Q&A with School of Education Alumna Linda I. Rosa-Lugo, Ed.D. ’77ED, ’79M.S.Ed.

Linda I. Rosa-Lugo, Ed.D. ’77ED, ’79M.S.Ed., recently accepted a new role as President of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Prior to this, Dr. Rosa-Lugo has been an active member of ASHA for over 30 years. She has received numerous awards and has served as Vice President for Professional Practice and President of the Hispanic Caucus.

“As I step into the role of ASHA President, I carry the lessons and relationships formed at St. John’s,” Dr. Rosa-Lugo said. “The School of Education played a meaningful role in shaping my purpose and my path.”

Dr. Rosa-Lugo took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions from The School of Education.

How would you describe yourself?

I am an educator, clinician, and advocate whose work centers on expanding communication access for children and families. I see myself as a bridge builder, someone who brings people and communities together to advance equity in education and health. My belief that communication is a human right has guided every role I’ve held, from classroom teacher to bilingual speech‑language pathologist to University leader. My career has been grounded in service, mentorship, and preparing emerging professionals to lead with integrity and purpose.

How did your experience at St. John’s prepare you for this new role?

St. John’s provided the academic foundation and spiritual grounding that shaped my professional path. As an undergraduate, I was drawn to speech‑language pathology because I had personally benefited from these services as a child. My graduate studies, supported by a Title VII Fellowship, deepened my commitment to multilingual learners and opened the door to early work in bilingual special education in New York City. Faculty modeled excellence, resilience, and service, helping me develop the skills to lead collaboratively and advocate for communication access at a national level.

What inspired you to pursue a Master of Education in Bilingual/Bicultural Education?

Growing up in the Bronx, I saw how language could open doors or create barriers. That experience shaped my desire to support multilingual learners. The Bilingual/Bicultural Education program at St. John’s aligned with that purpose and offered a strong sense of community. The fellowship allowed me to blend my love of language with my commitment to equity, and it strengthened my belief that multilingual children must be seen, supported, and celebrated.

Were there faculty or mentors at St. John’s who helped develop your resilience?

Yes. I was fortunate to learn from faculty who challenged and supported me. Donna Geffner, Ph.D., was an early role model whose leadership left an impression. A pivotal moment came in 1976 when I became homeless due to a fire; my instructors and the Knights of Columbus ensured I could continue my studies and graduate on time. In graduate school, John N. Spiridakis, Ph.D., guided my fellowship and helped shape my path in bilingual education. Their mentorship strengthened my resilience and sense of purpose.

If you had to start this journey again, would you take the same path?

Yes. Every challenge and opportunity shaped the leader I am today. As a first‑generation college student, each step—often in ways I didn’t realize at the time—prepared me for the work I do now. My journey allowed me to serve diverse communities locally, nationally, and internationally; mentor emerging professionals; and advocate for equity in communication access. I would choose this path again because it has been meaningful and aligned with my core values.

What advice would you give to students in The School of Education?

Stay curious, stay humble, and stay committed to the communities you serve. Seek mentors, show up, stay open to new experiences, and be authentic. Ask questions, embrace challenges, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, lead with compassion. When your work is rooted in humanity, your impact extends far beyond the classroom or clinic.