2025 Alumni of Distinction Honoree
Mary Ann Geraci Marriott, CNR SAS '59
Retired Teacher
Mary Ann Geraci Marriott received her bachelor’s degree in English from the College of New Rochelle (CNR) in 1959, a Master of Science in Elementary Education from St. John's University in 1962, and a Master of Science in Special Education from Long Island University in 1974. She also became Wilson certified to teach dyslexic children.
After earning her degree from CNR, Mary Ann began her teaching career in 1959, taking a position as a first- and second-grade teacher in East Meadow, NY. Shortly after marrying in 1960, she retired from her teaching job to focus on nurturing her growing family and supporting her husband's academic pursuits.
Mary Ann later returned to teaching as a substitute before becoming a full-time teacher in 1973. She taught kindergarten at Walt Whitman School in Woodbury, NY where her enthusiasm for space education inspired many students. Additionally, she was active in the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of the school, including service as PTA vice president, and she was faculty representative on the District Curriculum Committee. Always determined to help children reach their full potential, Mary Ann’s commitment to her students’ success was evident as many of them went on to graduate from prestigious universities.
Since retiring from full-time teaching, she has worked as an educational consultant, tutoring children with special needs, and volunteering as a docent for elementary school children.
A true representation of the CNR motto Serviam or ‘I will serve,’ she is active in her community and church, where she has spent more than 40 years as a Eucharistic Minister and is involved in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Additionally, she delivers communion weekly to patients at Syosset Hospital and has dedicated over a decade as a docent at Planting Fields Arboretum. Since the CNR community has found a new home at Mercy University, Mary Ann has maintained steadfast in her support by serving as member of the CNR Alumni Legacy Council and its Communications Committee. She also maintains her role as the 1959 Class President, ensuring everyone stays connected, informed, and involved with CNR at Mercy.
Throughout her life, Mary Ann has received numerous accolades in recognition of her contributions to education, religion, and community service. These include the Angela Merici Medal and the Ursula Laurus Citation both awarded from the College of New Rochelle, the
Pius X Award from the Diocese of Rockville Center, NY, and multiple Jenkins Awards from the New York State Parent Teachers Association.