“When you leave Fairfield University, you don't realize it will be one of the greatest affiliations you've had in your life.”
These are words spoken by Daniel Sanders '95, proud alumnus and current men's lacrosse donor. For the former student-athlete, attending Fairfield was more than an educational experience. Now Managing Director, Head of Execution Services in the Americas for Citigroup, Sanders acquired more than a management degree from the institution. “Some of the greatest, strongest relationships and friendships I formed were created at Fairfield University”.
The former men's lacrosse player was the first of only six alumni in program history to serve as a two-year captain of the Stags, taking the reins in both the 1994 and 1995 seasons. During the three seasons he played, he scored 6 goals and 16 assists in 35 career games. The former Stag never missed a game in his career.
While Sanders admits that the men's lacrosse program faced challenges transitioning to the Division I varsity level, the lessons he learned on the field helped him accomplish the successes he's achieved throughout life. “We had a tough beginning because the program was so young, however we were honored because we felt like pioneers of the Division I program within the men's lacrosse family. As the years went on, we became a more cohesive group, enjoyed more wins and best of all improved our comradery. Coach used to tell us 'it doesn't matter what the weather is, it's always sunny and 70 degrees in your head'. To this day I get through challenging situations by appreciating all of the great opportunities and people in my life”.
The experiences many student-athletes have during their undergraduate careers are memories that stay with them forever. Sanders is no exception: “One of my best memories on the field was our win against Sacred Heard University. We had a pretty good come-from-behind victory during my junior year. We secured the win in the final seconds of the game and it was such a euphoric feeling. I tell many friends that if you ask me what I did two Thursdays ago or several months ago on a particular date, I would have limited recollection. But, if you asked me about that game, I can remember every play.”
When asked what advice he could pass along to current student-athletes and recent graduates, Sanders advice was simple: “Never forget the importance of team”. Based off of personal experience, the managing director's insightful message helps alumni understand the value of individuals they work with each day. “People receive accolades from what they can create qualitatively and quantitatively, however you don't achieve honor by yourself. Every opportunity comes from someone you've connected with previously, someone you've worked for or someone who has helped you in the past. It takes a massive amount of dedication to be successful in anything that you do. You can always gravitate towards moments you will remember from teamwork to assist along the way. Success is also the culmination of your team preparing for every single moment with tons of hard work. That is something that you can never take away.”
While he isn't working, Sanders enjoys coaching both of his daughters, 12-year-old Catherine, nine-year-old Emily and his six-year-old son Billy. While he admits he may enjoy coaching a little too much, the opportunity to spend time with his wife Amy and family is what makes life great. Sanders also finds time to get together monthly with his former classmates. “We still find time to get together about once a month with a group we have entitled 'The First Thursday Foundation'. The attempt was to gather on the First Thursday of every month to attend a steak dinner together and help contribute to a fund we created for alumnus Christopher J. Dunne '95, my former roommate, amidst several other alumni who passed away in the World Trade Center attack on September 11, 2001. To still have such a strong affiliation with my extended family is so special. It is truly a defining statement to me when I say I'm incredibly proud of being a Fairfield Stag!”
