Harris Joins Fisher as New Chief Financial Officer

After a nationwide search, Mark Harris, DBA has been appointed as St. John Fisher University’s new vice president for finance and administration and chief financial officer (CFO).

“Dr. Harris brings extensive higher education and industry financial management experience to Fisher, and I am confident he will provide sound leadership for our institution as a member of the Cabinet,” said Dr. Gerard J. Rooney, president of the University. “I look forward to his positive contributions to the campus community.”

Harris joins the University from Suffolk County Community College, where he has served as vice president of business and financial affairs and CFO since 2019. He previously served as vice president of administration and finance and CFO at Mercer County Community College and CFO and vice president of finance and administrative services at Cumberland County College. 

Prior to his career in higher education, Harris worked for Brand Energy and Infrastructure Services as the director of finance, controller, and accounting manager. He has also held roles at First Data Corporation and Student Finance Corporation. 

At Fisher, Harris will oversee the Division of Finance and Administration, serve as a member of the Cabinet and work to advance the Strategic Plan and financial health of the University, and be a primary contact for externally-affiliated partners and programs. He will also provide leadership in the areas of finance and accounting, human resources, information technology, and facilities services. Finally, he will oversee the implementation of a campus-wide enterprise risk management plan, among other priorities. 

Harris received his bachelor’s degree in business management, MBA, and Doctor of Business Administration from Wilmington University. He also earned a master’s degree in financial planning from the University of Georgia.