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

Hesham Othman, the Chief Financial Officer at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs the university's comprehensive financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves overseeing all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and investment management, ensuring the institution's long-term financial health and sustainability. Othman's responsibilities extend to managing financial reporting to internal stakeholders and external regulatory bodies, maintaining transparency and compliance across all financial dealings. The Chief Financial Officer also collaborates closely with other senior leaders to allocate resources effectively, supporting academic initiatives, research endeavors, and campus development projects. By optimizing financial processes and identifying opportunities for fiscal efficiency, Hesham Othman drives the economic stability necessary for Columbia University in the City of New York to achieve its educational and research missions across its extensive digital platforms and physical infrastructure.

Ryan Lichtcsien, the Department Administrator and Chief Financial Officer at Columbia University in the City of New York, manages the financial operations and administrative functions for a specific department, ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational excellence. This role involves detailed oversight of departmental budgets, financial reporting, and resource allocation, directly supporting academic and research activities within that unit. Lichtcsien's responsibilities as Chief Financial Officer for the department ensure adherence to university financial policies and compliance with all relevant regulations. By optimizing departmental administration and financial management, Ryan Lichtcsien contributes to the efficient functioning of Columbia University in the City of New York's academic departments. This leadership ensures that departmental resources are utilized effectively to advance educational programs and research initiatives, supporting the university's broader mission.

Ushma Neill, the Chief of Staff to the President and Vice President for Campus Alignment at Columbia University in the City of New York, executes strategic initiatives and ensures cohesive operational alignment across the university. This critical position involves managing key projects, facilitating communication between departments, and supporting the President's agenda to advance institutional goals. Neill's role as Vice President for Campus Alignment focuses on fostering collaboration and synergy among diverse academic and administrative units, ensuring that campus operations effectively support the university's mission. By streamlining processes and enhancing interdepartmental coordination, Ushma Neill contributes directly to the efficient functioning of Columbia University in the City of New York's extensive research facilities and academic departments. This leadership ensures that strategic priorities are translated into actionable plans, driving progress in higher education services and maintaining the institution's prestigious global standing.

Scott Fahey, the Chief of Staff To the President at Columbia University in the City of New York, provides strategic counsel and operational leadership to support the President's vision and institutional priorities. This role involves managing high-level projects, coordinating executive communications, and ensuring the effective implementation of university-wide initiatives. Fahey's responsibilities include facilitating collaboration among senior leadership, optimizing administrative processes, and driving key strategic objectives forward. By enhancing operational efficiency and strategic alignment, Scott Fahey plays a crucial role in advancing the mission of Columbia University in the City of New York. This leadership ensures that the university's extensive research facilities and academic departments operate cohesively, supporting its commitment to providing comprehensive higher education services and maintaining its global recognition.

Amanda Tan, the President at Columbia University in the City of New York, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This paramount role involves setting the overarching mission, guiding academic and research endeavors, and ensuring the university's continued excellence and global standing. Tan's responsibilities encompass fostering a culture of innovation, promoting diversity and inclusion, and representing Columbia University in the City of New York to external stakeholders, including government bodies, alumni, and the broader community. By championing the university's core values and strategic objectives, Amanda Tan drives its commitment to advancing knowledge and educating future leaders. This leadership ensures the sustained growth and impact of Columbia University in the City of New York's comprehensive university programs and extensive research facilities.

Carolyn DePinho, the Sci-Inspire Co-President at Columbia University in the City of New York, leads initiatives focused on promoting science education and engagement within the university community. This role involves developing and implementing programs designed to inspire students and researchers in scientific disciplines, fostering a vibrant academic environment. DePinho's responsibilities as Co-President include collaborating with faculty and staff to enhance scientific outreach and educational opportunities, supporting the university's extensive research facilities. By driving engagement in science, Carolyn DePinho contributes to Columbia University in the City of New York's mission of advancing knowledge and providing comprehensive university programs. This leadership cultivates a passion for scientific discovery and innovation, reinforcing the institution's commitment to excellence in higher education.

Saskia DeCaires, the Senior Director, Development & Deputy Chief of Staff at Columbia University in the City of New York, spearheads critical development efforts and provides essential support to the Chief of Staff. This dual role involves cultivating philanthropic partnerships and managing fundraising campaigns to secure vital resources for the university's academic and research programs. As Deputy Chief of Staff, DeCaires assists in the execution of strategic projects, enhances operational efficiency, and ensures seamless coordination across various university functions. Saskia DeCaires plays a key part in strengthening the financial foundation of Columbia University in the City of New York, enabling the expansion of its educational offerings and research capabilities. The focus on development ensures that the institution can continue to provide comprehensive university programs and maintain its position among top educational institutions globally, supporting its extensive digital platforms and physical infrastructure.

Peter Trevino, The Living Lab Chief of Staff (Acting) at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs the strategic operations and administrative functions for the Living Lab initiative. This acting role involves coordinating research projects, managing stakeholder engagement, and ensuring the smooth execution of the lab's objectives, which are integral to Columbia's advanced research facilities. Trevino's responsibilities focus on facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and translating research findings into practical applications, enhancing the university's innovation ecosystem. By overseeing the operational aspects of the Living Lab, Peter Trevino supports the development of cutting-edge solutions and strengthens Columbia University in the City of New York's position in scientific and technological advancement. This leadership ensures the effective utilization of resources to drive forward the university's commitment to comprehensive university programs and research excellence.

Richard Hall, the Interim Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Columbia University in the City of New York, directs the university's technology strategy and oversees all IT operations. This leadership position involves managing the infrastructure, systems, and digital platforms that support academic, research, and administrative functions across the institution. Hall's responsibilities include ensuring the security, reliability, and scalability of the university's technological resources, as well as driving innovation in IT services. By modernizing systems and enhancing digital capabilities, Richard Hall supports Columbia University in the City of New York's commitment to providing comprehensive university programs and extensive research facilities. This role is critical for maintaining the institution's competitive edge and enabling seamless access to educational resources through its advanced digital platforms.

Francine Caracappa, the Vice President, Finance & Controller at Columbia University in the City of New York, manages the university's financial accounting, reporting, and compliance functions. This critical role ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial data, overseeing the preparation of financial statements and managing internal controls. Caracappa's responsibilities include directing the accounting operations, managing cash flow, and ensuring adherence to all financial regulations and university policies. By maintaining robust financial oversight, Francine Caracappa supports the sound fiscal management necessary for Columbia University in the City of New York to sustain its extensive academic programs and research initiatives. This leadership ensures financial transparency and accountability, underpinning the institution's operational stability and its ability to pursue its educational mission.