Fordham University Executive and Leadership Team

Makarena Hai, the Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, directs the overarching academic and administrative vision for the institution. Hai oversees the integration of Jesuit educational values across all campus departments, ensuring that the university maintains its reputation for rigorous intellectual development. By aligning faculty research initiatives with long-term institutional goals, the Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment conducive to high-level academic achievement. Makarena Hai manages complex stakeholder relationships, including interactions with the Board of Trustees and various external academic partners. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of the university's competitive position within the New York City higher education landscape. Through the implementation of strategic growth plans, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary resources to support student success and faculty innovation. Ultimately, Hai drives the university toward its mission of academic excellence and community engagement.

Michael Kane, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc at Fordham University, manages specialized entrepreneurial partnerships that bridge academic theory with practical market application. Kane oversees the development of unique collaborative programs designed to enhance the university's innovation ecosystem. By connecting students with industry-specific mentorship opportunities, the Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc facilitates real-world skill acquisition. Michael Kane coordinates with academic departments to ensure that these external partnerships remain aligned with the core educational mission of the institution. This role involves navigating the intersection of private enterprise and higher education to create sustainable value for the university community. Through the cultivation of these strategic alliances, the Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc expands the reach of the university's professional development initiatives. Kane ensures that all collaborative efforts contribute to the long-term growth and reputation of the university.

Emanuel Chirico, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, governs the high-level strategic direction and fiscal oversight of the institution. Chirico oversees the long-term financial sustainability of the university, ensuring that capital allocation supports both infrastructure development and academic expansion. By chairing the executive board, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards of governance and institutional accountability. Emanuel Chirico collaborates with senior leadership to refine the university's market position, focusing on enhancing the value proposition for students and faculty alike. This leadership role involves balancing immediate operational needs with the pursuit of ambitious, multi-year strategic objectives. Through the application of disciplined financial management and visionary planning, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the university's foundation. Chirico drives the institution toward continued prominence within the competitive landscape of private higher education in the United States.

Tokumbo Shobowale, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Fordham University, manages the institution's fiscal health, including budget planning, endowment management, and capital investment strategies. Shobowale oversees the financial operations that support the university's academic mission and campus infrastructure projects. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting systems, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and accountability in all fiscal matters. Tokumbo Shobowale collaborates with other executive leaders to allocate resources effectively, prioritizing initiatives that drive long-term growth and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves navigating complex economic environments to maintain the university's financial stability. Through the strategic management of assets and expenditures, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the university's commitment to academic excellence. Shobowale ensures that all financial decisions align with the broader strategic goals of the institution.

E. O'Brien, the President at Fordham University, directs the overall academic and administrative operations of the institution. O'Brien oversees the implementation of the university's core mission, ensuring that all academic programs and research activities maintain the highest standards of excellence. By engaging with faculty, students, and alumni, the President fosters a vibrant campus community that reflects the university's Jesuit heritage. E. O'Brien manages the strategic direction of the university, focusing on expanding its influence and impact within the higher education sector. This leadership role involves representing the institution to external stakeholders and securing the resources necessary for continued growth. Through the application of visionary leadership and collaborative decision-making, the President strengthens the university's academic reputation. O'Brien drives the institution toward achieving its long-term goals while maintaining a focus on student success and community service.

Raquel Arabalo, the President, Media & Entertainment Alliance at Fordham University, directs the university's engagement with the media and entertainment industries. Arabalo oversees the development of specialized academic programs and industry partnerships that provide students with unique professional opportunities. By connecting the university with key players in the media sector, the President, Media & Entertainment Alliance facilitates internships, research collaborations, and career placement. Raquel Arabalo manages the strategic initiatives that position the university as a leader in media-related education and innovation. This leadership role involves navigating the rapidly evolving media landscape to ensure that the university's curriculum remains relevant and impactful. Through the cultivation of these industry alliances, the President, Media & Entertainment Alliance expands the university's reach and influence. Arabalo ensures that all media-focused initiatives contribute to the overall success and reputation of the institution.

Ava Cascella, the President Pro Tempore at Fordham University, directs the governance and procedural integrity of the university's leadership bodies. Cascella oversees the coordination of administrative processes and ensures that all institutional policies are executed in accordance with the university's bylaws. By facilitating effective communication between the faculty senate and the executive leadership, the President Pro Tempore maintains a cohesive and transparent governance structure. Ava Cascella manages the scheduling and agenda-setting for key leadership meetings, ensuring that critical issues receive appropriate attention. This leadership role involves providing stability and continuity in the university's administrative operations. Through the diligent oversight of governance procedures, the President Pro Tempore supports the university's commitment to shared governance and institutional excellence. Cascella ensures that all administrative activities align with the broader strategic objectives of the institution, fostering a collaborative environment for all stakeholders.

Ray Fordham, the President at Fordham University, directs the operational and academic functions of the university's various campuses. Fordham oversees the development of new academic programs and the expansion of research facilities to meet the evolving needs of the student body. By fostering a culture of innovation and academic rigor, the President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of higher education. Ray Fordham manages the university's relationships with local and regional partners, enhancing the institution's impact on the surrounding community. This leadership role involves balancing the diverse needs of multiple campuses while maintaining a unified institutional identity. Through the implementation of strategic initiatives, the President drives the university toward continued growth and excellence. Fordham ensures that all operational decisions support the university's mission of providing a transformative education to students from all backgrounds.

Meagan Fong, the Chief Marketing Officer at Fordham University, directs all brand strategy and institutional communications across diverse digital and traditional channels. Fong oversees the development of comprehensive marketing campaigns designed to attract top-tier students and faculty to the university's various campuses. By analyzing market trends and audience engagement metrics, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes the university's public image and recruitment efforts. Meagan Fong coordinates with academic departments to highlight unique program offerings and research achievements, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. This leadership role involves managing complex media relations and enhancing the university's visibility within the competitive New York City education market. Through the execution of data-driven outreach strategies, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the institution's brand equity. Fong ensures that all communication efforts effectively convey the university's mission and values to a global audience.

Jordan Kirby, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei at Fordham University, directs the implementation of key institutional projects and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Kirby oversees the integration of DEI principles into the university's athletic department and broader strategic initiatives. By coordinating cross-functional teams, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei ensures that all operational activities reflect the university's commitment to an inclusive environment. Jordan Kirby manages the execution of high-priority projects that enhance the student-athlete experience and promote campus-wide engagement. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between the executive office and various university departments to ensure alignment on strategic goals. Through the promotion of inclusive practices and the management of key initiatives, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei drives positive cultural change. Kirby supports the university's mission by fostering a supportive and equitable community.