University at Albany Executive and Leadership Team

John Naumann, the Chief Executive Officer at University at Albany, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the institution. Naumann guides the university's academic and research endeavors, ensuring alignment with its mission to serve the public good. This leadership role involves fostering innovation across departments, particularly in specialized areas such as clinical psychology and public health. By setting institutional priorities, John Naumann drives the university's commitment to excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to shaping the university's market position and ensuring its continued relevance in higher education. Naumann's strategic direction influences resource allocation and the development of new programs that address evolving societal needs. This executive leadership ensures the university remains a vital center for learning and discovery.

Anthony Modica, the Chief Operating Officer at University at Albany, oversees the daily operational functions and administrative services of the university. Modica directs the management of campus facilities, public safety, and auxiliary services, ensuring a conducive environment for learning and research. This leadership position is critical for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of university operations, supporting academic programs in public affairs and sociology. By optimizing resource utilization and streamlining processes, Anthony Modica enhances the university's capacity to deliver high-quality education. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing budgets for operational departments and implementing policies that support the university's strategic plan. Modica's focus on operational excellence directly impacts student experience and faculty research capabilities. This executive ensures the robust infrastructure necessary for the university's continued growth and success.

Christopher Nolin, the Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, AI Plus Institute at University at Albany, directs the operational and administrative functions of the AI Plus Institute. Nolin oversees the strategic implementation of AI initiatives, ensuring the institute's research and development activities align with its objectives. This role is crucial for managing the institute's resources, personnel, and project timelines, supporting advancements in fields relevant to the university's specializations. By optimizing operational processes, Christopher Nolin enhances the institute's capacity for groundbreaking research and collaboration. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include budget management, strategic planning, and fostering partnerships that advance AI research. Nolin's leadership ensures the AI Plus Institute operates efficiently and effectively, contributing to the university's reputation for innovation. This executive drives operational excellence within a specialized research unit.

Bruce Szelest, the Chief of Staff & President, Office at University at Albany, holds a dual capacity, managing executive operations and leading specific presidential initiatives. Szelest coordinates strategic planning efforts and oversees the implementation of key university programs, ensuring alignment with the institution's core mission in areas like social work and clinical psychology. This leadership position requires a broad understanding of university functions and the ability to drive complex projects to completion. By managing the flow of information and resources within the presidential office, Bruce Szelest ensures effective decision-making and operational efficiency. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include advising the president, managing key relationships, and driving strategic priorities. Szelest's comprehensive oversight contributes significantly to the university's overall success and its commitment to academic rigor. This executive ensures strategic alignment and operational effectiveness.

Khadijah Fatty, the President, E Board Events Chair, J Board Minorities & Philosophy at University at Albany, leads key student organizations and initiatives focused on community engagement and academic discourse. Fatty directs the planning and execution of events that foster student involvement and promote diversity within the university community, particularly in areas like philosophy and minority studies. This leadership role involves managing organizational resources and coordinating volunteer efforts to achieve specific programmatic goals. By organizing impactful events and advocating for student interests, Khadijah Fatty enhances the campus experience and promotes a vibrant intellectual environment. The President's responsibilities include strategic oversight of organizational activities and representing student voices. Fatty's dedication contributes to a more inclusive and dynamic university culture. This executive drives engagement and fosters community within student organizations.

Jordan Dowd, the President at University at Albany, leads a significant segment of the university's student body and represents their interests at various institutional levels. Dowd directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the assigned presidential scope, focusing on enhancing student life and academic support services. This leadership role is vital for advocating for student needs and ensuring their voices are heard in university governance, particularly concerning programs in public affairs and criminal justice. By fostering collaboration among student groups and university administration, Jordan Dowd promotes a positive and productive campus environment. The President's responsibilities include overseeing key initiatives, managing organizational budgets, and driving student-focused programs. Dowd's commitment strengthens the student experience and contributes to the university's overall mission. This executive champions student welfare and institutional progress.

Claudia Hernández, the Chief of Staff at University at Albany, manages the executive office and facilitates the smooth operation of institutional initiatives. Hernández supports the Chief Executive Officer by coordinating strategic projects and ensuring effective communication across university departments. This role involves overseeing special assignments and driving key operational improvements that enhance the university's efficiency. By managing the flow of information and resources, Claudia Hernández ensures that strategic objectives are met. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing reports, organizing high-level meetings, and acting as a liaison between various administrative units. Hernández's efforts contribute directly to the successful implementation of the university's academic and research goals, particularly in areas like criminal justice and social work. This executive ensures seamless execution of the university's mission.

Gary Evans, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at University at Albany, leads all human capital management strategies and initiatives. Evans directs the recruitment, retention, and professional development of faculty and staff, ensuring a skilled and motivated workforce. This critical role supports the university's mission by fostering a positive and productive work environment across all departments, including those focused on social work and clinical psychology. By developing comprehensive HR policies and programs, Gary Evans ensures compliance and promotes employee well-being. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities encompass talent acquisition, compensation and benefits administration, and employee relations. Evans's leadership in human resources is vital for attracting and retaining top talent, thereby strengthening the university's academic and research standing. This executive ensures the institution's most valuable asset, its people, are effectively managed and supported.

Michael Sweeney, the Portfolio Manager, Service & Chief Information Officer, Office of The, Information Technology Services at University at Albany, directs the university's technology strategy and infrastructure. Sweeney oversees the development and implementation of IT services that support academic, research, and administrative functions, crucial for fields like public health and criminal justice. This leadership role ensures the university maintains cutting-edge technological capabilities, facilitating data management and digital learning environments. By managing IT investments and service portfolios, Michael Sweeney drives innovation and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include cybersecurity, network infrastructure, and the deployment of enterprise-wide software solutions. Sweeney's strategic vision for information technology enhances the university's research capacity and student engagement. This executive ensures robust and secure technological support for all university operations.

Douglas Sweet, the Deputy Chief of Staff at University at Albany, assists the Chief of Staff in managing executive operations and strategic projects. Sweet supports the coordination of university-wide initiatives and ensures the efficient execution of administrative tasks. This role involves facilitating communication between different departments and stakeholders, contributing to the smooth functioning of the university's leadership team. By managing key operational workflows, Douglas Sweet enhances the effectiveness of the executive office. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing materials for high-level meetings and tracking progress on critical institutional goals, particularly those related to academic excellence in sociology and public affairs. Sweet's contributions are vital for maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward the university's strategic agenda. This executive ensures operational continuity and supports key leadership functions.