School: Albertus Magnus High School
Title: Teacher, Coach, Dean of Students, Assistant Administrator
Chris Power is one of the "go-to" people at Albertus Magnus High School (AMHS). As you have most likely heard the term well-rounded student, Chris is the adult version. During the day at Albertus he juggles a teaching schedule, administrative duties, overseeing students and coaching. An interesting fact about Chris is that his muliti-roles at Albertus are actually his second career.
Find out what's happening in Nanuetwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"I feel that my second career in Catholic education has been a perfect fit in my life. Not too many people can say that they are fortunate enough to have had two careers which they have found to be so rewarding," said Chris Power.
Chris grew up in the Bronx, graduated from St. Nicholas of Tolentine High School then went on to graduate from Manhattan College with a BS in Business Administration. Chris and his wife Noreen moved to Rockland County in 1987, where they have raised their three children, two of whom graduated from Albertus; Patricia and Maura. His youngest daughter, Colleen, is currently a Senior there now.
Find out what's happening in Nanuetwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
He joined the NYPD, as a fifth generation police officer. He put in 22 years travelling thru the ranks. Throughout his career in the NYPD he served as a police officer then was promoted to Sergeant then transferred to the Narcotics division where he was promoted to Detective Sergeant.
"My time in narcotics was spent in Manhattan North Narcotics, mostly Washington Heights, and I spent ten years in the Drug Enforcement Task Force comprised of DEA agents, State Troopers and NYPD. I served there for ten years as a group supervisor and I achieved the rank of Detective Sergeant, the rank which I retired with. I supervised many high level narcotics investigations that effected the Metropolitan area as well as on an international level. These were some of the most challenging and memorable days of my career. However, being a first responder at the World Trade center was certainly was the most unforgettable experience of my police career," said Powers.
As Chris arrived at work on September 11th, he was told to get into uniform and head straight to the site. Chris arrived at the World Trade Center right after the second tower fell. He spent the month following the destruction in search and rescue as well as crowd and traffic control at ground zero.
Chris retired from the NYPD in 2002, but not before obtaining an MBA from Manhattan College in 1994. A few years ago he went back to Manhattan College and earned his certification in school administration.
His first position at Albertus was coaching the Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Team. With a passion for basketball Chris volunteered as a coach for St. Margarets for about 16 years. He was even the moderator for the CYO program there for about six years. His coaching abilities and dedication caught the eye of Pat McFadden, AMHS Boy's Varsity Basketball Coach, who gave Chris the opportunity to coach the Junior Varsity Boys team at Albertus. He started in the fall of 2003 and is still coaching there presently. He also assist's Coach McFadden's with the varisty team during the season.
In the fall of 2004, Chris began teaching at Albertus focusing on Economics, Government and Algebra courses.
"Two things in particular led me to where I am today. My commitment to working with the youth and my attraction to Albertus Magnus made my decision easy to enter the field of Catholic education. I am very committed to the merits of Catholic education and all of my education, my wife’s education and my three children’s education have been through Catholic Schools."
He also is an Assistant Administrator to Joe Troy, President/Principal of Albertus.
"I owe much of my success so far to Mr. Troy who has given me the opportunity to teach as well has been very supportive in my pursuit of school administration."
In addition to coaching, teaching and assistant to President Troy he also holds the title Dean of Students. The main responsibility is overseeing student discipline. An appropriate position for Chris with his police background and intimidating stature.
"I suppose the Dean of Students position fits in with my previous career as a police officer. The students at Albertus Magnus are generally good and well guided kids. However, like all kids they sometimes need to be directed in the right direction. I enjoy being able to serve that purpose in that position. The problems that the students face are for the most part not that serious. In dealing with discipline problems I first remember my current role and go from there. However, as a result of growing up in the Bronx and my previous experience, there isn’t much that I haven’t seen or heard. Additionally, being a parent, I have found that consistency and fairness in handling discipline matters goes a long way."
Albertus is fortunate to have a person as versatile as Chris Power. Leading the way for students in the classroom and on the court while keeping them in line. At the same time working with the President/Principal and Assitant Principal while strengthening his administrative experience.
What a valuable asset not only to the administration he works with but to the students and their parents at Albertus.
