Northwestern University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northwestern University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to research and education, Northwestern University fosters an environment of innovation and academic excellence, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge across diverse fields.

Leadership Roles at Northwestern University

  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp - Danita Patterson
  • President, Hillel Leadership Council - Merrie Aaron
  • President - Erika Kramer
  • President - Stephen Falk
  • President, Northwestern Medical Makers - Julia Song
  • President, Alumni Association - Elizabeth Amoroso
  • Co President - Achilleas Mittaris
  • Chief of Staff - Rachel Cyrus
  • Immediate Chief of Staff - Kelsey Robert
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Andrew Winter
  • Danita Patterson - Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp

    Danita Patterson, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp at Northwestern University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for Amp. Patterson spearheads initiatives to foster innovation and growth within the organization, aligning Amp's objectives with the broader educational mission of Northwestern University. This leadership role involves cultivating key partnerships and driving the development of new programs that enhance the university's impact. By overseeing all aspects of Amp's operations, Danita Patterson ensures the effective deployment of resources and the achievement of ambitious goals. The focus remains on expanding market reach and solidifying Amp's position as a leader in its sector. Patterson's strategic oversight guarantees that Amp consistently delivers value and contributes significantly to the university's overall success and reputation.
    Danita Patterson

    Merrie Aaron - President, Hillel Leadership Council

    Merrie Aaron, the President, Hillel Leadership Council at Northwestern University, leads initiatives focused on fostering Jewish life and community engagement on campus. Aaron directs the council's strategic planning and oversees programs designed to support student development and connection. This role involves collaborating with university administration and Hillel International to enhance student experiences. By championing student-led initiatives, Merrie Aaron strengthens the vibrant Jewish community within Northwestern University. The objective is to provide resources and opportunities that promote personal growth and a sense of belonging for all students. Aaron's leadership ensures that Hillel remains a vital resource for the university's Jewish student population.

    Erika Kramer - President

    Erika Kramer, the President at Northwestern University, drives strategic initiatives and oversees key operational areas to advance the university's mission. Kramer directs the implementation of policies and programs that enhance academic excellence and research innovation. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration across diverse university units and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. By focusing on strategic growth, Erika Kramer strengthens the university's position in higher education. The objective is to cultivate an environment that supports cutting-edge research and provides exceptional educational opportunities for students. Kramer's leadership is instrumental in achieving the university's long-term vision and expanding its impact.

    Stephen Falk - President

    Stephen Falk, the President at Northwestern University, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the institution. Falk oversees the execution of key university-wide initiatives, ensuring alignment with academic and research objectives. This role involves fostering partnerships and driving innovation across various schools and departments. By focusing on institutional advancement, Stephen Falk enhances Northwestern University's reputation and global reach. The objective is to create a dynamic environment that attracts top talent and supports groundbreaking discoveries. Falk's leadership ensures the university remains at the forefront of higher education and research.

    Julia Song - President, Northwestern Medical Makers

    Julia Song, the President, Northwestern Medical Makers at Northwestern University, spearheads initiatives focused on innovation in medical technology and design. Song directs the development and implementation of projects that bridge engineering, medicine, and entrepreneurship. This leadership role involves guiding student teams in creating novel solutions to healthcare challenges. By fostering a collaborative environment, Julia Song promotes hands-on learning and practical application of scientific principles. The objective is to empower students to become future leaders in medical innovation. Song's efforts cultivate a culture of creativity and problem-solving within the Northwestern University community.

    Elizabeth Amoroso - President, Alumni Association

    Elizabeth Amoroso, the President, Alumni Association at Northwestern University, leads efforts to engage and support the university's global alumni network. Amoroso directs programs and initiatives designed to foster lifelong connections between alumni and their alma mater. This role involves strengthening the alumni community through networking events, volunteer opportunities, and philanthropic endeavors. By championing alumni engagement, Elizabeth Amoroso enhances the university's support base and promotes its continued success. The objective is to ensure that alumni remain active contributors to Northwestern University's mission and values. Amoroso's leadership cultivates a strong and enduring bond with the university's graduates.

    Achilleas Mittaris - Co President

    Achilleas Mittaris, the Co President at Northwestern University, shares responsibility for driving strategic initiatives and overseeing key operational functions. Mittaris collaborates with co-leadership to implement policies and programs that enhance academic excellence and research innovation. This position involves fostering collaboration across diverse university units and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. By focusing on strategic growth, Achilleas Mittaris strengthens the university's position in higher education. The objective is to cultivate an environment that supports cutting-edge research and provides exceptional educational opportunities for students. Mittaris's leadership is vital in achieving the university's long-term vision and expanding its impact.

    Rachel Cyrus - Chief of Staff

    Rachel Cyrus, the Chief of Staff at Northwestern University, provides critical support to executive leadership, managing strategic projects and ensuring operational efficiency. Cyrus coordinates cross-departmental initiatives, facilitating communication and collaboration among various university divisions. This role involves streamlining administrative processes and optimizing workflows to support the university's academic and research endeavors. By acting as a key liaison, Rachel Cyrus ensures that executive directives are effectively translated into actionable plans. The focus is on enhancing productivity and driving the successful implementation of strategic priorities across the institution. Cyrus's efforts contribute directly to the smooth functioning of the university's leadership operations and the achievement of its long-term objectives.

    Kelsey Robert - Immediate Chief of Staff

    Kelsey Robert, the Immediate Chief of Staff at Northwestern University, executes critical operational tasks and supports the strategic direction of the university's leadership. Robert manages day-to-day operations, ensuring that key projects advance efficiently and align with institutional goals. This position involves coordinating with various stakeholders to facilitate seamless communication and project execution. By focusing on immediate operational needs, Kelsey Robert enhances the effectiveness of the executive team. The objective is to drive progress on urgent priorities and maintain momentum across ongoing initiatives. Robert's role is vital in ensuring that the university's leadership functions with maximum agility and responsiveness to evolving demands.

    Andrew Winter - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Andrew Winter, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Northwestern University, oversees the strategic implementation and management of information technology infrastructure. Winter directs the development and deployment of technological solutions that support the university's academic, research, and administrative functions. This leadership position involves ensuring the security, reliability, and scalability of the university's IT systems. By collaborating with various departments, Andrew Winter identifies opportunities to leverage technology for enhanced efficiency and innovation. The focus is on modernizing IT services and providing robust digital tools to the university community. Winter's expertise drives the technological advancement necessary for Northwestern University to maintain its competitive edge in higher education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Northwestern University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Northwestern University?
    Northwestern University is led by Danita Patterson (Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp), along with executives such as Merrie Aaron (President, Hillel Leadership Council) and Erika Kramer (President).
    Who is part of Northwestern University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northwestern University includes leaders such as Danita Patterson (Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp), Merrie Aaron (President, Hillel Leadership Council), Erika Kramer (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northwestern University have?
    Northwestern University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Northwestern University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Northwestern University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Amp & President, Amp, President, Hillel Leadership Council, President, President, President, Northwestern Medical Makers.