Salve Regina University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Salve Regina University has 6 executives leading key functions including information technology, administrative operations, financial management, human resources, institutional leadership, and athletic program oversight.

Committed to academic excellence and holistic development, Salve Regina University fosters a transformative educational environment that empowers students to achieve professional success through rigorous inquiry and compassionate service.

Leadership Roles at Salve Regina University

  • Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations - Michael Grandchamp
  • President - Kelli Armstrong
  • Men's Rugby President - Joseph Palazzo
  • Chief Information Officer - Ty Brennan
  • Chief of Staff - Michael Pimental
  • Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Nancy Escher
  • Michael Grandchamp - Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations

    Michael Grandchamp, the Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations at Salve Regina University, manages the fiscal health and operational logistics of the institution. Grandchamp oversees budget allocation for the Department of Counselor Education and Expressive Arts, ensuring that graduate programs receive the necessary funding for research and student support services. By optimizing resource distribution, the Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations drives financial sustainability while supporting the expansion of academic initiatives. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends and operational costs to maintain the university's competitive position in higher education. Michael Grandchamp directly impacts the institution's capacity to foster self-discovery and professional growth by securing the financial resources required for high-quality instruction. Through strategic oversight of operational expenditures, Grandchamp ensures that the university remains a leader in providing essential tools for student success and long-term career development.

    Kelli Armstrong - President

    Kelli Armstrong, the President at Salve Regina University, provides overarching strategic vision and institutional leadership for the entire university. Armstrong oversees the implementation of academic programs within the Department of Counselor Education and Expressive Arts, ensuring that the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and interpersonal skills. By engaging with the Board of Trustees and external stakeholders, the President drives the university's mission to foster strong connections and facilitate professional goals. This leadership role involves setting the tone for campus culture and advocating for the importance of expressive arts in modern education. Kelli Armstrong directly impacts the university's growth by championing initiatives that promote healing and self-discovery. Through consistent focus on academic excellence and community engagement, Armstrong ensures that the institution remains a premier destination for students seeking to develop the skills necessary for meaningful careers in counseling and leadership.

    Joseph Palazzo - Men's Rugby President

    Joseph Palazzo, the Men's Rugby President at Salve Regina University, directs the operations and strategic development of the university's rugby program. Palazzo oversees team recruitment, scheduling, and athletic training, ensuring that student-athletes balance competitive sports with their academic responsibilities in departments like Counselor Education and Expressive Arts. By fostering a culture of discipline and teamwork, the Men's Rugby President drives the personal development of participants, mirroring the university's focus on interpersonal skills and problem-solving. This leadership role involves managing program budgets and coordinating with university administration to ensure compliance with institutional policies. Joseph Palazzo directly impacts the student experience by providing opportunities for physical and social growth outside the classroom. Through the effective management of the rugby program, Palazzo contributes to the holistic development of students, supporting the university's broader mission of preparing well-rounded individuals for professional success.

    Ty Brennan - Chief Information Officer

    Ty Brennan, the Chief Information Officer at Salve Regina University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy supporting the Department of Counselor Education and Expressive Arts. Brennan oversees the integration of advanced learning management systems and data security protocols essential for protecting sensitive student information. By modernizing campus-wide network capabilities, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to digital resources for faculty and students engaged in counseling research. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to implement innovative software solutions that enhance communication and critical thinking. Ty Brennan directly impacts the university's operational efficiency by aligning technical investments with long-term educational goals. Through the deployment of scalable cloud infrastructure, Brennan supports the university's mission of facilitating change and self-discovery across all graduate programs, maintaining a robust technological foundation for the entire academic community.

    Michael Pimental - Chief of Staff

    Michael Pimental, the Chief of Staff at Salve Regina University, coordinates executive initiatives and streamlines administrative workflows across the institution. Pimental manages high-level projects that support the Department of Counselor Education and Expressive Arts, ensuring alignment between departmental objectives and broader university strategy. By facilitating communication between the President and various academic units, the Chief of Staff drives organizational cohesion and operational transparency. This role involves overseeing complex scheduling, policy implementation, and stakeholder engagement to foster strong connections within the academic community. Michael Pimental directly impacts the university's ability to provide resources and support to prospective students and alumni. Through meticulous management of institutional priorities, Pimental secures the administrative stability required for faculty to focus on developing skilled professionals in counseling and leadership, ultimately advancing the university's commitment to excellence in education.

    Nancy Escher - Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Nancy Escher, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Salve Regina University, directs talent acquisition, faculty development, and organizational culture initiatives. Escher oversees the recruitment of skilled professionals for the Department of Counselor Education and Expressive Arts, ensuring that the faculty possesses the expertise required to teach counseling and leadership. By implementing comprehensive training programs, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer fosters an environment of continuous learning and professional growth. This role involves managing employee relations and benefits to support the well-being of the academic community. Nancy Escher directly impacts the university's mission by cultivating a workforce dedicated to facilitating change and healing. Through the strategic management of human capital, Escher ensures that the institution attracts and retains top-tier educators who are committed to the success of students throughout their educational journey.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Salve Regina University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Salve Regina University?
    Salve Regina University is led by Michael Grandchamp (Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations), along with executives such as Kelli Armstrong (President) and Joseph Palazzo (Men's Rugby President).
    Who is part of Salve Regina University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Salve Regina University includes leaders such as Michael Grandchamp (Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations), Kelli Armstrong (President), Joseph Palazzo (Men's Rugby President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Salve Regina University have?
    Salve Regina University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Salve Regina University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Salve Regina University includes roles such as Vice Chief Financial Officer, Preaident For Operations, President, Men's Rugby President, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff.