Victor Visconti to be honored by St John’s University’s School of Education
Retired educator Victor Visconti, a 1968 graduate of St. John’s University’s School of Education, will be honored at the 15th Annual Leaders in Education Awards Dinner (LEAD) on April 16 at Stewart Manor Country Club in Stewart Manor, New York.
Visconti expressed his appreciation for the recognition. “I am both surprised and deeply honored. St. John’s University launched my career and supported me from the beginning. My experience exceeded my expectations, which is why I remain engaged with the University. I feel a lasting connection to St. John’s, and each campus visit has been meaningful, often shared with those who have supported me. About four years ago, I donated a bench, and they gave me a whole program for which Susan M. Damiani, M.B.A. ’87CBA, Director of Gift Planning and The McCallen Society, ensured every detail was handled, culminating in a celebration Mass at St. Thomas More Church.”
After earning his bachelor’s degree in education from St. John’s in 1968, Visconti continued his studies at Queens College and Fordham University before teaching in the Massapequa School District and holding several coordinator roles there. He later joined the Middle Country Central School District as a coordinator of instruction and Assistant Principal at Centereach High School. Visconti also taught as an adjunct instructor in English and Education at SUNY Old Westbury until the COVID-19 pandemic began; he now works as a student consultant following his retirement.
Visconti credits his time at St. John’s University for shaping his career path: “My life has been impacted favorably. With my bachelor’s degree from St. John’s, I met many influential folks and worked alongside Maureen A. Hartigan ’55ED and The School of Education Alumni Association, and became instrumental in the work of the Hartigan Forum. All these associations, along with many professors and mentors, have certainly shaped my career path.”
He also recalled several professors who influenced him during his studies: “Yes, there were several professors in The School of Education who influenced my life, but the ones I remember are Dr. James McCormick, who pointed me toward the area of English. He taught gothic literature, and I took a liking to the subject. I later created a course in Gothic literature at SUNY at Old Westbury.
There was also Herbert C. Clish, Ed.D., who was the Dean of The School of Education, who encouraged me to go to the Massapequa School District. He said he knew the district well; he loved it and said it was an honor that they picked me. The professors were all influential in their own way.”
Reflecting on his student days at St John’s University—which operates as a Catholic institution affiliated with the Vincentian Community (source)—Visconti noted: “While I may not recall every detail, I can say that everyone I interacted with at St. John’s was honorable, which I truly value. My active involvement in student organizations; my collaboration with Susan M. Damiani, M.B.A., ’87CBA; and staying connected with my fellow alumna Anna Maria Montuori ’68ED,’70M.S.Ed.,’82P.D., are memories I cherish.”
St John’s University supports multicultural initiatives through its various centers (source) and features campuses both locally—in Queens and Manhattan—and internationally (source). It offers over 100 undergraduate programs across six schools (source), maintaining its dedication to liberal arts education (source). Rev Brian J Shanley serves as president (source).
To future alumni generations Visconti advised: “I remember when the campus was just a small golf course, and I have watched it transform into a vibrant University with new buildings, benches, and a range of respected degree programs. The next generation of alumni should appreciate that the University’s strength comes from its alumni and instructors. St John’s University is a constant presence that remains in your heart and soul It is an honor to be part of its enduring legacy.”
