Regina S. Peruggi, born in 1947, is a distinguished American educator and administrator known for her leadership in higher education and nonprofit organizations. She made history as the first woman president of Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, New York, serving from 2005 to 2014. Prior to that, she held prominent roles as president of Marymount Manhattan College and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy.
Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Regina Peruggi is also recognized for her personal life—she was the first wife of Rudy Giuliani, the former Mayor of New York City. Her career reflects a blend of public service, advocacy for education, and a pioneering spirit that has inspired countless professionals in academia.
| Full Name | Regina S. Peruggi |
|---|---|
| Born | 1947 (Age 78 in 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Educator, Academic Administrator |
| Famous For | First female president of Kingsborough Community College (2005–2014); former wife of Rudy Giuliani |
| Spouse | Rudy Giuliani (m. 1968 – div. 1982) |
| Education | The College of New Rochelle; New York University; Teachers College, Columbia University |
| Major Roles | President of Marymount Manhattan College (1990–2000); CEO of Central Park Conservancy; President of Kingsborough CC (2005–2014) |
| Notable Achievement | First woman to lead Kingsborough Community College in its 40-year history |
| Current Status | Retired from public academic leadership (since 2014) |
Early Life and Background
Regina Peruggi was born in 1947 in the United States. Raised in a family that valued education and social responsibility, she grew up with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. These formative experiences helped shape her later career path, which focused on leadership in education and nonprofit work.
While details of her early family life remain private, it is clear that Regina developed an early interest in teaching, leadership, and community engagement. These values became central themes throughout her professional journey.
Educational Pursuits
Education has always been a cornerstone of Regina Peruggi’s life. She began her higher education at The College of New Rochelle, where she earned her undergraduate degree. She later attended New York University, expanding her knowledge and professional skills.
To prepare for leadership roles in education, Regina pursued advanced studies at Teachers College, Columbia University, one of the most prestigious institutions for educators in the United States. These academic achievements provided her with the expertise needed to lead major colleges and nonprofit organizations.
Early Career in Education
After completing her studies, Regina Peruggi began her career as a teacher and counselor, working directly with students and communities. Her early professional life focused on youth development and education programs, where she demonstrated a talent for leadership and program innovation.
Her commitment to student success, combined with her ability to manage complex organizations, positioned her for higher-level roles in both nonprofit and academic institutions.
Leadership at Central Park Conservancy
Before fully stepping into higher education leadership, Regina Peruggi served as the president and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy. The Conservancy is a nonprofit organization responsible for managing and restoring Central Park in New York City.
During her tenure, she oversaw initiatives to preserve the park, engage community members, and ensure sustainable operations. Her leadership strengthened the organization’s role as a national model for urban park management.
President of Marymount Manhattan College
In the early 1990s, Regina Peruggi was appointed president of Marymount Manhattan College, a private liberal arts college on New York’s Upper East Side. She led the institution from 1990 to 2000, during a period of growth and academic innovation.
Her leadership focused on expanding academic programs, improving student services, and enhancing the college’s profile within the competitive landscape of New York City higher education. Under her guidance, the college developed a stronger reputation for supporting student success and diversity.
Making History at Kingsborough Community College
In 2005, Regina Peruggi was appointed as the first female president of Kingsborough Community College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. She served until 2014, marking nearly a decade of transformational leadership.
As president, she implemented new programs to improve student retention, expanded workforce development initiatives, and fostered community partnerships. Her tenure was also notable for promoting inclusivity and access to education for underrepresented communities.
Her role at Kingsborough was historic not only because she was the first woman to hold the position, but also because of the lasting impact she left on the college’s culture and academic achievements.
Contributions to Higher Education
Throughout her career, Regina Peruggi has been recognized as a trailblazer in higher education leadership. Her contributions include:
- Expanding academic opportunities for underserved students.
- Building partnerships between colleges and local communities.
- Strengthening institutional governance and financial sustainability.
- Promoting gender equality in leadership roles.
Her work exemplifies how effective leadership can shape institutions for long-term success.
