Manhattan College Names Stephen J. Pugliese, Ph.D. Chief-Of-Staff

Manhattan College today announced that Stephen J. Pugliese, Ph.D. will assume the role of Chief-of-Staff. He will report directly to the College President, Milo Riverso, Ph.D., P.E.

In this position as the newest member of the President’s Cabinet, Pugliese will lead institutional projects and manage high-profile initiatives. He will also work closely with other members of the entire executive leadership team to implement the President’s vision and manage priorities toward advancing the College’s mission and goals. Additionally, Pugliese will serve as a liaison to administration, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders, focusing on processes and projects across all divisions within the College.

Said Pugliese, “I am thrilled to assume this new position, working closely with President Riverso and his leadership team. I was drawn to Manhattan College since Catholic higher education is my passion, and the Lasallian tradition of the School is personally and professionally integral to my outlook on education. Working for a focused, mission-driven institution is critical to learning. As I start on my journey at Manhattan, one of my first areas of focus is to understand the culture of the School and – all importantly – to listen, observe, and learn.”

Pugliese has a broad and deep background in higher education. From 2017 to 2023, he worked for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, culminating with his position as Senior Vice President and Chief-of-Staff. He had responsibilities across all units to ensure consistent operational coordination and efficiencies of accreditation activities, effective organizational management, and practices that promoted a positive culture and the attainment of mission-critical goals. His previous professional experience includes serving as Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mount Aloysius College and Vice President for Student Development & Engagement and Enrollment Management at Immaculata University. He also served as Vice Provost for Student Life at St. Bonaventure University, Dean of Students at Marywood University, and Coordinator for Residence Management at Villanova University.

Dr. Riverso commented, “Steve is a quintessential academic leader. His broad array of experience, his proven ability to manage complex issues to successful conclusions, and his appreciation of our Lasallian tradition make him a particularly strong asset to me as we continue to enhance the special qualities that we enjoy at Manhattan College.”

Pugliese received a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Development, Higher Education Administration from Marywood University, Scranton, PA; a Master of Science in Human Organization Science, Human Resource Development from Villanova University, Villanova, PA; and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Theater Communication from Kutztown University, Kutztown, PA.