When you’re considering where to go to college, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items: campus life, academic programs, career outcomes, etc. But have you ever stopped to think about the people who will guide you through your college journey? At Merrimack, our faculty members are more than just instructors — they’re mentors, researchers and advocates who are deeply committed to your success!
Many Merrimack students highlight the personal guidance they’ve received from their professors, who go beyond academics to mentor students in their personal and professional lives. Megan Sargent ’22 remembers this pivotal advice from Dr. Anthony Fernandez:
“While struggling with a complex concept in organic chemistry, he told me, ‘Take a leap backwards, focus on the small steps, and the big picture will come together.’ That lesson has stayed with me.”
Merrimack’s faculty members are deeply invested in hands-on learning. Students often collaborate with professors on groundbreaking research projects. Heather Marszalkows ’23 reflects on her experience under the guidance of Dr. Leena Bharath:
“While at Merrimack, I worked in the MitoCure lab run by Dr. Leena Bharath. As someone who aspires to one day work in a research lab, doing so on campus has been a great experience! I also had the incredible opportunity to be listed as a co-author on a published article which wouldn’t have been possible without Dr. Bharath.”
The faculty and student relationships at Merrimack create an environment where students feel supported as they navigate their academic and personal journeys. Professor Barry Hopping encouraged students, like Stella Benedetto ’25, to see beyond their struggles:
“He taught me that difficulties don’t define you. With his guidance, I overcame self-doubt and grew into someone ready to take on bigger challenges.”
At Merrimack, faculty don’t just encourage students to dream big—they actively help them bring those dreams to life. Professor Jake Turner helped Patrick Maguire ’26 launch a pregame show for hockey games:
“When I toured the department, Professor Turner said, ‘Whatever ideas you have, we’ll make them happen.’ He followed through by supporting our pregame show idea, and now we’ve hosted four shows! I just love how faculty will always turn our ideas into a reality and wants us to keep coming up with new ideas.”
Merrimack faculty members exemplify kindness, empathy and community care. Dr. Janet Ierardi shared heartfelt stories about patient care, which inspired Logan Lattime ’23 to become a Registered Nurse:
“She taught me to build meaningful connections with patients, reminding me that the impact we have on each other is mutual.”
The Merrimack faculty difference isn’t just about expertise; it’s about connection, mentorship and the shared commitment to making every student’s potential a reality. Click below to explore their latest work and impact!
