Purchase College Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Purchase College has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, governance, and administration.

Dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and artistic excellence, Purchase College provides comprehensive coursework in the liberal arts and sciences alongside world-class conservatory programs, shaping future leaders in the arts and academia.

Leadership Roles at Purchase College

  • President - Michael Steiper
  • President - Nellie Duggan-Haas
  • Board President - Elizabeth Robertson
  • Interim Chief of Staff - Betsy Aldredge
  • Michael Steiper - President

    Michael Steiper, the President at Purchase College, architects the institution's strategic vision and overall direction. Steiper drives academic innovation and fosters a culture of excellence within the liberal arts and sciences and conservatory programs. This executive role involves cultivating external partnerships and enhancing the college's reputation on a national and international scale. By championing new academic initiatives and ensuring robust financial health, Michael Steiper directly impacts the college's growth and sustainability. The presidency requires decisive leadership in navigating the complexities of higher education, including curriculum development, faculty support, and student success. Steiper's commitment is to advancing the college's mission of providing world-class education and preparing students for impactful careers in their chosen fields.

    Nellie Duggan-Haas - President

    Nellie Duggan-Haas, the President at Purchase College, spearheads the strategic development and operational oversight of the institution. Duggan-Haas guides the integration of liberal arts and sciences with conservatory programs, ensuring a cohesive educational experience. This leadership capacity involves fostering a dynamic campus environment and promoting student achievement. By advocating for institutional resources and advancing key academic priorities, Nellie Duggan-Haas directly supports the college's commitment to artistic and intellectual rigor. The presidential responsibilities encompass managing faculty relations, overseeing campus infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Duggan-Haas's tenure focuses on enhancing the college's unique offerings and strengthening its position as a leader in arts and liberal arts education.

    Elizabeth Robertson - Board President

    Elizabeth Robertson, the Board President at Purchase College, provides critical governance and strategic oversight for the institution. Robertson leads the Board of Trustees in setting institutional policy and ensuring fiduciary responsibility. This executive position involves guiding the college's long-term planning and upholding its mission of academic and artistic excellence. By collaborating with the college's leadership team, Elizabeth Robertson ensures that strategic objectives are aligned with the institution's values and financial sustainability. The role demands a deep understanding of higher education governance and a commitment to the college's success. Robertson's leadership focuses on maintaining the integrity of the college's programs and fostering an environment conducive to learning and creativity for all students.

    Betsy Aldredge - Interim Chief of Staff

    Betsy Aldredge, the Interim Chief of Staff at Purchase College, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key departments. Overseeing administrative functions, Aldredge ensures seamless execution of college-wide policies and supports the President's agenda. This leadership position involves managing critical projects and facilitating communication between various academic and administrative units. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining internal processes, Betsy Aldredge directly contributes to the efficient operation of the institution. The role demands a keen understanding of higher education administration and a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring the college's strategic goals are met effectively. Aldredge's focus remains on enhancing institutional effectiveness and supporting the overall mission of academic and artistic development.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Purchase College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Purchase College?
    Purchase College is led by Michael Steiper (President), along with executives such as Nellie Duggan-Haas (President) and Elizabeth Robertson (Board President).
    Who is part of Purchase College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Purchase College includes leaders such as Michael Steiper (President), Nellie Duggan-Haas (President), Elizabeth Robertson (Board President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Purchase College have?
    Purchase College has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Purchase College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Purchase College includes roles such as President, President, Board President, Interim Chief of Staff.