Experience: Joan Chrestay is the vice president for external affairs at Saint Joseph's University. A member of the President's Cabinet since her arrival in 2004, Chrestay is responsible for the external image of the University. In addition to strategic marketing and communications, her portfolio includes government and community relations, and design and print operations. Chrestay has extensive experience in public policy, organizational dynamics and management, specializing in higher education, health care, and social services. Over the past 25 years she has held senior administrative positions in health, education, and government, raising millions to launch and expand innovative programs. Known for negotiating solutions to complex problems, she has worked extensively with public officials and business and community leaders. Previously the sole proprietor of a consulting practice, Chrestay specialized in strategic planning, analysis of social service organizations and delivery systems, project management, and fundraising. Her clients included private foundations, universities, and NGO's. Chrestay has been an active member of professional associations and has volunteered in numerous nonprofit organizations during her career with a special focus on public policy, women, and children. Chrestay has a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University and an MSW from Temple University in planning. She has attended the Harvard Kennedy School Women in Power Leadership for a New Era Executive Education program and the Harvard School of Education Institute for Educational Management Executive Education program. She currently takes classes at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.