Defining Moments

A Celebration of Turning Points

Learning Unlimited
Salve Regina University
 Defining Moments
A Celebration of Turning Points

Created by the Learning Unlimited program at Salve Regina University,

with the generous support of the John E. Fogarty Foundation.

© 2010, Salve Regina University

Salve Regina University

100 Ochre Point Avenue
Newport, Rhode Island 02840

1
Lifetime of Learning ... Unlimited!
“Defining Moments ~ A Celebration of Turning Points” was created by an inclusive learning
community that we call Learning Unlimited at Salve Regina University. Learning Unlimited is
an Education Department/Special Education Program initiative. In the early 1970s, the Sisters
of Mercy recognized that people with developmental disabilities had very few lifelong learning
opportunities. Simultaneously, they recognized a need for Salve Regina University students to
contribute to the community with hands-on experience, while also learning from, and serving as
mentors to individuals with disabilities.
Learning Unlimited is designed to create an accessible and welcoming environment in which
adults with developmental disabilities are partnered with Salve Regina undergraduates. The
learning team determines the individual learning objectives and activities they wish to work
on. Salve students help their partners learn a variety of life skills. The intention is to assist adults
who have disabilities gain confidence by building upon the foundation of what they already
know, and using it to further their education. In turn, adult learners enlighten Salve students
about the on-going issues facing individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Learning Unlimited
partners carry the message of disability as a civil rights issue beyond the university classroom.
Today students from all departments enjoy the opportunity to engage in a multitude of mutual
learning experiences.
In the spirit of teamwork and community, the Learning Unlimited participants also participate
in a collective theme project each year. These projects have been generously sponsored by the
John E. Fogarty Foundation. Previous themes explored have been “Leadership,” “Wellness,” “A Call
to Action,” “Empowerment through Literacy,” and this most recent initiative, “Defining Moments”.
While structural learning takes place, the relationships that form between Learning Unlimited
partners are the real key to the program’s success. These are not just well-minded college
students who want to help people who have a disability. These are reading coaches, gymnastics
instructors, art enthusiasts, music lovers, aspiring actors and sports fans. As partners spend
time learning from each other in an atmosphere of mutual support and respect, disability labels
fade and friendships grow. The lifelong results are unlimited. In our society, disability should
not create stigma, promote discrimination or prevent anyone from striving toward their full
potential. Each person has a gift to share. That is the heart of true community, and that is the
message of Learning Unlimited.

2
About This Book
Can you remember a day that changed your life? A person who sparked a difference in your
world view? An event that altered your path? Each of us has these experiences. We may not
have recognized them at the time, but each one is a personal bookmark in our life story, with
profound implications for the future. Our collective lives today are built on the foundation of
these defining moments.

This book is a collection of stories, photographs, quotes and poems. Salve Regina University
students and their Learning Unlimited partners have served as a bridge to gather an honest
collection of powerful human stories and defining moments.

With camera and pen in hand, we asked Learning Unlimited partners, as part of the year they
spent together, to think about that moment when everything shifted and something along their
path changed ... that moment that helped define the person they knew themselves to be. So, in
the shelter of friendship ... in the spirit of learning and helping others to benefit from their words,
people shared intimate glimpses of their life story.

Some of these events are described at length, while others are a moment in time. Some are a
reflection on the Learning Unlimited experience itself. Others offer another perspective.

What follows in the pages that await you is a sincere expression of trust that comes from the
heart. Our intent in sharing this with you is to increase awareness and understanding, influence
attitudes, behaviors and invite cultural change. It is our collective hope that through this book
we create a climate of unity within diversity, embrace the art of listening, foster empathy, human
connections and relationships.

“Defining Moments: A Celebration of Turning Points” was funded by The John E. Fogarty
Foundation. Their generosity continues to have a major impact on the lives of those with
developmental disabilities who attend Learning Unlimited and the Salve Regina University
students who partner with them. The work we have done together on this project has been a
defining moment in the history of Learning Unlimited.

On behalf of all who contributed to this book, we hope that you enjoy it as much as we have
enjoyed creating it.

Michele Banks
Director of Learning Unlimited

3
4
Violet Amore
I love my church, I like the people there a lot. They’re my friends. Finding that church has
changed my life, it’s made me better. I go every Sunday.

I really like Father Dave.

He’s nice to me.

Violet Amore and Father Dave Klampert

5
Carol Anderheggen
As I walked into the Salve classroom, wet and cold from a fall rain, I wondered if anyone would
show up. In the warm, well-lit room sat many students, full of smiles and anticipation. The air
in the room was full of joyous sound-floating up into the air, bouncing back from the beautiful
ceiling.

Here was the sun of loving energy.

Here was a world of loving creativity.
Here was a world,
wealthy with ability, courage and growth.
Here was my defining moment.

Carol shares the joy of poetry with Learning Unlimited’s Anna Stanelwicz

6
Tom Beattie
I had cancer, you know. That cancer is something terrible. I could have died, but I didn’t. I’m a
survivor! It makes me happy to be alive.

7
Blaire Behan
I really enjoy working with the kids at St. Elizabeth’s Daycare. I also like the teachers.
I think this is the best year I have ever had at St. Elizabeth’s. I like to come into the daycare and
help out. My favorite part of the day is when I get to make lunch for the kids, and when the kids
ask me for help such as zipping up a coat or opening a juice box.
When we leave in the afternoon, sometimes the kids who are supposed to be napping are still
awake, and they say good-bye to me. I like that.

8
Dolores Belanger
My friendship with Maureen Last changed the way I live life.
We were always out. We’d take off at Kmart, Ames, JC Penny’s – whatever. Always loved going
to the Worthen family home for the holidays. We loved embroidering pillow cases. We went out
to dinner together a lot. We even did our Christmas shopping together. I bought her gifts, she
bought mine; I’d pay for hers, she’d pay for mine.
I helped out a lot when she was sick.
One day, I went to leave her room.
She looked at me and said, “don’t go”.
I really miss her a lot, I really do.

Maureen Last (left) shares a smile in her final days with her friend Dolores

9
Gail Benevides
My award from Head Start for being a volunteer. I’ve been there for 29 years and it makes me
feel good to get the award and happy. That’s right ... me, getting an award for helping kids!

10
Georgia Bergin
About two months ago, my mother and I went to a Justin Timberlake concert. This ended up
being a very special concert for the both of us. We were standing in the pit, right next to the
yellow line which no one was supposed to cross.
Everyone was so excited to see Justin that my mom and I kept getting pushed across the yellow
line. The next thing that happened changed me forever. We got brought up to the VIP section
which was the front row right in front of Justin. As he was walking by he touched my hand
which gave me instant butterflies!
From that moment on, I was in love with Justin Timberlake.

