Organization: Whiting Foundation
Constantia Constantinou is a distinguished global leader renowned for her pioneering work in integrating large university library systems with broader academic missions. With a career marked by innovation and strategic vision, she has spearheaded digital, multimedia, and technology initiatives within prestigious institutions. As Vice Provost and Director of Libraries at the University of Pennsylvania, Constantinou led the executive management of all 19 libraries, driving impactful strategies to enhance student learning, faculty research, engagement, fundraising, and external partnerships. She designed the execution of short- and long-term strategic expansion plans in collections and technology, aligned with the University’s goals. She oversaw the operational excellence of 19 specialized libraries: over 400 employees; $87 million annual operating budget, and a $170M growing endowment. Constantinou spearheaded institutional partnerships with colleges and universities, libraries, cultural institutions, and organizations nationally and internationally to advance research and scholarship. She has developed dynamic resources, tools, expertise, and physical spaces that inspire critical inquiry and creative expression. She managed capital planning and oversaw the construction of award-winning libraries and facilities renovations. Among her many other accomplishments, she oversaw the planning and construction of the Biomedical Library at the University of Pennsylvania and the Information Commons at Stony Brook University. She also oversaw the renovation of library spaces for high end technology. As the Dean of University Libraries at Stony Brook University, the State University of New York, (SUNY) she formulated ambitious plans to redefine libraries as collaborative hubs for scholarly and digital endeavors. She is a SUNY Distinguished Professor, with the title Dean Emerita. As a Fulbright Scholar, and as a Fulbright Specialist, she has actively contributed to the global library community through publications, conference presentations. She served on leadership roles and board of directors on prominent national and international library organizations. Among her many publications and presentations world-wide, she is the author and co editor of the book “Developing Professional, Intercultural, and Educational Leadership”, 2017 SUNY Press. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was honored with the Distinguished Alumna award from the Graduate School of Library and Information Studies at Queens College in 2014. Beyond her professional library achievements, Constantinou is a talented classical guitarist, holding degrees in Music from Queens College, where she also earned her Master of Library Science.