Executive Leadership
Javen Bohall, Director of Human Resources
Javen Bohall serves as Director of Human Resources at HESC where he leads efforts to strengthen the employee experience and improve administrative processes across the agency, with a belief that administrative processes can be both efficient and approachable. Javen brings more than two decades of human resources experience rooted in service to New York State. A trusted leader since 2011, he is known for balancing deep institutional knowledge with a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
Bosede Cajuste, Director of Program Evaluation and Reporting
Bosede Cajuste serves as Director of HESC’s Program Evaluation and Reporting (PER) department, the data analytic arm of HESC. She oversees financial forecasting, monitoring of spending trends, and evaluation of HESC’s grants, scholarships, and outreach initiatives. She is committed to producing accurate reports to inform decision-making and identify opportunities to strengthen programs. Bosede brings more than 10 years of experience in program evaluation and data analysis for nonprofit organizations and state agencies, with expertise in quantitative and qualitative research, data visualization, reporting, and stakeholder engagement.
Nadia Chanza, General Counsel
Nadia Chanza serves as General Counsel for HESC where she oversees the agency’s legal functions and serves as Secretary to the Board of Trustees. With more than two decades of public service, Nadia brings extensive legal and leadership experience to her role. Prior to joining HESC, Nadia spent five years on the New York State Justice Center’s executive team.
Kayla Devine, Director of Finance
Kayla Devine serves as Director of Finance at HESC where she is driven by a commitment to expanding access to essential services for New Yorkers and ensuring that public funds are used effectively and responsibly. Before joining HESC in 2022, Kayla worked in both K-12 and higher education funding at the New York State Division of the Budget, where she developed a deep understanding in public finance and fiscal analysis. Kayla plays an important role in the agency’s transition and modernization efforts, advancing progress through thoughtful, data-driven budget decisions.
Dora Diaz-Crowe, Director of Audit
Dora Diaz-Crowe leads HESC's Audit Department, providing independent objective evaluations of HESC operations, risk management, internal controls, and governance in support of the agency’s mission. With 27 years of experience in auditing, risk management, compliance, and fraud detection, including her work with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, she brings extensive expertise in recommending process improvements and strengthening controls to mitigate risks.
Mary Hayden-Cook, Director of Innovation & Transformation
Mary Hayden-Cook serves as Director of Innovation & Transformation at HESC, where she leads the agency’s technology modernization strategy and a multidisciplinary team supporting project management, business analysis, testing, and system improvement efforts. She serves as a key liaison between HESC and the Office of Information Technology Services (ITS), helping align technology priorities with agency business needs and advance HESC’s long-term modernization of its legacy financial aid systems. Mary has worked in New York State service since 2005 and, prior to joining HESC, spent nine years with the Office of the Attorney General in technology and operational leadership roles.
Jeremy Hayes, Director of Internal Controls Office
Jeremy Hayes serves as HESC’s Internal Controls Office, leading efforts to strengthen the agency’s risk management and internal control environment. The Internal Controls Office works collaboratively with HESC departments to conduct risk assessments, develop test and controls, monitor processes, and provide recommendations to support compliance and operational improvements. Jeremy brings extensive experience in accounting, financial management, and internal auditing across New York State and local government.
Angela Liotta, Vice President of Communications
Angela Liotta serves as the Vice President of Communications and Public Information Officer at HESC where she leads strategic communication and outreach initiatives for state-administered financial aid programs, supporting over 300,000 students annually. She also oversees call center operations that assist more than 100,000 students each year. Angela launched HESC's first texting program for students and families, reaching over 60,000 students in its first year. She was also instrumental in the launch of three scholarships under Governor Hochul: the NYS Vaccinate, Educate, Graduate Vaccine Incentive Scholarship, the Nurses for Our Future Scholarship, and the Healthcare Workers for Our Future program.
Patricia Thompson, Vice President of Grants and Scholarships
Patricia Thompson serves as the Vice President of Grants and Scholarships at HESC. She oversees nearly 30 grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs. With over 30 years of experience in financial aid, including more than two decades at HESC, Patti has led initiatives to enhance transparency and accessibility, earning recognition in the higher education and financial aid communities.