Some decisions can be life-altering. For Lydia Haluska ’97C,
’03G, Assistant Dean, The School of
Education, deciding to apply for a position at St. John’s was
the catalyst that transformed her life.
After a stint in the for-profit sector as a new accounts officer at
a local bank, she visited the nearby University’s Human
Resources Department, following up on a suggestion by one of
her sons.
Two months later, Dean Haluska was hired by The School of Education
(SOE) as a clerk/typist. “It’s hard to believe 22 years have
passed,” she said recently. “I’m as happy today as I was when I
started. St. John’s has opened doors I never thought I’d get to
walk through.”
Since coming here, Dean Haluska has been able to realize her
potential by, among other things, earning her undergraduate degree
— something she regretted not doing earlier in her life — and
building a satisfying second career.
Once on board, she seized the moment and enrolled in St. John’s College of
Arts and Sciences. Buoyed by the support of her family and the
encouragement of coworkers like
Charisse Willis, P.D., Associate Dean for Undergraduate
Studies, Dean Haluska graduated with honors.
Shortly after earning her degree, Dean Haluska was promoted to
Assistant to Jerrold Ross, Ph.D.,
Dean, The School of Education. “I’m so grateful to Dean Willis for
personally recommending me,” she said. “I feel very lucky that I
was assigned to the School’s undergraduate division, where I have
always worked closely with her. She’s become a friend and a
mentor.”
Both of Dean Haluska’s sons, Gregory and James, also attended St.
John’s. Gregory received his M.B.A. in 1994. James earned his
bachelor’s degree in 1996 and his Master in Education in 2003. He
currently is enrolled in the School
Building and District Leader Advanced Certificate
program.
These accomplishments, in turn, have led to others. “James and I
received our master’s degrees together at the May 2003 graduation
ceremony,” said Haluska. “It was incredibly exciting for my family
to witness this special occasion.” Thanks to St. John’s, she added,
her sons have “gone on to successful careers in their respective
fields.”
Dean Haluska’s academic achievements, coupled with her personal
commitment to helping students, resulted in her being promoted to
Assistant Dean. In this position, her responsibilities include
advising undergraduates and teaching a required undergraduate
course. She has also become a Certification Officer, ensuring that
all Education graduates fulfill the requirements for NYS
licensing.
Dean Haluska’s contributions to St. John’s have earned her many
fans. “Lydia’s determination is inspiring,” said Dean Willis. “She
is known for always being willing to go that extra mile for
students.”
For Dean Haluska, St. John’s continues to be a source of
self-discovery. “I always knew it would be,” she said. “As soon as
I stepped on campus, I felt I was meant to be here.”