Anthony V. Salierno Appointed Assistant Director for Student Life at Stony Brook Southampton

Stony Brook University has appointed Anthony V. Salierno as assistant director for student life at Stony Brook Southampton, a role that will support the continued growth of the East End campus and enhance the student experience through residential education, student engagement, conference operations and community partnerships.

As Southampton expands its academic offerings, research initiatives, cultural programming and student opportunities, Salierno will play a key role in fostering a vibrant campus environment that connects students to the traditions, values and spirit of the Seawolf community.

"Anthony brings a unique blend of higher education experience, student-centered leadership and hospitality expertise to Southampton," said Richard Czyzyk, director of student life at Southampton. "His commitment to building inclusive communities and creating meaningful opportunities for student engagement will help strengthen the Southampton experience for students, conference guests and members of the local community."

"Anthony's appointment reflects Southampton's continued momentum and our commitment to creating an exceptional student experience both inside and outside the classroom," said Wendy Pearson, vice president for strategic initiatives and executive director of Stony Brook Southampton. "As we expand academic programs, strengthen community partnerships and enhance campus life, Anthony's experience in student engagement, residential education and community building will help ensure that our students feel connected, supported and empowered to thrive."

In his new position, Salierno, from Monroe, New York, will oversee a broad portfolio that includes residential education, commuter and graduate student engagement, conference guest operations and initiatives designed to strengthen connections between Southampton and the broader university community. He will also collaborate with academic and student affairs partners while expanding relationships with organizations across the East End.

Salierno joins Southampton after serving for four years as a residence hall director within Stony Brook University's Campus Residences system. During that time, he developed programs that promoted student success, community building and belonging across residential communities.

He was an active member of the Academic Initiatives and Community Engagement (AICE) Committee, where he helped lead programming and curriculum development efforts serving students across West Campus. He also played a significant role in advancing graduate student engagement through partnerships with campus stakeholders, including SBU Eats, the Career Center and The Graduate School.

A graduate of both The Culinary Institute of America and Stony Brook University, Salierno brings a distinctive background that combines hospitality, food service management and higher education administration. He holds bachelor's degrees in Applied Food Studies and Culinary Arts, as well as a master's degree in Food Service Management, from The Culinary Institute of America. He later earned a master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Stony Brook University.

Throughout his career, Salierno has championed innovative approaches to student engagement, including using cooking and shared culinary experiences to bring students together and foster a sense of community.

His appointment comes during a period of momentum for Stony Brook Southampton, which has expanded academic programs, increased cultural and community programming, strengthened partnerships across the East End and enhanced opportunities for students through initiatives in the arts, sciences, sustainability, health and environmental research.

"I am excited to join the Southampton community and contribute to its continued growth," Salierno said. "Southampton offers a unique educational environment where students can engage deeply with their studies while building meaningful connections to the campus and surrounding community. I look forward to helping create experiences that support student success and foster a strong sense of belonging."

Salierno began his new role this summer and is working closely with campus partners to develop programs and initiatives that support students while enriching campus life at Southampton.