Barnard College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Barnard College has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, finance, and student leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Barnard College provides a rigorous liberal arts education empowering women to lead and innovate in a rapidly changing world.

Leadership Roles at Barnard College

  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Sharon Watkins
  • President - Mariame Sissoko
  • President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive - Noelle Hamah-Kilik
  • President - Desiree Burckin
  • Co-President - Cherie Sun
  • President - Kirk O'Brien
  • Class President - Tiferet Grossman
  • Senior Class President - Magan Chin
  • Chief of Staff - Laura Maloney
  • Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Health and Wellness - Virginia Ryan
  • Sharon Watkins - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Sharon Watkins, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Barnard College, directs all financial operations, fiscal planning, and resource management for the institution. This executive leadership position involves overseeing budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial reporting to ensure the fiscal health and sustainability of the college. Watkins develops and implements financial strategies that align with Barnard College's academic and strategic objectives, managing investments and optimizing revenue streams. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer is responsible for maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations. Sharon Watkins's financial acumen is crucial for supporting the college's growth and its commitment to providing a world-class liberal arts education in New York City.

    Mariame Sissoko - President

    Mariame Sissoko, the President at Barnard College, leads the institution's strategic direction, academic vision, and overall operational management. This paramount role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and advancing the college's mission to empower women through liberal arts education. Sissoko collaborates closely with faculty, staff, students, and the Board of Trustees to drive innovation and ensure the college's continued success and relevance. The President oversees all major initiatives, including curriculum development, campus expansion, and external relations, positioning Barnard College as a leader in higher education. Mariame Sissoko's leadership guides the institution's commitment to intellectual rigor and social impact, shaping the future for its students.

    Noelle Hamah-Kilik - President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive

    Noelle Hamah-Kilik, the President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive at Barnard College, drives strategic leadership at the intersection of scientific advancement and public policy discourse. This dual role involves guiding institutional priorities while also shaping the college's engagement with critical science and policy issues. Hamah-Kilik oversees initiatives that promote interdisciplinary research and foster informed public dialogue on complex challenges. The President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive works to integrate scientific understanding with policy implications, ensuring Barnard College remains at the forefront of addressing societal needs. Noelle Hamah-Kilik's leadership enhances the college's capacity to contribute meaningfully to scientific and policy discussions globally.

    Desiree Burckin - President

    Desiree Burckin, the President at Barnard College, directs the institution's overarching strategic vision and operational framework, ensuring alignment with its core mission. This leadership position involves setting institutional goals, fostering academic innovation, and enhancing the overall student and faculty experience. Burckin collaborates with key stakeholders to advance the college's commitment to empowering women through a rigorous liberal arts education. The President oversees critical campus-wide initiatives, including curriculum enhancement and community engagement, reinforcing Barnard College's position as a leader in higher education. Desiree Burckin's strategic guidance is instrumental in navigating the evolving landscape of academia and maintaining the college's distinguished reputation.

    Cherie Sun - Co-President

    Cherie Sun, the Co-President at Barnard College, shares leadership responsibilities in guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational execution. This role involves collaborating on key initiatives to advance academic excellence and foster a vibrant campus community. Sun works closely with other executive leaders to ensure the effective implementation of college-wide programs and policies. The Co-President contributes to setting institutional priorities, focusing on enhancing the student experience and supporting faculty endeavors. Cherie Sun's collaborative leadership style supports Barnard College's mission of providing a transformative liberal arts education for women.

    Kirk O'Brien - President

    Kirk O'Brien, the President at Barnard College, leads the institution's strategic vision and operational management, ensuring the advancement of its educational mission. This executive role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering academic innovation, and enhancing the overall campus environment. O'Brien collaborates with faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees to drive progress and uphold Barnard College's commitment to empowering women through a rigorous liberal arts education. The President oversees critical initiatives that support student success and faculty development, reinforcing the college's standing in higher education. Kirk O'Brien's leadership guides Barnard College in its pursuit of academic excellence and its impact on society.

    Tiferet Grossman - Class President

    Tiferet Grossman, the Class President at Barnard College, represents the student body and advocates for student interests within the college administration. This leadership position involves organizing class initiatives, fostering community engagement, and ensuring student voices are heard in institutional decision-making processes. Grossman collaborates with fellow student leaders and college officials to address student concerns and enhance the overall campus experience. The Class President plays a vital role in promoting student welfare and facilitating communication between students and the college leadership. Tiferet Grossman's dedication supports Barnard College's commitment to a dynamic and responsive student environment.

    Magan Chin - Senior Class President

    Magan Chin, the Senior Class President at Barnard College, leads the senior class, championing student needs and coordinating key initiatives for the graduating cohort. This role involves representing senior interests to college administration, organizing celebratory events, and ensuring a smooth transition for graduating students. Chin collaborates with faculty and staff to facilitate academic and extracurricular programs that enhance the senior year experience. The Senior Class President plays a crucial part in fostering class unity and legacy. Magan Chin's leadership ensures that the senior class's final year at Barnard College is both memorable and impactful, reflecting the institution's values.

    Laura Maloney - Chief of Staff

    Laura Maloney, the Chief of Staff at Barnard College, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key administrative departments. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional projects, ensuring seamless execution of institutional priorities, and optimizing resource allocation to support the college's educational mission. Maloney manages critical communications between executive leadership and various campus stakeholders, fostering alignment and driving progress on long-term objectives. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to overseeing special projects that enhance the student experience and faculty support, directly contributing to the college's standing as a premier institution for women's liberal arts education. Laura Maloney's strategic oversight ensures that daily operations effectively support Barnard College's overarching goals in New York City.

    Virginia Ryan - Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Health and Wellness

    Virginia Ryan, the Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Health and Wellness at Barnard College, spearheads the operational framework supporting student well-being and campus health initiatives. This critical position involves managing the strategic implementation of health and wellness programs, ensuring comprehensive care and resources are available to the student body. Ryan coordinates with various health service providers and administrative offices to streamline access to support systems, fostering a holistic approach to student welfare. The Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Health and Wellness plays a pivotal role in developing and executing policies that promote a healthy and supportive campus environment. Virginia Ryan's dedication ensures that Barnard College students receive robust health and wellness services, integral to their academic success and personal development.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Barnard College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Barnard College?
    Barnard College is led by Sharon Watkins (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mariame Sissoko (President) and Noelle Hamah-Kilik (President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive).
    Who is part of Barnard College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Barnard College includes leaders such as Sharon Watkins (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Mariame Sissoko (President), Noelle Hamah-Kilik (President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Barnard College have?
    Barnard College has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Barnard College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Barnard College includes roles such as Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, President & Science & Public Policy Board Executive, President, Co-President.