Kristen Jones-Kolod Named Assistant Dean for Finance and Administration at Whitman School of Management

The Martin J. Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University has named Kristen Jones-Kolod assistant dean for finance and administration. 

Jones-Kolod brings more than 25 years of experience in financial and administrative leadership, including more than two decades at Syracuse University. She joins Whitman after serving as deputy athletics director and chief financial officer for Syracuse Athletics, where she oversaw business operations, financial planning, facilities and human resources for one of the University's largest and most complex divisions. 

In her new role, Jones-Kolod will lead Whitman's financial and administrative operations, partnering with school leadership to support strategic planning, resource management and operational excellence. 

"Kristen brings exceptional financial expertise, thoughtful leadership and a deep understanding of Syracuse University," said Alex McKelvie, interim dean of the Whitman School of Management. "Her collaborative approach and commitment to responsible stewardship will strengthen our leadership team and help position Whitman for continued success and momentum." 

Prior to her leadership role in Athletics, Jones-Kolod spent more than a decade in Syracuse University's Division of Student Affairs, where she led budget and administrative operations, overseeing financial planning, human resources, facilities and technology across more than 25 departments. Before joining Syracuse University, she held finance and accounting roles with United Technologies Corporation and The Penn Traffic Company. 

Jones-Kolod earned a Master of Business Administration from Le Moyne College and a bachelor's degree in accounting. She describes her leadership style as collaborative, transparent and grounded in data, believing that strong financial leadership begins with listening, communicating clearly and providing thoughtful analysis that helps others make informed decisions. 

"I'm excited to join the Whitman community and contribute to a school with such a strong reputation for excellence," Jones-Kolod said. "Finance and administration exist to support the academic mission. I'm looking forward to partnering with faculty and staff to help ensure Whitman has the strong operational foundation needed to support our students and continue the school's growth." 

For more information about the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University, visit whitman.syracuse.edu.