Rebecca Davis ’15
What can you do with a degree in the liberal arts? Executive Director of Environmental Advocates of New York Peter Iwanowicz ’89 says, “Just about anything.” Iwanowicz returned to his alma mater to share his story and reinforce the value of Siena’s liberal arts education in forming a foundation for personal and career success.
“Sometimes people see something in you that you don’t see about yourself,” Iwanowicz said. “That’s what’s so great about the liberal arts; you get access to all sorts of opportunities. You make sustained relationships; people remember your values and how hard you worked.”
Iwanowicz now lives in Albany with his wife, a 1991 Siena alumna, and their two children. He graduated from Siena 25 years ago with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and has also been fascinated with sociology and how it relates to political systems, an interest that has served him well during his distinguished career.
Since he graduated from Siena 25 years ago, Iwanowicz has held many leadership positions, including serving as assistant vice president with the American Lung Association. From 2007 to 2010, he was acting commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Iwanowicz was also Governor Paterson’s deputy secretary for the environment.
During his discussion, Iwanowicz shared how he has used the skills he developed in various classes throughout his career. He noted that coursework in biology and psychology helped him greatly while working in environmental planning and addressing public health issues. Iwanowicz also reinforced the importance of studying English and becoming a strong communicator.
“Succinct writing is something I can’t stress enough,” Iwanowicz said. “Being able to be an effective communicator, to be concise in writing and speaking, is so important. It allows you to move outside of your comfort zone.”
Iwanowicz speaks from experience. He’s been at meetings with former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and had to write clearly enough for Governor Patterson, who is blind and relies on memory for speeches. He acknowledged that liberal arts majors are critical thinkers with a broad spectrum of honed skills that employers are looking for.
“Those who have studied liberal arts can move and adapt quickly. Today, employers need people who’ve done it all,” said Iwanowicz.
Iwanowicz also encouraged Siena students to build lasting friendships and make real-world connections, both of which have helped him advance his career.
