Welcome back to The Legacy Family Spotlight, a monthly media feature celebrating the proud tradition of attending Siena where green and gold runs through the generations. For the Valente family, Siena’s Franciscan values and community core have guided them for decades. Their story is one of tradition and transformation, where Siena’s impact continues to grow with each new chapter. The Valente family exemplifies what it means to be Saints for life.
The story begins with Br. Basil John Valente ’84, O.F.M who arrived at Siena in the early 1980s. As soon as he stepped foot on campus, he could feel something special. What he soon discovered was more than just an education—Siena’s strong Franciscan presence deepened his faith in a way he had never experienced before. He reflects, “Unsurprisingly, it was the friars on campus who profoundly shaped my college journey. Their genuine warmth and dedication left a lasting impression on me.” Not only did the friars at Siena inspire him to join the Order after graduating from Siena, but also live a rewarding ministry as a college professor, teaching marketing communications for more than 20 years at St. Bonaventure University. Today, he continues his Franciscan ministry as the Executive Director of the National Vocation Office of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and continues to stay linked with the Siena community serving as Board Secretary for the College’s Board of Trustees.
Not long after, Angelo Joseph Valente, Jr. arrived at Siena, a graduate of the Class of 1986. When asked to reflect on his time, and the impact Siena had, he shares, “Siena embodies a spirit of community, compassion, and humility. It is truly a special place where faith and academic come together to form a unique education in the Franciscan tradition.” This resonated with him even more when Fr. John Murphy, O.F.M. helped Angelo navigate an illness that impacted his ability to finish his studies on campus. It was Fr. John’s empathy and concern which demonstrated that education is not just about imparting knowledge, but also caring about people. This allowed Angelo to graduate with his class on time. Angelo is currently the operations manager at Massachusetts General Hospital for the last 15 years, giving back and serving others.
Mary Eugenia (Valente) Conklin, Class of 1988 said that Siena always felt like home. “The fact that each family member pursued different educational pathways—English, Business, Science, Social Work, and Education—and still found Siena to be the best fit speaks volumes about its mission,” she says. Mary’s path in mathematics led her to an invaluable internship opportunity at GE Research, coordinated by Siena alumna Cathy Forth ’76. Working alongside brilliant mathematicians and computer scientists, she gained real-world experience that would ultimately shape her career in computer science. Following graduation, Mary worked as a software developer and consultant for 20 years before stepping away to raise her children. Today, she is an Inside Sales Consultant for Network Experts of New York, bringing her expertise to the field of network security.
For Elizabeth Marie (Valente) Klotz, Class of 1991 it was no different. Majoring in Social Work, she was mentored by Beth Pacini ’87, a dedicated social worker, during her internship at Albany Medical Center. She reflects, “This internship was a true test of my emotional strength. Beth’s mentorship helped develop a strong foundation, showing that empathy and kindness are just as essential as academic knowledge.” For over two decades, Elizabeth has worked as a Transition Coordinator, helping students with disabilities navigate their paths beyond high school. She has made a lasting impact at Capital Region BOCES, South Colonie School District, and currently at Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake School District.
Continuing the family legacy to this day, Charlotte Elizabeth Conklin, Class of 2028, represents the next generation of Valentes at Siena College. A freshman majoring in Early Childhood Education, Charlotte immediately found her place within the Siena community. “Right away, I made strong connections with students on my floor,” she says. “These friendships are so special that I consider them my family.” Charlotte’s Siena journey began even before her first semester, as she participated in Saints Camp, an experience that profoundly shaped her transition to college. “Saints Camp gave me a sense of belonging before I even moved onto campus,” she shares. “The leaders were incredible, and their warmth inspired me to give back—I’m so excited to be a Saints Camp leader this summer!”
Their legacy is a testament to the transformative power of a Siena education—a journey that extends far beyond the classroom and into the heart of what it means to live with purpose and compassion. The Valentes embody what it means to be Siena Saints, carrying the Franciscan spirit into the world, generation after generation.