SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to advancing health sciences, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University focuses on education, patient care, and groundbreaking research, solidifying its impact within New York City and beyond.

Leadership Roles at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Rita Battles
  • Chief Financial Officer - Lauren Atkinson
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Richard Miller
  • Chief Financial Officer & Controller - Presing Baltazar
  • Chief Information Officer - Ernest Weber
  • Chief of Staff - Linda Corby
  • Assistant Vice President & Deputy Chief Information Officer - Michelle Daniels-DeVore
  • Vice President, Chief Information Officer - Dennis Sutterfield
  • Senior VP, Human Resources & Chief of Staff - Jamie Grecco
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Dilip Nath
  • Rita Battles - Chief Executive Officer

    Rita Battles, the Chief Executive Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the institution. Battles guides the university's mission to provide comprehensive healthcare services and foster cutting-edge medical education and research. Overseeing all major divisions, Battles ensures alignment with state and federal healthcare regulations, driving initiatives that enhance patient outcomes and academic excellence. This leadership role involves cultivating strategic partnerships and managing the institution's financial health to support long-term growth and innovation. By championing a culture of continuous improvement, Rita Battles significantly influences the university's standing as a leading public health sciences institution in New York City.

    Lauren Atkinson - Chief Financial Officer

    Lauren Atkinson, the Chief Financial Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy. Atkinson oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and revenue cycle management, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of the university. This role involves developing financial models, securing funding, and optimizing resource allocation to support academic and clinical objectives. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, Atkinson safeguards institutional assets and ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing investments and driving financial performance to support growth and innovation. Lauren Atkinson's strategic financial leadership is critical to the ongoing success and expansion of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

    Richard Miller - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Richard Miller, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, oversees the institution's financial planning, management, and reporting. Miller directs all aspects of financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial analysis, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This role involves developing financial strategies to support the university's academic, research, and clinical missions. By implementing robust financial controls and compliance measures, Miller safeguards institutional assets and ensures adherence to regulatory standards. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in resource allocation, capital planning, and driving financial performance. Richard Miller's expertise is crucial for the economic health and strategic growth of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

    Presing Baltazar - Chief Financial Officer & Controller

    Presing Baltazar, the Chief Financial Officer & Controller at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, manages the comprehensive financial reporting and accounting functions for the institution. Baltazar oversees the accuracy and integrity of financial records, ensuring compliance with all accounting standards and regulations. This role involves managing the university's general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial statement preparation. By implementing effective internal controls, Baltazar ensures the security of financial assets and promotes operational efficiency. The Chief Financial Officer & Controller's responsibilities extend to financial analysis, budget oversight, and supporting strategic financial decision-making. Presing Baltazar's meticulous financial management is critical to the operational stability and accountability of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

    Ernest Weber - Chief Information Officer

    Ernest Weber, the Chief Information Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, architects the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Weber oversees the development and implementation of advanced IT systems that support clinical operations, research endeavors, and educational programs. This involves managing cybersecurity protocols, ensuring data integrity, and driving digital transformation initiatives across the university. By optimizing technological resources, Weber enhances operational efficiency and facilitates seamless information flow for healthcare providers and academic staff. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing IT budgets, leading technology teams, and evaluating emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge. Ernest Weber's leadership ensures that SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University leverages technology to achieve its core mission of advancing health sciences.

    Linda Corby - Chief of Staff

    Linda Corby, the Chief of Staff at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. Corby facilitates the execution of key initiatives, manages special projects, and ensures effective communication across departments. This role involves coordinating executive priorities, streamlining decision-making processes, and enhancing organizational efficiency. By acting as a key liaison, Corby bridges communication gaps and fosters collaboration among various stakeholders. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing board relations, and driving strategic planning efforts. Linda Corby's operational acumen and strategic guidance are vital to the effective functioning of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University's leadership.

    Michelle Daniels-DeVore - Assistant Vice President & Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Michelle Daniels-DeVore, the Assistant Vice President & Deputy Chief Information Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing the institution's technology landscape. Daniels-DeVore assists in the strategic planning and implementation of IT infrastructure, ensuring robust systems for clinical care, research, and education. This involves overseeing IT operations, managing project portfolios, and driving technological advancements to enhance efficiency and user experience. By collaborating with various departments, Daniels-DeVore ensures IT solutions align with institutional goals and regulatory requirements. The Assistant Vice President & Deputy Chief Information Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining system integrity, cybersecurity, and supporting digital transformation efforts. Michelle Daniels-DeVore's contributions are essential to the technological backbone of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

    Dennis Sutterfield - Vice President, Chief Information Officer

    Dennis Sutterfield, the Vice President, Chief Information Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the university's information technology services. Sutterfield oversees the development and deployment of advanced technological solutions that support patient care, medical education, and scientific research. This includes ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, managing IT infrastructure, and driving digital innovation across all campus functions. By optimizing IT resources, Sutterfield enhances operational efficiency and facilitates seamless data management and communication. The Vice President, Chief Information Officer's role involves aligning technology strategies with institutional goals and fostering a culture of technological excellence. Dennis Sutterfield's leadership is pivotal in advancing SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University's technological capabilities.

    Jamie Grecco - Senior VP, Human Resources & Chief of Staff

    Jamie Grecco, the Senior VP, Human Resources & Chief of Staff at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, directs comprehensive human resources strategies and provides critical operational support to executive leadership. Grecco oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and organizational development, fostering a supportive and productive work environment. In the Chief of Staff capacity, Grecco facilitates strategic initiatives, manages key projects, and ensures effective communication and coordination across the university. This dual role requires a deep understanding of both human capital management and institutional operations. By aligning HR policies with strategic objectives, Jamie Grecco drives employee engagement and supports the university's mission. Grecco's leadership ensures that SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University attracts, develops, and retains top talent.

    Dilip Nath - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Dilip Nath, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, leads the strategic vision and execution of the institution's information technology infrastructure and services. Nath oversees the management of complex IT systems that support clinical operations, academic programs, and research initiatives, ensuring reliability and security. This involves driving digital transformation, enhancing cybersecurity protocols, and implementing innovative technological solutions to meet evolving healthcare and educational demands. By optimizing IT resources, Nath improves operational efficiency and facilitates seamless data exchange across the university. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, leading technology teams, and fostering a culture of technological advancement. Dilip Nath's leadership is instrumental in positioning SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University at the forefront of technological innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University?
    SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is led by Rita Battles (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lauren Atkinson (Chief Financial Officer) and Richard Miller (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University’s executive team?
    The executive team of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University includes leaders such as Rita Battles (Chief Executive Officer), Lauren Atkinson (Chief Financial Officer), Richard Miller (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University have?
    SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Controller, Chief Information Officer.