Carnegie Mellon University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Carnegie Mellon University has 10 executives leading key functions including institutional operations, technology infrastructure, financial management, and strategic communications.

Renowned for excellence in research and education, Carnegie Mellon University advances global innovation through its interdisciplinary approach to science, technology, and the arts.

Leadership Roles at Carnegie Mellon University

  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Angela Blanton
  • President & Director - Mary Cooper
  • President - Jacqueline Chen
  • President of the Cmu Climbing Club - Nyah Colon
  • President - Cassius Reid
  • Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate - Kieran Carroll
  • Chief Technology Officer - Lydia Yang
  • Chief Information Officer - Joel Smith
  • Deputy Director - Monika De Reno
  • Chief Marketing & Communications Officer - Aaron Aupperlee
  • Angela Blanton - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Angela Blanton, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Carnegie Mellon University, directs the fiscal strategy and financial health of the institution. Blanton manages the university's budget, endowment, and financial planning processes to ensure long-term sustainability. By overseeing the allocation of funds, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of academic programs and research initiatives. This role involves balancing the needs of various colleges while maintaining fiscal discipline across all departments. Angela Blanton provides critical financial insights to the Board and executive leadership to guide strategic decision-making. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer also manages financial aid and scholarship programs, ensuring that the university remains accessible to qualified students. Through prudent fiscal management, Blanton secures the resources necessary for the university to continue its tradition of excellence. By aligning financial priorities with institutional goals, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer sustains the university's global impact.

    Mary Cooper - President & Director

    Mary Cooper, the President & Director at Carnegie Mellon University, provides executive leadership for the institution's overarching academic and research mission. Cooper directs the strategic vision that guides the university's six undergraduate schools and colleges. By overseeing the development of new academic programs, the President & Director ensures that the curriculum remains relevant in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders and fostering partnerships that expand the institution's global reach. Mary Cooper collaborates with the faculty and administration to maintain the university's high standards of excellence. The President & Director also champions initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion across the campus. Through visionary leadership, Cooper drives the university's commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary study. By setting the strategic direction, the President & Director ensures that the institution continues to produce world-class research and prepares students for success in their chosen fields.

    Jacqueline Chen - President

    Jacqueline Chen, the President at Carnegie Mellon University, leads the university's efforts to foster a vibrant and inclusive academic community. Chen focuses on enhancing the student experience by supporting the diverse range of student organizations and campus events. By overseeing the implementation of student-centered policies, the President ensures that the university environment encourages personal and intellectual growth. This role involves engaging with the student body to understand their needs and aspirations. Jacqueline Chen works closely with other administrators to provide resources that support student success and well-being. The President also promotes the university's values of collaboration and creativity across all disciplines. Through active leadership, Chen strengthens the sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. By prioritizing the student experience, the President contributes to the university's reputation as a supportive and dynamic place for learning and discovery, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel.

    Nyah Colon - President of the Cmu Climbing Club

    Nyah Colon, the President of the Cmu Climbing Club at Carnegie Mellon University, manages the operations and activities of this student organization. Colon coordinates club events, training sessions, and community outreach to promote physical fitness and teamwork among students. By overseeing the club's logistics, the President of the Cmu Climbing Club ensures that members have access to safe and engaging climbing opportunities. This role involves fostering a supportive environment where students can develop their skills and build connections outside the classroom. Nyah Colon manages the club's budget and resources to sustain its activities throughout the academic year. The President of the Cmu Climbing Club also collaborates with other student organizations to enhance campus life. Through dedicated leadership, Colon encourages student participation in extracurricular activities that complement the university's rigorous academic environment. By promoting health and community, the President of the Cmu Climbing Club enriches the overall student experience at the university.

    Cassius Reid - President

    Cassius Reid, the President at Carnegie Mellon University, oversees specific institutional initiatives aimed at advancing research and academic excellence. Reid directs the development of collaborative projects that bridge the gap between different scientific and artistic disciplines. By managing these interdisciplinary efforts, the President ensures that the university remains at the cutting edge of innovation. This role involves coordinating with faculty leaders to identify new areas of research and academic growth. Cassius Reid also represents the university in professional networks to foster partnerships that enhance the institution's research capabilities. The President works to secure funding and resources that support the university's mission of excellence. Through strategic oversight, Reid facilitates an environment where groundbreaking research can flourish. By focusing on the integration of diverse fields, the President drives the university's impact on global science and technology, ensuring that the institution continues to contribute significantly to various fields of study.

