Florida International University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Florida International University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, administration, legislative governance, and academic leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, Florida International University advances public education through diverse degree programs in Arts, Design, Medicine, and Technology while fostering global community impact.

Leadership Roles at Florida International University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sal Aboushi
  • President - Jeanette Nuñez
  • Receptionist Office Of The President - Claudia Crego
  • President - Julia Nunes
  • Founder & President - Lizaveta Aparina
  • Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group - Yvesdany Accilien
  • Internal Medicine Interest Group Co-President - Amalia Abraham
  • Chief Technology Officer - Jose Mitrani
  • Chief of Staff - James Bussey
  • Speaker of the Senate - Alexandra Barriga
  • Sal Aboushi - Chief Executive Officer

    Sal Aboushi, the Chief Executive Officer at Florida International University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public research institution. Aboushi manages the alignment of academic departments with long-term institutional goals, ensuring the university maintains high standards in Arts, Design, and Technology. By overseeing the integration of research initiatives across various colleges, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency and fiscal health. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to expand the university's footprint within the competitive landscape of higher education. Sal Aboushi monitors the execution of large-scale projects that enhance the student experience and faculty research capabilities. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary resources to support the mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body, ultimately strengthening the institution's reputation as a premier research hub.

    Jeanette Nuñez - President

    Jeanette Nuñez, the President at Florida International University, leads the institution's academic and research mission with a focus on regional and national impact. Nuñez oversees the university's expansion in Medicine and Health, ensuring that research programs meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. By directing the faculty and administrative staff, the President fosters an environment of academic excellence and innovation. This leadership role involves engaging with external stakeholders and government entities to secure funding and support for university initiatives. Jeanette Nuñez monitors the performance of various colleges, ensuring that all academic programs remain competitive and relevant. Through the strategic allocation of resources, the President drives the university's growth, supporting the development of new degree programs and research facilities that solidify the institution's position as a leader in public higher education.
    Jeanette Nuñez

    Claudia Crego - Receptionist Office Of The President

    Claudia Crego, the Receptionist Office Of The President at Florida International University, manages the primary point of contact for the executive leadership team. Crego oversees the scheduling and coordination of high-level communications, ensuring that all inquiries are directed to the appropriate departments. By maintaining the professional environment of the president's office, the Receptionist Office Of The President facilitates efficient interactions between internal staff and external partners. This leadership role involves managing sensitive information and ensuring that the executive office operates with high levels of confidentiality and organization. Claudia Crego monitors the flow of correspondence, ensuring that urgent matters receive timely attention from the leadership team. Through the effective management of front-office operations, the Receptionist Office Of The President supports the overall efficiency of the university's administration, allowing the leadership to focus on strategic initiatives that advance the institution's mission.

    Julia Nunes - President

    Julia Nunes, the President at Florida International University, focuses on the advancement of Arts and Design programs to ensure creative excellence across the campus. Nunes oversees the development of curricula that integrate modern design principles with traditional academic rigor. By directing the faculty in the arts department, the President fosters a culture of innovation and creative research. This leadership role involves managing partnerships with cultural institutions to provide students with real-world experience in the design industry. Julia Nunes monitors the success of arts-based initiatives, ensuring that these programs contribute to the university's overall reputation for academic quality. Through the strategic promotion of the arts, the President supports the university's commitment to a well-rounded education, ensuring that students have access to the resources and mentorship necessary to succeed in their creative careers.

    Lizaveta Aparina - Founder & President

    Lizaveta Aparina, the Founder & President at Florida International University, directs the establishment and growth of specialized academic interest groups that enhance student engagement. Aparina oversees the creation of platforms that connect students with industry professionals in the fields of Technology and Medicine. By managing the operational framework of these groups, the Founder & President ensures that students have access to networking opportunities and professional development resources. This leadership role involves mentoring student leaders and coordinating events that highlight the university's research capabilities. Lizaveta Aparina monitors the impact of these interest groups on student retention and career placement, ensuring that all activities align with the university's mission. Through the effective management of these initiatives, the Founder & President fosters a vibrant campus community that prepares students for success in their respective professional fields.

