The power and influence of artificial intelligence and its impact on school counseling were the focal points as school counselors from across Long Island visited SUNY Old Westbury on Friday, November 7, 2025 to participate in the 49th Long Island Counselors' Annual Conference.
The event was developed and run by leaders from the East End Counselors' Association, the Nassau Counselors' Association, and the Western Suffolk Counselors' Association.
“We were excited to welcome LICAC back to campus again this year and to support the amazing professionals who work hard every day to help students get ready for life after high school,” said Frank Pizzardi, director of admissions at SUNY Old Westbury and a co-chair of the conference committee. “Big thanks to the conference planning committee for putting together such a great program, which was timely, engaging, and a big hit with everyone who attended!”
The keynote address, titled “Unlocking Potential: Empowering School Counselors with ChatGPT and AI,” was presented by Joshua Varon, founder and CEO of Varon Consulting. In it, the attendees were introduced to AI applications available and practical for their work, reviewed the ethical considerations for the use of AI, and learned tangible ways that AI can enhance student support and engagement.
Along with workshops offering the latest on financial aid processing, career counseling, and transfer admissions, participants were able to explore more AI related content in sessions focused on the use of AI for equitable college access and impacts of AI and technology on student learning and development.
Further, workshops were also available offering a comprehensive overview of SUNY’s Advancing Success in Associate Pathways and Advancing Completion Through Engagement programs.
The event also featured a "College Connections Expo" where counselors could get the latest information about new programs, facilities and opportunities available for students at area colleges and universities.