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June 25, 2024By Carissa Krautscheid
Every year, The Catholic University of America awards an outstanding faculty member from each of its schools. This year, one of their Faculty of the Year Awards was bestowed upon a professor at Catholic University – Tucson, a satellite program offered right here in Southern Arizona.
The Catholic University of America named Tucson professor, Joseph Chimienti, the recipient of the Faculty of the Year Award from the Metropolitan School of Professional Studies. “We were delighted to recommend Joseph Chimienti for the Faculty of the Year Award,” said Ellen Fisher, assistant director of Catholic University – Tucson. Chimienti has taught three courses at Catholic University – Tucson: business strategy, business law, and leadership and organizations. He is also working to create a course in financial psychology. Catholic University – Tucson offers two bachelor’s degrees in management and interdisciplinary studies. By partnering with Pima Community College in a hybrid model, Catholic University – Tucson offers a four-year degree at a much more affordable rate than other Catholic institutions or even in-state universities.
With 11 years of experience in business law, Chimienti brings a wealth of knowledge to his students. “My wife likes to tell people I am a recovering lawyer,” he said. “When the pandemic struck, I needed to take a step back to help care for our young children while everything was closed. I started teaching because of the flexibility and figured it may be fun.”
Chimienti admits that “teaching is incredibly difficult,” he said. “However, I have always enjoyed solving complex problems. Not many 18–24-year-olds find the law to be interesting. I enjoy finding ways to explain legal and business concepts in a practical manner while providing some context as to the ‘why.’ I think my favorite part about teaching is witnessing students grow their understanding and skill sets (hopefully I helped in that). I am lucky enough to have students through multiple semesters and get to see them become the future leaders of tomorrow.”
Leaders at Catholic University – Tucson lauded how Chimienti “goes beyond traditional instruction, serving as a dedicated educator and mentor to his students. Feedback from students highlights his enthusiasm for legal processes, engaging personality, and ability to relate complex concepts through real-life stories. Joseph's personal investment in his students is evident in his outreach efforts and willingness to share his own experiences to inspire them. Moreover, his commitment to enriching the curriculum by inviting influential speakers from the local community underscores his dedication to providing a holistic and impactful learning experience,” Fisher said.
In his free time, Chimienti is active in his parish and school community at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (SEAS). “SEAS parish and school is filled with wonderful people,” he said. “I completed the RCIA program at SEAS and everyone has always been very welcoming. I volunteer there as a recess monitor and as a boys and girls basketball coach. I also recently joined the school board. I love our SEAS community. Fr. Lucero and Principal Pickett are continuing to grow and shape a wonderful parish and school. As I have gone through my faith journey, Fr. Lucero has always been a great mentor.”
As a Catholic institution, Catholic University – Tucson includes “faith-based content in all of the curriculum,” Chimienti explained. “I also try to pray before every class for the right words, clarity, and wisdom to convey to students. I pray extra when I know there may be tough assignments due that day.”
Chimienti traveled to Washington D.C. for The Catholic University of America’s graduation, alongside Tucson leaders, Keiran Roche and Ellen Fisher, and the four first graduates from the Tucson program. “I decided to take my family to see D.C.,” said Chimienti, “and was humbled by my daughters' sense of pride in the school, the students, and the award. They couldn't help but to tell everyone we met that their dad won an award and his students graduated. I don't recall them ever saying anything to random people about me being a lawyer.”
Catholic University – Tucson affirms the institution’s decision to name Joseph Chimienti Faculty of the Year because he “truly embodies excellence in teaching and is highly deserving of this recognition.”