11
William Buckley
I’m writing my part of the book on my best friend Alison Worthen. A
defining moment in my life has been my friendship with Ali. She and I
have been friends for five years. We’ve been through the good times and
the bad times, mostly good time. We can always talk on the phone about
anything. We are always there for each other.
On June 21, 2004 I met Alison at GALCHI. We used to go out. We were
boyfriend and girlfriend for eight and a half months. Now we’re very
happy just being friends.
Alison and I both love sports, movies, family, vacations, work, shopping,
and each other’s friendship. We both like the Patriots and the Red Sox. I
like the Celtics and the Bruins, but Alison does not. We both have jobs. Ali
has her own card business called “Creations From the Heart”, and she also
works at Walgreens. I work at Downtown Designs by GALCHI. I also clean
the buildings for a Wildlife Center in Charlestown.
It seems like Ali and I have known each other forever … I can’t imagine
life without her. She’s always been there to support me whether I
need her to cheer me up or to hold me up. We’ve spent endless hours
engaging in conversations about nothing and everything. I wouldn’t
trade those times for anything in the world. Together we’ve hurt, we’ve
smiled – we’ve grown. We’ve figured out the secrets of life – or tried to, at
least. Our friendship means so much to me and I hope that I can always
be there for Alison the way she’s always has for me.
Finally, I do not have any brothers or sisters, so Ali is the sister I never had.
She’s also my BEST, BEST, BEST, BEST FRIEND - EVER!

Dear Ali ~
Did I mention that you were the “best”? Well, that’s what you are!
The best friend EVER! ~ Love William.

12
Olivia Canario
A defining moment was when we started learning poetry. Poetry helped me let out my
feelings. I usually had no way of telling people the way I felt. By writing and sharing my poetry
it helped people understand how I was feeling. Sometimes I feel sad, depressed, frustrated and
aggravated. I never knew how to express this besides crying to myself and some other friends, if
they listened.
Now I can write and let my feelings pour out. This is my way to overcome my sadness and
frustration. I feel it’s always good to express yourself, to make yourself feel better inside and out.
After I write these poems, I can finally put a smile on my face and the day will be so much better!

13
Pat Cole
Family is nice. They help you with problems. They make me happy to see them.
When I was five years old, I realized my family was important to me. I went to my brother’s
wedding. This made me very happy. I had a good time. I even danced with the bride at the
reception!
This happened when I was only five years old, but I have never forgotten.
Now I have someone new to spend my time with. Meeting Debrina has changed my life. It’s way
different – I’m happier. She’s nice, she helps me, she is kind.
Family is nice and having a special friend like Debrina is nice, too.

14
Michael Collins
My defining moment is getting a real job at the YMCA. I work at the front desk and give people
keys for the locker.
I’m a gifted piano player. I even have a Web Site for the business I started called “Michael Collins
Piano Grams” (www.michaelcollinspianograms.com). I enjoy music, but I love going to work!

15
Nikki Collins
Being a college student has its perks. Becoming independent from Mom and Dad, making
decisions for yourself, living with friends, always knowing the hot spots to party. But the
challenges often outdo the benefits. For me, the greatest challenge was the loss of a family unit
to stabilize myself when life got tough. Luckily, I found a family here at Salve that I never would
have expected.
The people that I have come to know through Learning Unlimited are some of the most
genuine, cheerful individuals I have ever met. Everyone is there for the same reason – to learn, to
socialize, to be a part of a bigger picture that creates meaning and happiness in life. As a fourth-
year member of the program, I can truly say that it has become a family environment for me.
Thursday nights are for Learning Unlimited. Doing anything else doesn’t quite feel right.
So, my defining moment did not come the first night of class way back during freshman year
when I was overwhelmed by the excitement of the group. It came when I experienced life
without Learning Unlimited for a few busy weeks last year. I thought that taking a break would
allow me more time to catch up on other things in life but, in fact, it had the completely opposite
effect. Something was missing for those few weeks. Upon returning, I quickly realized that I
had missed out on a great deal but the immense welcoming I felt that first night back was truly
moving. I don’t know that I’ve ever received so many hugs, high-fives or smiles at once in my life.
Learning Unlimited is about so much more than getting people together for a class. It is an
environment where everyone can be themselves and feel proud. I am immensely thankful for
the experiences I have had as part of the program and will never forget the memories of the past
four years. Thank you to my Learning Unlimited family – you helped define my Salve experience
as an incredible phase of my life’s journey!

16
Tim Coogan
There are so many memorable events that have enriched Tim’s life that it is difficult to pick out a
“defining moment”.
When Tim turned eight he became part of the Trudeau Center and Rhode Island Special
Olympics. This set the course for his social and sports life. Tim participated in soccer, softball,
volleyball, basketball, running, power lifting and bowling. This made him eligible to play in many
tournaments hosted by Special Olympics.
Tim developed some great friendships with his fellow team mates, the volunteers and the
coaches who held practices and transported them all to events.
In addition to Trudeau Teams, Tim cycled, skied, golfed and sailed with R.I. Special Olympics.
One highlight amongst a lifetime of sporting was his trip to Ireland for the 2003 games. Tim was
proud to represent Rhode Island and help carry the Olympic torch. (Story shared by Tim’s mother)
Janice Cotham
I was bullied a lot in school. Kids thought I was different because I was in Special Ed. I always felt
out of place, but my dad taught me to fight back.
They didn’t want me to graduate with my senior class. They wanted to send me my diploma in
the mail. I told them “NO”. I got to graduate with my class and today I’m a powerful woman!
I have a good job as a receptionist. I am on a Board of Directors and a Human Rights Committee.
I’m also a representative for two group homes. I try to teach people that we all have equal rights.
No one should be discriminated like I was.
Everyone should have the right to graduate regardless of any type of disability they might have.
It doesn’t matter who you are. Happiness matters.

18
Lori DiMaio
Art for my sister Patti!

19
Jonathan Dixon
My trip to Disney World!

20
Rayna Dulac

I love my new job on the base, I’ve made good friends and I make more money than my
staff. It’s great!

21
Patrick Feighan
The Class of 2003 graduated in May of 2003. I saw many of my friends in caps and gowns just like
me. I was excited and very nervous because I had to walk up the stairs to the stage and accept
my certificate of Graduation just like everybody else. When my name was called, my classmates
erupted in applause and got to their feet. This not only surprised me but also their families and
friends, and my mother as well. My friend and teaching assistant, Keith Kosut assisted me up the
stairs and across the stage to accept my certificate. Then I surprised everyone by doing another
unexpected thing.
When my teacher, Mrs. Simpson, bent over to hand me my certificate, I spontaneously reached
up with both arms and hugged her. I had seen other students doing this and I really liked Mrs.
Simpson. When she started to cry, so did my mother and the rest of the crowd. It was a moment
in which we all realized that my being a student at Middletown High School not only made a
difference to me but that my being there had made a difference to the other students as well. I
knew I had belonged in spite of the many trials and tribulations, and it was all worth it. AND, I
learned, so was I. (Story shared by Patrick’s mother)

22
Brittany Fioretti
I was sitting in my seat on the first day of class at Learning Unlimited. We had not met each other
yet, and I wasn’t sure what to expect.
She walked into the room and casually asked Michele where to find me. I raised my hand and she
yelled out “Brittany” with such enthusiasm I couldn’t help not to smile.
She embraced me with open arms and gave me the best hug I ever received. Even though we’d
never met, at that moment, I knew that Rayna would be an awesome buddy and a best friend.
We had a great time last year and we both learned a lot. Her enthusiasm and the way that she
instantly accepted me are two things that I will never forget.

