Stephen Mirasolo‘02
Major: Graduated with a BS in Marketing
Why did you choose to attend Fairfield University?
I chose Fairfield University because of the combination of a strong business school and the opportunity to play a good brand of football on a newly formed team. At the time, Fairfield Football was entering their 3rd year in Division 1 FCS and had a fantastic coaching staff with a core group of players who were incredible leaders. The campus was obviously beautiful, the Walsh Athletic Center and turf field had just been built, and the Dolan School of Business was undeniable. And, of course, the beach, the town of Fairfield, and proximity to NYC were all very appealing. I had taken a number of recruiting visits and knew immediately that I wanted to be a Stag after that weekend.
How are you involved with the University now?
Currently, I'm involved in three main areas: 1. Collegiate Recovery: mentoring the young men of the program and offering my input to leadership during our board meetings. 2. Working with the Career Center at the Dolan School of business: I've participated in the Job Shadow program for many years, helping students with networking, interview prep, and resumes, and I have also sat on panel discussions with former teammates. 3. Monarch Membership: As a Monarch Member, I support the Strength and Conditioning program which helps all of the student-athletes.
What inspires you to stay involved with the University?
The friendships that I made on the football team over 20 years ago still stand today. That was on full display during our Hall of Fame induction last year! I learned how to be a good teammate from the upper classmen and our coaching staff. We all learned the importance of service work and Jesuit values from Father Leeber. Paying it forward gives me a sense of pride and purpose, and I get to do it with some of my closest friends in the world. It's hard not to feel inspired once you're back on campus and get involved in an area of the school that's most meaningful to you.
How do you hope your support will impact the future of Fairfield University?
My hope is that Fairfield U continues to innovate and evolve with the changing times without losing sight of their core Jesuit values. That in some way, my support will go towards new programming and projects that keep Fairfield at the top of their game spiritually, academically, and of course, athletically.
Any advice for fellow Fairfield Athletics alumni and friends about how to stay involved?
My only advice would be to get involved and stay involved. Don't wait, and don't stop. Reach out to new coaches, old coaches, former teammates. Find something that inspires you and let the staff at Fairfield know that you'd like to help. Think of resources that you would've loved to have had as a former student-athlete and advocate for it. I've had so much fun taking on initiatives with former teammates, getting back on campus, meeting new people, catching a game in the new arena, and seeing a few friendly faces who are still on staff from when the University had football. It's truly been a gift.
