Rhode Island College Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Rhode Island College has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, human resources, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible learning, Rhode Island College provides high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering student success and career advancement through personalized experiences and a dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Leadership Roles at Rhode Island College

  • Chief Executive Officer - Barbara Papitto
  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Forte
  • President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 - Mikaila Arthur
  • President - Jack Warner
  • President - Nancy Carriuolo
  • President - Dante DiGregorio
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Brian Kenney
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Krista Mazzuca
  • Barbara Papitto - Chief Executive Officer

    Barbara Papitto, the Chief Executive Officer at Rhode Island College, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Papitto's leadership ensures the college maintains its commitment to affordable, high-quality education across undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. Overseeing key initiatives, Barbara Papitto drives the college's mission to support student success and career advancement. This role involves fostering partnerships and ensuring the institution remains responsive to the evolving needs of students and the broader community. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to enhancing the college's reputation for diversity and inclusion, serving a wide range of students effectively. Papitto's strategic guidance shapes the personalized learning experiences and vibrant campus life that define Rhode Island College.

    Paul Forte - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Forte, the Chief Financial Officer at Rhode Island College, manages the institution's financial health and fiscal strategy. Forte oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include optimizing resource allocation to support academic programs and operational needs, thereby directly contributing to Rhode Island College's mission of providing affordable, high-quality education. Paul Forte also plays a critical role in securing funding and managing investments to enhance campus infrastructure and student services. This leadership position is vital for maintaining the college's financial integrity and supporting its commitment to diversity and inclusion by ensuring resources are available for all student populations, including veterans and those from neighboring states.

    Mikaila Arthur - President, RIC and AFT Local 1819

    Mikaila Arthur, the President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 at Rhode Island College, leads both the institution's academic and administrative functions and represents faculty interests through the AFT Local 1819 union. Arthur's dual role ensures a collaborative approach to advancing the college's mission of providing affordable, high-quality education. The President, RIC and AFT Local 1819's responsibilities encompass strategic planning, operational oversight, and fostering a positive relationship between college leadership and faculty. Mikaila Arthur is dedicated to supporting student success and enhancing the personalized learning experiences offered at Rhode Island College, while also advocating for faculty welfare and professional development.

    Jack Warner - President

    Jack Warner, the President at Rhode Island College, directs the institution's strategic vision and operational execution. Warner's leadership ensures the college upholds its commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education across its diverse program offerings. The President's responsibilities include fostering a vibrant campus life and enhancing the personalized learning experiences that define Rhode Island College. Jack Warner is dedicated to supporting student success and advancing the institution's mission, focusing on initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. This role is pivotal in guiding the college's growth and ensuring its continued impact on students' careers and passions.
    Jack Warner

    Nancy Carriuolo - President

    Nancy Carriuolo, the President at Rhode Island College, guides the institution's strategic direction and commitment to academic excellence. Carriuolo's tenure focuses on delivering affordable, high-quality education and fostering a supportive environment for student success. The President's leadership emphasizes enhancing the personalized learning experiences and vibrant campus life that characterize Rhode Island College. Nancy Carriuolo is dedicated to advancing the college's mission, promoting diversity and inclusion, and ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their chosen careers and passions. This role is central to maintaining the college's reputation and its impact on the community.
    Nancy Carriuolo

    Dante DiGregorio - President

    Dante DiGregorio, the President at Rhode Island College, leads the institution's strategic initiatives and operational management. DiGregorio's focus is on upholding the college's commitment to affordable, high-quality education and fostering an inclusive campus environment. The President's responsibilities include driving student success and enhancing the personalized learning experiences that are central to Rhode Island College's educational model. Dante DiGregorio is dedicated to advancing the college's mission, supporting faculty and staff, and ensuring that the institution continues to serve as a vital resource for career advancement and personal growth for all students.

    Brian Kenney - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Brian Kenney, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Rhode Island College, leads the strategic direction and implementation of information technology across the institution. Kenney is responsible for overseeing the college's technology infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic, administrative, and student services. The Interim Chief Information Officer's role is crucial in enhancing the personalized learning experiences and campus life through effective technological solutions. Brian Kenney drives initiatives related to digital transformation, data management, and cybersecurity, aligning technology with Rhode Island College's mission to support student success and career advancement. This leadership ensures that faculty, staff, and students have access to the necessary tools and resources to thrive in an increasingly digital educational environment.

    Krista Mazzuca - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Krista Mazzuca, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Rhode Island College, directs all human capital management strategies and operations. Mazzuca oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment. The Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is integral to fostering the diversity and inclusion that Rhode Island College champions, attracting and retaining a talented and diverse faculty and staff. Krista Mazzuca plays a key part in aligning HR policies with the institution's mission to provide high-quality education and support student success. This role involves developing programs that enhance employee engagement and contribute to the vibrant campus life, ensuring the college community is well-supported.
    Krista Mazzuca

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Rhode Island College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Rhode Island College?
    Rhode Island College is led by Barbara Papitto (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Paul Forte (Chief Financial Officer) and Mikaila Arthur (President, RIC and AFT Local 1819).
    Who is part of Rhode Island College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Rhode Island College includes leaders such as Barbara Papitto (Chief Executive Officer), Paul Forte (Chief Financial Officer), Mikaila Arthur (President, RIC and AFT Local 1819) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Rhode Island College have?
    Rhode Island College has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Rhode Island College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Rhode Island College includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, RIC and AFT Local 1819, President, President.