Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Every year, The Catholic University of America honors an outstanding faculty member from each of its schools. This year, the Faculty of the Year Award from the Metropolitan School of Professional Studies was awarded to Joseph Chimienti, a professor at Catholic University – Tucson, a satellite program in Southern Arizona.

"We were delighted to recommend Joseph Chimienti for the Faculty of the Year Award," said Ellen Fisher, assistant director of Catholic University – Tucson.

Chimienti teaches courses in business strategy, business law, and leadership and organizations at Catholic University – Tucson. He is also developing a course in financial psychology. The university offers two bachelor’s degrees in management and interdisciplinary studies through a partnership with Pima Community College in a hybrid model, providing a more affordable four-year degree compared to other institutions.

With 11 years of experience in business law, Chimienti brings substantial expertise 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 acknowledges that "teaching is incredibly difficult." He added, "However, I have always enjoyed solving complex problems. Not many 18–24-year-olds find the law interesting. I enjoy finding ways to explain legal and business concepts practically while providing some context as to the 'why.' 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 future leaders."

Leaders at Catholic University – Tucson praised Chimienti's dedication beyond traditional instruction. 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," Fisher noted.

In his free time, Chimienti is active in his parish and school community at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (SEAS). “SEAS parish and school are 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."

As part of its faith-based mission, Catholic University – Tucson includes religious content in its curriculum. "I try to pray before every class for the right words, clarity, and wisdom," Chimienti explained.

Chimienti traveled to Washington D.C. for The Catholic University of America’s graduation with Tucson leaders Keiran Roche and Ellen Fisher, along with four 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."

Catholic University – Tucson affirmed that Joseph Chimienti embodies excellence in teaching and is highly deserving of this recognition.

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