Aaron DiCenzo
The State Teachers’ Retirement System of Ohio announced on Wednesday that Interim CIO Aaron DiCenzo will fill the role on a long-term basis, following a nationwide search led by recruitment consultant Heidrick & Struggles.
The search process began in February, according to a statement from STRS Ohio, and considered many potential candidates, including leaders from major U.S. pension plans.
DiCenzo, previously head of alternative investments at the $100 billion pension fund, was appointed as interim CIO in February, following the resignation of Matt Worley, which had been announced in September 2024 and effective March 31, 2025. Worley was one of several executive departures from the fund at the time, including Lynn Hoover, STRS’ former executive director and chief financial officer.
“Aaron has demonstrated exceptional leadership during a period of significant transition,” said STRS Executive Director Steve Toole, appointed in June, in a statement. “His vision and ability to execute complex strategies will help ensure strong results for our members.”
In September, the Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Federation of Teachers and the Ohio Conference of the American Association of University Professors sued the state of Ohio, alleging changes passed in July as part of the new state budget effectively limit teacher representation on the fund’s board.
Under DiCenzo, who has more than two decades of experience in private markets, since 2018, the alternatives program at STRS grew to more than $19 billion. DiCenzo directed the launch of STRS directed and co-investment portfolio.
“I strongly believe Aaron’s deep experience and leadership position STRS Ohio for continued success,” said Alison Lanza Falls, the chair of STRS Ohio’s investment committee, in a statement.
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Tags: Aaron DiCenzo, STRS Ohio