Marcia Young Cantarella, PhD, celebrated for more than 50 years of professional success
As president of Cantarella Consulting, she coordinates with program directors and collaborates with student team leaders to establish agendas, assist students with challenges and advise on resources.
NEW YORK, NY, March 28, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ — Marcia Y. Cantarella has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Dr. Cantarella, a distinguished figure in higher education and consulting, has made significant contributions throughout her career. As the president of Cantarella Consulting, she coordinates with program directors and collaborates with student team leaders to establish agendas, assist students with challenges and advise on resources. Her involvement extends to serving on several boards, including the board of trustees at St. Elizabeth University.
Dr. Cantarella’s career journey is marked by numerous roles that highlight her dedication to education and social responsibility. Since 2015, she has been a subject matter expert at Change Create Transform, where she provides insights into transformative practices. As an author, she published “College Countdown” in 2012 and continues to share her expertise through writing. Her consultancy work in higher education began in 2008 with Cantarella Consulting and includes advising the Hunter College Black Male Initiative at The City University of New York.
From 2005 to 2008, Dr. Cantarella served as associate dean at Hunter College, where she played a pivotal role in academic administration. For the preceding three years, she was vice president of student affairs at Metropolitan College of New York, focusing on student engagement and support services. Her tenure as assistant dean at Princeton University from 1999 to 2002 further solidified her commitment to student development.
Dr. Cantarella’s earlier career includes her impactful work as director of the academic enhancement program at New York University from 1991 to 1999. During this time, she fostered lasting relationships with students, many of whom now serve alongside her on advisory boards. Her corporate experience began at The Avon Company from 1972 to 1985, where she was responsible for corporate responsibility and later directed marketing and public affairs.
Serving as a foundation for her achievements, Dr. Cantarella earned a Doctor of Philosophy in American studies and American business from New York University in 1997 and a bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Bryn Mawr College in 1968. Beyond her formal education, she attributes much of her success to the influence of her father, Whitney Moore Young, whose leadership and network provided valuable opportunities, including an internship at Robert Kennedy’s office.
Dr. Cantarella is also civically involved, serving as a member of the board of trustees at St. Elizabeth University and previously chairing the board of advisers for The Eagle Academy Foundation. Other affiliations include the board of trustees for Read Alliance and advisory roles with Change Create Transform, Minds Matter, Greater New York Councils BSA, Total Equity Now and Pallus.
Acknowledging her many accomplishments, Dr. Cantarella has received numerous accolades, such as the Distinguished Alumna Award from Bryn Mawr College in 2018 and various recognitions from New York University. As an author, she is proud of publishing “Recognize and Give Thanks” and “I CAN Finish College: The Overcome Any Obstacle and Get Your Degree Guide.” She also contributed as a project writer for “All The Difference” on PBS.
In her personal life, Dr. Cantarella values time with her family, particularly after the passing of her husband and son. She also enjoys reading, needlework, embroidery and making pillows for friends and family as hobbies. As she approaches a new chapter in her life, she is unsure what the future holds but hopes to remain active on various boards, continue her work at Hunter College and make a great positive impact.
About Marquis Who’s Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
# # #
