March 9, 2022

Last year the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design at Drexel University lost one of its greatest champions, David S. Raizman, Ph.D. As a former Interim Dean and Emeritus Professor, David spent more than thirty years as a member of the faculty and as an administrator for Westphal College. To celebrate his memory, family and friends established the David S. Raizman Endowed Memorial Award. His energy and leadership impacted hundreds of colleagues and this Award will be given in his name for perpetuity.

The Award recognizes a current faculty member who exemplifies distinguished service, teaching, and leadership in accordance with the values of the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design. Nick Anselmo, Teaching Professor and Theatre Program Director, was named the inaugural recipient in fall 2021. According to the nominator, “[Nick] personifies the Westphal vision of ‘interdisciplinary creative practice’ in his facilitation,” and went on to add that “Nick has never applied for an award at Drexel. He is too focused on doing his job and providing for his students to seek this kind of outside acknowledgement. I believe not only is Nick deserving of this award, but his scholarship and work with students, faculty and community would bring meaning and honor to the award itself.” Nick, who had the opportunity to work directly with David, truly exemplifies the spirit of the Award.

Going forward, the David S. Raizman Endowed Memorial Award will be granted each spring to a deserving faculty member nominated and selected by Westphal colleagues and the Dean. Because of many generous supporters, this Award will ensure David’s legacy lives on at Drexel.

If you would like to make a gift in David’s memory, we invite you to visit giving.drexel.edu/Raizman or direct a check to Drexel University, PO Box 8215, Philadelphia, PA 19101-9684.