Rhode Island College Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Rhode Island College has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, human capital management, administrative operations, information technology, and academic advocacy.

Committed to fostering academic excellence and regional accessibility, Rhode Island College delivers high-quality degree programs while championing inclusive education through innovative initiatives like the Hope Scholarship for the local community.

Leadership Roles at Rhode Island College

  • Chief Executive Officer - Barbara Papitto
  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Forte
  • Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff - Clark Greene
  • President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 - Mikaila Arthur
  • President - Jack Warner
  • President - Nancy Carriuolo
  • President of the Environmental Club - Judy LaRose
  • President of Rhode Island College's Chapter of Morgan's Message - Livia Sweeney
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Krista Mazzuca
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Brian Kenney
  • Barbara Papitto - Chief Executive Officer

    Barbara Papitto, the Chief Executive Officer at Rhode Island College, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Overseeing the alignment of academic goals with institutional growth, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that undergraduate and graduate programs remain accessible to the diverse student population. This leadership role involves managing high-level partnerships that expand the reach of professional studies and continuing education options. By prioritizing the long-term sustainability of the college, Papitto strengthens the market position of the institution within the competitive landscape of higher education. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on operational efficiency to support the mission of providing affordable, high-quality degrees. Through rigorous oversight of institutional resources, Barbara Papitto drives the development of programs that serve the needs of over 6,000 students, ensuring that the college remains a premier choice for learners across the region.

    Paul Forte - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Forte, the Chief Financial Officer at Rhode Island College, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Overseeing the allocation of funds for academic departments and student services, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources support the core mission of providing affordable education. This leadership role involves analyzing revenue streams from tuition and state funding to maintain the viability of the Hope Scholarship program. By optimizing financial operations, Forte secures the necessary capital to invest in innovative degree programs and campus infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align fiscal strategies with the long-term growth objectives of the college. Through meticulous financial reporting and risk management, Paul Forte protects the economic stability of the institution, enabling the college to continue serving a vibrant community of students while maintaining high standards of academic quality.

    Clark Greene - Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff

    Clark Greene, the Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff at Rhode Island College, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across all administrative departments. Overseeing the implementation of presidential initiatives, the Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff ensures that strategic goals are executed with precision and efficiency. This leadership role involves managing the flow of information between the President and the broader leadership team to maintain organizational alignment. By streamlining administrative processes, Greene supports the delivery of flexible non-degree and certificate programs that meet the evolving needs of the student population. The Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that the mission of the college remains at the forefront of all institutional activities. Through proactive management, Clark Greene enables the executive team to focus on driving growth and academic innovation.

    Mikaila Arthur - President, RIC and AFT Local 1819

    Mikaila Arthur, the President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 at Rhode Island College, represents the interests of faculty and staff while advocating for academic excellence. Overseeing the collaborative relationship between the union and the administration, the President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 ensures that the professional needs of educators are met to support high-quality instruction. This leadership role involves negotiating policies that impact the working environment and the delivery of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. By championing the rights and development of the faculty, Arthur directly influences the quality of the educational experience for the student body. The President, RIC and AFT Local 1819 works to align labor objectives with the broader mission of the college, fostering a culture of mutual respect and academic rigor. Through dedicated advocacy, Mikaila Arthur strengthens the foundation of the institution, ensuring that the college continues to provide accessible and innovative education.

