Education

2000 Saint Olaf College, B.A. in Psychology
2003 University of Saint Joseph, M.A. in Counseling
2015 Moravian Theological Seminary, Graduate Certificate in Formative Spirituality
2021 University of South Florida, Graduate Certificate in Leadership in Higher Education
2021 University of South Florida, Ed.D., Doctor Education, Educational Program Development

Career Specialties

Jennifer Scaia serves as an advocate for all students while providing vision, leadership and inspiration for the comprehensive and holistic student conduct, orientation, commencement, family engagement, housing and residence life experiences. In support of Spartan Ready® competency development, she collaborates with campus partners to enhance students' sense of belonging contributing to their success. Scaia serves as a primary communicator to students and families. She places high emphasis on shaping residential and first-year student environments that promote responsible decision-making to support student learning.

Professional and Community Activities

Scaia focused her doctoral studies on higher education leadership and innovative program development. Her dissertation addressed how first-year students develop a sense of belonging to their institution, which directly contributes to their retention and persistence. Additional interests include spiritual formation and inquiry-based contemplative practices. She earned a graduate certification in formative spirituality at Moravian Theological Seminary and has been trained as a Circles of Trust® facilitator with the Center of Courage and Renewal and in restorative practices with the International Institute of Restorative Practices. Scaia is an active member of NASPA, ACPA and ACUHO-I. Her primary areas of interest and specialization include first-year student transition, retention and sense of belonging, designing and implementing residential curriculum, developing community standards, facilitating restorative practices and spiritual formation.

Honors and Awards

Assessment and Impact Award for Housing and Residence Life, Skyfactor Benchworks 2021 Outstanding Program
Outstanding Program, Strategic Priority: Technology and Assessment, University of Tampa, 2021
Outstanding Program, Strategic Priority: Communication, University of Tampa, 2018
Outstanding Program, Strategic Priority: Partnerships, University of Tampa, 2018
Unsung Hero Award, The University of Tampa, 2016
Staff Member of the Year, Lehigh University, 2013
Tradition of Excellence Award, Lehigh University, 2012 and 2010
Outstanding Service to NEACUHO, 2008
Outstanding Mid-Level Professional in Connecticut, NASPA, 2007
New Professional Award for NEACUHO, 2005
Outstanding New Professional in Connecticut, NASPA, 2004