Boise State University Executive and Leadership Team

Patrick Fithen, the Chief Executive Officer at Boise State University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this metropolitan research institution. By championing Blue Turf Thinking, Fithen cultivates an environment where creativity and academic rigor intersect to solve complex societal challenges. The Chief Executive Officer manages high-level partnerships with regional stakeholders to ensure the university remains a catalyst for economic development. Through constant engagement with the Board, Fithen aligns institutional goals with the evolving needs of a diverse student body. Patrick Fithen also oversees the integration of research initiatives into the broader curriculum, ensuring that graduates possess the skills required for modern career success. By prioritizing student-centered innovation, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the university's reputation as a leader in public education. This leadership approach secures long-term institutional stability while expanding the reach of academic programs across the Pacific Northwest.

Paul Powell, the Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for this public research institution. Overseeing the allocation of resources, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that funding supports both undergraduate and graduate academic programs effectively. Powell monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to maintain the financial integrity of the university. By collaborating with department heads, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes operational efficiency across campus facilities. Paul Powell also evaluates long-term investment strategies to support the expansion of research infrastructure. This financial oversight directly impacts the ability of the university to provide high-quality support services to international and transfer students. Through rigorous fiscal planning, Powell secures the necessary capital to sustain the vibrant campus life that defines the institution. The Chief Financial Officer remains dedicated to transparent reporting and sustainable growth for the entire university community.

Niki Gamez, the Director and Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, architects the financial frameworks necessary for specialized academic departments. By focusing on grant management and research funding, the Director and Chief Financial Officer ensures that faculty members possess the resources required for innovative projects. Gamez monitors compliance with federal and state regulations to protect the fiscal standing of the university. This leadership role involves analyzing cost-benefit ratios for new degree programs to ensure alignment with market demand. Niki Gamez also coordinates with external auditors to maintain rigorous financial standards. By streamlining administrative processes, the Director and Chief Financial Officer reduces overhead costs, allowing for increased investment in student success initiatives. Through precise financial modeling, Gamez supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. This role remains vital for maintaining the operational agility required in a competitive metropolitan research environment.

Stacy Pearson, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, executes short-term fiscal strategies to maintain operational continuity. Overseeing the daily financial operations, the Interim Chief Financial Officer manages cash flow and liquidity to support ongoing campus activities. Pearson evaluates current budgetary performance to identify areas for immediate improvement and cost reduction. By working closely with the executive team, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial decisions align with the broader mission of the university. Stacy Pearson also facilitates communication between financial departments and the Board regarding fiscal health. This leadership role involves stabilizing financial systems during periods of transition to ensure that student services remain uninterrupted. Through careful monitoring of institutional assets, Pearson preserves the financial foundation of the university. The Interim Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary oversight to keep the institution on a path of fiscal responsibility and academic growth.

Jo Dinucci, the Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, directs the integration of financial administration with broader institutional goals. Overseeing the administrative infrastructure, the Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer ensures that fiscal policies support the diverse needs of the student population. Dinucci manages the complex interplay between departmental budgets and university-wide strategic initiatives. By optimizing administrative workflows, the Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer enhances the efficiency of campus operations. Jo Dinucci also leads efforts to modernize financial reporting systems, providing stakeholders with accurate data for decision-making. This leadership role involves balancing immediate financial requirements with the long-term vision of the university. Through strategic resource management, Dinucci supports the commitment to student success and career readiness. The Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal discipline required to sustain a premier metropolitan research institution.

Jeff Banka, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, supports the fiscal planning and budgetary analysis required for institutional growth. Overseeing the detailed financial reporting, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer ensures that all departments adhere to established fiscal guidelines. Banka assists in the development of long-term financial models that account for enrollment trends and research funding. By providing data-driven insights, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer helps the executive team make informed decisions regarding resource allocation. Jeff Banka also manages the internal audit processes to ensure transparency and accountability across the university. This leadership role involves working with various stakeholders to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising academic quality. Through meticulous financial oversight, Banka contributes to the stability and success of the institution. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer remains committed to maintaining the financial health necessary to support the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education.

Brian Ray, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Boise State University, manages the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the institution. Overseeing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts top-tier talent to support its research mission. Ray implements professional development programs that foster a culture of innovation and Blue Turf Thinking. By aligning human capital strategies with institutional goals, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer improves employee engagement and retention. Brian Ray also monitors compliance with labor regulations and internal policies to maintain a fair and productive work environment. This leadership role involves collaborating with department heads to address staffing needs across various academic and administrative units. Through effective personnel management, Ray supports the overall success of the university. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer remains focused on building a diverse and capable workforce that drives academic excellence.

Brian Bolt, the Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the campus. Overseeing the implementation of advanced computing systems, the Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge research tools. Bolt manages the cybersecurity protocols necessary to protect sensitive institutional data. By aligning IT initiatives with academic requirements, the Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer enhances the digital learning experience for all students. Brian Bolt also coordinates with administrative departments to streamline data management processes. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to maintain the university's competitive edge in the digital landscape. Through robust network management, Bolt supports the seamless delivery of online and hybrid degree programs. The Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer remains dedicated to providing a secure and innovative technological environment for the entire university community.

Karen Toon, the Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, architects the management systems that govern information technology operations. Overseeing the integration of administrative software, the Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer ensures that data flows efficiently between departments. Toon manages the lifecycle of IT projects, from initial planning to final implementation. By focusing on user experience, the Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer improves the accessibility of digital resources for students and staff. Karen Toon also collaborates with academic leaders to integrate technology into the classroom environment. This leadership role involves optimizing IT service delivery to meet the growing demands of a metropolitan research university. Through strategic planning, Toon ensures that the technological infrastructure remains scalable and reliable. The Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer remains focused on leveraging technology to enhance the overall student experience.

David O'Neill, the Executive Director & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, leads the strategic vision for the university's information technology ecosystem. Overseeing the deployment of enterprise-wide software solutions, the Executive Director & Chief Information Officer ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of digital innovation. O'Neill manages the strategic partnerships with technology vendors to secure the best tools for research and instruction. By aligning IT strategy with the university's mission, the Executive Director & Chief Information Officer supports the growth of academic programs. David O'Neill also oversees the development of disaster recovery plans to ensure the continuity of critical digital services. This leadership role involves mentoring IT staff and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Through visionary leadership, O'Neill drives the adoption of new technologies that enhance student success and institutional efficiency. The Executive Director & Chief Information Officer remains dedicated to building a robust and future-ready technological foundation.