St Bonaventure University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Bonaventure University has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, communications, and operations.

Driven by a Catholic-Franciscan faith affiliation, St Bonaventure University is dedicated to providing a four-year, private non-profit education, fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth from its headquarters in Saint Bonaventure, New York.

Leadership Roles at St Bonaventure University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kaylee Grace
  • Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance - Paul Liess
  • President, St Bonaventure Management Club - Delaney Rowan
  • President - Jeffrey Gingerich
  • President - Tyler Verrill
  • Interim Vice President for Advancement and Chief of Staff - Lindsay Retchless
  • Chief Communications Officer - Thomas Missel
  • Kaylee Grace - Chief Executive Officer

    Kaylee Grace, the Chief Executive Officer at St Bonaventure University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, ensuring financial sustainability, and fostering an environment aligned with the university's Catholic-Franciscan mission. Grace oversees all major university departments, driving initiatives that enhance academic quality and student experience. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to external relations, engaging with stakeholders, and representing the university in broader educational and community forums. This position demands a comprehensive understanding of higher education dynamics, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning to navigate the evolving landscape of academic institutions. Kaylee Grace ensures that all university activities support its core values and long-term objectives, maintaining the integrity of its educational offerings.

    Paul Liess - Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance

    Paul Liess, the Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance at St Bonaventure University, directs all financial operations, fiscal planning, and resource management for the institution. This comprehensive role encompasses budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and ensuring the fiscal health and long-term viability of the university. Liess oversees the allocation of financial resources, manages investments, and ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting standards pertinent to a private non-profit educational institution. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic guidance is essential for supporting academic initiatives, capital projects, and operational expenditures. Paul Liess is responsible for developing financial strategies that align with the university's mission and growth objectives, safeguarding its assets while optimizing financial performance. This leadership ensures the institution's financial integrity and capacity to fulfill its educational commitments.

    Delaney Rowan - President, St Bonaventure Management Club

    Delaney Rowan, the President, St Bonaventure Management Club at St Bonaventure University, leads a student-driven organization focused on developing business acumen and leadership skills among its members. This role involves organizing club activities, workshops, and networking events designed to connect students with industry professionals and provide practical management experience. Rowan directs the club's strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with the educational goals of the university and the professional development needs of its student body. The President oversees club operations, manages member engagement, and fosters a collaborative environment for learning and growth. Delaney Rowan's leadership cultivates opportunities for students to explore management principles, enhance their understanding of business operations, and prepare for future careers in diverse industries.

    Jeffrey Gingerich - President

    Jeffrey Gingerich, the President at St Bonaventure University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This paramount role involves overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions, ensuring the university upholds its mission and values. Gingerich is responsible for fostering a vibrant academic community, promoting research and scholarly activities, and advancing the university's standing within higher education. The President engages with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external partners to drive institutional growth and success. Jeffrey Gingerich's leadership guides strategic planning, resource allocation, and the cultivation of a supportive and inclusive campus environment, ensuring St Bonaventure University continues its legacy of Catholic-Franciscan education.
    Jeffrey Gingerich

    Tyler Verrill - President

    Tyler Verrill, the President at St Bonaventure University, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. This leadership position encompasses the oversight of all academic programs, administrative departments, and campus operations, ensuring alignment with the university's Catholic-Franciscan mission. Verrill is instrumental in advancing the university's educational excellence, fostering innovation, and enhancing its reputation within the national higher education landscape. The President collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty leadership, and key stakeholders to champion institutional priorities and secure resources for future development. Tyler Verrill's executive guidance shapes the university's trajectory, promoting a culture of academic rigor, student success, and community engagement.

    Lindsay Retchless - Interim Vice President for Advancement and Chief of Staff

    Lindsay Retchless, the Interim Vice President for Advancement and Chief of Staff at St Bonaventure University, manages critical functions related to fundraising, alumni relations, and strategic operational support for the university's leadership. This dual role requires orchestrating advancement efforts to secure philanthropic support, cultivate donor relationships, and drive the university's financial growth through strategic giving campaigns. As Chief of Staff, Retchless provides direct support to the university's executive leadership, facilitating communication, coordinating key initiatives, and ensuring efficient operational workflows across departments. Overseeing the strategic alignment of advancement activities with institutional goals, Lindsay Retchless plays a pivotal part in securing resources necessary for academic programs, campus development, and student scholarships. This leadership position demands exceptional organizational skills, strategic foresight, and a deep commitment to the university's mission.

    Thomas Missel - Chief Communications Officer

    Thomas Missel, the Chief Communications Officer at St Bonaventure University, leads the strategic development and execution of all internal and external communication initiatives. This role is critical for shaping the university's public image, managing brand reputation, and ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. Missel oversees public relations, media relations, digital communications, and marketing efforts designed to enhance the university's visibility and engagement with prospective students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the broader community. The Chief Communications Officer ensures that all communications reflect the university's Catholic-Franciscan values and strategic objectives. Thomas Missel drives narrative development, crisis communication planning, and the dissemination of key institutional information, fostering a strong and cohesive brand identity for St Bonaventure University.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding St Bonaventure University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads St Bonaventure University?
    St Bonaventure University is led by Kaylee Grace (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Paul Liess (Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance) and Delaney Rowan (President, St Bonaventure Management Club).
    Who is part of St Bonaventure University’s executive team?
    The executive team of St Bonaventure University includes leaders such as Kaylee Grace (Chief Executive Officer), Paul Liess (Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance), Delaney Rowan (President, St Bonaventure Management Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does St Bonaventure University have?
    St Bonaventure University has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in St Bonaventure University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of St Bonaventure University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Controller & Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance, President, St Bonaventure Management Club, President, President.