Renee M. Barton-Rose is a recipient of the Polemeni Scholarship for her work on THE ELIJAH PROJECT. Anthony J. Polemeni, Ph.D., Vice President of the Division of Graduate Studies, Touro College, served the College in vital leadership positions for more than a decade. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Polemeni worked tirelessly to advance Touro’s mission to “serve the underserved” and to enhance the professional status of his deans, supervisors, administrative staff, and to enrich the educational experiences of students. He generously shared his knowledge, skills, and a keen sense of humor with all who walked through his open door. Dr. Polemeni made each member of the Touro family seeking his counsel feel at ease. And he treated everyone with respect and empathy, making their problems his challenge to solve.

Dr. Polemeni died on May 22, 2014. His death brought to an end his extraordinary career in education and business, spanning more than four decades and stretching around the globe.  The last 13 years of his illustrious career were spent at Touro College, where he served as Dean of the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, and later as the inaugural Vice President of the Division of Graduate Studies. Although Dr. Polemeni is no longer with us, he will always be part of the Touro family in blessed and cherished memory. The essence of this great man will forever surround us. It is with this in mind that his legion of students, faculty, administrators, and colleagues has created the Martha and Dr. Anthony J. Polemeni program in the Division of Graduate Studies.

The Martha and Dr. Anthony J. Polemeni Scholars Program recognizes the accomplishments of students in the Graduate School of Education who, by their scholarship and commitment to community service, exemplify the mission of Touro College and the character and charisma of Dr. Polemeni. The program includes a monetary award to assist the selected student with his or her graduate studies. A special awards ceremony takes place annually.

“As a Polemeni Scholar at Touro University, I have benefited from the support, encouragement, and mentorship of faculty members who recognized the importance of The Elijah Project as a living, evolving holistic educational website that continues to grow and expand. I am especially grateful to Professor Jasmin Cowin for her encouragement and support of this endeavor, and to Dr. Jill Ordynans, who has consistently been a supportive force in helping me prosper in my educational goals. I am grateful for their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my work as an educator and advocate for inclusive learning.”