Montclair State University Executive and Leadership Team

Benjamin Durant, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration at Montclair State University, oversees the financial health and physical infrastructure of the institution. The Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration manages the annual budget, capital projects, and campus facilities to ensure the university remains a premier public education provider. By directing fiscal planning and resource allocation, Durant supports the expansion of academic programs and student services. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board to maintain long-term financial sustainability. Benjamin Durant also supervises the maintenance of campus assets and the implementation of operational policies that enhance safety and efficiency. Through rigorous financial oversight, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration drives the strategic growth of the university. Ultimately, Durant ensures that the institution possesses the necessary resources to deliver high-quality education to students across the New Jersey region.

Keith Barrack, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of at Montclair State University, manages the executive office operations and coordinates high-level institutional initiatives. The Chief of Staff & President, Office of facilitates communication between the president and the broader university community to ensure strategic alignment. By overseeing the daily functions of the executive office, Barrack maintains the focus on academic excellence and public service. This role involves managing complex projects that impact the university's reputation and operational success. Keith Barrack also monitors the progress of key institutional goals, ensuring that all departments contribute to the overall mission. Through effective leadership and coordination, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of supports the development of new certificate and degree programs. Ultimately, Barrack provides the administrative structure necessary for the university to thrive as a leading public higher education institution in the state of New Jersey.

James Leitner, the President at Montclair State University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. The President leads the university in its mission to offer high-quality public higher education through diverse degree and certificate programs. By engaging with external stakeholders and the broader community, Leitner promotes the university's impact on the New Jersey region. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, managing the board of trustees, and ensuring the long-term viability of the university. James Leitner also oversees the implementation of academic and operational policies that foster student success and faculty research. Through visionary leadership, the President drives the growth of the university's academic portfolio. Ultimately, Leitner ensures that the institution remains a cornerstone of public education, providing students with the skills and knowledge required for success in a competitive global economy.

Sayeed Naqibullah, the Co-president of GLAMS Graduate Linguistics Association of Montclair State at Montclair State University, leads the student-driven initiatives within the linguistics department. The Co-president of GLAMS Graduate Linguistics Association of Montclair State organizes academic workshops, research seminars, and professional development opportunities for graduate students. By fostering a collaborative environment, Naqibullah enhances the academic experience for those pursuing advanced studies. This leadership role involves representing student interests to the faculty and administration to ensure that the linguistics program remains responsive to student needs. Sayeed Naqibullah also coordinates networking events that connect students with industry professionals and academic peers. Through active engagement, the Co-president of GLAMS Graduate Linguistics Association of Montclair State supports the university's mission of providing rigorous intellectual training. Ultimately, Naqibullah contributes to the vibrant academic culture that defines the graduate experience at this public higher education institution.

José Acevedo, the Executive Chapter President at Montclair State University, directs the activities and strategic outreach of the campus chapter. The Executive Chapter President manages membership engagement, event planning, and community service initiatives that align with the university's public mission. By fostering connections between students and the broader New Jersey community, Acevedo enhances the university's regional presence. This leadership role involves coordinating with other student organizations and university departments to maximize the impact of chapter activities. José Acevedo also oversees the recruitment and development of new members, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization. Through effective management and advocacy, the Executive Chapter President supports the university's commitment to student leadership and civic responsibility. Ultimately, Acevedo provides the guidance necessary for the chapter to contribute positively to the campus environment and the academic success of the student body.

Kathleen Moreno, the President at Montclair State University, directs specific organizational units and student-focused initiatives that support the university's broader academic goals. The President oversees the development of specialized programs and ensures that these initiatives align with the institution's commitment to public higher education. By managing internal resources and fostering collaboration among faculty, Moreno enhances the quality of the student experience. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for growth and implementing strategies that improve academic outcomes. Kathleen Moreno also monitors the performance of key programs to ensure they meet the needs of the diverse student population. Through dedicated leadership, the President supports the university's mission of providing accessible and high-quality education. Ultimately, Moreno contributes to the overall success of the institution by driving excellence in specific academic and administrative areas that serve the university community.

Miriam Awwad, the President at Montclair State University, leads specific student-centered organizations and academic initiatives that enrich the campus experience. The President coordinates activities that promote student engagement, professional development, and academic excellence within the university. By managing the operations of these organizations, Awwad ensures that students have access to resources that support their educational journey. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty and staff to align student initiatives with the university's mission of public service. Miriam Awwad also oversees the planning and execution of events that foster a sense of community and intellectual growth. Through proactive leadership, the President drives the success of programs that prepare students for their future careers. Ultimately, Awwad plays a vital role in maintaining the vibrant and supportive environment that characterizes the university's approach to higher education in New Jersey.

David Jocelyn, the Chief of Staff at Montclair State University, manages high-level administrative operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. The Chief of Staff facilitates communication between the executive office and various academic units to ensure alignment with institutional goals. By streamlining internal processes, Jocelyn optimizes the efficiency of university governance. This role involves analyzing complex data to support informed decision-making across the campus. David Jocelyn also monitors the implementation of strategic projects, ensuring that all departments meet established performance benchmarks. Through rigorous oversight of administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational integrity of the institution. By fostering collaboration among faculty and staff, the Chief of Staff drives the mission of providing high-quality public higher education. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff strengthens the organizational framework necessary for sustained academic growth and institutional stability within the competitive landscape of New Jersey higher education.

Meredith Gatzke, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Montclair State University, directs all talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development initiatives. The Chief Human Resources Officer designs comprehensive programs to attract and retain top-tier faculty and staff. By implementing robust performance management systems, Gatzke ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the university's commitment to academic excellence. This leadership role involves managing complex labor relations and fostering an inclusive campus environment. Meredith Gatzke also oversees the administration of benefits and compensation structures to maintain institutional competitiveness. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the long-term growth of the university. By prioritizing professional development and employee engagement, the Chief Human Resources Officer cultivates a high-performing culture. Ultimately, Gatzke secures the human capital necessary to deliver diverse certificate and degree programs to the student body.

Anthony Knowles, the Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer at Montclair State University, coordinates daily administrative functions and supports the strategic objectives of the human resources department. The Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer manages complex scheduling, prepares essential documentation, and facilitates communication between the leadership team and university stakeholders. By organizing critical meetings and tracking project timelines, Knowles ensures that the department operates with maximum efficiency. This role involves maintaining sensitive records and assisting in the execution of personnel policies that support the university's public mission. Anthony Knowles also monitors departmental workflows to identify opportunities for process improvement. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer enables the leadership team to focus on high-level talent management and organizational development. Ultimately, Knowles provides the foundational support required to maintain a productive and compliant work environment for all university employees.