Ralph Castellano, a retired firefighter, has earned his degree in Business Administration from Montclair State University 50 years after he initially began his studies. The journey began for Castellano in January 1975 when he started taking night classes at the university while working full-time in construction. After being accepted part-time, he studied for approximately six years before joining the fire department, with plans to complete his degree later.
Castellano’s connection to the Belleville Fire Department was strong even before he officially joined. Over his 40-year career, he grew to be a fire prevention specialist, delivering safety presentations and collaborating with The Burn Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. In 2012, his bravery was recognized with the Valor Award after helping residents escape a fire without protective gear.
Reflecting on his career and personal life, Castellano shared memories of his late wife Marianne, who passed from ovarian cancer. His retirement in 2020 was encouraged by the encouragement of his second wife, Joan, a Laughter Yoga teacher and adjunct professor, and his sister Marion Bergenfeld, to complete his degree. Castellano finished his education by taking one class per semester over four years.
Now enrolled in a hybrid MBA program at New Jersey City University, Castellano’s pursuit of knowledge continues. He remains active in the community and advises older adults considering a return to education to pursue their goals.
The University will hold its commencement ceremonies on May 7 and 8, 2025, at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
The story was written by Marilyn Joyce Lehren of University Communications and Marketing.
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