More than 60 students, instructors, and community members gathered to celebrate the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 accomplishments of the Options Program at its annual End-of-Year Celebration, hosted by the Office of Community Educational Engagement at the College of Staten Island.
The event honored the spirit of lifelong learning and recognized the powerful impact of community-based education. A heartfelt highlight came when Director Crystal Montalvo read a special letter from Michele Deitch, daughter of Dr. Irene Deitch, the visionary founder of the Options Program. The letter acknowledged the enduring legacy of Dr. Deitch’s work and celebrated the continued impact of the program on adult learners across Staten Island.
Another notable moment was the presentation of the 2025 Anchor Award, a distinction given to individuals whose efforts advance the college’s mission of access and excellence through a long-term commitment to both the institution and the broader community. This year, the award was presented to Instructor Glenn Meyers for his exceptional work in the Options course, Legal Topics for Your Life. In a moving tribute, Glen dedicated his award to his father, Allan Meyers, a fellow educator who also teaches within the Options Program and shares his son’s commitment to empowering others through education.
The event was a testament to the strength and heart of the Options community, underscoring the program’s ongoing role in transforming the lives of older adults through learning, mentorship, and connection.
By: Shanette Gant
