Syracuse University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Syracuse University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, communications, human resources, information technology, finance, administration, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and rigorous research, Syracuse University advances global knowledge through interdisciplinary study and community engagement across diverse professional fields.

Leadership Roles at Syracuse University

  • Interim Senior VP & Chief Financial Officer - Gwenn Judge
  • Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer - Misty Barden
  • President & Founder - Camilla McAskin
  • Co President - Latiné Honors Society - Sophie Navarrete
  • President - James Stickel
  • President & Founder - Julianna Verni
  • Senior VP, Chief of Staff to the Chancellor & Chief Communications and Marketing Officer - Jeffrey Stoecker
  • Interim Chief Human Resources Officer - Alexander Dietrich
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Samuel Scozzafava
  • 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, directs the financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal oversight for the entire institution. Judge manages the allocation of resources to support undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. As the Chief Financial Officer, Judge ensures the long-term sustainability of the university's research initiatives and community projects. By monitoring financial performance and implementing cost-effective strategies, the Interim Senior VP maintains the fiscal health necessary for academic expansion. Judge works with the Board and other executives to prioritize investments in infrastructure, technology, and faculty recruitment. This role involves managing complex financial portfolios and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Through rigorous financial analysis and strategic planning, Gwenn Judge supports the university's mission to provide high-quality education and conduct impactful research. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation required for the institution to thrive in a competitive global market.
    Gwenn Judge

    Misty Barden - Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer

    Misty Barden, the Community Services Officer & Chief Operating Officer at Syracuse University, directs the daily operational infrastructure supporting the private research mission. Barden manages the integration of campus services with broader community initiatives, ensuring that logistical frameworks align with the university's R1 research status. By optimizing resource allocation across various departments, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards for student services and facility management. Barden also coordinates with other executive leaders to streamline administrative processes, fostering an environment conducive to academic innovation. Through the oversight of essential campus functions, the Chief Operating Officer drives efficiency in both undergraduate and graduate support systems. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of operational performance metrics to sustain the institution's competitive position in the higher education landscape. Ultimately, Barden secures the operational stability necessary for long-term institutional growth.

    Camilla McAskin - President & Founder

    Camilla McAskin, the President & Founder at Syracuse University, directs the vision and strategic development of specific academic or community-focused initiatives within the broader university framework. McAskin oversees the growth of these programs, ensuring alignment with the institution's commitment to interdisciplinary research and education. As the President & Founder, McAskin cultivates partnerships that expand the reach of these initiatives, both locally and internationally. By driving innovation in program design, the leader ensures that these efforts contribute meaningfully to the university's mission. McAskin works with other university leaders to integrate these specialized programs into the wider academic ecosystem. This role involves securing resources and building a community of scholars and students dedicated to the program's core objectives. Through the leadership of Camilla McAskin, these initiatives achieve significant impact, enhancing the university's reputation for excellence in specialized fields and fostering a culture of entrepreneurial spirit within the academic environment.

    Sophie Navarrete - Co President - Latiné Honors Society

    Sophie Navarrete, the Co President - Latiné Honors Society at Syracuse University, directs the activities and strategic outreach of this student-led organization. Navarrete oversees the development of programs that promote academic excellence and cultural engagement among the student body. As the Co President - Latiné Honors Society, Navarrete facilitates collaboration with university departments to support the success of Latiné students in various disciplines. By organizing events and mentorship opportunities, the leader fosters a sense of community and professional development. Navarrete works with the other co-president to ensure that the society's initiatives align with the university's broader goals of inclusivity and academic achievement. This role involves managing organizational resources and representing the society in campus-wide discussions. Through the leadership of Sophie Navarrete, the society provides a platform for student growth and contributes to the vibrant intellectual life of the university, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into the academic experience.

