Nassau Community College: November 21, 2024: 9/30

#campus-visit-number-nine-is-in-the-books

Thursday, November 21, 2024

After departing Westchester Community College, my journey to Garden City, NY—a drive perfectly aligned with the rush hour rhythm—brought me to the dynamic campus of Nassau Community College. Despite the cold and rainy weather, the warmth of the faculty leaders shone through every interaction, making the day both enriching and inspiring. 

The day began with a thoughtful and engaging meeting with the Academic Senate Executive Committee including CGL Jason Gorman, VP Ed Boyden, FCCC Chair of Governance and Delegate Liz Hynes-Musnisky, Second Chair Donna Cempa-Danziger and Secretary Val Fasanello. Their dedication to shared governance and the academic mission of Nassau Community College was evident in every conversation. 

Next, I joined members of the ASEC and Student Government Association for a campus tour, braving the drizzle to explore highlights such as the Plaza Art Gallery.  The Senate meeting that followed offered me a warm welcome and a valuable opportunity to witness the college’s governance processes in action. 

At lunch, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Nassau’s Campus Governance Leader, Jason Gorman and FCCC Chair of Governance and Delegate Liz Hynes-Musnisky. Our working lunch was a lively and productive conversation underscoring the importance of elevating the faculty voice at both the campus and system-wide levels. 

My afternoon included a brief one-on-one meeting with Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Maria Conzatti. Her commitment was evident as she made the effort to meet with me on campus despite not feeling well, a gesture I greatly appreciated. 

The day continued with an open forum where faculty engaged in candid and forward-thinking discussions about the future of NCC. The turnout and enthusiasm underscored the faculty’s unwavering dedication to their students and to building a thriving academic community. 

A delightful conclusion to the day was a visit to a rehearsal of Working, a Musical, the current NCC theatre production. I had the pleasure of meeting Richard Ginsburg, the dedicated and passionate chair of NCC’s theatre and dance program, whose enthusiasm for the arts and education is truly inspiring. 

Though the weather outside was chilly, the vibrant energy, dedication, and collegial spirit of Nassau Community College’s faculty made my visit unforgettable. 

My heartfelt gratitude goes to everyone who contributed to such a meaningful and impactful day — in particular to Jason Gorman whose hospitality and thoughtfulness did not go unnoticed.  It was an honor to spend time with such passionate and engaged educators.