Philomena V. Mantella is Grand Valley State University’s fifth president and the first woman to hold the position. Mantella is a recognized leader in strategic planning, market expansion, and educational innovation. Her drive and expertise come from more than 30 years in higher education administration, serving as an officer at public and private universities in New York, New Jersey, Michigan, and Massachusetts.

She has a strong student-centered philosophy and a comprehensive understanding of both sides of the educational market–learners and employers. This has resulted in success for students and has increased the economic vitality of the markets served.

Prior to her appointment in 2019, Mantella served as senior vice president of Enrollment and Student Life at Northeastern University and chief executive officer of the university’s Lifelong Learning Network.

Mantella has a Ph.D. in college and university administration from Michigan State University and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work from Syracuse University.