11/10/15: In accord with the will and directive of the unit the Executive Committee entered into negotiations with the administration in order to get them to rescind the layoffs and the program eliminations. What follows is an MOU that will be presented to the membership for an up or down vote on Thursday. It is in the judgment of the Executive Committee, the best deal we can achieve through negotiations with this administration. This deal preserves all of the bargaining unit jobs that were threatened by the layoffs and rescinds program eliminations and departmental consolidations during the life of the current Agreement, however, we wish to make it clear that this deal also includes elements that weaken some of the significant protections that the current Agreement affords to the bargaining unit. We urge all of you to carefully consider the positive and negative elements of this proposal and to make a decision on whether or not you believe it is better for the unit to accept this proposal or to go to arbitration.
The vote on that question will take place by written ballot at our chapter meeting, this Thursday, November 12 at 11:30 in the Cavalla room. The meeting will be live streamed to the Princeton Campus (location to be determined) and ballots will be provided for voting at that location as well. The Executive committee will take questions and comments from 11:30 to 12:30 and we will move to vote at 12:30.
Memorandum of Understanding
Students Protesting Dell'Omo's Plans
Letters From Concerned Students and Alumni Continue to Pour In!
Dell'Omo Hits Rider Hard
Updated: 11/10/15 at 9:42 a.m.
Every hour, we are Getting MORE and MORE letters from students and alumni
who are extremely disappointed in Dell'Omo's plans for Rider.
As everyone unfortunately knows, our new president, who has been on the job for only four months, is cutting what has made Rider great for the past 150 years. Dell'Omo (gdellomo@rider.edu, 609-896-5001) is cutting programs, laying off faculty, and, based on the responses we have seen, angering students, parents, alumni, and faculty. Worse yet, he is possibly driving away future students.
Here is the lay-off plan that was sent to the Executive Committee by DonnaJean (dfredeen@rider.edu, 609-896-5010). As you can see, the plan to lay-off good faculty and cut integral programs has clearly been in the works for a long, long time. We have removed the last two pages (Appendix G) that includes the names of faculty whose dedication and service has made Rider great (If we receive permission, from those who will be laid off, we will post their names below). Read the plan here.
Not surprisingly, students, parents, and alumni are extremely upset and angry. We will post their comments as we get them. If you have received any communication, please let us know.
Students, alumni, everyone: Feel free to post your comments on the AAUP Forum.
STUDENT PETITIONS
Click for News Coverage of the Petitions
1,700 SIGNATURES!
"In Omnia Paratus except Philosophy, German, French, Italian, Economics, Advertising, American Studies, Business Economics, Business Education, Geosciences, Entrepreneurial Studies, Marine Science, Organizational Leadership, Piano, Sociology, Web Design."
I am writing to you in regard to the program cuts at Rider. My roommate and I are organizing a coalition to help with the cause. We already have over 1,500 students, faculty and others signed to help this to change. If you want to help promote or get some more faculty on our side, email savemymajor@gmail.com. Also, I am attaching the petition. Thank you for your time, and I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Jason
Petition: https://www.change.org/p/rider-university-rider-university-president-greg-dell-omo-oppose-rider-university-s-decision-to-cut-majors-minors-and-graduate-degrees?recruiter=417111586&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink
Support the Piano Program at Westminster Choir College
This is a new petition that became necessary after an earlier piano petition was altered subsequent to over 1100 signers after a student was pressured by an administrator. So please sign it even if you signed the earlier one.
https://www.change.org/p/rider-university-rider-university-president-greg-dell-omo-rescind-cuts-to-piano-major-grad-degrees-at-westminster-choir-college
Save My Major Coalition is an organized group of Rider University students opposing the recent decisions by the university and university president Greg Dell'Omo to cut majors, minors, and graduate programs.
On their own, they are actively organizing and working to preserve what makes Rider great and keeping Dell’Omo from changing that.
Read their about their activities, actions, and plans at: http://savemymajor.blogspot.com/2015/11/resources-for-save-my-major-coalition.html
On their own, they are actively organizing and working to preserve what makes Rider great and keeping Dell’Omo from changing that.
Read their about their activities, actions, and plans at: http://savemymajor.blogspot.com/2015/11/resources-for-save-my-major-coalition.html
LETTERS FROM CURRENT STUDENTS
November 9, 2015
Haley Vassiljev
Decline of Higher Education
Dr. Joel S. Feldman, an associate philosophy professor at Rider University asked the philosophy club at a meeting last week, “What should higher education be?” The founders of Rider University would argue “In Omnia Paratus”, or in all things prepared, but following the recent news, their motto should be changed to “in aliquibus paratum”, in some things prepared, or “parum praeparatorum”, in little things prepared. Rider University recently cut the following majors: art and art history, advertising, american studies, business economics, business education, economics, entrepreneurial studies, French, geosciences, German, Italian, marine sciences, organizational leadership, philosophy, piano, sociology, and web design. How could Rider ethically keep their motto as is, while cutting the major fundamentals of Liberal Arts? How could they keep the motto while cutting majors that are growing in the 21st century? Their criteria for cutting these programs are the enrollment numbers, and what meets the needs of the local labor market. Kenny Dillon, a student at Rider University protesting the act stated, “[The administration] is putting barcodes on our asses and selling us to the local labor market. They don’t care about the students, they care about money.” Three reasons this was wrong: these “needs” change every day, most students will not stay local for jobs, and Rider has many international students enrolled that won’t ever participate in the local labor market.
The students believe that the purpose of education is to allow us to achieve our dreams as human beings. Zayne Birnie, a local comedian and student at Rider stated, “My job doesn't need a career, I just don’t want to be a part of the anti-intellectual movement in the United States.” Nishad, the president of Philosophy club, who is a philosophy major stated, “[The administration] doesn’t give a damn about wisdom or knowledge at this school. It’s soul crushing. They don’t respect the discipline I've contributed my life to.” He is planning on transferring to Rutgers University in the Fall to continue his dream in a place that will support him. The administrations goal isn't to educate and make well rounded human beings, it’s how they can get more money into the school. But here’s the thing, the faculty knows students - the administration doesn’t. In my Political Philosophy class, which will not be available for students to take after next semester, I learned about capitalism, which is clearly represented in the decision the administration made without the input of the faculty or students. “The capitalist system of mass production kills the creative spirit, workers cannot find satisfaction in their labor and are therefore alienated from the activity of production itself” (Political Ideologies 149). By cutting these programs, the administration is turning their students into something to sell to a factory society, not intellectuals that can contribute to a better world.
Gregory G. Dell’Omo, newly President of Rider University, and the board of trustees made this decisions for the university. The board is made up of mainly CEO’s and retired past presidents of the university. Instead of making these drastic cuts on the programs that have the least amount of students, the task force should have looked at all of the academic programs available and organized them through a broader set of criteria, like necessity for a broad education. The decision should have be done more carefully and thoughtfully instead of done instantly due to the president’s “deadline”. Yes, some programs were under-enrolled, but that is only one factor in the process and real world needs should have been taken into consideration. Although Westminster Choir College of Rider University is ranked number five for colleges for music education majors in the United States according to Music School Central, the piano program was cut and is no longer available (http://musicschoolcentral.com/top-10-colleges-music-education-majors-us/2/). Now parents of these students are filling lawsuits. Conservatory credits, like piano, are non-transferable to other colleges, and Rider is not offering compensation to these students that can’t finish their degree. Not to mention that piano is the basis of music composition, and without a strong piano program a degree from Westminster will be less valuable.
Through these decisions, it’s clear that the administration doesn’t believe that a liberal arts degrees is a preparation for a career. Dr. Feldman argued that Liberal Arts courses don’t prepare you for A job, but it prepares you for ANY job. Philosophy specifically is in the foreground of thought - it’s the starting point of everything else. The things you learn in college courses should shatter a students reality. The goal is to pop the students bubble of their mind and make them realize there’s more in the world then what they have already learned.
The administration fired twenty faculty members with this cut, including Dr. Feldman who initiated the conversation stated in the beginning of this essay. The academic accounting department even proposed they would do the schools books if they fired Julie Carns, Rider’s chief financial officer, who makes $400,000 a year. Carns does not have a degree in business or accounting, but a degree in biology and was a CPA at some point in her life. How does a biology major get appointed to run the books for a multi-million dollar non-profit university? Even the new president, Dell’Omo, has a degree in economics, but is cutting the economics program because he stated “it’s obsolete, like typewriting class”. Jamie O’Hara, the Vice President for Enrollment Management Office for Rider, is in charge of recruitment for admissions and made liars of all the student tour guides. They were advised to keep advertising the majors, and minors no longer available at Rider. I experienced this personally even before all of these changes were made. Rider advertised that I could take Russian as a foreign language when I enrolled in 2014. The program was cut in 2011, and is still shown today to prospective students as available, with German, Italian, and French, which were cut. This next week coming up is going to be interesting. Rider is having an open house onNovember 14th. What will student tour guides do when answering questions to prospective students? What will regular students do to show the changes at this school? Some students will be handing out flyers to fight the decision, and other are putting posters around campus and in their dorm room windows to attract the attention. There was a proposal of organizing a walk out during classes, or marching outside the library where president Dell’Omo’s office is located. It worked in Berkley in 1964 for the free speech movement, where students surrounded a cop car and stayed for hours. It is a breach of contract, under the law, to lie about academic programs offered to benefit the university.
Is a university without philosophy a university? We won’t be able to see anything other then what we already know without classes to expand our thoughts. It’s not a factory system, its a place to learn something new. Rider University advertises that they have small classes with close relationships with the faculty, but they take away the classes that are the smallest with the most personal learning. Benjamin Franklin stated “an Investment in Knowledge Pays the Best Interest.” President Dell’Omo need to invest in increasing knowledge for the students instead of increasing profits for his pocket. He was hired to steal from the university, and so far he has been successful. Now it is up to the students and faculty to fight back and save the majors necessary for a proper education.
Haley Vassiljev
Decline of Higher Education
Dr. Joel S. Feldman, an associate philosophy professor at Rider University asked the philosophy club at a meeting last week, “What should higher education be?” The founders of Rider University would argue “In Omnia Paratus”, or in all things prepared, but following the recent news, their motto should be changed to “in aliquibus paratum”, in some things prepared, or “parum praeparatorum”, in little things prepared. Rider University recently cut the following majors: art and art history, advertising, american studies, business economics, business education, economics, entrepreneurial studies, French, geosciences, German, Italian, marine sciences, organizational leadership, philosophy, piano, sociology, and web design. How could Rider ethically keep their motto as is, while cutting the major fundamentals of Liberal Arts? How could they keep the motto while cutting majors that are growing in the 21st century? Their criteria for cutting these programs are the enrollment numbers, and what meets the needs of the local labor market. Kenny Dillon, a student at Rider University protesting the act stated, “[The administration] is putting barcodes on our asses and selling us to the local labor market. They don’t care about the students, they care about money.” Three reasons this was wrong: these “needs” change every day, most students will not stay local for jobs, and Rider has many international students enrolled that won’t ever participate in the local labor market.
The students believe that the purpose of education is to allow us to achieve our dreams as human beings. Zayne Birnie, a local comedian and student at Rider stated, “My job doesn't need a career, I just don’t want to be a part of the anti-intellectual movement in the United States.” Nishad, the president of Philosophy club, who is a philosophy major stated, “[The administration] doesn’t give a damn about wisdom or knowledge at this school. It’s soul crushing. They don’t respect the discipline I've contributed my life to.” He is planning on transferring to Rutgers University in the Fall to continue his dream in a place that will support him. The administrations goal isn't to educate and make well rounded human beings, it’s how they can get more money into the school. But here’s the thing, the faculty knows students - the administration doesn’t. In my Political Philosophy class, which will not be available for students to take after next semester, I learned about capitalism, which is clearly represented in the decision the administration made without the input of the faculty or students. “The capitalist system of mass production kills the creative spirit, workers cannot find satisfaction in their labor and are therefore alienated from the activity of production itself” (Political Ideologies 149). By cutting these programs, the administration is turning their students into something to sell to a factory society, not intellectuals that can contribute to a better world.
Gregory G. Dell’Omo, newly President of Rider University, and the board of trustees made this decisions for the university. The board is made up of mainly CEO’s and retired past presidents of the university. Instead of making these drastic cuts on the programs that have the least amount of students, the task force should have looked at all of the academic programs available and organized them through a broader set of criteria, like necessity for a broad education. The decision should have be done more carefully and thoughtfully instead of done instantly due to the president’s “deadline”. Yes, some programs were under-enrolled, but that is only one factor in the process and real world needs should have been taken into consideration. Although Westminster Choir College of Rider University is ranked number five for colleges for music education majors in the United States according to Music School Central, the piano program was cut and is no longer available (http://musicschoolcentral.com/top-10-colleges-music-education-majors-us/2/). Now parents of these students are filling lawsuits. Conservatory credits, like piano, are non-transferable to other colleges, and Rider is not offering compensation to these students that can’t finish their degree. Not to mention that piano is the basis of music composition, and without a strong piano program a degree from Westminster will be less valuable.
Through these decisions, it’s clear that the administration doesn’t believe that a liberal arts degrees is a preparation for a career. Dr. Feldman argued that Liberal Arts courses don’t prepare you for A job, but it prepares you for ANY job. Philosophy specifically is in the foreground of thought - it’s the starting point of everything else. The things you learn in college courses should shatter a students reality. The goal is to pop the students bubble of their mind and make them realize there’s more in the world then what they have already learned.
The administration fired twenty faculty members with this cut, including Dr. Feldman who initiated the conversation stated in the beginning of this essay. The academic accounting department even proposed they would do the schools books if they fired Julie Carns, Rider’s chief financial officer, who makes $400,000 a year. Carns does not have a degree in business or accounting, but a degree in biology and was a CPA at some point in her life. How does a biology major get appointed to run the books for a multi-million dollar non-profit university? Even the new president, Dell’Omo, has a degree in economics, but is cutting the economics program because he stated “it’s obsolete, like typewriting class”. Jamie O’Hara, the Vice President for Enrollment Management Office for Rider, is in charge of recruitment for admissions and made liars of all the student tour guides. They were advised to keep advertising the majors, and minors no longer available at Rider. I experienced this personally even before all of these changes were made. Rider advertised that I could take Russian as a foreign language when I enrolled in 2014. The program was cut in 2011, and is still shown today to prospective students as available, with German, Italian, and French, which were cut. This next week coming up is going to be interesting. Rider is having an open house onNovember 14th. What will student tour guides do when answering questions to prospective students? What will regular students do to show the changes at this school? Some students will be handing out flyers to fight the decision, and other are putting posters around campus and in their dorm room windows to attract the attention. There was a proposal of organizing a walk out during classes, or marching outside the library where president Dell’Omo’s office is located. It worked in Berkley in 1964 for the free speech movement, where students surrounded a cop car and stayed for hours. It is a breach of contract, under the law, to lie about academic programs offered to benefit the university.
Is a university without philosophy a university? We won’t be able to see anything other then what we already know without classes to expand our thoughts. It’s not a factory system, its a place to learn something new. Rider University advertises that they have small classes with close relationships with the faculty, but they take away the classes that are the smallest with the most personal learning. Benjamin Franklin stated “an Investment in Knowledge Pays the Best Interest.” President Dell’Omo need to invest in increasing knowledge for the students instead of increasing profits for his pocket. He was hired to steal from the university, and so far he has been successful. Now it is up to the students and faculty to fight back and save the majors necessary for a proper education.
November 10, 2015
President Dell'Omo:
Hello, my name is Justina Baskin I am a Junior Entrepreneurial studies major with a minor in Sales Management. I would like to first off by saying Welcome To Rider, I can only imagine coming to Rider wanting to help the community and getting backlash can be a challenge.
I had the pleasure in speaking out at the Forum last week with the other students that did as well. With my major (Entrepreneurial studies) turning into a Minor is not as bad as the other majors being cut, it has disappointed me. One of the professors you are letting go Professor Zane, the department chair for Entrepreneurial Studies. He is someone I and other students agree that should not be let go.
We would want you to reconsider the decision of letting him go because our major and the new minor for Entrepreneurial studies needs an extemporary professor like Lee Zane to continue our growth in being future business leaders. Without Professor Zane, I would not continue studying Entrepreneurial Studies at Rider, his passion, and support throughout the difficult time of our major changing and consideration for the students is what proves he is not just in it to make a living but that he truly does care.
As well as, I appreciate all the professors in this major and do not want to see another let go.
It isn't just a few of us being hurt by this major change but it is the future, Rider is turning into a traditional average college like anywhere else by making the future choose between typical majors such as Finance, Accounting etc. What makes Rider so unique to spend $38,000 a year? Now I am unsure because we have taken away the colleges uniqueness.
Please take this into consideration and I hope you understand that Professor Lee Zane deserves to continue his passion in teaching Entrepreneurial Studies.
Thank You For Your Time,
Justina Baskin
President Dell'Omo:
Hello, my name is Justina Baskin I am a Junior Entrepreneurial studies major with a minor in Sales Management. I would like to first off by saying Welcome To Rider, I can only imagine coming to Rider wanting to help the community and getting backlash can be a challenge.
I had the pleasure in speaking out at the Forum last week with the other students that did as well. With my major (Entrepreneurial studies) turning into a Minor is not as bad as the other majors being cut, it has disappointed me. One of the professors you are letting go Professor Zane, the department chair for Entrepreneurial Studies. He is someone I and other students agree that should not be let go.
We would want you to reconsider the decision of letting him go because our major and the new minor for Entrepreneurial studies needs an extemporary professor like Lee Zane to continue our growth in being future business leaders. Without Professor Zane, I would not continue studying Entrepreneurial Studies at Rider, his passion, and support throughout the difficult time of our major changing and consideration for the students is what proves he is not just in it to make a living but that he truly does care.
As well as, I appreciate all the professors in this major and do not want to see another let go.
It isn't just a few of us being hurt by this major change but it is the future, Rider is turning into a traditional average college like anywhere else by making the future choose between typical majors such as Finance, Accounting etc. What makes Rider so unique to spend $38,000 a year? Now I am unsure because we have taken away the colleges uniqueness.
Please take this into consideration and I hope you understand that Professor Lee Zane deserves to continue his passion in teaching Entrepreneurial Studies.
Thank You For Your Time,
Justina Baskin
November 5, 2015
To whom it may concern,
My name is Madison Hurwitz. I am a third-year School Psychology graduate student at Rider University. Prior to attending Rider to obtain my Education Specialist Degree as a School Psychologist, I graduated with cum laude honors from Bucknell University where I was a two-time captain of the Division I Women’s Lacrosse Team and double major in both Psychology and Education. I applied to a number of graduate programs, was accepted to a number of graduate programs, and chose Rider for a number of reasons.
Rider’s School Psychology program is one of only five specialist level programs in New Jersey to hold full accreditation from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Graduate students in the program are actively recruited by employers and typically find jobs either before or shortly after graduation. Unlike many of the programs I looked into, Rider’s program offers a blend of traditional and contemporary
School Psychology training including psychological assessment, response to intervention, consultation, positive behavior support, counseling, and curriculum-based measurement. This innovative training makes graduates attractive to school districts and also makes graduates well rounded in the field of School Psychology. One of my favorite aspects of the program (particularly because I am a terrible standardized test taker) is that over the past five years, nearly 100% of students have passed the national exam in School Psychology, which is a test students are eligible to take upon graduation.
Rider’s program allows its students to start their fieldwork experience during the first semester in the program, making student training in the program very applied.
Students enrolled in Rider University's School Psychology Program take classes with faculty who are active researchers. Students read articles and books on course topics written by program faculty. This is rare because most active researchers do not teach.
It is my understanding that the controversy continues at Rider after the school recently said it would eliminate 13 majors and layoff several professors to save money. Rider’s School Psychology Program is one of the best in the country and the faculty, specifically Dr. Gischlar and Dr. Dombrowski, are truly one of a kind. It would be a shame for this program to be cut due to financial constraints.
I would be happy to speak further about this program to anyone interested.
Feel free to contact me (hurwitzm@rider.edu) with any questions or comments.
Thank you for your time,
Madison
To whom it may concern,
My name is Madison Hurwitz. I am a third-year School Psychology graduate student at Rider University. Prior to attending Rider to obtain my Education Specialist Degree as a School Psychologist, I graduated with cum laude honors from Bucknell University where I was a two-time captain of the Division I Women’s Lacrosse Team and double major in both Psychology and Education. I applied to a number of graduate programs, was accepted to a number of graduate programs, and chose Rider for a number of reasons.
Rider’s School Psychology program is one of only five specialist level programs in New Jersey to hold full accreditation from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Graduate students in the program are actively recruited by employers and typically find jobs either before or shortly after graduation. Unlike many of the programs I looked into, Rider’s program offers a blend of traditional and contemporary
School Psychology training including psychological assessment, response to intervention, consultation, positive behavior support, counseling, and curriculum-based measurement. This innovative training makes graduates attractive to school districts and also makes graduates well rounded in the field of School Psychology. One of my favorite aspects of the program (particularly because I am a terrible standardized test taker) is that over the past five years, nearly 100% of students have passed the national exam in School Psychology, which is a test students are eligible to take upon graduation.
Rider’s program allows its students to start their fieldwork experience during the first semester in the program, making student training in the program very applied.
Students enrolled in Rider University's School Psychology Program take classes with faculty who are active researchers. Students read articles and books on course topics written by program faculty. This is rare because most active researchers do not teach.
It is my understanding that the controversy continues at Rider after the school recently said it would eliminate 13 majors and layoff several professors to save money. Rider’s School Psychology Program is one of the best in the country and the faculty, specifically Dr. Gischlar and Dr. Dombrowski, are truly one of a kind. It would be a shame for this program to be cut due to financial constraints.
I would be happy to speak further about this program to anyone interested.
Feel free to contact me (hurwitzm@rider.edu) with any questions or comments.
Thank you for your time,
Madison
November 4, 2015
President Dell'Omo,
I know from reading about the recent cuts to Rider's programs and staff, that you are attempting to gain ground on a $7million deficit that you inherited in your new position. I am a proud member of Rider's 150th class of BA recipients, and am a current member of Rider's GLTP program completing my NJ teaching certificate. I finished my BA with both a History and an AMS minor, while gaining Summa Cum Laude status along the way. I was a CCS student, who has remade himself after spending too long procrastination on bettering myself and my future. I have a wife and a two year old son, that give me the fuel necessary to work three jobs and complete my education as I attempt to begin my career at 40 years old. I have unfortunately seen a lot wrong with the American socioeconomic landscape, our youth's values and mores, and how our once dynamic solidarity as a country has rapidly eroded into decay. Money, indifference, and ignorance seem to be at the crux of all of these negative attributes if I have gained any knowledge in my years as working adult. Specifically speaking, AMS directly attacks the dire consequences of complacency and ignorance in our culture, while championing the many movements that have made historic and critical additions to our national identity. My questions to you are, how did Rider get itself into this financial tailspin that would cause it to sever itself from what has made it such a great experience for myself and so many others? Second, how do you and your advisors not see that discontinuing these programs further negatively effects the ignorance and indifference that is currently plaguing our society and national culture? I must admit, it is easy for me to be critical of these decisions without knowing the full scope of the problems laid at your feet, but I implore you to look at the big picture regarding the implications that I am speaking of in considering you find a different way to solve these debts. It's a jungle out here, and these kids, along with our societal culture need these programs desperately.
Sincerely,
A proud Rider University Bronc, Scott Golluscio
President Dell'Omo,
I know from reading about the recent cuts to Rider's programs and staff, that you are attempting to gain ground on a $7million deficit that you inherited in your new position. I am a proud member of Rider's 150th class of BA recipients, and am a current member of Rider's GLTP program completing my NJ teaching certificate. I finished my BA with both a History and an AMS minor, while gaining Summa Cum Laude status along the way. I was a CCS student, who has remade himself after spending too long procrastination on bettering myself and my future. I have a wife and a two year old son, that give me the fuel necessary to work three jobs and complete my education as I attempt to begin my career at 40 years old. I have unfortunately seen a lot wrong with the American socioeconomic landscape, our youth's values and mores, and how our once dynamic solidarity as a country has rapidly eroded into decay. Money, indifference, and ignorance seem to be at the crux of all of these negative attributes if I have gained any knowledge in my years as working adult. Specifically speaking, AMS directly attacks the dire consequences of complacency and ignorance in our culture, while championing the many movements that have made historic and critical additions to our national identity. My questions to you are, how did Rider get itself into this financial tailspin that would cause it to sever itself from what has made it such a great experience for myself and so many others? Second, how do you and your advisors not see that discontinuing these programs further negatively effects the ignorance and indifference that is currently plaguing our society and national culture? I must admit, it is easy for me to be critical of these decisions without knowing the full scope of the problems laid at your feet, but I implore you to look at the big picture regarding the implications that I am speaking of in considering you find a different way to solve these debts. It's a jungle out here, and these kids, along with our societal culture need these programs desperately.
Sincerely,
A proud Rider University Bronc, Scott Golluscio
November 3, 2015
My name is Chris Harris, a 2014 Rider alumnus. I’m writing to express my opposition to the decision to cut the philosophy major from Rider. Possibly because I majored in philosophy myself, but more likely because of the analytical skills I’ve gained through my studies, I can’t see how cutting philosophy will “put the University on a more progressive path,” as you explained to Rider students in a recent email.
I’m deeply troubled by the direction the University appears to be taking. It was explained that Rider intends to “offer programs that meet regional workforce needs.” With all due respect, the idea behind a University, dating back to the first ever Western University, started by Plato, was not to train local populations to perform individuated tasks, but to foster intellectual skills, build and actualize capacity, and develop characteristics that will engage a person and society in a meaningful and fulfilling way. And as for “regional workforce needs,” I am currently serving in the United States Peace Corps and the workforce needs in Central/Northern New Jersey and associated skill sets are quite irrelevant to me in my work, and I use the skills I’ve gained through my studies in philosophy on a daily basis.
I am also disturbed by the idea of cutting majors “with low market demand,” as explained in a recent email to Rider students. This implies that the majors at Rider University should be tailored to reflect the needs of the market. Besides the obvious hypotheticals that show this to be problematic, this policy detracts entirely from the notion that a university’s purpose is to provide education. If a university is intended to meet the demands of the market, my question to you is: if I’m not interested in filling the demands of the market, where can I go to get an education?
I’m a bit weary of another unintentional implication as well. I sense that, by cutting philosophy due to its apparent low value in the regional market, there is the assumption that philosophy is of less value to the careers of the regional market. This is simply not the case. Employers know it. Philosophy majors surely know it. And those who don’t know it are quickly confronted by this reality upon observing the sharp analytical and trenchant problem solving skills of philosophy majors with whom they work. Though this option may not be utilized as frequently as other majors, its existence is an imperative to keep a university conducive to the inquisitive and deliberative atmosphere which is so quintessentially philosophical and so characteristic of a university.
Lastly, I can’t exclude the Rider’s Philosophy Department in particular. Rider University is extremely fortunate to have the cooperative and prolific philosophy professors that it does. They are and should be, without a question, a fixture at Rider University along with the philosophy major and various classes they teach. They have gone above and beyond for their philosophy majors in ways that other departments can’t either due to number of students or the nature of the material. But because of the faculty and the enigmatic and elusive nature of philosophy itself, this department is distinct from others in its contribution to the ilk of thought that it produces and encourages among its students, and cutting the philosophy major should surely be reconsidered.
My name is Chris Harris, a 2014 Rider alumnus. I’m writing to express my opposition to the decision to cut the philosophy major from Rider. Possibly because I majored in philosophy myself, but more likely because of the analytical skills I’ve gained through my studies, I can’t see how cutting philosophy will “put the University on a more progressive path,” as you explained to Rider students in a recent email.
I’m deeply troubled by the direction the University appears to be taking. It was explained that Rider intends to “offer programs that meet regional workforce needs.” With all due respect, the idea behind a University, dating back to the first ever Western University, started by Plato, was not to train local populations to perform individuated tasks, but to foster intellectual skills, build and actualize capacity, and develop characteristics that will engage a person and society in a meaningful and fulfilling way. And as for “regional workforce needs,” I am currently serving in the United States Peace Corps and the workforce needs in Central/Northern New Jersey and associated skill sets are quite irrelevant to me in my work, and I use the skills I’ve gained through my studies in philosophy on a daily basis.
I am also disturbed by the idea of cutting majors “with low market demand,” as explained in a recent email to Rider students. This implies that the majors at Rider University should be tailored to reflect the needs of the market. Besides the obvious hypotheticals that show this to be problematic, this policy detracts entirely from the notion that a university’s purpose is to provide education. If a university is intended to meet the demands of the market, my question to you is: if I’m not interested in filling the demands of the market, where can I go to get an education?
I’m a bit weary of another unintentional implication as well. I sense that, by cutting philosophy due to its apparent low value in the regional market, there is the assumption that philosophy is of less value to the careers of the regional market. This is simply not the case. Employers know it. Philosophy majors surely know it. And those who don’t know it are quickly confronted by this reality upon observing the sharp analytical and trenchant problem solving skills of philosophy majors with whom they work. Though this option may not be utilized as frequently as other majors, its existence is an imperative to keep a university conducive to the inquisitive and deliberative atmosphere which is so quintessentially philosophical and so characteristic of a university.
Lastly, I can’t exclude the Rider’s Philosophy Department in particular. Rider University is extremely fortunate to have the cooperative and prolific philosophy professors that it does. They are and should be, without a question, a fixture at Rider University along with the philosophy major and various classes they teach. They have gone above and beyond for their philosophy majors in ways that other departments can’t either due to number of students or the nature of the material. But because of the faculty and the enigmatic and elusive nature of philosophy itself, this department is distinct from others in its contribution to the ilk of thought that it produces and encourages among its students, and cutting the philosophy major should surely be reconsidered.
November 3, 2015
Good Morning,
I am a continuing studies student, and I began my college journey in 2012. Since I have been at Rider I have had the pleasure of taking many American Studies classes. I have been both enlightened and educated in what America History is. I have become more proud to be an American by learning what others have done to make this country a wonderful and free country.
I am very disappointed and saddened to hear that one of the cuts in program is American Studies. I was honored to be in a class with a Vietnam Vet in growing up American, and I can tell you since that class I have pursued as many American Studies Classes as I can.
I urge the decision makers to reconsider cutting this program, and I'm sure others students that are involved in their other programs are very sadden to learn of these changes. I am one voice, and one voice can make a difference AMEN.
Please reconsider the cuts in this program.
Student since 2012 continuing studies
Margarita Irizarry
Good Morning,
I am a continuing studies student, and I began my college journey in 2012. Since I have been at Rider I have had the pleasure of taking many American Studies classes. I have been both enlightened and educated in what America History is. I have become more proud to be an American by learning what others have done to make this country a wonderful and free country.
I am very disappointed and saddened to hear that one of the cuts in program is American Studies. I was honored to be in a class with a Vietnam Vet in growing up American, and I can tell you since that class I have pursued as many American Studies Classes as I can.
I urge the decision makers to reconsider cutting this program, and I'm sure others students that are involved in their other programs are very sadden to learn of these changes. I am one voice, and one voice can make a difference AMEN.
Please reconsider the cuts in this program.
Student since 2012 continuing studies
Margarita Irizarry
November 2, 2015
Dear President,
I am sitting here deciding on the tone in which I should address the new and improved president of Rider University. To be honest, I'm not feeling quite happy about this new change, considering the news that I received from this very email yesterday.
My name is Chad Walsh, I am a Redshirt Sophomore at Rider, and I am a Sociology Major with a Minor in Philosophy. I am the Captain of the wrestling team (the first ever Redshirt Sophomore Captain that the team has ever had). To be a leader of the people on the team and the people around me at Rider is a great, great honor. I try to make every person feel that I am by their side, because we're all in this together.
But now... What do I tell the guys on my team, or the classmates around me, when they ask why their major is "no longer available" at Rider.
What does Dr. Halpern, my academic advisor, or Wrestling Head Coach Gary Taylor, who have both been leaders at Rider for upwards of 35 years each, tell me when I ask them how 14 majors could be dropped in the matter of a day. And lastly what do YOU, Mr. President, tell men like Dr. Halpern, or Coach Taylor, as to why they can't go to bed comfortably at night, knowing that 14+ Professors and hundreds of Students at a small University can't finish college with the major that they believed in and the professors and advisors that they entrusted to help us get through school. To me, these questions need to be answered. Putting the AAUP on a 21 day period to respond to this travesty is a nightmare for you waiting to happen. Happy Halloween.
P.S.- My two goals at Rider are as follows:
1)Earn my Sociology Degree from Rider
2)Be Rider's first NCAA D1 Wrestling Champion
When you make moves like this, it detracts from my education, positivity about the school and Wrestling. These are 3 things that I really don't appreciate being messed with.
-Chad J. Walsh, Rider University
Dear President,
I am sitting here deciding on the tone in which I should address the new and improved president of Rider University. To be honest, I'm not feeling quite happy about this new change, considering the news that I received from this very email yesterday.
My name is Chad Walsh, I am a Redshirt Sophomore at Rider, and I am a Sociology Major with a Minor in Philosophy. I am the Captain of the wrestling team (the first ever Redshirt Sophomore Captain that the team has ever had). To be a leader of the people on the team and the people around me at Rider is a great, great honor. I try to make every person feel that I am by their side, because we're all in this together.
But now... What do I tell the guys on my team, or the classmates around me, when they ask why their major is "no longer available" at Rider.
What does Dr. Halpern, my academic advisor, or Wrestling Head Coach Gary Taylor, who have both been leaders at Rider for upwards of 35 years each, tell me when I ask them how 14 majors could be dropped in the matter of a day. And lastly what do YOU, Mr. President, tell men like Dr. Halpern, or Coach Taylor, as to why they can't go to bed comfortably at night, knowing that 14+ Professors and hundreds of Students at a small University can't finish college with the major that they believed in and the professors and advisors that they entrusted to help us get through school. To me, these questions need to be answered. Putting the AAUP on a 21 day period to respond to this travesty is a nightmare for you waiting to happen. Happy Halloween.
P.S.- My two goals at Rider are as follows:
1)Earn my Sociology Degree from Rider
2)Be Rider's first NCAA D1 Wrestling Champion
When you make moves like this, it detracts from my education, positivity about the school and Wrestling. These are 3 things that I really don't appreciate being messed with.
-Chad J. Walsh, Rider University
November 2, 2015
Hi President Dell'Omo,
I hope you're doing well!
My name is Sravya and I'm a senior at Rider University. I'm a psychology major and I'm pursuing a French minor. The recent news of cutting 14 majors and from the school and the laying off of 14 professors from those departments left me shocked and confused. Many students who were affected and unaffected by this decision are frustrated, worried and just plain upset by this. Even though this won't affect me because I'm a senior and I'm almost done with my French minor, it is still sad to see these programs go. I can't begin to imagine what my life would be like without my French minor. Studying French has really opened my eyes to the diversity of the world and I've learned so much. Foreign languages majors and minors such as French, German and Italian need to continue to be offered. How can a university simply get rid of this? How will this change teach diversity to students? How will business and education majors benefit from not being able to study a foreign language?
