San Jose State University Executive and Leadership Team

Leann Sy, the Chief Executive Officer at San Jose State University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public institution. Sy manages the alignment of academic research initiatives with long-term institutional goals. By fostering partnerships across the North American education sector, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains a competitive edge in teaching and learning. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of campus resources to support student development. Leann Sy drives the implementation of policies that enhance the university's reputation as a premier research hub. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer secures the operational integrity of the campus. Sy promotes a culture of innovation that empowers faculty and staff to achieve excellence. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the standard of quality that defines the institution, ensuring that every strategic decision supports the broader mission of academic advancement and community impact.

Richard Bata, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at San Jose State University, architects the foundational principles that guide the institution. Bata oversees the expansion of research capabilities and the integration of modern pedagogical methods. As the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Bata ensures that the university remains responsive to the evolving needs of the global education market. This role involves high-level coordination with academic departments to foster a collaborative environment. Richard Bata drives the development of long-term growth strategies that solidify the university's position as a leader in higher education. By monitoring institutional performance metrics, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer identifies opportunities for improvement in teaching and learning outcomes. Bata maintains a focus on sustainable growth, ensuring that the university continues to provide high-quality education. Through strategic planning, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the institution while upholding the core values established at the inception of the university.

Ninh Phamhi, the Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control at San Jose State University, manages the fiscal health and financial integrity of the institution. Phamhi oversees the budgeting process, ensuring that funds are allocated to support research and academic programs. As the Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control, Phamhi implements rigorous financial controls to maintain transparency and accountability. This role involves analyzing financial data to guide strategic investments that enhance the university's market position. Ninh Phamhi drives the development of financial policies that ensure long-term sustainability. By monitoring internal controls, the Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control mitigates risks and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Phamhi maintains a focus on fiscal responsibility, providing the financial foundation necessary for the university to achieve its mission. Through careful financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer, Office & Director, Internal Control supports the growth and development of the institution, ensuring resources are available for future success.

Robin Hemsley, the Chief Operating Officer at San Jose State University, manages the daily operational efficiency of the campus infrastructure. Hemsley oversees the allocation of resources to support research and teaching activities across all departments. As the Chief Operating Officer, Hemsley ensures that administrative processes remain streamlined to facilitate a productive learning environment. This leadership role involves coordinating with various stakeholders to optimize facility usage and service delivery. Robin Hemsley drives initiatives that improve the operational capacity of the university, ensuring that all systems support the academic mission. By analyzing operational data, the Chief Operating Officer identifies bottlenecks and implements solutions to enhance institutional performance. Hemsley maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that the university functions effectively to meet the needs of students and faculty. Through diligent management, the Chief Operating Officer supports the overall growth and stability of the institution, fostering an environment conducive to academic success.

Donald Kassing, the President-Emeritus at San Jose State University, provides historical context and strategic guidance to the current leadership team. Kassing oversees the preservation of institutional values while advising on long-term initiatives that impact the university's legacy. As the President-Emeritus, Kassing supports the development of relationships with key stakeholders and alumni. This role involves mentoring current leaders and offering insights based on extensive experience in higher education. Donald Kassing drives the promotion of the university's mission, ensuring that the institution remains committed to its core principles of research and learning. By participating in high-level discussions, the President-Emeritus contributes to the continuity of the university's strategic vision. Kassing maintains a focus on institutional stability, helping to navigate complex challenges that arise in the education sector. Through ongoing engagement, the President-Emeritus supports the university's efforts to maintain its reputation for excellence and its commitment to student success.

Iris Yip, the TransTalk At SJSU President at San Jose State University, leads initiatives focused on fostering inclusive dialogue and community engagement. Yip oversees the development of programs that promote diversity and academic discourse across the campus. As the TransTalk At SJSU President, Yip ensures that the university remains a space for open exchange and intellectual growth. This role involves coordinating with student groups and faculty to facilitate meaningful conversations that align with the university's mission. Iris Yip drives the implementation of outreach strategies that connect the university with broader community interests. By managing the platform for these discussions, the TransTalk At SJSU President enhances the university's role as a hub for social and academic progress. Yip maintains a focus on inclusivity, ensuring that all voices are represented in the institutional narrative. Through dedicated leadership, the TransTalk At SJSU President supports the university's commitment to creating a vibrant and supportive environment for all members of the community.

Thomas MacQuarrie, the President at San Jose State University, leads the institution in its mission to provide high-quality education and research opportunities. MacQuarrie oversees the academic and administrative functions of the university, ensuring that all departments work toward common goals. As the President, MacQuarrie sets the strategic direction for the institution, focusing on innovation and student success. This role involves representing the university to external partners and the broader public. Thomas MacQuarrie drives the development of policies that enhance the university's academic reputation and operational effectiveness. By fostering a culture of excellence, the President ensures that faculty and staff are empowered to achieve their best work. MacQuarrie maintains a focus on the long-term growth of the university, ensuring that it remains a leader in the education sector. Through visionary leadership, the President guides the institution toward a future of continued academic achievement and community impact.

Shawn Whalen, the Chief of Staff at San Jose State University, coordinates the executive agenda and facilitates communication across the leadership team. Whalen oversees the execution of strategic priorities, ensuring that all departments remain aligned with the university's mission. As the Chief of Staff, Whalen manages the flow of information to the executive office, enabling informed decision-making. This role involves bridging the gap between administrative functions and academic goals to ensure cohesive operations. Shawn Whalen drives the implementation of key projects that enhance the university's standing in the education sector. By fostering collaboration among senior leaders, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional objectives are met with precision. Whalen maintains a focus on organizational efficiency, streamlining processes to support the broader goals of the university. Through strategic coordination, the Chief of Staff supports the leadership team in achieving excellence in research, teaching, and community service, ultimately strengthening the university's impact.

John Kepley, the Deputy Chief of Staff at San Jose State University, supports the executive office by managing complex administrative projects and cross-departmental initiatives. Kepley oversees the logistical aspects of strategic planning, ensuring that all resources are utilized effectively. As the Deputy Chief of Staff, Kepley assists in the coordination of institutional policies that promote research and learning. This role involves working closely with the Chief of Staff to ensure that executive directives are executed across the campus. John Kepley drives the development of internal communication strategies that keep the university community informed and engaged. By monitoring project timelines, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures that all initiatives remain on track to meet institutional goals. Kepley maintains a focus on operational support, providing the necessary infrastructure for faculty and staff to succeed. Through dedicated service, the Deputy Chief of Staff contributes to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the university's administrative operations.