Dr. Jeffrey D. Senese has dedicated his career of more than 30 years to helping learners achieve their personal and professional goals. As Saint Leo University’s 10th president, Senese has implemented a foundational three-year strategic plan to grow the university, strengthen its culture, and transform the educational experience to better serve the needs of students.

After graduating from Michigan State University, Senese began his career as a faculty member at Indiana University, followed by a faculty position at the University of Baltimore, a member institution of the University of Maryland system. There he engaged in extensive nationally-funded research work with the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Department of Defense on use of force, among other topics.

From 1996 through 2018, Senese served as a department chair and then associate dean at the University of Baltimore. He then was appointed chief academic officer at one of Pennsylvania State University’s campuses. Following that appointment, Senese was selected as the vice president for Academic Affairs at Mount Ida College in Newton, MA. Afterward, he held several academic affairs leadership positions at Philadelphia University, Johnson & Wales University, and Cardinal Stritch University, before becoming Saint Leo University’s first provost in 2018.

Senese earned his bachelor’s degree in the administration of justice from the Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree in criminology from Indiana State University, and a doctoral degree in criminal justice/research methods/statistics from Michigan State University.

Senese’s academic achievements extend beyond his teaching roles and include the publication of a methods book, dozens of professional articles, book chapters, and other publications. Senese has also presented an impressive list of professional papers, interviews with media outlets, and has served as a speaker for many educational and community conferences and events.

He also completed the Institute for Higher Education Management at Harvard University; the Academic Management Institute at the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems in Boulder, CO; and the Pennsylvania State University Leadership Academy. His education also includes a certificate in fundraising from the University of Pennsylvania.