Seton Hall University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seton Hall University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Seton Hall University fosters intellectual curiosity and prepares students for impactful careers through comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs.

Leadership Roles at Seton Hall University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Lawrence Garafola
  • Chief Financial Officer - Christian Owen
  • Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer - Ann Stangl
  • Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy - Patricia Stolarz
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Edward Bishof
  • President - Francis Hager
  • President - Anabelle Dunn
  • President - Brett Berlin
  • 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 and operational framework for the institution. Garafola's leadership ensures alignment with the university's mission of academic rigor and community engagement. Overseeing all major institutional initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer drives forward the university's commitment to providing high-quality education across its various schools and colleges. This executive role involves critical decision-making regarding resource allocation, campus development, and long-term institutional growth. Lawrence Garafola's strategic guidance shapes the university's response to evolving educational landscapes and market demands, solidifying its position as a leading Roman Catholic institution.

    Christian Owen - Chief Financial Officer

    Christian Owen, the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, oversees the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Owen's responsibilities include managing budgets, financial reporting, investment strategies, and ensuring fiscal compliance across all university operations. Directing the financial operations, the Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal role in resource allocation to support academic programs, research endeavors, and campus infrastructure improvements. This executive function involves developing financial models to forecast future needs and identify opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost optimization. Christian Owen's financial acumen is fundamental to sustaining the university's operational capacity and its long-term strategic objectives.

    Ann Stangl - Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer

    Ann Stangl, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, provides critical administrative and operational support to the finance department's executive leadership. Stangl manages key communications, schedules, and documentation flow, ensuring the efficient operation of the CFO's office. Facilitating the coordination of financial initiatives, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer supports strategic planning and execution within the finance division. This role involves meticulous record-keeping and the organization of financial data to aid in reporting and decision-making processes. Ann Stangl's diligent support is essential for the smooth functioning of financial management at the university.

    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, provides expert guidance on procurement strategies and policy development. Stolarz focuses on optimizing the university's sourcing practices to achieve cost efficiencies and ensure compliance with ethical standards. Developing and refining procurement policies, the Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy enhances the university's ability to secure goods and services effectively. This advisory role involves analyzing market trends, negotiating vendor agreements, and implementing best practices in strategic sourcing. Patricia Stolarz's contributions are vital for maximizing the value of the university's expenditures.

    Edward Bishof - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Edward Bishof, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, leads the financial management and strategic fiscal planning for the institution. Bishof's responsibilities encompass budget oversight, financial reporting, treasury functions, and ensuring the financial stability of the university. Directing the financial operations, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer guides investment strategies and resource allocation to support academic and administrative goals. This executive position involves developing long-term financial projections and managing risk to safeguard the university's assets. Edward Bishof's leadership ensures robust financial governance and supports the institution's continued growth and academic excellence.

    Francis Hager - President

    Francis Hager, the President at Seton Hall University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. Hager champions the university's mission, fostering an environment of scholarly inquiry and student success across all disciplines. Guiding the university's growth, the President oversees the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance Seton Hall's reputation and impact. This critical role involves engaging with stakeholders, advancing institutional priorities, and ensuring the highest standards of educational delivery. Francis Hager's leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of the university and its contribution to higher education.

    Anabelle Dunn - President

    Anabelle Dunn, the President at Seton Hall University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for key areas of the institution. Dunn focuses on advancing academic programs and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence among faculty and students. Leading institutional development, the President oversees initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's research capabilities and community engagement. This executive role involves collaborating with various departments to ensure alignment with the university's core values and long-term objectives. Anabelle Dunn's leadership is dedicated to strengthening Seton Hall's position as a premier educational institution.

    Brett Berlin - President

    Brett Berlin, the President at Seton Hall University, spearheads strategic planning and operational oversight for critical university functions. Berlin is committed to enhancing the student experience and driving academic achievement through innovative educational strategies. Overseeing institutional advancement, the President leads efforts to expand the university's reach and impact through strategic partnerships and program development. This leadership position involves ensuring the effective allocation of resources and the implementation of policies that support the university's mission. Brett Berlin's focus is on fostering a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and discovery.

    Paul Fisher - Chief Information Officer

    Paul Fisher, the Chief Information Officer at Seton Hall University, architects and manages the institution's comprehensive technology infrastructure. Fisher's purview encompasses all digital systems, network operations, and cybersecurity protocols essential for academic and administrative functions. Driving innovation in educational technology, the Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge digital resources that enhance learning and research. This leadership position involves strategic planning for technology adoption, data management, and the integration of new platforms to support the university's evolving needs. Paul Fisher's expertise is critical in maintaining secure, efficient, and scalable IT operations across all university departments and campuses.
    Paul Fisher

    Patrick Lyons - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Patrick Lyons, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Seton Hall University, directs critical operational functions and provides strategic counsel to senior leadership. Lyons oversees key administrative departments, ensuring seamless execution of institutional priorities and fostering interdepartmental collaboration. Driving operational efficiency, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff manages special projects and initiatives that advance the university's mission. This leadership role involves coordinating executive communications, managing board relations, and implementing strategic plans across the institution. Patrick Lyons' comprehensive oversight ensures that the university operates effectively and achieves its academic and strategic goals.

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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 Ann Stangl (Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer).
    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), Ann Stangl (Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer) 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, Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer, Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer.