Northwestern State University Executive and Leadership Team

Patrick Jones, the Chief Financial Officer at Northwestern State University, manages all fiscal operations and budgetary allocations for the School of Business. Overseeing the financial health of academic programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources support student internships and project-based coursework effectively. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board to maintain fiscal transparency while optimizing funding for technology infrastructure. By monitoring revenue streams and operational expenditures, Patrick Jones directly impacts the school's ability to provide high-quality education. Jones secures long-term financial stability through strategic planning and rigorous audit processes. The Chief Financial Officer also evaluates investment opportunities in educational tools, ensuring the institution remains competitive within the regional and national landscape. Through disciplined financial management, Jones supports the overarching mission of preparing students for successful careers in business operations, finance, and entrepreneurship.

Terrell Woodard, the President at Northwestern State University, provides executive vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the alignment of academic goals with market demands, the President ensures the School of Business maintains high standards in business and technology education. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders to foster entrepreneurship and career readiness across all undergraduate and graduate programs. By championing initiatives that bridge the gap between classroom learning and the global marketplace, Terrell Woodard directly impacts the school's overall success. Woodard coordinates with the C-suite to execute long-term growth strategies and institutional development. The President also represents the university in regional and national forums, advocating for the value of practical, project-based education. Through decisive leadership, Woodard guides the institution toward continued excellence in preparing students for professional success.

Cole Gentry, the Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University, directs all branding and student recruitment initiatives for the School of Business. Overseeing digital outreach and promotional campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures the institution attracts a diverse student population for both on-campus and online learning options. This leadership role involves crafting messaging that highlights the value of degrees in accounting and business administration. By analyzing market trends and student demographics, Cole Gentry directly impacts enrollment growth and institutional visibility. Gentry coordinates with academic departments to showcase real-world learning opportunities, including case studies and internships. The Chief Marketing Officer also manages external partnerships to expand the school's reach across the global marketplace. Through innovative communication strategies, Gentry strengthens the university's reputation as a premier destination for business and technology education.

Aaron Williams, the Chief Information Officer at Northwestern State University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting the School of Business. Overseeing data analysis systems and online learning platforms, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to educational resources for all students. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols and hardware upgrades to maintain a robust technological environment. By integrating advanced software into the curriculum, Aaron Williams directly impacts the delivery of the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems. Williams collaborates with faculty to implement project-based coursework that requires high-level computing capabilities. The Chief Information Officer also drives the adoption of emerging technologies to keep the school at the forefront of industry standards. Through consistent technical innovation, Williams supports the institution's commitment to preparing graduates for the modern, data-driven business world.