Three Inducted into Science Stairway of Fame

Rider University’s science departments inducted three successful alumni into the Science Stairway of Fame during Lawrenceville Reunion Weekend activities, June 12 through 14. The 2009 inductees are James Bruno ’73, Randy Kertes ’84, and Brian Hartz ’95.

The induction ceremony took place at an afternoon reception on Saturday, June 13, and featured the unveiling of plaques for the honorees. Current and former faculty and staff members celebrated the achievements of the honored guests, who came with their families.

“They are true examples of the Rider alumni family,” said Dr. Jonathan Yavelow, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Education and Sciences. Yavelow also announced that the University is moving forward on the construction of the Richard Alexander Memorial Marine Aquarium Laboratory. The facility will be named in memory of Alexander, the beloved former assistant dean for Science, professor of Marine Sciences, and creator of the Science Stairway of Fame.

Dr. Don Steven, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said these successful alumni are examples of the significant relationships created between mentors and their students during their undergraduate careers at Rider.

“We are so pleased with how the sciences shape our students,” said Steven, who recognized recent graduates who were accepted to continue their studies at Harvard University, Cornell University and Scripps Research Institute

Faculty members who mentored the 2009 inductees presented citations during the ceremony. Bruno was presented by Dr. William McCarroll, professor emeritus of Chemistry; Kertes was presented by Dr. Jonathan Husch, chair of the Geological, Environmental, & Marine Sciences department and professor of Geological and Marine Sciences; and Hartz was presented by Dr. Mary Leck, professor emerita of Biology.

Bruno, who holds a B.S. in Chemistry, a M.S. Chemistry and a M.B.A., has enjoyed a successful career that intersects science and business. Before starting his own consulting company, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Solutions, in 2002, he was the Global Business manager at Honeywell and vice president for Sales and Marketing at Vinchem. An active Rider alumnus, Bruno is chair of the Rider University Science Advisory Board (SAB) and has lectured for the Chemistry and Contemporary Society Course at the University. Bruno remembers the impact Rider had on him.

“I grew up in Trenton, and now I own a $50 million company,” he explained. “This is an institution that when you leave, you not only get a degree, but you get a lesson in life.”

As an undergraduate, Kertes worked closely with Dr. Alexander and Dr. Joseph Nadeau, who helped him find his passion for developing sustainable projects. Kertes received his B.S. in Geosciences from Rider, and later his M.S. in Geology from the University of Cincinnati. Kertes has more than 20 years of professional experience in the environmental consulting and land development fields. Also a valued member of Rider’s SAB, his is an adjunct instructor in Rider’s Department of Geological, Environmental and Marine Sciences. As a result of his dedication and guidance the University successfully obtained a New Jersey State Grant of $100,000 for the environmental restoration and rehabilitations of Centennial Lake.

“Rider is unique because of its great mentors,” Kertes said.

Hartz received his B.S. in Biology. After receiving a master’s and doctorate in Physical Therapy, he founded Hartz Physical Therapy in Lititz, Pa., in 2000. Hartz is committed to sharing his expertise in anatomy and physiology, and has taught at both Franklin & Marshall College and Rider University.

“It’s terrific – I’m humbled,” said Hartz of his recognition.

Both Hartz and Kertes participated in Rider’s varsity swimming and diving program, under the leadership of retired coach Rich Coppola. Coppola attended the induction ceremony to show his support.

“It’s certainly an honor to share this day with them,” said Coppola, who noted that he also coached Kertes’ brother, Kerry Kertes ’80. “It’s been a pleasure to be associated with the three of them.”

The Science Stairway of Fame, located in the research wing of the Science and Technology Center, honors individuals who were exemplary students who have achieved significant professional success in their chosen careers following graduation. The honorees are also loyal and generous supporters of Rider’s science programs.