Northeastern Illinois University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northeastern Illinois University has 7 executives leading key functions including information technology, institutional leadership, athletics, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Northeastern Illinois University provides academic programs across arts, sciences, education, and business, distinguishing itself as the only public, four-year university in the Midwest designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution.

Leadership Roles at Northeastern Illinois University

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

    Mary Susong, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Susong guides the university's mission to offer comprehensive academic programs in the arts, sciences, education, and business to students in the Chicago metropolitan area. This executive position involves fostering an environment that supports both undergraduate and graduate learning, while upholding the university's designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Mary Susong's leadership ensures that Northeastern Illinois University continues to serve its diverse student population effectively. The President's role encompasses institutional advancement, community engagement, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders to support the university's growth and impact. Through strategic planning and operational oversight, Susong drives the university's commitment to academic excellence and accessibility.

    Carina Correa - Woman's Basketball Club President

    Carina Correa, the Woman's Basketball Club President at Northeastern Illinois University, leads the strategic development and operational management of the women's basketball program. Correa oversees all aspects of the club, including team activities, member engagement, and resource allocation, ensuring a positive and competitive experience for student-athletes. This leadership position involves fostering team spirit and promoting athletic participation within the university community. Carina Correa's dedication supports the university's commitment to extracurricular development and student well-being. The Woman's Basketball Club President works to enhance the program's visibility and success, contributing to the vibrant campus life at Northeastern Illinois University. Correa's efforts focus on building a strong foundation for the team's future achievements and upholding the club's standards.

    Katrina Bell-Jordan - President

    Katrina Bell-Jordan, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Bell-Jordan champions the university's role as a public, four-year institution serving undergraduate and graduate students across the Chicago metropolitan area. This executive leadership involves advancing academic programs in arts, sciences, education, and business, while reinforcing the unique designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Katrina Bell-Jordan's governance ensures the university upholds its commitment to accessibility and educational excellence. The President's responsibilities include fostering institutional growth, strengthening community partnerships, and guiding the university's response to evolving educational landscapes. Through decisive leadership, Bell-Jordan drives Northeastern Illinois University's mission forward, impacting thousands of students annually.
    Katrina Bell-Jordan

    Sharon Hahs - President

    Sharon Hahs, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the institution's academic and administrative operations. Hahs guides the university's commitment to serving undergraduate and graduate students within the Chicago metropolitan area, ensuring access to quality education. This executive role focuses on advancing the university's programs in arts, sciences, education, and business, while supporting its status as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Sharon Hahs's tenure emphasizes institutional development and student success. The President's responsibilities include fostering a supportive learning environment and promoting the university's mission of accessibility and academic rigor. Hahs's leadership contributes to the ongoing evolution and impact of Northeastern Illinois University in the region.

    Judith Brewer - President, Civil Service Council

    Judith Brewer, the President, Civil Service Council at Northeastern Illinois University, leads the council responsible for representing civil service employees and advocating for their interests. Brewer oversees the council's functions, ensuring fair representation and effective communication between civil service staff and university administration. This leadership position involves addressing workplace concerns, promoting professional development opportunities, and contributing to a positive and equitable work environment for all civil service employees. Judith Brewer's role is crucial in maintaining harmonious labor relations and supporting the operational efficiency of the university. The President, Civil Service Council works to uphold policies and procedures that benefit the civil service workforce, thereby supporting the broader mission of Northeastern Illinois University. Brewer's dedication ensures the council effectively serves its constituents.

    James Mullen - President

    James Mullen, the President at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the strategic initiatives and operational framework of the institution. Mullen guides the university's commitment to providing comprehensive academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. This executive leadership focuses on enhancing the university's offerings in arts, sciences, education, and business, while reinforcing its standing as a Hispanic Serving Institution. James Mullen's governance ensures Northeastern Illinois University continues its legacy of accessibility and academic achievement. The President's responsibilities include fostering strong community ties, driving institutional advancement, and adapting to the dynamic educational landscape. Mullen's leadership propels the university's mission forward, impacting student success and regional development.

    Eliot Rodriguez - Chief Information Officer

    Eliot Rodriguez, the Chief Information Officer at Northeastern Illinois University, directs the university's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Rodriguez ensures the seamless integration of technology across academic and administrative functions, supporting the institution's mission to serve undergraduate and graduate students. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management systems, and network services to maintain a secure and efficient digital environment. By optimizing technological resources, Eliot Rodriguez enhances the learning experience and operational effectiveness for the entire university community. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to evaluating and implementing new technologies that align with the university's strategic goals, fostering innovation in educational delivery and administrative processes. Rodriguez's oversight ensures that Northeastern Illinois University remains at the forefront of technological advancements within the higher education sector.

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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 Mary Susong (President), along with executives such as Carina Correa (Woman's Basketball Club President) and Katrina Bell-Jordan (President).
    Who is part of Northeastern Illinois University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northeastern Illinois University includes leaders such as Mary Susong (President), Carina Correa (Woman's Basketball Club President), Katrina Bell-Jordan (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northeastern Illinois University have?
    Northeastern Illinois University has 7 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, Woman's Basketball Club President, President, President, President, Civil Service Council.