See Also
Meet the 2008 Summer Orientation Leaders
Lauren Courtney ‘09, Head Orientation Leader
Hi! Congratulations on your acceptance to Holy Cross! I’m Lauren Courtney, the Head Orientation Leader for the class of 2012- that’s you! I’m from the small town of Ashland, Massachusetts, home to the first electric clock. This is my third year working on the Gateways team, and I cannot wait to welcome you to your home away from home for the next four years! This year I am a Resident Assistant in an all first year residence hall. Usually you can find me making my way up to the Hart center for track practice, or spending excessive amounts of time in Beaven doing research for my major, Psychology. I enjoy incorporating lines from “She’s the Man” into everyday conversations, so if I tell you to “have a sit, have a sit in the headmaster’s chair,” I’m probably just looking for a friendly “hi!” in response! Be prepared to set sail and embark upon the beginning of your four year journey here at Holy Cross that I’m fortunate enough to experience with you! The Gateways team is eager to meet and welcome you to the Holy Cross community!
ORIENTATION LEADERS FOR THE STUDENT PROGRAM
Joey Puleo ‘10, Student Coordinator for the Student Program
Congratulations and welcome to Holy Cross, Class of 2012! My name is Joey Puleo, and I grew up in Lynnfield, Massachusetts with my parents and two brothers. Although I was initially anxious about coming to college two years ago, Holy Cross quickly became my home away from home. As a rising junior English and Theatre double major, I am excited to be part of your first college experience here on the Hill. Besides the Gateways Program, I am an active member in various clubs and organizations, such as the Fenwick Theatre and ACT (Alternate College Theatre). Shows that I have appeared in during my time at HC include Rumors, Coraline, My Life with Albertine, For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls, Sweet Charity, and Dinner at Eight. On campus, you can probably find me at the gym, in the theatre, in one of the new reading chairs in the library, or at The Hogan Campus Center, making a late night coffee run. I look forward to meeting all of you at Gateways!
Eugene (EJ) Briones ’10, Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Congratulations Class of 2012 and welcome to Holy Cross! My name is Eugene Briones, but everybody calls me EJ. I am a rising junior majoring in English with a creative writing concentration. I come from a small town in Warren, New Jersey but Massachusetts has definitely become my second home. I am actively involved in campus, whether it’s planning an event for Asian Students in Action (ASIA), mixing up a smoothie at the Cool Beans coffee shop, or tearing up the ballroom floor—I have loved every moment I’ve spent here. At Holy Cross, people know me for my outrageous hair. As a first year student I came in with a Mohawk, and this past year I dyed my hair blue. I haven’t thought about junior year yet, but you can bet that it’s going to be just as crazy. That’s one thing about Holy Cross—you are free to just be you. I’m so excited to meet you all, and I can’t wait to show how amazing this school really is.
Maria Cavicchi ’11- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Congratulations class of 2012! My name is Maria Cavicchi and I am from Plymouth, Massachusetts: hometown of Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II! I’m a rising sophomore and already consider the College of the Holy Cross as my second home. As of right now, I am a math major with a pre-med concentration but this could possible change since I have taken so many interesting and exciting classes this year. I am a member of the College Choir, Asian Students In Action., Student Programs in Urban Development, and am a math/chemistry tutor. For my free time I enjoy Project Runway marathons, writing song on the piano, mahjong (during study breaks), and eating (preferably chocolate). My first year has been an exciting whirlwind and I have loved every moment of it! I’ve attended fan filled sports games (Go Saders!), numerous retreats, and participated in many of the other exciting activities that happen on campus everyday! Whether having a dance party in the halls with my new best friends or having a study party over smoothies at the Cool Beans coffee shop, I’ve loved every moment. Only great memories are made here, Summer Gateways included! So I hope you are all prepared to get on board and enjoy the ride! I can’t wait to meet you all!
