The Honorable Joseph L. Bruno to be Awarded 2008 St. Bernardine of Siena Medal

On Thursday, October 2, Fr. Kevin Mullen, O.F.M., Ph.D. ’75 will present the Honorable Joseph L. Bruno, former New York State Senate majority leader, with the “St. Bernadine of Siena” medal. This award is the highest given by the college and is bestowed upon individuals who have distinguished themselves through their involvement and support of Siena College and the local community.

“During his 33 year career in public service, Joe Bruno was the epitome of a servant-leader, always putting the communities of New York State first. His sense of purpose was to do good works. This is the mark of true Franciscan spirit,” said Fr. Kevin.

The award of the St. Bernardine medal is made according to three primary criteria: Individuals whose personal or professional accomplishments or careers reflect commitment to the spirit and the tradition of St. Francis; individuals who have distinguished themselves by their involvement with or support for Siena College; and/or individuals who have served Siena College over an extended period and whose work has made a significant contribution to sustaining the traditions or raising the profile of Siena College.

St. Bernardine of Siena is the patron saint of the college. The original name of the college was St. Bernardine of Siena College and the friary, located on the campus, is St. Bernardine of Siena Friary. St. Bernardine of Siena was a Franciscan friar who lived at the end of the 14th and beginning of the 15th centuries. He was a famous preacher who also risked his life to assist victims of the plague. He popularized devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus, thus the emblem of the Holy Name on the seal of the college. He was an advocate for education, believing that the wisdom of a compassionate, intelligent, aware person can not be separate from the wisdom of God.