In today's classrooms, chemistry teachers are challenged to both teach the complexity of the subject and demonstrate how chemistry drives real-world change. Raffi Manjikian embraces that challenge as a chemistry professor, researcher, and mentor who blends academic rigor with community impact. As a faculty member at Hudson County Community College, he brings a passion for education and a commitment to public service to his work that reaches far beyond the laboratory.
Manjikian has dedicated nearly 15 years to chemistry education, joining Hudson County Community College as a tenure-track professor in 2021 after nine years as an adjunct, four of which were at the college. "Even at a young age, I dreamed of being a professor," he explains. That dream led him to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in chemistry from Seton Hall University and to begin coursework toward a Doctor of Philosophy in health sciences at the same institution.
Manjikian attributes much of his success to his supportive personality. "A strong STEM background is essential," he explains, "but being a transformative educator involves more than just conveying information. It requires being present and supportive of peers, colleagues, and students." This approach shapes his instruction style and guides his work across the campus.
In addition to his dynamic roles as an educator and mentor, Manjikian enjoys sharing his expertise beyond the classroom. A frequent presenter at academic and leadership forums, Manjikian has delivered talks on student success strategies, inclusive education, food science applications, and forward-looking approaches to increasing student performance in various levels of science courses. Manjikian's numerous presentations reflect his commitment to advancing both chemistry education and equitable learning practices.
Manjikian plays an instrumental role in shaping the culture and values of the college community. As co-chair of the President's Advisory Council on Institutional Engagement and Excellence, Manjikian guides initiatives that strengthen campus inclusivity and promote academic excellence. "My role extends beyond teaching chemistry," he reflects. "It involves being there for my students and colleagues every day."
Manjikian's dedication and impact have been recognized with multiple honors, including the National Society of Leadership and Success Impact Leader Award, the League for Innovation in the Community College Excellence Award, the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award, and the Hudson County Community College DEI Impact Faculty Leadership Award.
One of Manjikian's most notable achievements has been his collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health in monitoring communicable diseases, such as COVID-19 and influenza, through wastewater testing. Personally collecting and submitting samples for analysis, Manjikian played a critical role in contributing vital data to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"This project shows how science can directly protect communities," Manjikian says. His efforts revealed low levels of disease on campus and in the surrounding Jersey City community and provided key information for national health records.