Alumni Profiles

A Passion for Elevating Medical Education Drives Iona Alumnus (Alumni Profiles 4290)

pmaceli — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:27:15 +0000

A Passion for Elevating Medical Education Drives Iona Alumnus (Alumni Profiles 4290) pmaceli Thu, 11/30/2023 - 12:27 A Passion for Elevating Medical Education Drives Iona Alumnus November 30, 2023

Iona Alumnae-run Business Reflects on Six Decades of Restoring Properties and Giving Back to Communities (Alumni Profiles 4233)

ptascio — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:12:00 +0000

Iona Alumnae-run Business Reflects on Six Decades of Restoring Properties and Giving Back to Communities (Alumni Profiles 4233) ptascio Mon, 10/16/2023 - 12:12 Iona Alumnae-run Business Reflects on Six Decades of Restoring Properties and Giving Back to CommunitiesLisa Cordasco ’84 and Rosemary Cordasco-Waldhofer ’85 proudly share how an Iona education shaped their successful, multi-generational, family-owned business

From Left to Right: Lisa Cordasco ’84, Louis Cordasco, Jr. ‘85, Anthony Villani, Austin Cordasco Walsh, Nancy Cordasco ’85, Rosemary ’85, and founder, Louis Cordasco, Sr.

October 16, 2023

From Left to Right: Lisa Cordasco ’84, Louis Cordasco, Jr. ‘85, Anthony Villani, Austin Cordasco Walsh, Nancy Cordasco ’85, Rosemary ’85, and founder, Louis Cordasco, Sr.

Iona University alumnae Lisa Cordasco ’84 and Rosemary Cordasco-Waldhofer ’85 are passionate about helping others. As sister-in-laws, they both serve as owners of The New Crystal Restoration Enterprises, Inc. (NCR) located in Port Chester, N.Y. — the first and oldest restoration company in Westchester County. NCR provides restoration and assistance to those in the community who have been devastated by property damage.

“Many of these people are going through this for the first time in their life and they need a company that cares about restoring their homes and possessions to their original condition,” said Cordasco-Waldhofer.

The local, family-owned business also focuses on helping out the community. NRC gives back by supporting local charity organizations, such as the Parkinson’s Foundation, Fore the Kids, and Support Connection. Their ties to the community date back to their time at Iona, where they were greeted with that same feeling of support.

“At Iona, I met my husband of over 30 years, Lou Cordasco, and many lifelong friends who I still keep in touch with today,” said Cordasco-Waldhofer.

As the president of NCR, Lisa Cordasco finds it rewarding to follow in the footsteps of her father. “We take great pride in knowing that our legacy is alive and well guided by the principles and high standards established by our founder, our father,” she said.

At Iona, Cordasco was an avid golfer while majoring in psychology and receiving an education that she believes has helped NCR flourish.

“Iona is a very special place for our family,” she said. “The outstanding education we received has helped by giving us the tools to grow our business into a thriving local organization.”

Cordasco-Waldhofer also credits Iona for her success in accounting, saying, “After college, I served as a public accountant for many years before I worked for my husband’s family business as a CFO.”

With Iona alumni currently employed at NCR, the business stays connected to the University that has played a role in keeping NCR successful after six decades.

Learn more about New Crystal Restorations.

Arts Leadership Major Elizabeth DeLeo ’22 Pursues Her Passion for the Performing Arts (Alumni Profiles 4205)

ptascio — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 17:10:48 +0000

Arts Leadership Major Elizabeth DeLeo ’22 Pursues Her Passion for the Performing Arts (Alumni Profiles 4205) ptascio Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:10 Arts Leadership Major Elizabeth DeLeo ’22 Pursues Her Passion for the Performing Arts September 27, 2023

Name: Elizabeth DeLeo
Graduation Year: 2022
Major: Arts Leadership
Hometown: Middletown, N.J.

Why did you decide to study your particular major?
I chose Iona because I was intrigued by the Arts Leadership major. It was the best of both worlds, being able to study what I love and perform. The major allowed me to study all my interests – performing arts, marketing, public relations and business.

