Office of Student Life Honors Faculty and Staff

Pictured: Claude Gagna, Ph.D., discusses scientific research with students at a past SOURCE event.

At the conclusion of the academic year, the Office of Student Life recognizes students, faculty, and staff who have led by example and continuously contribute to the university and to the betterment of society. The awards, known as the Student Leadership and Service Awards, are given to students, as well as several faculty and staff members.

Here are the celebrated faculty and staff for the 2019-2020 academic year.  

Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year
Presented to faculty who have provided outstanding support to the New York Tech community.

• Paul Demonte, M.A., adjunct professor of communication arts, is a strong student advocate and facilitator of student success. He continues to aid New York Tech students in acquiring hands-on experience and off-campus job opportunities in the communications field.
• Felix Fischman, visiting assistant professor in the College of Engineering and Computing Sciences, is truly passionate about developing student leaders and advocating for the New York Tech student experience. He is also the faculty advisor for the student group NYIT Ventures, where he provides guidance and fosters student development. 
• Claude Gagna, Ph.D, professor of biological and chemical sciences, has been involved in student life at New York Tech for many years. He is currently the advisor for GIVE and the American Medical Student Association, and his students are grateful for his dedication and endless support.

Outstanding Staff of the Year
Presented to individuals and departments that have provided outstanding support to the New York Tech student body.

• Diana Moronta, instruction and technology librarian, stages year-round workshops for students on topics like database research, a testimony to her passion for developing a more informed student body. Moronta also provides customized lessons on library resources and strives to feature more diverse library content on themes such as diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
• Long Island Campus Dining continually seeks student feedback and makes changes to meet the wants, needs, and “tastes” of the student body.