Sister Lisa Zuccarelli, a former professor at Salve Regina from 2003 – 2018, is accused of abuse that happened in 1982 while she was assigned to Fisher Catholic High School in Lancaster, OH.
According to reports, the student left her home because she was suffering from abuse and Zuccarelli allowed her to stay in her room that night. Zuccarelli then allegedly molested the girl that night and had her sneak out of her room in the morning.
“We sadly acknowledge that a credible allegation of sexual misconduct with a minor was made against Sr. Lisa Zuccarelli, OP, by a former student, at Fisher Catholic High School, Lancaster, OH. Sr. Lisa was a teacher there and lived at St. Mary Convent in Lancaster at the time,” Sr. Patricia Twohill, Prioress of the Dominican Sisters of Peace said. “We consider this conduct reprehensible, and we are deeply sorry for the pain it has caused. We have approached the situation with as much transparency as possible, while being respectful of the privacy of the victim. We are doing all that we can to support the healing of all involved.”
Salve Regina University released this statement.
“Salve Regina University can confirm the resignation of Associate Professor, Dr. Lisa Zuccarelli, OP, in early November.
Dr. Zuccarelli was placed on an immediate leave of absence from Salve Regina prior to the fall semester upon notification from the Dominican Sisters of Peace of an allegation of improper sexual contact with a minor more than 35 years ago in the state of Ohio. The Congregation of the Dominican Sisters of Peace and Salve Regina jointly conducted an independent investigation in full cooperation with authorities, while also balancing the needs of transparency and respectful privacy for the victim.
At no time during this investigation was there any evidence to suggest that Dr. Zuccarelli acted inappropriately toward any student or employee during her tenure with Salve Regina University. Dr. Zuccarelli was employed at Salve Regina University from 2003-2018.”
Sister Zuccarelli is currently undergoing psychological assessment at a center that specializes in therapy for religious and clergy.