Marriage to Rudy Giuliani
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Regina Peruggi is often remembered for her marriage to Rudy Giuliani, who would later become Mayor of New York City. The two married in 1968, when Giuliani was still a young law student.
Their marriage lasted until 1982, ending in divorce. While Giuliani went on to achieve political fame, Regina chose a path rooted in academia and nonprofit service. Despite their public connection, she maintained her independence and built a career entirely on her own merits.
Life After Divorce
Following her separation from Rudy Giuliani, Regina Peruggi continued to rise professionally. She rarely commented publicly on her marriage, instead focusing on her roles in education and nonprofit leadership.
Her ability to establish her own identity apart from Giuliani’s political career highlights her resilience and determination. By the time she became president of Kingsborough, she was widely regarded as a respected leader in her own right.
Advocacy for Women in Leadership
As the first woman president of Kingsborough Community College, Regina Peruggi became a role model for women aspiring to leadership positions in academia. She demonstrated that women could excel in roles historically dominated by men.
Her career has often been cited as an example of breaking barriers, inspiring women to pursue leadership in education, nonprofit organizations, and beyond.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout her career, Regina Peruggi has received recognition for her contributions to education and public service. While specific awards may not be widely publicized, her legacy includes being acknowledged by academic peers and civic organizations for her leadership and community impact.
Her tenure at multiple institutions stands as a testament to her professional excellence and dedication to public good.
Teaching and Mentorship
Beyond her administrative roles, Regina Peruggi has remained committed to teaching and mentoring. She has guided students, faculty, and younger administrators, sharing her experiences and encouraging the next generation of leaders.
Her mentorship reflects her belief that education is not only about institutional success but also about personal growth and empowerment.
Connection to New York City
Much of Regina Peruggi’s career has been rooted in New York City, where she has served in various leadership capacities. Her work at Marymount Manhattan, the Central Park Conservancy, and Kingsborough Community College reflects a lifelong commitment to improving the city’s educational and cultural institutions.
Her legacy is closely tied to the city’s academic and nonprofit landscape, making her a respected figure in New York’s civic life.
Retirement from Kingsborough
After nearly a decade of service, Regina Peruggi retired from her presidency at Kingsborough Community College in 2014. Her departure marked the end of a significant chapter in the college’s history, but her impact continues to be felt through the programs and initiatives she championed.
Post-retirement, she has maintained a lower public profile, focusing on private life while continuing to inspire through her legacy.
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Regina Peruggi is defined by her trailblazing role in education, her advocacy for women in leadership, and her resilience in shaping her own path. While her personal life with Rudy Giuliani often attracts public attention, her professional contributions stand as the true measure of her accomplishments.
Her work has left a lasting mark on multiple institutions, ensuring that her influence will continue to benefit students and educators for generations.
Conclusion
Regina Peruggi’s biography is the story of an educator, leader, and trailblazer who dedicated her life to advancing education and public service. From her early days as a teacher to her historic presidency at Kingsborough Community College, she consistently broke barriers and inspired others.
Although often linked to Rudy Giuliani as his first wife, Regina Peruggi is far more than a footnote in political history. She is a pioneering educator whose contributions to academia and community service stand as a powerful legacy.
FAQs
1. Who is Regina Peruggi?
Regina Peruggi is an American educator, former president of Kingsborough Community College, and the first wife of Rudy Giuliani.
2. When was Regina Peruggi born?
She was born in 1947 and is 78 years old as of 2025.
3. What colleges did Regina Peruggi lead?
She served as president of Marymount Manhattan College and later Kingsborough Community College.
4. Was Regina Peruggi married to Rudy Giuliani?
Yes. She married Rudy Giuliani in 1968, and they divorced in 1982.
5. What was Regina Peruggi’s role at Kingsborough Community College?
She was the first female president of Kingsborough Community College, serving from 2005 to 2014.
6. Did Regina Peruggi work outside higher education?
Yes. She also served as CEO of the Central Park Conservancy, leading efforts to preserve New York’s iconic Central Park.
7. What is Regina Peruggi’s legacy?
Her legacy lies in advancing education, breaking gender barriers, and serving as a role model for women in leadership.
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