More than 60 volunteers from St. John’s University gathered at Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh, New York, on August 10 to participate in a beach clean-up event. The effort was organized by the university’s Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) group and supported by the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.

Participants included alumni, faculty members, administrators, staff, and their families. The volunteers worked to remove debris from the beachfront that could harm the local ecosystem or pose risks to visitors. After several hours of cleaning at Field 4, attendees spent time swimming and playing games.

Gianna Flora ’23TCB ’24MBA, co-chair of GOLD and one of the 42 alumni volunteers present, said: “Alumni community service events are essential for building connections and giving back. Coming together as St. John’s graduates to help preserve a New York landmark such as Jones Beach strengthens our bond and amplifies our impact. We are always stronger together.”

Jones Beach is among the most-visited beaches in the Northeast with more than six miles of Atlantic coastline. According to state data, it receives over eight million visitors annually—second only to Niagara Falls among New York state parks.

During the event, volunteers learned how to identify types of marine debris commonly found at Jones Beach and how to report this information to agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Regular clean-ups aim to prevent wildlife such as sea turtles, birds, and fish from being harmed by debris.

The initiative drew inspiration from Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato si’, which calls on Catholics to address environmental challenges.

Jo Ann Hernandez ’88SVC commented: “I love the beach and clean New York beaches. This was a chance to make a difference.”

Juan David Arrieta ’23TCB, another GOLD leader who participated in the event, added: “Events like these are good opportunities to stay in touch with St. John’s and to give back to the community at the same time.”

The group included alumni from graduating classes spanning 1972 through 2025—20 were members of GOLD—and seven faculty members (five also alumni), along with family members and friends.

Sara Hunt Munoz, Ed.D., Senior Director of Alumni Engagement in the Office of Alumni Relations at St. John’s University stated: “Alumni participation in community service is a powerful way to live out the values of St. John’s, support local areas, and inspire current students. I am thrilled that so many of our alumni took part. It demonstrates a continued commitment to giving back, and building pride, connection, and visibility for the alumni network.”