Rochelle D. Santopoalo, PhD, passed away on March 10, 2026, at her home in Leesburg, Florida. She was born in Evanston, Illinois, on September 7, 1955. In 1960, her family moved to Waukegan, Illinois. Rochelle later returned to Evanston to assist her grandmother. She also lived in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Aurora, Illinois, before moving to Leesburg, Florida, in 2014.

Rochelle lived a life devoted to learning, helping others, and bringing people together through her work in nursing, education, entrepreneurship, and her many creative passions.

An avid reader from childhood, Rochelle eagerly awaited the arrival of the neighborhood bookmobile, always excited to discover new books. This early love of reading sparked a lifelong passion for learning. Rochelle began her healthcare career as a candy striper. She graduated from Evanston Hospital School of Nursing in 1975, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Lewis University in 1976, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Illinois University in 1978.

Later, she chose to pursue business, earning an MBA in Business and Management from Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University in 1989. She went on to earn a PhD, MA in Human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University in 1996. Throughout her career, Rochelle served as a nurse, Director of Nursing, college educator, and entrepreneur. She also mentored students pursuing their PhDs.

Rochelle enjoyed playing music, singing, and performing. Halloween was her favorite holiday—so much so that she wrote her dissertation on the subject. Her Evanston home became known for its elaborate Halloween decorations, often drawing a line of visitors down the street. Through this passion, she formed many friendships and built a vibrant community. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to found Happy Halloween Magazine and to host Halloween Convergences, bringing together many kindred spirits. Later, she created SoCAFE, an online certification program for adjunct faculty, and had recently begun work on a new venture called Diving Upwards.

Rochelle adopted many pets over the years, giving them a loving home. She was also a longtime member of Toastmasters, where she honed her public speaking skills. She enjoyed traveling whenever possible.

Rochelle is survived by her brothers, David Santopoalo (Debbie) and Dean Santopoalo; her sister, Tina Santopoalo; her brother-in-law, Bill Walker; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, James Santopoalo; her mother, Dorothy Santopoalo; and her sister, Karen Walker.

Rochelle and her family were deeply grateful for the kindness and support of her many friends at The Plantation at Leesburg, Florida, who helped her during her declining health.

A virtual celebration of life will be held on a future date. Donations in her name may be made to Fielding Graduate University or to your local PBS station. Rochelle will be remembered for her boundless curiosity, creativity, and her gift for bringing people together through her passions and ideas.