UC Merced Executive and Leadership Team

Kurt Schnier, the Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer at UC Merced, directs the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal operations of the university. Schnier is responsible for managing all financial resources, including budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial planning, ensuring the institution's long-term economic health and sustainability. This executive role involves overseeing financial compliance, risk management, and the allocation of funds to support UC Merced's diverse academic programs and research endeavors. By guiding financial policy, Kurt Schnier ensures that resources are effectively deployed to advance the university's mission of innovative research and student success. The Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer's oversight is critical for maintaining operational integrity and supporting growth initiatives, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada regions, aligning financial objectives with the university's strategic goals.

Daniel Okoli, the Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at UC Merced, directs the university's day-to-day operational activities and strategic execution. Okoli oversees a broad spectrum of administrative functions, including facilities management, campus safety, human resources, and auxiliary services, ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the entire campus environment. This leadership position is pivotal in translating the university's strategic vision into tangible operational outcomes, supporting student success and community engagement. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes, Daniel Okoli enhances the overall campus experience and operational capacity. The Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities are fundamental to maintaining a productive and inclusive atmosphere, directly supporting UC Merced's commitment to innovative research and its unique educational offerings.

Elizabeth Balbuena, the President at UC Merced, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the university. Balbuena leads the executive team in advancing UC Merced's mission of providing a unique educational experience, fostering student success, and driving innovative research. This ultimate leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, engaging with external stakeholders, and ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. By championing academic excellence and community engagement, Elizabeth Balbuena guides the institution's development, particularly in critical areas like health sciences and environmental studies. The President's leadership is fundamental to shaping the university's future, promoting diversity and inclusion, and solidifying its position as a leading research institution in the San Joaquin Valley and beyond.

Christian Snyder, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at UC Merced, directs the strategic implementation and operational management of the university's information technology infrastructure. Snyder oversees the development and deployment of scalable technology solutions that support UC Merced's academic programs, research initiatives, and administrative functions. This leadership role involves ensuring the security, reliability, and efficiency of all IT systems, directly contributing to the university's mission of providing a dynamic educational experience. By managing critical technology resources, Christian Snyder enables seamless access to digital learning tools and research platforms, fostering innovation across all disciplines and supporting the university's commitment to cutting-edge research in areas such as health sciences and environmental studies. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's efforts are crucial for maintaining robust digital operations and advancing the university's technological capabilities.

Anthony Smullen, the Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff at UC Merced, provides strategic counsel and operational support to the university's senior leadership. Smullen manages key initiatives, facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, and ensures the effective execution of strategic priorities across the institution. This role involves coordinating high-level projects, overseeing special assignments, and acting as a liaison between various university stakeholders to advance UC Merced's mission. By streamlining communication and driving project completion, Anthony Smullen enhances leadership effectiveness and operational alignment. The Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff's contributions are vital for maintaining momentum on critical university objectives, supporting the dynamic campus life and fostering diversity and inclusion among students and faculty.

Stephanie Peterson, the Chief Administrative Officer at UC Merced, oversees the administration of critical university functions that support academic and research operations. Peterson manages essential administrative services, ensuring compliance with university policies and regulatory requirements while optimizing resource utilization. This executive position focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of administrative processes, thereby enabling faculty and students to concentrate on their core academic and research pursuits. By directing key administrative departments, Stephanie Peterson plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable and supportive operational framework for the university. The Chief Administrative Officer's leadership ensures that the university's infrastructure effectively supports its commitment to innovative research and a vibrant campus community.