A Pillar of the College

Dr. Mark Hager, Professor of Psychology, brought his gentle wisdom to Menlo College students for eighteen years. To celebrate his service, President Weiner appointed him as Professor Emeritus.

Asked about his work, Dr. Hager said, “The best thing about teaching at Menlo is the chance to get to know students. I like to help them see their lives beyond Menlo—to see that this is part of the journey. Being a mentor to psychology students at Menlo and beyond has been deeply important to me. Thank you to my dear students, as well as colleagues, for having me as a part of the Menlo community.”

Dr. Michelson emphasized that Mark Hager has served steadily as a friend, advisor, and advocate for a generation of psychology students, transfer students, students of color, and LGBTQIA+ students. He has been responsible for supervising over 300 senior theses during his time at Menlo.

“Mark Hager touched the lives of so many Menlo College students,” Dean Michelson said. “Let us all give our thanks and wish him the very best for the future.”

Social Justice

In recognition of her distinguished service to Menlo College over the course of an 18-year career as a full-time faculty member, Dr. Marianne Marar Yacobian was granted a Professor Emerita of Global Studies title as of January 1, 2023. Professor Marar’s social justice-themed research interests led her to develop highly-subscribed classes with such titles as Human Rights in a Global Perspective, Human Rights, Diversity in the Workplace, and Sex & Culture. She was also a central figure in the development of Menlo’s interdisciplinary minor program in Equity and Justice Studies. Her teaching effectiveness was recognized by her fellow faculty members when she received the Faculty Service Award, the Charles B. Emerick Teaching Award, and by students when they named her the Faculty Member of the Year—twice over.

Professor Marar’s commitment to promote a more equitable, humane, and just world was a hallmark of her time at Menlo College. Her service will be remembered.