Office of the President
Under the leadership of President Dr. Gino Natalicchio, Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) continues to expand its impact both locally and internationally. At PHSU, the Office of the President is dedicated to advancing our mission of excellence in healthcare education, research, and community service. We strive to prepare our students to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry and to make meaningful contributions to our communities.
Ponce Health Sciences University Leadership
Dr. Gino Natalicchio, appointed as President of PHSU in 2023, brings over 25 years of experience in senior management within higher education institutions across Puerto Rico, the continental U.S., and internationally. His expertise in developing and implementing online and campus strategies has been instrumental in driving significant growth and success for similar institutions. In his role, Dr. Natalicchio oversees all operations of PHSU, ensuring the university's commitment to providing world-class education and healthcare initiatives.
Ponce Health Sciences University boasts over 45 years of experience in providing world-class education to highly qualified students across the programs offered in our academic portfolio. Throughout our history, we have produced over 4,000 graduates in Medicine, Clinical Psychology, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Nursing, and Dental Medicine.
Our institution is widely recognized in Puerto Rico and other nations for its strong
focus on health sciences, incorporating a robust scientific research component that addresses health disparities within the Latino community and other minority
groups. Now, with the establishment of a campus in St. Louis, Missouri, we are proud to bring
our world-class educational and healthcare initiatives to an even wider audience,
furthering our mission of excellence in the field of health sciences. As part of our future, PHSU will creatively expand its academic programs to meet the
global demand for healthcare professionals. In doing so, and through the additional services we offer, the university will continue fulfilling its mission and vision, which is centered on directly serving the population we engage
with, focusing on the success of our students and the PHSU’s community.
As we embark on this exciting journey into the future, Ponce Health Sciences University
remains dedicated to excellence in education, research, and service. Our commitment
to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, advancing scientific knowledge,
and addressing healthcare disparities is unwavering. With our passionate faculty,
devoted staff, and talented students, we look forward to continuing our mission of
serving and positively impacting our community and the world at large.
Dr. Gino Natalicchio
President, Ponce Health Sciences University
Ponce Health Sciences University Strategic Initiatives
Expansion of Academic Programs
PHSU is actively introducing new academic programs, including the establishment of a campus in St. Louis, Missouri and international location in Tortola, BVI to extend our health sciences educational reach and impact.
Research Advancement
PHSU is dedicated to enhancing its research capabilities to address critical health issues and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Community Engagement
PHSU is focused on strengthening partnerships with local and international communities to promote health equity and deliver essential healthcare services.
Mission
The mission of Ponce Health Sciences University is to provide a world-class, culturally-competent, health sciences education to the population we serve, through innovative adaptive learning environments focused on the success of its students to become ethical practitioners and scientists.