Fordham University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fordham University has 10 executives leading key functions including academic strategy, institutional governance, athletic development, and student leadership.

Rooted in a commitment to academic excellence, Fordham University advances intellectual growth and social responsibility through diverse programs across multiple New York City campuses.

Leadership Roles at Fordham University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Makarena Hai
  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Emanuel Chirico
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc - Michael Kane
  • President - Dalia Fouquart
  • President Pro Tempore - Ava Cascella
  • President, English Law Society - Kassidy De Nobrega
  • President, Communications - Zoe Skinner
  • President - Elise Hunt
  • President - Prasad Wankhedkar
  • Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei - Jordan Kirby
  • Makarena Hai - Chief Executive Officer

    Makarena Hai, the Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, directs the overarching academic mission and institutional growth strategies. Overseeing the integration of diverse educational programs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the university's long-standing commitment to excellence in New York City. This leadership role involves managing complex administrative frameworks to support faculty research and student success across multiple campuses. By optimizing resource allocation, Hai strengthens the university's market position within the competitive higher education landscape. The Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for academic integrity while fostering an environment conducive to innovation. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, Makarena Hai drives the institution toward future milestones. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term sustainability of the university's academic offerings, ensuring that every program meets the evolving needs of students and the broader academic community.

    Emanuel Chirico - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Emanuel Chirico, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Fordham University, governs the board and directs high-level institutional policy. Overseeing the strategic vision for the university, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all governance activities support the core mission of academic advancement. This leadership role involves coordinating with stakeholders to maintain the financial and operational health of the institution across its various campuses. By implementing robust oversight mechanisms, Chirico protects the university's reputation and long-term viability. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer facilitates communication between the board and executive leadership to streamline decision-making processes. Emanuel Chirico drives initiatives that enhance the university's standing in the global academic market. Through careful management of institutional assets, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the university remains a premier destination for students seeking high-quality education in the United States.

    Michael Kane - Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc

    Michael Kane, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc at Fordham University, manages specialized entrepreneurial initiatives and external partnerships. Overseeing the development of unique academic-industry collaborations, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc ensures that practical applications of knowledge remain central to the university's mission. This leadership role involves bridging the gap between theoretical research and real-world market solutions. By fostering innovation, Kane expands the university's influence beyond traditional classroom boundaries. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc coordinates with academic departments to integrate professional development opportunities into the curriculum. Michael Kane drives growth by identifying emerging trends that align with the university's educational goals. Through these efforts, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc enhances the value proposition for students, preparing graduates for success in a dynamic global economy.

    Dalia Fouquart - President

    Dalia Fouquart, the President at Fordham University, directs the daily administrative operations and academic leadership of the institution. Overseeing the faculty and student affairs, the President ensures that the university maintains its high standards for academic programs and certificates. This leadership role involves managing the academic calendar and ensuring that all educational offerings remain relevant to current industry demands. By fostering a collaborative environment, Fouquart supports the professional development of staff and faculty. The President coordinates with other executive leaders to implement policies that enhance the student experience across all New York City campuses. Dalia Fouquart drives initiatives that promote academic rigor and institutional growth. Through consistent engagement with the academic community, the President secures the university's reputation as a leader in higher education, ensuring that every student receives a comprehensive and transformative learning experience.

    Ava Cascella - President Pro Tempore

    Ava Cascella, the President Pro Tempore at Fordham University, manages temporary leadership functions and supports the continuity of institutional governance. Overseeing specific committee operations, the President Pro Tempore ensures that legislative and administrative processes remain orderly during transitions. This leadership role involves facilitating discussions among faculty and administrative bodies to maintain alignment with the university's mission. By providing temporary oversight, Cascella ensures that critical projects continue without interruption. The President Pro Tempore coordinates with the broader executive team to address immediate institutional needs and long-term strategic goals. Ava Cascella drives efficiency by streamlining communication and decision-making within the university's governance structure. Through these efforts, the President Pro Tempore maintains the stability of the institution, ensuring that the university continues to provide high-quality academic programs and certificates to students across its various campuses in the New York City area.

