Retired educator Victor Visconti, who graduated from St. John’s University in 1968 with a degree in education, will be recognized at the 15th Annual Leaders in Education Awards Dinner hosted by The School of Education. The event is scheduled for April 16 at Stewart Manor Country Club in Stewart Manor, New York.
Visconti expressed gratitude upon learning about the honor. “I am both surprised and deeply honored. St. John’s University launched my career and supported me from the beginning. My experience exceeded my expectations, which is why I remain engaged with the University. I feel a lasting connection to St. John’s, and each campus visit has been meaningful, often shared with those who have supported me. About four years ago, I donated a bench, and they gave me a whole program for which Susan M. Damiani, M.B.A. ’87CBA, Director of Gift Planning and The McCallen Society, ensured every detail was handled, culminating in a celebration Mass at St. Thomas More Church.”
Reflecting on his professional journey after graduating from St. John’s University—a Catholic and Vincentian institution dedicated to liberal arts education (source)—Visconti described his further studies at Queens College and Fordham University before starting his teaching career in the Massapequa School District. He later became a coordinator of instruction and Assistant Principal at Centereach High School within the Middle Country Central School District. Visconti also taught as an adjunct instructor in English and Education at SUNY Old Westbury until the COVID-19 pandemic began; he now works as a student consultant following retirement.
“My life has been impacted favorably,” Visconti said regarding his time at The School of Education. “With my bachelor’s degree from St. John’s, I met many influential folks and worked alongside Maureen A. Hartigan ’55ED and The School of Education Alumni Association, and became instrumental in the work of the Hartigan Forum. All these associations, along with many professors and mentors, have certainly shaped my career path.”
He recalled several professors who played important roles during his studies: “Yes, there were several professors in The School of Education who influenced my life, but the ones I remember are Dr. James McCormick, who pointed me toward the area of English. He taught gothic literature, and I took a liking to the subject. I later created a course in Gothic literature at SUNY at Old Westbury.
There was also Herbert C. Clish, Ed.D., who was the Dean of The School of Education, who encouraged me to go to the Massapequa School District. He said he knew the district well; he loved it and said it was an honor that they picked me. The professors were all influential in their own way.”
On reflecting about cherished memories from his days as a student at St. John’s—which operates centers focused on multicultural initiatives both locally and globally (source)—Visconti noted: “While I may not recall every detail, I can say that everyone I interacted with at St. John’s was honorable, which I truly value. My active involvement in student organizations; my collaboration with Susan M. Damiani, M.B.A., ’87CBA; and staying connected with my fellow alumna Anna Maria Montuori ’68ED,’70M.S.Ed.,’82P.D., are memories I cherish.”
Addressing future alumni from one of more than 100 undergraduate programs across six schools (source), Visconti offered this perspective: “I remember when the campus was just a small golf course, and I have watched it transform into a vibrant University with new buildings, benches, and a range of respected degree programs. The next generation of alumni should appreciate that the University’s strength comes from its alumni and instructors. St. John’s University is a constant presence that remains in your heart and soul. It is an honor to be part of its enduring legacy.”
St John’s University maintains campuses in Queens and Manhattan as well as international locations such as Rome, Paris, and Limerick (source). Rev Brian J Shanley serves as president according to university records (source).