Brittany (left) and Rayna - friends at first site!

23
Manny Furtado
Before I moved into my group home I used to have an aid come over 5 days a week. One day he
had to quit, so he couldn’t come anymore. After he left, I never know who was going to come to
shower me and give me a bath. Sometimes they would come and sometimes they wouldn’t.
I moved out of my house when I was 40 and it was MY decision. My older sisters would have
fights with my mother over me, but it was my decision! My youngest sister helped me find the
home.
I was very excited to move out, and my family came to see me. My mother used to come every
weekend and I felt more independent. I loved it, and still do today. I feel as though I have my
own life now.
Let me paint you a picture of my house. The house is very helpful to me because it lets me do
things on my own.
My house is red and has one floor. There are three women and three men living in it. Out of the
three women, one has a walker, one has a wheelchair, and the other one can walk with help.
The other two men that I live with have wheelchairs, but I am the only one with a powered
wheelchair!
I really like my roommate; we get along really well. I have a new T.V. in my room that I got for
Christmas. It is really big! My roommate and I watch sports together on it. I also have a special
table to eat dinner at. My favorite place in the house is my bedroom because it is nice and quiet.
My favorite things to do in the house are cooking and eating.
Moving out was definitely a defining moment in my life because it made me a more
independent and a stronger person.
24
George Garabedian
Spending time with my father on the weekends – it helps me to get close to him. I love my dad.
I would do anything for him. I like it when we can spend time together.

25
John Hartley
I’ve been coming to Learning Unlimited since 1981.
I’m staying here!
27 years Kitty Rok and Michele ...
You better believe it!

26
Michael Heins
Moving out to my new home was great! I’ve told my friend Sam all about it.

Mike, right, with his Learning Unlimited

partners and friend, Sam Watson

27
2 7
Carl Hendrickson
In 1991 my mother finally got custody of me. I had been committed to a psychiatric hospital
when I was younger. Living with my mother made me feel relieved, happy and safe. I got to
spend more time with my mom and I realized how important she is in my life, sharing good
times.
The best part was when I got to spend time with my older brother, too. I got the chance to lead
a happier and better life. Being home made me feel like everything was different. I learned that
family and love can cure the pain from an abusive life. When you’re with loved ones, you can
leave the past behind you and live your best life.

28
Denise Henshaw
I love my family and they love me!

29
Debrina Heup
The moments that define me are those spent with my two wonderful children. My children are
my whole life. Their names are Patrick Michael and Dylan Thomas. They bring out the best in
me.
When I’m not feeling well, my children take care of me. My oldest son cooks for me and my
youngest likes to make me some tea. The times my children didn’t feel well, it broke my heart so
bad, but I still took care of them and still worried about them.
It is what mothers do. They worry when they are small; and they worry when they are grown.

30
Ron Heup
I finally got a job I like. I work on an
environmental team. I was hired by
Looking Upwards to take care of lawns,
windows, vans, and whatever the homes
need.
I like it a lot, it’s a lot of fun! I work hard,
really hard. Got to do it, got to make
money.

31
Melissa Hreyo
I was first introduced to Learning Unlimited in the spring of 2006. Every Salve Regina student is
required to fulfill community service hours and this was one of many opportunities. Several of
my friends were also interested in joining the program and they persuaded me to go with them
to the first meeting.
I was very nervous because I didn’t have any experience working with individuals who had
special needs. My anxiety diminished quickly from the minute I walked into the first meeting. All
of the members were very welcoming and excited for a great semester. At the end of the night, I
had already meet several new people and learned about the goals that they wanted to pursue at
Learning Unlimited. I couldn’t wait to come back the following week! It was such a pleasure, that
I continued to work with the members until the end of my senior year.
I had the opportunity to work with the same buddy for three years and I believe that he
impacted my life significantly. Everyone at Learning Unlimited demonstrated such compassion
and dedication for successful lives. Seeing each person’s gifts gave me a new sense of vision. I no
longer thought of the people in class as having “special needs”. Each individual was unique. Each
appreciated all of life’s offerings. Each gave one hundred and ten percent for things that others
simply took for granted.
Learning Unlimited brought a delight to my Thursday evenings. During the two hours that I
spent there, my stress from classes, homework and other issues simply disappeared. The entire
experience helped me to learn from others and grow stronger as an individual. I will always
cherish those lessons and memories.

Melissa (right) with Learning Unlimited student and friend, Judy Merriwether

32
 Kelly (right) shares a moment with her Learning Unlimited friend Alicia
Kelly Jones
“Teaching is more than imparting knowledge, it is inspiring change. Learning is more than absorbing
facts, it is acquiring understanding.” ~William Arthur Ward
When we arrive at college, we expect to meet people that will change our lives. We assume they
will be our roommates, our boyfriends and girlfriends, or our professors. We imagine that they
will change our lives because of what they teach us about friendships, about love, and about
learning. We don’t anticipate that it will be the people we meet in a community service program
that takes place right on our own campus.
But for me, Learning Unlimited did change my life; it impacted me in a way that I will never
be fully capable of expressing. I learned about friendship when a community member placed
their hand in mine and looked to me to lead them safely across the street. I realized I’d made a
friend when my partner’s face broke into the most beautiful smile as soon as she saw me in the
doorway. I learned how to be a friend when I realized that sometimes the best way to console a
person after a bad day is simply to say nothing—that hugs can be far more powerful than words.
I learned about love when we made Valentines last February. Both community members and
students took part and that February 14, Valentines were delivered to everybody from family to
roommates to staff members. I realized that knowing that there is somebody in this world who
cares about you as much as you care about them is the most wonderful feeling.
This program taught me more than how to teach; it taught me how to learn. I learned to open
my eyes, my ears, and my heart to those around me, a skill that isn’t necessarily taught in lectures
and textbooks. I learned how to trust others and open myself up to the Learning Unlimited
community, and doing so was a truly rewarding experience that I will treasure always.
And one of the best things about Learning Unlimited? Knowing that these three lessons will
serve me well in whatever I do, wherever I go. And for that, I am grateful to the program and
especially to its participants. I will never forget you.

