2026 Faculty Merit Award Winners

Claudia Páez Lotero, PhD, assistant professor of languages and linguistics, has garnered praise for her high-quality teaching, deep disciplinary knowledge and consistent modeling of inclusive excellence and student engagement. Her nomination letter notes her exceptional ability to communicate with students and to support them in their language acquisition journey, even during challenging discussions of poetry in a second language. Páez Lotero is able to skillfully guide her students without taking over, helping them build confidence in their language skills. Through her strategic use of verbal and visual cues and a well-designed agenda for each class period, she effectively supports all students, including those who are neurodiverse. Students are deeply appreciative of Páez Lotero’s classroom teaching, as indicated by her glowing student course evaluations.

Páez Lotero’s contributions to her department’s curricular offerings include innovative courses on Animals in Literature, Latin American Cinema, and Rainforest: A Literary Journey. She has recently proposed a new course on Environmental Challenges in Latin America and a new study tour to Colombia that will examine the country’s ethnic and linguistic diversity present in indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities; its history ranging from pre-Columbian civilizations to the colonial period; contemporary social problems; biodiversity and conservation; and artistic and cultural contributions. Together, these initiatives demonstrate both her range and her passion for expanding students’ understanding of the world.

Aimée Knight, PhD, professor of communication and media studies, is widely recognized for her outstanding teaching, mentoring and community-engaged pedagogy that exemplify the Jesuit educational mission of the University. Dr. Knight has founded and leads the classroom- based Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, a student-community partnership in which students in COM441 and COM442 collaborate with community partners to address important social issues. Through these courses, students gain exposure to ethical, inclusive and participatory research methods, while integrating theory and practice and critically examining issues of power, equity and positionality. Since its inception, Beautiful Social has partnered with community groups on approximately 130 projects.

Knight’s commitment to community-engaged pedagogy is showcased in her book, "Community is the Way: Engaged Writing and Designing for Transformative Change" (the WAC Clearinghouse; University Press of Colorado), and in the incorporation of her work into the Conference on Community Writing's 2025 call for papers.

In addition to these initiatives, Knight has developed numerous new courses and regularly advises large cohorts of students. Colleagues commend her ability to successfully transfer ownership of learning to the students, creating collaborative communities of learning. She is recognized by peers as a thoughtful and effective teacher who advances the University’s mission.

Sungwook “Peter” Kim, PhD, is an associate professor of mathematics and is widely recognized by students for his ability to teach statistics with scientific rigor while keeping the learning experience engaging and enjoyable. His natural confidence and ease in presenting abstract material allow him to build quick rapport with students. By weaving humor and originality into his lectures, he creates a classroom atmosphere that is both intellectually stimulating fun, and interesting. Students often remark that their 8 a.m. Applied Statistics class would be half-asleep if not for Kim’s energy and engagement. His dedication to making complex material accessible reflects his sincere commitment to student success.

Kim’s dynamic teaching style has made his courses highly popular and consistently in demand, drawing outstanding student evaluations. From the Mathematics of Uncertainty to graduate-level courses such as Design and Analysis of Experiments, Statistics for Research, Survival Analysis, and Applied Statistical Methods, students rave over Kim’s approach in the classroom.

Saint Joseph’s University is fortunate to have such a talented and dedicated educator. Through his enthusiasm, collegiality and exceptional ability to engage students while teaching challenging mathematical material, Kim exemplifies teaching excellence and is truly deserving of a Teaching Merit Award.

Diane Quinn, PharmD, BCACP, associate professor of clinical pharmacy, has earned recognition for her sustained and outstanding contributions to the curriculum through teaching excellence, pedagogical innovation and dedicated mentorship. Her nomination describes her as an enthusiastic and committed educator who supports students’ personal and professional growth while preparing them for advanced practice. Drawing on her experience as an ambulatory care clinical pharmacy specialist at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, she teaches across diverse pedagogical settings, including large didactic lecture courses, small-group case-based learning, interprofessional simulations and experiential education. In all instructional settings, Quinn models high-quality, patient-centered care while fostering student professional growth and preparedness.

Peer evaluations highlight Quinn’s ability to promote critical thinking, intellectual discovery and high academic standards. Students frequently describe her as an outstanding clinical preceptor who strengthens their clinical reasoning and professional confidence. In addition, she provides leadership in Interprofessional Education and Interprofessional Practice through her role on the departmental curriculum committee. During her time at University of the Sciences, Quinn received numerous honors recognizing her excellence in teaching and mentorship.

