Aurora University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aurora University has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, academic strategy, institutional legacy, and administrative leadership.

Committed to academic excellence, Aurora University provides transformative educational opportunities through a private, nonprofit framework that empowers students to achieve professional success and personal growth within a supportive, fully accredited campus environment.

Leadership Roles at Aurora University

  • President - Susana Rivera-Mills
  • President Emerita - Rebecca Sherrick
  • President - Frank Voris
  • Chief Information Officer - Hurstel Howard
  • Susana Rivera-Mills - President

    Susana Rivera-Mills, the President at Aurora University, oversees the comprehensive strategic vision and academic direction of the institution. Rivera-Mills manages the alignment of university programs with current market demands to ensure student readiness for the modern workforce. By fostering partnerships with regional industry leaders, the President expands experiential learning opportunities for the student body. This leadership role requires constant engagement with the Board of Trustees to secure long-term financial sustainability and institutional growth. Susana Rivera-Mills drives initiatives focused on student retention and academic success, ensuring that the university remains a premier destination for higher education. Through the promotion of inclusive campus policies, the President cultivates an environment conducive to intellectual inquiry and personal development. Ultimately, Rivera-Mills guides the university toward achieving its long-term goals while maintaining the core values of a private, nonprofit, accredited educational institution.

    Rebecca Sherrick - President Emerita

    Rebecca Sherrick, the President Emerita at Aurora University, provides historical context and strategic counsel to the current leadership team regarding long-term institutional development. Sherrick supports the preservation of the university's core mission and values, ensuring continuity in the academic culture established since the founding in 1893. By advising on major capital projects and donor relations, the President Emerita strengthens the financial foundation of the institution. This leadership role involves mentoring emerging administrators and facilitating smooth transitions during periods of organizational change. Rebecca Sherrick drives the advancement of the university's reputation within the broader higher education landscape through sustained advocacy and community engagement. Through the application of deep institutional knowledge, the President Emerita assists in navigating complex regulatory environments and accreditation processes. Ultimately, Sherrick secures the legacy of the university while promoting ongoing innovation in the delivery of private, nonprofit educational services.

    Frank Voris - President

    Frank Voris, the President at Aurora University, manages the operational execution of the university's administrative and fiscal policies. Voris directs the allocation of resources across various departments to maximize the impact of the institution's educational offerings. By overseeing the implementation of campus-wide efficiency programs, the President ensures that the university maintains its commitment to affordability and accessibility. This leadership role involves coordinating with the executive cabinet to address the evolving needs of the student population and the faculty. Frank Voris drives the development of infrastructure projects that enhance the physical and digital learning environments on campus. Through the rigorous monitoring of key performance indicators, the President maintains the financial health of the institution. Ultimately, Voris executes the strategic plan to ensure that the university continues to provide a high-quality, accredited education that prepares students for successful careers in a competitive global economy.

    Hurstel Howard - Chief Information Officer

    Hurstel Howard, the Chief Information Officer at Aurora University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the entire campus community. Howard architects secure, scalable network solutions that facilitate seamless communication between faculty, staff, and students across all academic departments. By modernizing data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures compliance with federal privacy standards while optimizing the delivery of online learning resources. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with academic deans to integrate emerging educational technologies into the classroom experience. Hurstel Howard drives the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional assets from evolving digital threats. Through the strategic deployment of enterprise software, the Chief Information Officer enhances operational efficiency across the university. Ultimately, Howard maintains the technological backbone necessary for the institution to fulfill the mission of providing high-quality, accessible higher education to a diverse student population.
    Hurstel Howard

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Aurora University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Aurora University?
    Aurora University is led by Susana Rivera-Mills (President), along with executives such as Rebecca Sherrick (President Emerita) and Frank Voris (President).
    Who is part of Aurora University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Aurora University includes leaders such as Susana Rivera-Mills (President), Rebecca Sherrick (President Emerita), Frank Voris (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Aurora University have?
    Aurora University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Aurora University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Aurora University includes roles such as President, President Emerita, President, Chief Information Officer.