In just a few weeks the adolescence education majors of St. Joesph’s University, New York will receive their degrees and officially begin their professional journeys. In preparation for such a momentous milestone, the Adolescence Education department hosted their annual send-off, inviting both recent alumni and a special guest speaker to impart guidance on the next generation of educators.
Hosted April 22 in the Student Center’s Knapp Swezey Multipurpose Room, the event included students interested in teaching various disciplines including math, science, English and social studies. They were greeted by SJNY alumni, many of whom recently graduated, returning to the University to share their experiences so far with the Class of 2026.
The send-off began with a short address by Flavio Bollag, assistant vice president for development and engagement, who was excited to welcome to the soon-to-be graduates into St. Joseph’s growing alumni network. Following welcoming remarks by Chairperson and Associate Professor Edward Vinski, Ph.D., students broke into groups for a quick icebreaker, catching up with their peers and alumni in attendance.
A Presentation on Creating Meaningful Moments
Among the food and socializing, this year’s graduating students were also treated to a presentation by Anthony Montemaran, principal for East Islip High School. He took students through his experiences, not only as a teacher and administrator, but as an actor, contractor, play director, athlete, coach and all the other roles he attributes to his success as an educator.
“As a new teacher, you want to take whatever opportunities that come,” Montemarano shared.
Throughout his presentation, he stressed the importance of making classrooms engaging, for students as well as the teacher. According to Montemarano, educating is all about creating meaningful moments. He advised students to challenge themselves as professionals and open themselves and their students up to new experiences. This includes anything from attending conferences and trips to exploring roles in administration.
“The goal of today was to inspire new teachers to make the most of their opportunities in this profession and put the focus on helping students make meaningful memories,” he said.
Alumni Advice
After Montemarano’s presentation, students once again broke into groups, this time based on their discipline as they were joined by alumni. Facilitated by Assistant Professor Nadia Khan-Roopnarine, Ed.D, these “alumni table talks” were an opportunity for students to ask questions and get a preview for what’s in store for them after graduating. Alumni discussed their current experiences and where they are in their career track, either as graduate school students, student-teachers, first-year teachers or working in education-adjacent jobs.
The adolescence education students in attendance are among the 1,100-plus graduates walking during this year’s 107th Commencement ceremony.
Photos from this year’s event:
Students and Alumni exchanged experiences about their time at SJNY.
East Islip High School Principal Anthony Montemarano and Assistant Professor of Education Nadia Khan-Roopnarine, Ed.D.
The SJNY Adolescence Education Faculty and Staff.
Alumni returned to share their experience as educators.
The Knapp Swezey Multipurpose Room was filled current and aspiring educators.
Students, faculty and alumni traded stories, experiences and advice.
Anthony Montemarano delivering his presentation on creating meaningful moments.
