Rice University Executive and Leadership Team

Reginald DesRoches, the President & Civil Professor & Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Professor & Chief Executive Officer at Rice University, directs the institution's overarching strategy and academic mission. DesRoches oversees all university operations, ensuring alignment with the core values of research, teaching, and community engagement. This leadership role involves fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking discoveries and scholarly pursuits across all departments. By championing interdisciplinary collaboration, Reginald DesRoches drives innovation in fields such as engineering and environmental science, directly impacting the university's global standing. The President's focus extends to cultivating strong relationships with faculty, students, alumni, and external stakeholders, securing the university's continued growth and influence in higher education.

Jose Luis, the Chief Financial Officer, Latin America at Rice University, directs financial strategy and operations for the university's interests in the Latin American region. Luis oversees budgeting, financial planning, and risk management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. This executive role involves managing financial reporting, optimizing resource allocation, and identifying investment opportunities to support regional academic and research initiatives. By providing expert financial guidance, Jose Luis contributes to the strategic expansion and operational efficiency of Rice University's presence in Latin America. The CFO's leadership ensures robust financial health and supports the university's mission across diverse international markets.

Ryan Kirksey, the Chief of Staff & President, Reginald Desroches at Rice University, provides critical support and strategic counsel to the President. Kirksey manages key initiatives and ensures the efficient execution of presidential directives across the university. This role involves coordinating high-level meetings, preparing essential documentation, and facilitating communication between the President's office and various university departments. By streamlining administrative processes, Ryan Kirksey enhances the President's capacity to focus on strategic priorities and institutional advancement. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities also include overseeing special projects and ensuring seamless operational flow, thereby contributing directly to the effective governance of Rice University.

Ria Shah, the President at Rice University, leads a significant division or initiative within the institution, driving its strategic objectives and operational execution. Shah is responsible for overseeing key functions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful implementation of programs aligned with the university's mission. This leadership position involves guiding teams, managing resources, and championing innovation to achieve specific organizational goals. By directing strategic planning and operational oversight, Ria Shah contributes to the advancement of Rice University's academic and research endeavors. The President's role is crucial in navigating complex challenges and capitalizing on opportunities to enhance the university's impact and reputation.

Tammy Taura, the President - DC Rice Alumni at Rice University, leads the alumni chapter in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, fostering engagement and connection among graduates. Taura organizes events, networking opportunities, and initiatives that support the university's mission and strengthen the alumni community. This volunteer leadership role involves mobilizing alumni support for university programs and initiatives, thereby enhancing Rice's reach and influence. By cultivating a vibrant alumni network, Tammy Taura plays a key part in promoting lifelong learning and professional development for graduates. The President's dedication ensures a strong bond between the university and its alumni base in the D.C. region.

John Lawrence, the Chief Investment Officer & President at Rice University, directs the university's investment strategy and manages its endowment portfolio to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Lawrence oversees asset allocation, risk management, and investment performance, aiming to generate optimal returns in support of institutional objectives. This critical role involves making strategic decisions regarding capital deployment and financial planning to fund university initiatives and operations. By prudently managing financial assets, John Lawrence safeguards and grows the university's resources, enabling continued investment in research, education, and infrastructure. The Chief Investment Officer's expertise is fundamental to Rice University's financial health and its capacity for future growth.

Megan Enriquez, the President at Rice University, spearheads a key operational or academic unit, driving its strategic direction and day-to-day management. Enriquez is responsible for leading teams, implementing innovative strategies, and ensuring the unit's contribution to the university's broader goals. This executive position requires adeptness in resource management, stakeholder engagement, and fostering a culture of excellence. By overseeing critical functions, Megan Enriquez supports the advancement of Rice University's educational and research missions. The President's leadership is instrumental in achieving departmental objectives and enhancing the overall impact of the university.

Christi Nguyen, the President at Rice University, leads a significant operational segment or strategic initiative, focusing on achieving defined institutional outcomes. Nguyen directs the activities of various departments, ensuring seamless integration and efficient resource utilization to meet overarching university objectives. This leadership role involves strategic planning, performance management, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and academic rigor. By guiding key functions, Christi Nguyen contributes directly to the successful execution of Rice University's mission in education and research. The President's oversight is vital for maintaining operational excellence and advancing the university's strategic priorities.

Aly Khanmohamed, the President, Rice Sports Analytics Team of Men's Basketball (Rsat) at Rice University, leads the student-run analytics group focused on the men's basketball program. Khanmohamed directs the team's efforts in data collection, analysis, and reporting to provide actionable insights for coaching staff and players. This leadership position involves managing team projects, mentoring student analysts, and ensuring the quality and relevance of the insights generated. By leveraging data-driven approaches, Aly Khanmohamed enhances the strategic decision-making capabilities of the basketball program. The President's role is crucial in developing analytical talent and contributing to the team's performance through sophisticated data interpretation.

Nicholas Decker, the Football Chief of Staff and Director of Football Operations at Rice University, manages the administrative and operational aspects of the football program. Decker oversees logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation to ensure the team's optimal performance and compliance with university policies. This leadership position involves coordinating travel, managing budgets, and supporting coaching staff in their day-to-day activities. By ensuring efficient operations, Nicholas Decker enables the football program to focus on athletic development and competitive success. The Director of Football Operations plays a vital role in maintaining the program's infrastructure and supporting the student-athletes' overall experience within the university's athletic department.