Wilmington University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wilmington University has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and information technology.

Driven by academic excellence, Wilmington University is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education and fostering research that addresses societal needs, impacting students and communities across Delaware and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Wilmington University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Heather O'Connell
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer - Lloyd Ricketts
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Erin DiMarco
  • President - LaVerne Harmon
  • President - Dhevaakaran Kumar
  • Chief Information Officer - Peter Lutus
  • Chapter Advisor - Donna Wilkinson
  • Heather O'Connell - Chief Financial Officer

    Heather O'Connell, the Chief Financial Officer at Wilmington University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and investment management, O'Connell ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of the university. This critical role involves developing financial models that support Wilmington University's growth and its commitment to offering undergraduate and graduate programs across various academic disciplines. By maintaining robust financial controls and compliance, Heather O'Connell safeguards institutional assets and optimizes resource allocation. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial dealings. O'Connell's leadership drives financial strategies that enable Wilmington University to fulfill its mission as a private, non-profit research institution headquartered in New Castle, Delaware.

    Lloyd Ricketts - Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

    Lloyd Ricketts, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer at Wilmington University, directs the institution's financial strategy, treasury functions, and fiscal management. Overseeing all financial planning, accounting, and investment activities, Ricketts ensures the long-term financial stability and operational capacity of Wilmington University. This multifaceted role involves managing the university's capital structure, debt financing, and cash flow to support its extensive undergraduate and graduate programs. By maintaining strong relationships with financial partners and regulatory bodies, Lloyd Ricketts upholds the university's financial integrity and compliance. The Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer's responsibilities extend to strategic financial analysis, risk management, and the allocation of resources to advance Wilmington University's research and educational objectives. Ricketts's financial acumen supports the institution's mission as a private, non-profit entity in New Castle, Delaware.

    Erin DiMarco - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

    Erin DiMarco, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Wilmington University, oversees the daily operational execution and strategic implementation across the institution's seven colleges. Managing administrative functions, campus operations, and resource management, DiMarco ensures efficient and effective delivery of services supporting academic programs and research endeavors. This leadership position involves optimizing operational workflows, enhancing campus infrastructure, and driving process improvements to support Wilmington University's mission. By coordinating interdepartmental efforts, Erin DiMarco ensures alignment with the university's strategic objectives and its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education. The Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer's focus includes enhancing student services, streamlining administrative processes, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. DiMarco's operational expertise strengthens Wilmington University's capacity to serve its student body and contribute to the academic landscape in Delaware.

    LaVerne Harmon - President

    LaVerne Harmon, the President at Wilmington University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions, Harmon guides Wilmington University's mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education and foster impactful research. This pivotal role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and ensuring the university's responsiveness to evolving educational landscapes and societal needs. By championing innovation and student success, LaVerne Harmon drives the university's growth and its commitment to serving diverse student populations. The President's responsibilities include engaging with stakeholders, advancing the university's reputation, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its seven colleges. Harmon's vision shapes the future of Wilmington University as a leading research institution in New Castle, Delaware.

    Dhevaakaran Kumar - President

    Dhevaakaran Kumar, the President at Wilmington University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic innovation. Overseeing the university's comprehensive operations, Kumar directs efforts to expand program offerings and enhance research capabilities across its seven colleges. This leadership position involves cultivating partnerships, securing resources, and ensuring the effective implementation of institutional strategies that support student achievement and faculty development. By driving forward-thinking initiatives, Dhevaakaran Kumar strengthens Wilmington University's position as a premier provider of undergraduate and graduate education. The President's purview includes fostering a dynamic learning environment and advancing the university's commitment to research that addresses critical societal challenges. Kumar's leadership ensures Wilmington University continues its legacy of educational excellence in New Castle, Delaware.

    Peter Lutus - Chief Information Officer

    Peter Lutus, the Chief Information Officer at Wilmington University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Lutus ensures the seamless integration of digital tools and platforms that support academic delivery, research initiatives, and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management systems, and network architecture to safeguard institutional data and enhance user experience. By optimizing technological resources, Peter Lutus drives efficiency and innovation across the university's seven colleges. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to evaluating and implementing new technologies that align with Wilmington University's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. Lutus's strategic vision ensures that the university remains at the forefront of educational technology, supporting both faculty and student success in New Castle, Delaware.

    Donna Wilkinson - Chapter Advisor

    Donna Wilkinson, the Chapter Advisor at Wilmington University, provides guidance and support to student organizations, fostering leadership development and community engagement. Overseeing the activities and compliance of various student chapters, Wilkinson ensures adherence to university policies and promotes a positive organizational environment. This role involves mentoring student leaders, facilitating program development, and connecting chapters with institutional resources to enhance their impact. By offering strategic advice and operational oversight, Donna Wilkinson contributes to the holistic development of students, aligning chapter initiatives with Wilmington University's broader educational mission. The Chapter Advisor's dedication supports the cultivation of a vibrant campus life and the personal growth of students involved in extracurricular pursuits. Wilkinson's commitment strengthens the student experience at Wilmington University in New Castle, Delaware.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wilmington University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wilmington University?
    Wilmington University is led by Heather O'Connell (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Lloyd Ricketts (Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer) and Erin DiMarco (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Wilmington University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wilmington University includes leaders such as Heather O'Connell (Chief Financial Officer), Lloyd Ricketts (Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer), Erin DiMarco (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wilmington University have?
    Wilmington University has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wilmington University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wilmington University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, President, President.