Presenter Bio - Dr. Joe Lizza
Dr. Joe Lizza serves as the Senior Director of Student Centers & Campus Activities at Rowan University, where he provides strategic vision, leadership, and operational oversight into the University's student center facilities and campus activities.
In this role, Dr. Lizza leads a comprehensive department responsible for programs, services, and spaces that support student engagement, community building, and the broader mission and core values of Rowan University and the Division of Student Life. He oversees all programmatic, operational, service, and financial aspects of the Student Center auxiliary operation, guiding initiatives that emphasize quality, inclusion, and service excellence across the campus community.
Beyond his primary responsibilities, Dr. Lizza plays a key role in campus safety and risk management, and student advocacy. He serves as an advisor to Rowan University's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program and coordinates the University's protest and activism response group, helping ensure that free expression and campus safety are balanced thoughtfully and effectively. He is also responsible for evaluating risk management practices for campus events, working closely with campus partners to promote safe, inclusive, and well-managed experiences for students and guests. Additionally, Dr. Lizza is deeply committed to supporting first-generation college students.
A student affairs professional since 2007, Dr. Lizza has extensive experience in leadership, organizational management, and higher education administration. He has served on executive leadership teams within student affairs organizations and has held numerous national and regional leadership roles.
Dr. Lizza currently serves as Chair of the Atlantic County Mental Health Advisory Board. He is also a Community Leader for the Association of College Unions International (ACUI) Emergency Management Community and holds certification as a Disaster Response Crisis Counselor, reflecting his ongoing commitment to emergency management and mental health support.
Dr. Lizza earned his bachelor’s degree in Education, History, and Political Science from Monmouth University. He went on to complete both his master's degree in Higher Education Administration and his doctorate in Educational Leadership at Rowan University. His scholarly work includes presentations and published articles focused on organizational culture, risk management, and emergency preparedness in higher education.
At Rowan University, Dr. Lizza teaches a variety of courses related to educational systems, higher education administration, planning and resource allocation, and student success, including Rowan 101: College Success, with sections designed specifically to support first-generation students.
Outside of his professional work, Dr. Lizza enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, traveling, and serving his community as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown.
