Denison University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Denison University has 10 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, information technology, academic administration, and institutional leadership.

Committed to fostering intellectual curiosity, Denison University provides a rigorous liberal arts education that prepares students for professional success and meaningful lives in a complex global society.

Leadership Roles at Denison University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Diane Pyle
  • Fraternity President - Christian Lariviere
  • Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President - Kristina Whiting
  • President - Adam Weinberg
  • President - Emory Hunt
  • President - David Allen
  • President - Oliver Hogan
  • 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, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing the allocation of endowment funds and operational budgets, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources align with the strategic goals of the liberal arts curriculum. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board of Trustees to maintain institutional stability while supporting the expansion of academic programs. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Diane Pyle directly impacts the ability of the college to invest in campus infrastructure and faculty development. Through rigorous oversight of financial reporting and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary for the university to thrive within the competitive landscape of higher education across the United States.

    Christian Lariviere - Fraternity President

    Christian Lariviere, the Fraternity President at Denison University, governs the operations and community engagement initiatives of the student organization. Overseeing the adherence to university conduct policies and the promotion of inclusive social programming, the Fraternity President ensures that the organization contributes positively to the residential life experience. This leadership role involves coordinating with campus administration to align fraternity activities with the broader mission of the liberal arts college. By fostering leadership development among members and organizing philanthropic events, Christian Lariviere drives the impact of the fraternity on the local community. Through the management of chapter resources and the facilitation of member accountability, the Fraternity President maintains the standards of the organization while supporting the personal growth and academic success of the student body within the residential environment.

    Kristina Whiting - Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President

    Kristina Whiting, the Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President at Denison University, manages the operational workflow and executive communications for the highest level of institutional leadership. Overseeing the scheduling of high-stakes meetings and the coordination of board-level projects, the Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President ensures that the executive office functions with maximum efficiency. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between the President and various campus stakeholders, including faculty, students, and external partners. By streamlining administrative processes and managing complex project timelines, Kristina Whiting supports the strategic initiatives that define the direction of the university. Through the meticulous organization of executive priorities, the Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President enables the leadership team to focus on long-term institutional goals and the continued advancement of the liberal arts mission.

    Adam Weinberg - President

    Adam Weinberg, the President at Denison University, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the implementation of academic excellence initiatives and the expansion of the university's national reputation, the President ensures that the liberal arts mission remains central to all campus activities. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni, donors, and the broader academic community to secure the future of the college. By championing the integration of pre-professional programs with traditional liberal arts studies, Adam Weinberg drives the growth of the student body and the enhancement of the campus experience. Through the cultivation of a culture of inquiry and inclusivity, the President guides the university toward sustained success and continued relevance in the competitive landscape of higher education across the United States.
    Adam Weinberg

    Emory Hunt - President

    Emory Hunt, the President at Denison University, directs the athletic department and the integration of competitive sports into the broader student experience. Overseeing the recruitment of student-athletes and the management of athletic facilities, the President ensures that the athletic program reflects the values of academic rigor and personal integrity. This leadership role involves coordinating with the North Coast Athletic Conference to maintain high standards of competition and sportsmanship. By fostering a culture of excellence on the field and in the classroom, Emory Hunt drives the development of well-rounded individuals who contribute to the campus community. Through the strategic management of athletic resources and the promotion of team success, the President enhances the visibility of the university and strengthens the connection between the student body and the institution.

    David Allen - President

    David Allen, the President at Denison University, manages the external relations and community partnerships that extend the reach of the institution. Overseeing the development of regional outreach programs and the cultivation of professional networks, the President ensures that the university maintains strong ties with the surrounding community and beyond. This leadership role involves representing the college in public forums and advocating for the importance of liberal arts education in the modern economy. By building bridges between the campus and industry leaders, David Allen drives opportunities for student internships and career placement. Through the strategic management of public affairs and the promotion of institutional values, the President strengthens the reputation of the university and ensures that the college remains a vital contributor to the regional and national educational landscape.

    Oliver Hogan - President

    Oliver Hogan, the President at Denison University, leads the student life and residential experience initiatives that define the campus culture. Overseeing the management of student housing and the coordination of extracurricular activities, the President ensures that the residential environment supports the holistic development of the student body. This leadership role involves collaborating with student organizations to create a vibrant and inclusive community that fosters personal growth and social responsibility. By implementing programs that enhance student well-being and campus engagement, Oliver Hogan drives the success of the residential liberal arts model. Through the strategic oversight of student services and the promotion of a supportive campus climate, the President ensures that the university provides an enriching experience that prepares students for their future endeavors.

    Norah Carter - President

    Norah Carter, the President at Denison University, governs the academic affairs and faculty development programs that sustain the quality of instruction. Overseeing the recruitment of distinguished faculty and the support of research initiatives, the President ensures that the academic programs remain rigorous and relevant. This leadership role involves working with department chairs to align curriculum development with the evolving needs of the liberal arts discipline. By promoting a culture of scholarly inquiry and teaching excellence, Norah Carter drives the academic reputation of the institution. Through the strategic management of academic resources and the facilitation of faculty collaboration, the President ensures that the university continues to provide a transformative educational experience that empowers students to achieve their full potential in a complex and changing world.

    Dena Speranza - Chief Information Officer

    Dena Speranza, the Chief Information Officer at Denison University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the academic mission. Managing the integration of advanced learning management systems and campus-wide network security, the Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty possess the tools required for modern research and collaboration. This leadership role involves architecting scalable data solutions that enhance administrative efficiency and student engagement. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, Dena Speranza protects sensitive institutional information while fostering an environment of digital innovation. Through the modernization of classroom technology and the expansion of remote access capabilities, the Chief Information Officer supports the broader goal of providing a seamless educational experience that prepares the student body for a technology-driven global workforce.
    Dena Speranza

    Liv Gjestvang - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Liv Gjestvang, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Denison University, leads the strategic transformation of digital pedagogy and information services. Overseeing the adoption of emerging educational technologies, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that the curriculum remains at the forefront of liberal arts innovation. This leadership role involves partnering with academic departments to integrate data analytics into the learning process, thereby improving student outcomes and retention. By driving the development of collaborative digital platforms, Liv Gjestvang facilitates cross-disciplinary research and global connectivity for the campus community. Through the alignment of information technology with the core values of the institution, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer enhances the overall academic experience and ensures that the university maintains a competitive edge in the evolving landscape of higher education.
    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 Christian Lariviere (Fraternity President) and Kristina Whiting (Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the 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), Christian Lariviere (Fraternity President), Kristina Whiting (Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the 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, Fraternity President, Senior Administrative Coordinator, Office of the President, President, President.