Thomas Lloyd Bennette, B.P.S., M.A., M.S. was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica West Indies and served for five and a half years in the Jamaica Defense Force (Army).  He received his associate's degree from Commante Manuel Fardo School for Physical Education Teachers in Santiago, Cuba.  He attended the University of West Indies and transferred to the College of Human Services in NY where he attained his Bachelor of Science Degree in human services.  He holds two degrees at the graduate level: Master of Science degree from Fordham University in education and a Master of Arts degree from Columbia University in social anthropology.  He is a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (Q.M.R.P.) and current, active member of NAMI (National Association of Mental Illness).  Bennette is a loving husband, grandfather, and father of two adult children.  He has been teaching full-time for Touro College in the department of human services for over twelve years.