For 50 years, Dr. Domenick J. Pinto has been a guiding presence at Sacred Heart University. He has shaped generations of students and colleagues through his passion for teaching, mentorship and kindness.
Source: Contributed by Domenick Pinto
On Friday, Oct. 24, Sacred Heart University honored him with a special event titled “Celebrating Professor Domenick Pinto’s 50th Year at Sacred Heart.” The celebration took place at the West Campus Guest House, where faculty, alumni, students, and friends gathered to recognize his remarkable career and lifelong dedication to education.
“I grew up in North Bridgeport and was always helping fellow students,” said Pinto. “Teaching came naturally, and it was all I ever wanted to do.”
His mother worked in the Continuing Education Department and encouraged him to interview with Dr. Raoul Devilliers, the then-chair of the math department. He joined Sacred Heart in 1976, while simultaneously teaching at Trumbull High School.
“When I started at Sacred Heart, the school had only the main building and the library,” said Pinto. “There were no dorms, no Pitt Center, no chapel. There has been incredible growth here in both the campus and the programs.”
Over the years, Pinto has taught courses in mathematics and computer science, from Calculus IV to Data Structures and Logic. His teaching style has remained the same.
“I always taught by example and believe strongly in a hands-on approach,” said Pinto. “I’ve always tried to be personable and available to students.”
Pinto has taught an estimated 20,000 students during his career. He served as chair of the Computer Science Department for 31 years and director of the Master’s in Computer Science program for 24 years. He also served three terms as president of the University Academic Assembly and started the Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity program in 2013.
Dr. Samah Senbel, chair of the Computer Science Department, described Pinto as “a great professor and a pioneer.” Senbel said colleagues admire his generosity and humility.
“He loves to help with any work, even the jobs everyone else thinks are tedious,” said Senbel. “Dom is cheerful and caring, especially with international students who really need that extra kindness.”
That compassion has defined Pinto’s career.
“Some of my favorite moments have been getting to know students outside of class,” said Pinto. “I went to India twice to recruit, mentored many, and some still visit and take me to dinner.”
Julie Savino, associate vice president for Student Financial Assistance, has known Pinto for 50 years, first as her professor and then as a colleague.
“He introduced us to computers, transforming how we approached information systems,” said Savino.
Known affectionately as “Disco Dom,” she said Pinto’s warmth and humor brighten every room.
Savino also shared a memory that showed his thoughtfulness.
“He’s famous for his stuffed mushrooms at scholarship committee meetings,” said Savino. “Knowing my allergy, he always prepared a stuffed tomato just for me. That small gesture says so much about his kindness.”
Graduate assistant Mujeeb Ur Rahaman called Pinto “one of the most respected and long-serving figures at Sacred Heart.” He praised his humility and commitment to student success.
“He’s admired for his kindness and deep dedication to the university community,” said Rahaman.
Students share that admiration.
“He truly cares. I was already planning to go to his 50th-year celebration, but being personally invited meant so much. He makes everyone feel involved,” said senior Carlex Tiemeni.
Outside the classroom, Pinto enjoys the beach, old movies, solving math puzzles and traveling. Few know that he was also a guest lecturer on the Cunard ship Queen Elizabeth 2 three times in the 1990s.
Reflecting on his 50 years, Pinto said his greatest reward has always been his students.
“What keeps me passionate after all these years is hearing that I may have made a difference,” said Pinto. “That’s what matters most.”
When asked how he hopes to be remembered, Pinto smiled.
“My dedication, my caring, and my sense of humor,” said Pinto.
Then, with his familiar optimism, he added his favorite motto:
“Remember, every kick is a boost.”