What about philosophy and sociology? No benefit comes from removing those two majors. Philosophy and sociology open our eyes to the structure of society and it's values. These are valuable majors and they should be kept at Rider. They create a well-rounded student. Students need to explore all areas of study in order to be knowledgeable. Rider is a liberal arts school. Removing 14 of these majors won't be appealing to prospective students if that is the goal. The removal of the piano major at Westminster is like removing a jewel. How can there be a music department without a piano major? Westminster is known and is prided for their wonderful program. Removing this would make the school less appealing.
When students choose to come to a school, they go to it because the school offers the programs that they are interested in and want to pursue. When this decision was announced many students were afraid of having their passion taken away from them. How can we tell a French or Philosophy major to suddenly find a new field of study? Transferring schools isn't easy. Some students won't be able to get the scholarships they need to continue their education at another school. Some students might not find the program they want to pursue at another school. This decision is negatively affecting the entire school, students and the faculty. People are becoming disheartened. I think it's important to keep these majors because they are what attract students to Rider. The faculty that are being laid off from these departments all work extremely hard to teach their students and they help and change the lives of students everyday. I love and care about this school and as a senior, I want to see the best happen for this university. Getting rid of these majors won't help. As a student, I don't think a liberal arts school is a liberal arts school without all of these majors. Please take some time to rethink this decision.There are other ways to close the budget deficit without having an effect on the education of the students. This is an amazing school. Let's continue to keep it strong and prestigious.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you and thank you for your time.
Sravya
Hi President Dell'Omo,
I hope you're doing well!
My name is Sravya and I'm a senior at Rider University. I'm a psychology major and I'm pursuing a French minor. The recent news of cutting 14 majors and from the school and the laying off of 14 professors from those departments left me shocked and confused. Many students who were affected and unaffected by this decision are frustrated, worried and just plain upset by this. Even though this won't affect me because I'm a senior and I'm almost done with my French minor, it is still sad to see these programs go. I can't begin to imagine what my life would be like without my French minor. Studying French has really opened my eyes to the diversity of the world and I've learned so much. Foreign languages majors and minors such as French, German and Italian need to continue to be offered. How can a university simply get rid of this? How will this change teach diversity to students? How will business and education majors benefit from not being able to study a foreign language?
What about philosophy and sociology? No benefit comes from removing those two majors. Philosophy and sociology open our eyes to the structure of society and it's values. These are valuable majors and they should be kept at Rider. They create a well-rounded student. Students need to explore all areas of study in order to be knowledgeable. Rider is a liberal arts school. Removing 14 of these majors won't be appealing to prospective students if that is the goal. The removal of the piano major at Westminster is like removing a jewel. How can there be a music department without a piano major? Westminster is known and is prided for their wonderful program. Removing this would make the school less appealing.
When students choose to come to a school, they go to it because the school offers the programs that they are interested in and want to pursue. When this decision was announced many students were afraid of having their passion taken away from them. How can we tell a French or Philosophy major to suddenly find a new field of study? Transferring schools isn't easy. Some students won't be able to get the scholarships they need to continue their education at another school. Some students might not find the program they want to pursue at another school. This decision is negatively affecting the entire school, students and the faculty. People are becoming disheartened. I think it's important to keep these majors because they are what attract students to Rider. The faculty that are being laid off from these departments all work extremely hard to teach their students and they help and change the lives of students everyday. I love and care about this school and as a senior, I want to see the best happen for this university. Getting rid of these majors won't help. As a student, I don't think a liberal arts school is a liberal arts school without all of these majors. Please take some time to rethink this decision.There are other ways to close the budget deficit without having an effect on the education of the students. This is an amazing school. Let's continue to keep it strong and prestigious.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you and thank you for your time.
Sravya
November 2, 2015
Mr. President,
This letter is in regards to the decision to cut the Economic Major, as well as our little meeting yesterday. Being an Economics major is not easy, you yourself are very aware as being one. Economics always starts out with a high amount of people; however, a lot of them do not understand that this science is not about memorization. It is about intuitively grasping the concept and being able to apply to present day society. This is reason that shocks me the most. Economics gave you the knowledge to be able to make a valid decision, who knows whether it is the best one, in cutting programs to save money. However, how can you cut the program that gives you the foundation for this decision? This I will never know.
It is held in high appreciation how time was allocated from your day, in order to sit down with students and talk about demand yesterday. As a fellow Economics major, I understood what you tried to tell us. However, what I did not understand was your analogy. The relation of our major made to a type writing class and given the label as “obsolete” by you, well that is why you wondered why I was so quiet. I had to hold my frustration as a person not only so ignorantly talked about my major but his or her own as well. I am so firmly proud that a someone like this has the opportunity to not only represent, Rider, but also all the Economic majors here as well. As we are part of the community, for a few more semesters anyways.
A Ph.D. is such a high honor. It is expected for people who acquire one in any field, especially one in economics, to be able to make decisions knowing how it affects everyone. However, it is held in high disregard to person on top. People simply cannot grasp that concept until they are the person on the bottom, or the person negatively impacted by a decision. Being a student allows one to understand how this works. One can view it as a burden, or a cross since they have no say in these decisions but they are the ones that bear the consequences. It is often assumed, that as president one does things for the greater good. However, not once have has it been brought to my attention that this greater good must come at the cost others, but hey one can probably argue that’s opportunity cost.
Irony is funny concept. The classic textbook definition states that irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal mean. This is amusing to some people. To be completely honest, it sometimes is entertaining. As this country is trying to fight a financial crisis, Rider University decides to cut the one study that helps people analyze and understand what causes that financial crisis. This is all held in good-humor that a minor is sufficient to understand the grey areas behind economics, let it rest assured it is not even close. However, as long as there are more computer science majors then people can rest easily knowing the problem can be resolved!
With all this being said I hope the best for the students that will be applying to Rider University in the years to come, as donations will definitely not be made in my name. I am sure the donations of other majors will be more than enough to suffice their own soon to be extinct major after the “market changes” once again, and economics will provide the foundation for those cuts in the years to come as well. However, that is not an important reason for Rider to offer it as a major. I leave you with this quote from the Economist, John Maynard Keynes, which I believe applies to this situation quite well, “Most men love money and security more, and creation and construction less, as they get older”.
Sincerely, A fellow soon to be economist
Mr. President,
This letter is in regards to the decision to cut the Economic Major, as well as our little meeting yesterday. Being an Economics major is not easy, you yourself are very aware as being one. Economics always starts out with a high amount of people; however, a lot of them do not understand that this science is not about memorization. It is about intuitively grasping the concept and being able to apply to present day society. This is reason that shocks me the most. Economics gave you the knowledge to be able to make a valid decision, who knows whether it is the best one, in cutting programs to save money. However, how can you cut the program that gives you the foundation for this decision? This I will never know.
It is held in high appreciation how time was allocated from your day, in order to sit down with students and talk about demand yesterday. As a fellow Economics major, I understood what you tried to tell us. However, what I did not understand was your analogy. The relation of our major made to a type writing class and given the label as “obsolete” by you, well that is why you wondered why I was so quiet. I had to hold my frustration as a person not only so ignorantly talked about my major but his or her own as well. I am so firmly proud that a someone like this has the opportunity to not only represent, Rider, but also all the Economic majors here as well. As we are part of the community, for a few more semesters anyways.
A Ph.D. is such a high honor. It is expected for people who acquire one in any field, especially one in economics, to be able to make decisions knowing how it affects everyone. However, it is held in high disregard to person on top. People simply cannot grasp that concept until they are the person on the bottom, or the person negatively impacted by a decision. Being a student allows one to understand how this works. One can view it as a burden, or a cross since they have no say in these decisions but they are the ones that bear the consequences. It is often assumed, that as president one does things for the greater good. However, not once have has it been brought to my attention that this greater good must come at the cost others, but hey one can probably argue that’s opportunity cost.
Irony is funny concept. The classic textbook definition states that irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal mean. This is amusing to some people. To be completely honest, it sometimes is entertaining. As this country is trying to fight a financial crisis, Rider University decides to cut the one study that helps people analyze and understand what causes that financial crisis. This is all held in good-humor that a minor is sufficient to understand the grey areas behind economics, let it rest assured it is not even close. However, as long as there are more computer science majors then people can rest easily knowing the problem can be resolved!
With all this being said I hope the best for the students that will be applying to Rider University in the years to come, as donations will definitely not be made in my name. I am sure the donations of other majors will be more than enough to suffice their own soon to be extinct major after the “market changes” once again, and economics will provide the foundation for those cuts in the years to come as well. However, that is not an important reason for Rider to offer it as a major. I leave you with this quote from the Economist, John Maynard Keynes, which I believe applies to this situation quite well, “Most men love money and security more, and creation and construction less, as they get older”.
Sincerely, A fellow soon to be economist
LETTERS FROM ALUMNI
November 11, 2015
To whom it may concern;
As a former student at Rider University, I found the announcement regarding staff cut backs to be most alarming. Rider University has long held the position of a very fine institution of learning. Their reputation and staff where second to none. More so than many of the reputed Ivy League institutions so often sought out by students who are more financially competent. However, there is much more to providing a quality real life education than financial gain.
An education consists of many different components, and yet, the consensus seems to be that anyone can be replaced by anyone else, or perhaps not at all, as long as the institution survives. This in itself is not true. Students converse about many things, yet the one thing we all agree on is which professor would be teaching our classes. Many students wait several semesters, to be instructed by specific professors. They feel they are aware of their approach and their learning experience would be better served by having an instructor they value. Which is paramount to any students success.
What is their approach to the subject matter and are you really learning anything by attending their class? The answers to these questions, have little or no importance to the financial gain of the institution. However, they do have a profound importance in a quality education. In other words, the staff is paramount to a quality education, no matter what. Students who don't fit the cookie cutter rationale, often need a different approach toward their educational endeavors. And as I've personally experienced, there are many expert staff members who have not only the experience in helping the students obtain their goals, they also have the expertise in helping them understand the true meaning of education.
For these reasons, among many more, I would respectfully request that the university, consider the great consequence, it could cost, if the experienced classroom professionals were no longer the mainstay at the university.
As otherwise stated, the most important part of achieving a quality education, is the person teaching it.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah Burke
To whom it may concern;
As a former student at Rider University, I found the announcement regarding staff cut backs to be most alarming. Rider University has long held the position of a very fine institution of learning. Their reputation and staff where second to none. More so than many of the reputed Ivy League institutions so often sought out by students who are more financially competent. However, there is much more to providing a quality real life education than financial gain.
An education consists of many different components, and yet, the consensus seems to be that anyone can be replaced by anyone else, or perhaps not at all, as long as the institution survives. This in itself is not true. Students converse about many things, yet the one thing we all agree on is which professor would be teaching our classes. Many students wait several semesters, to be instructed by specific professors. They feel they are aware of their approach and their learning experience would be better served by having an instructor they value. Which is paramount to any students success.
What is their approach to the subject matter and are you really learning anything by attending their class? The answers to these questions, have little or no importance to the financial gain of the institution. However, they do have a profound importance in a quality education. In other words, the staff is paramount to a quality education, no matter what. Students who don't fit the cookie cutter rationale, often need a different approach toward their educational endeavors. And as I've personally experienced, there are many expert staff members who have not only the experience in helping the students obtain their goals, they also have the expertise in helping them understand the true meaning of education.
For these reasons, among many more, I would respectfully request that the university, consider the great consequence, it could cost, if the experienced classroom professionals were no longer the mainstay at the university.
As otherwise stated, the most important part of achieving a quality education, is the person teaching it.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah Burke
November 10, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo:
I am writing to urge you to reconsider recent cost-cutting plans, which you and the Board of Trustees have initiated that will eliminate majors, lay off faculty and restructure Rider University by cutting 14 academic programs, most of which are in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, in order to close a budget gap. I also encourage you to enlist the Rider community to assist you and the Board in solving the very real challenges faced by our alma mater collaboratively and imaginatively while preserving the core of a liberal education and saving the jobs of dedicated and accomplished educators. Alumni support and Rider’s future enrollment depends upon it.
The planned cuts will eviscerate the depth and breadth of a liberal arts education in the tradition of great universities that foster critical thinking in their students. It is inconceivable that a modern-day university would not have a philosophy major nor offer options to major in a number of foreign languages. In different forums throughout the years, I and fellow alumni have testified to the pivotal role that the study of philosophy played in their education, whether they went on to become judges or entrepreneurs. My exposure to a wide range of music, theater, art and literature as a Rider student continues to enrich my daily life and has made me capable of being an informed world citizen. It seems that similar plans to cut Westminster majors are as ill-conceived as the ones that affect the Lawrenceville campus. Critical thinking is key to an open society; it serves as an anchor for diversity, freedom of expression, and as the nexus for ingenuity.
Passionate, outstanding professors challenge and inspire critical thinking in their students. Students benefit from the hard work and stimulation professors inspire. In turn, alumni enthusiasm serves as a beacon to others. I have been fortunate to enjoy lifelong friendships with talented and passionate Rider professors, whom I admire deeply. When I return to campus from time to time to attend an event, e.g., honor society initiations, to be surveyed for departmental audits, or to celebrate varied accomplishments by students and faculty, I return to the network of faculty and alumni to whom I am proud to be connected.
My career would not have been possible without the skills developed as an undergraduate at Rider. I’ve had varied, fulfilling experiences including: public service at the executive level in municipal government; advocacy and public relations for state, county and local governments, public and private concerns—including advertising agencies; creative accomplishment as a published author, produced playwright and documentarian; spiritual exploration as a yoga teacher, meditation coach, and student of Sanskrit; and public health educator as a writer/editor/presenter to physicians, nurses, and the public.
The cuts, an expedient cost-cutting measure, are indeed shortsighted because they diminish Rider University. This course of action will impact attracting top professors, does not serve current students, and will not help attract a talented and diverse pool of future students. And of course, the downward spiral will intensify if robust alumni which are the lifeblood of university funding were no longer part of the community.
Were I choosing a place to study today or helping a loved one find a college—I would not consider an institution that had eliminated critical courses of study as Rider is planning to do. As an alumnus who graduated cum laude with a dual major in philosophy and political science, I cannot see myself supporting Rider financially if it moves backwards and becomes a business prep school with a sprinkling of liberal coursework awaiting the budgetary axe every year.
It is my understanding that the solution to address the financial shortfall was done without a collaborative, collegial process that would have certainly included the faculty and could have reached out to alumni for help. Furthermore, I am aware that more than 200 current students, who represent $5.3 million in revenue, are immediately affected by these unilateral decisions, while the plan only saves $2 million and irrevocably changes the face of Rider.
I took the time to write this letter because of my respect and gratitude to Rider University and because of my dismay that the plans will diminish the great institution that offered me a wonderful education and enriched my life experience. Thank you for attention and consideration.
Respectfully yours,
Louis S Revesz ‘75
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo:
I am writing to urge you to reconsider recent cost-cutting plans, which you and the Board of Trustees have initiated that will eliminate majors, lay off faculty and restructure Rider University by cutting 14 academic programs, most of which are in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, in order to close a budget gap. I also encourage you to enlist the Rider community to assist you and the Board in solving the very real challenges faced by our alma mater collaboratively and imaginatively while preserving the core of a liberal education and saving the jobs of dedicated and accomplished educators. Alumni support and Rider’s future enrollment depends upon it.
The planned cuts will eviscerate the depth and breadth of a liberal arts education in the tradition of great universities that foster critical thinking in their students. It is inconceivable that a modern-day university would not have a philosophy major nor offer options to major in a number of foreign languages. In different forums throughout the years, I and fellow alumni have testified to the pivotal role that the study of philosophy played in their education, whether they went on to become judges or entrepreneurs. My exposure to a wide range of music, theater, art and literature as a Rider student continues to enrich my daily life and has made me capable of being an informed world citizen. It seems that similar plans to cut Westminster majors are as ill-conceived as the ones that affect the Lawrenceville campus. Critical thinking is key to an open society; it serves as an anchor for diversity, freedom of expression, and as the nexus for ingenuity.
Passionate, outstanding professors challenge and inspire critical thinking in their students. Students benefit from the hard work and stimulation professors inspire. In turn, alumni enthusiasm serves as a beacon to others. I have been fortunate to enjoy lifelong friendships with talented and passionate Rider professors, whom I admire deeply. When I return to campus from time to time to attend an event, e.g., honor society initiations, to be surveyed for departmental audits, or to celebrate varied accomplishments by students and faculty, I return to the network of faculty and alumni to whom I am proud to be connected.
My career would not have been possible without the skills developed as an undergraduate at Rider. I’ve had varied, fulfilling experiences including: public service at the executive level in municipal government; advocacy and public relations for state, county and local governments, public and private concerns—including advertising agencies; creative accomplishment as a published author, produced playwright and documentarian; spiritual exploration as a yoga teacher, meditation coach, and student of Sanskrit; and public health educator as a writer/editor/presenter to physicians, nurses, and the public.
The cuts, an expedient cost-cutting measure, are indeed shortsighted because they diminish Rider University. This course of action will impact attracting top professors, does not serve current students, and will not help attract a talented and diverse pool of future students. And of course, the downward spiral will intensify if robust alumni which are the lifeblood of university funding were no longer part of the community.
Were I choosing a place to study today or helping a loved one find a college—I would not consider an institution that had eliminated critical courses of study as Rider is planning to do. As an alumnus who graduated cum laude with a dual major in philosophy and political science, I cannot see myself supporting Rider financially if it moves backwards and becomes a business prep school with a sprinkling of liberal coursework awaiting the budgetary axe every year.
It is my understanding that the solution to address the financial shortfall was done without a collaborative, collegial process that would have certainly included the faculty and could have reached out to alumni for help. Furthermore, I am aware that more than 200 current students, who represent $5.3 million in revenue, are immediately affected by these unilateral decisions, while the plan only saves $2 million and irrevocably changes the face of Rider.
I took the time to write this letter because of my respect and gratitude to Rider University and because of my dismay that the plans will diminish the great institution that offered me a wonderful education and enriched my life experience. Thank you for attention and consideration.
Respectfully yours,
Louis S Revesz ‘75
November 8, 2015
Dr. Gregory Dell’Omo
Office of the President
Rider University
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrence Township, New Jersey 08648
Dear President Dell’Omo:
Your immediate efforts in taking fervent action to repair the deficit and to further facilitate Rider’s prosperity are greatly appreciated. Nonetheless, I strongly urge you to reconsider maintaining the Piano degrees. Modifying, as opposed to eliminating, the Piano Pedagogy and Performance programs is in the best interest of the future of Rider University’s arts curriculum and overall desired success.
As you know, Rider is not the only university facing a decline in Piano major enrollment, as across the country Piano major quotas have recently decreased. This statement is not to confirm the decision to discontinue the program, but rather to highlight the opportunity for Rider to monopolize on the prospective incoming Piano majors. Many share the view that the nationwide decrease is largely due to the fact that little or no business/marketing course curriculum, entrepreneurial skill, or instruction is given to these Piano majors. With regard to Rider University’s specific decline, lack of visibility and advertising for the program has also hindered enrollment. A subtle yet powerful shift in both aforementioned areas would dramatically increase quotas, allowing the Piano major and Rider University to again thrive.
A 2015 survey conducted among Piano graduates at Westminster Choir College of Rider University reveals undeniably impressive results. Nearly all who had graduated within the last five years worked 40 or more hours per week in the field pertinent to their degree. The remainder worked 25 or more hours per week in the field pertinent to their degree. Ninety percent of the graduates were teaching independently, 60% were teaching at an institution, 80% were actively performing, and 30% continued on to graduate school. The surveyed success of older graduates would undoubtedly be consistent with that of the most recent graduates. Of those polled in the 2015 survey however, 33.3% claimed they did not feel confident in their business or marketing skill.[1]
While graduates’ teaching and performing skills are excellent, they often struggle with the business aspect of teaching independently. As a result, their career choice is questioned for lack of viability. Prospective students recognize this questioning and, out of fear of uncertainty, choose a different major. Meanwhile, the rate of private students seeking piano study in central New Jersey continues to increase. Quality piano teachers are desperately in demand[2].
Westminster has prided itself as being one of the few top Piano programs that directly offers any business management/marketing education within the degrees. However, it is currently presented in an extremely limited capacity: two hours of anecdotal experience presented to a graduate-only, zero credit, one-semester, optional course. Rider University has the unique opportunity to add its particularly fine strength and attraction in business and entrepreneurial prestige to create enriched Piano programs that are appealing to prospective and current majors seeking a lucrative independent career in the arts. Other schools with high-level Piano programs, including University Wisconsin-Madison and University of Oklahoma, offer no such requirement in business and marketing instruction. Conversely, Northwestern University, home to another top Piano program in the United States, requires Piano majors to take one business/finance elective to complete their Bachelor of Music degree. They are home to approximately 50 Piano majors.
Powerful measures should be taken to assure Westminster Piano majors take advantage of the respected business programs that Rider has to offer, such as our award-winning Small Business Institute Program and the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies. Action taken to incorporate these invaluable offerings would enhance our competition among the top Piano programs, setting an example for the rest of the country.
With a healthy balance of teaching/performing skill and comprehensive, applicable business and marketing instruction, Rider Piano majors would be able to graduate with confidence and establish and maintain their own small businesses in a generation where young professionals are starting private businesses at an exponential rate. According to the administrator of the Small Business Administration, small businesses are driving the United States job recovery. Seven million of the 10.9 million jobs added since the Great Recession were created by startups and small enterprises. For 15 straight quarters, small firms have contributed to employment growth, accounting for 80% of job gains in any given quarter. This gives us reason to believe that small business growth will continue to rise. Let us work to attract Piano students by offering them empowerment for their future success. The graduates would then be able to best serve the great regional and national demand for quality piano teachers. This would provide them with strongly viable career options as independent piano teachers.
With increased financial stability and greater appreciation for Rider’s balanced instruction, graduates will be able to better participate alumni giving. In time, this would generate a greater number of future Piano students to Rider University, as the successful alumni would serve as excellent role models and continue to grow name recognition and prestige with the Piano programs at Rider. The increase in alumni giving would enhance scholarship opportunity, potentially attract endowment, and boost visibility for the Piano programs and for Rider as a whole.
The other crucial change immediately needed in developing our Piano programs is in visibility. There are critical changes that need to be made in the admission outreach and advertising. Westminster Choir College as part of Westminster College of the Arts has an historic reputation for choral excellence. Name recognition is a primary attraction for prospective choral education students. While this status is desirable, it can be difficult to make students aware of its other esteemed programs. The admissions department has done an excellent job in attracting students to the music education program, as they effectively market its past impressive job placement statistics and its excellent preparation of well-rounded practical application. If the admissions department were to market their current accomplishment of post-graduate Piano majors and advertise its particular business education advantage, Rider would succeed in attracting more students to the program, increasing enrollment substantially.
If Piano graduates are this successful with minimal small business/marketing instruction, modest admissions marketing, and virtually hidden job placement statistics, imagine how they would prosper with proposed modifications! Advertising such successes alone could be groundbreaking for Westminster Choir College and for Rider University as a whole. Rider can use its expertise to set the standard for ideal Piano education. Rider is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of evolving Piano programs, as it would be a leading university in empowering musicians to be successful small business owners. While increasing its visibility and subsequent enrollment among the Piano community, it also has the power to help remedy the market for Piano major enrollment nationwide.
Reinstating the Piano degree programs, with proposed amendments, would be in the best interest of the future of Rider University’s arts curriculum and desired success, working toward meeting all of your inspiring initiatives. Would you, as President of Rider University, be willing to continue the Piano degree programs, incorporate the suggested modifications, and reevaluate their success in four years’ time?
I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss amendments in further detail.
Most sincerely,
Rose McCathran, B.M. ‘07, M.M. ‘09, NCTM
[1] A 2015 survey conducted among Voice graduates at Westminster within the last five years, receiving zero business/marketing education, reveals that 43.75% did not feel confident in their business/marketing skills. Their 40+ hour/week job placement 6 months post-graduation was 66.7%; significantly lower than that of Piano majors, who received some.
[2] I have had to waitlist or refer many prospective piano students since 2010. My students’ attendance and retention rates are excellent. The same can be said of many colleagues.
Dr. Gregory Dell’Omo
Office of the President
Rider University
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrence Township, New Jersey 08648
Dear President Dell’Omo:
Your immediate efforts in taking fervent action to repair the deficit and to further facilitate Rider’s prosperity are greatly appreciated. Nonetheless, I strongly urge you to reconsider maintaining the Piano degrees. Modifying, as opposed to eliminating, the Piano Pedagogy and Performance programs is in the best interest of the future of Rider University’s arts curriculum and overall desired success.
As you know, Rider is not the only university facing a decline in Piano major enrollment, as across the country Piano major quotas have recently decreased. This statement is not to confirm the decision to discontinue the program, but rather to highlight the opportunity for Rider to monopolize on the prospective incoming Piano majors. Many share the view that the nationwide decrease is largely due to the fact that little or no business/marketing course curriculum, entrepreneurial skill, or instruction is given to these Piano majors. With regard to Rider University’s specific decline, lack of visibility and advertising for the program has also hindered enrollment. A subtle yet powerful shift in both aforementioned areas would dramatically increase quotas, allowing the Piano major and Rider University to again thrive.
A 2015 survey conducted among Piano graduates at Westminster Choir College of Rider University reveals undeniably impressive results. Nearly all who had graduated within the last five years worked 40 or more hours per week in the field pertinent to their degree. The remainder worked 25 or more hours per week in the field pertinent to their degree. Ninety percent of the graduates were teaching independently, 60% were teaching at an institution, 80% were actively performing, and 30% continued on to graduate school. The surveyed success of older graduates would undoubtedly be consistent with that of the most recent graduates. Of those polled in the 2015 survey however, 33.3% claimed they did not feel confident in their business or marketing skill.[1]
While graduates’ teaching and performing skills are excellent, they often struggle with the business aspect of teaching independently. As a result, their career choice is questioned for lack of viability. Prospective students recognize this questioning and, out of fear of uncertainty, choose a different major. Meanwhile, the rate of private students seeking piano study in central New Jersey continues to increase. Quality piano teachers are desperately in demand[2].
Westminster has prided itself as being one of the few top Piano programs that directly offers any business management/marketing education within the degrees. However, it is currently presented in an extremely limited capacity: two hours of anecdotal experience presented to a graduate-only, zero credit, one-semester, optional course. Rider University has the unique opportunity to add its particularly fine strength and attraction in business and entrepreneurial prestige to create enriched Piano programs that are appealing to prospective and current majors seeking a lucrative independent career in the arts. Other schools with high-level Piano programs, including University Wisconsin-Madison and University of Oklahoma, offer no such requirement in business and marketing instruction. Conversely, Northwestern University, home to another top Piano program in the United States, requires Piano majors to take one business/finance elective to complete their Bachelor of Music degree. They are home to approximately 50 Piano majors.
Powerful measures should be taken to assure Westminster Piano majors take advantage of the respected business programs that Rider has to offer, such as our award-winning Small Business Institute Program and the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies. Action taken to incorporate these invaluable offerings would enhance our competition among the top Piano programs, setting an example for the rest of the country.
With a healthy balance of teaching/performing skill and comprehensive, applicable business and marketing instruction, Rider Piano majors would be able to graduate with confidence and establish and maintain their own small businesses in a generation where young professionals are starting private businesses at an exponential rate. According to the administrator of the Small Business Administration, small businesses are driving the United States job recovery. Seven million of the 10.9 million jobs added since the Great Recession were created by startups and small enterprises. For 15 straight quarters, small firms have contributed to employment growth, accounting for 80% of job gains in any given quarter. This gives us reason to believe that small business growth will continue to rise. Let us work to attract Piano students by offering them empowerment for their future success. The graduates would then be able to best serve the great regional and national demand for quality piano teachers. This would provide them with strongly viable career options as independent piano teachers.
With increased financial stability and greater appreciation for Rider’s balanced instruction, graduates will be able to better participate alumni giving. In time, this would generate a greater number of future Piano students to Rider University, as the successful alumni would serve as excellent role models and continue to grow name recognition and prestige with the Piano programs at Rider. The increase in alumni giving would enhance scholarship opportunity, potentially attract endowment, and boost visibility for the Piano programs and for Rider as a whole.
The other crucial change immediately needed in developing our Piano programs is in visibility. There are critical changes that need to be made in the admission outreach and advertising. Westminster Choir College as part of Westminster College of the Arts has an historic reputation for choral excellence. Name recognition is a primary attraction for prospective choral education students. While this status is desirable, it can be difficult to make students aware of its other esteemed programs. The admissions department has done an excellent job in attracting students to the music education program, as they effectively market its past impressive job placement statistics and its excellent preparation of well-rounded practical application. If the admissions department were to market their current accomplishment of post-graduate Piano majors and advertise its particular business education advantage, Rider would succeed in attracting more students to the program, increasing enrollment substantially.
If Piano graduates are this successful with minimal small business/marketing instruction, modest admissions marketing, and virtually hidden job placement statistics, imagine how they would prosper with proposed modifications! Advertising such successes alone could be groundbreaking for Westminster Choir College and for Rider University as a whole. Rider can use its expertise to set the standard for ideal Piano education. Rider is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of evolving Piano programs, as it would be a leading university in empowering musicians to be successful small business owners. While increasing its visibility and subsequent enrollment among the Piano community, it also has the power to help remedy the market for Piano major enrollment nationwide.
Reinstating the Piano degree programs, with proposed amendments, would be in the best interest of the future of Rider University’s arts curriculum and desired success, working toward meeting all of your inspiring initiatives. Would you, as President of Rider University, be willing to continue the Piano degree programs, incorporate the suggested modifications, and reevaluate their success in four years’ time?
I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss amendments in further detail.
Most sincerely,
Rose McCathran, B.M. ‘07, M.M. ‘09, NCTM
[1] A 2015 survey conducted among Voice graduates at Westminster within the last five years, receiving zero business/marketing education, reveals that 43.75% did not feel confident in their business/marketing skills. Their 40+ hour/week job placement 6 months post-graduation was 66.7%; significantly lower than that of Piano majors, who received some.
[2] I have had to waitlist or refer many prospective piano students since 2010. My students’ attendance and retention rates are excellent. The same can be said of many colleagues.
November 3, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo, Inside this envelope you will find a picture. This picture was taken on May 17th, 2013. I think the picture alone encompasses all I will attempt to express in this letter but first, I will use my words to tell my story. My name is Louise Mayer and in 2013, I graduated from Rider University. My experiences at Rider were very positive and I am grateful to have received my education from this institution. At Rider, I was not just another number, I was an individual and for that reason I was able to build personal relationships with my professors. My professors were passionate, not only about the education their students received, but also laying the groundwork to a prosperous future. For these reasons, I would like to take this opportunity to express my experiences as a German minor. I want to share my story of how this program changed my life and why eliminating it as a degree option would be a grave mistake. I would like to begin my story by reflecting on the Fall of 2012 - the first semester of my senior year at Rider University. I was sitting in my German Literature class when Dr. Schleissner announced that our normal lesson would be slightly altered. On this day, a portion of our class would be dedicated to a political exchange program called “Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals (CBYX)”. I was not aware at that time, but that day would end up being one of the most important days of my life. |
So what is CBYX? Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange annually presents 75 Americans and Germans with the unique opportunity to spend one year in each other’s countries. The official title of participants is “cultural ambassador” for the United States of America. The program’s key purpose is to strengthen both political and cultural ties between American and German citizens. Participants represent their respective countries by working, studying and volunteering for one year, integrating themselves into one another’s culture in order to promote global awareness.
After the presentation, Professor Schleissner radiant enthusiasm was inspiring. She cheerfully passed out brochures and information on how to apply. She was so excited for this opportunity and urged us to all apply. Thrilled, I put the brochure in my folder and went back to my dorm.
In December, I received correspondence which informed me that, out of nearly one thousand applicants, I was in the top 150 candidates and therefore qualified for an interview. I was invited to New York City where I would participate in a 3 hour interview which included a language examination, an individual and group interview. Everything I had been working towards for the past 3 years as a German minor had come to this and immediately, Professor Schleissner was by my side.
Over the next month, she used her office hours and lunch breaks to prepare me for my interview. I remember sitting in her office as she wrote on her chalkboard, quizzing me on political parties in Germany. She would ask me questions like “What political party does Angela Merkel participate in?” and “How do you feel about Germany’s current foreign policy?” She went above and beyond for me not only because it was her job, but because she actually believed in me.
In February 2013, I arrived in New York City and just like Professor Schleissner predicted, the panel of interviewers asked me multiple questions about foreign policy and political processes in Germany. Their questions were sharp and left no room for guessing. The interview was long and rigorous. They even tested my German skills by requiring me to communicate for a portion of the interview completely in German. As I left the interview that day, all I could remember was feeling the utmost gratitude for my incredible professor who took the time to go the extra mile.
Ultimately, I was awarded the scholarship. The cultural exchange lasted for one year in Germany and included two months of intensive language training in Saarbrücken, a four month educational phase at the Hochschule der Medien in Stuttgart, and ended with a full time internship at the second largest broadcasting and radio center in Germany, SWR1 (Südwestrundfunk). While there, I served as a cultural ambassador through the Rent-An-American program by visiting schools throughout Baden-Württemberg to educate students about American culture; preparing presentations, skits, and activities for local classrooms over the course of 8 months. I was also selected as one of 5 participants to serve as a representative on a student panel within the Bundestag on its 65th Anniversary Ceremony alongside Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel. In one year I was able to accomplish so many dreams of mine and it all can be traced back to one point, the German program at Rider University.
Today is November 3, 2015 and I am currently studying for my master’s in Global Studies and Anthropology at the historic University of Tübingen in Germany. In my third semester I will be studying in India and continuing research in my field. All of this would not be possible without Professor Schleissner. I would not be here today if I had not studied with the German program. Language studies are so crucial to our understanding of the world. Without connecting to others through communication, we are literally left in the dark. Eliminating linguistic studies from a University is a tragic mistake and will most certainly have consequences. I am aware that Rider is in need of budget cuts and I understand the reasons why the University needs to revise it’s spending but taking away programs like German, Italian, and French takes so much away from the institution. I am writing this letter from half way around the world not because anyone asked me to or because it is in my best interest. This decision will not affect me in any way but it does affect the future students of Rider. The future students who could have brought home brochures on a cultural exchange program they learned about in class; The future students who could have received excellent education in their field which prepared them for practical work in their field; The future students who could have had a teacher that would sacrifice their lunch breaks and personal time to quiz them and prepare for a life-changing interview. It is absolutely devastating that these decisions have been made and I urge you to please listen to my story and reconsider your decision. What is a Univeristy if the first thing it cuts are education programs? Why are the jobs of so many dedicated professors being thrown away? When I attended Rider there was so much excess; excess food, excess events and so much waste. How are the jobs of the educators at this University the first to be sacrificed? It is an educational institution and should remain one.
