Florida International University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Florida International University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, and student affairs.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Florida International University fosters innovation and research across diverse disciplines, impacting global communities through education and discovery.

Leadership Roles at Florida International University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sal Aboushi
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jorge García
  • President - Jean-Francois Blanc
  • Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group - Yvesdany Accilien
  • Chief of Staff - James Bussey
  • Chief Technology Officer - Jose Mitrani
  • Chief Information Officer - Oscar Rios
  • FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President - Alisha Loiseau
  • Senior Vice President, Operations & Safety Chief of Staff - Javier Marques
  • 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 and operational execution for the institution. Aboushi guides all major initiatives, ensuring alignment with the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and fostering groundbreaking research. This leadership role involves extensive collaboration with academic departments, administrative units, and external stakeholders to advance the university's standing and impact. Overseeing the institution's financial health and long-term sustainability, Aboushi drives growth strategies and resource allocation. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to cultivating a dynamic campus environment that supports student success and faculty achievement. Through decisive leadership, Sal Aboushi ensures Florida International University remains at the forefront of higher education innovation and community engagement.

    Jorge García - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jorge García, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Florida International University, spearheads the institution's strategic direction and comprehensive operational management. García leads all facets of university operations, from academic program development to research endeavors and community outreach, ensuring adherence to FIU's core values. This executive position demands constant engagement with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to champion the university's mission. The President & Chief Executive Officer is responsible for fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation, driving institutional growth, and enhancing FIU's reputation nationally and internationally. García's leadership ensures the effective allocation of resources and the successful implementation of strategic plans. Through dedicated oversight, Jorge García propels Florida International University forward, solidifying its role as a leading public research university.

    Jean-Francois Blanc - President

    Jean-Francois Blanc, the President at Florida International University, leads the institution with a focus on academic advancement and strategic growth. Blanc directs key initiatives aimed at enhancing research capabilities, expanding educational offerings, and fostering a vibrant campus community. This executive role involves close collaboration with faculty, staff, and external partners to achieve institutional goals. The President is responsible for championing the university's mission and ensuring its continued success in higher education. Blanc's leadership guides the development of innovative programs and the cultivation of a supportive learning environment. Through strategic vision and dedicated management, Jean-Francois Blanc drives Florida International University's commitment to excellence and societal impact.

    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, shares leadership responsibilities for a student organization focused on medical interests. Accilien collaborates with fellow leaders to organize educational events, networking opportunities, and skill-building workshops for students pursuing careers in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine. This role involves coordinating group activities and promoting member engagement. The Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group is instrumental in fostering a community for aspiring medical professionals. Accilien's contributions include planning meetings, managing group communications, and ensuring the group's objectives align with student development goals. Through collaborative leadership, Yvesdany Accilien supports the academic and professional aspirations of students at Florida International University.

    James Bussey - Chief of Staff

    James Bussey, the Chief of Staff at Florida International University, provides critical support and strategic counsel to the executive leadership. Bussey manages key initiatives, facilitates interdepartmental communication, and ensures the efficient execution of presidential directives. This role involves coordinating high-priority projects and streamlining operational workflows across the university. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact, bridging communication between various academic and administrative divisions. Bussey's responsibilities include preparing reports, managing schedules, and overseeing special assignments that advance the university's strategic objectives. By optimizing administrative processes and supporting executive decision-making, James Bussey enhances the overall effectiveness and responsiveness of Florida International University's leadership team.

    Jose Mitrani - Chief Technology Officer

    Jose Mitrani, the Chief Technology Officer at Florida International University, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Mitrani oversees the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that support academic, research, and administrative functions. This leadership position involves managing IT operations, ensuring cybersecurity, and driving digital transformation initiatives across campus. The Chief Technology Officer is responsible for evaluating emerging technologies and integrating them to enhance learning experiences and operational efficiency. Mitrani's purview includes leading the IT department, fostering a culture of technological advancement, and ensuring robust data management and network security. Through strategic technological leadership, Jose Mitrani empowers Florida International University with cutting-edge tools and systems.

    Oscar Rios - Chief Information Officer

    Oscar Rios, the Chief Information Officer at Florida International University, manages the university's information systems and data governance. Rios ensures the integrity, security, and accessibility of critical institutional data, supporting academic and administrative operations. This role involves overseeing the implementation and maintenance of enterprise-wide information technology solutions. The Chief Information Officer is tasked with developing policies and procedures for effective information management and technology utilization. Rios's responsibilities include leading the IT services division, driving digital initiatives, and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. By optimizing information systems, Oscar Rios enhances the operational capabilities and strategic decision-making processes at Florida International University.

    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, supports the strategic operations and administrative functions of the Student Government Association's Vice President's office. Loiseau assists in managing projects, coordinating communications, and ensuring the smooth execution of SGA initiatives that benefit the student body. This position involves facilitating collaboration between student leaders and university administration. The FIU SGA Deputy Chief of Staff To Vice President plays a key part in organizing student engagement activities and advocating for student needs. Loiseau's duties include preparing documentation, managing correspondence, and contributing to the overall effectiveness of student governance. Through dedicated support, Alisha Loiseau enhances the impact of student leadership at Florida International University.

    Javier Marques - Senior Vice President, Operations & Safety Chief of Staff

    Javier Marques, the Senior Vice President, Operations & Safety Chief of Staff at Florida International University, directs critical operational functions and ensures campus safety protocols are robustly implemented. Marques oversees the strategic planning and execution of initiatives related to university operations, facilities management, and emergency preparedness. This executive role involves coordinating efforts across multiple departments to maintain a secure and efficient campus environment. The Senior Vice President, Operations & Safety Chief of Staff is responsible for developing and enforcing policies that uphold the highest standards of operational excellence and safety. Marques's leadership ensures the effective management of resources and the seamless functioning of essential university services. Through comprehensive oversight, Javier Marques safeguards the well-being and operational integrity of Florida International University.

    Alexandra Barriga - Speaker of the Senate

    Alexandra Barriga, the Speaker of the Senate at Florida International University, presides over the legislative body of the Student Government Association. Barriga guides the Senate's proceedings, facilitates policy discussions, and ensures the effective representation of student interests. This leadership position involves managing legislative agendas and fostering productive debate among senators. The Speaker of the Senate is responsible for upholding the rules of governance and promoting collaboration within the student legislature. Barriga's duties include overseeing committee work, approving resolutions, and acting as a liaison between the Senate and other branches of student government. Through strong parliamentary leadership, Alexandra Barriga advances the legislative agenda and advocacy efforts of Florida International University's student body.

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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 Jean-Francois Blanc (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), Jean-Francois Blanc (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, Co-President, Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Interest Group, Chief of Staff.