Roger Williams University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Roger Williams University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, information technology, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Roger Williams University provides comprehensive teaching and learning experiences across its coastal and urban campuses, fostering academic excellence and student success in American higher education.

Leadership Roles at Roger Williams University

  • Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Gloria Arcia
  • President - Justin Brotherton
  • President - Ronald Champagne
  • Director, Design & President - Noah Ellingwood
  • Inter Class Council Class of 2026 President - Cooper Hughes
  • Chief of Staff - Brian Williams
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Laura Baldwin
  • Chief Information Officer - Daryl Ford
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - James Galib
  • Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer - Thomas McDonough
  • Gloria Arcia - Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Gloria Arcia, the Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Roger Williams University, holds ultimate responsibility for the institution's financial health and administrative operations. Arcia oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic investment. This executive position involves managing university assets, mitigating financial risks, and driving operational efficiencies across all administrative functions. By providing critical financial insights, Gloria Arcia supports informed decision-making and long-term institutional stability. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership is essential for the sustainable growth and academic mission of Roger Williams University.
    Gloria Arcia

    Justin Brotherton - President

    Justin Brotherton, the President at Roger Williams University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional advancement. Brotherton guides the university's academic and administrative operations, ensuring alignment with its mission of providing high-quality American higher education. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and academic rigor across all departments. By collaborating with other senior leaders, Justin Brotherton drives initiatives that enhance the university's reputation and impact. The President's focus remains on institutional growth and the sustained success of students within the university's unique coastal and urban campus environments.

    Ronald Champagne - President

    Ronald Champagne, the President at Roger Williams University, oversees critical aspects of the university's operational framework and strategic planning. Champagne's leadership ensures the effective execution of academic programs and administrative functions, supporting the institution's commitment to American higher education. This executive role involves driving key initiatives that promote student development and faculty excellence. Through close collaboration with the university's leadership team, Ronald Champagne works to advance the institution's goals and maintain its standing. The President's efforts are concentrated on strengthening the university's educational offerings and expanding its reach.

    Noah Ellingwood - Director, Design & President

    Noah Ellingwood, the Director, Design & President at Roger Williams University, spearheads initiatives related to institutional design and strategic presidential functions. Ellingwood's dual role integrates creative vision with executive leadership, ensuring that the university's physical and programmatic designs support its educational mission. This position involves overseeing projects that enhance campus aesthetics and functionality, directly impacting the student and faculty experience. By championing innovative design principles, Noah Ellingwood contributes to the university's forward-thinking approach. The President's focus extends to aligning design strategies with the broader institutional objectives of Roger Williams University.

    Cooper Hughes - Inter Class Council Class of 2026 President

    Cooper Hughes, the Inter Class Council Class of 2026 President at Roger Williams University, represents the interests and advocates for the student body of the graduating class of 2026. Hughes leads the Inter Class Council, facilitating communication between students and university administration regarding academic and campus life matters. This role involves organizing student-led initiatives and events designed to enhance the collegiate experience. By actively engaging with peers and university stakeholders, Cooper Hughes ensures student voices are heard and considered in institutional decision-making. The Class of 2026 President's primary objective is to foster a vibrant and supportive community for all students.

    Brian Williams - Chief of Staff

    Brian Williams, the Chief of Staff at Roger Williams University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the President and senior leadership team. Williams manages key institutional projects and initiatives, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with university objectives. This executive function involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts and facilitating effective communication across the institution. By streamlining administrative processes and advising on critical decisions, Brian Williams enhances the efficiency of university operations. The Chief of Staff's role is pivotal in advancing the strategic priorities of Roger Williams University and supporting its mission in American higher education.

    Laura Baldwin - Chief Marketing Officer

    Laura Baldwin, the Chief Marketing Officer at Roger Williams University, directs all aspects of institutional branding, communications, and marketing strategies. Baldwin oversees the development and implementation of campaigns designed to enhance the university's visibility and attract prospective students, faculty, and staff. This leadership position involves managing digital marketing, public relations, and content creation to effectively convey the university's value proposition. By analyzing market trends and student needs, Laura Baldwin ensures marketing efforts resonate with target audiences. The Chief Marketing Officer's work is crucial in shaping the public perception and enrollment success of Roger Williams University.
    Laura Baldwin

    Daryl Ford - Chief Information Officer

    Daryl Ford, the Chief Information Officer at Roger Williams University, leads the strategic direction and management of all information technology infrastructure and services. Ford is responsible for ensuring the university's technology systems support academic excellence, research, and administrative functions effectively. This executive role involves overseeing cybersecurity, data management, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions across campus. By driving digital transformation, Daryl Ford enhances operational efficiency and the overall user experience for students, faculty, and staff. The Chief Information Officer's vision is critical for maintaining a robust and secure technological environment at Roger Williams University.
    Daryl Ford

    James Galib - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    James Galib, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Roger Williams University, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing the university's technology operations and strategic IT initiatives. Galib plays a key role in the day-to-day oversight of IT services, ensuring reliability and responsiveness across all departments. This position involves collaborating on the implementation of new technologies and maintaining existing systems to support academic and administrative needs. By focusing on operational excellence, James Galib contributes to the seamless functioning of the university's technological infrastructure. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's efforts are vital in supporting the digital environment of Roger Williams University.

    Thomas McDonough - Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Thomas McDonough, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Roger Williams University, directs all human capital management strategies and operations. McDonough oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and professional development programs for the university's workforce. This critical leadership role ensures a supportive and productive work environment, fostering employee engagement and retention. By aligning HR policies with institutional goals, Thomas McDonough contributes to the overall success and sustainability of Roger Williams University. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus remains on cultivating a skilled and motivated team.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Roger Williams University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Roger Williams University?
    Roger Williams University is led by Gloria Arcia (Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Justin Brotherton (President) and Ronald Champagne (President).
    Who is part of Roger Williams University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Roger Williams University includes leaders such as Gloria Arcia (Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), Justin Brotherton (President), Ronald Champagne (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Roger Williams University have?
    Roger Williams University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Roger Williams University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Roger Williams University includes roles such as Executive VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Director, Design & President, Inter Class Council Class of 2026 President.