PHOTO: DAN VAILLANCOURT
Assumption alumni administrators and teachers at Auburn High School: (L-R) Andrea Legacy Carlson ’78, special education; Andrew Niedzwiecki ’00, mathematics/ boy’s basketball coach; Eileen Donahue ’82, science/ assistant principal; Patrick Dufour ’98, English; Allison DeLuca G’06, special education; Casey Handfield ’97, principal; Amy Sampson G’02, guidance; Amy Fisher ’08, social studies; Spencer Kennard ’08, social studies; Lisa Pignataro ’07, special education
more than 40 other states. Assumption graduates are often hired by local school systems. “Many schools ask for Assumption alumni first due to our history of producing skilled teachers,” according to Vander Hart. “We teach our students to teach, to be creative, to understand state guidelines and regulations and help their pupils become creative thinkers. While it is important that young students pass the MCAS, we believe that teaching involves much more than just that.” Casey Handfield ’97, principal of Auburn High School and a part-time lecturer in Assumption’s graduate program, has a unique perspective to share as an Assumption alumnus, a faculty member and employer of Assumption graduates. “There are several factors that make Assumption alumni highly sought after in the field of education,” said Handfield. “First, the expectations for Assumption students are extremely high as only topnotch students are accepted. Second, the professors’ passion for education is palpable and infectious; this in turn, makes students want to bring the same zest for learning to their classrooms. Third, the balance of theory and practical application in the classroom is second to none in Massachusetts.” Handfield began his career teaching social studies at Wachusett Regional High School in 1997. After he became assistant principal at Wachusett in 2001, he realized that he missed teaching. “My students
energized and inspired me. I wanted to keep myself involved in teaching so I applied for a part-time position on the Assumption faculty in 2002. I continue to find teaching to be extremely rewarding.” Handfield also is committed to growing in his profession. He was appointed principal at Auburn High School in 2005 and several of his staff members are Assumption alumni, including Andrea Legacy Carlson ’78, Allison DeLuca G’06, Eileen Donahue ’82, Patrick Dufour ’98, Amy Fisher ’08, Spencer Kennard ’08, Andrew Niedzwiecki ’00, Lisa Pignataro ’07 and Amy Sampson G’02. “I graduated from Assumption with the essential skills necessary to compete in a fast-paced, unpredictable 21st century global environment,” said Handfield. “My time at Assumption fashioned who I am today as a man, husband, father, student and professional.” Numerous alumni echo Handfield’s comments. “The Education faculty are committed to each student’s success and comfort in the classroom,” said Caitlin Lahey ’09, a language arts teacher at Central Tree Middle School in Rutland. “They push for your best work and they give you their best in return. They encourage cooperation and teamwork and I maintain contact with my professors and classmates from the department. They have set me on a path as a lifelong learner and educator.” An Assumption education – it’s a proud legacy.
Assumption College Magazine • Spring 2011
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