SJU Women Pioneers

Dr. Laura M. Crispin is a professor and chair of the Department of Economics.  Dr. Crispin teaches courses in data analysis and applied microeconomics.  Her research focuses on economics of education and time use analysis, focusing on out-of-school time and activities, with particular attention to differences in outcomes by race, gender, and socioeconomic status.

SJC student from 1970-73, playing on the first Women’s Basketball team. Completed undergraduate and graduate degrees at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, where she lived with her husband and four children for 25 years. Now retired after working for three decades in education, and living in Brownfield, Maine. 

Dr Nancy Ruth Fox is Professor of Economics and former Associate Dean. She teaches courses about economics and food, poverty, elections, and current events. She is the proud mom of Sam and Simon, Grancy to Maggie and Eliza, who she will teach to speak up when they are older.

Over 18 years at SJU, Amy has taught Finance courses to Undergraduate and Graduate students. Before earning her PhD from Lehigh University, Lipton spent 10 years managing bond portfolios for large institutions. Dr. Lipton is a past president of the SJU Faculty Senate, and Co-Chaired the recent Core Curriculum reform.

Dr. Cheryl A. McConnell is Saint Joseph’s 29th and 1st female president.  With more than 35 years of experience, Dr. McConnell is a national leader in Jesuit, Catholic higher education. Her tenure has been marked by strategic program expansion and acquisitions, particularly in the health profession fields.

Dr. Usha Rao, Professor of Chemistry, is a speaker, author, and consultant for national and international organizations. She has won major awards for research, mentoring, teaching, and leadership. In 2022, she received the highest honor bestowed by the Association for Women in Science - the Zenith award for lifetime achievement and leadership.

Shayna Sit is a third-year physics major, with minors in math, English, Chinese language, and Asian studies. She is a member of SJU’s Society of Physics Students chapter and has established a Women in Physics club on campus. She is also a writing tutor, astronomy lab TA, and RA.

Jennifer C. Tudor, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Biology. Her research lab is focused on understanding the impact of sleep and disease on protein synthesis signaling pathways and memory formation. Outside the lab, Dr. Tudor and her husband enjoy traveling, skiing, and SCUBA diving.