April 12, 2013 – It was a treat to watch some of the fifth graders gather around a recent guest for his autograph! That was because the guest was an alumnus, Patrick Aristhene. A member of De La Salle’s first cohort of students, Patrick is now ranked second in New York State as an amateur boxer in his weight class. He was on campus to provide a clinic for the students.
As a 1st Class Certified Coach/Trainer, Patrick did an exceptional job of guiding the students through some basic moves. He commented on how his involvement in the sport has been good for him and he offered to arrange for scholarships for any of the students who chose to enroll in boxing classes at the gym he attends.
Next month, Patrick receives his associate’s degree in Food and Nutrition from Nassau Community College with its accompanying certification in dietary management. He is awaiting word from the State University of New York in Oneonta where he hopes to continue his studies. When he is not in the gym or doing his school work, he is employed as a security guard at the Walt Whitman Mall in Melville.