Beloved longtime English Professor John Woznak will retire from the University in January of 2026. He has been teaching at Saint Francis since 1982.
Woznak’s extensive knowledge of all things Shakespeare, British Literature and pop culture has shaped many of his classes. But his most enduring legacy is the impact he has made on SFU students across more than four decades.
His dedication to his “kids,” as he calls them, has cemented his place among the University’s list of legendary professors. His graceful character, kindness and genuine care for others will be remembered by all those with whom he has worked.
Woznak fosters an environment of inquisitive questioning, internal reflection – and most importantly – love of literature in all his courses. His dedication to literature has created space for his students to tap into their own creativity, and then use it as a driving force for success.
Colette Costlow, a 2025 English graduate, described Woznak as, “hilarious,” citing his involvement in Literary Club events and his general impact on her life.
“He lets students express themselves,” said Costlow, who serves as a reporter at the Altoona Mirror newspaper. “He fueled my passion for English.”
Woznak graduated with a double-major in English and Literature from Saint Francis in 1977 and earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in English Literature from IUP in 1979 and 1988, respectively.
While completing his master’s degree at IUP, he was asked to return to SFU and fill in for English Professor William Furlong, who was dealing with medical issues at the time. Woznak replaced Furlong as a full-time SFU faculty member when his former teacher passed away.
Last April, Woznak received the University’s Distinguished Faculty Award.
Woznak wrote a book titled “Stewards of the Vision: Saint Francis College.” It was published in 1997 and chronicles the institution’s history up to that point. Father Christian Oravec, SFU’s president at the time, asked Woznak to write the book in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the school.
“To be able to tell the story of an institution was quite an honor,” said Woznak.
In addition to his unique teaching style in the classroom, Woznak has also become renowned on campus for his baking skills.
“Dr. Woznak ranks up there as one who alumni regularly ask about,” said Father Malachi Van Tassell, president of the University. “I think the ‘Woz-snacks’ have something to do with his popularity.
“While I believe that everyone deserves a well-earned retirement, it is certainly bittersweet to bid adieu to Dr. Woznak.”
Woznak’s legacy will carry on through all the Saint Francis students that he has touched. He wants to let all his current and former students and colleagues know that working at the University has brought “so much joy to his life.”
