ROI Influencers: Higher Education 2024 — Four-year Presidents

Michael Alvatroni President Fairleigh Dickinson University Longtime faculty member has wasted little time putting his mark on FDU (since assuming top job just over a year ago) — detailing why all universities must adjust to new market forces and student needs.

Michael Bernstein Interim President The College of New Jersey Highly-regarded administer with impressive résumé, he’s making his mark in state (joined the N.J. Chamber of Commerce) and is a candidate to be permanent president of the school.

Joe Bertolino President Stockton University He aims to exemplify a new, more approachable style of college leadership. A trained social worker, he said establishing and growing relationships with students, faculty and the community are a top priority.

Dale Caldwell President Centenary University Highly regarded thought leader, Caldwell is bringing energy and excitement to Hackettstown-based school, transforming all aspects with emphasis on emotional well-being, intellectual curiosity and intercultural competence.

Gary Crosby President Saint Elizabeth University The school’s first Black — and first male — president, he recently had his contract extended until 2031 due to his commitment and passion to the values of the school and the community it serves.

Greg Dell’Omo President Rider University In nearly 10 years at the helm, he has helped school transform from regional, commuter-based institution to a comprehensive residential university that is growing quickly, drawing students from across the country.

Merodie Hancock President Thomas Edison State University Through decades of meaningful interaction with nontraditional learners, she says she knows education is the key to unlocking true potential. She has dedicated her career to serving a multitude of underrepresented populations.

Richard Helldobler President William Paterson University He has had a huge impact in his nearly six years as president, establishing new programs to expand access, increase retention (well above national average) and completion, and make the university more equitable, inclusive — and affordable.

Cindy Jebb President Ramapo College of New Jersey At a time when some are questioning the need for a college education, she boldly preaches its value — not only for preparing students for a new-age workforce, but for protecting the integrity of our democracy.

Patrick Leahy President Monmouth University A value institution of the first rate: The quality of education at private school always has been known, but it offers more aid and educates more first-generation students than most would guess.

Mildred Mihlon President Felician University Her ascension to the top spot has been quick. Brought in during the pandemic to be the dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, she then became interim president before topping a nationwide search to be school’s new...

Katia Passerini Interim president Seton Hall University She soon will return to her role as provost (the requirement of being a priest made her ineligible for permanent role), but her remarkable work in a time of crisis as well as strong résumé (at school,...

Jeffrey Senese President Caldwell University School was one of 25 schools nationally to receive an HSI Impact Award from the Angelos Investors (the most prominent group of Latinx entrepreneurs) for its work in serving Hispanic students .

Antonio Tillis Chancellor Rutgers University – Camden School is approaching its 100th anniversary (2026) with its first Top 100 national ranking ever (No. 98 in U.S. News & World Report), but its continued success will depend on increasing enrollment and partnerships.

Nancy Cantor Outgoing chancellor Rutgers University – Newark There are many ways to define the impact one has as the leader of a college — here’s one that cannot be denied: Your ouster leads to nearly universal condemnation and outrage from those at your...

Eugene Cornacchia Retiring president Saint Peter’s University It’s easy to remember Eugene Cornacchia for the sense of pride and passion he showed during Saint Peter’s remarkable two-week run to the Elite Eight of the 2022 NCAA Tournament. That jubilance is how so many people...