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Much of Sayville is smiling this summer. And why not.
Hometown inspiration Matt Zender has officially earned his RN after completing Stony Brook University’s demanding nursing program. It’s a milestone for the Sayville High School graduate that caps a journey that began in 10th grade with a life-threatening cancer diagnosis and has been defined ever since by grit, gratitude — and always hope.
“After four incredible years, I’m proud to share that I’ve officially completed my RN!” Zender wrote in a celebratory Instagram post. “I’m beyond grateful to all of my friends, mentors and organizations who have supported and shaped me throughout this journey.”
Zender, who survived an aggressive form of bone cancer as a teen, entered Stony Brook determined to turn his medical battle into a career of care. He not only excelled academically, but also served in statewide leadership roles and embraced a creative outlet in photography, taking dynamic action shots for Stony Brook Athletics and teams at his alma mater Sayville.
Passion for photography
“From capturing moments and traveling with @sbathletics, to sharing my voice with nursing students nationwide through @nsnainc, I’ve been lucky to have a college experience I’ll never forget,” he said.
Zender served as president of the Nursing Students’ Association of New York State while also remaining deeply engaged with pediatric oncology efforts. He has long set his sights on helping children facing the same fight he once did.
“To anyone chasing a dream: Never Ever Give Up (NEGU),” Zender wrote. “Your passion will take you farther than you think.”
The NEGU message was his motto during his cancer fight in high school. It was embraced by his classmates, who wore t-shirts featuring the acronym.
Zender’s father Mark said watching his child reach this moment has been nothing short of inspiring.
“I continue to be amazed at Matthew’s resilience and his Never Ever Give Up (#NEGU) approach to everything he does in life,” he said. “I am confident his experiences will translate into a deep, compassionate and empathetic practice of Nursing that will benefit his patients for the rest of his life.
“I believe we all experience adversity for a reason and perhaps this was his,” he added.
A look back: Matt Zender’s journey
Below is a timeline of key moments in Zender’s story, from his cancer diagnosis in high school to his graduation with an RN degree from Stony Brook University.
July 2019
Zender, then 16 and a student at Sayville High School, is diagnosed with aggressive bone cancer after what had seemed only to be a persistent shin injury.
August 2019 – February 2020
He undergoes limb-salvage surgery and 30 weeks of chemotherapy. The Sayville community rallies behind him with fundraisers and a Meal Train to help support Zender and his family.
June 2020
Zender runs for and wins Sayville High School’s student body presidency for the Class of 2021. His sister Katie is elected vice president.
July 2020
Doctors remove Zender’s Mediport. Scans show no evidence of disease — he is officially cancer free.
June 2021
Zender graduates from Sayville High School with honors.
Fall 2021
Begins classes at Stony Brook University’s nursing program, inspired by his own experiences there as a patient.
September 2023
Named president of the Nursing Students’ Association of New York State. Volunteers with Project Sunshine and becomes a vocal advocate for young patients.
May 2025
Zender completes his RN degree and graduates from Stony Brook University.
Top photo: Matt Zender of Sayville in his college graduation gown (Instagram).
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