Dr. Anthony DeSantis currently serves as the Associate Vice President of Student Success in the Division of Academic Affairs at Saint Leo University. In this capacity, he plays a pivotal role in executing strategic and retention plan initiatives. He also leads several university-wide departments, including the Office of Military Affairs and Services, Accessibility Services, Counseling Services, and Student Success and Academic Engagement.
He also chairs the university-wide Retention Task Force, overseeing the implementation of best practice policies to enhance student retention. Prior to joining Saint Leo University, Dr. DeSantis served as Assistant Vice President at Florida International University (FIU), where he was the Chief Student Affairs Officer for the Biscayne Bay Campus. At FIU, he supervised multiple departments and successfully secured significant grants and scholarships for veteran and military-affiliated students. He also led the development of strategic initiatives aimed at improving student engagement and fostering inclusivity.
Earlier in his career, Dr. DeSantis was the Associate Dean of Students at the University of Florida from 2010 to 2017. He also spent a decade at Nova Southeastern University, where he held several roles including Director of Housing, Marketing Coordinator for the Master’s in College Student Affairs program, Assistant Director of Housing, and Assistant Director of Career Services. Dr. DeSantis has held leadership positions with Alpha Delta Gamma National Fraternity and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). He earned his Ph.D. in Conflict Resolution and Analysis from Nova Southeastern University and holds both a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Barry University.
As a first-generation, low-income college student, Dr. DeSantis is deeply committed to advancing student success and cultivating a strong sense of belonging. His dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including the 2022 G.I. Jobs Veteran Champion of the Year in Higher Education, the 2021 NASPA Student Career Development Outstanding AVP/Senior-Level Student Affairs Professional Award, and the 2012 NASPA Mid-Level Student Affairs Professional Award. Dr. DeSantis has been married to his wife, Michelle, for over 25 years, and they share their home with their beloved dog, Leia.