    Kassidy De Nobrega - President, English Law Society

    Kassidy De Nobrega, the President, English Law Society at Fordham University, directs student-led legal advocacy and academic enrichment programs. Overseeing the society's activities, the President, English Law Society ensures that students gain practical exposure to legal principles and professional networking opportunities. This leadership role involves organizing seminars and workshops that complement the university's academic offerings. By fostering a community of aspiring legal professionals, De Nobrega enhances the student experience and promotes academic excellence. The President, English Law Society coordinates with faculty advisors to ensure that all initiatives align with the university's broader educational mission. Kassidy De Nobrega drives engagement by creating platforms for intellectual discourse and professional development. Through these efforts, the President, English Law Society contributes to the university's reputation for producing well-prepared graduates who are ready to excel in the legal field and beyond.

    Zoe Skinner - President, Communications

    Zoe Skinner, the President, Communications at Fordham University, directs the university's internal and external messaging strategies. Overseeing the dissemination of information across all campuses, the President, Communications ensures that the institution's mission and achievements are effectively communicated to stakeholders. This leadership role involves managing public relations and digital outreach to enhance the university's brand presence. By coordinating with various departments, Skinner ensures that all communications reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence. The President, Communications facilitates transparency and engagement with the broader community. Zoe Skinner drives initiatives that strengthen the university's reputation in the competitive New York City education market. Through strategic messaging, the President, Communications supports the university's growth and ensures that the public remains informed about the diverse academic programs and certificates offered by the institution, ultimately fostering a strong connection between the university and its global audience.

    Elise Hunt - President

    Elise Hunt, the President at Fordham University, directs the strategic development of academic departments and institutional research. Overseeing the expansion of certificate programs, the President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of educational innovation. This leadership role involves managing faculty resources and ensuring that academic standards are consistently met across all campuses. By fostering a culture of research and inquiry, Hunt supports the university's mission to provide high-quality education. The President coordinates with administrative leaders to optimize the student experience and improve institutional outcomes. Elise Hunt drives growth by identifying new opportunities for academic collaboration and program development. Through these efforts, the President secures the university's position as a premier academic institution, ensuring that students receive the support and resources necessary to succeed in their chosen fields while contributing to the university's long-term success in the New York City region.

    Prasad Wankhedkar - President

    Prasad Wankhedkar, the President at Fordham University, directs the operational management of specific academic divisions and student support services. Overseeing the integration of technology into the learning environment, the President ensures that students have access to modern educational tools. This leadership role involves managing budgets and resources to support the university's diverse academic programs. By fostering an inclusive campus environment, Wankhedkar promotes student success and institutional growth. The President coordinates with faculty and staff to implement policies that enhance the quality of education across all campuses. Prasad Wankhedkar drives initiatives that improve operational efficiency and academic performance. Through these efforts, the President ensures that the university continues to provide high-quality certificates and degrees, maintaining its status as a leading educational institution in the United States while preparing students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape.

    Jordan Kirby - Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei

    Jordan Kirby, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei at Fordham University, manages internal operations and athletic department strategy. Overseeing the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei ensures that institutional culture reflects the university's core values. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-departmental projects to improve operational efficiency across all campuses. By directing athletic programs, Kirby promotes student-athlete development and institutional pride. The Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei facilitates communication between the president and various administrative units to ensure strategic alignment. Jordan Kirby drives progress in campus climate and athletic excellence. Through these multifaceted responsibilities, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Athletic Director, Strategic Initiatives & Dei supports the holistic growth of the university community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fordham University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Fordham University?
    Fordham University is led by Makarena Hai (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Emanuel Chirico (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer) and Michael Kane (Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc).
    Who is part of Fordham University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fordham University includes leaders such as Makarena Hai (Chief Executive Officer), Emanuel Chirico (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Michael Kane (Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fordham University have?
    Fordham University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fordham University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fordham University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bill The Duck, Llc, President, President Pro Tempore.