Leadership
BRIAN VERKAMP, SENIOR VP AND CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Dr. Brian Verkamp leads operations including Human Resources, Information Technology, USF Facilities and the USF Police Department. With more than 25 years of leadership in higher education, research and health environments, he specializes in digital strategy, operational effectiveness and large-scale institutional transformation. Before joining USF in 2026, he led institutional technology strategy and operations at the University of North Florida, guiding major digital initiatives and addressing complex university challenges.
SIDNEY FERNANDES, CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER AND VP OF DIGITAL EXPERIENCES
Sidney Fernandes is CIO and vice president of Digital Experiences at University of South Florida. He has led technology strategy at USF since 2014, creating partnerships that position the information technology team as an industry leader and strategic ally. Under his leadership, USF has been at the forefront of technological innovation and digital transformation, driving efficiency and client satisfaction with an emphasis on the safety and security of the university's digital assets.
MICHEL FERRELL, INTERIM VP AND CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Michel Ferrell serves as Interim Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at the University of South Florida. In this role, he provides leadership across key human resources functions, including embedded HR services, employee relations, process improvement, classification and compensation, and benefits. With extensive experience at USF, Michel is committed to strengthening HR services and supporting the university community through collaborative, people-focused solutions.
EVERET SIMMONS, AVP OF CONSTRUCTION, FACILITIES & REAL ESTATE
Everet Simmons serves as Associate Vice President for Construction, Facilities, & Real Estate at the University of South Florida, providing executive leadership for the planning, delivery and stewardship of the university’s capital construction and facilities portfolios across all campuses. He oversees a nearly $1 billion capital program and approximately 13 million square feet of facilities that support USF’s academic, research, health care and student success missions. Working closely with university leadership, government agencies and community stakeholders, Everet leads teams responsible for capital project delivery, facilities operations, infrastructure renewal, campus development and strategic initiatives that advance the university’s long-term growth, operational excellence and service to the USF community.
CHIEF DANIEL, POLICE CHIEF AND AVP OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Police Chief Christopher Daniel is a Tampa native and a USF alumnus who has served with the USF Police Department for more than 34 years. Throughout his career, he has held nearly every rank within the department, from police officer and public information officer to lieutenant and assistant chief. A 2010 graduate of the FBI National Academy, Chief Daniel is committed to reducing crime, strengthening community relationships, and fostering a positive culture built on high ethical standards. He emphasizes visible, accessible policing and encourages officers to engage positively with members of the USF community.
JEN FLEISCHMAN, AVP FOR ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS
Jen Fleischman serves as Assistant Vice President for Administration and Operations at the University of South Florida, providing leadership across key areas that support the university’s operations and preparedness. With extensive experience in emergency management and institutional operations, she brings a collaborative and strategic approach to strengthening organizational resilience, enhancing coordination, and supporting a safe and well-prepared USF community.
