La Sierra University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

La Sierra University has 8 executives leading key functions including financial administration, academic operations, and student leadership.

Rooted in a century of academic tradition, La Sierra University advances a mission of holistic education and spiritual growth within the southern California region, fostering excellence through faith-based learning.

Leadership Roles at La Sierra University

  • Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Steven Hemenway
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - David Geriguis
  • Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care - Ulrich Baumann
  • Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO - April Summitt
  • President, Pre-Law Society - Nyla Provost
  • President - Christon Arthur
  • President - Lisa Ton
  • President, Business Club - Brodie Langford
  • Steven Hemenway - Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Hemenway, the Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer at La Sierra University, manages the comprehensive fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations and long-term capital planning, the Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with the Seventh-day Adventist educational mission. Hemenway directs the administrative infrastructure, optimizing resource distribution to support faculty research and student services across the Riverside campus. By implementing rigorous financial controls, the executive maintains institutional stability while navigating complex regulatory environments. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure sustainable funding models. Through strategic oversight of endowment growth and operational expenditures, Steven Hemenway strengthens the university's capacity for academic innovation. Ultimately, the executive secures the financial foundation necessary for the continued success of the entire campus community.
    Steven Hemenway

    David Geriguis - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    David Geriguis, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at La Sierra University, directs the daily accounting operations and financial reporting systems. Managing the treasury functions, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer monitors cash flow and liquidity to support ongoing campus development. Geriguis executes financial strategies that prioritize cost-efficiency and transparency in all departmental spending. By analyzing economic trends, the executive provides actionable insights to the leadership team regarding institutional investment opportunities. David Geriguis maintains strict compliance with auditing standards, ensuring the integrity of all fiscal records. This role requires precise coordination with external partners to manage debt obligations and institutional assets effectively. Through meticulous attention to detail, the executive supports the broader goal of maintaining a robust financial environment. Geriguis drives fiscal accountability, enabling the university to focus resources on student-centered academic programs and campus infrastructure improvements.

    Ulrich Baumann - Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care

    Ulrich Baumann, the Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care at La Sierra University, oversees the financial integration of specialized health-related service partnerships. Managing the fiscal performance of these external collaborations, the Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care ensures that all revenue streams align with the university's broader educational objectives. Baumann directs the financial planning for community-based outreach programs, optimizing the allocation of grants and private funding. By evaluating the profitability of service-oriented initiatives, the executive supports the expansion of the university's footprint in the southern California healthcare sector. Ulrich Baumann coordinates with academic departments to bridge the gap between clinical training and practical application. This leadership role involves rigorous risk assessment and the development of sustainable business models for community engagement. Through strategic financial management, the executive enhances the university's reputation for service and academic excellence.

    April Summitt - Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO

    April Summitt, the Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO at La Sierra University, directs the academic vision and operational efficiency of the entire institution. Overseeing faculty development and curriculum design, the Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO ensures that all educational programs meet rigorous accreditation standards. Summitt manages the daily administrative functions, coordinating between academic departments to streamline workflows and improve student outcomes. By fostering a culture of research and scholarly inquiry, the executive drives the university's academic reputation forward. April Summitt collaborates with the President to implement strategic initiatives that enhance the learning environment for all students. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of diverse academic disciplines while maintaining institutional cohesion. Through the effective management of academic resources and personnel, the executive supports the university's commitment to holistic education. Summitt ensures that every operational decision directly contributes to the success of the student body.

    Nyla Provost - President, Pre-Law Society

    Nyla Provost, the President, Pre-Law Society at La Sierra University, directs the professional development and networking initiatives for students pursuing legal careers. Overseeing the organization of workshops, guest speaker series, and mentorship programs, the President, Pre-Law Society ensures that members gain essential insights into the legal profession. Provost manages the society's outreach efforts, connecting students with alumni and legal practitioners across the region. By facilitating mock trial competitions and LSAT preparation resources, the executive supports the academic and career readiness of the student body. Nyla Provost coordinates with faculty advisors to align society activities with the university's mission of service and justice. This leadership role involves fostering a collaborative environment where students can refine their analytical and advocacy skills. Through active engagement with the campus community, the executive builds a strong foundation for future legal professionals. Provost drives the society's growth, ensuring consistent value for all participants.

    Christon Arthur - President

    Christon Arthur, the President at La Sierra University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the college. Overseeing the implementation of long-term goals, the President ensures that all campus activities remain consistent with the Seventh-day Adventist identity. Arthur manages relationships with external stakeholders, donors, and the broader academic community to secure the university's future. By championing innovation in teaching and learning, the executive drives the institution toward greater regional and national prominence. Christon Arthur leads the executive team in addressing complex challenges, from enrollment management to campus infrastructure development. This leadership role involves setting the tone for the university's culture, emphasizing service, faith, and academic rigor. Through decisive action and collaborative governance, the executive maintains the university's commitment to excellence. Arthur fosters an environment where faculty and students thrive, ensuring the institution continues to fulfill its mission for generations to come.
    Christon Arthur

    Lisa Ton - President

    Lisa Ton, the President at La Sierra University, directs specific administrative initiatives focused on student engagement and campus life. Overseeing the coordination of student-led organizations and extracurricular activities, the President ensures that the campus environment supports holistic development. Ton manages the allocation of resources for student services, prioritizing programs that enhance the overall university experience. By facilitating communication between the student body and the administration, the executive drives improvements in campus culture and inclusivity. Lisa Ton collaborates with other leaders to implement policies that promote student well-being and academic success. This leadership role involves active participation in campus events and the promotion of the university's core values. Through dedicated service, the executive strengthens the sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. Ton ensures that the university remains a vibrant and supportive place for learning, consistently advocating for the needs of the entire campus population.

    Brodie Langford - President, Business Club

    Brodie Langford, the President, Business Club at La Sierra University, directs the professional development and networking opportunities for students interested in commerce and entrepreneurship. Overseeing the planning of industry-focused events and career development workshops, the President, Business Club ensures that members gain practical experience in the business world. Langford manages the club's partnerships with local business leaders, facilitating internships and mentorship connections. By organizing case study competitions and financial literacy seminars, the executive supports the career readiness of the student body. Brodie Langford coordinates with the business faculty to align club activities with current market trends and academic curriculum. This leadership role involves fostering a collaborative environment where students can develop leadership and analytical skills. Through active engagement with the campus community, the executive builds a strong network for future business professionals. Langford drives the club's growth, ensuring consistent value for all participants.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding La Sierra University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads La Sierra University?
    La Sierra University is led by Steven Hemenway (Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as David Geriguis (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and Ulrich Baumann (Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care).
    Who is part of La Sierra University’s executive team?
    The executive team of La Sierra University includes leaders such as Steven Hemenway (Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer), David Geriguis (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Ulrich Baumann (Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does La Sierra University have?
    La Sierra University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in La Sierra University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of La Sierra University includes roles such as Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care, Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO, President, Pre-Law Society.