In conclusion, I will end with the picture. The person who took this photo was a stranger. I have never met them before and I do not know their exact reasons for taking the picture but I am guessing they noticed a meaningful moment and attempted to capture it on film. To them, the picture shows a professor and student embracing on graduation day. But for me, this picture is much more than that. That day, I was walking through the crowd on my graduation day and on both sides were family members, friends, and professors all cheering us on for our achievement as graduates. I can still hear the band playing as I moved through the crowd of smiling faces. I will never forget seeing Professor Schleissner standing there with the biggest smile of all. It was the same smile she had the day she gave that presentation and in that moment, I knew she was truly proud of me. Her joy is in education and it was something she cares deeply about. She is a passionate educator and dedicated her entire career to helping others achieve their dreams. Without hesitation, I broke away from the line and gave her a hug because everything I had accomplished up until that moment was because of her. All of her support and motivation lead me to be where I was and that is something you cannot replace. That is a program that doesn’t just have to do with the mind but also the heart and that is a fundamental value I believed Rider to have. That is what I thought distinguished Rider from other universities – that it valued its future leaders, thinkers and agents of change, not merely as numbers, but rather as individuals with dreams and goals; As a proud alumni of a prestigious institution such as Rider, I sincerely hope that you share my vision of fostering a learning environment which provides programs that inspire and aid fertile minds to achieve their goals.
Thank you for your time and I hope you revisit your decision.
Sincerely,
Louise
November 6, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter to you and the board of trustees at Rider University. I am a 1994 graduate of the Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy and Performance at Westminster Choir College.
I was saddened and angered by the shocking news regarding the piano degrees at Westminster. I believe that you, as well as those making this decision have a duty to listen to the faculty, students and alumni of these programs before coming to such a drastic conclusion.
My story is as follows:
I came to WCC from a small liberal-arts college in western North Carolina, and although I was prepared to begin the Masters program from an educational standpoint, I was quite nervous about such a big move. The opportunity to study with a world-class faculty was a dream I thought was out of reach. Phyllis Lehrer, Ingrid Clarfield, Ena Barton, Harold Zabrack and Betty Stoloff welcomed me, set the bar extremely high, and assisted me in meeting it. The faculty are pedagogues of the highest caliber, and performers that can cause an audience member to feel something so deep in their soul they cannot not express it in words. Although it has been 21 years since completing my degree, I use their ideas in my classroom daily. I have encouraged my students to take advantage of the workshops, concerts and course work offered through the piano program for over 20 years. My experience with the piano faculty literally changed my life. Because of the brilliant teaching that happens in the piano department, I grew musically, spiritually and personally. My work at Westminster opened the doors to my completing a Doctor of Education degree at Columbia University in New York City. Additionally, I have completed a second masters at the University of Limerick in Ireland. Looking back on my privileged educational experiences, I can say without hesitation that my studies at WCC were the most challenging.
I implore you to pause.
I implore you to find alternative, creative ways to raise funds and tighten budgets.
I implore you to have a conversation with the faculty, alumni and students.
It is short sighted to think cancelling the piano program at WCC will be a panacea for the financial dilemma Rider University is undergoing. It won’t fix the financial problems…it will however burn multiple bridges with alumni, current students, the Princeton populace, and the international community of musicians with whom Westminster has a long tradition. It will also destroy the spirit of creativity, collaboration and beauty, which are found on the campus of Westminster. Consider how this decision will create a feeling of paranoia on campus…’who’s next?’
I close by saying that I am forever grateful to the piano faculty at Westminster Choir College for their guidance, wisdom, encouragement, love and support. No matter what decision you make, you can never take away the profound influence they have had, do have, and will continue to have on the people who are fortunate to know them.
Sincerely,
Robin M. Garner, Ed. D., Columbia University, 2003
MA in Ritual Chant and Song, University of Limerick, Ireland, 2015
MM in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, Westminster Choir College, 1994
BM in Piano Performance, Mars Hill University, 1992
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo,
It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter to you and the board of trustees at Rider University. I am a 1994 graduate of the Master of Music in Piano Pedagogy and Performance at Westminster Choir College.
I was saddened and angered by the shocking news regarding the piano degrees at Westminster. I believe that you, as well as those making this decision have a duty to listen to the faculty, students and alumni of these programs before coming to such a drastic conclusion.
My story is as follows:
I came to WCC from a small liberal-arts college in western North Carolina, and although I was prepared to begin the Masters program from an educational standpoint, I was quite nervous about such a big move. The opportunity to study with a world-class faculty was a dream I thought was out of reach. Phyllis Lehrer, Ingrid Clarfield, Ena Barton, Harold Zabrack and Betty Stoloff welcomed me, set the bar extremely high, and assisted me in meeting it. The faculty are pedagogues of the highest caliber, and performers that can cause an audience member to feel something so deep in their soul they cannot not express it in words. Although it has been 21 years since completing my degree, I use their ideas in my classroom daily. I have encouraged my students to take advantage of the workshops, concerts and course work offered through the piano program for over 20 years. My experience with the piano faculty literally changed my life. Because of the brilliant teaching that happens in the piano department, I grew musically, spiritually and personally. My work at Westminster opened the doors to my completing a Doctor of Education degree at Columbia University in New York City. Additionally, I have completed a second masters at the University of Limerick in Ireland. Looking back on my privileged educational experiences, I can say without hesitation that my studies at WCC were the most challenging.
I implore you to pause.
I implore you to find alternative, creative ways to raise funds and tighten budgets.
I implore you to have a conversation with the faculty, alumni and students.
It is short sighted to think cancelling the piano program at WCC will be a panacea for the financial dilemma Rider University is undergoing. It won’t fix the financial problems…it will however burn multiple bridges with alumni, current students, the Princeton populace, and the international community of musicians with whom Westminster has a long tradition. It will also destroy the spirit of creativity, collaboration and beauty, which are found on the campus of Westminster. Consider how this decision will create a feeling of paranoia on campus…’who’s next?’
I close by saying that I am forever grateful to the piano faculty at Westminster Choir College for their guidance, wisdom, encouragement, love and support. No matter what decision you make, you can never take away the profound influence they have had, do have, and will continue to have on the people who are fortunate to know them.
Sincerely,
Robin M. Garner, Ed. D., Columbia University, 2003
MA in Ritual Chant and Song, University of Limerick, Ireland, 2015
MM in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, Westminster Choir College, 1994
BM in Piano Performance, Mars Hill University, 1992
November 2, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo,
It has come to my knowledge that Rider University is eliminating the Philosophy program and believe this is a destructive action that will undermine Rider's commitment to a well-rounded liberal arts education.
I entered Rider as an Accounting major and after taking some philosophy classes with Dr. Joel Feldman I developed a love not only for the subject but for how I could apply this field to my interests in sales and retail management.
It is important I mention that Joel Feldman is an asset to your faculty. He believes in the potential of his students and truly exhibits Rider's faculty commitment to student excellence. Due to financial reasons, I transferred to The College of New Jersey and continued my philosophy major at that school. But it was Joel who ignited the spark and passion for this field. I'd suggest you sit in on one of his lectures and you will see how he engages his students.
One might think that Philosophy is not "practical" in the business world. After graduating I worked for a consulting start up that valued my degree as students of philosophy have logical rigor and awareness for other points of view. Moreover, during my interview process for a position in Store Management at Target Corporation that requires a BA/BS degree, I went through a series of six interviews and not one person asked what field my degree is in. I'd argue that this is because many companies with excellent training programs want students with a holistic, well-rounded college education, can think on their feet, manage conflict and lead others.
Philosophy is the foundation of all other subjects. If Rider wants to be taken seriously as a liberal arts versus a purely technical university, and truly prepare them for all things ahead, students will have an opportunity to study this field.
Jesse de Agustin
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo,
It has come to my knowledge that Rider University is eliminating the Philosophy program and believe this is a destructive action that will undermine Rider's commitment to a well-rounded liberal arts education.
I entered Rider as an Accounting major and after taking some philosophy classes with Dr. Joel Feldman I developed a love not only for the subject but for how I could apply this field to my interests in sales and retail management.
It is important I mention that Joel Feldman is an asset to your faculty. He believes in the potential of his students and truly exhibits Rider's faculty commitment to student excellence. Due to financial reasons, I transferred to The College of New Jersey and continued my philosophy major at that school. But it was Joel who ignited the spark and passion for this field. I'd suggest you sit in on one of his lectures and you will see how he engages his students.
One might think that Philosophy is not "practical" in the business world. After graduating I worked for a consulting start up that valued my degree as students of philosophy have logical rigor and awareness for other points of view. Moreover, during my interview process for a position in Store Management at Target Corporation that requires a BA/BS degree, I went through a series of six interviews and not one person asked what field my degree is in. I'd argue that this is because many companies with excellent training programs want students with a holistic, well-rounded college education, can think on their feet, manage conflict and lead others.
Philosophy is the foundation of all other subjects. If Rider wants to be taken seriously as a liberal arts versus a purely technical university, and truly prepare them for all things ahead, students will have an opportunity to study this field.
Jesse de Agustin
November 6, 2015
To President Gregory G. Dell'Omo and the Administration of Rider University,
I am a recent graduate of Westminster Choir College where I was a music education major with a voice primary. I have also studied piano since a very young age and have a father who has made his living as a pianist and composer. It is for these reasons that I have always been aware of the importance of skilled pianists in any musical community, especially such a tight-knit one as our beloved College. To close the piano department at WCC would be to remove an integral part of our community.
Not only is the work of these pianists as solo musicians impressive, their skills are needed in nearly every other facet of WCC life. They (piano students and faculty alike) collaborate closely with the many young singers on our campus, providing accompaniment in voice studios and in performance as well as private coachings outside of lessons. Pianists are also the dependable lifeline for the beating heart of our school: our choirs. In the choral rehearsal, pianists are expected to work in tandem with the conductor and are absolutely vital to the unmatched level of choral excellence that we and the larger music world around us have come to expect from Westminster ensembles. Now I have no doubt that the choirs will still have accompanists for the future, no matter what happens to the piano department, but are we truly willing to take away the opportunity for piano students to learn these important skills?
I have had the pleasure of watching many of my own classmates grow as musicians and as human beings alongside me, many of them pianists who would help lead my rehearsals on a daily basis. I watched them become musical collaborators at the highest level who have already raised the standard for what it means to be a musician. They are out in the world now contributing their invaluable talents to people all over. I am sorry to say it, but without such an integral component of our school as our pianists missing, the quality of music making on campus and off will suffer greatly, harming our reputation as one of the foremost music conservatories in the country, if not the world, and ultimately doing more damage to both the enrollment and the finances of the College and of the University as a whole.
I am sure that you will receive many impassioned letters such as this one regarding the piano department as well as the other departments which are on the chopping block. I understand the need to make tough decisions in order to ensure the future of our University. However I fear that this decision may deal immeasurable harm to our students and to our reputation for many years to come. I humbly urge you to reconsider.
Sincerely,
Thomas Quinn Kimball
To President Gregory G. Dell'Omo and the Administration of Rider University,
I am a recent graduate of Westminster Choir College where I was a music education major with a voice primary. I have also studied piano since a very young age and have a father who has made his living as a pianist and composer. It is for these reasons that I have always been aware of the importance of skilled pianists in any musical community, especially such a tight-knit one as our beloved College. To close the piano department at WCC would be to remove an integral part of our community.
Not only is the work of these pianists as solo musicians impressive, their skills are needed in nearly every other facet of WCC life. They (piano students and faculty alike) collaborate closely with the many young singers on our campus, providing accompaniment in voice studios and in performance as well as private coachings outside of lessons. Pianists are also the dependable lifeline for the beating heart of our school: our choirs. In the choral rehearsal, pianists are expected to work in tandem with the conductor and are absolutely vital to the unmatched level of choral excellence that we and the larger music world around us have come to expect from Westminster ensembles. Now I have no doubt that the choirs will still have accompanists for the future, no matter what happens to the piano department, but are we truly willing to take away the opportunity for piano students to learn these important skills?
I have had the pleasure of watching many of my own classmates grow as musicians and as human beings alongside me, many of them pianists who would help lead my rehearsals on a daily basis. I watched them become musical collaborators at the highest level who have already raised the standard for what it means to be a musician. They are out in the world now contributing their invaluable talents to people all over. I am sorry to say it, but without such an integral component of our school as our pianists missing, the quality of music making on campus and off will suffer greatly, harming our reputation as one of the foremost music conservatories in the country, if not the world, and ultimately doing more damage to both the enrollment and the finances of the College and of the University as a whole.
I am sure that you will receive many impassioned letters such as this one regarding the piano department as well as the other departments which are on the chopping block. I understand the need to make tough decisions in order to ensure the future of our University. However I fear that this decision may deal immeasurable harm to our students and to our reputation for many years to come. I humbly urge you to reconsider.
Sincerely,
Thomas Quinn Kimball
November 5, 2015
Dear President Dell'Omo,
As a Rider alumna, I am shocked and dismayed to hear that the university is planning to implement drastic cuts to many of its long-standing and fundamental degree programs. It is the combination of outstanding faculty and diversity of programs that makes an institution great, and Rider has both! To diminish their presence would greatly compromise the quality of education offered by the university.
I have always been extremely proud of the education I received from Rider University, and my liberal arts courses (French, in particular) were an extremely valuable and enjoyable part of my undergraduate experience. While my major field of study was Chemistry, it was my French minor that allowed me to expand my horizons outside of the laboratory and to gain a global perspective on many subjects. Minoring in a foreign language while studying the physical sciences was one of the best decisions I ever made. The skills and knowledge I gained from those courses have continued to serve me well throughout my career. My French classes allowed me to engage in creative expression of thought and to interact with, and learn from, individuals outside of my major. I cannot imagine it any other way. And I am devastated at the thought of current and future students being denied these same opportunities.
The liberal arts are an essential part of any undergraduate curriculum and the foundation for many other disciplines. How do you separate art from engineering, history from science, or music from math? You cannot. Students must gain an appreciation and understanding of multiple disciplines so that they are prepared to tackle the challenges of today and to succeed on the global stage that is the modern world.
I implore the administration to reconsider their plan to cut these degree programs and instead, allow students to explore the diversity of courses, programs, and ideas that are fundamental to higher education.
Sincerely,
Virginia Miller (BA Major Chemistry, Minor French. Ph.D Princeton University, Chemistry)
Virginia Lea Miller, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Montgomery College
Department of Chemistry, Rockville Campus
51 Mannakee Street, SC 331L
Rockville, MD 20850
240-567-7621
Virginia.miller@montgomerycollege.edu
Dear President Dell'Omo,
As a Rider alumna, I am shocked and dismayed to hear that the university is planning to implement drastic cuts to many of its long-standing and fundamental degree programs. It is the combination of outstanding faculty and diversity of programs that makes an institution great, and Rider has both! To diminish their presence would greatly compromise the quality of education offered by the university.
I have always been extremely proud of the education I received from Rider University, and my liberal arts courses (French, in particular) were an extremely valuable and enjoyable part of my undergraduate experience. While my major field of study was Chemistry, it was my French minor that allowed me to expand my horizons outside of the laboratory and to gain a global perspective on many subjects. Minoring in a foreign language while studying the physical sciences was one of the best decisions I ever made. The skills and knowledge I gained from those courses have continued to serve me well throughout my career. My French classes allowed me to engage in creative expression of thought and to interact with, and learn from, individuals outside of my major. I cannot imagine it any other way. And I am devastated at the thought of current and future students being denied these same opportunities.
The liberal arts are an essential part of any undergraduate curriculum and the foundation for many other disciplines. How do you separate art from engineering, history from science, or music from math? You cannot. Students must gain an appreciation and understanding of multiple disciplines so that they are prepared to tackle the challenges of today and to succeed on the global stage that is the modern world.
I implore the administration to reconsider their plan to cut these degree programs and instead, allow students to explore the diversity of courses, programs, and ideas that are fundamental to higher education.
Sincerely,
Virginia Miller (BA Major Chemistry, Minor French. Ph.D Princeton University, Chemistry)
Virginia Lea Miller, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Chemistry
Montgomery College
Department of Chemistry, Rockville Campus
51 Mannakee Street, SC 331L
Rockville, MD 20850
240-567-7621
Virginia.miller@montgomerycollege.edu
November 3, 2015
Dear Friends,
I know you feel justified in making cuts to several programs and majors, including French. Budgets are tight everywhere, I understand this. But please take a few seconds to read my e-mail, look at my photos, and the links I have provided. I hope you will reconsider the proposed cuts to these programs.
My name is Guy Dippolito. I received a Fulbright via The Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Program in April 2011. Without the French program at Rider, and its dedicated faculty, I would have never been selected for this prestigious grant; from Dr. Myrna Zwillenberg to Dr. Peter Aberger to Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie. For that matter, I would have never been able to move into the middle class as a French teacher and tennis coach without being able to pursue studying something I always felt passionate about; a language so beautiful, so relevant - and a culture so impressive.
Rider "College" then "University" provided me with the opportunity to follow where my natural aptitude and interests led me. Please don't deny people this privilege. The computer and cell phone on which I am communicating right now - yes they are game changers. STEM - yes it is important - more important than we are probably aware. But not EVERYONE is a STEM student. Please, reconsider the cuts you have proposed. Give everyone a chance to follow their passion and allow them to let their interests and aptitudes play a role in who they become.
Pictured below is my father Sergeant Martino Dippolito on The Austerlitz Bridge in Paris in 1944. He was an MP for the United States Army. I found that same bridge 64 years later, in the summer of 2008, and proudly display both pictures in every classroom in which I teach French.
Dear Friends,
I know you feel justified in making cuts to several programs and majors, including French. Budgets are tight everywhere, I understand this. But please take a few seconds to read my e-mail, look at my photos, and the links I have provided. I hope you will reconsider the proposed cuts to these programs.
My name is Guy Dippolito. I received a Fulbright via The Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Program in April 2011. Without the French program at Rider, and its dedicated faculty, I would have never been selected for this prestigious grant; from Dr. Myrna Zwillenberg to Dr. Peter Aberger to Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie. For that matter, I would have never been able to move into the middle class as a French teacher and tennis coach without being able to pursue studying something I always felt passionate about; a language so beautiful, so relevant - and a culture so impressive.
Rider "College" then "University" provided me with the opportunity to follow where my natural aptitude and interests led me. Please don't deny people this privilege. The computer and cell phone on which I am communicating right now - yes they are game changers. STEM - yes it is important - more important than we are probably aware. But not EVERYONE is a STEM student. Please, reconsider the cuts you have proposed. Give everyone a chance to follow their passion and allow them to let their interests and aptitudes play a role in who they become.
Pictured below is my father Sergeant Martino Dippolito on The Austerlitz Bridge in Paris in 1944. He was an MP for the United States Army. I found that same bridge 64 years later, in the summer of 2008, and proudly display both pictures in every classroom in which I teach French.
He returned to NJ and in 1955 built the house I grew up in - in Hamilton (Mercer County), NJ.
He became disabled after my birth in 1967. He passed in 1988. My mother Norma took the bus into Trenton for 19 years to work as a clerk typist for The State of New Jersey on West State Street - and put myself and my sister through college.
He became disabled after my birth in 1967. He passed in 1988. My mother Norma took the bus into Trenton for 19 years to work as a clerk typist for The State of New Jersey on West State Street - and put myself and my sister through college.
My mother passed in 2013. But she never gave up on me, and she never doubted my aptitude and passion for what I was pursuing. How about you?
How many parents work all their lives - dedicate every breath to their children's success - like mine did; whose only dream is to have their children follow their passions, study what they love and become successful - how many of their dreams are you going to dash, because you can't squeeze a few dollars from somewhere else; from a sports program or campus amenities or even ADMINISTRATOR SALARIES? Robert Reich might have some answers for you in this article from U.S. News and World Report titled " Why Does College Cost So Much?"
Why Do colleges cost so much? http://www.usnews.com/news/college-of-tomorrow/articles/2014/09/22/why-college-costs-so-much-overspending-on-faculty-amenities
So, what about RELEVANCE - French is a dying language you say? We can cut it without too much damage to our student body. They'll be prepared for the future by studying Spanish right? WRONG:
French is Projected to be the WORLD'S MOST SPOKEN LANGUAGE BY 2050
http://www.ozy.com/acumen/french-lingua-franca/31780?utm_source=NH&utm_medium=pp&utm_campaign=pp
For further research into this topic, please take a look at a second article which supports even further my point: "As students head back to school, which foreign language has the biggest potential to become the most useful language of the future?"
http://www.middleburyinteractive.com/blog/top-foreign-languages-students-should-learn-school-year
I think you OWE it to all the parents like mine and kids who are just like I was - to make your budget cuts ELSEWHERE. What do you think?
Sincerely,
Guy Dippolito
How many parents work all their lives - dedicate every breath to their children's success - like mine did; whose only dream is to have their children follow their passions, study what they love and become successful - how many of their dreams are you going to dash, because you can't squeeze a few dollars from somewhere else; from a sports program or campus amenities or even ADMINISTRATOR SALARIES? Robert Reich might have some answers for you in this article from U.S. News and World Report titled " Why Does College Cost So Much?"
Why Do colleges cost so much? http://www.usnews.com/news/college-of-tomorrow/articles/2014/09/22/why-college-costs-so-much-overspending-on-faculty-amenities
So, what about RELEVANCE - French is a dying language you say? We can cut it without too much damage to our student body. They'll be prepared for the future by studying Spanish right? WRONG:
French is Projected to be the WORLD'S MOST SPOKEN LANGUAGE BY 2050
http://www.ozy.com/acumen/french-lingua-franca/31780?utm_source=NH&utm_medium=pp&utm_campaign=pp
For further research into this topic, please take a look at a second article which supports even further my point: "As students head back to school, which foreign language has the biggest potential to become the most useful language of the future?"
http://www.middleburyinteractive.com/blog/top-foreign-languages-students-should-learn-school-year
I think you OWE it to all the parents like mine and kids who are just like I was - to make your budget cuts ELSEWHERE. What do you think?
Sincerely,
Guy Dippolito
President Dell’Omo -
As a graduate of Rider University, class of 1995, I am very disappointed to hear not only that have chosen to balance the budget by eliminating programs, but to hear about the manner in which faculty were informed, not consulted, about this decision. Such decision making flies in the face of shared governance that is essential in the running of a university that prizes intellectual life and academic achievement.
I am also disappointed that one of the majors slated for elimination is Philosophy. As a student who found a home in the Philosophy department and who was educated by many of the faculty members whose jobs are now at risk, I am petitioning you to reconsider your decision. Not simply because this a department that is especially important to me, but rather because eliminating it, instead of promoting and strengthening it, is bad business.
Historically, Rider University was known as a business school, and while the worlds of business and philosophy may seem far apart, a review of the recent literature might suggest otherwise. As an ever increasing number of colleges and universities turn themselves into technical schools, while still claiming the title of “liberal arts university,” businesses and business programs are actively recruiting philosophy graduates, seeking them out for the skills that they possess. These skills include critical thinking, writing and communication, and analysis, but also include a softer skill, one that takes time to cultivate - the ability to look at a problem from an unexpected angle. It is no secret that philosophy majors are top performers in fields outside of philosophy, for just these reasons.
I am also troubled by what can only appear to be a short sighted decision. If I were a student considering attending a university, I might be hesitant to apply to one that was actively eliminating programs, if for no other reason than I would be concerned for the long term prospects of the major I intended to pursue. While I am not privy to the full financial picture of the university, smart business practice would suggest that resources be devoted to the core mission of the university. How many universities have gotten themselves into financial trouble by allocating resources to the administrative sector, as though the mission of the university was to administrate, and away from the academic sector where it properly belongs.
I understand that the union has proposed an alternate plan, one that involves faculty give backs in an effort to save programs. I urge you to seriously consider these proposals, but also to do some real soul searching. If faculty are willing to offer give backs to save programs, perhaps it is not unreasonable to ask that the administration consider some give backs of their own, especially if this will result in the retention of vital programs, programs that could be grown and marketed, rather than cut.
I know that you are busy, so I appreciate the time you have already invested in reading this letter.
Louis Colombo
As a graduate of Rider University, class of 1995, I am very disappointed to hear not only that have chosen to balance the budget by eliminating programs, but to hear about the manner in which faculty were informed, not consulted, about this decision. Such decision making flies in the face of shared governance that is essential in the running of a university that prizes intellectual life and academic achievement.
I am also disappointed that one of the majors slated for elimination is Philosophy. As a student who found a home in the Philosophy department and who was educated by many of the faculty members whose jobs are now at risk, I am petitioning you to reconsider your decision. Not simply because this a department that is especially important to me, but rather because eliminating it, instead of promoting and strengthening it, is bad business.
Historically, Rider University was known as a business school, and while the worlds of business and philosophy may seem far apart, a review of the recent literature might suggest otherwise. As an ever increasing number of colleges and universities turn themselves into technical schools, while still claiming the title of “liberal arts university,” businesses and business programs are actively recruiting philosophy graduates, seeking them out for the skills that they possess. These skills include critical thinking, writing and communication, and analysis, but also include a softer skill, one that takes time to cultivate - the ability to look at a problem from an unexpected angle. It is no secret that philosophy majors are top performers in fields outside of philosophy, for just these reasons.
I am also troubled by what can only appear to be a short sighted decision. If I were a student considering attending a university, I might be hesitant to apply to one that was actively eliminating programs, if for no other reason than I would be concerned for the long term prospects of the major I intended to pursue. While I am not privy to the full financial picture of the university, smart business practice would suggest that resources be devoted to the core mission of the university. How many universities have gotten themselves into financial trouble by allocating resources to the administrative sector, as though the mission of the university was to administrate, and away from the academic sector where it properly belongs.
I understand that the union has proposed an alternate plan, one that involves faculty give backs in an effort to save programs. I urge you to seriously consider these proposals, but also to do some real soul searching. If faculty are willing to offer give backs to save programs, perhaps it is not unreasonable to ask that the administration consider some give backs of their own, especially if this will result in the retention of vital programs, programs that could be grown and marketed, rather than cut.
I know that you are busy, so I appreciate the time you have already invested in reading this letter.
Louis Colombo
November 3, 2015
Good Morning President Dell'Omo and Provost Fredeen:
My name is Ari Bluestein and I am a graduate of Rider University. I graduated with my BSBA in Finance and Entrepreneurial Studies in 2006 and then with MBA in Management in 2007. I have been a supporter of Rider University not only through donating to the Rider Annual Fund, but also by participating in the Outcomes of a Rider Education project and coming back to Rider to speak to current and prospective students.
In particular, I have coordinated with Dr. Cook over the years and have come back to speak to prospective students at open houses, created a video for the ES webpage telling prospective students to choose the ES program at Rider (http://www.rider.edu/academics/colleges-schools/college-business-administration/centers-excellence/center-entrepreneurial-studies), and most recently I came into Dr. Cook's sports entrepreneurship class and shared my story and gave some advice to current students.
The ES program was extremely essential to my career now. I have started my own sports broadcasting business that is now in it's 4th year and has grown exponentially over the years. We started as a small video streaming company and now have our own TV show on Comcast cable in the Philadelphia area. If I didn't get the ES program education I received at Rider, there is no way I am in the position I am today.
When I received the email regarding the budget cuts, I was extremely frustrated, aggravated and upset. First off, the bad publicity that this announcement has received is not good for the University to attract prospective students. Second, when I read that the entrepreneurial studies major had been cut down to a minor, I was furious.
When I was looking for prospective schools coming out of high school, I chose Rider BECAUSE OF the entrepreneurial studies program. This was something so unique to Rider back in 2002 and since then, the ES program has really grown into something special. It's not just about the actual major, but it's also about the Center, the high school competition, the Veterans program, etc.
If I was a student at Rider and came for the ES program and it was then cut before my junior year, there is no doubt in my mind I would have transferred. And when I came to Rider yesterday, Dr. Cook informed me that a few ES students have already informed him they are going to transfer.
Today, there are many schools that are growing their ES programs, including Drexel University in my hometown of Philadelphia, which now has a full ES college! ES is a growing major on the national level and for Rider to cut the ES program, which was one of the first of it's kind, is a short-sited moved for the University. Many prospective students interested in studying ES will not choose Rider, but rather choose a University committed to a full ES education.
There is no doubt in my mind that the ES program is good for the University, especially since the program wins so many awards in national and regional competitions. All I see is good publicity for Rider because of the ES program and I, along with several ES Alums, owe our careers and livelihood to Dr. Cook and what we learned in the ES program.
I have donated to Rider's Annual Fund every year since I graduated in 2006. As of now, I will no longer be making any donations to the school unless the ES major is restored. Much of the reason I give back to the University is because of Dr. Cook and the ES program and now that it has been diminished to just a minor, I don't see a reason to support Rider University.
Thank you for your time and I hope you consider restoring the ES major as it currently exists. Trust me - it will be worth it for Rider in the long run.
Sincerely,
Ari Bluestein '06, '07
Good Morning President Dell'Omo and Provost Fredeen:
My name is Ari Bluestein and I am a graduate of Rider University. I graduated with my BSBA in Finance and Entrepreneurial Studies in 2006 and then with MBA in Management in 2007. I have been a supporter of Rider University not only through donating to the Rider Annual Fund, but also by participating in the Outcomes of a Rider Education project and coming back to Rider to speak to current and prospective students.
In particular, I have coordinated with Dr. Cook over the years and have come back to speak to prospective students at open houses, created a video for the ES webpage telling prospective students to choose the ES program at Rider (http://www.rider.edu/academics/colleges-schools/college-business-administration/centers-excellence/center-entrepreneurial-studies), and most recently I came into Dr. Cook's sports entrepreneurship class and shared my story and gave some advice to current students.
The ES program was extremely essential to my career now. I have started my own sports broadcasting business that is now in it's 4th year and has grown exponentially over the years. We started as a small video streaming company and now have our own TV show on Comcast cable in the Philadelphia area. If I didn't get the ES program education I received at Rider, there is no way I am in the position I am today.
When I received the email regarding the budget cuts, I was extremely frustrated, aggravated and upset. First off, the bad publicity that this announcement has received is not good for the University to attract prospective students. Second, when I read that the entrepreneurial studies major had been cut down to a minor, I was furious.
When I was looking for prospective schools coming out of high school, I chose Rider BECAUSE OF the entrepreneurial studies program. This was something so unique to Rider back in 2002 and since then, the ES program has really grown into something special. It's not just about the actual major, but it's also about the Center, the high school competition, the Veterans program, etc.
If I was a student at Rider and came for the ES program and it was then cut before my junior year, there is no doubt in my mind I would have transferred. And when I came to Rider yesterday, Dr. Cook informed me that a few ES students have already informed him they are going to transfer.
Today, there are many schools that are growing their ES programs, including Drexel University in my hometown of Philadelphia, which now has a full ES college! ES is a growing major on the national level and for Rider to cut the ES program, which was one of the first of it's kind, is a short-sited moved for the University. Many prospective students interested in studying ES will not choose Rider, but rather choose a University committed to a full ES education.
There is no doubt in my mind that the ES program is good for the University, especially since the program wins so many awards in national and regional competitions. All I see is good publicity for Rider because of the ES program and I, along with several ES Alums, owe our careers and livelihood to Dr. Cook and what we learned in the ES program.
I have donated to Rider's Annual Fund every year since I graduated in 2006. As of now, I will no longer be making any donations to the school unless the ES major is restored. Much of the reason I give back to the University is because of Dr. Cook and the ES program and now that it has been diminished to just a minor, I don't see a reason to support Rider University.
Thank you for your time and I hope you consider restoring the ES major as it currently exists. Trust me - it will be worth it for Rider in the long run.
Sincerely,
Ari Bluestein '06, '07
November 3, 2015
Dear Drs. Dell’Omo and Fredeen,
I write to you in utter despondency regarding the decision to eliminate academic programs at Rider University as a means of closing the budget deficit. Whilst at Rider, I majored in Theater Performance and English Literature, and the course of my life has been undeniably influenced from the globally-minded, rigorous liberal arts courses that I considered at the time to be unrelated to my majors. Contextualizing my studies in the philosophy and science departments allowed me to critically formulate and cultivate knowledge, and provided a foundation of interdisciplinary wonder in my continuing journey as a scholar and educator. In a globally-connected society, it is a necessity to know, or at least have basic skills in a foreign language. As a counselor with Study Tours by Rider University in 2013, I utilized what I had learned in two semesters of Italian to interact with the visiting students, who brought in significant revenue to the university. By terminating foreign language instruction, you are promoting an Anglocentric, ignorant worldview that will undeniably hinder the success of the International Business and other related programs that are not being cut (yet). Furthermore, the American studies’ relationship with the English department is an under-recognized strength that draws many students into that major, often after their freshman year. This crossover is a huge reason why many upperclassmen remain in the English department, and its liquidation will provide incentive to transfer out of one of Rider’s most active programs. These eliminations are going to increase student dissatisfaction that cannot be appeased with new residence halls or facilities.
The Rider faculty are not only top researchers in their fields, but esteemed mentors who provide individual guidance for every student. Lasting beyond graduation, these student-faculty relationships are what sets Rider apart from its neighboring competitors, and is why the alumni will stand with the faculty in opposition to these cuts. We will not sit idly and watch our alma mater operate as a corporate hub focused on churning out degrees in trending vocations. Education is about fostering knowledge of the emerging generation and cultivating informed individuals that can make a difference in the world. That is the purpose of a university. Take away great professors, and see how successful Rider students become once they realize they are merely pawns in a big business scheme. If we continue to disregard the importance of humanities and critical thinking, then society is bound to be a robotic chasm devoid of creativity and individuality. Rider University needs the support of its alumni, but if our professors are treated like a disposable entity, our desire to promote and endorse it will plummet as abruptly as these cuts were announced. Severe damage to Rider’s academic integrity is at stake, so I urge you to reconsider this decision and seek alternative ways to close the deficit without sacrificing quality of education.
Sincerely,
Olivia Michalak ‘13
Dear Drs. Dell’Omo and Fredeen,
I write to you in utter despondency regarding the decision to eliminate academic programs at Rider University as a means of closing the budget deficit. Whilst at Rider, I majored in Theater Performance and English Literature, and the course of my life has been undeniably influenced from the globally-minded, rigorous liberal arts courses that I considered at the time to be unrelated to my majors. Contextualizing my studies in the philosophy and science departments allowed me to critically formulate and cultivate knowledge, and provided a foundation of interdisciplinary wonder in my continuing journey as a scholar and educator. In a globally-connected society, it is a necessity to know, or at least have basic skills in a foreign language. As a counselor with Study Tours by Rider University in 2013, I utilized what I had learned in two semesters of Italian to interact with the visiting students, who brought in significant revenue to the university. By terminating foreign language instruction, you are promoting an Anglocentric, ignorant worldview that will undeniably hinder the success of the International Business and other related programs that are not being cut (yet). Furthermore, the American studies’ relationship with the English department is an under-recognized strength that draws many students into that major, often after their freshman year. This crossover is a huge reason why many upperclassmen remain in the English department, and its liquidation will provide incentive to transfer out of one of Rider’s most active programs. These eliminations are going to increase student dissatisfaction that cannot be appeased with new residence halls or facilities.
The Rider faculty are not only top researchers in their fields, but esteemed mentors who provide individual guidance for every student. Lasting beyond graduation, these student-faculty relationships are what sets Rider apart from its neighboring competitors, and is why the alumni will stand with the faculty in opposition to these cuts. We will not sit idly and watch our alma mater operate as a corporate hub focused on churning out degrees in trending vocations. Education is about fostering knowledge of the emerging generation and cultivating informed individuals that can make a difference in the world. That is the purpose of a university. Take away great professors, and see how successful Rider students become once they realize they are merely pawns in a big business scheme. If we continue to disregard the importance of humanities and critical thinking, then society is bound to be a robotic chasm devoid of creativity and individuality. Rider University needs the support of its alumni, but if our professors are treated like a disposable entity, our desire to promote and endorse it will plummet as abruptly as these cuts were announced. Severe damage to Rider’s academic integrity is at stake, so I urge you to reconsider this decision and seek alternative ways to close the deficit without sacrificing quality of education.
