JoAnne Malatesta
PhD, University at Albany
MA, University at Albany
BA, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
Dr. Malatesta serves as the Dean for Undergraduate Education and the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation and Student Success at the University at Albany. In this role, Dr. Malatesta is responsible for many aspects of the University-wide academic enterprise, including supporting curriculum development, overseeing an innovative and proactive academic support infrastructure, managing academic policy and advancing the strategic initiatives of the University. Dr. Malatesta has a passion for transformative education and a steadfast commitment to fostering an environment of academic excellence and student success as evidenced by her leadership of initiatives that enhance curriculum relevance, foster interdisciplinary collaboration and promote a holistic approach to student development.
She has been instrumental in the development and coordination of a University-wide academic student success model that is grounded in strategic, intentional and data-informed innovations. Dr. Malatesta has implemented critical changes in the undergraduate academic experience, including launching the Academic Recovery Program, transforming academic standing processes and advancing student access to academic pathways through enhanced articulations.
Dr. Malatesta develops critical partnerships within the University, the SUNY system and the broader higher education community to grow and enhance the student experience for all students. She is committed to cultivating cross-divisional partnerships for collaborative efforts that often yield unique and personalized support essential to student success. She champions the use of state-of-the-art technologies and shared platforms that improve communication and connections between students, faculty, advisors and staff, resulting in increased faculty engagement and enhanced student experiences.
Dr. Malatesta joined the University at Albany in 1997 after completing an undergraduate degree in social psychology and criminal behavior at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She holds master's and doctorate degrees from the UAlbany School of Criminal Justice, where she has also served as an adjunct professor.