Find out what this accomplished Viscardi alum and trailblazer entrepreneur has been up to since graduating.
“None of this would have been possible if HVS didn’t teach a young boy that anything is possible.”
Ron, a Class of 2014 alum, has continued to succeed both in the academic and business world since graduating from the Henry Viscardi School (HVS) at The Viscardi Center. When he was recently showcased in this year’s Virtual Reach for a Star Fundraiser, he shared what he’s been up to since his school days.
Ron went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in Business from Hofstra University, where he had a true college experience like his peers and lived on campus independently. Using his entrepreneurial skills, he invented a medical assistive device for himself called Clear Way, a miniature portable suction machine, which he has since pitched at several business competitions.
Today, Ron continues to live on his own in New York City, while pursuing his master’s degree in Finance at Baruch College and working as a freelance marketer. He traces his drive to succeed back to his years at Viscardi.
“HVS is truly a magical place,” he said. “It’s one of the only places on earth where a kid with special needs doesn’t feel disabled. From a young age, you feel valued and learn that you can achieve the impossible.”
In his speech delivered at the Reach for a Star fundraising event, Ron reflected on some of his favorite Viscardi memories and the lifelong friendships he forged as a student. He fondly remembers playing for the Varsity Cougars wheelchair basketball team and winning the MVP award. Other highlights included building life skills during overnight stays at the Independent Living House, where Ron and his friends cooked meals and had fun playing card games, and a senior trip to Washington, D.C., which provided an opportunity to learn how to navigate public transportation with confidence.
These days, Ron looks forward to when he can safely continue his two passions: traveling and extreme adaptive sports, such as surfing and rock climbing.
“None of this would have been possible if HVS didn’t teach a young boy that anything is possible.”
Learn more about Henry Viscardi School at: https://www.henryviscardischool.org.