Dr. Porcella’s interests and areas of research include behavioral insights in student retention, international higher education, and institutional change. He has worked in higher education at colleges and universities throughout the United States and internationally.  In his role as Sr. Vice President and Provost, Dr. Porcella aims to bridge the gap between student affairs and academics in order to create more opportunities for student life staff and faculty members to think collaboratively on how to educate students holistically both inside and outside the classroom. His focus on student retention in his master’s and doctoral work supports his endeavors to create an educational experience that encourages more students to persist to graduation. Dr. Porcella and his wife Hannah have two daughters, Charis and Aletheia. He currently serves as an elder at Cresheim Valley Church (PCA) in his hometown of Philadelphia.