Denise (Sutphin) Tiberio ’89

Faculty/Staff Alumni Award

Denise Tiberio’s lifelong connection to Sacred Heart University is a story of leadership, service, and dedication to students. A 1989 graduate, Tiberio was deeply involved during her undergraduate years. She served all four years as class president, participated in student government, was a member of Beta Delta Phi Sorority, and worked in student activities, coordinating basketball away weekends.

During her professional career at SHU, Tiberio has helped create many of the University’s signature traditions, including Orientation, Family Weekend, Senior Week, and spring concerts. Passionate about student success, she also implemented the First-Year Experience program, which continues to support incoming students as they transition to college life.

Now serving as vice president of student affairs and dean of students, Tiberio has mentored generations of students and higher education professionals while impacting more than 30,000 students throughout her career. Reflecting on her time at SHU, Tiberio says, “I literally grew up on this campus,” crediting SHU with shaping her through leadership opportunities and strong mentorship. Her legacy continues to inspire the entire SHU community.

Denise and her husband, Joe, have two children: Olivia and Joey.