Tulane University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 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 Operating Officer - Kathleen Kent
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer - Patrick Norton
  • Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer - Blair David
  • Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President - Wilfred Ferbos
  • Louisiana Orthopedic Association President - Andrew Suh
  • President - Paresh Kolluru
  • President of Wall Street Krewe - Pieper Winogradoff
  • President - Beatriz de Castro Troncoso
  • President - Samantha Cohen
  • Co-President - Lindsay Ruhl
  • Kathleen Kent - Chief Operating Officer

    Kathleen Kent, the Chief Operating Officer at Tulane University, directs the administrative infrastructure supporting the institution's research and academic mission. Kent manages the daily operational efficiency of campus facilities, ensuring that physical resources align with the needs of students and faculty. By optimizing internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates seamless collaboration between departments, fostering an environment conducive to high-level academic inquiry. Kathleen Kent monitors budgetary allocations to maintain fiscal health while supporting the university's expansive research goals. This leadership role involves coordinating with various stakeholders to streamline service delivery across the New Orleans campus. Through strategic oversight of administrative functions, Kent strengthens the operational foundation necessary for long-term institutional growth. The Chief Operating Officer remains focused on enhancing the overall campus experience, ensuring that all operational activities directly support the broader educational objectives of the university.

    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, manages the financial health and operational integrity of the institution. Norton oversees the treasury functions, ensuring that capital investments support the university's long-term research and academic objectives. As the Chief Operating Officer, Norton directs the allocation of resources across various departments, prioritizing efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Patrick Norton collaborates with the Board to implement financial strategies that sustain the university's competitive position in higher education. This leadership role involves managing complex budgetary frameworks and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. By overseeing the financial and operational systems, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer provides the stability required for academic innovation. Norton maintains a focus on sustainable growth, ensuring that all financial decisions align with the university's commitment to excellence in research and professional education.

    Blair David - Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer

    Blair David, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer at Tulane University, coordinates the strategic initiatives and daily workflow of the operations division. David facilitates communication between the Chief Operating Officer and various department heads, ensuring that operational goals remain synchronized with institutional priorities. Blair David manages the implementation of administrative projects that enhance campus efficiency and resource management. This role involves analyzing operational data to identify areas for improvement, thereby supporting the university's research and academic functions. By streamlining the decision-making process, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer ensures that leadership remains focused on high-impact objectives. David maintains oversight of project timelines and resource distribution, ensuring that all operational activities contribute to the university's success. Through diligent coordination and strategic planning, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer strengthens the internal framework that supports the entire academic community.

    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, manages external communications and institutional messaging. Ferbos coordinates strategic outreach initiatives that connect the university with local, national, and global communities. As the Deputy Chief of Staff, Ferbos aligns administrative priorities with the vision of the President, ensuring consistent messaging across all university channels. Wilfred Ferbos oversees the development of public relations campaigns that highlight the institution's achievements in public health and environmental science. This role requires constant engagement with media partners and community leaders to bolster the university's reputation. By managing complex stakeholder relationships, the Vice President ensures that institutional goals remain visible and supported. Ferbos drives the execution of communication strategies that reflect the core values of the university, ultimately securing public trust and fostering meaningful partnerships that advance the mission of the institution.

    Andrew Suh - Louisiana Orthopedic Association President

    Andrew Suh, the Louisiana Orthopedic Association President at Tulane University, leads professional development and clinical standards within the medical community. Suh directs initiatives that advance orthopedic research and surgical practices, ensuring that medical professionals remain at the forefront of their field. Andrew Suh coordinates with academic departments to integrate clinical expertise into the university's medical education programs. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships between the university and regional healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes. By overseeing the association's strategic direction, the Louisiana Orthopedic Association President promotes excellence in medical training and research. Suh facilitates collaborative efforts that address complex orthopedic challenges, contributing to the university's reputation in the medical sciences. Through active engagement with the medical community, the Louisiana Orthopedic Association President ensures that clinical practices align with the latest scientific advancements, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided across the region.

