James J. Ponzetti, Jr., Ph.D., D.Min., CFLE, passed away on January 25, 2023. He was a long time NCFR member, a span of 17 years, and a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) for more than 25 years.  

Dr. Ponzetti authored several books and articles that focused on and contributed to Family Science. He also wrote textbooks on evidence-based approaches and perspectives in parenting education, relationship & marriage education, and sexuality education. He also wrote and edited several volumes for an international encyclopedia on marriage and family, all of which further strengthened Family Life Education.  

At the University of San Francisco, Dr. Ponzetti completed three bachelor’s degrees in psychology, theology and biology. He earned a double master’s degree from Oregon State University in counseling and religious studies. He then received his doctorate in human development and family studies. He later received his doctorate in ministry, with a focus on advanced pastoral studies, from San Francisco Theological Seminary. In 2019, he earned CFLE Emeritus Status. 

His professorate included the University of New Mexico, Central Washington University, and Western Illinois University. Dr. Ponzetti taught courses in Family Life Education, parenting, and sexuality. Up to his retirement in 2014 from the University of British Columbia in the Department of Sociology, he was a mentor to many graduate students and directed the CFLE program there. Dr. Ponzetti served on the editorial board of Family Science Review, and the Journal of Intergenerational Relationships. 

You can read his full obituary here. 

If you learn of an NCFR member who has passed away, please email [email protected].