American University Executive and Leadership Team

Sarah Baldassaro, the Chief of Staff & To The Counselor & President at American University, manages the complex intersection of executive governance and presidential priorities. Baldassaro coordinates high-level communications and policy development, ensuring that the vision of the president remains central to all institutional activities. By facilitating dialogue between the president and the board, the Chief of Staff & To The Counselor & President maintains organizational cohesion and strategic focus. Sarah Baldassaro oversees the implementation of key initiatives that define the university's reputation as a premier research institution. This role involves navigating sensitive administrative matters and providing counsel on critical decisions that impact the academic community. Through proactive management of executive workflows, the Chief of Staff & To The Counselor & President ensures that the university effectively addresses the evolving needs of students and faculty while upholding the highest standards of academic integrity.

Rodney Woods, the President, Bolin Scholars Society (Pre-Law Society) at American University, leads the student-driven initiatives that prepare aspiring legal professionals for success in the field of law. Woods oversees the programming and mentorship activities that connect students with legal experts and academic resources. By organizing workshops and networking events, the President, Bolin Scholars Society (Pre-Law Society) facilitates the professional development of students interested in legal studies. Rodney Woods manages the society's outreach efforts, ensuring that members gain exposure to the practical aspects of the legal profession. This leadership role involves fostering a community of academic excellence where students can refine their analytical and advocacy skills. Through the coordination of guest lectures and career guidance sessions, the President, Bolin Scholars Society (Pre-Law Society) supports the university's mission of preparing students for impactful careers in law and public service.

Stephan Fornah-Ovaa, the President & Leadership Council) Graduate at American University, directs the graduate student governance and leadership initiatives that represent the interests of the advanced degree community. Fornah-Ovaa oversees the council's efforts to improve the graduate experience through advocacy, professional development, and community building. By facilitating communication between graduate students and university administration, the President & Leadership Council) Graduate ensures that the needs of researchers and scholars are addressed. Stephan Fornah-Ovaa manages the allocation of resources for student-led projects and academic events that promote interdisciplinary collaboration. This leadership role involves representing the graduate body in institutional decision-making processes, ensuring that the perspectives of advanced students are integrated into the university's strategic planning. Through active engagement and representation, the President & Leadership Council) Graduate fosters a vibrant academic environment that supports the success of graduate students across all disciplines.

Michael Mcgee, the President at American University, provides the overarching strategic vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Mcgee oversees the university's academic mission, financial health, and long-term growth strategies. By engaging with stakeholders, donors, and the broader community, the President ensures that the university maintains its status as a leading research institution. Michael Mcgee manages the senior leadership team, coordinating efforts across all departments to achieve institutional goals. This role involves setting the tone for academic excellence and fostering an environment that encourages innovation in teaching and research. Through the implementation of comprehensive policies and initiatives, the President drives the university's commitment to student success and societal impact. By balancing the diverse needs of the academic community, the President secures the future of the institution as a center for intellectual discovery and professional development.

Julia Kennedy, the President of the Justice Advisory Group at American University, leads the student-centered organization focused on exploring legal and social justice issues. Kennedy oversees the group's research projects and advocacy efforts, which provide students with opportunities to engage with complex societal challenges. By organizing forums and discussions, the President of the Justice Advisory Group facilitates critical thinking and awareness regarding justice-related topics. Julia Kennedy manages the group's partnerships with faculty and external organizations, ensuring that members have access to diverse perspectives and resources. This leadership role involves guiding the group's strategic direction and promoting a culture of civic engagement among the student body. Through the coordination of educational initiatives, the President of the Justice Advisory Group supports the university's mission of preparing students to address the pressing issues of the modern world through informed and ethical action.

Taylor Patterson, the President of the Bolin Scholars Society at American University, directs the academic and professional development activities for members of this scholarly community. Patterson oversees the society's programming, which includes research presentations, academic workshops, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the student experience. By fostering a collaborative environment, the President of the Bolin Scholars Society encourages intellectual growth and academic achievement among its members. Taylor Patterson manages the society's internal operations and outreach, ensuring that students have the support necessary to excel in their chosen fields of study. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty advisors to align the society's activities with the university's broader research goals. Through the promotion of scholarly excellence and community engagement, the President of the Bolin Scholars Society contributes to the vibrant academic culture that defines the university's commitment to student success.

Keith Byrd, the Chief of Staff at American University, manages high-level administrative operations and coordinates strategic initiatives across the institution. Byrd facilitates communication between the executive office and various academic departments to ensure alignment with the university mission. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enhances organizational efficiency and supports the implementation of long-term institutional goals. Keith Byrd monitors progress on key projects, providing critical oversight that enables the university to maintain its focus on research and student success. This role requires constant collaboration with senior leadership to address complex operational challenges. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff maintains the stability of administrative functions, allowing the broader academic community to thrive within the competitive landscape of higher education in the District of Columbia.

Shawn Beighle, the Chief Technology Officer at American University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure necessary for a modern research institution. Beighle oversees the integration of advanced computing systems that support diverse academic programs ranging from physics to information technology. By architecting scalable network solutions, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that students and faculty possess the tools required for cutting-edge research and data analysis. Shawn Beighle manages the deployment of enterprise software, optimizing digital workflows to improve institutional productivity. This leadership position involves evaluating emerging technologies to maintain the university's competitive edge in the global education market. Through strategic investment in robust cybersecurity and cloud platforms, the Chief Technology Officer secures the integrity of academic data, ultimately driving innovation across all departments and enhancing the overall digital experience for the entire campus community.

Marshall Taylor, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at American University, directs the talent management and organizational development strategies that sustain a world-class faculty and staff. Taylor oversees recruitment, benefits administration, and professional development programs designed to attract top-tier talent to the institution. By fostering an inclusive workplace culture, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university remains a destination for leading researchers and educators. Marshall Taylor manages labor relations and compliance, mitigating risks while promoting a supportive environment for all employees. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the broader academic mission, ensuring that the workforce possesses the skills necessary to support diverse degree programs. Through the implementation of modern HR technologies and policies, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer drives operational excellence and supports the long-term growth of the university.

Steve Munson, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at American University, manages the comprehensive information systems and data governance frameworks that underpin the university's research and administrative functions. Munson oversees the strategic deployment of information technology resources, ensuring that academic departments have reliable access to essential digital tools. By prioritizing data security and system reliability, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer protects the intellectual property and sensitive information of the institution. Steve Munson collaborates with academic leaders to implement innovative solutions that enhance the learning environment and support complex research projects. This role involves managing large-scale IT budgets and overseeing the technical staff responsible for maintaining the university's digital backbone. Through the optimization of information architecture, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education.