Michael Tedesco is a religious educator and college advisor with 60 years of experience in his field. He began his career hoping to inspire and support others in pursuing their dreams, becoming a leader through his dedication to making a difference. Attributing much of his success to his upbringing, Tedesco had wonderful parents who instilled in him the value of hard work and the Christian faith, which drove him to make a difference in his community.
Tedesco became involved in his profession out of a desire to share Jesus’ teachings with those he encounters. Through his faith, he demonstrates his ability to help people of all races, colors, creeds, nationalities, orientations, geographies, and financial standings. People began to call him a “priest without a collar” because of his availability to help others.
Tedesco’s Educational Career
Before beginning a professional career, Tedesco pursued a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in religion and philosophy from Iona University. Following this initial education, Tedesco earned a master’s degree in global studies with an emphasis in African studies from St. John’s University in 1967 and a master’s degree in religious education and school counseling from Manhattan College in 1975 and 1985, respectively. In 1985, Tedesco also earned a professional diploma in counseling from Manhattan College.
A Career Marked by Dedication to Others
This education led Tedesco to begin a career as a teacher at Mount Saint Michael Academy in New York, gaining a reputation as an excellent educator. However, he decided to enter a new role as a youth ministry director at Relig, where he served from 1965 to 1990.
In this role, Tedesco notably supported students and volunteer staff members who had challenges with alcohol, drugs, depression, sexual confusion, pregnancy, family issues, and suicide, as well as religious doubts, disbelief, and hopeless feelings and attitudes toward life. He listened, tried to help, and often sought professional support for those in need.
Tedesco was available from 3 PM to 3 AM most days and by phone anytime. The program grew to 800 students and 200+ volunteers, and with training, the volunteers ran the group meetings each week out of six different centers. Athletics, retreats, community services, and social outings were set up to attract new members and drive growth.
In 1990, Tedesco became a guidance counselor for New Rochelle High School, where he worked until 2008. Since 2009, he has served as a college advisor for Westchester Hebrew High School. He works there three days a week, meeting with sophomores, juniors, and seniors to fill out the common application and advise them on financial aid. He also helps interested students complete the CUNY and Yeshiva University applications.
Tedesco’s Numerous Civic Contributions
Beyond professional responsibilities, Tedesco has occupied and continues to serve in several civic roles. He has been a volunteer fifth-grade teacher and a member of the New Rochelle NAACP through the 1970s and 1980s.
Tedesco has also served as a financial aid counselor for New Rochelle High School since 1974, in addition to being a board member, guest speaker, and volunteer treasurer at Relig. He also volunteers and is a counselor at St. Gabriel’s Church, through which he helps students and parents from the largely Hispanic community with college counseling and financial aid advice, as well as any other issues that can be discussed and are important to the families.
Recognitions and Achievements
Tedesco has been recognized by the Italian American Association of New Rochelle for his services to the community and for being an outstanding Italian American. He was also recognized by the Archdiocese of New York for his service in religious education. In addition, he has been featured as a Top Professional in the Wall Street Journal.
Tedesco continues to use his faith to help others whenever he can. He has made meaningful contributions to the lives of many people.
