Academic Support Center Fall 2026 Newsletter

For some, a job is an endurance test–-measured by a swift march to the exit door and fading evening sun. For others, a job is a personal statement, a career that transforms lives, transcends the everyday, and opens hearts. Madalena Mansinho, recently retired Math Coordinator at the Academic Support Center, clearly felt emboldened by her students to let her career take flight. “I wanted to help students realize that we’re not here to judge,” Madalena said. “Students trusted me. I would find them help.”

Mansinho came to New York by way of southern Portugal. In many ways, Portugal still seeps into Madalena’s consciousness: the salty air, mild winters where children run free, and an atmosphere that allows its inhabitants to pause, to breathe. In New York, Mansinho enrolled at WCC where she was shielded from personal adversities that occasionally pierced her confidence. “The faculty were really supportive,” Mansinho said. “Instructors knew what it was like for immigrants—those learning about [American] culture. I felt like I mattered here. I was nurtured.”

As a student, Madalena never stopped working—as a student, tutor, doctor’s office employee, and even in real estate. After receiving a Masters in School Psychology from Long Island University, Madalena pursued a career in K-12 education, however, discontent tugged at her psyche.

There was something missing. “I missed WCC when I looked at other jobs,” Mansinho said. “This felt like home. WCC improved my life. Once I was exposed to K-12, I realized that my heart belonged to adults. These students needed the most support.”

For 30 years, the doors to the Academic Support Center welcomed Madalena home. The symphony of wheels turning, Expo markers squeaking and muted laughter reminded her of her purpose. There were certainly challenges—her office quickly became a cocoon that protected students from some of the same dilemmas she faced. Silent tears fell and were comforted with compassion. “I helped break down the stigma,” Mansinho said of her frequent visitors. “I’ll miss the eagerness and the students waiting [outside my door] who say, ‘I’ve got a problem!’”

When Madalena considered her first day at the Academic Support Center, a quietness hung heavy like summer humidity. “Looking back at Day 1, [I’d tell myself] ‘Get ready, you’re gonna be here for 30 years!’ I didn’t think I was going to be in academia— I realized that I loved doing this.”

And the future? Her intensity relaxed, eyes warm and bright. “I started working when I was 16,” Mansinho began. “I’ve never had any time in my life when I didn’t work. I have hobbies: coding, traveling…”

A brief pause, a hopeful smile.

“I’m putting myself first.”

The Academic Support Center congratulates Madalena Mansinho on her retirement and welcomes her as an Adjunct Coordinator!

Congratulations to the 2026 Hirsch Scholarship winners!