President Stephen J. Sweeny 1976-2011

Visit the CNR Department of College Relations page honoring President Sweeny featuring a slide show and video.

 

“I got my job through the New York Times,” stated Dr. Stephen J. Sweeny, retiring President of The College of New Rochelle at the 2006 Founder’s Day celebration. A self-described “kid from the Bronx,” Sweeny had heard of the CNR from neighborhood girls. He arrived in August, 1976 with two new Deans at the College that was transforming itself into a four school academic institution.

Over the past 35 years, the President Sweeny has worn many hats: Assistant to the Provost, Assistant to the President for Government Relations, Executive Assistant to the President, Vice President for Planning and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and President.

He warmly recalls the welcome he received from Ursulines, other administrative and secretarial staff, and faculty. “That first day, as the beneficiary of genuine kindness from just about everyone I met, I discovered that this was not going to be a transitional job…What I found and have treasured for all these years were the people—the faculty, staff, students, alumnae—and in a category by themselves—the Ursulines.

“IT was all here—in mission and in the people who were and are always the principal resource in implementing that mission—you and the hundreds who came before us.” Sweeny assumed the presidency of CNR in 1997.

The College of New Rochelle stands and salutes you, Dr. Sweeny in thanksgiving for 35 years of dedicated service. As you retire, we pray for you: “ad multos annos!”

Exhibit by Martha Counihan, O.S.U., 2011
Online adaptation by Susan Acampora,  2011