Faculty, Staff — Update, In Memoriam, Announcing, Welcome

Update

Mutiara Mohamad, University director, Programs in English for Academic and Professional Success (Metro), was honored by the Society of Foreign Consuls (SoFC) at its annual International Women’s Day 2025 Celebration held on March 19 at the Consulate General of India in New York. Representing Malaysia, she was honored for her “outstanding contributions in the field of education and leadership, as well as her dedication to advancing cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence.” Mohamad has been leading the University’s English for Professional Success Program since 2006. In 2022, she expanded her efforts to support ESL students at FDU’s Hispanic Center. To read more go to “Mutiara Mohamad Honored by The Society of Foreign Consuls.” News of Mohamad’s award was also posted on the AFS-USA’s Facebook page. When she was a teenager, she stayed in Missouri for a year as an AFS exchange student. Now Mohamad does volunteer work for AFS-USA.

Mutiara Mohamad, left, receiving her award in New York City.

Mutiara Mohamad, left, with Amir Farid Abu Hasan, consul general of Malaysia in New York, and president, The Society of Foreign Consuls in New York.

“Multifaceted Strategy That Improves Students’ Achievement of Entrustable Professional Activities Across Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences,” an article cowritten by Anastasia Rivkin, pharmacy practice and dean, pharmacy/health sciences; Jane Shtaynberg, assistant dean for experiential education, pharmacy/health sciences; Lillian Rozaklis, associate dean for assessment/accreditation/strategic planning, pharmacy/health sciences (all Flor); and Alyssa Gallipani, residency program director, RWJ Barnabas Health Medical Group, and former clinical assistant professor of pharmacy practice at FDU, won the Experiential Education Excellence in Scholarship Award from the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP).

Four people at CIANJ awards ceremony

Christopher Stubbs, second from left, was presented with a plaque at the CIANJ event. With him are, from left, Anita Rivers, Patrick Mercer and Kevin Fana.

On April 24, Christopher Stubbs, mechanical engineering/mechanical engineering technology (Metro), was honored at Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ) and COMMERCE Magazine’s 2025 Environmental Innovation Awards (Environmental Research and Development category) for his lab’s work in developing an educational plastic-recycling system for college campuses. He was joined by two of his student researchers, Patrick Mercer and Kevin Fana, who led the project, and Anita Rivers, executive director of community relations (Metro). Stubbs and his lab’s innovative project will be featured in COMMERCE Magazine’s April issue. Earlier in the year, Stubbs; Ihab Darwish, computer science; and Carolynn Julien, University executive director, grants/sponsored projects (both Metro), presented at the NSF SUITED conference, held at Union College, Schenectady, N.Y. Their presentation focused on the plastic-recycling system that they had been developing at Stubbs’ lab at the Gildart Haase School of Computer Sciences and Engineering. FDU was one of 17 teams selected to participate at the event, which discussed the commercialization of academic research technology. As a result of this workshop, Stubbs and his students were selected to participate in The City University of New York (CUNY) I-Corps™ in January.

Marie Roberts, fine arts (Metro), announced that one of her first FDU students, Matt diLeo, (formerly known as Matthew Reciniello), BA’95 (Metro), was among the artists featured in Create Magazine’s Issue 49 — The Abundance Issue. diLeo was one of 25 artists who was interviewed and whose work was featured in the magazine’s special edition, which “celebrates a rich tapestry of artistic voices, perspectives and techniques.” In the magazine feature, diLeo credits Roberts for deeply influencing his artistry. “She emphasized the importance of authenticity and being mutable while engaging in the process of making art.”

Mary Hebert, director, Regional Center for Learning Disabilities (Flor), and vice president of the Learning Disabilities Association of New Jersey, presented on “The Ultimate Selfies to Take to College,” at the Learning Disabilities Association of America International Conference held in Orlando, Fla., from February 27 to March 1. Her presentation focused on the non-academic skills essential for college transition to support students with learning differences. Hebert discussed research-based concepts such as self-advocacy, self-efficacy and self-determination as well as hands-on practical strategies to help students develop these skills during high-school to support their readiness for the college transition.

Neelu Sinha, computer science (Flor), is part of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Computing Research Association’s EducateAI initiative as an advisory board member, where she will help share the future of AI education and participate in the NSF’s nationwide effort to expand and improve AI education.

Marion McClary, biological sciences and chair, biological sciences (Metro), will be receiving The Green and Health Places Leadership Award from the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation at Community Changemaker Night on Thursday, June 5, at Forte Ristorante in Hackensack, N.J. He is being honored for “his research, teaching and community involvement to make our local environment healthier and helping young adults become leaders in the science fields.”

Joshua Bornstein, education, director of educational leadership and director, EdD in higher education, and Lynn Reid, rhetoric/composition and University director of writing (both Metro), led a virtual workshop on “Restorative Justice and Academic Integrity Violations” hosted by the Provost’s Leadership Council in March.

Two students with Dan Cassino at the ESS conference

At the Eastern Sociological Society Conference are Daniel Cassino, right, and students, from left, Deborah Solanke and Madalyn McEvoy.

In March, “Femininity, LGBTQ Identity and Paranormal Belief: Doing Gender and Religious Individualism,” a scholarly article cowritten by Daniel Cassino, government/politics and executive director, FDU Poll (Flor), was published in The Sociological Quarterly journal. Masculinity in American Politics, a book he co-edited was published by New York University Press in February 2025. The book brings together a group of interdisciplinary scholars to explore how elements of masculinity manifest themselves in all aspects of American political life. In March, Cassino presented on “Risky Performances: Men, Masculinity and Online Gambling” at the Eastern Sociological Society Conference in Boston, Mass. At the same conference, two of his undergraduate students — Madalyn McEvoy and Deborah Solanke — did a poster presentation on “Masculinity and Cryptocurrency: Performing Knowledge Online.” Cassino wrote several op-eds for the Times of India: “Trump vs non-Harvards” and “Trumped by treasuries, not protest,” in April; “Liberty’s getting trumped in US,” “Why Don needs mad Musk” and “Donald vs. justices … what next?” in March; and “Trump can’t fly them all back” and “FBI got Patelled. Now what?” in February. He is one of the associate editors of the Survey Practice journal, an e-journal published by the American Association for Public Opinion Research. The journal published its 2025 special issue on Cross-cultural and Multilingual Research in March.

University administrators and staff were among those who presented at LEAD NOW Workshops held at the Florham and Metropolitan campuses this spring semester. Among them were Rosa Hanco, director of first-year experience/student leadership programs, Dean of Students (Flor) (“Understanding DEI”); S. Craig Mourton, assistant vice president for student affairs (“Prioritizing: Rock, Pebble, Sand” [Metropolitan Campus workshop] and “Prioritizing Management [Florham Campus workshop]); Jennifer Quirk, senior associate athletic director – compliance, athletics (Metro) (“Leave a Legacy”); and Rosa Santana, University director for career development (Metro) (“Disc Revealed: Building Trust Brick by Brick”).

Carolynn Julien, University executive director, grants/sponsored projects; Annie Rohan, nursing and dean, nursing/allied health; and Hong Zhao, electrical engineering (all Metro), led a virtual interactive session on “Beyond the Pages: Using Journal Clubs to Drive Research and Innovation” on March 31. The session explored the role of AI in research, discussed current research, fostered interdisciplinary research and collaboration, built connections and helped FDU faculty, researchers and students gain funding insights. It was sponsored by the NSF EPIIC CAFÉ – Journal Club.

William “Pat” Schuber, homeland security (Metro), will talk about “George Rogers Clark and the Revolutionary War in the West: The Siege of Fort Vicennes, February 23–25, 1779” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, at One Bergen County Plaza, Fourth Floor Learning Center, Hackensack, N.J. The free lecture is part of the Revolutionary War Roundtable Speaker Series – Spring 2025 presented by the Bergen250 initiative of the Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.

Kenneth Betz, economics (Flor), and academic adviser of the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF), announced that the club’s members — about 20 FDU students — are now managing an investment portfolio worth $135,000. Launched in 2022 with an initial seed money of $100,000, the organization has since netted approximately $35,000. Additional funding come from the annual Silberman College Hall of Fame Gala. Gains go toward Silberman College student scholarships. According to Betz, “The goal of the fund is to enhance the education of students through hands-on experience in security evaluation, portfolio management, teamwork and group leadership. Students are actively involved in the management of the fund on a day-to-day basis, applying classroom theory in a real-world setting.” To read more go to “Students Invest in Stock Market and in Themselves.” 

Evan Weisberg, student affairs counselor, pharmacy/health sciences (Flor), was selected as the new recognition coordinator for Region VII of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI). As part of the ACUI regional leadership team, he will be coordinating the awards and scholarships for areas including Delaware; Maryland; New Jersey; New York; Pennsylvania; Washington, D.C.; and Québec, Canada.

As part of Women’s History Month, faculty and administrators participated in a discussion on the “University Woman: Conversations About Life and Work” held via Zoom in March. The panelists included Jeanette (Gi Eun) Lee, associate director of marketing/recruitment (Van); Eleni Mylonas, director, FDU Center for First-Generation Scholars; Anita Rivers, executive director of community relations; and Margaret Slugocki, pharmacy practice and director of assessment, pharmacy/health sciences (Flor). Nicole Potdevin, associate University librarian for user services, Monninger Center for Learning and Research (Flor), served as moderator.

Kara Alaimo, communication, and deputy chair, communication (Metro), spoke about what social media is doing to women and girls in the Freemom podcast and about social media’s impact on girls in the Scrolling 2 Death podcast. The third edition of her textbook Pitch, Tweet or Engage on the Street: How to Practice Global Public Relations and Strategic Communication was published by Routlege in February. Alaimo has been chosen to serve on the advisory board of Jackalo, America’s first circular clothing company. The company designs clothing that is durable enough to be worn by multiple children, then buys it back, repairs it and resells it to create a sustainable cycle. In March, she was part of several events: a panelist at the American Bar Association’s Women Rainmakers Webinar on “Empowering and Protecting Women Attorneys on Social Media”; a speaker at the Commission on the Status of Women meeting on “Mental Health Challenges Across Women’s Lifespan — Women and Health held at the Salvation Army Building in New York City; and a guest at a hybrid event held at the Morris County (N.J.) Library, where she spoke about her book Over the Influence: Why Social Media Is Toxic for Women and Girls — and How We Can Take It All Back. Alaimo also talked about how parents can handle the social media use of children of all genders. In February, she did two presentations for summer camp directors at the CODACON25 (Camp Officers and Directors Association Conference) in Dallas, Texas: a preconference closing presentation on “How to Convince Your Staff to Put Their Phones Away and Have the Best Summer of Their Lives” and a breakout presentation on “How to Teach Your Campers to Protect and Empower Themselves on Social Media.” Alaimo also wrote the following analysis pieces for cnn.com: “How to prevent doomscrolling from controlling you,” “Why reading is a form of therapy,” and “My kids have been to school 3 days in the last month. How I cope.”

Steven McMillan, left, and Rashard Mills at EOF Ceremony

EOF Champions Steven MacMillan, left, and Rashard Mills. Not in photo are Stacie Lents and Melvin Lewis who could not attend the event. Their awards were received on their behalf by A’Rina Black, theater arts major and EOF student (Flor), and Wonjae Choi, mechanical engineering/mechanical engineering (Metro), respectively.

Several faculty and staff were honored as Champion Awardees at the Educational Opportunity Fund’s (EOF) 51st Annual Awards Ceremony in April. They were selected for their exceptional service to the EOF Program and to its students. This year’s honorees included Stacie Lents, theater and director, theater arts program (Flor); Melvin Lewis, engineering technology and associate director, engineering/technology (Metro); Steven Macmillan, advisement counselor, Academic Advising and Student Support Services (Flor); and Rashard Mills, director of student union/campus engagement (Metro).

Tyler Rozier, assistant women’s basketball coach, athletics (Metro), was among those named to the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) “Thirty Under 30.” The honorees exemplify their involvement in community service, mentorship and impact on others, professional manner and attitude and professional association involvement. “We celebrate their effort on the basketball court as teachers and equally applaud the extensive role they play in impacting the lives of their student-athletes,” said Danielle Donehew, WBCA executive director.

Stephen Armeli, psychology (Metro), cowrote the article “Time-trajectories of depression, social anxiety and social functioning throughout college” for the March 2025 issue of the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

Geoffrey Weinman, emeritus, literature, and former dean, Becton College (Flor), talked about Irving Berlin at the shul on April 6 at Temple B’nai Or in Morristown, N.J. The discussion focused on the words and music of the Jewish songwriter, who wrote “God Bless America” and “White Christmas” as well as ragtime, satirical works and Broadway musicals and examined his influence on the American scene. Weinman is a board member of Temple B’nai Or.

Mihaela Leonida, left, with Powerpoint slide of her presentation

Mihaela Leonida, chemistry and preprofessional studies/graduate school adviser (Metro), lectured on “Sleuthing into Art Forgeries” at the Ridgewood Art Institute on March 16. She explored the use of science to detect forgeries, methods used by forgers to “age” paintings and well-known artifacts such as the Vinland map and the Shroud of Turin.

“More and More” by David Daniel, creative writing and director, MA in creative writing and literature for educators (Flor), will be published in the spring 2025 issue of Ploughshares, an award-winning journal of new writing. He is also the author of What Love Is, Ornaments and the Levis Reading Prize-winning Seven-Star Bird and creator of WAMFest, FDU’s Words, Arts and Music Festival.

Toni-Lee Sangastiano, BA’98 (Metro), Becton College (Metro), was part of an interdisciplinary research team at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., that spearheaded two pop-up events in February. “Exploring the Perceptions of Authorship, Ownership and Value in AI-generated Art” Pop Up 1 and Pop Up 2, featured hands-on sessions that allowed participants to create artworks using AI tools and human expression. Pieces were then selected by peer jurors and a panel of expert judges for an exhibition held in April.

Peter Woolley, political science (Flor); founding director, public/global affairs; and interim director, International School of Hospitality, Sports, and Tourism Management, moderated conversations with candidates for the New Jersey governor’s race. Among those who visited the Florham Campus were Steve Sweeney, former New Jersey State senator; Chris Christie, former New Jersey governor; Tahesha Way, New Jersey lieutenant governor; William Spadea, businessman and former radio/television host; and Sean Spiller, chair, New Jersey Education Association.

Florham Campus faculty and staff members who mentored honors program students during their senior thesis projects were Joseph Agugliaro, biology; Robert Barrows, chemistry; Svetlana Bashkova, chemistry; John Cinco, graphic design; David Daniel, creative writing and director, MA in creative writing and literature for educators; Ihab Darwish, computer science; Dana Glazer, Becton College; Eleanor Grayson, assistant director, residence life; Robert Griffo, psychology; Vincent Guagenti, video/electronic/computer graphics specialist, Becton College; Vaniah Howell, animation; Melissa Ingala, microbiology; Julie Kalabalik-Hoganson, pharmacy practice and chair, pharmacy practice; Howard Libov, film, chair of School of the Arts and director, MFA in film; Scott McGregor, accounting and chair, accounting/taxation/law/information sciences; Patti Miller, writing analyst, Academic Support Center; Elise Morton, biology; Edith Myers, biological/allied health sciences and deputy chair, biological sciences; Jordan Nowotny, criminology and chair, criminology/criminal justice; April Patrick, literature and University director, honors programs; Kenneth Sammond, college writing; Kim Silva-Martinez, Becton College; Gurjot Singh, computer science; Neelu Sinha, computer science; and Thomas Smock, Becton College.

Bradford Hurlbut, senior associate vice president/director of athletics (Metro), has been named Athletic Director of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) for his outstanding leadership, commitment to student athlete success and transformative impact on the FDU athletics program. He will be formally honored at the 2025 NACDA Convention in Orlando, Fla., in June. Since assuming leadership of FDU Athletics, Hurlbut has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have elevated the department’s national profile. In addition, his emphasis on holistic student-athlete development, facility enhancements and external partnerships has significantly strengthened the department’s foundation. To read more, go to “Hurlbut Selected as NACDA Athletic Director of the Year.”

Bruce Peabody left, and Lectures on Tap founder at the West Village

Bruce Peabody, right, with Felicia Freely, cofounder of Lectures on Tap series, the Houston Hall Beer Hall in the West Village.

Bruce Peabody, government/politics and director, Fairleigh Institute for Lifelong Learning (Flor), talked about “U.S. Constitution 101” on April 24 at the Boonton Holmes Public Library, Boonton, N.J. At the event, he gave an overview of the U.S. Constitution, its origins and how it has been adapted (or not) to changing times and customs. Peabody also participated in two Lectures on Tap events: speaking about “Understanding Conspiracy Theories” in the East Village on February 10, and “Checks and Balances: The Separation of Powers” in the West Village on March 10. More than 220 people attended Peabody’s March lecture, and a TikTok video of the lecture has garnered 60,000 likes. “Lectures on Tap” features professors, experts and storytellers who give thought-provoking lectures in various bars in New York City.

