Christina Mortellaro, Ph.D.

Dr. Christina M. Mortellaro joined Saint Peter’s University in 2008 and has since established herself as a dedicated educator and mission-driven administrator committed to advancing cura personalis. She currently serves as Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Assessment and Interim Dean of the School of Nursing & Health Professions, while maintaining her appointment as Assistant Professor of Biology.

As Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Mortellaro leads a broad portfolio of student success initiatives designed to support academic progression, persistence, and post-graduation readiness. She oversees key units including the Center for Academic Success & Engagement (CASE), the Center for Career Engagement & Experiential Learning (CEEL), the Writing Studio, and the STEM Engagement & Empowerment Center. In this role, she guides the University’s academic advising model, strengthens career development pathways, expands experiential learning opportunities, and enhances academic support services that promote equitable outcomes for all students.

Dr. Mortellaro also provides leadership for several large-scale federal grants and University-wide initiatives that focus on holistic student wellbeing, STEM engagement, innovative pedagogy, and strengthened student support systems. Her long-standing commitment to assessment and continuous improvement is reflected in her extensive work in learning outcomes assessment and institutional accreditation. In her role as Interim Dean, she is spearheading strategic growth within the School of Nursing & Health Professions, including the expansion of graduate nursing programs and foundational academic planning for new health science pathways such as the Physician Assistant program.

A lifelong educator at heart, Dr. Mortellaro has taught thousands of students in human anatomy and physiology and related health science courses. Her advising and mentorship philosophy is grounded in holistic support, clarity, and empowerment, values shaped by the meaningful advisement she once received as a student. Throughout her career, she has supported students at every stage, from first-year advising to guidance for pre-professional and health science pathways.

Across all of her roles, Dr. Mortellaro finds her greatest fulfillment in witnessing student transformation, seeing learners develop confidence, resilience, and purpose. She remains deeply committed to strengthening academic excellence, expanding opportunity, and ensuring that Saint Peter’s University continues to be a place where every student can thrive academically, personally, and professionally.