Kendra Demakis ’10, Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Christian Frias ’11- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome Class of 2012!!! My name is Christian Frias and I am a rising sophomore and proud member of the class of 2011. I was born in New York City and have lived there my entire life. As much as I love the “Big Apple” I equally love Holy Cross. Living on the hill has been one of the best and most memorable moments in my life, and I have only been here one year. I am currently a declared Economics Major, and when I am not studying I am involved in everyday campus activities. Some of these activities include: Multicultural Peer Educator., Latin American Student Organization, WCHC 88.1, and Intramural/Club Sports. Entering into college was a challenging transition but another transition was leaving Yankee Nation into Red Sox Nation. At first I was uncertain if H.C. was the college for me, but now I stand here saying that it was the best decision I have ever made in my life and I could not be happier. I look forward to meeting you all this summer. Welcome to the Hill Class of 2012!!!
Matthew Harper ’11- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome to Holy Cross, the greatest college I have ever been to. My name is Matt Harper and I hail from Los Angeles, California. I am currently a rising sophomore with an interest in Psychology, English, Philosophy, Music and Art. Since it is impossible to quintuple/pentuple major (yes those are both real words) I spend my time dabbling in ALL Holy Cross has to offer me. I enjoy playing Ultimate Frisbee, cheering for any of our athletic teams (occasionally with a purple face) and just hanging out and catching up with all the friendly faces around campus. I can be found at some point every day throwing a frisbee around campus on Easy Street regardless of sun, wind, rain, snow or traffic – feel free to join if you see me. Get ready Class of 2012 for a year you will never forget!
Thao Hoang ’09- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome to Holy Cross class of 2012! My name is Thao (pronounced “Tay”) Hoang and I am a member of the class of 2009. I was born in Hue, Vietnam but moved to Manchester, New Hampshire when I was seven years old. During my two years here at HC, I have been involved in numerous activities such as the French Club, Ultimate Frisbee, the Running Club, S.P.U.D. and Mentor Program. I am majoring in Psychology with a minor in French, which is one of the reasons why I am currently studying abroad in Strasbourg, France right now. I’m excited to meet you all and hope that you will enjoy your orientation…because it is extremely fun!
Joshua Jones ’11- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Hello everyone, my name is Joshua Jones and I am a member of the class of 2011. My home is the beautiful state of Florida where I live with my parents and younger sister. Here at Holy Cross I am a rising sophomore and a member of the Varsity Basketball team. In addition to playing basketball I also am an active member of the co-curricular group “Fellowship of Christian Athletes” and served as the co-chair of my residence hall house council this past year. I am very happy with my decision to choose to attend Holy Cross. What attracted me to the school is that it is an excellent academic institution with a small but safe and supportive atmosphere. What I enjoy the most about Holy Cross is the amount of diversity seen in the individual personalities of the students. I am looking forward to meeting you at orientation.
Colby Kane ’10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Hi Class of 2012! My name is Colby Kane and I am a rising junior. I am from Long Island, New York and I am a huge Yankees fan. Living in the Red Sox Nation has been a huge adjustment for me. I applied to Holy Cross early decision and have not regretted it one bit, despite this great rivalry! Up on the hill, I am involved in club lacrosse, I volunteer with retired Jesuits every Sunday, and am currently running for student government. Since arriving my freshman year, I have changed my major four times, and have finally decided on Sociology with an Asian Studies Concentration. Through all of these changes, not only have I developed a great relationship with faculty, but I have made my best friends here and really feel a sense of home on Mount St. James. I look forward to meeting all of you, and to welcome you to the family of Holy Cross!
Ali Lincoln ’09- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome to Holy Cross 2012!! I’m Ali Lincoln from Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and I can’t believe I’m already a rising senior. My time at HC has flown by, and I’m a little bit jealous that you are just starting your four years here. I’m currently studying abroad in Florence, Italy. Although Europe is great, I’ve really missed the Hill – my life’s just not the same without the Cool Beans coffee shop chai tea and my fellow purple-clad Crusaders. As an English and Italian double major with a Creative Writing concentration, I even miss the weekly workload of papers and readings, if you can believe that!! Coming to Holy Cross has been one of my best life choices! Can’t wait to meet all of you!!
