Salisbury University is a school in Salisbury.

Higher Education

Salisbury University

Valerie Randall-Lee

Dr. Carolyn “Lyn” Ringer Lepre became Salisbury University’s 10th president on Friday, July 15, 2022. She came to the Delmarva Peninsula from Radford University in Virginia, where she formerly served as interim president.

Lepre began her academic career as a faculty member at California State University, Chico; the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; and Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. During her tenure at Marist, she served as chair of the Department of Communication and director of the college’s Honors Program. In 2013, she was named assistant dean of Marist’s School of Communication and the Arts, advancing to interim dean in 2014 and then dean in 2016.

She joined Radford as provost and vice president for academic affairs in 2020. In that position, she collaborated with the academic leadership team and the student-centered faculty and staff to advance critical initiatives designed to foster the delivery of high-quality academic programs and experiences, and support the university’s strategic plan.

These endeavors included launching the Academic Success Center; launching a distinctive new general education curriculum, which empowers students to be in control of their coursework from day one and provides an individualized path to degree completion; establishing a stand-alone School of Nursing; establishing a partnership with the Appalachian School of Law that created dual-degree programs; and developing three online fast-track degree programs (R.N.-to-B.S.N., M.B.A., and M.S.N.).

In addition to her academic work, Lepre has extensive professional experience in the communication industry, having worked for various national publications and media outlets. Her research has focused on media representation of gender and diversity, health communication and mass communication education, and she has published more than 40 book chapters, refereed journal and conference articles. She also is the co-author of U.S. Media and Diversity (Wiley-Blackwell), now in its second edition, with a third edition in progress.

Lepre earned her B.A. in English and journalism at Miami University (OH), her M.S. in journalism from Ohio University and her Ph.D. in mass communication from the University of Florida.

Carolyn Ringer Lepre

Eli Modlin was named Chief of Staff at Salisbury University effective July 31, 2019.  He served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Government and Community Relations since February 2017, and held the position in an interim capacity starting in December 2016.

Eli graduated from Salisbury University with a degree in Communication Arts and a minor in Political Science. He spent his summers as a U.S. Capitol intern in Washington, D.C. At SU, Modlin was an active member of the campus community. Eli served as president and general manager of the campus TV station, SUTV, where he conducted interviews with dozens of state and local leaders including Governor Larry Hogan, Senator Chris Van-Hollen and other members of Congress, the Maryland General Assembly and local elected officials.

In addition to the President’s Executive Staff, he chairs the Town-Gown Council and serves on the PACE Steering Committee, Safety Task Force, Neighborhood Relations Committee, and Strategic Planning and Budgeting Committee.

Prior to joining SU, Eli served as the Public Affairs Officer for the Comptroller of Maryland where, as a member of the Communications Team, he was responsible for writing speeches, talking points and briefing memorandums for the agency. Before joining the Communications team, he served as the special liaison officer and handled constituent matters and staffed the Comptroller in Baltimore City, Baltimore, Howard and Wicomico Counties.

Eli is a member of the Salisbury University Chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa and an active alumnus of Mount Saint Joseph High School. Eli, like most Sea Gulls, has a deep and abiding commitment to Salisbury University. He is also a member of the inaugural class of the Transformational Leadership Program, a collaboration between Salisbury University and the Greater Salisbury Committee to engage the next generation of leaders.

Beyond the University, Modlin serves on the board of directors of My Brother’s Keeper, a Baltimore organization that provides workforce development and meals for those in need, and the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce. He also is a member of the National Folk Festival Executive Committee and the Leadership Maryland Class of 2020.

Raised in Catonsville, Maryland, Eli is happy to claim the Eastern Shore as his home.

Eli Modlin

Dr. Christy Weer has been named the Dean of the Perdue School of Business at Salisbury University, effective January 2, 2015. Dr. Weer came to Salisbury University in 2009 as an Assistant Professor of Management; she became Associate Dean in 2011. As Associate Dean, Dr. Weer was responsible for undergraduate programs including AACSB Assurance of Learning. Prior to entering academia, she spent seven years in the insurance industry and was a Pinnacle Sales Club member for USI Insurance, the 10th largest insurance brokerage firm in the US.

Dr. Weer is a proud SU alum (MBA, ’96) and earned her PhD in Management at the LeBow College of Business at Drexel University. She resides in Eden, MD with her husband, George, and two children, Loryn and Landon.

Christy Weer

Karen Olmstead was appointed Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Salisbury University in December, 2018. Dr. Olmstead oversees the University’s four endowed schools, College of Health & Human Services, Honors College, University Libraries, Center for International Education, Registrar and Graduate Studies & Research. She also is responsible for academic policy and budgeting, curriculum, faculty development, student advising and support, assessment, instructional technology, accreditation and University outreach including the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, the Bosserman Center for Conflict Resolution and Delmarva Public Radio.

