Karen Giovanniello
As featured in the August 2023 newsletter
- Who are you and what significant contributions have you made to the organization?
My name is Karen Giovanniello and I was a member of the Chappell Players from Spring 1999 through 2002. I was a cast member in Little Shop of Horrors (one of the three singing narrators), Grease (Patty Simcox), Arsenic and Old Lace (Abby Brewster), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Helena), as well as being involved in other student productions and charity events.
- How was the transition from college to the real world? How was life after graduation?
St. John's has prepared me well for the real world. I have years of experience working in the mortgage banking industry, went to graduate school and earned my MBA in Finance, and am currently working at St. John's University as Senior Grants Analyst in the Office of Grants and Sponsored Research.
- Did being involved in the Chappell Players prepare you for life after college? How so?
Being involved in the Chappell Players definitely influenced my life. I met my husband through my involvement in Chappell Players. I was performing in Little Shop of Horrors and my husband was an audience member to cheer on his friend Don. My husband and I were married in 2005 and we have a 13-year-old son. Being involved enhances so many skills such as time management, organization, teamwork, and communication. It builds courage and confidence and gives you the chance to meet many amazing people.
- What is your favorite CPTG memory or performance?
I love them all but my favorite is Little Shop of Horrors. I love the feeling of an entire audience bursting out in laughter as a result of a line delivery. I think it is one of the best feelings in the world.
- Have you been able to remain involved with theatre as much as you hoped/wanted?
I love living close to NYC and I try to take my son to as many Broadway shows and St. John's Chappell Players shows that we can get to.
- Do you have any advice for Chappell Players going through college or those who have recently graduated?
Definitely take advantage of the chances to be involved in Chappell Players, Mixed Chorus, and all of the other great organizations at St. John's. You meet so many amazing people, increase your skills, and make great memories!
My name is Karen Giovanniello and I was a member of the Chappell Players from Spring 1999 through 2002. I was a cast member in Little Shop of Horrors (one of the three singing narrators), Grease (Patty Simcox), Arsenic and Old Lace (Abby Brewster), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Helena), as well as being involved in other student productions and charity events.
- How was the transition from college to the real world? How was life after graduation?
St. John's has prepared me well for the real world. I have years of experience working in the mortgage banking industry, went to graduate school and earned my MBA in Finance, and am currently working at St. John's University as Senior Grants Analyst in the Office of Grants and Sponsored Research.
- Did being involved in the Chappell Players prepare you for life after college? How so?
Being involved in the Chappell Players definitely influenced my life. I met my husband through my involvement in Chappell Players. I was performing in Little Shop of Horrors and my husband was an audience member to cheer on his friend Don. My husband and I were married in 2005 and we have a 13-year-old son. Being involved enhances so many skills such as time management, organization, teamwork, and communication. It builds courage and confidence and gives you the chance to meet many amazing people.
- What is your favorite CPTG memory or performance?
I love them all but my favorite is Little Shop of Horrors. I love the feeling of an entire audience bursting out in laughter as a result of a line delivery. I think it is one of the best feelings in the world.
- Have you been able to remain involved with theatre as much as you hoped/wanted?
I love living close to NYC and I try to take my son to as many Broadway shows and St. John's Chappell Players shows that we can get to.
- Do you have any advice for Chappell Players going through college or those who have recently graduated?
Definitely take advantage of the chances to be involved in Chappell Players, Mixed Chorus, and all of the other great organizations at St. John's. You meet so many amazing people, increase your skills, and make great memories!
