Horizons Fall 2015

31 NSU HORIZONS “I was really delighted and surprised,” Tworoger said of her award, especially the Faculty of the Year. “It’s voted on by the faculty and staff, and it is really fantastic. The criteria include your teaching and your service, both at school and in the community.” Setting an example for community service through her own charitable work, Tworoger has been recognized by the Philharmonic Society, the March of Dimes, and Leadership Broward for her work in the community. And, she has served many other organiza- tions. Currently, her focus lies with the Fort Lauderdale Independence Training & Education (FLITE) Center, an organi- zation that serves young people between the ages of 18 and 23 who have aged out of the foster care system. “It is a tremendous need,” Tworoger said. “These young people have grown up in the foster care system, and then suddenly, they are no longer getting fund- ing from the state. You think about the role of family, how closely so many of our adult kids are connected to us, and then realize these kids don’t have adults in their lives.” IMPORTANT PREPARATION Tworoger believes arts education is an important part of preparing students for the M.B.A. “I teach a class on innova- tion,” she said. “When you look at the tools needed to be innovative, a good understanding of literature, music, and art are right up there. All those things inspire creative think- ing and good critical thinking skills. I, personally, believe the humanities are essential for creativity.” The faculty committee developing The Real-World M.B.A. found that NSU’s Huizenga College of Business already was known for its emphasis on real-world applications, Tworoger said. The Real-World M.B.A. will expand the program and bring in more students. “We’re looking forward to really exciting things,” she said. The newM.B.A. program will benefit both full-time students pursuing a graduate degree now and those working on their degree while also employed, Tworoger said. The new program is designed so students can work at their own pace, finishing quickly, in a year or two, or taking much longer if necessary. “Some students are working, so they are going to attend class at night, on weekends, and even online,” Tworoger said. “You can take one course at a time if you want. It just depends on individual needs.” n Leslie Tworoger discusses business practices with doctoral student Arlene Ramkissoon, seated at left; freshman Sanya Rashad, seated at right; freshman Mareena Kashif, standing; and sophomore Edward Valenz.