Fairleigh Dickinson University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fairleigh Dickinson University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Fairleigh Dickinson University provides diverse academic programs, fostering student success and contributing to professional development across multiple disciplines.

Leadership Roles at Fairleigh Dickinson University

  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Frank Barra
  • Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver) - Mark Chiarello
  • President - Jose Gonzalez
  • President - Helen Kalamaras
  • President - Harold Fish
  • Tenured Professor of Accounting, and President, Schiff Consulting Group, Ltd. - Jonathan Schiff
  • Chief of Staff - Vanessa Perez
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Sean Jameson
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Neal Sturm
  • Exchange Manager - eBarter FDU Spring
  • Frank Barra - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Frank Barra, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Fairleigh Dickinson University, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and investment management, Barra ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This critical role involves developing financial models, managing institutional assets, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Frank Barra directly supports the university's academic and research endeavors. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include reporting financial performance to the Board of Trustees and stakeholders, driving fiscal responsibility across all university units, and implementing strategies to enhance financial resilience in a dynamic educational landscape.

    Mark Chiarello - Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver)

    Mark Chiarello, the Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver) at Fairleigh Dickinson University, oversees the operational management and strategic development of the university's Vancouver campus. Directing all campus functions, Chiarello ensures efficient resource allocation, facility management, and the delivery of high-quality student services. This role involves fostering strong relationships with local stakeholders and community partners to enhance the university's presence and impact in the region. By driving operational excellence and implementing strategic growth initiatives, Mark Chiarello directly contributes to the success and expansion of Fairleigh Dickinson University's international operations. The Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver)'s leadership ensures the campus meets its academic and financial objectives.
    Mark Chiarello

    Jose Gonzalez - President

    Jose Gonzalez, the President at Fairleigh Dickinson University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic and administrative functions, Gonzalez champions the university's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education and foster student success. This pivotal role involves setting institutional priorities, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring the university's continued growth and reputation. By guiding strategic planning and resource allocation, Jose Gonzalez directly impacts the university's ability to innovate and adapt to evolving educational landscapes. The President's leadership is instrumental in maintaining academic rigor, promoting research, and strengthening the university's community engagement across all campuses.

    Helen Kalamaras - President

    Helen Kalamaras, the President at Fairleigh Dickinson University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the university. Overseeing academic programs, faculty development, and student affairs, Kalamaras ensures the institution uphms its commitment to educational excellence and student achievement. This leadership position involves fostering a collaborative environment, driving institutional growth, and enhancing the university's standing within the higher education sector. By championing innovative educational approaches and resource management, Helen Kalamaras directly supports the university's mission to empower students through transformative learning experiences. The President's guidance shapes the university's future trajectory and its impact on the global community.

    Harold Fish - President

    Harold Fish, the President at Fairleigh Dickinson University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic innovation. Overseeing university-wide operations, Fish ensures the effective implementation of educational policies and administrative procedures. This executive role involves fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to advance the university's objectives. By driving initiatives that enhance student outcomes and institutional reputation, Harold Fish directly contributes to Fairleigh Dickinson University's mission of providing comprehensive and accessible higher education. The President's leadership guides the university's commitment to research, community engagement, and lifelong learning.

    Jonathan Schiff - Tenured Professor of Accounting, and President, Schiff Consulting Group, Ltd.

    Jonathan Schiff, the Tenured Professor of Accounting, and President, Schiff Consulting Group, Ltd. at Fairleigh Dickinson University, brings extensive expertise in both academia and business leadership. Overseeing academic instruction in accounting and directing strategic consulting services, Schiff bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application. This dual role involves developing curriculum, mentoring students, and guiding clients through complex financial challenges. By leveraging deep industry insights and pedagogical skills, Jonathan Schiff directly enhances the educational experience for accounting students and provides valuable strategic guidance through his consulting practice. The Tenured Professor of Accounting, and President, Schiff Consulting Group, Ltd.'s contributions foster academic rigor and practical business acumen.

    Vanessa Perez - Chief of Staff

    Vanessa Perez, the Chief of Staff at Fairleigh Dickinson University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Overseeing critical projects, Perez ensures seamless execution of the university's strategic plan, enhancing administrative efficiency and supporting the President's agenda. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to achieve institutional goals, managing key stakeholder communications, and driving process improvements. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows, Vanessa Perez directly contributes to the university's operational effectiveness and its mission to provide quality education. The Chief of Staff's purview extends to advising on policy development and implementing best practices across administrative functions, solidifying the university's commitment to excellence.

    Sean Jameson - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Sean Jameson, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Fairleigh Dickinson University, leads the institution's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Jameson ensures the delivery of robust and secure technological solutions that support academic, research, and administrative functions. This role involves managing the university's network, data systems, and cybersecurity protocols, fostering innovation in educational technology. By implementing cutting-edge digital tools and platforms, Sean Jameson directly enhances the learning experience and operational efficiency for students, faculty, and staff. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer's focus includes driving digital transformation initiatives, supporting online learning environments, and safeguarding institutional data integrity across all university operations.
    Sean Jameson

    Neal Sturm - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Neal Sturm, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Fairleigh Dickinson University, directs the strategic implementation of information technology across the institution. Overseeing the development and maintenance of the university's digital infrastructure, Sturm ensures seamless access to critical systems and data. This leadership position involves managing IT projects, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and driving technological innovation to support academic excellence and administrative efficiency. By aligning technology roadmaps with institutional objectives, Neal Sturm directly supports the university's mission to provide advanced educational resources. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include fostering a culture of technological advancement and ensuring the reliability and scalability of all IT services.

    eBarter FDU Spring - Exchange Manager

    eBarter FDU Spring, the Exchange Manager at Fairleigh Dickinson University, manages the operational aspects of the university's exchange programs. Overseeing participant coordination and program logistics, this role ensures the smooth facilitation of international student and faculty exchanges. This position involves liaising with partner institutions, managing program schedules, and addressing the needs of exchange participants to foster a positive and productive experience. By streamlining administrative processes and enhancing program delivery, eBarter FDU Spring directly supports the university's global engagement initiatives. The Exchange Manager's efforts contribute to broadening cultural understanding and academic collaboration across diverse educational networks.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fairleigh Dickinson University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Fairleigh Dickinson University?
    Fairleigh Dickinson University is led by Frank Barra (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mark Chiarello (Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver)) and Jose Gonzalez (President).
    Who is part of Fairleigh Dickinson University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fairleigh Dickinson University includes leaders such as Frank Barra (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Mark Chiarello (Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver)), Jose Gonzalez (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fairleigh Dickinson University have?
    Fairleigh Dickinson University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fairleigh Dickinson University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fairleigh Dickinson University includes roles such as Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer (Vancouver), President, President, President.