The booming drums of the marching band echo throughout the streets of Endwell, with blue and gold as far as the eye can see. Pride, tradition, and culture – on full display, as yet another generation of Spartans take part in a Homecoming celebration. For 2012 grad Tom Mastro, memories like these will never fade.
“These events were more than just games or parades—they brought together current students, alumni, staff, and the broader community, creating a true sense of Spartan pride,” said Mastro.
For Mastro, Maine-Endwell is much more than a school district. In many ways, it’s a family, especially as he looks back on his time as a member of the swim team.
“We were a close-knit group who shared a deep passion for the sport and built a strong swim community. One tradition that stands out was the annual hike and pancake breakfast hosted by Coach Underwood. It was a special time for bonding outside the pool and a tradition the entire team looked forward to each year,” said Mastro.
Throughout his time in Spartan Country, several coaches, teachers, and teammates left major impacts on this 2012 grad. But it was perhaps Mastro’s mother who impacted his academic career the most. As it became time to look ahead to his future, his decision came easily. Mastro has always had a strong passion for education, following in the footsteps of his mother—an educator for over 30 years—whose dedication to her students and passion for learning left a lasting impression on him from a young age. He didn’t have to look far to find a model leader in academia.
“Watching her lead both in and outside the classroom inspired me to take on leadership roles and helped me see education as a powerful way to make a difference. To this day, she remains my go-to person for advice, whether it's about my career in education or life in general,” said Mastro.
The decision may have come easily, but Mastro admits he wasn’t initially sure where a career in education would take him. After graduating as a member of the Class of 2012, his academic journey would begin at SUNY Broome Community College, later moving to Binghamton University where he earned a degree in Human Development, in addition to a minor in… you guessed it… education.
“As I continued through my studies, I discovered a strong interest in higher education, which led me to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration and Student Affairs Administration. That experience laid the foundation for a rewarding career in academic leadership—one rooted in service, mentorship, and the belief that education can change lives,” said Mastro.
Education had impacted Mastro’s life in many ways, and it was clear this passion would only grow. His early career began at Binghamton University, where he worked in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Educational Leadership, focusing on academic and student affairs, assessment, and accreditation. Soon after, the Spartan alum relocated to Washington, D.C., to join George Washington University as the Director of Strategic Initiatives in the Dean’s Office of the College of Professional Studies. At GWU, Mastro managed college-wide operations and events, led strategic planning initiatives, and oversaw a variety of special projects for the Dean. He says it was an incredibly rewarding experience.
“Higher education is about more than just coursework and credentials; it’s about fostering critical thinking, curiosity, resilience, and a sense of purpose. I’ve had the privilege of working with students from all walks of life, each bringing their own story and ambitions. Helping them find their path, supporting their growth, and watching them go on to make an impact in their communities and professions is what makes this work so meaningful,” said Mastro.
Just a few months back, his educational journey entered yet another chapter – roughly 400 miles South on I-95. In May, Mastro accepted the role of Assistant Dean and Campus Administrator for Northeastern University's Charlotte campus. In his new position, he “wears many hats,” working closely with faculty, students, staff, and university leadership to expand academic offerings, grow student enrollment, and enhance the student experience from application through graduation and beyond.
“Being in a leadership role is incredibly rewarding. I’ve always believed in strength-based leadership—leveraging the unique talents of each team member while also being self-aware of one’s own areas for growth. At its core, leadership is about service, collaboration, and vision. It means setting a tone of inclusivity, supporting the professional development of others, and working toward shared goals with integrity and enthusiasm,” said Mastro.
Mastro says leadership is something he first embraced as a student at Maine-Endwell through his involvement in clubs and student government. The foundation he created from an early age remains central in how he approaches his career today.
“Maine-Endwell played a significant role in preparing me for the path I’ve taken. It was at M-E that I first began to understand the value of leadership, community, and service. Through opportunities like student government, athletics, and school-wide events like Homecoming, I learned how to collaborate, communicate effectively, and contribute to something larger than myself. The environment that Maine-Endwell created for students helped instill a strong sense of confidence and curiosity—qualities that have guided me through every chapter of my academic and professional journey,” said Mastro.
In addition to academics and clubs, sports have always played a major role in Mastro’s life, especially during his high school days. He says a big part of his passion for athletics comes from another model individual - his father – someone who remains an athlete to this day.
“Growing up, I watched him approach every workout, race, and challenge with discipline, humility, and purpose. His example taught me that being an athlete isn’t just about physical ability—it’s about mindset, consistency, and character,” said Mastro.
He continued, “As a member of the swim team at M-E, I began to internalize those lessons. I learned the value of showing up even when things are hard, pushing through setbacks, and celebrating both individual and team growth. Swimming gave me a deep appreciation for what it means to be accountable—to myself, to my teammates, and to the goals we set together. And through traditions like our annual hike and pancake breakfast, I saw how connection, community, and shared purpose elevate the experience beyond competition. Those lessons carried into every aspect of my life—from time management and leadership to how I approach challenges in my career,” said Mastro.
13 years after crossing the stage as a Spartan graduate, Mastro says his message for students remains the same - don’t be afraid to take your own path.
“You’ll get a lot of advice in the months and years ahead—from teachers, family, friends, and mentors. Listen to it, consider it, appreciate it—but remember that it’s your life. No one can shape your future besides you. Whether you choose college, trade school, the military, or go straight into the workforce, what matters most is that you pursue what makes you feel fulfilled. Explore your interests. Get involved in things that excite you. Pay attention to the moments when you feel most energized or curious—those are often signs pointing you toward your passions and potential career paths,” said Mastro.
He continued, “There’s no one-size-fits-all definition of success, and the road won’t always be straight. But if you stay true to yourself, work hard, and lead with integrity, you’ll find your way. The Spartan community has given you a strong foundation—now it’s up to you to build the life you want,” said Mastro.
Today, Mastro calls Charlotte, North Carolina home, along with his husband and two golden doodles. From the halls of Spartan Country to the administrative offices of a major R1-ranked university, academics continue to play a major role in his day-to-day life. He hopes to pass on the positive impact education has had on him to the students of the future – just as his mother did for three decades.
“It’s been an exciting journey that’s taken me from Endwell to new cities and opportunities—but the values I learned growing up in that community still guide me every day,” said Mastro.
