A nudge from the president. That’s all it took for SJC Long Island senior Christian Szajna to apply – and then get accepted – to Berklee College of Music in Spain.

Szajna, 23, of Bayport said that during the fall when he was unsure of what to do after earning his bachelor’s degree, St. Joseph’s College President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., suggested he apply to graduate school.

“He was the one who gave me the idea to apply to Berklee,” said Szajna, a product of Bayport-Blue Point High School who will major in Scoring for Film, Television and Video Games, a one-year master’s program at Berklee’s international campus in Valencia. “It was a bit of a scramble to get everything ready and submitted on time once I decided to do that.”

Class with the President

Szanja took a music roots class with Dr. Boomgaarden during the spring 2018 semester. He also performed alongside the president during the student talent show and a College Board of Trustees event last year.

St. Joseph’s College President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., performs at student talent show with SJC Long Island history major Christian Szajna.

“I got to know Dr. Boomgaarden through the music class,” said Szajna. The history major and music minor is set to graduate from SJC Long Island in May.

“I was pleasantly surprised. He is a genuine person,” Szajna said of Dr. Boomgaarden. It was very kind of him to take time to consider what an individual student is going to do after college.”

Berklee is a prestigious institute of contemporary music and the performing arts. It offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs at its main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, as well as in Valencia. Singer John Mayer, producer and musician Quincy Jones and singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge are among the many alumni who have had great success in the music industry.

“This was an opportunity that I could not say ‘no’ to,” said Szajna, who looks forward to forging a career in writing music for video games. “I’m looking forward to being around other people who are passionate about the same things that I am.”

Szajna said he hopes to visit the Valencia campus before he starts classes in September.

Joseph Richardson, Esq., will speak with members of SJC Long Island Greek life organizations on Wednesday, Feb. 6, about the dangers of hazing and the legal issues that surround it. He will present in the Muriel & Virginia Pless Center for Performing Arts during common hour and again from 5–6 p.m.

According to “Hazing in View: Students at Risk,” researchers found that “more than half of college students involved in clubs, teams and organizations experience hazing.” The highest percentage of hazing is experienced by students in fraternities and sororities (73 percent), as well as athletic teams (74 percent).

In light of the 2017 hazing-related death of Penn State University student Timothy Piazza, 19, it is especially important that members of Greek life organizations understand the serious ramifications of hazing, College officials said.

More than half of college students involved in clubs, teams and organizations experience hazing.” –Dr. Elizabeth Allan and Dr. Mary Madden 

This event is required for all members of Greek life organizations, and athletes are strongly encouraged to attend, College officials said.

Lead by example.

That was the message delivered by attorney Joseph Richardson during an anti-hazing assembly Wednesday at SJC Long Island.

“You have a duty to graduate, to do well here,” he told an audience filled with SJC Long Island athletes and sorority and fraternity members. “You have young ‘brothers and sisters,’ people who look up to you. You’ve got a duty to make their lives better.”

Attendance at the event, which took place in the McGann Conference Center during common hour and again from 5–6 p.m., was required of all members of SJC Long Island’s Greek life organizations.

Richardson is an accomplished attorney and speaker, regularly contributing his legal insight and commentary to the media. He speaks regularly on college campuses, encouraging students to embrace their legal and ethical duties.

“Stay focused on the notion that this (mission of the College) is what you’re here for. And that it would be a terrible thing if, aside from the law, you are to do something that would undermine your ability to take advantage of the mission of the College.”

Three Key Areas of Richardson’s Presentation:

Laying Down the Law: In February of 2017, New York passed an amendment to penal law sections 120.6 and 120.7 in chapter 716, which defines what makes a person guilty of hazing in the first and second degree. This amendment was due to the 2013 hazing-related death of 20-year-old Michael Deng, a student at Baruch College. The amended law prohibits physical contact or activity in any organization’s initiating ceremony that creates substantial risk of injury.

Dangers of Groupthink Mentality: “There’s a safety in numbers, but the danger is we use that safety sometimes to do things we wouldn’t otherwise do,” Richardson said.

Many instances of hazing a result of groupthink mentality, he explained.

Staying Legal and Better: Even if something isn’t necessarily against the law, it might be against the College’s Code of Conduct, and it could result in suspension or expulsion.

“It doesn’t take much to haze under the law,” Richardson said. “And it doesn’t take much to haze under your own codes of conduct. I’m not just talking about you going to jail and getting in legal trouble, I’m talking about you getting in moral or ethical trouble.

“Don’t just think about what is legal,” he continued. “Think about what is right.”

St. Joseph’s College’s Policies on Hazing*

Minimum sanction: Suspension; Maximum sanction: Expulsion.

A student will be found responsible for hazing if, in connection with the initiation of applicants to or members of a student organization (including but not limited to fraternities and sororities, athletic teams, SGA organizations, honor societies, etc.) he or she organizes, promotes, facilitates or engages in any conduct, other than competitive athletic events, which a) places or may place another person in danger or bodily injury or b)demonstrates indifference or disregard for another person’s rights, dignity or well-being. Examples of hazing include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Forced or required ingestion of alcohol, drugs, food or any undesirable substance or quantity of substances.

2. Participation in sexual rituals or assaults.

3. Forced or required participation in criminal conduct, conduct which violates the civil rights of others.

4. Conduct which is mentally abusive or degrading to the participants or others.

5. Acts that could result in physical, mental or emotional deprivations or harm.

6. Physical abuse, including whipping, paddling, beating, tattooing, branding, exposure to the elements. Organizations charged with hazing, as distinct from individuals charged, face College disciplinary action.

*As depicted in Section M of the Student Handbook.

One of them participated in service-based trips. Two of them studied abroad. Three of them interned.

All of them walked away with knowledge and experience they consider priceless.

SJC Long Island students Carly Credido ’21, Amanda Graziano ’19, Summer Henriksen ’18, Jonathan Nostro ’19 and Alex Pushnick ’20 shared on Tuesday what they gained from their experiences during the “Constructing Your Future” event hosted by the Office of the Executive Dean and the Office of Career Preparation and Professional Development.

“There’s never too much you can learn about yourself,” said Credido, who traveled to Houston, Texas, in 2018 for the College’s Alternative Spring Break and to Camden, New Jersey, last month during Alternative Winter Break. She will be traveling to Kure, North Carolina, with the College during this year’s ASB. “There’s always new things to find out. You might think you have it all together, but there’s always something you can work on. Being able to help others helped me grow as a person.”

