University Honors Program

By Tara McLoughlin

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Leslie Picca as the new Executive Director of the Honors Program! With a robust academic and leadership background, Dr. Picca brings her passion for student success and academic excellence to our community. Previously, she served as the Department Chair of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work, and held the prestigious Roesch Endowed Chair in the Social Sciences. Her dedication to teaching honors students and supporting them through their thesis projects highlights her commitment to fostering intellectual growth.

Dr. Picca's academic journey began at the University of Mary Washington in Virginia, followed by earning both her Master’s degree in sexuality studies and a Ph.D. in race and ethnicity from the University of Florida. As a sociologist, her research and teaching often focus on topics that are “hiding in plain sight.” Even at a private Catholic university, Dr. Picca embraces these discussions, creating a space for meaningful dialogue and exploration.

What excites Dr. Picca most about her new role is the opportunity to champion student learning and foster connections between high-achieving students and faculty who are making a difference for the common good. She is enthusiastic about collaborating with the incredible Honors staff and faculty, including Courtney, Dorian, Gina, and Laura, all of whom she describes as dedicated, highly talented, and a joy to work with.

Outside the classroom, Dr. Picca is known for her personal touch—she takes group photos of her students to help her remember names and faces, a reflection of her deep investment in getting to know her students. She encourages feedback and ideas from students to help improve the Honors Program, particularly as she and her team look to make revisions that align with the university’s mission and values.

On the home front, Dr. Picca is the proud parent of three teenage daughters and two spoiled dogs, Daisy and Lola. Her life is full and busy, but she wouldn’t have it any other way!

We are excited about Dr. Picca’s leadership and look forward to seeing the impact she will make on our Honors Program and the students she serves.