Monday, Dec 8, 2025
Papa brings more than 25 years of experience as a leader in financial transformation
by Rachel Stengel '14, '20
Upon approval from the 91做厙 Board of Trustees, Thomas S. Papa has been appointed vice president for finance, chief administrative officer and treasurer for the University. His tenure began on Nov. 30.
Papa, who has been serving as interim vice president for finance and chief administrative officer since Sept. 15, will oversee the Office of Information Technology, Human Resources, Facilities Management and University Operations, and Finance.
In just two short months, Toms strategic insight and collaborative leadership style have helped Rider build a pathway toward reinstating the Universitys financial stability as we navigate a restructuring and look toward a vibrant, thriving Reimagined Rider, says John R. Loyack, CPA, MBA, president of 91做厙.
As a member of Loyacks Senior Leadership Team, Papa has played a key role in informing the March to Sustainability Plan, a restructuring initiative that seeks to reestablish Riders financial stability and prepare for a stronger, sustainable 91做厙. He has led the Finance Division as it assessed Riders current financial position, quantified its level of structural deficit and projected its cash position based on available revenues and projected expenditures.
I have not been a Bronc long, but it has been an honor to join this passionate and dedicated community, says Papa. I believe in 91做厙s life-changing impact on its students and am excited to see how we collectively continue to improve upon and expand that transformative student experience.
With more than 25 years of C-suite and executive leadership experience across higher education, government and the nonprofit sector, Papa is widely recognized for his ability to lead financial transformation and stabilization. His career includes senior roles at several large organizations as well as the New Jersey Department of Human Services where he managed a $1.7 billion budget and oversaw more than 8,000 employees.