Sachem Alumni Association Kicks Off Mentor Series, Commerce Secretary Joins Conversation

The Sachem Alumni Association had an impactful day with students, launching the new Sachem Alumni Mentor Series on the eve of the inaugural Hall of Honor inductions.

Seven members from this year’s induction class came back to their alma mater and met with hundreds of students across dozens of classes to share stories from their successful careers.

Lori Ann LaRocco, a best selling author and Senior Guest Producer at CNBC, lined up a unique opportunity for students to interact with U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross. Advanced Placement economics students prepared questions for Ross, who spoke candidly about his personal experiences.

Jerry Figgiani was on-hand with Robert Aliano for a presentation in the auditorium. Figgiani, a martial arts instructor and motivational speaker, helped Aliano walk again after a car accident, through mental and physical training.

Stephen Costello, a business executive and best selling author, spoke with English students about his experience in Sachem and as a writer.

Dr. John Heymach, who works at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, flew in from Houston and spoke with science students about his rise in the medical field, which he relates to the experiences he had at Sachem.

Grammy Award winner Tim Latham had three sections of music students engaged with his chat about production and his most recent work with “Hamilton” the musical.

Former Suffolk County Executive Stevy Levy spoke of his political career that began in his early 20’s and his passion for the school district.

Dr. John Cassese, the oldest of the bunch from the Class of 1960 and a former Sachem administrator, shared his stories from Sachem’s early foundation.

The inaugural Hall of Honor induction will take place on Saturday, April 1 at Sachem North.