Georgian Court University announced Wednesday the appointment Eugene Cornacchia as interim president, effective Feb. 6.

From 2007 until last June, Cornacchia served as the president of Saint Peter’s University – he was the longest-serving president in the school’s history. Under his leadership, Saint Peter’s achieved key milestones, including its transition to a university, the introduction of its first doctoral programs, the creation of three new schools, and extensive construction enhancement projects.

Cornacchia brings decades of higher education experience to this role. He will guide the school through its transition following the retirement of former President Joseph Marbach. Cornacchia’s appointment will run until June 30, 2026.

“Dr. Marbach will retire on Feb. 5, 2025, after leading the university since 2015,” said Sister Michele Aronica, chair of the board of trustees. “He led the institution through nearly a decade of growth, program development, and change. The Board of Trustees extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Marbach for his commitment, dedication, and accomplishments contributing to advancing Georgian Court University.”

The university noted that Cornacchia’s appointment follows a thorough search process by the board of trustees – working with The RegistryHE, a ZRG company that is a leader in higher education interim placements.

Aronica said Georgian Court is delighted to welcome Cornacchia.

“His experience, leadership acumen, commitment to higher education and track record of success make him the ideal choice to guide Georgian Court at this important time in our history,” said Aronica. “We are grateful to the GCU community for their engagement throughout this search process.”

Editor’s note: This story was updated at 3:30 p.m. ET on Feb. 19, 2025, to update Joseph Marbach’s retirement date to Feb. 5, 2025, in the quote from Sister Michele Aronica.

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