Brookdale Retirees Honored

Seven of the 22 Brookdalians who retired during the current fiscal year were honored at the May 29 meeting of the Board of Trustees.

Donna Bastedo, associate director of the Brookdale at Freehold Branch Campus, is retiring after 20 years of holding numerous positions at the college. “All she could think about at retirement was her students and colleagues, what that would mean for them,” Yesenia Madas, associate vice president of student affairs, said of Bastedo.

Dale Daniels, director of The Center for Holocaust, Human Rights, and Genocide Education (Chhange) at Brookdale, is retiring after 19 years. It was under Daniels’ direction that the “Journeys Beyond Genocide: The Human Experience” permanent exhibit was created. “The exhibit has drawn national, local, and global acclaim, is a teaching tool utilized by Brookdale faculty, and is a true testament to Dale’s commitment to the mission of change,” said Joan Scocco, dean of continuing and professional studies.

Carolyn Dennis, Brookdale at Long Branch associate, retired after 30 years of working for Brookdale. “Carolyn’s greatest accomplishment in her years at the Long Branch Center was her unwavering love for and support of our students, staff, and faculty,” said Ed Johnson, executive director of governmental affairs and community relations.

Margaret Faria, enrollment specialist, retired after working over 45 years at Brookdale. Madas referred to Faria as the “graduation guru” as she helped almost 60,000 students graduate.

Ellen Hemhuaser, disability services associate, is retiring after 32 years. “Ellen is an exemplary professional who demonstrates sound judgement, integrity, and diplomacy. Her commitment to our students and Brookdale is nothing short of outstanding,” Madas said of Hemhuaser.

Patricia Schuberth, confidential assistant for curriculum development, is retiring after 20 years of service. “She has earned the trust and respect of her colleagues of both faculty and administration,” Dr. Matthew Reed, vice president for learning, said of Schuberth.

Helen Vota, manager of the college bookstore and long term president of the PSA, is retiring after 28 years. “Helen has always been a dedicated cheerleader for Brookdale and has numerous charity pursuits on campus,” Pat Sensi, associate vice president of human resources and organizational safety, said.

“Congratulations to all of you who are retiring. I want to thank you sincerely from the bottom of all of our hearts here at Brookdale for all of your dedication and hard work,” Dr. David Stout, president of Brookdale Community College, said.

Photo captions:

1. Carolyn Dennis and Dr. David Stout.
2. Margaret Faria and Dr. David Stout.