La Sierra University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

La Sierra University has 5 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, academic operations, and institutional strategy.

Rooted in a century of academic tradition, La Sierra University advances intellectual growth and spiritual development through a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for meaningful service within a global society.

Leadership Roles at La Sierra University

  • Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care - Ulrich Baumann
  • Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Steven Hemenway
  • Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO - April Summitt
  • President - Christon Arthur
  • Interim President - Richard Osborn
  • 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, manages complex fiscal portfolios and budgetary allocations. Overseeing the financial health of specialized health-related educational programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resource optimization across all departments. This leadership role involves rigorous auditing of institutional funds to maintain compliance with Seventh-day Adventist educational standards. By implementing advanced financial modeling, Ulrich Baumann directly impacts the long-term sustainability of the university's health science initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer coordinates with the Board to align capital expenditures with the broader mission of providing high-quality, faith-based education. Through meticulous oversight of operational costs, Baumann secures the necessary funding to support faculty research and student development programs, ultimately strengthening the institution's competitive position within the southern California higher education landscape.

    Steven Hemenway - Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Hemenway, the Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer at La Sierra University, architects the institution's overarching fiscal strategy and long-term economic planning. Overseeing the management of endowment funds and annual operating budgets, the Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer ensures the university maintains robust financial health. This leadership role involves coordinating with external auditors and internal stakeholders to guarantee transparency and fiscal responsibility. By streamlining procurement processes and optimizing revenue streams, Steven Hemenway directly impacts the university's ability to invest in campus infrastructure and student services. The Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer maintains rigorous control over institutional assets, supporting the broader mission of academic excellence. Ultimately, Hemenway secures the financial foundation necessary for the university to thrive within the competitive higher education market in southern California.
    Steven Hemenway

    April Summitt - Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO

    April Summitt, the Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO at La Sierra University, directs all academic affairs and daily operational workflows. Overseeing the integration of curriculum development with administrative efficiency, the Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO ensures seamless alignment between faculty goals and institutional objectives. This leadership role involves managing academic accreditation processes and fostering a culture of scholarly excellence across all departments. By optimizing internal processes, April Summitt directly impacts the quality of student learning outcomes and faculty productivity. The Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO collaborates with department heads to refine academic policies that support the university's mission. Ultimately, Summitt drives the strategic expansion of academic programs, ensuring that the institution remains a leader in providing comprehensive, values-based education to a diverse student body throughout the region.

    Christon Arthur - President

    Christon Arthur, the President at La Sierra University, directs the strategic vision and institutional growth of the college. Overseeing the implementation of long-term academic and spiritual goals, the President ensures the university remains true to its Seventh-day Adventist heritage while expanding its influence in modern education. This leadership role involves engaging with donors, alumni, and community partners to foster support for campus initiatives. By championing innovation in teaching and research, Christon Arthur directly impacts the university's reputation and student enrollment success. The President collaborates with the Board of Trustees to set policy and guide the institution through evolving educational landscapes. Ultimately, Arthur drives the university's mission forward, ensuring that every student receives a transformative education that prepares individuals for professional success and meaningful service in a global society.
    Christon Arthur

    Richard Osborn - Interim President

    Richard Osborn, the Interim President at La Sierra University, provides steady leadership during transitional periods to ensure continuity in academic and administrative operations. Overseeing the maintenance of institutional standards and community relations, the Interim President ensures that the university's core mission remains the primary focus of all campus activities. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between faculty, staff, and the Board to maintain organizational stability. By fostering an environment of collaboration and academic rigor, Richard Osborn directly impacts the morale and productivity of the entire campus community. The Interim President manages key stakeholder relationships to preserve the university's standing within the broader educational network. Ultimately, Osborn supports the transition of leadership while upholding the values and traditions that define the institution's long-standing commitment to excellence in higher education.

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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 Ulrich Baumann (Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care), along with executives such as Steven Hemenway (Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer) and April Summitt (Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO).
    Who is part of La Sierra University’s executive team?
    The executive team of La Sierra University includes leaders such as Ulrich Baumann (Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care), Steven Hemenway (Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer), April Summitt (Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does La Sierra University have?
    La Sierra University has 5 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 Chief Financial Officer, At Helping Hands In-Home Care, Vice President, Financial Administration & Chief Financial Officer, Provost, Chief Operating Officer, CAO, President, Interim President.