In Memoriam: Professor Rob Ciapetta

Professor Rob Ciapetta passed away on March 18, 2025. For 50 years he taught English at Montgomery College’s Rockville Campus, where he mentored and inspired countless students.

Born January 16, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Rob was the first child of the late Dr. Frank Ciapetta and Carolyn Cresta Ciapetta. His family moved to Hillandale in Silver Spring, Maryland, in 1956. He attended the newly opened Northwood High School, graduating in 1959.

Rob earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1963, then entered Georgetown University Law School, graduating in 1966 among the top ten students in his class. He went on to earn a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of Rochester in 1968. After a brief year practicing law for the federal government, Rob realized his true passion lay elsewhere. In the fall of 1969, he joined Montgomery College, beginning a distinguished career as a teacher and leader, eventually serving as head of the English Department.

During his five decades at Montgomery College, Rob’s dedication to teaching was evident in the time and care he gave to his students. Generations of young people passed through his classes, and the success of these graduates stands as a testament to his commitment to higher education and to nurturing future leaders.