Messages from the President

May 29, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

May is always a month of transitions. We close one academic year and begin looking ahead to the next. It is a time of reflection, celebration, and optimism.

This year, those feelings were especially evident as we celebrated Commencement and honored the Class of 2026. Watching our graduates cross the stage and begin the next chapter of their lives is one of the greatest privileges of serving as president. Their achievements are a testament not only to their hard work and perseverance, but also to the dedication of our faculty, staff, administrators, and Christian Brothers who support them every step of the way.

This year's commencement ceremonies featured two distinguished honorary degree recipients and speakers with deep ties to Manhattan University. At Graduate Commencement, we were honored to welcome Michael Kakos '58, whose remarkable career and lifelong commitment to Manhattan continue to inspire generations of Jaspers. At Undergraduate Commencement, we welcomed Susan Solie Patterson, whose longstanding support of the University, alongside her husband James Patterson '69, has had a profound impact on our students and our future.

We also celebrated many outstanding students during our Spring Honors Convocation. Among them was William Walker, recipient of the prestigious Joseph J. Gunn '30 Alumni Medal, awarded to a graduating senior who exemplifies our Lasallian mission through leadership, service, and commitment to the University community. Billy's contributions to Manhattan throughout his undergraduate years make him a most deserving recipient.

Our undergraduate valedictorian, Gabrielle "Elle" Feneide, graduated with a double major in Political Science and English and a minor in Religious Studies. In addition to her exceptional academic accomplishments, Elle leaves Manhattan as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in our history. Her future is bright, and we look forward to following her journey.

Our graduate valedictorian, Karen Flores, represents the very best of Manhattan University's commitment to interdisciplinary learning. A graduate of both our undergraduate and graduate programs, Karen earned her MBA with a concentration in Data Analytics and has built a successful career that combines finance, analytics, and the arts. Her belief that innovation occurs at the intersection of disciplines reflects the spirit of the ARCH Innovation Exchange and the future we are building at Manhattan.

As I reflect on the accomplishments of Billy, Elle, Karen, and all of our graduates, I am reminded of the extraordinary potential of our students and the important role Manhattan University plays in helping them realize that potential.

On behalf of the entire University community, I congratulate the Class of 2026 and wish them success, fulfillment, and happiness in the years ahead. They will always have a home at Manhattan University, and we look forward to celebrating their future accomplishments as proud members of the Jasper family.

Go Jaspers!

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

May 22, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

As we approach Memorial Day weekend, I want to thank you all for the dedication, hard work, and commitment to our students and our mission. With commencement just behind us, I am once again reminded of the true spirit — and potential — of Manhattan. Watching our graduates cross the stage was a powerful testament to everything this community makes possible, and none of it happens without each of you.

I would like to announce that today, Friday, May 22, offices will close at 2:00 pm if your schedule permits. I hope this allows you a little more time to begin the long weekend with family and friends, and to take a moment to reflect on and honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. I do understand that some employees in certain areas may need to be on campus for the full day. Supervisors will work closely with those employees to make arrangements as needed.

Please know that your dedication does not go unnoticed, especially after the tremendous effort that went into making commencement such a success. We are deeply grateful for your continued commitment to our Lasallian mission. Thank you once again for all that you do for Manhattan University!

Wishing you and your families a meaningful and restful Memorial Day weekend.

Very best regards,
Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

May 13, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

I am pleased to share that I have appointed Dr. Bridget Chalk as Provost of Manhattan University.

Dr. Chalk has admirably served as Interim Provost for a year, and during that time she has provided strong, steady, and thoughtful leadership across Academic Affairs. She has been a strong advocate for our faculty and for the University as a whole, earning the respect of colleagues across campus through her collaborative approach, her commitment to academic quality, and her clear focus on moving the institution forward.

Among her many contributions, Dr. Chalk has played a central role in advancing the ARCH Innovation Exchange—an important initiative that reflects the direction of our academic enterprise and our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Her leadership in this area, and across the broader academic portfolio, has been both impactful and forward-looking.

