May 15, 2026
The School of Education at St. John’s University celebrated the achievements and aspirations of its top students during a special awards ceremony honoring graduates for their academic excellence, service, and leadership. The event not only recognized years of hard work and dedication but also served as a meaningful send-off as faculty, families, and peers gathered to reflect on the honorees’ journeys and the impact they are poised to make in classrooms, communities, and beyond.
In his welcome remarks, James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D., Dean, The School of Education, offered pointed advice to the soon-to-be graduates as they enter the professional world. “When you think about your future in teaching, in leading educational institutions, in counseling, it’s important to always remember, as the best of the best—the award winners—who do you want to be?” he said. “I encourage you to help your students, clients, and colleagues feel valued. Help them to learn, and help them to be the foundation for what we want our society to be.”
For many, the ceremony served as a moment of reflection on years of dedication, growth, and community—an occasion that both honored how far they have come and signaled the meaningful work that lies ahead.
“It’s very exciting because I’ve loved the education program since before Accepted Student Day,” said Brianna Cristello, a childhood education major with a concentration in biology from Monroe Township, NJ. “I’ve made so many great connections with my professors, and I’ve formed so many friendships with my classmates.”
During her senior year, Brianna was a member of the President’s Society, the University’s highest honor society for undergraduates. “We couldn’t be prouder of her,” said Mike Cristello, Brianna’s father. “We’ve been here multiple times for multiple award ceremonies, so this adds to her portfolio. St. John’s has truly been a gift to her. She loves this University.”
His wife, Carrie, agreed. “It’s like a second home for her, and I’m so happy that she found The School of Education. Everyone at St. John’s and in her program has treated her with so much kindness, and she’s learned so much along the way. We’re so grateful.”
Rockaway Beach, NY, resident Alisha Sampath ’25ED, who is graduating with her master’s in TESOL education, said the honor affirmed both her path and her purpose. “It shows that my hopes and aspirations are paying off—that I’m headed in the right direction. My dream is to work as an ESL [English as a Second Language] teacher at a District 75 [special education] and advocate for students,” she said. “When a student gets identified as a special education student, they don’t always get the necessary support that they deserve. I want to advocate for them and make sure they’re getting all the resources they need to thrive.”
As the recipient of the Undergraduate Service Award, Ryan Curran of Queens, NY, has made a meaningful impact through his work with Campus Ministry and the Office of Multicultural Affairs, engaging in initiatives that span identity, culture, and disability awareness. Ryan is enrolled in the Childhood/Special Education (1–6), Bachelor of Science in Education/Master of Science in Education program and is also a nationally recognized speech and debate coach.
“Winning this award reminds me to remain committed to what I love to do, which is to help others,” he said. “Since high school, I’ve been committed not only to helping other people, but also to making a difference. When I think of this award, all the work that I’ve done throughout high school and college comes back to me.”
In all, 23 awards were announced at the event, marking not only a celebration of academic excellence but a fitting culmination of the honorees’ journeys at St. John’s. “It’s incredibly gratifying to see all of our new graduates from The School of Education have their achievements recognized,” said Donald R. McClure, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Student Experience. “They’ve worked so hard for a long time, so we’re happy to recognize their research, scholarship, and overall achievement.”