Adelphi University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Adelphi University has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, communications, and governance.

Dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and professional growth, Adelphi University advances its mission through comprehensive liberal arts and sciences programs and specialized professional training, solidifying its impact in higher education.

Leadership Roles at Adelphi University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Brian McGovern
  • Founder & President - Ronnie Silver
  • Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter - Nadirah Peakes
  • President - Janice Kim
  • Interim President - Christopher Storm
  • President of Adelphi's Board of Trustees - Timothy Woodruff
  • Chief Information Officer - Fred Hicks
  • Chief Communications Officer - Bobbie Dell'Aquilo
  • Brian McGovern - Chief Executive Officer

    Brian McGovern, the Chief Executive Officer at Adelphi University, directs the institution's overarching strategic vision and operational execution. McGovern guides Adelphi's commitment to providing a robust educational experience, integrating liberal arts with professional training. This leadership involves fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation across all university departments. McGovern ensures the university remains responsive to evolving educational landscapes and student needs. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses driving institutional growth and enhancing Adelphi's reputation as a leading doctoral research university. By aligning departmental objectives with the university's core mission, McGovern secures Adelphi's long-term viability and impact in New York and beyond. This executive role demands a keen understanding of higher education dynamics and a forward-thinking approach to academic and administrative leadership.

    Ronnie Silver - Founder & President

    Ronnie Silver, the Founder & President at Adelphi University, established the institution with a foundational vision for higher education. Silver's initial leadership set the trajectory for Adelphi's commitment to liberal arts and professional training. This historical role underscores the enduring principles that guide the university's academic and operational frameworks. The Founder & President's legacy is embedded in Adelphi's dedication to fostering intellectual development and preparing students for impactful careers. Ronnie Silver's pioneering spirit continues to influence the university's pursuit of academic excellence and its role within the New York educational landscape. This foundational position represents the genesis of Adelphi's mission to provide comprehensive and forward-thinking educational opportunities.

    Nadirah Peakes - Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter

    Nadirah Peakes, the Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter at Adelphi University, leads initiatives focused on empowering young women in technology and computer science. Peakes spearheads programs designed to build coding skills, foster leadership, and create a supportive community for female students interested in STEM fields. This role involves organizing workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events to enhance participants' technical proficiency and career readiness. The Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter ensures the chapter's activities align with the broader mission of Girls Who Code and Adelphi University's commitment to diverse educational pathways. Nadirah Peakes's dedication cultivates future leaders in technology, contributing to a more inclusive and innovative tech industry. This leadership position directly supports Adelphi's engagement with community programs that promote STEM education.

    Janice Kim - President

    Janice Kim, the President at Adelphi University, drives the strategic direction and operational management of the institution. Kim oversees the implementation of academic programs and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with Adelphi's mission of providing comprehensive liberal arts and professional training. This leadership position involves fostering an environment conducive to research, learning, and student success across all university divisions. The President's responsibilities include advancing the university's financial health, enhancing its community engagement, and strengthening its reputation within the higher education sector. Janice Kim's focus is on cultivating innovation and ensuring Adelphi remains a leading doctoral research university. By guiding key initiatives, Kim supports the university's growth and its commitment to academic excellence in New York.

    Christopher Storm - Interim President

    Christopher Storm, the Interim President at Adelphi University, provides critical leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity in academic and administrative operations. Storm guides the university's strategic priorities, maintaining focus on student success and institutional advancement. This role involves overseeing all university functions, from academic affairs to operational management, to uphold Adelphi's standards of excellence. The Interim President ensures that the university community remains engaged and supported, facilitating smooth progress towards its long-term objectives. Christopher Storm's leadership emphasizes stability and forward momentum, safeguarding Adelphi's mission of providing robust liberal arts and professional training. By managing key institutional processes, Storm supports Adelphi's ongoing commitment to its students and its role in higher education.

    Timothy Woodruff - President of Adelphi's Board of Trustees

    Timothy Woodruff, the President of Adelphi's Board of Trustees, provides essential governance and strategic oversight for the university. Woodruff leads the Board in its fiduciary responsibilities, ensuring the long-term health and mission adherence of Adelphi University. This role involves guiding the Board's deliberations on institutional strategy, financial stewardship, and executive leadership appointments. The President of Adelphi's Board of Trustees champions the university's vision and ensures accountability across all levels of governance. Timothy Woodruff's leadership is crucial in setting the strategic direction that supports Adelphi's commitment to academic innovation and student development. By facilitating effective Board operations, Woodruff upholds the integrity and advancement of the university's educational mission.

    Fred Hicks - Chief Information Officer

    Fred Hicks, the Chief Information Officer at Adelphi University, architects and oversees the institution's comprehensive technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hicks drives the implementation of advanced technological solutions that support academic research, student learning, and administrative efficiency. This role involves managing all aspects of information systems, cybersecurity, and data management to ensure secure and reliable access to critical resources. The Chief Information Officer ensures that Adelphi's technology initiatives align with its educational mission, enhancing the overall student and faculty experience. Hicks's leadership focuses on leveraging technology to foster innovation and maintain Adelphi's competitive edge in the higher education sector. By optimizing IT operations and exploring emerging technologies, Fred Hicks ensures the university's technological foundation supports its growth and academic objectives.
    Fred Hicks

    Bobbie Dell'Aquilo - Chief Communications Officer

    Bobbie Dell'Aquilo, the Chief Communications Officer at Adelphi University, directs the institution's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. Dell'Aquilo shapes and disseminates Adelphi's narrative, ensuring consistent messaging across all internal and external platforms. This leadership role involves managing media relations, brand management, and digital communications to enhance the university's public profile and reputation. The Chief Communications Officer oversees the articulation of Adelphi's mission, values, and achievements to diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community. Bobbie Dell'Aquilo's strategic oversight ensures that all communications support the university's academic and institutional goals. By fostering clear and impactful dialogue, Dell'Aquilo strengthens Adelphi's connection with its constituents and reinforces its standing as a prominent research university.
    Bobbie Dell'Aquilo

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Adelphi University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Adelphi University?
    Adelphi University is led by Brian McGovern (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ronnie Silver (Founder & President) and Nadirah Peakes (Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter).
    Who is part of Adelphi University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Adelphi University includes leaders such as Brian McGovern (Chief Executive Officer), Ronnie Silver (Founder & President), Nadirah Peakes (Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Adelphi University have?
    Adelphi University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Adelphi University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Adelphi University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & President, Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter, President, Interim President.