YONKERS, NY — September 29, 2026 — The two most recent honorees enshrined on the Wall of Fame at Saunders Trades and Technical High School have a combined record of public service that adds up to more than a century of selfless giving.  One started out teaching foreign languages; the other taught left hooks.

The Saunders Alumni Association saluted Board of Education President Dr. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio and retired Yonkers Police Officer and Police Athletic League (PAL) Boxing Coach Salvatore Corrente.

“I’m speechless,” said Dr. Del Vecchio.  “I don’t have adequate words.  I’ve come full circle— back home.”

Mr. Corrente humbly waved off the microphone.  Shunning attention, he bowed his head and offered a simple, “Thank you.”

According to the Saunders Alumni Association, honorees must be virtuous, dedicated leaders who have given back to society or performed significant community service, exemplifying the ideals of the Saunders mission.

Board of Education President Del Vecchio began her career at Saunders High School in 1971.  She taught Italian, her native tongue, as well as Spanish, French and writing.  She also served as a Yonkers Public Schools administrator overseeing competitive grants.  Dr. Del Vecchio was the Director of the Master’s Degree Program in School Building Leadership at St. John’s University.  A former Fulbright and National Endowment for the Humanities Fellow, Dr. Del Vecchio was vice president of the Fulbright Association of Greater New York and continues to serve on its Board.

Salvatore Corrente is a Saunders High School alumnus, Class of 1957.  He was co-captain of the football team and helped Saunders capture its first Yonkers City Football Championship in 1956.  Mr. Corrente joined the Yonkers Police Department in 1964 and wore a badge for 37 years.  In 1975, he formed the Yonkers PAL Boxing Program.  Over the decades he mentored and coached countless disadvantaged youth, helping some to become Olympians and Golden Gloves champions.

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano celebrated both honorees for their lifetime of service to their city, their home.  He hopes they inspire a new generation of public servants.

Mayor Spano said, “When our kids enter Saunders and look at the wall to see who else has passed through these halls, we want them to see these accomplished individuals and think to themselves— I can do that too.”