Graziano gained a sense of independence while studying abroad in Italy last summer.

Henriksen improved her interview skills during her internship at Steve Bellone’s budget office.

Nostro, serving as a tax intern at Diapoules & Feinstein CPAs PC, quickly found out he needed to work on an area in which he thought he was already skilled. 

“I thought I had great time-management… (but) no,” he said. “It’s only about learning what your weaknesses are and building upon those while you’re out in the field.”

While studying abroad in Greece and interning in Belize, Pushnick discovered his appreciation for other cultures through his immersion in local villages.

Learn more about the importance of off-campus life experiences in the video below.

Slavery. The Civil Rights Movement. Freedom.

Those are just some of the topics Bettie Mae Fikes and Pierce Freelon spoke — and sang — about during SJC Long Island’s Black History Month event Thursday in the McGann Conference Center.

“Martin Luther King to you is a legend. But he was Uncle Martin to me 50 years ago,” said Fikes, who became a student leader for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) during the Civil Rights Movement. “Malcolm X is a legend to you today. He was Uncle Malcolm to me 50 years ago.”

Fikes began singing with the SNCC Freedom Singers — a group with which she still performs — and raising awareness while challenging segregation more than five decades ago. She participated in protests and sit-ins, and she was arrested and jailed while fighting for the right to vote. Today, she still uses song to teach about the history of the Civil Rights Movement.

“You are here because someone died for you. You are here because you are standing on the shoulders of many,” said the self-styled “Queen of the Blues,” who has performed alongside such popular musicians as Joe Turner, James Brown and Bob Dylan.

A man with many hats, Freelon is a professor, director, Emmy Award-winning producer, founder of Blackspace, former candidate for Mayor of Durham — and a musician.

“Music has always been very important in the black freedom struggle, the struggle for liberation,” said Freelon, who on Thursday performed the spiritual “Freedom Over Me,” doing his own remix and calling attention to black women in history.

“The spiritual really speaks to a black perspective on the institution of slavery,” he said. “It’s important, especially today, to remix a spiritual to speak a poem of thanks-giving to the impact that black women have had on the freedom struggle.”

Check out their performances in the video below.

Tracey Pfuhl Schaper, a 1990 SJC Long Island graduate, says she will never forget the day she met her best friend, Illene MacMonigle Shafranek.

Shafranek, also a 1990 graduate, hobbled into her Children’s Literature class, taught by Sister Grace, trying not to drop her books while using her crutches. After class, when Schaper noticed Shafranek again struggling, she offered to help carry her classmate’s books to her next class.

And the rest was history.

The duo quickly became inseparable. In college, they played on the softball team together — Schaper was a pitcher, and Shafranek a catcher.

“Many times I would call ‘time’ in the middle of the game, acting as if I was giving her a pep talk,”  Schaper recalled in a questionnaire collected by the Office of Alumni Engagement in honor of ISJC Week. “But I would actually walk to the mound, so we could discuss what we were doing that night. We loved it!”

After the pair of SJC best pals graduated with child studies degrees, they stood side-by-side for so many of life’s other major accomplishments.

“Together we graduated, got engaged, taught preschool, were in each other’s wedding parties and raised our children,” Schaper said. “We’ve been through the high of highs together and the low of lows. We live in different states now, but that is irrelevant. We are family.”

Today, Schaper works as an adjunct director of a before and after care center, while Shafranek owns a tutoring business.

Finding your lifelong bestie at St. Joseph’s

Schaper and Shafranek are one of many heartwarming St. Joe’s BFF stories.

Here’s a sampling of other alumni who found their best friends on campus at St. Joe’s:

• Class of 2015 graduates Emma Tapada, Catherine Lamb, Jennifer Joniak and Meghan Sullivan hit it off at freshmen orientation in August 2011. The group of four besties grew closer as they worked on different degree paths within the Honors Program. They traveled to Italy together through the Honors Program in 2013, bonding over gelato, while making unforgettable memories. Today, they are employed as a 6th-rade math teacher, an Applied Behavorial Analyst, a speech-language pathologist, and a librarian, respectively.
• Jamie Stidd and Stevi Dessey, both 2008 graduates, grew close through their mutual love for crocheting, crafting and child studies classes. The pair supported each other through a lot of tough times in college, including Stidd’s mother passing away after a battle with cancer. One of their most memorable BFF moments was participating in an SJC trip to Manhattan to see the musical, “Wicked.”
• Rachel D’Arpa ’17 and Stefanie Cronin ’15 became quick friends during SJC Rush Week for the Kappa Beta Gamma Sorority. Throughout their years at St. Joe’s, they participated in events on campus — a drive-in movie at SJC Long Island was the first film they viewed together — and found a home in the Greek life community. Now, with D’Arpa working as a marketing entrepreneur and Cronin as an event coordinator, they look forward to a long adult life as best friends. When they retire, you can expect to find them still side-by-side frequenting trendy brunch places with unlimited mimosas.
• Christina Rietta ’13 ’15 and Amanda Lubliner ’13, both teachers, met during freshman orientation. Lubliner lost her phone and Rietta stepped up to help her find it. Together, Rietta and Dubliner joined clubs and found the perfect partners in crime to navigate college life with. Among their favorite memories: commencement and Lubliner standing as a bridesmaid in Rietta’s wedding!

Enrolling in Professor Louise Rose’s short story writing class was the best decision 2008 graduate Mark Wilson says he made at St. Joseph’s College.

Hands down, “English 115: The Short Story” was Wilson’s favorite class. In fact, Wilson — now a middle school English teacher and a lecturer at his alma matter — uses teaching strategies similar to Professor Rose’s.

“Professor Rose also shared a story she authored, ‘The Beautiful View,’ which I now teach to my students,” Wilson said, responding to a questionnaire conducted by St. Joseph’s Office of Alumni Engagement. “Professor Rose had an innate ability to facilitate class discussion and pique our interest in uncovering the ‘deeper meaning’ of the texts.

“Taking English 115 indeed solidified my decision to major in English and become a teacher,” he continued.

Wilson took several of Rose’s classes during his time at St. Joseph’s. He looked to her as a mentor, especially when it came time to write his senior thesis, focusing on author Flannery O’Connor’s short fiction.

Finding inspiration in SJC courses

Like Wilson, many of our alumni have fond memories of courses they took at St. Joseph’s.