Under normal circumstances, we would conduct a national search for this position, and that will remain our practice in the future. However, we are at a particular point in the evolution of the University where stability and continuity in leadership are critical to our success. Dr. Chalk has already demonstrated her effectiveness in this role, and it is important that we build on that momentum. She is widely recognized as a strong academic leader and would be highly competitive in any national search, and we are fortunate to have her continuing in this capacity at Manhattan.

I am confident that Dr. Chalk will continue to provide the leadership needed to strengthen our academic programs, support our faculty and students, and advance the priorities of the University.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Chalk on her appointment.

Sincerely,
Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

April 17, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

In this edition of the Manhattan Update, I wish to highlight alumni. Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to spend time with many of our alumni—both on campus and in several locations across the country—and I’ve been reminded just how strong and connected the Manhattan University community truly is. There are literally Jaspers everywhere.

I had the chance to connect with alumni in Florida at events that took place in Sarasota and Naples. These gatherings were energizing. No matter where they are, our alumni speak about Manhattan with a deep sense of loyalty and pride. They carry their experiences with them, and they remain invested in the future of the University. In addition, an alumni event in Palm Beach, generously sponsored by Thomas O'Malley, brought together another group of engaged and enthusiastic graduates who had the chance to meet with our School of Engineering Dean, Dr. Kathryn Jablokow.

And then there was the New York City Saint Patrick's Day Parade—with nearly 300 Manhattan alumni marching together up Fifth Avenue. It was a remarkable sight and a proud moment for the University to be among all those alumni as we were led on by our amazing Pipes and Drums. Events like this capture something that is hard to put into words: a shared identity, a sense of tradition, and a connection that endures long after graduation. There were also approximately 80 proud alumni who marched the Naples Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Florida.

One of the highlights back here in New York was the De La Salle Dinner. It was an evening that brought together alumni, friends, and supporters who care deeply about this institution. There was a real sense of pride in the room, but also something more enduring—a shared connection to Manhattan and to one another. A particularly special moment was recognizing José Minaya '94. Like so many of our alumni, José’s story begins right here in New York. Raised in Washington Heights and Inwood, and shaped by our Lasallian Catholic values during his time at Manhattan, he has gone on to achieve extraordinary professional success. His story is a powerful reminder of the lifelong impact of a Manhattan education.

What continues to stand out to me is the consistency of that message. Whether in Florida, California, along Fifth Avenue, or here on campus, the sentiment is the same: Manhattan made a difference in their lives, and they want to see it continue to thrive. These moments matter. They remind us that Manhattan University is more than a campus—it is a community that extends far beyond Riverdale. Our alumni are among our greatest strengths, and their continued engagement, support, and pride in this institution are critical to our future.

I encourage all current students and recent alumni to become involved in future events. Through you, the Jasper community and identity will endure. I am grateful to everyone who has hosted, attended, and supported these events—as well as the entire Advancement team here at Manhattan who works to make them all a success.

Thank you for all you do for Manhattan University.

Sincerely,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

March 31, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

March has been an eventful month, and April promises to be the same. I want to highlight a few areas that reflect both our momentum and our priorities.

We opened a powerful exhibit in the O’Malley Library through the generosity of Kenneth Orce ’65 and his wife Helene. The collection features drawings by Marcel Roux, created immediately after his liberation from Nazi concentration camps. I encourage all members of our community to spend time with this exhibit.

Our recent recruitment events reflect growing momentum. Accepted Students Day brought 147 students to campus with a 75 percent show rate, and Saint La Salle Honors Night welcomed 80 students with a 79 percent show rate. Both represent meaningful improvement and reflect increased confidence in Manhattan University. Thanks to all who made these events successful. Please help the next two Accepted Students Days on April 18 and April 26 be just as successful.

