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 13, 2025
6:00 pm Cocktail Reception / 7:00 pm Dinner
The Rockleigh
26 Paris Avenue
Rockleigh, New Jersey
2025 Honorees
Peter Unanue is Executive Vice President of Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the U.S., where he has led major operational and technological improvements, workforce development, and nationwide facility expansion. With over 25 years of experience in operations research and process optimization, Peter has driven multimillion-dollar efficiencies and strategic growth across industries including food distribution, healthcare, and agriculture. A recognized leader and speaker on supply chain innovation, he has received numerous honors, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and induction into both the George Washington University and St. Thomas Aquinas College Halls of Fame.
Founded in 1876 by Alice Mary Thorpe, the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill began their mission in New York City, caring for destitute women and children and later establishing St. Agnes Home and School in Rockland County. Over the decades, their ministries expanded to include education, healthcare, pastoral care, and social justice, with schools founded in New York, Missouri, Maryland, and Pakistan—including St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill. Today, more than 200 Sisters and Associates continue their commitment to serving those in need and responding to the evolving challenges of our world.
