By Magdalene Michalik
Staff Writer

Pamela Orefice, beloved member of the Hofstra community, died on 8 January 2013 at the age of 62.

Orefice worked in the Office of Student Leadership and Activities (OSLA) as the Sudent Government Association (SGA) bookkeeper. Her position included oversight of student and office clubs through managing budget and contract paperwork.

“Pam’s influence was very positive as she truly enjoyed working with students, as well as her colleagues,” said Patricia Montagano, Senior Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Recreation and Intramural Sports, also a close friend of Orefice’s.

Orefice grew up in Valley Stream, New York, but later became a resident of West Islip. She graduated from SUNY Farmingdale.

The West Islip resident began her career at Hofstra in August 1994. She originally worked in the STEP/CSTEP Program in the School of Education. Two years later, she began to work in OSLA.

“Having worked with so many clubs and organizations through the years, Pam was patient in teaching the protocol of paperwork that was necessary in club operations,” said Montagano. “She really helped students succeed. Pam took a tremendous amount of pride in her work and loved being surrounded by students.”

The SGA bookkeeper will be remembered for her remarkable rapport with her colleagues and students along with the passion she put into her work.

“She had a great impact on the staff with her kindness, work ethic and love of the students and Hofstra,” said Sarah Young, Executive Director for OSLA.

Although Orefice has passed on, her memory will be embedded in the Hofstra community.

“I consider myself very fortunate to have had her and her beautiful family in my life,” said Montagano. “We shared so many incredible memories together that I will be forever grateful. She touched many lives… mine included.”