I would be remiss if I did not include a note of responsible caution. As we strengthen our academic programs, refine our enrollment strategies, and continue to build our brand, we remain in a rebuilding phase. That requires financial discipline and responsible stewardship. Even an exceptionally robust incoming class will not take away challenges that evolved over years—but it will be an excellent development we can build upon. Progress will require continued collaboration and adaptability. I am confident in this community’s ability to meet our challenges.

Looking ahead, I hope many of you will join us April 10 through 12 for the inaugural Sixth Borough Film Festival. The Festival has grown beyond expectations and has attracted more than 100 films from 30 countries.

Mission Week, taking place April 7 through 10, is another important moment for our community. It reflects our commitment to service, dignity, and care for others. I encourage you to participate and to attend Brother Ernest Miller’s presentation on April 7 at 3:00 p.m. in Kelly Commons, Room 4C as part of Jasper Giving Day.

Finally, this time of year also brings us to Easter—a central moment in the Catholic tradition and an important reminder for us as a Lasallian university. Easter speaks to renewal, hope, and new beginnings. These ideas are integral to our Lasallian Catholic mission. We are grounded in faith, but also in action—in the belief that education transforms lives and communities.

Thank you, as always, for your commitment to Manhattan University.

With gratitude,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

February 27, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

As we move further into the spring semester, I want to continue the focus outlined in January — disciplined execution, thoughtful progress, and a steady commitment to strengthening Manhattan University in ways that are both strategic and mission-driven.

February has already offered meaningful reminders of who we are and the direction in which we are headed.

A few days ago on February 25, we observed Jasper Day of Wellness, an intentional pause in the rhythm of the semester to focus on well-being. In a time when academic and professional demands can feel constant, creating space for reflection and renewal is essential. Rooted in our Lasallian Catholic tradition, we are called to educate and care for the whole person. Wellness Day reflected that commitment. Through programming, conversation, and shared experiences across campus, we reinforced that resilience, belonging, and support are foundational to student success. I am grateful to the many faculty, staff, and students who contributed to making the day impactful.

On February 26 at 5:00 p.m., we hosted the first ARCHTalk—an important milestone for the ARCH Innovation Exchange: Analytics, Research, Creativity, and Humanity. We were honored that the inaugural speaker was Dr. Anthony Mercando ’76 (EECE), a practicing cardiologist at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates as well as the Director of AI Strategy at White Plains Hospital. Dr. Mercando, a summa cum laude graduate of Manhattan, received his M.D. from Harvard Medical School and the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology and has practiced cardiology for nearly forty years. His remarkable career spans engineering, medicine, entrepreneurship, and healthcare innovation, culminating in his current leadership in artificial intelligence strategy while continuing clinical practice.

Dr. Mercando embodies the interdisciplinary integration that ARCH represents: technical expertise grounded in real-world application and ethical responsibility. His presence as both a distinguished alumnus and a national leader in AI-driven healthcare innovation highlights the distinctive strength of a Manhattan education. ARCH reflects our belief that the future belongs to institutions that bridge disciplines and prepare graduates to lead thoughtfully in a rapidly evolving world.

As I noted at Faculty Convocation, our application numbers remain encouraging. That progress reflects the hard work of many across campus. The work before us now is conversion — turning admitted students into enrolled students at Manhattan. With this focus in mind, please mark your calendars for our upcoming Accepted Student Days on March 28, April 18, and April 26. These are critically important recruiting events as we build the next class of Jaspers. Every interaction matters. The warmth of our welcome, the clarity of our message, and the authenticity of our community will shape students’ decisions. I encourage all of us to do what we can to make these days exceptional.

Higher education continues to operate in a complex and competitive environment shaped by demographic shifts and evolving expectations. In response, we remain focused on strengthening academic programs, refining enrollment strategies, and maintaining responsible financial stewardship. Progress will continue to require collaboration, adaptability, and discipline, and I am confident in this community’s ability to meet the moment.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and to one another.

