Iona University has announced the addition of several distinguished professionals and alumni to its Board of Trustees. Each individual brings a wealth of experience and expertise, further strengthening Iona’s strategic vision under President Seamus Carey, Ph.D.

The new and returning Trustees represent various industries and will play a critical role in leading and governing Iona as it continues on its path of innovation and growth. Since 2019, new student enrollment has increased by over 40 percent, with the university welcoming its largest incoming class in two decades this fall.

“On behalf of Iona University, it is an honor to welcome these exceptional individuals to our Board of Trustees,” Carey said. “Their insights will be invaluable as we continue to advance the Iona mission and develop the next generation of leaders.”

The newly appointed members include:

**Senior Vice President, Mastercard**

Abbruzzese’s career at Mastercard spans nearly two decades, recognized for her leadership in financial and strategic planning, business process improvement, digital innovation, and risk management. She currently serves as Senior Vice President, North American Franchise since 2022.

**Strategic Advisor, GOLD SN**

Doyle is an accomplished executive with over 25 years in the fintech industry. He was previously Principle & President of CardWorks Acquiring before exiting in February 2022 to Blackstone.

**Advisory Director, Berkshire Partners; Chairman and CEO (retired), Visa**

Kelly is the retired Chairman and CEO of Visa. He joined Visa as CEO in 2016 and transitioned to Executive Chairman in 2023 before retiring in 2024. Kelly now serves as an Advisory Director at Berkshire Partners.

**Senior Managing Director (retired), TIAA**

McCabe's career spanned more than 30 years as a senior financial services executive. Known for her values-based leadership, she helped over 1.5 million individuals achieve their financial goals during her tenure at TIAA.

**President and Chief Executive Officer (retired), Star Marketing Services – Omnicom**

McNally spent over four decades as a business executive with his last three decades at Omnicom Group. His most recent role was President and CEO of Star Marketing Services division.

**President and COO, Griffon Corporation**

Mehmel currently serves as President and Chief Operating Officer of Griffon Corporation. His career includes significant roles within the Aerospace & Defense industry.

**President of Content Distribution, NBC Universal**

Schnaars oversees distribution and monetization efforts for NBCUniversal’s portfolio including broadcast stations and cable networks. He played a key role in launching NBCU’s direct-to-consumer service Peacock.

In addition to these appointments, Anita Iaco ’85 was elected to serve as the Alumni Representative to the Board effective July 1, 2024.

Founded in 1940, Iona University is inspired by Blessed Edmund Rice's legacy with nearly 4,000 students enrolled across its New Rochelle campus (45 acres) and Bronxville campus (28 acres). The institution recently opened a new campus in County Mayo, Ireland on the historic Westport House Estate.

Iona students benefit from small class sizes across three schools: School of Arts & Science; LaPenta School of Business; NewYork-Presbyterian Iona School of Health Sciences; alongside dynamic programs from Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. The Gabelli Center for Teaching & Learning reinforces Iona’s commitment to academic excellence.

Reflecting its momentum, Iona has been included on prestigious national lists such as The Princeton Review's “Best 390 Colleges”, The Wall Street Journal's “The Best Colleges in the U.S.” list, Forbes' “America’s Top Colleges”, among others recognizing long-term return on investment by Georgetown University's Center on Education and Workforce (CEW).

“Iona has enjoyed tremendous success in recent years,” Carey stated. “We look forward to building upon it with our distinguished Board's vision and support.”