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09/28/2017 12:01 AMAntoinette Iadarola, Ph.D., of Clinton received an honorary doctorate in humane letters during Cabrini University’s 57th Commencement ceremony on May 21.
A president emerita, Iadarola served as Cabrini’s president for 16 years.
As an international humanitarian and visionary figure in education, Iadarola received the honorary degree for embodying the values and spirit of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini—the namesake of the university—for leading the Cabrini community during her tenure and for her pioneering work for global education and women’s rights.
During her time at Cabrini, Iadarola created strategic partnerships while developing the campus through the construction of numerous facilities, the expansion of academic programs, and the expansion of a national profile. Her “10,000 Hearts” campaign raised significant funds for the institution and her instillation of an annual matriculation ceremony ensured that a tradition of devotion to Cabrini’s core values remained central.
Iadarola also traveled extensively, performing volunteer and consultation work for nongovernmental organizations in Belarus and discussing issues of privatization in higher education in Russia. Additionally, she volunteered at orphanages in Guyana and Swaziland.
While serving at Cabrini, Iadarola was invited by the United Nations to serve on the Commission for Disarmament Education, Conflict Resolution, and Peace, a nongovernmental organization established by the International Association of University Presidents. As a result of her work, she gave presentations in South Africa, Australia, and Thailand on promoting a culture of peace and non-violence through education.
Iadarola retired from Cabrini in 2008 and returned to Connecticut and contemplated retirement before ultimately accepting an offer to lead Lauralton Hall high school as its president. She recently retired from her position at Lauralton Hall.