Thomas Pipoli ’10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome Class of 2012!!! You are now an official citizen of Sader Nation! My name is Thomas Pipoli and I am a proud member of the class of 2010. Away from the Hill, I live in the small town of Chester, Connecticut with my parents and my sister Kara, a recent HC graduate. As a freshman, I went to Connecticut College; however, I knew my calling was at Holy Cross and transferred to the Hill my sophomore year. I am a History major and love to delve into anything Italian, exactly the reason for why I am studying abroad next year in Italy! Outside the academic realm, I am thoroughly involved in the Chaplain’s office as a leader of the Manresa retreat program, a member of the Gulf Coast service project, and a singer in the Chapel Choir. In my seldom spare time, I religiously watch the television show LOST, quote Gladiator and other epic movies, and attempt to buy out every article of athletic wear in the HC bookstore (this could very well be impossible). I eagerly await our meeting in June, and as Maximus stated in the movie Gladiator: “What we do in Gateways orientation, echoes in eternity.”
Melissa Pivonka ’10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Hi class of 2012! My name is Missy Pivonka, and I hail from Tolland, CT. I am a varsity softball player here at the Cross, where I am also a Resident Assistant, and am involved in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes). I am a double major in History and Sociology as well as a minor in Economics. I love sports, shopping, the beach, movies, hanging out with my friends and family, and of course Holy Cross! I hope that all of you are excited to get here! I can’t wait to meet all of you
Matthew Rome ‘10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Howdy class of 2012! Welcome to Holy Cross! My name is Matt Rome and I am a member of the class of 2010. I come from the beautiful mile high city of Denver, Colorado. I love the mountains, hiking, being outside and anything associated with my great square state. My room looks like Colorado. It’s attacked it with flags, pictures, posters, anything and everything CO. I am involved on campus in activities through the Chaplain’s office including retreats and service programs as well as being a tour guide. On campus you can find me procrastinating in the Cool Beans coffee shop, marathon meals at Kimball or at the Hart center cheering on our basketball teams. I love Holy Cross and everything it has to offer, and I can’t wait to meet all of you.
Jenna Sattar ’11- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome to Holy Cross, and congratulations on becoming a CRUSADER! My name is Jenna Sattar, and I’m a rising sophomore. I come from Glastonbury, CT where I live with my mom, dad, sister Sarah and dog Max. I’m a psychology major in the pre-med program. I am heavily involved in the Student Government Association (SGA), and host perspective Holy Cross students! I love summer, beaches, my family and friends, dancing, baking, Justin Timberlake, and the color pink. I’ll eat anything chocolate, and I’m addicted to diet coke (seriously…it’s a problem). I was really nervous when I first started here as a first year student, because I knew I would really miss my home and my family. However, everyone here has been amazing, and my first year has been wonderful, so there is no need to be nervous! I can’t wait to meet you all at Summer Gateways! I’ll challenge you to a dance-off at The Edge, Holy Cross’ very own dance club.
Dolly Sengsavang '10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome fellow crusaders! I cannot believe I’m greeting a new class to HC. It was just yesterday when I was greeted by my summer Orientation Leaders. I’m Dolly (it’s not a nickname) Sengsavang and a proud member of the class of 2010! As a rising junior, I should have a major but I’ve changed my mind more times than I can count, so it’ll probably change again and again and again. As of right now, I’m a history major with an American Sign Language and Deaf Studies concentration. Here on the hill, I’m involved with many campus activities but my absolute favorite past time at school is sitting at the Cool Beans coffee shop people watching. Yes, that’s right! I’m that girl. I’ve been dubbed the “Cool Beans Girl” and I’m quite proud of it. Once you get on the hill, you’ll see why I’ve become the “Cool Beans Girl.” It is the best place on campus and it’s always a new adventure everyday. I can’t wait to meet each and every one of you and I especially cannot wait to make lots and lots of Cool Beans dates! Welcome Class of 2012!
