Nassau students challenged to branch out

Nassau Community College

Number of graduates: 2,942

Commencement speaker: Donald P. Astrab, president of Nassau Community College, spoke at the college's 50th commencement. "Many of your chosen fields of expertise are at the heart of the challenges the world now faces. Issues around health care, environmental stewardship, social development and education will require your attention and energy. It is not about when and where you participate, it is important that you do it and do it well, and that you leave a lasting and positive effect."

Janet Dillon-Kowalczyk, 36, the college's student trustee, also addressed graduates. A mother of five, Dillon-Kowalczyk was a New York City firefighter for more than eight years and as a medic was one of the first responders on 9/11. Two years ago, she decided to return to school and graduated with an associate degree in education from the college. She will attend C.W. Post in the fall, where she will study special education. She hopes to become a teacher. "I remember the first day of school; I was scared and lonely, but I managed to pull through," she said. "As you continue your journey in life and begin to branch up, don't forget to branch out and entwine with those closest to you because there will be strong winds that lie ahead . . . but if your roots are grounded and secure, you will never fail."

John Castrillon, 23, of Levittown

Associate degree in finance

He hopes to work on Wall Street as an investment banker and plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in the fall. "I hope to rebuild Wall Street. I feel the future is looking great. It's not about the economy. It's about finding your passion."

Marlene Pierre, 21, of Hempstead

Associate degree in apparel design

She hopes to own her own design company, but hasn't found a job in her field yet. "I'm optimistic. I feel that even though we're in financial distress, we're going to come out of it. . . . I have to believe in myself."

Christina DeFilippis, 21, of North Massapequa

Associate degree in liberal arts

She plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in the fall and hopes to become a social worker. "It feels great to graduate. I'm one step closer to my goals."

Hadassa Garcia, 23, of East Meadow

Associate degree in liberal arts

She plans to become a business manager. She is the third person in her family to receive a college degree. "It's a big moment for my family. . . . I makes me feel like I'm doing better than my parents and making their dreams come true."

Angelo Penna, 22, of Oceanside

Associate degree in criminal justice

Penna, the first person to earn a college degree in his family, said getting his degree will allow him to become a role model for his 5-year-old son. He will attend John Jay College of Criminal Justice and major in forensic science. "I'm feeling like a good dad. I'm feeling a lot of pride."