Leaders in Education Field Connect at Networking Social

St. John’s University’s Department of Administrative and Instructional Leadership (DAIL) hosted its first annual Educational Leadership Networking Social, connecting The School of Education with education partners across Long Island, on Friday, September 27, at The Halston American Kitchen & Bar in Melville, NY.

“It is always exciting to reconnect with our alumni and supporters on Long Island,” said James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D., Dean, The School of Education. “The energy is invigorating when we get together to talk about initiatives at St. John’s and the important work taking place with our many alumni in leadership positions.”

The event provided a platform for discussing pressing issues, exploring emerging practices, and fostering a strong professional network to support both established and emerging leaders in education.

“The Educational Leadership Networking Social provided an excellent opportunity for DAIL faculty to meet with and share experiences with educational leaders throughout Long Island, many of whom are St. John's alumni,” said Serafino M. Celano, Ed.D., Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Administrative and Instructional Leadership. “The thought exchange was an exciting and uplifting reminder of the fine work being accomplished by very talented and hard-working professionals in the field. The event was a great example of how the School of Education continues to build strong partnerships with local school districts and serve as a resource for the larger educational community." 

Stephen Kotok, Ph.D., DAIL Chairperson and Associate Professor, added, “The department is so proud of its impressive alumni network of educational leaders. The networking event was an incredible opportunity to engage with prominent school leaders. These relationships help us ensure our programs are responsive to current school district needs, allow us to tap into their expertise for instruction, and assist us in imagining new partnerships to support school leaders and ultimately improve student outcomes.”

“It’s energizing and hopeful to talk with our alumni and learn about the exciting programs and opportunities being created in the communities they lead,” said Catherine C. DiMartino, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Administrative and Instructional Leadership. “I always leave the conversations wishing my children attended school in their district!”