San Jose State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

San Jose State University has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, San Jose State University provides higher education, teaching, learning, and research, shaping future leaders and innovators within the global landscape.

Leadership Roles at San Jose State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Leann Sy
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Richard Bata
  • Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control - Ninh Phamhi
  • Chief Operating Officer - Robin Hemsley
  • TransTalk At SJSU President - Iris Yip
  • President-Emeritus - Donald Kassing
  • President - Thomas MacQuarrie
  • Chief of Staff - Shawn Whalen
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - John Kepley
  • Leann Sy - Chief Executive Officer

    Leann Sy, the Chief Executive Officer at San Jose State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. This leadership role involves guiding all academic and administrative departments to foster an environment of advanced teaching, learning, and research. Sy ensures alignment with the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality higher education. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to cultivating key partnerships and advancing the university's standing within the educational sector. Sy drives initiatives that enhance student success and faculty development, solidifying the university's commitment to innovation and academic rigor. This executive oversees the integration of new educational technologies and methodologies, ensuring San Jose State University remains at the forefront of pedagogical advancements. The strategic direction set by Leann Sy impacts every facet of the university's operations, from curriculum development to community engagement.

    Richard Bata - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Richard Bata, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at San Jose State University, established the foundational principles and long-term trajectory for the institution. This executive role encompasses the strategic development and implementation of educational programs that define the university's academic offerings. Bata's leadership ensures the continuous pursuit of knowledge through rigorous teaching, learning, and research initiatives. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer oversees the cultivation of a dynamic academic community, fostering an environment conducive to intellectual growth and discovery. Richard Bata drives the university's mission to provide comprehensive higher education, impacting student outcomes and faculty achievements. This position involves shaping the institutional culture and guiding strategic partnerships that expand the university's reach and influence. Bata's foundational vision continues to inform the operational strategies and academic priorities of San Jose State University, ensuring sustained excellence and relevance in the higher education landscape.

    Ninh Phamhi - Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control

    Ninh Phamhi, the Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control at San Jose State University, manages the institution's financial health and ensures robust internal control systems. This executive role encompasses strategic financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal oversight to support the university's educational and research objectives. Phamhi directs all financial operations, including revenue management, expenditure control, and investment strategies, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control is responsible for safeguarding university assets and maintaining financial transparency. Ninh Phamhi oversees the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures that promote efficiency and accountability. This position is crucial for sustaining the university's capacity to deliver high-quality teaching, learning, and research by ensuring sound financial management. Phamhi's expertise in internal controls strengthens the university's governance and risk management framework, contributing to its long-term stability and operational integrity.

    Robin Hemsley - Chief Operating Officer

    Robin Hemsley, the Chief Operating Officer at San Jose State University, directs the comprehensive operational framework that supports the institution's academic and research missions. This executive oversees the day-to-day management of university operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all administrative and support services. Hemsley's purview includes optimizing resource allocation, managing facilities, and implementing policies that enhance the learning and research environment. The Chief Operating Officer plays a critical role in translating strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, driving continuous improvement throughout the organization. Robin Hemsley ensures that the university's infrastructure and services are robust, supporting the delivery of high-quality higher education. This leadership position involves fostering a culture of operational excellence and accountability, directly impacting the student and faculty experience. Hemsley's strategic oversight guarantees that San Jose State University operates at peak performance, enabling its core functions of teaching, learning, and research.

    Iris Yip - TransTalk At SJSU President

    Iris Yip, the TransTalk At SJSU President at San Jose State University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the TransTalk initiative. This executive role focuses on advancing the goals of this specific program within the broader university framework. Yip oversees the development and implementation of strategies designed to enhance the effectiveness and reach of TransTalk. The TransTalk At SJSU President ensures that the initiative's objectives align with the university's commitment to innovation in teaching and learning. Iris Yip drives the operational aspects of TransTalk, managing resources and fostering collaborations to achieve program milestones. This leadership position is dedicated to the success of the TransTalk program, contributing to the university's diverse educational offerings. Yip's focus is on maximizing the impact and value of TransTalk for students and faculty, reinforcing San Jose State University's dedication to cutting-edge educational experiences.

    Donald Kassing - President-Emeritus

    Donald Kassing, the President-Emeritus at San Jose State University, provides advisory support and contributes historical institutional knowledge. This distinguished role involves offering guidance based on extensive experience in university leadership and strategic development. Kassing's insights are invaluable in shaping long-term institutional vision and maintaining continuity with the university's foundational principles. The President-Emeritus role supports the current leadership in navigating complex challenges and opportunities within higher education. Donald Kassing's continued engagement reinforces the university's commitment to academic excellence and research advancement. This position leverages past leadership expertise to benefit ongoing initiatives in teaching and learning. Kassing's contributions help preserve the legacy and strategic direction of San Jose State University, ensuring its enduring impact.

    Thomas MacQuarrie - President

    Thomas MacQuarrie, the President at San Jose State University, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational leadership for the institution. This executive role encompasses guiding all academic, research, and administrative functions to uphold the university's mission of higher education. MacQuarrie oversees the cultivation of an environment that promotes advanced teaching, learning, and groundbreaking research. The President ensures the university's commitment to accessibility and academic excellence, driving initiatives that enhance student success and faculty development. Thomas MacQuarrie's leadership focuses on fostering innovation and strengthening the university's position within the global educational landscape. This role involves strategic partnerships and resource management to support the institution's growth and impact. MacQuarrie's direction ensures San Jose State University continues to be a leader in shaping future professionals and advancing knowledge.

    Shawn Whalen - Chief of Staff

    Shawn Whalen, the Chief of Staff at San Jose State University, manages the strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key administrative functions. This role involves coordinating efforts between various departments to ensure seamless execution of the university's educational and research objectives. Whalen facilitates communication and collaboration among executive leadership, driving forward institutional priorities. The Chief of Staff oversees the implementation of strategic plans, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to support teaching, learning, and research endeavors. Shawn Whalen's responsibilities include advising the executive leadership on critical matters, streamlining decision-making processes, and enhancing overall organizational effectiveness. This position requires a deep understanding of the university's operational landscape and a commitment to advancing its mission. Whalen ensures that the university's administrative framework supports its academic excellence and research innovation, contributing significantly to its operational success.

    John Kepley - Deputy Chief of Staff

    John Kepley, the Deputy Chief of Staff at San Jose State University, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic initiatives and managing administrative operations. This role involves assisting in the coordination of cross-departmental projects and ensuring the efficient flow of information within the executive leadership. Kepley contributes to the development and implementation of university policies and procedures, enhancing operational effectiveness. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a key part in facilitating communication and collaboration, ensuring that the university's mission of teaching, learning, and research is consistently supported. John Kepley aids in streamlining decision-making processes and optimizing resource allocation to achieve institutional goals. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to advancing the university's strategic objectives. Kepley's efforts contribute to the overall efficiency and success of San Jose State University's administrative functions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding San Jose State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads San Jose State University?
    San Jose State University is led by Leann Sy (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Richard Bata (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Ninh Phamhi (Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control).
    Who is part of San Jose State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of San Jose State University includes leaders such as Leann Sy (Chief Executive Officer), Richard Bata (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Ninh Phamhi (Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does San Jose State University have?
    San Jose State University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in San Jose State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of San Jose State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control, Chief Operating Officer, TransTalk At SJSU President.