This story appears in the December 2025 edition of Chapman Magazine.
Over the last few months, Chapman has seen pivotal leadership transitions, historic philanthropic support, and a rise in national rankings. As the university moves toward a bold new chapter, these milestones reflect a campus community energized by its leadership and continued forward momentum. Here are some of the most exciting updates shaping Chapman’s next era.
AMY ROGAN-MEHTA PROMOTED TO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OF STAFF
Amy Rogan-Mehta has been promoted to executive vice president and chief of staff. In this role, she serves as a chief adviser to the president and oversees a broad portfolio that spans key operational and student-focused areas across the university including enrollment, student affairs, and athletics. She also helps lead and coordinate relations with the board of trustees, board of governors, and the president’s cabinet.
Rogan-Mehta has held several leadership roles at Chapman, most recently serving as senior vice president of university advancement. During her tenure, she helped guide the university to record levels of philanthropic engagement, raising more than $400 million toward Chapman’s $500 million campaign goal. She previously served as associate dean for administration at the Fowler School of Law, where she oversaw admissions, budgeting, marketing, and student affairs, helping achieve the strongest classes in the school’s history.
MIKE IBBA APPOINTED PROVOST, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER
Following a comprehensive national search, Dr. Mike Ibba has been named Chapman’s next provost, executive vice president, and chief academic officer. An internationally recognized microbiologist and researcher, Dr. Ibba has served as interim provost since early this year and as dean of the Schmid College of Science and Technology since joining Chapman from The Ohio State University.
Under his leadership, Schmid College achieved a 9% increase in student enrollment, an 18% increase in credits taught, and a 300% increase in research grant funding. He also launched the “Schmidterns” paid internship program, expanded undergraduate research opportunities, and helped develop a new doctoral program in math, physics, and philosophy. Dr. Ibba is working closely with faculty leadership to coordinate and advance Chapman’s comprehensive AI strategy, alongside other initiatives central to enriching student learning.
JESSICA BERGER APPOINTED EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
Following a national search, Jessica Berger has been appointed Chapman’s next executive vice president and chief advancement officer. In this role, she is focused on building relationships, serving students, and continuing the university’s strong forward momentum. She recently announced a new partnership with the Marymount Education Foundation, an organization dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of Marymount California University by supporting students with financial resources for higher education through its flagship Marymount Scholars Program (see page 9.)
Berger brings nearly two decades of advancement and fundraising leadership across multiple institutions. Most recently, she served as vice president for university advancement and executive director of the foundation at California State University San Marcos. Under her leadership, CSUSM achieved a record-breaking year in 2024, raising more than $26 million and securing the institution’s first-ever eight-figure gifts.