Don Fox ’64

Don Fox ’64

Don FoxDonald Fox was born July 22, 1942 in New York City to German immigrants Melville and Herta Fox.

“Don has been a magnificent leader and supporter of Wagner College through his active trusteeship and his philanthropy,” said President Richard Guarasci.

A member of the Seahawk soccer team and vice president of the Student Government Association, Fox earned his bachelor’s degree in history from Wagner College before pursuing an MBA at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, which he earned in 1966.

“My favorite Wagner professor was Lincoln Harter,” Fox said in a 2007 profile. “Though he was vice president of the college, he also taught political science. I took three of his courses, and did pretty well. He could really motivate students and his lectures were excellent. He was a great guy and very kind to students. I also remember Virgil Markham of the English department. When I was having difficulty, he took me in and helped me get through.”

Fox lived in Dallas, Texas for most of his professional life. In the late 1970s, he founded Texas Interocean, a reinsurance intermediary. In 1985, he started H.S. Fox Corporation with associates Robert Henderson and Alan Shepard. The three began the business on a card table, eventually growing it to the largest reinsurance brokerage of its kind in Texas. Not only was Fox proud of the company he and his team built, but he took equal pleasure in the great friendships he formed along the way. Fox was chairman and CEO of H.S. Fox when he sold the company in 1995 to the Marsh and McLennan Companies.

“Don was a well-known figure in insurance circles, but also a quiet and unassuming guy who loved Wagner,” said Jay Hartig ’67 H’09, former chairman of the board of trustees.

For 19 years, Fox served on Wagner College’s Board of Trustees: from 1985 through 1994, and again from 2004 through 2013.

“Don was a devoted board member who always added to our deliberations through his calm and wise manner,” said current board chairman Warren Procci ’68, “and he was quite entertaining and charming in social settings. He journeyed to Southern California to attend a party that Linda and I hosted to celebrate my 60th birthday and our 35th anniversary. He was a good trustee and a good friend.”

“He was such a supporter of Wagner College his entire life,” said former trustee chairwoman Louise Kaufman ’75 M’78 H’12. “He always had so much to add from his business experience and background. He was a charming gentleman.”

“I think in my memory, one of the most significant things Don did was provide a Board Challenge Matching program of his own for academic funding,” Hartig added. That program, which Fox started in the darkest days of the Great Recession, provided 10 Fox Scholars with $5,000 scholarships apiece for 3 years, enabling them to continue their college careers despite incredible economic challenges.

Fox was also deeply committed to supporting a multitude of service-research projects conducted by Wagner College faculty and students across four continents. Between 2007 and 2009 alone, the Fox Family Fund for the Advancement of Civic Engagement Scholarship provided nearly $100,000 for projects involving a dozen faculty members and hundreds of students that benefited thousands of people from Staten Island to Bangladesh and from Lima, Peru to Nairobi, Kenya. You can read about the products of his generosity in “What Don Fox Hath Wrought,” published by Wagner College in 2010.

“I love Wagner,” Fox said, “and when I sold my company, I put money aside and invested it to develop meaningful money for Wagner. I consider my giving to be my way of paying an IOU the college gave me when I graduated, and I hope that it will be a boost to the faculty.”

“Don would always describe anyone he admired as a ‘good guy,’ male or female,” recalled President Guarasci, “but Don Fox was the original ‘good guy.’ ”

Don Fox passed away in July of 2013.  In light of all of his contributions to Wagner College he will posthumously be awarded the John ''Bunny'' Barbes ’39 and Lila T. Barbes ’40 Wagner Alumni Laureate at the Alumni Association Awards Luncheon on Saturday, June 14th during Reunion Weekend. His sons Alex and Graham Fox will be present to accept the award in memory of their father.

Harold Theurer ’79

Harold Theurer ’79

Harold“There is no such thing as a self-made man. We are made up of thousands of others. Everyone who has ever done a kind deed for us, or spoken one word of encouragement to us, has entered into the make-up of our character and our thoughts, as well as our success.” - George Matthew Adams

Harold is a native New Yorker, born, raised and still living in Brooklyn, NY,  who earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Wagner College and his M.A. in Counselor Education from New York University.  Since graduating, Harold has been a steady supporter of Wagner, through donations to the annual fund, various sports teams, the Wagner College Men's Center and the Center for Global Learning.

Harold has always felt a responsibility to give back to the school. His contact with the college increased when Harold's office at Merrill Lynch became one of the first Internship sites run by Dr. Walter Rohrs back in the late 80's early 90's (Dr. Rohrs created the career development initiative). Harold mentored students who were interested in the financial services and developed a wonderful relationship with Dr. Rohrs through the initiative. Dr. Rohrs would ask Harold to come to campus and speak with the students during his career seminars and Harold would talk about how to market themselves.

When Lisa De Respino Bennett became Alumni Director she got Harold more involved. Since he was already a Class Agent when Fred Williamson stepped down as President of the National Alumni Association (now known as the Wagner Alumni Association), Harold took over from '94-'97. Lisa and Frank Young kept Harold close to the college throughout the years, but it wasn't until he met President Richard Guarasci that he solidified his relationship with the college.