Sincerely,
Olivia Michalak ‘13
November 2, 2015
Dear President Dell'Omo, the Board of Trustees of Rider University, and to whomever else it may concern:
If student enrollment is down, and it is one of the main reasons why cuts are occurring, then does it genuinely make sense to cut programs that attract students in the first place? It is reported that the board has had successful rounds of cost reduction, and yet these very people are making the same steep salary - if not more, than previous years. Since Rider University is a non-profit, they are able to successfully have high salaries and bonuses for the top percentile of earners. This leaves an unbalance in the stability of income within the university for professors, administration, etc. This does not promote growth, and as a result - education is being cut from the university. A university, which by definition is an educational institution designed for instruction for advanced learning. It goes against the sole meaning for what a university or college is meant to accomplish.
During my time at Rider, I began to be involved from the get-go. My freshman year as a commuter, I attended the Association of Commuting Students meetings and became the Community Outreach Chair. The next year, I was elected President of ACS and from there, I made many connections. I joined the Student Senate, became a part of the Diversity Council, and was part of the President's Council. Relay for Life was just beginning, and I was fortunate enough to be on the Relay for Life committee, and became a participant each year. I discovered DAARSTOC early on as well, and eventually became President of the prestigious organization. Because of all that I have achieved, I was honored to be part of Omicron Delta Kappa which is the national leadership honor society. After all that I have achieved, there is one main aspect that I will always take with me - even beyond graduation. And that was eventually being inducted into Gamma Kappa Alpha which is the national Italian honor society.
I began to take Italian courses, and as for any business major - the thought of choosing a foreign language was a smart decision. More and more companies are looking for bilingual applicants, and I say with proof that it has landed me my career that I am currently in. My professor throughout my Italian learning at Rider University was Elizabeth Scheiber, who is the professor of French and Italian in the department of languages, literature and cultures. She has been teaching at Rider since 2002. Professor Scheiber's curriculum left room for creativity, opened my mind to a different culture, and expanded my capabilities to linguistically understand a foreign language. I come from an Italian family, but struggled with the language at high levels and knew nothing of Italy's history. Since I minored in Italian, I was able to go in such detail in the Italian language and in their culture, of which many businesses strive to find employees who have specialized in such an area. At my current job, we work with clients in Italy and I am able to use what I learned from Scheiber's curriculum in my everyday work. I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to be bilingual in today's workforce, and how it sets students apart from all others fighting for the same jobs.
Rider University is known for their business programs - take away foreign languages, and you setback so many students who once had the opportunity to choose a foreign language that they wanted to invest their futures in. This investment opportunity is being taken away. Professors are going to be fired, and foreign languages are being diminished.
When a university begins to look at faculty like dollar signs, then the university is headed downhill. Faculty exist to attract students because of the high education investments they have made to set them apart. I chose Rider University because of the low student to teacher ratio, and because every professor I would have would be extremely qualified in their field of work. Once you stop investing in what attracts students to the university, you halt any growth there could have been.
Please take this letter into deep consideration, and understand that this is not where cuts should be made. The Italian minor changed my life for the better, and was the best decision I have every made for myself. I learned so much, have grown so much as a person, and gained a wonderful friend in Professor Scheiber. Please do not take away this opportunity from future students. You are pulling away from the fundamentals of what Rider stands for. Part of Rider's vision is to focus on students first by affirming teaching and learning by fostering a culture of academic excellence. This vision will eventually be lost.
Thank you and please reach out to me with any questions. I hope this fosters an open communication and that we can derive on a result we can all agree on.
Dear President Dell'Omo, the Board of Trustees of Rider University, and to whomever else it may concern:
If student enrollment is down, and it is one of the main reasons why cuts are occurring, then does it genuinely make sense to cut programs that attract students in the first place? It is reported that the board has had successful rounds of cost reduction, and yet these very people are making the same steep salary - if not more, than previous years. Since Rider University is a non-profit, they are able to successfully have high salaries and bonuses for the top percentile of earners. This leaves an unbalance in the stability of income within the university for professors, administration, etc. This does not promote growth, and as a result - education is being cut from the university. A university, which by definition is an educational institution designed for instruction for advanced learning. It goes against the sole meaning for what a university or college is meant to accomplish.
During my time at Rider, I began to be involved from the get-go. My freshman year as a commuter, I attended the Association of Commuting Students meetings and became the Community Outreach Chair. The next year, I was elected President of ACS and from there, I made many connections. I joined the Student Senate, became a part of the Diversity Council, and was part of the President's Council. Relay for Life was just beginning, and I was fortunate enough to be on the Relay for Life committee, and became a participant each year. I discovered DAARSTOC early on as well, and eventually became President of the prestigious organization. Because of all that I have achieved, I was honored to be part of Omicron Delta Kappa which is the national leadership honor society. After all that I have achieved, there is one main aspect that I will always take with me - even beyond graduation. And that was eventually being inducted into Gamma Kappa Alpha which is the national Italian honor society.
I began to take Italian courses, and as for any business major - the thought of choosing a foreign language was a smart decision. More and more companies are looking for bilingual applicants, and I say with proof that it has landed me my career that I am currently in. My professor throughout my Italian learning at Rider University was Elizabeth Scheiber, who is the professor of French and Italian in the department of languages, literature and cultures. She has been teaching at Rider since 2002. Professor Scheiber's curriculum left room for creativity, opened my mind to a different culture, and expanded my capabilities to linguistically understand a foreign language. I come from an Italian family, but struggled with the language at high levels and knew nothing of Italy's history. Since I minored in Italian, I was able to go in such detail in the Italian language and in their culture, of which many businesses strive to find employees who have specialized in such an area. At my current job, we work with clients in Italy and I am able to use what I learned from Scheiber's curriculum in my everyday work. I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to be bilingual in today's workforce, and how it sets students apart from all others fighting for the same jobs.
Rider University is known for their business programs - take away foreign languages, and you setback so many students who once had the opportunity to choose a foreign language that they wanted to invest their futures in. This investment opportunity is being taken away. Professors are going to be fired, and foreign languages are being diminished.
When a university begins to look at faculty like dollar signs, then the university is headed downhill. Faculty exist to attract students because of the high education investments they have made to set them apart. I chose Rider University because of the low student to teacher ratio, and because every professor I would have would be extremely qualified in their field of work. Once you stop investing in what attracts students to the university, you halt any growth there could have been.
Please take this letter into deep consideration, and understand that this is not where cuts should be made. The Italian minor changed my life for the better, and was the best decision I have every made for myself. I learned so much, have grown so much as a person, and gained a wonderful friend in Professor Scheiber. Please do not take away this opportunity from future students. You are pulling away from the fundamentals of what Rider stands for. Part of Rider's vision is to focus on students first by affirming teaching and learning by fostering a culture of academic excellence. This vision will eventually be lost.
Thank you and please reach out to me with any questions. I hope this fosters an open communication and that we can derive on a result we can all agree on.
November 1, 2015
Dear President Dell’Omo (& Whomever Else This May Concern):
Thank you for ruining my Thursday. I have received your letter addressed to “alumni and friends” informing me of the “changes to [Rider University’s] academic offerings as the next step in dealing head on with our challenges.” In other words, the decision to cut programs and fire faculty. Seeing that some of your decisions have been based on “student feedback” and that the university is my alma mater, I felt the need to share with you my own feedback on the plan laid out in your letter by explaining my own experiences at the university.
I made the decision to attend Rider in 1998 based on the school’s reputation and the recommendation of high school teachers who also graduated from the university and therefore inspired me to enroll there. Initially, I was an Accounting major. After taking several courses with the late Dr. David Rebovich (for whom the school’s Institute of New Jersey Politics is named), I was inspired to minor in Political Science. Immediately following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I enrolled in the graduate Accounting program while simultaneously working as a graduate assistant. However, Rider opened my horizons to other subjects. Rather than be limited to choose from the usual suspects of science courses, I was able to enroll in an Oceanography class that allowed me to approach science in a way that exceeded the usual review of high school Chemistry, Biology, or Physics. Additionally, I was able to take Professor Richard Swain’s Art & Society class that took us outside of the classroom to places like the campus of Princeton University and Grounds for Sculpture to learn about great works of art and artists that are present within the state. Like many kids raised in New Jersey, I knew very little about my region. Taking courses that interacted with the community showed me that Jersey was not just “the armpit of America,” but actually possessed an intellectually stimulating landscape and culture.
Rider University’s courses and professors had such a profound effect on me that I enrolled as a continuing studies student following the completion of my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Accounting. During this time, I had the honor of observing and participating in Dr. Jack Sullivan’s travel course to New Orleans, wherein Dr. Sullivan not only teaches students about the local culture but actually introduces them to influential jazz musicians such as Kermit Ruffins. As a kid from Jersey, I didn’t think I would every meet someone famous, and yet here I was in the home of a famous musician as he talked to me one-on-one, face-to-face about the history of jazz. I was convinced. I needed to change career paths.
I graduated from Rider with my third diploma in 2007. This time it was in English. At the time, I knew Rider was a small school. I knew that its reputation was not built on the humanities, but I had been inspired by my teachers and by the coursework. That inspiration fueled me to excel as an English student and placed me into the doctoral program at Penn State, where I have had the opportunity to study with teachers I never dreamed I would be studying with and to see my name published in scholarly work I would not have considered myself capable of comprehending when I was an accountant. I owe those opportunities to Rider’s faculty and to the programs that inspired me to take a risk in changing my career.
I am not simply just another alumnus. I am someone who has a strong bond to this school. This bond is why my family has continued to support the university. This bond is why my family and I have donated money to the school long after my graduation. This bond is why we have provided your school with a scholarship in our name. And this bond is why I came back to this school to serve as an adjunct professor in the English department.
Rider hooked me onto the humanities. If it had not been for these experiences, I would still be an accountant. In fact, very few high school seniors know precisely what sort of career they would like to pursue. That is the whole point of exposing them to strong programs like American Studies, Philosophy, Geosciences, and Art. As professors, we do not simply program robots. Part of our task is to take young minds and open their horizons, help them explore the mysteries of the universe, and in the words of David Foster Wallace, get them to question their “default settings.”
More importantly, what had the most impact on my life was Rider's faculty. Nearly every faculty member I came across (Accounting, Finance, English, History, Political Science, Art, Marine Science, etc.) were unlike any of the teachers I have had both before coming to Rider and since leaving Rider. It was their work and their effort that made an indelible mark on my life. Not university athletics. Not the residence halls. Not the campus community. Not campus events. And certainly not administration.
It is for all these reasons why I was shocked and dismayed when I read your letter this Thursday. I have served as an undergraduate student (both as a resident and a commuter), graduate student, graduate assistant, continuing studies student, and now an adjunct at Rider, and yet I received no word from Rider’s alumni department or from “University Advancement” (which is supposedly dedicated to “cultivating relationships with internal and external constituencies to increase engagement, enhance institutional stature, and acquire resources”) about the school’s financial difficulties. The decision seems to have been made behind closed doors without any outreach to alumni for their support to help save the jobs of professors and the programs that have more than likely affected them during their lifetimes.
Unfortunately, I am not Jason Thompson and I cannot make Rider's money problems disappear with a large donation. What I can do, however, is to spread awareness and to ask questions.
Not only do I strongly urge you to reconsider the plan you have laid out in your letter to us, but I also have several questions for you. I would greatly appreciate it if you were to respond to them in a manner that goes beyond the boiler plate response thanking me for my concern and continued support:
1. Rider President's annual salary rivals the annual salary of Princeton University's President. Isn't this absurd? Will you be taking a pay cut in order to overcome a deficit so overwhelming that it has required laying off professors and cutting academic programs?
Mordechai Rozanski willingly accepted a $50,000 pay cut from his $770,000 annual salary in his final year as President. According to sources, as of 2011, you were making "only" $420,000 annually at RMU. Therefore, a substantial cut in your salary should still allow you and your family to maintain whatever outrageous standard of living you've established for yourselves.
2. Your cabinet's salary appears to total an additional $1 million. The total salaries of seven deans at the university is over $1 million. Clearly, administration's salaries are extremely high. Will all of the administrators also be taking cuts in salary to make up for the deficit?
3. My family was never made aware of Rider's financial difficulties or the proposed solution to help solve these difficulties prior to the decision to fire the very people who personally affected my development as a college student. Did you contact any alumni about saving these programs? If not, why not?
4. Did the university reach out to major donors such as Jason Thompson for assistance? Again, if not, why not?
5. What repercussions will offices such as Alumni Relations, University Advancement, and Admissions face for failing to bring in students and failing to raise money from alumni? Salary reductions and turnover is to be expected given the circumstances. (Why are academic programs and faculty facing punitive measures for their shortcomings?)
6. I have been told that professors from the Accounting department volunteered to balance Rider's books in order to cut costs. After all, the university employs some of the most talented and well-trained Accounting educators on the eastern seaboard, if not the country. (And considering I used to tutor people who have worked in Rider's accounting office because of their struggles as students in Rider's program, I would assume that your own professors would do a far better job than the one currently being done.) I was told that you declined their offer. Why would you turn down free/discounted labor from highly trained experts?
7. Your tenure at RMU was supposedly notable for an increased number of residents, improvement in athletics, and cutting academics. According to your letter, this is precisely what "student feedback" persuaded you to do. (Although my students have told me they were never asked about any of these issues.) Don't you find it ironic, if not convenient, that you found exactly what you wanted to find after only three months as President?
8. The university recently held a Big Sean concert on campus. Admission was free for students. I have been told through the rumor mill that Big Sean was paid upwards of $250,000 to perform. Is this true? If so, how did the university afford such a bill? Was it done with the same grassroots campaign that was done to raise money for Jason Thompson Court? Did it ever cross your mind (or the minds of any of the departments whose responsibility it is to raise funds) to implement a similar campaign to save the programs and jobs that you're cutting?
9. I have been informed that the last two AAUP union meetings on campus have been disrupted by fire drills, which makes discussing the current crisis difficult for faculty. Don't you find that to be a really strange coincidence?
Sincerely,
James Morgart
Rider University, ’01, ’02, ‘07
The Pennsylvania State University, ’10
Dear President Dell’Omo (& Whomever Else This May Concern):
Thank you for ruining my Thursday. I have received your letter addressed to “alumni and friends” informing me of the “changes to [Rider University’s] academic offerings as the next step in dealing head on with our challenges.” In other words, the decision to cut programs and fire faculty. Seeing that some of your decisions have been based on “student feedback” and that the university is my alma mater, I felt the need to share with you my own feedback on the plan laid out in your letter by explaining my own experiences at the university.
I made the decision to attend Rider in 1998 based on the school’s reputation and the recommendation of high school teachers who also graduated from the university and therefore inspired me to enroll there. Initially, I was an Accounting major. After taking several courses with the late Dr. David Rebovich (for whom the school’s Institute of New Jersey Politics is named), I was inspired to minor in Political Science. Immediately following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I enrolled in the graduate Accounting program while simultaneously working as a graduate assistant. However, Rider opened my horizons to other subjects. Rather than be limited to choose from the usual suspects of science courses, I was able to enroll in an Oceanography class that allowed me to approach science in a way that exceeded the usual review of high school Chemistry, Biology, or Physics. Additionally, I was able to take Professor Richard Swain’s Art & Society class that took us outside of the classroom to places like the campus of Princeton University and Grounds for Sculpture to learn about great works of art and artists that are present within the state. Like many kids raised in New Jersey, I knew very little about my region. Taking courses that interacted with the community showed me that Jersey was not just “the armpit of America,” but actually possessed an intellectually stimulating landscape and culture.
Rider University’s courses and professors had such a profound effect on me that I enrolled as a continuing studies student following the completion of my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Accounting. During this time, I had the honor of observing and participating in Dr. Jack Sullivan’s travel course to New Orleans, wherein Dr. Sullivan not only teaches students about the local culture but actually introduces them to influential jazz musicians such as Kermit Ruffins. As a kid from Jersey, I didn’t think I would every meet someone famous, and yet here I was in the home of a famous musician as he talked to me one-on-one, face-to-face about the history of jazz. I was convinced. I needed to change career paths.
I graduated from Rider with my third diploma in 2007. This time it was in English. At the time, I knew Rider was a small school. I knew that its reputation was not built on the humanities, but I had been inspired by my teachers and by the coursework. That inspiration fueled me to excel as an English student and placed me into the doctoral program at Penn State, where I have had the opportunity to study with teachers I never dreamed I would be studying with and to see my name published in scholarly work I would not have considered myself capable of comprehending when I was an accountant. I owe those opportunities to Rider’s faculty and to the programs that inspired me to take a risk in changing my career.
I am not simply just another alumnus. I am someone who has a strong bond to this school. This bond is why my family has continued to support the university. This bond is why my family and I have donated money to the school long after my graduation. This bond is why we have provided your school with a scholarship in our name. And this bond is why I came back to this school to serve as an adjunct professor in the English department.
Rider hooked me onto the humanities. If it had not been for these experiences, I would still be an accountant. In fact, very few high school seniors know precisely what sort of career they would like to pursue. That is the whole point of exposing them to strong programs like American Studies, Philosophy, Geosciences, and Art. As professors, we do not simply program robots. Part of our task is to take young minds and open their horizons, help them explore the mysteries of the universe, and in the words of David Foster Wallace, get them to question their “default settings.”
More importantly, what had the most impact on my life was Rider's faculty. Nearly every faculty member I came across (Accounting, Finance, English, History, Political Science, Art, Marine Science, etc.) were unlike any of the teachers I have had both before coming to Rider and since leaving Rider. It was their work and their effort that made an indelible mark on my life. Not university athletics. Not the residence halls. Not the campus community. Not campus events. And certainly not administration.
It is for all these reasons why I was shocked and dismayed when I read your letter this Thursday. I have served as an undergraduate student (both as a resident and a commuter), graduate student, graduate assistant, continuing studies student, and now an adjunct at Rider, and yet I received no word from Rider’s alumni department or from “University Advancement” (which is supposedly dedicated to “cultivating relationships with internal and external constituencies to increase engagement, enhance institutional stature, and acquire resources”) about the school’s financial difficulties. The decision seems to have been made behind closed doors without any outreach to alumni for their support to help save the jobs of professors and the programs that have more than likely affected them during their lifetimes.
Unfortunately, I am not Jason Thompson and I cannot make Rider's money problems disappear with a large donation. What I can do, however, is to spread awareness and to ask questions.
Not only do I strongly urge you to reconsider the plan you have laid out in your letter to us, but I also have several questions for you. I would greatly appreciate it if you were to respond to them in a manner that goes beyond the boiler plate response thanking me for my concern and continued support:
1. Rider President's annual salary rivals the annual salary of Princeton University's President. Isn't this absurd? Will you be taking a pay cut in order to overcome a deficit so overwhelming that it has required laying off professors and cutting academic programs?
Mordechai Rozanski willingly accepted a $50,000 pay cut from his $770,000 annual salary in his final year as President. According to sources, as of 2011, you were making "only" $420,000 annually at RMU. Therefore, a substantial cut in your salary should still allow you and your family to maintain whatever outrageous standard of living you've established for yourselves.
2. Your cabinet's salary appears to total an additional $1 million. The total salaries of seven deans at the university is over $1 million. Clearly, administration's salaries are extremely high. Will all of the administrators also be taking cuts in salary to make up for the deficit?
3. My family was never made aware of Rider's financial difficulties or the proposed solution to help solve these difficulties prior to the decision to fire the very people who personally affected my development as a college student. Did you contact any alumni about saving these programs? If not, why not?
4. Did the university reach out to major donors such as Jason Thompson for assistance? Again, if not, why not?
5. What repercussions will offices such as Alumni Relations, University Advancement, and Admissions face for failing to bring in students and failing to raise money from alumni? Salary reductions and turnover is to be expected given the circumstances. (Why are academic programs and faculty facing punitive measures for their shortcomings?)
6. I have been told that professors from the Accounting department volunteered to balance Rider's books in order to cut costs. After all, the university employs some of the most talented and well-trained Accounting educators on the eastern seaboard, if not the country. (And considering I used to tutor people who have worked in Rider's accounting office because of their struggles as students in Rider's program, I would assume that your own professors would do a far better job than the one currently being done.) I was told that you declined their offer. Why would you turn down free/discounted labor from highly trained experts?
7. Your tenure at RMU was supposedly notable for an increased number of residents, improvement in athletics, and cutting academics. According to your letter, this is precisely what "student feedback" persuaded you to do. (Although my students have told me they were never asked about any of these issues.) Don't you find it ironic, if not convenient, that you found exactly what you wanted to find after only three months as President?
8. The university recently held a Big Sean concert on campus. Admission was free for students. I have been told through the rumor mill that Big Sean was paid upwards of $250,000 to perform. Is this true? If so, how did the university afford such a bill? Was it done with the same grassroots campaign that was done to raise money for Jason Thompson Court? Did it ever cross your mind (or the minds of any of the departments whose responsibility it is to raise funds) to implement a similar campaign to save the programs and jobs that you're cutting?
9. I have been informed that the last two AAUP union meetings on campus have been disrupted by fire drills, which makes discussing the current crisis difficult for faculty. Don't you find that to be a really strange coincidence?
Sincerely,
James Morgart
Rider University, ’01, ’02, ‘07
The Pennsylvania State University, ’10
Dear Dr. Greg Dell'Omo,
I have heard from family and friends about the recent news at Rider University. I would like to express my concerns and disapproval regarding your decisions.
I would like to share with you why I chose Rider University, my experience, and where I am today because of Rider specifically in the programs that will be cut in the next year. I hold a BSBA in the school of business. I majored in Entrepreneurial Studies and Marketing. I used all of my electives in the French department.
I did not choose Rider for its campus. I did not choose Rider for its "on campus experience". I definitely did not choose Rider for its price. I chose to go to Rider because of the quality of the education. I knew going into Rider that I would have to pay for my entire college education myself and it was going to be terribly expensive. My grades in high school gave me a decent scholarship and I knew I could figure out how to work full time as a retail store manager to pay the bills.
Because I knew I would be paying for Rider by myself, It was very apparent to me when Rider wasted an extraordinary amount of money around campus including athletics, entertainment, and ridiculous contracts with Aramark. Our athletes had been in the news several times for drugs, alcohol, and obscene behavior. Rider spent a ridiculous amount of money on the student entertainment council during my time there with appearances of Rhianna and Kelly Rowland. Aramark offered on campus students a mandatory and terribly unhealthy meal plan that cost an arm and a leg. I sometimes thought to myself why I did not end up at TCNJ, our close neighbor, who would be able to offer more than Rider can for significantly less.
However, my friends who went to our surrounding schools (TCNJ, Rutgers, Temple) used to tell me horror stories about their overloaded classrooms, graduate assistants, poor academic program designs, and unreachable/unknowledgeable professors. Rider offered me a real education. The programs offered at Rider exemplified how to adapt in different environments, cultures, and languages. In my opinion, Rider has some of the best quality professors that offer more than just a subject topic. During my time at Rider, I had nominated Dr Natan (French), Dr Poteau-Tralie (French), Dr Cook (ENT Studies), and Dr Zane (ENT Studies) for professor recognition awards because of the impact they had on me during my time there. Dr. Natan and Dr. Poteau-Tralie spent hours with me in their offices helping me learn the French language, grammar, and culture. Dr. Cook and Dr. Zane both have owned and operated their own businesses at one point and shared their knowledge and experiences that I would not have received in a standard business education.
After graduation, these programs helped me differentiate myself in the job market. I now work for Datacolor Inc. as the Inside Sales Representative for all of North America. Datacolor is a global technology firm that specializes in color management solutions. Datacolor often describes itself as a 40 year old international start-up company. My background in small business and French gave me a very competitive edge when applying for this job.
I ask that you reconsider your decision and reflect on the types of cuts you will be making and access the value offered by the expenses you continue to support. I owe over $100,000 in student loans but I believe every penny will be worth it. I believe that these two programs were extremely inspiring and critical to my education, professional development, and as a person. These programs are extremely important for a well rounded education. We live in a global marketplace and languages like French are critical in the European, Middle Eastern, and African markets. Small businesses drive our domestic economy and many economies around the world however many fail because they are not equipped with the critical skills they need to survive. I feel very prepared for the real world and it primarily due to my education at Rider University specifically in the French and Entrepreneurial Studies departments.
Thank you for your time. I hope that you will consider my opinions as not only as an alumnus but also as a family member because I am sure you will realize very quickly that Rider University is more of a family than a school.
Sincerely,
Lloyd Van Vliet
I have heard from family and friends about the recent news at Rider University. I would like to express my concerns and disapproval regarding your decisions.
I would like to share with you why I chose Rider University, my experience, and where I am today because of Rider specifically in the programs that will be cut in the next year. I hold a BSBA in the school of business. I majored in Entrepreneurial Studies and Marketing. I used all of my electives in the French department.
I did not choose Rider for its campus. I did not choose Rider for its "on campus experience". I definitely did not choose Rider for its price. I chose to go to Rider because of the quality of the education. I knew going into Rider that I would have to pay for my entire college education myself and it was going to be terribly expensive. My grades in high school gave me a decent scholarship and I knew I could figure out how to work full time as a retail store manager to pay the bills.
Because I knew I would be paying for Rider by myself, It was very apparent to me when Rider wasted an extraordinary amount of money around campus including athletics, entertainment, and ridiculous contracts with Aramark. Our athletes had been in the news several times for drugs, alcohol, and obscene behavior. Rider spent a ridiculous amount of money on the student entertainment council during my time there with appearances of Rhianna and Kelly Rowland. Aramark offered on campus students a mandatory and terribly unhealthy meal plan that cost an arm and a leg. I sometimes thought to myself why I did not end up at TCNJ, our close neighbor, who would be able to offer more than Rider can for significantly less.
However, my friends who went to our surrounding schools (TCNJ, Rutgers, Temple) used to tell me horror stories about their overloaded classrooms, graduate assistants, poor academic program designs, and unreachable/unknowledgeable professors. Rider offered me a real education. The programs offered at Rider exemplified how to adapt in different environments, cultures, and languages. In my opinion, Rider has some of the best quality professors that offer more than just a subject topic. During my time at Rider, I had nominated Dr Natan (French), Dr Poteau-Tralie (French), Dr Cook (ENT Studies), and Dr Zane (ENT Studies) for professor recognition awards because of the impact they had on me during my time there. Dr. Natan and Dr. Poteau-Tralie spent hours with me in their offices helping me learn the French language, grammar, and culture. Dr. Cook and Dr. Zane both have owned and operated their own businesses at one point and shared their knowledge and experiences that I would not have received in a standard business education.
After graduation, these programs helped me differentiate myself in the job market. I now work for Datacolor Inc. as the Inside Sales Representative for all of North America. Datacolor is a global technology firm that specializes in color management solutions. Datacolor often describes itself as a 40 year old international start-up company. My background in small business and French gave me a very competitive edge when applying for this job.
I ask that you reconsider your decision and reflect on the types of cuts you will be making and access the value offered by the expenses you continue to support. I owe over $100,000 in student loans but I believe every penny will be worth it. I believe that these two programs were extremely inspiring and critical to my education, professional development, and as a person. These programs are extremely important for a well rounded education. We live in a global marketplace and languages like French are critical in the European, Middle Eastern, and African markets. Small businesses drive our domestic economy and many economies around the world however many fail because they are not equipped with the critical skills they need to survive. I feel very prepared for the real world and it primarily due to my education at Rider University specifically in the French and Entrepreneurial Studies departments.
Thank you for your time. I hope that you will consider my opinions as not only as an alumnus but also as a family member because I am sure you will realize very quickly that Rider University is more of a family than a school.
Sincerely,
Lloyd Van Vliet
October 30, 2015
Dear President Dell’Omo and the Board of Trustees of Rider University:
I am deeply disconcerted by the letter you sent to Rider University alumni detailing how you have decimated humanities programs and fired dedicated faculty members. I am a product of Rider University programs. I graduated from Rider University in 2009 as a French and Global and Multinational Studies in 2009. When I applied to go to school in 2005, Rider was my last choice. But when I visited campus and got to know how personalized the education I would receive was., I changed my mind and paid the deposit before leaving. I knew that Rider would offer the academic quality and family environment I was looking for. It was the best decision I ever made.
It was Rider's humanities programs, specifically the French and Global and Multinational Studies programs, that offered me the first chance to broaden my horizons. Dr. Poteau-Tralie's classes challenged me to give more. My first taste of true academic research was an honors thesis I completed under Dr. Poteau-Tralie's tutelage. Because of her commitment to her students and in developing talent and because of the community the Foreign Languages Department invoked on their students, I am now enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership. I can recall a case study I recently completed in one of my leadership classes, and how similar the errors were to the errors that are being made now at Rider. The leadership is so divided from the work being conducted and the community being built that it fails to involve its community in the decision-making process.
I recall how deliberate the Foreign Languages Department was at including students in the decision-making processes. When the Foreign Languages Department was hiring a new French professor, students were invited to test and decide who the new professor would be. We helped make the choice. I will never forgot the pilot class or the subsequent classes we had with Dr. Natan, the professor we chose to hire. Their program was even better than the formal language training I had while studying in France. It is a pity that none of you have learned from this department or how they built community by involving their students. One thing you must understand is that Rider is a family. Reducing programs without involving family members is failed leadership. Had you involved the family, I am sure that you would've found a more effective way of cutting costs. Cutting these humanities programs is a step in the wrong direction and will reduce the quality of education offered by Rider.
Rider transformed my life through its holistic educational offerings. Rider is a school that connects its students to the world. I recall countless global cafés with French students, events connecting students to the French culture, and a class where we held videoconferences with students in Egypt years before the Arab Spring. These experiences opened my eyes and let me know there was much to learn
I am a Rider Educational Opportunity Program and TRIO alumna. As a student leader, I was a Rider Community Scholar/Bonner Leader, President of the Latin American Student Organization, an executive board member of the Black Student Union, Diversity Chair of the Student Government Organization, and a Rider Community Standards Board committee member. I also went on a service learning trip to Jamaica, spent one semester aboard The Scholar Ship, with students from around the world, after receiving a full tuition scholarship from TRIO and the Council on Opportunity for Education, and one transformative semester in Angers, France. Finally, I had the chance to participate in the INROADS Program and two summer internships at AIG Private Client Group. I also participated in the Clinton Global Initiative University. Each of these experiences reflected the importance of education in the humanities. In addition to all of these experiences, I also delved into research. Because of the work I conducted with my French thesis advisor, Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie, I presented my undergraduate research during the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in LaCrosse, Wisconsin in 2009. I know the value of my French and Global and Multinational Studies Programs, especially as they support the development of soft skills that are so sought by future employers.
If it had not been for my Rider experience, I don't think I would be serving in my current role, as the Academic Specialist at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. If it had not been for the French program, Dr. Poteau-Tralie and her transformative instruction in research during my honors thesis, I would not be pursuing a doctoral program now. The humanities shapes who you are. If you take this away from future Rider students, you will take away the niche, personalized educational experience Rider offers.
As a Rider alumna that has had the opportunity to experience all of what Rider has to offer, I have to ensure that others that come after me will also be privy to the top-notch, personalized education I received. I have the obligation of asking you the following:
1. When did you involve the students, alumni or Rider community in your issues and decision-making process?
2. When did you advise the Rider community of the financial difficulties the institution was facing?
3. When was the community surveyed to learn about what makes Rider so special, and how to save the strategic, niche position Rider has worked on developing?
4. What other cost-cutting measures have you examined before deciding that cutting academic programs was the best decision to make?
5. What does Rider mean to you and how have you come to that conclusion? What experiences have made you understand what Rider is all about? How have you defined the next steps to make Rider more competitive and more attractive to future students?
I look forward to your prompt response.
Kind regards,
Joshabel De La Cruz
Rider University, ’09
Rochester Institute of Technology, '11
Western Michigan University (Expected Graduation Date: 2019)
Dear President Dell’Omo and the Board of Trustees of Rider University:
I am deeply disconcerted by the letter you sent to Rider University alumni detailing how you have decimated humanities programs and fired dedicated faculty members. I am a product of Rider University programs. I graduated from Rider University in 2009 as a French and Global and Multinational Studies in 2009. When I applied to go to school in 2005, Rider was my last choice. But when I visited campus and got to know how personalized the education I would receive was., I changed my mind and paid the deposit before leaving. I knew that Rider would offer the academic quality and family environment I was looking for. It was the best decision I ever made.
It was Rider's humanities programs, specifically the French and Global and Multinational Studies programs, that offered me the first chance to broaden my horizons. Dr. Poteau-Tralie's classes challenged me to give more. My first taste of true academic research was an honors thesis I completed under Dr. Poteau-Tralie's tutelage. Because of her commitment to her students and in developing talent and because of the community the Foreign Languages Department invoked on their students, I am now enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership. I can recall a case study I recently completed in one of my leadership classes, and how similar the errors were to the errors that are being made now at Rider. The leadership is so divided from the work being conducted and the community being built that it fails to involve its community in the decision-making process.
I recall how deliberate the Foreign Languages Department was at including students in the decision-making processes. When the Foreign Languages Department was hiring a new French professor, students were invited to test and decide who the new professor would be. We helped make the choice. I will never forgot the pilot class or the subsequent classes we had with Dr. Natan, the professor we chose to hire. Their program was even better than the formal language training I had while studying in France. It is a pity that none of you have learned from this department or how they built community by involving their students. One thing you must understand is that Rider is a family. Reducing programs without involving family members is failed leadership. Had you involved the family, I am sure that you would've found a more effective way of cutting costs. Cutting these humanities programs is a step in the wrong direction and will reduce the quality of education offered by Rider.
Rider transformed my life through its holistic educational offerings. Rider is a school that connects its students to the world. I recall countless global cafés with French students, events connecting students to the French culture, and a class where we held videoconferences with students in Egypt years before the Arab Spring. These experiences opened my eyes and let me know there was much to learn
I am a Rider Educational Opportunity Program and TRIO alumna. As a student leader, I was a Rider Community Scholar/Bonner Leader, President of the Latin American Student Organization, an executive board member of the Black Student Union, Diversity Chair of the Student Government Organization, and a Rider Community Standards Board committee member. I also went on a service learning trip to Jamaica, spent one semester aboard The Scholar Ship, with students from around the world, after receiving a full tuition scholarship from TRIO and the Council on Opportunity for Education, and one transformative semester in Angers, France. Finally, I had the chance to participate in the INROADS Program and two summer internships at AIG Private Client Group. I also participated in the Clinton Global Initiative University. Each of these experiences reflected the importance of education in the humanities. In addition to all of these experiences, I also delved into research. Because of the work I conducted with my French thesis advisor, Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie, I presented my undergraduate research during the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in LaCrosse, Wisconsin in 2009. I know the value of my French and Global and Multinational Studies Programs, especially as they support the development of soft skills that are so sought by future employers.