With appreciation,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

January 30, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

In this first update of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on where we are as an institution and to share a few updates on the work ahead. January is a natural point for taking stock—of progress made, challenges addressed and those remaining, and priorities that will continue to guide us in the months to come.

Over the past several months, our focus has remained firmly on execution. Much of what we have been working on is not flashy or immediate, but it is essential: strengthening our academic programs, enhancing enrollment and retention, advancing toward financial sustainability, and reinforcing the distinctive Lasallian Catholic mission that defines Manhattan University. All of this work is undertaken with our students at the forefront of our minds.

As an institution of higher education, we are operating in a challenging enrollment environment shaped by demographic shifts, changing attitudes toward higher education, and increased competition. In response, we have been deliberate in strengthening recruitment strategies, refining financial aid models, and expanding pathways for transfer and adult learners. These initiatives are beginning to show promise, and we will continue to monitor outcomes carefully and adjust as needed. At the same time, we remain focused on responsible financial stewardship—ensuring that today’s decisions position Manhattan University for long-term stability and success.

At Faculty Convocation, I shared encouraging news about enrollment for the coming year, and I want to reiterate that message here. While we are still early in the recruitment cycle, as of this writing we have received approximately four thousand more applications than we had at this point last year, and roughly two thousand more applications than we received in total last year. Deposits, although smaller in number, are following a similar pattern. That is good news, and it reflects the hard work of many across the University. I extend a special thanks to Dr. Steve Pugliese, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Marketing, and his entire Admissions team for all their efforts thus far—and for the work that continues.

As I also noted at Convocation, what must happen now is clear: conversion—turning admitted students into students who will choose to enroll and join us next fall. That work belongs to all of us. Every recruitment event needs to showcase the kind of place Manhattan truly is, and every interaction with prospective students and their families must communicate well who we are, what we value, and why Manhattan is a great place to be and an excellent place to build a future.

As a Lasallian Catholic institution, we are also called to remain attentive to the wider world and to one another. Ongoing violence and instability—whether in the Middle East including, most recently, in Iran; in Ukraine; or in our own country—continue to affect members of our global and campus communities. Rooted in our Lasallian commitment to human dignity, solidarity, and hope, we remain prayerful and steadfast in our belief that violence can be stopped and that peace is possible. We are especially mindful of those affected by recent events wherever they have occurred, including members of our own community, and we remain committed to offering care, understanding, and support to all who are impacted by conflict and suffering, wherever it occurs.

The months ahead will require continued focus, collaboration, and adaptability. We will be making important decisions, refining strategies, and building on the momentum already underway. Throughout this process, our guiding principles remain clear: academic excellence, student success, mission-centered leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the Manhattan University community.

Thank you for all that you do for our students and for one another. I look forward to the work ahead and to continuing this journey together in the new year.

With best wishes for a productive and successful semester,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President

January 12, 2026

Dear Manhattan University Community,

Welcome back to campus as we begin an exciting new semester and new year together.

There is something truly special about this moment as our community comes together again, ideas gain momentum, and our shared purpose shines brightly. Whether you are a student returning with excitement, a student new to our community, or a faculty or staff member preparing for a new season of teaching and service, I am delighted to welcome you back.

Our Lasallian Catholic mission calls us to educate the whole person in mind, heart, and spirit, and to lead with compassion, integrity, and care for one another. Each new semester invites us to renew our commitment to these values by learning with purpose; serving with generosity; and walking together as a community grounded in faith, respect, and shared responsibilities.

As we embark on this new semester, it brings fresh possibilities, challenges and opportunities, and moments that will shape who we are and who we are becoming. I am continually inspired by the dedication, creativity, and resilience of our students, faculty, and staff, and I am excited for all that we will accomplish as one community.

Thank you for being part of Manhattan University. I wish you a successful, fulfilling, energizing, and fun semester ahead.

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

Frederick Bonato, Ph.D.
President