With three Seton Hall University degrees to his name, Thomas Massarelli, Ph.D., was among an elite group of educators to be honored with a professional development award from Kappa Delta Pi (KDP). A professor in the department of professional psychology and family therapy, Dr. Massarelli has been directing the school and community psychology program at his New Jersey alma mater for the past 14 years.

As it turns out, Massarelli was surprised to find out he had been recognized by the international honor society in education. A university colleague nominated Massarelli for his program titled “Intervention with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Students,” which was sponsored by Seton Hall’s KDP Xi Gamma chapter.

In his own words, Massarelli said, “I am very thankful to KDP for allowing me to present my research. It is a wonderful experience to present to students. I remember many of my professors who gave back to me and I think I’m in a position now to give back.”  

A longtime champion of adolescents with learning disabilities, Massarelli has accumulated numerous accolades for his work. He received the school psychologist of the year award from the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists. Massarelli was also honored with a certificate from the New Jersey Department of Education Governor's Teacher Recognition Program. In addition, the practicing school psychologist has been recognized for his teaching strategies, which targeted development issues for those suffering with autism. His award winning program showcased diversity, used experts for support, involved alumni, and received audience feedback, making it the perfect match for the governor’s award.

Following the success of program, Massarelli and Dr. Patrick O’Halloran, another colleague plan to enhance the autism intervention program and present it at the New Jersey Education Association convention in Atlantic City in November.

Massarelli explained that Kappa Delta Pi workshops are a good place for educators and psychologists to get the word out on new techniques. He has been an active member of KDP for over 20 years and plans to continue his involvement. Kappa Delta Pi was established in 1911 to recognize and promote excellence in education, provide a reasoned voice for significant issues, and link educators. The organization currently has more than 600 chapters and 43,000 members worldwide.

For more information please contact:
Thomas Massarelli, Ph.D.
(973) 313-6129
thomas.massarelli@shu.edu