Christina Phillips Appointed Interim Assistant Vice President for Facilities Management

ALBANY, N.Y. (Nov. 6, 2025) — Christina Phillips has been named interim assistant vice president for facilities management. Todd Foreman, vice president for finance and administration, announced the appointment, which is effective Nov. 15.

Phillips joined Facilities Management in 2019 as director of administrative services and has worked for New York state for more than 20 years. Most recently, she was the director of operations of the Office of Cultural Education — including the New York State Museum, Library and Archives — overseeing budgetary planning and management, including collaborating on capital projects and renovations. 

“In her time in Facilities Management, Christina has developed a comprehensive understanding of the facilities operations at UAlbany,” Foreman said. “Christina's leadership, in combination with the strong management team and a dedicated workforce, gives me full confidence that the work of Facilities will continue seamlessly.”

Phillips takes over from Zachariah Newswanger, who has served as UAlbany’s associate vice president for facilities management since January 2023. 

“It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that Zach Newswanger has accepted a position at another university and will be relocating out of state,” Foreman said. “Over his three years at UAlbany, Zach has elevated the work of Facilities, and his impact will outlast his brief time on campus. I have truly appreciated his hard work and vision for the future of Facilities Management at UAlbany and will miss him.”

Newswanger said Facilities Management is in good hands with Phillips.

“Christina brings a rare combination of technical expertise, strategic insight and genuine care for the people and spaces that make our institution thrive,” he said. “Her ability to navigate complex systems with precision and respect is a testament to her deep understanding of our operations and her unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Phillips said she is honored to step into the role and thanked Foreman for his confidence in her and Newswanger for his leadership. “Facilities Management plays a vital role in supporting the University’s mission, and I look forward to working with our talented team to ensure continuity and excellence in our operations. Together, we will continue to create safe, sustainable and welcoming spaces for our campus community,” she said.