Gallaudet University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gallaudet University has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, strategy, and diversity.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Gallaudet University fosters a unique learning environment centered on deaf culture and American Sign Language, empowering deaf and hard of hearing students to achieve academic and personal excellence.

Leadership Roles at Gallaudet University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Bradford Hermes
  • President - Roberta Cordano
  • President's Fellow - Julie Bourne
  • President - Patricia Beech
  • Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity - Angela McCaskill
  • Chief of Staff - Heather Harker
  • Bradford Hermes - Chief Financial Officer

    Bradford Hermes, the Chief Financial Officer at Gallaudet University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing the university's budget, financial planning, and resource allocation, Hermes ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability across all academic and administrative departments. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and auditors. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, Bradford Hermes directly supports the university's mission of providing specialized higher education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to ensuring that financial resources are effectively deployed to enhance academic programs and student support services, thereby safeguarding the institution's long-term operational integrity and growth potential.
    Bradford Hermes

    Roberta Cordano - President

    Roberta Cordano, the President at Gallaudet University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Guiding the university's mission to serve deaf and hard of hearing students, Cordano champions academic innovation and the preservation of deaf culture. This executive position involves fostering partnerships, securing resources, and advocating for the university's unique educational model on national and international stages. By setting the vision for Gallaudet University, Roberta Cordano ensures the continued development of specialized programs and support services. The President's leadership cultivates an environment that empowers students, faculty, and staff, reinforcing Gallaudet's role as a premier institution for deaf higher education and a global center for research and advocacy.

    Julie Bourne - President's Fellow

    Julie Bourne, the President's Fellow at Gallaudet University, supports strategic projects and institutional advancement. This role involves contributing to key initiatives that enhance the university's academic offerings and operational effectiveness. By collaborating with various departments, Julie Bourne assists in the development and implementation of programs designed to benefit the deaf and hard of hearing student community. The President's Fellow's work focuses on advancing the university's mission through targeted research and strategic planning. This position facilitates the exploration of new opportunities and the strengthening of existing Gallaudet University resources, ensuring continued progress in specialized higher education.

    Patricia Beech - President

    Patricia Beech, the President at Gallaudet University, leads the institution with a focus on academic excellence and student success. Guiding the strategic vision, Beech ensures that Gallaudet University remains at the forefront of higher education for deaf and hard of hearing individuals. This leadership role encompasses fostering a vibrant campus community, promoting research, and strengthening external relations. By championing the university's unique mission, Patricia Beech drives initiatives that enhance specialized academic programs and support services. The President's commitment is to empower students through comprehensive educational experiences, reinforcing Gallaudet's position as a global leader in deaf education and culture.

    Angela McCaskill - Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity

    Angela McCaskill, the Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity at Gallaudet University, champions inclusivity and equitable practices across the institution. Overseeing initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, McCaskill ensures that Gallaudet University's environment is welcoming and supportive for all members of the community. This critical role involves developing and implementing strategies that enhance representation and foster a culture of belonging. By advising the President and collaborating with academic and administrative units, Angela McCaskill drives progress in diversity programming and policy development. The Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity's work is integral to upholding Gallaudet University's commitment to serving its unique student population and advancing social justice within higher education.

    Heather Harker - Chief of Staff

    Heather Harker, the Chief of Staff at Gallaudet University, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency. Coordinating key projects and ensuring alignment across university departments, Harker facilitates the execution of the President's agenda and institutional priorities. This role involves advising leadership, streamlining internal processes, and enhancing communication channels throughout the university. By driving cross-functional collaboration, Heather Harker ensures that Gallaudet University's specialized academic and support services operate cohesively. The Chief of Staff's focus includes optimizing resource utilization and supporting the development and implementation of policies that advance the university's unique educational mission for deaf and hard of hearing students.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gallaudet University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gallaudet University?
    Gallaudet University is led by Bradford Hermes (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Roberta Cordano (President) and Julie Bourne (President's Fellow).
    Who is part of Gallaudet University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gallaudet University includes leaders such as Bradford Hermes (Chief Financial Officer), Roberta Cordano (President), Julie Bourne (President's Fellow) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gallaudet University have?
    Gallaudet University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gallaudet University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gallaudet University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President's Fellow, President, Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity.