From the Diamond to Forever: Baseball Alumnus Makes Legacy Gift

A casual conversation with a friend led Judge Albert Emanuelli ’59 to Fairfield University. Reflecting on that moment, he is still amazed that such a brief exchange would ultimately guide him toward one of the most impactful experiences of his life: becoming a Stag.

Emanuelli began his journey at Fairfield as a member of the first class with an option to live on campus — Loyola Hall opened in 1955. Comparing the regional men’s college of 70 years ago to the nationally recognized Fairfield of today, Emanuelli — familiarly known as Judge Al or Allie — noted the remarkable growth and development of the University, even as Fairfield’s enduring values and singular experiences remain unchanged.

After graduating, Emanuelli served in the military before attending law school to become a trial lawyer. He was elected in 1990 to the New York Supreme Court where he served for 14 years. His career provided him with extraordinary opportunities and lifelong friendships; he attributes much of his professional success to the well-rounded education and personal development he experienced at Fairfield.

“I treasure the memories, especially the camaraderie with my fellow students and the Jesuit faculty. In particular, Father Donahue became a dear friend and was an important part of my Fairfield experience,” said Emanuelli. “Fairfield provided me with a wonderful education, discipline, and the opportunity to grow as a person.”

“I especially enjoyed my three years on the baseball team,” he continued. “I was fast and a switch hitter. I played left field, wore #27, and the team often called me ‘Rocket’ because of my speed.”

For Emanuelli, there are countless cherished memories from his time as a student-athlete, making it hard to pick a favorite.

However, one standout moment was when, after making several impressive steals over the years, his coach asked him to share his sliding techniques with the team. Many of his other fond memories come from quality time spent on the team bus. “I’ll always remember the camaraderie and good-natured ribbing among players on the way to away games,” he said.

Today, Emanuelli and his wife Mary Ann live in Hilton Head, where they enjoy the beach, tennis, golf, and, of course, continuing to support Fairfield despite the distance. Though living in South Carolina makes it difficult for him to visit as often as he would like, Emanuelli still feels deeply connected to the community and is inspired to support Fairfield and make a difference for students and student-athletes. “When you give back,” he said, “there is a satisfaction that you’ll make an impact for other students to enjoy the experience that meant so much to you.”

Emanuelli has supported the University in many ways, including annual contributions to the Friends of Fairfield Baseball Gift Fund. “When I was preparing my estate plans, I knew I wanted to include Fairfield,” he shared, describing how he made a conscious decision to create a lasting legacy by including both Fairfield University and the Fairfield Baseball program as beneficiaries.

He sees giving back to Fairfield as a natural way to embody the spirit of “Once A Stag, Always a Stag.” While much has changed for today’s students, he believes the core Fairfield experience — along with the ambition and potential of its students — remains unchanged.

Emanuelli encourages both current students and alumni to fully embrace the community and maximize their involvement. “Treasure the memories and don’t take the experience for granted,” he advised. “You get out of it what you put into it.”

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