Here’s a few of their favorites:

• Mary Theresa Moringiello ’76, an educational consultant, loved her philosophy course at St. Joseph’s. She said it was taught by Dr. Stan Nevins. She noted that she was enamored by the way Dr. Nevins made her think about life. Moringiello continues to use the practices she learned in class to reflect on life.
• Jessica Handy ’07, a marketing director, was inspired by Dr. Margaret Jennings’ teachings in her classical literature class. Handy said Dr. Jennings had an incredibly special way of bringing humor and intellectual curiosity into the subject. She appreciated the new light Dr. Jennings cast on literature, explaining that knowledge of the classics is the foundation of a well-read mind.
• Shamire Juste ’17, remembers “Introduction to Case Management,” instructed by Professor Gloria Gasper, fondly as it served as a great bridge to the work she completed for her field placements in graduate school, and is laying a foundation for her social work career. Juste said she used the material she learned in the course a lot during her first field placement at Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC.
• John McKeon ’16 said his favorite class at St. Joseph’s was a course on the Supreme Court, led by Stephen J. Rockwell, Ph.D. McKeon said he learned a lot of useful information from the class — especially when keeping up with today’s political climate. The course was enjoyable to McKeon because of the way Dr. Rockwell kept the classes lively, well informed and intellectually stimulating.

The Student Hospitality Lounge at SJC Long Island. The Bear Cave at SJC Brooklyn. The St. Joseph’s College sign at both campuses.

There’s no shortage of loved places at SJC Brooklyn and SJC Long Island, according to responses to a questionnaire filled out by St. Joseph’s alumni in honor of ISJC Week.

Check out some of their favorite locations in the video below.

Sure, plenty of St. Joseph’s students meet their future spouses at College. But it’s rare to find SJC sweethearts who didn’t attend the same campus.

SJC Long Island alum Raymond Lockmer ’15 met SJC Brooklyn alumna Christina Holian ’15 during a retreat for SJC Orientation Team leaders at Honor’s Haven Resort in Ellenville, New York. Three years later, Lockmer took Holian back to the resort and proposed to her.

“I always thought that I’d meet someone (at college) that might be a long-term relationship, but I never thought that I’d meet someone who would become my wife,” said Lockmer, a history major and political science minor. “When I met Christina, it was a totally different story and feeling than I had ever felt before.”

Responding to a questionnaire conducted by St. Joseph’s Office of Alumni Engagement in honor of ISJC Week, Holian described the moment Lockmer, a New York state court officer, popped the big question last August as “perfect.”

“Ray said we were taking a trip for our anniversary, back to Honor’s Haven,” said Holian a fifth-grade special education teacher who earned a bachelor’s degree in child study and speech, and returned to SJC Brooklyn to earn a master’s in 2017. “Right in front of the fountain, he proposed!”

Lockmer said attending different campuses and living in different parts of New York presented challenges to their relationship.

“But it made us a much stronger couple,” he said. “We were forced to become good communicators. It made us much better planners, and it definitely allowed for us to make some different plans when it came to date night. I was able to bring her out to Long Island and I was able to go into New York City.

“It was also a chance to see the different campuses and the different campuses life styles and student life,” Lockmer said. “I made many great friends from SJC Brooklyn through Christina, and Christina has made many great friends from SJC Long Island through me.”

A number of other SJC sweethearts responded to the questionnaire, sharing how they met the loves of their lives at St. Joseph’s:

Stage Proposal

Newly engaged couple Alexandra Moncayo ’13 and Matthew Calestini ’14 met at SJC Long Island during auditions for a play put on by SJC Drama. Calestini, a dual major in psychology and criminal justice and now a Suffolk County TASC Case Manager, brought Moncayo, a psychology major now employed as a social worker, back to campus last October to propose to her on stage in the auditorium in O’Connor Hall.

“SJC is such a welcoming environment with so many ways to meet people with similar interests as you,” Moncayo said.

He Took a Knee in Central Park

Victoria Iuni ’14 and Steven Trudden ’15 were introduced by a classmate at SJC Brooklyn. They went on a movie date in May 2013, and it was happily ever after from there.

Iuni, a psychology major now employed as an occupational therapist, fondly recalled how Trudden, a custom service manager who majored in criminal justice at St. Joseph’s, proposed.

“We were in Central Park on a Wednesday after I got out of work. He got me to go uptown by promising cupcakes — which I never got,” she said. “We were standing watching the row boats when he got down on one knee. I was so surprised. He had a photographer there to catch the moment. It was perfect! Then, when we got home our parents and siblings were there to celebrate.”

Flower Time

Vishwakesh “Vishi” Singh ’13 and Merissa Bhimsingh ’16, ’18 met on campus at SJC Long Island. Bhimsingh remembered their first date was “dinner and a movie.”

Thinking back on the friendly and cohesive atmosphere at St. Joseph’s, Bhimsingh, a teacher who was a child study major at St. Joseph’s, isn’t surprised she met the love of her life at school.

“St. Joseph’s is very warm and inviting and there is always so much going on,” she said. “With all the events and clubs, you’re bound to meet new people and hopefully, even your future spouse.”

She shared how Singh, a business administration and psychology major who now works in hospital finance, proposed to her. “Vishi knows how much I love flowers, so he proposed to me at Old Westbury Gardens in June. It was perfect! I had no idea he was planning it for months, and the moment was very special for the both of us,” she said.

Walking the Campus Together

Ryan Rao ’11 met his sweetheart Jackie Rao ’08 in the cafeteria at SJC Long Island.

“It was just great to walk the campus together as the school day was coming to an end,” recalled Ryan Rao, an accountant who studied accounting at SJC. “As the day would fade into the night, we would walk from the quad to our cars parked in the dirt lots.

“RIP,” Rao quipped, referring to the dirt lots that have since been paved over.

The Raos’ first date: Dinner at Outback Steakhouse and a movie.

The proposal: “We had a trip planned to New York City in December 2013 to see the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Plaza,” Ryan Rao said in a reply to the SJC alumni questionnaire. “Little did she know the purpose of the trip was so I could propose to her.

“We went to one of the roped off locations where photographers take your photo, and after the first few, I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me,” he continued. “We then proceeded to go to one of our favorite restaurants in the city, where I surprised her with both of our families.

Hidden Waterfall

Thomas Agostino ’13 and Stefanie Burgio ’17 met during an East vs. West game in SJC Brooklyn’s Hill Center in 2014, after being introduced by Vice President of Student Life Sherrie Van Arnam. Agostino was announcing the game while Burgio was in the audience.

