The Bloustein School is pleased to announce that Anita Franzione, Full Professor of Teaching, is the 2026 recipient of the Jerome G. Rose Excellence in Teaching Award.
The award is presented annually to a full-time faculty member committed to quality teaching, outstanding commitment to student achievement, and dedication to student mentorship. Faculty and graduate students from all of the Bloustein School’s graduate programs nominate recipients.
Anita Franzione has been in the field of health care for over 30 years working in all sectors of health care from ambulatory care settings to acute care hospitals, nonprofit agencies, long term care organizations, for-profit insurance companies, and quality improvement organizations and in different specialties, including mental health and HIV/ADIS services. She teaches in the Bloustein School’s undergraduate public health and health administration majors, including Health Care Systems, Principles of Public Health, Public Health and Aging, and Internship.
The Rose Awards Committee noted that Dr. Franzione earned five separate nominations from students who consistently emphasized her exceptional commitment to their growth both inside and outside the classroom. Described as a transformative mentor who takes the time to know students personally, she is known to offer individualized guidance that builds confidence, particularly for those navigating college for the first time. Her teaching was praised for making complex healthcare concepts accessible, engaging, and directly applicable to real-world contexts through hands-on projects. Students highlighted her ability to foster inclusive, supportive classroom environments that balance intellectual challenge with genuine care for student well-being.
One student noted, “As a first-generation student, I entered Rutgers uncertain of how to navigate the undergraduate path. Professor Franzione took the time to meet with me throughout my first semester, not just to offer support but to also challenge me to think critically about my goals. Her guidance reshaped how I saw myself, from a struggling student navigating college to a person who realized they are more than capable of succeeding… As I prepare for graduation and medical school, I can say with certainty that my growth and success are a direct reflection of her compassion and commitment to student success.”
A second student noted, “To me, a great professor is one who not only teaches a subject, but truly educates their students. In every class I have taken with Professor Franzione, she ensures that each student not only completes assignments, but also develops a deep understanding of the material. By using her field experience, she connects with students in a way that allows them to apply Health Administration concepts beyond the classroom, in their future careers and everyday lives.”
From a third student: “Professor Franzione creates an inclusive and intellectually stimulating classroom environment where students are encouraged to think critically and participate actively. She goes beyond traditional instruction by genuinely investing in her students, offering guidance, mentorship, and support for both academic and professional growth. Her passion for healthcare administration is evident in every class, motivating students to strive for excellence and develop as future leaders in the field. She challenges her students while also providing the support needed to succeed, leaving a lasting and positive impact on their academic journeys.”
Dr. Rose was a Distinguished Professor of planning and environmental law at the Bloustein School from 1969 to 1996 and endowed this teaching award. At his retirement dinner, he declared, “My twenty-seven years at Rutgers have been the best years of my life.” He passed away in 2013 following a brief illness.