Northwestern State University Executive and Leadership Team

Patrick Jones, the Chief Financial Officer at Northwestern State University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Jones oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing endowments, optimizing revenue streams, and controlling expenditures to support academic and operational goals. By implementing robust financial controls, Patrick Jones ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and maximizes the efficient use of university funds. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial reporting, investment management, and the development of long-term financial models that align with the institution's strategic objectives and commitment to delivering exceptional value in education.

Terrell Woodard, the President at Northwestern State University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Woodard champions the university's mission of student success and academic excellence, guiding initiatives that enhance educational offerings and community engagement. This executive role involves fostering a culture of innovation, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and advocating for the university's needs at state and national levels. By cultivating strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders, Terrell Woodard drives the university's growth and impact. The President's leadership is central to maintaining the institution's commitment to delivering exceptional quality and value in education and significantly contributing to the economic development of the region.

Cole Gentry, the Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing and communication strategies. Gentry drives brand awareness, student recruitment, and public relations initiatives across all platforms. This role involves analyzing market trends, identifying target audiences, and developing compelling campaigns that highlight the university's unique degree programs and commitment to student success. By fostering strong relationships with prospective students, alumni, and community stakeholders, Cole Gentry enhances the university's reputation and market position. The Chief Marketing Officer's leadership ensures consistent messaging and brand integrity, directly supporting the institution's mission to deliver exceptional quality and value in education and contribute to regional economic development.

Aaron Williams, the Chief Information Officer at Northwestern State University, directs the strategic planning, implementation, and management of all information technology infrastructure and services. Williams oversees the university's digital transformation efforts, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems are in place to support academic excellence and administrative operations. This leadership position involves guiding technological innovation, optimizing IT resources, and enhancing the digital learning environment for a diverse student body. By ensuring seamless access to technology and digital resources, Aaron Williams supports student achievement and personal growth. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes developing IT policies, managing technology budgets, and aligning IT initiatives with the university's broader mission of delivering high-quality education and fostering regional economic development.

Rocky Perritt, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Northwestern State University, supports the Chief Information Officer in overseeing the university's technology operations and strategic IT initiatives. Perritt focuses on the day-to-day management of IT systems, ensuring the reliability and performance of networks, servers, and end-user support services. This role involves implementing new technologies, managing IT projects, and ensuring that technological solutions effectively support the university's academic and administrative functions. By collaborating closely with various departments, Rocky Perritt facilitates the integration of technology to enhance student success and operational efficiency. The Deputy Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in maintaining the integrity of the IT infrastructure, supporting the university's commitment to academic excellence and its role in regional economic development.