Iona Alumna Trinette Carruthers, Ed.D. ‘04 Strives to Influence Future Generations through Education

Alumni Success

Trinette Carruthers, Ed.D. ’04 has always had a passion for education. Now serving as assistant principal at P.S. 53X The Basheer Qusim School in the Bronx, Carruthers is living out her childhood dream.

“I knew at an early age that I wanted to become an educator,” said Carruthers. “So, upon entering Iona as an undergraduate student, I was already aware that I was born to major in education.” 

Carruthers earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Iona, a Master of Science in Special Education, and a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership. 

Over the course of her career, Carruthers spent 14 years as a special education teacher, four years as a Universal Literacy coach and one year as a Literacy Collaborative coach through the New York City Department of Education.

“I enjoy having the opportunity to work with children and teachers, as well as supporting families and ensuring that students get the best possible educational experience,” she said.

In addition to her studies at Iona, Carruthers was also a member of the women’s basketball team, where she made some of her strongest memories. 

“My fondest memory was traveling with the women's basketball team to San Francisco, California, under the leadership of Coach Tony Bozzella and his staff,” she said. “Being a student-athlete [at Iona prepared] me in so many areas of life. I learned the skill of time management, working with colleagues, professionalism and always wanting to strive for more and never settling. I also understood how to deal with competitiveness in the workplace.”

Carruthers’ influence even extends beyond the classroom. 

Today, she also enjoys collaborating with former Universal Literacy colleagues on PBS’ “Let’s Learn,” a television and online video series that educates children in various subjects. 

Learn more about "Let’s Learn" here!