David Werner ‘10- Orientation Leader for the Student Program
Welcome Class of 2012! I’m David Werner, a rising junior majoring in psychology. I hail from a small town in upstate New York called Rouses Point, where the cows outnumber the residents. At home, I live with my parents, my twin sisters, and my two dogs. Coming from such a small town, it is inevitable that I am a die hard country music fan. If you ever pass my room at school, you’ll certainly hear me blasting some Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, and Kenny Chesney. At school, I keep myself busy as a Resident Assistant in Hanselman, training for the Burlington City Marathon on May 25th, volunteering at the St. Agnes Daycare Center, and participating as a member of the men’s club soccer team. In my spare time, you’ll probably find me rooting on the New York Rangers (I’m a huge fan), working on my sub-par beat box skills, or watching Family Guy. My past two years on the hill have been phenomenal. I’ve come to live and breathe purple pride. I can’t wait to meet you all this summer!
ORIENTATION LEADERS FOR THE PARENT PROGRAM
Sarah Brown ‘10- Student Coordinator for the Parent Program
Congratulations and welcome to the Hill Class of 2012! My name is Sarah Brown, and I am a rising junior majoring in English and concentrating in creative writing. I was born in Norwich, Connecticut (about 45 minutes away from campus), but Holy Cross has become my new home, and I could not be happier! Although I sometimes miss my family, two dogs, and kitten (she’s adorable), my time at HC, usually drinking coffee in the Coolbeans coffee shop or writing poetry in the library, has been incredible. I am currently involved in the College Honors Program, Student Programs in Urban Development (SPUD) Grandkids and African Refugee Tutoring, Liturgical Ministry, Purple Key Society, and always displaying my purple pride. You should also know that I love to run, eat, laugh, grocery shop, and pretend I can sing and dance. I am also obsessed with writing, reading, reflection, poetry, Harry Potter, and meeting you (and your parents!!) Now that you know a little about me, I cannot wait to get to know you. See you soon Crusaders!
Brian Lewin ’11- Orientation Leader for the Parent Program
Welcome Class of 2012 to Mount Saint James! My name is Brian Lewin and I’m a proud member of the Class of 2011, majoring in political science with a self-designed minor in history. I am from Chelsea, Massachusetts and I attended Malden Catholic High School. It’s real easy to get involved at Holy Cross and I, like many Crusaders, am involved in a number of activities. When I’m not writing a paper or playing on one of the intramural or club sports teams, I enjoy broadcasting my radio show on WCHC, our very own radio station. I am a Communion Minister with the Chaplain’s Office and the layout editor for an independent newspaper on campus. I served on Mulledy House Council this past year, and can honestly say that Holy Cross has become a true second home. Enjoy the experience and God bless!
Mary Kate O’Keefe ’11- Orientation Leader for the Parent Program
Bonjour Class of 2012! My name is Mary Kate (“MK”) O’Keefe and I’m an English major and a rising sophomore here at HC. For my entire life I’ve lived in the Philadelphia area, so coming to Massachusetts for college was definitely both a major transition and the best decision I have ever made!! The people that I’ve met at Holy Cross are kind, amazingly unique, and some of the best friends I’ve had. I’m always looking for new ones, though, so if you’re a fun kid, a little bit artsy, or a lotta bit quirky, come meet me during Gateways or drop me a line on Facebook (haha!) I offer my sincere congratulations on getting into Holy Cross because I’m sure you’ve really earned it! From here on in, you’re forever a Crusader, and I think that this year’s Summer Gateways will show you just how AWESOME that is! Welcome and I look forward to seeing you all when my favorite season begins!
