Montclair State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Montclair State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, human resources, and academic governance.

Driven by a commitment to accessible, high-quality education, Montclair State University fosters intellectual curiosity and prepares students for impactful careers through comprehensive academic programs and a vibrant campus community.

Leadership Roles at Montclair State University

  • Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration - Benjamin Durant
  • Chief of Staff & President, Office of - Keith Barrack
  • President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael) - Dina Leotsakas
  • Member, President's Community Advisory Board - Julie Borst
  • President - Jonathan Koppell
  • President - Johnathan Koppel
  • President - Miriam Awwad
  • President - Kelly Meagher
  • Chief of Staff - David Jocelyn
  • Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer - Anthony Knowles
  • Benjamin Durant - Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration

    Benjamin Durant, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration at Montclair State University, manages the institution's extensive financial operations and administrative infrastructure. Overseeing budgeting, resource allocation, and fiscal planning, Durant ensures the university's financial health and sustainability. This executive role encompasses directing facilities management, campus safety, and auxiliary services, all critical to supporting the academic environment. By optimizing financial processes and administrative systems, Benjamin Durant drives operational excellence and efficiency across the university. The Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration's responsibilities include developing long-term financial strategies and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Durant's leadership ensures that Montclair State University possesses the robust operational and financial framework necessary to achieve its educational objectives and expand its reach.

    Keith Barrack - Chief of Staff & President, Office of

    Keith Barrack, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of at Montclair State University, directs strategic operations and administrative functions critical to institutional advancement. Overseeing key initiatives and ensuring alignment with the university's mission, Barrack facilitates high-level decision-making and project execution. This executive position involves managing complex projects and advising university leadership on critical matters. By enhancing operational efficiency and fostering cross-functional collaboration, Keith Barrack supports the university's strategic goals. The Chief of Staff & President, Office of's role is integral to translating institutional vision into actionable plans. Barrack's leadership ensures that Montclair State University maintains a dynamic and responsive operational framework, driving progress across all academic and administrative spheres.
    Keith Barrack

    Dina Leotsakas - President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael)

    Dina Leotsakas, the President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael) at Montclair State University, leads the academic honor society's chapter operations and member engagement. Overseeing chapter activities, recruitment, and academic programming, Leotsakas fosters a culture of scholarly excellence and leadership development among members. This student leadership role involves coordinating events, managing chapter resources, and representing the organization to university administration. By promoting the society's values and objectives, Dina Leotsakas enhances the academic and professional growth opportunities for its members. The President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael)'s focus is on upholding the society's standards and expanding its positive impact within the university community. Leotsakas's dedication cultivates a supportive environment for high-achieving students at Montclair State University.
    Dina Leotsakas

    Julie Borst - Member, President's Community Advisory Board

    Julie Borst, a Member, President's Community Advisory Board at Montclair State University, contributes strategic insights and community perspectives to university leadership. Providing guidance on institutional priorities and community engagement, Borst helps shape the university's relationship with its surrounding region. This advisory role involves collaborating with university officials to identify opportunities for mutual benefit and impact. By offering valuable external viewpoints, Julie Borst supports the university's efforts to remain responsive to community needs and aspirations. The Member, President's Community Advisory Board's input is crucial for fostering strong town-gown relations and ensuring the university's relevance. Borst's participation strengthens Montclair State University's connection to the broader community it serves.
    Julie Borst

    Jonathan Koppell - President

    Jonathan Koppell, the President at Montclair State University, directs the institution's overall strategic vision and operational leadership. Overseeing all academic, research, and administrative functions, Koppell guides the university's growth and commitment to educational excellence. This executive role involves fostering innovation, securing resources, and ensuring the university's responsiveness to evolving societal needs. By championing academic programs and student success initiatives, Jonathan Koppell drives the university's mission forward. The President's leadership is pivotal in advancing Montclair State University's reputation and impact. Koppell's strategic direction ensures the university remains a leading institution for higher learning and community engagement.

    Johnathan Koppel - President

    Johnathan Koppel, the President at Montclair State University, spearheads the institution's strategic direction and operational oversight. Guiding academic advancements and administrative efficiency, Koppel ensures the university upholds its commitment to quality education and research. This leadership position involves cultivating partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance the student experience and faculty support. By fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration, Johnathan Koppel advances Montclair State University's mission. The President's role is fundamental to the university's continued development and its contribution to higher education. Koppel's stewardship ensures the university's sustained excellence and its capacity to meet future challenges.

    Miriam Awwad - President

    Miriam Awwad, the President at Montclair State University, leads the institution's strategic planning and operational execution. Directing academic affairs and administrative services, Awwad ensures the university's adherence to its core educational mission and values. This executive capacity involves championing student development programs and fostering a dynamic learning environment. By promoting research initiatives and community engagement, Miriam Awwad enhances Montclair State University's societal contribution. The President's leadership is essential for navigating the complexities of higher education and driving institutional progress. Awwad's focus ensures the university's continued success and its role as a vital center for knowledge creation.

    Kelly Meagher - President

    Kelly Meagher, the President at Montclair State University, directs the institution's strategic vision and operational framework. Overseeing academic programs and administrative functions, Meagher ensures the university's commitment to fostering intellectual growth and student success. This leadership role involves driving innovation in teaching and research, and strengthening community partnerships. By cultivating a collaborative environment, Kelly Meagher enhances Montclair State University's capacity for impactful contributions. The President's guidance is critical for the university's ongoing development and its role in advancing higher education. Meagher's leadership ensures the university's sustained excellence and its ability to adapt to future opportunities.

    David Jocelyn - Chief of Staff

    David Jocelyn, the Chief of Staff at Montclair State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Overseeing critical projects, Jocelyn ensures seamless execution of the President's agenda and facilitates interdepartmental collaboration. This leadership role involves managing key communications and supporting the development of institutional policies. By streamlining administrative processes, David Jocelyn enhances overall university efficiency and responsiveness. The Chief of Staff's purview extends to advising on resource allocation and fostering a culture of accountability. This position is central to translating institutional vision into tangible operational outcomes, ensuring that Montclair State University effectively serves its academic mission and student body.

    Anthony Knowles - Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer

    Anthony Knowles, the Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer at Montclair State University, provides comprehensive administrative and operational support to the HR leadership. Managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and handling confidential information, Knowles ensures the efficient functioning of the Human Resources department. This role involves facilitating communication between HR leadership and university staff, contributing to a positive employee experience. By organizing key HR initiatives and supporting talent management processes, Anthony Knowles aids in the effective implementation of human capital strategies. The Executive Assistant To the Chief Human Resources Officer's support is vital for maintaining departmental workflow and ensuring timely execution of HR functions. Knowles's dedication ensures that the Chief Human Resources Officer can focus on strategic priorities, thereby strengthening Montclair State University's workforce.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Montclair State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Montclair State University?
    Montclair State University is led by Benjamin Durant (Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration), along with executives such as Keith Barrack (Chief of Staff & President, Office of) and Dina Leotsakas (President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael)).
    Who is part of Montclair State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Montclair State University includes leaders such as Benjamin Durant (Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration), Keith Barrack (Chief of Staff & President, Office of), Dina Leotsakas (President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Montclair State University have?
    Montclair State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Montclair State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Montclair State University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, Finance & Administration, Chief of Staff & President, Office of, President, Alpha Epsilon Lambda , Alpha Kappa Chapter (Ael), Member, President's Community Advisory Board, President.