PURCHASE, NY, September 2026 – Manhattanville University is pleased to announce the establishment of the President's Executive Leadership Council (PELC), an advisory body created to bring together influential leaders from across industries to help guide the University's strategic direction and deepen its connections to the evolving workforce.
Established by Manhattanville University President Frank Sánchez, PhD, the PELC will engage directly with University leadership on key opportunities and challenges facing higher education. Drawing on the expertise of leaders in business, technology, healthcare, law, and philanthropy, the council will provide insights into emerging trends to help ensure Manhattanville's academic programs and student experiences remain aligned with workforce demands.
"The President's Executive Leadership Council represents an important step forward in strengthening the bridge between higher education and industry," said Dr. Sánchez. "At a time of rapid transformation, the perspectives and guidance of accomplished leaders will help ensure Manhattanville continues to innovate, remain relevant, and expand opportunities for our students."
The PELC is designed to function as both a forum for meaningful exchange and a catalyst for strengthening the University's network. Members will serve as ambassadors for Manhattanville, helping to build a dynamic, opportunity-rich community for students and alumni while advancing the University's mission and long-term vision.
The President's Executive Leadership Council is chaired by two distinguished alumni: Linda Kirkpatrick '99, Chief Services Officer at Mastercard; and Nicolas Brown '03, president of the Americas at McLaren Automotive.
In addition, founding members of the PELC include Manhattanville Board member John M. Tolomer, independent business consultant; Kerry Kennedy, president of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights; and A.J. Loiacono '94, CEO of Judi Health.
"I'm delighted to help Manhattanville University achieve its mission to further connect academics and industry," said Kirkpatrick. "This is a wonderful opportunity to use my expertise to help guide an institution I care about very much and to advise the University on current and emerging industry trends."
"I'm honored to serve as the co-chair of this council," said Brown, who recently addressed Manhattanville's undergraduate students at the 2026 Commencement ceremony. "I look forward to cultivating a group of leaders who are invested in Manhattanville's continued growth."
Members of the PELC will:
Through these efforts, the PELC will play a critical role in ensuring Manhattanville remains responsive to global trends while enhancing career pathways and opportunities for future generations of Valiants.
The creation of the President's Executive Leadership Council underscores Manhattanville University's commitment to innovation, partnership, and student success. By engaging leaders across sectors, the University aims to strengthen its impact locally and nationally while preparing students to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
About Manhattanville University
Manhattanville University (formerly Manhattanville College) is a private liberal arts institution dedicated to academic excellence, purposeful education, and social responsibility. "U.S. News and World Report" ranks Manhattanville among the Top Performers of Social Mobility in Regional Universities North. The university has been recognized among the best colleges in The Princeton Review for close to 20 years. Located 30 miles from New York City on a 100-acre suburban campus in the heart of Westchester County, Manhattanville enables easy access to entertainment offerings, educational resources, and business opportunities for its diverse student body. The university serves more than 1,400 undergraduate students and nearly 1,000 graduate students from more than 44 countries and 33 states. Founded in 1841, the university offers more than 75 undergraduate and graduate areas of study in the arts and sciences, education, nursing and health sciences, business, and creative writing, as well as continuing and executive education programs. Graduate students can choose from over 70 graduate and certificate programs. Extracurricular offerings include more than 45 clubs and activities, and 23 NCAA Division III teams. For more information, visit mville.edu
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