Dr. Frederick Douglass Opie is Professor of History and the Baldwin Richardson Foods Term Chair at Babson College. In addition to teaching, publishing, and public speaking, Opie supports the work of producers, journalist, and documentary film makers. He also shares his research interest and musings as a blogger and the producer and host of The Fred Opie Show.
More: Opie is the son of Fred (Corrections Officer, Sing Sing Prison and Renaissance man) and Margaret (Civil Rights and Anti-Apartheid Activist) Opie. He is the youngest of three boys (2nd image from the left and sitting on the far right). Opie played lacrosse at Syracuse University and earned a gold medal as a member of the 1990 US National team. Opie’s wife Tina (far right image in the green blouse) is also a Babson professor.
“I appreciate the time I spent learning from you 20 years ago. The approach you modeled in class and your high expectations gave me a deep appreciation for authentic learning and scholarship and stuck with me in my journey from social studies teacher, building administrator, district leader, and doctoral student. Thank you for all that you did for me and countless other students.”
“After taking two of your courses, I can confidently say I am better at doing research ”
“Thank you for challenging us to think more deeply about our goals and how we connect what we’re learning to the real world. The podcast episode assignment pushed me to reflect on what I want to do in the future and how my interests in AI and technology fit into that path. I appreciate the effort and perspective you bring to teaching Foundations of Critical Inquiry
Justice and Inequality
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““You are an amazing, empathetic, and engaging professor.” ”
““I can confidently say you’re the most personable professor I’ve had at Babson yet.” ”
““You made me question previously held beliefs and allowed me to learn new perspectives.” ”
““Because of your course, I am a better student and better prepared for life.””
““You became my favorite professor because of your care for every individual that enters your classroom.” ”
““I really enjoyed the class and your life advice as well.” ”
““You offer such relevant advice to students.”
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““Professor Opie motivates you to do your best work and guides you out of your comfort zone so that you grow.” ”
““Thank you for such an amazing semester. Your passion for the subject is contagious and learning how to produce a podcast is a skill I’ll be showing off. Your life lessons will always stick with me as I dive into the professional world.””
““I wish I took your class earlier because I’m now a much better student and more confident about asking question.” ”
“Will These New Year's Foods Bring Good Luck in 2024?”
“Fascinating African Roots of Florida Foods,” on The Zest, WUSF Public Media
“The Food of Zora Neale Hurston,” Good Food, KCRW San Monica
“‘Food and Music on the Chitlin’ Circuit,” The Splendid Table, America Public Media
“The Politics of Food on the Campaign Trail,” The Splendid Table, America Public Media
Listen to Professor Opie’s tips for having “Your Best College Year Ever”