Fordham staff and faculty came together for the annual Winter Wonderland luncheon organized by the Fordham University Association (FUA) on Jan. 14 at the Rose Hill campus. Nearly 100 staff members shared holiday stories and lunch while preparing for the return of the student population.

Patrick Ryan, S.J., the Laurence J. McGinley Professor of Religion and Society, opened the afternoon with a prayer of thanksgiving.

Francoisline Joy Freeman, the chair of the Winter Wonderland Luncheon and senior assistant director of Student Financial Services, and Grant Grastorf, the academic operational administrator at Fordham Westchester, handed out prizes at the post-luncheon raffle, which included tickets to the New York Philharmonic and Fordham sporting events, a lovely afghan and a basket of wine. One lucky employee won $250 in the 50/50 raffle.

Sodexho, the university’s food service provider, helped to offset the cost of the meal and ice cream dessert. John Burns, Sodexho’s catering manager, was presented with a certificate of thanks.

Also honored was Aida Napolitano, a longtime senior secretary for the Chemistry Department who retired this past December. Napolitano was actively involved with the Fordham University Association for many years before she retired.

Sister Regina DeVitto, C.N.D., coordinator of faith formation and sacraments at Campus Ministry, provided the musical entertainment. She played the guitar and sang classics such as “Do Re Mi.”

The Fordham University Association is comprised of members of the faculty, administrative, clerical and maintenance staff of the University. The Office of the President sponsors the group. FUA’s goal is to sponsor events and activities that bring the Fordham community together for fun and fellowship.

Purchase of a $5 pre-game dinner ticket entitles the ticket holder to an all-you-can-eat pre-game dinner in the McGinley Ballroom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The festivities include face painting, a baked potato bar, a nacho bar, popcorn and hot dogs. A disc jockey who will play music throughout the evening. Ram Pack holders can participate in the pre-game festivities by purchasing a $5 dinner ticket.

With this fundraising event, the Council and the Club hope to match the student-athlete donation of $1,500 to the Hospital. For further information, contact Marianne Reilly, senior associate athletic director, at 718-817-4304 or [email protected].