Northeastern Illinois University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northeastern Illinois University has 5 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, academic administration, civil service governance, and student athletic leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, Northeastern Illinois University provides accessible higher education while maintaining a unique status as a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution within the Midwest.

Leadership Roles at Northeastern Illinois University

  • President - Sharon Hahs
  • Interim President - Katrina Bell-Jordan
  • President - Mary Susong
  • President, Civil Service Council - Judith Brewer
  • Woman's Basketball Club President - Carina Correa
  • Sharon Hahs - President

    Sharon Hahs, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term institutional growth of the public university. Hahs manages the alignment of academic programs across arts, sciences, education, and business to ensure high-quality student outcomes. By fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders, the President strengthens the university's position as a vital educational hub in the Chicago metropolitan area. Sharon Hahs oversees the implementation of policies that support the diverse student body, particularly the Hispanic population, ensuring equitable access to resources. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to maintain accreditation standards and financial stability. Through rigorous oversight of administrative departments, Hahs drives operational efficiency and promotes a culture of academic excellence. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the institution by championing initiatives that enhance the university's reputation and impact on the broader community.

    Katrina Bell-Jordan - Interim President

    Katrina Bell-Jordan, the Interim President at Northeastern Illinois University, manages the daily operations and academic continuity of the institution during this transitional period. Bell-Jordan coordinates with faculty and administrative leadership to maintain the integrity of undergraduate and graduate programs. Overseeing the university's commitment to its Hispanic Serving Institution designation, the Interim President ensures that student support services remain robust and inclusive. Katrina Bell-Jordan drives initiatives that improve campus engagement and academic performance across all departments. This role requires constant collaboration with the executive team to address immediate operational challenges while advancing the long-term mission of the university. By streamlining internal processes and fostering transparent communication, the Interim President stabilizes the academic environment. Through dedicated focus on student success and institutional health, Bell-Jordan maintains the high standards expected of a public university serving the Chicago metropolitan area.

    Mary Susong - President

    Mary Susong, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, architects the specific operational frameworks that support the university's diverse academic offerings. Susong focuses on the integration of business and education curricula to meet the evolving needs of the regional workforce. By managing cross-departmental collaborations, the President ensures that resources are allocated effectively to support research and teaching excellence. Mary Susong drives the expansion of academic partnerships that enhance the university's footprint in the Midwest. This leadership role involves evaluating institutional performance metrics and implementing data-driven improvements to boost student retention and graduation rates. Through active engagement with the academic community, Susong fosters an environment conducive to innovation and scholarly achievement. The President maintains a sharp focus on the university's mission, ensuring that every administrative decision supports the goal of providing high-quality, accessible education to the students of the Chicago metropolitan area.

    Judith Brewer - President, Civil Service Council

    Judith Brewer, the President, Civil Service Council at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the advocacy and representation efforts for the university's civil service staff. Brewer manages the communication channels between the staff and the university administration to ensure that employee concerns are addressed within the broader institutional framework. Overseeing the council's activities, the President, Civil Service Council promotes professional development and workplace equity across all non-academic departments. Judith Brewer drives initiatives that improve staff morale and operational efficiency, which directly supports the university's mission of providing a stable learning environment. This role involves participating in policy discussions that affect the workforce, ensuring that the interests of civil service employees align with the strategic goals of the institution. By fostering a collaborative culture, the President, Civil Service Council strengthens the internal infrastructure of the university, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the academic community.

    Carina Correa - Woman's Basketball Club President

    Carina Correa, the Woman's Basketball Club President at Northeastern Illinois University, manages the organizational and logistical operations of the student athletic program. Correa coordinates team schedules, travel logistics, and resource procurement to ensure the club functions effectively within the university's extracurricular framework. Overseeing the recruitment and retention of student athletes, the Woman's Basketball Club President fosters a culture of discipline and teamwork that complements the academic mission of the institution. Carina Correa drives fundraising efforts and community outreach programs that increase the visibility of the club within the Chicago metropolitan area. This leadership role involves working closely with student affairs to ensure compliance with university policies and safety standards. By promoting athletic excellence and personal development, the Woman's Basketball Club President enhances the overall student experience, contributing to a vibrant campus life that supports the university's commitment to holistic student growth.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Northeastern Illinois University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Northeastern Illinois University?
    Northeastern Illinois University is led by Sharon Hahs (President), along with executives such as Katrina Bell-Jordan (Interim President) and Mary Susong (President).
    Who is part of Northeastern Illinois University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northeastern Illinois University includes leaders such as Sharon Hahs (President), Katrina Bell-Jordan (Interim President), Mary Susong (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northeastern Illinois University have?
    Northeastern Illinois University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Northeastern Illinois University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Northeastern Illinois University includes roles such as President, Interim President, President, President, Civil Service Council, Woman's Basketball Club President.