His decision to teach stems from a desire to give back, inspired by his parents — his mother a teacher, his father deeply engaged in community service, both first-generation college graduates. Their example showed him the power of education and service. Mr. Levin sees teaching as an opportunity to share lessons from his career while learning from his students, whose fresh questions and perspectives energize a subject he has worked with for decades.
In this Q&A, he shares what drew him to higher education, the most rewarding aspects of his new role, and a surprising hidden talent that helps him disconnect from the demands of finance and teaching.
Q&A
How long have you worked at Mercy University?
I signed on earlier this year and started teaching this semester (September 2025).
Describe your role and responsibilities at Mercy.
As Adjunct Professor, I teach Financial Management to undergraduates this semester. I hope to bring my work experience into the classroom to help the textbook come alive with some engaging real-life examples. I may also teach at the graduate level in the future.
What drew you to the field you work in and what led you to work in higher education?
I have had a successful career in financial management for over three decades. I feel it’s time for me to give back to my community and prepare the next generation for personal and business success. My parents serve as an example for me, as my mother was a teacher, my father was heavily engaged in his community, and both were first-generation college graduates. Their example instilled in me the importance of education and service.
What does working at Mercy mean to you?
Working at Mercy means being part of a mission-driven institution that opens doors for students from all backgrounds. I value the opportunity to mentor, challenge and support students as they discover their potential. It’s about being part of something bigger than myself, helping to shape futures.
What’s the most rewarding or most challenging part of your role that most people don’t realize?
The most rewarding part is seeing students connect the dots, when concepts click and they realize what they’re capable of. The most challenging part is helping students find the best path forward as they handle academics, work and family responsibilities. Supporting this is just as important as teaching the subject matter.
What upcoming projects, research or initiatives are you excited about?
I am excited to explore ways to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. This includes incorporating case studies, simulations and opportunities for students to connect to real business problems. I’m also interested in enhancing career pathways for students via connections with alumni and industry professionals.
What accomplishment are you most proud of in your professional career?
I am most proud of building a career where strong integrity and excellent results went hand in hand. Over the years, I had the privilege of leading financial teams through both growth and crisis with transparency, accountability and collaboration. Seeing the people I’ve mentored go on to succeed has been perhaps even more rewarding than the results themselves.
Share a favorite Mercy University memory.
One of my favorite memories is the very first time I stood in front of a Mercy classroom. I felt the energy and ambition of the students right away. It reminded me of why I chose to teach: to be part of that moment when students see new possibilities emerge.
What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a freshman student beginning their first day at Mercy University?
Stay curious and open-minded. Ask early, ask often, and seek out the opportunities around you.
Do you have any hidden talents your colleagues at Mercy might be surprised to learn about?
I love pursuing the art of healthy living. For me, this includes working out, eating well, and disconnecting regularly. This is why I started to train traditional Japanese Karate a decade ago. Having mastered the basics, I was awarded a black belt last year. And to disconnect, I play the piano regularly since I was a kid. I tend to focus on old-school masters such as Bach, Schumann, Brahms and Nordic composers such as Grieg. Ultimately, this is really about continuing to grow throughout life.
What topic could you give a 20-minute presentation on, with no preparation whatsoever?
I could easily speak off-the-cuff about financial management topics or classical music, topics I have studied for a lifetime. According to my wife, I apparently know enough to make it fun and engaging!
Looking ahead, whether in your personal life, academics, or career, what are you most looking forward to and why?
What I'm most excited about right now is the opportunity to engage with my students. I always hope to kindle an energizing exchange where we all can grow and learn from each other. There is really nothing like being part of that.
