Mike Napolitano is Director of Music and Senior Lecturer of Music at Marist University, where he leads a comprehensive academic and extracurricular music program serving more than 400 students annually. He oversees curriculum assessment, faculty supervision, scholarship administration, strategic planning, recruitment, marketing, and event programming while collaborating across the University to advance the performing arts.

A proud Marist alumnus, Napolitano earned both his Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies, with concentrations in Communication and Music, and his Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communication from Marist University. His interdisciplinary background informs an approach to music education that blends artistic excellence with communication, leadership, and student engagement.

As a Senior Lecturer, Napolitano teaches Popular Music in America, Introduction to Music, Music Cultures of the World, Music and Film, and previously directed the University Handbell Choir. His teaching and scholarly interests explore the intersection of music, media, communication, and culture, examining how music reflects history, shapes identity, and influences society. He encourages students to view music as both an artistic discipline and a powerful form of storytelling.

Napolitano founded the Music Promotion Program, a work-study initiative that provides students with hands-on experience in arts marketing, branding, and event management. He is committed to expanding representation in repertoire and curriculum while creating opportunities for professional experience and community engagement. Under his leadership, the Marist Music program has broadened student opportunities, strengthened community partnerships, and increased the visibility of the performing arts across the University.

Beyond Marist, Napolitano has held national leadership roles with Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity, advancing student leadership, alumni engagement, scholarship initiatives, and mentorship. He regularly presents on leadership, organizational culture, and student development and is a nationally certified hazing prevention investigator and educator through CAMPUSPEAK.

Through his teaching, leadership, and service, Napolitano is committed to preparing students to become thoughtful artists, informed citizens, and collaborative leaders while enriching the cultural life of the University and the communities it serves.