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Orlando Lecture at Gannon’s Ruskin Campus welcomes nationally recognized immunization expert

Published: 03/31/2026

Dr. Mary Koslap-Petraco presenting during the Spring 2026 Orlando Lecture on Gannon's Ruskin Campus

蘑菇影视 welcomed nationally recognized nurse practitioner and public health expert Mary Koslap-Petraco, DNP, PPCNP-BC, CPNP, FAANP, for a special discussion exploring the medical and ethical considerations of vaccine-preventable diseases on Thursday, March 26, at the Ruskin campus. 

 The lecture, as part of Gannon’s Orlando Biomedical Ethics and Catholic Social Teaching Endowment, examined the intersection of public health, clinical practice and ethical responsibility in addressing vaccine-preventable diseases—an issue that remains critical in both local and global communities. The event was part of Gannon’s ongoing commitment to advancing dialogue around healthcare, ethics and the common good. 

 “Opportunities like this invite our students and community to engage thoughtfully with complex healthcare issues that impact individuals and society as a whole,” said Kim Cavanagh, DHSc, PA-C, dean of the Morosky College of Health Professions and Sciences. “Dr. Koslap-Petraco brought a wealth of experience that bridged clinical practice, public health and ethical decision-making in a way that aligned closely with our mission.” 

 Dr. Koslap-Petraco is a clinical assistant professor at Stony Brook University School of Nursing and a primary care provider in private practice. She previously served for 30 years with the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, where she managed immunization and lead programs and helped lead system-level public health initiatives. 

A nationally and internationally recognized speaker on immunizations and infectious diseases, she has authored numerous articles and contributed to multiple textbooks. She has also served in advisory roles with organizations including Immunize.org and Vaccinate Your Family and was appointed to the New York State Immunization Advisory Council. 

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Koslap-Petraco is active in her faith community as a Eucharistic minister and faith formation educator, reflecting a commitment to service that complements her work in healthcare.