NSU Florida Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

NSU Florida has 9 executives leading key functions including operations, financial management, academic governance, pediatric clinical leadership, and medical strategy.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, NSU Florida delivers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate degree programs while fostering a culture of intellectual growth and community impact across diverse professional fields.

Leadership Roles at NSU Florida

  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Alyson Silva
  • Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer - Richard James
  • President 64 Member - Arjun Mote
  • President of Junior Pediatrics - Isabella Cruz
  • President's 64 Member - Alexandra Lugo
  • President 64' Member - Martina Chavez
  • President - Fatima Ahmad
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer - Chad Perlyn
  • Board of Governors - Anurag Gupta
  • Alyson Silva - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Alyson Silva, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at NSU Florida, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic strategy of the institution. Silva directs the budgeting, financial reporting, and investment activities that sustain the university's diverse academic offerings, including nursing and business programs. By overseeing the allocation of capital toward research and infrastructure, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial viability of all graduate and undergraduate initiatives. Alyson Silva maintains strict compliance with regulatory standards while driving revenue growth through strategic financial planning. This role requires constant coordination with the Board of Governors to align fiscal policies with the broader institutional vision. Through meticulous management of the university's endowment and operational funds, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary resources for faculty development and student success. Silva secures the financial future of the institution by implementing robust risk management protocols and sustainable funding models.

    Richard James - Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard James, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer at NSU Florida, directs the daily administrative functions and operational infrastructure supporting the university mission. James oversees the integration of campus facilities and logistical frameworks to ensure seamless delivery of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. By optimizing resource allocation across the Fort Lauderdale campus, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of institutional efficiency. This leadership role involves close collaboration with academic departments to align operational capacity with student enrollment growth. Richard James drives the implementation of scalable systems that support the university's long-term sustainability goals. Through rigorous oversight of institutional assets, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer secures the operational foundation necessary for academic success. James consistently evaluates performance metrics to refine internal processes, ensuring that the university remains a leader in higher education while managing complex administrative demands across the entire organization.
    Richard James

    Arjun Mote - President 64 Member

    Arjun Mote, the President 64 Member at NSU Florida, contributes to the high-level strategic oversight and governance of the university. Mote participates in the development of institutional policies that shape the academic trajectory of the institution. As a key member of the leadership circle, the President 64 Member evaluates the effectiveness of current degree programs in accounting and biology to ensure alignment with industry demands. Arjun Mote facilitates communication between the administration and the broader academic community to foster a collaborative environment. This role involves analyzing market trends to guide the university's expansion into new educational sectors. By providing critical insights into institutional governance, the President 64 Member supports the university's commitment to excellence in research and teaching. Mote drives initiatives that enhance the university's reputation, ensuring that all academic programs meet rigorous standards. Through active participation in strategic planning sessions, the President 64 Member helps define the future direction of the institution.

    Isabella Cruz - President of Junior Pediatrics

    Isabella Cruz, the President of Junior Pediatrics at NSU Florida, leads the clinical and academic initiatives focused on pediatric health and development. Cruz oversees the integration of specialized medical training into the university's health science curriculum, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction in pediatric care. By directing research projects and clinical partnerships, the President of Junior Pediatrics advances the university's impact on community health outcomes. Isabella Cruz collaborates with medical faculty to refine the educational approach for students pursuing careers in nursing and related health fields. This leadership role involves managing the resources dedicated to pediatric research and ensuring that clinical programs remain at the forefront of medical innovation. Through the development of strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, the President of Junior Pediatrics expands the reach of the university's medical expertise. Cruz drives the implementation of evidence-based practices that improve patient care standards, ultimately strengthening the university's position as a leader in health education.

