ROBERT J. MILANO GRADUATE SCHOOL OF
MANAGEMENT AND URBAN POLICY
Thomas P. DiNapoli
Milano alum Thomas P. DiNapoli is serving his fifth term in the New York State Assembly, representing Nassau County’s 16th District. He earned a master’s degree in human
resources management as well as a certificate in labor relations from Milano in 1998.
“Though my personal career path led me to full-time elective service in government, I continue to draw on the lessons I learned at the New School,” Tom says. “The lessons in organizational behavior that I learned at Milano often assist me in grappling with the group dynamics that are so much a part of the political arena.”
Two causes that Tom pursues in earnest are equal access to higher education and health care issues. His work with health, school and environmental advocates to require notification before pesticide spraying resulted in the Pesticide Neighborhood Notification Law, lauded as the most comprehensive legislation of its type in the nation. Additionally, since his election in 1986, Tom has earned a reputation as one of the state’s leading voices on environmental issues, championing efforts to preserve open space and restore the Long Island Sound. He is responsible for creating the Long Island
Pine Barrens Protection Act and sponsoring the Oil Spill Prevention and Contingency Act.
“Despite the challenges and frustrations of daily life in politics,” Tom remarks, “the opportunity to make changes for a better world keeps me committed to public service.” Tom’s affiliation with the New School is a continuing source of pride as he witnesses the University’s evolution and growth. “My years at the New School provided me with lasting friendships and associations that I cherish to this day.”
