November 18, 2025 — Marist has formally dedicated Sammon House, a newly restored campus landmark that honors the legacy of admired Marist Brother Seán Sammon, FMS, and gives the University a new space to build community through intimate gatherings and engaging conversations—oftentimes over a meal.

Brother Seán, who passed away in 2022, was a scholar, mentor, and Marist trustee from 2010 until his passing, as well as a former Superior General of the Marist Brothers. He was known for his deep compassion, commitment to community, and his talent as a great cook.

Today, Sammon House serves as both a vibrant gathering space for the campus community and presidential residence, embodying the values of hospitality, dialogue, and service that he championed throughout his life.

President Kevin Weinman, joined by his wife Beth, welcomed guests to the Nov. 8 dedication ceremony, which included University trustees, Marist Brothers, friends, and members of Brother Seán’s family.

 
President Kevin Weinman speaks at the dedication of Sammon House. Photo by Benson Delaney '27/Marist University.

“My uncle had two families — he had us, and he had you, his Marist family,” said Chris Magro, Brother Seán’s nephew. “What did we share together? We shared his love for hospitality."

“I don’t think there’s a better way to honor my uncle,” he added.

That sense of connection was echoed by Weinman.

“He had a unique gift for bringing people together, for making them feel seen, valued, and cared for,” Weinman said. “Naming this house for Brother Seán made instant sense.”

 

Brother Seán Sammon in 2020. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

Known for his warmth, attentive listening, and culinary talents, Brother Seán often hosted on-campus dinners at his residence where conversation flowed as freely as the food. President Weinman recalled being invited to two such gatherings during his first year at Marist.

Family of Brother Seán Sammon at the dedication of Sammon House. Photo by Benson Delaney '27/Marist University.

Since its opening over the summer, Sammon House has hosted a variety of campus groups, including the Board of Trustees, the new faculty cohort, the championship-winning softball team, returning First-Year Florence and Dublin Experience students, Marist tour guides, Commencement speaker Steve Kornacki, and a number of graduating seniors.

“We’re just getting started,” Weinman added. “Dozens of events per year over many decades in the future. This facility and our commitment to use it in the spirit of Brother Seán and the image of the Marist Brothers will help us in this effort.”

The dedication also highlighted the enduring influence of the Marist Brothers, whose values—excellence in education, community, and service—continue to shape the University’s mission.

 
Trustees Brother John Klein '70 (left) and Ross Mauri '80/P'15 (right) at the dedication of Sammon House. Photo by Benson Delaney ’27/Marist University.

As guests explored the space, they viewed historical displays detailing the evolution of the Fern Tor estate and Brother Seán’s life and contributions. The ceremony concluded with remarks from Ross Mauri '80/P'15, former Chair of the Board of Trustees, who first proposed naming the building in Brother Seán’s honor.

“If you reflect on Brother Seán for yourself, you will find where he left you with a strong piece of wisdom, or comfort at an important time if your life,” said Mauri. “Or, maybe the inspiration to do something you didn’t think was possible.”

Exterior of Sammon House. Photo by Benson Delaney '27/Marist University.

Celebrating a Rich History

Originally the carriage house of the historic Fern Tor estate, the building was renamed St. Ann’s Hermitage when Marist acquired the property in 1997. In 2024, the University began a thoughtful restoration to preserve its architectural character while transforming it into a space for campus gatherings, student engagement, and presidential hospitality.