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Adventurous Alumnus Captivates Audience at Senior Networking Luncheon

Senior Network Alumni Luncheon

Nearly 100 Bellarmine alumni returned to campus the morning of April 13 for the 14th Alumni/Senior Networking Luncheon. The event, presented by the Office of Alumni Relations, provides an opportunity for current Bell seniors to hear a keynote address from an alumnus, and then have lunch with alumni from various professions in which the students have expressed an interest in pursuing.

This year’s speaker was John Petersen ’02. A graduate of Yale University and captain of the Yale Crew team, John has worn many hats during his career as an educator, having served as an elementary school teacher, a district administrator, and most recently, a school leader for KIPP Public Schools. In 2019, John was part of a six-man team that set a world record by becoming the first people in recorded history to row unassisted across the Drake Passage from South America to Antarctica. Their achievement was documented by Discovery Channel for the 2020 series, The Impossible Row.

His remarks, accompanied by visuals, centered on the power of a team. “Leadership isn’t about standing in front of people, it’s about standing with people,” said Petersen. “It’s about standing for people.” He went on to say that at the center of team is trust. “Trust is the foundation of relationships. Relationships are the cornerstone of teams. Teams, more than individuals, fulfill amazing outcomes.”

Petersen, who mentioned that he always wore his Bellarmine football hat while racing in college, concluded his remarks by saying to the seniors, “You may not think of it like this, but in fact you are a part of the team of Bellarmine. Everyone around you is a part of that team, a team that you have to fall back on.” He then encouraged the graduating seniors to, “Go out into the world and build your team wherever you go. Whether you’re a dad, an artist, an entrepreneur, a teacher, an engineer, or a politician – nurture community, build trust, and fulfill all your dreams in service of others.”

Following the program in the Samuel A. Liccardo Campus Center, seniors and alumni enjoyed sharing their stories during lunch held outside on the Le J. and Mary G. Lucas Quad.

Special thanks to the Office of Alumni Relations, the Liccardo Kitchen team, I-T department, Dean’s Office, Grounds and Maintenance crew, and Office of Advancement staff who were instrumental in the success of the event.