Bentley University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bentley University has 10 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, and student engagement.

Driven by a commitment to positive change, Bentley University fosters a culture where business acumen and ethical conduct converge, empowering individuals to shape communities and organizations worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Bentley University

  • Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Maureen Forrester
  • Hall Council President - Victoria Blake
  • President & Co-Founder - Catharine Barry
  • President - Aris Melikian
  • President - Emma Massih
  • President, Wbty Radio Bentley - Cassandra Cohen
  • Co President - Benjamin O'Brien
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Elizabeth Hess
  • Interim Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Enrollment Management - Jennifer Flagel
  • Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Kristen Jadul
  • Maureen Forrester - Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Maureen Forrester, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Bentley University, manages the institution's financial health and administrative operations. Forrester directs all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical role involves overseeing the university's investments, managing financial risk, and optimizing resource allocation to support Bentley's academic and strategic goals. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the President and other senior executives to develop long-term financial strategies that align with the university's mission of doing business and doing good. Maureen Forrester's leadership ensures the financial integrity and operational efficiency necessary for Bentley University to thrive and continue its impact on communities and organizations.
    Maureen Forrester

    Victoria Blake - Hall Council President

    Victoria Blake, the Hall Council President at Bentley University, represents student interests within residential life and campus governance. Blake leads initiatives focused on enhancing the student living experience, organizing community-building events, and advocating for resident needs. This role involves collaborating with university administration and student affairs professionals to ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging residential environment. The Hall Council President serves as a crucial liaison between students and university leadership, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Victoria Blake's dedication contributes to Bentley's vibrant campus life and its mission of developing well-rounded individuals prepared to make a positive impact.

    Catharine Barry - President & Co-Founder

    Catharine Barry, the President & Co-Founder at Bentley University, established the institution with a vision for transformative education. Barry's foundational leadership set the course for Bentley's commitment to integrating business principles with ethical practices. This role involves guiding the university's strategic direction and upholding its core values of fostering successful leaders who drive positive change. The President & Co-Founder's legacy is embedded in Bentley's enduring mission to empower individuals to excel in their careers while contributing meaningfully to society. Catharine Barry's foresight continues to shape the university's impact on communities and organizations worldwide.

    Aris Melikian - President

    Aris Melikian, the President at Bentley University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Melikian leads efforts to advance Bentley's academic excellence, research initiatives, and community engagement, ensuring alignment with its mission. This leadership position involves fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships, and guiding the university toward sustained growth and impact. The President works collaboratively with faculty, staff, and stakeholders to uphold Bentley's commitment to developing successful leaders who embody ethical business practices. Aris Melikian's stewardship ensures the university remains at the forefront of business education, preparing graduates to create positive change in a globalized world.

    Emma Massih - President

    Emma Massih, the President at Bentley University, spearheads initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience and academic programming. Massih focuses on fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries. This role involves championing student success, promoting campus engagement, and ensuring that Bentley's educational offerings remain relevant and impactful. The President works to strengthen the university's reputation and its ability to attract top talent, both students and faculty. Emma Massih's leadership supports Bentley's core mission of empowering individuals to achieve professional success while making significant contributions to their communities and organizations.

    Cassandra Cohen - President, Wbty Radio Bentley

    Cassandra Cohen, the President, Wbty Radio Bentley, leads the student-run radio station, overseeing its operations and programming. Cohen directs efforts to provide engaging content for the Bentley community, fostering a platform for student expression and media development. This role involves managing staff, coordinating broadcast schedules, and ensuring the station's technical infrastructure functions effectively. The President of Wbty Radio Bentley plays a key part in enriching campus life and offering practical experience in media production and management. Cassandra Cohen's leadership contributes to the vibrant student activities at Bentley University, supporting the development of well-rounded individuals.

    Benjamin O'Brien - Co President

    Benjamin O'Brien, the Co President at Bentley University, shares leadership responsibilities for key student initiatives and organizations. O'Brien collaborates with fellow student leaders to drive projects that enhance the campus community and student engagement. This role involves strategic planning, team coordination, and advocating for student interests within university governance structures. The Co President works to ensure that student-led activities align with Bentley's broader mission of fostering leadership and positive impact. Benjamin O'Brien's contributions support the development of dynamic student leaders prepared to excel in their future endeavors and contribute to societal progress.

    Elizabeth Hess - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Elizabeth Hess, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Bentley University, directs the university's technology strategy and infrastructure. Hess oversees all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust systems support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, data governance, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions to enhance the educational experience. Hess collaborates with other senior leaders to align IT capabilities with Bentley's strategic objectives, driving efficiency and operational excellence across the institution. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments directly contribute to Bentley's mission of fostering successful leaders who create positive change. Elizabeth Hess champions digital transformation, enabling seamless access to resources and fostering a connected campus environment.

    Jennifer Flagel - Interim Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Enrollment Management

    Jennifer Flagel, the Interim Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Enrollment Management at Bentley University, provides strategic support and operational coordination for enrollment initiatives. Flagel facilitates communication and workflow between the Vice President and various departments, ensuring alignment with enrollment targets and university objectives. This position involves managing key projects, analyzing enrollment data, and implementing strategies to enhance student recruitment and retention. The Chief of Staff plays a vital part in optimizing the enrollment management process, contributing directly to Bentley's mission of attracting successful leaders. Jennifer Flagel's efforts support the university's growth and its commitment to fostering positive change through education.

    Kristen Jadul - Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kristen Jadul, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Bentley University, leads the strategic direction of human capital management. Jadul oversees all aspects of HR, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture. This role is pivotal in attracting, retaining, and developing the faculty and staff essential for Bentley's educational mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that HR policies and practices support the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and align with its overarching goal of empowering successful leaders. Kristen Jadul drives initiatives that enhance employee engagement and support the university's objective of doing business and doing good.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bentley University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bentley University?
    Bentley University is led by Maureen Forrester (Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), along with executives such as Victoria Blake (Hall Council President) and Catharine Barry (President & Co-Founder).
    Who is part of Bentley University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bentley University includes leaders such as Maureen Forrester (Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), Victoria Blake (Hall Council President), Catharine Barry (President & Co-Founder) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bentley University have?
    Bentley University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bentley University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bentley University includes roles such as Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Hall Council President, President & Co-Founder, President, President.