Leadership Team

President's Cabinet

Prasant Mohapatra, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Mohapatra became USF’s provost in March 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from his time at UC Davis as vice chancellor for research and multiple leadership positions at the department, college, and university levels. As a distinguished professor in computer science, he has extensive experience in a variety of critical areas that align with USF’s strategic plan. 

Charles J. Lockwood, Executive Vice President for USF Health

Dr. Lockwood joined USF Health in 2014, becoming dean of the Morsani College of Medicine and assuming a number of leadership roles across the institution. Internationally known for his research expertise in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Lockwood has received numerous research grant awards and maintains an active laboratory at USF Health dedicated to clinical research in his areas of expertise.

Eric Eisenberg, Senior Vice President for University-Community Partnerships

Dr. Eisenberg brings 30 years of experience at USF and strong ties within Tampa Bay to lead the Office of University Community Partnerships. Dr. Eisenberg works to support the university’s position as a transformational metropolitan research university in collaboration with its communities to fulfill USF’s strategic goal in being a significant social and economic engine by creating robust partnerships.

Angie Sklenka, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources and Administrative Officer

Angie Sklenka joined USF in 2020 with more than 20 years of experience managing human resources in higher education, healthcare, hospitality and global manufacturing in North America, Europe and Asia. At USF, she leads strategies for learning and talent development, human resources operations management and implementation of human capital management systems, employee relations, total rewards, talent management, and organizational effectiveness.

Gerard D. Solis, Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel

Since joining USF’s Office of the General Counsel as assistant general counsel in 2003, Gerard D. Solis has worked in multiple practice areas serving virtually all areas and levels of the university. As general counsel, he now regularly advises university administration on a range of governance, labor and employment, constitutional and compliance matters.

Jay Stroman, Senior Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Affairs

Appointed in 2020, Jay Stroman has over 20 years of successful institutional advancement experience that he brings to the University of South Florida Foundation. He is a dynamic development leader who builds strong relationships with USF's alumni and community supporters, advocates for the university’s top priorities and develops creative strategies for sustainable philanthropy.

Christian E. Hardigree, Regional Chancellor, USF St. Petersburg campus

Christian E. Hardigree joined the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus in 2022 as regional chancellor. She works closely with colleagues across the university to bring the strength of One USF to the St. Petersburg campus, ensuring the overall excellence of the university. Hardigree is also dedicated in supporting campus enhancement, including its focus on student success and building strong community relationships.

Karen A. Holbrook, Regional Chancellor, USF Sarasota-Manatee campus

Dr. Holbrook was appointed regional chancellor of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus in 2018. Under her leadership, the Sarasota-Manatee campus has continued to develop strong business and education partnerships throughout the region and the state with a focus on preparing today’s students for life beyond graduation.

                                                                            Dan Caterinicchia, Vice President for Communications and Marketing and Chief Marketing Officer                                                     

Dan joined USF in 2022, bringing with him over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education and journalism. Dan’s approach centers around strategic storytelling, brand elevation, and content creation, which he implements every day overseeing University Communications and Marketing to enhance USF's national reputation and support all three campuses.

                                                                             Jennifer Condon, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Jennifer is a certified CPA trained and experienced in finance and accounting. Her higher education career began at Yale University before joining USF in 2006. Over the course of Jennifer's tenure, she has progressively increased her span of responsibility and now plays a critical role in overseeing the university’s budget practices and elevating the central financial business processes of USF, in line with best practices.

Cynthia DeLuca, Vice President for Student Success

With 25+ years of experience prior to joining USF in 2014, Dr. DeLuca provides strategic vision and leadership for the admissions, career services, enrollment management, wellness, Innovative Education, undergraduate studies and student affairs functions of Student Success. Working closely with her teams on all campuses, she is committed to developing initiatives to support the academic, professional, and personal growth of all students for success at USF and in the future.

Sidney Fernandes, Vice President and Chief Information Officer

Sidney has been leading technology strategy at USF since 2014, creating partnerships that position Information Technology 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. 

Michael Kelly, Vice President for Athletics

Michael joined USF Athletics in 2018, with 25 years of experience in athletic leadership. He works to create an exceptional student-athlete experience in which USF’s nearly 450 student-athletes can thrive, and he is also committed to engaging the community and building Bulls Nation through outstanding customer service and ensuring rewarding and memorable experiences.

                                                                       Carole Post, Vice President for Facilities and Public Safety Operations

Since 2022, Carole has led Administrative Services with responsibility for planning, construction, and development for more than 350 buildings and maintenance, utilities, custodial, and grounds for nearly 500 acres. She also oversees fleet, busses and transportation, parking services, building safety, and the University Police—all in support of academics, research, clinical, housing, and athletics.

Sylvia Wilson Thomas, Vice President for Research & Innovation

Dr. Thomas is responsible for strategic leadership and being a catalyst for impactful scholarly and creative activity by faculty researchers across all disciplines and campuses as head of USF Research & Innovation. Dr. Thomas works in close partnership with fellow leaders and the Faculty Senate Research Council to advocate for and support research that reflects faculty interests, student success, and institutional priorities.

Mark Walsh, Assistant Vice President for Government Relations

As head of the Office of Government Relations, Mark Walsh oversees and coordinates the university’s interactions with the federal government, the State of Florida and local governments on all policy and budgetary issues related to USF. His office advocates for public investment to fund high-priority operating budget, research and capital construction projects and policy and governance issues affecting USF.

Frank McKenzie, Executive Director of the Global and National Security Institute and Florida Institute of Cybersecurity

General (Retired) Frank McKenzie joined USF in 2022 to lead the newly formed Global and National Security Institute after a 42-year career in the United States Marine Corps, including his final post as commander of United States Central Command. McKenzie is also the Executive Director of the Florida Institute of Cybersecurity and is chairman of the USF Institute of Applied Engineering Board of Directors.

Darren Schumacher, Special Advisor to the President

Dr. Darren Schumacher is Chief Executive Officer of the USF Institute of Applied Engineering, an organization dedicated to serving the national security interests of the United States by connecting USF’s world-renowned faculty and research to the federal government. Dr. Schumacher is a serial innovator and advises the President and the rest of the Cabinet on matters of financial strategy.

Paige Beles Geers, Chief of Staff

Paige supports, proactively manages and shepherds high-priority projects and key university strategic initiatives. She oversees relations and outreach efforts with the Florida Board of Governors members, staff and other dignitaries. Paige is also the staff liaison for the Board of Trustees Strategic Initiatives Committee.