Food for the Soul
On February 8, 2020, the second year hybrid class was welcomed into Professor Paula Franzese's
home to celebrate the friendships and spirit of community that is a part of the Seton
Hall Law experience. More than 45 students and their family members enjoyed an Italian
feast prepared by Professor Franzese's mom, Mary Franzese, who is the heir to the
original penne alla vodka recipe (first created by Luigi Franzese in 1977). Under
the leadership of classmates Elise Leonard and Maryam Hassimi, the class raised $2,200
for the Law School's Public Interest Law Fellowships to submit the winning bid for
the Franzese penne alla vodka dinner at this year's Public Interest Auction.
"The dinner was a fantastic evening of delicious food and friendship," said Elise
Leonard. Maryam Hassimi noted that "it was an unforgettable opportunity for us to
interact with each other outside of school and celebrate collegiality, family and
friendship, all for a wonderful cause."
The class is comprised of students from an array of fields and backgrounds. The rigors
of the weekend program notwithstanding, the group joined together gladly. Class member
Renee Mariotti said, "Professor Franzese's dinner provided us more than just delicious
food on the table -- it provided us food for the soul. Through great conversation
and time spent together, our class united on a more personal level, forging new connections
and friendships."