UR Nursing Faculty Step into New Leadership Roles
By Nora Williamson
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
The University of Rochester School of Nursing is proud to announce a series of leadership appointments among its faculty, effective July 1, 2025.
As the school continues to innovate and expand, these faculty members are stepping into new or interim leadership roles — strengthening academic programs, advancing student support, and ensuring the highest standards in nursing education and practice. Several of these leadership appointments follow a wave of retirements among long-serving faculty.
"I am confident that our school leaders will continue to advance our mission and inspire excellence across our programs," said Dean Lisa Kitko, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN. "Their expertise and dedication position us for an exciting and successful academic year ahead."
Lisa Brophy, EdD, RN, MSBA, CNE
Interim Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
Lisa Brophy has been appointed interim associate dean for academic affairs after serving as associate dean for undergraduate education for the past several years. In this expanded role, Brophy will oversee both undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as the simulation team, led by Director Erin Baylor, DNP, RN, PNP-BC, ONP. With more than 30 years of experience in nursing practice, education, and leadership, Brophy is recognized for her commitment to academic excellence and student success. Her interim appointment follows the retirement of Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP, FAAN, senior associate dean for graduate education and innovation (read more about Lydia Rotondo’s legacy).
Carla DeLucia, EdD
Associate Dean for Academic and Student Success
Carla DeLucia now also provides oversight of the Center for Lifelong Learning – led by Director Susan Stanek, PhD, MSN/Ed, RN, in addition to the Student Affair’s Office, further strengthening student support services, retention, and enhancing how we meet continuing education needs.
John Eaves, MBA
Associate Dean for Operations and Finance
John Eaves now also oversees the Admissions Office – led by Director Kimberly Starken – as he continues his role as associate dean for operations and finance, supporting strategic enrollment efforts and helping the school respond to healthcare workforce needs.
Sally Norton, PhD, RN, FNAP, FPCN, FAAN
Senior Associate Dean for Research
Sally Norton continues to serve as the senior associate dean for research, enhancing the School’s areas of research excellence. Norton also oversees 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.
Tara Serwetnyk, EdD, RN, FNAP, NPD-BC
Director of Assessment and Academic Innovation
Tara Serwetnyk now serves in an expanded role overseeing assessment strategies to measure and improve student learning outcomes in alignment with program goals and accreditation standards. She continues to lead the Education Innovation Team, where she played a pivotal role in launching the School’s iROC initiative, earning recognition as an Apple Distinguished School.
Susan Ciurzynski, PhD, RN-BC, PNP, VCE, FNAP
Interim Director, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
Susan Ciurzynski now serves as interim director for the DNP Program, ensuring a smooth transition following Lydia Rotondo’s retirement. Ciurzynski brings over 30 years of experience as a pediatric nurse, educator, and leader, and has previously served as the director of the Center for Lifelong Learning and assistant director of the DNP program.
Maria Marconi, EdD, RN, CNE
Director, Leadership and Nursing Education programs
Maria Marconi expands her leadership role to include oversight of the Clinical Nurse Leader and Leadership in Health Care Systems master’s programs, while continuing to direct Nursing Education programs. Marconi is widely recognized for her expertise in nursing education, curriculum development, academic assessment, and NCLEX preparation.
Elizabeth Palermo, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC, ANP-BC
Interim Director, Nurse Practitioner Programs
Elizabeth Palermo now serves as interim director for all Nurse Practitioner programs and continues as specialty director for the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program. Palermo brings extensive experience as a clinician, educator, and curriculum leader, and is recognized for her contributions to advanced practice education, geriatric care, and professional development of nurse practitioners.
Margaretann Carno, PhD, MBA, MJ, RN, PNP-AC/PC, CNE, ATSF, FAAN
Interim Specialty Director, Pediatric Acute Care NP
Margaretann Carno steps in as interim specialty director for the Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program. Carno was part of the faculty team that developed the advanced certificate program, which launched in 2021.
Laura Paytash, DNP, RN, FNP-BC
Maria Chennell, DNP, RN, FNP-C, NP-C, RNFA
Interim Co-Specialty Directors, Family & Adult-Gerontology Primary NP
Laura Paytash and Maria Chennell take on interim co-director roles for the Family and Adult-Gerontology Primary NP specialty programs. Both bring significant clinical and educational experience, providing leadership as the programs transition following recent retirements.