Liam Noonan serves as the Director of Finance and Administration at Columbia University’s Data Science Institute (DSI), where he provides strategic leadership in financial planning, operations, and human resources. With more than 26 years of experience at Columbia, Liam oversees development of DSI’s annual budget supporting the Institute’s research, academic, and administrative programs. He works with a multidisciplinary team responsible for finance, post-award administration, procurement, and operational support, maintaining compliance, fiscal integrity, and alignment with the University’s strategic goals.
Having served Columbia in multiple capacities since 1998, Liam has built a career defined by collaboration, institutional stewardship, and a deep commitment to the University’s mission. His previous roles in the Office of the President, Columbia World Projects (Columbia Global), the School of Social Work, and the Controller’s Office have given him a broad understanding of how academic, administrative, and research priorities intersect across a complex organization. He has played an integral role in building financial frameworks, guiding operational strategy, and implementing systems that have supported the launch and growth of several major University initiatives.
Liam is recognized as a trusted advisor and mentor, valued for his inclusive leadership style and ability to translate complex financial information into actionable strategy. His work is driven by a belief in public service and the transformative impact of higher education—values that have shaped his approach to financial stewardship and organizational leadership at Columbia.
Liam holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Hunter College, City University of New York.