Young Alumni Spotlight - November 2008
Monique Martineau '07

Monique Martineau ’07 is thankful to PC for providing her a transformational experience that gave her the ability to be where she is today. “PC prepared me in so many ways – emotional, intellectual, and spiritual – for what I have done post graduation. I got a strong academic base at PC and also learned what it meant to give back. I learned through my volunteer work at PC that it is so important to help those who may not be able to help themselves right now.”

After growing up in New Hampshire and attending PC, Monique decided to make a change and accept a position teaching in Fort Worth, Texas. “I teach social studies at an alternative school for girls who are parenting or pregnant, called the Center for New Lives. I also teach dance at night at the Bruce Lea Dance Factory.” Considering what she learned at PC, “I definitely have to take patience, respect of differences, and love of your neighbor with me every day or I would not make it through the school day. I think the fact that I am working with a less fortunate group and very proud of my work truly advances the mission of PC.”

Showing a passion for PC and an appreciation for her experiences, Monique has participated in a variety of alumni activities since moving to Texas. “Spreading the good word of PC beyond the northeast is crucial for PC’s legacy and reputation to spread.” Taking advantage of the opportunity to serve as an Alumni Ambassador at local college fairs on behalf of the PC Office of Admission, Monique has spent time speaking with prospective students in the Dallas, TX area. In addition to the Alumni Ambassador program, Monique has made a concerted effort to get local young alums together in the Dallas/Forth Worth area. "Getting a group of alumni in the DFW area would not only be fun to reminisce but students in the area would get more name recognition for PC.  I also want a group of people that I can watch Friar games with (and hopefully watch them beat Texas teams!)".

Recognizing the impact PC has had on her, Monique is determined to give back both with service and financial support. “I believe that every gift back to PC has an impact on current students just as others supported us when we were students. Without so many people supporting PC, we would not be able to be the nationally recognized top college that we are. Every little bit helps.” In recognizing what these gifts provide, Monique has advice for current students, “Get involved! Take advantage of all the resources, activities, and clubs that are available to you at PC. Don’t just stay with your set social group, get involved outside your major, friends, and normal activities, you will meet great people, I promise! Take classes outside your major, just for enjoyment.” To other young alumni, “Donate not just money, but your time. Wear your alumni t-shirt with pride and put that sticker on your car. Be proud of your Friar roots wherever you may go!”.

Monique has taken advantage of the Alumni Lane project, currently open for the classes of 2007 and 2008. By donating at a YA St. Dominic Society level, these classes are being recognized with engraved bricks on Alumni Lane. For more information, please contact Mike Verzino at 401-865-1087. This opportunity is being offered for a limited time for these classes, with hope to reach out to other classes in the future.