Daniel Leyes
Professor
Speech Communication Department
Humanities Institute
Faculty member since: 1999
Courses Taught
Public Speaking
Intro to Oral Language Skills
Advanced Public Speaking
Education
Bachelor of Arts, St. John’s University
Master of Arts, Southern Illinois University
Describe one or more of your biggest achievements as a Brookdale faculty member:
I created the Communication Disorders program at Brookdale and coached the Brookdale Speech and Debate team to hundreds of awards, including national and international recognition. I was a 2006-07 Outstanding Colleague Award winner and co-wrote the book Public Speaking in the Semiosphere: Creating a Meaningful Experience for Your Audience with my colleague Howard Miller.
Do you work outside of the college as well?
I founded Semiosphere Consulting, LLC, in 2013, through which I help coach professionals to improve their public speaking. I also serve on the Bradley Beach Environmental Commission
What would you say is your most memorable moment – or moments – as a member of the Brookdale community?
My most memorable moment was when our forensics (speech and debate) team was named International Forensics Association Community College Champions in 2003. That was one of the highlights of my 15 year coaching career.
What do you think separates Brookdale from other colleges?
I think what distinguishes Brookdale is the quality of the faculty. I thought I was a very good teacher until I came here. From watching my colleagues, I learned that I really needed to raise my game, and have worked hard over the years to be the most effective teacher I can be. I am inspired by the great teachers here at Brookdale, and aspire to be one of them.