Fordham University Executive and Leadership Team

Makarena Hai, the Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the university. Overseeing the integration of academic programs with long-term financial sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the mission established in 1841. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and driving initiatives that enhance the university's reputation within the competitive higher education landscape. By optimizing resource allocation across multiple campuses, Makarena Hai directly impacts the quality of student outcomes and faculty research. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on expanding the reach of certificate programs to meet evolving market demands. Through consistent engagement with the Board, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary support for infrastructure development and academic innovation, ultimately strengthening the institution's position as a premier private university in the United States.

Michael Kane, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc at Fordham University, manages specialized entrepreneurial partnerships and external innovation projects. Overseeing the collaboration between private sector entities and university research departments, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc ensures that academic output translates into practical market applications. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for commercializing intellectual property and fostering a culture of innovation among the student body. By bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice, Michael Kane directly influences the university's ability to attract corporate investment. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc coordinates with academic leadership to align external projects with the core educational mission. Through strategic oversight of these partnerships, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc drives economic impact and enhances the university's profile in the broader business community.

Emanuel Chirico, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, governs the high-level strategic direction and institutional governance frameworks. Overseeing the alignment of university policies with long-term institutional goals, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the academic mission remains central to all administrative decisions. This leadership role involves managing the relationship with the Board of Trustees and guiding the university through complex regulatory environments. By focusing on fiscal discipline and operational efficiency, Emanuel Chirico directly supports the expansion of academic programs and campus facilities. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer facilitates communication between executive leadership and the broader university community to ensure transparency and accountability. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance metrics, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health and academic integrity of the university, ensuring that the institution continues to thrive as a leading private university.

Zoe Skinner, the President, Communications at Fordham University, manages the internal and external communication strategies that support the university's mission. Overseeing the dissemination of institutional news and public relations efforts, the President, Communications ensures that the university's voice remains consistent and impactful. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic leadership to highlight research breakthroughs and student successes. By managing media relations and crisis communication, Zoe Skinner directly protects and enhances the university's reputation. The President, Communications develops messaging that resonates with alumni, donors, and the broader public, ensuring that the institution's values are clearly articulated. Through the oversight of digital and traditional communication channels, the President, Communications drives engagement and fosters a sense of community. By aligning communication strategies with institutional goals, the President, Communications supports the university's efforts to maintain its status as a premier academic institution in the United States.

Ray Fordham, the President at Fordham University, leads the academic and operational functions of the university's core campus programs. Overseeing the faculty development and curriculum design, the President ensures that academic standards remain high across all departments. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day operations of the main campus and fostering an environment conducive to research and learning. By focusing on student retention and academic success, Ray Fordham directly impacts the quality of the educational experience. The President collaborates with other administrative leaders to implement policies that support the university's long-term growth. Through the oversight of academic departments, the President ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and rigorous. By maintaining a focus on academic excellence, the President supports the university's mission to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for professional success in a competitive global market.

Robert Montesano, the President at Fordham University, directs the administrative operations and student services for specific academic divisions. Overseeing the student support systems and campus life initiatives, the President ensures that the university provides a holistic educational experience. This leadership role involves managing the resources required to maintain high-quality student facilities and support services. By focusing on student engagement and community building, Robert Montesano directly impacts the overall student experience and satisfaction. The President collaborates with academic leadership to ensure that student services align with the university's educational goals. Through the oversight of campus operations, the President maintains a safe and productive environment for learning. By prioritizing student needs and operational efficiency, the President supports the university's mission to foster a supportive and intellectually stimulating community for all students across the various campuses.

Jacqueline Manelis, the President, Fordham University Science Club at Fordham University, manages the student-led initiatives and scientific outreach programs that enhance the university's research culture. Overseeing the coordination of science-focused events and collaborative projects, the President, Fordham University Science Club ensures that students have opportunities to engage with scientific inquiry outside the classroom. This leadership role involves managing club resources and fostering partnerships with faculty members to support student research. By promoting scientific literacy and innovation, Jacqueline Manelis directly impacts the engagement levels of the student body in STEM fields. The President, Fordham University Science Club collaborates with other student organizations to create a vibrant campus environment. Through the oversight of club activities, the President, Fordham University Science Club drives student participation in academic and extracurricular scientific pursuits, ultimately contributing to the university's reputation for excellence in scientific education and research.

Sean McCooe, the President at Fordham University, manages the strategic partnerships and external relations that support the university's regional presence. Overseeing the engagement with local community leaders and industry partners, the President ensures that the university remains connected to the broader New York City area. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for collaborative projects that benefit both the university and the local community. By focusing on building strong external networks, Sean McCooe directly impacts the university's ability to secure resources and support for its programs. The President collaborates with other senior leaders to align external relations with the university's strategic goals. Through the oversight of community engagement initiatives, the President fosters a positive relationship between the university and the public. By maintaining a focus on regional impact, the President supports the university's mission to serve as a cornerstone of education and community development.

Meagan Fong, the Chief Marketing Officer at Fordham University, architects the brand strategy and communication initiatives that define the university's public presence. Overseeing the recruitment marketing and digital engagement efforts, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the institution effectively reaches prospective students across diverse demographics. This leadership role involves managing the university's reputation and coordinating promotional campaigns that highlight academic achievements and campus life. By leveraging data-driven insights to optimize marketing spend, Meagan Fong directly impacts enrollment growth and brand awareness. The Chief Marketing Officer collaborates with academic departments to showcase unique certificate programs and research initiatives. Through the development of cohesive messaging, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the university's market position. By maintaining a consistent brand identity across all platforms, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the institution remains a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the New York City area.

Jordan Kirby, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei at Fordham University, directs the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs alongside athletic department operations. Overseeing the strategic alignment of athletic programs with the university's broader mission, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei ensures that student-athletes receive comprehensive support. This leadership role involves managing internal administrative workflows and coordinating cross-departmental initiatives that promote an inclusive campus culture. By integrating DEI principles into athletic policies, Jordan Kirby directly impacts the well-being and success of the student body. The Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei collaborates with other senior leaders to execute institutional priorities and improve operational efficiency. Through the management of strategic projects, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei fosters an environment that values excellence and community engagement.