Today we are proud to cast a spotlight on the recipient of this year’s Sophia Veffer Upstander Award, Dr. Matthew Giordano. The award is named in honor of local Holocaust survivor, Sophia Veffer, who has dedicated her life to creating a more just world by encouraging individuals to act as global citizens, assisting those in need and standing up in the face of adversity.  

Dr. Matthew Giordano has strongly impacted the Buffalo region by focusing on standing up for others while promoting equality, social justice and human rights. The fourth president of Villa Maria College, Dr. Giordano has also made changes that have led to a significant increase in enrollment. With its largest class in over 25 years, Villa Maria’s historical growth is attributed to the new academic programs including Criminal Justice, Sport Management, and User Experience-User Interface. Each of these programs was developed in response to the increased demand for jobs in these industries within Western New York and beyond. In addition, Dr. Giordano has introduced new models of governance at the College, nurturing a collegial atmosphere among the faculty and employees. He has engaged with several community leaders and elected officials to develop partnerships and support for the institution.  

Dr. Giordano has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Philosophy from Binghamton University and both a Master of Arts and Ph.D. in American literature from the Ohio State University. He successfully completed the Executive Leadership Academy of the Council of Independent Colleges and the Felician Leadership Institute in 2018. Dr. Giordano is originally from Rochester, NY and currently resides in Snyder with his wife, Dr. Jennifer Desiderio and their daughters, Sophia, Alice, and Lucy.