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 institution. Overseeing the financial health of the School of Business, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources support undergraduate and graduate programs effectively. This leadership role involves monitoring revenue streams from diverse student populations while optimizing expenditures for real-world learning initiatives like internships and project-based coursework. By maintaining rigorous fiscal standards, Patrick Jones directly impacts the long-term sustainability of academic offerings. Jones coordinates with the Board to align financial planning with the broader mission of preparing students for careers in business operations and finance. Through careful oversight of institutional assets, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to maintain high-quality educational standards across both on-campus and online learning environments, ultimately fostering a stable foundation for future growth and student success.

Terrell Woodard, the President at Northwestern State University, provides executive leadership and sets the strategic vision for the entire institution. Overseeing the School of Business and all associated academic departments, the President ensures alignment with the core mission of preparing students for the global marketplace. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders to expand the reach of undergraduate and graduate programs through both on-campus and online learning channels. By fostering a culture of innovation and career readiness, Terrell Woodard directly impacts the academic and professional outcomes of the student body. Woodard facilitates collaboration among the C-suite to optimize business operations, finance, and marketing management. Through high-level governance, the President maintains the university's commitment to excellence in education and technology. Ultimately, Woodard guides the institution toward long-term growth, ensuring the university remains a vital contributor to the regional and national business landscape.

Aaron Williams, the Chief Information Officer at Northwestern State University, directs the technological infrastructure supporting the School of Business. Overseeing the digital ecosystem for Computer Information Systems programs, the Chief Information Officer ensures students access cutting-edge tools for data analysis and technical training. This leadership role involves managing the integration of online learning platforms to serve a diverse student population effectively. By modernizing campus networks and software resources, Aaron Williams directly impacts the quality of technical education provided to the student body. Williams collaborates with faculty to implement project-based coursework that mirrors real-world industry demands. Through the strategic deployment of information technology, the Chief Information Officer facilitates seamless access to academic materials and research databases. Ultimately, Williams maintains the robust digital framework required to sustain the university's reputation for excellence in technology-focused business education and career readiness.

Cole Gentry, the Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University, architects the brand strategy and outreach initiatives for the School of Business. Overseeing recruitment campaigns and public relations, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures the institution attracts a diverse student population interested in business administration, accounting, and entrepreneurship. This leadership role involves promoting the value of real-world learning experiences, including internships and case studies, to prospective students across regional and national markets. By crafting compelling narratives about career readiness, Cole Gentry directly impacts enrollment growth and institutional visibility. Gentry coordinates with academic departments to highlight the unique benefits of the university's business and technology programs. Through data-driven marketing efforts, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the university's position as a leader in professional education. Ultimately, Gentry drives the brand forward, ensuring the institution remains a top choice for students seeking practical skills for the global marketplace.