DAN, ‘52, AND SHIRLEY STODDARD
LONGTIME SUPPORTERS OF THE BONAVENTURE FUND
It is the “Bona’s spirit” that Dan Stoddard remembers most about the University. He arrived on campus in the fall of 1949, though unlike his classmates he was 24 years old and fresh from military service in World War II. The first person to welcome him to Bona’s was Fr. Thomas Plassmann, O.F.M., whom Dan remembers as being “such a humble man.” 
Dan says he learned to work hard and pray hard during his time at St. Bonaventure — and he learned to give back, too. He and his wife, Shirley, are faithful supporters of the Bonaventure Fund. “It’s what Bona’s planted into our hearts,” he says.
In addition to helping support St. Bonaventure, Dan gives back to his home community on Staten Island in many ways. He is a secular Franciscan, having been received into the order on May 9, 1950, at the University. He was admitted to holy profession on May 22, 1951, as Brother Patrick. He recalls that the spiritual director at Bona’s was a great Franciscan priest, Fr. Robert Frawley, O.F.M. Dan has remained an active member of the Secular Franciscan Order, St. Louis Fraternity, on Staten Island. He currently serves as infirmarian for the group.
Dan is a life member of the Assumption Council, Knights of Columbus, and a member of the Gov. Dongan Assembly of the Fourth Degree K of C.
He has served as a Eucharistic Minister at Our Lady of Pity parish since June 1, 1979, and he also teaches religious education classes at the parish. He is a daily communicant there.
Dan has served for 29 years on the pastoral care team at Staten Island University Hospital.
He is also an active member of the Beauvais-Hudson American Legion Post and serves as the post’s chaplain. He is currently the Vice Chairman for the New York State American Legion Back to God program and has conducted funeral services for departed Legionnaires upon family request.
Dan says, “None of this would have taken place without two loving parents and the good training received at St. Bona’s.”