Chapman University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Chapman University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, technology, information systems, operations, administration, and student leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, Chapman University fosters a transformative educational environment that prepares students for global leadership through rigorous research and inclusive learning initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Chapman University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Karen Young
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Harold Hewitt
  • President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club) - Madison Baricaua
  • President - Matthew Parlow
  • President, International Law Society - Lana Rayan
  • Executive Assistant To VP & Chief Human Resources Officer - Joseph Wallace
  • Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean - Daniel Leonard
  • Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Phillip Lyle
  • Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff - Amy Rogan-Mehta
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Madison Gillis
  • Karen Young - Chief Executive Officer

    Karen Young, the Chief Executive Officer at Chapman University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this private, non-profit institution. By aligning academic goals with long-term financial sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains its competitive edge in the higher education sector. Young oversees the integration of institutional policies across all departments, driving growth and maintaining the high standards expected of a premier California-based university. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the mission and expand the reach of the institution. By prioritizing student outcomes and faculty development, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the reputation of the university within the broader academic community. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, Karen Young secures the future of the institution, ensuring that the university remains a beacon of knowledge and innovation for generations of scholars.

    Harold Hewitt - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Harold Hewitt, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Chapman University, manages the financial and operational health of the institution. By overseeing the allocation of resources and the management of campus facilities, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university operates with maximum efficiency. Hewitt directs the strategic planning for capital projects and administrative services, supporting the growth of the university in the competitive California market. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the President to execute the long-term vision of the institution. Through the implementation of rigorous financial controls and operational best practices, Harold Hewitt maintains the fiscal stability of the university. By streamlining administrative functions and optimizing the use of physical assets, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer creates a sustainable foundation for academic success. Hewitt remains dedicated to enhancing the overall experience for the entire university community.
    Harold Hewitt

    Madison Baricaua - President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club)

    Madison Baricaua, the President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club) at Chapman University, leads the student organization dedicated to promoting cultural awareness and community engagement. By organizing events and initiatives that celebrate Hawaiian heritage, the President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club) fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. Baricaua directs the planning of cultural programming, ensuring that the club remains a vibrant part of the university experience. This leadership role involves managing student volunteers and coordinating with university administration to secure resources for club activities. Through the promotion of cultural exchange and the development of student leadership skills, Madison Baricaua enhances the social fabric of the campus. By creating opportunities for students to connect and share their traditions, the President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club) contributes to the overall mission of the university to provide a holistic and diverse educational experience for all members of the community.

    Matthew Parlow - President

    Matthew Parlow, the President at Chapman University, leads the institution in its mission to provide a transformative educational experience. By setting the strategic direction for the university, the President ensures that academic programs remain relevant and impactful in the modern landscape. Parlow oversees the development of research initiatives and the expansion of community partnerships, driving the growth of the university as a leader in higher education. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders and ensuring that the values of the institution are upheld in all activities. Through the promotion of academic excellence and the support of faculty and student success, Matthew Parlow strengthens the reputation of the university. By fostering an environment of innovation and inclusivity, the President guides the institution toward its long-term goals. Parlow remains dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the preparation of students for future success in their chosen fields.

    Lana Rayan - President, International Law Society

    Lana Rayan, the President, International Law Society at Chapman University, leads the student organization focused on exploring global legal issues and professional development. By coordinating seminars and networking events, the President, International Law Society provides students with opportunities to engage with international legal experts and practitioners. Rayan directs the strategic planning for the society, ensuring that members gain valuable insights into the complexities of global law. This leadership role involves managing the society's budget and organizing collaborative projects with other student groups. Through the promotion of legal scholarship and the facilitation of professional connections, Lana Rayan enhances the academic experience for students interested in international law. By fostering a community of engaged learners, the President, International Law Society contributes to the university's mission of preparing students for global careers. Rayan remains committed to providing resources that support the professional growth and intellectual curiosity of the student body.

