Lewis University Executive and Leadership Team

Jennifer Gillund, the Offices of Provost, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Lewis University, manages the intersection of academic quality and fiscal health. Gillund oversees the allocation of resources across nine graduate fields and various undergraduate majors, ensuring financial sustainability for the institution. By coordinating with the Provost, the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer optimizes budget distribution to support faculty research and student development. Jennifer Gillund directs operational workflows that streamline degree completion options for working adults, enhancing the overall efficiency of the university. This multifaceted role requires balancing long-term financial planning with the immediate needs of academic departments. Through rigorous oversight of institutional assets, the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer maintains the fiscal integrity required to sustain the university's mission. Gillund drives strategic initiatives that improve operational performance, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to academic growth and institutional stability.

Christopher Sindt, the President at Lewis University, architects the long-term vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Sindt leads the university's commitment to the De La Salle Christian Brothers tradition, ensuring that all academic programs reflect the core values of the community. By engaging with the Board of Trustees, the President secures the resources necessary to expand aviation programs and graduate offerings. Christopher Sindt oversees the university's market position, driving growth through initiatives that attract both traditional students and working professionals. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with external stakeholders to enhance the university's reputation and impact. Through the promotion of academic excellence, the President ensures that the institution remains a leader in higher education. Sindt maintains a focus on student outcomes, guiding the university toward sustainable development while upholding the mission of providing accessible, high-quality education across all fields of study.

James Gaffney, the President at Lewis University, directs the implementation of institutional policies that support the university's Catholic identity and academic mission. Gaffney oversees the expansion of undergraduate majors, ensuring that curriculum offerings remain relevant to current industry demands. By fostering a culture of service and scholarship, the President encourages faculty and students to engage in meaningful research and community involvement. James Gaffney manages the university's relationships with regional partners, strengthening the institution's presence in the broader educational landscape. This leadership role involves coordinating with administrative heads to ensure that operational goals align with the university's strategic plan. Through the promotion of inclusive learning environments, the President supports the success of diverse student populations. Gaffney drives initiatives that enhance the quality of graduate programs, ensuring that the university continues to provide rigorous academic training that prepares students for professional advancement in their respective fields.

Lester Carr, the President at Lewis University, executes the strategic vision for the university's growth and operational excellence. Carr oversees the development of accelerated degree completion programs, ensuring that working adults have access to flexible and high-quality educational pathways. By prioritizing the integration of technology into the classroom, the President enhances the learning experience for students across all disciplines. Lester Carr manages the university's financial health by identifying new revenue streams and optimizing existing resources to support academic innovation. This leadership role involves leading campus-wide initiatives that promote student retention and graduation success. Through the cultivation of a supportive academic community, the President ensures that the university remains true to its mission of providing transformative education. Carr drives the expansion of aviation and graduate programs, positioning the institution as a premier choice for students seeking specialized training and professional development in a values-based environment.

Michael Rading, the Chief Information Officer at Lewis University, directs the digital infrastructure supporting academic and administrative functions. Rading manages enterprise-wide technology systems, ensuring robust connectivity for students and faculty across all campus locations. By modernizing data security protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional information while facilitating seamless access to online learning platforms. Michael Rading oversees the integration of advanced software solutions that enhance the educational experience within the university's aviation and graduate programs. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to implement innovative tools that support research and student success. Through the deployment of scalable network architectures, the Chief Information Officer maintains high operational efficiency. Rading prioritizes the alignment of technological investments with the broader mission of the university, ensuring that digital resources effectively support the diverse needs of the student body and faculty members.