Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

The School of Education at St. John’s University held its annual Maureen A. Hartigan Forum and networking event on April 28 in the D’Angelo Center Ballroom. The forum provided a platform for student teachers to engage with representatives from 15 area schools and school districts.

Approximately 90 students participated, including Tina Lin from Flushing, NY, and Linda Melendez from the Bronx, NY. Both are involved in dual-degree programs within the university's education department.

Tina Lin emphasized the significance of the event by stating, “It is a valuable opportunity,” while Linda Melendez highlighted the importance of hearing stories from recruiters as it provides "valuable interviewing experience."

The Hartigan Forum has been an annual tradition since 1988, honoring Maureen A. Hartigan ’55Ed and facilitating connections between St. John’s student teachers and school administrators.

School representatives included both public and private institutions such as Archbishop Molloy High School and St. Francis Preparatory School in Queens, NY, as well as Three Village Central School District in Suffolk County, NY.

Kevin Sullivan, Ed.D., Assistant Principal at Floral Park Memorial High School and former attendee of the forum 26 years ago, advised current students to prioritize their future students' needs: “Remember to keep your future students at the center of your instruction.”

Students engaged in informal conversations about various aspects like classroom sizes and school missions rather than formal interviews. Amongst recruiters were alumni like Darius Penikas ’18Ed.D., Principal of Archbishop Molloy High School, who remarked on the alignment between St. John’s Vincentian mission and Molloy's Marist mission.

Roger Bloom ’13Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent for Personnel at Westbury Union Free School District also praised St. John’s preparation quality for teaching careers.

James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D., Dean of The School of Education welcomed district representatives who met with groups of students throughout the day.

A highlight was Emily Jin receiving a $5,000 scholarship award while also being accepted into The School of Education's graduate program: “I am extremely grateful for it,” she said upon receiving news about her scholarship.