The proposal? Beautiful.

“Hidden Waterfall in Iceland followed by an engagement shoot all over Southern Iceland, finishing up with a helicopter ride where we landed on top of a volcano and popped a bottle of champagne to celebrate…enough said,” Agostino, who studied accounting and now works as an auditor, said.

Agostino’s message to the SJC community this Valentine’s Day: “The most innocent hello or a small thoughtful gesture may lead to a relationship that you would have never foreseen.”

Obvious Chemistry

Philip G. Ciantro and Diana Mónaco, both SJC Brooklyn 1990 graduates with degrees in chemistry, met on the first day of Dr. Mary Maier’s chemistry class in Sept. 1986.

They had their first date shortly after on Sept. 26, 1986.

“He asked me to marry him in my parents house in the fall of 1990, and we married in January of 1992,” Mónaco said.

What makes St. Joseph’s the right place to meet your future spouse: “The school is small, and most of the people had very similar backgrounds. Most of us, at that time, were first-generation college graduates in our families. We all wanted a small college experience.”

Maybe it was the moment you realized you were passionate about a new major. Or perhaps it was a silly moment shared with your best friend. Or the beginning of your relationship with your SJC Sweetheart.

For Cara Tromba Giannillo, who earned her degree in human relations from SJC Long Island in 1989, her favorite memory from St. Joseph’s College occurred after she graduated.

“I was so proud the day I hooded my son at graduation and he became part of the SJC alumni family,” Giannillo, a hospital school teacher, said in response to a questionnaire conducted by St. Joseph’s Office of Alumni Engagement in honor of ISJC Week.

Dancing Queen

Gabbi Battiloro’s favorite moment at St. Joseph’s occurred during her senior year.

“Dance club had been a big part of my four years at St. Joseph’s College, so being elected as vice president, and getting to share Dance Club with other students at events such as Club Fair, made my time here,” Battiloro ’14, who earned her bachelor’s degree in English, said.

“This photo is from my last club fair and with one of my best friends. It makes me smile every time I look at it, and it makes me wish we never had to adult,” Battiloro recalled.

Thanks for the Memories

Whether our alumni remembered a favorite class, the moment they met their best friend or future spouse, or their favorite place to hang out at the College, they all shared one thing in common: the memories they made at St. Joseph’s College will last them a lifetime.

Exams, term papers and studying. Oh my! College can be pretty overwhelming for even the most diligent of students. This is why it’s so important for students to have mentors on campus to boost their confidence and motivate them to reach their goals.

St. Joseph’s College takes pride in employing faculty and staff members who make themselves available to provide encouragement when students fall and guidance when students are faced with important career decisions.

As part of ISJC Week, present and future St. Joseph’s alumni — responding to a questionnaire conducted by St. Joseph’s Office of Alumni Engagement — shared thoughts about the staff and faculty members who helped them most at SJC Brooklyn and SJC Long Island.

Made Class “A Blast”

“Every class with Professor Cardoza was a blast!” Brianna Bartol, a junior child study/speech major at SJC Long Island, said of Spanish class lecturer Judy Cardoza. “She made the subject fun and continues to stay in touch and provide references for me to this day.”

Bartol took SPN 202 with Cardoza during the fall 2017 semester.

“She brought so much to the class, making it enjoyable for all,” she said. “She works all day as a teacher in Patchogue-Medford schools. For her to come to my evening college class with such enthusiasm, really inspired me.”

Helped Her Meet Lifelong Friends

One of the professor’s that most inspired 2014 SJC Brooklyn graduate Justina Pierre was SJC Brooklyn Interim Executive Dean Michael Hanophy, a biology professor during Pierre’s time at the College.

Michael Hanophy, Ph.D., interim executive dean at SJC Brooklyn, in a biology class with SJC Brooklyn students.

“I met Dr. Hanophy while applying for admission to the College,” said Pierre, a medical student who credits Hanophy and SJC for helping her meet lifelong friends who she now considers family.

Amazing Dedication

Paige Napoli Carbone, a 2002 SJC Long Island graduate and now the director of alumni engagement at St. Joseph’s, replied that her ISJC Person is Richard Paganini, a former speech communications professor at SJC Long Island who passed away in 2015.

“Pags was the best!” said Napoli Carbone, who met the professor during a “Meet the Majors” session her freshman year in 1998. “He was an amazing professor that poured his heart into teaching others about communication.”

It was during the speech major’s junior year that she started to work more closely with the speech communications professor.

Former SJC Long Island professor Richard Paganini.

“He told me one day that he would fly into MacArthur Airport from his home in Chicago on Monday nights, teach at SJC on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and then fly home to Chicago Friday mornings,” she said. “I was amazed at his dedication. Pags just opened his mouth and I was instantly inspired. He would give little snippets of life advice during his lectures. And they just had a way of sticking in your mind.

“After Paganini’s death, S. Grace Rowland organized a memorial service on campus for him and I did a reading to honor his life,” Napoli Carbone continued. “I loved him and miss our talks!”

“Opened My Eyes”

Nick Marter ’14, assistant director of admissions and financial aid  at Manhattan College and a former employee in SJC Long Island’s admissions department, said his “ISJC Person” is Marian Russo, former director of student life at SJC Long Island.

Marian Russo, former director of student life at SJC Long Island.

“She supported every club, organization and student that she came across for 25 years,” said Marter, who met Russo when he applied to become an Orientation Team Leader in 2010. “Her enthusiasm and passion were on display every single day. I knew that I needed to find a job that I could find that very same passion for.

Nick Marter ’14 and Marian Russo, former director of student life at SJC Long Island.

“Essentially, she inspired me to be comfortable with shifting my career focus and opened my eyes to a career in higher education.”

Twenty St. Joseph’s College students will spend spring break in Kure Beach, North Carolina, helping people whose homes were damaged by Hurricane Florence in September.

“Alternative Spring Break brings hope — not only for the people we help, but for the future. That we can be better,” SJC Long Island sophomore Carly Credido said of the annual week-long service trip involving students traveling across the United States to help communities and people in need.

St. Joseph’s students — 10 each from SJC Long Island and SJC Brooklyn — will visit Kure Beach March 17–22.

The students will be accompanied by SJC Long Island’s Director of Campus Ministry Cristian Murphy ’14 and SJC Brooklyn’s Coordinator of Community Service Michele Corsetti. They will work with Community Collaborations, a nonprofit organization that provides supervision and training for students on service trips.

