Update, April 2022: Congratulations to Professor O'Connell for being named an honorable mention in the 2022 Social Impact Awards in the Outstanding Educator of the Year category! The Social Impact Awards honor communicators who use their platforms to better their community and the global community at large, helping to usher in a diverse and equitable future.

I have been a member of the NCC community since I was an incoming freshman 25 years ago and have been immersed in the campus in some capacity ever since. In 2005, I began teaching both freshmen seminar courses and in my area of expertise - Communication Studies. I'm excited to be teaching COM 124 - Communication for Business & the Professions this spring, as this course is closely integrated with my professional background. By taking this course, students in any major will be well-prepared to operate in internship and work environments.

In Fall 2019, I received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. I've never been so honored as "excellence in teaching" is always my goal for my students. In Spring 2020 I was granted a sabbatical to write a book, something that has always been a dream of mine. Tentatively titled "I Got the Internship: Now What? A Workbook to Guide You Through Your Internship," I wrote this to help guide students through their internships with the underlying theme that communication is the key to success in the workplace.

My fondest memory as a faculty member is not just one moment but being witness to many moments. When I encounter a student who started at Nassau at 18, failed or withdrew from courses and is now back thriving in every way; that is "my fondest moment." The student who has achieved high grades in high school and attends NCC to find his/her passion by getting involved in student activities and all the College has to offer - that is "my fondest moment." The student who is the first person in his/her family to go to college and appreciates every moment of it - that is "my fondest moment." And, the student who I only meet for the first time in his/her last semester but have just one conversation that impacts both of us - that is "my fondest moment."

When I arrived at Nassau as a student my world changed. The diversity was invigorating, the courses were interesting, and the professors, advisors and support staff were incredible. I became who I am today because of Nassau. By becoming the Publicity Director for the student organization Nassau Concerts, I discovered the Public Relations profession, obtained my first internship in PR, and achieved my first profession as an entertainment publicist at the same organization where I interned while I was at Nassau. I truly don't know what my path would have been if it were not for NCC's amazing community. I teach at Nassau because I had such an amazing experience as a student and want to provide that type of support to as many students as I can.

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