Seton Hall's Inaugural Employee Field Day Celebrates Community and Connection

Seton Hall University faculty and staff gathered on the University Green on October 15 for the inaugural Employee Field Day, an afternoon of friendly competition, outdoor activities and opportunities to connect with colleagues across campus. More than 300 employees registered for the event, which was designed to strengthen workplace relationships and celebrate the Seton Hall community.

The event was organized through Strategic Plan Committee 5.3, part of the University's Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose, 2025–30 strategic plan. Strategic Plan Goal 5 is led by Ed Bishof, vice president for Finance and chief financial officer and Paul Fisher, executive vice president and chief of staff. Committee 5.3 is co-chaired by Ghana Hylton, director of Campus Inclusion and Sandra Henao, associate vice president for Finance and Treasury.

“One of the , highlight Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s values and embrace our Mission and traditions. The Employee Field Day event reflects that goal,” said Hylton.

Employees stepped away from their daily responsibilities to enjoy lawn games, friendly competitions and casual conversations with colleagues they may not regularly encounter during the workday. The event provided an opportunity to build new relationships, reconnect with familiar faces and enjoy time together outside the office.

University President Monsignor Joseph Reilly, S.T.L., Ph.D., reflected on the importance of the gathering and its connection to Seton Hall's founding traditions.

“The inaugural Field Day was a wonderful opportunity for colleagues and co-workers to strengthen our Setonian community,” said Reilly. “This follows the example of Mother Seton, who founded and fostered a religious community, the Sisters of Charity, that flourishes to this day. I am grateful to everyone who planned our Field Day and made it such a remarkable success.”

Monsignor Reilly welcomed the crowd and Reverend Colin Kay, vice president for Mission and Ministry did the opening prayer.

The response from employees exceeded the committee's initial expectations. The planning committee originally hoped to attract 100 participants, but over 250 showed up, demonstrating enthusiasm for opportunities to connect outside traditional meetings and campus events.

“People here at the University are excited for a chance to connect in such a casual, fun way,” said Henao. “We are thrilled that this event has resonated.”

For many employees, the afternoon offered a welcome opportunity to relax and enjoy time with coworkers.

“I was so grateful to have a moment in the day to get outside and just breathe, spend time with co-workers and relax,” said Javonda Asante, director of Financial Assistance.

Rob Donnelly, coordinator Parking Services, said “I enjoyed spending a beautiful day outside interacting with everyone on the green instead of on the computer screen.”

The success of Employee Field Day was made possible through collaboration among several university departments. Planning committee members Jennifer O'Sheal, director of Special Events and Kaerielle Larsen, M.B.A., director of Academic Events, Engagement and Special Projects, played important roles in organizing the event. The Innovation Hub did an outstanding job of creating the awards and commemorative keychains via 3-D printing. Key campus partners included Jeff Truskowski, director of Grounds and Sergio Oliva, associate vice president and director of Public Safety and Security and their teams. Games were loaned by the Department of Athletics and the Division of University Advancement.

Beyond Field Day, Strategic Plan Committee 5.3 is working on additional initiatives to improve the employee experience and strengthen campus connections. With the enthusiastic response to the inaugural event, organizers are considering opportunities for similar gatherings in the future, including a possible spring event.

“Understanding campus culture is a great way to build community,” said Henao.

The committee also recognizes that opportunities for employees to build relationships contribute to a positive workplace environment and support the University's broader mission.

“Just as with our students, we want our employees to be servant leaders and support Seton Hall University’s mission,” said Hylton. “This benefits staff and student retention and keeps Seton Hall University a place where people can grow.”

Employee Field Day demonstrated that building community does not always require a formal meeting or structured program. Sometimes, an afternoon of games, laughter and conversation is an opportunity to strengthen the relationships that make Seton Hall University a welcoming community.

Categories: Campus Life