Rider University appoints Ben Adams as chief information officer

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Rider University welcomes Ben Adams as its new chief information officer (CIO). Adams, a highly accomplished higher education technology executive, will begin on August 25, 2025. 

Adams brings more than two decades of experience leading digital innovation and transformation at colleges and universities across the country to Rider. Most recently, he served as CIO at the University of Saint Francis in Indiana, where he led a wide range of initiatives, including cloud migration, data analytics modernization, immersive learning suite development and a comprehensive cybersecurity enhancement program. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Adams worked closely with campus leaders to align technology services with institutional strategy, and directly supported students, faculty and staff through hands-on onboarding and training. 

“Ben’s extensive experience in higher education and collaborative approach make him the perfect fit for Rider,” says Mike Reca, vice president for university operations. “As CIO, he will continue to enhance Rider’s technology capabilities.” 

Originally from the greater Philadelphia area, Adams holds a Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in technology management from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and School of Engineering. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Fordham University. Over the years, he has taught data analytics and technology ethics courses as an adjunct faculty member, reinforcing his commitment to the academic mission of higher education. 

Adam’s roots in education run deep. His father held leadership roles at Drexel University and Fairleigh Dickinson, while his mother served in a leadership role at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. Much of his family — including his children and mother — still resides in the Philadelphia area. A lifelong Eagles fan, Adam is excited to return to the region and looks forward to becoming an active part of the Rider community. 

“It’s a privilege to join an institution with such a clear strategic direction and student-first mindset,” Adams says. “Technology is most powerful when it’s aligned with purpose — and I’m thrilled to work with the Rider community to build on its strong foundation.”