UR Nursing Announces Key Leadership Appointments to Drive Strategic Vision

The University of Rochester School of Nursing is excited to announce several key leadership appointments aimed at advancing its strategic goals and aligning with the dynamic landscape of higher education and health care. These appointments are part of the School's ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in nursing education, research, and practice.

“During our strategic planning process, it became clear that to continue our remarkable success and to stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment, we needed to enhance our leadership structure,” said Dean Lisa Kitko, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN. “These appointments will enable us to better serve our students, foster innovation, and strengthen our research capabilities.”

New Leadership Appointments

Carla DeLucia, EdD

Associate Dean for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs

Carla DeLucia, EdD, assistant professor of clinical nursing, will serve as the associate dean for enrollment management and student affairs and continue to oversee the admissions and student affairs offices. In her new role, DeLucia will spearhead initiatives to strengthen the School’s recruitment and admissions efforts, adapt to market demands, and support student needs. She brings 17 years of experience in higher education administration, including expertise in predictive analytics and student financial services to the leadership role.

Lisa Brophy, EdD, RN, MSBA, CNE

Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education

Lisa Brophy, EdD, RN, MSBA, CNE, assistant professor of clinical nursing, will serve as associate dean of undergraduate education. Brophy’s extensive experience in nursing practice, education, and leadership will be instrumental as she oversees the School’s undergraduate programs, including the accelerated nursing programs, RN to BS program, and the Center for Lifelong Learning. Brophy’s leadership will drive forward curricular innovations and enhance the quality of the School’s undergraduate offerings. She previously served as the assistant dean for education and co-director of the Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing program at the School.

Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP

Senior Associate Dean for Graduate Education & Innovation

Professor Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP, will serve as senior associate dean for graduate education and innovation. Rotondo has been a transformative leader over the past 10 years as the School’s associate dean for education and student affairs, guiding the School through significant enrollment growth and championing competency-based education and technological integration. In her expanded role, Rotondo will focus on aligning the School’s priorities with the academic health system, promoting interprofessional education, and exploring innovative solutions to address workforce and community needs.

Sally Norton, PhD, RN, FNAP, FPCN, FAAN

Senior Associate Dean for Research

Professor Sally Norton, PhD, RN, FNAP, FPCN, FAAN, will serve as the senior associate dean for research. Over the past five years, Norton has significantly advanced the School’s research mission, supporting faculty and students, and enhancing the School’s areas of research excellence. Norton will now oversee the PhD in Nursing & Health Science program, working closely with Program Director Marie Flannery, PhD, RN, to continue fostering research growth and mentorship within the School.

The University of Rochester School of Nursing remains committed to nurturing a culture of wellness, curiosity, and community while embracing technological advancements and fostering inclusive and equitable educational opportunities.

“These leadership changes are pivotal to our journey towards our 2030 Strategic Plan," said Dean Kitko. "With our new structure, we are poised to achieve sustainable growth and continue our legacy of excellence in nursing education and research."

See more information about the School of Nursing’s senior leadership team.