Pitt English Department Adviser Recognized for Outstanding Dedication to Undergraduate Students

PITTSBURGH-Fiore Pugliano, senior adviser and lecturer in the University of Pittsburgh's Department of English in the School of Arts and Sciences, has been awarded the 2009 Ampco-Pittsburgh Prize for Excellence in Advising. The award, which carries a $4,000 cash prize, recognizes Arts and Sciences undergraduate advisers for their outstanding achievements.

David Bartholomae, chair of Pitt's Department of English, said Pugliano has played a key role in the overall development of Pitt's English program. "For more than 30 years, Fiore has touched the lives and careers of thousands of students in Arts and Sciences. He has helped to establish both the conventions and the high standards for advising that are currently in place," said Bartholomae, who also credits Pugliano for his role in the growth of the department. "Over the last few decades, we have carried out major revisions of our undergraduate curriculum. At every stage of the process, Fiore was an important player in overseeing, monitoring, and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the curriculum."

A resident of Greentree and lifelong Pittsburgh native, Pugliano has advised writing, literature, and film studies students since 1974. He also teaches courses in professional communications and has sponsored a number of student internships and independent studies for students at the University and with city government and the local business community.

Pugliano earned his BA degree at Duquesne University and both his MA and PhD degrees at Pitt. He has received the Alan Markman Prize for Excellence in Teaching, the Educational Council Award, and the Faculty Partner Award.

The Ampco-Pittsburgh Prize for Excellence in Advising is given annually to a full time faculty member who has served as a departmental adviser for at least three years at Pitt's Oakland campus. The award was established in 2006 through a contribution from the Ampco-Pittsburgh Corporation. Previous recipients of the award were George Bandik, Department of Chemistry, 2008; and Daniel Romesberg, Department of Sociology, 2007.

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