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
The leadership opportunities at Iona allowed me to grow into the individual I am today. I was a Resident Assistant, Orientation Leader, a Kairos leader, Dance Captain of the Dance Ensemble my senior year, a Gael Guide and I also served as Co-Social Media Chair my senior year. All of these positions prepared me with the skills of organization, teamwork, creativity and time management.

Were you involved in student groups or activities? If so, how did they shape or support your career path?
The Iona Players shaped my career path. I was involved in six Iona Players productions throughout my Iona journey. Those shows provided me opportunities to perform and serve in various leadership roles. I served on the E-board for three years as Community Service Chair, Treasurer and Co-President.

My senior year we performed The Addams Family. I was Student Director and Assistant Choreographer. I was involved from the first read-through to the final bow. This opened my eyes to my future. I wanted to work in a theater or a school allowing others to discover their talents and find their own second family in their cast mates. I am beyond grateful for the individuals I have met by being a part of the club. Once a Player always a Player!

Was there a professor, staff member, or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
Many professors and professional staff have made an impact on my Iona journey, but the one who stood out the most was Jason Summers, the director-in-residence of the Iona Players. He is a mentor and there are no words to express my appreciation for him allowing me to learn and assist him.

In January, Jason asked me to cover him at a dance call. I choreographed and taught a dance call to students. While being in the room with these students, I knew this was my calling. To quote Hamilton, I wanted to be in “the room where it happens.” I walked in as a stranger to these students, but walked out as an individual who understood where their joy came from. I knew at that moment, I wanted to be a resource or support system to others on crafting their skill. This new change of path would lead me to work in education whether at a theater or college. I am at my happiest when I am connecting and supporting someone who has the same passion as I do.

What do you love most about what you're currently doing?
I love helping students pursue their love for the performing arts. I enjoy learning about their desire to be in the arts and supporting them in finding a perfect program. I am grateful to be part of a community that appreciates the performing arts.

What is a day in the life like in your role?
I am the International Admissions Advisor. I assist the Director of International Admissions on recruiting students to attend The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. I will outreach to students by calling, emailing or messaging them. I attend their auditions. I assist and guide them with all their paperwork for admissions in order that the students can receive the necessary training.

What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
The lasting impact Iona has made is the sense of community. I always felt I had people supporting and caring for me. I looked for that sense of community in the jobs, internships and theater companies I work with. I am lucky to say I have found that sense of community in my current position.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
My advice is to become involved in various performing arts organizations. I know the performing arts industry can appear as an unknown world, but don’t let fear stop you. There are so many opportunities waiting to be discovered and you will find the one you were meant to do.

Major Jesse A. Ouellette ’11 Takes Pride in Serving His Country, Applying Lessons from Iona Toward His Career with the FBI and U.S. Marine Corps (Alumni Profiles 4089)

ptascio — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 20:18:54 +0000

Major Jesse A. Ouellette ’11 Takes Pride in Serving His Country, Applying Lessons from Iona Toward His Career with the FBI and U.S. Marine Corps (Alumni Profiles 4089) ptascio Wed, 08/09/2023 - 16:18 Major Jesse A. Ouellette ’11 Takes Pride in Serving His Country, Applying Lessons from Iona Toward His Career with the FBI and U.S. Marine Corps August 9, 2023

Name: Jesse A. Ouellette
Graduation Year: Class of 2011
Major: Political Science
Minors: Pre-law, Philosophy
Graduate Degree: Juris Doctor
Hometown: Alexandria, VA
High School: New Fairfield High School, New Fairfield, Conn.
Current Employment: Federal Bureau of Investigation, Assistant General Counsel and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Deputy Staff Judge Advocate

What do you love most about what you're currently doing?
I am honored to have the privilege of belonging to institutions whose mission serves our country's best interests.

I began my current position with the FBI in April 2021. Simultaneously, I left active duty in the Marine Corps and transitioned to the Marine Corps Reserves.

At the FBI, I serve as an Assistant General Counsel within the FBI's Office of the General Counsel, National Security & Cyber Law Branch. I practice national security law for a range of clients throughout the country.

