Florida Atlantic University Executive and Leadership Team

Juliette Plaisir, the FAU FarmOwls Drone Team Co Chief Executive Officer at Florida Atlantic University, directs advanced agricultural technology initiatives. Overseeing the integration of drone systems into precision farming research, the Co Chief Executive Officer manages technical development and field testing protocols. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-disciplinary teams to optimize crop monitoring and data collection efficiency. By bridging engineering innovation with practical agricultural applications, Juliette Plaisir advances the university's commitment to sustainable farming solutions. The Co Chief Executive Officer ensures that all drone operations align with institutional research goals while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Through strategic partnerships with regional agricultural stakeholders, the Co Chief Executive Officer expands the reach of these technological advancements. Ultimately, the Co Chief Executive Officer drives the adoption of automated systems to improve yield and resource management across the state.

Stacey Semmel, the Chief Financial Officer, Foundation at Florida Atlantic University, directs the financial strategy and asset management for the university foundation. Overseeing endowment growth and investment portfolios, the Chief Financial Officer, Foundation ensures that philanthropic resources support long-term academic and research goals. This role involves rigorous financial reporting and compliance oversight to maintain institutional integrity. By optimizing capital allocation, Stacey Semmel strengthens the financial foundation necessary for university expansion and program development. The Chief Financial Officer, Foundation collaborates with the board to align fiscal policies with the institution's strategic vision. Through careful management of donor funds and investment strategies, the Chief Financial Officer, Foundation secures the financial stability required for ongoing innovation. This leadership position directly impacts the university's ability to provide scholarships, fund research centers, and enhance campus facilities for the benefit of the entire academic community.

Jayson Iroff, the Vice President, Financial Affairs & Chief Financial Officer at Florida Atlantic University, directs the comprehensive financial operations and fiscal planning for the institution. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, the Vice President, Financial Affairs & Chief Financial Officer ensures the university maintains a robust economic position. This role involves managing large-scale financial risks and optimizing resource distribution across all academic and administrative departments. By implementing sound fiscal policies, Jayson Iroff supports the university's commitment to sustainable growth and academic excellence. The Vice President, Financial Affairs & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with executive leadership to align financial strategies with long-term institutional goals. Through meticulous oversight of financial affairs, the Vice President, Financial Affairs & Chief Financial Officer secures the funding necessary for research, infrastructure, and student services. This leadership role remains essential for the university's overall stability and continued success in a competitive educational market.

Kimberly Ficco, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director at Florida Atlantic University, manages the operational infrastructure and executive programs. Overseeing the delivery of professional development and corporate training, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director ensures that educational offerings meet the needs of modern business professionals. This role involves scaling operational capacity to support the university's executive education division. By optimizing service delivery models, Kimberly Ficco enhances the value provided to corporate partners and individual learners. The Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director coordinates with faculty and industry experts to develop customized training solutions. Through efficient management of resources and personnel, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director drives the growth of professional programs. This leadership position remains critical for maintaining the university's reputation as a premier provider of executive education and practical business training in the region.

Kenneth Jessell, the President at Florida Atlantic University, provides the overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, administrative, and research functions, the President ensures that the university fulfills its mission to provide exceptional education and community impact. This role involves engaging with stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and industry partners, to advance the university's reputation. By fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, Kenneth Jessell drives the institution's growth and development. The President collaborates with the board and executive leadership to set long-term goals and address the challenges facing higher education. Through decisive leadership and a commitment to student success, the President secures the resources and partnerships necessary for the university to thrive. This leadership position remains the primary driver of the university's strategic direction and its ongoing commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Katherine McMillan, the Chief of Staff & Cabinet Executive (Uwide) at Florida Atlantic University, coordinates high-level administrative functions across the entire institution. Managing the flow of information to the cabinet, the Chief of Staff & Cabinet Executive (Uwide) ensures that strategic priorities receive consistent attention from leadership. This role involves facilitating communication between diverse departments to maintain operational cohesion and institutional alignment. By streamlining decision-making processes, Katherine McMillan supports the university's mission to provide quality education and research. The Chief of Staff & Cabinet Executive (Uwide) oversees complex projects that require interdepartmental collaboration, ensuring that all initiatives meet established timelines and quality benchmarks. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff & Cabinet Executive (Uwide) fosters an environment of transparency and efficiency. This leadership position remains central to the university's ability to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education.

Mary Giardina, the Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff at Florida Atlantic University, manages critical administrative workflows and operational support systems. Overseeing daily business functions, the Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff ensures that departmental resources align with the broader institutional objectives. This role involves optimizing internal processes to enhance service delivery for students and faculty. By implementing rigorous administrative standards, Mary Giardina supports the university's commitment to operational excellence. The Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff coordinates with various stakeholders to resolve complex logistical challenges and improve organizational efficiency. Through proactive management of administrative tasks, the Deputy Ad Administration & Swa Chief of Staff facilitates a productive environment for academic and professional growth. This leadership role remains vital for maintaining the infrastructure necessary to support the university's diverse educational programs and research initiatives.

Elaine Joggerst, the Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives at Florida Atlantic University, architects the implementation of key institutional growth projects. Overseeing the execution of long-term strategic plans, the Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives ensures that all departments remain focused on core mission objectives. This role involves analyzing market trends and internal performance metrics to guide decision-making. By fostering collaboration across academic and administrative units, Elaine Joggerst drives the successful launch of new initiatives. The Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives manages complex stakeholder relationships to ensure alignment with the university's broader goals. Through strategic planning and rigorous project oversight, the Chief of Staff & Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives enhances the institution's competitive position. This leadership role remains essential for translating high-level vision into actionable outcomes that benefit students and the wider business community.

Harrison Hanna, the Football Chief of Staff at Florida Atlantic University, manages the administrative and operational logistics for the football program. Overseeing daily team operations, the Football Chief of Staff ensures that coaching staff and student-athletes have the necessary resources to succeed. This role involves coordinating travel, scheduling, and compliance with athletic department policies. By streamlining the program's internal processes, Harrison Hanna supports the university's commitment to athletic excellence and student development. The Football Chief of Staff facilitates communication between the coaching staff and university administration to ensure alignment with institutional values. Through proactive management of team logistics, the Football Chief of Staff fosters a professional environment conducive to high performance. This leadership position remains vital for the success of the football program and its contribution to the university's overall spirit and community engagement efforts.

Jeffrey Schilit, the Associate Provost and Chief Information Officer at Florida Atlantic University, directs the technological infrastructure and academic computing strategy. Overseeing the integration of digital tools into the learning environment, the Associate Provost and Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge resources. This role involves managing enterprise-wide information systems and cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional data. By advancing the university's digital transformation, Jeffrey Schilit supports the delivery of high-quality instruction and research. The Associate Provost and Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leaders to align technology investments with pedagogical goals. Through strategic oversight of information technology, the Associate Provost and Chief Information Officer enhances the university's capacity for innovation and data-driven decision-making. This leadership position remains critical for maintaining the technological foundation required for modern higher education and research excellence.