TSOE FALL 2025 NEWSLETTER | VOL 4. No. 2

James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D. | Dean, School of Education

On Tuesday, December 10, 2025, we dedicated the newly renovated Sullivan Hall Conference room. In celebration of Dean Jerrold Ross’s career and love for The School of Education, the fifth-floor conference room was named in his honor. The renovation was made possible by a generous contribution from his partner, Bob Harrod, and family.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The screenings of Cabrini—the story of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini’s efforts to establish schools and a social safety net for immigrants in New York City—were part of two separate events hosted by The School of Education and Campus Ministry that featured the film’s producer, Zachary DeCarlo. The screenings supported Italian American Heritage Month in October, and Mother Cabrini’s feast day on November 13.  

Dr. Nouna Jalilzadeh (second from left), was recognized with the Emerging Leader Award at the EMDRIA conference. Dr. Jalilzadeh is an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) certified therapist and consultant in training who was recognized for her outstanding work in the field of EMDR therapy by the EMDR International Association.

Dr. Qiana Spellman

and colleagues presented a session at the National Association of Multicultural Education entitled “Voices Unhoused: Pathways to Empowerment for Student in Temporary Housing.”

Dr. Ming-Hui Li, Fulbright Scholar received his certificate of completion from the U.S. Program Director, Fulbright Taiwan.

Dr. Nouna Jalilzadeh (third from left, holding certificate), was one of the PSI (Postpartum Support International) approved Trainers to teach the 2-day foundations of perinatal mental health course, in collaboration with her clinical role at Helping Hands Psychotherapy.

Counseling Students presenting their research proposal posters at the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES) conference in Philadelphia in conjunction with the Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International poster presentation. These students were supported by our fabulous CSI advisors, Dr. Leo Gonzalez Jr., and Dr. Nouna Jalilzadeh. 

CMHC and School Counseling students recognized for their Academic Excellence and Student Engagement included, Ashley Walsh, Danielle Diaz MHC-LP, Carly Amato, and Kathy Chang!

Michelle Schwab, a CMHC Masters student presented her poster on disability and chronic illness at the #counseling2025 American Counseling Association conference in Orlando, Florida. 

RECRUITMENT CENTER

SPOTLIGHT

The School of Education Recruitment Center embodies the connection among our students, faculty, administrators, and staff. We are intentional in our strategic approach to the holistic development of our students. Our photos tell the story.

The Institute for Catholic Schools (ICS) in The School of Education at St. John’s University recently donated $2,800 worth of academic and sensory learning tools to Father Vincent Capodanno Catholic Academy (FVCCA) on Staten Island, NY, one of the few Catholic elementary schools with a special education program.

From L-R (Front Row): Debbie Cretella, Principal of Fr. Vincent Capodanno Catholic Academy and Theresa Hollnsteiner, Resource Teacher

From L-R (Back Row): Lisa Ninnivaggio, Budget and Planning Coordinator, Robert A. DiNardo, Director of the Institute for Catholic Schools and Dr. Aliya Holmes, Associate Dean for Innovation and Partnerships

On Saturday, October 25, the Institute for Catholic Schools hosted its second professional development workshop with Dr. Bonni Cohen, ADHD Parent Coach Teacher Trainer. The workshop is designed to equip Catholic educators with the knowledge and strategies to support students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and executive function challenges.

From L-R: Robert A. DiNardo, Director of the Institute for Catholic Schools, Dr. Bonni Cohen, ADHD Parent Coach Teacher Trainer, and Dr. Aliya Holmes, Associate Dean for Innovation and Partnerships 

The School of Education hosted a two-day Summer Leadership Institute, a unique opportunity for educational administrators to network, share insights, and develop actionable strategies to enhance leadership practices and create a lasting impact in their schools and communities.

January 28- Catholic School Night

• 5:30 pm - Pre-Game SOE Reception at Stout NY 
  (215 West 35th Street)
• 7:00 pm - MSG - MBB vs Butler

From L-R: Geraldine Ruggieri DiPersia ’65Ed, Gloria Henn ’64Ed ’65GEd, and Margaret Rossi ’65Ed’90PhD

The enduring friendship among these three remarkable women, who are best friends, sorority sisters, and dedicated supporters of The School of Education, beautifully illustrates the essence of community that St. John's University fosters.

Their bond, which began in 1962 with their pledge to the sorority Delta Sigma Chi, has flourished over six decades, transcending individual paths and experiences. Each member's journey into the McCallen Society—St. John's prestigious legacy giving group—reflects a shared commitment to giving back to the institution that laid the groundwork for their personal and professional successes.

As Gerry aptly expresses, “We all share a closeness to each other and to St. John’s,” underscoring that the McCallen Society is a natural extension of their profound connection. This spirit of camaraderie not only strengthens their friendship but also enriches the lives of future generations of students.

By joining together in acts of philanthropy and support, they embody the mission of St. John's—academic excellence and character development. We invite you to reflect on your own journey at St. John's and consider becoming part of the McCallen Society, continuing this legacy of support and enriching our vibrant community.

Explore your options for supporting The School of Education with a non-cash gift by visiting mystjohnslegacy.org/soegift.

For more information on how to give, please contact:

Robert Cote

Director of Development & Gift Planning

718-990-5612

coter@stjohns.edu

The School of Education wishes for you and your family a peaceful holiday season and a fruitful New Year!