Syracuse University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Syracuse University has 10 executives leading key functions including financial management, operational oversight, communications, information technology, human resources, administration, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and rigorous research, Syracuse University fosters innovation across diverse disciplines while preparing students for global impact through interdisciplinary study and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Syracuse University

  • Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer - Gwenn Judge
  • Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer - Misty Barden
  • President - James Stickel
  • President - Megan Wilson
  • Founder & President - Gleb Chumakov
  • President - Anthony Ruscitto
  • Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer - Jeffrey Stoecker
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Samuel Scozzafava
  • Interim Chief Human Resources Officer - Alexander Dietrich
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Ashley Stevenson
  • Gwenn Judge - Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer

    Gwenn Judge, the Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer at Syracuse University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for this R1 research institution. Judge directs long-term financial planning, ensuring resources support academic programs across the arts, sciences, and professional schools. By overseeing complex financial reporting and audit processes, the Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer maintains institutional stability while funding critical research initiatives in energy and technology. Gwenn Judge collaborates with the Board to align capital investments with the broader mission of the university. This leadership role involves monitoring revenue streams and optimizing operational expenditures to sustain high-quality education. Through rigorous fiscal oversight, the Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation necessary for ongoing growth and interdisciplinary innovation within the competitive landscape of higher education.
    Gwenn Judge

    Misty Barden - Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer

    Misty Barden, the Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer at Syracuse University, coordinates internal operations and community-facing initiatives. Barden optimizes campus services, ensuring that infrastructure and student support systems function efficiently to meet the needs of a diverse academic population. The Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer drives the execution of operational policies that enhance the daily experience for students and faculty. By managing cross-departmental workflows, Misty Barden aligns administrative functions with the university's commitment to public service and community engagement. This role involves streamlining service delivery models to support the expansive research and educational goals of the institution. Through strategic management of campus resources, the Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer strengthens the operational framework, allowing the university to maintain its status as a premier research hub while fostering meaningful connections with the surrounding region.

    James Stickel - President

    James Stickel, the President at Syracuse University, provides executive leadership for the institution's strategic vision and academic growth. Stickel directs the university's efforts to expand its influence in research, particularly in areas like health, energy, and the environment. By engaging with the Board and external partners, the President secures the resources necessary to advance the university's standing as a premier R1 research institution. James Stickel oversees the development of new academic programs and international study initiatives that prepare students for global careers. This leadership role involves setting the tone for institutional culture and ensuring that all departments remain aligned with the mission of excellence. Through visionary guidance, the President drives the university's long-term success, fostering an environment where innovation and interdisciplinary research thrive to address complex societal challenges on a global scale.

    Megan Wilson - President

    Megan Wilson, the President at Syracuse University, focuses on the expansion of online education and community-based initiatives. Wilson directs the development of digital learning platforms that extend the reach of the university's professional education programs to a broader audience. By fostering partnerships with local and regional organizations, the President enhances the university's community impact and public service footprint. Megan Wilson oversees the integration of interdisciplinary research into practical applications that benefit society. This leadership role involves managing the university's external relations and promoting its commitment to accessibility and innovation. Through strategic initiatives, the President ensures that the institution remains responsive to the changing needs of the workforce and the broader public. Wilson drives the growth of online programs, solidifying the university's reputation as a leader in flexible, high-quality education for diverse learners.

    Gleb Chumakov - Founder & President

    Gleb Chumakov, the Founder & President at Syracuse University, drives the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation-focused initiatives within the institution. Chumakov directs the creation of incubators and research hubs that support emerging technologies and startup ventures. By fostering an environment that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, the Founder & President ensures that the university remains a catalyst for economic and technological development. Gleb Chumakov oversees the alignment of academic research with industry needs, facilitating the transition of ideas from the lab to the marketplace. This leadership role involves cultivating relationships with investors and industry leaders to support the university's innovation ecosystem. Through strategic guidance, the Founder & President promotes a culture of discovery and practical application, ensuring that the university continues to produce groundbreaking research and prepare students for the demands of the modern economy.

    Anthony Ruscitto - President

    Anthony Ruscitto, the President at Syracuse University, manages the university's international study programs and global academic partnerships. Ruscitto directs the expansion of overseas research opportunities and student exchange initiatives, ensuring that the institution maintains a strong global presence. By overseeing the development of international curricula, the President prepares students for success in a globalized world. Anthony Ruscitto collaborates with international institutions to facilitate joint research projects in social sciences and technology. This leadership role involves navigating the complexities of global education and ensuring that the university's international programs meet the highest standards of academic rigor. Through strategic international engagement, the President enhances the university's reputation as a global leader in education and research. Ruscitto drives the growth of international initiatives, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community that spans across borders.

    Jeffrey Stoecker - Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer

    Jeffrey Stoecker, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at Syracuse University, architects the institutional narrative and manages executive communications. Stoecker directs branding strategies that highlight the university's R1 research status and academic achievements across global markets. By coordinating messaging between the Chancellor and various stakeholders, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer ensures alignment with the core mission of the institution. Jeffrey Stoecker oversees marketing campaigns that promote undergraduate and graduate programs, driving enrollment and public awareness. This leadership role involves managing high-level communications to protect and enhance the reputation of the university. Through strategic outreach and media management, the Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer amplifies the impact of research and community initiatives on a national and international scale.

    Samuel Scozzafava - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Samuel Scozzafava, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Syracuse University, leads the digital transformation of the campus environment. Scozzafava architects scalable cloud infrastructure and secure data networks that support advanced research in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. By overseeing the integration of educational software and administrative systems, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to digital resources for students and faculty. Samuel Scozzafava manages cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive research data and institutional information. This role involves collaborating with academic departments to implement innovative technology solutions that enhance learning outcomes. Through the deployment of robust IT frameworks, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer drives operational efficiency and supports the university's mission to remain at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education.
    Samuel Scozzafava

    Alexander Dietrich - Interim Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alexander Dietrich, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Syracuse University, manages talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development. Dietrich directs human capital strategies that attract top-tier faculty and staff to support the university's research and teaching objectives. By overseeing compensation structures and professional development programs, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a productive work environment across all academic and administrative departments. Alexander Dietrich implements policies that promote equity and inclusion, ensuring the workforce aligns with the values of the institution. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor requirements and optimizing staffing models to meet the evolving needs of the university. Through effective human resource management, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the organizational culture, enabling the institution to maintain its competitive edge in attracting world-class talent for its diverse range of disciplines.

    Ashley Stevenson - Chief Administrative Officer

    Ashley Stevenson, the Chief Administrative Officer at Syracuse University, oversees the daily administrative functions that support the university's broad academic mission. Stevenson directs the implementation of operational policies and ensures compliance across various departments, including law, public affairs, and engineering. By managing administrative workflows, the Chief Administrative Officer optimizes the use of institutional resources to support research and student services. Ashley Stevenson collaborates with other C-suite leaders to streamline processes and improve organizational agility. This role involves coordinating cross-functional projects that enhance the efficiency of university operations. Through strategic administrative oversight, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the institution remains focused on its core goals of providing high-quality education and conducting impactful research. Stevenson maintains the operational integrity of the university, allowing faculty and students to excel in their respective fields of study and professional practice.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Syracuse University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Syracuse University?
    Syracuse University is led by Gwenn Judge (Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Misty Barden (Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer) and James Stickel (President).
    Who is part of Syracuse University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Syracuse University includes leaders such as Gwenn Judge (Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer), Misty Barden (Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer), James Stickel (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Syracuse University have?
    Syracuse University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Syracuse University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Syracuse University includes roles such as Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer, Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer, President, President, Founder & President.