Anderson Center for Autism announced today that it will host its 102nd annual commencement on Friday, June 26th at 1pm at Anderson Center for Autism in Staatsburg, New York.
Said Patrick Paul, CEO/Executive Director at Anderson Center for Autism, “This is a milestone that represents tremendous work and unwavering perseverance on the part of our students with autism – but also reflects the dedication of caring families and team members who have believed in their potential every step of the way. Without question, it is one of the most uplifting events of the year.”
Since 1924, nearly 1800 students have graduated from Anderson Education Center. The Class of 2026 includes 19 individuals: Brandon M., Luke S., Francisco W., Enrico Q., Aiden V., Owen K., Jakks V., William F., Joseph D., Michael D., Christian S., Cameron P., Maxwell K., Hershy S., Devin H., Asher E., Ryder E., Anson D., and Winston L.
Dr. Tina Marie Covington, PhD., BCBA-D, LBA, Chief Operating Officer at Anderson (who will step in as CEO/Executive Director following Paul’s retirement later this year) noted: “Anderson’s commencement never fails to inspire all of us; the ceremony is a powerful reminder that every individual deserves to be applauded, accepted, and celebrated for the unique set of qualities and interests that he or she brings to the world. We are so proud of every one of our graduates and look forward to sharing this special day with them.”
The collaborative, interdisciplinary education program at Anderson, which all of these students have completed, incorporates behavioral analytic teaching strategies, interventions, and evaluative data review. Visual, environmental, sensory, and communication supports are also utilized as needed by Anderson’s team of behavior specialists and analysts, speech and occupational therapists, and certified special educators. Classroom content is developed in the context of New York State Learning Standards, and progress is measured against goals set forth in IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) developed and adopted annually for each student.
This year’s graduation speaker will be Philip J. Bronzi, who is First Senior Vice President – Commercial Market President at Rhinebeck Bank, where he leads the Bank’s commercial lending strategy, and helps businesses and individuals across the Hudson Valley and Capital Region achieve financial goals. With extensive experience in commercial banking, leadership, and community development, Bronzi has become well-known for his strategic thinking, collaborative leadership style, and for tireless efforts to strengthen the communities that the Bank serves.
In addition to his professional role, Bronzi is deeply committed to nonprofit leadership and community service. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees of Anderson Center for Autism, sharing that he “feels honored to support the organization’s important mission of optimizing the quality of life for the individuals it serves.”
Bronzi is also on the Board of Directors for Destination Dutchess, promoting the tourism industry in Dutchess County, and previously served as Chair of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce and as Treasurer for Sparrow’s Nest of the Hudson Valley.
A lifelong advocate for service-driven leadership, Bronzi notes that he “believes strongly in the power of relationships, resilience, and helping individuals reach their fullest potential; values that make Anderson’s graduation celebration especially meaningful.”
Said Eliza Bozenski, Chief Development Officer of Anderson Foundation for Autism, “Phil Bronzi has championed our mission for many years now; we are incredibly grateful for all that he has done and achieved as Board Chair, and for the ideas, insights, and deep sense of humanity that he brings to every conversation. It will be our great privilege to welcome him as this year’s keynote speaker.”
For more information, call 845.889.9208 or visit andersoncenterforautism.org.
About Anderson Center for Autism
Our mission at Anderson Center for Autism is to optimize the quality of life for individuals with autism.
About Anderson Foundation for Autism
Through grantmaking, fundraising, and marketing initiatives, Anderson Foundation for Autism helps support, sustain, and expand upon Anderson Center for Autism’s efforts to optimize the quality of life for individuals with autism.