---
title: "Leadership & Governance"
url: "/about/leadership-governance"
type: page
date: 2026-02-13
updated: 2026-06-04
---

# Leadership & Governance

About Manhattan University

# Leadership & Governance

**Shared governance rooted in collaboration, integrity, and a commitment to Manhattan University's enduring mission.**

Since its founding in 1853 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Manhattan University has been guided by a model of shared governance. Decisions are shaped through collaboration among trustees, faculty, administrators, and staff, ensuring accountability, transparency, and long-term institutional strength.

 

 [ Office of the President ](/offices/office-of-president) 

 [ Board of Trustees ](/about/leadership-governance/board-of-trustees) 

 

Image

      ![Outside photo of Memorial Hall](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/memorial-hall-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=ENwrb8Bb) 

 

 

##  A Tradition of Shared Governance 

Since its founding in 1853 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Manhattan University has embraced a model of shared governance. Leadership decisions are informed by collaboration among trustees, faculty, administrators, and staff, ensuring integrity, accountability, and long-term institutional strength.

This structure allows the University to:

- Maintain strong academic standards
- Align strategic planning with mission and values
- Steward resources responsibly
- Foster an inclusive and engaged campus community

 [](/offices/office-of-president)

 [Office of the President

 ](/offices/office-of-president) 

Led by President Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., the office advances Manhattan's Lasallian Catholic mission and sets the vision for the University's future.

  Visit the Office  

 [](/offices/office-of-president/presidents-cabinet)

 [President's Cabinet

 ](/offices/office-of-president/presidents-cabinet) 

The senior leaders who partner with the President to guide strategy, operations, and student success across the University.

  Meet the Cabinet  

 [](/about/leadership-governance/board-of-trustees)

 [Board of Trustees

 ](/about/leadership-governance/board-of-trustees) 

The governing body responsible for stewarding the University's mission, financial health, and long-term institutional direction.

  View the Board of Trustees  

 [](/about/leadership-governance/deans)

 [Academic Deans

 ](/about/leadership-governance/deans) 

The deans of our three schools who lead faculty, shape curriculum, and advance academic excellence for every Manhattan student.

  Meet the Deans  

 [](/about/leadership-governance/manhattan-university-senate)

 [University Senate

 ](/about/leadership-governance/manhattan-university-senate) 

The representative body where faculty, staff, and students shape policy and contribute to shared governance decisions.

  Learn About the Senate  

 [](/about/leadership-governance/council-for-faculty-affairs)

 [Council for Faculty Affairs

 ](/about/leadership-governance/council-for-faculty-affairs) 

The faculty governance group that reviews academic matters, faculty welfare, and policies affecting teaching and research.

  Explore the CFA  

Image

      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43) 

## Prepare for the Real World

At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.

[Apply Today](/admissions/apply)

[Visit Manhattan University](/admissions/visit)

[Request Information](/admissions/undergraduate/request-information)

 

Image

      ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43)