On this Administrative Professionals Day, we want to celebrate our administrative staff. They keep the province moving through their dedication, efficiency and friendly spirit, frequently going above and beyond to help with whatever is needed. We are blessed to have such a dedicated team.
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Below, some of our administrative staff share what they do and why they enjoy working alongside the friars.
Will Bernal — Administrator, National Vocation Office, New York City
Will entered ministry with the Franciscans in September 2023. He works with executive director Br. Basil Valente, OFM, National Vocation Office Manager Jorge Martins, and regional vocation directors nationwide. St. Francis is his confirmation saint.
He is the initial point of contact for the friars’ prospective candidates, welcoming men who are discerning their call to Franciscan life.
"It has been a blessing to be where I am,” Will said. "It's fulfilling to be involved in such a meaningful endeavor. Choosing to become a friar is a significant decision, and I am delighted to offer support to all the individuals embarking on this journey.”
Peggy Naughton — Administrative Assistant, St. Bernadine of Siena Friary, Loudonville, New York
Peggy began working with the Franciscans eight years ago at Siena College. For more than two years, she has worked in St. Bernadine of Siena Friary. She grew up with the Sisters of St. Francis and met the friars as a first-year student at Siena in 1972.
She knew she wanted to return to the Franciscan community after graduating.
“I consider myself fortunate that the friars have given me the opportunity,” Peggy said. “The most rewarding aspect is the gratitude that the friars extend to me, their appreciation, thanks, and expressions of kindness for all that I am able to do for them.”
Bettina Torraca — Executive Assistant, Development Team, New York City
Bettina started as Fr. David Convertino’s assistant for the Franciscan Friars of Holy Name Province in 2018. After living abroad for three years, she rejoined the development team in 2022. She manages the digital content calendar and online projects.
Bettina also supports her director and producer in Franciscan TV videos such as Friar Chef, Masses and feast days, quizzes and more.
“Working with the friars is fulfilling because their mission is deeply rooted in serving others with compassion, humility, and love,” Bettina said. “Their dedication to helping the poor and marginalized creates a sense of purpose and meaning in my work.”
Jennifer Zayas — Administrative Assistant, St. Anthony Friary, St. Petersburg, Florida
Jennifer will celebrate her fourth anniversary with the Franciscans this September. She has an array of duties, including ordering supplies, communication, scheduling, full in-house mail service, graphic design, guest room management, IT services and more.
If you visit the friary, you might hear Jennifer referred to as “the boss” or “the person who runs the house.”
“It is very rewarding for me to work for a wonderful community of Franciscan friars who are not only friendly, kind, and most generous but who are all involved in something that does help make a difference in our community,” Jennifer said.