Stony Brook University has appointed Jennifer Almquist, PhD, as chief of staff to President Andrea Goldsmith. The appointment will take effect on August 18, 2025. Almquist brings over twenty years of experience in higher education and has previously served as chief of staff to five university presidents at two institutions.
In her new position, Almquist will help shape and implement the president’s priorities, oversee major projects, and work with various stakeholders including members of the Stony Brook community, the State University of New York (SUNY) system, government officials at different levels, and advocacy groups.
Almquist comes to Stony Brook from the University of Northern Colorado (UNC), where she was chief of staff to the president and liaison to the board of trustees. At UNC, she led efforts such as implementing a 10-year strategic plan that involved engaging multiple internal and external groups and creating metrics for progress. She also contributed to establishing a new osteopathic medical college by helping secure more than $200 million in funding from public and private sources.
“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Almquist to Stony Brook University and my leadership team,” said President Andrea Goldsmith. “Jennifer is an exceptionally talented and visionary leader with an outstanding track record in strategic planning and execution, stakeholder engagement, governance and university operations. This background and experience, coupled with her collaborative team spirit, make her an invaluable partner in taking Stony Brook to new heights of excellence and impact across research, education, healthcare and service to our community, our great state, the country and the world. Our ability to attract such a talented leader validates the importance of our mission and our infinite possibilities going forward.”
Before joining UNC, Almquist held administrative roles at Stanford University and the University of Michigan. She was also chief of staff at Oregon State University where she completed her undergraduate through doctoral studies. Her PhD is in Applied Anthropology with research focused on academic organizations.
“I am incredibly excited to join Stony Brook University at this pivotal moment,” said Almquist. “The university’s vibrant intellectual community, its dedication to research, education and public service, and its commitment to diversity deeply resonate with me. I look forward to collaborating with President Goldsmith, the faculty, staff, students and community partners to advance Stony Brook’s strategic initiatives and amplify its impact as a national leader in public higher education.”
