Daniel Purcell ’22
English Teacher, Onondaga Central School District
As a kid, Daniel Purcell admired his parents who were teachers and coaches. This first-hand experience in the classroom and on the sports field influenced his career interests at an early age. Fisher’s inclusive adolescence education program allowed Purcell to receive dual certification in general education and special education.
Today, Purcell is a ninth-grade English teacher at Onondaga Central School District. He also coaches the varsity football and baseball teams. He attributes his effectiveness in these roles to the skills he developed while at Fisher. “Differentiation, equitability, adaptability, and forward-thinking are only a few of the essential concepts that I was taught, and I implement them in my ninth-grade English class every day.”
Purcell appreciated Fisher’s student-centered approach to academics. “I took several rigorous courses, but the small class sizes really helped me build rapport with my professors,” he explained. “I graduated summa cum laude because I was surrounded by a great group of faculty and advisors that created a welcoming environment.”
At Fisher, Purcell found the confidence he needed to succeed. He recommends this program to anyone who loves to learn while empowering others to learn too. “Our world is constantly changing. Teachers need to be curious, excited, and fearless learners ready to experiment, fail, and innovate all the time. Our goal as educators is to cultivate lifelong learners, so we must model that learning ourselves.”
Meghan Ficarra ’22
Senior Clinical Product Manager
Meghan Ficarra describes the DNP program at Fisher as transformative. Entering the program with experience as a clinical nurse specialist, she believes she emerged with refined leadership skills and the confidence necessary for a variety of roles. “The DNP program is rigorous and requires the student to be self-motivated, highly organized, possess strong leadership skills, and be an excellent communicator and collaborator. I wouldn’t have the same confidence I have now had I not completed the DNP program at Fisher.”
She currently works at a health care IT company as a senior clinical product manager, overseeing a nurse residency program and a continuing education library. She credits her success in this position to the skills she developed during her time at Fisher. “The DNP program gave me complete confidence to take on new roles and challenges. The program furthered my belief in my abilities to perform as a leader, regardless of the role.”
Ficarra recommends the DNP program to prospective students interested in leadership. “When considering the DNP program, think about where you see yourself in the future. Regardless of the role or setting, if you envision yourself as a leader and someone who wants to advocate for the nursing profession and influence positive change within health care, this is a great program to consider.”
Elijah Hemingway III ’22
Ambulatory Technician at University of Rochester Medical Center, aspiring physician
Since he was a child, Elijah Hemingway III knew his calling was to help others. Now on a journey to become a physician, he is fueled by his “love for science in clinical contexts and a strong desire to help individuals live long, healthy, and happy lives.” While preparing for medical school, he works as an ambulatory technician at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
Hemingway III believes the faculty at Fisher bolstered his success. “The professors encouraged me and went out of their way to help me understand the curriculum and succeed in class.” Mentors challenged him to develop hands-on experience and conduct undergraduate research. “Each research opportunity allowed me to improve my skills and learn valuable information, and I am much more confident and comfortable in research investigation.”
He encourages others with similar interests and passions to pursue a path at Fisher. “The courses are thorough, and the smaller class sizes allow students to receive direct help from professors as needed. The program is challenging yet highly rewarding.”
Madelynn Tibbetts ’23
Theology Teacher at Bishop Ludden Junior-Senior High School
Madelynn Tibbetts’ interactions with the Office of Campus Ministry at Fisher influenced her decision to work in ministry. “The Office of Campus Ministry provided endless support during my time on campus which has helped me grow throughout the years,” she explained. Her experiences and personal faith background inspired her to major in religious studies as an undergraduate student.
She believes the program broadened her understanding while solidifying her convictions. “The program at Fisher allowed me to learn more about my own religion and other religions as well. I got to hear perspectives from my professors and peers that may have differed from mine but also added to my knowledge.”
Now, she recommends the program to others as an opportunity for personal growth. “For anyone with the slightest inclination to study religion at Fisher: go for it!” She is looking forward to her new position as a theology teacher at Bishop Ludden Junior-Senior High School.