Siena Center for Social Justice
Siena Center for Social Justice
In collaboration with the Vice President for Mission Integration, the Siena Center for Social Justice (SCSJ) is dedicated to fostering dialogue across differences to advance social justice.
Through educational programming, SCSJ raises awareness and equips individuals with the knowledge, tools, and experiences needed to promote global citizenship and social justice. Partnering with communities at Molloy University and the greater Long Island region, SCSJ provides engaging programs designed to create a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Committed to educating students, faculty, staff, and community members on the importance of building inclusive and equitable communities, SCSJ will:
- Implement and coordinate a comprehensive programming calendar that celebrates the diversity of Molloy’s student, faculty, and staff populations;
- Develop and deliver a wide range of social justice educational opportunities on topics including, but not limited to, age, generation, disability status, religion and spirituality, ethnicity and race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, Indigenous populations, national origin and language, and gender and sexuality;
- Empower a campus community that is actively engaged, socially aware, and embraces multiculturalism, social justice, and the diverse identities each individual brings; and
- Strengthen dialogue, collaboration, and opportunities for celebration with campus and community partners.
Advisory Board
2026-2027 Siena Center for Social Justice Advisory Board
Donald “DJ” Mitchell, Jr., Vice President for Mission Integration, Chair
Kisha Chandler, Director, LHVCCUC LSAMP Program (2025–2027)
Christine Chimienti, Director of Academic Planning and Resources, Academic Affairs (2026-2028)
Theresa Eaves, Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Community Wellness Coordinator, Health and Wellness (2026-2028)
Dr. Margaret Kamowski-Shakibai, Associate Professor, Communication Sciences & Disorders (2026-2028)
Sister Maureen Muir, OP, Administrative Coordinator, Campus Ministries (2026-2028)
Dr. Lauraann Nicoletto-Syrett, Adjunct, Nursing (2026-2027)
Dr. Michelle Martin, Director, Mission & Ministry (2025–2027)
Patricia Rossi, Tutor and Adjunct Professor, Learning Commons, JET Library (2025–2027)
Rosemary Sullivan, Adjunct Faculty, Nursing (2025–2027)
Dr. Katherine Schmidt, Associate Professor, Theology and Religious Studies (2026-2028)
Dr. Jennifer Scuro, Associate Professor, Philosophy (2026-2028)
Cindy Thomas, Faculty Affairs and Budget Specialist, Academic Affairs (2025-2027)
Jackee’ Toomer, Undergraduate Student, Nursing (2026-2027)
Dr. Francine Wisnewski, Associate Professor, Education; Director, Undergraduate and Dual Degree Programs (2025-2027)
Angela Zimmerman, Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Membership
The Siena Center for Social Justice Advisory Board comprises administrators, faculty, staff, and undergraduate and graduate students. While there is no set number of committee members, diverse representation across Molloy’s various schools and departments is essential during advisory board selection. After a university-wide nomination and application process, the Vice President for Mission Integration selects advisory board members in consultation with the President’s Cabinet. Terms last up to two academic years. The Vice President for Mission Integration chairs or co-chairs the Board. Co-chairs may be appointed by the Vice President for Mission Integration after the Board is formed.