McDaniel College Executive and Leadership Team

Mario Fernandez, the Chief Executive Officer & Ambassador at McDaniel College, directs high-level institutional strategy and global outreach initiatives. Fernandez architects partnerships that expand the reach of the college across North American and international markets. By aligning educational services with evolving industry demands, the Chief Executive Officer & Ambassador ensures the long-term sustainability of the institution. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the vision for the liberal arts curriculum. Mario Fernandez maintains a focus on enhancing the reputation of the college through strategic advocacy and external relations. Through these efforts, the Chief Executive Officer & Ambassador secures the resources necessary for campus development and student success. Fernandez drives the mission forward by bridging the gap between academic goals and broader societal impact, ensuring the institution remains a leader in private higher education.

Roger Casey, the President Emeritus and Professor of English at McDaniel College, provides historical perspective and academic guidance to the current leadership team. Casey contributes to the intellectual life of the campus by teaching advanced literature courses and mentoring faculty members. The President Emeritus and Professor of English drives initiatives that preserve the academic legacy of the institution while supporting modern pedagogical advancements. By participating in key advisory committees, Casey ensures that current strategic decisions remain grounded in the long-term values of the college. Roger Casey leverages extensive experience to foster a culture of scholarly excellence and community service. This role involves bridging the gap between past institutional successes and future growth opportunities. Through continued engagement with the academic community, the President Emeritus and Professor of English supports the mission of providing a comprehensive liberal arts education, ensuring that the college maintains its commitment to rigorous inquiry and student development.

Caitlyn O'Connor, the President at McDaniel College, directs the overall academic and administrative operations of the institution. O'Connor architects the strategic vision for student enrollment and faculty development, ensuring that the college remains competitive in the private liberal arts sector. The President drives the implementation of new academic programs that respond to current market trends and student interests. By overseeing the financial health of the college, O'Connor ensures that resources are allocated effectively to support teaching and research. Caitlyn O'Connor collaborates with the Board and other executives to advance the mission of the institution through sustainable growth and community outreach. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while maintaining the core identity of the college. Through decisive action and long-term planning, the President secures the future of the institution, fostering an environment where students thrive and faculty members excel in their respective fields of study.

Julia Jasken, the President at McDaniel College, manages the daily execution of institutional policy and the advancement of campus-wide initiatives. Jasken architects the framework for student support services and campus life, ensuring that the educational experience remains holistic and inclusive. The President drives the expansion of community partnerships that provide students with internship and career opportunities. By focusing on the operational efficiency of academic departments, Jasken ensures that the college delivers high-quality instruction across all disciplines. Julia Jasken works with the executive team to refine the strategic plan, focusing on innovation in the liberal arts curriculum. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability among staff and faculty. Through dedicated oversight and a commitment to student success, the President strengthens the market position of the college, ensuring that the institution continues to provide a transformative education that prepares graduates for the challenges of the modern world.

Esther Iglich, the Chief Information Officer at McDaniel College, manages the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the entire campus community. Iglich oversees the implementation of secure data systems and modern learning platforms that facilitate academic excellence. The Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation of administrative processes to improve operational efficiency across all departments. By integrating advanced software solutions, Iglich ensures that faculty and students possess the tools required for modern research and collaboration. Esther Iglich coordinates with other executive leaders to align technology investments with the broader institutional mission of providing high-quality educational services. This role involves mitigating cybersecurity risks while maintaining open access to information resources. Through the strategic deployment of hardware and software, the Chief Information Officer supports the growth of the college, ensuring that the technological environment remains robust, scalable, and responsive to the needs of a diverse student body.

Andrea Phillips, the Associate Chief of Staff and Events Coordinator at McDaniel College, manages the logistical execution of institutional programming and high-profile campus gatherings. Phillips architects the operational flow for major events that showcase the academic and cultural achievements of the college. The Associate Chief of Staff and Events Coordinator drives internal communication strategies to ensure alignment between administrative goals and public-facing initiatives. By coordinating complex schedules and resource allocation, Phillips optimizes the impact of every event on the broader community. Andrea Phillips works closely with the executive team to facilitate smooth operations and maintain the professional standards of the institution. This leadership role involves managing stakeholder expectations and ensuring that all events reflect the core values of the liberal arts mission. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Associate Chief of Staff and Events Coordinator strengthens the connection between the college and its diverse audience, fostering a vibrant campus culture.