Celebrating Anthony ‘Tony’ DeVeto, Westcliff University’s Most Engaging Faculty (COB)

At Westcliff University, we take pride in having some of the most dynamic and brilliant faculty members around. Among them, Anthony ‘Tony’ DeVeto M.S., M.A. stands out, having recently been named the 2023-2024 Most Engaging Faculty in the College of Business by his fellow peers. His dedication to student success and accessible teaching methods truly exemplify the excellence we strive for as an institution.

Unexpected Intervention

Sometimes inspiration comes from the most unexpected places. For DeVeto, his opportunity to finally venture into teaching came about thanks to a radio commercial he overheard while working as an associate manager at Target. “I was going about my usual day when a commercial came on the radio asking, ‘Would you like to be a University of Phoenix faculty member?’ I couldn’t believe it. I thought, ‘God, is that you?'” DeVeto recalls with a smile. “I’ve been yearning for an opportunity like this for a long, long time.”

That fortuitous radio commercial paved the way for a successful career in academia, with DeVeto teaching for more than 20 years, including at the University of Phoenix. Now, he carries his wealth of knowledge and experience to the classrooms at Westcliff University.

A Student-First Approach

Like most professors, DeVeto cherishes the challenge of connecting with students on a deep level and making class as engaging as possible. His teaching philosophy centers around making learning fun and memorable. “My mantra is to keep learning fun,” he explains. “I picture myself as them in the classroom. What would I want from a college experience? Definitely not ‘death by PowerPoint,'” Tony emphasizes.

However, it’s not just about taking classes lightly for DeVeto. He also brings a plethora of real-world experience into the classroom, providing students with practical case studies and valuable insights with each lecture. His unique approach ensures that students not only engage with the material in a meaningful way but also understand how to apply it to real-life situations.

This streamlined approach to teaching is the perfect gateway to welcome students from all walks of life to Westcliff classrooms.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

DeVeto’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is a cornerstone of who he is as a person. He recalls advice from a mentor: “Treat each learner in your classroom as though they were both a student and a customer,” he states. “Dignified, and allow [them] to speak their mind in a safe atmosphere.” This method ensures that all students feel respected and valued, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

He also emphasizes utilizing the university’s top-notch resources, such as the LITE Center and the Academic Research Center (ARC), ensuring students receive the maximum support during their time at Westcliff. “I beg my students, especially my international ESL students, I’d say, please book an appointment with a writing specialist at the ARC, the Academic Research Center, because they’re going to be great with you.”

A Heartfelt Thanks

Winning the Most Engaging Faculty award is a significant milestone for Tony. “It’s a validation…and I’m grateful and so thankful for Westcliff,” he says. Tony is dedicated to giving back to the university that has supported him, striving to ensure that future students and faculty benefit from the same positive experiences he has enjoyed.

“So that’s my story and I’m sticking to it,” he laughs.

In Tony DeVeto, Westcliff University has not only an outstanding educator but also a mentor for students. He is a passionate advocate for student engagement and inclusion so that students have a successful tenure during their time at Westcliff. His story is a powerful testament to the impact dedicated faculty can have on their students and the broader academic community. This dedication is a fundamental attribute that Westcliff University proudly upholds.

Congratulations once again to Tony DeVeto on being named Most Engaging Faculty in the College of Business!