We are so sorry to say that beloved NWSA art teacher Tom Wyroba has passed away.

“Tom Wyroba’s dedication to mentoring young student artists spans over 25 years. His dedication to the visual arts students at New World School of the Arts was unprecedented.” These were the words of NWSA Dean of Visual Arts Maggy Cuesta as she solemnly shared the sad news of Mr. Wyroba’s passing this weekend.

Mr. “Y”, as his students lovingly called him, devoted long hours encouraging and guiding students to achieve their highest creative potential. From the beginning he was often heard telling parents how important their support is and for the next four years to be prepared to make the walls of their home an artist studio. He received numerous awards and recognition for the excellence of his students. In 2012 he was awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts Teacher Award.

“There will never be another ‘Y’,” said Evonne Alvarez, Principal of the NWSA High School. “He was passionate about his students and changed and molded the lives of so many that were fortunate to know him. He will be truly missed by the NWSA Family.”

Jeffrey Hodgson, Provost of New World School of the Arts echoed that sentiment when he commented, “The legacy of creativity and passion for the arts that Tom passed on to his students will forever live on through those changed lives. We were lucky to have Tom as part of the New World family and he will be deeply missed.”

“He leaves a long legacy of student success, evident in the Alumni achievements. His commitment to teaching will be difficult to match,” continued dean Cuesta.

A memorial will be held this weekend to commemorate the life and work of Mr. “Y”. In addition, to continue Tom Wyroba’s legacy, the Wyman Scholarship has been established to offer a scholarship to students from NWSA and DASH. Contributions should be made to New World School of the Arts, and sent to NWSA, attention Visual Arts Division, Dean Maggy Cuesta.