Denison University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Denison University has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Denison University fosters intellectual curiosity and prepares students for lives of purpose and impact through its comprehensive liberal arts education.

Leadership Roles at Denison University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Diane Pyle
  • President - Adam Weinberg
  • President - Emory Hunt
  • Fraternity President - Christian Lariviere
  • Global Co-President, Commerce Network - Phoebe Beckwith
  • President of Revival Thrift - Leah Cashin
  • Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President - Kristina Whiting
  • President - Norah Carter
  • Chief Information Officer - Dena Speranza
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Liv Gjestvang
  • Diane Pyle - Chief Financial Officer

    Diane Pyle, the Chief Financial Officer at Denison University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Pyle ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, endowments, and operational expenditures across all academic and administrative departments. By optimizing financial processes and controls, Diane Pyle directly supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. Pyle's oversight extends to ensuring compliance with all financial regulations and reporting standards, safeguarding the institution's assets and reputation.

    Adam Weinberg - President

    Adam Weinberg, the President at Denison University, provides overarching leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Weinberg guides the university's academic mission, institutional development, and community engagement efforts. This role involves fostering a vibrant campus culture and ensuring Denison's continued success as a leading liberal arts college in Ohio. By championing educational innovation and student success, Adam Weinberg drives the university's commitment to preparing students for meaningful lives. Weinberg collaborates with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to advance the university's goals and enhance its national reputation.
    Adam Weinberg

    Emory Hunt - President

    Emory Hunt, the President at Denison University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Hunt oversees all academic programs, faculty development, and student affairs, ensuring alignment with the university's core mission. This leadership position involves fostering an environment of intellectual inquiry and personal growth for the student body. By advancing the university's educational offerings and campus life, Emory Hunt supports Denison's commitment to excellence. Hunt works closely with the Board of Trustees and administrative teams to guide the university's growth and impact within the higher education landscape.

    Christian Lariviere - Fraternity President

    Christian Lariviere, the Fraternity President at Denison University, leads the executive board and membership of the fraternity organization. Lariviere oversees chapter operations, member development, and adherence to national and university policies. This role involves managing chapter finances, coordinating recruitment efforts, and promoting a positive fraternal experience for members. By fostering leadership skills and community engagement, Christian Lariviere contributes to the vibrant student life at Denison. Lariviere ensures the fraternity uphms its values and upholds its commitment to academic achievement and service.

    Phoebe Beckwith - Global Co-President, Commerce Network

    Phoebe Beckwith, the Global Co-President, Commerce Network at Denison University, spearheads initiatives related to the university's commercial partnerships and network development. Beckwith drives strategies for expanding the reach and impact of Denison's commerce-related programs and collaborations on a global scale. This executive role involves fostering relationships with industry partners and stakeholders to create mutually beneficial opportunities. By leading the Commerce Network, Phoebe Beckwith enhances the university's ability to connect students with real-world business experiences and career pathways. Beckwith's leadership ensures the network's strategic growth and operational effectiveness.

    Leah Cashin - President of Revival Thrift

    Leah Cashin, the President of Revival Thrift at Denison University, directs the operations and strategic initiatives of the student-run thrift store. Cashin oversees inventory management, sales, marketing, and volunteer coordination, ensuring the organization's success and contribution to campus sustainability efforts. This leadership position involves managing the store's budget and driving initiatives to increase revenue and community engagement. By leading Revival Thrift, Leah Cashin develops practical business skills and promotes a circular economy model within the university community. Cashin ensures the organization operates efficiently and effectively, supporting its mission and goals.

    Kristina Whiting - Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President

    Kristina Whiting, the Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President at Denison University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the university's highest leadership office. Whiting manages complex scheduling, coordinates high-level meetings, and handles sensitive communications, ensuring the smooth functioning of the President's daily activities. This role involves facilitating communication between the President's office and various university departments, external stakeholders, and the Board of Trustees. By expertly managing administrative tasks, Kristina Whiting enables the President to focus on strategic priorities and institutional leadership. Whiting's organizational skills and discretion are vital to the efficiency of the President's office.

    Norah Carter - President

    Norah Carter, the President at Denison University, provides strategic leadership and vision for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. Carter oversees the university's comprehensive educational programs and campus development, ensuring alignment with its mission of liberal arts excellence. This executive role involves fostering an environment conducive to scholarly research and student success across all departments. By championing innovation in teaching and learning, Norah Carter advances Denison's commitment to preparing graduates for impactful careers. Carter collaborates with faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees to guide the university's strategic growth and enhance its standing in higher education.

    Dena Speranza - Chief Information Officer

    Dena Speranza, the Chief Information Officer at Denison University, architects the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Speranza oversees all aspects of information technology, including network operations, cybersecurity, and digital learning platforms. This critical role ensures that technology effectively supports academic programs, administrative functions, and student services across the Ohio campus. By driving innovation in IT solutions, Dena Speranza enhances operational efficiency and user experience for faculty, staff, and students. Speranza's leadership ensures robust data security and compliance with privacy regulations, protecting sensitive university information.
    Dena Speranza

    Liv Gjestvang - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Liv Gjestvang, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Denison University, leads the strategic direction and execution of information technology initiatives. Gjestvang manages the university's technology infrastructure, ensuring its alignment with academic and administrative goals across the Granville, Ohio location. This executive oversees the development and implementation of digital tools and services that enhance teaching, learning, and research. By fostering technological advancement, Liv Gjestvang supports Denison's commitment to innovation and operational excellence. Gjestvang's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, vendor relationships, and ensuring the security and reliability of all technology systems.
    Liv Gjestvang

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Denison University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Denison University?
    Denison University is led by Diane Pyle (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Adam Weinberg (President) and Emory Hunt (President).
    Who is part of Denison University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Denison University includes leaders such as Diane Pyle (Chief Financial Officer), Adam Weinberg (President), Emory Hunt (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Denison University have?
    Denison University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Denison University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Denison University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Fraternity President, Global Co-President, Commerce Network.