Seton Hall University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seton Hall University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, information technology, procurement, and administrative operations.

Committed to academic excellence and Catholic values, Seton Hall University fosters intellectual development and professional growth through a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate degree programs.

Leadership Roles at Seton Hall University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Lawrence Garafola
  • Chief Financial Officer - Christian Owen
  • Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy - Patricia Stolarz
  • Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer - Ann Stangl
  • President - Gabriel Esteban
  • President - Rachel Lam
  • Founder & President - Christopher Manzano
  • President - Edward Cuza
  • Chief Information Officer - Paul Fisher
  • Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff - Patrick Lyons
  • Lawrence Garafola - Chief Executive Officer

    Lawrence Garafola, the Chief Executive Officer at Seton Hall University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this private Roman Catholic institution. Garafola manages the alignment of academic goals with long-term institutional sustainability. By overseeing the integration of various schools and colleges, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent delivery of high-quality education across all degree levels. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the university mission. Lawrence Garafola drives initiatives that expand the reach of the institution within the competitive higher education landscape. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of the university brand. Garafola prioritizes the development of innovative curricula that meet modern workforce demands. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the institution by balancing fiscal responsibility with academic advancement, ensuring that the university remains a premier destination for students seeking rigorous intellectual and spiritual formation.

    Christian Owen - Chief Financial Officer

    Christian Owen, the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire institution. Owen oversees the complex budgeting processes required to support diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. By analyzing financial data, the Chief Financial Officer identifies opportunities for cost efficiency and revenue growth. This role requires close coordination with academic deans to ensure that funding aligns with the strategic priorities of the university. Christian Owen directs the financial planning necessary to maintain the physical infrastructure and technological assets of the campus. Through prudent management of endowments and operational funds, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards the long-term stability of the university. Owen implements robust financial controls to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. By optimizing the allocation of capital, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of research initiatives and student services, ultimately strengthening the financial foundation of the institution for future generations.

    Patricia Stolarz - Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy

    Patricia Stolarz, the Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy at Seton Hall University, designs the frameworks for efficient vendor management and supply chain operations. Stolarz oversees the development of procurement policies that maximize value for the university. By analyzing market trends, the Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy identifies cost-saving opportunities for academic and administrative departments. This role involves negotiating complex contracts to ensure that the institution receives high-quality goods and services. Patricia Stolarz directs the implementation of sourcing strategies that align with the financial goals established by the Chief Financial Officer. Through rigorous policy enforcement, the Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy maintains transparency and accountability in all purchasing activities. Stolarz ensures that procurement processes support the operational needs of the university while adhering to strict budgetary guidelines and institutional standards.

    Ann Stangl - Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer

    Ann Stangl, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, coordinates the administrative functions and communication flow within the finance department. Stangl oversees the scheduling and documentation of critical financial meetings and board presentations. By managing the flow of information, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the finance team remains aligned with the broader institutional objectives. This role involves maintaining accurate records of financial decisions and policy updates. Ann Stangl directs the administrative support staff to ensure that the office operates with maximum efficiency. Through meticulous organization, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer facilitates the timely execution of financial reporting and compliance tasks. Stangl acts as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that inquiries are addressed promptly. By streamlining administrative processes, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer allows the finance leadership to focus on strategic planning and the long-term fiscal health of the university.

    Gabriel Esteban - President

    Gabriel Esteban, the President at Seton Hall University, leads the academic and cultural direction of the institution. Esteban oversees the development of programs that enhance the reputation of the university in the higher education sector. By driving initiatives that promote research and student engagement, the President ensures that the institution remains competitive. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, including donors and government officials. Gabriel Esteban directs the faculty and staff in maintaining the high standards of a private Roman Catholic institution. Through strategic leadership, the President fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and service. Esteban collaborates with the Board to set the long-term vision for the university. By prioritizing student success and academic rigor, the President ensures that the institution continues to provide a transformative education. Through this leadership, the President secures the growth and influence of the university within the broader academic community.

