Mark Vozella - Faculty Reflection

I’ve been so touched by my nomination to write a faculty reflection for the class of 2023. When I found out, so many thoughts entered my mind. I will share some of those now. The adversity we have experienced over the last 4 years with the pandemic, vaccines and quarantines seemed like a monumental task to conquer. I can honestly say we have come through this experience with excellence. Some of you know me from GFOB. You were only 3 months out of high school when you showed up on campus, anxious about the whole experience, trying to make new friends and for some of you it was the first time away from family. The stress levels were high and for many a bit fearful. My goal was not only to teach you but to alleviate some of these concerns and make life here a Bryant a bit easier. We accomplished that through mutual respect, compassion, and empathy.

It is amazing to see students 4 years later showing maturity and confidence as you move on whether it’s entering the workforce or continuing your education. I am so proud of each one of you. My goal as a teacher is that something I’ve done or said whether in the classroom or a casual conversation in the roto, has had somewhat of an impact on you. If that has happened, I not only accomplished my goals but my dreams.

Hopefully, as all of you enter the next chapter in your lives you have gained insight into a better understanding of what other people feel and that you are able to see things from another point of view. As I mentioned in class many times empathy, perseverance and leadership are necessary in your continual growth.

Teaching all of you has been a privilege not a job! Congratulations!

Mark Vozella, Lecturer of Management