Executive Team

Academic Affairs

R. Shayne Cofer, Ph.D.
Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

The Provost is responsible for instruction, academic programs and academic support services. Academic programs are offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education, College of Business and Management and the Graduate College. Instructional support services are provided by the Library. In addition, Academic Affairs is administratively responsible for the Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, El Centro, The Center for Teaching and Learning, Center for Academic Writing, and for the Offices of Assessment, Institutional Research, Sponsored Programs and Weekend Institute. 

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION

Beni Ortiz
Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration

The Division provides strategic direction and leadership for campus financial and administrative services that support the daily operations of the University. The Division is responsible for supporting the executive team and other stakeholders with key financial and operational information and driving a culture of innovation in managing NEIU's business operations. Finance and Administration provides service to the campus community in all aspects of the University's financial affairs, including financial planning, policy and analysis, financial records and reporting, budget development, cash management, risk management, management of the external audit process, and the development and implementation of a comprehensive technology plan. Areas within the Division of Finance and Administration include University Budgets, Controller’s Office, Facilities Management, Procurement, Risk Management, Auxiliary Services, Human Resources, and University Technology Services.

enrollment Management

Claudia Mercado, Ph.D.
Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management

The Division oversees all aspects of recruitment, admissions, enrollment, new student orientation, and the Office of the University Registrar.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Suleyma Perez, Ph.D.
Executive Director of Government Relations

The Executive Director of Government Relations is the University’s designee for communicating with elected officials regarding the University's present and future institutional plans, activities, concerns, and positions pertaining to pending legislation, and also serves as the main point of contact for legislative interest in the University.

Institutional Advancement

Liesl V. Downey
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Executive Director of the Northeastern Illinois University Foundation

Institutional Advancement is responsible for strengthening and advancing Northeastern through strategic initiatives, programs and campaigns executed by the unit's Offices of Alumni Relations, Development and Public Relations; raising awareness for and building and enhancing the University’s reputation within the community, across the nation and around the world. Operations of the NEIU Foundation are directed by Institutional Advancement in collaboration with the Foundations' board of directors. Included in this area are the raising and provision of scholarships and other student aid processed through the Office of Financial Aid, as well as the building of a University endowment.

Legal Affairs and General Counsel

Nicki Bazer, J.D.
Interim General Counsel

The Office of Legal Affairs and General Counsel is responsible for providing, managing, and coordinating all legal services to the University President, all levels of the administration and external entities to minimize the institution's legal risks and liability in a professional, cost-effective manner. Guided by the operating principles of high ethical standards, sound decision-making, consensus building, courtesy, and respect, the the General Counsel is committed to act with integrity, knowledge of the law, and reason in support of the University's mission, vision, and values. Legal services provided by the General Counsel include assisting in the development of University policy and procedures, counsel regarding sensitive employment matters, reviewing contracts and other legal documents, securing and coordinating the services of outside legal counsel when necessary, and helping to resolve disputes and claims. The General Counsel's office serves as the University's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) fulfillment center.

MARKETING AND cOMMUNICATIONS

Christopher Childers
Executive Director of Marketing and Communications

The Office of Marketing and Communications enhances and protects the University's institutional reputation, advances and strengthens Northeastern's brand, employs effective communication design to enhance operations and encourage University engagement, and reinforces the University's relevance in the lives of key target audiences. The Division provides services and strategic consultation in areas that include: advertising, media relations, communications strategy, website administration, social media, graphic design, photography, videography, publications, marketing collateral, marketing research and branding.

STUDENT AFFAIRS

Terry Mena, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students

The Division of Student Affairs at Northeastern Illinois University actively supports and engages its diverse community of learners through excellent programs and services that enhance students’ personal development, leadership skills, and intercultural competencies to engage in a dynamic global society. The Division will be a national leader in urban higher education and among Hispanic Serving Institutions through its promising practices to support student success. Student Affairs embraces the University’s core values and contributes to success through: holistic support, experiential learning, civic leadership, and social justice. The Division houses multiple departments devoted to student growth and success.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is responsible for developing, overseeing and guiding University-wide efforts to identify and rectify inequities that disproportionately hinder the academic achievement and student experience of historically and currently underserved populations. The Angelina Pedroso Center for Diversity and Intercultural Affairs reports to the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.