Prior to accepting his position at Le Moyne College, Pestello served at the University of Dayton for 24 years.

As president, Dr. Pestello oversaw stewardship of a record donation to the college: a $50 million bequest from the McDevitt family.

[8] He also directed physical improvements on the campus, including renovation of an abandoned building in order to house a bookstore open to the community, and construction of the Coyne Science Center.

[citation needed] In June 2009, Pestello met with the Superior General of the Society of Jesus in Rome, Italy.

Pestello has published articles on topics ranging from hospices and public policy to faculty hiring practices in Catholic colleges, including: