Local Business Spotlight: Saint Elizabeth University

This Patch article is sponsored by Saint Elizabeth University.

Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Dr. Marjorie Tapia, Chair and Assistant Professor of Nursing, The Helen J. Streubert, Ed.D. Programs in Nursing, of Saint Elizabeth University.

Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization:
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: Saint Elizabeth University in Morristown, NJ is a private Catholic university offering personalized, values-based education with strong programs in health, business, education, and the liberal arts.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town, or how long has your organization been around in the community?Dr. Marjorie Tapia: Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) has proudly served the Morristown community since 1899, founded by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth. For more than 125 years, the university has remained deeply rooted in service, education, and social responsibility. Originally established as a college for women, SEU transitioned to a fully coeducational university and earned university status in 2020. Throughout its history, SEU has specialized in transformative education, helping students discover their purpose and make a lasting difference in their communities. Today, the university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as nursing, business, psychology, education, and the health sciences. Guided by Catholic social teaching and a strong commitment to leadership and service, Saint Elizabeth University continues to build meaningful relationships that strengthen both Morristown and the world beyond.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: Growing up with my grandmother at home shaped my heart for aging care. I began working with seniors in NYC, pursued my studies at Boston College, earned my master’s at NYU, and completed doctoral work at Yale before feeling called to educate the next generation.

Patch: What's the most common piece of advice you give to students?
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: I always encourage students to take full advantage of the diversity and personalized experience Saint Elizabeth University offers. The access you have to faculty here is truly special. Our professors bring expertise across geriatrics, acute care, pediatrics, and more, and they are deeply invested in your growth. That level of one-on-one interaction and mentorship is rare, and it allows you to explore different paths, ask meaningful questions, and build confidence in your skills.

You are not just learning from textbooks. You are learning from professionals who have lived these experiences and are committed to helping you succeed. When you lean into those relationships, you gain not only knowledge, but perspective, support, and a clearer sense of where you want to go.

Nursing, for example, is a challenging field, but for those who are passionate, the rewards far outweigh the demands. Being surrounded by faculty who understand the realities of the profession, and who are willing to guide you through it, makes all the difference.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: What I find most rewarding is seeing students grow, evolve, and step into their purpose. Being able to give back to a field that is in such critical need, and to do so through a program that can truly respond in real time to individual student needs and interests, is incredibly meaningful. That is the advantage of a diverse yet boutique environment where students are seen, supported, and guided as individuals.

Equally important is the University itself. There is a genuine sense of community here that is hard to find elsewhere. It is not just something we talk about. It is something you feel every day. The mission is not just words on a page. It is actively lived out in how we teach, mentor, and care for our students, and that makes all the difference.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: What distinguishes Saint Elizabeth University is its mission in action and its deep connection to the communities it serves. Being located in the Northeast allows us to work with a diverse student population that truly reflects the communities they will go on to support. Many of our students come from backgrounds where access to academic opportunities was limited, and in many cases, English is not their first language. SEU is prepared to meet students where they are, providing the support needed to help them succeed and realize their goals.

We also create accessible pathways for growth, not only for traditional students but for those already in the field who are looking to advance their careers. Our strong relationships with two-year programs allow for a seamless transition into bachelor’s programs, making that next step feel achievable.

Equally important is our faculty. They bring real-world experience into the classroom, ensuring that our curriculum reflects current community needs and prepares students for the realities of today’s healthcare environment.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?
Dr. Marjorie Tapia: To learn more about Saint Elizabeth University, visit our official website at www.steu.edu, where you can explore our academic programs, admissions process, campus life, and community initiatives. We invite you to follow us on social media for the latest news and events:

• Facebook: facebook.com/SaintElizabethUniversity
• Instagram: @saintelizabethuniversity
• Twitter/X: @SaintElizabethU

For general inquiries, please contact us at (973) 290-4000 or email admissions@steu.edu.