Drexel University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Drexel University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, and communications.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Drexel University focuses on integrating education, research, and experiential learning to prepare students for impactful careers and civic engagement.

Leadership Roles at Drexel University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Vikram Janardhan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Michael Lavner
  • Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer - Helen Bowman
  • President - Mushfiqul Islam
  • President - Charlotte Shaw
  • President - Mary McGeoch
  • Chief of Staff - Cerys Richter
  • Chief Technology Officer - Milton Silver
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Jacquelyn Bailey
  • Chief Communications Officer - Linda Roth
  • Vikram Janardhan - Chief Executive Officer

    Vikram Janardhan, the Chief Executive Officer at Drexel University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Janardhan guides the university's expansion into new academic frontiers and ensures alignment with its core mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. This leadership role involves fostering innovation across all departments, from research initiatives to student services, and cultivating partnerships that enhance Drexel's global standing. By optimizing resource allocation and driving institutional growth, Vikram Janardhan solidifies the university's position as a leader in higher education. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to shaping long-term institutional goals and ensuring financial sustainability.

    Michael Lavner - Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Lavner, the Chief Operating Officer at Drexel University, oversees the daily operational functions and administrative services that support the university's academic and research endeavors. Lavner manages critical infrastructure, facilities, and campus operations, ensuring a conducive environment for learning and discovery. This leadership position involves optimizing resource utilization, enhancing operational efficiency, and implementing strategic initiatives to support institutional growth. By directing key support services and driving operational excellence, Michael Lavner ensures the smooth functioning of the university. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes managing budgets and overseeing the execution of campus-wide projects.

    Helen Bowman - Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer

    Helen Bowman, the Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer at Drexel University, directs comprehensive financial operations and strategic resource management. Bowman oversees the university's fiscal health, including budgeting, financial planning, and investment strategies, ensuring long-term financial stability. This multifaceted role also encompasses operational oversight, driving efficiency and effectiveness across key administrative functions to support Drexel's academic mission. By managing financial resources and optimizing operational frameworks, Helen Bowman plays a pivotal role in advancing the university's strategic objectives and growth initiatives. The Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures sound financial stewardship and operational excellence.

    Mushfiqul Islam - President

    Mushfiqul Islam, the President at Drexel University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for key academic and operational areas. Islam focuses on advancing the university's educational programs and research endeavors, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration among faculty and staff to drive innovation and enhance student success. By guiding strategic initiatives and overseeing critical university functions, Mushfiqul Islam contributes to Drexel's mission of academic excellence and scholarly impact. The President's role is central to the effective management and development of the university's core operations.

    Charlotte Shaw - President

    Charlotte Shaw, the President at Drexel University, directs strategic planning and operational execution for significant university divisions. Shaw champions initiatives aimed at enhancing academic quality and expanding research opportunities, ensuring progress towards Drexel's overarching objectives. This role involves fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, empowering teams to achieve ambitious goals. By overseeing key strategic programs and driving operational improvements, Charlotte Shaw significantly contributes to the university's continued growth and success. The President's leadership ensures the effective implementation of institutional priorities and the advancement of academic excellence.

    Mary McGeoch - President

    Mary McGeoch, the President at Drexel University, leads strategic development and operational oversight for critical university functions. McGeoch focuses on advancing Drexel's academic mission and research initiatives, ensuring robust support for faculty and students. This position involves driving innovation in educational delivery and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex challenges. By guiding strategic priorities and enhancing operational effectiveness, Mary McGeoch plays a vital role in the university's pursuit of excellence and its commitment to scholarly advancement. The President's leadership ensures the successful execution of institutional strategies and the achievement of key performance indicators.

    Cerys Richter - Chief of Staff

    Cerys Richter, the Chief of Staff at Drexel University, manages critical operational workflows and facilitates strategic execution across executive leadership. Richter ensures seamless communication and coordination between departments, supporting the Chief Executive Officer's initiatives. This role involves overseeing special projects, driving process improvements, and enhancing organizational efficiency. By streamlining internal operations and providing essential support to the executive team, Cerys Richter directly contributes to the university's academic and research objectives. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings and managing key stakeholder engagements to advance Drexel's mission.

    Milton Silver - Chief Technology Officer

    Milton Silver, the Chief Technology Officer at Drexel University, architects and directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Silver leads the integration of advanced academic technologies, ensuring robust IT support for students, faculty, and researchers. This role involves driving innovation in educational technology, cybersecurity, and data management to enhance learning outcomes and research capabilities. By overseeing the development and implementation of cutting-edge technological solutions, Milton Silver empowers Drexel's mission of academic excellence and scholarship. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing the IT budget and ensuring the security and reliability of all digital systems.

    Jacquelyn Bailey - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Jacquelyn Bailey, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Drexel University, spearheads the strategic direction and management of the university's information technology systems and digital infrastructure. Bailey ensures the delivery of secure, reliable, and innovative IT services that support academic programs, research activities, and administrative functions across the institution. This critical role involves overseeing IT operations, cybersecurity initiatives, and the implementation of new technologies to enhance user experience and operational efficiency. By driving technological advancements and maintaining robust IT governance, Jacquelyn Bailey directly supports Drexel's commitment to educational excellence and scholarly advancement. The Chief Information Officer's leadership ensures that technology effectively serves the university's evolving needs.
    Jacquelyn Bailey

    Linda Roth - Chief Communications Officer

    Linda Roth, the Chief Communications Officer at Drexel University, shapes and executes the institution's comprehensive communication strategies. Roth leads efforts to enhance Drexel's brand reputation, manage public relations, and ensure clear, consistent messaging across all internal and external channels. This role involves overseeing media relations, digital communications, and marketing initiatives to effectively convey the university's mission, achievements, and impact. By directing strategic communication campaigns and fostering strong stakeholder relationships, Linda Roth significantly contributes to Drexel's visibility and public perception. The Chief Communications Officer's expertise ensures that the university's narrative is effectively communicated to diverse audiences.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Drexel University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Drexel University?
    Drexel University is led by Vikram Janardhan (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Lavner (Chief Operating Officer) and Helen Bowman (Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Drexel University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Drexel University includes leaders such as Vikram Janardhan (Chief Executive Officer), Michael Lavner (Chief Operating Officer), Helen Bowman (Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Drexel University have?
    Drexel University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Drexel University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Drexel University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Operating Officer, President, President.