Southeastern University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southeastern University has 7 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, marketing, finance, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a Christ-centered mission, Southeastern University provides over 80 degree programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, extending its educational reach through comprehensive online and extension site programs nationwide.

Leadership Roles at Southeastern University

  • Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Phillip Schmitt
  • President - Charlene Jarvis
  • Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President - Caleb Hale
  • (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President - Anderson Slabaugh
  • Chief Technology Officer - Neal Dyer
  • Chief of Staff - Patrick Fitzgerald
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Sofia Ramos
  • Phillip Schmitt - Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Phillip Schmitt, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Southeastern University, directs the institution's financial health and strategic resource management. This executive oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and investment strategies, ensuring the sustainability of Southeastern's Christ-centered educational mission. Managing financial reporting and compliance, Schmitt safeguards the university's assets and optimizes financial performance across its Lakeland campus, online programs, and extension sites. By securing funding and managing expenditures effectively, Phillip Schmitt supports the expansion of academic offerings and operational infrastructure. The Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer's expertise is crucial for maintaining Southeastern University's financial integrity and enabling its continued growth.

    Charlene Jarvis - President

    Charlene Jarvis, the President at Southeastern University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Christ-centered institution. This executive guides the overall mission and operational framework, overseeing academic excellence, institutional growth, and community engagement across Southeastern's Lakeland campus, extensive online programs, and nationwide extension sites. Driving key initiatives, Jarvis fosters an environment of innovation and spiritual development, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of Christian higher education. By cultivating strategic partnerships and championing the university's values, Charlene Jarvis strengthens Southeastern University's impact and reach. The President's leadership is fundamental to advancing the institution's commitment to transforming lives through education.
    Caleb Hale, the Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President at Southeastern University, leads student engagement initiatives and fosters community development. This role focuses on enhancing the student experience through targeted programs and leadership opportunities, supporting the university's Christ-centered environment. Overseeing seminar facilitation and club activities, Hale cultivates personal growth and spiritual formation among students, contributing to their holistic development. By organizing events and mentoring student leaders, Caleb Hale actively promotes engagement with Southeastern University's mission. The Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President's dedication strengthens the campus community and enriches student life.

    Anderson Slabaugh - (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President

    Anderson Slabaugh, the (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President at Southeastern University, manages critical communication strategies and institutional representation. This executive role involves developing and executing comprehensive communication plans that align with Southeastern's Christ-centered mission and institutional objectives. Overseeing strategic messaging and public relations efforts, Slabaugh ensures consistent and impactful communication across all university platforms, supporting the Lakeland campus, online programs, and extension sites. By enhancing brand visibility and stakeholder engagement, Anderson Slabaugh reinforces the university's reputation. The (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President)'s focus is on advancing Southeastern University's message and strategic goals through effective communication.

    Neal Dyer - Chief Technology Officer

    Neal Dyer, the Chief Technology Officer at Southeastern University, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Dyer ensures the seamless integration of advanced technologies across academic and administrative functions, supporting Southeastern's extensive online learning programs and nationwide extension sites. This leadership role involves architecting scalable solutions that enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. By managing cybersecurity protocols and data integrity, Neal Dyer safeguards sensitive institutional and student information, reinforcing trust and compliance. The Chief Technology Officer's focus remains on leveraging innovation to advance the university's Christ-centered mission and expand its educational impact across Florida and beyond.

    Patrick Fitzgerald - Chief of Staff

    Patrick Fitzgerald, the Chief of Staff at Southeastern University, manages strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the institution. This executive role involves coordinating key projects and ensuring effective communication between the President's office and various university departments, facilitating the execution of Southeastern's Christ-centered mission. Overseeing the implementation of institutional priorities, Fitzgerald drives progress in areas such as academic program expansion and operational enhancements for the Lakeland campus and its distributed learning networks. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining administrative processes, Patrick Fitzgerald supports the university's commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education. The Chief of Staff's efforts are critical in advancing Southeastern University's strategic objectives and market presence.

    Sofia Ramos - Chief Marketing Officer

    Sofia Ramos, the Chief Marketing Officer at Southeastern University, spearheads the institution's brand strategy and market outreach. This executive directs all marketing and communications efforts, promoting Southeastern's Christ-centered educational offerings to prospective students across its Lakeland campus, online programs, and extension sites nationwide. Overseeing digital marketing, public relations, and enrollment campaigns, Ramos drives student acquisition and enhances institutional visibility. By developing compelling narratives and targeted outreach strategies, Sofia Ramos ensures the university's unique value proposition resonates with diverse audiences. The Chief Marketing Officer's leadership is pivotal in expanding Southeastern University's reach and solidifying its reputation as a leading Christ-centered institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Southeastern University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Southeastern University?
    Southeastern University is led by Phillip Schmitt (Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Charlene Jarvis (President) and Caleb Hale (Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President).
    Who is part of Southeastern University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Southeastern University includes leaders such as Phillip Schmitt (Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Charlene Jarvis (President), Caleb Hale (Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Southeastern University have?
    Southeastern University has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Southeastern University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Southeastern University includes roles such as Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President, (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President, Chief Technology Officer.