Partnering up with the Deer Park School/Industry Advisory Board and the Long Island Works Coalition students in the Business Departments Career Planning Classes were able to discuss career opportunities with various people from our community. Some of the speakers to highlight include a past National Hockey League Player, an Assemblyman, and a Quadriplegic Civil Rights Attorney.

After spending eight seasons in the NHL Steve Webb a former player for both the New York Islanders and the Pittsburgh Penguins, continues his career working for the New York Islanders Club as a Player Development Liaison. He has a vast knowledge on everything from playing hockey to sports management and marketing. He left the students with a very important message. He said, “Set goals and work hard, that is the fastest way to achieve them.”

Assemblyman Andrew Raia a public official for the 9th district which includes Deer Park, took time out his busy schedule to talk to the career planning students about his occupation. He told the students he loves his job because he helps a lot of people and that is very rewarding. Mr. Raia helps many people by passing legislations, setting up scholarships for high school students, and assisting senior citizens in need. He left the students with this message, “All I started with was a single idea. This is also the start of all legislations and committees. You too can make a difference.”

What an inspiration Mr. Glenn Campbell is to all students and anybody he meets. This successful Civil Rights Attorney led a normal life until he was a sophomore in high school when he was struck by a car. After many operations, he found himself paralyzed from the neck down. Mr. Campbell told the students, “Never give up! You just might surprise yourself and others with what you can achieve.”

I want to thank the Deer Park Industry/School Advisory Board and the Long Island Works Coalition for this valuable resource. Our students are learning very valuable information and lessons by listening to these professionals. Thank you for, “Bridging the Gap Between Education and Business.”