Lehman College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Lehman College has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and operations.

Dedicated to academic excellence and community engagement, Lehman College provides diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, driving innovation in liberal arts and sciences across New York.

Leadership Roles at Lehman College

  • President - José Cruz
  • Founder & President - Samrin Alam
  • President- Psychology Club - Sakib Shikder
  • President - Fernando Delgado
  • President - Kadiatou Diallo
  • Chief of Staff - Melissa Kirk
  • Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer - Ediltrudys Ruiz
  • Chief of Staff To the Provost - Beba Alvarado-Torrech
  • José Cruz - President

    José Cruz, the President at Lehman College, directs the overall strategic vision and operational leadership of the institution. This executive role encompasses guiding academic excellence, fostering research, and ensuring the college's financial health and community engagement. Cruz oversees all major divisions, working to advance the mission of providing comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences. The President champions institutional growth, cultivates external partnerships, and represents Lehman College within The City University of New York system and beyond. By setting institutional priorities and driving key initiatives, José Cruz ensures the college's continued development and its impact on the Bronx community and the broader educational landscape. This leadership position is central to the college's success and its commitment to accessible, high-quality education.

    Samrin Alam - Founder & President

    Samrin Alam, the Founder & President at Lehman College, established and now leads the institution with a focus on innovation in higher education. This executive role involves setting the foundational strategy and driving the ongoing development of undergraduate and graduate programs. Alam oversees all operational aspects, ensuring the college's commitment to liberal arts and sciences education is met with cutting-edge pedagogical approaches. The President works to build strong community ties and foster an environment conducive to academic achievement and personal growth for all students. By guiding the college's trajectory, Samrin Alam ensures its unique mission is realized, contributing significantly to the educational offerings within The City University of New York. This leadership cultivates a forward-thinking approach to academic and institutional advancement.

    Sakib Shikder - President- Psychology Club

    Sakib Shikder, the President- Psychology Club at Lehman College, leads student initiatives focused on the field of psychology. This role involves organizing academic and social events for psychology students, fostering a community of learning and professional development. Shikder coordinates club activities, including guest lectures, study groups, and networking opportunities, enhancing the student experience within the liberal arts and sciences framework. The President works to promote engagement with psychology-related topics and connect students with faculty mentors. By managing club operations and membership, Sakib Shikder supports the academic pursuits of students interested in psychology, contributing to the vibrant campus life at Lehman College. This leadership role empowers students to explore their academic interests more deeply.

    Fernando Delgado - President

    Fernando Delgado, the President at Lehman College, drives the strategic direction and operational management of the institution. This executive leadership role is dedicated to advancing the college's mission of providing robust undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences. Delgado oversees key institutional functions, ensuring academic quality, fostering research, and promoting student success. The President works to strengthen the college's position within The City University of New York and enhance its contribution to the Bronx community. By guiding strategic planning and resource allocation, Fernando Delgado ensures the effective delivery of educational services and the continuous improvement of campus operations. This leadership is instrumental in maintaining Lehman College's commitment to accessible and impactful higher education.

    Kadiatou Diallo - President

    Kadiatou Diallo, the President at Lehman College, leads the institution with a commitment to academic excellence and student empowerment. This executive role focuses on advancing the college's mission to deliver comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences. Diallo oversees strategic planning, ensuring that institutional resources are aligned with educational goals and community needs. The President champions initiatives that enhance student learning outcomes, faculty development, and campus engagement. By fostering a collaborative environment, Kadiatou Diallo strengthens Lehman College's role within The City University of New York and its impact on the broader educational landscape. This leadership ensures the continued provision of high-quality, accessible education.
    Kadiatou Diallo

    Melissa Kirk - Chief of Staff

    Melissa Kirk, the Chief of Staff at Lehman College, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across academic and administrative departments. This leadership role involves coordinating key projects and ensuring alignment with the college's mission of providing comprehensive liberal arts and sciences programs. Kirk manages cross-functional teams, facilitating communication between various college divisions and external stakeholders. The focus remains on enhancing the student experience and supporting faculty research endeavors. By streamlining internal processes, Melissa Kirk drives the effective execution of institutional goals, contributing directly to the college's standing within The City University of New York system. This position requires a deep understanding of higher education operations and a commitment to fostering a collaborative campus environment.

    Ediltrudys Ruiz - Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer

    Ediltrudys Ruiz, the Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at Lehman College, architects the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. This executive oversees all aspects of information technology, including network operations, cybersecurity, and the implementation of advanced learning technologies to support undergraduate and graduate programs. Ruiz drives innovation in IT services, ensuring robust and secure systems that empower faculty, staff, and students. The role involves managing a significant budget, leading IT teams, and collaborating with academic departments to integrate technology effectively into the curriculum. By championing digital transformation, Ediltrudys Ruiz enhances the college's operational capabilities and its ability to deliver cutting-edge educational experiences in the liberal arts and sciences. This leadership ensures Lehman College remains at the forefront of technological adoption in higher education.

    Beba Alvarado-Torrech - Chief of Staff To the Provost

    Beba Alvarado-Torrech, the Chief of Staff To the Provost at Lehman College, provides critical support in managing academic affairs and institutional planning. This executive role focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of the Provost's office, coordinating strategic projects, and ensuring seamless communication across academic units. Alvarado-Torrech oversees the implementation of key academic initiatives, working closely with deans and department chairs to advance the college's educational mission. The position involves detailed analysis of academic policies and procedures, contributing to the continuous improvement of undergraduate and graduate programs. By managing complex schedules and priorities, Beba Alvarado-Torrech ensures the Provost can effectively lead academic strategy and faculty development. This leadership is vital for maintaining the high standards of liberal arts and sciences education at Lehman College.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lehman College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Lehman College?
    Lehman College is led by José Cruz (President), along with executives such as Samrin Alam (Founder & President) and Sakib Shikder (President- Psychology Club).
    Who is part of Lehman College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Lehman College includes leaders such as José Cruz (President), Samrin Alam (Founder & President), Sakib Shikder (President- Psychology Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Lehman College have?
    Lehman College has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Lehman College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Lehman College includes roles such as President, Founder & President, President- Psychology Club, President, President.