Faculty Milestones Mark Start of the Academic Year
The 2025-2026 academic year is now underway, but it's not only students getting used to something new. This fall, 31 faculty members are kicking off the year with a milestone of their own. They are headed back to the classroom for the first time as newly promoted associate and full professors. Their promotion marks the culmination of years of dedication, impact, and excellence in teaching and learning.
The path to full professorship is rigorous and reflective of the College's high standards. While promotion to associate professor already requires a comprehensive review of a faculty member’s record by both their departmental Personnel and Budget (P&B) Committee and the College P&B Committee, the transition to full professor is even more demanding.
For this highest faculty rank, the College P&B Committee conducts an in-depth evaluation of each candidate's contributions. This includes a careful review of their teaching effectiveness, scholarly achievements, and service to the college and community. What distinguishes the process at this stage is the added opportunity for candidates to present their own story. Each faculty member gives a ten-minute presentation to the College P&B Committee, highlighting their accomplishments in the three core areas of teaching, scholarship, and service. This presentation allows candidates not only to provide context to their work but also to reflect on their growth, goals, and impact over time.
Dr. Linda Bastone, Dean of Faculty, said these promotions are meaningful to faculty.
"I am thrilled to see so many of our colleagues achieving these very significant milestones. I applaud their many accomplishments and look forward to seeing all that they will accomplish in the future," said Bastone.
The Office of Academic Affairs organizes a series of professional development workshops for faculty each year, covering topics related to reappointment, tenure, and promotion. The workshop presenters include the Dean of Faculty, Department Chairs, Faculty Governance Leaders, and invited faculty members. With the available resources and mentorship, the College encourages faculty to pursue this path. Learn more about tenure and promotion support here.
Newly promoted faculty:
Promotion to Full Professor
Sara Danzi Engoron: Biological Sciences & Geology
Mohammad Javdan: Biological Sciences & Geology
Marvin Gayle: Engineering Technology
Kathleen Alves: English
Leah Anderst: English
Melissa Dennihy: English
Matthew Lau: English
Jennifer Maloy: English
Jed Shahar: English
Kerri-Ann Smith: English
Patrick Wallach: Mathematics & Computer Science
Lorraine Cupelli: Nursing
Promotion to Associate Professor
Jasper Lin: Art & Design
Sarbani Ghoshal: Biological Sciences & Geology
Sanjay Koul: Biological Sciences & Geology
Amos Orlofsky: Biological Sciences & Geology
Mark Ulrich: Business
Roumen Vragov: Business
Christina Saindon: Communication, Theatre & Media Production
Nicole McClam: Health, Physical Education, and Dance
William Blick: Library
Yusuf Danisman: Mathematics & Computer Science
Esma Yildirim: Mathematics & Computer Science
Lyubomir Boyadzhiev: Mathematics & Computer Science
Susana Filipa Pinheiro: Mathematics & Computer Science
Melida Sanchez: Modern Languages & Cultures
Jessica Prepetit: Nursing
Celia Sporer: Social Sciences
Patrick Byers: Social Sciences
Rommel Robertson: Social Sciences
Emily Pelletier: Social Sciences
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