The Annual Tribute Dinner is one of St. Thomas Aquinas College’s premier fundraising events, bringing together alumni, friends, and community leaders for a night of celebration, recognition, and gratitude. This special evening honors outstanding individuals whose leadership, generosity, and achievements reflect the College’s core values, while raising essential funds to support student scholarships. All proceeds directly benefit our students, advancing STAC’s mission to make a transformative higher education accessible to all.
Thursday, November 5, 2026
6:00 pm Cocktail Reception / 7:00 pm Dinner
The Rockleigh
26 Paris Avenue
Rockleigh, New Jersey
2026 Honorees
Sister Margaret Mary Fitzpatrick, SC, Ed.D., is the 23rd Congregational Leader of the Sisters of Charity–Halifax and President Emerita of St. Thomas Aquinas College. She served as STAC’s president from 1995 to 2020, providing 25 years of transformative leadership that included expanding academic programs, facilities, athletics, strategic partnerships and philanthropic initiatives. A longtime educator and leader in higher education, Sister Margaret Mary has served on numerous boards and remains deeply committed to education, service and the common good.
James (Jim) Ferrone is a Director at Grassi with more than 30 years of public accounting experience, specializing in nonprofit organizations, family-owned businesses, ERISA audits and management advisory services. A Certified Public Accountant in New York and New Jersey, he is an active member of several professional accounting organizations and a frequent speaker on nonprofit and ERISA topics. A graduate and St. Thomas Aquinas College Hall of Fame member, Jim was a standout cross country student-athlete and remains deeply engaged in community and Scouting service.
Penelope Kokkinides is a healthcare executive with more than 25 years of experience specializing in Medicare, Medicaid and managed care. She currently serves as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Medicare Business and SALUS Clinics for TRIPLE-S, a subsidiary of GuideWell. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership positions focused on healthcare operations, clinical programs and organizational strategy. Kokkinides serves on several boards, including the St. Thomas Aquinas College Board of Trustees, and has been recognized with numerous honors for her leadership and contributions to healthcare.