Stetson University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Stetson University has 10 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, financial administration, human resources, and information technology.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, Stetson University fosters a transformative learning environment that prepares students for professional success and civic responsibility across the Central Florida region.

Leadership Roles at Stetson University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Eric Long
  • President - Jessica Raub
  • Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Jose Bernier
  • Chief of Staff - Veronica Pierce
  • Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources - Graciela Dufour
  • Eric Long - Chief Financial Officer

    Eric Long, the Chief Financial Officer at Stetson University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic stability of the institution. Overseeing the budgeting processes and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources support the core academic mission of the university. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams and optimizing operational expenditures to maintain the nonprofit status and financial viability of the organization. By implementing robust financial controls, Eric Long directly impacts the ability of the university to invest in campus infrastructure and faculty development. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to align fiscal policies with the strategic goals of the institution. Through diligent oversight of the university's assets, Long secures the necessary funding to support diverse educational programs across the Central Florida corridor, ensuring that the institution remains a fiscally responsible leader in the private education sector.

    Jessica Raub - President

    Jessica Raub, the President at Stetson University, directs the overarching academic and operational vision for the institution. Overseeing the four colleges and schools, the President ensures alignment with the mission of providing a rigorous private, nonprofit education. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees to secure long-term institutional growth and sustainability. By championing initiatives that enhance student outcomes, Jessica Raub directly impacts the university's reputation within the competitive landscape of higher education. The President coordinates with various department heads to maintain high standards of faculty research and student support services. Through strategic planning, Raub advances the university's presence across the I-4 corridor, ensuring that the institution remains a cornerstone of intellectual development in Central Florida. This executive leadership maintains the integrity of the academic programs while fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity across the entire campus community.

    Jose Bernier - Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Jose Bernier, the Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Stetson University, architects the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the academic and administrative functions. Overseeing the integration of advanced learning management systems, the Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty possess the tools necessary for modern research and instruction. This leadership role involves securing the university's data networks and implementing scalable cloud solutions across the DeLand campus and regional sites. By modernizing the technological landscape, Jose Bernier directly impacts the efficiency of administrative workflows and the quality of the digital student experience. The Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leadership to align IT investments with the university's strategic goals. Through proactive management of cybersecurity and digital resources, Bernier maintains the technological edge required for the institution to thrive in a competitive educational market.
    Jose Bernier

    Veronica Pierce - Chief of Staff

    Veronica Pierce, the Chief of Staff at Stetson University, coordinates the executive operations and facilitates communication between the President and the various administrative divisions. Overseeing the strategic alignment of institutional priorities, the Chief of Staff ensures that the leadership team executes the university's mission with efficiency and clarity. This leadership role involves managing high-level projects, preparing executive briefings, and streamlining decision-making processes across the four colleges and schools. By optimizing the flow of information and resources, Veronica Pierce directly impacts the agility of the university's response to changing market demands in higher education. The Chief of Staff works closely with the President to translate vision into actionable policy, ensuring that all departments remain focused on the core objectives of academic excellence and student success. Through meticulous project management and stakeholder engagement, Pierce maintains the operational rhythm necessary for the institution to achieve its long-term strategic goals in Central Florida.

    Graciela Dufour - Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources

    Graciela Dufour, the Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources at Stetson University, directs the talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing the human capital strategy, the Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources ensures that the university attracts and retains high-caliber faculty and staff dedicated to the institutional mission. This leadership role involves managing benefits administration, performance management systems, and professional development programs that support a diverse workforce. By fostering an inclusive and productive work environment, Graciela Dufour directly impacts the overall morale and operational effectiveness of the university. The Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources collaborates with department heads to align staffing needs with the long-term growth objectives of the institution. Through the implementation of equitable policies and talent management practices, Dufour strengthens the organizational foundation, ensuring that the university remains a premier employer within the Central Florida education sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Stetson University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Stetson University?
    Stetson University is led by Eric Long (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Jessica Raub (President) and Jose Bernier (Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Stetson University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Stetson University includes leaders such as Eric Long (Chief Financial Officer), Jessica Raub (President), Jose Bernier (Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Stetson University have?
    Stetson University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Stetson University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Stetson University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Senior Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief People Officer & Assistant VP, Human Resources.