Faculty Awards Honor Educators Who Bring Out the Best in Their Students
Each year, Bentley recognizes faculty who bring learning to life — educators and mentors who challenge, support and inspire their students during every stage of their academic journeys.
These awards are especially meaningful because they’re based on heartfelt nominations from current students, alumni and peers. For many recipients, it’s the ultimate validation of what they consider not just a career but a calling. As Andy Aylesworth, one of this year’s honorees, shares, “Being a good teacher is all I’ve ever wanted to be, professionally. This award says I succeeded.”
Read on to learn more about our 2025 Faculty Award winners.
Adamian Award for Lifetime Teaching Excellence
Named in honor of Bentley’s fourth president, the Dr. Gregory H. Adamian Award for Lifetime Teaching Excellence recognizes a long-serving faculty member whose exceptional teaching contributions have enhanced both the reputation of the university and the development of its students.
Michael Quinn, Professor of Economics
Since joining Bentley’s faculty in 2002, Quinn has helped shape the academic and professional experiences of hundreds of Bentley students. He’s taught a variety of courses — from Falcon Discovery Seminars for first-year students to advanced courses in the university’s Executive PhD in Business program — reflecting both his range as an instructor and his dedication to student learning.
A highly sought-after mentor, Quinn has supervised dissertations with numerous PhD students. He has also advised more than 50 undergraduates in the Honors Program on their independent research projects. And he has co-authored academic papers with dozens of undergraduate and doctoral students, helping them translate classroom learning into original scholarship.
“Mike’s ability to convey complex economic concepts with clarity and enthusiasm has consistently earned him high praise from students and colleagues alike,” says Dave Gulley, professor and chair of the Economics department. “His personal motto, ‘Caring doesn’t have an expiration date,’ reflects his dedication to supporting students throughout their entire Bentley experience — and beyond. He continues to advise students long after they have completed his courses, providing mentorship and career advice.”
“As an international student from Mongolia, adapting to life at Bentley was challenging. The cultural shift was daunting, and it was often difficult to feel a sense of belonging.
Fortunately, Professor Quinn was my Falcon Discovery Seminar instructor, and from the very first class, he fostered an environment of warmth, humor and genuine care. He goes out of his way to ask thoughtful questions that invite all students into the conversation, creating a space where everyone — regardless of where they come from — feels seen, heard and valued.
I’ve had the privilege of serving as peer leader for two of Professor Quinn’s Falcon Discovery Seminars and have witnessed firsthand how he transforms the classroom: every session was filled with laughter, intellectual curiosity and heartfelt connection. He’s the most supportive professor I’ve encountered at Bentley and has been a guiding light for me and countless others.”
“As my advisor and dissertation co-chair, Mike read every draft, asked the questions I was avoiding and never let me settle for a convenient answer. He set a relentlessly high bar while making it clear he believed I could reach it.
He pushed my thinking, celebrated my small wins, and showed me by example how to balance high standards with genuine care for students. The habits I rely on today — as a researcher, a teacher and a mentor — can be traced directly to those years working with him and the countless hours I spent in his office.
Mike’s steady guidance and confidence in my potential have had a lasting impact on my career. His mentorship still guides me to this day each time I teach a new course, work on a new project or advise a student of my own. I’m very fortunate to have had him as a mentor and continue having him as a friend.”
Sami Ghaddar, PhD ’21
Assistant Professor of Strategy, University of Connecticut
Adamian Award for Excellence in Teaching
The Gregory H. Adamian Award for Excellence in Teaching honors faculty members whose passion for teaching and commitment to student success reflect the highest standards of academic excellence. Recipients bring innovative approaches to the classroom, encouraging students to think critically and creatively.
Andy Aylesworth, Professor of Marketing
Since joining Bentley’s faculty in 1994, Aylesworth has inspired learners across every stage of their academic journeys. Whether working with first-year students in Falcon Discovery Seminars or career-focused professionals in the university’s Mini MBA and Professional MBA programs, he’s known for his ability to foster enriching classroom environments.
Aylesworth is also known for his interdisciplinary approach to teaching. He has co-taught courses alongside colleagues from the university’s Sociology, English and Media Studies, and Experience Design departments. His ability to bridge disciplines not only enhances student learning but also reflects his deep curiosity and collaborative spirit.
Students and colleagues alike describe his energy as infectious. “With his trademark enthusiasm, Andy challenges students to think deeply and creatively,” says Chris Beneke, associate dean of the First-Year Experience and Bentley Core. “He’s an inspiring teacher and dedicated colleague who makes Bentley a wonderful place to teach and learn.”
