Stacy Durr Albert, a 1991 graduate of Patchogue-Medford High, graduated from Binghamton University in 1995 with two Bachelor's degrees: one in English, the other in Spanish. For seven years, she worked in magazine publishing as editor, wrote hundreds of articles, mainly on home decorating, but also in the areas of fitness, health, teen culture, gardening and beauty. Stacy appeared on HGTV and was selected to speak at a seminar on finessing the feminine magazine market. Her love of and skill in languages were put to constructive use in her work on the translation of an English legal guide into Spanish. Today, Stacy is teaching high school Spanish and enjoying the new challenge. She hopes to continue to write and edit and plans to teach in the future at a college.

While Stacy was a student at Patchogue-Medford High School, she was active and involved in a variety of activities. Writing for the high school newspaper, The Red & Black, ranks near the top of her list of memorable experiences. She fondly remembers making floats for homecoming, participating in the Senior Fashion Show, being involved in community service events and much more. She explains, The key to having memorable experiences at Patchogue-Medford is to get involved! The more involved you are with the school, the more positive your experience will be.

Stacy followed her own advice in college, attaining Dean's List, earning membership in the Spanish Honor Society, co-writing a sit-com for her college television station, planning community service events, co-founding a community service organization, and staying genuinely involved in campus activities - while working part-time. One of the most profitable of her college experiences was working as an intern. She believes, Internships are crucial! They help a student figure out what he/she does/doesn't want to do!

When we asked Stacy if there were any teachers at Patchogue-Medford who made a difference for her, she told us there were several who really made a mark:

Mr. Kowell, Patchogue-Medford High School English teacher: As a journalism teacher and newspaper advisor, Mr. Kowell not only taught his students, he inspired them. He helped to light my passion for writing.

Mrs. Raynor, Canaan Elementary School: was a first grade teacher who helped me to feel more confident in my abilities. Her simple words of praise encouraged me to keep working with my writing and reading skills. She helped me to learn at a very young age that writing is a wonderful way to express oneself.

Mr. Igneri, Barton Elementary School: my fourth grade teacher, always told me I was "a kid with something upstairs between the ears." His dynamic teaching style helped me to learn! I can still remember minute details I learned in his class, whereas I can't remember some more major things I learned in college.

Stacy is now married to Mr. John Albert, a Patchogue-Medford High School teacher, and recently purchased a home in Manorville. She continues to be active in her work and community, each year working with her family to run a charity event to benefit the Leukemia Society of America.