Remembering Professor Helene Napolitano

Helene S. Napolitano, Ph.D., longtime Full Professor and Chair of the Education Department at Marymount Manhattan College, passed away on November 23, 2017 at her home in Stamford, CT.

Dr. Napolitano earned her Ph.D. from Fordham University while working full-time and raising her four children. She then served as an esteemed faculty member of the MMC community for many years, beginning her career at MMC in 1969 as an Assistant Professor of Education.

While at MMC, Napolitano served as the Chair of the Division of Psychology and Education and became the Chair of the Department of International Studies later in her career. As part of her responsibilities, she was active in educational organizations beyond MMC’s Education Department. A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, she was a proud member of the New York State Chapter of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, and served as its president from 1985–1986. She was also part of the Confederated Organization of Teacher Educators and the Teacher Education Conference Board.

Napolitano was predeceased by her husband, Benjamin, to whom she was married for 60 years. She is survived by her sister, four children, and seven grandchildren. Our condolences go out to her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched at MMC. 

A burial mass will be celebrated on November 30 in Stamford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to The American Indian College Fund, The Connecticut Food Bank, and The Robin Hood Foundation.

Published: November 28, 2017