Rudy Magnan, Ed.D.

I was born in New York, one of three sons, of immigrant parents who came here in the hopes of providing a better life for their children. This dream was realized in the remarkable education and job opportunities that I and my two brothers have achieved. This is also true with my wife, Maria and her cousins, who have been able attain professional positions in the private sector of the economy.

My wife Maria and I love living in this rural environment of Newtown that is filled with history and interesting places to visit and to enjoy. In some ways there is a farm spirit in me that keeps involved with a small 45 acre operation in the  Catskills region of New York where we raised Polled Hereford cattle and, despite the interest of the local deer herd, are trying to establish a winery.

Since my retirement, I have devoted my time to writing a number of books dealing with the development of what I call "Cognitive Fitness" which involves increasing an individual's mental ability to successfully meet the daily challenges in our personal and professional lives.

In 1978 I completed my doctoral studies at Columbia University. Since then I have I taught and lectured internationally with Dr. Edward de Bono, the recognized world leader in the development of creative and constructive thinking in business and in education.  Other job experiences include working as a consultant and executive trainer for European companies looking to enter the American market.

It is these different work experiences in the global market where you encounter different cultures and ways of conducting business that helps to develop an ability to evaluate situations and opportunities. I know that these analytical and creative skills will become important in the Board of Finance's discussions and recommendations.

. Educational Background

* Ed.D, Columbia University, Teachers College, NYC.
* M.A., St. John's University, Jamaica, NY.
* B.A., St. John's College, Jamaica, NY.


Professional Background

* Founder, European American Marketing Associates (USA).
* International Liaison, Cognitive Research Trust (Cambridge, UK).
* Coordinator, consumer products, Friuli Giulia Trieste (Italy).
* Director of Imports, Bel Canto Fancy Foods (NYC).
* Director of Study, Foreign Study League (Salt Lake City, UT).
* Adjunct Assistant Professor, Adelphi University (Garden City, NY).
* Marketing consultant to European firms doing business in the United States
* Organized executive development programs in the areas of creativity ,innovation, and communication for the Italian government.
* Nationally recognized for educational curriculum programs using thinking skills for public Issues.
* Co-founder of the Idea College.
* International Liason, Cognitive Resaerch Trust (Cambridge,U.K.)
* Director of European Studies for the Foreign Study League
* Contributing writer for European publication's series on Creativity and Innovation for business.
* Associated with the successful European Innovation program known as "Innovation 2007" which furthers innovation and creativity among teachers and students in science and technology.