When Gregory J. Malfitano '73, '75 stepped onto Lynn University's campus in 1972 as a college sophomore, it was much different. There was no gleaming blue and white sign or circle of flags standing tall at the entrance. Only six buildings dotted what was then Marymount College, along a quiet, two-lane Military Trail.
In fact, the college's current state wasn't far from what he came from—a private school in Jensen Beach that shuttered due to financial hardship. But Marymount College had hope for a prosperous future in Donald E. Ross, who initially only visited to purchase a book collection but was inspired by the school's potential.
"When Don arrived in 1972, we didn't have any money—it was survival mode for a long time," said Malfitano, who at the time was a bartender in the campus pub and a resident assistant. "We had a campus to build."
Malfitano quickly moved up the ranks, helping Ross with everything from administrative duties to running the residence halls. He also saw potential in the college.
One of seven children, Malfitano was the first to leave Syracuse, New York, and came to South Florida eager to make a new home in the Sunshine State. "I really liked it here. I was never a straight-A student, but I worked hard. Don gave me an opportunity, and I took a chance. I've never regretted my decision," he said.
Malfitano has held pivotal roles helping to shape the Lynn campus that many know and love today.
And as the small liberal arts college grew, he did, too. Malfitano met his wife Barbara and raised two sons. He smiles when he remembers the abundance of babysitters who would pick up his boys, Ryan and Taylor, right from their high chairs that they kept on campus. "Barbara would come home from work, and we would go to the dining commons for dinner. This was our home," he recalls.
Now, 50 years later, Malfitano is still an integral part of the campus that he had a hand in creating—and he's proud of what it's become.
"We didn't have a gym when I got here, and I still pinch myself when I step inside the de Hoernle Sports and Cultural Center to watch a volleyball or basketball game. That was a big deal … The Wold Performing Arts Center was a big deal. The Christine E. Lynn University Center was our largest project ever, thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Lynn. All of the groundbreakings and openings were rewarding," he said.
Malfitano continues to believe in the Lynn dream and the impact that he and everyone at Lynn have the chance to make every day. "We are entrusted with people's lives, and there's nothing greater. Their four years here will stay with them forever, and we get to be a part of that."
Today, Malfitano dedicates his focus to fundraising as senior major gift officer. He's a trusted advisor to President Kevin M. Ross and an integral part of the Lynn community. He still meets President Emeritus Donald Ross, too.
"Don has been a best friend, parent figure and colleague. It's rare for someone to have that," said Malfitano. "There's a group of men who have come along during my time at Lynn, and they have guided my life. I'm fortunate and blessed to have them in my life and to have been a part of this place."
Malfitano celebrates his 50th year as a Lynn employee on July 15, 2023.
