Carl Viola Awarded The Pinnacle
Madison, NJ (June 8, 2007) — In ceremonies held at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s College at Florham in Madison, N.J., on June 8, 2007, Carl Viola was inducted into The Pinnacle, the highest award the University can bestow on its alumni. Pinnacle recipients are chosen on the basis of success or distinction in their chosen fields; significant contributions to society and humanity through public or humanitarian service; and outstanding service to the University, or reflection of the unique character of Fairleigh Dickinson in their lives.
Viola is executive vice president at Fairleigh Dickinson University, the largest private university in New Jersey.
During the past 17 years, Viola has made significant contributions to the University. His many noteworthy achievements include turning an operation with 17 years of deficit budgets into an operation with eight consecutive annual operating surpluses and securing funding for more than $150 million in new construction projects.
Viola is a member of the leadership team that is establishing the University’s newest branch campus in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Prior to joining Fairleigh Dickinson University, he spent 11 years with the New Jersey Department of Higher Education. In his last position at the Department, he served as the director of the Office of Institutional Relations.
Viola is an active member of various industry organizations, such as the American Council on Education. He is also the recipient of numerous awards and honors, such as the Presidential Certificate of Achievement, a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for Vietnam Service (1968-69).
Viola earned his master’s degree in public administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Stockton State College.
Kenneth Vehrkens, dean of FDU’s Anthony J. Petrocelli College of Continuing Studies and associate vice president for lifelong learning, presented the award, saying, “You’ve developed an incredible career which spans more than 30 years. It’s apparent that you give your all to your business, to your family, and to your University. As a gifted leader, husband, father and friend, you inspire the best in all of us; your University takes great pride in awarding you The Pinnacle.”