The Enduring Legacy of FDU’s Faculty
Thank You for Everything
FDU Magazine asked alumni and students to share stories of their favorite faculty members and the community delivered in a huge way.
Here, read a selection of responses and delight in the memories of these cherished teachers and mentors. More to come in an upcoming issue of FDU Magazine!
Gary Darden
Gary Darden [associate professor of history and director of the University-wide Core program] probably had the greatest influence on me. In his classes, he taught me to examine historical events and figures from all sides. He often said you need to “know the good, the bad, and the ugly of history.” Taking that lesson to heart, I made sure to apply it toward my education and in my work in public policy and government.
Elizabeth Panuccio
Elizabeth Panuccio [associate professor of criminal justice and associate dean of Maxwell Becton College of Liberal Arts and Education] was an integral, influential part of my journey while at FDU and beyond. She encouraged me to follow the path that I felt called to (social work). I will never forget that her support and non-judgmental attitude helped steer me away from school psychology and toward my heart’s true calling. I am now a therapist for children and adolescents, and I am forever grateful that I get to be a safe space for them. Thank you, Professor Panuccio!
Yolanda Hawkins-Rodgers
Associate Professor of Psychology Yolanda Hawkins-Rodgers!
Peter Woolley
I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a political science student at Fairleigh Dickinson University. My courses in government, politics and international affairs were among the most rewarding parts of my education, strengthening my interest in public service. I especially appreciated learning from Professor of Political Science Peter Woolley, an outstanding professor who made the material engaging and thought-provoking.
Marc Alan Zagoren
The late Marc Alan Zagoren [professor of theater] was a wonderful playwrighting and theater teacher. This fall marks the 30th anniversary of his passing. He was so wonderful and believed in his students, including me. When a professional children’s theater company asked him to recommend a young actor, he recommended me, starting my career at 19. I have since worked on and off Broadway, in major theaters throughout the United States and England, as well as on television and film, but it all goes back to Marc Zagoren’s theater classes on the Metropolitan Campus.
Khyati Joshi
Randall Westbrook
Randall Westbrook, lecturer of education, and Khyati Joshi, professor of multicultural education.
Iris Gersh
Iris Gersh [associate professor of hospitality and tourism management] is one of the best mentors I ever had. She not only encouraged her students to better themselves, but also taught us what to expect in the workforce. Because of Professor Gersh’s mentorship, I am now a senior business developer at Kung Fu Tea Headquarters.
Kathryn Douglas
My favorite professors were Kathryn Douglas [assistant professor of creative writing], who taught me children’s and young adult literature, and Daniel Aronoff [former lecturer of education], who was my professor, adviser, and mentor in the QUEST program. Both helped me grow as a person and professional, with Professor Douglas assisting with my doctoral research and Professor Aronoff encouraging and supporting my growth and development as an educator. Without them, I would not have found the career path that fits perfectly with my strengths and passions!
Maureen Kieff
Maureen Kieff [senior lecturer of quantitative analysis] is one of the greatest professors I’ve met. You can clearly see that she loves what she’s doing and tries her best to make sure the students are on the same page. Thanks to her I have discovered my potential.
Chris Caldiero
Professor of Communication Christopher Caldiero changed my life in so many ways and I am so thankful for him. He was always there for me.
Irvin Citron
Irvin Citron, professor emeritus of chemistry, at the Rutherford Campus.
Marion McClary
Marion McClary, professor of biological sciences and chair of the biological sciences department, was my mentor during sophomore year and later for my master’s in environmental science. I’m still in the science field and he helped me get my foot in the door as a professional scientist.
Antoinette Anastasia
The late Antoinette Anastasia’s [professor of biological sciences] impact on my life is immeasurable.
James Kenny
Former Professor of Criminal Justice James Kenny was a great source of support and encouragement during my undergraduate time. While I was a psychology major, he helped to shape my view on the intersection between social work (which I later earned a master’s degree in) and the criminal justice system. He always encouraged and supported me when times were rough. I’m grateful for professors like him.
Chris Rasmussen
Chris Rasmussen [professor of history] hands down. Name another professor that could single-handedly make a student studying marketing get a minor in history.
Meghan Sacks
Meghan Sacks [professor of criminology and coordinator of criminology and criminal justice major] was my favorite professor! I enjoyed all of her classes.
Richard Panicucci
The late Richard Panicucci [professor emeritus of quantitative analysis]. He was a kind, engaging and funny professor that made a difference in my life.
Kenneth Verhkens
Grateful doesn’t even cover it. The late Dean Kenneth Vehrkens [associate professor of history] was a blessing as a professor, and an even bigger one as a dean.
Alice Benzecry (left)
Alice Benzecry [professor of biological sciences]! What a queen, she was super passionate and pushed me to whole new levels!
James Salierno (left)
Professor of Biology [James] Salierno’s ecology classes helped me realize I wanted to pursue a career in conservation!
Aixa Ritz
Aixa Ritz [associate professor hospitality and tourism management].
Joseph Agugliaro
Joseph Agugliaro [professor of biology] supported me through the most challenging time of my life as my dad was diagnosed with cancer and passed away shortly before graduation. He showed incredible compassion, support and understanding during that time. He encouraged me when I felt overwhelmed and helped me stay focused on finishing my degree. I truly would have not crossed the finish line without his guidance and kindness. His impact on my life extends far beyond the classroom, and I will always be grateful for his support.
Jarrett Bachman
Jarrett Bachman, professor of hospitality and tourism management [and coordinator of hospitality and tourism management programs, Vancouver Campus], pushed me to achieve my goals and my dream job.
Eunsun Kwon
Associate Professor of Social Work Eunsun Kwon is the reason I made it through the MSW program. She encouraged me from the first semester before I had enough self-worth of my own.
I am grateful FDU has professors such as Professor Kwon who understand the importance of education and building up their students. Thank you, Professor Kwon, you will always be a reminder to focus on my strengths.
Helen Brudner
The late Helen Brudner [professor emerita of history and political science] was a model for how to use both intelligence and humor to lead and influence. And she never minded if we forgot a date, as long as we learned the lessons history had left us. And in so doing, she taught us to seek the essence of things.
Vince Hubin
The late Professor of Finance and Economics Vince Hubin taught me so much about business finance. Still use the lessons he taught me today! Rest in peace.
The late Professor of Accounting Ken Gillies taught me so much about accounting and taxation. I still use his lessons today in real life. He convinced me to join the Marines, too. Rest in peace and Semper Fi, Ken!
Bruce Peabody
Professor of Government and Politics Bruce Peabody [and Director of Fairleigh Institute for Lifelong Learning at Florham] profoundly shaped the way I think about the world. While I was a political science student, he challenged me to examine morality, understand how different cultures develop values and appreciate how those values shape institutions, laws and civil discourse. His mentorship inspired me to combine political science with finance, a perspective that ultimately became the foundation of my career in business strategy.
Eun-Jeong Ko (left)
Eun-Jeong Ko [associate professor of entrepreneurship] helped me develop a business idea into a winning pitch. I won first place at FDUPitch 2026 and competed in the statewide competition UPitchNJ.
Ervin Brody
The late Ervin Brody, professor emeritus of languages, was one of those rare teachers whose lessons remained long after the course ended. He introduced me to existential philosophy through the works of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, but his greatest lesson came from his own life. As a Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor, he taught that history is not merely something to remember — but also something from which we must learn. He asked difficult questions with kindness and patience, encouraging his students to think deeply rather than accept easy answers. Professor Brody changed the way I think. He opened the door to understanding the past as a guide for living wisely in the present. His influence continues to shape me, and I remain grateful to have been his student.
Irwin Isquith
Irwin (Rick) Isquith [professor emeritus of biology] was a great teacher and an inspiration. Terrific class!
The late Christopher Devine [professor emeritus of chemistry and philosophy] — I’m honored to have been a student of his. Amazing teacher, leader, inspirational human and professor. Peace.
Bernard Dick, Thomas Stavola and Bamidele Ojo
Bernard Dick [professor emeritus of English and communication], the late Thomas Stavola [professor of English] and Bamidele Ojo [professor emeritus of political science]. They were just great professors.