Thesis I and II are a great opportunity for students to blend theoretical concepts learned in the classroom and apply it to an empirical research study in their specific concentration. This allows the students to be up to date with current theory and practice in their discipline, become experts in an academic area, and learn to make real world applications based on the results. It is a unique opportunity that helps Endicott students distinguish themselves from students from other schools.

I once heard someone say that Endicott students are poised to be surprised. I believe the thesis experience is one of the times where this is true. Students enter the first semester filled with questions, stories​,​ and dread about what’s to come. They exit the second semester feeling a sense of surprise at their ability to persevere and pride in what they have accomplished. Witnessing this process over the past 16 years continues to be some of the most gratifying and joyful experiences I have had. Congratulations to all of the students who successfully completed their thesis journey this year.

I teach thesis because it is enjoyable to see our students use the knowledge and skills they have acquired during their time here to create a project that speaks to their interests within the field. It allows us faculty to see how our students have grown through their time at Endicott and gives us a glimpse of their bright futures in the field.

The teaching of thesis (for close to twenty five years) is a very personal pleasure of mine for two very important reasons. One, most of the work that my students do is outside of my expertise and therefore, becomes a significant learning opportunity for me. The excitement that my students have in discussing their research with me and their colleagues is a tangible step in their academic development. They will have confidence to excel in graduate work and professional training leading them into important professional careers. Secondly, and more poignantly, it is an opportunity to academically say goodbye to my students after they have completed the requirements of an undergraduate education. While they sometimes see the thesis process as the beginning of the end what they will come to realize is that it is the end of the beginning with wonderful things ahead.

I have truly enjoyed teaching Senior Thesis for the past 12 years. I’ve witnessed students putting a lot of effort into their thesis projects and striving to their fullest potential when they work with the topics they are passionate about. Seeing the students’ progress from the beginning to the end is a very rewarding experience.

I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to work with our Sport Management seniors in Senior Thesis II this semester. It is so rewarding not only to see these students apply their learning and become an expert in a unique area of their academic discipline but also to see them evolve in their critical thinking and analytical skills, commitment to their discipline, maturity and self-confidence. It has been a pleasure growing and learning with each of them.