Pratt Institute Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pratt Institute has 7 executives leading key functions including finance, technology, academic governance, student organizations, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to fostering innovation, Pratt Institute cultivates the next generation of creative leaders, equipping them with the expertise to shape a better world through impactful contributions in architecture, design, fine arts, and technology.

Leadership Roles at Pratt Institute

  • Chief Financial Officer - Edmund Rutkowski
  • Academic Senate Co-President - Zachary Slanger
  • President, Virtual Reality Design Society - Gurmani Kaur
  • Club President and Founder of the Pratt Book Club - Madeleine Wyatt
  • President - Frances Bronet
  • President, Community Engagement Board - Lorraine Yang
  • Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer - Joseph Hemway
  • Edmund Rutkowski - Chief Financial Officer

    Edmund Rutkowski, the Chief Financial Officer at Pratt Institute, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Rutkowski oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the institute's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Edmund Rutkowski supports the institute's mission to provide high-quality education across its diverse programs. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to all financial reporting and analysis, providing critical insights for strategic decision-making and institutional growth. Rutkowski's expertise is vital for navigating the complex financial landscape of higher education, securing the resources necessary for academic excellence and campus development.

    Zachary Slanger - Academic Senate Co-President

    Zachary Slanger, the Academic Senate Co-President at Pratt Institute, champions faculty governance and academic policy development. Slanger collaborates with other academic leaders to represent faculty interests and ensure the integrity of educational standards across all disciplines. This position involves facilitating discussions on curriculum, pedagogical approaches, and institutional priorities. By advocating for faculty needs, Zachary Slanger contributes to a dynamic and supportive academic environment that nurtures creative leaders. The Academic Senate Co-President's role is essential for maintaining effective communication between the faculty and the institute's administration, fostering a shared commitment to academic excellence. Slanger's leadership ensures that faculty voices are integral to the institute's strategic direction and operational decisions.

    Gurmani Kaur - President, Virtual Reality Design Society

    Gurmani Kaur, the President, Virtual Reality Design Society at Pratt Institute, spearheads initiatives within the virtual reality design community. Kaur leads student-driven projects and fosters collaboration among peers interested in immersive technologies and digital creation. This role involves organizing workshops, events, and design challenges that explore the frontiers of VR. By promoting engagement with cutting-edge technology, Gurmani Kaur enhances the practical skills and creative exploration of students in design and technology programs. The President of the Virtual Reality Design Society's leadership cultivates a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and skill development. Kaur's dedication ensures that students are at the forefront of emerging design fields, preparing them for impactful careers.

    Madeleine Wyatt - Club President and Founder of the Pratt Book Club

    Madeleine Wyatt, the Club President and Founder of the Pratt Book Club at Pratt Institute, cultivates a literary community for students and faculty. Wyatt organizes regular meetings, discussions, and literary events that promote reading and critical engagement with diverse texts. This initiative fosters intellectual curiosity and provides a space for shared exploration of literature and ideas. By establishing this club, Madeleine Wyatt enriches the cultural fabric of the institute and supports the holistic development of its members. The Club President's role is vital in creating opportunities for connection and intellectual exchange beyond formal academic coursework. Wyatt's vision ensures the Pratt Book Club serves as a valuable resource for literary enrichment and community building.

    Frances Bronet - President

    Frances Bronet, the President at Pratt Institute, directs the overall strategic vision and institutional advancement. Bronet leads the executive team in upholding the institute's mission to nurture creative leaders and foster a culture of innovation and inclusivity. This paramount role involves overseeing all academic and administrative functions, ensuring the institute's continued excellence in architecture, design, fine arts, and technology. By championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, Frances Bronet cultivates an environment where all members can thrive and contribute meaningfully. The President's leadership guides the institute's growth, financial stability, and its impact on the global creative landscape. Bronet's commitment is essential for maintaining Pratt Institute's position as a premier institution for creative education.

    Lorraine Yang - President, Community Engagement Board

    Lorraine Yang, the President, Community Engagement Board at Pratt Institute, strengthens the institute's connection with its surrounding communities. Yang leads initiatives that foster collaboration, outreach, and mutual benefit between Pratt and local residents, organizations, and businesses. This position involves developing programs that leverage the institute's resources and expertise to address community needs and enhance local development. By building bridges, Lorraine Yang ensures Pratt Institute remains an active and responsible contributor to the social and cultural vitality of Brooklyn and beyond. The President of the Community Engagement Board's efforts are crucial for cultivating positive relationships and demonstrating the institute's commitment to civic responsibility. Yang's strategic direction amplifies Pratt's positive impact.

    Joseph Hemway - Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Joseph Hemway, the Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer at Pratt Institute, architects the institute's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Hemway leads the IT department, overseeing all aspects of technology services, network operations, and cybersecurity. This critical role ensures that faculty, staff, and students have access to reliable and advanced technological resources that support learning, research, and administrative functions. By driving innovation in educational technology, Joseph Hemway enhances the student experience and faculty capabilities across architecture, design, fine arts, and technology programs. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include developing and implementing IT policies, managing technology budgets, and safeguarding institutional data. Hemway's strategic vision ensures Pratt Institute remains at the forefront of technological integration in higher education.
    Joseph Hemway

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pratt Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pratt Institute?
    Pratt Institute is led by Edmund Rutkowski (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Zachary Slanger (Academic Senate Co-President) and Gurmani Kaur (President, Virtual Reality Design Society).
    Who is part of Pratt Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pratt Institute includes leaders such as Edmund Rutkowski (Chief Financial Officer), Zachary Slanger (Academic Senate Co-President), Gurmani Kaur (President, Virtual Reality Design Society) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pratt Institute have?
    Pratt Institute has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pratt Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pratt Institute includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Academic Senate Co-President, President, Virtual Reality Design Society, Club President and Founder of the Pratt Book Club, President.