Ithaca College

Contributed on behalf of Tanya Saunders, Assistant Provost

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Maria DiFrancesco as the next Director of the Exploratory Program, effective on January 1st, 2020.  Dr. DiFrancesco is Professor of Spanish in the School of Humanities and Sciences and a prolific scholar. Most recently Chair of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, Dr. DiFrancesco brings to the Exploratory Program an understanding of the first-generation student experience, a commitment to liberal arts education at Ithaca College, and an enthusiasm for teaching and advising in support of student success.

She is the recipient of the Harold G. Jones Award for Best Essay, awarded for “Facing the Specter of Immigration in Biutiful.” She has taught ‘Exploring the Options’ and long been an advocate for the Program. During this Fall semester, Dr. DiFrancesco and Dr. Bleicher, the current Exploratory Program Director, will together work to ensure a smooth leadership transition and sustained support of Exploratory students.  Dr. DiFrancesco has noted that “during this auspicious time in the College’s history, we all, together, can cultivate an even stronger, even more dynamic community of learners.” As I thank Dr. Elizabeth Bleicher for her outstanding performance in laying an excellent foundation for the Exploratory Program, I look forward to working with Dr. DiFrancesco as she builds on that foundation during this season of change. Please congratulate Dr. DiFrancesco on her new role.