Office Space: Dominic DelliCarpini

Dominic DelliCarpini, a faculty member at York College since 1997 and Naylor Endowed Professor of Writing Studies, has also served in several administrative roles—Writing Program Director, Dean of Academic Affairs, Dean of the Center for Community Engagement, and Executive Director of the Graham Center for Collaborative Innovation. He has published five textbooks as well as numerous articles and book chapters. Dr. DelliCarpini served as President of the National Council of Writing Program Administrators and Secretary of The Conference on College Composition and Communication. He received the 2017 Spirit of York County Award for community service, and the 2010 Professional Service and Leadership Award by the York College Board of Trustees. He serves on the boards of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, York County Community Foundation, York County Bar Foundation, Healthy York Coalition, and various other community organizations.

1. My father's diploma from Garment Cutting School and Honorable Discharge from the Army

Remembering my heritage as a first-generation college graduate is a large part of my identity.  My father, an Italian immigrant, served his adopted country in World War II and worked hard in the sweat shops of New York City so that his children could have better lives and receive university educations.

2. A blackboard wall and lots of post-it notes 

As a writer, I know the value of sharing ideas through words. My blackboard wall allows me to collaborate with others, and my Post-its (a staple for Design Thinking) allow us to gather multiple ideas and see how they fit together.

3. A standing desk for me and gathering spaces for others

Those who know me also know that I can’t sit still. So, for me, a standing desk; for others, a welcome to sit, converse, and collaborate.

4. A photograph of my lovely wife, Rabiya

In the end, my wife is the center of my private life and a partner in my social justice work. When I look at her photograph, I remember the “why” of my life, but also how much of our relationship is based on our shared advocacy work.

5. A bookcase filled with the literature that reminds me how much words have mattered to me

A past professor told me that the reason we read literature is that at the difficult times of our lives, the words of great authors will bolster our strength and save our lives. Those books are filled with inspiration for tough times—as is my head, which is filled with their powerful words. Words matter!