Officially naming its Mechanical Engineering department after him, the School of Engineering and Computing honored Michael Zabinski, PhD, for his 55-year legacy in engineering education.
Michael Zabinski, PhD, professor of mechanical engineering, joined Fairfield University in 1969. Over the past five and a half decades, the valued professor and pioneer in the field of engineering education has made a lasting impact on the institution.
The dedication of the Michael P. Zabinski, PhD, Department of Mechanical Engineering began with remarks from Dean Andres Leonardo Carrano, PhD, who set the scene by inviting attendees to imagine Dr. Zabinski’s early years at Fairfield, lecturing about thermodynamics in the unairconditioned halls of the Bannow Science Center. Dr. Carrano emphasized the full-circle nature of the moment, honoring Dr. Zabinski’s contributions to the University in the exact place where his Fairfield career began.
Provost Christine Siegel, PhD celebrated Dr. Zabinski’s trailblazing role as an educator, including his involvement in establishing Fairfield’s renowned 3+2 engineering program. This initiative allowed students to study at Fairfield before transferring to prestigious engineering institutions such as University of Connecticut and Columbia University to complete their degrees. Dr. Siegel also highlighted Dr. Zabinski’s visionary efforts in founding the National Computer Camp, the first summer program of its kind, aimed at sparking interest in technology among middle and high school students. “Dr. Zabinski has been a true pioneer, laying the groundwork for Fairfield’s now-thriving engineering program,” said Dr. Siegel.
In her speech, Dr. Siegel noted Dr. Zabinski's dedication to students during his tenure at the University. “As a teacher, he was always dedicated to the growth and development of his students, some of whom are here today, many of whom have passed under his tutelage for 55 years.”
Fairfield University President Mark R. Nemec, PhD expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Zabinski’s contributions, acknowledging how his vision continues to shape the school’s evolving identity as a "modern, Jesuit Catholic University." Dr. Nemec spoke of the enduring dual legacy Dr. Zabinski embodies: celebrating the past while embracing the University’s future in engineering and technology. "Our challenge is to carry our 500-year tradition forward, and there’s no better symbol of that tradition than this newly named department," he said.
Dr. Zabinski’s closing remarks reflected his journey in academia, as a witness to the evolution of the engineering program. He said, “I’ve had the privilege of working with bright colleagues and great students. These great students, with their curiosity and excellence, have been the driving force behind my passion for teaching.” He recounted the phases of Fairfield Engineering: the early years of the 3+2 program, the transition to a four-year degree in 1994, and the bright future ahead with the anticipated expansion of engineering facilities. His words conveyed a deep sense of pride for his students and colleagues, emphasizing the importance of academic freedom and creativity in engineering education.
“Fairfield Engineering indeed has a very bright future and will continue to inspire excellence. I foresee a School of Engineering that encourages creativity with programs that integrate classroom learning with hands-on projects, research opportunities, and partnerships with industry,” said Dr. Zabinski.
Expressing gratitude to his family, colleagues, and Fairfield leadership, Dr. Zabinski acknowledged the collective effort that led to this honor. "I am privileged to have worked at Fairfield, a place that truly cherishes academic freedom and excellence," he said.
As Fairfield’s first named department, the Michael P. Zabinski, PhD, Department of Mechanical Engineering stands as a lasting tribute to Dr. Zabinski’s impact on Fairfield University and his life’s work in engineering education. The ceremony concluded with an outpouring of gratitude from friends, family, alumni, and colleagues.
