By Andrew Mannion, Sports Editor
Over the summer, Manhattan University made two major hires, including the new Director of Public Safety, William “Bill” Cook, and Chief of Staff Stephen J. Pugliese, Ph.D.
On July 1, Manhattan University released a statement announcing Pugliese as the new chief of staff. His role includes reporting directly to President Milo Riverso, Ph.D, and leading important projects with the executive staff of the college.
Being in this role requires much experience, which Pugliese has plenty of. He has an extensive resume in higher education, serving in senior roles for the Middle States Commission, as well as in multiple roles at Mount Aloysius College, Immaculata University, St. Bonaventure University and Marywood University.
Throughout his time on campus so far, Pugliese mentioned how much he has enjoyed Manhattan University and specifically, his colleagues.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with President Riverso, my fellow Cabinet members, faculty, staff and students,” Pugliese wrote in an email to The Quadrangle. “Since arriving in July, I have had the opportunity to work on several key institutional priorities such as the transition from college to university, as well as the transition of our dining services partners. I have not encountered any ‘surprises’, and my perspective on surprises and/or challenges is that they become learning opportunities to strengthen us and make us better in decision making.”
The other major hire was the addition of Bill Cook, the new director of public safety. The announcement came from the university on Aug. 5, with ample security being a major concern for students and families.
One student, Fransico Quellet, has spoken highly of the job that Cook and the public safety team is doing at Manhattan University.
“I feel very safe here at Manhattan University,” Quellet said. “Especially on campus, I feel there’s always a high number of security guards. I don’t think there’s been a moment where I’ve ever felt unsafe, and that’s a really good thing.”
Cook shared similar feelings regarding his decision to come to MU and his time at the university. He mentioned his excitement in the new role and his plans for it.
“I’ve been working in higher education for almost six years now after a twenty-five year career with the NYPD,” Cook said. “Working on a college campus and interacting with the diverse community is exciting and rewarding. After visiting the Manhattan campus, I felt the sense of community and knew that I could fit in and make a difference. The beautiful campus and the Riverdale neighborhood are also quite appealing.”
As he mentioned, Cook comes to MU with plenty of experience from Fordham University, where he spent six years as their director of public safety. Cook saw MU as a great fit for his expertise, especially in addition to his 25 years in the NYPD. He has been able to tailor his plans for the university and knows what he wants to accomplish in his role.
“My goal is to provide safety and support for the entire Manhattan community by being transparent and having an open line of communication,” Cook said. “I plan to meet with different groups in the community to discuss issues affecting community members and how my department can be helpful and provide support. We are laser-focused on taking excellent care of our students and really elevating the experience for all.”