Crossing The Finish Line: Philanthropic Efforts Empower Students to Graduate
Established in 2022, the Finish Line Fund at Iona University provides emergency tuition grants to juniors and seniors facing unexpected financial challenges, helping motivated students overcome these obstacles, stay on track to graduation, and achieve brighter futures, reflecting Iona’s dedication to their success.
For Kristjan Dushaj ’23, the Finish Line Fund was a transformative experience, enabling him to “cross the finish line” and attain a Bachelor of Science degree through Iona’s Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing Program.
“The Finish Line Fund allowed me to continue my education when financial struggles hit at the midway point of earning my nursing degree at Iona. This opportunity lifted a massive weight off my shoulders and alleviated stress in my studies. It showed me that other people are invested in my future.
“If I could say one thing to the Finish Line supporters, it is thank you for helping me. I would not be in my current position without your generosity. I encourage Iona supporters to please continue their amazing work—it truly makes a difference. It has in my life.”
Image: Kristjan Dushaj ’23, right, with nursing clinical lecturer Esther B. Krinsky
A Message of Gratitude for Supporting the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund
In times of unexpected challenges and unforeseen obstacles, the Iona University community stands together, united by a shared commitment to supporting one
another during our greatest times of need. The Friends of Brother Devlin Fund is a beacon of hope and support, designed to provide immediate aid to students facing sudden and urgent financial needs. Named in honor of J. Kevin Devlin CFC, Ed.D., ’61, whose dedication to Iona’s mission has left an indelible mark on generations of students, this Fund reflects the spirit of compassion and community that defines the Iona experience.
Image: J. Kevin Devlin CFC, Ed.D., ’61
A Message from Brother Devlin, Student Resource Liaison
“I want to thank all our generous donors for your consistent support of the Friends of Brother Devlin Fund. Your kindness has made a remarkable difference in the lives of our students, allowing them to focus on their education rather than worrying about basic necessities.
Your generous support helps the University provide resources for students when hardships threaten to derail their education. By continuing the Edmund Rice tradition of compassionate service, your support transforms lives. As one student recently shared with me, ‘This Fund didn’t just help me eat—it showed me that someone believes in me.’”
Iona University Rowing Unveils Robert J. Musial Shell in Celebration of Legacy and Support
The Iona University Rowing Program—alongside Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Trainor ’77, ’81MBA and Marilyn Musial Trainor ’85, ’94MBA—hosted the Christening of the Robert J. Musial Shell at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle. Thanks to the generous support of the Trainor family, the rowing program was able to acquire a new, state-of-the-art, 8-person shell, enhancing opportunities for both the men’s and women’s teams.
“Marilyn and I are thrilled to support Iona University and specifically our rowing program,” said Larry Trainor. “Football and crew were a huge part of my four years at Iona, which fostered many great friendships that still exist 50 years later. We are so excited to see the growth of our crew team excel under Coach Ben MacDougald, and we expect the Robert J. Musial shell to win many races. Iona sports have been a huge part of all of us, whether an athlete or fan, so we feel it is imperative to give back to our great institution.”
“We are deeply grateful to the Trainor family for their generosity and unwavering support of our athletes and program,” said Ben MacDougald, director of men’s and women’s rowing. “It was a privilege to have the Trainors with us, along with many alumni and friends of the program.”
Image: Lawrence Trainor ’77, ’81MBA and Marilyn Musial Trainor ’85, ’94MBA christen the Robert J. Musial Shell with the Iona University rowing team.
A Mother’s Gift in Memory of Her Son Shapes the Future of Computer Science At Iona
A transformative gift of $1 million from the Estate of Virginia Powers, in loving memory of her son, Stephen Powers ’87, is revolutionizing opportunities for students in Iona University’s Computer Science Department. This generous gift is enhancing hands-on learning experiences through state-of-the-art equipment that embodies Stephen’s passion for practical, innovative solutions in technology.
“On behalf of the Powers family, we are delighted to honor Stephen’s legacy,” said Fred Powers ’99MBA, Stephen’s brother. “It was here at Iona where he first gained his passion for computer science in the mid-1980s and carried this knowledge into his business career at Powers Fasteners. We are grateful to Virginia Powers, my mother, ‘Gigi’ to her thirteen grandchildren, for making this kind gift to help the next generation of students reach their dreams and goals.”
Stephen graduated with honors in computer science from Iona in 1987. After graduation, he joined the family business, Powers Fasteners, where he demonstrated his innovative spirit by transforming its IT department. His technical expertise shone as he developed custom software solutions that seamlessly integrated operations across eight overseas companies. As he rose to manage all nine of the company’s international operations, he never lost his hands-on approach to problem-solving and technology. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind an inspiring legacy of technological innovation, professional achievements and unwavering dedication to family.
Image Gallery: The Powers family gathered for the dedication of the Stephen Powers ’87 Computer Science Suite, located on the second floor of Murphy Center on the New Rochelle campus.
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