Strength of Service

“The relationships I’ve seen and I’ve formed from these trips are the strongest in my life,” said Murphy, who attended a number of alternative spring and winter break trips as an SJC Long Island student. “That’s because they’re grounded in something greater than anything else, and that’s service for others.”

Credido, who traveled to Houston, Texas, in 2018 for Alternative Spring Break and to Camden, New Jersey, last month during Alternative Winter Break, understands the healing power of service is twofold.

“Being part of these trips brings together students with the same mission and goals. And it brings a sense of community,” she said. “These trips help people. But these people change us.”

Getting to Kure

Students interested in being a part of Alternative Spring Break applied and wrote essays. They answered such questions as “Why is community service important to society and to you personally?” The students picked to attend have started fundraising efforts to help offset the trip’s cost. Through March 7, SJC Brooklyn students are selling “scratch offs” for a 50/50 raffle.  In March, SJC Long Island students will raffle off gift baskets they created.

“These trips are more than a choice. They are opportunities and a calling to be a small piece of a big change we want to see in the world,” Credido said. “Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much.”

For more information on the SJC Brooklyn 50/50 raffle, contact Michele Corsetti at mcorsetti@sjcny.edu, or stop by the Student Life Suite. For more information on the SJC Long Island raffle, contact Cristian Murphy at cmurphy3@sjcny.edu.

At St. Joseph’s College, we’re inspired by the women religious who dedicate their time and energy to the institution. During National Catholic Sisters Week 2019, consider taking time to learn more about some of the sisters who help make the College community what it is.

Meet the Sisters

S. Miriam Blake, C.S.J.

Assistant Professor of Child Study

“Initially, I entertained the idea of working as a foreign missionary in an orphanage or a school. All through elementary and high school, though, I worked closely with the Sisters of St. Joseph. After graduating high school, since I was leaning toward teaching as a career goal, I was encouraged to consider this community because, at the time, most of the Sisters were involved in education. After many years as an elementary school teacher, principal and associate superintendent, I find it heartwarming to now be working with so many future educators who are interested in — and determined to — share their gifts and talents with others.”

Took her final vows: 1969

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 2006
—————————————–

S. Margaret Buckley ’55, C.S.J., Ed.D.

Field Placement Coordinator

“When I joined St. Joseph’s, I taught methods courses and supervised student teachers. Working with students who were preparing to be teachers was a great way to spend my life. Most students were idealistic and highly motivated. Later, I became the dean, and that presented opportunities to work with faculty, develop curriculum and create new programs. I was fortunate to work with many talented and dedicated people. Now I am retired, and I work part time coordinating fieldwork for students.”

Took her final vows: 1964

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1969
—————————————–

S. Mary Ann Cashin, C.S.J.

Assistant Professor of Child Study

“At St. Joseph’s College, I am part of a community of women and men who are committed to the mission of the College and the success of their students. Over my years here, I have grown in deep appreciation for the vision and courage of the Sisters of St. Joseph who founded St. Joseph’s College over 100 years ago. They spoke out for women who were not welcome at other institutions of higher learning and put their words into action. Their determination must have been extraordinary. I am thankful to be walking in the footsteps of the great-hearted Sisters of St. Joseph who have gone before me.”

Took her final vows: 1970

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 2000
—————————————–

S. Karen Donohue, C.S.J.

Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs

“From childhood, I was surrounded by women religious, from Catholic elementary school through high school. I always thought there was more to life than making myself happy, and I was very interested in social justice and the plight of the poor at a young age. I was particularly influenced by a Sister of St.
Joseph who taught me in high school. Sister Edyth Fitzsimmons was genuine, supportive and interesting, and she still is today. Those connections with teachers, family and plenty of religious sparked a desire within to try to be the best version of myself, to change the lives of others for the better and to be some sort of comfort for people. We are all human and make plenty of mistakes, have flaws and failings, but after over 45 years of being a C.S.J., there are no regrets.”

Took her final vows: 1977

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 2000
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S. Joanne Forker, C.S.J., Ed.D.

Lecturer of Child Study

“The College has been a part of my life since I was a student in Brooklyn in 1970. I began teaching part time in the child study department in 1976, when [SJC Long Island] was located in Brentwood on our motherhouse grounds. When it came time for us to move to Patchogue, I actually transported part of the library collection in the trunk of my car! I continued teaching part time until 1981, when I joined the department as a full-time instructor until 1989. I just completed 28 years of high school administration, and I am happy to return to the Patchogue campus where it all began almost 40 years ago. I love the College and what is has done for so many young people and nontraditional students here on Long Island. We have a proud history, and I couldn’t be prouder of my Congregation and the enormous influence we have had on higher education.”

Took her final vows: 1977

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1976
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S. Suzanne Franck, C.S.J., Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Director of the Academic Advisement Center

“In high school, I met the Sisters of St. Joseph and was inspired by their passion for teaching, support of high school students, and the joy and peace they shared with each other and throughout the school. Also, their generosity of helping people in and out of school, their efforts of social justice and being such down-to-earth people touched my heart and stirred my spirit, empowering me to respond to the nudge from God I felt deep within to enter religious life as a Sister of St. Joseph. I have grown in many ways and have had so many wonderful and amazing experiences as a member of St. Joseph’s College.”

Took her final vows: 1984

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1995
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S. Jane Fritz, C.S.J.

Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science

“I enjoyed teaching math and science in a parish school, until S. Virginia Therese Callahan invited me to study computer science and to start the new Department of Mathematics/Computer Science at the College. This was a new field at the time, and S. Virginia Therese was such a woman of vision that I could not say no to her. I have been so fortunate to work with wonderful people whom I consider to be like family. Even more rewarding are the students I have been fortunate enough to teach. I am so proud of the wonderful people they have become. So many of them continue to carry out the Mission of the College.”

Took her final vows: 1970

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1984
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S. Nancy Gilchriest ’83, SSND, Ed.D.

Chair and Associate Professor of Education

“I consider myself very blessed because SJC has been a part of my life twice — as a student and as a teacher. I was very involved as a student on the Brooklyn campus: in Student Government, Chapel Players, the Folk Group, Religious Affairs and Political Affairs, to name a few. These activities allowed me to grow in the areas of dedication, commitment, leadership, collaboration and fun! As a faculty member, those qualities that were nurtured in Brooklyn have come to fruition on Long Island. I am who I am because of God’s blessings that I found at SJC.”

