Fairfield University Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Trafecante, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Fairfield University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic stability of the institution. Overseeing the university budget, the Chief Financial Officer directs resource allocation to support academic programs and campus infrastructure. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to ensure financial transparency and compliance with institutional standards. By optimizing endowment management and operational expenditures, Michael Trafecante directly impacts the ability of the university to provide high-quality education to students. The Treasurer also monitors cash flow and investment strategies to sustain growth across North American academic markets. Through rigorous financial oversight, the Vice President maintains the necessary capital to fund research initiatives and student services. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation required for the continued success of the university community.

Samantha Gondelman, the President at Fairfield University, directs the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing faculty development and curriculum innovation, the President ensures alignment with Jesuit values and student career preparation goals. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni and external stakeholders to expand the reach of the university. By fostering a community-oriented environment, Samantha Gondelman promotes personal growth and academic excellence for the diverse student body. The President also collaborates with the Board of Trustees to define long-term institutional priorities and growth targets. Through active participation in academic governance, the President maintains high standards for teaching and research. Ultimately, Gondelman drives the institutional commitment to transformative education, ensuring that every student receives the support necessary to succeed in a competitive global market.

Margaret Mary DeMark, the President at Fairfield University, manages the execution of student-centered initiatives and campus life programs. Overseeing the integration of extracurricular activities with academic requirements, the President ensures that students benefit from a holistic educational experience. This leadership role involves coordinating with department heads to enhance student outcomes and career readiness. By championing inclusive campus policies, Margaret Mary DeMark fosters a supportive environment for the entire student population. The President also monitors the effectiveness of student support services to ensure that every individual has access to necessary resources. Through consistent engagement with the student body, the President identifies opportunities for program expansion and community building. Ultimately, DeMark drives the university mission by creating a vibrant, values-based atmosphere that encourages lifelong learning and personal development for all students.

Sarah Gibney, the President at Fairfield University, leads the development of strategic partnerships and community outreach efforts. Overseeing the expansion of professional networks, the President connects students with industry leaders to facilitate career preparation and internship opportunities. This leadership role involves representing the university at regional and national forums to elevate the institutional profile. By cultivating relationships with donors and corporate partners, Sarah Gibney secures funding for new academic facilities and student scholarships. The President also works closely with faculty to ensure that academic programs remain relevant to current market demands. Through proactive communication and advocacy, the President strengthens the reputation of the university as a premier Jesuit institution. Ultimately, Gibney drives the growth of the university by bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world professional application.

Erika Strumpf, the President, German Club at Fairfield University, directs cultural programming and language immersion activities for the student body. Overseeing the planning of events and educational workshops, the President fosters an appreciation for German language and history within the campus community. This leadership role involves coordinating with the university administration to secure funding and event space for club initiatives. By organizing collaborative sessions with other language departments, Erika Strumpf promotes cross-cultural dialogue and global awareness. The President also manages membership recruitment and engagement strategies to ensure the continued vitality of the organization. Through the promotion of international perspectives, the President contributes to the diverse academic environment of the university. Ultimately, Strumpf drives student interest in global studies, providing valuable opportunities for personal growth and cultural exploration outside the traditional classroom setting.

Morgan Zickendrath, the President, Women In Stem Club at Fairfield University, leads initiatives to support and empower female students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Overseeing mentorship programs and networking events, the President facilitates connections between students and industry professionals. This leadership role involves organizing workshops that address the unique challenges faced by women in technical fields. By promoting inclusivity and academic excellence, Morgan Zickendrath encourages participation in research and innovation. The President also collaborates with faculty advisors to align club activities with the broader STEM curriculum of the university. Through the creation of a supportive peer network, the President enhances the retention and success of students in rigorous academic programs. Ultimately, Zickendrath drives the mission of the university by fostering a community that values diversity and professional development in technical disciplines.

Madeline Donohue, the Co-Founder & President at Fairfield University, architects new student-led organizations and initiatives that enhance campus engagement. Overseeing the initial development and operational structure of these groups, the President ensures that all activities align with the core values of the university. This leadership role involves mentoring new student leaders and providing guidance on project management and event execution. By identifying gaps in student services, Madeline Donohue creates platforms that foster personal growth and community connection. The President also coordinates with university staff to ensure compliance with institutional policies and safety standards. Through the establishment of sustainable organizational frameworks, the President leaves a lasting impact on the campus culture. Ultimately, Donohue drives innovation within the student body, encouraging a spirit of entrepreneurship and active participation in the university community.

Gabriella Savino, the President of Jogues Hall Residential Housing Association at Fairfield University, manages the residential experience and community life for students living on campus. Overseeing the planning of social events and residential meetings, the President fosters a welcoming and inclusive living environment. This leadership role involves acting as a liaison between residents and the university housing department to address concerns and improve living conditions. By organizing community-building activities, Gabriella Savino promotes a sense of belonging and personal development among students. The President also ensures that residential policies are communicated effectively and followed by all members of the hall. Through proactive leadership, the President enhances the overall quality of life for students residing on campus. Ultimately, Savino drives the university mission by creating a supportive residential community that complements the academic experience.

Daniel McLaughlin, the President at Fairfield University, oversees the strategic coordination of student government and representative bodies. Directing the efforts of student leaders, the President ensures that the voices of the student body are heard by the university administration. This leadership role involves facilitating discussions on campus policy and advocating for improvements in student services and facilities. By promoting civic engagement and leadership development, Daniel McLaughlin encourages students to take an active role in the governance of the university. The President also collaborates with other student organizations to coordinate large-scale campus events and initiatives. Through consistent communication with the administration, the President ensures that student needs are prioritized in institutional decision-making processes. Ultimately, McLaughlin drives the university mission by fostering a culture of responsibility, advocacy, and active participation among the student population.

Steven Gstalder, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Fairfield University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern academic delivery. Overseeing campus-wide network security and data management, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of technology into the classroom experience. This leadership role involves implementing scalable cloud solutions that facilitate remote learning and research collaboration across global networks. By modernizing administrative systems, Steven Gstalder improves operational efficiency for faculty and staff. The Vice President also manages cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive student and institutional data from emerging threats. Through strategic investment in hardware and software, the Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation initiatives that enhance the overall student experience. Ultimately, Gstalder maintains the technological backbone necessary for the university to remain competitive in the evolving landscape of higher education.