Nick Davis, Stuff Writer
Along with a new semester already underway Saint Leo University students have new classes, new experiences, and of course new professors. Among the many staff members returning to Saint Leo and staff that have recently made this university home, there is a familiar name that will be taking a new position on campus. Dr. David Persky, former assistant of President Dr. Arthur Kirk, has decided to direct his efforts to teaching.
“I was working as an attorney in Hillsborough County and I was notified of a vacancy in the School of Continuing Education at Saint Leo,” said Dr. Persky. “I came up and interviewed in June of 1999 and two weeks later I was offered a position here.”
Before studying law at Stetson University, Dr. Persky had worked several positions at University of South Florida. Unsatisfied with the practice of law, he happily welcomed the opportunity to return to an academic atmosphere. Dr. Persky went on to explain how welcoming Saint Leo has been since he began working, as well as how enjoyable his experience has been thus far.
After serving as Dean of Continuing Education, in 2005 Dr. Persky moved to Dr. Kirk’s office to work as an assistant. His experience was fruitful and he appreciated his time assisting Dr. Kirk. When asked why he decided to give up his assistant position to begin teaching, Dr. Persky explained that he’d always enjoyed the collegiate environment and in his earlier years on university campuses decided to always find work in such a setting. Soon after the opportunity of becoming Chair of the Criminal Justice Department was presented to him by Dean Carol Walker he joined the criminal justice teaching department. Dr. Persky considers his colleagues well learned and exceptional teachers.
“I am very fortunate to work in this department”.
Previously, Dr. Persky had taught Business Law, Sports Law, as well as Higher Education at Saint Leo. He also taught Business Law at Hillsborough Community College for some time. Dr. Persky has a BS in Social Science, an MS in Personal Counseling, a Ph.D, and a JD earned at Stetson College of Law. Clearly he is a man of wisdom and fortunately for us, he is willing to share some of what he has learned.
“I want my students to enjoy the classes they take with me and learn about law and the legal system in an interactive learning environment where we all share and learn from each other.”
Dr. Persky is a very prepared professor and Saint Leo couldn’t be more proud to welcome him as a professor in the criminal justice department.