    James Stickel - President

    James Stickel, the President at Syracuse University, directs the strategic leadership of specific student organizations or academic clubs that contribute to the university's vibrant campus culture. Stickel oversees the planning and execution of initiatives that promote student engagement and professional development. As the President, Stickel coordinates with university administration to ensure that these activities align with the institution's mission of fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment. By managing the organization's operations and membership, the leader creates opportunities for students to excel in their chosen fields. Stickel works to build partnerships with other student groups and faculty members, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the university. This role involves overseeing the organization's budget and ensuring that all activities adhere to university policies. Through the leadership of James Stickel, the organization provides valuable experiences for students, contributing to the overall success and well-being of the university community.

    Julianna Verni - President & Founder

    Julianna Verni, the President & Founder at Syracuse University, directs the development and implementation of specialized academic or community-based programs that enhance the university's research and educational impact. Verni oversees the strategic direction of these initiatives, ensuring they address critical needs within the academic community. As the President & Founder, Verni cultivates relationships with stakeholders to support the growth and sustainability of these programs. By fostering an environment of innovation, the leader encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and the pursuit of excellence in research. Verni works with university leadership to integrate these efforts into the broader institutional strategy. This role involves managing the program's operations and ensuring that all activities contribute to the university's mission of providing high-quality education. Through the leadership of Julianna Verni, these initiatives achieve significant results, strengthening the university's position as a leader in research and community engagement across various disciplines.

    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 strategic messaging. Stoecker manages internal and external communications, ensuring that the university's research achievements and academic programs reach global audiences. As the Chief of Staff, Stoecker facilitates alignment between the Chancellor's vision and the daily execution of university priorities. The Chief Communications and Marketing Officer oversees branding initiatives that highlight the institution's impact in fields ranging from engineering to public affairs. By coordinating cross-departmental efforts, Stoecker strengthens the university's reputation among prospective students and research partners. This role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and refining the public image of the institution. Through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic outreach, Jeffrey Stoecker elevates the profile of the university, ensuring consistent communication of the core mission across all platforms.

    Alexander Dietrich - Interim Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alexander Dietrich, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Syracuse University, directs the talent management and organizational development strategies for the entire academic community. Dietrich oversees recruitment, benefits administration, and employee relations, ensuring that the university attracts and retains top-tier faculty and staff. By implementing policies that support interdisciplinary collaboration, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of innovation and professional growth. Dietrich works closely with the leadership team to align human capital strategies with the broader goals of an R1 research institution. This role involves navigating complex labor regulations and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across all departments. Alexander Dietrich also manages the professional development programs that empower staff to contribute effectively to the university's research and educational objectives. Through these efforts, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a high-performing workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of higher education.

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

    Samuel Scozzafava, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Syracuse University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting advanced research and online education. Scozzafava manages the university's technological ecosystem, including high-performance computing resources for artificial intelligence and emerging technology projects. As the Chief Information Officer, Scozzafava ensures the security and scalability of data systems across all academic disciplines. By integrating modern digital tools into the classroom and laboratory, the Vice President enhances the learning experience for students and the productivity of researchers. Scozzafava collaborates with other executives to implement enterprise-wide software solutions that improve administrative efficiency. This leadership role involves overseeing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive research data and institutional information. Through the strategic deployment of technology, Samuel Scozzafava drives the digital transformation of the university, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of technological innovation in the academic sector.
    Samuel Scozzafava

    Ashley Stevenson - Chief Administrative Officer

    Ashley Stevenson, the Chief Administrative Officer at Syracuse University, directs the administrative functions that underpin the university's daily operations and long-term strategic goals. Stevenson oversees the coordination of cross-departmental projects, ensuring that administrative processes support the needs of faculty, students, and staff. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief Administrative Officer enhances the efficiency of the university's diverse academic and research programs. Stevenson works with the executive team to implement policies that improve campus life and institutional effectiveness. This role involves managing administrative resources and fostering collaboration across various schools and colleges. Ashley Stevenson also leads initiatives to optimize service delivery, ensuring that the university's administrative infrastructure remains responsive to the needs of the academic community. Through the oversight of key administrative functions, the Chief Administrative Officer drives the operational excellence required to sustain the university's status as a leading private research institution.

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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 Camilla McAskin (President & Founder).
    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), Camilla McAskin (President & Founder) 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 & Founder, Co President - Latiné Honors Society, President.