Jacquie (DeSisto) Mazick ’10, ’14G

What book are you reading?

At this stage of life, most of our reading includes books by Dr. Seuss and Sandra Boynton. We read to our girls every night before bed, but we enjoy our own reading after they go to sleep. I recently started The Wedding People by Alison Espach ’07, a PC professor. It is wonderful to see the success of PC’s faculty and I’m really enjoying the story and her writing style so far! Josh has been reading The Food Lab by Kenji Lopez-Alt, which is about the science of cooking. He is quite the chef and is enjoying the opportunity to experiment with new dishes and techniques.

Where was your favorite place to study as a student?

As we were discussing our favorite places to study, Josh shared that his favorite spot was the Slavin lounge because he was able to gather with friends and be close to snacks! Sadly, the Slavin renovation wasn’t completed until my final year at PC. I opted for the more traditional spot of the library. I was an English major, so I did a lot of reading and writing papers. I loved reading in what was affectionately known as “The Pit’’ and working on my papers anywhere I could get a spot.

Which professor, staff member, or Dominican friar had a significant impact in your life? How so?

While a student, I worked for the Tutoring and Writing Center and worked closely with Sister Carolyn Sullivan, O.P. ’02G, who oversaw the center. She was full of wonderful advice and taught me many important lessons I carry through into my work today at Brown University. In fact, she was one of my references for my very first job at Brown. Although I had three references, my supervisor at the time said I was selected based on her recommendation! Sister Carolyn and I have stayed in touch throughout the years, and she attended our wedding at St. Dominic Chapel. Josh was particularly close with Father Paul Seaver, O.P. through his theology course and regular dinners at the priory. His most important lesson from Father Seaver was the importance of understanding others beliefs and positions’ to better inform your own.

In the context of your many years of paying it forward for PC students and faculty, why do you continue to support today’s students with gifts through The Fund for Providence College and PC Athletics?

We both got so much out of our education and took advantage of every opportunity PC had to offer, whether it was an academic pursuit or a concert. We truly cherished our time at PC and want to ensure the next generation is able to do so as well. We view each donation as an investment in the next generation of Friars.

What’s your favorite PC tradition?

Josh’s favorite tradition was the Done with Civ / Done with College barbecue — it was a fun way to celebrate the accomplishments of the year with your friends in good weather. My favorite tradition was Junior Ring Weekend. I have wonderful memories of celebrating with my friends, getting dressed up, and I still wear my PC ring. It is a treasured memento of my four years there!