Florida International University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Florida International University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, academic administration, technology infrastructure, and internal operations.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, Florida International University advances global knowledge through diverse degree programs in Arts, Design, Medicine, and Technology while fostering student success across the Americas.

Leadership Roles at Florida International University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sal Aboushi
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jorge García
  • President - Jeanette Nuñez
  • President - Julia Nunes
  • President of Internal Affairs - Karim Abdul-massih
  • President - Ashley Ellison
  • Chief Technology Officer - Jose Mitrani
  • Chief of Staff - James Bussey
  • Chief Information Officer - Oscar Rios
  • FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President - Alisha Loiseau
  • Sal Aboushi - Chief Executive Officer

    Sal Aboushi, the Chief Executive Officer at Florida International University, directs high-level strategic initiatives to expand the research footprint of the institution. Aboushi manages the alignment of academic programs with evolving industry demands in technology and health sectors. By overseeing cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that institutional resources support long-term growth and student outcomes. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the Board to refine the vision for the university. Sal Aboushi drives the implementation of policies that enhance the reputation of the university within the competitive landscape of public research institutions. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer maintains operational efficiency across all campuses. Aboushi secures the financial health of the organization by prioritizing sustainable development and strategic partnerships that bolster the mission of the university.

    Jorge García - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jorge García, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Florida International University, architects the overarching academic and operational framework for the entire university system. García manages the integration of research initiatives with community engagement efforts to maximize the impact of the institution. Overseeing the executive leadership team, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all departments adhere to the core mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. This role requires balancing complex budgetary requirements with the need for continuous innovation in degree offerings. Jorge García drives the expansion of the university presence across regional markets, strengthening the influence of the institution in the public sector. By fostering a culture of academic rigor, the President & Chief Executive Officer elevates the standing of the university. García maintains focus on long-term sustainability and the advancement of student success metrics.

    Jeanette Nuñez - President

    Jeanette Nuñez, the President at Florida International University, directs the external relations and public policy engagement for the institution. Nuñez manages the relationships with government entities and community stakeholders to secure support for research and academic programs. Overseeing the advocacy efforts, the President ensures that the university maintains a strong presence in the public sphere. This leadership role involves promoting the value of the institution to regional and national partners. Jeanette Nuñez drives the development of initiatives that connect the university with the broader economic landscape of the region. By fostering strategic alliances, the President enhances the capacity of the institution to serve the public interest. Nuñez maintains a focus on the long-term growth of the university through effective communication and collaborative partnerships that advance the mission of the institution.
    Jeanette Nuñez

    Julia Nunes - President

    Julia Nunes, the President at Florida International University, directs the internal academic development and faculty support programs. Nunes manages the implementation of curriculum enhancements that align with the research goals of the university. Overseeing the academic affairs department, the President ensures that faculty members have the resources required to excel in teaching and research. This leadership role involves coordinating with department heads to maintain high standards of academic excellence across all disciplines. Julia Nunes drives the expansion of interdisciplinary programs that leverage the strengths of the university in Arts, Design, and Technology. By fostering a supportive environment for scholarly work, the President contributes to the overall reputation of the institution. Nunes maintains a focus on student-centered learning and the continuous improvement of the academic experience for the entire university community.

    Karim Abdul-massih - President of Internal Affairs

    Karim Abdul-massih, the President of Internal Affairs at Florida International University, directs the operational policies and internal governance structures of the university. Abdul-massih manages the compliance and regulatory frameworks that govern the daily activities of the institution. Overseeing the internal audit and policy review processes, the President of Internal Affairs ensures that all departments operate within the established guidelines of the university. This leadership role involves resolving complex internal challenges and promoting a culture of accountability. Karim Abdul-massih drives the optimization of internal processes to improve the efficiency of administrative functions. By ensuring that internal operations remain transparent and effective, the President of Internal Affairs supports the broader mission of the university. Abdul-massih maintains a focus on organizational stability and the continuous improvement of internal governance to facilitate the long-term success of the institution.

    Ashley Ellison - President

    Ashley Ellison, the President at Florida International University, directs the student services and campus wellness initiatives. Ellison manages the programs that support the physical and mental well-being of the student body, ensuring a holistic approach to education. Overseeing the student affairs division, the President ensures that the campus environment remains inclusive and supportive for all students. This leadership role involves coordinating with health and counseling services to provide comprehensive care. Ashley Ellison drives the development of extracurricular activities that foster personal growth and community building. By prioritizing the student experience, the President enhances the overall quality of life at the university. Ellison maintains a focus on student retention and success, ensuring that every student has access to the resources necessary to thrive academically and personally within the university community.

    Jose Mitrani - Chief Technology Officer

    Jose Mitrani, the Chief Technology Officer at Florida International University, directs the development of advanced digital infrastructure to support research and academic delivery. Mitrani manages the implementation of cutting-edge software solutions that streamline administrative processes and enhance the learning experience for students. Overseeing the technical roadmap, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of technological integration in higher education. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to deploy specialized tools for Arts, Design, and Medicine programs. Jose Mitrani drives the modernization of campus systems to improve data security and operational agility. By optimizing the digital ecosystem, the Chief Technology Officer supports the broader research goals of the institution. Mitrani maintains a focus on scalable solutions that accommodate the growing needs of the diverse student body and faculty.

    James Bussey - Chief of Staff

    James Bussey, the Chief of Staff at Florida International University, coordinates the daily operations of the executive office to ensure seamless communication across all university departments. Bussey manages the flow of information between the leadership team and the various academic units, facilitating efficient decision-making processes. Overseeing the strategic priorities of the office, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional goals receive the necessary attention and resources. This role involves managing complex projects that require cross-functional collaboration among faculty and administrative staff. James Bussey drives the execution of key initiatives that support the mission of the university. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief of Staff enhances the overall productivity of the executive leadership. Bussey maintains a focus on organizational alignment, ensuring that every department contributes effectively to the long-term success of the institution.

    Oscar Rios - Chief Information Officer

    Oscar Rios, the Chief Information Officer at Florida International University, directs the management of all data systems and information security protocols across the university. Rios manages the integrity of the digital network, ensuring that faculty and students have reliable access to essential academic resources. Overseeing the information technology department, the Chief Information Officer ensures that data-driven insights inform the strategic planning of the institution. This leadership role involves protecting sensitive research data while enabling collaborative environments for academic discovery. Oscar Rios drives the adoption of cloud-based platforms that improve the efficiency of administrative and educational services. By maintaining robust cybersecurity measures, the Chief Information Officer safeguards the reputation of the university. Rios focuses on the continuous improvement of information systems to support the evolving needs of the research community and the broader student population.

    Alisha Loiseau - FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President

    Alisha Loiseau, the FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President at Florida International University, directs student-led initiatives that enhance the campus experience and promote student advocacy. Loiseau manages the coordination of student government projects, ensuring that student voices reach the administration effectively. Overseeing the operational support for the Vice President, the FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President ensures that student-focused programs align with the broader mission of the university. This leadership role involves organizing events and policy discussions that foster a vibrant campus culture. Alisha Loiseau drives the implementation of student services that address the diverse needs of the university community. By facilitating communication between the student body and university leadership, the FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President supports a collaborative environment. Loiseau maintains a focus on student engagement and the continuous improvement of campus life.

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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 Jorge García (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Jeanette Nuñez (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), Jorge García (President & Chief Executive Officer), Jeanette Nuñez (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 & Chief Executive Officer, President, President, President of Internal Affairs.