With the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, I am currently serving as a Deputy Staff Judge Advocate within the Marine Corps' Training and Education Command, Headquarters Marine Corps. This position is like in-house counsel to the Commanding General of Training and Education Command. My portfolio there consists of command legal advice that ranges from administrative law to military justice.

What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
At Iona, I made lifelong friends and had an experience that allowed me the opportunity to quench my undying curiosity.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
It is true that hard work pays off. However, hard work needs to be balanced with allowing yourself to experience all that life has to offer. Through that, you will build human connections that will not only benefit your career but also pay dividends for your happiness throughout the rest of your life.

Was there a professor, staff member or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
Doctors Tricia Mulligan and Jeanne Zaino made a lifelong impression on my intellectual development and career motivation.

Both of these leaders approached their profession with a positive mental attitude that was infectious to all those who studied under them. My classmates and I never left a single class or exam bored or discouraged. Their leadership through example inspired confidence and a fighting spirit that emulated Iona's motto, “Fight the Good Fight.”

What’s your fondest Iona memory?

I cherish each and every friend I had the honor to make, professor I had the privilege to learn from, and experience I had the opportunity to live.

What were your past involvements on campus?

Student Commencement Speaker for the Class of 2011
Psi Sigma Alpha: National Political Science Honor Society
Phi Zeta Chapter, Co-President
Democracy Matters, Chapter Founder and President
Student Government Association, Class Senator
World Goju Karate Club, President and Black Belt Assistant Instructor
Psi Rho Pi Fraternity, Inc., President

Do you have a favorite quote?
"Whatever you are, be a good one." This quote is attributed to Abraham Lincoln but may first have come from the mind of the American essayist Laurence Hutton. Whomever conjured up the phrase, it resonates with me to this day. This quote implores us to be the best version of ourselves, in both our private and public lives. Many mentors in my life have lived by the message of Lincoln's (or Hutton's) words and inspired me to do the same.

On Her Journey to Become an Audiologist, ASL Club Founding President Nicole Genser ’21 Shares the Pivotal Role Iona Played (Alumni Profiles 4066)

ptascio — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:26:37 +0000

On Her Journey to Become an Audiologist, ASL Club Founding President Nicole Genser ’21 Shares the Pivotal Role Iona Played (Alumni Profiles 4066) ptascio Wed, 08/02/2023 - 10:26 On Her Journey to Become an Audiologist, ASL Club Founding President Nicole Genser ’21 Shares the Pivotal Role Iona Played August 2, 2023

Name: Nicole Genser
Graduation Year: Class of 2021
Majors: Communication Sciences and Disorders, Psychology
Current Endeavors: Audiology Doctoral Student at Montclair State University; Research and Data Team Member at National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes
Hometown: Woodbridge, N.J.
High School: Bishop George Ahr High School

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
Being an Iona student taught me that I can be more than one thing in life. That's what I love about continuing to study audiology. I love that I'm in a place where I'm still learning through many ways; I study in the classroom, I see patients in the clinic and I share my work through research and writing. Interacting with patients grants me on the ground experience and exposure to the journeys of many. This, combined with having hearing loss myself, gives me that much more to apply when doing research and sharing work at conferences.
The common thread in all these areas is communication and how we say what we say to those we cross paths with. My classes and work at Iona got those wheels turning for me and they are conversations I continue to have in my work at the National Deaf Center (NDC) and in the clinic. I will be co-teaching a counseling course this fall which I am very excited for.

Why did you decide to study your particular major?
As someone who grew up with severe hearing loss and being a hearing aid user, I decided that I wanted to become an audiologist. Audiologists with hearing loss bring a unique perspective to patient care and to the field as a whole as we empathize more closely with the experiences of others. It is important to note that every person with hearing loss is different, even those with the same type and degree; this is why seeing many different patients is essential. Understanding and reflecting upon all of these experiences will better inform my future clinical practice, works presented and published, and education of others rather than saturating my approach based solely on my own journey.

