Nazareth College students Matthew Brunale and Kiersten Hecht of Brewster have earned Spring 2017 Dean's List Honors.
Matt is currently studying Social work and Legal Studies (Law) at Nazareth College. Through his major, Matt learns the skills necessary to help those in need get the necessary resources they require to thrive. Matt explains, "I have participated in a number of events this year through the Social Work Department, including Operation Homeless Connect, and the Point in Time Count through the US Department of Housing and Development." After Nazareth, he plans on pursing his Masters and Doctorate in Social Work, followed by a career in school social work, and community aid/engagement. Matt stated, "I don’t do what I do for recognition. I do it to inspire those who look to me as a role model, friend, and fellow human."
Kiersten is entering her junior year, and is halfway to receiving her B.M in Music Education from Nazareth College. She was just elected historian of her school's chapter of NAFME (the National Association For Music Education), and is president-elect of the NAFME Collegiate New York State E-Board. Junior year is the exciting start of teaching observations, and she cannot wait to be placed in a middle or high school setting in the fall. When she graduates, she hopes to be paired with wonderful students in a music classroom (maybe in New York state, or maybe near her favorite city, Boston, MA). She refers to a quote by President Gerald Ford, "Music education opens doors that help children pass from school into the world around them - a world of work, culture, intellectual activity, and human involvement. The future of our nation depends on providing our children with a complete education that includes music."