Father Anthony Ciorra Tapped as SHU’s Asst. VP for Mission and Catholic Identity

Father Anthony Ciorra Tapped as SHU’s Asst. VP 
for Mission and Catholic Identity

(for Sacred Heart University)

By Mike Lauterborn

7/21/11

Fairfield, CT – Father Anthony Ciorra has been appointed the Assistant Vice President for Mission and Catholic Identity at Sacred Heart University. The on-campus resident will work with colleagues to develop ministry programs, encourage inter-religious dialogues and provide faculty oversight. He will also teach in the Theology department.

Ciorra holds several degrees including a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling and Master of Divinity from Seton Hall, a Master of Arts in Spirituality from St. Bonaventure University, a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from the Archdiocese of New York and a Ph.D. in Theology from Fordham University.

“Father Tony”, as he is fondly referred to, has a strong professional background, serving as the Director of the Center for Spirituality for the Archdiocese of New York, Professor of Theology and Director of the Center of Theological and Spiritual Development at the College of St. Elizabeth and Dean of the Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education at Fordham University.

“I have done parish work, formation ministry, teaching at all grade levels, retreats and workshops throughout the United States, Europe and the Middle East, and been involved in the trialogue between Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths,” the Father summarized.

Ciorra has also penned two books, Everyday Mysticism, about spirituality in everyday life, and Moral Formation in the Parish, about living moral values in the context of everyday life.

His awards include the Pro Ecclesiae et Pontifice Award, given by Pope John Paul II in 1999, in recognition of his service to the Catholic Church. He has also been recognized by the College of St. Elizabeth and received The Bronx Service Award for his contributions to the Bronx community.

“I am very happy to be a part of the SHU community,” he said. “I look forward to getting to know faculty, students and staff and am honored to be part of the mission of this wonderful university and its commitment to academic leadership.”