College of Business, Engineering, and Technology Academic Leadership Team

John Cicero, Ph.D.

Provost, National University; Acting Dean, College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

[email protected]
858-642-8075

John Cicero, Ph.D.

Provost, National University; Acting Dean, College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

Dr. John Cicero is a career educator with over 40 years of experience in higher education, including more than two decades as a professor and over 20 years in senior academic leadership. He joined National University in 2012 as Dean of the School of Engineering and Computing and was appointed Vice Provost of Academic and Faculty Affairs in 2018. As Provost, Dr. Cicero leads the academic mission of the university, focusing on delivering accessible, high-quality student experiences and fostering a culture of equity, inclusion, and innovation. With a background in electrical engineering, he taught computer science and authored research on topics such as robotics and predictive failure analysis for aircraft. Dr. Cicero is committed to supporting lifelong learners and empowering students through meaningful learning opportunities. He holds a bachelor’s and doctorate from the Illinois Institute of Technology and a master’s degree from Northwestern University.

James Aaron Brown, Doctorate of Strategic Leadership (DSL), MBA

Associate Dean of Students, College of Business, Engineering & Technology

[email protected]
858-309-3476

James Aaron Brown, Doctorate of Strategic Leadership (DSL), MBA

Associate Dean of Students, College of Business, Engineering & Technology

Dr. Aaron Brown serves as the Associate Dean of Students for the College of Business, Engineering & Technology. He has 15 years of serving the student experience in higher education with roles in dormitory life, campus life and student government, freshmen orientation, and student leadership development. Dr. Brown holds a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and an MBA with a specialization in Finance. He also has previous experience as an entrepreneur and serving the Osage Nation with education and tutoring initiatives.

Randee L. Sanders, D. Mgt

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, School of Business and Economics; College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

[email protected]
443-961-6218

Randee L. Sanders, D. Mgt

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, School of Business and Economics College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

Dr. Randee L. Sanders is the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Full Professor, and Dissertation Chair in the School of Business and Economics at National University. With over 20 years of experience in leadership development and organizational engagement across industry and higher education, Dr. Sanders is dedicated to fostering a highly skilled and motivated workforce. She leverages strength-based approaches to drive innovation and achieve meaningful results in both individuals and organizations. Dr. Sanders holds a Doctor of Management from the University of Maryland University College, a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in the Inspector General track from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Seton Hall University. Her passion lies in educating and empowering the next generation of leaders in higher education and business, while also cultivating a positive and transformative learning environment.

David Hildebrandt, PhD

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, School of Technology & Engineering; Senator Emeritus; College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

[email protected]
928-693-8746

David Hildebrandt, PhD

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, School of Technology & Engineering Senator Emeritus College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

David Hildebrandt has a career that spans industry and academia. Prior to his academic career, David was a Systems Analyst, Entrepreneur, Director of Consulting for Gartner, Mobilization Manager for IBM Business Innovation Services, and a Senior Manager for Sun Microsystems. His work has taken him around the world and given him experience in high technology manufacturing, operating systems, global communications, and military systems. David has worked in higher education serving as a professor, dissertation committee member, Interim IRB Director, faculty coach, and in his current role as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for the School of Engineering and Technology. David was recognized by his peers for his service to the National University Senate with the title of Senator Emeritus.

Danielle Simons

Director of Academic Operations, College of Business, Engineering, and Technology



Danielle Simons

Director of Academic Operations, College of Business, Engineering, and Technology

Danielle Simons is a seasoned leader in higher education, recognized for her expertise in strategic management, operational excellence, and unwavering dedication to student success. Since joining National University in 2019, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing the college’s infrastructure and support services through her leadership in operations, faculty support, and fiscal management. Before her tenure at National University, Danielle held various leadership positions in higher education and the private sector, showcasing her adaptability and broad expertise. Her career began in compassionate service as a hospice nurse, reflecting a deep commitment to care that continues to inspire her work in education.