33
Jacqueline Kirwin
In January of 2008, I returned to Salve Regina University for the remainder of my sophomore year
of college with uncertainty. In the upcoming weeks, I would be asked to declare my major and
establish an academic plan to fulfill the graduation requirements. At the time, declaring a major
and committing to a specific path seemed to be a most daunting task. I was overwhelmed with
doubt. Do I really want to be a secondary education history teacher? Do I have what it takes? Will
I be able to get a job? If I do get a job, will I be a good teacher? Should I change my collegiate
direction and switch majors? Is it too late to change direction? What if I don’t like that major? All
these questions seemed quite insignificant when entering my freshman year, as I confidently
expressed an interest in Secondary Education and history.
With these overwhelming questions now preoccupying my thoughts, I sought out my academic
advisor, Kathryn Rok. After a lengthy conversation, during which I expressed an interest in
Special Education, Mrs. Rok suggested that I volunteer with the Learning Unlimited program.
Over the years, my experiences at Learning Unlimited have been self-defining. My Learning
Unlimited partner, Danielle, has taught me the value of friendship, honesty, respect,
understanding and self-confidence. Her positive attitude, determination, genuine love for others
and desire to try new things, are truly inspiring. Whether I was helping Danielle with her poetry
and writing sessions or she was teaching me gymnastics, we each tried our best and are better,
as a result. Danielle has taught me that anything is possible.
My Learning Unlimited experience has taught me to aim high, keep a positive attitude and
realize that desire can be a determining factor in the ability to achieve a goal seemingly beyond
one’s ability. It has emphasized that anything is possible with self-confidence, determination and
support from others. I believe the program has helped to make me a better teacher candidate,
for I have learned that flexibility and creativity are necessary for the success of any learner.

Each week, Salve Regina University

students volunteer their time to fulfill a
commitment to a program that proves
to be enriching for the volunteers, the
Learning Unlimited partners and the
community. Experiences such as these
have helped to define my personal
goals and aspirations. I will continue
my involvement in Special Education to
ensure that all students have the necessary
resources and support for their own
personal success and the success of the
greater community. Learning Unlimited
has dispelled all my uncertainty regarding
the career path I’ve chosen. I am grateful.
Jaqueline (left) with her Learning
Unlimited Partner, gymnastics coach
and friend, Danielle

34
Stephanie Kraut
During my first week at Salve Regina University I attended a volunteer fair with a few of my
friends to find volunteering opportunities. I was going to be volunteering for an entire semester
so I knew I had to find a program that really interested me. There were so many booths at the fair
it was almost overwhelming. However, as soon as I got near the Learning Unlimited table I knew
that I had found the program for me. I thought that it would be a fun experience, and I couldn’t
think of a better way to give back to the community.
As soon as I stepped foot in my first Learning Unlimited class I knew that I had made a great
decision and that it was not only going to be fun but also a life changing experience. Looking
around the room, the only thought that came to my mind was that I had never seen so much
love and sincerity in one place. Everywhere I turned people were smiling, laughing, hugging and
just simply enjoying being in the presence of one another. It was a truly amazing first impression
which has kept me involved in the program to this day.
Whenever I think of Learning Unlimited I think of home. Not my home in New Jersey, but what I
think is the true meaning of the word. Home to me is a place full of people who love you, listen
to you, comfort and guide you and accept you for who you are without judgment. Learning
Unlimited is home to so many people. It is a place where they are accepted, and a place free of
the judgments that the world so often delivers. Walking into the home that Learning Unlimited
has created will always be one of the most defining moments of my life.

35
 Morris (right) with friend and former support staff Carol Bennett

Morris Larkin
Moving to Kay Street. I like it there. I like the rabbits - some went to Heaven. I like my
housemates Peter, Joe Gursky, Joe Walsh and Chris. We like the staff - Carol, Kathy, Darnell.
We like it there.

36
Bob Larson
It’s GREAT to be “Uncle Bob!”
I love little Jack.

37
Jacqueline Lawler
My defining moment here at Learning Unlimited occurred at one of our first poetry sessions.
Theresa exploded with brilliant and profound ideas. Olivia opened up about fears and heartache
that we all share. Everyone was coming together in a non-judgmental flow of mutual support.
Then William shared from one of his poems, “my gift to you is to listen,” and something inside me
clicked. I suddenly realized that we all have beautiful gifts to share with each other and with the
world, but most of us never recognize or appreciate these gifts in ourselves.

It happened in an instant, but

it made me realize something.
Rather then putting each other
and even ourselves down, we
should really try to find and
express our gifts. Maybe we can
even affect some change in this
world ... one gift at a time?

Jacqueline (right) sharing and

exchanging gifts with Learning
Unlimited student Caroline.

38
Chris Layfield
My trip to California was a blast! I went with a group, alone without staff. I went into the car
pits and I went to the garage area and I STOOD ON THE TRACK! That was cool, it was so much
fun. I got to meet one of the NASCAR drivers and he signed my hat! My first NASCAR trip was
in Daytona. I’m trying to get to every track in America – gotta do it … balancing my checkbook
and keeping a budget.
Going to California was a wish come true. I had wanted to go for a long, long time. I’m going to
keep saving my money. I learned that I can do anything, if I really want to.

39
silent lotus
In a blink of an eye there is a defining moment. And while we may not all be aware of everyone
of them …. we do blink about 22,000 times a day. So it is quite true that learning is unlimited.
What is defining is whether or not we choose to see all that is being offered. How we implement
our creativity to those inspirations reflects on where our paths will lead.
These new ports that we find ourselves in, are as refreshing and vibrant as the Thursday evening
gatherings that Michele Banks weaves together year in and year out at Salve Regina University.
Learning Unlimited assembles participants with bright eyes and wide smiles through a nurturing
of trust and acceptance.
It has been my pleasure for the past two
years to embrace this path along with the
poetic spirit of Heather Sullivan and Carol
Anderheggen as well as with each and
every caring student mentor. One of the
definitive charms for me of the hours we
share, is the profound patience and gentle
understanding of the parents who curl up
with a book or a set of knitting needles
in the lounge, and allow their children to
inspire the classroom.
Often teaching poets participate in the
lesson plans and read aloud along with the
students. We were all asked to pick a few
words from a paper grab bag and to create
within a few minutes a poem. Here I share
with you some words that came to me
during that experiential class.