What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
I carry lessons learned from Iona (specifically the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department, the Psychology Department and the Honors Program) with me in my current academic life. I am able to see things holistically and think critically in all my classes and projects. The opportunities I had at Iona outside of the classroom shaped me into the well-rounded leader I have become and gave me many memories that I talk about with friends I'm still close with today. I think that since both aspects of my Iona life were so rich, I know the importance of a work-life balance and the value of living as present in the moment as possible.

Was there a professor, staff member, or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
I collaborated closely with Dr. Michelle Veyvoda for all four years of my time at Iona. Her knowledge and mentorship was invaluable to me – starting the American Sign Language (ASL) Club, advising my undergraduate honors thesis, working as her research/teaching assistants and learning from her in the classroom. I owe many of my favorite opportunities I had at Iona to her, many of which I still pursue as I have gone on to obtain my certificate in ASL and continue to be actively involved in research.

Were you involved in student groups or activities? If so, how did they shape or support your career path?
I was primarily involved with the ASL Club on campus, of which I served as founding president for three years. It brings me so much joy to see how the club has persisted on campus, and that students are still enthusiastic about learning and spreading awareness. Additionally, I was the managing editor of the Honors Program Newsletter, senator at large in the Student Government Association and part of the Iona Players.

Favorite spot when you were a student:
When I was a student, I loved spending time on the hill: sunny days tanning and snowy days sledding!

Favorite campus event:
My absolute favorite event at Iona was our 75 Nights 'Til Graduation event, though Homecoming is a close second.

What are some of your most recent accomplishments?
I have recently presented at several conferences, including the Educational Audiology Association, Assistive Technology Industry Association, and the New Jersey Speech Language Hearing Association, and I am submitting two manuscripts to journals for publication. Some of these have been through my position at the NDC and some as a doctoral student at Montclair State University (MSU).
I've loved doing this since I participated in an on-campus poster presentation session following my experimental psychology course with Dr. Wong-Goodrich. Being bold enough to share your knowledge, but humble enough to learn from others, is one of the best parts of attending these conferences. My newer projects are through my doctoral program, including one related to audiologists with hearing loss performing listening checks on hearing aids.

Emily Recco ‘22 “Finds the Good” in her community and new business (Alumni Profiles 4062)

ptascio — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 17:58:13 +0000

Emily Recco ‘22 “Finds the Good” in her community and new business (Alumni Profiles 4062) ptascio Mon, 07/31/2023 - 13:58 Emily Recco ‘22 “Finds the Good” in her community and new business Iona University alumna launches her own jewelry line July 31, 2023

Hometown: Massapequa Park
High School: Massapequa High School
Graduation Year: 2022
Major: Marketing
Job Titles: Founder & CEO of Recco Jewels; Junior Marketing Associate and Family Care Advisor at Friends for Life Homecare
Company: Recco Jewels; Friends for Life Homecare

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
I love the creative freedom that I have. I get to design my jewelry from sketches and have full control over the entire process until the final piece is in my hands. The phrase "Find the Good" is part of my vision for this company, which is such a meaningful quote to me. As I grew up, my parents always taught me to find the good in every situation. Feel good, look good, and find the good within yourself while wearing Recco Jewels. My goal is to spread this mantra to the world with my company.

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
Iona prepared me to get to where I am today in many different ways from relationships with staff and professors, peers, and most of all Psi Kappa Theta. The community at Iona is something that I deeply appreciate. Knowing that there is always someone to turn to and someone to lend a helping hand was a crucial part of my college experience.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
Never stop dreaming. When I was a senior, I remember telling my friends that I wanted to start my own jewelry business one day. It was my absolute dream, but it also scared me. Graduating college and getting a job at a huge firm is great, but it just isn't everyone's reality. Only YOU can make your own dreams come true, and I'm so happy that Iona gave me the tools and skills I needed to make this happen.

Was there a professor, staff member or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
Dr. Eric Hamerman always saw the good in me, which is so special to me now because it fits in with my vision for my company. Through all of my struggles, he always pushed me to be my greatest self in and out of the classroom. He saw the potential in me before I saw it in myself, and for that, I am forever grateful.

