Steve Bonanno is a class of 1990 alumnus of South Windsor High School. Today, he is a highly successful clinical psychologist, owner and founder of Acclaim Behavioral Services, a comprehensive psychotherapy practice located in South Windsor.
Despite his notability in the field, Bonanno wasn’t always interested in psychology.
“I changed my major twice from mathematics to communications, and finally decided to pursue a marketing degree,” Bonanno said. “For much of my life, I just knew I loved to help others.”
Graduating Central Connecticut University with a degree in marketing, Bonanno returned to CCSU later on to receive a Master of Arts in psychology.
Then, in 2005, Bonanno attended University of Hartford to attain his Doctor of Psychology degree.
Reflecting on his time at South Windsor High School, Bonanno recalls that his favorite class was biology, ultimately catalyzing his interest in the health services field.
“My favorite memory from SWHS was in 1989, my junior year, and our football team was the number 1 team in CT. That year we were undefeated in the regular season, going 10-0,” Bonanno said.
In addition to football, Bonanno played for the SWHS basketball team during high school. He continues to pursue his love for the sport by coaching one of the middle school girls rec basketball teams.
Living in South Windsor for over 30 years, Bonanno witnessed the change from a tobacco farming town to a booming suburb. He has observed the rapid increase of people coming to South Windsor to raise their own family, which sparked the building of new neighborhoods such as his own.
As a result of the many years he spent in South Windsor, he found it hard to leave, choosing to stay and further his career as a psychologist. He wanted to remain close to his family and friends after graduating.
His message to South Windsor High School students is a motto that he has lived his life: “always strive to treat all you encounter with kindness, respect, and compassion.”