If it had not been for my Rider experience, I don't think I would be serving in my current role, as the Academic Specialist at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. If it had not been for the French program, Dr. Poteau-Tralie and her transformative instruction in research during my honors thesis, I would not be pursuing a doctoral program now. The humanities shapes who you are. If you take this away from future Rider students, you will take away the niche, personalized educational experience Rider offers.
As a Rider alumna that has had the opportunity to experience all of what Rider has to offer, I have to ensure that others that come after me will also be privy to the top-notch, personalized education I received. I have the obligation of asking you the following:
1. When did you involve the students, alumni or Rider community in your issues and decision-making process?
2. When did you advise the Rider community of the financial difficulties the institution was facing?
3. When was the community surveyed to learn about what makes Rider so special, and how to save the strategic, niche position Rider has worked on developing?
4. What other cost-cutting measures have you examined before deciding that cutting academic programs was the best decision to make?
5. What does Rider mean to you and how have you come to that conclusion? What experiences have made you understand what Rider is all about? How have you defined the next steps to make Rider more competitive and more attractive to future students?
I look forward to your prompt response.
Kind regards,
Joshabel De La Cruz
Rider University, ’09
Rochester Institute of Technology, '11
Western Michigan University (Expected Graduation Date: 2019)
October 30, 2015
To the Office of the President of Rider University:
It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I write this letter today. The news announcement of October 29th, 2015 of the elimination of 13 liberal arts majors from Rider University’s program offerings has undermined my good faith and pride in my undergraduate alma mater. I wish to address my grave concerns about this misguided administrative decision by sharing my own success story, directly resultant of majoring in French at Rider University, but also by bringing important national policy and trends to light that have clearly been neglected in the analysis and choice to discontinue the majors in question.
I attended Rider University from 2004-2008 and graduated Magna Cum Laude with majors in French & Global and Multinational Studies and a minor in Political Science. My natural abilities in language learning were identified immediately by Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie, who served as an invaluable teacher, mentor and, ultimately, friend. My abilities in French soared under her tutelage.
After demonstrating my linguistic abilities after only one year at Rider University, a language school in Princeton offered me a position as a French and English language teacher as well as translations specialist. I worked at that school for five years, building a strong foundation of professional skills. I was the youngest person in the employ of the school.
While working at the language school, I met Wendy Jaeger, owner of Bliss Travels, who attended for classes in French. She was so impressed by my fluency in French that she requested that I work as her assistant in France, which I did for three summers. I gained immeasurable skills in project planning, coordination and cross-cultural communication during the summers of working for her.
At the encouragement of Dr. Poteau-Tralie, I also embarked on my first international living experience. I was accepted to a study abroad program at the Sorbonne Paris IV, one of the most prestigious universities in France. My study abroad experience was transformative, and reflects directly to my line of work at present.
As graduation from Rider University approached, Dr. Poteau-Tralie was instrumental in my path toward a Master of Arts in International Education, which I received from New York University in January of 2013, as well as my application to the U.S. Peace Corps, in which I proudly served as a volunteer in the Republic of Niger from 2009-2011. My French skills positioned me for success in service; I seamlessly integrated into my francophone community and was able to begin meaningful work the moment I arrived in the small village I called ‘home’ for two years.
My cadre of experience, all built upon the foundation laid by the French program at Rider University, led me to employment at Reach the World, an educational nonprofit headquartered in New York City. I currently hold the title of Director of Partnerships at this organization. It is with great pride that I forge connections with classrooms in underserved communities in New York City and beyond to U.S. college students while they study abroad. This work represents everything that the French department at Rider University allowed me to envision for myself and open that door for others.
My current position necessitates that I am acutely aware of the national policy trends around global education. The Federal government, inclusive of the Department of Education and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, are directing funding toward the precise fields that have been removed from Rider’s program offerings. The woeful shortsightedness of the decision to remove critical language and liberal arts program neglects the following national initiatives and statistics:
Generation Study Abroad: A five-year, $2m+ advocacy initiative led by the Institute of International Education (U.S. Government-funded clearinghouse for programs including Fulbright Scholarship, etc), to double the amount of U.S. students studying abroad by 2020 (from 250k to 500k).
U.S. Department of Education International Strategy 2012-2016: Approved by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, this strategy reaffirms “the Department’s commitment to preparing today’s youth, and our country more broadly, for a globalized world”.
U.S. Department of Commerce: Reports that in the 2013-2014 academic year, international students contributed over $27 billion dollars to the United States economy.
Our generation is moving toward and economic and employment environment that demands skills in international languages and nimble minds that can think critically about multiple perspectives. I am dismayed that the intellectual and administrative leadership at Rider Univesity is turning away from deep analysis of these trends in favor of band-aid financial solutions. It demonstrates a lack of higher-order thinking that I once understood Rider University to do very well.
This is to say nothing of the utter disregard of the team of professors and administrators who have built a community of teaching, learning and development in the Liberal Arts over the last 150 years. The accolades offered by such sources as U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review now hold no significance as they were based on an understanding of the University that included the thirteen programs that now will no longer exist. It is tragic to watch these accomplishments become obviated by hasty miscalculations.
I now speak directly to President Greg Dell’Omo: I hope that you can see that my personal, professional and academic successes were enabled only by the very environment you have just decimated. I hope you know that you have extinguished opportunities for, doubtless, hundreds if not thousands, young professionals just like me. I hope you know that since graduation of 2008, I have always been so proud of my Rider University degree, but it now feels like a shameful badge. The University, under your limited and cowardly watch, has become an institution that moves away from addressing the deep needs and concerns of our times. From 2004-2008, Rider University was my home. Though you have had no issue in spending funds to refurbish your on-campus house, I hope Rider University never feels like home for you.
With deep regret,
Alice Forsythe
Class of 2008 (graduated: Alice Jacques)
“The growing global interdependence that characterizes our time calls for a generation of individuals who can engage in effective global problem solving and participate simultaneously in local, national and global civic life. Put simply, preparing our students to participate fully in today’s and tomorrow’s world demands that we nurture their global competence”
–Boix-Mansilla & Jackson, 2011
To the Office of the President of Rider University:
It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I write this letter today. The news announcement of October 29th, 2015 of the elimination of 13 liberal arts majors from Rider University’s program offerings has undermined my good faith and pride in my undergraduate alma mater. I wish to address my grave concerns about this misguided administrative decision by sharing my own success story, directly resultant of majoring in French at Rider University, but also by bringing important national policy and trends to light that have clearly been neglected in the analysis and choice to discontinue the majors in question.
I attended Rider University from 2004-2008 and graduated Magna Cum Laude with majors in French & Global and Multinational Studies and a minor in Political Science. My natural abilities in language learning were identified immediately by Dr. Mary Poteau-Tralie, who served as an invaluable teacher, mentor and, ultimately, friend. My abilities in French soared under her tutelage.
After demonstrating my linguistic abilities after only one year at Rider University, a language school in Princeton offered me a position as a French and English language teacher as well as translations specialist. I worked at that school for five years, building a strong foundation of professional skills. I was the youngest person in the employ of the school.
While working at the language school, I met Wendy Jaeger, owner of Bliss Travels, who attended for classes in French. She was so impressed by my fluency in French that she requested that I work as her assistant in France, which I did for three summers. I gained immeasurable skills in project planning, coordination and cross-cultural communication during the summers of working for her.
At the encouragement of Dr. Poteau-Tralie, I also embarked on my first international living experience. I was accepted to a study abroad program at the Sorbonne Paris IV, one of the most prestigious universities in France. My study abroad experience was transformative, and reflects directly to my line of work at present.
As graduation from Rider University approached, Dr. Poteau-Tralie was instrumental in my path toward a Master of Arts in International Education, which I received from New York University in January of 2013, as well as my application to the U.S. Peace Corps, in which I proudly served as a volunteer in the Republic of Niger from 2009-2011. My French skills positioned me for success in service; I seamlessly integrated into my francophone community and was able to begin meaningful work the moment I arrived in the small village I called ‘home’ for two years.
My cadre of experience, all built upon the foundation laid by the French program at Rider University, led me to employment at Reach the World, an educational nonprofit headquartered in New York City. I currently hold the title of Director of Partnerships at this organization. It is with great pride that I forge connections with classrooms in underserved communities in New York City and beyond to U.S. college students while they study abroad. This work represents everything that the French department at Rider University allowed me to envision for myself and open that door for others.
My current position necessitates that I am acutely aware of the national policy trends around global education. The Federal government, inclusive of the Department of Education and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, are directing funding toward the precise fields that have been removed from Rider’s program offerings. The woeful shortsightedness of the decision to remove critical language and liberal arts program neglects the following national initiatives and statistics:
Generation Study Abroad: A five-year, $2m+ advocacy initiative led by the Institute of International Education (U.S. Government-funded clearinghouse for programs including Fulbright Scholarship, etc), to double the amount of U.S. students studying abroad by 2020 (from 250k to 500k).
U.S. Department of Education International Strategy 2012-2016: Approved by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, this strategy reaffirms “the Department’s commitment to preparing today’s youth, and our country more broadly, for a globalized world”.
U.S. Department of Commerce: Reports that in the 2013-2014 academic year, international students contributed over $27 billion dollars to the United States economy.
Our generation is moving toward and economic and employment environment that demands skills in international languages and nimble minds that can think critically about multiple perspectives. I am dismayed that the intellectual and administrative leadership at Rider Univesity is turning away from deep analysis of these trends in favor of band-aid financial solutions. It demonstrates a lack of higher-order thinking that I once understood Rider University to do very well.
This is to say nothing of the utter disregard of the team of professors and administrators who have built a community of teaching, learning and development in the Liberal Arts over the last 150 years. The accolades offered by such sources as U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review now hold no significance as they were based on an understanding of the University that included the thirteen programs that now will no longer exist. It is tragic to watch these accomplishments become obviated by hasty miscalculations.
I now speak directly to President Greg Dell’Omo: I hope that you can see that my personal, professional and academic successes were enabled only by the very environment you have just decimated. I hope you know that you have extinguished opportunities for, doubtless, hundreds if not thousands, young professionals just like me. I hope you know that since graduation of 2008, I have always been so proud of my Rider University degree, but it now feels like a shameful badge. The University, under your limited and cowardly watch, has become an institution that moves away from addressing the deep needs and concerns of our times. From 2004-2008, Rider University was my home. Though you have had no issue in spending funds to refurbish your on-campus house, I hope Rider University never feels like home for you.
With deep regret,
Alice Forsythe
Class of 2008 (graduated: Alice Jacques)
“The growing global interdependence that characterizes our time calls for a generation of individuals who can engage in effective global problem solving and participate simultaneously in local, national and global civic life. Put simply, preparing our students to participate fully in today’s and tomorrow’s world demands that we nurture their global competence”
–Boix-Mansilla & Jackson, 2011
October 30, 2015
Drs. Dellomo, Fredeen, and Mosto,
I was shocked and dismayed to learn that Rider plans to cut 14 academic programs, most of which are in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, in order to close a budget gap. I have always been a proud Rider graduate; however, I can honestly say I do not feel proud today. I chose Rider because of its excellent reputation for teaching and academics. I received a SUPERIOR education at Rider, not because of its athletic or residential facilities, but because of its incredible professors--particularly in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. I cannot begin to express how much of an impact these professors have had on my academic and professional life. Upon graduation from Rider, I went on to obtain advanced degrees at "Tier One" and Ivy League universities. Although I had excellent experiences at these fine institutions, the teaching paled in comparison to the teaching I experienced from my Liberal Arts professors at Rider.
As a school administrator, I intimately understand the need to close budget gaps. However, it is no secret that Rider has been spending a significant amount of capital to expand facilities--particularly in the area of athletics. It is shameful that the liberal arts programs at Rider should be cut to expand athletic facilities. As principal of one of the top-ranked public high schools in the United States, I must seriously take pause when thinking about promoting Rider to my graduating seniors. I believe your decision to cut academic programs signals a disgraceful change in priority from an institution grounded in high-quality teaching and a well-rounded liberal arts program of studies to an institution primarily interested in collegiate commercialism.
I cannot believe I am writing an email of this nature about an institution I have always admired, promoted, and held so dear. Just this afternoon--prior to hearing this news--I met with a student and recommended that he consider Rider, as I knew he would receive a superior education, just as I did. After hearing this news, I must re-visit this conversation with this student on Monday morning. I also must question the preparation that teacher candidates from Rider will have in the future. This change will certainly make me think twice when I see Rider on a teacher applicant's materials.
I respectfully request that you reconsider your decision to eliminate 14 academic programs at Rider. As a strong Rider support, I believe this decision does not align with the mission of the university.
Sincerely,
Brian D. Caughie, Ed.D.
B.A., German, Spanish, Secondary Education, Rider '99
Andrew J. Rider Scholar, 1997, 1998
Baccalaureate Honors Program
Drs. Dellomo, Fredeen, and Mosto,
I was shocked and dismayed to learn that Rider plans to cut 14 academic programs, most of which are in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, in order to close a budget gap. I have always been a proud Rider graduate; however, I can honestly say I do not feel proud today. I chose Rider because of its excellent reputation for teaching and academics. I received a SUPERIOR education at Rider, not because of its athletic or residential facilities, but because of its incredible professors--particularly in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures. I cannot begin to express how much of an impact these professors have had on my academic and professional life. Upon graduation from Rider, I went on to obtain advanced degrees at "Tier One" and Ivy League universities. Although I had excellent experiences at these fine institutions, the teaching paled in comparison to the teaching I experienced from my Liberal Arts professors at Rider.
As a school administrator, I intimately understand the need to close budget gaps. However, it is no secret that Rider has been spending a significant amount of capital to expand facilities--particularly in the area of athletics. It is shameful that the liberal arts programs at Rider should be cut to expand athletic facilities. As principal of one of the top-ranked public high schools in the United States, I must seriously take pause when thinking about promoting Rider to my graduating seniors. I believe your decision to cut academic programs signals a disgraceful change in priority from an institution grounded in high-quality teaching and a well-rounded liberal arts program of studies to an institution primarily interested in collegiate commercialism.
I cannot believe I am writing an email of this nature about an institution I have always admired, promoted, and held so dear. Just this afternoon--prior to hearing this news--I met with a student and recommended that he consider Rider, as I knew he would receive a superior education, just as I did. After hearing this news, I must re-visit this conversation with this student on Monday morning. I also must question the preparation that teacher candidates from Rider will have in the future. This change will certainly make me think twice when I see Rider on a teacher applicant's materials.
I respectfully request that you reconsider your decision to eliminate 14 academic programs at Rider. As a strong Rider support, I believe this decision does not align with the mission of the university.
Sincerely,
Brian D. Caughie, Ed.D.
B.A., German, Spanish, Secondary Education, Rider '99
Andrew J. Rider Scholar, 1997, 1998
Baccalaureate Honors Program
October 30, 2015
Dear President Dell’omo and Provost Fredeen,
This news about cuts in the Fine Arts and World Language departments is absolutely devastating. For the past decade and a half, my school district has looked to Rider University for exceptional world language graduates, especially from the French and German department. The reputation of the outstanding French and German professors is known throughout Mercer County and to cut such vital programs is not only upsetting, but dangerous in a time when global relations needs to be stronger than ever. I owe all of my success and happiness to Rider and its Fine Arts and World Language faculty. Cutting these programs is a huge mistake but once that can still be rectified. Please reconsider your decision to remove these programs because in the end, the student body will suffer when they are not provided the option to continue studying a language that most have had since the 6th grade. I would be happy to personally visit your campus and show you how we are working at the secondary level in world language education and how the University level plays a pivotal role in the language learning process. Furthermore, the best student teacher in French I have ever had, Audrey Bauerschmidt, was a Rider graduate. She accredited her success to the Rider staff and strong program. Please do not underestimate the importance of French, German, and Italian, in the great state of NJ. Not only are these three languages culturally relevant due to our large immigrant population, but they are essential when you consider all of the global business opportunities at our finger tips.
I would be happy to come in and speak with you personally about how wonderful my experience was with the French department and my 14 world language colleagues echo my sentiments because we hate to lose Rider as our number one source for exceptional French and German teachers in the future.
Best,
Jamie Micallef
Teacher of French
West Windsor –Plainsboro Regional School District
Rider Alumni 2001
Dear President Dell’omo and Provost Fredeen,
This news about cuts in the Fine Arts and World Language departments is absolutely devastating. For the past decade and a half, my school district has looked to Rider University for exceptional world language graduates, especially from the French and German department. The reputation of the outstanding French and German professors is known throughout Mercer County and to cut such vital programs is not only upsetting, but dangerous in a time when global relations needs to be stronger than ever. I owe all of my success and happiness to Rider and its Fine Arts and World Language faculty. Cutting these programs is a huge mistake but once that can still be rectified. Please reconsider your decision to remove these programs because in the end, the student body will suffer when they are not provided the option to continue studying a language that most have had since the 6th grade. I would be happy to personally visit your campus and show you how we are working at the secondary level in world language education and how the University level plays a pivotal role in the language learning process. Furthermore, the best student teacher in French I have ever had, Audrey Bauerschmidt, was a Rider graduate. She accredited her success to the Rider staff and strong program. Please do not underestimate the importance of French, German, and Italian, in the great state of NJ. Not only are these three languages culturally relevant due to our large immigrant population, but they are essential when you consider all of the global business opportunities at our finger tips.
I would be happy to come in and speak with you personally about how wonderful my experience was with the French department and my 14 world language colleagues echo my sentiments because we hate to lose Rider as our number one source for exceptional French and German teachers in the future.
Best,
Jamie Micallef
Teacher of French
West Windsor –Plainsboro Regional School District
Rider Alumni 2001
November 2, 2015
President Dell'Omo, Provost Fredeen, and Chairman Kennedy,
As a proud alumni of Rider's GEMS program I feel it necessary to convey my displeasure over the recent cuts to programming and faculty at Rider. I graduated summa cum laude, with BHP Honors and Honors in Marine Sciences with the Class of 2005. Since that time, I have gone on to earn an M.S in Biological Oceanography from The College of William and Mary's Virginia Institute of Marine Science with a full research assistantship. I have worked for the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Fisheries Manager, and am currently employed as an adjunct professor and educator at Chesapeake Bay Governor's School, a magnet marine science high school in tidewater Virginia.
I have spent multiple weeks at sea aboard research vessels with some of the most prestigious marine scientists in the world, including Dr. Robert Ballard, whose organization selected me as a 2013 Education and Science Communications Fellow. With Dr. Ballard, I explored 3 unknown shipwrecks in the Gulf of Mexico and broadcast the expedition worldwide. My other proud accomplishments in life include being a wife and mother to a beautiful little girl!
The purpose of sharing all this with you is to show you what my Rider education has afforded me. The faculty in the GEMS department: Dr. Alexander, Dr. Husch, Dr. Schwimmer, Dr. Browne, Dr. Sun, Dr. Smalley, Dr. Jivoff, and others who are currently in the department who were not there during my time, have gone from professors to mentors, to colleagues, to friends. They have invited me back to give department lectures and have invested in my life beyond my 4 years at Rider. These friends, who I am proud to call by their first names thanks to the small class sizes and close-knit nature of the department, are now facing the closure of a program that they have invested their lives into.
As an alumni who refers fondly and joyfully to her time at Rider, it pains me to know this program and the people that I love are being cut. It pains me that other Rider students won't be able to experience the same boost to their science career that I did. I fully credit my successes in marine science to the firm foundation I received in the GEMS department. I truly believe I would not be where I am today without the fine faculty in that department who invested so much in me! As a scientist, I am who I am because of them!
Having worked in alumni relations during my time at Rider, I know it's probably easy to say, if alumni had pledged more money, more of these programs would be saved. Because of the financial obligations of a mortgage, saving for our daughter's future, and repaying my Rider student loans, I have been largely unable to assist those who have given so much to me. My current students ask me frequently if I would have made a different choice for my undergraduate education given the large amount of loans I am currently repaying. Up until last week, my answer was always NO. While loan repayment has put a financial strain on my family, it was always worth it in my eyes for the quality education and future that my 4 years at Rider has afforded me. With the current turn of events, writing that loan repayment check every month will become a bitter pill to swallow, because I will be reminded of what once was.
I implore you to reconsider what I'm sure has been a difficult decision. I urge you to consider all options, listen to all stakeholders, and come up with a plan that will preserve the high quality education provided to Rider students by high quality, deeply caring faculty, an education that Rider recently celebrated 150 years of providing!
I welcome your response, and I encourage you to contact me to further discuss this.
Thank you!
Bethany Eden Smith
Rider University Class of 2005
President Dell'Omo, Provost Fredeen, and Chairman Kennedy,
As a proud alumni of Rider's GEMS program I feel it necessary to convey my displeasure over the recent cuts to programming and faculty at Rider. I graduated summa cum laude, with BHP Honors and Honors in Marine Sciences with the Class of 2005. Since that time, I have gone on to earn an M.S in Biological Oceanography from The College of William and Mary's Virginia Institute of Marine Science with a full research assistantship. I have worked for the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Fisheries Manager, and am currently employed as an adjunct professor and educator at Chesapeake Bay Governor's School, a magnet marine science high school in tidewater Virginia.
I have spent multiple weeks at sea aboard research vessels with some of the most prestigious marine scientists in the world, including Dr. Robert Ballard, whose organization selected me as a 2013 Education and Science Communications Fellow. With Dr. Ballard, I explored 3 unknown shipwrecks in the Gulf of Mexico and broadcast the expedition worldwide. My other proud accomplishments in life include being a wife and mother to a beautiful little girl!
The purpose of sharing all this with you is to show you what my Rider education has afforded me. The faculty in the GEMS department: Dr. Alexander, Dr. Husch, Dr. Schwimmer, Dr. Browne, Dr. Sun, Dr. Smalley, Dr. Jivoff, and others who are currently in the department who were not there during my time, have gone from professors to mentors, to colleagues, to friends. They have invited me back to give department lectures and have invested in my life beyond my 4 years at Rider. These friends, who I am proud to call by their first names thanks to the small class sizes and close-knit nature of the department, are now facing the closure of a program that they have invested their lives into.
As an alumni who refers fondly and joyfully to her time at Rider, it pains me to know this program and the people that I love are being cut. It pains me that other Rider students won't be able to experience the same boost to their science career that I did. I fully credit my successes in marine science to the firm foundation I received in the GEMS department. I truly believe I would not be where I am today without the fine faculty in that department who invested so much in me! As a scientist, I am who I am because of them!
Having worked in alumni relations during my time at Rider, I know it's probably easy to say, if alumni had pledged more money, more of these programs would be saved. Because of the financial obligations of a mortgage, saving for our daughter's future, and repaying my Rider student loans, I have been largely unable to assist those who have given so much to me. My current students ask me frequently if I would have made a different choice for my undergraduate education given the large amount of loans I am currently repaying. Up until last week, my answer was always NO. While loan repayment has put a financial strain on my family, it was always worth it in my eyes for the quality education and future that my 4 years at Rider has afforded me. With the current turn of events, writing that loan repayment check every month will become a bitter pill to swallow, because I will be reminded of what once was.
I implore you to reconsider what I'm sure has been a difficult decision. I urge you to consider all options, listen to all stakeholders, and come up with a plan that will preserve the high quality education provided to Rider students by high quality, deeply caring faculty, an education that Rider recently celebrated 150 years of providing!
I welcome your response, and I encourage you to contact me to further discuss this.
Thank you!
Bethany Eden Smith
Rider University Class of 2005
November 2, 2015
President Dell'Omo-
Thank you for taking the time to allow a recent graduate of Rider University's GEMS (Geology, Environmental, Marine Science) department to express my concerns for the recent changes being made at Rider University. I understand the deficit financial issue, however, my concern is with the effect that cutting educational programs will have on future enrollment. Eliminating majors will lower the enrollment of future students looking for the type of program I desired when I set out on my college search. I specifically chose Rider University because during my open house tour I met with science professors and students who promised small intimate class sizes (never higher than 30 students) as well as a strong connection among professor and student. I knew upon meeting the science professors at Rider, I was guaranteed to gain an educational degree as well as leave with a roster of mentors interested in my continued growth.
My Rider education has helped me understand how I fit in the environment and the importance of nature's balance. I have appreciated the lessons Dr Gabriela Smalley, Dr Daniel Druckenbrod, Dr Jonathan Husch, Dr Hongbing Sun, Dr Reed Schwimmer, Dr William Gallagher, and Dr Kathleen Browne have taught regarding our earth's survival. Without the educational awareness offered through programs similar to our GEMS department, the very existence of our planet is jeopardized. Over the years Rider has been "going green" and has in fact become one of the greener schools in New Jersey. I believe that this act is credited to the excellent science classes that are taught on a daily basis in the science department. Rider University is taking the lead in applying the lessons that it teaches with its emphasis on a greener footprint on its infrastructure. Elimination of these environmentally sensitive programs breaks the link between teaching and practical applications. Rider taught me to walk the walk and not just talk the talk. This must continue to be a hallmark of Rider's reputation.
I sincerely desire that an alternate solution can be found that would retain this critical department. The severe action of eliminating this vital department will have a negative impact on future revenues from student tuitions and alumni contributions. This draconian measure is sure to have a negative influence on any future consideration I will have to contribute to my alma mater.
Sincerely,
Kaitlyn Rose '13
Proud GEMS Alumni
President Dell'Omo-
Thank you for taking the time to allow a recent graduate of Rider University's GEMS (Geology, Environmental, Marine Science) department to express my concerns for the recent changes being made at Rider University. I understand the deficit financial issue, however, my concern is with the effect that cutting educational programs will have on future enrollment. Eliminating majors will lower the enrollment of future students looking for the type of program I desired when I set out on my college search. I specifically chose Rider University because during my open house tour I met with science professors and students who promised small intimate class sizes (never higher than 30 students) as well as a strong connection among professor and student. I knew upon meeting the science professors at Rider, I was guaranteed to gain an educational degree as well as leave with a roster of mentors interested in my continued growth.
My Rider education has helped me understand how I fit in the environment and the importance of nature's balance. I have appreciated the lessons Dr Gabriela Smalley, Dr Daniel Druckenbrod, Dr Jonathan Husch, Dr Hongbing Sun, Dr Reed Schwimmer, Dr William Gallagher, and Dr Kathleen Browne have taught regarding our earth's survival. Without the educational awareness offered through programs similar to our GEMS department, the very existence of our planet is jeopardized. Over the years Rider has been "going green" and has in fact become one of the greener schools in New Jersey. I believe that this act is credited to the excellent science classes that are taught on a daily basis in the science department. Rider University is taking the lead in applying the lessons that it teaches with its emphasis on a greener footprint on its infrastructure. Elimination of these environmentally sensitive programs breaks the link between teaching and practical applications. Rider taught me to walk the walk and not just talk the talk. This must continue to be a hallmark of Rider's reputation.
I sincerely desire that an alternate solution can be found that would retain this critical department. The severe action of eliminating this vital department will have a negative impact on future revenues from student tuitions and alumni contributions. This draconian measure is sure to have a negative influence on any future consideration I will have to contribute to my alma mater.
Sincerely,
Kaitlyn Rose '13
Proud GEMS Alumni
November 2, 2015
My professors, my mentors, my friends,
I am astonished and deeply saddened by the news released today of the changes to Rider's academic landscape. I contemplated the news through the latter half of my work day, and have not been able to shake it from my mind. Six years ago I graduated from Rider with a sense of great accomplishment and the belief that I would succeed in my endeavors. Graduating so soon after economic turmoil made it hard for me to kick-start my career, but as I write this to you I can say with 100% confidence that I believe myself to be successful. I owe that success to Rider; more particularly, I owe that success to the dedicated faculty of the GEMS department. Though I did not immediately obtain the position I wanted, and though I have found struggles within the work force, I have never given up on my dream of being a marine biologist. I have adapted and changed as I must, and this tenacity was learned from my time at Rider. This persistence, this ability to analyze a situation and deem the next course of action I must take was sown and nurtured by my professors.
I am devastated to think that in a world so troubled by environmental issues, so polluted by the effects of greed, that Rider has chosen to eliminate these vital academic programs. From my personal experience working in two separate public aquariums and now a veterinary hospital, I can attest that I have had the opportunity to interact with and positively influence literally thousands of people and animals.
And that is just me. Just one Rider graduate.
When my mind attempts to wrap itself around this concept, it feels like a heavy weight on my shoulders for my accomplishments are diminutive compared to many of the other Alumni whom have graduated from the GEMS program. We are the ripples of change that Rider has been able to cast upon this world, and to think that these ripples will one day vanish because of budget cuts is overwhelming.
As my professors and mentors, you each have had a profound impact upon me. I will carry this impact with me for all of my life. Know that you matter. Know that you have done your job well. My heart is with each and every one of the professors, faculty, staff, and students affected by this grievous decision. If there is anything I can do at all to help, please let me know.
If you feel that this message would benefit anyone I did not include as a recipient, you have my permission to share it. And if there are students of a GEMS major that may need advice from someone in the workforce currently, please do not hesitate to contact me.
I am Rider proud, and GEMS strong.
Most Sincerely,
Elise Proctor
Marine Science Major, French Minor
Class of 2009
My professors, my mentors, my friends,
I am astonished and deeply saddened by the news released today of the changes to Rider's academic landscape. I contemplated the news through the latter half of my work day, and have not been able to shake it from my mind. Six years ago I graduated from Rider with a sense of great accomplishment and the belief that I would succeed in my endeavors. Graduating so soon after economic turmoil made it hard for me to kick-start my career, but as I write this to you I can say with 100% confidence that I believe myself to be successful. I owe that success to Rider; more particularly, I owe that success to the dedicated faculty of the GEMS department. Though I did not immediately obtain the position I wanted, and though I have found struggles within the work force, I have never given up on my dream of being a marine biologist. I have adapted and changed as I must, and this tenacity was learned from my time at Rider. This persistence, this ability to analyze a situation and deem the next course of action I must take was sown and nurtured by my professors.
I am devastated to think that in a world so troubled by environmental issues, so polluted by the effects of greed, that Rider has chosen to eliminate these vital academic programs. From my personal experience working in two separate public aquariums and now a veterinary hospital, I can attest that I have had the opportunity to interact with and positively influence literally thousands of people and animals.
And that is just me. Just one Rider graduate.
When my mind attempts to wrap itself around this concept, it feels like a heavy weight on my shoulders for my accomplishments are diminutive compared to many of the other Alumni whom have graduated from the GEMS program. We are the ripples of change that Rider has been able to cast upon this world, and to think that these ripples will one day vanish because of budget cuts is overwhelming.
As my professors and mentors, you each have had a profound impact upon me. I will carry this impact with me for all of my life. Know that you matter. Know that you have done your job well. My heart is with each and every one of the professors, faculty, staff, and students affected by this grievous decision. If there is anything I can do at all to help, please let me know.
If you feel that this message would benefit anyone I did not include as a recipient, you have my permission to share it. And if there are students of a GEMS major that may need advice from someone in the workforce currently, please do not hesitate to contact me.
I am Rider proud, and GEMS strong.
Most Sincerely,
Elise Proctor
Marine Science Major, French Minor
Class of 2009
November 2, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo et. al,
My name is Dan Brown. Normally, I would say I am a proud Rider alumnus who is part of the class of 2010. But, based on the news I received yesterday, I am an extremely disappointed alumnus. The program that I went to Rider for, will no longer be apart of the curriculum, nor will students be able to receive their bachelors degree for it. I went to Rider to study Marine Biology. It was my dream to study sharks since I was 3 years old. I fell in love with the campus when I took a tour and found out that marine biology was an option for me. The marine sciences curriculum was one of the oldest offered for the school of liberal arts and sciences. Yes, I know Rider is known for their school of business. But, in today's world, we need more scientists then anything else. Due to the constant stress and damage that humans are doing to the environment, we need scientist more than ever to analyze the damage being done, and to determine how to correct this issue. We know more about Mars, the moon, and other planets in our solar system then we do about our oceans. Our oceans are barely explored. Our oceans are the whole reason we have sustainable life on this planet. But, you want to remove an important thing like marine sciences from this fine university!
Cutting science classes is not the best course of action. Because of this news, I will no longer donate to support Rider University. You're stripping away the chance students have to follow their dreams. Society already beats the curiosity that kids develop out of them. When a child says, "I like rocks", or "I like the ocean", or, "I like space", they get a pat on the head and that's it. Rider gave me the chance to follow my dream. It allowed me to make a difference while apart of the science community. Neil deGrasse Tyson said, "Children are not the ones with the problem. [The problem] is not scientifically illiterate children, it's scientifically illiterate adults. ... Children are born scientists. They're curious about everything around them. What happens? We spend the first years of their lives teaching them to walk and talk. And we spend the rest of their lives telling them to shut up and sit down. Imagine what kind of kids we'd have if we had scientifically literate adults." By taking science classes out of the picture at Rider, we're effectively telling the world, 'hey, science doesn't matter'.
After Rider, I became an educator for AmeriCorps through Montclair State University's School of Conservation located in Branchville New Jersey. I taught science to under privileged children and left a positive mark on their lives. After my tenure with AmeriCorps ended, I became a shark biologist for the University of Florida. There, I studied sharks, sawfish, and other elasmobranchs. the whole reason I was able to get my foot in the door was because of my web site design experience (which I also developed at Rider and I saw is being stripped away). If it wasn't for Rider, none of this would ever have happened.
I'd like to leave you with this quote from world renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson: "To make any future that we dreamt up real requires creative scientists, engineers, and technologists to make it happen. If people are not within your midst who dream abouttomorrow - with the capacity to bring tomorrow into the present - then the country might as well just recede back into the cave because that's where we're headed."
Neil hits it right on the head. If we remove the classes that allow students to figure out the problems of today and tomorrow, we will not be able to make any difference now or a difference for future generations ahead.
Thank you for your time.
Daniel J. Brown
Rider University Alumnus Class of 2010
Dear Dr. Dell'Omo et. al,
My name is Dan Brown. Normally, I would say I am a proud Rider alumnus who is part of the class of 2010. But, based on the news I received yesterday, I am an extremely disappointed alumnus. The program that I went to Rider for, will no longer be apart of the curriculum, nor will students be able to receive their bachelors degree for it. I went to Rider to study Marine Biology. It was my dream to study sharks since I was 3 years old. I fell in love with the campus when I took a tour and found out that marine biology was an option for me. The marine sciences curriculum was one of the oldest offered for the school of liberal arts and sciences. Yes, I know Rider is known for their school of business. But, in today's world, we need more scientists then anything else. Due to the constant stress and damage that humans are doing to the environment, we need scientist more than ever to analyze the damage being done, and to determine how to correct this issue. We know more about Mars, the moon, and other planets in our solar system then we do about our oceans. Our oceans are barely explored. Our oceans are the whole reason we have sustainable life on this planet. But, you want to remove an important thing like marine sciences from this fine university!
Cutting science classes is not the best course of action. Because of this news, I will no longer donate to support Rider University. You're stripping away the chance students have to follow their dreams. Society already beats the curiosity that kids develop out of them. When a child says, "I like rocks", or "I like the ocean", or, "I like space", they get a pat on the head and that's it. Rider gave me the chance to follow my dream. It allowed me to make a difference while apart of the science community. Neil deGrasse Tyson said, "Children are not the ones with the problem. [The problem] is not scientifically illiterate children, it's scientifically illiterate adults. ... Children are born scientists. They're curious about everything around them. What happens? We spend the first years of their lives teaching them to walk and talk. And we spend the rest of their lives telling them to shut up and sit down. Imagine what kind of kids we'd have if we had scientifically literate adults." By taking science classes out of the picture at Rider, we're effectively telling the world, 'hey, science doesn't matter'.
