[Originally published: April 9, 2015 in The Ionian]

David Graham, a campus safety and security supervisor, retired March 27 after 18 years of service to Iona College.

Graham, who worked in the security field for more than 20 years, began working at Iona in 1996 as a site manager for an independent security firm. He then joined the Iona campus safety and security force in 1997. Within two years, he was promoted to security supervisor.

“Dave was an asset to the Security Department, and he will be missed,” Director of Campus Safety and Security Dominic Locatelli said. “He developed a broad spectrum of knowledge in this field and utilized these skills in his everyday interactions. He embodied the security philosophy of ‘community policing.’”

Graham completed both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Iona while also working in the Security Department.

He was very involved in the College community. He frequently attended Iona athletic events, even when he was not on duty.

“Dave thrived on being a very active member of the Iona community,” Senior Vice Provost for Student Life Charles Carlson said. “He was a great supporter of our students and especially our student-athletes. Dave was truly a great Gael, who attended various sporting events, encouraging our teams as a true fan.”

Graham also referees high school basketball games. He has been an official for over 40 years. The primary leagues for which he officiates games are the following: the New York City Catholic High School Athletic Association, Section I, the Ivy Prep School League, the New York State Association of Independent Schools and the Fairchester Athletic Association. He plans on continuing his career as an official, even expanding his time on the court.

In addition to continuing refereeing basketball games, Graham looks forward to spending time at the vacation house he has with his wife in Ocean City, Md.

An avid golfer, he hopes to spend an abundant amount of time on the courses. Furthermore, he plans on spending time at the beach and surf fishing.

Upon leaving Iona, Graham looks back on his time at the College fondly.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the daily interactions with students, faculty and staff,” Graham said. “There were many joys in seeing the accomplishments of students, athletes and the fulfillment of visions.”

His favorite day every year was commencement because of all the joy and excitement that everyone shared.

Much like the graduates walking across the stage at commencement, Graham has graced the Iona community and is moving on to the next stage of life.

http://www.ioniannews.com/news/article_509dd43c-de37-11e4-bb5b-d3305d69d7f1.html