The CAO provides high level management for all facets of departmental operations. Her management responsibilities include establishing and directing management systems to assure overall control of all planning and operational activities. Functional areas include finance/accounting, contracts and grants, academic and staff personnel, instructional program administration, graduate and undergraduate affairs, facilities and space management, administrative and technical support services, safety compliance, and program development. The CAO helps maintain a climate that is hospitable to creativity, diversity, and innovation.