Took her final vows: 1994

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 2006
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S. Pat Manning, C.S.J.

Assistant Professor of Art

“In September 1980, I arrived at the newly established St. Joseph’s College Patchogue campus as the sole full-time member of the art department. I have served there for 39 years as associate professor, and as chair for more than 25 years. Over these years, which represent half of my lifetime, I have found fulfillment of my lifelong dreams and aspirations. This experience at SJC has allowed me to grow personally and professionally as a teacher, communicator and artist. Reaching out to students, helping them to develop their artistic talents and communication skills hopefully has enriched their lives as much as it has mine.”

Took her final vows: 1966

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1980
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S. Grace Edna Rowland, C.S.J., Ph.D.

Professor of Communication Studies, Director of the Clare Rose Playhouse

“My dream of converting a run-down caretaker’s cottage on the grounds of the newly established campus of St. Joseph’s College into a theatre space similar to the charming barn-like New England playhouses, which I have always loved, became a reality in 1983. I met a man with the same passion for theatre. Together with Clare Rose, a successful businessman, an old house was converted into the Clare Rose Playhouse, named for the man who turned the dream into reality. Directing musicals here affords me marvelous opportunities to build confidence and self-worth in young people and to see them grow and flourish.”

Took her final vows: 1965

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 1981
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S. Mary Sivillo ’67, C.S.J.

Coordinator of Student Placement for Child Study

“I wanted to be a teacher from a very young age. After being a principal in three different elementary schools, and closing the last one (Angela Hall), I was invited to St. Joseph’s College to fill a need in the child study department. Having worked with elementary school children for about 45 years, meeting and working with college students was a new and wonderful experience. It opened my eyes to new and exciting  experiences, which continue even today. I have been blessed with thousands of students, along with their families throughout my religious life, and for this, I am grateful to God and to St. Joseph, who has been my patron all these years.”

Took her final vows: 1959

Started at St. Joseph’s College: 2000

Be Inspired

Between March 11 and 14, St. Joseph’s College students, faculty and staff are invited to learn more about the Sisters of St. Joseph, their history and their efforts in social justice. SJC Long Island will host events each day related to the Sisters; SJC Brooklyn will honor the Sisters during a special St. Joseph Day Mass on campus on March 13. Each of the SJC Long Island events is during Common Hour in the McGann Conference Center, unless otherwise specified.

Monday, March 11: CSSJ Mission from Le Puy to the World

Speakers: Tatiana Belanich ’19 and Associate Director of St. Joseph Worker Program in Brentwood

The presentations reflect the mission and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph from the time of its roots and how it is lived out today through the St. Joseph Worker young women. Materials will be on display, as well as a replica of the original Le Puy kitchen, constructed by St. Joseph’s students. Lunch will be served. Le Puy, France, is the birthplace of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

Tuesday, March 12: Justice in Our Times

Speaker: S. Susan Wilcox, C.S.J., Justice, Peace, Integrity of Creation Coordinator, C.S.J. Brentwood

S. Susan’s presentation focuses on the issues of justice in our time, among people and with creation. Enhancing our understanding of the issues of justice, as well as the human induced environmental concerns, will hopefully lead to acceptance of, and responsibility for, change. The discussion will include action steps that can be taken. Soup and bread will be served.

*Please bring a non-perishable food item for a food drive.

Wednesday, March 13: St. Joseph’s College/Sisters of St. Joseph Day

Mass and Renewal of the Vows of the Sisters Working at St. Joseph’s College and the Blessing of St. Joseph’s Bread

Academic department representatives will present a brief written reflection on the mission of St. Joseph as reflected through their department.

Wednesday, March 13: St. Joseph Day Mass

SJC Brooklyn Mass Followed by Luncheon

The Sisters of St. Joseph will be honored during a Mass at SJC Brooklyn in the Kennedy Chapel in Burns Hall. A luncheon will follow in the Parlors. Please RSVP to Christian Branch at cbranch@sjcny.edu.

Wednesday, March 13: Film, “Radical Grace” 

6 p.m., Room N129 

“Radical Grace” follows the stories of three nuns who believe in justice so deeply, they’ll risk their place in the church they love to be true to their faith. From the halls of Congress to Saint Peter’s Square, follow the sisters as they shake up the Catholic church and American politics. The film is both an exploration of the American Catholic church at a critical turning point and an intimate portrait of the transformative power of personal conviction.

Thursday, March 14: Nuns on the Bus  

Speaker: S. Janet Kinney, C.S.J., Executive Director of the Partnership for Global Justice at The United Nations

Learn about the issues addressed by the Nuns on the Bus who travel across the country to raise consciousness and challenge people to grow in awareness and action around justice issues. Light lunch will be served.

SJC Long Island men’s volleyball coach William Kropp is set to be inducted into the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame May 16 during a ceremony at Watermill Caterers in Smithtown.

“I’m honored and humbled by my selection,” Kropp said. “You always wonder if you belong when you hear of all the outstanding people who are already in the Suffolk (Sports) Hall of Fame. My class alone is amazing.”

Kropp is being honored alongside such greats as NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, sports broadcaster Bob Costas and WNBA player Bria Hartley.

Success at Sachem

With more than 500 wins, Kropp said he has more victories than any other boys coach in New York state history.

“I like practices better than games,” said Kropp, who has more than 50 wins in less than three seasons at SJC Long Island. “I enjoy being in the gym, teaching and developing players’ skill levels, regardless of their physical talents. Watching them grow, become more confident and develop into people all can be proud of is the most rewarding aspect of coaching. Its not the wins or championship, its about helping all my boys achieve at the highest level, on and off the court.”

Kropp’s first started coaching volleyball at Sachem High School in 1982 as the girls’ junior varsity coach. He became head coach of the girls’ varsity team in 1989, when he also started the boys’ program. During his tenure at Sachem, Kropp led the boys’ team  to five Suffolk County championships (’92, ’94, ’95, ’00, ’13) and one Long Island championship in 2013, compiling a 366-115 record and six Suffolk Coach of the Year honors. With Sachem’s girls’ program, he posted a 220-44 record, winning three Suffolk County titles (’94, ’95, ’98), seven league championships and four League I Coach of the Year honors.

“My favorite thing about volleyball is that it’s the ultimate team game,” said Kropp, who didn’t play volleyball competitively until college — as a sophomore at SUNY New Paltz. “No one player can dominate unless his or her teammates do their jobs. To get everyone playing together and buying into the team concept is what I enjoy about the sport.”