Julie Deluty, PhD, is a highly productive scholar in the fields of the Ancient Near East and the Hebrew Bible. Her recent book, “Prophet, Intermediary, King: The Dynamics of Mediation in the Biblical World and Old Babylonian Mari” has been published by Brill, a highly respected publisher in the field of Hebrew Bible and the Ancient Near East. She has received widespread acclaim from well-respected scholars at R1 institutions for her understanding of the relationship between the prophetic cult and the monarchy of Ancient Israel. In Ancient Israel's prophetic literature, the prophet is God's spokesman for instructing the king on matters from war to domestic policy. In studying the role of the prophet as an intermediary, Deluty has contributed to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of ancient Hebrew/Jewish society. Her work has already made a significant impact in her field, breaking new ground through creative and original research.

The scholarship of Laura C. Bucci, PhD, in American politics, particularly in American political economy, has been pioneering and deeply influential, and has profoundly shaped the field. Her underlying focus on labor politics in the United States pertains to the contemporary roles of organized labor observed in state politics and, more theoretically, American federalism. As her strong record of high-impact publications clearly shows, Bucci is at the cutting edge of this research field. There is a strong indication of the theoretical and empirical contributions that her research has made to several scholarly debates in the field of American political economy. One of Bucci’s articles from Publius: The Journal of Federalism (2023) is a part of the journal’s annual review edition, and she is among the most recognizable scholars of labor politics, even at this early stage of her career. Bucci’s body of work not only exemplifies the highest standards of academic research but also demonstrates a profound and lasting impact on public discourse. Her research has illuminated critical issues in the American political economy, especially labor politics in the United States, and she continues to be an influential voice in these areas.

Lisa A. Baglione, PhD, is an experienced and established scholar with expertise in post-Soviet Russian politics and United States-Russian relations. Her work exemplifies the highest standards of research rigor, pedagogical innovation and public engagement. Over the past three years, Baglione has completed a full revision of the 5th edition of “Writing a Research Paper in Political Science: A Practical Guide to Inquiry, Structure, & Methods,” (Sage, 2026). In addition, Baglione authored “Understanding Comparative Politics: An Inclusive Approach,” a comprehensive textbook designed for introductory courses in comparative politics, as well as the book chapter “Women, Gender, and Politics,” an original contribution to contemporary scholarship on gender and political change in Europe. Through these publications and her public advocacy, Baglione has had a profound impact on both the academic community and her students. Her work equips students with essential research skills; promotes critical engagement with complex political issues; and embodies the principles of inclusion, intellectual rigor and ethical inquiry. These contributions underscore Baglione’s enduring influence as a teacher-scholar and her commitment to advancing understanding of both political science and the research process.

Mark Reynolds, PhD, is a pioneer in the field of biological gas sensing heme proteins. His scholarly activity during the past three years demonstrates sustained excellence, renewed momentum and clear national relevance. Reynolds’ work advances fundamental biochemical understanding; contributes to environmentally sustainable chemistry; and enhances Saint Joseph’s University’s research profile through publications, funding and student success. His publications have generated substantial attention, as reflected in article views, invitations to speak at national and international conferences, and continued collaborations with external research institutions. Scientifically, Reynolds’ research advances understanding of gas sensing in biological systems while addressing urgent environmental challenges through sustainable chemistry. Reynolds’ research program exemplifies Saint Joseph’s University’s teacher-scholar model. His recent publications include numerous SJU undergraduate co-authors, providing students with high-level research training and visibility that is unusual at a primarily undergraduate institution. This integration of research and mentorship significantly enhances the academic profile of both the students and the University.

Since joining Saint Joseph’s University in August 2023, Luk Devorski, PhD, ATC, has demonstrated a remarkable level of scholarly productivity, intellectual rigor and emerging national impact that distinguish him as one of the most active early-career researchers in his field. Devorski has produced a sustained and diverse body of scholarship centered on musculoskeletal function, exercise rehabilitation, nonspecific lower back pain, and the integration of ultrasound and electromyography into clinical and research settings. His scholarship meaningfully bridges research and practice, offering clinicians evidence-based strategies for improving rehabilitation outcomes. Devorski’s work reflects a clear and cohesive research trajectory that combines experimental methodology, clinical application and methodological refinement, which are hallmarks of high-quality early-career research. Devorski’s scholarship is shaping clinical understanding, elevating Saint Joseph's University’s research presence and positioning him as a leading scholar in rehabilitation science.

