DePauw University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

DePauw University has 6 executives leading key functions including communications strategy, administrative operations, academic leadership, and institutional governance.

Rooted in a rich liberal arts tradition, DePauw University advances intellectual discovery and musical excellence through a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for global leadership and meaningful community engagement.

Leadership Roles at DePauw University

  • President - Carl Singer
  • President, Formula Sae Business - Kenzo Palhares
  • President - Lori White
  • Co President - Caroline Condra
  • Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff - Sarah Steinkamp
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Samantha Sarich
  • Carl Singer - President

    Carl Singer, the President at DePauw University, provides overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire academic institution. Overseeing the long-term growth and financial sustainability of the university, the President drives initiatives that enhance the reputation of the liberal arts and music programs. This role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees to define institutional policy and securing resources to support faculty research and student development. By fostering partnerships with external organizations and alumni, Carl Singer expands the reach and influence of the university on a national scale. The President also champions the Methodist heritage while promoting an inclusive environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and civic responsibility. Through decisive leadership and a commitment to academic rigor, Singer ensures that the university remains a leader in higher education, preparing graduates for success in an increasingly complex global society.

    Kenzo Palhares - President, Formula Sae Business

    Kenzo Palhares, the President, Formula Sae Business at DePauw University, directs the operational and financial aspects of the competitive engineering and design team. Overseeing the procurement of materials, sponsorship acquisition, and budget management, the President, Formula Sae Business ensures that the team maintains the resources necessary for high-level performance in national competitions. This role involves coordinating with student members and faculty advisors to align technical goals with business objectives. By managing the logistical requirements of the program, Kenzo Palhares facilitates a practical application of liberal arts problem-solving skills in a real-world engineering context. The President, Formula Sae Business also cultivates relationships with industry partners to provide students with professional development opportunities. Through effective leadership of the business unit, Palhares supports the university's commitment to experiential learning and technical innovation within the broader academic framework.

    Lori White - President

    Lori White, the President at DePauw University, architects the comprehensive academic and cultural strategy for the institution. Overseeing the development of curriculum standards and student life initiatives, the President ensures that the university delivers a transformative liberal arts experience. This role involves leading the faculty and administrative staff in pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, and community service. By prioritizing student-centered outcomes and institutional diversity, Lori White strengthens the university's position as a premier national college. The President also manages external relations and fundraising efforts to ensure the long-term viability of the School of Music and other core academic departments. Through a focus on innovation and tradition, White guides the university toward achieving its mission of fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership. Ultimately, the President maintains the high standards expected of a member of the Great Lakes Colleges Association.

    Caroline Condra - Co President

    Caroline Condra, the Co President at DePauw University, shares responsibility for the executive oversight and strategic direction of the university's administrative and academic functions. Overseeing specific institutional growth projects and community outreach programs, the Co President ensures that the university maintains strong ties with regional and national partners. This role involves collaborating with the other executive leaders to balance fiscal responsibility with the pursuit of academic excellence. By focusing on the enhancement of campus facilities and student support services, Caroline Condra contributes to a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. The Co President also plays a vital role in representing the university at major academic conferences and public events. Through dedicated leadership and a focus on operational efficiency, Condra supports the university's mission to provide a world-class education that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.

    Sarah Steinkamp - Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff

    Sarah Steinkamp, the Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff at DePauw University, directs all institutional messaging and internal coordination efforts. Overseeing the alignment of university-wide communications with the broader liberal arts mission, the Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff ensures consistent engagement across diverse stakeholder groups. This role involves managing complex administrative workflows and facilitating high-level decision-making processes for the executive cabinet. By refining the public narrative and internal transparency, Sarah Steinkamp strengthens the institutional brand within the competitive higher education landscape. The Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff also coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to support the strategic goals of the university. Through meticulous oversight of communication channels, Steinkamp maintains institutional integrity and fosters a cohesive environment for faculty, students, and alumni across the national academic community.

    Samantha Sarich - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Samantha Sarich, the Deputy Chief of Staff at DePauw University, manages daily operational logistics and supports the executive office in executing institutional priorities. Overseeing the implementation of administrative policies, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures that university resources align with the core mission of providing a premier liberal arts education. This role requires constant collaboration with various campus departments to streamline workflows and improve organizational efficiency. By facilitating communication between the president and the broader campus community, Samantha Sarich maintains operational continuity and supports the achievement of long-term strategic objectives. The Deputy Chief of Staff also monitors project timelines and ensures that key initiatives remain on track to meet institutional benchmarks. Through diligent management of administrative functions, Sarich enables the university to focus on academic excellence and student success within the North Coast Athletic Conference and beyond.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding DePauw University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads DePauw University?
    DePauw University is led by Carl Singer (President), along with executives such as Kenzo Palhares (President, Formula Sae Business) and Lori White (President).
    Who is part of DePauw University’s executive team?
    The executive team of DePauw University includes leaders such as Carl Singer (President), Kenzo Palhares (President, Formula Sae Business), Lori White (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does DePauw University have?
    DePauw University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in DePauw University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of DePauw University includes roles such as President, President, Formula Sae Business, President, Co President, Vice President, Communications Strategy & Chief of Staff.