July 7, 2021 Greetings! Summer is a busy season here on campus as we prepare for everyone’s return this fall. Fortunately, there is also time to look back at the past year. I always appreciate the valuable perspective that comes with time spent reflecting, as it offers important lessons and an opportunity for gratitude. In particular, I appreciate all the good work and mutual support on the part of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to keep our community safe while we advanced our critical educational mission during a period of unprecedented challenges. Reflecting back on meaningful experiences is the purpose behind “WP Reflections”, our interview series, in which I speak with some of the many fascinating people who make up the William Paterson community, including our terrific and accomplished alumni. For our third episode, I was pleased to speak with Dave Maltese ’93, an alumnus with particularly deep William Paterson roots. Dave’s father, Anthony Maltese retired from William Paterson in 1996, after a 36-year career in the Communication Department. In recognition of his father, Dave and other family members established the Maltese Family Scholarship, and Dave has facilitated internships for some 80 WP students over the years. A founding member of the College of the Arts and Communication Dean’s Advisory Board, Dave has built a long and accomplished communications career, including 30 years with the New York Giants – 17 as Director of Video. As a member of the organization, he earned two Super Bowl rings. Pioneer alumni and friends of the University are doing great things in their professions and in their communities, throughout New Jersey, across the country, and around the world. Common to these diverse people and stories is this special place we call William Paterson. Thank you to everyone who took the time to check out our first two episodes, and I hope you enjoy watching these interviews as much as I enjoyed conducting them. Look for future episodes of “WP Reflections” by email and on the University’s official social media channels. In the meantime, keep in touch, have a safe and enjoyable summer, and Go Pioneers! Sincerely, Richard J. Helldobler, Ph.D. President
