Adelphi University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Adelphi University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, operations, communications, sustainability, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Adelphi University offers a comprehensive range of liberal arts, sciences, and professional training programs, fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing students for impactful careers.

Leadership Roles at Adelphi University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Brian McGovern
  • President's Sustainability Co-Chair - James Dooley
  • Interim President - Christopher Storm
  • President - Dennis Cowan
  • Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter - Nadirah Peakes
  • Secretary for the President's Office - Gabrielle Stafford
  • President - Janice Kim
  • Chief Information Officer - Fred Hicks
  • Chief of Staff - Alexandra McGlashan
  • Chief Communications Officer - Bobbie Dell'Aquilo
  • Brian McGovern - Chief Executive Officer

    Brian McGovern, the Chief Executive Officer at Adelphi University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. McGovern guides the university's commitment to providing liberal arts and sciences programs alongside professional training, ensuring alignment with its doctoral research mission. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation across all departments. By overseeing key institutional initiatives, Brian McGovern drives Adelphi University's market position within the higher education sector. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing the university's reputation and expanding its reach through strategic partnerships and program development. McGovern ensures the institution's long-term sustainability and growth.

    James Dooley - President's Sustainability Co-Chair

    James Dooley, the President's Sustainability Co-Chair at Adelphi University, spearheads initiatives focused on environmental responsibility and sustainable practices across campus operations. Dooley collaborates with university leadership to integrate sustainability into academic curricula and research programs. This role involves developing and implementing strategies that reduce the university's ecological footprint and promote environmental stewardship. By co-chairing sustainability efforts, James Dooley champions Adelphi University's commitment to a greener future. The President's Sustainability Co-Chair's responsibilities include coordinating campus-wide green initiatives and fostering a culture of sustainability among students and staff. Dooley drives progress towards institutional environmental goals.

    Christopher Storm - Interim President

    Christopher Storm, the Interim President at Adelphi University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction during a transitional period. Storm ensures the continuity of academic and administrative operations, maintaining the university's commitment to its students and faculty. This critical role involves overseeing all university functions, fostering a stable and productive environment, and guiding Adelphi University through its leadership transition. By serving as Interim President, Christopher Storm upholds the institution's mission and values. The Interim President's responsibilities include managing the executive team, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring the smooth functioning of all university departments. Storm maintains institutional momentum.

    Dennis Cowan - President

    Dennis Cowan, the President at Adelphi University, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Cowan leads Adelphi University's commitment to delivering high-quality liberal arts, sciences, and professional training programs, reinforcing its status as a doctoral research university. This leadership position involves fostering an environment of academic excellence, innovation, and student success. By overseeing all university divisions, Dennis Cowan drives institutional growth and enhances its reputation in higher education. The President's responsibilities include advancing research initiatives, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring financial stability. Cowan champions the university's mission and long-term development.
    Dennis Cowan

    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 organizes educational workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities for chapter members. This role involves fostering a supportive community that encourages participation and skill development in STEM fields. By leading the Adelphi chapter, Nadirah Peakes promotes access and engagement in technology education. The Girls Who Code President's responsibilities include chapter management, event planning, and collaboration with university departments. Peakes inspires future leaders in the tech industry.

    Gabrielle Stafford - Secretary for the President's Office

    Gabrielle Stafford, the Secretary for the President's Office at Adelphi University, provides essential administrative and logistical support to the university's highest leadership position. Stafford manages the President's schedule, coordinates meetings, and handles confidential correspondence, ensuring efficient operations. This role involves facilitating communication between the President's office and other university departments, external partners, and stakeholders. By managing administrative functions, Gabrielle Stafford enhances the productivity and effectiveness of the President's office at Adelphi University. The Secretary for the President's Office's duties include preparing documents, organizing events, and maintaining records. Stafford ensures seamless administrative support.

    Janice Kim - President

    Janice Kim, the President at Adelphi University, drives the strategic direction and operational management of the institution. Kim oversees the delivery of comprehensive liberal arts, sciences, and professional training programs, reinforcing Adelphi University's standing as a doctoral research institution. This leadership function involves cultivating an environment that prioritizes academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and student achievement. By directing all university operations, Janice Kim enhances institutional advancement and strengthens its presence in the academic landscape. The President's responsibilities include advancing scholarly pursuits, forging strategic alliances, and ensuring fiscal health. Kim champions the university's core mission and future growth.

    Fred Hicks - Chief Information Officer

    Fred Hicks, the Chief Information Officer at Adelphi University, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive technology strategy. Hicks oversees the development and maintenance of all digital infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership position involves driving technological innovation to enhance the learning experience for students and streamline operational efficiencies for faculty and staff. By managing the IT department, Fred Hicks ensures that Adelphi University leverages cutting-edge technology to meet its research and educational objectives. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include cybersecurity, data management, and the implementation of new digital tools. Hicks champions digital transformation initiatives across the university.
    Fred Hicks

    Alexandra McGlashan - Chief of Staff

    Alexandra McGlashan, the Chief of Staff at Adelphi University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. McGlashan manages key projects and initiatives, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with the university's mission. This role involves facilitating communication and collaboration across various departments, optimizing workflow, and driving efficiency in administrative processes. By serving as a central point of coordination, Alexandra McGlashan enhances the effectiveness of Adelphi University's leadership functions. The Chief of Staff's duties include preparing executive briefings, managing schedules, and implementing strategic priorities. McGlashan ensures that institutional goals are met through effective organizational management.

    Bobbie Dell'Aquilo - Chief Communications Officer

    Bobbie Dell'Aquilo, the Chief Communications Officer at Adelphi University, directs all internal and external communication strategies. Dell'Aquilo oversees the university's brand messaging, public relations, and media relations efforts, ensuring a consistent and compelling narrative. This leadership role involves developing and implementing communication plans that support Adelphi University's academic programs, research endeavors, and community engagement initiatives. By managing the communications department, Bobbie Dell'Aquilo enhances the university's public profile and stakeholder relationships. The Chief Communications Officer's responsibilities include crisis communications, digital content strategy, and alumni engagement. Dell'Aquilo cultivates a strong institutional voice.
    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 James Dooley (President's Sustainability Co-Chair) and Christopher Storm (Interim President).
    Who is part of Adelphi University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Adelphi University includes leaders such as Brian McGovern (Chief Executive Officer), James Dooley (President's Sustainability Co-Chair), Christopher Storm (Interim President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Adelphi University have?
    Adelphi University has 10 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, President's Sustainability Co-Chair, Interim President, President, Girls Who Code President of Adelphi Chapter.