March 6, 2024
Casey Lomangino ’14Ed, ’16GEd, ’23Ed.D., Assistant Principal, Carrie P. Weber Middle School, Port Washington, NY, will be among several alumni honored by The School of Education (SOE) at the 13th Annual Leaders in Education Awards Dinner (LEAD) on April 11 in the D’Angelo Center on St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus.
Congratulations! What does it feel like to receive this award?
As a recipient of the 13th Annual Leaders in Education Award at St. John’s University, I am deeply honored and humbled by this recognition. This award is a testament to the collective efforts of the influences I have had along the way, from supportive mentors and inspiring colleagues to the overwhelming encouragement of friends and family. Their guidance, wisdom, expertise, and belief in my potential have contributed greatly to my journey and fueled my passion for education. I am profoundly grateful for the countless individuals who have contributed to my growth and success, and I share this honor with each and every one of them.
As I reflect on my journey at St. John’s University, I am reminded of the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential. I am deeply committed to upholding the St. John’s University mission of service, integrity, and excellence in all that I do. I am honored to be recognized with this prestigious award and remain dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of education, both now and in the years to come. I am truly grateful to be acknowledged among so many dedicated educators who are committed to making a difference in the lives of others.
Please tell us more about yourself and your current profession.
As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter, aunt, friend, and educator, I wear multiple hats that define who I am, contribute to my identity, and influence how I approach the world around me. Each of these roles brings its own set of responsibilities, joys, and challenges, fostering avenues for growth, connection, and fulfillment.
I received my undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate degrees from St. John’s University, an institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping my personal, academic, and professional journey. From meeting my husband at St. John’s, to being a member of the St. John’s President’s Society, to working as a Graduate Assistant, I have been afforded countless opportunities to cross paths with individuals whose guidance has inspired me in all aspects of my life. My experiences have led to significant personal and academic development, while also nurturing leadership skills and fostering a commitment to service. The knowledge, skills, and values instilled in me during my time at St. John’s University have been instrumental in my success as a person, educator, and leader, and I am forever grateful.
I am a proud alumna of the St. John’s University Women’s Soccer team. Playing soccer at the collegiate level instilled in me invaluable lessons in discipline, teamwork, resilience, and leadership, which have been influential in who I am as an educator and the person I am today. I owe a debt of gratitude to my coach, Ian Stone, whose mentorship has been the foundation of my development both on and off the field. His belief in my abilities, coupled with his relentless dedication to my growth as an athlete and a person, have shaped me in ways I could never have imagined. The values and skills I learned through playing soccer at St. John’s University have seamlessly translated into my career in education, enabling me to effectively collaborate with colleagues, inspire students, and navigate challenges with passion and determination.
I am currently serving as an Assistant Principal in Port Washington, where I am thankful to work alongside dedicated educators, passionate students, and supportive families to foster a culture where every student has the support and resources they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. My administrative role allows me to contribute to the development of a positive and inclusive culture within the school community, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, I strive to empower students to become confident, resilient, and compassionate individuals who are prepared to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Prior to my role as an Assistant Principal, I spent five years as a high school mathematics teacher, where I had the opportunity to inspire and help students to develop a love for learning, critical thinking, and problem solving. It was immensely fulfilling to witness the growth and achievement of my students as they tackled challenges with confidence and perseverance. My time in the classroom solidified my commitment to education and ignited a passion for educational leadership.
How has a degree from The School of Education impacted your career path?
Reflecting on how all three of my degrees from The School of Education have impacted my career path, I can confidently say that they have been instrumental in shaping who I am as a person and educator today. My St. John’s University experiences have been the cornerstone of my career path, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
My journey with SOE has provided me with not only a strong foundation of pedagogical knowledge, but also invaluable practical experiences that have prepared me to excel in the field of education. The rigorous coursework, engaging faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities have equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of education. Moreover, the School’s emphasis on fostering a community of lifelong learners has instilled in me a passion for continuous growth and professional development. I am forever grateful for the opportunities and experiences that the School has afforded me, and I am proud to be a part of the St. John’s University educational community.
Were there any professors in The School of Education who influenced your life?
Reflecting on the profound impact of my experience within The School of Education, I am deeply grateful for those individuals within the School who have influenced my life and career.
One such professor is Anthony J. Annunziato, Ed.D., Clinical Associate Professor, Administrative and Instructional Leadership, whose expertise in educational leadership and compassionate approach to mentorship greatly influenced my growth as an educator. Dr. Annunziato’s guidance, encouragement, and willingness to go above and beyond to support all of his students has had a lasting impact on my career.
Another influential figure within the School is Joan I. Birringer-Haig, Ed.D., Associate Professor, Administrative and Instructional Leadership, whose passion for teaching and dedication to her students left an unforgettable mark on me. Dr. Birringer-Haig’s innovative teaching methods, depth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment to student success inspired me to embrace learning wholeheartedly in my own academic and professional pursuits.
Additionally, Nancy S. Kaplan, Ed.D., Vice Provost for Academic Engagement and Partnerships, Office of the Provost, played a key role in sparking my interest and igniting my passion in education that continues to drive me in my work today. Dr. Kaplan’s belief in my abilities, coupled with her dedication to fostering a love of learning, inspired me to embark on this journey with enthusiasm and determination.
What are your most cherished memories from your days as a student in The School of Education?
One memory that stands out is the sense of community within the School. From the first day of classes as an undergraduate student, I was welcomed into a supportive and nurturing learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, and staff alike shared a common passion for education. The friendships and the bonds formed with classmates, professors, administrators, and staff have left an unforgettable mark on my heart.
The memories I hold dear from my time in the School are a testament to the transformative power of education and the profound impact it has had on my life and career. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a vibrant and dynamic learning community, and I am honored to carry forward the lessons learned and the values instilled within me as I continue my role as an educational leader.
What wisdom would you like to share with the next generation of alumni?
As I reflect on my journey within The School of Education and the wisdom gained along the way, there’s one invaluable lesson that I would like to impart to the next generation of alumni: the power of relationships. Throughout my time in the School, I’ve come to realize that relationships are at the heart of everything we do as educators. Whether it’s the connections with students, colleagues, mentors, or members of the community, these relationships are the foundation upon which meaningful learning experiences are built. I urge future alums to cherish and nurture these relationships, for they are not only sources of support and inspiration, but also vehicles for growth and collaboration. Take the time to listen to others, to learn from their experiences, and to celebrate their successes. Cultivate a spirit of empathy, kindness, and respect in all your interactions, for it is through these qualities that true connections are formed.
Furthermore, don’t be afraid to reach out and seek guidance from those who have walked the path before you. Your professors, mentors, and fellow alums are invaluable resources who can offer insight, advice, and encouragement as you navigate your own journey in the field of education. Remember that the impact you have on others through your relationships extends far beyond the classroom or the workplace. Your words, actions, and presence have the power to inspire, empower, and uplift those around you. Embrace this responsibility with humility and integrity, and strive to leave a positive imprint on the lives of others wherever you go.