At the College of Staten Island, the Nursing Student Allianceis a shining example of leadership, service, and the power of students working together for the greater good. Guided by a mission to support nursing students through mentorship, friendship, and professional growth, the NSA has also become a driving force in promoting community engagement and service across campus.
Through the years, the NSA has spearheaded a wide range of initiatives that extend well beyond the classroom. From suicide awareness and mental health education to Hands-Only CPR training, peer study groups, food drives, soup kitchen volunteering, painting events, and mentorship programs for new nursing students, the group has consistently demonstrated its dedication to both student success and social responsibility becoming more active than ever before.
“Nursing school can be tough, and at times it can feel lonely, but this alliance is a reminder that we never have to walk this journey alone,” said NSA President Isabella Tobi ‘26. “Together, we’re here to uplift and empower the next generation of nurses as they work toward their dreams of becoming registered nurses. Beyond academics, we’re also dedicated to serving our community through volunteer opportunities, showing that the heart of nursing goes far beyond the classroom.”
NSA Vice President Matthew Buscini ’26 agrees, stating “The Alliance is a student-initiated organization that is run entirely for the benefit of our peers. It provides provide fellow students the resources to succeed in the program academically, while also building skills that we can utilize beyond graduation. Our volunteer efforts instill core values of compassion and service to all our members.”
Together with NSA Secretary Jackie Vega Hernandez, Treasurer Vlada Kuzina, NSA Faculty Liaison Dr. Jennifer Macchiarola, and fellow NSA members, the group launched their most recent initiative, “Pajamas for All: A Pajama Drive,” an effort that captures that same generous spirit. In partnership with PJs for Pals, a community-based organization founded by Stephanie Prendergast which has served Staten Island for over 13 years, the NSA is collecting new and unused pajamas in sizes ranging from newborn to adult 3XL for the Seamen’s Society for Children and Families, a Staten Island–based nonprofit that has served vulnerable children and families since 1846. The drive runs from November 2 through December 6, with donation bins located in Building 5S (rooms 213, 111, and the main entrance).
Through this project, NSA members are not only supporting an important community cause—they are also embodying the values that define the nursing profession: empathy, service, and care for others.
“This winter is going to be quite cold,” stated Buscini. “Collecting a variety of pajamas for members of the community is going to provide some extra warmth over the next few months for those in need. This drive reflects our utmost emphasis on advocating for people who need our help. A nurse’s duty is to provide optimal care for all people who need care, and this drive is a great steppingstone in preparation for our journey for advocacy.”
“Nursing is a truly noble profession, one built on compassion, service, and the desire to heal, and as future registered nurses, our journey of caring for others begins long before we step into a hospital,” said Tobi. “Our pajama drive reflects this mission; it’s a reminder that nursing extends far beyond the classroom and clinical setting. It’s about stepping into the shoes of others and showing kindness where it’s needed most, in a way that goes beyond administering medications or performing clinical tasks.”
As the Pajama Drive continues, the NSA remains committed to fostering a culture of compassion, collaboration, and excellence within CSI’s nursing community. They welcome and appreciate all nursing students currently enrolled in the AAS Nursing program to join and get involved, and members are encouraged to share initiatives they’re passionate about. They are proof that the CSI Nursing program’s strengths lie not only in academic rigor but also in the kindness and initiative of its students—future nurses who are already making a difference today.
For more information on the Pajama Drive or to get involved, see the flyer below. If you’re a Nursing student who wants to be a part of the NSA, contact Isabella and Matthew at: Isabella.tobi@cix.csi.cuny.edu or matthew.buscini@cix.csi.cuny.edu.
