Arcadia University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Arcadia University has 9 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, financial administration, enrollment management, and student leadership.

Committed to global academic excellence, Arcadia University advances international education and study abroad opportunities while fostering a transformative learning environment for students across the national landscape.

Leadership Roles at Arcadia University

  • Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer - James Hartman
  • Chief Operating Officer - Lisa Donatelli
  • President of Arcadia Couture - Tomas Acosta
  • President - Ajay Nair
  • Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club - Allyson Skettini
  • President of Tri-Alpha Honor Society - Arleny Rodriguez
  • President and Co-Founder, Polyglots United Club - Emma Ambrose
  • Assistant VP, Information Technology & Deputy Chief Information Officer - Joseph Sasdelli
  • Vice President, Enrollment Management & Chief Information Officer, Technology Innovation - Rashmi Radhakrishnan
  • James Hartman - Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer

    James Hartman, the Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Arcadia University, manages the fiscal health and administrative integrity of the institution. Hartman oversees the budgeting process, ensuring that financial resources align with the university's strategic commitment to international education. By directing long-term financial planning, the Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of study abroad programs and campus facilities. James Hartman also monitors compliance with regulatory standards and institutional policies to mitigate financial risk. This leadership role involves frequent reporting to the Board of Trustees regarding the university's economic performance and capital investments. Through prudent fiscal management, the Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer sustains the university's competitive position in the higher education sector. Ultimately, Hartman ensures the financial sustainability required to support academic innovation and student success across all regional and global operations.
    James Hartman

    Lisa Donatelli - Chief Operating Officer

    Lisa Donatelli, the Chief Operating Officer at Arcadia University, directs all internal administrative functions to ensure operational efficiency across the Glenside campus. Donatelli manages the integration of university-wide systems, streamlining processes that support the institution's mission as a national leader in international education. By coordinating with academic departments, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes resource allocation to maintain high standards of service for students and faculty. Lisa Donatelli also oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives designed to enhance the campus infrastructure. Through rigorous analysis of institutional performance metrics, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the executive team to align daily operations with long-term academic goals. Ultimately, Donatelli secures the operational stability necessary for the university to thrive in a competitive higher education market while maintaining a focus on student-centered outcomes.

    Tomas Acosta - President of Arcadia Couture

    Tomas Acosta, the President of Arcadia Couture at Arcadia University, leads the creative and operational direction of the university's specialized fashion and design initiatives. Acosta manages the development of brand identity and student-led design projects that reflect the institution's commitment to artistic expression. By overseeing the production and marketing of university-branded apparel, the President of Arcadia Couture ensures that the brand maintains a strong presence within the campus community. Tomas Acosta also coordinates with student designers to foster professional development and industry exposure. This leadership role involves managing partnerships with external vendors and internal stakeholders to expand the reach of the brand. Through the strategic promotion of design excellence, the President of Arcadia Couture enhances the university's reputation for creativity and innovation. Ultimately, Acosta drives the growth of this unique initiative, ensuring that the brand remains a vibrant part of the student experience and institutional identity.

    Ajay Nair - President

    Ajay Nair, the President at Arcadia University, directs the overall strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Nair oversees the university's commitment to international education, ensuring that global perspectives remain central to the student experience. By leading the executive team, the President fosters a culture of academic excellence and community engagement across the Glenside campus. Ajay Nair also represents the university in national forums, advocating for the value of study abroad programs and private higher education. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni, donors, and faculty to secure the resources necessary for long-term institutional growth. Through the implementation of forward-thinking policies, the President drives the university's reputation as a premier provider of global learning. Ultimately, Nair ensures that the institution remains responsive to the evolving needs of students while maintaining a steadfast dedication to the core mission of academic and personal development.

    Allyson Skettini - Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club

    Allyson Skettini, the Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club at Arcadia University, leads student-driven initiatives designed to prepare undergraduates for careers in the healthcare sector. Skettini organizes workshops, guest speaker events, and networking opportunities that connect students with professionals in various medical fields. By overseeing the club's programming, the Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club ensures that members gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in competitive graduate school applications. Allyson Skettini also facilitates collaboration between the club and university faculty to provide mentorship and academic guidance. This leadership role involves managing club resources and promoting student engagement across the campus. Through the coordination of professional development activities, the Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club supports the university's mission of preparing students for impactful careers. Ultimately, Skettini fosters a supportive community that empowers aspiring healthcare professionals to achieve their academic and career goals within the broader university framework.

