Middlebury College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Middlebury College has 10 executives leading key functions including marketing, human resources, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to liberal arts education, Middlebury College offers diverse courses in arts, humanities, sciences, and foreign languages, shaping intellectual growth and fostering global understanding from its Vermont campus.

Leadership Roles at Middlebury College

  • President - Mahmoud Hayyat
  • President - Mary Mendoza
  • President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board - Janine Hetherington
  • Nocturne Arts Festival Co-President - Ellie Trinkle
  • Co President - Javier Merino
  • Women In CS President - Sarah Soufny
  • Co President - Michael Sanjurjo
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Co - Benjamin Arias
  • Vice President, Human Resources & Chief People Officer - Caitlin Norden
  • Honorary Member - Ben Masterson
  • Mahmoud Hayyat - President

    Mahmoud Hayyat, the President at Middlebury College, provides overarching strategic direction and executive leadership. Guiding the institution's academic and administrative functions, Hayyat ensures alignment with the college's founding principles and future aspirations. This senior leadership position involves fostering innovation in curriculum development and research initiatives. By championing institutional values, Mahmoud Hayyat drives Middlebury College's commitment to liberal arts education and global citizenship. The President also oversees financial planning and resource allocation, securing the college's long-term sustainability and growth. This comprehensive oversight ensures the continued delivery of high-quality education and impactful scholarly pursuits.

    Mary Mendoza - President

    Mary Mendoza, the President at Middlebury College, leads the institution with a focus on academic excellence and community engagement. Directing strategic planning and institutional development, Mendoza ensures Middlebury College remains at the forefront of liberal arts education. This executive role involves cultivating strong relationships with faculty, students, alumni, and external partners. By advocating for educational innovation, Mary Mendoza enhances the student experience and expands research opportunities. The President also guides fundraising efforts and manages key institutional partnerships, supporting the college's mission and operational needs. This leadership ensures Middlebury College continues to thrive as a center for intellectual inquiry and personal growth.

    Janine Hetherington - President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board

    Janine Hetherington, the President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board at Middlebury College, galvanizes the alumni network to support institutional goals. Leading engagement initiatives, Hetherington fosters strong connections between the college and its graduates worldwide. This vital role involves organizing events and programs that promote lifelong learning and community building. By mobilizing alumni support, Janine Hetherington enhances fundraising efforts and provides valuable mentorship opportunities for current students. The President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board also serves as a key liaison, ensuring alumni perspectives inform college strategy. This leadership strengthens the bond between Middlebury College and its dedicated alumni base.

    Ellie Trinkle - Nocturne Arts Festival Co-President

    Ellie Trinkle, the Nocturne Arts Festival Co-President at Middlebury College, spearheads the organization and execution of a significant cultural event. Directing festival planning, programming, and logistical coordination, Trinkle ensures a vibrant and engaging experience for attendees. This leadership position involves collaborating with artists, performers, and campus departments to bring the festival to life. By managing budgets and volunteer teams, Ellie Trinkle drives the successful realization of the Nocturne Arts Festival. The Nocturne Arts Festival Co-President also promotes the event within the college community and beyond, highlighting Middlebury College's commitment to the arts. This role cultivates creativity and community engagement through artistic expression.

    Javier Merino - Co President

    Javier Merino, the Co President at Middlebury College, shares executive responsibility for guiding institutional initiatives. Collaborating closely with other leaders, Merino contributes to strategic decision-making and operational oversight. This leadership role involves driving specific projects and programs that advance the college's mission. By fostering teamwork and communication, Javier Merino ensures effective execution of key objectives. The Co President also plays a part in representing the college to various stakeholders, strengthening external relationships. This shared leadership model supports the dynamic environment necessary for Middlebury College's continued academic and community development.

    Sarah Soufny - Women In CS President

    Sarah Soufny, the Women In CS President at Middlebury College, champions the advancement and support of women in computer science. Leading initiatives to foster community and professional development, Soufny creates opportunities for networking and skill-building. This role involves organizing workshops, guest lectures, and mentorship programs. By advocating for inclusivity, Sarah Soufny enhances the representation and success of women in technology fields. The Women In CS President also collaborates with faculty and industry professionals to bridge academic learning with practical application. This leadership empowers students and strengthens the pipeline of diverse talent in computer science.

    Michael Sanjurjo - Co President

    Michael Sanjurjo, the Co President at Middlebury College, collaborates on executive leadership and strategic planning. Working in tandem with other leaders, Sanjurjo contributes to the overall direction and operational effectiveness of the institution. This role involves driving specific programmatic goals and fostering interdepartmental cooperation. By promoting a culture of collaboration, Michael Sanjurjo ensures the efficient implementation of college-wide objectives. The Co President also engages with key constituents, reinforcing Middlebury College's commitment to its educational mission. This shared leadership approach supports the college's adaptability and its pursuit of academic distinction.

    Benjamin Arias - Chief Marketing Officer, Co

    Benjamin Arias, the Chief Marketing Officer, Co at Middlebury College, directs all external communications and brand strategy. Overseeing digital marketing initiatives, Arias ensures the college's unique liberal arts offerings reach prospective students and stakeholders globally. This leadership role involves developing targeted campaigns across various platforms to highlight academic strengths and campus life. By analyzing market trends, Benjamin Arias drives student recruitment and enhances the institution's reputation. The Chief Marketing Officer, Co also collaborates with admissions to refine messaging and outreach efforts, ensuring consistent brand representation across all touchpoints. This strategic focus supports the college's mission of academic excellence and global engagement.

    Caitlin Norden - Vice President, Human Resources & Chief People Officer

    Caitlin Norden, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief People Officer at Middlebury College, architects the institution's human capital strategy. Overseeing all aspects of employee relations, talent acquisition, and professional development, Norden ensures a supportive and dynamic work environment. This critical role involves fostering a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning for faculty and staff. By implementing innovative HR policies, Caitlin Norden drives employee engagement and retention, aligning human resources functions with the college's educational mission. The Vice President, Human Resources & Chief People Officer also manages compensation and benefits programs, ensuring competitive offerings that attract and retain top talent. This comprehensive approach supports the operational excellence required for Middlebury College's academic endeavors.

    Ben Masterson - Honorary Member

    Ben Masterson, an Honorary Member at Middlebury College, provides distinguished counsel and support to the institution. This esteemed position involves offering guidance based on extensive experience and insight. By contributing valuable perspectives, Ben Masterson aids in shaping strategic directions and upholding the college's traditions. The Honorary Member role signifies a deep connection and commitment to Middlebury College's enduring mission. This association reinforces the college's values and its dedication to academic excellence and community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Middlebury College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Middlebury College?
    Middlebury College is led by Mahmoud Hayyat (President), along with executives such as Mary Mendoza (President) and Janine Hetherington (President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board).
    Who is part of Middlebury College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Middlebury College includes leaders such as Mahmoud Hayyat (President), Mary Mendoza (President), Janine Hetherington (President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Middlebury College have?
    Middlebury College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Middlebury College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Middlebury College includes roles such as President, President, President, Middlebury Alumni Association Board, Nocturne Arts Festival Co-President, Co President.