Amy L. Kimchuk, MA, is involved in advising on many levels: She advises majors housed in the Department of Mathematics, she recently started advising some students in the McNulty program and she has been an advisor of the Pilipino Cultural Association for well over a decade. Besides these “official” advising activities, she devotes a great amount of her time to meeting with many students who are not her official advisees. Kimchuk provides them with academic recommendations, study tips and often lends them a listening ear regarding various issues. Kimchuk’s advice is tactful, encouraging, supportive and always aligned with the best interest of the student.

Kimchuk has been advisor of the Pilipino Cultural Association for a number of years. Her input to the president, secretary and treasurer provides them with valuable insight on issues like leadership and budget management. Her work with the entire association enhances the sense of community in students and heightens their sense of cultural association within the University. Additionally, Kimchuk’s experience from the University of the Sciences has helped her advise students navigating any transitions and adjustments of the merger.

Kimchuk’s skill to instill confidence in students, develop their abilities and talents, and make them feel supported and respected is well known among students. Her office being full of them is their recognition of her excellence.

Michael Marzano, MS, has consistently gone above and beyond in the area of advising. He currently manages over 100 predominantly sophomore advisees, a demographic that often requires significant support. Marzanol tackles advising issues proactively by liaising with the advising office and the registrar on behalf of his students, ensuring they do not have to navigate complex administrative processes alone. Regardless of whether a student’s needs pertain to curricular requirements, study abroad opportunities or general career advice, Marzano ensures that every student who meets with him is better positioned for success.

Casey Kane, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA, LBS, serves as the graduate director of the School of Education and Human Development’s (SEHD) program in applied behavior analysis. Joining SJU in fall 2023, Kane has contributed significantly to SEHD’s largest master’s program by leading accreditation efforts, recruiting prospective students, revising the ABA curriculum and redeveloping courses, and most importantly, thoughtfully advising more than 250 ABA students in their studies, as well as alumni who seek licensing. Kane also advises undergraduate students in the autism studies major.

Following the complex requirements of her profession’s national boards, Kane expertly, and compassionately, advises students in her teaching and director roles. She provides comprehensive and individualized attention to students based on their academic and professional goals, as well as their stage of life and needs. Not only does she oversee students' academic progression, but Kane also advises students on leadership development, testing preparation, career advancement and ethical professional practices. Embodying the Jesuit value of cura personalis, Kane espouses and enacts best practices in advising the whole student.

Sherida L. Douglass, MHA, MSHE, serves as a clinical instructor of health sciences at Saint Joseph’s University and brings over 25 years of experience in healthcare leadership and management. She earned her master's degrees in both health administration and health education from Saint Joseph's University. With Lean Six Sigma certification, she has worked as a revenue cycle healthcare consultant for nationally recognized institutions including Johns Hopkins Hospital, New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Mount Sinai Hospital-NYC and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. At Cooper University Hospital, Douglass was a key leader responsible for implementing and installing Epic EHR (electronic health records) systems for both clinical and revenue cycle management. She is a certified Epic trainer and has her certification in Epic Resolute system. She specializes in healthcare financial management and effective change management. Throughout her career, she has authored several training manuals, served on numerous institutional committees, and led projects that improved employee engagement, reduced costs and increased revenue. Her Crucial Conversations certification has enhanced her ability to navigate high-stakes discussions and foster productive dialogue in healthcare settings. Her experience includes training and mentoring many healthcare team members and leaders. Currently, her focus is on equipping future healthcare professionals with the knowledge to successfully navigate and contribute to our ever-changing healthcare system.

From the moment students enroll in the radiography program, Ashley Redinger, MHA, RT(R), welcomes them with enthusiasm and a desire to support their success. Students deeply respect and value Redinger as a trusted advocate. She demonstrates unwavering commitment through proactive, individualized advising designed to address academic, clinical and personal challenges in a warm and professional manner. Redinger seeks to work with all students to remove barriers that may be impeding their success. One example is her efforts to adjust clinical hours for a student who was experiencing childcare challenges. By making these adjustments, the student was able to remain in the program and on track to graduate. The impact of this extra effort was significant to the student and their family. Redinger's compassion, respect and supportive nature are always present whether she is guiding students in preparation for board examinations, advising on career placement or simply providing a friendly smile on a difficult day. Redinger exemplifies excellence in advising and a true commitment to student success.

