Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John’s University is mourning the loss of Robert “Bob” F. Kalenka, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 19. A graduate of The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, Kalenka served on the Board of Governors and later on the Board of Trustees from 2015 until 2023. In February, he was conferred the title of Board Emeritus by the Board of Trustees.

Kalenka maintained strong ties with his alma mater and was a member of the Founder’s Society. He supported various university initiatives, including the Fr. Dorr Golf Classic and The Peter J. Tobin College of Business's Executive-in-Residence Program. Additionally, he was an enthusiastic supporter of St. John’s Athletics as a member of the Red White Club, a season ticket holder, and a parent to a cheerleader.

His commitment to students was evident through the establishment of the Kalenka Family Endowed Scholarship at Tobin College. St. John’s had previously recognized Kalenka with several honors: the Outstanding Alumni Achievement Medal, the Pietas Medal, and the Spirit of Service Award. This month, he was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Commercial Science by the University.

The community is asked to keep Bob’s family in their thoughts and prayers.

Visitation will be held at Church of St. Aidan, 505 Willis Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596 on Thursday, May 23 at 10 a.m., followed by interment at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale.

Donations in memory of Bob may be made to the Kalenka Family Endowed Scholarship. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to St. John’s University Office of the President at Newman Hall.

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