University at Albany Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

University at Albany has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to research and public service, University at Albany fosters academic excellence across specialized fields, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge in critical societal areas.

Leadership Roles at University at Albany

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Naumann
  • Chief Operating Officer - Anthony Modica
  • Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute - Christopher Nolin
  • Chief of Staff & President, Office - Bruce Szelest
  • President & Public Affairs Association Student (Pasa) - Christopher Murunguzha
  • President - Messiah Royall
  • Chief of Staff - Claudia Hernández
  • Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Gary Evans
  • Portfolio Manager, Service & Chief Information Officer, Office of The, Information Technology Services - Michael Sweeney
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Douglas Sweet
  • John Naumann - Chief Executive Officer

    John Naumann, the Chief Executive Officer at University at Albany, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth. Naumann guides the university's mission to advance knowledge and prepare students for impactful careers in fields such as public affairs and criminal justice. This leadership role involves fostering collaborations with external stakeholders and ensuring the university's continued prominence in research and education. By aligning departmental objectives with institutional goals, John Naumann drives the university's commitment to academic rigor and societal contribution. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all academic and administrative functions, ensuring operational efficiency and the delivery of high-quality educational programs. Naumann's strategic direction shapes the university's response to evolving educational landscapes and market demands, solidifying its position as a leading public research institution.

    Anthony Modica - Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Modica, the Chief Operating Officer at University at Albany, oversees the comprehensive operational framework of the institution. Modica directs all aspects of campus operations, including facilities management, resource allocation, and administrative services, ensuring alignment with the university's strategic goals in sociology and social work. This leadership position is crucial for maintaining a productive and supportive environment for students and faculty. By optimizing resource utilization and enhancing operational efficiency, Anthony Modica ensures the university can effectively deliver its specialized academic programs. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing budgets, overseeing infrastructure development, and implementing policies that support the university's mission. Modica's operational leadership is fundamental to the university's capacity for research and its commitment to community engagement.

    Christopher Nolin - Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute

    Christopher Nolin, the Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute at University at Albany, spearheads the operational execution and strategic development of the AI Plus Institute. Nolin directs the institute's day-to-day activities, ensuring seamless integration of research initiatives and administrative functions within the broader university structure. This role is pivotal in advancing the institute's mission in cutting-edge AI research and its application across various academic disciplines. By managing resources and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, Christopher Nolin drives the institute's growth and impact. The operational leadership provided by Nolin ensures that the AI Plus Institute effectively supports the university's commitment to innovation and academic excellence. Nolin's focus on operational efficiency and strategic planning positions the institute at the forefront of AI advancements.
    Christopher Nolin

    Bruce Szelest - Chief of Staff & President, Office

    Bruce Szelest, the Chief of Staff & President, Office at University at Albany, manages strategic operations and executive communications for the President's office. Szelest coordinates key initiatives, ensuring alignment between presidential priorities and departmental actions across the university's specialized programs. This leadership function is vital for driving institutional effectiveness and supporting the university's mission in areas such as criminal justice and public affairs. By facilitating high-level decision-making and overseeing critical projects, Bruce Szelest enhances the university's strategic execution. The Chief of Staff's role involves advising the President on policy matters and representing the office in various capacities. Szelest's operational oversight ensures that the university effectively advances its academic and research agendas, maintaining its commitment to excellence.

    Christopher Murunguzha - President & Public Affairs Association Student (Pasa)

    Christopher Murunguzha, the President & Public Affairs Association Student (Pasa) at University at Albany, leads student initiatives and represents the student body in public affairs. Murunguzha advocates for student interests and fosters engagement in campus governance and community development, particularly within the public affairs sphere. This leadership role is crucial for enhancing the student experience and promoting active participation in university life. By organizing events and collaborating with university administration, Christopher Murunguzha contributes to a vibrant campus community. The President's responsibilities include overseeing student organizations and promoting leadership development. Murunguzha's dedication to student advocacy strengthens the university's connection with its student population.

    Messiah Royall - President

    Messiah Royall, the President at University at Albany, leads student organizations and drives initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience. Royall focuses on fostering a collaborative environment and promoting student engagement across various academic and extracurricular activities. This leadership position is vital for empowering student voices and supporting their development within the university community. By coordinating student-led projects and advocating for student needs, Messiah Royall contributes to a dynamic campus culture. The President's role involves strategic planning for student affairs and ensuring alignment with institutional goals. Royall's commitment to student leadership strengthens the university's overall mission.

    Claudia Hernández - Chief of Staff

    Claudia Hernández, the Chief of Staff at University at Albany, manages critical operational initiatives and supports the executive leadership team. Hernández ensures seamless execution of strategic priorities across various departments, facilitating communication and coordination. This role involves overseeing special projects and driving efficiency in administrative processes, directly supporting the university's mission in clinical psychology and public health. By streamlining operations and enhancing interdepartmental synergy, Claudia Hernández contributes to the effective functioning of the institution. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to advising on policy development and implementing key organizational changes. Hernández's focus on operational excellence ensures that the university can effectively pursue its research and educational objectives, maintaining a high standard of service and academic delivery.

    Gary Evans - Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Gary Evans, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at University at Albany, directs all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives. Evans oversees the recruitment, development, and retention of faculty and staff, ensuring a robust and supportive workforce aligned with the university's academic and research objectives. This critical role involves shaping policies that foster a diverse and inclusive campus environment, essential for advancing fields like public health and social work. By cultivating a high-performing team and promoting employee well-being, Gary Evans enhances the university's operational capacity and institutional culture. The Chief Human Resources Officer's purview includes compensation, benefits, and organizational development, all vital to the university's sustained success. Evans's leadership in human resources is foundational to the university's ability to attract and retain top talent.

    Michael Sweeney - Portfolio Manager, Service & Chief Information Officer, Office of The, Information Technology Services

    Michael Sweeney, the Portfolio Manager, Service & Chief Information Officer, Office of The, Information Technology Services at University at Albany, directs the strategic planning and execution of information technology services. Sweeney oversees the university's technology infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic research and administrative functions across all disciplines. This leadership role is essential for leveraging technology to enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. By managing IT portfolios and driving innovation in digital services, Michael Sweeney supports the university's mission in areas like clinical psychology and sociology. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include developing IT policies, managing cybersecurity, and implementing new technological solutions. Sweeney's expertise in information technology is critical for the university's modern operational framework.

    Douglas Sweet - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Douglas Sweet, the Deputy Chief of Staff at University at Albany, supports the Chief of Staff in managing strategic operations and administrative functions. Sweet plays a key role in coordinating cross-departmental projects and ensuring the efficient implementation of institutional policies. This position is vital for maintaining operational continuity and supporting the university's academic mission in public health and social work. By assisting in the execution of strategic directives and facilitating communication, Douglas Sweet enhances the overall effectiveness of the executive office. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include project management and operational analysis, contributing to the university's commitment to excellence. Sweet's support is instrumental in driving the university's strategic objectives forward.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding University at Albany Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads University at Albany?
    University at Albany is led by John Naumann (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Anthony Modica (Chief Operating Officer) and Christopher Nolin (Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute).
    Who is part of University at Albany’s executive team?
    The executive team of University at Albany includes leaders such as John Naumann (Chief Executive Officer), Anthony Modica (Chief Operating Officer), Christopher Nolin (Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does University at Albany have?
    University at Albany has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in University at Albany’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of University at Albany includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute, Chief of Staff & President, Office, President & Public Affairs Association Student (Pasa).