Passaic Today

The New York Times recently highlighted a story about Cris Hassold, an art history professor from New College of Florida, who left her life savings to 31 former students. Among the beneficiaries was Nicole Archer, a professor at Montclair State University.

Archer received $100,000 from Hassold's bequest, which she described as life-changing. "I literally opened my first savings account with it," she said. Reflecting on her journey, Archer noted that Hassold had a significant influence on her career path. "I didn’t start with a clear plan," she recalled. "But meeting Cris changed everything."

Since joining Montclair in 2018 to teach Visual and Critical Studies, Archer has drawn inspiration from her own experiences to guide her students. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing cultural value beyond economic terms and aims to instill this understanding in her students.

Archer shared that one of her most cherished possessions is a photograph taken with Hassold at her college graduation in 1999. This picture symbolizes the beginning of her professional journey, including grad school and teaching.

Currently, Archer is working on research for a new book about textiles' role in shaping cultures of violence and curating an exhibition for the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026.