UC Riverside Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

UC Riverside has 9 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, strategy, and medical affairs.

Driven by a commitment to research and education, UC Riverside fosters an environment of academic excellence and community engagement, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge across diverse fields.

Leadership Roles at UC Riverside

  • Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine) - Herodia Allen
  • 2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow - Suleiman Hodali
  • President - Anh Thach
  • President - Homer Aschmann
  • President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete - Brandon Tsujimoto
  • Chief Financial Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff - Luisa Levario
  • Associate Chancellor & Chief of Staff - Michael Richards
  • Chief Medical Officer (School of Medicine) - Naveen Raja
  • Chief Financial & Administrative Officer - Shelley Gupta
  • Herodia Allen - Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine)

    Herodia Allen, the Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine) at UC Riverside, directs the operational framework for the health sciences division. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation and ensuring the efficient delivery of medical education and patient care services. Overseeing administrative functions, the Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine) drives strategic initiatives to enhance operational performance and support the academic mission of the School of Medicine. By managing departmental budgets and operational workflows, Herodia Allen ensures seamless integration of clinical and educational activities. This role is critical for advancing the research and healthcare objectives within the UC Health system, focusing on scalable growth and sustained operational excellence across all medical programs.
    Herodia Allen

    Suleiman Hodali - 2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow

    Suleiman Hodali, the 2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow at UC Riverside, engages in advanced research and scholarly activities. This fellowship supports independent research projects, contributing to the university's academic and scientific endeavors. As a Postdoctoral Fellow, Suleiman Hodali collaborates with faculty mentors to explore new frontiers in their respective fields, enhancing the university's research output. Overseeing the execution of research methodologies and data analysis, the 2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow ensures the integrity and rigor of scholarly work. By contributing to cutting-edge research, Hodali advances knowledge and strengthens UC Riverside's position as a leading research institution. This role signifies a commitment to academic growth and discovery within the university community.

    Anh Thach - President

    Anh Thach, the President at UC Riverside, leads the institution with a focus on strategic direction and academic advancement. This executive position involves setting institutional priorities and overseeing the implementation of key university-wide initiatives. As President, Anh Thach fosters a collaborative environment, engaging with faculty, students, and staff to achieve shared goals. Overseeing the university's operational framework and resource management, the President ensures the efficient allocation of funds and personnel to support academic and research endeavors. By driving innovation and promoting excellence, Thach enhances UC Riverside's reputation and impact. This leadership role is fundamental to guiding the university's growth and fulfilling its educational mission.

    Homer Aschmann - President

    Homer Aschmann, the President at UC Riverside, directs the overall strategic vision and operational management of the university. This leadership role involves guiding institutional development and ensuring the successful execution of academic and research programs. As President, Homer Aschmann collaborates with university stakeholders to foster an environment of innovation and academic rigor. Overseeing the university's administrative structure and resource allocation, the President ensures fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. By championing educational excellence and research advancement, Aschmann strengthens UC Riverside's standing as a premier public research university. This executive guidance is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and achieving institutional objectives.

    Brandon Tsujimoto - President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete

    Brandon Tsujimoto, the President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete at UC Riverside, embodies leadership across academic and athletic spheres. This multifaceted role involves guiding student initiatives and contributing to athletic program development. As President, Brandon Tsujimoto advocates for student interests and promotes campus engagement, fostering a vibrant university community. Overseeing student governance and advisory committee functions, the President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete ensures student voices are represented in institutional decision-making. By balancing academic pursuits with athletic commitments, Tsujimoto demonstrates dedication and leadership. This executive position is key to enhancing the student experience and supporting the university's holistic development goals.
    Brandon Tsujimoto

    Luisa Levario - Chief Financial Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff

    Luisa Levario, the Chief Financial Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff at UC Riverside, manages the financial health and administrative operations of the institution. This dual role encompasses strategic financial planning, budget oversight, and ensuring the efficient functioning of administrative departments. As Chief of Staff, Luisa Levario provides direct support to executive leadership, facilitating strategic decision-making and coordinating key initiatives across the university. Overseeing financial reporting and compliance, the Chief Financial Administrative Officer & Chief of Staff ensures fiscal responsibility and adherence to regulatory standards. By aligning financial resources with institutional goals, Levario drives operational efficiency and supports the university's mission of academic excellence and research innovation. This executive leadership ensures robust financial management and streamlined administrative processes.

    Michael Richards - Associate Chancellor & Chief of Staff

    Michael Richards, the Associate Chancellor & Chief of Staff at UC Riverside, provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for key university initiatives. This executive role involves managing critical projects and ensuring alignment between administrative functions and the broader academic mission. As Chief of Staff, Michael Richards supports the Chancellor's office, facilitating communication and coordination across various departments and stakeholders. Overseeing special assignments and strategic planning efforts, the Associate Chancellor & Chief of Staff drives institutional priorities and enhances operational effectiveness. By directing cross-functional teams and managing complex organizational dynamics, Richards ensures the successful execution of university-wide programs. This leadership is vital for advancing UC Riverside's strategic objectives and fostering a dynamic campus environment.
    Naveen Raja, the Chief Medical Officer (School of Medicine) at UC Riverside, directs clinical strategy and patient care standards for the medical school. This critical role involves overseeing the quality and safety of medical services provided, ensuring adherence to best practices in healthcare delivery. As Chief Medical Officer, Naveen Raja collaborates with faculty and staff to advance medical education and research initiatives, fostering an environment of clinical excellence. Overseeing the integration of clinical operations with academic programs, the Chief Medical Officer (School of Medicine) ensures a cohesive approach to healthcare and medical training. By driving innovation in patient care and medical treatment protocols, Raja enhances the reputation and effectiveness of UC Riverside's School of Medicine. This leadership is essential for maintaining high standards in medical practice and education.
    Naveen Raja

    Shelley Gupta - Chief Financial & Administrative Officer

    Shelley Gupta, the Chief Financial & Administrative Officer at UC Riverside, oversees the financial health and administrative operations of the university. This executive role involves strategic financial planning, budget management, and ensuring the efficient functioning of administrative departments. As Chief Financial & Administrative Officer, Shelley Gupta directs fiscal policies and procedures, guaranteeing compliance and operational integrity. Overseeing resource allocation and financial reporting, Gupta ensures that institutional funds are managed effectively to support academic and research objectives. By driving operational efficiencies and implementing sound financial practices, Shelley Gupta plays a vital role in the university's sustained growth and stability. This leadership ensures robust financial stewardship and streamlined administrative support across all university functions.
    Shelley Gupta

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding UC Riverside Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads UC Riverside?
    UC Riverside is led by Herodia Allen (Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine)), along with executives such as Suleiman Hodali (2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow) and Anh Thach (President).
    Who is part of UC Riverside’s executive team?
    The executive team of UC Riverside includes leaders such as Herodia Allen (Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine)), Suleiman Hodali (2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow), Anh Thach (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does UC Riverside have?
    UC Riverside has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in UC Riverside’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of UC Riverside includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, UC Health (School of Medicine), 2025-2026 UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow, President, President, President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete.