Alumni Gala 

Recognizes a graduate within the last 20 years who has devoted efforts in the service and promotion of Saint Joseph's University, or has lived a life of "service for others" consistent with the principles of Saint Ignatius Loyola.

Seán is the founder and president of the Center for Faith Justice (CFJ) which creates transformative experiences of ‘faith in action’ and educates individuals and communities by facilitating programs that integrate spirituality, community service and social justice. In addition to sponsoring research on issues of social justice, community development and pastoral theology, CFJ provides resources and training to groups and organizations with the aim of bringing about spiritual growth and social change.  Seán started CFJ in 2007 after a decade of experience working with schools, churches, and nonprofit organizations. He has served in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Catholic Community of St. Charles Borromeo (Skillman, N.J.), and St. Joseph’s Seminary (Princeton, N.J.), the latter as its first lay executive director.

As a speaker and consultant to religious, educational, and nonprofit leaders, Seán addresses topics including pastoral ministry, justice education and activism, and social entrepreneurship. He has facilitated numerous retreats and workshops, served on boards of faith-based and secular organizations, and advised religious communities on community service programs and outreach to youth and young adults. In 2009, he co-presented a lecture in Saint Joseph University’s Catholic Intellectual Series.  

As a student, the philosophy major was a campus leader, serving as a Vice President of Financial Affairs and sitting on both the Student Budget Allocation Committee and University Budget Allocations Committee.  He was also General Manager for WSJR, the campus radio station, president of his residence hall and served as a resident assistant.  For his service, he received the Student Organizational President’s Award in 1995, 1996 and 1997.

It was also during his time as an undergraduate that Sean began to put his faith into action, founding the Coalition for Justice.  In addition, he participated in the Search Retreat, Project Appalachia and the Northern Ireland Experience, as well as, serving as a volunteer with Homeless Outreach and Habitat for Humanity.

Seán has studied at Union Theological Seminary, the Mexican American Cultural Center, and is currently a doctoral candidate at Temple University. His academic research focuses on Catholic studies in the American context, religious identity, politics, sexuality, gender, and social theory. Holding dual U.S. and Irish citizenship, he resides in Merchantville, N.J. with his wife Lisa Marino, D.O. ’97.