Fordham University’s faculty and staff remain leaders in their fields, innovating and making meaningful contributions across disciplines. Their dedication and expertise are regularly recognized with prestigious honors and awards. Take a look at the latest achievements from our community below.
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Elaine Congress, DSW, GRADUATE SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SERVICE, associate dean and professor, received the Significant Lifetime Achievement in Social Work Education Award in June from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for her distinguished contributions to the field. The award will be presented at CSWE’s 72nd Annual Conference in October.
John Gownley, CAMPUS MINISTRY, director of Global Outreach, received the Constantine Katsoris Educator of the Year Award from the Loukoumi Foundation in recognition of his work advancing global service and social justice. The award was presented by Rosemary and Tom DeJulio, Fordham alumni and former University employees who continue their engagement with the Fordham community through the Fordham Kiwanis Club. Gownley’s award reflects his commitment to experiential learning, including his work producing research for the foundation, delivering guest lectures, and leading Fordham’s Global Outreach team. The honor was accompanied by a New York State Assembly citation by Assemblywoman Amy R. Paulin.
Susanne Hafner, PhD, ARTS AND SCIENCES, assistant professor and director of the German program, received a $4,000 grant from the Ragusa Foundation for her book in progress, Arthur in Modena, on May 15. The book is an ecocritical reading of the so-called “Arthurian portal” on the north wall of Modena, Italy’s Romanesque cathedral. When complete, the book will challenge medieval scholars’ understanding of Arthurian romances.
Robert J. Parmach, PhD, MISSION INTEGRATION AND MINISTRY, senior director of Ignatian mission and education, received the Joseph M. McShane, SJ, Award for Excellence on May 15 from the Yankee Battalion of Fordham’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) during their officer commissioning ceremony. The award recognizes a member of the Fordham faculty or administration who excels in support of ROTC. In the past year, Parmach developed and facilitated Ignatian formation programs for ROTC student cadets and cadre (faculty), such as Ignatian fitness, public speaking workshops, and interactive pedagogy seminars highlighting Fordham’s Jesuit charism.
Patricia Peek, PhD, UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS, senior associate vice president and dean of admission, presented two sessions at the 50th anniversary of the annual Independent Educational Consultants Association conference from May 18 to 20 in Baltimore.
Peek co-led one session on marketing with Laura Cioffi, assistant vice president for enrollment marketing, and participated as a panelist on a senior enrollment leader panel. Fordham was a sponsor of the event.
Barry Wilner, ARTS AND SCIENCES, adjunct professor of sports communication, received the 2026 Bill Nunn Jr. Award from the Professional Football Writers of America on May 28. Wilner covered the National Football League for the Associated Press from 1985 until his retirement in 2022. The award recognizes reporters who have made a long and distinguished contribution to pro football through their coverage. It honors the legacy of Bill Nunn Jr., a trailblazing sportswriter who worked at the Pittsburgh Courier before becoming a scout for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
