Clarkson University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Clarkson University has 10 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, academic strategy, institutional governance, and entrepreneurial development.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, Clarkson University fosters a transformative educational environment across its New York campuses to prepare students for global leadership roles.

Leadership Roles at Clarkson University

  • Chief Financial Officer - William McGarry
  • President - Abigail Bates
  • President - Jess Davis
  • President - Karen Collins
  • President - Maira Amjad
  • President - William Small
  • President - Elena Goldman
  • President - Michelle Larson
  • President - Robert Plane
  • Founder & President - Elif Çetinkaya
  • William McGarry - Chief Financial Officer

    William McGarry, the Chief Financial Officer at Clarkson University, directs all fiscal operations and long-term capital planning. Managing the university's endowment and annual operating budget, the Chief Financial Officer ensures financial sustainability across all satellite campuses. This role involves rigorous oversight of institutional investments and resource allocation to support research initiatives. By implementing robust financial controls, William McGarry maintains the fiscal health necessary for academic expansion. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the board to align budgetary priorities with the broader mission of the institution. Through careful analysis of revenue streams and expenditure patterns, McGarry secures the economic foundation required for student success. This leadership position demands constant vigilance regarding market fluctuations and regulatory compliance. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes the financial infrastructure to sustain the university's competitive position within the higher education sector.

    Abigail Bates - President

    Abigail Bates, the President at Clarkson University, architects the overarching academic vision and institutional strategy. Overseeing faculty development and curriculum innovation, the President ensures alignment with the university's mission of research-driven education. This role involves engaging with external stakeholders to expand the institution's regional presence and influence. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders, Abigail Bates drives initiatives that bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional application. The President coordinates with department heads to maintain high standards of pedagogical excellence across all campuses. Through strategic planning, Bates secures the resources needed for campus infrastructure improvements. This leadership function requires balancing immediate operational needs with long-term institutional goals. Ultimately, the President cultivates a culture of inquiry and innovation that defines the university's impact on the academic landscape.

    Jess Davis - President

    Jess Davis, the President at Clarkson University, manages student affairs and campus life initiatives. Focusing on the holistic development of the student body, the President directs programs that enhance campus culture and community engagement. This role involves overseeing student support services and extracurricular activities that complement the academic experience. By prioritizing student well-being and inclusivity, Jess Davis creates a vibrant environment conducive to personal growth. The President collaborates with administrative teams to refine policies that improve the overall student experience across all locations. Through active listening and community outreach, Davis addresses the evolving needs of the diverse student population. This leadership position requires a deep commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic campus atmosphere. Ultimately, the President ensures that the university remains a premier destination for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational journey.

    Karen Collins - President

    Karen Collins, the President at Clarkson University, leads research advancement and scientific innovation. Directing the expansion of laboratory facilities and grant-funded projects, the President ensures the institution remains at the forefront of technological discovery. This role involves facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty members to solve complex global challenges. By securing external funding and fostering corporate research partnerships, Karen Collins drives the university's reputation as a hub for scientific excellence. The President oversees the integration of research findings into the undergraduate and graduate curricula. Through strategic investment in cutting-edge equipment, Collins empowers researchers to push the boundaries of knowledge. This leadership function requires a clear vision for the future of academic inquiry. Ultimately, the President strengthens the university's research profile and contributes to significant advancements in the fields of science and engineering.

    Maira Amjad - President

    Maira Amjad, the President at Clarkson University, oversees global outreach and international partnerships. Developing strategies to increase the university's presence in foreign markets, the President facilitates exchange programs and collaborative research ventures. This role involves building relationships with international academic institutions to enhance the global perspective of the student body. By promoting the university's brand on a worldwide stage, Maira Amjad attracts diverse talent and fosters cross-cultural understanding. The President coordinates with admissions and recruitment teams to streamline the enrollment process for international students. Through strategic alliances, Amjad expands the reach of the university's educational offerings. This leadership position requires navigating complex international regulations and cultural nuances. Ultimately, the President ensures that the university maintains a strong global footprint and prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected and competitive international economy.