What's your fondest Iona memory?
My fondest memories of being a student at Iona was my involvement in Psi Kappa Theta. In addition to being the social media chair and corresponding secretary, I truly learned so much about myself. The girls all collectively taught me one thing; to be myself. Without them I would not be the person that I am today. The bond and sisterhood that we share is forever. Even though we have all gone our own ways, the memories will last forever.

Favorite spot when you were a student:
My absolute favorite spot when I was a student were the study rooms in the LaPenta School of Business. Sitting with my friends doing homework, studying and hanging out between classes are things I miss dearly.

Anthony Carlo ’15 says Iona gave him the tools to turn his dream into a reality (Alumni Profiles 3852)

ptascio — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 13:26:42 +0000

Anthony Carlo ’15 says Iona gave him the tools to turn his dream into a reality (Alumni Profiles 3852) ptascio Tue, 04/04/2023 - 09:26 Anthony Carlo ’15 says Iona gave him the tools to turn his dream into a reality ABC Eyewitness News Reporter Shares How Iona University Helped Him Land Dream Job April 4, 2023

Name: Anthony Carlo
Graduation Year: 2015
Major: Media & Strategic Communication (TV/Video)
Company: WABC-TV Eyewitness News
Title: Reporter
Hometown: Yonkers, N.Y.
High School: Archbishop Stepinac

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
I love getting the opportunity to be a voice for the people. Now, more than ever, with the evolution of social media, people need powerful, credible platforms to tell their stories. I enjoy being the vehicle in which New Yorkers can do just that, in a creative, empowering way. I love storytelling. It started with sports and has taken me to news — and it’s in my blood. Especially broadcasting.

Why did you decide to study your particular major?
Since I was a little kid, I had a dream that I wanted to be a broadcaster on TV. I’d pretend I was announcing Yankees games in my backyard or hosting sports talk shows. When I got to college, I briefly questioned if that dream was realistic and would turn into a career. I almost gave up. I changed majors to education and bounced around a bit, all while knowing deep down inside what my true calling was.

When I first started in the field, I was pursuing sports reporting/broadcasting because of my love of sports. I quickly pivoted to learn how to do news based off the advice of a mentor at one of my internships. I realized how much I loved storytelling in general and the positive changes a journalist can help make — especially in news.

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
Iona was crucial for my start in this industry because it gave me the hands-on tools I needed to learn the trade. I’ve heard stories about how students at bigger journalism schools have a difficult time even getting in front of a camera until they’re an upperclassman. At Iona, that was never an issue. As long as you wanted to put in the work, there was someone there to give you the opportunity and help you do it. Opportunities are key and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

The first time I ever got comfortable in front of the camera doing a “live shot” was at Iona. I’d pretend I was live every time we’d shoot. I can’t put into words how beneficial that was later on in my career.

Were you involved in student groups or activities? If so, how did they shape or support your career path?
When I decided to pursue this field full throttle, one of the first things I did at Iona was sign up for any and all clubs that could help me make up for lost time.

I immediately became a member of the campus TV station ICTV (and later an Executive Producer), I joined WICR as a radio host (and later a board member) and I wrote for The Ionian, the campus newspaper.

These student groups were integral in developing my skills because a bulk of the work was done outside the classroom. You can learn a lot from industry professionals in the classroom but unless you’re going out there and putting their lessons into practice, you’re not going to excel to the best of your abilities.

What's your fondest Iona memory?
There are so many that involve the many friends I met at Iona. But there’s one night that sticks out in my head.

Professor Mike Damergis and I were covering a men’s basketball game at the Hynes Athletics Center. I was just learning how to recap the highlights of a game on-camera and I was being heckled by some fans for my inexperience. (It was warranted — I was terrible when I first started and Mike isn’t shy about admitting that.) But Mike stuck up for me and told the group of hecklers to back off.

After that, we grabbed wings at Beechmont Tavern with another journalism professor, Jack Breslin. It was snowing and I probably should have been on the road home but I couldn’t help but enjoy all the stories about the business both professors told over some wings. It was only up from there as my on-camera work covering basketball in some of the loudest gyms — and they started to get a lot better. It was moments like this that make Iona unlike any other school in my opinion.

