The AIC Women’s Organization held its 11^th annual Women’s Dinner on March 28, and Patricia Scagliarini, administrative assistant to the Dean of Students, got the surprise of her life.

Scagliarini, a favorite of students across the campus, received the coveted Woman of the Year Award at the dinner ceremony held in the Bradley Room of the Campus Center. Scagliarini, who has worked at AIC the past XX years, is known for her good cheer, understanding manner, and love of a good time.

She admitted that she wasn’t expecting to be awarded, even though several family members were at the event.

“I thought the ceremony was very nice and I was completely shocked and delighted to receive the Woman of the Year Award,” she said following the award ceremony.

Scagliarini is administrative assistant to Dean of Students Brian O’Shaughnessy, who had high praise for her.

“Patty and I have talked about many life factors throughout our years together and more importantly our family lives,” said O’Shaughnessy as he stood at the podium. “Patty leads by example and her four children are a perfect example of what a wonderful woman she is.”

O’Shaughnessy’s words were touching, true, and heartfelt. “Patty is not only the mom of four children, she is the mom of AIC, and the mom of our Student Affairs department,” he added.

This annual dinner recognizes AIC students based on outstanding achievement in education, community service, and leadership. Over 20 seniors, both men and women, were recognized and received awards.

The club and the awards dinner have a storied history here on campus.

Naomi White-Innis, the retired Director of Multicultural Affairs here at AIC, played a huge role for the Women’s Organization. She was the club’s advisor and was very involved and supportive of their organization.

Since White-Innis retired the Women’s Organization decided to honor the Woman of the Year at each annual Women’s Dinner.

The Woman of the Year Award is presented to a woman on campus whose hard work is not always recognized. It is awarded to a woman who goes above and beyond for each student and particularly helps with Women’s Organization and the planning of the Women’s Dinner.

Scagliarini received a dozen roses and two Pandora beads along with her award.

Scagliarini has had an impact on many students and has proven endlessly to go above and beyond for each and every one of them.

Others spoke highly of her work and what a great fit she is in Student Affairs.

Keshawn Dodds, the Director of Diversity and Community Engagement, works in the Student Affairs Department with Scagliarini and had a few words of his own to share.

“I hope Patty understands how much everyone in our department appreciates her. When no one else is there, she is. We love you Patty,” said Dodds.

Both of Scagliarini’s daughters were present at the event. They both knew their mother was being honored and had to keep the secret from her. They are both involved at AIC, with Tara graduating in May and Kristen working for the Continuing Education department.

Kristen Scagliarini said she was thrilled for her mom and thought it was fun to watch her mother’s reaction.

“It is so nice to see my mom recognized for her hard work. She loves helping the students and has found comfort in her position here at AIC,” she said.

The overall turnout for the Women’s Dinner was great.

Thamare Morency, the club representative for Women’s Organization, said she was extremely happy with the crowd the club was able to draw this year.

“I thought it went great. We tend to get a lot of alumni and not very many faculty members,” Morency said. “I was really happy to see a good amount of women that work on our campus come and help us celebrate not only seniors who have achieved education, commitment to community service, and character throughout their four years at AIC but helping celebrate the work they contribute to helping us succeed.”

The Women’s Club has 15 active members this year. They are committed to community service, and host events throughout the year that help youth, the AIC campus, and women, as well as activities that prepare them for future careers and lives.