Most folks who know Anthony “Tony” Montalbano don’t have to guess he’s not from around here. He proudly dons Los Angeles Lakers basketball hats and sets up learning lessons in his class using California and Texas teams. Tony was born and raised in Los Angeles, Calif. but found his way to Texas through graduate school.
The NVC value that Tony values the most is joy.
“Life is short, so go do fun things that make you feel good about the world.”
Where did he work before?
“Before NVC, I taught writing and literature at Trinity University, UTSA, and Texas State University.”
Tony says after being at NVC for three years, he’s come to value the relaxed atmosphere where it’s more focused on students.
He said when he taught at four-year universities, the focus often seemed to be on the faculty.”
What is his educational background?
“I graduated from the University of California at Santa Cruz, where I played soccer and earned my degree in Film and Literature. I hold a Masters in Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Poetry from Texas State University.”
What is the best part about working at NVC?
“For me, it’s two things. First, it’s the people I work with. I’ve never been around a group of faculty, staff and administrators so kind and supportive. The second is the campus. I love coming to campus every day partly because it’s just a lovely place to hang out. I even come up to the lake on the weekends sometimes just to kick back and get some reading done.”
What’s the most rewarding part about his job?
“Easily, it’s working with the students. I mean, no matter how crazy or lame my day is I know that I can walk into my classroom and the only thing that matters is what happens during those 90 minutes. The classroom is my sanctuary, unless I’m golfing.”
What are his hobbies, interests, etc?
“I’m certifiably addicted to golf. If I’m not reading, writing or grading, I’m golfing. So when you see the sun setting each night, look to the west and know, Tony is golfing right now because I probably am.”
Does he have a personal motto he likes to tell students?
“Find what it is you love to do, then chase it.”
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