40 Years of Educating, mentorship, and Leadership

Dr. Gary L. Rose, professor and chair of the Department of Government, has begun his 41st year at Sacred Heart University. 

He has published nearly 15 books during this time. Rose’s longest publication was “Haywire,” an 800-page chronology of the 2016 presidential election. Aside from his books, Rose is also known for his political commentary and can often be heard and seen on the radio and television. 

Although he is known for these many achievements in the political and academic world, his students view him under a different scope. For many students who’ve taken his courses, Rose is known for going the extra mile. 

“Dr. Rose is someone who shows passion through everything he does. He inspires all of us to fully develop arguments and skills needed both in the classroom and in the real world,” said alumna Colleen Shaffer. “I think the most unique thing about him is that he sees so much potential in his students and inspires them to be the best they can be.” 

While Rose said he is proud of all his professional accomplishments, contributing to a more informed citizenry both in and out of SHU is one that makes him proudest. 

“Dr. Rose is the reason why I stayed at SHU,” said senior Adriana Carlucci. “I struggled in my freshman year and wasn’t receiving the help I needed. Someone suggested I speak to Dr. Rose.” 

“I remember telling my mom, ‘If this meeting doesn’t go well… I am leaving this school.’ He has obviously made a huge impact on my time here. I was able to develop a great relationship and acquire a lifelong mentor,” said Carlucci. 

In reflecting over his years at Sacred Heart, Rose has seen many changes. “SHU’s growth over the years has brought other dimensions into the political science program with a residential plan. Students are more engaged in a wide variety of activities, many of which were born from within this department,” said Rose. 

In his 41 years at SHU, he has advised both the College Republicans and Democrats, debate team, pre-law, ROTC and Pioneer Vote. 

As the debate coach, Rose ushered the team to many victories. Over the course of 10 years, Rose drove the team all throughout New England. They even debated against Senator Ted Cruz when he was an undergrad at Princeton. 

“It was really there where I started to realize how important debating is for the intellectual development of an individual. So many of my debaters would tell me that it was the debate team that gave them confidence to pursue other things in life. This is why I continue to promote it in my classes,” said Rose. 

Although he wears many hats within the walls of SHU, there is more to Rose than academia and his role in student’s lives. 

“I married my dream girl. I’ve been married for 46 years, and to me that is an accomplishment. We have two fine ethical kids, a son and a daughter and four grandkids,” said Rose. 

Rose was honorably discharged from the Army after serving two years from 1972 until 1974. He served in Germany stationed with the 11th Armored Calvary at the Fulda Gap as a reconnaissance specialist, reporting movement of the East German Army and Soviets. 

In his free time, he enjoys using his home gym and collecting political memorabilia, among other interests. Rose has been an avid gardener for over 25 years. He bought an original 1970 Hardly Davidson when he was 18 and still owns it today. 

Rose said, “I always say I learn just as much from my students as they learn from me. By being here for 41 years it has made me a more open-minded individual. And that is thanks to the students.”

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