Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Newark, Sr. Donna, honored by Caldwell University

Caldwell University has recognized Sister Donna Ciangio, O.P. with the Presidential Scholarship Award for her many years of selfless service and leadership on behalf of the university, the Archdiocese of Newark, and the Sisters of Saint Dominic. 

Sister Donna was given her award surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues on Wednesday, April 24, at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange. 

“I am very humbled to be here tonight, and grateful to receive this Caldwell University Presidential Scholarship Gala Award,” Sister Donna, a 1971 Caldwell University (then Caldwell College) graduate, said at the gala. “It means a great deal to me because Caldwell University set me on a path of life-long learning.” 

Sister Donna, today the Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Newark, said she was shy and unsure of herself as a young girl, and Caldwell University is where she grew “in understanding and abilities” through the inspiration of her professors. 

“They were so important in my development, giving me confidence, and pushing me beyond what I thought I could do – none of them settled for average,” Sister Donna said. 

A Dominican Sister of Caldwell, she has remained devoted to her alma mater, Caldwell University, founded by the Sisters in 1939. Sister Donna has a long-standing commitment to Caldwell University’s success by serving as a certified teacher, board member, and leader among board colleagues as Vice Chair. 

“I am grateful to my parents and family who put a high value on our education, and the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell for 16 years of exceptional education – Kindergarten through college – and for giving me opportunities to respond to the call of Christ in ministry,” Sister Donna said.  

As chancellor, Sister Donna has worked extensively in the areas of congregational development, parish pastoral councils and planning, small Christian communities, and the Synod on Synodality. 

Sister Donna also holds a doctorate from Drew University. She served as International Director of Renew International and Director of Pastoral Services of the National Pastoral Life Center and ministered in several parishes. She authored “Open Our Hearts, a Lent small group reflection book published by RENEW International in 2022, 2023, and 2024. 

Along with Sister Donna, the Scholarship Award Gala also honored four others:  

Atlantic Health System and Dr. Suja Mathew, MD, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of Atlantic Health System, for setting standards for quality health care in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the New York metropolitan area.  

Bryan Norton earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Caldwell University in 2020 and worked with many area professional sports teams. The Bryan J Norton Memorial Scholarship was created in his memory after he passed away in 2022. It provides educational opportunities to other students who are following his path.   

And Carlos M. Pomares, class of 1993, is board president and District 5 commissioner for the Essex County Board of Commissioners, the first Hispanic to serve in the roles. Pomares is a member of Caldwell University’s Board of Trustees. He has been a strong advocate for arts, culture, historic preservation, and education. 

The proceeds from the evening raise funds for scholarships.

Featured image: Sister Donna Ciangio, O.P. with President Jeffrey D. Senese, Ph.D.