    Arleny Rodriguez - President of Tri-Alpha Honor Society

    Arleny Rodriguez, the President of Tri-Alpha Honor Society at Arcadia University, leads the organization dedicated to recognizing the academic achievements of first-generation college students. Rodriguez oversees the induction process and coordinates events that celebrate the success of members within the university community. By managing the society's outreach efforts, the President of Tri-Alpha Honor Society provides a platform for first-generation students to share experiences and access resources for academic advancement. Arleny Rodriguez also collaborates with university administration to promote inclusivity and support services for this specific student population. This leadership role involves fostering a sense of belonging and academic pride among members. Through the promotion of scholarly excellence, the President of Tri-Alpha Honor Society contributes to the university's commitment to student success and diversity. Ultimately, Rodriguez ensures that the society remains a vital resource for students navigating the challenges of higher education while achieving their academic potential.

    Emma Ambrose - President and Co-Founder, Polyglots United Club

    Emma Ambrose, the President and Co-Founder, Polyglots United Club at Arcadia University, leads the student organization focused on language acquisition and cultural exchange. Ambrose oversees the development of programs that encourage students to practice foreign languages and explore diverse global traditions. By managing the club's activities, the President and Co-Founder, Polyglots United Club facilitates connections between students interested in international education and global citizenship. Emma Ambrose also coordinates with the university's study abroad office to promote language immersion opportunities for the student body. This leadership role involves organizing cultural events and language workshops that enrich the campus environment. Through the promotion of linguistic diversity, the President and Co-Founder, Polyglots United Club supports the university's mission as a national provider of international education. Ultimately, Ambrose drives the club's growth, ensuring that students have the tools and community support to become proficient in multiple languages and culturally aware global citizens.

    Joseph Sasdelli - Assistant VP, Information Technology & Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Joseph Sasdelli, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Deputy Chief Information Officer at Arcadia University, manages the technical infrastructure supporting the university's digital learning environment. Sasdelli architects secure network solutions that facilitate seamless connectivity for students engaged in global study abroad programs. By overseeing the deployment of enterprise software, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures that faculty and staff possess the tools required for academic success. Joseph Sasdelli also leads cybersecurity initiatives to protect sensitive institutional data against evolving digital threats. This role involves close coordination with the broader technology team to modernize legacy systems and improve user accessibility across all campus platforms. Through the strategic application of information technology, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Deputy Chief Information Officer drives innovation in digital pedagogy. Ultimately, Sasdelli maintains the robust technological foundation essential for the university's continued growth and international reach.

    Rashmi Radhakrishnan - Vice President, Enrollment Management & Chief Information Officer, Technology Innovation

    Rashmi Radhakrishnan, the Vice President, Enrollment Management & Chief Information Officer, Technology Innovation at Arcadia University, directs the strategic recruitment of students while simultaneously leading the institution's digital transformation. Radhakrishnan oversees the integration of data analytics into enrollment strategies to attract a diverse student body interested in global education. By leveraging advanced technology, the Vice President, Enrollment Management & Chief Information Officer, Technology Innovation optimizes the student application experience and improves retention rates. Rashmi Radhakrishnan also spearheads initiatives to modernize the university's technological ecosystem, ensuring that innovation remains at the core of the academic experience. This dual-focused role requires constant collaboration with admissions and IT departments to align recruitment goals with digital capabilities. Through the application of cutting-edge technology, the Vice President, Enrollment Management & Chief Information Officer, Technology Innovation drives growth and operational excellence. Ultimately, Radhakrishnan secures the university's future by balancing enrollment targets with technological advancement.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Arcadia University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Arcadia University?
    Arcadia University is led by James Hartman (Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Lisa Donatelli (Chief Operating Officer) and Tomas Acosta (President of Arcadia Couture).
    Who is part of Arcadia University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Arcadia University includes leaders such as James Hartman (Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer), Lisa Donatelli (Chief Operating Officer), Tomas Acosta (President of Arcadia Couture) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Arcadia University have?
    Arcadia University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Arcadia University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Arcadia University includes roles such as Interim Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President of Arcadia Couture, President, Co-President, Pre-Health Professions Club.