Joining St. Joseph’s

Kropp founded SJC Long Island’s men’s volleyball team in 2016, becoming the head coach. The team began play during the spring 2017 semester.

“I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to start something that I believe has, in a short time, become very special. I couldn’t be more proud of the boys that took a chance on me and St. Joe’s three years ago, and the work they put in to create what we have today,” he said.

Since I’ve come to St. Joe’s, I’ve been inspired by my colleagues, as well as my players, to raise my game and become a better coach and person,” he said. “I’ve always looked to others to help me find a better way. As we get older, I don’t think we should stop learning or growing.” –William Kropp

Now in their third season, the Golden Eagles have already earned one Skyline Conference Championship title, in 2018.

“I do believe we will win the Skyline again,” Kropp said. “It’s not that I’m over-confident; however, I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t say, if we stay healthy, we’ll repeat.”

Kropp was named Skyline Conference Coach of the Year in 2017 and 2018.

“Since I’ve come to St. Joe’s, I’ve been inspired by my colleagues, as well as my players, to raise my game and become a better coach and person,” he said. “I’ve always looked to others to help me find a better way. As we get older, I don’t think we should stop learning or growing.”

Step inside SJC Long Island’s Board Room Gallery, and you’re immediately drawn to images of Long Island’s Big Duck.

So begins the art exhibit of Assistant Art Professor Susan Van Scoy, Ph.D., showcasing never-before-seen historical photographs of Suffolk County’s architectural landmark the Big Duck, as well as duck farming on Long Island. The framed images are among more than 180 photos in Dr. Van Scoy’s new book, “The Big Duck and Beyond: Eastern Long Island’s Duck Farming Industry.”

“What I love most about this project is that it is not just for those in the arts — like art historians, artists and architects — but it really appeals to a broader public, including Long Islanders, local history lovers, environmentalists, farmers, foodies, tourists, children…everyone,” Dr. Van Scoy said, whose exhibit will be featured on campus until April 4.

Dr. Van Scoy signs copies of her new book and hosts a gallery talk during common hour April 1 in the Board Room in O’Connor Hall.

Her Inspiration

Dr. Van Scoy, a Kings Park native, was reading about an art history conference that called for papers on the memorialization of animals through art when the idea struck her: she should write about the Big Duck that sits in Flanders, New York.

She presented her original paper on the Big Duck at the Southeastern College Art Conference (SECAC) in 2017. But it was while researching for her paper that she realized no one had written a book about the Big Duck yet.

“There was no centralized source on the subject, nor on the history of duck farming on Long Island (not since 1949),” said Dr. Van Scoy of Huntington. “So I decided to do it.”

The Big Duck was built in 1931 by duck farmer Martin Maurer of Riverhead. Originally, it was a store where Maurer sold Peking duck to locals. The 18-foot-tall by 30-foot-wide duck-shaped building now serves as a gift shop and East End tourist information center. It’s also where you can buy copies of Dr. Van Scoy’s new book.

“This summer, I plan to travel to research more examples of ‘duck’ architecture, a term coined by the architects (Robert) Venturi and (Denise) Scott Brown for buildings that take the shape of its function,” said Dr. Van Scoy, who received a Full Faculty Summer Grant.

Pulling the Book Together

“It took me about a year and a half to find the images needed for the book,” Dr. Van Scoy said. “My sources ranged from large institutions to individuals. I researched images from the National Archives, Library of Congress, Museum of the City of New York and the New York Public Library and visited local historical societies, the Post Morrow Foundation in Brookhaven and local libraries with Long Island Collections.

“I interviewed farmers and their family members, and they gave me access to their family photographs,” she continued. “Eric Woodward, an architect, also granted me access to his Long Island postcard collection that featured a lot of ducks and duck farms. Additionally, I approached local artists, architects and businesses who had links to the Big Duck.”

SJC Long Island took the opportunity to celebrate National Catholic Sisters Week last week by hosting various events honoring the women religious who work for St. Joseph’s College. Students, faculty and staff attended daily events to learn more about the Sisters of St. Joseph, including the congregation’s rich history and its passion for social justice.

The week was punctuated by Wednesday’s  St. Joseph’s Day Mass celebration in the McGann Conference Center. Members of the College community, including President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., who played the piano, participated in the common hour event.

Watch a recap of the week’s events below.

Give a little. Get a lot.

Donate blood tomorrow or Wednesday during St. Joseph’s “lucky charm” March blood drive and you’ll receive a free McDonald’s premium salad or large sandwich. Much better than that, your donation stands to save up to three lives.

The campus’ Center for Student Involvement, Leadership and Multicultural Programming is teaming up with the student Biology Club to host the two-day inside the McGann Conference Center in O’Connor Hall.

Donations will be accepted tomorrow, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and on Wednesday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Eat and Drink Before Giving

Organizers of the event ask that donors eat a meal and drink plenty of water before giving blood. Donors must meet the following criteria in order to donate:

• Weigh at least 110 pounds.

• Aged between 16-75.

• Sixteen-year-olds need parental permission.

• No new tattoos in the past 12 months.

For questions concerning medical eligibility to give blood, visit nybc.org or call 1.800.933.2566. For more information on St. Joseph’s blood drive, contact Bryan Gill at bgill@sjcny.edu.

SJC Long Island’s Office of Alumni Engagement seeks students, alumni and friends of the College to volunteer at upcoming events. The events provide volunteers with solid opportunities to not only help out their College, but to enhance their résumés and to network, as well.

Here’s a look at the events:

Weekend College Volunteering

Saturday, March 30  •  10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., O’Connor Hall
Hand out coffee and snacks to Weekend College students.

Alumni Pop-Up Meet and Greets

April 4, 9, 15 and 25  •  12:40 – 1:35 p.m. (Common Hour), O’Connor Hall Student Lounge
As graduation approaches, the College looks to showcase some of the great alumni in its alumni network. St. Joseph’s alumni volunteers will share words of support and talk about their experiences as mentors, ambassadors, board members and graduates of St. Joseph’s College.

Admitted Student Day

Saturday, April 6  •  Academic and Student Services Fair: 12:30 – 2 p.m., Danzi Athletic Center
Alumni can meet accepted students and their families, and share your experiences while reconnecting with faculty and alumni. If you’re an alum and have a family member attending SJC, or if you’re a current student related to someone attended the College, join us for the Legacy Breakfast, 9:30 – 10:45 a.m.