After Rider, I became an educator for AmeriCorps through Montclair State University's School of Conservation located in Branchville New Jersey. I taught science to under privileged children and left a positive mark on their lives. After my tenure with AmeriCorps ended, I became a shark biologist for the University of Florida. There, I studied sharks, sawfish, and other elasmobranchs. the whole reason I was able to get my foot in the door was because of my web site design experience (which I also developed at Rider and I saw is being stripped away). If it wasn't for Rider, none of this would ever have happened.
I'd like to leave you with this quote from world renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson: "To make any future that we dreamt up real requires creative scientists, engineers, and technologists to make it happen. If people are not within your midst who dream abouttomorrow - with the capacity to bring tomorrow into the present - then the country might as well just recede back into the cave because that's where we're headed."
Neil hits it right on the head. If we remove the classes that allow students to figure out the problems of today and tomorrow, we will not be able to make any difference now or a difference for future generations ahead.
Thank you for your time.
Daniel J. Brown
Rider University Alumnus Class of 2010
November 2, 2015
Dear President Dell-Omo,
Did you really think there would be no retaliation from taking away 13 majors? One of those majors is mine. You may recognize my face, I am on the Rider vans in the chemistry picture as well as the picture with Dr. Paul Jivoff holding up a blue crab. I am also on your Rider alumni page, the one swimming with dolphins in Disney World. I believe you do not see the value in the Marine Science major you are removing. If the reason you are removing Marine Science is because enrollment in this degree is low, then your marketing department is not doing their job properly. You do not seem to grasp the GEM that you have here. Small class sizes with actual field experience is the ticket to a career in this field. I do not expect you to fully understand since you are not in this field but I will help you out. This field is all about practical experience. The professors at Rider University provide that. The university provides intimate class sizes that allow one-on-one teaching, giving us an adv antage over the competition. It also allows students to develop professional relationships, which lead to networking opportunities, which is one of the most important things in any field.
Rider gave me the opportunity to connect with my professors on an academic and professional level. They taught me how to conduct field research which I now use for my current position with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Shellfisheries. They provided me with the ability to not only do the field research side but also the analytical and statistical side. Rider is merely a vessel that holds all of these professors, they can go anywhere and the students will follow them. If you believe students will “just change their majors” you are sadly mistaken. People in this field go into it because they are passionate about it. They also do not settle. They will not settle for a biology degree that thousands of other people have. They will leave to go to Rutgers University or Stockton University.
I have to say I am very disappointed in the way you are running this institution. I understand budget cuts need to be made, but you are looking in the wrong place. I paid a lot of money to get my degree and you can bet Rider University will not see another dime from me if this program is removed. I have also been advocating and advertising for Rider University, which is also going to stop. You have no idea what kind of monetary problems you are going to face removing these majors.
Sincerely, A pissed off GEMS alumni you can do a little research to learn the name of (I gave you a head start using a personal email)
P.S. I do not want a vague response email. I want valid reasons with evidence to back up the statements.
Dear President Dell-Omo,
Did you really think there would be no retaliation from taking away 13 majors? One of those majors is mine. You may recognize my face, I am on the Rider vans in the chemistry picture as well as the picture with Dr. Paul Jivoff holding up a blue crab. I am also on your Rider alumni page, the one swimming with dolphins in Disney World. I believe you do not see the value in the Marine Science major you are removing. If the reason you are removing Marine Science is because enrollment in this degree is low, then your marketing department is not doing their job properly. You do not seem to grasp the GEM that you have here. Small class sizes with actual field experience is the ticket to a career in this field. I do not expect you to fully understand since you are not in this field but I will help you out. This field is all about practical experience. The professors at Rider University provide that. The university provides intimate class sizes that allow one-on-one teaching, giving us an adv antage over the competition. It also allows students to develop professional relationships, which lead to networking opportunities, which is one of the most important things in any field.
Rider gave me the opportunity to connect with my professors on an academic and professional level. They taught me how to conduct field research which I now use for my current position with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Shellfisheries. They provided me with the ability to not only do the field research side but also the analytical and statistical side. Rider is merely a vessel that holds all of these professors, they can go anywhere and the students will follow them. If you believe students will “just change their majors” you are sadly mistaken. People in this field go into it because they are passionate about it. They also do not settle. They will not settle for a biology degree that thousands of other people have. They will leave to go to Rutgers University or Stockton University.
I have to say I am very disappointed in the way you are running this institution. I understand budget cuts need to be made, but you are looking in the wrong place. I paid a lot of money to get my degree and you can bet Rider University will not see another dime from me if this program is removed. I have also been advocating and advertising for Rider University, which is also going to stop. You have no idea what kind of monetary problems you are going to face removing these majors.
Sincerely, A pissed off GEMS alumni you can do a little research to learn the name of (I gave you a head start using a personal email)
P.S. I do not want a vague response email. I want valid reasons with evidence to back up the statements.
LETTERS FROM PARENTS
November 6, 2015
President Gregory G. Dell’Omo
Rider University
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648
Dear President Dell’Omo,
I am Joseph M. Ratel’s mother and I am sending you this letter today concerning your recent academic program cuts that were announced on October 29, 2015. My son is a current junior resident student at Rider University majoring in Philosophy. Joseph is on track to graduate spring 2017, completing his degree in 4 years. While Joseph is very invested in Rider, we as a family do not feel that Rider is invested in him. Because of this, despite the fact that you likely projected Joseph to remain at Rider for the remainder of his college career, our family believes it would be in Joseph’s best interest to transfer to another University, even if this means that he will not be graduating on time. We would like to tell you why we feel this way.
It is my belief that making these deep cuts to academic programs “waters down” the degree you will offer these students as they complete their chosen majors over the next 3 semesters. As a family we have no choice but to conclude that you do not value these degrees, which is very disappointing. Your attitude towards these students and their chosen course of study will be reflected in the limited course offerings over the next 3 semesters in these areas and we believe that any university Joseph applies to beyond Rider for graduate school will know this full well. How proud will these students feel, including my son, as they walk across the stage and receive from Rider University a ghostly version of the degree they worked hard to attain?
Joseph is one of your finest students. He is Sargent in Arms of Alpha Phi Omega, the co-ed volunteer fraternity on campus. He is set to co-teach the Model UN class next semester as one of the Model UN team leaders. He is interning at the Mercer County Prosecutors office with the homicide unit, a position he received through the Philosophy Department for a credited internship. He is President of Zielger Moore’s RHA council, as well as a BHP student and a BHP mentor. Joseph is also a member of the Philosophy Honors Society. He is academically gifted, socially skilled and is invested in Rider University, however Rider is not invested in him. My son had his next 3 semesters all figured out for the most part. The courses he expected to take such as Indian Philosophy and Asian Philosophy won’t be offered due to Dr. Feldman’s termination. His plan was to complete his BHP thesis next year with Professor Garro, a philosophy professor who was laid off. Now that Professor Garro has been let go, Joseph will not be able to complete this goal.
The biggest reason Joseph chose Rider and why this family supported his decision is because of the reputation you had as a small University that fostered close relationships between students and faculty. Joseph found this to be true. Now he’s watching as those he formed the closest bonds and working relationships with are being dismissed.
Furthermore, it is apparent to me that you were more concerned with meeting your October 31, 2015 deadline to announce lay-offs than you were with taking the time to make a sound decision that could and should have included students, parents, alumni, faculty and other stakeholders. The decision to make this announcement by email was a poor one. I have tried to find out when you will be holding a meeting for parents to share with them your thoughts and decision making processes as well as your financial accounting. It is baffling to me that you didn’t go to your most knowledgeable resources regarding the retention rate of students and what improvements students would like to see. Your best resource is your current students.
In closing I want to assure you that I did not spend the first 18 years of my son’s life instilling in him the value of education nor did I work as hard as I did to make sure he was a well-rounded man for you to hand him a degree that doesn’t reflect those values. Joseph spent the first two years at Rider taking classes that he had to take in order to graduate with a Philosophy degree. It is my expectation that he will spend the remainder of his time exploring and learning and growing as a person, a student, and a member of society. His course selection reflects not only the areas of study he is interested in but also the things he values, such as diversity, compassion, humility, compromise, dialogue, problem solving, leadership and above all humanity. Should your decision to eliminate the Philosophy major and the experienced dedicated professors associated with it become final or drag on causing real damage to the department we will have no choice but to pursue a transfer. As you offered this major and supported it fully when you accepted my son into your honors program, I expect you will continue to do so and if you do not we will be expecting the university to cover the financial ramifications of transfer including but not limited to application fees, moving expenses, tuition differences, the cost of retaking any classes that will not transfer and if it takes him longer than Spring of 2017 to graduate then the loss in wages as a result.
I look forward to your prompt reply regarding my deepest concerns.
Sincerely,
Ms. Barbara Ann Ratel
Edison, N.J. 08837
President Gregory G. Dell’Omo
Rider University
2083 Lawrenceville Road
Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648
Dear President Dell’Omo,
I am Joseph M. Ratel’s mother and I am sending you this letter today concerning your recent academic program cuts that were announced on October 29, 2015. My son is a current junior resident student at Rider University majoring in Philosophy. Joseph is on track to graduate spring 2017, completing his degree in 4 years. While Joseph is very invested in Rider, we as a family do not feel that Rider is invested in him. Because of this, despite the fact that you likely projected Joseph to remain at Rider for the remainder of his college career, our family believes it would be in Joseph’s best interest to transfer to another University, even if this means that he will not be graduating on time. We would like to tell you why we feel this way.
It is my belief that making these deep cuts to academic programs “waters down” the degree you will offer these students as they complete their chosen majors over the next 3 semesters. As a family we have no choice but to conclude that you do not value these degrees, which is very disappointing. Your attitude towards these students and their chosen course of study will be reflected in the limited course offerings over the next 3 semesters in these areas and we believe that any university Joseph applies to beyond Rider for graduate school will know this full well. How proud will these students feel, including my son, as they walk across the stage and receive from Rider University a ghostly version of the degree they worked hard to attain?
Joseph is one of your finest students. He is Sargent in Arms of Alpha Phi Omega, the co-ed volunteer fraternity on campus. He is set to co-teach the Model UN class next semester as one of the Model UN team leaders. He is interning at the Mercer County Prosecutors office with the homicide unit, a position he received through the Philosophy Department for a credited internship. He is President of Zielger Moore’s RHA council, as well as a BHP student and a BHP mentor. Joseph is also a member of the Philosophy Honors Society. He is academically gifted, socially skilled and is invested in Rider University, however Rider is not invested in him. My son had his next 3 semesters all figured out for the most part. The courses he expected to take such as Indian Philosophy and Asian Philosophy won’t be offered due to Dr. Feldman’s termination. His plan was to complete his BHP thesis next year with Professor Garro, a philosophy professor who was laid off. Now that Professor Garro has been let go, Joseph will not be able to complete this goal.
The biggest reason Joseph chose Rider and why this family supported his decision is because of the reputation you had as a small University that fostered close relationships between students and faculty. Joseph found this to be true. Now he’s watching as those he formed the closest bonds and working relationships with are being dismissed.
Furthermore, it is apparent to me that you were more concerned with meeting your October 31, 2015 deadline to announce lay-offs than you were with taking the time to make a sound decision that could and should have included students, parents, alumni, faculty and other stakeholders. The decision to make this announcement by email was a poor one. I have tried to find out when you will be holding a meeting for parents to share with them your thoughts and decision making processes as well as your financial accounting. It is baffling to me that you didn’t go to your most knowledgeable resources regarding the retention rate of students and what improvements students would like to see. Your best resource is your current students.
In closing I want to assure you that I did not spend the first 18 years of my son’s life instilling in him the value of education nor did I work as hard as I did to make sure he was a well-rounded man for you to hand him a degree that doesn’t reflect those values. Joseph spent the first two years at Rider taking classes that he had to take in order to graduate with a Philosophy degree. It is my expectation that he will spend the remainder of his time exploring and learning and growing as a person, a student, and a member of society. His course selection reflects not only the areas of study he is interested in but also the things he values, such as diversity, compassion, humility, compromise, dialogue, problem solving, leadership and above all humanity. Should your decision to eliminate the Philosophy major and the experienced dedicated professors associated with it become final or drag on causing real damage to the department we will have no choice but to pursue a transfer. As you offered this major and supported it fully when you accepted my son into your honors program, I expect you will continue to do so and if you do not we will be expecting the university to cover the financial ramifications of transfer including but not limited to application fees, moving expenses, tuition differences, the cost of retaking any classes that will not transfer and if it takes him longer than Spring of 2017 to graduate then the loss in wages as a result.
I look forward to your prompt reply regarding my deepest concerns.
Sincerely,
Ms. Barbara Ann Ratel
Edison, N.J. 08837
November 6, 2015
I attended the teach-in last night at Rider University, as the parent of a current Rider student. It was very informative, and the amount of students, professors, and other activists in attendance was overwhelming. I was in awe of the intelligence and passion of students, when relaying what effect the recently announced cuts will have on themselves, their friends lives, students' parents', and favorite professors' lives.
Quite simply, the intended "teach-in", while incredibly informative, resulted in a clear message from all that "we're" "mad as hell and not going to take it anymore".
After divulging exactly how these proposed cuts would effect all involved, there was a new understanding of how everyone, even students who attend Rider and whose major may not be affected, will be and are affected. A true Save My Major coalition was formed. A coalition of both Rider and Westminster, and consisting of students, current professors, terminated professors, and parents.
If Del'Omo honestly believes Rider College has budget issues now, just wait. Many Juniors and Sophomores intend to transfer altogether, as they realize they can't even complete their Major at Rider. Their's and their parent's lives have been turned upside down. Incoming students and prospective students will be told that what they want to Major in is no longer available to them. Between students who transfer en-mass, and prospective students, for whom Rider now has nothing to offer, and Alumni who will no longer donate to the University, Rider will lose millions in record time. It is quite possible that if Del'Omo's terrible plan is allowed to go through, within a few years, Rider and Westminster will no longer exist.
Karen Walden
I attended the teach-in last night at Rider University, as the parent of a current Rider student. It was very informative, and the amount of students, professors, and other activists in attendance was overwhelming. I was in awe of the intelligence and passion of students, when relaying what effect the recently announced cuts will have on themselves, their friends lives, students' parents', and favorite professors' lives.
Quite simply, the intended "teach-in", while incredibly informative, resulted in a clear message from all that "we're" "mad as hell and not going to take it anymore".
After divulging exactly how these proposed cuts would effect all involved, there was a new understanding of how everyone, even students who attend Rider and whose major may not be affected, will be and are affected. A true Save My Major coalition was formed. A coalition of both Rider and Westminster, and consisting of students, current professors, terminated professors, and parents.
If Del'Omo honestly believes Rider College has budget issues now, just wait. Many Juniors and Sophomores intend to transfer altogether, as they realize they can't even complete their Major at Rider. Their's and their parent's lives have been turned upside down. Incoming students and prospective students will be told that what they want to Major in is no longer available to them. Between students who transfer en-mass, and prospective students, for whom Rider now has nothing to offer, and Alumni who will no longer donate to the University, Rider will lose millions in record time. It is quite possible that if Del'Omo's terrible plan is allowed to go through, within a few years, Rider and Westminster will no longer exist.
Karen Walden
November 4, 2015
Dear Dr. Gregory G. Dell’Omo, r
I am writing to inform you that as a “PROUD PARENT” of two Rider graduates and one remaining at your institution of higher learning, how deeply disappointed I am about the dropping of majors and proclaiming the possible dismissal of professors, especially Dr. J. Halpern. Needless to say, words cannot and will not be able to be express how my children and I feel about Dr. Halpern. He is an extraordinary individual who touches the lives of so many students, athletes and families in the most positive way. When I was informed of the news of this change at Rider University from my children, who are devastated, I was in disbelief. With this message, I am hoping that board members and officials will have a change of heart and reconsider recent proposed transformations. The loss of programs and professors will be a tremendous loss to the University that prides itself on the Rider tradition.
Consider Dr. Halpern, who has over extended himself during the recruiting process for my oldest child Jimmy who wrestled for Rider and maintained academic status due to Dr. Halpern’s efforts. My son was heavily recruited in high school by many colleges, but due to Dr. Halpern’s dedication, perseverance and commitment to Rider and his genuine caring of the student athlete, my son chose Rider. This says volumes for any student athlete during the grueling process of selecting the college that best fits his needs. More importantly it shows that Dr. Halpern’s commitment and belief of Rider’s proud mission proved to be instrumental with Jim’s decision. As a result, the team of these amazing men including Halpern, Coach Gary Taylor and Coach John Hangey, enabled Jimmy to become a proud Rider Bronc!
This legacy continued with my second child, Kelsey. She suffered and survived a rare form of cancer called Neuroblastoma and desperately wanted to attend Rider to be with her big brother. Dr. Halpern was so prominent during her acceptance to Rider and her academic success. My daughter values the relationship that she has with Dr. Halpern and looks upon him as her mentor, friend, advocate, and role model. She was the wrestling manager under the direction of Dr. Halpern, Coach John Hanger and Coach Gary Taylor who also gave my daughter the opportunity to be accepted in many capacities. Kelsey did graduate from Rider in 2013, despite her many disabilities, but these men helped her along the way. As a parent of a Special Needs child, I am unable to put into words, how much I appreciate and respect these men, which is why I am so baffled that programs and professionals may be dismissed from programs.
In addition, my third child remains at Rider University and will graduate this year with the class of 2016. His phone call the other evening led me to writing this note to you, Sir. My son is a Fine Arts major, with a GPA of 3.85, and high academic honors recognized by the attainment of the deans list. Paul has sustained this average throughout his career due to the efforts of Dr. Halpern. This man taught my son how to push himself, how to discover his potential and confidence, and intelligence where as in high school this was never afforded to him. Along with the academic component, the Rider Wrestling coaches provided him consistent endurance and showed him how to believe in himself. If these proposals continue Rider will loose the opportunity for students and athletes who are deeply committed to and have grown from the Rider experience. It will also be a loss to the community and families like mine who have benefited from the program. Once again, I cannot stress to you enough what Dr. Halpern and the coaches have done for my son Paul.
It may appear that I am passionate about Rider University for your Institution afforded many opportunities to my children through the efforts of Dr. Halpern. His continued assistance enhanced my children to become adults and ready for the real world with his wisdom and knowledge. I appreciate you taking the time to read my story and thank you for what RIDER UNIVERSITY has done for the Legacy of many students especially for my children.
I thank you for your time and continued support. I hope this issue becomes reconsidered
Respectfully,
Paulette Kirchner
Dear Dr. Gregory G. Dell’Omo, r
I am writing to inform you that as a “PROUD PARENT” of two Rider graduates and one remaining at your institution of higher learning, how deeply disappointed I am about the dropping of majors and proclaiming the possible dismissal of professors, especially Dr. J. Halpern. Needless to say, words cannot and will not be able to be express how my children and I feel about Dr. Halpern. He is an extraordinary individual who touches the lives of so many students, athletes and families in the most positive way. When I was informed of the news of this change at Rider University from my children, who are devastated, I was in disbelief. With this message, I am hoping that board members and officials will have a change of heart and reconsider recent proposed transformations. The loss of programs and professors will be a tremendous loss to the University that prides itself on the Rider tradition.
Consider Dr. Halpern, who has over extended himself during the recruiting process for my oldest child Jimmy who wrestled for Rider and maintained academic status due to Dr. Halpern’s efforts. My son was heavily recruited in high school by many colleges, but due to Dr. Halpern’s dedication, perseverance and commitment to Rider and his genuine caring of the student athlete, my son chose Rider. This says volumes for any student athlete during the grueling process of selecting the college that best fits his needs. More importantly it shows that Dr. Halpern’s commitment and belief of Rider’s proud mission proved to be instrumental with Jim’s decision. As a result, the team of these amazing men including Halpern, Coach Gary Taylor and Coach John Hangey, enabled Jimmy to become a proud Rider Bronc!
This legacy continued with my second child, Kelsey. She suffered and survived a rare form of cancer called Neuroblastoma and desperately wanted to attend Rider to be with her big brother. Dr. Halpern was so prominent during her acceptance to Rider and her academic success. My daughter values the relationship that she has with Dr. Halpern and looks upon him as her mentor, friend, advocate, and role model. She was the wrestling manager under the direction of Dr. Halpern, Coach John Hanger and Coach Gary Taylor who also gave my daughter the opportunity to be accepted in many capacities. Kelsey did graduate from Rider in 2013, despite her many disabilities, but these men helped her along the way. As a parent of a Special Needs child, I am unable to put into words, how much I appreciate and respect these men, which is why I am so baffled that programs and professionals may be dismissed from programs.
In addition, my third child remains at Rider University and will graduate this year with the class of 2016. His phone call the other evening led me to writing this note to you, Sir. My son is a Fine Arts major, with a GPA of 3.85, and high academic honors recognized by the attainment of the deans list. Paul has sustained this average throughout his career due to the efforts of Dr. Halpern. This man taught my son how to push himself, how to discover his potential and confidence, and intelligence where as in high school this was never afforded to him. Along with the academic component, the Rider Wrestling coaches provided him consistent endurance and showed him how to believe in himself. If these proposals continue Rider will loose the opportunity for students and athletes who are deeply committed to and have grown from the Rider experience. It will also be a loss to the community and families like mine who have benefited from the program. Once again, I cannot stress to you enough what Dr. Halpern and the coaches have done for my son Paul.
It may appear that I am passionate about Rider University for your Institution afforded many opportunities to my children through the efforts of Dr. Halpern. His continued assistance enhanced my children to become adults and ready for the real world with his wisdom and knowledge. I appreciate you taking the time to read my story and thank you for what RIDER UNIVERSITY has done for the Legacy of many students especially for my children.
I thank you for your time and continued support. I hope this issue becomes reconsidered
Respectfully,
Paulette Kirchner
November 4, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo:
My family received the unsettling news of the decision to terminate the Piano Program at the prestigious Westminster Choir College of Rider University. This was truly devastating news for our son and family.
Our son, Justin Brown, currently attends Westminster and is a junior enrolled in the Piano Performance Program. Justin’s love for music is equaled by his talent and tenacity for this art form. Justin’s heart desire is to perform in various venues as a Classical Pianist.
My family and I researched and visited over twenty various colleges in the Tri-State area, in finding the right fit for Justin. Westminster Choir College was the very first institution we visited, and was convinced from what was presented, that this was the place that could shape and mold Justin’s God given talent in the best direction. My husband, son and I all agreed on Westminster and soon discovered the reason for the high regard of this Institution. The teachers are extremely gifted in their areas of study and see the potential of all their students. The teachers and students are very much interconnected and in tuned with the ideal of the creating profoundly beautiful music.
My son, at the age of 4 months, demonstrated an affinity towards music. Justin, in his early years, would imitate sounds and play melodies on his toy piano while listening to music. We later found that he was mute and received the devastating news that he was autistic. We learned quickly that music was his number one communication tool. Justin received early intervention at Eden Institute in Princeton for a few years and was integrated with supports into our local community and schools. We found a wonderful piano program at the Somerville School of Music and the Keyboard Ensemble at Franklin High School, which helped in shaping and preparing Justin to be the talented young man he is today. My family felt very proud and fortunate when Justin was accepted into the Westminster Piano Program. Mrs. Ingrid Clarfield, Coordinator of the Piano Department at Westminster honored my son as part of her piano fold. His piano mentor Mrs. Betty Stoloff has been a gift sent from heaven. She has the ability to see the pianist of the future and bring their unique musical gift to the now. My son recently had his Junior Piano Recital this past October 2015. We heard the maturity and passion in my son’s music as he performed on the piano.
My son learns all his pieces in perfect musical expression under the guidance and direction of Mrs. Stoloff. My son spends, at times, three to four hours in practice to hone in on his craft. Any disruption to his stable piano instruction and environment at Westminster will devastate my son. He is looking forward to continuing onto graduate school. He wakes up content and motivated everyday knowing that he is a part of the Piano Performance Program at Westminster Choir College, and reaching closer to his dream.
Westminster Choir College is not just another educational institution, but an integral part of the Princeton community, where talented individuals are being shaped and molded into potential shining stars, who could possibly contribute to making a better place by their contribution of beautiful MUSIC. The piano continues to be my son Justin’s voice, where he needs all his teachers especially the Piano Department to continue on without interruption. There are many other students –freshman, sophomores and future pianist that need to be part of the mosaic harmony that calls them to Westminster to help heal a chaotic world through music.
I cannot imagine the pressures you may have faced in making this decision. This decision, however, is impacting the collective lives of many individuals and families. I sincerely ask you to reconsider your decision concerning the Piano Program at Westminster Choir College.
Thank you sincerely for your time and consideration.
Very truly yours,
The Parents of Justin R. Brown
Monica & Elvis Brown
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo:
My family received the unsettling news of the decision to terminate the Piano Program at the prestigious Westminster Choir College of Rider University. This was truly devastating news for our son and family.
Our son, Justin Brown, currently attends Westminster and is a junior enrolled in the Piano Performance Program. Justin’s love for music is equaled by his talent and tenacity for this art form. Justin’s heart desire is to perform in various venues as a Classical Pianist.
My family and I researched and visited over twenty various colleges in the Tri-State area, in finding the right fit for Justin. Westminster Choir College was the very first institution we visited, and was convinced from what was presented, that this was the place that could shape and mold Justin’s God given talent in the best direction. My husband, son and I all agreed on Westminster and soon discovered the reason for the high regard of this Institution. The teachers are extremely gifted in their areas of study and see the potential of all their students. The teachers and students are very much interconnected and in tuned with the ideal of the creating profoundly beautiful music.
My son, at the age of 4 months, demonstrated an affinity towards music. Justin, in his early years, would imitate sounds and play melodies on his toy piano while listening to music. We later found that he was mute and received the devastating news that he was autistic. We learned quickly that music was his number one communication tool. Justin received early intervention at Eden Institute in Princeton for a few years and was integrated with supports into our local community and schools. We found a wonderful piano program at the Somerville School of Music and the Keyboard Ensemble at Franklin High School, which helped in shaping and preparing Justin to be the talented young man he is today. My family felt very proud and fortunate when Justin was accepted into the Westminster Piano Program. Mrs. Ingrid Clarfield, Coordinator of the Piano Department at Westminster honored my son as part of her piano fold. His piano mentor Mrs. Betty Stoloff has been a gift sent from heaven. She has the ability to see the pianist of the future and bring their unique musical gift to the now. My son recently had his Junior Piano Recital this past October 2015. We heard the maturity and passion in my son’s music as he performed on the piano.
My son learns all his pieces in perfect musical expression under the guidance and direction of Mrs. Stoloff. My son spends, at times, three to four hours in practice to hone in on his craft. Any disruption to his stable piano instruction and environment at Westminster will devastate my son. He is looking forward to continuing onto graduate school. He wakes up content and motivated everyday knowing that he is a part of the Piano Performance Program at Westminster Choir College, and reaching closer to his dream.
Westminster Choir College is not just another educational institution, but an integral part of the Princeton community, where talented individuals are being shaped and molded into potential shining stars, who could possibly contribute to making a better place by their contribution of beautiful MUSIC. The piano continues to be my son Justin’s voice, where he needs all his teachers especially the Piano Department to continue on without interruption. There are many other students –freshman, sophomores and future pianist that need to be part of the mosaic harmony that calls them to Westminster to help heal a chaotic world through music.
I cannot imagine the pressures you may have faced in making this decision. This decision, however, is impacting the collective lives of many individuals and families. I sincerely ask you to reconsider your decision concerning the Piano Program at Westminster Choir College.
Thank you sincerely for your time and consideration.
Very truly yours,
The Parents of Justin R. Brown
Monica & Elvis Brown
A lengthy post by Bob Witanek, who is a parent of a Westminster student, against the administration actions. Bob writes, “In all likelihood, this cut is writing on the wall for WCC. It shows that Rider has no commitment to teach the full discipline of voice which includes piano majors – who can competently accompany top notch choirs. It is a shot across the bow from an administration that apparently wants to get out of arts and music education all together and would prefer to gear toward business endeavors.” Read the whole post here: http://decarceratenj.blogspot.com/2015/10/no-to-cutting-piano-major-at.html
November 2, 2015
Dear Professor Franz,
Kayla enlightened me about the situation at Rider and its unilateral termination of various programs, majors, and professors.
I wanted to advise you that I am available for anything you or the AAUP needs, in the way of assistance in protesting the President's random cutting of the named programs. I recall very well standing on the strike lines, refusing to go to class, protesting Board of Governor's meetings, and blocking cafeteria bread deliveries in the middle of a bitterly cold winter, while a student at Rutgers in the 80's on behalf of AFSCME workers. While the AAUP did not strike, my professors refused to hold classes, or held them outside of the University, and many stood with striking AFSCME workers.
I am able to assist in any organizing, making picket signs, writing letters to the editor of local papers, any clerical work that may be required, i.e., computer work, writing, typing up and distribution of leaflets, flyers, etc., making phone calls, contacting news sources, and standing on picket lines, etc.
Please feel free to contact me, or give my information to anyone who may need this type of assistance, including your local AAUP chapter.
Thank you, and I look forward to meeting you in person as Kayla thinks very highly of you. I will certainly attend the teach-in next Thursday.
Respectfully,
Karen Walden
Dear Professor Franz,
Kayla enlightened me about the situation at Rider and its unilateral termination of various programs, majors, and professors.
I wanted to advise you that I am available for anything you or the AAUP needs, in the way of assistance in protesting the President's random cutting of the named programs. I recall very well standing on the strike lines, refusing to go to class, protesting Board of Governor's meetings, and blocking cafeteria bread deliveries in the middle of a bitterly cold winter, while a student at Rutgers in the 80's on behalf of AFSCME workers. While the AAUP did not strike, my professors refused to hold classes, or held them outside of the University, and many stood with striking AFSCME workers.
I am able to assist in any organizing, making picket signs, writing letters to the editor of local papers, any clerical work that may be required, i.e., computer work, writing, typing up and distribution of leaflets, flyers, etc., making phone calls, contacting news sources, and standing on picket lines, etc.
Please feel free to contact me, or give my information to anyone who may need this type of assistance, including your local AAUP chapter.
Thank you, and I look forward to meeting you in person as Kayla thinks very highly of you. I will certainly attend the teach-in next Thursday.
Respectfully,
Karen Walden
Letters from the Community/Area Experts
November 10, 2015
Dear President Dell’Omo:
We write as the chair of the board of officers and executive director of the American Philosophical Association. We urge you and all those involved in making vital decisions about the future of Rider University not to eliminate the philosophy program at Rider as has been recently proposed.
Rider University promotes the idea that students will see a return on their investment. According to Payscale.com, philosophy graduates have the highest mid-career earnings of all humanities graduates, and philosophy majors’ mid- career earning potential is ahead of those who major in biology, psychology, political science, and business administration.
Rider University’s vision statement reads, “Rider University will be a leader in American higher education celebrated for educating talented students for citizenship, life and career success in a diverse and interdependent world. Rider will achieve distinctiveness by focusing on students first, by cultivating leadership skills, by affirming teaching and learning that bridges the theoretical and the practical and by fostering a culture of academic excellence.” In its mission, Rider declares its intent to “challenge students to become active learners who can acquire, interpret, communicate and apply knowledge within and across disciplines to foster the integrative thinking required in a complex and rapidly changing world.” Philosophy is at the very core of this vision and mission.
More than perhaps any other discipline, philosophy prepares students to be engaged, well-rounded citizens suited to nearly any career path. Philosophy teaches the skills most desired by employers in today’s economy: critical thinking, effective written and verbal communication, creative problem solving, analysis, moral and ethical conduct, persuasive reasoning. A philosophy major or minor is a typical start to a law career, and philosophy students routinely outperform nearly all other majors on not only the LSAT, but also the GMAT and GRE.
It is difficult to imagine that a university that fails to offer students the opportunity to study an absolutely core discipline in the humanities, a discipline that prepares students to score well on graduate entrance exams, and that provides them with the intellectual skills that translate into higher average income than many of the majors being retained at Rider, will be able to fulfill a mission of “educating talented students for citizenship, life and career success” and graduating “students... who can acquire, interpret, communicate and apply knowledge within and across disciplines to foster... integrative thinking....”
We understand the natural desire of university administrators to make decisions based on simple numerical metrics. We also understand that the number of students who major in philosophy is relatively small at most universities. Yet we remind you that the role of philosophy in universities, unlike other more specialized disciplines, is not primarily to serve majors. Rather, philosophy plays a pivotal role in university core curricula and in interdisciplinary programs. Courses like Philosophical Thinking, Medical Ethics, Business Ethics, Environmental Ethics, Philosophies of Education, the Nature of Art, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Law, and Philosophy of Science serve many more students than just philosophy majors. These courses exist to serve the larger university community, to provide important parts of the education of students of a wide variety of majors. While the number of majors may often be relatively small in philosophy, course enrollments are typically strong as students of many majors see philosophy courses as complementing their studies in their primary disciplines in a variety of ways. A statement describing the role of philosophy in higher education in more detail is available on the APA’s website: http://www.apaonline.org/?role_of_phil
Before closing this letter we will make three brief, final points. First, unless Rider intends to abandon philosophy forever, it is important to remember that recreating a department is more expensive than maintaining one. Second, the basic idea of vertical cuts based merely on metrics such as number of majors is flawed to the extent that such cuts eliminate programs that are fundamental to the broader educational goals of the institution. Third, the United States is unique in being perhaps the only nation in the world that was founded based on philosophy. An education without philosophy is an education that would be unrecognizable to people like Jefferson and Franklin. Rider students both need and deserve the opportunity to engage with the ideas that animated our nation's founding.
We strongly urge you and all the leaders of Rider University to reverse the decision to eliminate philosophy from your curriculum.
Most sincerely,
Cheshire Calhoun, Chair of the Board of Officers
Amy Ferrer, Executive Director
cc: Rider University Board of Trustees, c/o Debbie Stasolla, Associate Vice President for Planning Rider University Philosophy Department, c/o Professor Robert Good, Chair
Dear President Dell’Omo:
We write as the chair of the board of officers and executive director of the American Philosophical Association. We urge you and all those involved in making vital decisions about the future of Rider University not to eliminate the philosophy program at Rider as has been recently proposed.
Rider University promotes the idea that students will see a return on their investment. According to Payscale.com, philosophy graduates have the highest mid-career earnings of all humanities graduates, and philosophy majors’ mid- career earning potential is ahead of those who major in biology, psychology, political science, and business administration.
Rider University’s vision statement reads, “Rider University will be a leader in American higher education celebrated for educating talented students for citizenship, life and career success in a diverse and interdependent world. Rider will achieve distinctiveness by focusing on students first, by cultivating leadership skills, by affirming teaching and learning that bridges the theoretical and the practical and by fostering a culture of academic excellence.” In its mission, Rider declares its intent to “challenge students to become active learners who can acquire, interpret, communicate and apply knowledge within and across disciplines to foster the integrative thinking required in a complex and rapidly changing world.” Philosophy is at the very core of this vision and mission.
