Top row from left: Hon. Frank J. Guarini, Trustee Carol Maurer, Chairman Salvatore Salibello; Chairman Salibello, Trustees Paula Frohring, Kristen Frohring Kushlan Finkelstein; Bottom row from left: President-elect Antonia Maioni, President Franco Pavoncello; Chairman Salibello, President Pavoncello
On April 14, 2026, John Cabot University hosted its annual New York Gala at the University Club, bringing together nearly 250 distinguished guests from the worlds of business, finance, education, fashion, and more. The evening honored the Honorable Frank J. Guarini and family, and Paula Frohring and family, as recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was a memorable occasion celebrating the University and the individuals who make it exceptional, including Chairman Salvatore Salibello, recipient of the degree of Doctor of Business Administration honoris causa, and Franco Pavoncello, as his twenty-year presidency concludes.
The evening opened with Trustee Stefano Acunto, co-chair of the Gala Committee, who welcomed guests and expressed appreciation for the community gathered in New York. He acknowledged distinguished attendees and introduced the honorees, emphasizing the foundational role of the families being celebrated. Trustee Acunto described them as “columns that hold the pediment up,” underscoring their long-standing contribution to the University’s strength and continuity.
President Franco Pavoncello followed with remarks reflecting on the University’s growth, identity, and international mission. He highlighted its exemplary academic community and global reach, noting that the honorees’ “extraordinary commitment and support have made an enduring and tangible impact on our institution, one that will be felt for generations to come.” His address also carried a sense of transition as he delivered his final gala speech as President after two decades of leadership.
Chairman Salvatore Salibello then presented the Lifetime Achievement Awards to the Guarini and Frohring families, honoring their decades of service and generosity.
Accepting on behalf of the Guarini family, Trustee Carol Maurer delivered remarks that combined personal reflection with gratitude for her uncle’s legacy. She described the meaning of the honor, noting that it represents “a lifetime of dedication to education and public service,” and emphasized how the Guarini family’s example has influenced both the University and its broader community.
Trustee Kristen Frohring Kushlan Finkelstein spoke on behalf of the Frohring family and traced their deep roots within the institution. She reflected on the continuity of their involvement across generations, describing it as “a living tradition that continues to grow stronger with each generation.”.
Another central moment of the evening came when President Pavoncello conferred upon Chairman Salibello the degree of Doctor of Business Administration, honoris causa. President Pavoncello described Chairman Salibello as “a great leader, a great human being, and a beloved friend,” adding that he is “an outstanding financial and accounting professional and entrepreneur, and a distinguished leader in nonprofit organizations.”
Chairman Salibello accepted the degree with appreciation, reflecting on his journey with the University and its community. He said: “I accept this recognition with humility, appreciation, and a strong sense of responsibility to the institution that has been such an important part of my life,” acknowledging both his family and colleagues who supported him along the way.
The evening concluded on an emotional and celebratory note as Trustee Angelo Genova offered a musical tribute in honor of President Pavoncello. The performance brought the audience together in a moment of reflection and gratitude, closing the gala with warmth, appreciation, and anticipation for the University’s next chapter under its incoming leadership, represented by Dr. Antonia Maioni. Dr. Maioni, who was also present at the Gala, will become JCU's seventh President on July 1, 2026.