Cap and Gown Pickup Day

Thursday, May 9  •  Noon – 7 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Cafe, O’Connor Hall
Celebrate the Class of 2019 with food, giveaways, music and fun activities. Join us for a few hours, or for the whole day!

Baccalaureate Prayer Service and Reception

Thursday, May 16  •  7 – 9 p.m., The Muriel & Virginia Pless Center for Performing Arts
Volunteers at this event help welcome new graduates to the alumni community through a traditional prayer service. A reception will follow in the McGann Conference Center.

Note to the Class of 2019: SJC Long Island Commencement is Wednesday, May 29, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Children, grandchildren and spouses of alumni who would like to be hooded by their relatives at the ceremony should contact Jeannie Grega ’85 at jgrega@sjcny.edu or 631.687.4515.

29th Annual Golf Classic and Golden Eagles Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Monday, June 17  •  10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Port Jefferson Country Club
Volunteers are needed to help welcome and check in guests, sell raffle tickets and participate in other tasks. Shifts are available throughout the day.

Those interested in helping out can sign up here. All volunteers will receive a confirmation email with more details as each event approaches, as well as an alumni t-shirt. If you have any questions, please contact Taryn Kutujian at tkutujian@sjcny.edu.

Three St. Joseph’s faculty members will achieve tenure status this fall semester, while four others will get promotions, College President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., has announced.

Dr. Boomgaarden asked that the college community join him in congratulating the professors “for this well-deserved recognition of their success, their service to our students and their commitment to their scholarship.”

The following professors will be awarded tenure, effective this September:

Eric Shyman, Ed.D., is an associate professor of literacy/cognition, infant toddler early childhood special education, childhood or adolescent special education and child study at SJC Long Island. Dr. Shyman has written extensively on inclusion and special education topics.

Shawn Robertson, Ed.D., is an associate professor of child study, literacy/cognition, and childhood or adolescent special education at SJC Long Island. Dr. Robertson last May served as the chair of the Teaching for Tomorrow Conference held at SJC Long Island. The annual conference brings together educators from Long Island and New York City to engage in professional development workshops.

William Trevino, M.A., M.F.A., is an associate professor of communication studies at SJC Brooklyn. A professor at St. Joseph’s since 2005, Trevino runs the theatre minor program at SJC Brooklyn. He performed on television and off-Broadway before teaching at St. Joseph’s.

These faculty members will be promoted to associate professor, effective this September:

Rachel Kreier, Ph.D., teaches economics and social sciences at SJC Long Island. She joined St. Joseph’s in 2014, following a teaching stint at Hofstra University. Dr. Kreier has been a health rights activist, union staff member, editor, health reporter and health economist.

Kestrel Perez, Ph.D., teaches biology at SJC Brooklyn. Dr. Perez’ research in the field of biology has centered on marine biology — specifically fish and invertebrate evolutionary ecology. She studies life history traits and maternal investments, and how variation in these influence larval fitness and recruitment.

Ryan Schwarz, Ph.D., teaches mathematics and computer science at SJC Long Island. Dr. Schwarz was instrumental in St. Joseph’s successful bid last year for a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant funds STEM scholarships for students majoring in math, computer science and computer information technology. The scholarship program is in its first year.

The following associate professor will be promoted to professor, effective this September:

Peter Lin, Ph.D., teaches psychology at SJC Brooklyn. Dr. Lin is a licensed psychologist who specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, as well as relationship issues. In 2018, he developed the mindfulness and contemplative living minor now offered at SJC Brooklyn. He is an avid photographer and enjoys playing basketball.

Seventy-five senior-level teaching candidates and several school administrators from Nassau and Suffolk attended SJC Long Island’s seventh annual Teacher Fair last month in O’Connor Hall.

“The annual springtime event gives our students an amazing opportunity to meet and interview one-on-one with school administrators throughout Long Island,” Director of the Office of Career Preparation and Professional Development Jennifer Rooney said.

School administrations often bring in students they met at the fair for additional interviews and hire them for full-time teaching positions.

“We really enjoyed the candidates we met with,” said Joey J. Cohen, Ed.D., assistant superintendent for human resources for Patchogue-Medford School District. “(We) will definitely be seeking several candidates for further interviews.”

Prepping for the Fair

In addition to job opportunities, the fair offers invaluable interviewing experience. The career preparation office held résumé reviews and an interviewing workshop prior to the event to help participants prepare.

“Attendance at the interviewing workshop is integral, so that students really understand what is expected of them at an interview,” SJC Long Island Career Counselor Kevin Gill said.

Forty-six students attended the workshop, learning about appropriate interview attire, common interview questions and what the actual fair itself is like.

Students must have a résumé approved by the Office of Career Preparation and Professional Development and need to be either in their second semester of their senior year, in a graduate program or have graduated within the past year in order to participate. The event is open to all education majors at the elementary and secondary level.

Student Feedback

Tiffany Luu, a senior at the College, suggested that students interested in secondary education, particularly math and science, pay close attention to Teacher Fair deadlines and requirements.

“I was shocked by how many schools are interested in candidates with science and math backgrounds. I always thought the Teacher Fair was more for child study students, but I was wrong.”

Even though it is a tough market, SJC students should remain open-minded while pursuing a career in education.

“The fair is a great opportunity to showcase all of your hard work and preparation,” SJC Long Island student Christine VanGiulder said.

SGA President Kaitlyn Rodriguez, a senior majoring in child study, appreciated what she learned from the fair.

“It taught me a lot about what schools are looking for and what it’s really like to sit down with a school administrator,” she said.

School Administrators in Attendance

“Hampton Bays has found a pipeline with St. Joseph’s College,” said Dennis Schug Jr. ’97, a middle school principal in the Hampton Bays Union Free School District. “Permanent positions are popping up throughout various districts on Long Island, and schools are always looking for substitute teachers and leave replacements.”

Schug’s colleague Scott Garofola added that the fair provides administrators with a wonderful opportunity to screen and meet the next wave of great educators.

“The Teacher Fair is a very successful event that allows future educators to become better prepared for the interview process,” said Keith Fasciana, principal at William Floyd Elementary School. “The event is well-organized and provides opportunities for networking among teaching candidates and local school districts.”

Students in all majors can contact the Office of Career Preparation and Professional Development with career-related questions and needs at 631.687.1248.