Tulane University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Tulane University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, university relations, financial management, and academic leadership.

Committed to excellence in research and education, Tulane University advances global knowledge through rigorous academic programs and impactful community engagement across diverse professional disciplines.

Leadership Roles at Tulane University

  • Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer - Blair David
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer - Patrick Norton
  • Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President - Wilfred Ferbos
  • President of Gold Krewe Board - Melody Haskell
  • President - Pediatrics Interest Group - Sana Sharba
  • President - Melanie Ehrlich
  • President-Elect - Maggie Gohlmann
  • President - Annie Cerria
  • Co-Founder & President - Ethan Berlin
  • Co President - Hunter Williams
  • Blair David - Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer

    Blair David, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer at Tulane University, manages internal workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. This role involves streamlining communication between the operations division and various academic units to ensure institutional efficiency. Blair David facilitates high-level decision-making processes by synthesizing complex data into actionable insights for the Chief Operating Officer. By overseeing administrative projects, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer maintains alignment with the broader research and educational goals of the institution. The position requires constant collaboration with university leadership to optimize resource allocation and support the operational infrastructure of the campus. Through meticulous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer drives organizational stability and supports the long-term strategic vision of the university within the competitive landscape of higher education.

    Patrick Norton - Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer

    Patrick Norton, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer at Tulane University, oversees the financial health and physical infrastructure of the institution. This role involves managing the university budget, endowment, and capital projects to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Patrick Norton directs the operational teams responsible for campus facilities and administrative services, ensuring that all resources support the core mission of research and education. By coordinating with the Board and other executive leaders, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer implements policies that drive efficiency and growth. The position requires rigorous oversight of financial reporting and risk management to protect the assets of the university. Through strategic planning and disciplined fiscal management, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer supports the expansion of academic programs and the maintenance of world-class research facilities.

    Wilfred Ferbos - Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President

    Wilfred Ferbos, the Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President at Tulane University, directs external communications and institutional messaging. This role involves managing relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the university maintains a strong public profile. Wilfred Ferbos coordinates strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between the President's office and the broader community. By overseeing public relations campaigns, the Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President enhances the reputation of the institution in research and public health sectors. The position requires constant engagement with media outlets and community partners to promote the academic achievements of the faculty and students. Through effective communication strategies, the Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President secures institutional support and fosters a positive environment for academic growth and development across all regional operations.

    Melody Haskell - President of Gold Krewe Board

    Melody Haskell, the President of Gold Krewe Board at Tulane University, leads student engagement initiatives and fosters community spirit across the campus. This role involves organizing events and programs that enhance the undergraduate experience and promote institutional pride. Melody Haskell coordinates with student organizations to ensure that campus activities align with the values and traditions of the university. By overseeing the board, the President of Gold Krewe Board facilitates collaboration between students and administration to improve campus life. The position requires strong leadership skills to manage volunteers and execute large-scale projects that impact the entire student body. Through active participation in university governance, the President of Gold Krewe Board drives student involvement and contributes to a vibrant campus culture that supports the academic and social development of the diverse student population at the university.

    Sana Sharba - President - Pediatrics Interest Group

    Sana Sharba, the President - Pediatrics Interest Group at Tulane University, directs professional development and educational outreach for medical students interested in pediatric care. This role involves organizing seminars, clinical workshops, and networking opportunities that connect students with experts in the field of medicine. Sana Sharba coordinates with faculty members to ensure that the group provides relevant and high-quality resources for aspiring pediatricians. By overseeing the activities of the interest group, the President - Pediatrics Interest Group fosters a community of learning that supports the research and clinical goals of the medical school. The position requires constant engagement with healthcare professionals to facilitate mentorship and career guidance. Through these efforts, the President - Pediatrics Interest Group drives student interest in public health and pediatric medicine, contributing to the overall mission of the university to train the next generation of healthcare leaders.

    Melanie Ehrlich - President

    Melanie Ehrlich, the President at Tulane University, provides academic leadership and oversees the research initiatives within the genetics department. This role involves managing faculty research projects and ensuring that scientific investigations meet the highest standards of excellence. Melanie Ehrlich coordinates with other academic leaders to promote interdisciplinary collaboration in the fields of medicine and science. By overseeing the research agenda, the President drives innovation and secures funding for critical studies that impact public health. The position requires constant engagement with the scientific community to stay at the forefront of genetic research and education. Through strategic oversight of laboratory operations and academic programs, the President supports the mission of the university to advance knowledge and improve health outcomes through rigorous scientific inquiry and dedicated teaching efforts across the institution.
    Melanie Ehrlich

    Maggie Gohlmann - President-Elect

    Maggie Gohlmann, the President-Elect at Tulane University, prepares for future leadership responsibilities by engaging with current administrative and academic processes. This role involves shadowing executive functions and participating in strategic planning sessions to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. Maggie Gohlmann coordinates with existing board members to understand the operational challenges and opportunities facing the university. By overseeing preparatory committees, the President-Elect contributes to the development of long-term goals and policy initiatives. The position requires a deep understanding of the university mission and a commitment to maintaining the high standards of research and education. Through active involvement in governance and planning, the President-Elect ensures that the institution remains focused on its core objectives while preparing for future growth and development in the competitive landscape of higher education.

    Annie Cerria - President

    Annie Cerria, the President at Tulane University, leads student-focused initiatives and manages organizational governance for specific campus groups. This role involves setting the strategic direction for student activities and ensuring that all programs align with the broader mission of the university. Annie Cerria coordinates with student leaders and faculty advisors to implement projects that enhance the academic and social environment. By overseeing the operations of the organization, the President drives engagement and fosters a sense of community among the student body. The position requires strong communication skills to represent the interests of the group to the university administration. Through effective leadership and project management, the President supports the development of student-led initiatives that contribute to the overall success and reputation of the university in the academic community.

    Ethan Berlin - Co-Founder & President

    Ethan Berlin, the Co-Founder & President at Tulane University, directs the development of entrepreneurial ventures and student-led innovation programs. This role involves identifying opportunities for growth and establishing partnerships that support the startup ecosystem within the university. Ethan Berlin coordinates with faculty and industry mentors to provide resources for student entrepreneurs. By overseeing the strategic direction of the organization, the Co-Founder & President drives the creation of new programs that bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application. The position requires constant engagement with the business community to secure support and funding for student projects. Through visionary leadership and operational management, the Co-Founder & President supports the mission of the university to foster innovation and prepare students for success in the modern global economy.

    Hunter Williams - Co President

    Hunter Williams, the Co President at Tulane University, shares leadership responsibilities for student organizations and campus initiatives. This role involves managing daily operations and coordinating with the other Co President to ensure that all activities support the goals of the group. Hunter Williams facilitates communication between members and university administration to resolve issues and promote student interests. By overseeing specific projects, the Co President drives the execution of events that enhance the campus experience. The position requires collaborative decision-making and a commitment to the values of the university. Through effective teamwork and leadership, the Co President supports the development of a vibrant and inclusive community that contributes to the overall success of the student body and the reputation of the institution in the broader academic landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Tulane University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Tulane University?
    Tulane University is led by Blair David (Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Norton (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer) and Wilfred Ferbos (Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President).
    Who is part of Tulane University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Tulane University includes leaders such as Blair David (Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer), Patrick Norton (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer), Wilfred Ferbos (Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Tulane University have?
    Tulane University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Tulane University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Tulane University includes roles such as Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer, Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, President of Gold Krewe Board, President - Pediatrics Interest Group.