Cleveland State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cleveland State University has 5 executives leading key functions including technology, administration, finance, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Cleveland State University provides comprehensive degree programs across diverse fields, fostering innovation and urban engagement from its Cleveland, Ohio headquarters.

Leadership Roles at Cleveland State University

  • Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance - Stephanie McHenry
  • President - Walter Waetjen
  • President - Laura Bloomberg
  • Chief Technology Officer - Maria Codinach
  • Chief Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff - Patricia Franklin
  • Stephanie McHenry - Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance

    Stephanie McHenry, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance at Cleveland State University, directs the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and oversight. McHenry manages all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This senior leadership role encompasses overseeing business affairs, including auxiliary services, procurement, and campus infrastructure development, aligning financial resources with strategic academic and research priorities. Stephanie McHenry's expertise is crucial for maintaining the university's financial health, securing funding, and optimizing resource allocation to support educational excellence and institutional growth. The financial acumen demonstrated by McHenry underpins the university's operational capacity and long-term viability.
    Stephanie McHenry

    Walter Waetjen - President

    Walter Waetjen, the President at Cleveland State University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Waetjen guides the university's academic vision, research endeavors, and community engagement initiatives, fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation. This presidential role involves setting institutional priorities, advocating for the university's interests, and ensuring alignment with its public mission. Walter Waetjen's leadership is instrumental in shaping the university's future, driving its growth, and enhancing its reputation as a leading public research institution. The strategic decisions made by Waetjen directly influence the university's educational offerings and its impact on the region.

    Laura Bloomberg - President

    Laura Bloomberg, the President at Cleveland State University, provides strategic leadership and guides the institution's academic and operational trajectory. Bloomberg champions the university's mission to serve students and the community, overseeing all facets of academic affairs, research, and student success initiatives. This executive position involves fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and scholarly achievement across all colleges and departments. Laura Bloomberg's vision is critical for advancing the university's standing as a premier urban research institution, driving its strategic plan, and ensuring its responsiveness to evolving societal needs. The leadership provided by Bloomberg is essential for enhancing educational quality and expanding the university's reach and impact.
    Laura Bloomberg

    Maria Codinach - Chief Technology Officer

    Maria Codinach, the Chief Technology Officer at Cleveland State University, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Codinach oversees the development and implementation of advanced IT solutions that support academic research, student learning, and administrative operations across all departments. This leadership role involves ensuring the security, scalability, and efficiency of the university's technology systems, including network management, data analytics, and cybersecurity protocols. By championing technological innovation, Maria Codinach enhances the university's capacity to deliver cutting-edge educational experiences and maintain a competitive edge in the higher education landscape. The Chief Technology Officer's initiatives directly impact operational effectiveness and the integration of new learning technologies.

    Patricia Franklin - Chief Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff

    Patricia Franklin, the Chief Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff at Cleveland State University, manages critical operational functions and provides strategic support to the university's leadership. Franklin oversees a broad spectrum of administrative departments, ensuring seamless integration and efficient resource allocation to support the university's mission. This executive position involves directing key initiatives related to human resources, facilities management, and operational policy development. As Chief of Staff, Patricia Franklin acts as a key liaison, coordinating efforts across various university divisions and facilitating effective communication between executive leadership and other stakeholders. The administrative oversight provided by Franklin is essential for maintaining institutional stability and driving strategic objectives forward.
    Patricia Franklin

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

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

    Who leads Cleveland State University?
    Cleveland State University is led by Stephanie McHenry (Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance), along with executives such as Walter Waetjen (President) and Laura Bloomberg (President).
    Who is part of Cleveland State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cleveland State University includes leaders such as Stephanie McHenry (Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance), Walter Waetjen (President), Laura Bloomberg (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cleveland State University have?
    Cleveland State University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cleveland State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cleveland State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Business Affairs & Finance, President, President, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff.