Boise State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Boise State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, human resources, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Boise State University fosters a culture of creativity and innovation, empowering diverse learners to achieve their career aspirations and contribute to the broader community.

Leadership Roles at Boise State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Patrick Fithen
  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Powell
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Stacy Pearson
  • Director and Chief Financial Officer - Niki Gamez
  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Jeffrey Banka
  • Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Jo Dinucci
  • Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer - Karen Toon
  • Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer - Brian Ray
  • Executive Director & Chief Information Officer - David O'Neill
  • Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer - Brian Bolt
  • Patrick Fithen - Chief Executive Officer

    Patrick Fithen, the Chief Executive Officer at Boise State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Fithen guides the university's commitment to Blue Turf Thinking, championing an environment that cultivates creativity and drives innovative solutions across all academic and administrative departments. This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships within the Boise community and beyond, ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. Overseeing the institution's long-term development, Patrick Fithen ensures alignment with the core mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing student success metrics and expanding the university's research capabilities, solidifying its position as a leading metropolitan research university.

    Paul Powell - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Powell, the Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, manages the comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy of the institution. Powell oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's financial health and sustainability. This role is critical in supporting the diverse graduate and undergraduate degree programs, as well as the university's extensive research initiatives. By implementing robust financial controls and exploring new revenue streams, Paul Powell directly contributes to the university's ability to serve a wide range of students, including new, transfer, and international learners. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing endowments, investments, and capital expenditures, all while adhering to strict regulatory compliance and institutional policies.

    Stacy Pearson - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Stacy Pearson, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, provides critical oversight and management of the university's financial activities during a transitional period. Pearson ensures the continuity of essential financial services, including accounting, payroll, and financial reporting, maintaining operational stability. This position supports the university's mission to deliver diverse graduate and undergraduate degrees by managing fiscal resources effectively. Stacy Pearson's responsibilities include collaborating with various departments to optimize spending and identify efficiencies, thereby reinforcing the institution's commitment to student success. The Interim Chief Financial Officer's focus is on maintaining sound financial practices and supporting strategic initiatives that advance the university's educational and research objectives.

    Niki Gamez - Director and Chief Financial Officer

    Niki Gamez, the Director and Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, leads the financial direction and administrative functions critical to the university's operations. Gamez integrates financial strategy with institutional goals, ensuring resources are allocated to support academic excellence and student development. This dual role involves overseeing financial planning, analysis, and reporting, while also directing key administrative departments that facilitate university-wide operations. Niki Gamez's leadership ensures that the university can effectively cater to a diverse student body and maintain its commitment to innovative research. The Director and Chief Financial Officer's strategic insights are vital for navigating the complex financial landscape of higher education and supporting the university's vibrant campus life.

    Jeffrey Banka - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Jeffrey Banka, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing the institution's extensive financial portfolio. Banka plays a key role in developing and implementing financial policies and procedures that enhance operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility. This position is integral to overseeing daily financial activities, including treasury management, financial systems, and compliance with all relevant regulations. Jeffrey Banka's contributions are essential for maintaining the university's financial integrity and supporting its mission to provide accessible education and foster groundbreaking research. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer works closely with various university units to ensure sound financial stewardship and support strategic growth initiatives.

    Jo Dinucci - Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Jo Dinucci, the Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Boise State University, provides critical leadership for the university's financial operations and administrative services during a period of transition. Dinucci ensures the effective management of financial resources, overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting to maintain institutional stability and support strategic objectives. This role is essential for upholding the university's commitment to providing accessible graduate and undergraduate degrees and fostering a dynamic research environment. Jo Dinucci's focus includes optimizing financial processes and supporting initiatives that enhance student success and operational efficiency. The Interim Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer's guidance is vital for navigating financial complexities and ensuring sound fiscal stewardship.

    Karen Toon - Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer

    Karen Toon, the Assistant Associate VP, Management To & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, directs the strategic implementation and management of the university's information technology infrastructure and services. Toon oversees all aspects of technology operations, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic, research, and administrative functions. This leadership position is crucial for advancing the university's commitment to Blue Turf Thinking by leveraging technology to foster innovation and enhance the student experience. Karen Toon's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, developing long-term technology roadmaps, and ensuring the university remains at the forefront of digital transformation in higher education. The Chief Information Officer's vision guides the integration of technology to support student success and institutional growth.

    Brian Ray - Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brian Ray, the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer at Boise State University, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of human resources functions across the institution. Ray oversees key HR initiatives, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment for all faculty and staff. This role is vital in attracting and retaining the talent necessary to uphold the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success. Brian Ray's leadership focuses on developing and implementing HR policies that align with the university's mission and values, fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer plays a critical part in employee development and organizational effectiveness.

    David O'Neill - Executive Director & Chief Information Officer

    David O'Neill, the Executive Director & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, leads the comprehensive technology strategy and infrastructure that underpins the university's educational and research endeavors. O'Neill is responsible for overseeing the development and deployment of innovative IT solutions that enhance learning, streamline administrative processes, and support the university's commitment to Blue Turf Thinking. This executive role involves managing significant technology investments, ensuring data security, and driving digital transformation initiatives across campus. David O'Neill's leadership ensures that Boise State University maintains a cutting-edge technological environment, empowering students and faculty to achieve their full potential and contributing to the university's reputation as a forward-thinking institution.

    Brian Bolt - Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer

    Brian Bolt, the Interim Associate VP & Chief Information Officer at Boise State University, provides essential leadership for the university's information technology division. Bolt oversees the strategic planning and execution of IT services, ensuring the reliability and security of systems that support academic programs, research activities, and administrative functions. This role is crucial for advancing the university's technological capabilities and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and student success. Brian Bolt's responsibilities include managing IT infrastructure, supporting digital learning platforms, and driving initiatives that enhance the overall user experience for students, faculty, and staff. The Chief Information Officer's interim leadership ensures continuity and strategic progress in technology operations.
    Brian Bolt

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Boise State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Boise State University?
    Boise State University is led by Patrick Fithen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Paul Powell (Chief Financial Officer) and Stacy Pearson (Interim Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Boise State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Boise State University includes leaders such as Patrick Fithen (Chief Executive Officer), Paul Powell (Chief Financial Officer), Stacy Pearson (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Boise State University have?
    Boise State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Boise State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Boise State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Director and Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Financial Officer.