Molloy University President James P. Lentini Wins 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education Award
Colleges Ranking Index by Rebellion Research
Molloy University President James P. Lentini has been named a recipient of the 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education Award by Insight Into Academia Magazine, a national recognition honoring senior academic leaders who are reshaping the future of higher education through innovation and strategic leadership.
The award spotlights university presidents, chancellors, and provosts whose initiatives have driven measurable institutional progress, strengthened community engagement, and expanded opportunity for students and employees. Lentini was selected for his leadership in advancing Molloy University’s academic profile, enrollment growth, and financial strength.
Since assuming the presidency in 2020, Lentini has overseen a period of significant transformation. Under his direction, Molloy achieved record enrollment levels, transitioned from college to university status, earned the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, and attained designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution. The university also nearly doubled its endowment during his tenure.
Molloy launched several new academic and operational initiatives during this period, including a Talent Solutions workforce development program designed to meet regional employer needs, a new physician assistant degree program, expanded online certificates and degree offerings, and the integration of artificial intelligence tools to support student recruitment and retention.
Lentini also guided the university through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, stabilizing finances while maintaining academic continuity. In 2026, The Wall Street Journal ranked Molloy 75th nationally and 6th in New York State, citing strong post-graduation outcomes.
Before joining Molloy, Lentini held senior leadership roles at Oakland University, where he helped establish and secure accreditation for the William Beaumont School of Medicine. He previously served as dean at Miami University in Ohio and at The College of New Jersey, and was a professor at Wayne State University, where he founded a music technology degree program.
In addition to his higher education leadership, Lentini is an accomplished composer and member of the Recording Academy with voting privileges for the Grammy Awards. He serves on several regional and national boards, including the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities and the Long Island Association.
Lentini will be featured with other award recipients in the March 2026 issue of Insight Into Academia Magazine.