Saint Joseph's University proudly recognizes Paul F. Aspan, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, as the recipient of the 2026 Faculty Service Award for his exceptional contributions spanning nearly four decades.

Aspan's tenure at SJU has been marked by distinguished service at every level. He has served five terms as department chair — more than any other faculty member in his department's history. His leadership extended through roles as associate dean of arts and sciences for humanities; associate provost for faculty and academic support; and director of the Teaching Institute, where Aspan established faculty development programs that continue benefiting the University.

Beyond administrative excellence, Aspan has championed academic freedom and faculty development with remarkable dedication. He has been a tireless advocate for junior faculty, guiding tenure-track colleagues through the tenure and promotion process. His commitment to inclusivity is evident in his advocacy for hiring women and fostering a department reflecting global religious traditions.

Currently serving on both the Core Oversight and Assessment Committee and the Mission-Specific Certification Committee, Aspan continues contributing his institutional knowledge. His mentorship has produced scholars who teach nationwide, exemplifying the highest standards of academic leadership and the Jesuit value of Magis.

Caitlyn Bradford, PharmD, BCPPS, is a clinical assistant professor in the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy whose work advances inclusive excellence through curriculum, scholarship, mentorship and clinical care. Bradford designed and implemented PRX 410: Integrated Approaches to Advancing Health Equity and Patient Care in Pharmacy, a diversity-overlay course that equips PharmD students to address health disparities, structural inequities and bias through culturally responsive, patient-centered care. An active member of the PCP Inclusive Excellence Task Force and Admissions Committee, Bradford promotes inclusive recruitment and fosters belonging across the college. Her scholarship addresses reproductive health equity, adolescent health education and patient-centered communication, extending inclusive excellence nationally. As a pediatric clinical pharmacy specialist serving underserved communities in Camden, NJ, Bradford models equitable, culturally responsive care — integrating real-world advocacy and social determinants of health into the education of future pharmacists. 

Allison Dukes, PhD, NCC, is an assistant professor of counseling at Saint Joseph’s University and the inaugural faculty director of the Prevention Academy. A champion of inclusive excellence, Dukes leads community-engaged initiatives that have served more than 16,000 students in grades 5-12 and that have secured over $3 million in grant funding. Dukes intentionally centers the voices of students, families and community stakeholders in research design, program development and evaluation; ensuring those most impacted shape the work itself. She advocates for staff and students in recovery, promotes inclusive health-conscious practices, and expands paid research and internship opportunities for graduate students. As fieldwork placement coordinator for the online clinical and mental health counseling program, Dukes fosters belonging through enhanced advising, mentorship and innovative fieldwork initiatives, advancing access, engagement and student success.

This year’s recipient of the Faculty Award for Justice is Paul F. Aspan, PhD, chair and associate professor to the Department of Theology and Religious Studies. In the words of GC 34, a Jesuit university must be faithful to both the noun “university" and to the adjective “Jesuit.” Aspan models what it means to actively live out our shared Ignatian mission. In spring 2025, Aspan taught the Religion, Violence & Terrorism course as a study tour to Northern Ireland. During that immersion, Aspan encouraged his students to bring back what they had learned and to act on it. Upholding the charge himself, Aspan is coordinating a three-day visit from a Northern Irish expert to offer the SJU community workshops on capacity building, resilience and cultivating community.

Student James Kemp, BA ’27, shared, “Dr. Aspan has been a real role model for me as I explore my life in service. He is dedicated to serving all of his students and to creating a welcoming learning environment where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed, but valued. Dr. Aspan was the lifeblood of our study tour to Northern Ireland. He facilitated deeper thought on the Irish communities’ search for justice and reconciliation, considering the atrocities of the Troubles. He always encouraged us to consider all perspectives of the conflict and helped me to unlock a deeper connection with social justice. That study tour was the most transformative experience of my life, and I owe my relationship with peace, justice and service to Dr. Aspan.”