Brian Regan ‘10- Orientation Leader for the Parent Program
What’s up class of 2012? My name is Brian Regan and I’m a rising junior who is excited to spend some extra time in Worcester this summer. I’m a Religious Studies major from Garden City, New York on Long Island where I live with my mom, aunt, and four siblings. I commuted to New York City everyday to attend Regis High School where I played basketball and was editor of the yearbook. To replace all that commuting time once I got here I became involved in liturgical ministry, Student Programs in Urban Development, Christian Life Community, and as a member of the Ultimate Frisbee team. I also work at the Post Office in Hogan and as a Resident Assistant in Mulledy. You’re most likely to find me on a nice day tossing a disc around Kimball quad so please don’t get upset if a stray Frisbee hits you. My favorite sports team is the New York Mets so instead of engaging in the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry up here I just get made fun of by both sides. I love all kinds of music and make a mean playlist. My other hobbies include driving, going to the beach, Wii bowling, and Holy Cross basketball. I’m looking forward to meeting all of you so get excited and welcome!
ORIENTATION SUPPORT STAFF
Cassie Chapel ’09- The Program Coordinator
Hello Class of 2012 and welcome to Holy Cross! Get ready for some of the most memorable four years of your life starting with Gateways Orientation! My name is Cassandra and as the Program Coordinator you and your parents will most likely know me as the voice on the phone in the Gateways office. Hopefully I will get the chance to meet all of you as I make sure the Gateways program is a great experience for you this year. I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona and I grew up in Savannah, Georgia. I found myself at Holy Cross as a visiting student after Hurricane Katrina from Loyola University, New Orleans. I permanently transferred to Holy Cross after the spring semester of my freshman year; Holy Cross had become my new home, family, and the place I enjoyed being the most. Since stepping onto “The Hill” I have fallen in love with the classes, professors, and community as well as all of the great opportunities for students. I am a Music major with a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies. I am Co-Manager of the College Choir. I sing in the only co-ed a cappella group on campus – Fools on the Hill. I have also participated in Campus Ministry by being a Christian Life Community (CLC) leader and have gone on the Manresa retreat. In the last three years here, I have also been a Senator in the Student Government Association (SGA), on the 2009 class council, and helped out with hosting prospective students through the Admissions Office. Needless to say, I have kept busy with all of the wonderful things there are to do here at Holy Cross. Good luck with your transition into college and we cannot wait to welcome you into the Holy Cross community!
Lance Jeune ’11- Orientation Support Staff
Congratulations you're a Crusader now! I'm Lance Jeune a rising sophomore majoring in Economics. I am from a town right outside of Boston MA called Somerville. I'm a major sports fanatic, I like all teams but my favorites are the Sox and the Patriots. At home, my room is covered in newspaper clippings about how each of the home teams are doing. My parents think I'm crazy I just see it as suffering from a severe case of fandom. If you see me around on campus you'll notice me either by my colorful wardrobe or distinct fashion sense. On campus I am a part of the BSU (Black Student Union) and a very active member of the Holy Cross College Democrats. I will also be a Passport Pathfinder this year, I'm very excited and can not wait to meet you all.
Kevin Leggio ’11- Orientation Support Staff
What’s up, class of 2012? I’m Kevin Leggio, a rising sophomore, coming from Long Island, New York and I’d like to welcome you to the College on the Hill!!! At home I’m an accomplished ice-cream scooper and waiter at Friendly’s, so if you need someone with sick scooping skills, come find me. On campus, if I’m not practicing with the varsity tennis team, you can find me spiking with Men’s Club Volleyball, working as an SGA (Student Government Association) Freshman Intern, or stalking friends at Cool Beans in Hogan Campus Center. As of now, I’m a declared Psychology and Italian double major with hopes to go abroad my junior year to Florence with our Study Abroad Program. Gateways is definitely a catalyst to establishing strong bonds and friendships here at HC; my own Gateways experience was one of the best times I’ve had on campus and I can’t wait to share it all with you … so get ready, you’re in good hands.