SUNY Fredonia Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

SUNY Fredonia has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, governance, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible learning, SUNY Fredonia provides a distinguished, student-centered education with over 65 majors and programs, fostering a vibrant campus life and enhancing student engagement through numerous clubs and events.

Leadership Roles at SUNY Fredonia

  • President - Dennis Hefner
  • Chief Information Officer - Michel Kouadio
  • Chief of Staff - Naomi Baldwin
  • Honorary Member - Richard Gilman
  • Dennis Hefner - President

    Dennis Hefner, the President at SUNY Fredonia, provides ultimate leadership and strategic direction for the university. Hefner guides the institution's commitment to offering a distinguished, student-centered education with over 65 majors and programs, particularly in liberal arts, music, and STEM fields. This leadership role involves championing the university's dedication to affordable and quality education, maintaining the low tuition and 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio that ensures individualized attention for all students. By fostering a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and events, Dennis Hefner enhances student engagement and community building. The President's vision is instrumental in advancing SUNY Fredonia's national ranking and its mission to serve current and prospective students effectively.

    Michel Kouadio - Chief Information Officer

    Michel Kouadio, the Chief Information Officer at SUNY Fredonia, directs the university's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Kouadio ensures the seamless integration of digital tools and platforms that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, enhancing network capabilities, and driving innovation in educational technology to support the university's mission of providing quality education. By optimizing the technological environment, Michel Kouadio directly impacts the student and faculty experience, ensuring access to essential digital resources and maintaining the integrity of university data. The Chief Information Officer's efforts are crucial for maintaining the university's competitive edge in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, supporting over 65 majors and programs across liberal arts, music, and STEM fields.

    Naomi Baldwin - Chief of Staff

    Naomi Baldwin, the Chief of Staff at SUNY Fredonia, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the institution. This critical role involves coordinating efforts between various departments, ensuring alignment with the President's vision and the university's overarching goals. Baldwin facilitates communication and collaboration, acting as a key liaison for internal and external stakeholders. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, advising on policy development, and ensuring the smooth execution of administrative functions to support the university's commitment to affordable and quality education. By streamlining operations and fostering effective communication, Naomi Baldwin directly contributes to the university's ability to provide individualized attention through its low tuition and 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, enhancing the overall student experience.

    Richard Gilman - Honorary Member

    Richard Gilman, an Honorary Member at SUNY Fredonia, provides distinguished counsel and support to the university's strategic direction. This role, while not involving direct operational management, signifies a deep commitment to the institution's mission and values. Gilman's involvement contributes to the university's reputation and its dedication to fostering a vibrant campus life. The influence of an Honorary Member often extends to advising on long-term vision and community engagement, ensuring that SUNY Fredonia continues to offer a distinguished, student-centered education. Richard Gilman's association reinforces the university's commitment to excellence in liberal arts, music, and STEM fields, supporting its goal of providing affordable and quality education to all prospective students.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SUNY Fredonia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SUNY Fredonia?
    SUNY Fredonia is led by Dennis Hefner (President), along with executives such as Michel Kouadio (Chief Information Officer) and Naomi Baldwin (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of SUNY Fredonia’s executive team?
    The executive team of SUNY Fredonia includes leaders such as Dennis Hefner (President), Michel Kouadio (Chief Information Officer), Naomi Baldwin (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SUNY Fredonia have?
    SUNY Fredonia has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SUNY Fredonia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SUNY Fredonia includes roles such as President, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Honorary Member.