Metropolitan Campus faculty and staff members who mentored honors program students during their senior thesis projects were Yelena Aronson, computer graphics; Andrew Eisen, psychology; Douglas Evans, criminal justice and graduate program director, criminology/criminal justice; Roger Forsthoff, Becton College; Kyle Kattelman, political science; Richard Lo Pinto, biological sciences; Brian Mooney, education; Neena Philips, biological sciences; Derek Phillips, executive director, MS in clinical psychopharmacology; Melissa Slavin, psychology; and Christian Traba, chemistry.

Among the recipients of this year’s Maddy Awards, which is spearheaded by the Florham Campus Student Government Association, were Kenneth Betz, economics (Flor), Faculty Member of the Year; and Sarah Azavedo, assistant dean of students (Flor), Staff Member of the Year. Student Life was also named Department of the Year.

In April, Chadwin Sandifer, executive associate dean, pharmacy/health sciences, and Zakia Clay, social work and program director, Master of Social Work (both Flor), conducted a virtual training session on Mental Health First Aid. To date, more than 400 faculty and staff from the Metropolitan, Florham and Vancouver campuses and Wroxton College have participated and are now certified in Mental Health First Aid. 

Omer Topaloglu, marketing and chair, marketing/management/entrepreneurship (Metro), was among those inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma Honors Society, the international business honor society for AACSB-accredited schools, on March 27 at the Florham Campus. Since 1913, the society has recognized and honored top performing students and deserving faculty from AACSB-accredited business schools worldwide. To see the complete list of honorees go to “Meet Our New 2025 FDU Silberman Beta Gamma Sigma Inductees.” In February, he presented on “Creating Your Personal Brand” at the Metropolitan Campus and discussed a variety of topics such as learning to build an authentic image, effective networking and mastering one’s digital footprint. Topaloglu organized a panel discussion on “AI in Pharmaceutical Management” held on April 10 at the Florham Campus. See College and School Happenings.

Florham Campus faculty members participated in several Women’s History Month events held in person and via Zoom in March. Francesca Degiuli, sociology and director of gender studies minor, and Elise Morton, biology, led a question-and-answer session after a screening of the movie “Hidden Figures.” Gloria Pastorino, Italian/French, spoke at the event “Negotiating Women’s Identities: A Conversation with Italian-Nigerian Writer Sabrina Efionayi.”

Opie Sardina, general manager, WFDU-FM (Metro), interviewed singer Gloria Gaynor, known for iconic hits like “I Will Survive” and “I Am What I Am,” before the latter’s concert at the Bergen Arts Performing Center on March 27. Clips of Gaynor’s interview were played during Sardina’s radio show “Opie in the Afternoon.” According to Sardina, “Since we are the station in the tri-state area that plays all of Gloria Gaynor’s hits, it was a natural fit for her to talk with us!” WFDU-FM HD1’s format is “RetroRadio” — playing hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s (with some songs from the 50s and 90s) — and it covers the tri-state area with more than 200,000 listeners per week. “We also have [two other] HD stations, one of which is HD3 – the “Voice of Fairleigh Dickinson University,” where students and faculty have programs as well,” Sardina added. To tune in to WFDU or listen to past shows on the archive go to WFDU 89-1 FM. The radio station can also be streamed live on the iHeart Radio app.

K.J. Martinez, head women’s bowling coach, athletics (Metro), was named the Northeast Conference (NEC) Coach of the Year after leading the Knights to significant achievements this season. Under his leadership, the Knights captured their eighth NEC regular season championship, their sixth NEC Conference Championship and secured their ticket for the NCAA Women’s Bowling Championship Regional for the 16th time in school history. The team’s run at the 2025 National Collegiate Bowling Championship ended on April 5 at the Lansing Regional.

Zakia Clay, social work and program director, Master of Social Work (MSW) (Flor), announced that MSW student Abraham “Alex” Hache received John R. Rinaldi Service Award from the 200 Club of Bergen County for “bravely de-escalating a crisis involving a weapon, showcasing his commitment to safety and community” in June 2024. Hache is the program manager of CarePlus NJ’s Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together. He received the award along with Deputy Chief Matthew de la Rosa of the Englewood (N.J.) Police Department at a ceremony held in December. 

