Matthew Giordano, Ph.D.
President
Villa Maria College
Matthew Giordano, Ph.D., is the fourth president of Villa Maria College. Under his leadership, Villa has experienced repeated record-breaking enrollment, expanded its academic offerings, and strengthened its position within the Western New York Community.
As president, Dr. Giordano has overseen the most significant capital improvement projects in College history, including the Scott Bieler Center for Academic Excellence, the Russell J. Salvatore Commons, the Kennedy Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology, and the Digital Media Arts Center. These projects transformed campus and enhanced the student experience.
Fundraising is a significant component of Dr. Giordano’s leadership. Under his direction, Villa has secured philanthropic support for student scholarships, campus improvements, and other institutional priorities. His approach to philanthropy is focused on expanding opportunities and ensuring that higher education remains accessible to all students.
During his tenure, Villa has expanded its commitment to removing barriers to higher education. Some of these initiatives include providing all students with free textbooks and supplies, keeping tuition flat, and bringing an NFTA bus stop to campus.
Dr. Giordano has introduced new models of governance at the College, fostering a collegial atmosphere among faculty and staff. He established the President’s Advisory Council to deepen Villa’s relationships with community leaders and create new opportunities for collaboration, partnership, and institutional support.
Dr. Giordano serves on the Board of Directors of the Yes We Must Coalition, the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities, and the Education Collaborative of Western New York. He is a Peer Reviewer for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an Operating Committee Member for Say Yes Buffalo, and a Committee Member for the Western New York Digital Equity Coalition.
Prior to his presidency, Dr. Giordano held numerous leadership roles at Villa, including Vice President for Academic Affairs. He has also presented at numerous conferences and is widely published.
Dr. Giordano holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Philosophy from Binghamton University and both a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in American Literature from The Ohio State University. Originally from Rochester, NY, Dr. Giordano resides in Snyder, NY, with his wife, Dr. Jennifer Desiderio, and their daughters, Sophia, Alice, and Lucy.