Meet Kirston (Seifert) Rooney, a proud OCSD alumna from the Class of 2007!

Kirston’s favorite memories from her time in the Oneida City School District center around her involvement in choir. She credits Mrs. O’Connell, Mrs. Gwilt, Mrs. Lynch, and Mr. Welcher as some of the most impactful figures in her school experience. Through music, they not only inspired their students creatively, but also fostered meaningful, lifelong connections.

After graduating, Kirston attended St. John Fisher College for two years, initially pursuing a degree in history. She soon realized that her career interests were evolving (with a lighthearted nod to Mr. Yardley), and made the bold decision to leave school, travel, and gain work experience in California.

Kirston’s journey in hospitality began at just 17 years old, working at the original Coneheads in Oneida. She went on to spend six years in California, where she refined her skills in upscale casual dining environments.

Today, Kirston is a fine dining server at TS Steakhouse at Turning Stone Resort Casino, where she has worked for the past 13 years. As part of a Forbes Four-Star trained team, she delivers an exceptional guest experience centered around fine cuisine, curated wines, and an elevated atmosphere. A trained sommelier, Kirston brings both expertise and passion to her role—creating memorable dining experiences for guests, with the occasional celebrity sighting adding a unique touch.

To future graduates, Kirston offers this advice: Sometimes your passion becomes your hobby, and your hobby becomes your career. I definitely took “the long way around,” but it was clear to me what felt right professionally early on. I still love history and delve into that for fun, but food service and hospitality have always been my strength. As for my own two children, and future OCSD graduates, my true advice is this: try and fail—and then try again. Failure absolutely crushes your ego, but it’s just as important to learn what’s not working for you as it is to see what’s right.