Educators Honored on Staten Island

More than 100 alumni, students and faculty members gathered on Tuesday, April 1 at St. John’s University’s Staten Island campus to honor the achievements of five individuals who have made significant contributions in the area of education on Staten Island. 

The honorees, Dr. Gregory Rossicone ’72GEd, ’78PD, ’85Ed.D., Mary Chiapperino ’97GEd, ’02PD, Natalie Hendrix ’02Ed, ’03GEd, Lois Nicotra ’77NDC, ’83GEd and Grace Dondero Ed.D., ’70Ed, ’71GEd received crystal apples from St. John’s The School of Education and Office of Institutional Advancement, Staten Island to commemorate the evening and for the many ways in which they have impacted their community through their roles as educators.

Jerrold Ross, Dean, The School of Education gave attendees a brief history of higher education in New York, emphasizing the important role that St. John’s has played over the years both in educating people and in training educators.  He also paid tribute to the honorees, explaining how each, in their own ways, embodied the mission of the University.

Dr. Rossicone, Principal, Notre Dame Academy High School, who has been an educator for more than 35 years, was delighted both to receive the honor and to be grouped with such distinguished company.  “What a blessing to be honored among such great women!” he exclaimed. 

Chiapperino, Principal, Our Lady Help of Christians, who started her career as a reading volunteer later becoming a teacher and principal, was grateful for the recognition.  “I feel so honored,” she shared.  “It truly is a joy to be a part of the St. John’s community.”

Hendrix, Teacher, P.S. 58, who teaches the second grade and specializes in literacy programs praised her mentor and fellow honoree Dr. Dondero for her insightful guidance, remarking about the honor, “I am deeply honored, humbled and appreciative.”

Dondero Ed.D., Retired Associate Professor, St. John’s University, who has taught at both the elementary school and university levels, has shared her expertise with many students over her 30+ year career.  Although unable to attend, she was remembered by her fellow honorees and her colleague Donna Narducci accepted the award on her behalf.

Nicotra, Chairperson/CEO of The Nicotra Group and former elementary school teacher, who served as an elementary school teacher following her graduation from St. John’s before becoming involved with several community-minded groups, was genuinely pleased and blessed to be part of the St. John’s family.

The evening concluded with dinner and appreciation for the good work the honorees are doing for Staten Island.  Nick Legakis ’97SVC, ’07MPS, Associate Director for Institutional Advancement on the Staten Island campus was also in attendance to congratulate the honorees on their achievements.  “Our honorees have been leaders in educating the Staten Island community throughout their lives and as St. John’s alumni, they have lived the mission of the University.”

The Leaders in Education Awards Dinner (LEAD) annually honors those who have garnered significant accomplishments in the fields of education and education administration.