Community College of Rhode Island Announces 2026 Emeriti Faculty Honorees

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Warwick, R.I. – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announces the designation of Emeritus status for four distinguished retired faculty members in recognition of their decades of service, academic leadership, and dedication to student success.

The 2026 Faculty Emeriti honorees are Gerald Doran, Esq. (English), Dr. Deborah Notarianni-Girard (World Languages and Culture), Dr. Raymond Kilduff (Psychology), and Kathleen Gazzola (Dental Hygiene).

“These four educators embody the very best of CCRI,” said CCRI President Rosemary A. Costigan, Ph.D., RN. “Across decades of service, they have changed the lives of thousands of students, strengthened our academic programs, and helped shape the culture of this institution in lasting ways. Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom and is reflected in the success of our graduates and in the strength of our community. It is a privilege to recognize their extraordinary contributions and to welcome them into the ranks of our Emeriti faculty.”

2026 Emeriti Honorees:

Gerald Doran Esq., Professor of English -- Warwick, R.I.
Doran dedicated nearly 40 years to CCRI, beginning his career in 1989 as a Technical Staff Assistant before joining the English department full-time in 1993. Holding an M.Ed. and a J.D. from Suffolk University, he was promoted to Professor of English in 2005. During his tenure, he served as department chair and was a key contributor to numerous college committees, including the Curriculum Review Committee and the Sabbatical Review Committee.

(A headshot of Professor Doran is not available.)

Dr. Deborah Notarianni-Girard, Professor of World Languages and Culture -- Cranston, R.I.
Dr. Notarianni-Girard served CCRI for 37 years, including 15 years as department chair and 22 years directing the Study Abroad program. A regular publisher and presenter in her field, her extensive committee work included the Professional Development Committee, the Medical Interpreting Program Advisory Board, and the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning Advisory Board.

Dr. Raymond Kilduff, Professor of Psychology -- Johnston, R.I.
Serving in the Psychology department for 46 years — including 25 years as department chair — Dr. Kilduff also worked as a practicing psychologist for over 16 years. His research directly informed the development of CCRI’s Student Rating of Instruction System and its scheduling model. He co-chaired the General Education Committee and served on the Liberal Arts Committee, Curriculum Review Committee, and the College Senate.

Kathleen Gazzola, Professor of Dental Hygiene -- Lincoln, R.I.
Joining CCRI in 1987 as the second faculty member hired for the Dental Hygiene Program, Gazzola served as Department Chair and Program Director for 18 years, successfully leading multiple dental accreditations. A former Rhode Island Dental Hygienist of the Year, she served more than 12 years on the Rhode Island Board of Dental Examiners and developed licensure examinations for the Computer Simulated Clinical Examination. Her college service included the Faculty Senate, Chairs Council, and the Teaching and Assessment Committee.

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