Seton Hall University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Seton Hall University fosters intellectual curiosity and ethical development, shaping future leaders through comprehensive educational programs and a strong community ethos.

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
  • President - Gabriel Esteban
  • President - Edward Cuza
  • President - Rachel Lam
  • Founder & President - Christopher Manzano
  • 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 oversees the integration of academic programs with institutional goals, ensuring alignment with the university's Roman Catholic mission. This leadership position involves guiding all major divisions, including academic affairs, student life, and administrative services, to foster a cohesive and high-performing educational environment. Garafola's responsibilities extend to external relations, cultivating partnerships that enhance the university's reach and impact. By championing innovation in educational delivery and campus development, Lawrence Garafola drives the institution's growth and maintains its standing as a premier private university. The Chief Executive Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability across all university operations.

    Christian Owen - Chief Financial Officer

    Christian Owen, the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and operations. Owen directs all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability. This role involves overseeing investment portfolios, managing debt, and securing funding to support university initiatives and capital projects. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with academic and administrative leaders to allocate resources effectively, supporting the university's mission of academic excellence and student success. Christian Owen is responsible for financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and implementing robust internal controls. By optimizing financial performance and identifying strategic growth opportunities, Owen ensures the long-term viability of Seton Hall University's educational endeavors.

    Ann Stangl - Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer

    Ann Stangl, the Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer at Seton Hall University, provides critical administrative support to the financial leadership. Stangl manages executive communications, schedules, and essential documentation, ensuring the smooth operation of the finance department. This role involves coordinating meetings, preparing reports, and facilitating the flow of information between the Chief Financial Officer and other university stakeholders. Ann Stangl plays a key part in maintaining organized financial records and supporting the implementation of financial policies and procedures. By ensuring efficient administrative processes, Stangl contributes directly to the financial oversight and strategic planning efforts of the university. The Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer supports the financial integrity and operational effectiveness of Seton Hall 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 analyzes institutional spending patterns to identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements across university departments. This role involves developing and refining procurement policies to ensure compliance, ethical sourcing, and value maximization. Patricia Stolarz collaborates with various units to implement best practices in strategic sourcing, vendor management, and contract negotiation. By advising on procurement policy, Stolarz supports the Chief Financial Officer in maintaining fiscal responsibility and optimizing resource allocation. The Special Advisor To the Chief Financial Officer for Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Policy enhances the university's ability to acquire goods and services effectively and economically.

    Gabriel Esteban - President

    Gabriel Esteban, the President at Seton Hall University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Esteban is responsible for advancing the university's academic mission, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring its continued growth and prominence. This role involves overseeing all academic and administrative operations, cultivating relationships with key stakeholders, and representing the university in national and international forums. Gabriel Esteban guides the development and implementation of strategic plans that enhance educational programs, research initiatives, and student success. By championing the university's Roman Catholic values and commitment to service, Esteban inspires the community to achieve its highest potential. The President ensures the long-term sustainability and impact of Seton Hall University.

    Edward Cuza - President

    Edward Cuza, the President at Seton Hall University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Cuza oversees the comprehensive academic and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with the university's core mission and values. This leadership position involves guiding faculty and staff, fostering an environment of academic excellence, and promoting student development. Edward Cuza is instrumental in advancing the university's reputation and expanding its reach through strategic initiatives and community engagement. By focusing on institutional growth and enhancing the student experience, Cuza drives Seton Hall University's commitment to providing a transformative education. The President ensures the effective management of resources and the achievement of institutional goals.

    Rachel Lam - President

    Rachel Lam, the President at Seton Hall University, leads the institution with a focus on academic innovation and student success. Lam directs the strategic planning and operational management necessary to uphold the university's standards of excellence. This role involves overseeing all academic departments, research endeavors, and student support services, ensuring a cohesive and enriching educational experience. Rachel Lam cultivates partnerships and fosters collaborations that enhance the university's impact and reach. By championing initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, Lam strengthens the university community. The President ensures that Seton Hall University continues to provide a high-quality education grounded in its founding principles.

    Christopher Manzano - Founder & President

    Christopher Manzano, the Founder & President at Seton Hall University, established the institution with a vision for transformative education. Manzano guides the university's strategic direction, focusing on academic rigor, research advancement, and holistic student development. This foundational role involves overseeing all aspects of university operations, from curriculum design to campus infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the founding mission. Christopher Manzano cultivates a culture of innovation and community engagement, fostering an environment where students and faculty can thrive. By championing ethical leadership and intellectual curiosity, Manzano ensures Seton Hall University remains a beacon of higher learning. The Founder & President is dedicated to the enduring success and positive impact of the university.

    Paul Fisher - Chief Information Officer

    Paul Fisher, the Chief Information Officer at Seton Hall University, leads the strategic direction and implementation of all information technology initiatives. Fisher oversees the university's technology infrastructure, including networks, systems, and digital platforms, ensuring reliable and secure access to resources for students, faculty, and staff. This role involves driving innovation in educational technology, supporting online learning environments, and enhancing administrative systems to improve operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic departments to integrate technology into the curriculum and research endeavors. Paul Fisher is responsible for cybersecurity, data management, and developing IT policies that align with the university's mission and strategic objectives. By fostering a culture of technological advancement, Fisher ensures Seton Hall University remains at the forefront of digital education and administrative support.
    Paul Fisher

    Patrick Lyons - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Patrick Lyons, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Seton Hall University, serves as a principal advisor to the President, managing key institutional initiatives and operational functions. Lyons oversees a broad portfolio that includes strategic planning, institutional effectiveness, and interdepartmental coordination, ensuring seamless execution of university objectives. This leadership role involves directing projects that enhance academic quality, student experience, and administrative efficiency across campus. Patrick Lyons works closely with senior leadership to align departmental efforts with the university's overarching mission and strategic priorities. By facilitating communication and collaboration among diverse university units, Lyons drives progress on critical institutional goals. The Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff ensures operational excellence and supports the President in advancing the university's mission and vision.

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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, President.