Andrew Simon Appointed Interim Executive Director of the Buccino Leadership Institute

Andrew Simon, Ph.D., Psy.D., has been appointed Interim Executive Director of the Buccino Leadership Institute, effective July 1, 2025. 

A respected scholar and dynamic educator, Simon brings over 25 years of experience in organizational psychology, executive education and student development to the role. His leadership marks a new chapter in the Institute’s growth and continued pursuit of excellence.

Simon, a Professor of Psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, has been a valued member of the Seton Hall faculty for more than two decades. He holds a Ph.D. in Social Psychology and a Psy.D. in Organizational Psychology from Rutgers University. 

Since 2023, he has served as the Faculty Fellow for Leadership and Professional Development in the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, where he successfully developed the Buccino Leadership Institute’s first branded executive education courses. These programs have already reached a global audience of professionals across sectors, significantly expanding the Institute’s influence.

A long-time contributor to the Buccino Leadership Institute, Simon has inspired Institute students as a guest lecturer and advisor. “I am honored to oversee an Institute that champions the growth of ethical, collaborative and service-oriented leaders,” said Simon. “For over 30 years, the Buccino Leadership Institute has built a powerful legacy — developing visionary student leaders and earning national recognition as a model of excellence in undergraduate leadership education. I look forward to building upon this legacy, empowering our students and engaging alumni and partners in new and meaningful ways.”

His areas of expertise — leadership, team dynamics, organizational effectiveness and sport performance — have positioned him as a trusted consultant and speaker, both nationally and internationally. Simon has held senior roles in executive education at The Wharton School, designed curriculum for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and served as President of the International Council of Psychologists. 

Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., dean of the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, echoed that sentiment, noting, “Dr. Simon has already contributed significantly to Seton Hall’s leadership education. His global insight, extensive consulting background, and scholarly expertise position him well to lead the Institute and elevate both our student outcomes and our brand.”

Members of the Institute’s Executive Council also expressed strong support for the appointment. “One of the best parts of serving on the Council is the opportunity to mentor and engage directly with our already-exceptional Buccino students — helping them get even better is among the most rewarding forms of servant leadership I’ve run across,” said Ed Cerny, co-founder and managing partner of Backcast Partners and Seton Hall Board of Regents member. “Dr. Simon deeply values that aspect of the Institute and will undoubtedly foster even more meaningful connections between students and advisory members.”

Interim Provost Erik Lillquist emphasized the University's deep commitment to the Buccino Leadership Institute during this transition. "The Buccino Leadership Institute is a signature part of Seton Hall’s academic distinction. Its continued success is vital to our mission of developing principled leaders prepared to make a meaningful impact in the world."

With the appointment of Andrew Simon as Interim Executive Director, the Buccino Leadership Institute is poised to build on its legacy of excellence while further fostering deep collaboration, broad influence and an unwavering commitment to forming leaders who drive impact across every sector of society.

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