Southeastern University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southeastern University has 6 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, marketing, finance, student engagement, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a Christ-centered mission, Southeastern University provides over 80 degree programs across multiple modalities, fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth for students nationwide.

Leadership Roles at Southeastern University

  • Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Phillip Schmitt
  • Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President - Caleb Hale
  • President - Charlene Jarvis
  • 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 operations and fiscal strategy. Schmitt oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and investment management to ensure the financial health and sustainability of SEU. This executive leadership position is crucial for supporting the university's diverse academic offerings, including its extensive online programs and nationwide extension sites. By implementing sound financial policies and controls, Phillip Schmitt safeguards the university's assets and optimizes resource allocation to advance its Christ-centered mission. The Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing financial reporting, securing funding, and driving initiatives that enhance operational efficiency. Schmitt's expertise is vital for maintaining SEU's accreditation and its capacity to provide accessible, high-quality education across all its locations.
    Caleb Hale, the Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President at Southeastern University, spearheads student engagement initiatives and leadership development programs. Hale designs and implements programs that foster spiritual growth, community building, and personal development among the student body. This role involves guiding students through critical life transitions and encouraging active participation in campus life, aligning with SEU's Christ-centered educational philosophy. By facilitating impactful seminars and leading student organizations, Caleb Hale cultivates a supportive and dynamic campus environment. The Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President's dedication enhances the student experience, ensuring that individuals are equipped with the skills and values necessary for success both within and beyond the university. Hale's efforts contribute significantly to the holistic development of students across SEU's various learning modalities.

    Charlene Jarvis - President

    Charlene Jarvis, the President at Southeastern University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Jarvis guides SEU's Christ-centered mission, overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions to ensure excellence and integrity. This paramount role involves fostering a culture of innovation, spiritual formation, and academic rigor across the Lakeland campus, comprehensive online programs, and extensive extension sites nationwide. By championing the university's values and strategic objectives, Charlene Jarvis drives SEU's growth and impact in higher education. The President's leadership is essential for maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, advancing the university's accreditation status, and ensuring that Southeastern University continues to empower students for service and leadership in a global society. Jarvis's commitment is fundamental to SEU's enduring legacy and future success.

    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 technology across academic, administrative, and online learning platforms. This leadership role involves architecting scalable solutions that support SEU's mission of providing accessible, Christ-centered education. By driving innovation in educational technology, Neal Dyer enhances the learning experience for students and faculty alike. Dyer's strategic vision extends to cybersecurity, data management, and the continuous improvement of digital resources, ensuring SEU remains at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education. The Chief Technology Officer's efforts are crucial for maintaining the university's comprehensive online programs and extensive extension sites nationwide, facilitating robust connectivity and efficient service delivery across all operational facets.

    Patrick Fitzgerald - Chief of Staff

    Patrick Fitzgerald, the Chief of Staff at Southeastern University, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the institution. Fitzgerald coordinates key projects, ensuring alignment with the university's Christ-centered mission and academic goals. This executive function involves facilitating communication between departments and supporting the President's office in executing institutional priorities. By streamlining processes and optimizing resource allocation, Patrick Fitzgerald enhances the overall effectiveness of SEU's operations. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include driving cross-functional collaboration and implementing strategic plans that support the university's growth and development. Fitzgerald's role is vital in translating the university's vision into actionable outcomes, ensuring that Southeastern University effectively serves its student body and broader community through its diverse degree programs and extensive outreach.

    Sofia Ramos - Chief Marketing Officer

    Sofia Ramos, the Chief Marketing Officer at Southeastern University, leads the strategic development and execution of all marketing and communication efforts. Ramos oversees brand management, digital marketing, admissions recruitment campaigns, and public relations to advance SEU's mission and reach. This critical role involves articulating the value proposition of Southeastern's Christ-centered education to prospective students, alumni, and the wider community. By driving innovative outreach strategies, Sofia Ramos ensures the university's message resonates across its Lakeland campus, comprehensive online programs, and numerous extension sites nationwide. The Chief Marketing Officer's leadership is instrumental in expanding enrollment, fostering community engagement, and reinforcing SEU's reputation as a leading institution of higher learning. Ramos's efforts directly support the university's growth objectives and its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education.

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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 Charlene Jarvis (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), Charlene Jarvis (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Southeastern University have?
    Southeastern University has 6 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, President, Chief Technology Officer, Chief of Staff.