French All Around Us (volume 2), a book co-edited by Kathleen Stein-Smith, languages (Metro), was published on March 20 by the Center for the Advancement of Languages, Education, and Communities. The book features a collection of stories of French language and culture across America. Stein-Smith also cowrote the introduction and conclusion (“The Ongoing Journey of French in America”) for the book.

Andrea Brace, public health and program director, Master of Public Health (Flor), announced that Victoria Mastrianni, MPH/MPA’24 (Metro), received the Anna Skiff Memorial Scholarship Award through the New Jersey Society for Public Health Educators. Established in 1999, the award covers the registration cost of the CHES®/MCHES® (Certified Health Education Specialist/Master Certified Health Education Specialist) examination. 

Jack Castleberry, head men’s basketball coach, athletics (Metro), announced the promotions of Josh Hayes, assistant men’s basketball coach, to associate head men’s basketball coach; and Nate Stitchell, director of player development, to assistant men’s basketball coach.

Joseph Strupp, Becton College (Metro), wrote the Asbury Park Press article “Lakewood schools unique among New Jersey districts when it comes to borrowing state cash,” which was published in February. An award-winning journalist, he covers Lakewood and several local communities for App.com and Asbury Park Press.

In the news …

This spring, President Michael Avaltroni’s vision and voice were featured across multiple platforms as he highlighted the University’s role in preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world. In Jersey’s Best, he emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry leaders and higher education to better equip students with the skills they need for today’s job market. He also joined two special editions of the Beyond Academics podcast, where he delved into the evolving landscape of education and workforce readiness: The Future of Work (April 18): exploring what students need to succeed in an innovation-driven economy; and The Time for Change Is Now (April 18): a compelling Master Class on why higher education must evolve — and how FDU is leading the charge.

Peter Burkholder, history (Flor), was interviewed for The Chronicle of Higher Education article “How One Professor Tracked Grade Inflation at His College,” posted in April.

Vancouver Campus staff members Kira Straesser, career services adviser, and Pete Moores, work integrated learning program coordinator, were quoted in the article “From culture shock to career path: Meet the FDU team that makes students feel at home,” posted on biv.com in March.

Stephanie Gaitley, women’s head basketball coach, athletics (Metro), was interviewed for New York Post Sports about facing No. 2 seed Texas Christian University in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Along with Knights senior forward Teneisia Brown and senior captain Abaigeal Babore, she was also interviewed for Pix11 prior to the NEC championship, which the team won. Gaitley was also quoted in the following articles in March: “FDU’s March Madness run gives Stephanie Gaitley ‘special’ outlet after enduring family tragedy” (New York Post); “FDU women’s basketball clinches first-ever NCAA Tournament berth” (msn.com, northjersey.com and CBS); and “Fairleigh Dickinson, making its first Women’s NCAA Tournament appearance, is ready to face powerhouse TCU” (cbsnews.com).

Bruce Peabody, government/politics and director, Fairleigh Institute for Lifelong Learning (Flor), was quoted in the article “Trump explores succession strategy for third term amid constitutional challenges,” posted on biz.chosun.com (original article is in Korean). “The Twice and Future President: Constitutional Interstices and the Twenty-Second Amendment,” a Minnesota Law Review article that Peabody wrote in 1999 as a graduate student was cited in the article “Legal Scholars Dispute Constitutional ‘Loophole’ for a Third Trump Term,” which was posted on factcheck.org in April.

Kara Alaimo, communication and deputy chair, communication (Metro), was interviewed on CNN and on DW News (the English TV/streaming news channel of Deutsche Welle TV) about President Donald Trump’s communication strategy. She talked about her book Over the Influence and was quoted in the article “Sulla parità la vera sfida è social” (“On equality the real challenge is social”) in iO Donna, Corriere della Sera’s women’s magazine in Italy. Alaimo was quoted in the following articles in February and March: “President Donald Trump says he’s focusing on the long term as economic indicators soften” (newsday.com); “Will conservative women break the glass ceiling? Views grow in the U.S.” (Nikkei Veritas [weekly Japanese financial newspaper]); “Parents’ phone habits increase exposure of mature content for children, new study finds,” on cnn.com; and “Kids Consume More Mature Media When Parents Overuse Screens,” on usnews.com.

