Towson University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Towson University has 10 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, human resources, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Towson University provides undergraduate degree programs across accounting, biology, business administration, communication, and computer studies, shaping future professionals and contributing to the educational landscape.

Leadership Roles at Towson University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kofi Ofori
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Michael Palmer
  • Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer - Steve Jones
  • President - Emily Brophy
  • Founder & President (Financial Literacy Book Club) - Leila Ouattara
  • President - Jay Dutton
  • President - Allie Nagel
  • Member, President's ETU Council At StarTUp - Melanie Kelleher
  • Chief Technology Officer - Patrick Rohe
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Kevin Balsbaugh
  • Kofi Ofori - Chief Financial Officer

    Kofi Ofori, the Chief Financial Officer at Towson University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Ofori oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical position involves developing financial strategies that support Towson University's academic programs and operational needs, particularly in areas like accounting, business administration, and computer studies. Kofi Ofori's leadership ensures that financial resources are allocated effectively to advance the university's mission and maintain its strong market position. The Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal role in securing funding, managing investments, and optimizing financial performance to support the university's growth and operational excellence across all departments.

    Michael Palmer - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Palmer, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Towson University, provides critical financial oversight and guidance during a transitional period. Palmer manages the university's financial operations, ensuring continuity and stability in budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. This role is essential for maintaining the fiscal integrity of Towson University, supporting its diverse undergraduate programs in areas such as accounting, business administration, and communication. Michael Palmer's expertise ensures that financial strategies remain aligned with the institution's educational objectives and operational requirements. The Interim Chief Financial Officer's focus is on prudent financial management and strategic planning to support Towson University's mission and its commitment to academic excellence.

    Steve Jones - Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Steve Jones, the Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer at Towson University, directs comprehensive operational strategies and human capital management. Jones oversees the university's day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all administrative and support functions, while also leading human resources initiatives to cultivate a skilled and engaged workforce. This multifaceted role involves optimizing resource allocation, managing facilities, and implementing policies that support Towson University's academic mission and its undergraduate programs in fields like biology, communication, and computer studies. Steve Jones's leadership ensures seamless operational execution and fosters a positive organizational culture. The Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer is instrumental in aligning operational capabilities with strategic objectives, driving institutional effectiveness and supporting the university's commitment to student success.

    Emily Brophy - President

    Emily Brophy, the President at Towson University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Brophy guides the university's mission, vision, and long-term goals, ensuring academic quality and institutional growth across all departments. This executive position involves fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, overseeing key initiatives that impact student success and faculty development. Emily Brophy's leadership is central to Towson University's commitment to providing comprehensive undergraduate degree programs in fields such as accounting, biology, communication, and computer studies. The President champions the university's role in higher education and its contribution to the community. Emily Brophy's strategic oversight ensures Towson University remains a leading institution for higher learning and research.

    Leila Ouattara - Founder & President (Financial Literacy Book Club)

    Leila Ouattara, the Founder & President (Financial Literacy Book Club) at Towson University, spearheads initiatives focused on enhancing financial education and literacy among students. Ouattara established and leads the Financial Literacy Book Club, promoting practical knowledge in financial management and investment strategies. This role directly supports Towson University's commitment to providing students with essential life skills, complementing academic programs in accounting and business administration. Leila Ouattara's dedication fosters a greater understanding of personal finance, empowering students for future economic success. The Founder & President (Financial Literacy Book Club) cultivates a community dedicated to financial empowerment, enriching the student experience beyond traditional coursework.

    Jay Dutton - President

    Jay Dutton, the President at Towson University, drives strategic initiatives and institutional advancement. Dutton oversees key operational and academic functions, ensuring Towson University upholds its standards of excellence in higher education. This leadership role involves guiding the university's growth and development, particularly in its undergraduate offerings across diverse fields like biology, business administration, and communication. Jay Dutton's vision is critical for maintaining Towson University's competitive edge and its commitment to student success. The President plays a vital part in shaping the university's future, fostering partnerships, and enhancing its reputation within the academic community. Jay Dutton's leadership ensures the continued progress and impact of Towson University.

    Allie Nagel - President

    Allie Nagel, the President at Towson University, directs strategic planning and institutional priorities. Nagel focuses on advancing the university's mission and enhancing its academic offerings, including undergraduate programs in accounting, computer studies, and business administration. This leadership position involves overseeing critical university functions and ensuring alignment with educational goals. Allie Nagel's contributions are essential for fostering a dynamic learning environment and supporting student achievement. The President is dedicated to strengthening Towson University's position as a leading educational institution. Allie Nagel's leadership ensures that the university continues to provide high-quality education and opportunities for its students.

    Melanie Kelleher - Member, President's ETU Council At StarTUp

    Melanie Kelleher, a Member of the President's ETU Council At StarTUp at Towson University, contributes to strategic discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Kelleher's involvement with the ETU Council supports the development of programs that encourage student ventures and business acumen, particularly relevant to undergraduate programs in business administration and computer studies. This role highlights a commitment to practical application of knowledge and the cultivation of entrepreneurial talent within the university. Melanie Kelleher's participation enhances Towson University's ecosystem for innovation. The Member, President's ETU Council At StarTUp role signifies engagement with forward-thinking strategies that benefit the university's academic and economic development objectives.

    Patrick Rohe - Chief Technology Officer

    Patrick Rohe, the Chief Technology Officer at Towson University, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Rohe oversees the implementation of advanced IT solutions that support academic research, student learning, and administrative operations across the university. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, ensuring data integrity, and driving innovation in educational technology to enhance the overall student and faculty experience. Patrick Rohe's focus remains on leveraging technology to foster a dynamic and efficient learning environment, aligning IT initiatives with Towson University's broader educational mission. The Chief Technology Officer ensures that all technological resources are optimized for performance and accessibility, supporting the university's commitment to providing high-quality undergraduate programs in fields such as accounting, biology, business administration, communication, and computer studies.
    Patrick Rohe

    Kevin Balsbaugh - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Kevin Balsbaugh, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Towson University, supports the Chief Technology Officer in advancing the institution's information technology capabilities. Balsbaugh assists in the development and execution of IT strategies, focusing on enhancing digital infrastructure and supporting academic and administrative systems. This role is crucial for ensuring the reliable operation of technology services that underpin Towson University's undergraduate programs, including those in computer studies and business administration. Kevin Balsbaugh's contributions are vital to maintaining robust cybersecurity measures and driving technological innovation. The Deputy Chief Information Officer works to optimize IT resources, ensuring they effectively support the university's educational mission and operational efficiency.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Towson University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Towson University?
    Towson University is led by Kofi Ofori (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Michael Palmer (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Steve Jones (Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Towson University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Towson University includes leaders such as Kofi Ofori (Chief Financial Officer), Michael Palmer (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Steve Jones (Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Towson University have?
    Towson University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Towson University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Towson University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer, President, Founder & President (Financial Literacy Book Club).