Santa Clara University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Santa Clara University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Santa Clara University fosters intellectual curiosity and ethical leadership, shaping future innovators and global citizens within its Silicon Valley context.

Leadership Roles at Santa Clara University

  • Chief Executive Officer - David Wright
  • Chief Executive Officer & President - Joshua Froelke
  • President - Tiffany Nguyen
  • Co President - Angela Huang
  • President - SCU Sailing Team - Chase VanDerveer
  • Founder & President - Tiernan Kelly
  • President - Angie Koo
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Owen
  • Chief of Staff - Molly McDonald
  • Team Captain - Fiona O'Keeffe
  • David Wright - Chief Executive Officer

    David Wright, the Chief Executive Officer at Santa Clara University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. This leadership role involves guiding academic development, fostering research initiatives, and ensuring the university's financial health and long-term sustainability. Wright collaborates with the board and senior leadership to advance the university's mission within the competitive landscape of higher education. Overseeing all major institutional decisions, David Wright ensures alignment with the university's Catholic, Jesuit traditions and its commitment to serving students and the broader community. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to external relations, including partnerships and fundraising efforts critical for growth and innovation. This executive function is central to maintaining Santa Clara University's reputation and impact.

    Joshua Froelke - Chief Executive Officer & President

    Joshua Froelke, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Santa Clara University, executes the strategic direction and operational management of the university. This dual role encompasses setting institutional priorities, fostering academic and research excellence, and ensuring the robust financial standing of the university. Froelke works closely with the board of trustees and executive team to drive innovation and uphold the university's core values. The Chief Executive Officer & President's responsibilities include championing student success, advancing faculty development, and enhancing the university's global presence. By overseeing all facets of university operations, Joshua Froelke ensures Santa Clara University remains a leader in Catholic, Jesuit higher education, preparing students for impactful careers and lives of service. This leadership position is vital for institutional growth and community engagement.

    Tiffany Nguyen - President

    Tiffany Nguyen, the President at Santa Clara University, leads the institution with a focus on academic innovation and student development. This executive role involves setting strategic goals, fostering a vibrant campus culture, and ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. Nguyen collaborates with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission and enhance its educational offerings. The President's responsibilities encompass overseeing all academic and administrative functions, driving research excellence, and championing the university's Catholic, Jesuit identity. By guiding the university's trajectory, Tiffany Nguyen ensures Santa Clara University remains a distinguished institution, preparing graduates for leadership and service in a dynamic world. This leadership is essential for institutional progress and community engagement.

    Angela Huang - Co President

    Angela Huang, the Co President at Santa Clara University, shares leadership responsibilities, focusing on specific strategic areas to advance the university's mission. This role involves collaborative decision-making and joint execution of institutional objectives with the other Co President. Huang contributes to shaping academic programs, enhancing student experiences, and fostering a supportive campus environment. The Co President's duties include overseeing key operational units and driving initiatives that align with the university's Catholic, Jesuit values. By working in tandem, Angela Huang and the other Co President ensure comprehensive leadership and effective management of Santa Clara University's diverse operations. This partnership is vital for driving institutional excellence and student success.

    Chase VanDerveer - President - SCU Sailing Team

    Chase VanDerveer, the President - SCU Sailing Team at Santa Clara University, directs the operations and strategic development of the university's sailing program. This leadership role involves managing team activities, coordinating training schedules, and fostering a competitive spirit among student athletes. VanDerveer works to enhance the team's performance and visibility within collegiate sailing. The President - SCU Sailing Team's responsibilities include overseeing team finances, recruiting new members, and ensuring compliance with university and league regulations. By leading the sailing team, Chase VanDerveer contributes to the vibrant extracurricular life at Santa Clara University, promoting teamwork and athletic achievement. This role is crucial for the success and growth of the sailing program.

    Tiernan Kelly - Founder & President

    Tiernan Kelly, the Founder & President at Santa Clara University, established and now leads a specific initiative or organization within the university framework. This dual role encompasses the foundational vision and ongoing strategic direction for the entity. Kelly is responsible for setting the core mission, guiding operational development, and ensuring the long-term viability and impact of the organization. The Founder & President's duties include fostering growth, managing resources, and building key relationships to support the entity's objectives. By providing foundational leadership, Tiernan Kelly drives the success and evolution of this specific university component, contributing to the broader Santa Clara University ecosystem. This leadership is critical for the entity's sustained development.

    Angie Koo - President

    Angie Koo, the President at Santa Clara University, directs the strategic operations and vision for a specific division or organization within the university. This leadership role involves setting institutional goals, managing resources effectively, and ensuring the successful implementation of programs and initiatives. Koo collaborates with stakeholders to enhance the entity's contribution to the university's overall mission. The President's responsibilities include overseeing departmental functions, fostering innovation, and maintaining high standards of academic and operational excellence. By guiding this key area, Angie Koo ensures its continued growth and positive impact on the Santa Clara University community. This executive function is critical for achieving specific organizational objectives.

    Robert Owen - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Owen, the Chief Information Officer at Santa Clara University, architects and directs the university's comprehensive information technology strategy and infrastructure. This leadership function ensures the secure, reliable, and efficient delivery of technology services supporting academic, research, and administrative operations across the institution. Owen oversees the management of networks, systems, data security, and digital learning platforms, crucial for a modern educational environment. Collaborating with faculty and staff, the Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation initiatives, enhancing educational tools and operational efficiency. Robert Owen's strategic oversight is fundamental to leveraging technology for student success and institutional advancement, ensuring Santa Clara University maintains a competitive edge in its technological capabilities. This role is critical for supporting the university's mission in Silicon Valley.
    Robert Owen

    Molly McDonald - Chief of Staff

    Molly McDonald, the Chief of Staff at Santa Clara University, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. This role involves managing key initiatives, facilitating communication across departments, and ensuring the efficient execution of institutional priorities. McDonald works closely with the President and other senior leaders to streamline operations and enhance decision-making processes. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, preparing executive briefings, and ensuring seamless workflow within the university administration. By managing critical administrative functions, Molly McDonald supports the strategic objectives of Santa Clara University, contributing to its operational effectiveness and mission fulfillment. This position is integral to the smooth functioning of the university's leadership.

    Fiona O'Keeffe - Team Captain

    Fiona O'Keeffe, the Team Captain at Santa Clara University, leads a specific athletic or academic team, guiding its members towards collective goals. This role involves motivating teammates, coordinating efforts during competitions or projects, and serving as a liaison between the team and university administration. O'Keeffe focuses on fostering team cohesion and ensuring high performance standards. The Team Captain's responsibilities include setting an example of dedication and sportsmanship, organizing team practices or meetings, and supporting fellow members. By providing direct leadership on the ground, Fiona O'Keeffe plays a vital part in the team's success and the overall student experience at Santa Clara University. This position is key to team morale and achievement.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Santa Clara University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Santa Clara University?
    Santa Clara University is led by David Wright (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joshua Froelke (Chief Executive Officer & President) and Tiffany Nguyen (President).
    Who is part of Santa Clara University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Santa Clara University includes leaders such as David Wright (Chief Executive Officer), Joshua Froelke (Chief Executive Officer & President), Tiffany Nguyen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Santa Clara University have?
    Santa Clara University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Santa Clara University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Santa Clara University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & President, President, Co President, President - SCU Sailing Team.