Southeastern University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southeastern University has 7 executives leading key functions including operations, marketing, technology, finance, student engagement, strategic communications, 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 programs and nationwide extension sites.

Leadership Roles at Southeastern University

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

    Phillip Schmitt, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Southeastern University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the institution. Schmitt manages budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and investment activities, ensuring the university's financial health and sustainability. This role is paramount in supporting Southeastern University's Christ-centered mission and its extensive academic programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer oversees financial compliance and risk management, safeguarding the university's assets and resources. Phillip Schmitt plays a key part in securing funding and optimizing expenditures to support institutional growth and operational needs across all campuses and online programs. By providing strategic financial guidance, Schmitt enables the university to expand its reach and maintain its commitment to quality education. The financial stewardship under Schmitt's direction ensures Southeastern University can continue its mission effectively.
    Caleb Hale, the Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President at Southeastern University, spearheads initiatives focused on student development and campus community engagement. Hale designs and leads seminars aimed at fostering personal growth and leadership skills among students, directly supporting the university's Christ-centered educational environment. As Link Life Club President, Caleb Hale cultivates a vibrant student life, organizing activities and programs that enhance the overall student experience. This role involves close collaboration with student affairs departments to ensure cohesive programming and support for student organizations. Hale's efforts contribute significantly to student retention and success by building a strong sense of belonging and providing valuable developmental opportunities. The facilitation and leadership provided by Hale empower students to thrive academically and personally, reinforcing Southeastern University's commitment to holistic student development.

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

    Anderson Slabaugh, the (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President at Southeastern University, drives the strategic communication efforts and oversees key presidential initiatives. Slabaugh ensures consistent and impactful messaging across all university communications, aligning with Southeastern's Christ-centered mission and academic vision. This role involves coordinating internal and external communications, managing public relations, and supporting the President's strategic objectives. The (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President plays a vital part in shaping the university's public image and enhancing its reputation. Anderson Slabaugh leads efforts to articulate the value of Southeastern's diverse degree programs and its expansive educational reach, including online and extension sites. By developing and implementing effective communication strategies, Slabaugh supports institutional growth and stakeholder engagement, reinforcing the university's commitment to excellence and its broad impact.

    Charlene Jarvis - President

    Charlene Jarvis, the President at Southeastern University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Jarvis guides Southeastern's Christ-centered mission, overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions to ensure the university upholds its commitment to excellence. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across all degree programs, from bachelor's to doctoral levels. The President directs efforts to expand the university's reach through its comprehensive online learning program and more than 100 extension site programs nationwide. Charlene Jarvis works closely with executive leadership and the Board of Trustees to advance the university's strategic goals and financial stability. By championing the institution's values and academic rigor, Jarvis ensures Southeastern University remains a leading Christ-centered institution of higher learning, preparing students for impactful careers and lives of service.

    Patrick Fitzgerald - Chief of Staff

    Patrick Fitzgerald, the Chief of Staff at Southeastern University, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the institution. Fitzgerald manages cross-departmental projects, ensuring alignment with the university's Christ-centered mission and academic goals. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining administrative processes to support faculty and student success. Fitzgerald also facilitates communication between executive leadership and various university departments, driving cohesive execution of institutional objectives. Overseeing key internal operations, Patrick Fitzgerald ensures the smooth functioning of daily activities and supports the President's strategic vision. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to enhancing institutional effectiveness and fostering a collaborative environment across all university functions. Fitzgerald's focus remains on advancing the university's educational reach and impact.

    Sofia Ramos - Chief Marketing Officer

    Sofia Ramos, the Chief Marketing Officer at Southeastern University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance institutional visibility and student enrollment. Ramos oversees all branding, digital marketing, and communication efforts, ensuring consistent messaging across diverse platforms. This role is critical in promoting Southeastern's Christ-centered mission and its extensive academic offerings, including over 80 degree programs. The Chief Marketing Officer drives initiatives to expand the university's reach beyond the Lakeland campus, supporting both online learning programs and nationwide extension sites. By analyzing market trends and student demographics, Sofia Ramos identifies opportunities for growth and engagement. Through innovative campaigns, Ramos strengthens the university's reputation and attracts prospective students, directly impacting enrollment figures and furthering the institution's educational objectives. The strategic direction provided by Ramos ensures Southeastern University maintains a competitive edge in the higher education landscape.

    Neal Dyer - Chief Technology Officer

    Neal Dyer, the Chief Technology Officer at Southeastern University, leads the strategic development and implementation of all technology infrastructure and digital solutions. Dyer oversees the university's IT operations, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic, administrative, and online learning functions. This critical role ensures that Southeastern University's technological capabilities align with its mission to provide accessible, Christ-centered education. The Chief Technology Officer manages the integration of new technologies to enhance the learning experience for students across all programs, including extensive online offerings and extension sites. By driving innovation in IT, Neal Dyer supports the university's growth and operational efficiency. Dyer's leadership ensures the reliability and scalability of the technology backbone, enabling seamless access to educational resources and administrative services. The CTO's vision guides the technological evolution of Southeastern University, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and broad reach.

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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 Caleb Hale (Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President) and Anderson Slabaugh ((Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & 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), Caleb Hale (Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President), Anderson Slabaugh ((Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & 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, Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President, (Office of The Strategic Communications Coordinator & President, President, Chief of Staff.