    Jack Warner - President

    Jack Warner, the President at Rhode Island College, provides the primary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the academic and administrative functions, the President ensures that the college fulfills its mission of providing affordable, high-quality degree programs to the regional community. This leadership role involves engaging with external partners and state officials to secure support for initiatives like the Hope Scholarship. By setting the tone for institutional culture, Warner promotes a commitment to diversity and inclusion that defines the campus environment. The President works with the Board and executive team to drive long-term growth and maintain the reputation of the college as a leader in professional studies. Through visionary leadership, Jack Warner guides the institution toward achieving its goals, ensuring that the college remains a vital resource for students seeking to advance their education and career prospects.
    Jack Warner

    Nancy Carriuolo - President

    Nancy Carriuolo, the President at Rhode Island College, focuses on the expansion of academic programs and the enhancement of student support services. Overseeing the development of new curricula, the President ensures that the college meets the changing demands of the workforce through professional studies and continuing education. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with regional industries to create pathways for transfer students and graduates. By prioritizing student success, Carriuolo drives initiatives that improve retention and graduation rates across all degree programs. The President collaborates with faculty to maintain high standards of academic excellence and innovation. Through a focus on community engagement and educational accessibility, Nancy Carriuolo strengthens the impact of the college, ensuring that the institution remains a cornerstone of the regional education system while providing students with the tools necessary for professional achievement.
    Nancy Carriuolo

    Judy LaRose - President of the Environmental Club

    Judy LaRose, the President of the Environmental Club at Rhode Island College, leads student-driven initiatives focused on sustainability and campus ecology. Overseeing the planning of educational events and community outreach, the President of the Environmental Club ensures that environmental awareness remains a priority within the student body. This leadership role involves coordinating with campus administration to implement green practices that align with the broader mission of the college. By organizing activities that promote ecological responsibility, LaRose fosters a culture of stewardship among the student population. The President of the Environmental Club works to connect students with opportunities for hands-on learning and advocacy related to environmental issues. Through active participation in campus life, Judy LaRose contributes to the vibrant community of the college, ensuring that students have a platform to engage with critical global challenges while developing leadership skills that support their academic and professional growth.

    Livia Sweeney - President of Rhode Island College's Chapter of Morgan's Message

    Livia Sweeney, the President of Rhode Island College's Chapter of Morgan's Message at Rhode Island College, directs student-led efforts to promote mental health awareness and support. Overseeing the organization of campus events and peer-to-peer outreach, the President of Rhode Island College's Chapter of Morgan's Message ensures that students have access to resources that foster well-being. This leadership role involves collaborating with student services to create a supportive environment that aligns with the inclusive mission of the college. By facilitating open discussions about mental health, Sweeney helps to reduce stigma and improve the overall student experience. The President of Rhode Island College's Chapter of Morgan's Message works to build a community where students feel empowered to seek help and support one another. Through dedicated leadership, Livia Sweeney contributes to the holistic development of the student body, ensuring that the college remains a place where academic success and personal well-being are prioritized.

    Krista Mazzuca - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Krista Mazzuca, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Rhode Island College, directs all talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the commitment to diversity and inclusion. This leadership role involves managing complex labor relations and professional development programs that enhance the quality of instruction across all degree programs. By fostering an environment that attracts top-tier educators, Mazzuca supports the academic success of the student body. The Chief Human Resources Officer works closely with the administration to implement policies that promote equity and operational excellence throughout the campus. Through the strategic management of human capital, Krista Mazzuca strengthens the internal capacity of the college, ensuring that the institution possesses the expertise required to deliver high-quality undergraduate and graduate education to the regional community.
    Krista Mazzuca

    Brian Kenney - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Brian Kenney, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Rhode Island College, directs the technological infrastructure and digital transformation efforts of the institution. Overseeing the integration of advanced learning management systems, the Interim Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to robust digital tools for academic success. This leadership role involves securing the campus network and managing data systems that support the enrollment and retention of over 6,000 students. By modernizing the technological landscape, Kenney facilitates the delivery of flexible online and hybrid education options. The Interim Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leaders to implement innovative solutions that enhance the overall student experience. Through the strategic deployment of information technology, Brian Kenney supports the mission of the college, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of digital education while maintaining the security and reliability of all campus systems.

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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 Clark Greene (Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff).
    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), Clark Greene (Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Rhode Island College have?
    Rhode Island College has 10 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, Senior Advisor To the President and Chief of Staff, President, RIC and AFT Local 1819, President.