Florida Atlantic University Executive and Leadership Team

Jayson Iroff, the Vice President, Financial Affairs & Chief Financial Officer at Florida Atlantic University, manages the comprehensive fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations and long-term capital planning, Iroff ensures the university maintains financial stability across all satellite campuses. This leadership role requires constant coordination with the Board of Trustees to align resource distribution with research objectives. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling operational expenditures, Iroff supports the expansion of academic programs throughout the region. The Chief Financial Officer also directs the audit and compliance departments to uphold institutional integrity. Through rigorous financial modeling, Jayson Iroff secures the necessary funding to sustain the university's public mission. Ultimately, Iroff provides the economic foundation required for the university to thrive in a competitive higher education landscape while maintaining fiscal transparency for all stakeholders.

Stacey Semmel, the Chief Financial Officer, Foundation at Florida Atlantic University, directs the financial management of the university's endowment and philanthropic assets. Overseeing investment strategies and donor fund allocations, Semmel ensures that capital supports the institution's research and scholarship goals. This role requires close collaboration with the Foundation Board to maximize the impact of charitable contributions. By managing the financial reporting for all foundation-related activities, the Chief Financial Officer, Foundation maintains strict compliance with regulatory standards. Stacey Semmel also monitors the growth of the endowment to provide sustainable funding for future academic initiatives. Through strategic financial planning, Semmel secures the resources necessary to advance the university's reputation as a leading research center. Ultimately, Semmel protects the financial interests of the foundation while enabling the university to expand its reach and influence across the state of Florida.

Kimberly Ficco, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director at Florida Atlantic University, directs the daily administrative functions that sustain campus operations. Managing the logistical requirements of the university's diverse facilities, Ficco ensures that infrastructure supports both faculty research and student success. This role involves streamlining internal processes to improve efficiency across the various satellite locations. By coordinating with department heads, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director aligns operational output with the broader strategic goals of the institution. Kimberly Ficco also oversees the implementation of campus-wide policies that enhance the quality of the educational environment. Through meticulous management of resources and personnel, Ficco maintains high standards of service delivery. Ultimately, Ficco drives the operational excellence necessary for the university to function as a premier research institution while serving the needs of the surrounding Florida communities.

Stacy Volnick, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Florida Atlantic University, architects the overarching operational strategy for the entire university system. Overseeing the integration of administrative functions across all campuses, Volnick ensures that the institution operates as a cohesive unit. This leadership role involves managing large-scale infrastructure projects and optimizing the use of university facilities to support research and student life. By aligning operational capacity with academic demand, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer drives institutional growth and efficiency. Stacy Volnick also works with the President to implement policies that enhance the university's market position. Through the management of complex organizational systems, Volnick supports the university's commitment to public education and research excellence. Ultimately, Volnick secures the operational foundation required for the university to achieve its long-term strategic objectives while serving a diverse student population.

Ida Pettener, the Club President at Florida Atlantic University, leads the student-run organization dedicated to fostering community engagement and professional development. Overseeing the planning of events and networking opportunities, Pettener ensures that members gain valuable experience outside the classroom. This role involves managing the club's budget and coordinating with university administration to secure necessary support. By facilitating connections between students and industry professionals, the Club President enhances the university's reputation for producing career-ready graduates. Ida Pettener also manages the recruitment of new members to ensure the club's long-term sustainability. Through the organization of workshops and seminars, Pettener supports the academic and personal growth of the student body. Ultimately, Pettener drives the success of the club by creating a vibrant environment that encourages collaboration and leadership among students across all university campuses.

Kenneth Jessell, the President at Florida Atlantic University, directs the overall vision and strategic direction of the institution. Overseeing the academic, research, and administrative functions, Jessell ensures that the university fulfills its mission as a public research center. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees, faculty, and community stakeholders to advance the university's standing. By setting institutional priorities, the President drives growth in research output and student success metrics. Kenneth Jessell also manages the university's external relations to secure support for academic programs and campus development. Through the implementation of long-term strategic plans, Jessell fosters an environment of innovation and excellence. Ultimately, Jessell provides the leadership necessary for the university to thrive as a premier educational institution while serving the diverse needs of the Florida region and beyond.

Kawtar Elbekhty, the President, Online & Advisory Board Student at Florida Atlantic University, leads the initiatives focused on expanding digital learning and student representation. Overseeing the development of online academic programs, Elbekhty ensures that the university provides accessible education to a global student body. This role involves collaborating with the advisory board to incorporate student feedback into the university's strategic planning. By managing the digital infrastructure and student engagement platforms, the President, Online & Advisory Board Student enhances the quality of the remote learning experience. Kawtar Elbekhty also advocates for student needs to ensure that online programs remain competitive and relevant. Through the coordination of digital initiatives, Elbekhty supports the university's mission of providing flexible and high-quality education. Ultimately, Elbekhty drives the growth of the university's online presence while ensuring that student voices remain central to institutional decision-making.

Mary Giardina, the Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff at Florida Atlantic University, coordinates high-level administrative workflows to support executive decision-making. Managing the flow of information between the administration and various academic departments, Giardina ensures that institutional priorities receive consistent attention. This role involves facilitating communication across the university's multiple campuses to maintain organizational alignment. By organizing complex projects and tracking progress on key initiatives, the Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to focus on long-term growth. Mary Giardina also manages the administrative staff to ensure that daily operations remain efficient and responsive to faculty needs. Through careful oversight of internal processes, Giardina supports the university's mission of providing high-quality research and education. Ultimately, Giardina maintains the structural integrity of the administration while fostering a collaborative environment for all university personnel.

Elaine Joggerst, the Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives at Florida Atlantic University, manages the execution of high-priority projects that advance the university's mission. Overseeing the development of strategic plans, Joggerst ensures that all departments remain focused on institutional goals. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to address emerging challenges in the higher education sector. By facilitating communication between the executive leadership and the broader university community, the Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives maintains alignment on key objectives. Elaine Joggerst also monitors the progress of various initiatives to ensure they deliver measurable results for the institution. Through careful planning and execution, Joggerst supports the university's efforts to expand its research capabilities and academic reach. Ultimately, Joggerst drives the implementation of strategic programs that strengthen the university's standing as a premier public research institution.

Harrison Hanna, the Football Chief of Staff at Florida Atlantic University, directs the administrative and operational functions of the athletic department's football program. Overseeing the logistics of team operations, Hanna ensures that the coaching staff and student-athletes have the resources necessary for success. This role involves managing budgets, travel arrangements, and compliance with athletic regulations. By coordinating with university departments, the Football Chief of Staff aligns the program's activities with the broader institutional mission of student development. Harrison Hanna also manages the daily schedule and administrative needs of the football team to maintain a high level of efficiency. Through the oversight of athletic operations, Hanna supports the university's goal of fostering excellence in both sports and academics. Ultimately, Hanna provides the organizational support required for the football program to compete at a high level while representing the university's values.