Columbia University in the City of New York Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Columbia University in the City of New York has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, research, finance, technology, and revenue cycle management.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Columbia University in the City of New York provides comprehensive university programs across multiple disciplines, maintaining extensive research facilities and academic departments to serve thousands of students annually and solidify its global recognition.

Leadership Roles at Columbia University in the City of New York

  • Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer - Ryan Lichtcsien
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rae Vagg
  • Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator - Sarah Martien
  • Co President - Andile Khumalo
  • President - Bhargavi Jaiswal
  • Initiator, Founder and President, Advisory Board Chair - Ingrid Muller
  • President - George Krebs
  • Chief of Staff - Zuckerman Institute - Melody Brumfield
  • Chief Technology Officer, Office of Alumni Relations & Development - Natalie Hidalgo
  • Revenue Cycle Analyst & Chief Revenue Officer, Fpo - Lourdes Bailey
  • Ryan Lichtcsien - Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer

    Ryan Lichtcsien, the Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer at Columbia University in the City of New York, manages the financial health and administrative operations for a key academic department. Lichtcsien oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic allocation of funds to support educational and research activities. This position involves direct oversight of departmental finances, including revenue generation, expenditure control, and compliance with university financial policies. By optimizing financial processes and providing critical administrative support, Ryan Lichtcsien ensures the department's operational stability and its ability to pursue academic excellence. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for sustaining the department's contributions to the university's broader mission.
    Ryan Lichtcsien

    Rae Vagg - Chief Operating Officer

    Rae Vagg, the Chief Operating Officer at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs the operational framework supporting the university's extensive academic and research endeavors. Vagg oversees the efficient functioning of campus infrastructure, administrative services, and resource allocation, ensuring seamless support for thousands of students and faculty. This leadership role involves optimizing daily operations across multiple departments, aligning them with the university's strategic objectives for growth and academic distinction. By managing key operational workflows, Rae Vagg ensures the effective delivery of educational services and research support, contributing directly to the institution's global standing. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on enhancing operational efficiency and supporting the university's mission of providing comprehensive higher education.

    Sarah Martien - Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator

    Sarah Martien, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs operational strategies and administrative functions for the Cufc Division. Martien oversees the division's day-to-day activities, resource management, and the implementation of policies designed to enhance efficiency and support academic objectives. This leadership role involves coordinating complex administrative processes, managing departmental budgets, and ensuring seamless operational flow within the division. By providing robust administrative oversight and driving operational improvements, Sarah Martien directly contributes to the Cufc Division's effectiveness and its support of Columbia University's educational mission. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on optimizing performance and resource utilization.

    Andile Khumalo - Co President

    Andile Khumalo, the Co President at Columbia University in the City of New York, shares leadership responsibilities for a significant university entity, driving strategic initiatives and operational oversight. Khumalo collaborates with other co-presidents to guide the organization's direction, focusing on academic advancement, research innovation, and student engagement. This role involves setting strategic priorities, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, and ensuring the effective execution of university-wide goals. By actively participating in high-level decision-making and championing key programs, Andile Khumalo directly contributes to the continued success and global reputation of Columbia University. The Co President's leadership is essential for navigating complex academic landscapes and advancing institutional objectives.

    Bhargavi Jaiswal - President

    Bhargavi Jaiswal, the President at Columbia University in the City of New York, holds ultimate responsibility for the university's strategic direction, academic excellence, and overall operational integrity. Jaiswal leads the executive team in setting institutional priorities, fostering research innovation, and ensuring the highest standards of education are maintained across all disciplines. This pivotal role involves extensive engagement with faculty, students, alumni, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission and global standing. By providing visionary leadership and guiding critical decision-making processes, Bhargavi Jaiswal directly shapes the future of Columbia University, reinforcing its position as a premier global educational institution. The President's commitment is to sustained academic distinction and impactful research.

