SUNY - Buffalo State Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

SUNY - Buffalo State has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, academic administration, institutional governance, and research oversight.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, SUNY - Buffalo State fosters intellectual growth through diverse undergraduate and graduate programs while maintaining a historic legacy of teacher training and regional development.

Leadership Roles at SUNY - Buffalo State

  • Chief Executive Officer - Curtis Haynes
  • President - Harvey Rice
  • President - Paul Bulger
  • President - Jennifer Burris
  • Curtis Haynes - Chief Executive Officer

    Curtis Haynes, the Chief Executive Officer at SUNY - Buffalo State, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term institutional planning. By aligning academic resources with regional workforce demands, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains a competitive edge in the higher education landscape. This leadership role involves managing complex budgetary frameworks and optimizing operational efficiency across the 125-acre campus. Curtis Haynes actively collaborates with the Board to secure funding for new undergraduate programs and honors options. Through rigorous oversight of administrative departments, the Chief Executive Officer drives institutional growth and maintains high standards of academic integrity. By fostering partnerships with local industry leaders, Haynes strengthens the connection between classroom learning and professional application. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health and academic reputation of the institution, ensuring the university continues to provide high-quality education to a diverse student body.

    Harvey Rice - President

    Harvey Rice, the President at SUNY - Buffalo State, manages the daily academic operations and faculty development initiatives. Overseeing the implementation of the 177 undergraduate programs, the President ensures curriculum alignment with current pedagogical standards. This leadership role requires constant coordination with department chairs to support the 63 graduate programs offered by the institution. Harvey Rice monitors student success metrics and retention rates to improve overall educational outcomes. By championing faculty research and professional development, the President cultivates an environment of scholarly inquiry. Rice also facilitates communication between the administration and the student body to address campus needs effectively. Through the management of academic policies, the President maintains the rigorous standards expected of a state university. Ultimately, Rice advances the mission of the institution by promoting a culture of excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and community service across the entire campus.

    Paul Bulger - President

    Paul Bulger, the President at SUNY - Buffalo State, directs the expansion of post-baccalaureate teacher certification programs and professional training initiatives. Focusing on the historical mission of teacher preparation, the President oversees the integration of modern educational technology into existing certification pathways. This leadership role involves managing external relations with state education boards and regional school districts to ensure program relevance. Paul Bulger evaluates the effectiveness of graduate-level training to meet evolving classroom requirements. By coordinating with the academic leadership team, the President identifies opportunities for new program development in high-demand fields. Bulger also monitors the impact of these programs on the regional workforce, ensuring graduates possess the skills necessary for success. Through strategic resource allocation, the President supports the growth of specialized training modules. Ultimately, Bulger strengthens the university's role as a primary provider of qualified educators within the state.

    Jennifer Burris - President

    Jennifer Burris, the President at SUNY - Buffalo State, oversees the research infrastructure and the advancement of honors-level academic opportunities. By directing the allocation of grants and laboratory resources, the President fosters a robust environment for scientific and creative inquiry. This leadership role involves managing the 11 honors options to ensure high-achieving students receive specialized mentorship and advanced coursework. Jennifer Burris collaborates with faculty to increase the volume of published research and external funding acquisitions. Through the oversight of research compliance and ethics, the President maintains the integrity of all scholarly activities. Burris also promotes interdisciplinary projects that bridge the gap between undergraduate studies and advanced research. By enhancing the visibility of the university's research output, the President attracts top-tier talent and funding. Ultimately, Burris elevates the academic profile of the institution through a commitment to rigorous research and intellectual discovery.
    Jennifer Burris

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SUNY - Buffalo State Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SUNY - Buffalo State?
    SUNY - Buffalo State is led by Curtis Haynes (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Harvey Rice (President) and Paul Bulger (President).
    Who is part of SUNY - Buffalo State’s executive team?
    The executive team of SUNY - Buffalo State includes leaders such as Curtis Haynes (Chief Executive Officer), Harvey Rice (President), Paul Bulger (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SUNY - Buffalo State have?
    SUNY - Buffalo State has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SUNY - Buffalo State’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SUNY - Buffalo State includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, President.