John R. Loyack named as Rider University’s new President
Loyack is Rider University’s eighth president, bringing extensive experience from higher education and the corporate sector.
John R. Loyack
Rider University’s Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Loyack as the new institution’s next President, following a national search.
“John Loyack is a transformative, mission-driven leader with a record of innovation, strategic growth and unwavering dedication to student success, making him the ideal choice to lead Rider into its next chapter,” comments Joan C. Mazzotti, Chair of the Rider University Board of Trustees.
“As higher education is facing profound challenges today, we believe that his proven ability to navigate complexity, inspire community and champion innovation will guide Rider forward, ensuring its ability to thrive.”
Loyack previously served as President at Alvernia University in Reading, Pennsylvania from 2019 to 2024, where he led a university-wide transformation. This included expanding the university’s regional footprint, launching new academic programs and leading a $60 million fundraising campaign.
Under Loyack’s leadership, Alvernia achieved its first top national ranking and saw record-setting incoming student enrolment.
Before joining Alvernia, Loyack served as an Executive Vice President for business and administration at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where he successfully led financial and strategic reforms returning the organization to solvency.
Loyack also had more than 15 years of executive experience in the energy, manufacturing and non-profit sectors.
“I am deeply honored to be joining the Rider University family,” Loyack adds. “Rider has a strong legacy of educational excellence, engaged student learning and regional impact. I look forward to working collaboratively with the University’s students, faculty, staff, alumni and Board of Trustees to advance that legacy and shape an even more vibrant and successful future.”
Loyack will begin his presidency this summer following the retirement of Dr. Gregory G. Dell’Omo, who has served as Rider’s President since 2015.
