Johnson & Wales University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Johnson & Wales University has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, campus operations, and university-wide strategy.

Driven by a commitment to experiential education, Johnson & Wales University provides career-focused degree programs and certificates, shaping graduates for success in a dynamic global marketplace.

Leadership Roles at Johnson & Wales University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Danielle Santamaria
  • President, Campus (Charlotte) - Richard Mathieu
  • President - Elizabeth Loomis
  • President of Flag Football Club - Eric Barnes
  • President, Special Events Society - Amanda Wikberg
  • President, & Alumni (Dallas, Fort Worth) - Anthony Sims
  • Danielle Santamaria - Chief Financial Officer

    Danielle Santamaria, the Chief Financial Officer at Johnson & Wales University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Santamaria ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and securing funding to support academic and operational initiatives. By maintaining robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, Danielle Santamaria drives fiscal responsibility across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing institutional risk and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations, directly impacting the university's ability to invest in its educational mission and infrastructure.

    Richard Mathieu - President, Campus (Charlotte)

    Richard Mathieu, the President, Campus (Charlotte) at Johnson & Wales University, leads all operations and strategic development for the Charlotte campus. Mathieu oversees academic program delivery, student affairs, faculty management, and campus infrastructure to foster a vibrant learning environment. This executive role involves driving enrollment growth, enhancing student success initiatives, and ensuring the Charlotte campus aligns with the university's broader educational mission. By cultivating strong relationships with faculty, staff, and the local community, Richard Mathieu strengthens the campus's regional presence and impact. The President, Campus (Charlotte) is responsible for implementing institutional policies and advancing the campus's reputation for excellence in career education.
    Richard Mathieu

    Elizabeth Loomis - President

    Elizabeth Loomis, the President at Johnson & Wales University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Loomis guides the university's mission, vision, and long-term goals, ensuring academic excellence and institutional growth. This executive position involves collaborating with university leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders to advance educational innovation and student success. By championing key initiatives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Elizabeth Loomis drives the university's strategic priorities. The President's responsibilities include overseeing all academic and administrative functions, managing institutional reputation, and ensuring the university remains at the forefront of career education.

    Eric Barnes - President of Flag Football Club

    Eric Barnes, the President of Flag Football Club at Johnson & Wales University, directs the operations and strategic development of the university's flag football program. Barnes oversees team management, athlete recruitment, practice scheduling, and competition planning to foster athletic development and sportsmanship. This leadership role involves ensuring the club adheres to university policies and promotes a positive student experience. By cultivating team cohesion and encouraging participation, Eric Barnes enhances the extracurricular offerings for students. The President of Flag Football Club is responsible for managing the club's budget, coordinating with athletic department staff, and representing the team in intercollegiate activities.

    Amanda Wikberg - President, Special Events Society

    Amanda Wikberg, the President, Special Events Society at Johnson & Wales University, leads the planning and execution of university-wide special events. Wikberg oversees event conceptualization, logistical coordination, budget management, and volunteer engagement to create memorable and impactful occasions. This executive role involves collaborating with various university departments and student organizations to ensure event success and alignment with institutional goals. By fostering creativity and ensuring seamless execution, Amanda Wikberg enhances the student experience and university community engagement. The President, Special Events Society is responsible for developing event strategies, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring all events meet high standards of quality and professionalism.

    Anthony Sims - President, & Alumni (Dallas, Fort Worth)

    Anthony Sims, the President, & Alumni (Dallas, Fort Worth) at Johnson & Wales University, spearheads alumni engagement and development initiatives within the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Sims directs strategies to foster strong connections with alumni, cultivate philanthropic support, and promote university programs and achievements in the area. This leadership position involves organizing alumni events, managing communication channels, and building a robust network of former students. By strengthening ties with the Dallas-Fort Worth alumni community, Anthony Sims enhances the university's regional presence and support base. The President, & Alumni (Dallas, Fort Worth) is crucial in mobilizing alumni for mentorship, career services, and institutional advancement.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Johnson & Wales University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Johnson & Wales University?
    Johnson & Wales University is led by Danielle Santamaria (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Richard Mathieu (President, Campus (Charlotte)) and Elizabeth Loomis (President).
    Who is part of Johnson & Wales University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Johnson & Wales University includes leaders such as Danielle Santamaria (Chief Financial Officer), Richard Mathieu (President, Campus (Charlotte)), Elizabeth Loomis (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Johnson & Wales University have?
    Johnson & Wales University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Johnson & Wales University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Johnson & Wales University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Campus (Charlotte), President, President of Flag Football Club, President, Special Events Society.