over 138 years
ago.