Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
At St. John’s University’s annual Alumni Convocation ceremony on October 19, Joseph Sciame, a 1971 graduate of the School of Education, was awarded the Medal of Honor. This accolade is the highest honor the university can bestow upon an alumnus.
Reflecting on his retirement earlier this year after a 61-year tenure at St. John's, Sciame expressed his gratitude for receiving the award. "Receiving the St. John’s University Medal of Honor has meant a good deal to me in terms of my lifetime achievements at the University," he stated. He emphasized his long-standing connection with the institution and its Vincentian tradition, citing the motto “Ministrare non Ministrari” as a guiding principle.
Sciame attributed his receipt of the Medal of Honor to his commitment to alma mater and support over the years. "People within and outside the University have said I made a difference—and I did it without realizing it," he noted.
Discussing life post-retirement, Sciame mentioned his continued involvement with The School of Education Alumni Advisory Board, drawing from his experience founding and chairing Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter School for ten years. He highlighted his ongoing dedication to service and leadership development as reasons for remaining active after retirement.
Throughout his career, Sciame drew inspiration from many individuals at St. John's who supported him along the way. Among them were Henry F. Rossi, Blaise J. Opulente, Ph.D., Carl Robusto, Ph.D., Sr. Margaret John Kelly, D.C., Barbara L. Morris, Ed.D., and former university presidents Rev. Joseph T. Cahill, C.M., and Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M.
Reflecting on impactful experiences during his time at St. John's, Sciame shared that since announcing his retirement earlier this year, he received numerous messages acknowledging how he had positively influenced others' lives.
When asked about changes he might make if given another chance at his journey, Sciame considered dedicating more time to achieving additional academic degrees but acknowledged that societal concerns often took precedence in his life.
As Chair of The School of Education Alumni Advisory Board moving forward, Sciame aims to enhance alumni involvement by showcasing accomplishments in education technology and classroom innovation.
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