Sacred Heart Fraternity Hosts White Ribbon Violence Prevention Event

FAIRFIELD, CT — The Delta Tau Delta chapter at Sacred Heart University recently hosted its 11th annual White Ribbon Campaign event, bringing together students, alumni, and community leaders to raise awareness about domestic violence and advocate for safer spaces.

The event, held in partnership with the Center for Family Justice in Bridgeport, took place at the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts. More than a dozen speakers—including law enforcement officials, university leaders, and local advocates—delivered remarks highlighting the ongoing efforts to prevent domestic violence and support survivors.

Event host Nate Dussault, Delta Tau Delta’s internal philanthropy chair, welcomed attendees and introduced SHU President John J. Petillo, who praised the fraternity’s commitment to the cause. “I’m proud to wear this ribbon alongside you today,” Petillo said. “Your dedication ensures that this tradition continues and that we never remain silent in the fight against domestic violence.”

Gary MacNamara, Sacred Heart’s executive director of public safety and former Fairfield police chief, also addressed the crowd. “Domestic violence incidents leave lasting harm, but events like this show the importance of standing together,” he said. “This fight is ongoing, and tomorrow matters just as much as today.”

Matthew Reale, a 1986 SHU graduate and former chair of the Center for Family Justice, was honored for his long-standing support of the campaign. “It’s incredible to see how much good work has been done since the first event,” Reale said.

Student leaders also took the stage, emphasizing the need for advocacy and action. Isabella Padron, president of the SHU Stand Up club, called the campaign a vital platform for awareness and justice. “This event builds a community where safety and respect are not suggestions but standards,” she said.

Delta Tau Delta President Andrew Grudinskas urged attendees to remain engaged in the cause. “Your presence here is a declaration of commitment,” he said. “When we all become a light, our community becomes a brighter and safer place.”
Additional speakers included Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim; Debra Greenwood, CEO of the Center for Family Justice; Matt DeVito, Delta Tau Delta chapter adviser; and Ken Mysogland, Department of Children and Families administrator and SHU social work professor.

During the event, Fairfield Deputy Police Chief Edward Weihe, on behalf of Fairfield First Selectman William Gerber, recognized March 24, 2025, as White Ribbon Day in the Town of Fairfield, reinforcing the community’s dedication to ending domestic violence.

Delta Tau Delta’s efforts will continue with participation in the Center for Family Justice’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event, an international campaign against gender violence. The walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 9 a.m. at the Fairfield train station. As part of the tradition, MacNamara will lead the walk in red high heels to symbolize solidarity and support for survivors.