Lester Friedman, Class of 1963

After graduating from PJHS in 1963, Lester Friedman attended Alfred University, graduating in 1967 with a BA in English. His education continued at Syracuse University, earning his MA in 1969. Friedman received a Ph.D. in English – with specialty in 19th Century British Literature in 1975. Over the course of his academic career he taught at Syracuse University, Upstate Medical University, Northwestern University, the Feinberg School of Medicine, the Chicago Art Institute, and American University. Friedman is currently a professor and former chair of the Media and Society Program at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. He's authored, co-authored, or edited over twenty books, chaired panels, and presented scholarly papers at national and international conferences. He's been on the editorial board of national journals, authored two screenplays, written numerous articles, and conducted interviews with filmmakers. Among the honors he received have been the Outstanding Scholar Award from Hobart and William Smith and The President's Award for Excellence in Teaching at Upstate Medical University. He is also a JEOPARDY Champion!