Mark DeStephano

Dr. Mark DeStephano serves as Chair & Professor of the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures and Director of the Asian Studies Program at Saint Peter’s University. He holds a Ph.D. from Harvard University and has been a faculty member since 1995. His interdisciplinary research bridges Medieval European literature, Hispanic-American studies, and East Asian cultural history.

Education:

• B.A. in Philosophy and Spanish, Fordham University
• Four theology degrees from Regis College (University of Toronto)
• M.A. and Ph.D. in Romance Languages & Literatures, Harvard University

His research explores intersections between literature, identity, and power across cultures. Notable areas include Chinese national memory, Spanish Golden Age narratives, and the role of race/gender in Asian and Latino communities. He has authored four books and presented at major conferences like the United Nations High Commission and Northeast Popular Culture Association.

Awards:

• George F. Johnson Teaching Excellence Award (2008)
• National Scholar Recognition from China’s Government

Dr. DeStephano advises the Japanese Anime Manga Club and has pioneered academic programs like the Asian Studies and Latin American & Latino Studies initiatives at Saint Peter’s. His teaching spans Spanish, French, and Greek language courses, with a focus on culturally immersive pedagogy.