Sister Mary Persico, IHM ’69, Ed.D.
Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., currently President Emerita and Director of Special Projects, served as the 12th President of Marywood University.
She retired on June 30, 2024, after guiding Marywood University for eight years with her collaborative leadership and bold vision. Sister Mary has devoted her life to promoting the mission and core values of Marywood University. During her presidential tenure (2016-2024) at Marywood, Sister Mary made strides in the scholarly life of the university by re-structuring and streamlining the Colleges, adding or expanding several signature academic programs, and establishing the Offices of Global Education and Equity and Inclusion. During her presidency, the university welcomed national retail partnerships to Marywood, including Starbucks, the popular Gear Shop, Apple and Amazon stores.
Throughout her tenure, the University endowment nearly doubled and maintained a fiscally responsible status, even during universally challenging financial times in higher education. To further strengthen Marywood’s future, Sister Mary brought the University’s $30 million comprehensive campaign to its successful conclusion. The EMPOWER Campaign funded new construction and academic spaces on campus, provided scholarships for students, and enhanced the student experience.
In moments such as an unprecedented global pandemic, Sister Mary supported the entire community of faculty, staff, and students with strength and confidence.
Sister Mary’s engagement both in the public arena and right on campus among the students were two highlights of her presidency. She represented us well locally, nationally, and even internationally, but when asked, Sister Mary affirmed that the best part of the job was interacting with the wonderful people who are our Marywood students.
In April 2024, the Board of Trustees bestowed her with the title of President Emerita, effective upon her retirement. After a brief sabbatical when she first retired, Sister Mary returned to Marywood on a part-time basis to share her great insights and extensive leadership experience as President Emerita and Director of Special Projects. She is currently assisting with the Middle States accreditation self-study process for the 2026 review cycle, and she has been instrumental in crafting Marywood University's new Strategic Plan for 2025-2030.
Learn more about the 11th Annual Community Leadership Celebration