#United States #Education #Emmitsburg #Mount St. Mary's #Agnone School

Mount St. Mary's University Celebrates New School Name

Mount St. Mary's University, known for its commitment to education and community impact, held a special ceremony on April 10, 2026, to honor two lifelong educators by renaming its School of Education. The new title, the Anthony F. and Alice G. Agnone School of Education, is a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Agnone family in the field of education.

Honoring Legacy Through Education

The event celebrated not only the renaming of the school but also the significant contributions made by Anthony F. and Alice G. Agnone to the education sector. Anthony Agnone served as a superintendent for over 30 years, shaping educational standards and practices, while Alice Agnone dedicated her life to teaching kindergarten, positively impacting the lives of countless children in South River, New Jersey. Their passion for education is a family affair, as their son, Tony Agnone, a Mount alumnus and a prominent NFL player agent, reflects on the importance of teachers in shaping one’s life journey.

In his heartfelt speech during the ceremony, Tony Agnone stated, “When we decided to create this endowment, we thought about who outside of your parents has the most influence on you? It’s teachers.” This sentiment emphasizes the pivotal role that educators play in the lives of their students, inspiring future generations.

Making a Positive Impact

Stacey Brown-Hobbs, the dean of the School of Education, shared insights on how the generous gift from the Agnone family will enhance educational programs at Mount St. Mary’s. She noted that the donation will help remove financial barriers for students pursuing a career in education, thus fostering teacher and leadership development in innovative ways. The commitment to advancing educational opportunities aligns with the university's mission to produce compassionate, skilled educators who can inspire and lead future generations.

President Gerard “Jerry” Joyce also highlighted the essential role of education in shaping the lives of students, echoing the university’s dedication to holistic development. He remarked, “By investing in the preparation of future teachers, the Agnone family is contributing to the formation of individuals who will influence young minds across our region and beyond.”

Community Celebration and Future Goals

The renaming ceremony brought together university leaders, faculty, students, trustees, and members of the Agnone family to not only celebrate but also reaffirm their commitment to educational excellence and community service. It was a momentous occasion that highlighted the collaboration between the university and the Agnone family, paving the way for future partnerships aimed at enriching educational programs.

Mount St. Mary's University, located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is renowned for its liberal arts education and commitment to developing responsible leaders who make a difference in society. With various majors and programs tailored for both traditional and non-traditional students, the university continuously looks towards the future of education.

In conclusion, the renaming of the School of Education to honor the Agnone legacy marks a significant milestone for Mount St. Mary's University. It encapsulates the spirit of commitment to education and the transformative power that dedicated educators can have on individuals and communities as a whole. Moving forward, the university aims to build upon this legacy, ensuring that the impact of teachers continues to resonate for years to come.