    Paresh Kolluru - President

    Paresh Kolluru, the President at Tulane University, defines the overarching strategic vision and academic direction of the institution. Kolluru oversees the university's commitment to research excellence, particularly in public health and the humanities. As the President, Kolluru leads the executive team in executing long-term goals that enhance the university's global standing. Paresh Kolluru engages with faculty, students, and alumni to foster a culture of innovation and academic rigor. This leadership role involves managing institutional partnerships and securing the resources necessary to support diverse academic programs. By setting the tone for the university's mission, the President ensures that all departments remain aligned with the core values of the institution. Kolluru drives initiatives that expand the university's impact, ensuring that research findings translate into real-world solutions. Through visionary leadership, the President secures the future of the university as a premier research institution dedicated to academic and professional excellence.

    Pieper Winogradoff - President of Wall Street Krewe

    Pieper Winogradoff, the President of Wall Street Krewe at Tulane University, directs professional networking and career development initiatives for students interested in finance. Winogradoff oversees programs that connect students with industry leaders, facilitating internships and mentorship opportunities. As the President of Wall Street Krewe, Winogradoff manages the organization's strategic outreach to ensure that students gain practical experience in financial markets. Pieper Winogradoff coordinates with the business school to align student activities with current industry trends and professional standards. This leadership role involves organizing events and workshops that prepare students for competitive careers in finance. By fostering a strong network of alumni and industry professionals, the President of Wall Street Krewe enhances the university's influence in the financial sector. Winogradoff ensures that all activities support the professional growth of students, ultimately contributing to the university's success in placing graduates in top-tier financial roles.

    Beatriz de Castro Troncoso - President

    Beatriz de Castro Troncoso, the President at Tulane University, leads specific academic and research initiatives that advance the university's mission in the humanities and social sciences. Troncoso oversees the development of interdisciplinary programs that encourage critical thinking and scholarly inquiry. As the President, Troncoso coordinates with faculty to ensure that research projects address contemporary societal challenges. Beatriz de Castro Troncoso manages the allocation of grants and resources to support academic excellence across the university. This leadership role involves representing the institution in academic forums and fostering collaborations with other research universities. By promoting a culture of intellectual curiosity, the President ensures that the university remains a hub for innovative research. Troncoso drives the execution of strategic plans that enhance the university's academic reputation. Through dedicated leadership, the President supports the growth of the university's research programs, ensuring that scholarly work continues to have a meaningful impact on society.

    Samantha Cohen - President

    Samantha Cohen, the President at Tulane University, directs the strategic focus of specific student-led organizations and academic societies. Cohen oversees the implementation of programs that promote student engagement and leadership development across the campus. As the President, Cohen coordinates with university administration to ensure that student initiatives align with the broader institutional mission. Samantha Cohen manages the distribution of resources to support extracurricular activities that enhance the student experience. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment where students can pursue their academic and professional interests. By overseeing the governance of these organizations, the President ensures that all activities contribute to the university's vibrant campus culture. Cohen drives initiatives that encourage collaboration between students and faculty, strengthening the academic community. Through active leadership, the President supports the personal and professional growth of students, ensuring that the university remains a dynamic environment for learning and development.

    Lindsay Ruhl - Co-President

    Lindsay Ruhl, the Co-President at Tulane University, shares the responsibility of leading strategic initiatives that enhance the university's community outreach and student services. Ruhl oversees the coordination of programs that connect the university with local organizations, fostering partnerships that benefit both students and the community. As the Co-President, Ruhl manages the execution of projects that improve campus life and student support systems. Lindsay Ruhl collaborates with the other Co-President to ensure that leadership efforts remain consistent and effective. This role involves analyzing student feedback to identify areas for improvement and implementing solutions that enhance the overall university experience. By overseeing these initiatives, the Co-President ensures that the university remains responsive to the needs of its community. Ruhl drives the development of programs that promote civic engagement and professional development. Through shared leadership, the Co-President strengthens the university's commitment to service and academic excellence, ensuring that all activities support the institution's mission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Tulane University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Tulane University?
    Tulane University is led by Kathleen Kent (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Norton (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer) and Blair David (Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Tulane University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Tulane University includes leaders such as Kathleen Kent (Chief Operating Officer), Patrick Norton (Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer), Blair David (Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer) 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 Operating Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer, Chief of Staff To the Chief Operating Officer, Vice President, University Relations & Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Louisiana Orthopedic Association President.