Harry Keyishian, emeritus, English (Flor), was quoted in the February article “Academic freedom under Trump? Think McCartyism, but worse” on universityworldnews.com.

Daniel Cassino, government/politics and executive director, FDU Poll (Flor), was a guest on several episodes of My9 New Jersey Now: the April 21 episode about Gov. Phil Murphy’s state budget proposal and its possible impact on the Garden State, the April 17 episode about NJ Gubernatorial Candidates Mayor Steven Fulop and Representative Josh Gottheimer and the March 10 episode about “A look at the 2025 race for governor.” He was also a guest on “NJ Spotlight News” about recent FDU polls: “Poll Reveals Top Contenders in Governor’s Race” and “Ciattarelli Leads in Favorability, Recognition.” In addition, he talked about the state of the New Jersey Governor’s race on “Reporter’s Roundtable” on PBS. Cassino was one of the guests on the February 6 episode of Maine Public Radio’s “On Point,” where sports betting was discussed. He was quoted by various sources about the following FDU polls:

Cassino was also quoted in the following articles: “United We Stand: Why the Top Two Democratic Primary Finishers Must Team Up to Defeat the Trump Agenda in New Jersey” (insidernj.com); “Where Did Fulop Get His Money to Run for Governor? Here are 10 Things to Know” (jcitytimes.com); “An anti-Trump Republican for governor tries to defy gravity in New Jersey’s primary” (politico.com); “Is Cory Booker Running for President?” (newsweek.com);  “After he was sentenced to 11 years, former Sen. Bob Menendez appeals corruption case” (northjersey.com); “Legislation on IHRA definition of antisemitism splits New Jersey gubernatorial field” (jewishinsider.com); “NJ to lose prominent political poll” (njspotlightnews.org); “With recent appointments, Fox News enters a new stage of Trump closeness: The president named two prominent Fox hosts — Maria Bartiromo and Laura Ingraham — to the Kennedy Center board, while they’re still covering him” (The Washington Post); “The long, complicated history between Bob Menendez and governor hopeful Steve Fulop” (newjerseymonitor.com and yahoonews.com); “Why is Monmouth University Polling Institute shutting down? Costs or politics?” (Asbury Park Press and app.com); “Newark mayor celebrates nod from progressive groups in bid to become governor” and “Assembly candidacies, contested primaries surge” (newjerseymonitor.com); and “What’s the top issue in the NJ gubernatorial primary? Donald Trump’s agenda” (northjersey.com [also on yahoonews.com and dailyrecord.com and The Bergen Record]).

In Memoriam

Saul Fenster, former professor of mechanical engineering, associate dean of science and engineering and provost at the Rutherford Campus, died on March 15 at the age of 91. He taught several mechanical engineering courses at the Metropolitan Campus and was head of the mechanical engineering department in the late 1960s. While at FDU, he co-authored the book, Advanced Mechanics of Materials and Applied Elasticity, which is currently in its seventh edition. He was inducted into Heritage Hall, which recognizes, acknowledges and remembers exceptional individuals who had a major impact on shaping Fairleigh Dickinson University’s campuses in Teaneck and Rutherford, N.J. He went on to become the sixth president of the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He is survived by his wife, Roberta; children, Deborah (Edward Seliga), Lisa (James Garrison) and Jonathan (Jacqueline Schwarting Fenster); and grandchildren, Samantha Rose and Mitchell Jay Garrison.

Harvey Flaxman, emeritus, theater/performing arts (Flor), died on February 7 at the age of 90. He joined FDU in 1968 as an assistant professor of drama and served for more than 30 years until his retirement in 2000 as professor of theater and chair of the visual and performing arts department at the Florham Campus. While chair, the department implemented one of the country’s first electronic filmmaking and digital video design programs. He also received a Distinguished Faculty Award for Service from FDU. An Academy Award nominee for documentary production, a screenwriter and a producer, he also acted and directed summer stock theater, with a great love of Shakespeare. In 1993, he received a bronze TELLY award for a promotion video he produced for Wroxton College. He also received an award for his work as director and executive producer of Many Languages: One Small World, a collaborative project with students and faculty from his department and colleagues from the Peter Sammartino School of Education. Flaxman also produced a video on the history of the Florham estate. He is survived by his partner of 31 years, Janet Kleinberg; his daughter, Rachel Clarke and her husband, Thomas; his son, Joshua Flaxman, and his wife, Sandra; Janet’s children; Liz Kleinberg and her husband, Mike Kanarich, and Ethan Kleinberg and his wife, Amy; and his grandchildren. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s® Association.