More than perhaps any other discipline, philosophy prepares students to be engaged, well-rounded citizens suited to nearly any career path. Philosophy teaches the skills most desired by employers in today’s economy: critical thinking, effective written and verbal communication, creative problem solving, analysis, moral and ethical conduct, persuasive reasoning. A philosophy major or minor is a typical start to a law career, and philosophy students routinely outperform nearly all other majors on not only the LSAT, but also the GMAT and GRE.
It is difficult to imagine that a university that fails to offer students the opportunity to study an absolutely core discipline in the humanities, a discipline that prepares students to score well on graduate entrance exams, and that provides them with the intellectual skills that translate into higher average income than many of the majors being retained at Rider, will be able to fulfill a mission of “educating talented students for citizenship, life and career success” and graduating “students... who can acquire, interpret, communicate and apply knowledge within and across disciplines to foster... integrative thinking....”
We understand the natural desire of university administrators to make decisions based on simple numerical metrics. We also understand that the number of students who major in philosophy is relatively small at most universities. Yet we remind you that the role of philosophy in universities, unlike other more specialized disciplines, is not primarily to serve majors. Rather, philosophy plays a pivotal role in university core curricula and in interdisciplinary programs. Courses like Philosophical Thinking, Medical Ethics, Business Ethics, Environmental Ethics, Philosophies of Education, the Nature of Art, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Law, and Philosophy of Science serve many more students than just philosophy majors. These courses exist to serve the larger university community, to provide important parts of the education of students of a wide variety of majors. While the number of majors may often be relatively small in philosophy, course enrollments are typically strong as students of many majors see philosophy courses as complementing their studies in their primary disciplines in a variety of ways. A statement describing the role of philosophy in higher education in more detail is available on the APA’s website: http://www.apaonline.org/?role_of_phil
Before closing this letter we will make three brief, final points. First, unless Rider intends to abandon philosophy forever, it is important to remember that recreating a department is more expensive than maintaining one. Second, the basic idea of vertical cuts based merely on metrics such as number of majors is flawed to the extent that such cuts eliminate programs that are fundamental to the broader educational goals of the institution. Third, the United States is unique in being perhaps the only nation in the world that was founded based on philosophy. An education without philosophy is an education that would be unrecognizable to people like Jefferson and Franklin. Rider students both need and deserve the opportunity to engage with the ideas that animated our nation's founding.
We strongly urge you and all the leaders of Rider University to reverse the decision to eliminate philosophy from your curriculum.
Most sincerely,
Cheshire Calhoun, Chair of the Board of Officers
Amy Ferrer, Executive Director
cc: Rider University Board of Trustees, c/o Debbie Stasolla, Associate Vice President for Planning Rider University Philosophy Department, c/o Professor Robert Good, Chair
November 9, 2015
Dear President Dell’Omo and Dean Shaftel,
I am writing to encourage you to reconsider your recent decision to eliminate all of the piano performance and pedagogy degrees from the music program at Westminster Choir College. Along with Peabody and Indiana University, Westminster has, for many years, been on the “A-list” of top piano programs in both performance and pedagogy.
Although your current budgetary crisis is apparently demanding draconian measures, you have chosen to cut one of your most nationally recognized and highly regarded programs. Among the piano faculty are several of the nation’s most highly visible and sought-after pedagogic authorities.
Rider University, Westminster Choir College, and the piano faculty have, over the years, created and maintained one of the top piano programs in the nation. I urge you not to destroy a program that is foundational to your fine reputation.
With best regards,
Rebecca Grooms Johnson, PhD, NCTM
President, Music Teachers National Association
Associate Editor, Clavier Companion
Dear President Dell’Omo and Dean Shaftel,
I am writing to encourage you to reconsider your recent decision to eliminate all of the piano performance and pedagogy degrees from the music program at Westminster Choir College. Along with Peabody and Indiana University, Westminster has, for many years, been on the “A-list” of top piano programs in both performance and pedagogy.
Although your current budgetary crisis is apparently demanding draconian measures, you have chosen to cut one of your most nationally recognized and highly regarded programs. Among the piano faculty are several of the nation’s most highly visible and sought-after pedagogic authorities.
Rider University, Westminster Choir College, and the piano faculty have, over the years, created and maintained one of the top piano programs in the nation. I urge you not to destroy a program that is foundational to your fine reputation.
With best regards,
Rebecca Grooms Johnson, PhD, NCTM
President, Music Teachers National Association
Associate Editor, Clavier Companion
November 4, 2015
To the President and Dean of Rider,
Earlier today, I learned with horror of plans to undo the fine education now offered at Rider University. I have lectured twice at Rider, to a group of foreign language students interested in learning about and possibly pursuing a career in translation. Both times, I was impressed by the large turnout, the keen interest in foreign language studies and careers, and the students' fine training by outstanding faculty. Please say it isn't so that you're planning to close down key departments and fire some of your very finest faculty!
Kindly let me know of any plans to withdraw this ill-considered plan.
Yours sincerely,
Shelley Frisch
To the President and Dean of Rider,
Earlier today, I learned with horror of plans to undo the fine education now offered at Rider University. I have lectured twice at Rider, to a group of foreign language students interested in learning about and possibly pursuing a career in translation. Both times, I was impressed by the large turnout, the keen interest in foreign language studies and careers, and the students' fine training by outstanding faculty. Please say it isn't so that you're planning to close down key departments and fire some of your very finest faculty!
Kindly let me know of any plans to withdraw this ill-considered plan.
Yours sincerely,
Shelley Frisch
November 3, 2015
Dear President Dell'Omo:
Rider University's actions in eliminating 14 majors and in terminating 14 professors are draconian and destructive. It is difficult to see how Rider University's reputation will recover from this abrupt action. Who would choose to attend an expensive private university that was systematically stripping key majors? As an academic, I do understand the challenges of dropping enrollment numbers and financial pressures. But these hasty actions, your major inaugural act as president, are no solution. The heart of Rider's excellence is its involved, committed faculty. It is the faculty who should have been the leaders in finding solutions. Instead, the faculty seems to have been blindsided and radically devalued.
I am particularly astonished and alarmed by what is basically the firing of Professor Schleissner. Margaret Schleissner is a widely respected academic. Moreover, she has been profoundly dedicated to Rider University--chairing the German Department, working closely with students preparing for teaching careers, providing very effective advice to students applying for Fulbright awards. I would have thought that her distinguished career and deep service would be honored with multiple awards. Instead, she has been suddenly terminated.
I urge you to reconsider. New Jersey needs a healthy balance of public and private universities. We cannot afford to lose Rider. But by losing the best of Rider, a professor such as Margaret Schleissner, I fear NJ will soon lose Rider itself. There must be better ways to make savings--they should not be made at the expense of students and faculty. The humanities and social sciences remain the future of higher education. I hope you will not allow Rider University to abandon them.
sincerely,
Ann B. Coiro
Dear President Dell'Omo:
Rider University's actions in eliminating 14 majors and in terminating 14 professors are draconian and destructive. It is difficult to see how Rider University's reputation will recover from this abrupt action. Who would choose to attend an expensive private university that was systematically stripping key majors? As an academic, I do understand the challenges of dropping enrollment numbers and financial pressures. But these hasty actions, your major inaugural act as president, are no solution. The heart of Rider's excellence is its involved, committed faculty. It is the faculty who should have been the leaders in finding solutions. Instead, the faculty seems to have been blindsided and radically devalued.
I am particularly astonished and alarmed by what is basically the firing of Professor Schleissner. Margaret Schleissner is a widely respected academic. Moreover, she has been profoundly dedicated to Rider University--chairing the German Department, working closely with students preparing for teaching careers, providing very effective advice to students applying for Fulbright awards. I would have thought that her distinguished career and deep service would be honored with multiple awards. Instead, she has been suddenly terminated.
I urge you to reconsider. New Jersey needs a healthy balance of public and private universities. We cannot afford to lose Rider. But by losing the best of Rider, a professor such as Margaret Schleissner, I fear NJ will soon lose Rider itself. There must be better ways to make savings--they should not be made at the expense of students and faculty. The humanities and social sciences remain the future of higher education. I hope you will not allow Rider University to abandon them.
sincerely,
Ann B. Coiro
November 2, 2015
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo, Dr. Shaftel, Mr. Kennedy, and Other Esteemed Members of the Administration and Board of Trustees:
I am writing to express concern over the recent report that the Piano program is set to be cut at Westminster Choir College. I work as a music education consultant to companies including Yamaha Corporation of America. A large part of my work is providing guidance for institutional users of music technologies. As a music industry liaison to several music faculties, including Westminster's, I feel I have a unique perspective to share regarding the substance and value of the Westminster piano program.
You probably already know that Westminster piano faculty are some of the most elite in the country. They show leadership in national organizations, stand out for their publications and performances, and are in great demand as clinicians and guest speakers.
What you may not know, however, is how much this team leads the way in efforts to keep apprised of both pedagogical and technological advancements in music education and performance, often making significant personal investments in instruments and equipment in the process. In recent years, I have helped Westminster piano faculty learn to use distance-learning tools, assistive technologies, assessment technologies, and even virtual ensemble playing. This kind of progressive attitude towards preparing students for 21st-century careers is woefully uncommon in music programs, and practically nonexistent in elite conservatory programs.
In my relationships with institutions around the world, I rarely encounter educators so genuinely committed to providing their students with a high-caliber experience in music while EQUALLY emphasizing career-readiness. Even though I live in Colorado and work nationwide, I regularly encounter successful Westminster graduates—most recently a pianist and teacher in Denver, an active performer in New Jersey, and a college faculty member in Indiana--all successful, ambitious young professionals, ALL piano majors at Westminster.
Generally speaking, the piano program is central to any music program, possibly more than a non-musician can realize. By definition, the piano degree program cannot accommodate a huge number of students. The numbers, however, don’t tell the whole story of a piano program’s contributions to a school’s success.
At a very basic level, without qualified pianists, there can be no voice recitals, no theatre programs, and no choir concerts. A music program without a piano major will not be taken seriously by ANY prospective students and will not bode well with accrediting agencies. Losing the piano major is simply cutting the music school off at the knees.
Eliminating THIS particular piano program carries even greater consequences: Faculty such as Phyllis Lehrer and Ingrid Clarfeld are responsible for a great deal of successful recruiting for Rider University. Their influence is obvious at national conferences, where they are often mobbed by interested students and secondary-school teachers. Without them in their roles teaching piano majors, recruitment will suffer. As a person in a position to watch these things from the outside, I hear from prospective students and colleagues alike—the Westminster piano faculty attracts qualified students from around the world.
Difficult budget cuts in hard times are understandable. This one, however, does not seem to be in the best interest of the long-term viability of the school. Westminster Choir College has, of course, long been a beating heart of the Princeton community, and a piano degree from Westminster carries an expectation of not only competence, but also vision and integrity. I believe it is important for the Rider University community to recognize the central and unique importance of the piano program, and I sincerely hope this drastic measure can be reconsidered.
With kind regards,
Shana Kirk
Music Technology Solutions
Disklavier Education Network
Yamaha Corporation of America
shana.kirk@gmail.com
www.yamahaden.com
Dear Dr. Dell’Omo, Dr. Shaftel, Mr. Kennedy, and Other Esteemed Members of the Administration and Board of Trustees:
I am writing to express concern over the recent report that the Piano program is set to be cut at Westminster Choir College. I work as a music education consultant to companies including Yamaha Corporation of America. A large part of my work is providing guidance for institutional users of music technologies. As a music industry liaison to several music faculties, including Westminster's, I feel I have a unique perspective to share regarding the substance and value of the Westminster piano program.
You probably already know that Westminster piano faculty are some of the most elite in the country. They show leadership in national organizations, stand out for their publications and performances, and are in great demand as clinicians and guest speakers.
What you may not know, however, is how much this team leads the way in efforts to keep apprised of both pedagogical and technological advancements in music education and performance, often making significant personal investments in instruments and equipment in the process. In recent years, I have helped Westminster piano faculty learn to use distance-learning tools, assistive technologies, assessment technologies, and even virtual ensemble playing. This kind of progressive attitude towards preparing students for 21st-century careers is woefully uncommon in music programs, and practically nonexistent in elite conservatory programs.
In my relationships with institutions around the world, I rarely encounter educators so genuinely committed to providing their students with a high-caliber experience in music while EQUALLY emphasizing career-readiness. Even though I live in Colorado and work nationwide, I regularly encounter successful Westminster graduates—most recently a pianist and teacher in Denver, an active performer in New Jersey, and a college faculty member in Indiana--all successful, ambitious young professionals, ALL piano majors at Westminster.
Generally speaking, the piano program is central to any music program, possibly more than a non-musician can realize. By definition, the piano degree program cannot accommodate a huge number of students. The numbers, however, don’t tell the whole story of a piano program’s contributions to a school’s success.
At a very basic level, without qualified pianists, there can be no voice recitals, no theatre programs, and no choir concerts. A music program without a piano major will not be taken seriously by ANY prospective students and will not bode well with accrediting agencies. Losing the piano major is simply cutting the music school off at the knees.
Eliminating THIS particular piano program carries even greater consequences: Faculty such as Phyllis Lehrer and Ingrid Clarfeld are responsible for a great deal of successful recruiting for Rider University. Their influence is obvious at national conferences, where they are often mobbed by interested students and secondary-school teachers. Without them in their roles teaching piano majors, recruitment will suffer. As a person in a position to watch these things from the outside, I hear from prospective students and colleagues alike—the Westminster piano faculty attracts qualified students from around the world.
Difficult budget cuts in hard times are understandable. This one, however, does not seem to be in the best interest of the long-term viability of the school. Westminster Choir College has, of course, long been a beating heart of the Princeton community, and a piano degree from Westminster carries an expectation of not only competence, but also vision and integrity. I believe it is important for the Rider University community to recognize the central and unique importance of the piano program, and I sincerely hope this drastic measure can be reconsidered.
With kind regards,
Shana Kirk
Music Technology Solutions
Disklavier Education Network
Yamaha Corporation of America
shana.kirk@gmail.com
www.yamahaden.com
COMMENTS BY FACULTY
DATE: November 4, 2015
TO: President Dell’Omo
RE: Your Oct. 29 announcement of closures and faculty layoffs
Closing departments and programs that are fundamental to creating well-rounded global citizens will destroy Rider University. As a faculty member at Rider for fifteen years, I have committed myself to helping students blend career objectives with an understanding of their larger communities. The programs you have eliminated in the liberal arts, sciences, and business are programs that inspire students to experience the world in unfamiliar terms, certainly one of our goals in helping our students become global citizens. As we face devastating climate change, how can you deprive Rider students of the chance to examine the fragility of our marine and geological ecosystems? How can you claim that Rider students are becoming globally aware when you decide that just two foreign languages—Spanish and Chinese—are enough and that the European cultures represented in the eliminated German, Italian, and French languages are no longer necessary? How can you market Rider as a top-ranked business school when you downsize economics to a minor? How can you remove philosophy, the path to deeper, complex thinking in both Western and Eastern civilizations? And, in a university that actively promotes its new criminal justice major, how can you minimize the importance of sociology in helping our students respond to the varied social structures that create and maintain a criminal justice system? How can you continue to view arts administration as a viable major when you decide that only performing arts matter?
I teach workplace writing in the English department, certainly the most career-oriented writing track our department offers. One of our most popular courses, ENG 322 Grant Proposals, Fundraising and Development, is seldom taught in undergraduate universities. But because our Rider students come to this course with backgrounds in literature, creative writing, the fine and performing arts, education, and the physical and social sciences, they understand that grant writing is not an end in itself, but a way of responding to and changing the world around them. In every grant proposal my students write for real organizations, they incorporate what matters to them when they see an art exhibition, when they learn why poverty and gender may be intertwined, or when they read a short story that helps them recognize what separates them from “the other.”
I also direct the Gender and Sexuality Studies program, which marked its 35th year at Rider in conjunction with Rider’s 150th anniversary. Even though you did not mark GSS for closure, your layoff and closure decisions will harm GSS and all other interdisciplinary programs at Rider. You have elected to close and downsize departments and programs that provide essential frameworks for examining how and why issues of gender and sexuality connect and disconnect people in cultures throughout the world.
If you continue to choose departmental and program closures and faculty layoffs to stabilize Rider’s finances, you will change the nature of our institution. The “new Rider” you advocate will encourage students to narrow their visions to specific career goals without placing those careers within a larger context of community. You have acknowledged that workforce needs change, sometimes within a decade. But you have forgotten that training students for now popular employment opportunities limits our students’ ability to respond to the next round of workplace changes. Your decision jeopardizes our students’ futures.
Sincerely,
Mary Morse
Professor, English, and Director, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program
TO: President Dell’Omo
RE: Your Oct. 29 announcement of closures and faculty layoffs
Closing departments and programs that are fundamental to creating well-rounded global citizens will destroy Rider University. As a faculty member at Rider for fifteen years, I have committed myself to helping students blend career objectives with an understanding of their larger communities. The programs you have eliminated in the liberal arts, sciences, and business are programs that inspire students to experience the world in unfamiliar terms, certainly one of our goals in helping our students become global citizens. As we face devastating climate change, how can you deprive Rider students of the chance to examine the fragility of our marine and geological ecosystems? How can you claim that Rider students are becoming globally aware when you decide that just two foreign languages—Spanish and Chinese—are enough and that the European cultures represented in the eliminated German, Italian, and French languages are no longer necessary? How can you market Rider as a top-ranked business school when you downsize economics to a minor? How can you remove philosophy, the path to deeper, complex thinking in both Western and Eastern civilizations? And, in a university that actively promotes its new criminal justice major, how can you minimize the importance of sociology in helping our students respond to the varied social structures that create and maintain a criminal justice system? How can you continue to view arts administration as a viable major when you decide that only performing arts matter?
I teach workplace writing in the English department, certainly the most career-oriented writing track our department offers. One of our most popular courses, ENG 322 Grant Proposals, Fundraising and Development, is seldom taught in undergraduate universities. But because our Rider students come to this course with backgrounds in literature, creative writing, the fine and performing arts, education, and the physical and social sciences, they understand that grant writing is not an end in itself, but a way of responding to and changing the world around them. In every grant proposal my students write for real organizations, they incorporate what matters to them when they see an art exhibition, when they learn why poverty and gender may be intertwined, or when they read a short story that helps them recognize what separates them from “the other.”
I also direct the Gender and Sexuality Studies program, which marked its 35th year at Rider in conjunction with Rider’s 150th anniversary. Even though you did not mark GSS for closure, your layoff and closure decisions will harm GSS and all other interdisciplinary programs at Rider. You have elected to close and downsize departments and programs that provide essential frameworks for examining how and why issues of gender and sexuality connect and disconnect people in cultures throughout the world.
If you continue to choose departmental and program closures and faculty layoffs to stabilize Rider’s finances, you will change the nature of our institution. The “new Rider” you advocate will encourage students to narrow their visions to specific career goals without placing those careers within a larger context of community. You have acknowledged that workforce needs change, sometimes within a decade. But you have forgotten that training students for now popular employment opportunities limits our students’ ability to respond to the next round of workplace changes. Your decision jeopardizes our students’ futures.
Sincerely,
Mary Morse
Professor, English, and Director, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program
November 1, 2015
Dear Colleagues,
The disastrous cuts of cherished and experienced colleagues - notwithstanding, is of course, terrible to contemplate in view of - their altered lives, the students who will not benefit from their dedicated teaching, and for us who remain. However, I’d like to further underscore Phyllis’ concern - a music school without a piano major? Really this is quite impossible to imagine.
Being a passionate believer of the value of every part of the pianism continuum, starting with the basics of those studying piano for the first time in our introductory piano classes and continuing through
the pinnacle of pianism as exhibited by our grad students, lead me to think that such a significant and far-reaching cut will have consequences that i believe we can't imagine due to its unprecedented nature (did any of us attend a school of music or conservatory without a piano major?). We are all pianists and the piano supports all of our music making efforts whether it is in the private voice studio, choral rehearsal, or classroom. Yet, in addition to and beyond these vitally important functions, having superbly trained virtuosic pianists within our community provides both a musical inspiration and level of musicianship that benefits us in ways that are incalculable and vitally important to the musical health of the entire community, especially our students - pianist and non-pianist alike. I feel certain that its absence could have dire consequences - musically and inspirationally. Would our choirs be as successful absent of our pianists' reading abilities?
Can any of us really imagine how the rest of the world will view a school of music without a piano major? Would such a school still seem sufficiently viable to attract top singers, conductors and educators? Would it be able to survive in a market that is increasingly competitive? Since Westminster would probably be the lone music school with this appalling distinction, I frankly have a very hard time believing that it would survive and thrive.
I was at both meetings on Friday. Several colleagues from other departments were thankful that this cut did not effect them or their departmental colleagues. While this is completely understandable (who would not sigh with relief when their job or that of their immediate associates were spared), I, for one, to believe that Westminster cannot flourish and perhaps not even survive without students majoring in piano performance.
Let’s hope as Sharon has stated that "we collectively can find a better and more satisfying decision”.
Sincerely,
Tom
Thomas J. Parente Ed.D.
Associate Professor
Piano-Voice
Westminster Choir College of
Rider University
Princeton, NJ
Dear Colleagues,
The disastrous cuts of cherished and experienced colleagues - notwithstanding, is of course, terrible to contemplate in view of - their altered lives, the students who will not benefit from their dedicated teaching, and for us who remain. However, I’d like to further underscore Phyllis’ concern - a music school without a piano major? Really this is quite impossible to imagine.
Being a passionate believer of the value of every part of the pianism continuum, starting with the basics of those studying piano for the first time in our introductory piano classes and continuing through
the pinnacle of pianism as exhibited by our grad students, lead me to think that such a significant and far-reaching cut will have consequences that i believe we can't imagine due to its unprecedented nature (did any of us attend a school of music or conservatory without a piano major?). We are all pianists and the piano supports all of our music making efforts whether it is in the private voice studio, choral rehearsal, or classroom. Yet, in addition to and beyond these vitally important functions, having superbly trained virtuosic pianists within our community provides both a musical inspiration and level of musicianship that benefits us in ways that are incalculable and vitally important to the musical health of the entire community, especially our students - pianist and non-pianist alike. I feel certain that its absence could have dire consequences - musically and inspirationally. Would our choirs be as successful absent of our pianists' reading abilities?
Can any of us really imagine how the rest of the world will view a school of music without a piano major? Would such a school still seem sufficiently viable to attract top singers, conductors and educators? Would it be able to survive in a market that is increasingly competitive? Since Westminster would probably be the lone music school with this appalling distinction, I frankly have a very hard time believing that it would survive and thrive.
I was at both meetings on Friday. Several colleagues from other departments were thankful that this cut did not effect them or their departmental colleagues. While this is completely understandable (who would not sigh with relief when their job or that of their immediate associates were spared), I, for one, to believe that Westminster cannot flourish and perhaps not even survive without students majoring in piano performance.
Let’s hope as Sharon has stated that "we collectively can find a better and more satisfying decision”.
Sincerely,
Tom
Thomas J. Parente Ed.D.
Associate Professor
Piano-Voice
Westminster Choir College of
Rider University
Princeton, NJ
November 1, 2015
Dear colleagues,
Just a few words to thank you, Tom for your thoughtful email, and to thank all of you for being supportive. Yes, we will continue to have piano primaries and piano secondary students, despite the proposed cuts, but yes, it is sad to see our department in danger of going back to where it was 42 years ago.
Please indulge me in a little philosophizing: Pianists at Westminster can learn to breathe, to phrase, to follow, because they have great experiences in choirs and voice lessons. But as they grow through the study of their own instrument, they also learn to have a pianistic "voice," to lead, not only to follow, to inspire through developing a technique that enables musical understanding and projection ( thus, communication), through qualities of tone, articulation, through varieties of styles, through studying and performing the great repertoire that we are so fortunate to have and need to pass on. These experiences in our piano majors' lessons and major subjects, piano literature, performance class, accompanying, chamber music, piano ensemble and pedagogy, teaching internships for every type of piano teaching, all allow a unique and focused period of musical growth. And piano majors motivate and inspire other students, enriching our collective musical culture and keeping our art alive.
We have a booklet filled with the positions our alumni hold: D.M.A's in performance,department chairs, heads of community music schools, professors, large private studios,many professions that combine performing, teaching, accompanying, arts management and more. The work of our alumni has cultural and educational value, and these people are giving, serving, building on a Westminster experience for which they generously express their gratitude.( Twenty-three of our pianists majoring in performance and/ or pedagogy are faculty members of the Westminster Conservatory!)
Can you name another premier music school that does not offer a piano major? Numbers cannot be telling the story...ours were low last year, very good the year before that; they grew again this year while some other music areas here had half or fewer than half our numbers, but were not cut. Please lend us your support. We want our dedicated and gifted faculty to be able to give our students the opportunity to be the best musicians and pianists they can be, in the supportive environment that has always been a distinguishing characteristic at Westminster.
I will join you all on Tuesday. Thank you for listening.
All the best,
Phyllis Lehrer
Dear colleagues,
Just a few words to thank you, Tom for your thoughtful email, and to thank all of you for being supportive. Yes, we will continue to have piano primaries and piano secondary students, despite the proposed cuts, but yes, it is sad to see our department in danger of going back to where it was 42 years ago.
Please indulge me in a little philosophizing: Pianists at Westminster can learn to breathe, to phrase, to follow, because they have great experiences in choirs and voice lessons. But as they grow through the study of their own instrument, they also learn to have a pianistic "voice," to lead, not only to follow, to inspire through developing a technique that enables musical understanding and projection ( thus, communication), through qualities of tone, articulation, through varieties of styles, through studying and performing the great repertoire that we are so fortunate to have and need to pass on. These experiences in our piano majors' lessons and major subjects, piano literature, performance class, accompanying, chamber music, piano ensemble and pedagogy, teaching internships for every type of piano teaching, all allow a unique and focused period of musical growth. And piano majors motivate and inspire other students, enriching our collective musical culture and keeping our art alive.
We have a booklet filled with the positions our alumni hold: D.M.A's in performance,department chairs, heads of community music schools, professors, large private studios,many professions that combine performing, teaching, accompanying, arts management and more. The work of our alumni has cultural and educational value, and these people are giving, serving, building on a Westminster experience for which they generously express their gratitude.( Twenty-three of our pianists majoring in performance and/ or pedagogy are faculty members of the Westminster Conservatory!)
Can you name another premier music school that does not offer a piano major? Numbers cannot be telling the story...ours were low last year, very good the year before that; they grew again this year while some other music areas here had half or fewer than half our numbers, but were not cut. Please lend us your support. We want our dedicated and gifted faculty to be able to give our students the opportunity to be the best musicians and pianists they can be, in the supportive environment that has always been a distinguishing characteristic at Westminster.
I will join you all on Tuesday. Thank you for listening.
All the best,
Phyllis Lehrer
November 3, 2015
Dear Officers and Members of AAUP:
I have read about the plans of Rider's new President to cut critical programs, and lay off facultly, and staff. This is devastating news! And because it was never discussed before hand it must be particularly distressing and seem completely unjustified to those of you who are being effected.
I have always assumed that the role of new leaders was to establish rapport with those they will be working with for many years. Generally, establishing community, expanding the mission of the university, and creating a progressively new vision that is inclusive; and one based upon the needs and interests of all is expected of new leaders. These actions seem to be contrary to that traditional role. In fact, it seems that they are aimed at diminishing the progress of former leaders who worked dilligently to build the great reputation that Rider has.
Once I was proud to say that I taught at Rider for fifteen years. But now I am embarrassed and deeply troubled about what is happening. How am I supposed to respond to the many inquiries I get from people who thought that Rider was a topnotch, high quality, progressive institution?
Innovative programs and excellent faculty have (for many years) been the hallmark of Rider's reputation. It is my hope, however, that through negogiation and consensus a reversal of these Draconian measures will occur.
Dr. Mildred Rice Jordan,
Associate Professor Emerita
Dear Officers and Members of AAUP:
I have read about the plans of Rider's new President to cut critical programs, and lay off facultly, and staff. This is devastating news! And because it was never discussed before hand it must be particularly distressing and seem completely unjustified to those of you who are being effected.
I have always assumed that the role of new leaders was to establish rapport with those they will be working with for many years. Generally, establishing community, expanding the mission of the university, and creating a progressively new vision that is inclusive; and one based upon the needs and interests of all is expected of new leaders. These actions seem to be contrary to that traditional role. In fact, it seems that they are aimed at diminishing the progress of former leaders who worked dilligently to build the great reputation that Rider has.
Once I was proud to say that I taught at Rider for fifteen years. But now I am embarrassed and deeply troubled about what is happening. How am I supposed to respond to the many inquiries I get from people who thought that Rider was a topnotch, high quality, progressive institution?
Innovative programs and excellent faculty have (for many years) been the hallmark of Rider's reputation. It is my hope, however, that through negogiation and consensus a reversal of these Draconian measures will occur.
Dr. Mildred Rice Jordan,
Associate Professor Emerita
November 3, 2015
Dear President Gregory Dell'Omo,
You invited comments from the recipients of your announcement of program cuts. As a retired Professor Emeritus, I received your letter and of course have a reaction to it.
I am not pleased with your plans to reduce the number of Rider's academic majors and faculty, or
the manner in which you are implementing them.
As a response, I will simply let you know that a scholarship I have been contemplating setting up at Rider, in part to honor my father's memory and which I had put on hold temporarily, will now be put on hold indefinitely until all this is resolved to my satisfaction.
Most respectfully,
Ralph Gallay, Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus of Marketing
Department of Marketing, Advertising and Legal Studies
College of Business Administration
Rider University, NJ
Dear President Gregory Dell'Omo,
You invited comments from the recipients of your announcement of program cuts. As a retired Professor Emeritus, I received your letter and of course have a reaction to it.
I am not pleased with your plans to reduce the number of Rider's academic majors and faculty, or
the manner in which you are implementing them.
As a response, I will simply let you know that a scholarship I have been contemplating setting up at Rider, in part to honor my father's memory and which I had put on hold temporarily, will now be put on hold indefinitely until all this is resolved to my satisfaction.
Most respectfully,
Ralph Gallay, Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus of Marketing
Department of Marketing, Advertising and Legal Studies
College of Business Administration
Rider University, NJ
LET US KNOW OF ANY LETTERS OF SUPPORT YOU RECEIVED.
The Faculty Who Received Lay-Off Notices
Hello Professor Umamaheswar,
How can I even begin? I'm watching a school I love go crazy, I'm watching residents in my building make plans to transfer, and through that comes the news of the layoffs.
Don't ask us what we need from you; how can we help? You're one of the best professors I've had in three years here, you care about the students and the department, and frankly deserve better. As an RA, I'm expected to go to a mandatory meeting with Dean Campbell tonight to discuss how to best console the residents affected in my building- the administration trying and failing to see the human element here. Students don't need consoling; they need answers, and they need reasons behind these decisions. Professors don't need to hear how they can help their students; sometimes they need some help, too.
I guess I'm just rambling at this point, but if there's anything at all that can be done to help, I'm sure I'm not the only student who would love to be able to.
Matthew J Caruso
Resident Advisor, Conover Hall, Rider University
How can I even begin? I'm watching a school I love go crazy, I'm watching residents in my building make plans to transfer, and through that comes the news of the layoffs.
Don't ask us what we need from you; how can we help? You're one of the best professors I've had in three years here, you care about the students and the department, and frankly deserve better. As an RA, I'm expected to go to a mandatory meeting with Dean Campbell tonight to discuss how to best console the residents affected in my building- the administration trying and failing to see the human element here. Students don't need consoling; they need answers, and they need reasons behind these decisions. Professors don't need to hear how they can help their students; sometimes they need some help, too.
I guess I'm just rambling at this point, but if there's anything at all that can be done to help, I'm sure I'm not the only student who would love to be able to.
Matthew J Caruso
Resident Advisor, Conover Hall, Rider University
Gabriela Smalley
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Here is a list of Fulbrights and other awards that German students have received over the past 15 years working with Dr. Scheleissner:
Louise Mayer, Arts Administration major, German minor 2013: Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Fellowship
Rider University was so impressed, they featured her in the news: http://www.rider.edu/news/2013/05/30/new-graduate-says-guten-tag-fellowship-germany
Jessica Nagle, German/Secondary Ed double major 2012: Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Austria
Again, Rider University was so impressed, they featured her in the news: http://www.rider.edu/news/2012/05/15/back-schule-fulbright-recipient
Rebecca Allison (formerly Lynch), German/Secondary Ed double major 2007: Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Austria
Dr. Scheleissner's work with students has been so successful, Rider used them to recruit students (see picture above)
Here is an article about Jill Templeton from the Rider News:
http://www.theridernews.com/2012/11/29/from-germany-with-love-and-learning/
She graduated in 2013 with a double major in German/Secondary
Education. She was the first student to participate in Rider's student
teaching program at the Graz International Bilingual School. She is
now a Middle School German teacher.
These success would not be possible under Dell'Omo's leadership.
Louise Mayer, Arts Administration major, German minor 2013: Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Fellowship
Rider University was so impressed, they featured her in the news: http://www.rider.edu/news/2013/05/30/new-graduate-says-guten-tag-fellowship-germany
Jessica Nagle, German/Secondary Ed double major 2012: Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Austria
Again, Rider University was so impressed, they featured her in the news: http://www.rider.edu/news/2012/05/15/back-schule-fulbright-recipient
Rebecca Allison (formerly Lynch), German/Secondary Ed double major 2007: Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Austria
Dr. Scheleissner's work with students has been so successful, Rider used them to recruit students (see picture above)
Here is an article about Jill Templeton from the Rider News:
http://www.theridernews.com/2012/11/29/from-germany-with-love-and-learning/
She graduated in 2013 with a double major in German/Secondary
Education. She was the first student to participate in Rider's student
teaching program at the Graz International Bilingual School. She is
now a Middle School German teacher.
These success would not be possible under Dell'Omo's leadership.
How Successful Is Rider's Piano Program?
Very.
This is a list of accomplishments of WCC piano alumni from 2000-2015. Most of these successes would not have been possible under Dell'Omo's plan.
Piano Department Alumni
Dr. Laura Amoriello has recently been appointed Assistant Professor of Piano at Ithaca College, where she teaches Secondary Piano and serves as faculty advisor for the MTNA Collegiate Chapter. She has presented at the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy and the National Group Piano and Piano Pedagogy Conference, and has been published in Piano Pedagogy Forum and Clavier Companion. She holds the Doctor of Education degree in college music pedagogy from Teachers College, Columbia University.
Rick Hoffenberg, conductor and pianist, has been on the faculty of Marywood University for the past 8 years, where he is currently Associate Professor, Director of Choral Activities, and Co-Chair of the Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance. He is also Music Director of the Wyoming Seminary Civic Orchestra. He has spent the past 17 summers at Chautauqua Opera, where he is a pianist, coach, and assistant conductor on the music staff. He received his MM from WCC and his doctorate from Yale.
Dr. Anthony Bernarducci has recently joined the faculty at Clemson University as the Assistant Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor of Music. He is also an active composer published with Hinshaw Music.
Beverly Lapp received her Ph.D. from Columbia Teachers’ College. She is Director of Piano Pedagogy at Goshen College where she teaches piano and piano pedagogy.
