Andrew Simon Appointed Executive Director of the Buccino Leadership Institute

Seton Hall University has appointed Andrew Simon, Ph.D., Psy.D., as executive director of the Buccino Leadership Institute, making permanent the leadership role he has held on an interim basis since July 2025.

A professor of psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, Simon brings more than 25 years of experience in organizational psychology, executive education and student development to the role. During his time as interim executive director, he has helped advance the Institute’s reach and strengthen its programs, including infusing ethical AI use into the curriculum.

“Dr. Simon has demonstrated the vision, dedication and leadership that make him the right person to lead the Buccino Leadership Institute into the future,” said Mary Kate Naatus, associate provost for Partnerships and Global Initiatives. “His experience in organizational psychology and executive education, combined with his deep understanding of leadership development, has helped position the Institute for continued growth and expansion into corporate training and development. We are excited to see the Buccino Leadership Institute continue to thrive under his continued leadership.”

Simon joined the Seton Hall faculty more than two decades ago and has contributed to leadership education both inside and outside the classroom. Since 2023, he has served as Faculty Fellow for Leadership and Professional Development in the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies, where he developed the Buccino Leadership Institute’s first branded executive education courses. He has also served as a guest lecturer and adviser to Buccino students.

His professional experience includes senior roles in executive education at The Wharton School, curriculum development for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and service as president of the International Council of Psychologists. His areas of expertise include leadership, team dynamics, organizational effectiveness and sport performance.

“I am honored to continue leading the Buccino Leadership Institute and to build on the strong foundation established over more than 30 years,” said Simon. “The Institute provides students with an exceptional opportunity to develop as leaders through meaningful experiences, coaching and engagement with a community of peers, alumni and professionals. I look forward to expanding those opportunities and continuing to strengthen the Institute’s impact.”

Under Simon’s leadership, the Institute has continued to expand experiential learning opportunities that connect leadership development with real-world experiences. In April, Buccino students participated in the Institute’s third annual experiential learning trip to Washington, D.C., visiting the Supreme Court, FBI Headquarters and the Pentagon and engaging with professionals about leadership in government, national security and other complex environments.

Simon’s permanent appointment comes as the Buccino Leadership Institute continues to build on more than three decades of leadership education at Seton Hall. The undergraduate program combines academic coursework, leadership coaching, experiential learning and professional development to prepare students to lead with purpose across industries and communities.

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