Alumni Spotlights

DCC alumni talk about their experiences as students.

Jasmin Vazquez '10

October 2024 - DCC Alumni Spotlight

As the election season reminds us of the diverse perspectives and complex issues shaping our society, the need for critical thinking has never been more apparent. At Dutchess Community College, students are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones, fostering both intellectual and personal growth. One alumna who exemplifies this is Jasmin Vazquez, DCC Class of 2010, whose experience here laid the foundation for her success as the Hudson Valley Regional Director within the Office of the State Comptroller's Intergovernmental and Community Affairs Division. We had the good fortune to connect with her as she shared her memories and insights from her time at the college

“Dutchess prepared me for what awaited me beyond the classroom,” Jasmin shares. “Your resume doesn’t carry you through life; it’s the lessons learned through hard work and application that truly matter.” One of her most cherished memories is an unforgettable experience in 2010, when history professor Joseph Norton encouraged her to join a group of students on a summer trip to China. Exploring three cities alongside her classmates, Jasmin discovered not only new perspectives but also lifelong friendships. The bond she formed with Professor Norton during that trip remains strong, and 14 years later, she still considers him a mentor.

Though her experience at DCC included international travel, some of her most significant personal growth happened right on campus. From an introverted student, she grew into a confident leader through her involvement in the Student Government Association, eventually being elected president. In these roles, she found camaraderie and honed leadership skills that shaped her future. With the guidance of mentors like Matt Hanlon and the late Michael Weida, she developed abilities that have continued to serve her long after her time at DCC.

Outside the classroom, she found joy in a wide range of activities, including playing softball and taking on a brief stint in basketball. However, it was her passion for journalism that left a lasting impact. Together with fellow students, she played a key role in reviving the student newspaper, The Dutchess Chronicle, under the leadership of Shannon Taft. She fondly remembers this collaboration as one of her proudest accomplishments at DCC.

Throughout her time at the college, Jasmin was profoundly influenced by several professors who broadened her perspective and sharpened her critical thinking skills. While she enjoyed the creativity fostered in her English Literature classes, it was a few educators who left an indelible mark on her experience. For instance, Professor Reitano challenged her to examine social programming and resist the pull of herd mentality. Professor Goffe-McNish, with her direct yet playful demeanor, exemplified the power of being both intelligent and confident. Moreover, Professor Norton’s guidance was instrumental in helping her navigate both academic and personal growth.

For today’s students, Jasmin offers simple yet profound advice: embrace discomfort and seek out challenges. Whether it’s joining a club, running for student government, or enrolling in a dreaded public speaking course, she believes these moments of discomfort are where the most meaningful growth occurs. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, suggesting that students reflect on what they hope to achieve at DCC and how it aligns with their broader goals.

Looking back, Jasmin is immensely grateful for her decision to attend DCC, not only for the friendships and skills she gained but also for the financial freedom it provided. “I walked away without the burden of debt,” she reflects, noting how her time at DCC prepared her for life beyond the classroom in ways she couldn’t have anticipated.

As students navigate their own paths at Dutchess Community College, Jasmin hopes they will embrace new opportunities, develop self-awareness, and have the courage to step into the unknown. Her own journey is a testament to the transformative power of a DCC education, where critical thinking, personal growth, and lasting connections come together to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Joe Wernette-Harnden '02

 September 2024 – DCC Alumni Spotlight

Joseph Wernette-Harnden, DCC Class of 2002, recently made a generous gift to the DCCF Scholarship fund. His kindness, rooted in deep gratitude for the opportunities he received at Dutchess Community College, honors the memory of his father, Charles B. Harnden, Jr., who worked tirelessly to cover the tuition for both Joseph and his sister when they attended DCC from 1996-1998 and 2000-2002, respectively.

Joseph recalls his years at DCC as transformative. "I remember amazing professors who really cared about their students. I took classes led by highly skilled professionals." Influential figures like Ms. Toni Emeri, whose sincere interest in her students and focus on finding solutions to modern educational problems, inspired him to pursue a teaching career. He also enjoyed the camaraderie and support from staff like Deborah Ackerman in the Humanities Department, with whom he still keeps in touch via Facebook.

While at DCC, Joseph dove into campus life, serving as the Layout Editor for the literary magazine, Exposed, and even establishing a “Future Educators Club.” He has many wonderful and amusing memories, especially from class field trips. One unforgettable experience with his Biology class and Dr. Richard Kirker at Norrie Point stands out. “Somehow, I ended up driving the van to Norrie Point and will never forget hoping the brakes would hold out on that ridiculously steep hill,” he recalled.

The impact of DCC on Joseph's academic journey is evident in his subsequent achievements. He seamlessly transferred to SUNY New Paltz, graduated with honors, and later earned a Master's degree from Loyola University Chicago. Joseph now resides in Illinois and recently completed an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, a crucial step in his certification process, through National Louis University in Chicago.

Reflecting on his experience, Joseph adds, “Because Dutchess was top notch, I was able to easily move to SUNY New Paltz for my Bachelor's. I still say DCC was my favorite time and wish I could have stayed there for all three of my degrees!”

We at DCCF are proud to have Joseph among our accomplished alumni and are grateful for his thoughtful gift, which will benefit future students at Dutchess Community College. Joseph's story is a testament to the lasting impact of community colleges. His dedication to his students and his fond memories of DCC reflect the values he learned here. "I always talk to my students about community colleges as an option to get a high-quality education where you are not paying a lot but taking great classes with excellent professors. It truly is perfect for someone who knows what they want to do but just doesn’t know how to get there."

All of us in Joseph’s Alumni family are thrilled for his successes and confident that he will make a wonderful principal. Any school system will be very fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented individual at their helm!