Radek Materka is a Professor of Piano at the School of Music of the National Fine Arts Institute in Mexico City where he works with gifted young pianists. His students have been prizewinners and finalists of several national and international piano competitions in Mexico, Spain and Costa Rica He has presented solo recitals, chamber music concerts in North and South America, Europe and Asia. He has played several concertos with orchestras throughout Latin America (Mozart´s D minor concerto K.466, Beethoven´s Choral Fantasy op. 80 and Paderewski´s A minor concerto). Professor Materka has recorded 2 recitals for television and the Mexican Radio institute. He has presented master classes and pedagogy sessions for teachers at the John Perry Academy of Music´s Summer Festival in Los Angeles.
Bruce Lin is teaching at the University of the Incarnata Word in San Antonio, Texas.
Ferhiz Irani Brewer received Ph.D from University of Oklahoma, Norman. Will begin a tenure track position at Pierce College in Los Angeles Community College District this Fall 2015.
Anthony Baron is teaching at Nazareth College, He also is Director of Music at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Parish, and continues to work towards his doctorate at Eastman. Anthony has been named to the WCC Alumni Council.
Shannon Hesse teaches at Texas Southern University and the Stephens Episcopal School where she also directs the after-school piano program. She has repeat contracts with numerous organizations across Houston. Shannon has been the official pianist of Cantare (a professional choir) and regularly performs with Houston Symphony members.
Dr. Lauren Kooistra is Associate Director and Research Associate of the Institute for the Arts and Humanities at The Pennsylvania State University.
Dr. Sabina Pautza Pieslak has been teaching as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music at The City College, CUNY, since 2008. She also taught piano privately, composed music, completed her Ph.D. in Musicology/Ethnomusicology at the University of Michigan, did research abroad as a Fulbright scholar, and published articles. She also helps high school students prepare for college SAT/ACT writing prep and other tutoring, and exhibits art internationally.
Agnes Poltorak is adjunct faculty in the Piano Dept. at Westminster. She is co-coordinating the secondary piano program and teaching secondary piano classes. She is also on the faculty of the Westminster Conservatory.
Chao Tang (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, May 2013) is completing requirements for the Artist Diploma at Indiana University, having recently been appointed as a visiting professor at Tongji University in Shanghai, China, teaching piano secondary for voice majors and accompanying arts for piano majors. He has been performing numerous solo recitals in China and has been touring with the chief flutist of the Shanghai Opera House Orchestra.
Monica Hochsteder has a private studio in Virginia and is on the faculty at a small College near Charlottesville.
Kristen Topham- is an Adjunct Professor of Piano at Longwood University in Farmville, VA. At Longwood, Kristen contributes to the music department by teaching Class Piano and private applied lessons, accompanying for the auditioned choirs and music majors, and teaching the Piano Pedagogy II class. She performs regularly in Faculty Recitals as a soloist, accompanist, and ensemble member. Each fall she tours across Virginia with the Longwood Chamber Singers.
Richard Woo teaches at Westminster Conservatory of Music, He also is on the piano secondary faculty at Westminster Choir College of Rider University as well as the Keyboard Skills faculty at The College of New Jersey He maintains an independent piano studio in West Windsor.
Justin C. Proffitt (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, May 2012) is currently completing a Master of Education in Music and Music Education at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York, New York. He has been on the piano faculty of Westminster Conservatory since 2010, and is an Adjunct Instructor at both The College of New Jersey and Westminster Choir College of Rider University, teaching piano secondary classes. Maintaining a private studio in his home in Hillsborough, New Jersey, he is also Music Director at Christ the King Presbyterian Church in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.
James Mitchell (MM-PIAC, 2013) spent the year after graduation as an Apprentice Artist at Sarasota Opera. He will join the faculty of West Virginia University next year, and continues to establish himself as a stage director and musical coach at several national opera companies.
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Ben Kaplan (MM-PIPR, 2012) has become a Ballet pianist, engaged by Princeton Ballet.
Jonathan Palmer Lakeland (B.M. in Piano, August 2012) is currently enrolled in the piano accompanying postgraduate program of the Royal Academy of Music in London, England. Jonathan Lakeland recently made his Wigmore Hall debut. He is a student of Julius Drake and Malcolm Martineau at the Royal College.
SuJin Huang completed her DMA in Collaborative Piano at Rutgers University.
Pauline Worusski (MM-PIAC, 2014) attended the SongFest program, working closely with Martin Katz, Graham Johnson and John Musto. Is a staff accompanist at Westminster.
So Young Kim (MM-PIAC, 2013) was a fellowship coach at the Aspen Festival.
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Mary Brostrom Bloom is Director of Music Education at the Neighborhood Music School in New Haven Connecticut and also teaches piano there.
Ying Ying Christine Chan (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, August 2014) is an adjunct piano instructor at the Princeton Day School, has served on the piano faculty of the Westminster Conservatory since 2009, and maintains a piano studio in her home in Franklin Park, New Jersey.
Melissa Falb is a member of the MacPhail piano faculty. She is also the Director of Group Instruction.
Caesfianae Pana Oh Hong (MM-PIPP, 2012) has been teaching at Let's Play Music in Derry, a local music school New Hampshire since 2013 and will start teaching in the Manchester Community Music School in Manchester, NH this Fall. She runs her own private studio in Manchester, New Hampshire. She also serves as a staff accompanist at Bedford ward, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and plays as a soloist and a member of trio locally.
Matthew R. Kiple (B.M. in Piano, May 2012) continues to teach at the Lumberton School of Music in Lumberton, New Jersey and privately in Florence, New Jersey. While studying at Westminster, he was featured in a News at Rider University article by Anne Sears (http://www.rider.edu/news/2011/08/19/serbian-summer).
Cathy Smetana teaches piano at the MacPhail School in Minneapolis. She is also the co-coordinator of the Piano Camp in the summer. Outside of teaching, some highlights of her performance career include performing Bach’s St. John Passion with Helmuth Rilling and the Philadelphia Orchestra; the Hindemith Requiem with Wolfgang Sawallisch and Thomas Hampson; and a Christmas Concert in Carnegie Hall.
Candice Choi (MM-PIPP, 2012) does private teaching in San Francisco.
Heather Atagan Thorarinson '04 and '06 maintains a private studio in the suburbs of Chicago
Craig Coyle (BM-PIAN, 2010) has a private studio on Long Island.
Jason Gallagher (MM 2015) maintains private studio in Princeton area; Adminstrative assistant to Professor Ingrid Clarfield
Laura Klein (MM-PIPP, 2010) does private teaching and accompanying.
Rose McCathran is a teacher, lecturer, adjudicator, and performer who loves sharing her passion of music. She serves as a solo and collaborative artist and has given performances in the United States and Germany. Dedicated to teaching, she runs McCathran Piano Studio; a studio consisting of thirty-five students ranging in ages and levels. Her piano students have performed beautifully in studio recitals, won composition competitions, successfully fulfilled musicianship examinations, given full-length solo piano recitals, and enthusiastically participated in high level piano competitions and festivals, some of which have awarded her students solo piano performances at Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York. Several of her intermediate and advanced students have continued to study piano. Ms. McCathran is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) and is on the distinguished faculty of the Westminster Choir College Piano Pedagogy Certificate Program, where she teaches courses in piano technique. She is also a member of the Artist Piano Faculty at the Westminster Conservatory in Princeton, New Jersey. In addition, Ms. McCathran serves as an adjudicator for local music festivals and competitions.
Shannon Murphy (BM-PIAN, 2012) does private teaching and church job in NYC.
Eun Sook Jun Park (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance and M. M. in Organ Performance, May 2012) teaches piano privately in her home in East Windsor, New Jersey. She is keyboardist at Calvary Korean Methodist Church in East Brunswick, New Jersey.
Christopher R. Schimpf (B.M. in Piano, August 2014) is pursuing the M.M. in Piano Performance and M.M. in American and Public Musicology degrees at Westminster Choir College of Rider University. He has a number of private piano students in both New Jersey and Pennsylvani
Audrey Peterbark is currently an independent piano and voice teacher serving the Springfield/Burke, the organist at Fairfax Baptist Church in Fairfax City, Virginia and the general music teacher and choral director at Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy in Fairfax Station, Virginia. Ms. Peterbark has been an accompanist for the Prince William County Public School system for two years and currently works as the collaborative artist for the CD Hylton High School Choral Department working with director Tommy Tutwiler.
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Kristen Todd '15 has a large private studio in the Princeton area
Rebekah So (MM-PIPP, 2011) does private teaching in the Philadelphia area.
Johanna C. De Groot (M.M. in Piano Accompanying and Coaching, December 2014) is on the piano faculty of the Westminster Conservatory. Currently pursuing her second Westminster Choir College of Rider University degree, M. M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, this past summer she was a participant in the SongFest art song festival and training program at The Colburn School in Los Angeles and has worked closely with Martin Katz, Graham Johnson and John Musto.
Ashley Grant (BM-PIAN, 2014) is accompanying ballet classes in Cambridge, MA, works at Harvard as administrative assistant in Economics Department, will start Piano Performance certificate program at New England Conservatory.
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Andy Icochea, conducted the main Vienna Boys Choir for 8 years, before returning to the US to build a new choir in Boston and is now back in Europe, conducting a huge International Children's Choir. He plays the piano, composes, arranges music and speaks brilliantly to audiences, in several languages. If anyone Googles him they would be impressed indeed.
Ming Luke, conductor ,in the past few years has made important debuts in the US, UK, Russia, France, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Hungary, and Austria; and has conducted orchestras such as: Bolshoi Orchestra, Houston Symphony (Dec 2015), Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra, Birmingham Royal, San Francisco Ballet, New York City Ballet Orchestra, l'Orchestre Prométhée (France), Gödöllő Symphony Orchestra (Hungary), Opera San José, Billings Symphony, Sacramento Opera, Nashville Symphony, Sacramento Philharmonic, Komorni Orchestr Akademie of Prague, the Napa Valley Symphony, and others.
Derrick Goff is active as conductor and coach with Princeton Opera Alliance and the Caramoor Festival.
Andreas Reith, He has 25 private students and sings in the Munich Bach Choir which tours Austria, Italy, Germany, next year will be in Russia performing the St. Matthew Passion. Moscow. He teaches at a summer camp for highly talented children in Lindau, Germany. (Katja Rothfuss, Julie Kemp and Guy Rothfuss's daughter also teaches there) and gives lieder concerts there. He has organized a choir week and concert series at a village and castle in Hungary and will start a music festival there next year that will include chamber concerts and choir activities
Pablo Sabat concertizing steadily as piano soloist and conductor in Peru, and other South American countries.
Matthew Gutwald (MM-PIPP, 2014 & BM-PIAN, 2013) is teaching at Vivaldi Music Academy as one of their core piano faculty, holding a full time teaching schedule of 50-60 students per week. He will audition for local young artist programs that specializes in solo and chamber repertoire and will also accompany vocalists and instrumentalists from Rice University.
Eric Allessee Westminster Conservatory faculty & Mercer County Community College.
Jon Iverson, piano instructor at MacPhail since 2006, He also performs regularly as a soloist, accompanist and chamber musician around the Twin Cities area and has been heard with local Minnesota orchestras. Jon’s talents also extend to composing. His String Quartet No. 01 was featured on “Essays of Note,” a syndicated Minnesota radio show. His Overture to an Unwritten Tragedy was premiered under the baton of Dr. Matthew George and his Prelude, Passacaglia and Recitative for solo violin and In Memoriam for solo viola have been taken on tour throughout Europe with English violinist Peter Sheppard Skærved.
Student Performance Coordinator, Music Development Program Center Representative, and Keyboard Department Faculty Member
Katianne Janney (BM-PIAN & MUED, 2015) elementary music education position in Harford County School District, Maryland at the Edgewood Elementary School (position as general/vocal music teacher).
Hannah King (B.M. in Piano, May 2013) worked for two years as the Music Library Manager of Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina, and has recently been appointed to an administration position with the Charlotte Symphony in Charlotte, North Carolina as Marketing Manager.
Anthony Rafaniello, Class of 2005, graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and Sacred Music. He is the Director of Choral Activities at Cranford High School, a position he has held for the past ten years. In 2010, Anthony completed a Master of the Arts degree in Music Education at Teachers' College, Columbia University. He currently serves as Music Director and Organist at Trinity Episcopal Church, Cranford, has served as the piano accompanist for the New Jersey All-State Chorus for the past two years, and is Secretary of the Westminster Choir College Alumni Council.
Seth Slaymaker resides in Los Angeles, California where he serves in the Army Reserves as a soldier/musician with the 300'th Army Band, "Hollywood's Own". Within that unit he performs on piano, bass guitar, upright bass, electric guitar and percussion in a variety of ensembles ranging from jazz, funk, pop and rock to also performing in marching band ensembles all over the West Coast. Outside of his duties as a Sergeant in the Army, he also runs his own music studio, "Slaymaker Music" teaching a variety of instruments to students of all ages.
Feifei Tang moved back to China after graduating from WCC with a MM in Piano Pedagogy and Performance. She gave a piano recital at Xinghai Music Hall in 2013. . She is currently working at Guangdong Radio and Television in China and is also teaching private piano lessons at her own studio. In 2014 she had an interview on a chat show talking about the differences between Asian traditional piano training and American training style that she experienced on GDTV International channel. The show is called 'FaceTime' which also been upload on YouKu website: http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XNjAyNDE3NDM2.html
Ben Houghton (BM-PIAN & MUTR, 2010) recently completed 18 months working as a company pianist for American Ballet Theater, traveling and performing in venues around the world including the Metropolitan Opera House and the Emitates Palace Abu Dhabi. He is currently volunteering in India, teaching music at The Shanti Bhavan Children's Project. Part of the Westminster Conservatory faculty.
Fang-Ting Liu is on the faculty at Westminster Conservatory and adjudicator for several competitions.
Ryan Brechmacher is an active composer, performer, teacher and pianist.
As a solo pianist he has given recitals in Ohio and New Jersey, and has served as faculty accompanist for Princeton Day School, accompanist for the Princeton Girlchoir ,the Westminster Youth Chorale, Voices Chorale, and many singers and instrumentalists in the area. He has taught at Bowling Green State University's Summer Piano Camps, Westminster's Middle School and High School Piano Camps. An accomplished composer, his works have been heard across the US and Europe. He has had pieces premiered by the Westminster Schola Cantorum, Westminster Youth Chorale, Bowling Green Junior High School Bands, the Bowling Green Area Community Band, the Cincinnati Children's Choir, the Voices Chorale, the Princeton Girlchoir, and the Princeton Day School Chorus and Chorale. His piece, "The Lobster-Quadrille", won the 2010 Cincinnati Children's Choir Choral Composition Competition. His works have been published through Transcontinental Music Publications, Alfred Music Publishing, and GIA Publications. He has been teaching private piano lessons at Princeton Day School since the Fall of 2007, where he also serves as the Faculty Accompanist and AP Music Theory teacher in the Upper School.
Jordan Timchal (BM-PIAN, 2013) received MM at West Chester.
Jared Tafaro is completing his DMA at Catholic University. He is participating in the Beethoven Festival and will be playing the Hammerclavier, Sonata, Op. 106 at the Smithsonian, September 2015.
Graeme Burgan (MM-PIAC, 2011) has toured Australia as member of a piano-percussion ensemble. He is preparing to record the songs of Paul Hindemith. He also heads a community music school in Bucks County.
Anthony J. Serrao (B.M. in Piano and B.M. in Sacred Music, May 2011), a three-time Rider Scholar while enrolled in undergraduate study at Westminster Choir College of Rider University, is currently enrolled in a Master of Music degree program at Mannes College of Music of The New School in New York, New York, with a concentration in harpsichord.
Joshua R. Wilson (B.M. in Piano, May 2014) has been serving as a piano accompanist, chorus member, and trombonist for the VOICES Chorale in Hopewell, New Jersey. In addition he has been an accompanist to a number of Westminster Choir College students, continued to tutor piano secondary students served as a substitute keyboardist in area churches, and has been teaching private piano students.
Asher Severini- beginning his DMA at University of California at Santa Barbara studying collaborative and solo piano with Robert Koenig. He is the recipient of the Regents Fellowship Award and hasan assistantship in Accompanying. Asher was the winner of the Princeton Festival Piano Competition, Open Class Category and played in masterclasses taught by Steven Spooner, Joseph Kalichstein, and Marina Lomazov, Daniella Mineva, and Natalya Antonova. During recent summers Asher has attended music festivals in Europe and in the US such as MusicFest Perugia and the Atlantic Music Festival.
WCC Alumni now teaching on the faculty of Westminster Conservatory:
Erik Allesee .
Christine Chan
Jessica Rey-de-Castro
Jodi-Ann Russel
William Sheibinger
Erica Schlegel Silver
John Paul Velez
Richard Woo
Fiorella Araya Cheng
Tara Cooke-Ventresca
Anna de Groot
Ikumi Hiraiwa
Megan Hofreiter
Eric Houghton
Eunju Joung Kim
Alynn Schwiep Laudenslager
Suzanne Lehrer
Teresa Lim
Fang-Ting Liu
Rose McCathran
Christopher McWilliams
Agnes Poltorak
Cecelia Reilly
Dr. Laura Amoriello has recently been appointed Assistant Professor of Piano at Ithaca College, where she teaches Secondary Piano and serves as faculty advisor for the MTNA Collegiate Chapter. She has presented at the National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy and the National Group Piano and Piano Pedagogy Conference, and has been published in Piano Pedagogy Forum and Clavier Companion. She holds the Doctor of Education degree in college music pedagogy from Teachers College, Columbia University.
Rick Hoffenberg, conductor and pianist, has been on the faculty of Marywood University for the past 8 years, where he is currently Associate Professor, Director of Choral Activities, and Co-Chair of the Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance. He is also Music Director of the Wyoming Seminary Civic Orchestra. He has spent the past 17 summers at Chautauqua Opera, where he is a pianist, coach, and assistant conductor on the music staff. He received his MM from WCC and his doctorate from Yale.
Dr. Anthony Bernarducci has recently joined the faculty at Clemson University as the Assistant Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor of Music. He is also an active composer published with Hinshaw Music.
Beverly Lapp received her Ph.D. from Columbia Teachers’ College. She is Director of Piano Pedagogy at Goshen College where she teaches piano and piano pedagogy.
Radek Materka is a Professor of Piano at the School of Music of the National Fine Arts Institute in Mexico City where he works with gifted young pianists. His students have been prizewinners and finalists of several national and international piano competitions in Mexico, Spain and Costa Rica He has presented solo recitals, chamber music concerts in North and South America, Europe and Asia. He has played several concertos with orchestras throughout Latin America (Mozart´s D minor concerto K.466, Beethoven´s Choral Fantasy op. 80 and Paderewski´s A minor concerto). Professor Materka has recorded 2 recitals for television and the Mexican Radio institute. He has presented master classes and pedagogy sessions for teachers at the John Perry Academy of Music´s Summer Festival in Los Angeles.
Bruce Lin is teaching at the University of the Incarnata Word in San Antonio, Texas.
Ferhiz Irani Brewer received Ph.D from University of Oklahoma, Norman. Will begin a tenure track position at Pierce College in Los Angeles Community College District this Fall 2015.
Anthony Baron is teaching at Nazareth College, He also is Director of Music at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Parish, and continues to work towards his doctorate at Eastman. Anthony has been named to the WCC Alumni Council.
Shannon Hesse teaches at Texas Southern University and the Stephens Episcopal School where she also directs the after-school piano program. She has repeat contracts with numerous organizations across Houston. Shannon has been the official pianist of Cantare (a professional choir) and regularly performs with Houston Symphony members.
Dr. Lauren Kooistra is Associate Director and Research Associate of the Institute for the Arts and Humanities at The Pennsylvania State University.
Dr. Sabina Pautza Pieslak has been teaching as Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music at The City College, CUNY, since 2008. She also taught piano privately, composed music, completed her Ph.D. in Musicology/Ethnomusicology at the University of Michigan, did research abroad as a Fulbright scholar, and published articles. She also helps high school students prepare for college SAT/ACT writing prep and other tutoring, and exhibits art internationally.
Agnes Poltorak is adjunct faculty in the Piano Dept. at Westminster. She is co-coordinating the secondary piano program and teaching secondary piano classes. She is also on the faculty of the Westminster Conservatory.
Chao Tang (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, May 2013) is completing requirements for the Artist Diploma at Indiana University, having recently been appointed as a visiting professor at Tongji University in Shanghai, China, teaching piano secondary for voice majors and accompanying arts for piano majors. He has been performing numerous solo recitals in China and has been touring with the chief flutist of the Shanghai Opera House Orchestra.
Monica Hochsteder has a private studio in Virginia and is on the faculty at a small College near Charlottesville.
Kristen Topham- is an Adjunct Professor of Piano at Longwood University in Farmville, VA. At Longwood, Kristen contributes to the music department by teaching Class Piano and private applied lessons, accompanying for the auditioned choirs and music majors, and teaching the Piano Pedagogy II class. She performs regularly in Faculty Recitals as a soloist, accompanist, and ensemble member. Each fall she tours across Virginia with the Longwood Chamber Singers.
Richard Woo teaches at Westminster Conservatory of Music, He also is on the piano secondary faculty at Westminster Choir College of Rider University as well as the Keyboard Skills faculty at The College of New Jersey He maintains an independent piano studio in West Windsor.
Justin C. Proffitt (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, May 2012) is currently completing a Master of Education in Music and Music Education at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York, New York. He has been on the piano faculty of Westminster Conservatory since 2010, and is an Adjunct Instructor at both The College of New Jersey and Westminster Choir College of Rider University, teaching piano secondary classes. Maintaining a private studio in his home in Hillsborough, New Jersey, he is also Music Director at Christ the King Presbyterian Church in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.
James Mitchell (MM-PIAC, 2013) spent the year after graduation as an Apprentice Artist at Sarasota Opera. He will join the faculty of West Virginia University next year, and continues to establish himself as a stage director and musical coach at several national opera companies.
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Ben Kaplan (MM-PIPR, 2012) has become a Ballet pianist, engaged by Princeton Ballet.
Jonathan Palmer Lakeland (B.M. in Piano, August 2012) is currently enrolled in the piano accompanying postgraduate program of the Royal Academy of Music in London, England. Jonathan Lakeland recently made his Wigmore Hall debut. He is a student of Julius Drake and Malcolm Martineau at the Royal College.
SuJin Huang completed her DMA in Collaborative Piano at Rutgers University.
Pauline Worusski (MM-PIAC, 2014) attended the SongFest program, working closely with Martin Katz, Graham Johnson and John Musto. Is a staff accompanist at Westminster.
So Young Kim (MM-PIAC, 2013) was a fellowship coach at the Aspen Festival.
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Mary Brostrom Bloom is Director of Music Education at the Neighborhood Music School in New Haven Connecticut and also teaches piano there.
Ying Ying Christine Chan (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, August 2014) is an adjunct piano instructor at the Princeton Day School, has served on the piano faculty of the Westminster Conservatory since 2009, and maintains a piano studio in her home in Franklin Park, New Jersey.
Melissa Falb is a member of the MacPhail piano faculty. She is also the Director of Group Instruction.
Caesfianae Pana Oh Hong (MM-PIPP, 2012) has been teaching at Let's Play Music in Derry, a local music school New Hampshire since 2013 and will start teaching in the Manchester Community Music School in Manchester, NH this Fall. She runs her own private studio in Manchester, New Hampshire. She also serves as a staff accompanist at Bedford ward, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and plays as a soloist and a member of trio locally.
Matthew R. Kiple (B.M. in Piano, May 2012) continues to teach at the Lumberton School of Music in Lumberton, New Jersey and privately in Florence, New Jersey. While studying at Westminster, he was featured in a News at Rider University article by Anne Sears (http://www.rider.edu/news/2011/08/19/serbian-summer).
Cathy Smetana teaches piano at the MacPhail School in Minneapolis. She is also the co-coordinator of the Piano Camp in the summer. Outside of teaching, some highlights of her performance career include performing Bach’s St. John Passion with Helmuth Rilling and the Philadelphia Orchestra; the Hindemith Requiem with Wolfgang Sawallisch and Thomas Hampson; and a Christmas Concert in Carnegie Hall.
Candice Choi (MM-PIPP, 2012) does private teaching in San Francisco.
Heather Atagan Thorarinson '04 and '06 maintains a private studio in the suburbs of Chicago
Craig Coyle (BM-PIAN, 2010) has a private studio on Long Island.
Jason Gallagher (MM 2015) maintains private studio in Princeton area; Adminstrative assistant to Professor Ingrid Clarfield
Laura Klein (MM-PIPP, 2010) does private teaching and accompanying.
Rose McCathran is a teacher, lecturer, adjudicator, and performer who loves sharing her passion of music. She serves as a solo and collaborative artist and has given performances in the United States and Germany. Dedicated to teaching, she runs McCathran Piano Studio; a studio consisting of thirty-five students ranging in ages and levels. Her piano students have performed beautifully in studio recitals, won composition competitions, successfully fulfilled musicianship examinations, given full-length solo piano recitals, and enthusiastically participated in high level piano competitions and festivals, some of which have awarded her students solo piano performances at Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York. Several of her intermediate and advanced students have continued to study piano. Ms. McCathran is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM) and is on the distinguished faculty of the Westminster Choir College Piano Pedagogy Certificate Program, where she teaches courses in piano technique. She is also a member of the Artist Piano Faculty at the Westminster Conservatory in Princeton, New Jersey. In addition, Ms. McCathran serves as an adjudicator for local music festivals and competitions.
Shannon Murphy (BM-PIAN, 2012) does private teaching and church job in NYC.
Eun Sook Jun Park (M.M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance and M. M. in Organ Performance, May 2012) teaches piano privately in her home in East Windsor, New Jersey. She is keyboardist at Calvary Korean Methodist Church in East Brunswick, New Jersey.
Christopher R. Schimpf (B.M. in Piano, August 2014) is pursuing the M.M. in Piano Performance and M.M. in American and Public Musicology degrees at Westminster Choir College of Rider University. He has a number of private piano students in both New Jersey and Pennsylvani
Audrey Peterbark is currently an independent piano and voice teacher serving the Springfield/Burke, the organist at Fairfax Baptist Church in Fairfax City, Virginia and the general music teacher and choral director at Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy in Fairfax Station, Virginia. Ms. Peterbark has been an accompanist for the Prince William County Public School system for two years and currently works as the collaborative artist for the CD Hylton High School Choral Department working with director Tommy Tutwiler.
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Kristen Todd '15 has a large private studio in the Princeton area
Rebekah So (MM-PIPP, 2011) does private teaching in the Philadelphia area.
Johanna C. De Groot (M.M. in Piano Accompanying and Coaching, December 2014) is on the piano faculty of the Westminster Conservatory. Currently pursuing her second Westminster Choir College of Rider University degree, M. M. in Piano Pedagogy and Performance, this past summer she was a participant in the SongFest art song festival and training program at The Colburn School in Los Angeles and has worked closely with Martin Katz, Graham Johnson and John Musto.
Ashley Grant (BM-PIAN, 2014) is accompanying ballet classes in Cambridge, MA, works at Harvard as administrative assistant in Economics Department, will start Piano Performance certificate program at New England Conservatory.
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Andy Icochea, conducted the main Vienna Boys Choir for 8 years, before returning to the US to build a new choir in Boston and is now back in Europe, conducting a huge International Children's Choir. He plays the piano, composes, arranges music and speaks brilliantly to audiences, in several languages. If anyone Googles him they would be impressed indeed.
Ming Luke, conductor ,in the past few years has made important debuts in the US, UK, Russia, France, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Hungary, and Austria; and has conducted orchestras such as: Bolshoi Orchestra, Houston Symphony (Dec 2015), Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra, Birmingham Royal, San Francisco Ballet, New York City Ballet Orchestra, l'Orchestre Prométhée (France), Gödöllő Symphony Orchestra (Hungary), Opera San José, Billings Symphony, Sacramento Opera, Nashville Symphony, Sacramento Philharmonic, Komorni Orchestr Akademie of Prague, the Napa Valley Symphony, and others.
Derrick Goff is active as conductor and coach with Princeton Opera Alliance and the Caramoor Festival.
Andreas Reith, He has 25 private students and sings in the Munich Bach Choir which tours Austria, Italy, Germany, next year will be in Russia performing the St. Matthew Passion. Moscow. He teaches at a summer camp for highly talented children in Lindau, Germany. (Katja Rothfuss, Julie Kemp and Guy Rothfuss's daughter also teaches there) and gives lieder concerts there. He has organized a choir week and concert series at a village and castle in Hungary and will start a music festival there next year that will include chamber concerts and choir activities
Pablo Sabat concertizing steadily as piano soloist and conductor in Peru, and other South American countries.
Matthew Gutwald (MM-PIPP, 2014 & BM-PIAN, 2013) is teaching at Vivaldi Music Academy as one of their core piano faculty, holding a full time teaching schedule of 50-60 students per week. He will audition for local young artist programs that specializes in solo and chamber repertoire and will also accompany vocalists and instrumentalists from Rice University.
Eric Allessee Westminster Conservatory faculty & Mercer County Community College.
Jon Iverson, piano instructor at MacPhail since 2006, He also performs regularly as a soloist, accompanist and chamber musician around the Twin Cities area and has been heard with local Minnesota orchestras. Jon’s talents also extend to composing. His String Quartet No. 01 was featured on “Essays of Note,” a syndicated Minnesota radio show. His Overture to an Unwritten Tragedy was premiered under the baton of Dr. Matthew George and his Prelude, Passacaglia and Recitative for solo violin and In Memoriam for solo viola have been taken on tour throughout Europe with English violinist Peter Sheppard Skærved.
Student Performance Coordinator, Music Development Program Center Representative, and Keyboard Department Faculty Member
Katianne Janney (BM-PIAN & MUED, 2015) elementary music education position in Harford County School District, Maryland at the Edgewood Elementary School (position as general/vocal music teacher).
Hannah King (B.M. in Piano, May 2013) worked for two years as the Music Library Manager of Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina, and has recently been appointed to an administration position with the Charlotte Symphony in Charlotte, North Carolina as Marketing Manager.
Anthony Rafaniello, Class of 2005, graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and Sacred Music. He is the Director of Choral Activities at Cranford High School, a position he has held for the past ten years. In 2010, Anthony completed a Master of the Arts degree in Music Education at Teachers' College, Columbia University. He currently serves as Music Director and Organist at Trinity Episcopal Church, Cranford, has served as the piano accompanist for the New Jersey All-State Chorus for the past two years, and is Secretary of the Westminster Choir College Alumni Council.
Seth Slaymaker resides in Los Angeles, California where he serves in the Army Reserves as a soldier/musician with the 300'th Army Band, "Hollywood's Own". Within that unit he performs on piano, bass guitar, upright bass, electric guitar and percussion in a variety of ensembles ranging from jazz, funk, pop and rock to also performing in marching band ensembles all over the West Coast. Outside of his duties as a Sergeant in the Army, he also runs his own music studio, "Slaymaker Music" teaching a variety of instruments to students of all ages.
Feifei Tang moved back to China after graduating from WCC with a MM in Piano Pedagogy and Performance. She gave a piano recital at Xinghai Music Hall in 2013. . She is currently working at Guangdong Radio and Television in China and is also teaching private piano lessons at her own studio. In 2014 she had an interview on a chat show talking about the differences between Asian traditional piano training and American training style that she experienced on GDTV International channel. The show is called 'FaceTime' which also been upload on YouKu website: http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XNjAyNDE3NDM2.html
Ben Houghton (BM-PIAN & MUTR, 2010) recently completed 18 months working as a company pianist for American Ballet Theater, traveling and performing in venues around the world including the Metropolitan Opera House and the Emitates Palace Abu Dhabi. He is currently volunteering in India, teaching music at The Shanti Bhavan Children's Project. Part of the Westminster Conservatory faculty.
Fang-Ting Liu is on the faculty at Westminster Conservatory and adjudicator for several competitions.
Ryan Brechmacher is an active composer, performer, teacher and pianist.
As a solo pianist he has given recitals in Ohio and New Jersey, and has served as faculty accompanist for Princeton Day School, accompanist for the Princeton Girlchoir ,the Westminster Youth Chorale, Voices Chorale, and many singers and instrumentalists in the area. He has taught at Bowling Green State University's Summer Piano Camps, Westminster's Middle School and High School Piano Camps. An accomplished composer, his works have been heard across the US and Europe. He has had pieces premiered by the Westminster Schola Cantorum, Westminster Youth Chorale, Bowling Green Junior High School Bands, the Bowling Green Area Community Band, the Cincinnati Children's Choir, the Voices Chorale, the Princeton Girlchoir, and the Princeton Day School Chorus and Chorale. His piece, "The Lobster-Quadrille", won the 2010 Cincinnati Children's Choir Choral Composition Competition. His works have been published through Transcontinental Music Publications, Alfred Music Publishing, and GIA Publications. He has been teaching private piano lessons at Princeton Day School since the Fall of 2007, where he also serves as the Faculty Accompanist and AP Music Theory teacher in the Upper School.
Jordan Timchal (BM-PIAN, 2013) received MM at West Chester.
Jared Tafaro is completing his DMA at Catholic University. He is participating in the Beethoven Festival and will be playing the Hammerclavier, Sonata, Op. 106 at the Smithsonian, September 2015.
Graeme Burgan (MM-PIAC, 2011) has toured Australia as member of a piano-percussion ensemble. He is preparing to record the songs of Paul Hindemith. He also heads a community music school in Bucks County.
Anthony J. Serrao (B.M. in Piano and B.M. in Sacred Music, May 2011), a three-time Rider Scholar while enrolled in undergraduate study at Westminster Choir College of Rider University, is currently enrolled in a Master of Music degree program at Mannes College of Music of The New School in New York, New York, with a concentration in harpsichord.
Joshua R. Wilson (B.M. in Piano, May 2014) has been serving as a piano accompanist, chorus member, and trombonist for the VOICES Chorale in Hopewell, New Jersey. In addition he has been an accompanist to a number of Westminster Choir College students, continued to tutor piano secondary students served as a substitute keyboardist in area churches, and has been teaching private piano students.
Asher Severini- beginning his DMA at University of California at Santa Barbara studying collaborative and solo piano with Robert Koenig. He is the recipient of the Regents Fellowship Award and hasan assistantship in Accompanying. Asher was the winner of the Princeton Festival Piano Competition, Open Class Category and played in masterclasses taught by Steven Spooner, Joseph Kalichstein, and Marina Lomazov, Daniella Mineva, and Natalya Antonova. During recent summers Asher has attended music festivals in Europe and in the US such as MusicFest Perugia and the Atlantic Music Festival.
WCC Alumni now teaching on the faculty of Westminster Conservatory:
Erik Allesee .
Christine Chan
Jessica Rey-de-Castro
Jodi-Ann Russel
William Sheibinger
Erica Schlegel Silver
John Paul Velez
Richard Woo
Fiorella Araya Cheng
Tara Cooke-Ventresca
Anna de Groot
Ikumi Hiraiwa
Megan Hofreiter
Eric Houghton
Eunju Joung Kim
Alynn Schwiep Laudenslager
Suzanne Lehrer
Teresa Lim
Fang-Ting Liu
Rose McCathran
Christopher McWilliams
Agnes Poltorak
Cecelia Reilly