Dr. Olmstead previously served as Dean of SU’s Henson School of Science & Technology where she had responsibility for STEM and several healthcare-related programs. Before coming to SU in 2008, she held several leadership positions at The University of South Dakota including Associate VPAA & Graduate Dean, Director of University Honors & Undergraduate Academic Programs, and Chair of Biology.

An ecologist by training, Dr. Olmstead has published many articles in refereed journals, given more than 50 conference and invited talks, and won several major grants and philanthropic gifts in support of university programs for undergraduate research and science outreach to American Indian communities, integration of service learning into the curriculum, teaching and learning, and to increase recruitment, retention, and graduation of STEM majors. Her work as an educator and in science outreach has been recognized by several awards including USD's Professor of the Year and the University of Delaware’s Presidential Citation for Outstanding Achievement.

Dr. Olmstead received her Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Maryland and her B.S. and M.S. from the University of Delaware. She is a 2010 alumna of Leadership Maryland and her professional service has included chairing the Committee on Comprehensive Institutions for the Council of Colleges of Arts & Sciences and serving on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Maryland. She and her family enjoy living on Maryland’s beautiful Eastern Shore.

Karen Olmstead

Clifton Griffin is the current Dean of Graduate Studies and Research at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Prior to their current position, Clifton was the Director of Research and Graduate Studies at [Texas A&M University](/org/texas-a-m-university) - at Qatar from January 2008 to July 2010. During their time as director, they developed all aspects of office operations (research services and graduate administration) in a country that has never had a similar office. Additionally, they oversaw all aspects of research administration, including proposal development, contract negotiation, post-award and project administration and sponsor reporting for approximately $50M – 70 research projects. 

Clifton also assisted with the development of a university-level proposal to the [Qatar Foundation](/org/qatar-foundation) for formal research infrastructure and graduate programs. Furthermore, they managed all human resources issues for research staff, including position description development, posting, employment contracts development and renewal, and evaluation. Clifton also administered research laboratory (32) commissioning and modifications, including space allocation and safety. Additionally, they served as primary university Export Control contact and administrator. Clifton developed and managed all aspects of research compliance administration in consultation with the [Texas A&M University](/org/texas-a-m-university) main campus (IRB and Hazardous Materials Use). Clifton also provided administrative oversight for development of short courses and continuing education offerings.

In terms of graduate admissions processes, Clifton oversaw all aspects of graduate assistant hiring, registration, and tuition payments. Clifton also served as crisis management coordinator for Research and Graduate Studies. As needed, Clifton represented the Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies.

Clifton Griffin received their Doctor of Philosophy in Wildlife Biology from [Texas A&M University](/org/texas-a-m-university). Clifton also holds a Bachelor of Science and M. S. in Biology, General from Delta State University. Griffin has also completed the Institute for Management and Leadership in Higher Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education.

They are on a team with Maarten Pereboom - Dean of the Fulton School of Liberal Arts, Michael Scott - Dean of the Henson School of Science and Technology, and Tim Robinson - Chair of the Adjunct Faculty Caucus. and Catherine Raley - President of the Graduate Student Council reports to Clifton Griffin. Clifton Griffin reports to Karen Olmstead, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Clifton Griffin

Catherine Raley is the current president of the Graduate Student Council at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Prior to their current position, they worked as a recreation assistant at the Wicomico County Recreation, Parks & Tourism from August 2019 to February 2020. In their previous position, they were responsible for maintaining bookkeeping for participants in recreation programs and ensuring completion of medical records for all seven locations in the Kids Klub After School care program. Catherine also filled in for check-in registration tables and was responsible for handling payment for participation and uniform orders. Additionally, they researched for new promotional products and recreational programs and organized schedules for vendors, volunteers, and youth sports team rosters. Catherine Raley also helped out with special events and tabling at community functions. Some of the special events they have assisted with include Pemberton 24- a Festival of 5Ks, Good Beer Festival, Weddings at Pemberton Catherine'storical Park, and Governor's Challenge.

Catherine Raley has a Master of Science from [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university) in Applied Health Physiology, a Bachelor's of Science from [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university) in Exercise Science-Allied Health, and a High School Diploma from St. Mary's Ryken High School. Catherine also has certifications from [LinkedIn](/org/linkedin) in The Six Morning Habits of High Performers and Embracing Unexpected Change, the American Canoe Association in Level I: Kayak Training, PADI in Advanced Open Water Diver, CITI Program in Program Research and Compliance Training, [American Red Cross](/org/american-red-cross) in Adult First Aid/CPR/AED and Wilderness/Remote Location First Aid, and American Heart Association in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Experienced Provider (ACLS) and Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS).

