Gunston’s Tony D’Antonio Named ‘Counselor of the Year’

Gunston’s Tony D’Antonio Named ‘Counselor of the Year’

The Gunston School is delighted to announce that Co-Director of College Guidance Tony D’Antonio has been named a Counselor of the Year by the Potomac & Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling (PCACAC), a professional non-profit organization established in 1964 for those who work with students in the transition between high school and college. PCACAC is a chartered affiliate of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) that serves Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.

“Mr. D’Antonio is a tremendous asset to the Gunston community,” said Head of School John Lewis. “His gift is the combination of expertise, a love of students, total commitment, a sense of humor, community engagement, and a deep and authentic empathy.”

This prestigious recognition was created to recognize counselors who go above and beyond in their work with students. Selection includes areas of expertise, impact on constituents in the admission process, advocacy for students and colleagues, commitment to equity and access for all, thoroughness in their daily work, and innovation in the industry.

“Mr. D’Antonio is an incredible college counselor whose guidance has led both Ava and Alivia and countless other students, on amazing journeys,” said Jen Runz, P’24’25. “He takes time to listen and support students, always coupled with a cheering spirit. His commitment and dedication to college guidance will shape countless future students. He is a true gem at Gunston.”

Mr. D’Antonio came to Gunston in 2021 with more than 30 years of experience in college and admission counseling. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science and two master’s degrees from Salisbury University and from the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore in counseling and education psychology. In addition to his responsibilities with college guidance, Mr. D’Antonio is also the head coach for girls’ soccer, assistant coach for triathlon, and a regular chaperone for various field trips, including Gunston’s annual Chesapeake Bay Studies week.

“There’s a quote that summarizes Coach D’Antonio perfectly, and that is ‘Coaches have the power to turn potential into reality through guidance, encouragement and belief’ by Lou Holtz,” explains Sarah Phillippon, P’25’27. “Coach D’Antonio is the best coach my daughter Abby has had in her athletic career thus far. He cares deeply about the girls both on and off the field.”

Co-Director of College Guidance Emily Coffey adds, “His genuine personality, concern for others, and willingness to consistently go above and beyond the task at hand make him a beloved staff member at Gunston. Students and parents alike feel supported and taken care of when working with Tony. He cares about each student and helps them think about who they are, why they are interested in pursuing higher education, and how to create a balanced list that will help them accomplish their goals. Even if his calendar and to-do list are both full, Tony makes each student feel and believe that they are the most important thing right then.”