Widener University Executive and Leadership Team

Heather Meier, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Widener University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Overseeing financial reporting and resource allocation, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital supports academic programs in business, engineering, and nursing. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board to maintain long-term financial stability while funding campus infrastructure and student services. Heather Meier directs the administrative functions that underpin the university mission, balancing fiscal responsibility with the need for continuous institutional improvement. By monitoring economic trends and managing endowment assets, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary for academic growth. Through precise financial stewardship, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer enables the university to sustain its commitment to excellence in higher education.

Catherine Cleary, the President at Widener University, provides executive leadership for the entire academic community. Overseeing the strategic direction of the institution, the President ensures that degree programs in fields like clinical psychology and law meet rigorous standards. This role involves engaging with faculty, students, and external stakeholders to advance the university reputation and impact. Catherine Cleary directs the implementation of policies that foster an inclusive learning environment and promote student success. By aligning academic offerings with industry needs, the President supports the development of skilled professionals across various sectors. The President maintains a focus on institutional growth, ensuring that the university remains a leader in educational services. Through consistent leadership, the President drives the mission of the institution forward, fostering a culture of innovation and academic achievement that benefits the entire university community.

Brianna DeVito, the President at Widener University, leads specific student-focused initiatives and organizational governance. Overseeing the coordination of student-led activities, the President ensures that campus life complements the academic rigor of the university. This role involves facilitating collaboration between student organizations and the administration to enhance the overall student experience. Brianna DeVito directs efforts to build community and foster leadership development among the student body. By managing resources for student programs, the President supports the university mission of holistic education. The President works to ensure that student voices are represented in institutional decision-making processes. Through active engagement with the campus community, the President promotes a vibrant environment that encourages personal and professional growth. The President remains dedicated to maintaining the high standards of the institution while fostering a supportive atmosphere for all students.

Stacey Robertson, the President at Widener University, manages academic partnerships and external relations to expand the university reach. Overseeing collaborations with industry leaders, the President ensures that curricula in hospitality, tourism, and social work remain relevant to current market demands. This role involves representing the institution in regional and national forums to advocate for higher education priorities. Stacey Robertson directs initiatives that connect students with professional opportunities, enhancing the value of the university degree. By fostering relationships with alumni and donors, the President secures support for research and campus development. The President maintains a focus on academic quality, ensuring that the university continues to provide exceptional educational services. Through strategic outreach, the President strengthens the university position as a vital contributor to the regional economy and the broader academic community.

Alissa Dadarwala, the President at Widener University, leads internal governance and policy development to ensure institutional compliance and excellence. Overseeing the alignment of academic departments with university goals, the President ensures that programs in liberal studies and education maintain high standards. This role involves working with faculty senates and administrative committees to refine institutional processes. Alissa Dadarwala directs the implementation of strategic plans that support student retention and academic success. By fostering a culture of accountability, the President ensures that the university remains committed to its founding mission. The President monitors institutional performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and growth. Through consistent leadership, the President supports the development of a robust academic environment that prepares students for future challenges. The President remains focused on maintaining the integrity and reputation of the university.

Noah West, the President - Widener Robotics Club at Widener University, directs technical projects and student-led innovation in engineering. Overseeing the development of robotics systems, the President - Widener Robotics Club ensures that members gain practical experience in design and programming. This role involves managing club resources and coordinating participation in regional competitions to showcase student talent. Noah West directs the collaborative efforts of the team, fostering an environment of technical excellence and creative problem-solving. By bridging the gap between classroom theory and hands-on application, the President - Widener Robotics Club supports the university mission of preparing students for careers in technology. The President - Widener Robotics Club facilitates mentorship opportunities, allowing students to refine their skills under guidance. Through dedicated leadership, the President - Widener Robotics Club contributes to the vibrant engineering culture at the university.

Jane Michetti, the SBA President at Widener University, leads the student body association to advocate for student interests and improve campus life. Overseeing the allocation of student funds, the SBA President ensures that resources support events and initiatives that enhance the student experience. This role involves acting as a liaison between the student body and the university administration to address concerns and propose improvements. Jane Michetti directs the planning of student activities that foster community and professional development. By promoting student engagement, the SBA President supports the university mission of creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The SBA President works to ensure that student feedback informs institutional decisions, contributing to a positive campus culture. Through active representation, the SBA President plays a vital role in maintaining the quality of life for all students at the university.

Richard Brunsting, the President at Widener University, manages institutional outreach and community engagement initiatives. Overseeing partnerships with local organizations, the President ensures that the university contributes positively to the surrounding region. This role involves coordinating service-learning opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Richard Brunsting directs the development of programs that address community needs while providing students with valuable experience. By fostering strong ties with the community, the President enhances the university reputation and impact. The President works to ensure that the university remains a cornerstone of educational and social development. Through strategic engagement, the President supports the university mission of preparing students for active citizenship and professional success. The President remains dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship between the university and the broader community.

Kathryn Herschede, the Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff at Widener University, directs high-level institutional projects and coordinates executive operations. Managing cross-departmental workflows, the Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff ensures alignment between academic goals and administrative execution. This role involves facilitating communication across the leadership team to support the university mission of providing robust educational services. By optimizing internal processes, Kathryn Herschede drives organizational efficiency and supports the long-term growth of the institution. The Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff monitors progress on key university objectives, ensuring that resources remain focused on student outcomes and institutional advancement. Through rigorous oversight of strategic initiatives, the Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff maintains the operational integrity required for academic excellence within the competitive higher education landscape.

Mariarose Walker, the Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer at Widener University, manages student recruitment pipelines and digital infrastructure. Overseeing enrollment strategies, the Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer drives efforts to attract diverse student cohorts across various degree programs. Simultaneously, the Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer directs the technological framework supporting academic delivery and administrative functions. This dual focus ensures that data-driven insights inform recruitment while robust systems maintain university operations. Mariarose Walker coordinates complex administrative tasks to streamline the student experience from initial inquiry to graduation. By integrating enrollment metrics with information technology, the Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer strengthens the university market position and supports the broader institutional commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education.