Saint Elizabeth University has proudly served the Morristown community since 1899, founded by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth.
This Patch article is sponsored by Saint Elizabeth University.
Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Anthony Santamaria, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Associate Vice President and Dean of Academic Operations, of Saint Elizabeth University.
Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization: Anthony Santamaria: Saint Elizabeth University in Morristown, NJ is a private Catholic university offering personalized, values-based education with strong programs in health, business, education, and the liberal arts.
Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?Anthony Santamaria: Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) has proudly served the Morristown community since 1899, founded by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth. For more than 125 years, the university has remained deeply rooted in service, education, and social responsibility. Originally established as a college for women, SEU transitioned to a fully coeducational university and earned university status in 2020. Throughout its history, SEU has specialized in transformative education, helping students discover their purpose and make a lasting difference in their communities. Today, the university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as nursing, business, psychology, education, and the health sciences. Guided by Catholic social teaching and a strong commitment to leadership and service, Saint Elizabeth University continues to build meaningful relationships that strengthen both Morristown and the world beyond.
Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?Anthony Santamaria: I A passion for transformative education and a commitment to service drew me to this work. I got started by following where I believed I could make the greatest difference in students’ lives.
Patch: What's the most common piece of advice you give to students?Anthony Santamaria: I encourage students to treat their chosen path as a vocation, committing fully to the work they feel called to do and striving to build a life where they would not want to be anywhere else. I also remind them never to bury their talents or let anyone else diminish them. At Saint Elizabeth University, we focus on helping students uncover and develop their unique strengths. I advise them to take full advantage of every opportunity, ask for more, and use their education to make a lasting difference in their lives and communities. True happiness begins with finding a place and a purpose that feel fully their own, and education is the foundation that helps them get there.
Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?Anthony Santamaria: The most satisfying part of my job is witnessing transformation. Seeing students realize their own potential, grow into confident leaders, and go on to make a positive difference in their communities is deeply rewarding. Every conversation, class, or moment of encouragement can spark something lasting. It is especially meaningful to hear from former students years later who share how their time at the university shaped their lives. I also find great fulfillment in working alongside colleagues who are equally committed to service, learning, and personal growth. Having been a part of the Saint Elizabeth community, for over 25 years, where education is not just about academics, but about building character and fostering purpose, has been a gift. Knowing that our work contributes to a larger mission of empowerment and opportunity makes every challenge worthwhile. It is a daily reminder that education is not simply a profession; it is a calling that changes lives, including my own.
Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?Anthony Santamaria: Saint Elizabeth University distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to transformative education rooted in service, community, and Catholic social teaching. Our focus is not only on academic achievement but on developing the whole person. We specialize in helping students uncover their talents, grow in confidence, and leave prepared to make a lasting impact in their communities. Unlike many institutions, service learning is not optional but a graduation requirement, reinforcing our mission to form leaders who serve others. Our size also allows for meaningful relationships between students, faculty, and staff, creating a true sense of belonging and mentorship. At Saint Elizabeth University, students are not just educated; they are empowered to find their purpose, pursue it with passion, and lift others along the way. This commitment to community, transformation, and lifelong growth sets us apart.