    Yvesdany Accilien - Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group

    Yvesdany Accilien, the Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group at Florida International University, directs the clinical education and research outreach for students interested in musculoskeletal health. Accilien oversees the organization of workshops and seminars that bridge the gap between classroom learning and surgical practice. By managing collaborations with local medical professionals, the Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group ensures that students gain exposure to current trends in sports medicine. This leadership role involves coordinating research projects that investigate injury prevention and rehabilitation techniques. Yvesdany Accilien monitors the participation levels of students, ensuring that the interest group provides valuable resources for those pursuing careers in orthopaedics. Through the effective management of these clinical initiatives, the Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group supports the university's medical mission, preparing the next generation of healthcare providers for specialized practice.

    Amalia Abraham - Internal Medicine Interest Group Co-President

    Amalia Abraham, the Internal Medicine Interest Group Co-President at Florida International University, directs the academic and professional development activities for students focused on primary care and internal medicine. Abraham oversees the planning of guest lectures and clinical shadowing opportunities that provide insight into the complexities of internal medicine. By managing the group's outreach efforts, the Internal Medicine Interest Group Co-President ensures that students remain informed about advancements in diagnostic techniques and patient care. This leadership role involves facilitating discussions on healthcare policy and the role of internal medicine in the broader medical landscape. Amalia Abraham monitors the group's impact on student career choices, ensuring that members receive the guidance necessary to excel in their medical training. Through the effective management of these educational programs, the Internal Medicine Interest Group Co-President supports the university's commitment to producing highly skilled and compassionate physicians.

    Jose Mitrani - Chief Technology Officer

    Jose Mitrani, the Chief Technology Officer at Florida International University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern research and academic delivery. Mitrani manages the deployment of advanced computing systems that facilitate data-driven discoveries in Medicine and Health. By overseeing the university's cybersecurity posture and network reliability, the Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty across all campuses. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to optimize administrative workflows and classroom engagement. Jose Mitrani coordinates with academic leaders to implement digital tools that enhance the learning environment, directly impacting the university's ability to compete in the global education market. Through the modernization of legacy systems, the Chief Technology Officer supports the institution's commitment to technological innovation, ensuring that all digital assets remain secure, scalable, and aligned with the broader research objectives of the university.

    James Bussey - Chief of Staff

    James Bussey, the Chief of Staff at Florida International University, manages the daily operations of the executive office to ensure organizational cohesion. Bussey facilitates communication between the leadership team and various academic departments, streamlining decision-making processes. By overseeing the implementation of institutional policies, the Chief of Staff maintains operational consistency across the university's diverse programs. This leadership role involves coordinating high-level meetings and managing strategic priorities that require immediate attention from the executive team. James Bussey monitors the progress of key initiatives, ensuring that all departments remain focused on the core mission of research and education. Through the effective management of administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff supports the university's growth and stability, allowing the leadership team to focus on long-term strategic goals while maintaining the high standards expected of a public research institution.

    Alexandra Barriga - Speaker of the Senate

    Alexandra Barriga, the Speaker of the Senate at Florida International University, directs the legislative processes that govern student representation and institutional advocacy. Barriga oversees the senate floor, ensuring that student concerns regarding academic policies and campus life receive proper attention from the administration. By facilitating debates and voting procedures, the Speaker of the Senate maintains a democratic environment that encourages student participation in university governance. This leadership role involves collaborating with various student organizations to address issues related to Arts, Design, and Health programs. Alexandra Barriga monitors the development of legislative proposals that impact the student body, ensuring alignment with the university's broader mission. Through the effective management of senate sessions, the Speaker of the Senate fosters a culture of accountability and transparency, ultimately enhancing the overall student experience and ensuring that student voices influence the strategic direction of the institution.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Florida International University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Florida International University?
    Florida International University is led by Sal Aboushi (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jeanette Nuñez (President) and Claudia Crego (Receptionist Office Of The President).
    Who is part of Florida International University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Florida International University includes leaders such as Sal Aboushi (Chief Executive Officer), Jeanette Nuñez (President), Claudia Crego (Receptionist Office Of The President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Florida International University have?
    Florida International University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Florida International University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Florida International University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, Receptionist Office Of The President, President, Founder & President.