Santa Clara University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Santa Clara University has 8 leaders guiding key functions including strategy, operations, and student engagement.

Dedicated to academic excellence and Jesuit values, Santa Clara University fosters intellectual curiosity and ethical leadership, driving innovation within Silicon Valley and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Santa Clara University

  • Chief Executive Officer - David Wright
  • President, Pre-Health Club - Madison Mann
  • Co President - Angela Huang
  • President - SCU Sailing Team - Chase VanDerveer
  • President - Angie Koo
  • Chief of Staff - Molly McDonald
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Owen
  • Team Captain - Fiona O'Keeffe
  • David Wright - Chief Executive Officer

    David Wright, the Chief Executive Officer at Santa Clara University, directs the institution's overarching strategy and operational framework. Wright guides the university's mission to provide a comprehensive education rooted in Jesuit traditions, fostering intellectual, ethical, and spiritual development. This leadership role involves overseeing all academic and administrative departments, ensuring alignment with the university's long-term vision and financial sustainability. David Wright drives initiatives that enhance the university's standing within Silicon Valley and the broader educational landscape, focusing on innovation and community impact. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to external relations, including engagement with alumni, donors, and community partners, solidifying the university's position as a leading Catholic institution.

    Madison Mann - President, Pre-Health Club

    Madison Mann, the President, Pre-Health Club at Santa Clara University, leads student initiatives focused on preparing for careers in healthcare professions. Mann organizes workshops, guest speaker events, and networking opportunities for students interested in medicine, dentistry, and other health-related fields. This leadership role involves fostering a supportive community and providing resources to help members navigate the complex application processes for graduate health programs. Madison Mann coordinates club activities, manages membership engagement, and represents the club's interests to university administration and relevant external organizations. The President, Pre-Health Club's efforts directly contribute to student success in pursuing advanced health sciences education.

    Angela Huang - Co President

    Angela Huang, the Co President at Santa Clara University, shares leadership responsibilities for a key student organization, driving its strategic direction and operational execution. Huang collaborates with fellow leadership to set organizational goals, manage budgets, and oversee event planning and execution. This role demands strong communication and organizational skills to ensure the effective functioning of the group and its service to the student body. Angela Huang's contributions focus on enhancing student life and providing valuable experiences that align with the university's broader mission. The Co President's influence extends to fostering teamwork and motivating members towards collective achievements.

    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. VanDerveer oversees team training schedules, competition logistics, and equipment management, ensuring the team's readiness and performance. This leadership position involves fostering team cohesion, recruiting new members, and managing the team's budget in coordination with university athletics. Chase VanDerveer represents the sailing team in discussions with athletic department officials and other student organizations, advocating for the team's needs. The President - SCU Sailing Team's focus is on promoting athletic excellence, sportsmanship, and the overall student-athlete experience within the sailing community.

    Angie Koo - President

    Angie Koo, the President at Santa Clara University, leads a specific student organization, steering its mission and operational activities. Koo is responsible for setting the agenda, coordinating executive board efforts, and ensuring the successful implementation of club initiatives. This leadership role requires strategic planning and effective delegation to manage diverse projects and member engagement. Angie Koo works to enhance the student experience by providing valuable programming and opportunities that align with the organization's objectives and the university's ethos. The President's focus is on driving organizational growth and impact within the campus community.

    Molly McDonald - Chief of Staff

    Molly McDonald, the Chief of Staff at Santa Clara University, provides direct support and strategic counsel to the Chief Executive Officer. McDonald manages key initiatives, facilitates communication across university divisions, and ensures the efficient execution of strategic priorities. This role involves coordinating special projects, preparing reports, and acting as a liaison between the executive office and other departments. Molly McDonald oversees the operational flow of the executive suite, optimizing workflows and resource allocation to support the university's educational and research objectives. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to policy development and implementation, ensuring institutional coherence and responsiveness to evolving needs within the higher education sector.

    Robert Owen - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Owen, the Chief Information Officer at Santa Clara University, architects and manages the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Owen oversees all aspects of information technology, including network operations, cybersecurity, and the implementation of enterprise-wide software solutions. This leadership position is critical for supporting academic research, student learning, and administrative functions through robust and secure technological platforms. Robert Owen drives innovation in digital learning environments and data management, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of technological integration in education. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes developing policies for data governance and digital accessibility, safeguarding institutional assets and enhancing user experience across campus.
    Robert Owen

    Fiona O'Keeffe - Team Captain

    Fiona O'Keeffe, the Team Captain at Santa Clara University, provides direct leadership and guidance to fellow team members, fostering a culture of performance and collaboration. O'Keeffe works closely with the team president and coaching staff to implement training strategies and ensure adherence to team standards. This role involves motivating teammates, resolving conflicts, and serving as a primary point of communication between the athletes and leadership. Fiona O'Keeffe's responsibilities include setting a positive example through dedication and sportsmanship, contributing significantly to team morale and competitive spirit. The Team Captain's influence is crucial in driving team success and upholding the values of the university's athletic programs.

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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 Madison Mann (President, Pre-Health Club) and Angela Huang (Co 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), Madison Mann (President, Pre-Health Club), Angela Huang (Co President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Santa Clara University have?
    Santa Clara University has 8 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, President, Pre-Health Club, Co President, President - SCU Sailing Team, President.