Maria Puzziferro, PhD

Dr. Maria Puzziferro currently serves as Interim Chief Academic Officer, where she oversees academic leadership, faculty and other key stakeholders to lead efforts in the faculty experience, strategic initiatives, learning resources and instructional design and delivery.

These responsibilities include leading academic quality initiatives, program development, ensuring excellence in teaching and learning outcomes, and providing strategic direction for digital learning, the Centers for Innovative Clinical Practice, University libraries and the Institute for Learning, Innovation and Faculty Excellence (iLIFE).

Dr. Puzziferro’s background encompasses a strong record of academic, leadership and educational technology experience. She was previously the Executive Director of Online Global Strategic Initiatives at Laureate International Universities. Additionally, she served as President and Provost at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and as Dean of Academic Affairs at Colorado State University-Global Campus. Furthermore, Dr. Puzziferro has extensive experience as a teacher in various modalities and has contributed to curriculum development.

She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in higher education leadership from New York University, a master’s degree in government and politics from St. John’s University, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Adelphi University. Dr. Puzziferro has made significant contributions to the field of virtual and online learning through her publications, has served as a reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission and holds the role of Associate Editor for the Journal of Innovation in Health Sciences Education.