In Memoriam: Professor Emeritus John M. Capozzola

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John M. Capozzola, a Professor Emeritus of Public Administration at NYU Wagner. Age 94 at the time of his death on Jan. 29, and a resident of Madison, New Jersey, he served for more than 20 years as a devoted teacher and practioner, respected and valued member of the faculty, and leader in the field of accountability, local government, and labor relations.

Professor Capozzola, PhD, was first appointed as an Assistant Professor in 1964 to what was then known as the NYU Graduate School of Public Administration. He gained tenure as a full Professor in 1971. His full-time service continued through 1991. Even after his retirement, he continued teaching for the school for four more years, as an Adjunct Professor. With his wife, Shirley (Bloomburg) Capozzola, he remained a valued member of the extended Wagner community.

Professor Capozzola attended Penn State University as an undergraduate. He received his Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Denver, where he was a Sloan Fellow, and attended the University of Pennsylvania Law School and Sorbonne after honorable service in World War II in the U.S. Army Corp 415th Night Fight Squadron in the European Theatre. He received his  PhD from Penn State University.

Professor Capozzola is survived by three daughters—Meg Smith of Chatham, N.J., Joan Sterlucci of Madison, N.J., and Nancy Nahvi of Chatham, N.J.—as well as four grandchildren. The family asks that memorial donations be offered to St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, Madison Adoption Center & Administration Offices, P.O. Box 159, Madison, N.J. 07940.