    Kieran Carroll - Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate

    Kieran Carroll, the Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate at Carnegie Mellon University, leads the society's efforts to promote interest in computational biology among students. Carroll organizes workshops, seminars, and networking events that connect students with experts in the field. By overseeing the society's programming, the Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate ensures that members gain valuable insights into the intersection of biology and computer science. This role involves managing the society's outreach to students across various majors. Kieran Carroll collaborates with faculty advisors to provide academic support and career guidance to society members. The Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate also facilitates discussions on current research trends and technological advancements. Through active leadership, Carroll fosters a community of students passionate about solving complex biological problems using computational tools. By promoting academic engagement, the Co-President & Computational Biology Society Undergraduate contributes to the university's reputation for excellence in science and technology education.

    Lydia Yang - Chief Technology Officer

    Lydia Yang, the Chief Technology Officer at Carnegie Mellon University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting advanced research and academic programs. Yang directs the implementation of cutting-edge computing solutions that empower the School of Computer Science and other technical departments. By overseeing the deployment of high-performance systems, the Chief Technology Officer enables complex data analysis and experimental modeling. This role requires constant engagement with emerging technologies to keep the university at the forefront of scientific discovery. Lydia Yang manages the integration of secure, scalable networks across the institution's global footprint. The Chief Technology Officer also collaborates with academic leaders to align technical capabilities with evolving pedagogical needs. Through strategic investment in digital tools, Yang ensures that the university maintains its competitive edge in technology education. By prioritizing innovation and security, the Chief Technology Officer drives the technological advancement of the entire campus ecosystem.

    Joel Smith - Chief Information Officer

    Joel Smith, the Chief Information Officer at Carnegie Mellon University, governs the information systems and data management strategies essential for academic success. Smith oversees the protection of institutional data while ensuring seamless access to information resources for students and faculty. By modernizing enterprise software, the Chief Information Officer enhances the efficiency of administrative and academic workflows. This leadership position involves managing complex IT projects that support the university's diverse range of majors and minors. Joel Smith coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure that information technology initiatives directly support the institution's research goals. The Chief Information Officer also implements robust cybersecurity protocols to safeguard intellectual property and sensitive research findings. Through the strategic management of information assets, Smith facilitates a reliable digital environment. By optimizing data accessibility, the Chief Information Officer empowers the university community to achieve excellence in science and arts education.

    Monika De Reno - Deputy Director

    Monika De Reno, the Deputy Director at Carnegie Mellon University, manages daily operational workflows across the institution. De Reno coordinates administrative resources to support the university's expansive research mission. By streamlining internal processes, the Deputy Director ensures that faculty and staff maintain focus on high-impact academic outcomes. This leadership role involves close collaboration with department heads to optimize resource allocation and improve service delivery. Monika De Reno monitors institutional performance metrics to identify areas for operational refinement. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Deputy Director facilitates a productive environment for students and researchers alike. The Deputy Director also aligns departmental goals with the broader strategic vision of the university, ensuring consistent progress toward long-term objectives. By fostering cross-functional cooperation, De Reno strengthens the operational foundation necessary for maintaining the university's status as a premier global research institution.

    Aaron Aupperlee - Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

    Aaron Aupperlee, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Carnegie Mellon University, shapes the public narrative and brand identity of the institution. Aupperlee directs comprehensive communication strategies that highlight the university's contributions to science, technology, and the arts. By managing media relations and digital outreach, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer amplifies the achievements of faculty, students, and alumni. This role involves crafting messaging that resonates with global audiences and prospective students. Aaron Aupperlee coordinates with academic departments to showcase research breakthroughs and campus events. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer also oversees internal communications to ensure alignment across the university's diverse community. Through strategic brand positioning, Aupperlee enhances the reputation of the institution on the international stage. By effectively communicating the value of the university's education and research, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer drives engagement and supports the institution's mission to lead in innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Carnegie Mellon University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Carnegie Mellon University?
    Carnegie Mellon University is led by Angela Blanton (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mary Cooper (President & Director) and Jacqueline Chen (President).
    Who is part of Carnegie Mellon University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Carnegie Mellon University includes leaders such as Angela Blanton (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Mary Cooper (President & Director), Jacqueline Chen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Carnegie Mellon University have?
    Carnegie Mellon University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Carnegie Mellon University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Carnegie Mellon University includes roles such as Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President & Director, President, President of the Cmu Climbing Club, President.