Alumni Testimonials

Cassandra Alessio 
MPA Student

“I work in political fundraising for city, county, state, and federal elected officials. Now, I am a graduate student studying for my Master’s in Public Administration. I like that my classes are with other professionals who I can learn from and build relationships with. My goal is to use my degree and the classes I took to pursue a career in public policy.” 

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/ty46p3-GBUE

Anthony Ambrose
Public Safety Director, City of Newark, NJ

“My studies taught me various levels of critical leadership that allowed me to stand alongside of the law enforcement leaders, politicians and businesspeople from all walks of life.”

“I highly recommend the FDU graduate program due to the wide–ranging impact in helping me to lead a police division and a fire division and OEM of more than 2500 employees. People say that experience is the best teacher, but I believe that experience is only one part of success. Gaining a great education such as the one I achieved from FDU will add solid credibility to your future.”

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/vTYuwMi1pck

Lawrence C Anderson 
Program Manager of Compliance and Regulatory Initiatives for a prominent NYC health insurance company

“If you’re someone looking for an MPA program that is a lightning rod for business professionals, FDU should be at the top of the list. The top-tier engagement of faculty and students can never be underestimated in contributing to the success of future endeavors, both personally and professionally.”

Amadou Bah

Amadou Bah, PE, PMP
Senior Program Manager with PATH

It’s without a doubt that this program will propel me in my career. Our professor’s knowledge of the topic is exceptional and the assignments are ideal for day-to-day application in my professional career.  As a Senior Program Manager for Capital Projects in the transportation industry, our Budget and Finance class in the MPA program gave me the financial tools needed to properly manage and guide my portfolio.”

Marlenis Rosa
Family Service Specialist, Division of Child Protection and Permanency, Union County’s Child Advocacy Center

“With a foundational education, one can change the world and impact others in unimaginable ways.

The [MPA] degree provides me the opportunity to think outside of the box to address programs and policies that are not effective. Since I obtained my degree, I have been promoted within my agency and able to evolve to different roles. Overall, the program has helped me grow personally and professionally, and will help me make a greater difference in the world in the future.”

Cesar Correa
City Administrator, City of Locust, NC

“Receiving my MPA from Fairleigh Dickinson University paved the way for a successful career in local government.

The courses are relevant to the day-to-day operations of a municipality, the instructors brought their personal experience directly from their field of work into the classroom, and the schedule allowed me the flexibility to attend school while still working. I felt confident and prepared stepping into my first day of work, 3 months before graduation.”

Andres FialloAndres Fiallo
Senior Political Advisor to the President of the
United Nations General Assembly

“Receiving my MA Global Affairs from FDU with its distinguished professors and diplomats paved the way for a successful career in international diplomacy. 

As a career diplomat, I have contributed to the central processes within the United Nations as a negotiator, coordinator and senior advisor on international law, human rights, social affairs, peace and security.”

 

Hernani GoncalvesHernani Goncalves, BA, MAS

Executive Director

Fort Lee Parking Authority

“When I reflect on my time in the BA and MAS programs at Fairleigh Dickinson University, I realize how invaluable the experience has been. The program not only equipped me with essential knowledge but also provided me with practical skills that I apply every day in my professional life. The professors, with their wealth of real-world experience and commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment, made the learning process both engaging and insightful. Their professionalism and hands-on approach ensured that I gained the confidence to tackle challenges in the workplace with a strategic, solution-based mindset. The connections I made during the program and the skills I developed continue to have a lasting impact on my career.”

Meghan Mollahan

Meghan Mollahan
Care Management Coordinator
AETNA Better Health of New Jersey

“There is no doubt that this program prepared me to excel in the field, and provided me with resources and connections to ensure my success in this position.”

Elena Pajovic

Elena Pajovic
MPA Specialization:
Global Affairs

Internship:
United Nations, International Alliance for Women
New York City

Rasheen M. Peppers Sr.
Captain, City of Newark, Department of Public Safety, Newark Police Division

“Obtaining my MPA from FDU has afforded me a more in-depth approach in leading my team in a servant leadership capacity. My education at FDU instilled the principles of balancing the tenets of leadership (i.e. self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, social skills), which pays high dividends in the success of your organization.”

Carolyn Ross 
Talent Development Department, Valley Health System

“I don’t know why I waited so long. I finally decided to jump right in. It’s going to take me some time to complete the degree, but that time is going to pass anyway, so I may as well get on with it! I’m really glad to be in class with my colleagues and peers. FDU has been great in offering support, reaching out through their advisors.”

Johnathan VieraJohnathan Viera
Senior Advisor

Office of the President of the 73rd Session of the
United Nations General Assembly

“Each class in the Master in Diplomacy and International Relations Program was a space to dialogue, exchange experiences, as well as perspectives on global affairs with my classmates, guided by magnificent professors.” 

 

Ryan Westover

Ryan Westover

“The Sword and Shield honor society event was bigger than an induction – it marked an amazing feat for me. I look forward to using my knowledge in law enforcement and emergency management.  I also hope to share my knowledge with aspiring police officers in a college setting.

The courses in the Cyber and Homeland Security Administration major have been exceptional, and over the past 15 months, I have had the privilege of learning from some amazing educators.”