Since then Harold has served as the Chair of the Inner Circle, a Wagner leadership giving society in which members annually donate $1,500+ each year to the school, spearheading the effort to create a marketing campaign that asked Wagner alumni to make leadership gifts in honor of their favorite professors at Wagner College.

He is also the author of the children's book Hey Dad, Let's Have a Catch, which he will be reading on campus for future Seahawks (children of alumni) during Reunion Weekend at the Ice Cream Social on Saturday afternoon, prior to being featured on Fox & Friends the following Sunday, June 15th as a part of their Father's Day segment.

This year Harold will receive the Kevin Sheehy Alumni Leadership Medal at the Reunion Weekend Alumni Awards Luncheon in honor of his work behind the scenes related to fundraising for Wagner.

For a look at other Alumni Award winners, both past and present, visit the Alumni Association Achievement & Service Awards page on our website.

New video: Renée Marino ’04 comes home to Wagner

New video: Renée Marino ’04 comes home to Wagner

On May 7, the Wagner College Theatre welcomed home one of its own, Renée Marino ’04, who is starring in the Clint Eastwood production of “Jersey Boys,” which is being released next month. Marino came back to Grymes Hill to accept the 2014 Alumni Key Award from the Wagner College Alumni Association. She talked about her career, gave advice to the current Wagner College Theatre class, and answered questions from the audience.

Watch the complete program:


And watch the trailer for "Jersey Boys," opening June 19:

 

Louis Siani ’51

Louis Siani ’51

Louis-SianiLouis Siani is a New York City based artist, educator, musician and entertainer playing piano in nightclubs, big bands and events all over the world for more than 70 years. Mr. Siani began playing in small clubs in the area at only 16 years old and has played with the elite of the music world. He went on to gain fame and recognition in some of the legendary New York clubs such as The Blue Note.

After the war and serving in the Navy, Siani continued his education receiving his Master’s Degree (and beyond) in music education at Wagner College, in Staten Island, New York. He worked for the Board of Education teaching band and orchestra for 31 years while also maintaining his music business at the Richmond Music Studios. Mr. Siani also was the musical director and orchestra leader for various New York productions including the Miss America preliminary pageants throughout the area.

The Louis W. Siani orchestra has become iconic in the Staten Island and New York City areas. Mr. Siani has provided musical services for legendary New York restaurants and also generations of families; first playing at weddings and then continuing on for anniversaries and important family events decade after decade. Mr. Siani is also a well-established professional for corporate events, executives, theater, film and notable celebrity affairs. Mr. Siani’s reputation as a talented and consummate professional endears him to his devoted clientele.

Mr. Siani continues to travel throughout the world. He was the entertainment for the Amtrak executive excursions between New York and Quebec over the years. He has played clubs in Ireland, where he was joined by his vocalist wife for their classic tribute to the American Songbook. Most recently, Siani was performing in Positano, Italy at some of the most popular restaurants in the tony resort area.

In addition to his music career, Mr. Siani is also a talented painter as well, with his work displayed at exhibits throughout the area, including a returning spot at Sailor Snug Harbor’s annual art show. A devoted Navy man, he continues to donate all his many talents to entertaining veterans at events and rehab facilities. Siani is a life long learner who continues his Italian lessons every week and continues to play and spread his passion for American made music and will be on tour with his tribute show, “The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical.”

Jenny Kelly ’13

Jenny Kelly ’13

jenny kelly headshotA native New Yorker, Jenny Kelly was born in Staten Island and raised in Rockland County.

In her early years, Jenny nurtured a love of music and performance by studying piano and flute, and taking part in various high school and community theatre productions. In 1990, Jenny made Staten Island her permanent home, and New York City her infinite playground.

After taking nearly 15 years off to tackle life and raise a family, Jenny decided it was time for a return to college and to theatre. At thirty-something, she enrolled at Wagner College to pursue a degree in theatre, and graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in Theatre Performance & Speech, and a minor in Religious Studies in May 2013.

Some of her performance credits include "Next to Normal" (Diana), "RENT" (Joanne), "Into The Woods" (The Witch), "Benches" (Joyce), "Love, Life...Lyrics" (Maria), "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" (Madame la Marquise de Merteuil), and "Lysistrata" (Stratyllis).

Matthew Hosmer ’13

Matthew Hosmer ’13

M.Hosmer-2 fixed red croppedMatthew Hosmer is a 2013 Wagner College graduate. Some of his favorite performance credits include "The School For Lies" (Oronte), "Urinetown" (Tiny Tom), and "My Fair Lady" (Cockney Quartet). He has also appeared Off-Broadway and is featured on two original cast recordings. In addition to performance, Matthew also works as a music director. Past credits include "Zombie Prom" (WCT), "John & Jen," "Next to Normal," "Hairspray" (asst. music director), and "Little Shop of Horrors" (asst. music director).

