February 22, 2010
On Saturday, February 13, 2010 St. John’s University
President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. presented the Fidelitas
Award to
Jeanne K. ('70Ed, '80MBA) and
Paul M. Carroll '69CBA, '71MBA, '80PD,
Margaret L. ('70Ed) and
Peter P. D'Angelo '78MBA, '06HON and
Eleanor B. ('70Ed) and
Michael G. Devlin '70CBA, '74L. The presentation took
place during a special Blessing of the Couples Mass in St. Thomas
More Church on the Queens campus.
The
Fidelitas Award is reserved for alumni couples who have
demonstrated exceptional fidelity and love for each other and St.
John's.
“The Fidelitas Award acknowledges the very special bond of love
that exists in each of these wonderful women and men,” said Fr.
Harrington. “St. John’s is truly proud of these outstanding
couples, and we commend them for the love that they have shown to
each other and alma mater.”
Robert D. Wile ’99SVC, Vice President and Chief of Staff, Chief
Advancement Officer, Office of the President echoed Fr.
Harrington’s words, noting that, “This is a very special evening
and a wonderful St. John’s tradition. It is an honor to
recognize these couples for their remarkable devotion to each other
and to the University.” Wile then read individual citations
that detailed the lives and achievements of each of the couples
being honored.
"I'm very humbled to receive this award," said Paul.
Carroll. "This University is an important part of my life,
and I'm proud to see what St. John's has done for so many people,
all around the world." Jeanne Carroll remarked that, "As with
many St. John's graduates, we were the first of our generation to
go to college. I think of my parents, and how they sacrificed
to send me to this wonderful Catholic university. Paul and I
will always be a part of the St. John's family."
Peter D'Angelo was quick to acknowledge that this award was
particularly special to him because, "…it's for both of us.
It reflects Peg's and my life together, our commitment to each
other as well as to St. John's. That combination really makes
it extra special for us." Margaret D’Angelo agreed, noting
that, "St. John's is so important to my husband and to me. To be
recognized by our University is such an honor, and this is even
more special, because it acknowledges our life together as well as
our commitment to St. John's."
For Michael Devlin, receiving the Fidelitas Award was a
reflection of his and Eleanor's commitment to the University's
unique Vincentian mission, and "…reflects the things that really
make me happy, such as being married to Ellie and being a part of
the great St. John's family. The St. John's mission is
fantastic, and we're both happy to support the University we love
so much."