Was there a professor, staff member, or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
One of my professors, Mike Damergis, helped me foster my talent and passion once I decided to pursue this career in broadcast journalism under the major of Media & Strategic Communication at Iona. Mike stayed on campus late with me as I learned how to cover college basketball games and came in early to host shows with me in the campus TV studio. He never turned me down when I wanted to take a camera out to cover a campus news event. He was key in helping me get to where I am now.

Once you showed Mike you were whole heartedly in as a student, he would do anything to help you succeed. And that meant getting to do things through Iona that I had only dreamed about like covering the New York Mets, New York Giants and Westchester Knicks.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
My biggest piece of advice is to start early, get involved in every possible way, and go hard. That was the recipe for success for me. Make sure you understand the value of a good work ethic because this industry is demanding and requires sacrifice in order to be successful. You have to love it so much that you’ll do near anything to succeed in it. But the more you treat your student career as a professional career, you’ll be ready when you get that first job. Doing internships and getting involved in student-run groups are essential in getting a step ahead.

How would your family and friends describe you?
When describing me, especially when it comes to career, I think my family and friends would say I’m willing to be the hardest worker in the room. I may not always be, but that’s where my mind is at. I think they’d also say I’m motivated, caring and respectful. Those character traits can go a long way especially in your career.

From Mazzella Field to Covering FIFA in Qatar, Chelsea Cabarcas ’15 Always Finds a Way (Alumni Profiles 3844)

ptascio — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 14:21:21 +0000

From Mazzella Field to Covering FIFA in Qatar, Chelsea Cabarcas ’15 Always Finds a Way (Alumni Profiles 3844) ptascio Thu, 03/30/2023 - 10:21 From Mazzella Field to Covering FIFA in Qatar, Chelsea Cabarcas ’15 Always Finds a Way March 30, 2023

Name: Chelsea Cabarcas
Graduation Year: 2015
Major(s) Mass Communication
Company: MLS/APPLETV
Title: Soccer Analyst/Host
Hometown: Whitestone, N.Y.
High School: Bayside

What do you love most about what you ’re currently doing?
I love that my job is always a challenge. You’re constantly trying to get better at what you do because the competition is so high. I also have been able to travel the world with my profession. I was recently in Qatar covering the FIFA World Cup with my own morning show.

Why did you decide to study your particular major?
Since a little girl I always knew I wanted to be a broadcaster after my soccer career. I played professional soccer for 12 years but always made sure to work in television during my off time. The trick is to stay relevant and constantly make connections.

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
Aside from being a Division I athlete, which definitely molded me into being the determined person I am today, the Media & Strategic Communication Department, specifically professor Michael Damergis, taught me everything I needed to know. Iona constantly challenged me to be the best version of myself and taught me all the small details I need to know to take on the broadcasting world.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
Be persistent. Your path is your own path. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Learn absolutely everything in the business even if it's something that doesn’t interest you. It’s a lot of work behind the scenes. Be the best in whatever you choose. Set yourself apart and have your own style.

How would your family and friends describe you?
A free spirit. As soon as I graduated college, I went off to travel the world. I’ve lived in five countries and have been able to work in the broadcasting field in each country. I find a way everywhere I go. They would also describe me as persistent.

Trista Rivera ’14, ’17MSEd, Principal at Mt. Carmel-Holy Rosary School, Shares the Importance of Community (Alumni Profiles 3820)

jtarter — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 18:28:07 +0000

Trista Rivera ’14, ’17MSEd, Principal at Mt. Carmel-Holy Rosary School, Shares the Importance of Community (Alumni Profiles 3820) jtarter Mon, 03/20/2023 - 14:28 Trista Rivera ’14, ’17MSEd, Principal at Mt. Carmel-Holy Rosary School, Shares the Importance of Community March 20, 2023

Name: Trista Rivera ’14, ’17MSEd
Hometown: Wading River, N.Y.
High School: Shoreham Wading River
Major: Education
Graduation Years: 2014, 2017
Company: Partnership Schools
Job Title: Principal

What is a day in the life like at your company?
Each day brings something unique and beautiful at Mt. Carmel-Holy Rosary School. The best days are those filled with interactions with students, faculty and families. While we follow a daily schedule, each day looks different. I spend some days in many meetings and on several phone calls, while others are filled with special school events to celebrate students’ achievements. Nevertheless, each and every day is filled with learning and a whole lot of joy.

