Chapman University has recognized a group of non-tenure-track faculty members for promotion, reflecting their continued excellence in teaching, professional practice, and service to the university.
Non-tenure-track faculty are generally eligible for promotion after six years at their current rank. The review process mirrors many elements of tenure-track advancement, while allowing for flexibility in evaluation criteria that emphasize teaching effectiveness, scholarly or creative activity, and service.
These faculty members play a vital role in delivering Chapman’s personalized approach to education, bringing industry expertise and a strong commitment to student success into the classroom. Many bring professional experience from outside academia — as pharmacists, attorneys, performers, and engineers — enriching the classroom with real-world expertise.
Promotion to Instructional Associate Professor
Six faculty members have been promoted from assistant to instructional associate professor:
Maryam Etezadbrojerdi, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Fowler School of Engineering
Etezadbrojerdi’s work spans radar, optical, and digital signal processing, with a focus on emerging technologies such as photonic sensors, intelligent sensing systems, and health monitoring applications.
Cristina Fuentes, Spanish, Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Fuentes has advanced language education at Chapman as director of the lower-division Spanish program, leading curriculum development and supporting inclusive teaching practices. Her work also includes the creation of Chapman’s Portuguese program and research in educational technology and media studies.
Kate Hill, Biological Sciences, Schmid College of Science and Technology
Hill is a scientist and educator focused on equitable teaching in STEM. Her research has explored marine sponge ecosystems, while her teaching emphasizes inquiry-based learning and inclusive practices that support student success.
Manjari Murali, Health Sciences, Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences
An emergency medical technician and certified mindfulness instructor, Murali brings a background in healthcare and education to her teaching. Her experience across institutions and work with the Alzheimer’s Association inform her commitment to student well-being.
Janice Park, Music, Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music, College of Performing Arts
Park teaches piano performance and pedagogy and is recognized for her impact on student achievement, including receiving the Shaun Naidoo Legacy Award. An active performer and educator, she continues to mentor students and contribute to the broader music community.
Jorge Facio Rodriguez, Education, Attallah College of Educational Studies
Rodriguez’s work explores culture, power, and equity in education. His teaching and research emphasize critical media literacy, ethnic studies, and culturally responsive practices that foster student engagement and empowerment.
Promotion to Clinical Associate Professor
Two faculty members have been promoted from assistant to clinical associate professor:
Neeloufar Fakourfar, Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy
Fakourfar is a clinical educator and ambulatory care pharmacist who teaches skills-based courses in communication, ethics, and clinical practice. She also provides patient care and mentors students in hands-on learning environments focused on improving health outcomes.
Hindu Rao, Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy
Rao is an ambulatory care pharmacist whose work focuses on chronic disease management and patient care. Her teaching and research emphasize digital health, pharmacist-led care, and improving outcomes in primary care settings.
Promotion to Associate Professor
Two faculty members have been promoted from assistant to associate professor:
Gary Fong, Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy
Fong is a clinical pharmacist specializing in infectious diseases and pharmacokinetics. His research focuses on antifungal resistance and treatment optimization, while his teaching emphasizes active learning and mentorship in clinical education.
Nahal Kazemi, Fowler School of Law
Kazemi teaches courses in torts, civil litigation, and national security law, informed by her experience in legal practice and the U.S. Foreign Service. Her scholarship focuses on rule of law, national security, and global political systems.
Promotion to Clinical Full Professor
One faculty member has been promoted from associate to clinical full professor:
Niklas Myhr, Marketing, Argyros College of Business and Economics
Known as “The Social Media Professor,” Myhr is an expert in digital and global marketing. An author and international speaker, his work on the evolving digital landscape has been featured in major media outlets and recognized globally.