    William Small - President

    William Small, the President at Clarkson University, directs alumni relations and institutional advancement. Cultivating long-term relationships with graduates, the President secures philanthropic support to fund scholarships and campus development. This role involves organizing events and communication strategies that keep the alumni network engaged with the university's mission. By leveraging the success of former students, William Small builds a robust support system for current learners. The President collaborates with the development office to execute capital campaigns that enhance the university's physical and intellectual assets. Through consistent outreach, Small ensures that the alumni community remains a vital part of the institution's future. This leadership function requires a deep understanding of the university's history and a vision for its continued growth. Ultimately, the President strengthens the bond between the institution and its graduates to ensure lasting success.

    Elena Goldman - President

    Elena Goldman, the President at Clarkson University, manages operational efficiency and campus infrastructure. Overseeing the maintenance and modernization of facilities across all satellite locations, the President ensures that the physical environment supports academic and research goals. This role involves coordinating with facilities management and IT departments to implement sustainable and technologically advanced solutions. By optimizing resource usage and reducing operational costs, Elena Goldman improves the overall efficiency of the university's physical plant. The President leads initiatives to upgrade classrooms and laboratories to meet modern educational standards. Through careful planning and project management, Goldman ensures that all campus operations run smoothly and safely. This leadership position requires a focus on long-term sustainability and operational excellence. Ultimately, the President provides the necessary physical foundation for the university to thrive in a competitive educational landscape.

    Michelle Larson - President

    Michelle Larson, the President at Clarkson University, leads strategic enrollment management and student recruitment. Analyzing demographic trends and market data, the President designs initiatives to attract high-achieving students to the university's diverse programs. This role involves collaborating with the admissions team to refine marketing strategies and outreach efforts. By focusing on the unique value proposition of the institution, Michelle Larson drives growth in student enrollment across all campuses. The President monitors retention rates and implements programs to support student success from matriculation to graduation. Through data-driven decision-making, Larson ensures that the university meets its enrollment targets while maintaining academic quality. This leadership function requires a deep understanding of the competitive higher education market. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the university by building a talented and diverse student body that contributes to the institution's vibrant community.
    Michelle Larson

    Robert Plane - President

    Robert Plane, the President at Clarkson University, oversees legal affairs and institutional compliance. Ensuring that all university policies adhere to state and federal regulations, the President manages risk and protects the institution's interests. This role involves working closely with legal counsel to address complex regulatory challenges and contractual obligations. By establishing clear governance frameworks, Robert Plane maintains the integrity and ethical standards of the university. The President coordinates with administrative departments to ensure that all operations meet legal requirements. Through proactive risk assessment, Plane mitigates potential liabilities and safeguards the university's reputation. This leadership position requires a meticulous approach to policy development and enforcement. Ultimately, the President provides the legal and ethical structure necessary for the university to operate effectively and maintain its standing as a trusted and responsible academic institution.

    Elif Çetinkaya - Founder & President

    Elif Çetinkaya, the Founder & President at Clarkson University, drives entrepreneurial initiatives and innovation programs. Focusing on the development of startup incubators and business accelerators, the Founder & President fosters a culture of creativity and commercialization among students and faculty. This role involves mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and connecting them with venture capital networks. By integrating business development into the academic experience, Elif Çetinkaya empowers the university community to translate research into real-world solutions. The Founder & President collaborates with industry partners to create pathways for technology transfer and commercial success. Through strategic leadership, Çetinkaya promotes an environment where innovation thrives and new ventures are born. This leadership function requires a passion for entrepreneurship and a commitment to economic development. Ultimately, the Founder & President positions the university as a leader in fostering the next generation of business innovators.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Clarkson University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Clarkson University?
    Clarkson University is led by William McGarry (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Abigail Bates (President) and Jess Davis (President).
    Who is part of Clarkson University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Clarkson University includes leaders such as William McGarry (Chief Financial Officer), Abigail Bates (President), Jess Davis (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Clarkson University have?
    Clarkson University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Clarkson University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Clarkson University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President, President, President.