“Having enjoyed the privilege of taking Professor Aylesworth’s Enhancing Creativity (MK 758) course, I've witnessed firsthand his exceptional approach to teaching and unwavering commitment to student success.
Professor Aylesworth creates a classroom environment where students feel empowered to explore, challenge ideas and push their intellectual boundaries. His inclusive teaching style ignites curiosity and engages even the most introverted students, fostering collaboration and creativity.
Even more remarkable is his deep concern for students and their academic growth. He's always available for guidance, whether in class or during office hours, and he genuinely cares about his students’ progress and well-being. His passion for teaching is evident in the way he interacts with students: he is an attentive listener who offers thoughtful feedback and ensures that every individual receives the support they need to thrive.”
Valerie Sullivan, Adjunct Lecturer in Management
Sullivan, who began teaching at Bentley in 2016, believes future business leaders need to be mentally agile, emotionally attuned and consistently focused on the greater good. In her signature course, Interpersonal Relations in Management (MG 240), she helps students develop these qualities by exploring topics like verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening and conflict management.
A proponent of mindfulness, Sullivan introduces students to simple meditation techniques that can reduce stress, increase productivity and help them remain focused and objective in high-pressure situations. She also shares practical advice and real-world expertise drawn from her extensive professional experience as a C-suite leader in the health industry.
Sullivan views teaching as more than sharing knowledge. For her, it’s a way to help students become the best versions of themselves. She frequently invites Bentley alumni to share their perspectives as guest lecturers, and hopes her students, in turn, will become leaders who care deeply about the growth of those around them.
“Valerie’s dedication to her students is exemplary,” says Linda Edelman, Rhodes Professor of Management. “She finds innovative ways to build connections in the classroom — for example, having students record podcasts in small groups — that illustrate the importance of building positive, productive and collaborative working relationships.”
“It’s rare to find a mentor whose inspiration continues to shine brightly years after taking their course. Throughout my time at Bentley and the internships I’ve had the privilege to experience, Professor Sullivan has been a resourceful mentor, a supportive advocate and a caring friend.
She has consistently gone above and beyond, and her approach to teaching extends far beyond that of a lecturer’s duties. Her professional experience and sincere care for her students — both past and present — have been a pillar of support throughout my college career.
As I begin my journey in the professional world, I carry with me the lessons I learned in her classroom. I aspire to emulate her qualities — being as resourceful, trustworthy and influential to others as she has been to me.”
Yu Ueno ’25
Consultant, Copenhagen Optimization
Cronin Award for Excellence in Academic Advising and Mentoring
Named in honor of Bentley’s fifth president, the Joseph M. Cronin Award for Excellence in Academic Advising and Mentoring is selected solely from student nominations. It honors a faculty member who goes above and beyond in guiding students through their academic journeys and supporting their personal and professional development.
Len Pepe, MSA ’79, Senior Lecturer in Accounting
After earning a master’s from Bentley in 1979, Pepe built a successful 45-year career in the accounting profession. He returned to his alma mater in 2010 to begin what he calls his “second career” in academia.
Pepe spent eight years as an adjunct lecturer before joining the faculty full-time in 2018. Today, he serves as director of the university’s Advanced Standing in Accounting and Master’s in Accounting programs. He teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses and enhances classroom learning by sharing his personal and professional insights.
Pepe is committed to fostering in his students the same sense of purpose and possibility that defined his own Bentley experience. He devotes much of his time to mentoring and advising, helping students navigate majors, internships and careers.
“What sets Len apart is how deeply he cares,” says Senior Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences Jeff Gulati. “His students describe him not only as a guide, but a lifeline — someone who shows up with equal parts expertise and compassion, helping them make tough decisions and embrace new opportunities.”
“Professor Pepe’s ability to connect with students and create a fun learning environment is second to none, and his passion for accounting and the auditing profession is palpable. He truly cares about his students and goes to great lengths to ensure they comprehend all of the course material.
There’s also never a dull moment in his classroom. His relaxed manner and knack for jokes and storytelling sets his students’ minds at ease, even during stressful exam weeks.
Over the years, Professor Pepe has become an outstanding mentor to me and has greatly influenced my decision to pursue a career as an auditor (and hopefully make partner one day!). He's taught me that with hard work, a great attitude and a hunger to learn, there’s nothing that I can’t succeed in. I'm eternally grateful for all he has done for me.”
Carter Ferrara ’26