(Poet silent lotus, right,

pictured with Salve Regina
University student Nikki Collins)
40
Lauren Maidrand
I don’t know much about how
memories work, but I find it interesting
how it’s so easy to remember the first
time you met someone who would
change your life forever, even before
you knew he or she would.
I work at the café where learning
partners can go after finishing
worksheets. That’s where I first met
Larry and Anna. Larry was partners with
a friend of mine, so I stood by their table
and talked with them for a while; that’s
when Anna asked for my attention. As
we talked, it didn’t take long to realize
this would be the being of a lasting
friendship. I don’t remember what we
talked about that first evening, but I do
remember that moment. Not long after
that, I got to know other members of
the group, all of whom I looked forward
to seeing every Thursday.
It was two years before I joined the program. Maybe it was just meant to work out that way
because on that first day, I was the first student to enter the classroom, and of all the good
fortune in the world, the next person to enter that same room was Bonnie. Bonnie became my
first learning partner and she is by far the most thoughtful person I have ever known. She keeps
diligent notes on all the people she meets, wanting to know their birthdays, their dog’s name,
when they’ll graduate, and everything else about them.
Every week, she’d ask me about my family, recalling little details I mentioned the week before,
the sorts of things most people would have forgotten about. But Bonnie is not most people. I
learned far more from her than I did in any of my classes that semester. She exemplified what it
means to be thoughtful in a way I have seldom seen in my life.
In the same strange ways of the universe, I forgot to sign-up to volunteer with Learning
Unlimited this past semester. I decided to go to the first session anyway, even though I wasn’t
matched with a partner. Michele introduced me to Ali, who also did not have a partner. In the
short time I’ve known her, I can already see that her sense of humor and drive for excellence are
outstanding. And as I begin this new year with Learning Unlimited, I look forward to getting to
know her better, and hope we can learn more together.
The people I’ve met through Learning Unlimited have brought something into my life that is so
indescribable except to say that I have an honest belief in the goodness of the human spirit that
I have never been so sure of before. The friends I have made through this program are some of
the most amazing men and women I have ever met. Of all the blessings in my life, I count every
individual who is a part of Learning Unlimited among them.

41
Dawn Mallozi
I was going down the wrong path when I was young. When I was
17, I was in a terrible accident and I became paralyzed on one side.
e.
Today, I feel blessed and humbled. I love my life, I love my job and
everything about it. It’s wonderful!
I recently received the “Linda Brandao Award” for all that I’ve
accomplished in my life and as a jewelry designer at GALCHI.
I’m proud of myself!

42
Lily Marino
I was in an accident when I was 12 or
13 - don’t remember. I was hurt and
have a brain injury.
I’m happy with my life and I know that
someday I’ll be able to walk again. I’m
getting better with the walker ... soon,
I’ll be using crutches. I can’t wait”

43
Peter McIntosh
The 2001 JVC Jazz Festival in Newport, RI certainly proved to be a great day for Peter McIntosh.
That’s when Peter met Comedian, Actor and Musician Bill Cosby. He received the “Royal
Treatment” and he thoroughly enjoyed the drums with Cosby’s drummers!
As he had the “VIP” pass, Peter and his support staff were invited to go aboard a 100 foot yacht
for lunch and a beer. He watched a private rehearsal of Cosby’s band, “Cos of Good Music”. In
addition, he was able to listen to and see Natalie Cole’s Band. He really loved Natalie Cole. While
on board the yacht, he received a tour of the bridge. It was such an awesome day – Peter’s love
for music really shined through – it was obvious to everyone how happy the experience made
him!

44
Kerry McLaughlin
Joining Leaning Unlimited freshmen year turned out to be one of the biggest defining moments
of my life. Arriving at college I searched for anyway to get involved in the community. One day I
happened upon a flyer for Learning Unlimited and decided to go and see what it was all about. I
showed up at my first session shy, not knowing what to expect. I was greeted by my partner Pat
Cole, instantly I knew I had found a place I would love.
Pat had a huge smile on his face and endless activities he wanted us to do. Every week I couldn’t
wait for Thursday night to come so I could embark on an adventure with my new found friend.
When times at college got tough freshmen year, as they often do with such a big life change, I
knew I had a friend I could count to cheer me up and remind me how truly wonderful the world
really is.
Learning Unlimited showed me just how special people are and how far some people come to
beat the obstacles in their life. I found a group of people I admired and adored; a group of truly
great friends who honestly made my transition to college so much easier. Four years later I am
now an assistant director and still loving every moment of it. I am truly blessed to have found
such a great program and so many amazing friends.

45
Maura McMahon
My defining moment was my graduation from high school. It’s a big one. I have a lot of them
(defining moments). The graduation was in the middle of the school gym. My gift from my
family was a trip to Hawaii with all of them except Connor. I went swimming, got a sun burn, saw
white sandy beaches and ate Hawaiian food. It was special to me because I was able to share the
trip with my family. My old support staff and computer teacher, Casey, helped me make a DVD
with photos from the trip and I surprised my family at Christmas with it.

46
Vickie Mellekaes
When I was born I was taken from the back. I almost died but they helped me to stay alive. It
made me brain damaged. If they did not do that, I would be smart.
When I was little, I liked math so one day I decided to teach 3rd graders math. It was fun and it
made me proud. I like kids because they’re cute and fun and they’re nice – they don’t worry.
I like helping kids. It’s good to help kids because they can get better and we can teach them
about how to do math, how to behave, about friends and love and having fun – and they can
teach their kids.
That helped me decide I like to help people. Now, I help people by answering phones at the
greenhouse. I smile to make people happy and show people what to do. I can make things for
people and help my sisters and brothers and godchildren. I have a good life!

47
 Judy Merriwether (right) with fellow poet and friend Heather Sullivan
Judy Merriwether
Heather is a poet, a nice person and my friend. I like to watch flowers grow on grass and fly kites
in the summer. Sometimes I write poems about that. Last year, I wrote poetry about my fuzzy
posters. One poster had a magic tree house and the other had flowers and birds. I even entered
a poetry contest. I am happy that I did and Heather is, too.

48
Sarah Minifie
Rubbery, soft, slippery - this is what Sarah felt as the dolphin swam past her. She was at the
Discovery Cove animal park in Orlando, Florida on a vacation with her mother and her friend
Linda and they were face to face with dolphins. That morning the three had started early with
breakfast at the park, a morning full of holding and feeding exotic birds, and swimming in the
discovery tank full of underwater inhabitants. Stingrays and colorful fish swam with them in the
warm pool. But the real fun was still to come that afternoon.
First the instructor taught Sarah about the dolphins. She learned that dolphins are mammals
that love eating fish and that they are very intelligent. Then she met Jennie, the dolphin her
group was about to swim with. Everyone in Sarah’s group was able to touch and feel Jennie’s soft
skin as she swam by them. Jennie made Sarah feel very happy and excited about being able to
swim with her.
The big moment finally came. The instructor told Sarah to grab the dolphin’s fin and hang on
tight! As Jennie took off Sarah became flooded with emotion. She was so happy and felt so free.
She wished she could swim with Jennie forever! Everyone took turns swimming across the pool
with Jennie and the same feeling of joy was shared throughout the group. Sarah, her mother,
and Linda went to another pool to take one last swim, but the feeling Sarah got from swimming
with Jennie stayed with her the whole rest of the vacation. Today, Sarah says that she would love
to return to swim with the dolphins and to get that same feeling of elation she experienced the
first time.

