On April 23, NYIT’s Zeta Lambda chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society (XAE) held its third annual induction ceremony.  Ten Arthur O. Eve HEOP students were inducted into the society and seven current members received pin upgrades because they demonstrated high levels of academic achievement after their initial induction.  Dr. Richard Pizer, Professor of Life Sciences and former NYIT Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, gave the institutional remarks, reminding the students of the importance of a college education and to always be proud of their academic achievements. 

 

This year’s ceremony featured a special keynote speaker with a connection to the legislative founding of Arthur O. Eve HEOP in New York State.  Eric Eve, son of former Democratic member of the New York State Assembly Arthur O. Eve, delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on the fight his father gave to ensure that students from all walks of life would have the opportunity to obtain a higher education.   He also spoke on the importance of higher education and the transformative effect it can have on one’s life.  The students were struck by his words and continued to speak and reflect on what Mr. Eve said well after the ceremony was over.

 

Jairo Abreu, DPT, was recognized as the honorary member at this year’s induction ceremony.  Jairo is a graduate of NYIT and a former Arthur O. Eve HEOP student.  He first began his academic career at NYIT in 2001. By 2006, he had earned a bachelor’s degree in life science/physical therapy, but this was not enough for Jairo. He continued his education at NYIT and went on to earn his doctorate of physical therapy in 2008. Since that time, he has been working at Lutheran Medical Center as a Senior Physical Therapist, specializing in orthopedic and post-surgical rehabilitation. Jairo Abreu was selected for honorary membership because he carries on the mission of XAE to promote academic excellence. His own numerous achievements, both at NYIT and since graduation, served as an inspiration to other HEOP students.

 

Members of the NYIT community, parents, and loved ones watched as the inductees graciously and emotionally accepted their new honor while thanking those who supported them along the way. The pinning ceremony was an opportunity for students to recognize significant people in their lives: parents, friends, or staff members who have supported them throughout their academic journey. We congratulate the following members on their achievements:  Chaimae Benali, Veronica Diaz, Jaishel Linch Bennett, Carlos Melendez, Orin Pramanik, Ashliane Riollano, Arafat Sadia, Marisa Salerno, Lakisha Scott and Tiffanny Terceros. We also congratulate the following members on their pin upgrades: Jissela Murillo, Katherine Javier Aguilar, Ting Ting Mei, Jissela Murillo, Juan Alcantara, Stacy Diaz, Ramon Valentin and Pedro Vazquez. May your success serve as an inspiration and light to brighten the path of those who follow in your footsteps of academic excellence.  Your stories and speeches have touched and inspired many to work harder. Congratulations to you all on your continued success!