    Joseph Wallace - Executive Assistant To VP & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Joseph Wallace, the Executive Assistant To VP & Chief Human Resources Officer at Chapman University, manages the complex administrative workflows that support the human capital strategy of the institution. By coordinating communication between the executive leadership and the human resources department, the Executive Assistant To VP & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that personnel policies align with the broader mission of the university. Wallace facilitates the implementation of talent management programs, driving efficiency in recruitment and employee retention efforts across the campus. This role requires precise attention to detail when handling sensitive organizational data and supporting the strategic initiatives of the human resources division. Through proactive scheduling and project management, Joseph Wallace optimizes the daily operations of the leadership team. Ultimately, the Executive Assistant To VP & Chief Human Resources Officer maintains the operational integrity of the university by streamlining internal processes and fostering a productive work environment.

    Daniel Leonard - Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean

    Daniel Leonard, the Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean at Chapman University, architects the digital infrastructure necessary to support modern academic research and administrative functions. By integrating advanced technological solutions into the classroom experience, the Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean drives innovation in how students and faculty interact with digital resources. Leonard oversees the deployment of scalable software systems that enhance the efficiency of the university, ensuring that all technological assets support the core mission of the institution. This dual-focused role requires balancing technical oversight with academic leadership, as the Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean collaborates with faculty to integrate new tools into the curriculum. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures and data management protocols, Daniel Leonard protects the intellectual property of the university. By bridging the gap between technology and pedagogy, the Chief Technology Officer & Associate Dean advances the digital transformation of the campus.

    Phillip Lyle - Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Phillip Lyle, the Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Chapman University, manages the information technology landscape to ensure seamless connectivity and data security across the institution. By overseeing the maintenance of critical network infrastructure, the Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer supports the daily operations of students, faculty, and staff. Lyle directs the strategic planning for information systems, ensuring that the university remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the education sector. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite executives to align IT investments with the long-term goals of the university. Through the optimization of digital services and the implementation of reliable hardware solutions, Phillip Lyle enhances the overall efficiency of the campus. By maintaining a stable and secure information environment, the Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer enables the university to focus on its primary mission of academic excellence and research.
    Phillip Lyle

    Amy Rogan-Mehta - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Amy Rogan-Mehta, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Chapman University, coordinates the strategic initiatives and daily operations of the executive office. By facilitating communication between the President and the various departments, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff ensures that the university remains aligned with its core mission. Rogan-Mehta oversees the execution of high-level projects, driving progress on institutional goals and fostering collaboration across the leadership team. This role requires a deep understanding of the university's organizational structure and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships. Through the management of executive priorities and the oversight of key administrative functions, Amy Rogan-Mehta optimizes the performance of the leadership office. By providing strategic counsel and ensuring the smooth flow of information, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff supports the overall effectiveness of the university in achieving its long-term objectives and maintaining its reputation for excellence.

    Madison Gillis - Chief Administrative Officer

    Madison Gillis, the Chief Administrative Officer at Chapman University, directs the internal administrative functions that support the daily operations of the campus. By overseeing the management of support services and organizational processes, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the university maintains a high standard of operational efficiency. Gillis implements policies that streamline administrative workflows, allowing faculty and staff to focus on the core mission of education and research. This leadership role involves coordinating with other departments to ensure that administrative resources are allocated effectively across the institution. Through the optimization of internal systems and the management of key administrative personnel, Madison Gillis enhances the overall productivity of the university. By fostering a culture of accountability and operational excellence, the Chief Administrative Officer supports the long-term growth and stability of the university. Gillis remains committed to providing the necessary infrastructure to sustain the academic success of the entire institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Chapman University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Chapman University?
    Chapman University is led by Karen Young (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Harold Hewitt (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and Madison Baricaua (President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club)).
    Who is part of Chapman University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Chapman University includes leaders such as Karen Young (Chief Executive Officer), Harold Hewitt (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), Madison Baricaua (President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Chapman University have?
    Chapman University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Chapman University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Chapman University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, President, Puaikeana Co (Hawaii Club), President, President, International Law Society.