Empire State University Executive and Leadership Team

Pamela Malone, the To The Strategic Advisor & Chief Financial Officer at Empire State University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic planning of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations and resource distribution, the To The Strategic Advisor & Chief Financial Officer ensures financial stability while supporting academic expansion. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board to evaluate investment opportunities and operational efficiencies across the university. Pamela Malone directs the financial reporting processes, providing transparency and accountability for all institutional funds. By monitoring economic shifts in the higher education landscape, the To The Strategic Advisor & Chief Financial Officer mitigates fiscal risks and optimizes capital deployment. Malone drives the development of sustainable funding models that empower the university to maintain its commitment to accessible education. Through rigorous financial oversight, the To The Strategic Advisor & Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary resources to advance the strategic goals of the entire organization.

Douglas Gruse, the Chief Marketing Officer at Empire State University, directs all institutional branding and student recruitment initiatives. By analyzing market trends within the higher education sector, the Chief Marketing Officer architects comprehensive campaigns that elevate the university profile across North American markets. This leadership role involves managing digital outreach, public relations, and brand consistency to ensure alignment with institutional growth targets. Douglas Gruse optimizes the enrollment funnel by leveraging data-driven insights to reach prospective learners effectively. Through the coordination of multi-channel advertising, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the competitive positioning of the university. Gruse maintains a focus on expanding the reach of academic programs to diverse student populations. By refining the messaging strategy, the Chief Marketing Officer secures long-term visibility and supports the overarching mission of providing flexible, high-quality education to a broad demographic of adult learners.

Sharon Butler, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Empire State University, architects the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the entire workforce. Overseeing faculty and staff recruitment, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the university attracts top-tier professionals dedicated to student success. This leadership role involves managing employee relations, performance management systems, and professional development programs that foster a culture of excellence. Sharon Butler directs the implementation of equitable compensation structures and benefits packages that support a diverse and inclusive workplace. By aligning human capital initiatives with the broader mission of the university, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer drives operational efficiency and employee engagement. Butler maintains a focus on workforce planning to meet the evolving needs of the academic community. Through strategic talent management, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer secures the human infrastructure required to sustain high-quality educational delivery.

Cherie Haughney, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Empire State University, manages all internal and external messaging to maintain the reputation of the institution. Overseeing media relations and crisis communication, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) ensures consistent and transparent information flow to stakeholders. This leadership role involves crafting narratives that highlight the academic achievements and community impact of the university. Cherie Haughney directs the development of communication strategies that resonate with students, alumni, and the public. By coordinating with other executive leaders, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) aligns messaging with the strategic vision of the university. Haughney monitors public sentiment and industry trends to proactively address communication challenges. Through the management of digital platforms and press engagement, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) strengthens the brand identity of the university. This role supports the overall mission by ensuring that the values and accomplishments of the institution reach a wide and diverse audience.