St. John's University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to holistic development, St. John's University fosters intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical growth, preparing students for impactful lives 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
  • Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer - John Diffley
  • President - Matthew McGovern
  • President - Suzie Saint-Vil
  • Co President - Emily Estacio
  • President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society - Matthew Kane
  • Chief Information Officer - Anne Pacione
  • Chief of Staff - Brian Baumer
  • Vice Provost and Chief of Staff - Linda Shannon
  • 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 strategy. Overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation, Kendall Mau ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Simultaneously, the Human Resources Director role involves developing and implementing policies that support employee recruitment, retention, and professional development. This dual leadership position requires a comprehensive understanding of both financial management and organizational dynamics to foster a productive and supportive work environment. By integrating financial stewardship with human resources excellence, Mau drives operational efficiency and supports the university's commitment to its community. The strategic oversight provided by Kendall Mau is vital for maintaining the university's long-term viability and its capacity to deliver on 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 institution's comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal management. Overseeing all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and treasury operations, Sasha Hudson ensures the financial stability and sustainability of the university. This executive role involves managing investments, securing funding, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to implementing robust financial controls and driving initiatives that optimize resource allocation to support academic and operational priorities. By providing strategic financial leadership, Hudson plays a pivotal role in advancing the university's mission and ensuring its long-term growth. Sasha Hudson's expertise is critical for navigating the complex financial landscape of higher education and supporting St. John's University's continued success.
    Sasha Hudson

    John Diffley - Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer

    John Diffley, the Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer at St. John's University, oversees the operational and financial aspects of the athletics department. Managing day-to-day operations, John Diffley ensures the efficient functioning of all athletic programs, facilities, and staff. This leadership position involves strategic planning for athletic initiatives, budget management, and resource optimization to support student-athlete success and departmental goals. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to enhancing the overall performance and competitiveness of St. John's University athletics. By driving operational excellence and fiscal prudence, Diffley contributes significantly to the department's ability to achieve its objectives and uphold the university's standards. John Diffley's leadership ensures that the athletics program operates at a high level, supporting both academic and athletic endeavors.

    Matthew McGovern - President

    Matthew McGovern, the President at St. John's University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Guiding the university's mission and long-term objectives, Matthew McGovern oversees all academic, administrative, and operational functions. This paramount role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting innovation, and ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. The President's responsibilities include engaging with stakeholders, representing the university externally, and making critical decisions that shape its future. By championing the university's values and strategic priorities, McGovern drives institutional advancement and enhances its reputation. Matthew McGovern's leadership is fundamental to St. John's University's commitment to providing a transformative educational experience and fulfilling its role in higher education.

    Suzie Saint-Vil - President

    Suzie Saint-Vil, the President at St. John's University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic innovation. Directing all university operations and initiatives, Suzie Saint-Vil ensures the effective execution of the institutional vision. This leadership position involves fostering a dynamic learning environment, advancing research endeavors, and strengthening community partnerships. The President's responsibilities encompass guiding faculty and staff, overseeing resource management, and making key decisions that propel the university forward. By championing the university's core values and strategic imperatives, Saint-Vil enhances its standing and impact. Suzie Saint-Vil's leadership is essential for St. John's University's ongoing commitment to educational excellence and its contribution to the broader academic landscape.

    Emily Estacio - Co President

    Emily Estacio, the Co President at St. John's University, collaborates with fellow leadership to guide the institution's strategic direction and operational execution. Working in tandem to advance the university's mission, Emily Estacio contributes to key decision-making processes that shape academic and administrative functions. This role involves fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring the effective implementation of institutional goals. The Co President's responsibilities include supporting faculty and student success, overseeing resource allocation, and driving initiatives that enhance the university's impact. By sharing leadership responsibilities, Estacio helps to ensure comprehensive oversight and strategic alignment across St. John's University. Emily Estacio's partnership is vital for maintaining the university's commitment to excellence and its continued development.

    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 leadership development and academic achievement within the university community. Overseeing the society's activities, Matthew Kane promotes opportunities for student growth and recognition in leadership. This role involves coordinating campus-based initiatives, fostering a culture of service, and ensuring the society's alignment with its national objectives. The President's responsibilities extend to engaging student members, supporting leadership programming, and enhancing the visibility of Omicron Delta Kappa. By driving engagement and promoting leadership principles, Kane contributes to the development of future leaders. Matthew Kane's dedication to fostering leadership excellence supports St. John's University's broader educational mission.

    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, Anne Pacione ensures the seamless integration of digital tools that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing data security, optimizing network performance, and implementing innovative technological solutions to enhance the educational experience for students and faculty. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to evaluating emerging technologies and guiding their adoption to maintain St. John's University's competitive edge in higher education. By driving technological advancement, the Chief Information Officer supports the university's mission of intellectual and personal development, ensuring robust and reliable systems are in place for all stakeholders. Pacione's strategic vision for technology directly impacts operational efficiency and the overall learning environment.

    Brian Baumer - Chief of Staff

    Brian Baumer, the Chief of Staff at St. John's University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the President's office. Managing key initiatives and ensuring alignment across various university departments, Brian Baumer facilitates the execution of institutional goals. This role involves coordinating communication, streamlining processes, and acting as a liaison between leadership and other stakeholders. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include driving special projects, analyzing operational effectiveness, and advising on policy development to advance the university's mission. By fostering collaboration and ensuring efficient resource allocation, the Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in the smooth functioning of St. John's University. Baumer's leadership ensures that strategic priorities are translated into actionable plans, contributing significantly to the university's operational excellence and academic advancement.

    Linda Shannon - Vice Provost and Chief of Staff

    Linda Shannon, the Vice Provost and Chief of Staff at St. John's University, provides critical strategic and operational leadership across academic and administrative functions. Overseeing key university initiatives and advising the Provost, Linda Shannon ensures the effective implementation of academic policies and programs. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts, managing special projects, and facilitating communication to advance the university's educational mission. The Vice Provost's responsibilities include enhancing academic quality, supporting faculty development, and ensuring the alignment of academic strategies with institutional objectives. By driving strategic planning and operational efficiency, Shannon contributes to the robust academic environment at St. John's University. Linda Shannon's leadership is instrumental in fostering collaboration and achieving the university's academic and institutional goals.

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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 John Diffley (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer).
    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), John Diffley (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer) 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, Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Operating Officer, President, President.