Alumni Class Notes, June 2026

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William L. Kovacs '69, Great Falls, Virginia, published his most recent book, "Congress: An Irrelevant Institution or Guardian of the Republic," completing his trilogy on reforming the federal government. The book warns that as Congress retreats from its constitutional responsibilities, the separation of powers erodes and executive overreach strengthens presidential power over the nation. His first book, "Reform the Kakistocracy," received the 2021 Independent Press Award for Social/Political Change. His second book, "Devolution of Power: Rolling Back the Federal State to Preserve the Republic," was a finalist in the 18th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards in the Government category.

Salvatore A. Luongo '86, Tampa, Florida, was named President and Chief Operating Officer at Red Rock Group Holdings. He also serves as Principal Consultant at Hamilton Grace.

Annmarie E. Andrejko '92, Hudson, was named regional president for Northeast PA and head of Corporate Banking for the region at PNC Bank.

Tina Gallagher '95 and Cecelia Mecca '96, G'98 are releasing the first book in their co-authored contemporary romance series, "The Brewhouse Book Society," on April 28. The two alumnae, who did not know each other while at Scranton, connected decades later through the romance writing community and developed both a friendship and a creative partnership. The series is set in a fictional small town in Pennsylvania and follows a group of women navigating love, life, and friendship through a local book club. In addition to writing, they also host masterminds for indie authors, bringing writers together to foster collaboration and community.

Talia Argondezzi '03 has a new book coming out in August from University of Toronto Press titled "Bedtime Stories for Academics: Quibbles and Squabbles at Typical University." The book is a collection of linked short stories that takes a satirical look at higher education, highlighting both the day-to-day experiences of faculty and staff at universities and the broader social forces affecting higher education.

John R. Patro Jr., OTD, OTR/L, CPAM, FNAP '06, Aston, recently accepted the position of inaugural Associate Dean for Health Sciences at Molloy University Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences. In this role, Dr. Patro oversees a diverse portfolio of health sciences programs and is leading initiatives related to interdisciplinary education, program development, enrollment growth and global engagement. A proud graduate of The University of Scranton, Dr. Patro continues to advance his work in occupational therapy education, leadership and international collaboration. He was recently inducted as a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice and is completing his Ph.D. in Educational Studies with a focus on adult learning and development. His dissertation explores faculty perspectives on cultivating cultural humility in entry-level health professions education. Dr. Patro remains passionate about mentoring future healthcare professionals and creating innovative opportunities.

Megan Thompson G'08, Minneapolis, Minnesota, was selected as iCivics' and the Bill of Rights Institute's Civic Star Challenge Gold Prize Winner.

MARRIAGES

Katie Leithauser '16 to Nick Cassidy

Chelsea Malota '18 to Sarin Baldante '21

Julie Weismiller '20 to Thomas Conlon '20

BIRTHS

Robbie and Patricia Cermignano Boushehri '11 announce the birth of their son, Hugo Patrick, born on October 23, 2025, in London, UK

Colleen '12 and Anthony Cestaro had a baby boy, Anthony John (AJ), on January 24, 2025

Erin Knight Preno '14 and Russell Patrick Preno III '05 welcomed baby Russell Patrick Preno IV on May 19, 2026

DEATHS

John E. Swift, M.D. '58, Bonita Springs, Florida

Joseph R. Rinaggio '63, East Amherst, New York

Edward J. Lynett Jr '65, Clarks Summit

Robert C. McGrath '68, Palm Springs, California

John R. Sebastianelli, M.D. '69, Dorchester, Massachusetts

Bruce P. Ceccacci '73, Jessup

Alexander J. Marchel '76, Old Forge

William R. Cary III '80, Punta Gorda, Florida

Alexandra Lee Hughes Weckesser '10, Bayonne, New Jersey