Francis J. Mertz, president emeritus, died on March 26 at the age of 87. He was an outstanding leader who helped strengthen FDU after the University had faced significant financial struggles in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His determination and decision-making helped position the institution well for the future and we all are indebted to him for the important role he played during a critical time. Mertz was appointed interim president in 1990 and formally installed as FDU’s fifth president at the University’s 50th Anniversary celebration in 1992. He served as president until his retirement in 1999 and then was bestowed the title of president emeritus. During his time as FDU president, he led the development of a strategic-planning process with distinctive campus missions, helped strengthen academic standards and increase enrollment, expanded academic programs and curriculum offerings, orchestrated a financial resurgence that helped eliminate debt issues and led to five balanced budgets and a successful capital campaign and paved the way for more than $40 million in new construction projects. Most notably, the strategic planning process made possible the merging of the Rutherford Campus operations with those of the Metropolitan and Florham campuses, a difficult but important move to ensure the future sustainability of the institution. Mertz is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gail; six children, Lynn (Levent), Chris (Nancy), Suzanne (Kurt), David (Jennifer), Amy (Jake) and Jonathan (Carol); his sister, Sr. Judy Mertz SC; and 11 grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made the to Atlantic Visiting Nurse Hospice to support home health aide services for families and caregivers in need. Gifts may be mailed to Atlantic Visiting Nurse, Suite 465 South Street, Suite 100A, Morristown, NJ 07960 or online. The University is planning a special event to pay tribute to the legacy of President Mertz and more information will be shared as details are finalized. To read more go to “Former FDU President Francis J. Mertz Passes Away.”

Announcing

Robert Loneker, BA’15, BS’15, MS’16 (Flor), Becton College (Flor), and Noelle Shirey, BA’17, MA’18 (Flor), were married on December 21 at the Florham Campus. Their reception was held at the Olde Mill Inn in Basking Ridge, N.J.

Welcome

The University welcomes new full-time and part-time employees who joined FDU as of April 25, 2025.

Welcome to Kristy Arakelian, staff accountant, accounting (Metro); Nicole Armour, officer, public safety (Flor); Mary Berlinger, academic coordinator – high school programs, Petrocelli Center for Continuing Education (Metro); Vincent Bilello, controller, accounting (Metro); Rikki Cao, administrative assistant, enrollment services (Van); Paul Caruso, professional tutor, Metro Writing Studio (Metro); Alice Chang, associate professor, pharmaceutical sciences (Flor); Hyungjoo Choi, assistant professor, civil engineering and civil engineering technology (Metro); Reginald Dancy, systems administrator, University systems and networking (Metro);  Marriane De Guzman, accounting coordinator, finance (Van); Elizabeth Ehren, associate director of donor relations/stewardship, University advancement (Metro); Jessica Fakeh, clinical assistant professor, physician assistant studies (Flor); Luis Freire, professional tutor, Metro Writing Studio (Metro); Gerard Gansel, officer, public safety (Flor); Sean Guida, University admissions counselor, undergraduate admissions (Flor); Nazmul Hasan, marketing and communications assistant, marketing (Van); Damien Holland, director of enrollment services (Van); Christopher Lawrence, officer, public safety (Flor); Joevy Leong, digital and graphic design coordinator, marketing (Van); Luke Maginnis, assistant football coach, athletics (Flor); Suanne Mercury, administrative assistant to University director of career development, career development (Flor); Elizamer Miguel, administrative services clerk, nursing/allied health (Metro); Ahmad Mughrabi, director of web technologies, communications (Metro); Katrina Musto, director of corporate/foundation relations, University advancement (Metro); Syeda Nahar, academic adviser, Academic Advising and Student Support Services (Metro); Anthony Nigro, officer, public safety (Flor); Dayana Ruiz, staff accountant, accounting (Metro); Irene Stater, project coordinator – FDU ENGAGED, pharmacy/health sciences (Flor); and Natalie Williams, student recruitment manager, recruitment (Van).

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