Their manager is Clifton Griffin, Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

Catherine Raley

Janet Wormack has been working in administration and finance for over 20 years. Janet started their career at [Houston Community College](/org/houston-community-college) in September 2018 as Sr Vice Chancellor Administration and Finance. Janet then moved to [Montgomery College](/org/montgomery-college) in February 2011, where they served as Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance for seven years. In January 2021, Janet took on the role of VP, Administration and Finance at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Throughout their career, Janet has demonstrated their ability to manage budgets, lead teams, and streamline processes. Janet is a trusted advisor and an expert in their field.

Janet Wormack has a Doctor of Education from [Morgan State University](/org/morgan-state-university) in Community College Leadership and Administration, a Master of Arts from Bowie State University in Public Administration, and a Bachelor of Science from [Arizona State University](/org/arizona-state-university) in Business Administration and Management.

Janet Wormack reports to Carolyn Ringer Lepre, President. They work with Jennifer Martin - President of Faculty Senate, Eli Modlin - Chief of Staff and Director of Government & Community Relations, and Humberto Aristizabal - Associate Vice President of Institutional Equity and Title IX Coordinator.

Janet Wormack

Humberto Aristizabal is the current Associate Vice President of Institutional Equity and Title IX Coordinator at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Prior to their current position, Aristizabal worked for Mountaire Farms of Delaware, Inc. from April 2004 to September 2012, where they held the title of Director of Human Resources (HR Complex Leader). In this role, they served as a Senior Human Resources Generalist for the Millsboro Complex, overseeing the Human Resources Department. Humberto provided hands-on leadership in the areas of employee relations, recruiting, training and development, benefits and compensation, safety and medical and security and plant services for a complex of 1,950 employees. Aristizabal also provided strategic and tactical support to the management team regarding all human resources issues, including but not limited to EEO/HR investigations, harassment and discrimination charges, recruiting, retention and development of a very diverse workforce. As team leader of nine (9) human resources salaried professionals, they had comprehensive oversight of employment law, compliance, EEO, affirmative action and inclusion. Aristizabal's direct reports included: a Day Shift Human Resources Manager, a Night Shift Human Resources Manager, a Training and Development Manager, two (2) Employment Managers, a Benefits Supervisor, a Medical Supervisor, a Security and Plant Services Manager, and a Human Resources Representative. The entire staff of the HR department was 28 people.

Humberto Aristizabal has a Professional Mediation Certificate from the Scheinman Institute on Conflict Resolution at [Cornell University](/org/cornell-university) ILR School, a Mastering Negotiation and Influence Certificate from the MIT Sloan School of Management, and a Conflict Resolution Certificate from [Cornell University](/org/cornell-university). Humberto also has an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources Management from [Goldey-Beacom College](/org/goldeybeacom-college) and an MBA with a concentration in Marketing Management from [Goldey-Beacom College](/org/goldeybeacom-college).

Their manager is Carolyn Ringer Lepre, President. They are on a team with Eli Modlin - Chief of Staff and Director of Government & Community Relations, Karen Olmstead - Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Dane Foust - Vice President of Student Affairs.

Humberto Aristizabal

Laurie Henry is the current Dean of the Seidel School of Education at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Laurie previously served as the National Consulting Network for the National Council of Teachers of English from January 2008 to December 2013, where they taught undergraduate courses in the Middle School Teacher Prep Program and graduate level literacy across the disciplines courses. Laurie also served as the Associate Dean at the University Of Kentucky from August 2007 to July 2018, providing leadership involving implementation and support for strategic planning, clinical educator preparation, and the development of engagement activities. In this role, they also provided leadership involving school/community partnerships, including Districts of Innovation and the STEAM Academy in Lexington, KY. Additionally, Laurie oversaw 1) Office of the Associate Dean for Clinical Preparation and Partnerships; 2) Office of Clinical Practices and School Partnerships; 3) College Living Learning Communities (EdLife and KHP/Wellness); and 4) Collaborative Center for Literacy Development. Prior to their work in administration, Laurie worked as a Seventh Grade Teacher at Pomfret Community School from January 2000 to January 2003, and as a Doctoral Fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute from January 2005 to December 2005.

Laurie Henry is a graduate of Stonington High School. Laurie has a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the University of Connecticut Neag School of Education, a Master of Arts in Education and Literacy from the University of Connecticut Graduate School, and a Ph.D in Educational Psychology from the University of Connecticut Graduate School.

Laurie Henry reports to Karen Olmstead, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. Laurie Henry works with Michael Scott - Dean of the Henson School of Science and Technology, Andrew Martino - Dean of the Honors College, and Maarten Pereboom - Dean of the Fulton School of Liberal Arts.

