Howard Robertson, a retired warden from the New York City Department of Correction, spoke to Earl L. Vandermeulen High School students in grades 9-12 as part of his Airtight Solutions Anti-Violence Program. The presentation provided audiences with an in-depth look at the consequences of making bad decisions and how to navigate one’s life towards success.
“Don’t let your story be your excuse,” said Robertson, who shared a personal account of his traumatic upbringing. “Everyone has something in their life that they are dealing with, but do not use that as an excuse to not do the right thing."
Robertson offered students a direct glimpse into life in prison, as he had care custody and control over “New York’s most notorious drug kingpins, murderers and gang members” during his career. The objective of the discussion was to provide the listeners with relevant information and sound advice that they can use to motivate themselves and others to avoid major pitfalls in life. “As teens, you’re not always responsible for getting knocked down in life,” he said. “However, you are responsible for picking yourself back up. Tough times don’t last forever, but tough people do.”
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During his presentation, Robertson covered the topics of gangs, drugs and alcohol, suicide and bullying. He strongly encouraged students to focus on their education as just one of the ways they can become the best version of themselves. He discussed the concept of association/assimilation and how it suggests that an individual becomes like the people and things with which they surround themselves. “In real life you can pick your own team by choosing who you identify with,” said Robertson. “Be a great friend, but also make sure that you are doing what is best for you and for your future.”