    Alexandra Lugo - President's 64 Member

    Alexandra Lugo, the President's 64 Member at NSU Florida, serves as a strategic advisor to the executive leadership team. Lugo assists in the formulation of policies that enhance the university's academic and research capabilities. As a President's 64 Member, the executive focuses on strengthening the connection between the university and the professional community to improve student outcomes. Alexandra Lugo analyzes institutional data to identify opportunities for program improvement in areas such as business and accounting. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental initiatives that promote innovation and academic rigor. By providing guidance on institutional priorities, the President's 64 Member ensures that the university's resources are directed toward high-impact projects. Lugo drives the development of outreach programs that increase the university's visibility and influence. Through active engagement with faculty and staff, the President's 64 Member supports the university's mission to provide a transformative educational experience for all students.

    Martina Chavez - President 64' Member

    Martina Chavez, the President 64' Member at NSU Florida, contributes to the strategic governance and long-term planning of the university. Chavez participates in the evaluation of academic programs to ensure they meet the needs of a changing workforce. As a President 64' Member, the executive provides critical feedback on institutional initiatives that impact student learning and research productivity. Martina Chavez collaborates with other leaders to align the university's goals with the broader mission of academic excellence. This role involves assessing the effectiveness of current educational strategies and recommending improvements to enhance the student experience. By participating in key decision-making processes, the President 64' Member helps shape the university's future direction. Chavez drives efforts to improve institutional efficiency and academic quality across all departments. Through consistent engagement with the university community, the President 64' Member ensures that the institution remains dedicated to its core values and commitment to providing high-quality education.

    Fatima Ahmad - President

    Fatima Ahmad, the President at NSU Florida, serves as the chief executive officer responsible for the overall vision and strategic direction of the university. Ahmad directs all academic, administrative, and operational functions to ensure the institution achieves its mission of excellence in education and research. By overseeing the development of undergraduate and graduate programs, the President maintains the university's reputation for academic rigor. Fatima Ahmad leads the executive team in implementing policies that foster innovation and student success across all disciplines. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, including government agencies, donors, and the broader community. Through the strategic management of resources, the President ensures the long-term sustainability and growth of the institution. Ahmad drives the implementation of initiatives that enhance the university's research capabilities and community impact. By setting the tone for the university's culture, the President inspires faculty, staff, and students to pursue excellence in all endeavors.

    Chad Perlyn - Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer

    Chad Perlyn, the Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at NSU Florida, leads the clinical strategy and medical education initiatives that define the university's health science programs. Perlyn oversees the integration of advanced medical practices into the curriculum, ensuring that students gain practical experience in high-demand fields. By directing the collaboration between the university and clinical partners, the Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer enhances the quality of medical training and research. Chad Perlyn manages the standards of care and educational outcomes for students in nursing and other health-related disciplines. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite executives to align medical programs with the university's broader strategic goals. Through the implementation of innovative clinical models, the Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer drives improvements in patient care and academic performance. Perlyn ensures that the university remains a leader in medical education by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
    Chad Perlyn

    Anurag Gupta - Board of Governors

    Anurag Gupta, the Board of Governors at NSU Florida, provides essential oversight and fiduciary responsibility for the university's long-term mission. Gupta participates in the approval of major institutional policies, academic programs, and budgetary frameworks that guide the university's growth. As a member of the Board of Governors, the executive ensures that the institution adheres to its core values while pursuing excellence in undergraduate and graduate education. Anurag Gupta evaluates the performance of the university leadership to maintain accountability and transparency across all departments. This role involves reviewing strategic plans for campus development and academic expansion to ensure alignment with the university's goals. By fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, the Board of Governors supports the university's efforts to secure funding and resources for research. Gupta drives the decision-making process regarding institutional priorities, ensuring that the university remains competitive in the evolving landscape of higher education while upholding its commitment to student success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NSU Florida Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NSU Florida?
    NSU Florida is led by Alyson Silva (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Richard James (Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer) and Arjun Mote (President 64 Member).
    Who is part of NSU Florida’s executive team?
    The executive team of NSU Florida includes leaders such as Alyson Silva (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Richard James (Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer), Arjun Mote (President 64 Member) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NSU Florida have?
    NSU Florida has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NSU Florida’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NSU Florida includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer, President 64 Member, President of Junior Pediatrics, President's 64 Member.