Southeastern University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southeastern University has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, marketing, and administration.

Driven by faith and academic excellence, Southeastern University is dedicated to fostering intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. The university impacts students nationwide through comprehensive degree programs and extensive online offerings, preparing graduates for impactful careers and lives of service.

Leadership Roles at Southeastern University

  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Phillip Schmitt
  • Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President - Caleb Hale
  • President - Charlene Jarvis
  • Chief of Staff - Patrick Fitzgerald
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Sofia Ramos
  • Chief Technology Officer - Neal Dyer
  • Phillip Schmitt - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Phillip Schmitt, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Southeastern University, directs the institution's financial strategy, fiscal management, and resource allocation. Schmitt oversees all accounting operations, budgeting, financial planning, and investment activities, ensuring the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This critical role supports SEU's mission by providing the financial framework necessary for academic program development, campus expansion, and operational efficiency. Phillip Schmitt manages financial reporting and compliance, adhering to all regulatory requirements and accreditation standards. By optimizing financial resources, Schmitt enables the university to invest in faculty development, student support services, and technological advancements. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in securing funding and managing endowments to support SEU's growth and its extensive online and extension site programs. Through prudent financial oversight, Phillip Schmitt ensures the university's capacity to fulfill its Christ-centered educational mission effectively.
    Caleb Hale, the Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President at Southeastern University, spearheads student engagement initiatives and leadership development programs. Hale designs and delivers impactful seminars that foster personal growth and spiritual formation among students, aligning with SEU's Christ-centered ethos. This leadership position involves guiding the Link Life Club, cultivating a supportive community, and promoting student involvement in campus life. Caleb Hale focuses on empowering students to develop leadership skills and a strong sense of purpose. By organizing events and activities, Hale enhances the student experience, contributing to academic success and holistic development. The Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President works to ensure that student programs reflect the university's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Through dedicated mentorship and program facilitation, Caleb Hale strengthens the student community and reinforces SEU's mission of preparing graduates for lives of impact and service.

    Charlene Jarvis - President

    Charlene Jarvis, the President at Southeastern University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the institution's Christ-centered mission and academic endeavors. Jarvis oversees all aspects of university operations, from academic affairs and faculty development to financial stewardship and campus expansion. This role is central to advancing SEU's commitment to offering more than 80 degree programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Charlene Jarvis guides the university's growth, including its comprehensive online learning program and more than 100 extension site programs nationwide. By fostering a culture of excellence and spiritual integrity, Jarvis ensures that Southeastern University remains a leading institution of higher learning. The President works closely with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to uphold the university's accreditation and its dedication to student success. Through strategic initiatives and unwavering commitment, Charlene Jarvis drives SEU's impact in preparing graduates for lives of service and leadership.

    Patrick Fitzgerald - Chief of Staff

    Patrick Fitzgerald, the Chief of Staff at Southeastern University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Fitzgerald manages key projects that advance SEU's Christ-centered mission and academic expansion. This role involves close collaboration with the President and other senior leaders to ensure efficient execution of institutional goals. Fitzgerald oversees the implementation of policies and procedures that support the university's growth and enhance its educational offerings. By streamlining internal communications and resource allocation, Patrick Fitzgerald drives operational effectiveness. The Chief of Staff ensures that all university functions operate cohesively, supporting the delivery of high-quality education and student development. Fitzgerald's oversight extends to critical administrative functions, ensuring seamless support for faculty and students across all campuses and online platforms. This leadership position is pivotal in translating the university's vision into tangible operational outcomes, reinforcing SEU's commitment to academic rigor and spiritual formation.

    Sofia Ramos - Chief Marketing Officer

    Sofia Ramos, the Chief Marketing Officer at Southeastern University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to elevate SEU's brand and expand its reach. Ramos directs all promotional activities, digital engagement, and public relations efforts, ensuring consistent messaging across diverse platforms. This leadership role is critical in communicating the university's Christ-centered mission and its extensive academic programs to prospective students, alumni, and the broader community. Sofia Ramos oversees the development of compelling content and campaigns that highlight SEU's unique value proposition in higher education. By analyzing market trends and student needs, Ramos guides the university's outreach initiatives to attract and retain a diverse student body. The Chief Marketing Officer ensures that marketing efforts align with institutional objectives, driving enrollment growth and strengthening SEU's national presence. Through innovative digital marketing and strategic partnerships, Sofia Ramos enhances the university's visibility and impact, reinforcing its position as a leading Christ-centered institution.

    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 cybersecurity, scalable network capabilities, and seamless integration of educational technologies. This role is fundamental to supporting SEU's comprehensive online learning programs and extensive extension site operations nationwide. Neal Dyer directs initiatives that enhance the digital learning environment, providing faculty and students with cutting-edge tools for academic success. By managing technology investments and innovation, Dyer ensures that SEU remains at the forefront of educational technology. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include maintaining the integrity and accessibility of university data systems and digital resources. Through strategic technological advancements, Neal Dyer empowers the university to expand its reach and deliver high-quality education effectively across all modalities, reinforcing SEU's commitment to innovation and accessibility.

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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 (Vice President, 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 (Vice President, 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 Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Link Seminar Facilitator & Link Life Club President, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Marketing Officer.