St. John's University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

St. John's University has 10 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, academic affairs, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to holistic development, St. John's University fosters intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical growth, preparing students for impactful lives and careers through a unique partnership with the College of Saint Benedict.

Leadership Roles at St. John's University

  • Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director - Kendall Mau
  • Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Sasha Hudson
  • President - Mahnaz Ahmed
  • President & Alumni Association Board of Directors - Joshua Otto
  • President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society - Matthew Kane
  • President - Matthew McGovern
  • Jazz Band President - Julianna Vincent
  • Chief Information Officer - Anne Pacione
  • Vice Provost and Chief of Staff - Linda Shannon
  • Associate VP, Campus Facilities & Services - Brian Baumer
  • Kendall Mau - Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director

    Kendall Mau, the Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director at St. John's University, manages the institution's financial health and human capital. This dual role encompasses overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial planning, while simultaneously directing human resources functions. Mau ensures compliance with financial regulations and develops strategies to optimize resource allocation. In the human resources domain, Kendall Mau focuses on talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive work environment aligned with the university's values. The Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director's oversight ensures that St. John's University operates efficiently and maintains a skilled, motivated workforce dedicated to its educational mission.

    Sasha Hudson - Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Sasha Hudson, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at St. John's University, directs the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal management of the institution. This executive oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment activities, ensuring the university's long-term financial stability and growth. Hudson's responsibilities include managing the university's assets, securing funding, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions. The Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer also plays a key role in strategic decision-making, providing financial insights to guide institutional development. By ensuring prudent financial stewardship, Sasha Hudson directly supports the operational integrity and academic mission of St. John's University.
    Sasha Hudson

    Mahnaz Ahmed - President

    Mahnaz Ahmed, the President at St. John's University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This role encompasses setting the overall mission, goals, and academic standards, ensuring the university upholds its commitment to excellence in higher education. Ahmed oversees all academic and administrative operations, fostering an environment conducive to intellectual inquiry, personal development, and community engagement. The President's responsibilities include representing the university to external stakeholders, cultivating partnerships, and driving institutional advancement. By guiding St. John's University with a clear vision, Mahnaz Ahmed ensures its continued success and impact in the educational landscape.

    Joshua Otto - President & Alumni Association Board of Directors

    Joshua Otto, the President & Alumni Association Board of Directors at St. John's University, leads the engagement and support initiatives for the university's alumni network. This position involves fostering strong connections between the university and its graduates, encouraging continued involvement and support. Otto directs the activities of the Alumni Association Board, guiding strategies for alumni outreach, fundraising, and community building. The President & Alumni Association Board of Directors works to enhance alumni loyalty and participation, ensuring a robust network that contributes to the university's ongoing success. By strengthening alumni relations, Joshua Otto directly supports St. John's University's mission and its future endeavors.

    Matthew Kane - President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society

    Matthew Kane, the President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society at St. John's University, champions the principles of leadership and academic excellence. This role involves guiding the local chapter's activities, promoting leadership development among students, and recognizing outstanding achievements. Kane oversees initiatives that encourage student engagement in campus life and community service, aligning with the society's core values. The President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society works to inspire students to pursue leadership opportunities and contribute positively to the university community. By fostering a culture of leadership, Matthew Kane enhances the student experience and supports the broader educational mission of St. John's University.

    Matthew McGovern - President

    Matthew McGovern, the President at St. John's University, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the institution's comprehensive operations. This executive guides the university's mission, academic programs, and overall development, ensuring alignment with its founding principles and future aspirations. McGovern directs efforts to enhance the student experience, foster faculty research, and strengthen community partnerships. The President's responsibilities include advocating for the university, managing resources effectively, and driving initiatives that promote innovation and growth. By leading St. John's University with a clear strategic vision, Matthew McGovern ensures its continued prominence and impact in higher education.

    Julianna Vincent - Jazz Band President

    Julianna Vincent, the Jazz Band President at St. John's University, leads the student ensemble in its musical endeavors and organizational activities. This role involves coordinating rehearsals, performances, and the overall direction of the jazz band's artistic output. Vincent ensures effective communication among band members and manages logistical aspects of performances and events. The Jazz Band President's responsibilities include fostering a collaborative and creative environment for musicians. By guiding the jazz band, Julianna Vincent contributes to the vibrant arts culture at St. John's University and provides valuable leadership experience.

    Anne Pacione - Chief Information Officer

    Anne Pacione, the Chief Information Officer at St. John's University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of information systems, Pacione ensures the seamless integration of digital tools to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing data security, optimizing network performance, and implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance the learning environment. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Anne Pacione supports the university's mission of providing a robust educational experience. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to evaluating emerging technologies and ensuring the university remains at the forefront of educational technology advancements, thereby directly contributing to operational efficiency and student success.

    Linda Shannon - Vice Provost and Chief of Staff

    Linda Shannon, the Vice Provost and Chief of Staff at St. John's University, provides strategic leadership and operational support to the university's executive team. This critical position involves coordinating institutional initiatives, managing key projects, and ensuring effective communication across departments. Shannon works closely with the President and other senior leaders to advance the university's strategic objectives and enhance its operational effectiveness. The Vice Provost and Chief of Staff's role includes advising on policy development and facilitating the implementation of university-wide programs. By streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, Linda Shannon directly supports the advancement of St. John's University's academic and administrative goals.

    Brian Baumer - Associate VP, Campus Facilities & Services

    Brian Baumer, the Associate VP, Campus Facilities & Services at St. John's University, oversees the management and maintenance of the university's physical infrastructure and operational services. This leadership role ensures that campus facilities are safe, functional, and conducive to learning and living. Baumer directs teams responsible for building operations, grounds maintenance, custodial services, and capital projects. The Associate VP, Campus Facilities & Services plays a crucial part in strategic planning for campus development and resource allocation related to facilities. By maintaining a high standard of campus upkeep and service delivery, Brian Baumer directly supports the daily operations and overall student and staff experience at St. John's University.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding St. John's University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads St. John's University?
    St. John's University is led by Kendall Mau (Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director), along with executives such as Sasha Hudson (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer) and Mahnaz Ahmed (President).
    Who is part of St. John's University’s executive team?
    The executive team of St. John's University includes leaders such as Kendall Mau (Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director), Sasha Hudson (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), Mahnaz Ahmed (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does St. John's University have?
    St. John's University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in St. John's University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of St. John's University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Human Resources Director, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, President, President & Alumni Association Board of Directors, President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society.