    Rachel Lam - President

    Rachel Lam, the President at Seton Hall University, focuses on the expansion of global partnerships and international academic initiatives. Lam oversees the development of programs that connect the university with diverse markets and research institutions worldwide. By driving international recruitment and exchange programs, the President enhances the global footprint of the institution. This role involves cultivating relationships with international alumni and corporate partners to support the mission of the university. Rachel Lam directs the implementation of strategies that integrate global perspectives into the curriculum. Through active engagement with the academic community, the President promotes a culture of inclusivity and global citizenship. Lam collaborates with other leaders to ensure that the university remains a leader in international education. By fostering these global connections, the President strengthens the academic reputation of the university and provides students with unique opportunities for professional development in an increasingly interconnected world.

    Christopher Manzano - Founder & President

    Christopher Manzano, the Founder & President at Seton Hall University, provides the foundational vision that guides the long-term growth of the institution. Manzano oversees the preservation of the core values and mission that define the university. By driving the development of new academic programs, the Founder & President ensures that the institution remains relevant in a changing educational landscape. This role involves maintaining the legacy of the university while adapting to modern challenges. Christopher Manzano directs the strategic planning efforts that shape the future of the campus. Through consistent leadership, the Founder & President fosters a sense of community and purpose among students and faculty. Manzano collaborates with the leadership team to ensure that all initiatives reflect the commitment to academic excellence. By upholding the traditions of the university, the Founder & President secures the enduring impact of the institution on the lives of students and the broader society.

    Edward Cuza - President

    Edward Cuza, the President at Seton Hall University, directs the focus on community engagement and local partnerships. Cuza oversees the development of programs that connect the university with the surrounding region to foster social and economic growth. By driving initiatives that encourage student volunteerism and service, the President strengthens the ties between the campus and the local community. This role involves managing relationships with local leaders and organizations to support the mission of the university. Edward Cuza directs the implementation of outreach strategies that highlight the contributions of the institution to the public good. Through active participation in regional forums, the President promotes the values of the university. Cuza collaborates with other leaders to ensure that the university remains a vital part of the local ecosystem. By prioritizing community impact, the President enhances the reputation of the university as a socially responsible institution dedicated to service and excellence.

    Paul Fisher - Chief Information Officer

    Paul Fisher, the Chief Information Officer at Seton Hall University, architects the digital infrastructure that supports academic and administrative operations. Fisher oversees the implementation of advanced learning management systems and secure data networks across the campus. By driving the adoption of modern educational technology, the Chief Information Officer enhances the classroom experience for students and faculty. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive institutional and student information. Paul Fisher directs the IT department in providing reliable support for research activities and administrative workflows. Through strategic planning, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of digital innovation in higher education. Fisher collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate technology into the broader institutional strategy. By maintaining a scalable and resilient IT environment, the Chief Information Officer facilitates seamless communication and data access, which are essential for the continued success of the university in a digital-first world.
    Paul Fisher

    Patrick Lyons - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Patrick Lyons, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Seton Hall University, manages the daily operations and strategic execution of the president office. Lyons oversees the coordination between various university departments to ensure that institutional goals are met. By facilitating communication across the leadership team, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff ensures that all initiatives align with the mission of the university. This role involves managing high-level projects that impact the entire campus community. Patrick Lyons directs the implementation of policies that improve operational efficiency and student outcomes. Through careful oversight of administrative functions, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff supports the president in navigating complex institutional challenges. Lyons plays a central role in fostering a collaborative environment among faculty and staff. By managing the strategic agenda, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff ensures that the university remains focused on its core commitment to academic excellence and community service.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Seton Hall University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Seton Hall University?
    Seton Hall University is led by Lawrence Garafola (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Christian Owen (Chief Financial Officer) and Patricia Stolarz (Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy).
    Who is part of Seton Hall University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Seton Hall University includes leaders such as Lawrence Garafola (Chief Executive Officer), Christian Owen (Chief Financial Officer), Patricia Stolarz (Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Seton Hall University have?
    Seton Hall University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Seton Hall University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Seton Hall University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy, Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer, President.