Bio

Dr. Frederick Douglass Opie is Professor of History, 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, author and more.

Testimonies

After taking two of your courses, I can confidently say I am better at doing research
— Maeve Fiske-Mercer, Babson Student
“You are an amazing, empathetic, and engaging professor.”
— Alex Martiros, Babson Alum
“Because of your course, I am a better student and better prepared for life.”
— Quinn Schomp, Babson Alum
“You became my favorite professor because of your care for every individual that enters your classroom.”
— Nick Browne, Babson Alum
“I really enjoyed the class and your life advice as well.”
— Rudi Eyl, Babson Student
“You made me question previously held beliefs and allowed me to learn new perspectives.”
— Hallie Lerner, Babson Alum
“You offer such relevant advice to students.”
— Tori Penta, Babson Alum
“Professor Opie motivates you to do your best work and guides you out of your comfort zone so that you grow.”
— Adam Kershner, Babson Alum
“I can confidently say you’re the most personable professor I’ve had at Babson yet.”
— Jonathan Liskov, Babson Student
“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.”
— Rodolfo Castillo, Babson Student
“I wish I took your class earlier because I’m now a much better student and more confident about asking question.”
— Lexi Winchester, Babson Alum

Select Interviews

Fascinating African Roots of Florida Foods,” on The Zest, WUSF Public Media

Southern Food and Civil Rights,” on City Lights, NPR Atlanta

 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”