Widener University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Widener University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategic initiatives, enrollment, finance, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Widener University provides comprehensive degree programs across diverse fields, fostering intellectual growth and professional development for its students.

Leadership Roles at Widener University

  • Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Heather Meier
  • President - Alissa Dadarwala
  • SBA President - Jane Michetti
  • President - Richard Brunsting
  • President - Brianna DeVito
  • President - Catherine Cleary
  • Club President - Morgan Hartzman
  • President - Stacey Robertson
  • Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff - Kathryn Herschede
  • Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer - Mariarose Walker
  • Heather Meier - Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Heather Meier, the Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Widener University, directs all financial operations and administrative functions. Meier oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the university's diverse academic programs and operational needs. This critical role involves ensuring fiscal responsibility and driving financial strategies that sustain the institution's growth and stability. By managing financial reporting and compliance, Heather Meier upholds the highest standards of accountability. The focus extends to optimizing administrative processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and providing the financial framework necessary for Widener University to deliver its comprehensive educational services across all departments, including business, law, and nursing.

    Alissa Dadarwala - President

    Alissa Dadarwala, the President at Widener University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Dadarwala guides the university's mission to deliver high-quality educational services and fosters an environment of academic excellence and innovation. This executive role involves setting institutional priorities, overseeing all academic and administrative departments, and ensuring the university remains at the forefront of higher education. By championing the university's values and strategic goals, Alissa Dadarwala drives initiatives that enhance student learning outcomes and expand the institution's reach. The focus is on advancing Widener University's reputation and impact through robust degree programs in fields ranging from engineering to social work, ensuring sustained growth and relevance.

    Jane Michetti - SBA President

    Jane Michetti, the SBA President at Widener University, leads the Student Bar Association, representing the interests of law students. Michetti advocates for student needs and works to enhance the law school experience through various initiatives and programming. This leadership position involves collaborating with university administration and faculty to address student concerns and promote academic and professional development within the legal field. By organizing events and fostering a strong sense of community, Jane Michetti contributes to the vibrant student life at Widener University. The focus remains on supporting law students in their academic pursuits and preparing them for successful careers in the legal profession, aligning with the university's commitment to specialized degree programs.

    Richard Brunsting - President

    Richard Brunsting, the President at Widener University, provides executive leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Brunsting guides the university's commitment to delivering comprehensive educational services and fostering a dynamic learning environment. This role involves overseeing all facets of university operations, from academic affairs to student services, ensuring alignment with the institution's core mission. By championing initiatives that enhance academic quality and institutional effectiveness, Richard Brunsting drives progress across diverse programs, including nursing, engineering, and business administration. The focus is on strengthening Widener University's position as a leading provider of higher education and preparing students for impactful careers.

    Brianna DeVito - President

    Brianna DeVito, the President at Widener University, leads key initiatives focused on institutional advancement and student engagement. DeVito drives strategic planning efforts to enhance the university's offerings and expand its impact within the higher education landscape. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration across departments and ensuring that university operations effectively support academic excellence and student success. By advocating for student needs and promoting a culture of continuous improvement, Brianna DeVito contributes significantly to the university's mission. The focus is on strengthening Widener University's programs, including those in clinical psychology and hospitality, and ensuring a positive and productive experience for all students.

    Catherine Cleary - President

    Catherine Cleary, the President at Widener University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Cleary champions the university's commitment to providing diverse and high-quality educational services across its various schools and programs. This executive role involves overseeing academic planning, resource management, and institutional development to ensure sustained excellence. By fostering innovation and collaboration, Catherine Cleary enhances the student learning experience and strengthens Widener University's standing in higher education. The focus is on advancing the university's mission through robust degree offerings in areas such as criminal justice, liberal studies, and social work, preparing graduates for meaningful contributions to society.

    Morgan Hartzman - Club President

    Morgan Hartzman, the Club President at Widener University, leads a specific student organization, fostering engagement and activity among its members. Hartzman coordinates club events, manages internal operations, and represents the club's interests within the broader university community. This role involves developing strategies to increase membership, promote club objectives, and enhance the overall student experience. By organizing activities and facilitating communication, Morgan Hartzman contributes to the vibrant campus life at Widener University. The focus is on supporting student interests and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth outside of formal academic coursework, complementing the university's extensive degree programs.

    Stacey Robertson - President

    Stacey Robertson, the President at Widener University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. Robertson guides the university's mission to deliver comprehensive educational services and foster an environment of scholarly inquiry and professional development. This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of university management, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and institutional values. By championing initiatives that advance research, teaching, and student success, Stacey Robertson strengthens Widener University's commitment to excellence across its diverse program offerings, including engineering, law, and nursing. The focus remains on enhancing the university's impact and preparing graduates for leadership roles.

    Kathryn Herschede - Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff

    Kathryn Herschede, the Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff at Widener University, directs the execution of key institutional strategies and manages critical operational functions. Overseeing cross-departmental projects, Herschede ensures alignment with the university's long-term vision and academic mission. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between executive leadership and various university divisions, driving forward initiatives that enhance educational services and institutional effectiveness. By coordinating strategic planning efforts, Kathryn Herschede supports the university's commitment to providing robust degree programs in fields such as business administration, nursing, and engineering. The focus remains on optimizing resource allocation and fostering an environment conducive to academic innovation and student success across the university's operations.

    Mariarose Walker - Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer

    Mariarose Walker, the Administrative Assistant & Coordinator & Vice President, Enrollment & Chief Information Officer at Widener University, manages critical technology infrastructure and oversees student enrollment strategies. This dual role requires a comprehensive understanding of both information systems management and the intricacies of student recruitment and admissions processes. Walker directs the implementation of technological solutions that support university operations and enhance the student experience, while simultaneously driving enrollment growth through targeted outreach and admissions programs. Coordinating administrative support functions, Mariarose Walker ensures seamless daily operations and provides essential assistance to executive leadership. The focus is on leveraging technology to streamline enrollment processes and attract a diverse student body, thereby supporting the university's educational mission.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Widener University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Widener University?
    Widener University is led by Heather Meier (Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Alissa Dadarwala (President) and Jane Michetti (SBA President).
    Who is part of Widener University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Widener University includes leaders such as Heather Meier (Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Alissa Dadarwala (President), Jane Michetti (SBA President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Widener University have?
    Widener University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Widener University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Widener University includes roles such as Vice President, Administration Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, SBA President, President, President.