Adler University Executive and Leadership Team

Melody Sousa, the Chief Financial Officer at Adler University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources align with the mission of providing high-quality graduate education. Sousa directs financial planning, analysis, and reporting processes to support the expansion of academic programs across North American campuses. By optimizing capital investments, the Chief Financial Officer strengthens the university's ability to deliver practice-based learning. Melody Sousa maintains rigorous oversight of institutional assets, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while facilitating growth in online and hybrid course offerings. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the Board to secure the financial future of the university. Through strategic resource management, the Chief Financial Officer enables the institution to advance health and well-being initiatives effectively, ensuring that every dollar invested directly supports the academic success of the diverse student body.

Sean Corlett, the Senior VP, Strategy & Chief Operating Officer at Adler University, architects the operational framework supporting global academic delivery. Managing the integration of in-person and hybrid learning environments, the Senior VP, Strategy & Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless administrative functionality across Chicago and Vancouver locations. Corlett drives strategic initiatives that enhance institutional efficiency and student engagement. By aligning operational workflows with the university's mission, the Senior VP, Strategy & Chief Operating Officer optimizes the delivery of master's and doctoral programs. Sean Corlett coordinates cross-departmental efforts to scale research capabilities and leadership development projects. This role involves evaluating market trends to refine the university's competitive position in the higher education sector. Through meticulous oversight of daily operations, the Senior VP, Strategy & Chief Operating Officer maintains the infrastructure necessary for fostering a connected, healthier world, ensuring that all institutional processes remain agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the global student community.

Rachel D'Silva, the Executive Board Member and Interim President at Adler University, guides the overarching vision and governance of the institution. Directing the strategic trajectory of the university, the Executive Board Member and Interim President ensures that all academic and research activities remain aligned with the core mission of advancing health and well-being. D'Silva oversees institutional policy, stakeholder relations, and long-term planning to sustain the university's impact in the higher education landscape. By facilitating communication between the Board and the faculty, the Executive Board Member and Interim President fosters a culture of collaborative leadership. Rachel D'Silva manages the transition of key initiatives, ensuring stability and growth across all campus locations. This role involves representing the university in global academic forums and driving community engagement efforts. Through decisive leadership, the Executive Board Member and Interim President secures the institution's reputation as a leader in purpose-driven education, ultimately empowering students to create positive change within the global community.

Ian Wickramasekera, the Director, Clinical Hypnosis Training at Adler University, leads the development and execution of specialized graduate curricula focused on clinical practice. Overseeing the pedagogical standards for hypnosis training, the Director, Clinical Hypnosis Training ensures that students gain advanced skills in health and well-being interventions. Wickramasekera designs research-based modules that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for professional success. By managing faculty collaboration and program accreditation, the Director, Clinical Hypnosis Training maintains the high academic rigor expected at the university. Ian Wickramasekera facilitates workshops and clinical sessions that expand the institution's reach in the mental health field. This leadership role involves mentoring students and fostering partnerships with healthcare organizations to enhance community engagement. Through the continuous refinement of training methodologies, the Director, Clinical Hypnosis Training supports the university's commitment to producing practitioners who actively contribute to a healthier, more connected society through evidence-based clinical expertise.