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
I’m blessed to lead a pre-K-eighth grade Catholic school. My students are incredibly intelligent and possess an unmatched wisdom for people their age. I love that we have the opportunity, as educators at MCHR, to give our students a platform to advocate for themselves, while supporting them educationally and emotionally along the way.

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
Iona taught me to be present and to seek ways to share my gifts and talents. My time at Iona was filled with opportunities to collaborate with others and build a community. These moments helped to develop my interpersonal skills while guiding me to serve with the utmost humility.

Were you involved in any student groups or activities? If so, how did they shape or support your career path?
Outside of classes, I dedicated much of time to playing for the Iona women’s soccer team. When I was not training or studying, I participated in Iona in Mission service trips and various clubs on campus. I was especially grateful for my time working as a Gael Community Ambassador during which I had the chance to meet members of the New Rochelle community and learn/present information to Iona students about how they impact the greater New Rochelle community. These experiences helped propel to me the field I currently serve in. I learned the importance of balance and organization, while also developing my lens as a learner and my voice as a leader.

What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
Iona has instilled in me a deep sense of community and service. Iona provided me a multitude of opportunities both personally and professionally. I credit one of my mentors, Dr. Paul Beaudin (a former professor at Iona), with guiding me to the school community in which I currently serve. My relationships built while at Iona have been invaluable and they have shown through the continued connections and my ability to grow professionally. Years after graduating, I had the pleasure of serving on Iona’s Board of Trustees. During my time on the Board, I witnessed the strength of our leaders and worked alongside those who care so deeply about the success of the University. It is clear that a strong sense of community begins from the top and serves as a model for all members of the Iona family.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
Be present, stay connected, be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and always remain humble. Iona provides the space for students to grow and to be challenged. I would encourage all students to take advantage of opportunities and build relationships with their classmates, professors, coaches, etc.

What seven words would your family and friends use to describe you?
Compassionate, enthusiastic, devoted, ambitious, reliable, passionate and strong.

Andy Cavacos ‘93MSEd Wears Many Hats as Principal of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, Pa. (Alumni Profiles 3787)

ptascio — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:22:22 +0000

Andy Cavacos ‘93MSEd Wears Many Hats as Principal of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, Pa. (Alumni Profiles 3787) ptascio Wed, 02/22/2023 - 10:22 Andy Cavacos ‘93MSEd Wears Many Hats as Principal of St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, Pa. February 22, 2023

Name: Andy Cavacos
Hometown: Baltimore, Md.
High School: Loyola Blakefield
Degree: MSEd, Mathematics
Graduation Year: 1993
Company: St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, Philadelphia
Job Title: Principal

What is a day in the life like at your company?
As the academic leader of the school, responsibilities and duties are varied - there are truly no two days alike. I visit and observe classes, hold one-on-one meetings with colleagues to facilitate communication and collaboration, teach algebra II (still!), go to games, plays, mock trials, Masses, attend college signing ceremonies, plan advisory sessions, and many more endeavors.

What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
I love working in a Catholic high school!

How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
My experience at Iona was outstanding, with highly effective and engaging instructors. After teaching high school math for a year and a half at LaSalle Academy, I was able to return to the classroom as a student again and learn a mix of higher-level mathematics and pedagogical techniques.

What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
The experience at Iona pushed me to become open to growth and eager to step up as a lifelong learner.

What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
Move forward in education in a spirit of gratitude, stay open to growth, and be eager to engage as fully as possible in the life of your future school(s).

What seven words would your family and friends use to describe you?
Generous, loving, funny, determined, consistent, and faith-filled.