About Francesca Maresca

Francesca M. Maresca, Ph.D., CHES, joined Rutgers University as a health education specialist for Rutgers Student Health – Health Outreach, Promotion and Education (HOPE) in 2001, focusing primarily on sexual and reproductive health and mental health. In 2006, she became the Director of HOPE, overseeing education and prevention initiatives including sexual and reproductive health, mental health and suicide prevention, alcohol and other drug education, nutrition and wellness. In addition, she is responsible for assessing overall health and wellness, co-chairs the Rutgers University JED Campus Initiative and the Division of Student Affairs Health and Wellness Committee.

In 2021, Francesca stepped into the role of Interim Assistant Vice Chancellor for Health and Wellness. With oversight of Rutgers Student Health, including medical, CAPS and HOPE and Recreation, Francesca guides the health and wellness vision for the campus, works collaboratively with partners across the university community and elevates wellness as a priority for students, faculty, and staff. Her work still includes working closely with peer educators, the Sexual Health Advocates, and training faculty, staff and students in mental health literacy and suicide prevention. Her areas of expertise include sexual and reproductive health and justice, mental health/suicide prevention, and LGBTQ+ health and wellness in higher education. Francesca is a Certified Health Education Specialist and Mental Health First Aid Trainer.  In addition, Francesca is an adjunct faculty member of the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and the Graduate School of Education.

Prior to joining Rutgers University, Francesca had roles at New Your University and the Fashion Institute of Technology. Francesca holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Rutgers University–Newark College of Arts and Science, a Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Gender Studies and a Ph.D. in Health, Human Sexuality, Marriage and Family Education, both from New York University.