A bittersweet moment that occurs each April is the Service Awards & Retirement Celebration, held this year on the 19th. Three faculty members and one staff person retired; and 20 celebrated milestones in terms of years served, including Sister Mary Helen Kashuba, D.M.L., professor of French and Russian, who has been with Chestnut Hill College for 55 years.
“You all bring singular talents to CHC and we regret that you’re leaving us,” Sister Carol Jean Vale, Ph.D., president, said in her opening. “You have all had a profound influence on the college.”
Two students — Samantha Covais ’20 and David Tulloch ’18 — spoke of the inspiration and empowerment they have received as students, from faculty and staff, alike. “You offer us a legacy of love and dedication,” said Covais. “Your service makes a real difference,” added Tulloch.
Sister Mary Helen Kashuba received a standing ovation when her name was read for her long stretch of dedicated service to the college.
“Your teaching, service and scholarship are unparalleled,” said Sister Carol. “You have the energy of a 20-year-old! Divine energy.”
Sister Carol continued to recognize the retirees — Theresa Carfagno, Ed.D., assistant professor of education; John Kovach, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology; Lisa McKernan,
Ph.D., associate professor of biology; and Theresa Cute, prospect manager in SUS admissions. Skits and speeches were presented by their colleagues and Sister Carol added, “They will never retire from doing good, and now they can follow their long desired pursuits. May retirement be the beginning of a new and interesting phase in your life’s journey.”
Each individual earning a service award also was recognized. “You have given 395 years of service combined,” said Sister Carol, to laughter from the audience. “We offer our appreciation to all of you, and rely on you for more years.”
This year, two faculty also were commended on their promotions and for earning tenure: Cheryll Rothery, Psy.D., ABPP, associate professor of psychology to professor of psychology, and Bindu Methikalam, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology to associate professor of psychology.
— Brenda Lange
