Occidental College Executive and Leadership Team

Amos Himmelstein, the Chief Operating Officer at Occidental College, directs the administrative and financial infrastructure supporting the institution. Himmelstein manages the daily operational requirements of the campus, ensuring that facilities and fiscal resources align with the academic mission. By overseeing the allocation of capital and the maintenance of physical assets, the Chief Operating Officer creates a stable environment for faculty and students. This leadership role involves coordinating with various departments to optimize resource efficiency across the Los Angeles campus. Amos Himmelstein also evaluates long-term financial sustainability, implementing strategies that bolster the college's market position. Through rigorous oversight of institutional services, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards expected of a premier liberal arts college. Himmelstein drives operational excellence, ensuring that the administrative framework supports the broader goals of the institution while fostering a productive atmosphere for the entire campus community.

Nicholas McHugh, the President at Occidental College, directs the overall strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. McHugh oversees the executive leadership team, ensuring that all departments work in concert to provide a superior educational experience. By representing the college to external stakeholders and the broader academic community, the President shapes the public identity of the institution. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of intellectual rigor and inclusivity, preparing students for success in a pluralistic society. Nicholas McHugh also manages the relationship with the Board of Governors, aligning institutional goals with the long-term interests of the college. Through the promotion of academic excellence and community engagement, the President ensures that the college remains a distinctive leader in liberal arts education. McHugh drives the growth and development of the institution, maintaining the high standards that have defined the college since its founding in Los Angeles.

Tom Stritikus, the President at Occidental College, leads the institutional efforts to expand the reach and impact of the liberal arts curriculum. Stritikus focuses on enhancing the student experience through innovative academic programs and community partnerships. By overseeing the strategic planning process, the President ensures that the college adapts to the changing needs of the global landscape. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with donors and alumni to secure the financial future of the institution. Tom Stritikus also champions the values of diversity and pluralism, integrating these principles into the core operations of the college. Through the implementation of forward-thinking policies, the President maintains the reputation of the institution as a premier center for learning. Stritikus drives the mission of the college, ensuring that every student receives a comprehensive education that prepares them for leadership in an increasingly interdependent and complex world.

Thomas Slobko, the Chief Information Officer at Occidental College, architects the digital landscape necessary for modern academic inquiry. Slobko manages the integration of data systems and network security, ensuring that the college maintains a robust technological foundation. By prioritizing the accessibility of digital resources, the Chief Information Officer supports the diverse research needs of the student body and faculty. This role involves collaborating with academic departments to implement software solutions that enhance the learning experience. Thomas Slobko also oversees the protection of institutional data, mitigating risks in an increasingly interconnected digital environment. Through the strategic deployment of information technology, the Chief Information Officer facilitates seamless communication across the campus. Slobko drives innovation in digital infrastructure, ensuring that the college remains at the forefront of technological advancement within the liberal arts sector while maintaining the integrity and security of all institutional information systems.

Melissa Gamba, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Occidental College, directs the talent management and organizational development strategies for the institution. Gamba oversees recruitment, employee relations, and professional development programs, ensuring that the college attracts and retains a high-caliber workforce. By fostering an inclusive workplace culture, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer supports the diverse needs of faculty and staff. This leadership role involves aligning human capital initiatives with the broader mission of providing a high-quality educational experience. Melissa Gamba also manages compensation structures and benefits administration, maintaining competitive standards within the higher education market. Through the implementation of effective personnel policies, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures institutional compliance and operational harmony. Gamba drives organizational growth by cultivating a supportive environment that empowers employees to contribute effectively to the academic success of the college.

James Uhrich, the Vice President, ITS & Chief Information Officer at Occidental College, manages the comprehensive information technology strategy for the entire campus. Uhrich oversees the deployment of enterprise-level software and hardware, ensuring that the college maintains a competitive edge in digital education. By aligning technology investments with the strategic goals of the institution, the Vice President, ITS & Chief Information Officer supports the evolving needs of a pluralistic student body. This role involves leading large-scale digital transformations that improve administrative efficiency and academic accessibility. James Uhrich also coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure that technological initiatives support the long-term vision of the college. Through the oversight of complex IT projects, the Vice President, ITS & Chief Information Officer maintains the reliability of the campus network. Uhrich drives technological progress, ensuring that the college utilizes advanced tools to enhance the overall educational experience for all members of the community.

Steven Gilman, the Assistant VP, Technical Services & Chief Technology Officer at Occidental College, directs the implementation of specialized technical infrastructure and hardware solutions. Gilman oversees the maintenance of laboratory equipment, audiovisual systems, and specialized research technology, ensuring that faculty and students have access to cutting-edge tools. By managing the technical services department, the Assistant VP, Technical Services & Chief Technology Officer supports the practical application of liberal arts studies. This role involves troubleshooting complex technical issues and upgrading campus systems to meet modern standards. Steven Gilman also collaborates with academic departments to integrate new technologies into the classroom environment. Through the precise management of technical resources, the Assistant VP, Technical Services & Chief Technology Officer ensures that the college remains a hub for innovation. Gilman drives the operational success of technical services, providing the necessary support to maintain the high-quality educational environment that defines the institution.

Leslie Dennis, the Board of Governors at Occidental College, provides high-level oversight and strategic guidance for the institution. Dennis participates in the governance process, ensuring that the college adheres to its mission and maintains long-term financial health. By reviewing institutional policies and approving major initiatives, the Board of Governors protects the interests of the college and its stakeholders. This leadership role involves engaging with other board members to set the vision for the future of the institution. Leslie Dennis also monitors the performance of the college against its strategic objectives, providing accountability and support to the executive team. Through the exercise of fiduciary responsibility, the Board of Governors ensures that the college remains a distinctive leader in urban liberal arts education. Dennis drives the strategic direction of the institution, fostering a culture of excellence and ensuring that the college continues to prepare students for leadership in an increasingly complex world.