    Ingrid Muller - Initiator, Founder and President, Advisory Board Chair

    Ingrid Muller, the Initiator, Founder and President, Advisory Board Chair at Columbia University in the City of New York, provides foundational leadership and strategic guidance for a key university initiative or entity. Muller's role encompasses establishing the vision, driving initial development, and chairing the advisory board to ensure strategic alignment and effective governance. This position involves setting the long-term direction, fostering innovation, and overseeing the critical functions that support the initiative's success. By leveraging extensive experience and strategic foresight, Ingrid Muller directly contributes to the growth and impact of the university's programs, reinforcing Columbia University's commitment to pioneering advancements. The Advisory Board Chair's leadership ensures robust oversight and strategic direction.
    Ingrid Muller

    George Krebs - President

    George Krebs, the President at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for a significant segment of the university's activities. Krebs oversees key departments, ensuring alignment with Columbia University's overarching mission of academic excellence and groundbreaking research. This leadership position involves managing complex organizational structures, fostering collaboration among diverse teams, and driving initiatives that enhance the university's educational offerings and research capabilities. By providing decisive leadership and strategic direction, George Krebs directly contributes to the institution's sustained success and its reputation as a global leader in higher education. The President's focus is on advancing institutional goals and fostering a dynamic academic environment.

    Melody Brumfield - Chief of Staff - Zuckerman Institute

    Melody Brumfield, the Chief of Staff - Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University in the City of New York, provides strategic support and operational oversight for the Zuckerman Institute's advanced neuroscience research. Brumfield manages key initiatives, facilitates communication between research teams and administrative bodies, and ensures alignment with the institute's scientific goals. This role involves coordinating complex projects, optimizing resource deployment, and enhancing the overall productivity of the research environment. By streamlining administrative processes and fostering collaboration, Melody Brumfield directly supports the groundbreaking work conducted at the institute, contributing to Columbia University's reputation in scientific innovation. The Chief of Staff's dedication ensures the Zuckerman Institute operates at peak efficiency, advancing critical research endeavors.

    Natalie Hidalgo - Chief Technology Officer, Office of Alumni Relations & Development

    Natalie Hidalgo, the Chief Technology Officer, Office of Alumni Relations & Development at Columbia University in the City of New York, drives the technological strategy for engaging alumni and supporting development efforts. Hidalgo oversees the implementation and management of digital platforms, data analytics, and communication systems that enhance alumni connections and fundraising initiatives. This role is critical for leveraging technology to foster stronger relationships with alumni and secure vital financial support for the university's programs. By modernizing technological infrastructure and optimizing digital outreach, Natalie Hidalgo directly contributes to the growth and sustainability of Columbia University's alumni network and development campaigns. The Chief Technology Officer's vision ensures robust technological support for institutional advancement.

    Lourdes Bailey - Revenue Cycle Analyst & Chief Revenue Officer, Fpo

    Lourdes Bailey, the Revenue Cycle Analyst & Chief Revenue Officer, Fpo at Columbia University in the City of New York, optimizes financial processes related to revenue generation and collection. Bailey analyzes revenue streams, manages billing cycles, and implements strategies to enhance financial efficiency across relevant university operations. This position focuses on maximizing revenue realization and ensuring accurate financial reporting for designated departments or programs. By streamlining revenue cycle management and applying analytical expertise, Lourdes Bailey directly supports the financial stability and operational capacity of the university. The Chief Revenue Officer's role is integral to maintaining robust financial performance and resource availability for academic and research pursuits.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Columbia University in the City of New York Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Columbia University in the City of New York?
    Columbia University in the City of New York is led by Ryan Lichtcsien (Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Rae Vagg (Chief Operating Officer) and Sarah Martien (Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator).
    Who is part of Columbia University in the City of New York’s executive team?
    The executive team of Columbia University in the City of New York includes leaders such as Ryan Lichtcsien (Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer), Rae Vagg (Chief Operating Officer), Sarah Martien (Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Columbia University in the City of New York have?
    Columbia University in the City of New York has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Columbia University in the City of New York’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Columbia University in the City of New York includes roles such as Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Senior Cufc Division Administrator, Co President, President.