Laurie Henry

Jennifer Martin

Nick Norris

Karen Treber joined Salisbury University as its General Counsel in March 2017. She serves on the President’s Executive Staff and provides legal and strategic advice to the president and senior administrators. She is responsible for overseeing the legal affairs of the University and gives advice and counsel on the wide variety of issues that impact the University every day. This includes such topics as compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, student affairs, employee and faculty concerns, contracts and grants, international operations and litigation, to name a few.

Ms. Treber previously served as General Counsel at Frostburg State University from 1997-2017, and as University Counsel at University of Maryland University College from 1996-1997. Prior to her work in higher education, Ms. Treber was in-house counsel at several corporations in the Washington, DC area where she practiced corporate and securities law.

Karen has taught as an adjunct professor of higher education law at the graduate and post-graduate levels. She also conducts workshops and seminars for University faculty and personnel on legal issues relevant to their areas.

Ms. Treber is the recipient of the University System of Maryland Board of Regents Award for Extraordinary Public Service to the University and the Greater Community. She holds a B.A. degree from Bryn Mawr College and a J.D. from George Washington University. She is a member of the bars of Maryland, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia.

Before moving to Salisbury in 2017, Ms. Treber served the community of Frostburg for many years on numerous non-profit boards and community organizations, including the Allegany Law Foundation, Allegany County Habitat for Humanity, the Foundation for Frostburg, and Frostburg Soroptimist International. She was an elected member of the Allegany County school board from 2006-2010. Ms. Treber is a long time member of the executive committee of the Friends Committee on National Legislation, located in Washington, D.C. and currently serves as its treasurer. As chair of her local AFS-USA chapter, an international student exchange program, Ms. Treber was instrumental in bringing hundreds of students to her area; and she and her family have hosted six international students who each spent a year at their home in Frostburg. Her dedication to the AFS program stems from her strong belief in the benefits that rural communities and local students experience through international and cultural exchange.

Her favorite pastimes include playing the viola with the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra and studying Portuguese with her teacher in Lisbon. She and her husband David are thrilled to have relocated to Salisbury University and the Eastern Shore. They have two sons who enjoy visiting them in their new home close to the ocean.

Karen Treber

Dr. Dane Foust was named vice president of student affairs at Salisbury University in March 2012. He held the position in an interim capacity since June 2011. To the division and University, he brings significant knowledge of the campus community, enrollment management, assessment, retention, housing and all areas of student support.

Beginning in 2006, Foust served as SU’s associate vice president of student affairs. He provided leadership in the division’s assessment and fiscal management areas, as well as directly overseeing Student Counseling, Student Health, Career and Disability services. He has gained the respect of the campus community for his commitment to enhancing the quality of student and University life.

Foust has been lauded for his leadership in the development of the Strategic Enrollment Plan, the division’s first outcomes-based Strategic Plan and a comprehensive campus wellness program. He has played a significant role in the development of Sea Gull Square and residence hall renovation, emergency preparedness, and other efforts in support of the mission and goals of the University.

In the greater community, he has served with Shore Leadership and is a member of the board of directors of Village of Hope. He was selected for the Leadership Maryland Class of 2011, one of 52 top-level executives from the public and private sectors who examine the critical issues facing Maryland. He also is active as an accreditor for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Foust is currently an affiliate faculty member in UMES’ Doctor of Education Leadership Program.

Prior to joining the SU community, he held progressively responsible positions at Mount Aloysius College in Pennsylvania, the Semester at Sea program sponsored by University of Pittsburgh, The State University of New York College at Oneonta, and The Pennsylvania State University.

Foust holds a Doctor of Education from the Pennsylvania State University in higher education administration, a Master of Arts from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in student affairs in higher education and a bachelor’s degree from IUP in journalism.

Dane Foust

Maarten Pereboom

Prior to SU, Martino served as director of the University Honors Program and professor of English at Southern New Hampshire University. He earned his Ph.D. in comparative literature from Binghamton University (SUNY) in 2003. Martino has extensive engagement with the regional and national Honors community, serving as president of the Northeast Regional Honors Council from 2016 to 2017 and on the Publications Board of the National Collegiate Honors Council.

Andrew Martino

Kelly Fiala is the current Founding Dean of the College of Health and Human Services at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university). Kelly previously worked as a Dean at [Salisbury University](/org/salisbury-university).

Kelly Fiala has a PhD in Educational Psychology from the [University of Connecticut](/org/university-of-connecticut). Kelly also has an MS in Sports Studies from Bemidji State University, and a BS in Biomedical Sciences from Western Michigan University.

Their manager is Karen Olmstead, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. They are on a team with Tim Robinson - Chair of the Adjunct Faculty Caucus, Michael Scott - Dean of the Henson School of Science and Technology, and Clifton Griffin - Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

Leadership Team

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Founding Team

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