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

Members of The McCallen Society recently gathered to celebrate their 25th anniversary at the Annual Recognition Mass and Luncheon. This event honors those who support St. John’s University through planned giving, in memory of Rev. Thomas J. McCallen, C.M., a former University Treasurer instrumental in acquiring the Queens, NY campus.

The celebration began with a Mass at St. Thomas More Church, presided over by Rev. Aidan R. Rooney, C.M., Executive Vice President for Mission. Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President, delivered the homily, drawing parallels between scripture and the generosity of society members.

After Mass, attendees gathered for lunch in the D’Angelo Center ballroom where Susan M. Damiani, Director of Gift Planning/The McCallen Society, welcomed them and shared highlights from the past year.

Attendees included CarolAnn Habeeb-Kiel and her husband Richard, both alumni who spoke about their continued support for the university through initiatives like the Kathleen Habeeb Memorial Scholarship Fund.

The luncheon ended with Panagiotis C. Papastefanou leading a rendition of “Wind Beneath My Wings.” Members then toured the new St. Vincent Health Sciences Center.