49
Teresa Murray
My life changed when the “Power to the Poets”
came to speak to my Learning Unlimited class about how they became poets.
Each time I hear or read poems I feel emotional in my soul. For a long time I could not pray, but
I have been writing poetry and I was inspired. Each time I pray I will read and continue writing
more poetry along with classical music in the background.
Since I started poetry I have been sharing poems with family, friends and Power of the Poets. I’ve
read poems for Poet Laureates from around the country, including Rhode Island Poet Laureate
Lisa Starr and Heather SulIivan of Power of the Poets. Poetry helps define me.

50
Kelsey O’Connor
Graduating with my class ...

51
Bonnie Otoci
Bonnie likes going to work. She’s very proud to go to work five days a week! She runs the
shredding machine with friend Eddie. She hands him the papers and he puts them in the
machine. Eddie sings to Bonnie and makes her laugh.

Bonnie, chatting with Salve

student Brian Hausmann

52
Sauvita Pair
I was voted into office on October 14, 2009 as the Vice President of the Aktion Club, which is part
of the Kiwanis Club. I’m very proud of myself!

53
Brandon Pantano
Far too many people make judgments about a person based on superficialities. These
assumptions, formed in split seconds, lead to conclusions about a person’s worth and value
in society. Far too often people, and groups of people, are marginalized because of these ill-
informed judgments. The inequalities that arise from this marginalization loom over these
individuals, deeply affecting their well-being, and the well being of society as a whole.
Learning Unlimited provides an answer to this harshly unequal world. Learning Unlimited is a
place where everyone is appreciated, valued and respected. Where our secondary differences
help illuminate our primary similarities. We share the things that make us human, as opposed
to a society that tends to make people inhuman. What we share is what connects us. We share
smiles, we share laughs, we share tears, we share hugs, we share stories, we share this time, and
we share dignity.
One of the most uniting characteristics we share is the need to give and share love. We all
need someone to listen, someone to respond, smile with us, share with us. It is easy to dismiss
someone when they are seen as different, and we are trained by society throughout our lives
to spot the differences, then label and group. In this process we alienate people and ourselves.
We alienate ourselves from the truth that everyone deserves dignity and respect; all people are
connected, and essentially are the same.
When people consistently judge others it is inevitable that they will judge themselves. The
harsher you judge people, the harsher you judge yourself. You begin to convince yourself that
you’re not good enough, as you judge the faults you see in others. Learning Unlimited has
helped me to stop making judgments, and has allowed me to see the truth. Truth and goodness
are within all people. We just have to stop and allow them to share it with us. This has defined
how I see the world around me and defines every moment I live.

54
Veronica Pereira
When I was younger I was sexually assaulted. It made me realize that bad things can happen,
even when we’re not expecting them. Today I know that women need to make better choices
when finding boyfriends, but the experience taught me more than that.
After it happened I realized that I was not alone and that many other women have experienced
the same thing. Women have a right to say “no” when things are getting out of hand. A bad
relationship should be left behind. Just move on.
I have learned that we as people have the ability to speak. We need to use this ability to settle
and solve our differences the best we can before using violence. When people speak to each
other they should choose their words carefully because they can seem mean and hostile without
even realizing it. Open, honest, two-sided communication is the key to solving differences. Both
parties should be involved.
I was sexually assaulted and it was a terrible moment in my life. The whole experience made me
feel very vulnerable. Years later I realize that I have the ability to speak up for myself and to try to
protect myself, and that one of the only people who can stop things like this is me.

55
Bill Pizio
I always look forward to the time I spend at Learning Unlimited. I go to meet new people, make
new friends and learn new things.

Bill chats with his new friend, Salve student Andrea Tanguay
56
Stephen Pratt
I started to live on my own eight years ago. My mother had to sell her house and she couldn’t
take care of me anymore. My life began to be more independent. I was nervous at the beginning,
but now I like it!
I have a fiancé. Being engaged is wonderful. It would never have happened if I hadn’t moved out
on my own.

57
 Caroline receiving her diploma from Advocates in Action board president Sarah Lamarinde
Caroline Precourt
I made a promise to myself to lose weight and I did that - yes, I did! I go to the YMCA and work
hard on eating healthy food. I also graduated from the Advocates in Action Leadership Series. I
worked hard all year, learned a lot of new things and got my diploma.
I’m proud of myself!

58
Jason Priest
My girlfriend died in my arms. That is something I’ll never forget. Her name was Gina and I loved
her very much. Our first kiss was sweet and delicate - just like her.
Gina was a good person. She was good athlete, and a good student in school. That’s where we
met. I think about her a lot, especially about how she died young. I see her sister sometimes and
it makes me happy, but I still miss Gina.

59
Herb Raymond
My life changed when I got a job with the Harbor Master. I work Monday through Friday
cleaning. It makes people who visit Newport happy when they go into the men’s and ladies
rooms.
I’m proud of the work I do because I do a good job!

60
Elizabeth Reeves
When I was four, I had an uncontrollable seizure. I was put into a coma to help stop it. After a
long recovery, I was fortunate to be given “A Wish Come True” to Orlando, Florida to visit Disney
World and Universal Studios.
Getting to meet all my favorite characters, especially Captain Hook and the Grinch was a very
memorable experience. It was definitely a wish come true! Today I try to go back to visit my
friends as often as I can. (Story as told by her mother)

61
Danielle Rivard
I was seven years old when I started
skiing. I went up to Killington, Vermont
with my family.
I bought boots and skis with my father,
mother and brother Joseph. Then my
father took me up to the mountain to
teach me how to ski.
I fell a couple of times but got up and
kept going. Eventually, I learned how to
ski easy and hard trails. I have fun skiing
with my family and friends.
Skiing has changed my life because I’ve
learned that you can do anything if you
try hard and never give up!

Danielle Rivard, right, posing for a photo

with her brother Joseph between ski runs

62
Brendon Rooney
What does Learning Unlimited mean to me? Learning Unlimited is a chance for me to get
away from being a student athlete and running all over the place, from being in classes, doing
homework, at practice, or lifting. It gives me two hours where I can just drop everything and just
relax and be around positive and upbeat people. Enter the room after a long week or a bad day.
Look around. Feel the welcome. It makes you forget about your problems.
Learning Unlimited made a significant impact on my life. The memories of all those smiling faces
have left a permanent mark.

Brendon (left) smiles with his Learning Unlimited partner Ian

63
Ginger Seekell
The day my life changed I was only 8 years old. It started out as a normal chilly day in January. My
mother and I were waiting for my school bus to pick me up. I commented “It’s too cold to launch
Challenger today. Mom said “Oh, it’s warmer in Florida.”
Unfortunately, later on that morning Challenger exploded, killing all seven astronauts onboard
the shuttle. A little more than a decade later I enrolled in a technical college. My goal: Design a
safer reusable space orbiter.
A framed picture of the Challenger 7 crew, along with the poem that President Reagan read in
their honor, still hang in my bedroom as a tribute to the fallen.