Steven Babino ’13

Steven Babino ’13

Steven Babino (without name)Steven is a 2013 graduate of  Wagner College, where he studied both Theatre & Music.  While at Wagner, he toured with the Wagner College Choir, and was involved with the productions of Guys & Dolls, Legally Blonde, Seussical, Cinderella, and Beauty & the Beast.  As a musician and vocalist, Steven has performed on stages around the country, including performing the National Anthem with his brother Anthony at the Richmond County Ballpark prior to The Beach Boys Concert.  Most recently, he provided bass guitar, & lead and backing vocals for the debut album of Sons of Origin, an emerging alternative rock band, which he co-founded with his brother Anthony.  Steven has sung on a national TV commercial for DOVE soap, and is continually performing LIVE at various venues around NYC.

Elana Abt ’13

Elana Abt ’13

Elana Abt '13Elana Abt is a Chicago native and recent graduate from Wagner College, where she majored in Theatre Performance.  She is one of the featured performers in the revue "The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical" being performed during Reunion Weekend 2014.

Regional credits: Guys and Dolls (Sarah Brown), West Side Story (Consuela), Rocky Horror Show, Legally Blonde, and Sound of Music.

Wagner credits include: Putting it Together (Featured soloist), Five Women...(Georgeanne), Urinetown (Josephine Strong), My Fair Lady (Servants Choir/Ensemble), Jesus Christ Superstar, and Beauty and the Beast. Other credits Into the Woods (Witch), Jon and Jen (Jen), Macbeth (Lady Macbeth), Hello Again (Young Wife), and Hair (Black Boy Trio).

The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical

The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical

The Golden Age of Broadway PosterCreated by Wagner alumnus Louis Siani '51, The Golden Age of Broadway is characterized by uniquely American classics, familiar, sung and whistled by people of all ages. Composers including George and Ira Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Rogers and Hammerstein are all represented. Often although their work is familiar, it cannot be attributed or put in its place in American history and its cultural significance is forgotten. One might not realize that one great composer; Irving Berlin, was responsible for such classics as “God Bless America”, “White Christmas”, and “The Easter Parade” – all unique Americana penned by an immigrant to New York from Siberia, Russia.

This project is created for a piano and multiple vocalists to recreate the Broadway American Songbook, putting into historical perspective its contribution to American society. Explanations of the role of musicals in their heyday, starting in the 1920’s – a time before television- and through the 1960’s, will unfold as a story told through its musical creations. Mr. Siani's goal is not just entertainment, but an education in putting the familiar in its appropriate context and place in American culture.

Come see this wonderful show during Reunion Weekend 2014!

Featured Wagner Performers

 
Elana Abt '13
Elana Abt is a Chicago native and recent graduate from Wagner College, where she majored in Theatre Performance.  She is one of the featured performers in the revue "The Golden Age of the Broadway Musical" being performed during Reunion Weekend 2014. Regional credits: Guys and Dolls (Sarah Brown), West Side Story (Consuela), Rocky Horror Show, […]
 
Post Image for Jenny Kelly '13
Some of her Performance credits include "Next to Normal" (Diana), "RENT" (Joanne), "Into The Woods" (The Witch), "Benches" (Joyce), "Love, Life...Lyrics" (Maria), "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" (Madame la Marquise de Merteuil), and "Lysistrata" (Stratyllis).
 
Post Image for Louis Siani '51
Louis Siani is a New York City based artist, educator, musician and entertainer playing piano in nightclubs, big bands and events all over the world for more than 70 years. Mr. Siani began playing in small clubs in the area at only 16 years old and has played with the elite of the music world. […]
 
Post Image for Matthew Hosmer '13
Matthew Hosmer is a 2013 Wagner College graduate. Some of his favorite performance credits include "The School For Lies" (Oronte), "Urinetown" (Tiny Tom), and "My Fair Lady" (Cockney Quartet). He has also appeared Off-Broadway and is featured on two original cast recordings. In addition to performance, Matthew also works as a music director. Past credits […]
 
Post Image for Steven Babino '13
Steven is a 2013 graduate of  Wagner College, where he studied both Theatre & Music.  While at Wagner, he toured with the Wagner College Choir, and was involved with the productions of Guys & Dolls, Legally Blonde, Seussical, Cinderella, and Beauty & the Beast.  As a musician and vocalist, Steven has performed on stages around […]
 

2014 Reunion Weekend Alumni Choir Music

2014 Reunion Weekend Alumni Choir Music

Click on the name of each piece to download the pdf of the sheet music.

Selig sind die Toten

I ll Fly Away

Shall We Gather At The River

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

Lo V'Chayil

Psalm 23: Shepard Me, Oh God

Ride the Chariot

Click on the name of each midi file to download it to your computer.

I ll Fly Away

Ride the Chariot - alto

Ride the Chariot - bass

Ride the Chariot - soprano

Ride the Chariot - tenor

Ride the Chariot