Houshmand honored for leadership, service by Catholic Charities of South Jersey

Rowan University President Ali A. Houshmand has been honored by Catholic Charities of South Jersey for his educational leadership and his unwavering commitment to serving the community.

Houshmand received the Saint John Neumann Award for Leadership during Catholic Charities of South Jersey’s 19^th annual dinner and awards ceremony on Oct. 11 in Atlantic City.

Rowan’s seventh president, Houshmand received the award from Bishop Dennis J. Sullivan and Executive Director Kevin Hickey, both of the Diocese of Camden, during a gala attended by more than 370 people.

“Dr. Houshmand and Bishop Sullivan are leaders who build and strengthen society,” Hickey said. “That’s what leaders are supposed to be doing. They are supposed to be bringing us together, lifting up society, lifting our vision…so that we are always looking to advance the common good.”

Houshmand, who grew up in poverty in Iran as one of 10 children, was honored for his efforts to make education in South Jersey and the state more accessible, his dedication to assisting immigrant students, and his passion for bringing nutritious food to others through his West Campus Farm. The farm, which Houshmand works alongside Rowan students, gives tens of thousands of pounds of food to community groups annually, including to The Shop, a food pantry and resource center that serves students.

Additionally, his Houshmand’s Hazardous Hot Sauce, made from his signature recipe made from peppers the president grows himself, has inspired millions in support for Rowan students in need.

“Of all of our accomplishments at Rowan, I truly believe giving people what they need—nourishment for their bodies, access to a quality education, support to pursue their passions—is the greatest thing we can do,” Houshmand said as he accepted the award, capping off an evening in which Catholic Charites also presented a number of  “Disciples of Mercy” awards to individuals who have gone above and beyond to serve the most vulnerable across South Jersey.

“By nourishing others, we nourish our community,” Houshmand added. “It is our absolute duty, as human beings and citizens, to raise each other up. I am humbled to stand among you and grateful for this recognition from Catholic Charities, an organization whose work I know well…and deeply respect.”

The Saint John Neumann Award honors the legacy of Neumann, a patron saint of immigrants and the only male saint from the United States. A patron saint of education for Catholics, he founded the nation’s parochial school network.

CBS-3 journalist Pat Ciarrocchi emceed the event, which included a video highlighting Houshmand’s contributions with interviews from Rowan trustees, Catholic campus leaders, and a student.