64
4
Ian Shepard
It was Saturday April 20th, 2004. I came home that day from Track and I checked my mail and
there was a yellow envelope that said Special Olympics Rhode Island. I opened it and it said,
“Congratulations! You have been chosen to be in the 2005 Special Olympics World Winter Games
in Nagano, Japan.”
I was so happy! Later that year, the Newport Daily News interviewed me. They asked me
questions like how long I had been skiing. They took a picture of me with my skis. Then, in
February 2005, my parents and I flew to Nagano, Japan ... Let the games begin!
It snowed there everyday but we didn’t let it stop us from doing things. We went to a community
center and tried Japanese food and I ate sushi and it was good. We also went to a Japanese
school. We ate lunch with the students in the classroom and played basketball with them. They
have no janitor. Everyone worked together to clean the school.
In the middle of our trip, we went to a national park that had hot springs that comes from the
mountains. We hiked in the snow and saw snow monkeys. These monkeys are nice but they take
your food away because they are obsessed with food.
During the trials I was placed in the intermediate level. Everything was on a real Olympic ski
course! The first day was a slalom race. I skied two runs, had lunch, and went back out for another
two runs. Then I waited in the room to get my award for what seemed like a very long time. That
day I got a 7th place ribbon.
Wednesday was the Japan Day of International Dateline, so it was Wednesday in Japan and
Tuesday in the United States. The competition was giant slalom. I did my runs, then I went back
in the lodge and waited for the awards. They took us outside when our division was called. I was
nervous until they took me up to the podium. Then my name was announced, “The gold medal
goes to Ian Shepherd!”
That was the defining moment of my life. I was shocked and thrilled. I had never won a gold
medal in a world game before! Going to Japan and winning the gold was the most wonderful
moment in my life. It was a trip that I will never ever forget.

65
Alicia Silva
Growing up I was always very close to my grandparents. They were the only grandparents I had
because my mom’s parents died before I was born.
We did a lot of family things with them, like trips to New Hampshire. They always attended
special occasions that were important to me, like my first prom, my graduation from high school,
my birthday. Sadly enough they passed away seven or eight years ago.
There are times when I am in church when it’s quiet and I have time to reflect, tears roll down my
cheek. I think of how very much I miss them. I realize how lucky I was to have them in my life and
to have them as long as I did. They were the best grandparents anyone could ever have.

66
Tony Silvia
Learning about nature years ago when I was a young boy on my grandfathers farm. With no
bees there are no flowers, with no flowers there are no animals, no anything. I love all of the
colors of nature, gardening and all types of animals. I know everything there is to know about
nature.

67
Anna Stanelwicz
I love all the new friends I’ve met at Learning Unlimited. Thank you, Michele!

68
Lisa Starr
I’ll never forget my first time visiting the Learning Unlimited program at Salve Regina to generate
a poetry circle. It was in the late Fall of 2008. I’d recently ruptured and had surgery on my achilles
tendon and was hobbling around awkwardly on crutches. Even getting out of bed was a burden,
nevermind locomoting to Newport, nevermind trying to find the building and parking at Salve
Regina. In the end, I made it though, and what a good thing that I did. As I tried to hop my way
up the steps, I was joined by dozens of people- members of Learning Unlimited, Salve students,
caregivers, parents, friends... and suddenly I was swept up in one of the most joyful throngs. My
crutches didn’t feel like such a burden as I watched several of the participants ease their way up
and into the classroom in wheelchairs. And for once, I followed the pack.
And there it was that I got to see Michele Banks steer her beautiful ship-- a ship that has space
and room for everyone to shine and sing and say their truth. I am in awe of the model for
learning and sharing that is at the heart of Learning Unlimited. The teacher quickly becomes
the student, and so it is that I have learned some of my largest lessons in that holy ground that
meets every Thursday night in McAuley Hall on the Salve Campus. I sing my own songs of loud
praise and gratitude for Michele Banks, the students and volunteers who join her in her work,
and for my dozens of new teachers and friends like William and Carl, like Jonathan, Olivia and
Michael Collins, like Anna and Georgia and Theresa, like Ron, who wore his tuxedo on the first
night of the semester. Ron is just so right about that- Learning Unlimited is huge cause for
celebration.
Lisa Starr, pictured with her faithful furry companion, Brother

69
Larry Steeves
When I was four years old, my parents sent me to Ladd School. I left when I was 19. I was there
for 15 years. It was 15 years too long.
That place was no good. One of the attendants kicked me in the stomach when I was sick.
Another one used to whip me with his belt. They didn’t care about us there. I remember that
it was very cold there but they still used to send us outside. They didn’t care if it was raining or
snowing, they would say, “you go outside!”
The superintendant was Dr. Smith. He didn’t let my family come and see me there. In 1984, after
I got out, we had a big reunion with my family. My sister told me that she tried to come and see
me at Ladd School, but Dr. Smith told her “no.”
I didn’t belong there. I was too smart. My social worker told me that. He said, “You don’t belong
here. You belong outside.”
Ladd was an institution, not a school. I don’t think anyone really belonged there. I’m glad they
finally shut that place down. It was no good.
The day I left Ladd School I felt happy. One day I was happy. It was the happiest day of my life.

70
Bob Stengel
Joining Bridges was my defining moment;
everyone has a house and they support people.
It’s nice to have a place to call home.
They took me to different places like Nantucket,
Block Island and Martha’s Vineyard. I like to
travel. I go all over the place.

71
Michael St. Ours
My first pet! On August 25, 2007, my dad and brother Matt surprised me with our new puppy.
He is a chocolate lab and we named him Melo.

72
 Heather (right) pictured with poet and protege Teresa Murray
Heather Sullivan
My defining moment occurred in March 2009, the first time I visited Learning Unlimited as a
guest poet. That evening, and every evening thereafter, I was greeted with excitement, joy and
overwhelming love. Hugs, tears and smiles were exchanged. And words—life-affirming words!
Each time I return to Room 103, where we hold our weekly poetry workshops, I am reminded
that this is what the world should be like: a place of compassion and celebration, a place of
empathy and kindness, a place where people come together in community to share genuine
emotion—a most sacred place indeed.
I was so moved after my first visit to Learning Unlimited, I wrote the following poem in an
attempt to capture my experience:

73
Allison Tarzwell
It felt like a penguin’s cave. But I, Allison Tarzwell, the Hero of the Penguins, took that chance to
dive in.
On January 1, 2009 I did the Polar Bear Plunge. It felt great! I felt like a new person because I did
something I never thought I would do.
There was a change in me. I tried a
new thing and that new thing started
me to trying other new things,
like changing my looks and my
vocabulary and making new friends.

Doing something like the Polar Bear

Plunge gave me so much confidence.
It really changed my life!

