Northeastern Illinois University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northeastern Illinois University has 6 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, academic governance, civil service advocacy, and student athletics.

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

    James Mullen, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public institution. Mullen oversees the alignment of academic programs in arts, sciences, and business with the evolving needs of the Chicago metropolitan area. By fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders, the President ensures the university maintains its accreditation standards and mission-driven focus. Mullen manages the allocation of resources to support undergraduate and graduate student success across diverse disciplines. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board of Trustees to advance institutional growth and financial stability. Through the implementation of long-term academic initiatives, Mullen strengthens the university's position as a vital educational hub. The President prioritizes the expansion of inclusive learning environments, ensuring that the institution remains a cornerstone of opportunity for the local community. Ultimately, Mullen drives the strategic trajectory of the university to meet modern educational demands.

    Mary Susong - President

    Mary Susong, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, architects the operational framework for internal administrative efficiency. Susong focuses on the optimization of university-wide policies that govern faculty development and student support services. By streamlining communication channels between departments, the President enhances the delivery of academic programs across the Chicago campus. Susong monitors the effectiveness of educational outcomes to ensure alignment with the university's status as a Hispanic Serving Institution. This leadership role requires constant coordination with administrative staff to maintain high standards of public service. Through the rigorous evaluation of institutional performance metrics, Susong identifies opportunities for operational improvement and resource optimization. The President champions initiatives that promote equity and access for the diverse student body. Mary Susong secures the long-term viability of the university by fostering a culture of accountability and excellence in every administrative function performed across the institution.

    Katrina Bell-Jordan - Interim President

    Katrina Bell-Jordan, the Interim President at Northeastern Illinois University, executes the immediate strategic priorities of the institution during this transitional period. Bell-Jordan oversees the continuity of academic operations, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction in the arts, sciences, and business. The Interim President maintains strong relationships with faculty and staff to uphold the university's commitment to the Chicago metropolitan area. By managing daily administrative challenges, Bell-Jordan preserves the stability of the university's core mission. This leadership role involves active engagement with the campus community to foster an environment of inclusivity and academic rigor. Katrina Bell-Jordan directs the implementation of short-term goals that support the long-term vision of the institution as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Through proactive problem-solving and clear communication, the Interim President ensures that all university functions remain aligned with the established educational standards and public service objectives of the institution.

    Judith Brewer - President, Civil Service Council

    Judith Brewer, the President, Civil Service Council at Northeastern Illinois University, represents the interests of the civil service staff within the broader university governance structure. Brewer directs the council's efforts to advocate for professional development, fair workplace policies, and effective communication between staff and administration. The President, Civil Service Council monitors the implementation of labor-related initiatives that impact the daily operations of the university. By facilitating dialogue between the council and executive leadership, Brewer ensures that staff perspectives inform institutional decision-making processes. This leadership role involves the coordination of council meetings and the promotion of a collaborative work environment across the Chicago campus. Judith Brewer supports the university's mission by ensuring that the workforce remains engaged and empowered to serve the student population. Through consistent advocacy and policy review, the President, Civil Service Council strengthens the internal operational foundation necessary for the university to achieve its academic goals.

    Carina Correa - Woman's Basketball Club President

    Carina Correa, the Woman's Basketball Club President at Northeastern Illinois University, manages the organizational and competitive aspects of the student athletic program. Correa directs the recruitment of student-athletes and the scheduling of regional competitions to enhance the university's extracurricular profile. The Woman's Basketball Club President oversees the budget and logistics required to maintain a high-performing athletic team. By fostering a culture of teamwork and discipline, Correa ensures that student-athletes balance their academic responsibilities with athletic pursuits. This leadership role involves coordinating with university departments to secure necessary facilities and support for the club. Carina Correa promotes the university's values of community and excellence through competitive sports engagement. Through the development of strategic partnerships with other collegiate clubs, the Woman's Basketball Club President expands the reach and visibility of the university's athletic programs within the broader Midwest region, contributing to a vibrant campus life.

    Sharon Hahs - President

    Sharon Hahs, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, leads the development of long-term academic policies that define the university's market position. Hahs oversees the expansion of research initiatives and the integration of new technologies into the classroom experience. The President manages the university's external relations, ensuring that the institution remains a prominent voice in the Chicago educational landscape. By aligning academic offerings with regional workforce needs, Hahs supports the professional success of undergraduate and graduate students. This leadership role involves the oversight of complex budgetary processes to ensure the sustainability of the university's diverse programs. Sharon Hahs drives the institution's commitment to serving the Hispanic community through targeted outreach and inclusive curriculum design. Through the continuous assessment of institutional impact, the President ensures that the university remains a leader in public education, providing high-quality, accessible learning opportunities that empower students to excel in their chosen fields.

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

    Who leads Northeastern Illinois University?
    Northeastern Illinois University is led by James Mullen (President), along with executives such as Mary Susong (President) and Katrina Bell-Jordan (Interim President).
    Who is part of Northeastern Illinois University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northeastern Illinois University includes leaders such as James Mullen (President), Mary Susong (President), Katrina Bell-Jordan (Interim President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northeastern Illinois University have?
    Northeastern Illinois University has 6 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, President, Interim President, President, Civil Service Council, Woman's Basketball Club President.