Marsha Philemon, Ph.D.

Director of Student Success Initiatives
College of Human Development Culture and Media

Marsha Philemon, Ph.D. is the Director of Student Success Initiatives in the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media. In this role, Dr. Philemon develops, implements, and monitors multi-level initiatives to support undergraduate and graduate student success. She drives student success and retention in collaboration with faculty and staff to implement evidence-based programs, data-driven interventions, and faculty training.

Marsha Philemon, Ph.D., has been part of the Seton Hall University community since 2007. Prior to this role, Philemon spent over fifteen years in Information Technology leadership at Seton Hall, most recently as Assistant Director of Technology Operations Management. She also served as Adjunct Faculty in the English as a Second Language Program.

Dr. Philemon's doctoral research “Leading Beyond Concrete Ceilings: The Lived Experiences of African American Women Presidents at Predominantly White Institutions,” explores the ascension and lived experiences of African American women presidents at predominantly white institutions, examining systemic barriers, institutional support structures, and recommendations for advancing Black women in senior leadership. At the heart of her research and professional practice is a commitment to equity, servant leadership, and creating intentional systems that help students achieve their goals.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Philemon is a three-time Seton Hall University alumna, holding a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, a Master's in Healthcare Administration, and a B.A. in Psychology. She is a Board Member of the NJ ACE Women's Network and a recipient of the 2025 Achievement Award from the NJ Black Women's Collective Leadership Institute. Outside of her service in the broader community, Dr. Philemon is an active leader across the Seton Hall University campus. Her institutional commitment includes serving in key initiatives such as Campus Belonging & Community, the Servant Leaders Award, the Council for Student Success, and Strategic Plan.