Tonya R. Rondinone, M.A.
Senior Lecturer of Psychology
Contact
Phone: 860.231.5326
E-mail:
trondinone@sjc.edu
Tonya Rondinone began her studies in criminal justice, but then gravitated over to Psychology. "I am fascinated by the variety of different psychological theories, particularly the abnormal and criminal aspects," she states.
Ms. Rondinone urges students to question what they've learned and to be totally engaged in their education. "I encourage students to have their own thoughts, to question what they learn in and out of the classroom and to raise themselves to the high standards of their classes and the College. I do want them to flourish." She also expects her students to apply what they have learned to real-life situations and to their own lives. Lively classroom discussion and debate often ensue over issues in the national and world news.
What makes Ms. Rondinone happiest, however, is the pride she gets from preparing students for the world. "I really like it when a student graduates and then contacts me later to say that she is doing well. That's where I get my satisfaction."
At the 2010 Commencement ceremony, Ms. Rondinone was awarded the Reverend John J. Stack Teaching Excellence Award. Faculty and staff who nominated her described her as being “organized, accessible, friendly, thought-provoking and enthusiastic,” an individual who “truly cares about students’ progress and work,” and who “has provided excellent guidance in and out of the classroom.” In all: a well-deserved honor!
Degrees
M.A., Psychology, Southern Connecticut State University
B.A., Psychology, Niagara University
Research/Publications
Russen-Rondinone, T. and DesRoberts, A.M., "Success Through Individual Recreation (STIR): Working With the Low-Functioning Resident With Dementia," Activities Directors' Quarterly for Alzheimer's & Other Dementia Patients, 4(1), 7-12, 2003.
Originally printed in 1996, American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, International Edition , 11(1), 32-35.