Allison Tarzwell, Hero of the Penguins,

left, pictured with Avis Hazard Spears

(Photo courtesy of Judith Nabb)

74
Lisa Travis
I love Disney World! The first three times I went
it was with family. The next three times it was
with friends and staff from work. I enjoyed the
Haunted House, Thunder Mountain and the
Rainforest Café a lot.
It was an adventure for me to go on my own
without family, but it gave me courage. Since
then I have also attended a week long camp in
New Hampshire with a few friends.
Who knows what else I may do!

Lisa with her Learning Unlimited partner and friend

Amy Canario

75
Henry Unwin
I started smoking when I was a teenager. Harry was my twin brother and he and I both smoked.
Charlene was my girlfriend. I always called her “my girl”. She smoked, too.
I still can’t believe they’re both gone. They both got cancer and they died just one week apart.
Charlene died on October 24th and Harry died on October 31st. I loved them both. Losing them
was hard.
I can’t stop another person from smoking, but I can tell them what happened. You have to really
see a person who’s sick with cancer for yourself. That’s what made me quit. When Charlene and
Harry died, I quit cold turkey. It was hard, but not as hard as losing them.

Henry and Harry Unwin as babies

Unwin Family Photo (Harry - top left;

Henry - top right)

76
Ellie Watson
I went from living with my mom to living on my own and it was hard to get used to being on
my own, in my own apartment, but now that changed. I am in a group home setting. The group
home was the only choice I had to make or worry about getting hit all the time which happened
when I was on my own. Getting used to living in the group home is hard, too. Happiness is most
important.
I have been more outspoken for myself and others with disabilities. Mine is epilepsy, that’s my
learning disability. People with learning disabilities can lead a normal life with help. Love is
important too.
Having a learning disability isn’t always easy. It can be very hard on families. My family tells me
that they were blessed with me, so I can say I’m a happy person. There are still things I would
change, like the way I wear my makeup and my hair. But I’m happy.

77
 Sam (right) and his Learning Unlimited partner Michael
Sam Watson
In my experience working within the Learning Unlimited program, I have come to learn many
things I could not have conceived of before hand. I attained a greater respect for the human
potential, and a better understanding of myself.
The time I spent working with my partners helped me learn to be a better listener. It made me
more open-minded ... more considerate.
I know that I’m not the only one who feels this way. Learning Unlimited provides an opportunity
for personal growth that is difficult to measure or capture in words; an experience that surpasses
any assessment of value.

78
79
79
Allison Worthen
When I was little, one of the people that I looked up to was my uncle. He loved every one of us
in the family. He was always funny and made people happy. I remember when he bought us our
first computer. That was when he worked at Radio Shack. He would come to Newport to see us
all the time.
If you met my uncle you would say he was very laid back. He was my dad’s brother and he
reminded me of my dad in many ways. They were a lot alike and had many similar tastes. I think
that’s one reason why it’s so hard to say good-bye to someone you love. It makes you think of
losing other people that you love, too.
Uncle Chet had two dogs and one cat. Their names were Tiny, Elvis, and Cali. They were the
cutest pets in all of Oklahoma. Do I sound modest or what? Go ahead and say it! I may not be
modest, but it’s still true: Tiny, Elvis and Cali were too cute for words!
My uncle always cared about others. I remember when I went to Oklahoma to visit him. He
picked me up at the airport and gave me a wonderful history lesson during the ride to his house.
Yes, it was just one car ride, but I learned a lot from him.
If someone was to ask me today what I learned from my uncle, it would have to be that cotton
grows in Oklahoma. It’s funny the things we remember. Some days I wish he was still alive. If he
can hear me now, I want him to know that I miss him and I love him so much.
God? If you can believe this, I didn’t believe in God till he passed on. Why does it take a death in
a family to change your belief?
One thing about my uncle was he never said he was sick. One day I plan to go back to Oklahoma
and say good-bye. I hope that I can get others to do this too. My uncle was good to all of us. He
made me laugh when I needed to. He left behind a wonderful wife who loves him and she’s just
like him. If I could teach anyone a lesson, it would be to see your relatives whenever you can and
tell them that you love them.

(Photo left to right:

Mike Worthen with
his daughter Allison,
her grandmother
and her Uncle Chet)

80
We would like to thank everyone who contributed to this project: the people who shared their moment,
the Salve students, families and friends who helped put ideas into words, the poets who inspired us, and
the staff at Salve Regina University who provided assistance along the way.

Special thanks, to Advocates in Acton, Rhode Island’s Statewide Self-Advocacy organization, for sharing
their ideas and helping us spread the word about “Defining Moments” beyond the classroom. Visit them
online at www.advocatesinaction.org

We would also like to acknowledge the following for their support:

The John E. Fogarty Foundation
Sandra Connor, Design Services, Salve Regina University
Melissa Davis, Grants Officer, Salve Regina University
Deb Kney, Kney Multimedia
Bob Lundquest, Mallard and Pop Publishers
Power to the Poets: Carol Anderheggen, silent lotus, Lisa Starr and Heather Sullivan
Kathryn Rok, faculty member, Department of Education, Salve Regina University and former Director of
Learning Unlimited

Thank You!
The Defining Moments Project Committee

Defining Moments Project Committee: © 2010 by Salve Regina University

Michele Banks All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced
William Buckley in any form without the written permission of the
Nikki Collins publisher.
Jacqueline Kirwin
Printed by Mallard and Pop Publishers, Fall River, MA
Jacqueline Lawlor
Kerry McLaughlin For more information about “Defining Moments: A
Teresa Murray Celebration of Turning Points”, contact Michele Banks,
Brandon Pantano program director: Michele.Banks@salve.edu
Danielle Rivard
Ian Shepard To obtain additional copies of this publication contact:
Alison Tarzwell Salve Regina University
Allison Worthen Department of Education
100 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840
Photographers: Michele Banks, Deb Kney
Photo Restoration: Brad Kney
Cover and Page Design and Layout: Deb Kney
 Salve Regina University
Salve Regina University’s mission preserves the University’s Catholic identity, and the traditions
of the Sisters of Mercy and their belief in the value of education. The integration of the mission’s
basic principles into the academic curriculum, student-centered programs, and institutional
operations supports not only the core values of mercy, but also the shared vision of graduating
men and women who positively impact the intellectual, spiritual and cultural lives of their
respective communities.
As a community that welcomes people of all beliefs, Salve Regina University, a Catholic
institution founded by the Sisters of Mercy, seeks wisdom and promotes universal justice.
The University through teaching and research prepares men and women for responsible lives
by imparting and expanding knowledge, developing skills, and cultivating enduring values.
Through liberal arts and professional programs, students develop their abilities for thinking
clearly and creatively, enhance their capacity for sound judgment, and prepare for the challenge
of learning throughout their lives.
In keeping with the traditions of the Sisters of Mercy, and recognizing that all people are
stewards of God’s creation, the University encourages students to work for a world that is
harmonious, just, and merciful.