Get to Know "Dr. Joe"

A man who's office view had been the New York City skyline for nearly a decade has taken over the reins of Lyndon State College. Dr. Joseph Bertolino officially became the college's fifteenth president as of July 1, 2012. Since he started, he has been working toward making small and large renovations all throughout campus. He's chatted with students over dinner at the Stevens Dining Hall. He's worked one-on-one with staff and faculty. Most importantly, he's proud to tell the community why he loves to call "Lyndon" his new home.

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: Glendora, New Jersey. It's right outside Philadelphia. I still have a home in New Jersey, actually!


Q: Tell me about your family life.

A: Both of my parents are still living and well in south Jersey. I have a sister that's five years younger than me, and I have two nephews. I have a partner, Bil (Leipold), whom I have been with for 19 years. He works in HR (Human Resources) at Rutgers University and is currently working on their new medical school.  He lives with our two dogs and cat at our house in Ocean, New Jersey. Actually, it's right near Asbury Park - if you know anything about Bruce Springsteen!

Q: What brought you to LSC? Why leave New York?

A: I was in a job search for a presidency; it was time for the next step. When all was said and done, and when I
went to visit other campuses - I kept comparing them to Lyndon. It's the people here.

Q: How do you like the president's house?

A: I live more in my office space than I do my house. Don't get me wrong, it's lovely and the view is great. It's big and a little lonely, though. I need a dog!

Q: What's your favorite thing about LSC?

A: The students. The sense of community. I like walking around and I'm so glad they're back. When they whisk by on a longboard it's so cool.

Q: If there was one thing could do, what would it be and why?

A: I'd love to visit the Kremlin in Moscow. I'm a big history buff. I would love to meet Dalai Lama, too. That'd be cool.

Q: Who is your biggest role model?

A: My father. He's a simple, faithful man who taught me a lot about education and faith.  He's quickly followed by my sister, who was in a terrible car accident when she was younger and barely survived. Today, she teaches special education.

Q: How long do you plan on being at Lyndon?

A: Ha-ha. Well, assuming I get through the 6-month probationary period, I'm at least here for two years. I've never stayed in a job less than four years and as long as nine.

Q: What's something most people don't know about you?

A: I play the accordion! Actually, I am going home soon and will be putting it in my trunk to bring back. I'll also be teaching a leadership development course in the spring. And, another thing, my partner and I have travelled to over 600 schools across the country, speaking about homophobia and heterosexism. You could check out our website at www.joeandbil.com for more!

Q: What are your favorite radio and TV shows?
 
A: Besides 91.5, "the Voice of Lyndon State College?" Well, I do have Sirius, and I love anything comedy related. I have several favorite TV shows, including the Big Bang Theory and American Horror Story. I was totally taken by "Game of Thrones" on HBO as well.