American University Executive and Leadership Team

Sarah Baldassaro, the Chief of Staff & To The Counselor & President at American University, provides comprehensive support to the President and Counselor, managing critical projects and strategic communications. Coordinating high-level initiatives, Baldassaro ensures seamless execution of presidential directives and facilitates effective collaboration across university leadership. This role involves overseeing special assignments, preparing executive briefings, and managing key relationships to advance institutional objectives. By acting as a trusted advisor, Sarah Baldassaro enhances the President's capacity to lead and innovate. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include driving strategic planning processes and ensuring operational alignment, contributing significantly to the university's mission and growth. Baldassaro's expertise strengthens executive operations.

Mylo Sherma, the President at American University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Guiding the university's academic, research, and financial endeavors, Sherma sets the overarching vision and ensures the pursuit of excellence across all departments. This paramount role involves fostering a culture of innovation, promoting student success, and strengthening the university's national and international standing. By engaging with stakeholders, including faculty, students, alumni, and external partners, Mylo Sherma champions the university's mission and values. The President oversees all major institutional decisions, resource allocation, and strategic partnerships, driving American University's continued growth and impact. Sherma's leadership defines the university's future trajectory.

Cornelius Tarigan, the President Director at American University, oversees the strategic direction and operational execution of key university initiatives. Directing cross-functional teams, Tarigan ensures the effective implementation of academic programs and administrative functions, driving institutional progress. This leadership position involves managing resources, fostering collaboration, and advancing the university's mission through decisive action. By focusing on operational excellence and strategic growth, Cornelius Tarigan enhances the university's capacity to serve its students and community. The President Director plays a crucial role in translating strategic vision into tangible outcomes, ensuring American University achieves its ambitious goals. Tarigan's management strengthens institutional performance.

Beatrice Berle, the Co-Founder & Co-President at American University, shares leadership responsibilities, driving the institution's foundational vision and ongoing strategic development. Collaborating with the other Co-President, Berle oversees key aspects of university operations, academic programming, and institutional advancement. This pivotal role involves fostering innovation, ensuring academic rigor, and cultivating a vibrant campus community. By championing the university's core values, Beatrice Berle guides its growth and impact. The Co-President's shared leadership ensures a dynamic approach to institutional management, focusing on student success and scholarly achievement. Berle's commitment strengthens American University's mission and long-term vision.

Katya Popova, the Chief Marketing Officer at American University, directs all institutional marketing and brand strategy initiatives. Overseeing the development and execution of comprehensive marketing campaigns, Popova ensures consistent messaging across all platforms to enhance university visibility and attract prospective students. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends and student demographics to refine outreach efforts, driving enrollment growth and strengthening the university's reputation. By collaborating with admissions and academic departments, Katya Popova aligns marketing objectives with institutional goals, fostering a cohesive brand identity. The Chief Marketing Officer's strategic vision guides digital marketing, public relations, and external communications, solidifying American University's position as a leading research institution.

Shawn Beighle, the Chief Technology Officer at American University, architects and oversees the institution's technological infrastructure and digital transformation efforts. Directing the IT department, Beighle ensures the reliable operation of all technology systems, supporting academic, research, and administrative functions. This critical role involves evaluating emerging technologies and implementing innovative solutions to enhance learning environments and operational efficiency. By managing cybersecurity protocols and data integrity, Shawn Beighle safeguards university assets and sensitive information. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates with university leadership to develop a forward-thinking technology roadmap, ensuring American University remains at the forefront of educational technology and digital innovation. Beighle's leadership drives technological advancements across campus.

Keith Byrd, the Chief of Staff at American University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the President's office. Managing key initiatives and special projects, Byrd ensures alignment with institutional priorities and facilitates effective decision-making across departments. This role involves coordinating communication between executive leadership and various university stakeholders, streamlining operations and enhancing organizational efficiency. By acting as a central point of contact, Keith Byrd drives the execution of strategic plans and monitors progress on critical objectives. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing reports, managing schedules, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the executive office, thereby supporting the overall mission of American University. Byrd's efforts enhance institutional effectiveness.

Marshall Taylor, the Associate Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at American University, leads all human capital management strategies and operations. Directing the HR department, Taylor oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs. This vital role ensures the university attracts, retains, and develops a high-performing workforce, fostering a positive and productive campus culture. By implementing robust HR policies and procedures, Marshall Taylor supports the well-being and growth of all employees, aligning human resources with the institution's strategic goals. The Chief Human Resources Officer champions diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, contributing to a vibrant and supportive academic community. Taylor's leadership strengthens the university's most valuable asset: its people.

Steven Munson, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at American University, directs the strategic planning and implementation of information technology systems. Overseeing the IT infrastructure, Munson ensures the delivery of secure, reliable, and scalable technology solutions that support academic excellence and administrative efficiency. This leadership position involves managing enterprise systems, data governance, and digital services, enhancing the university's technological capabilities. By fostering innovation and adopting best practices, Steven Munson drives digital transformation across the institution. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with university leaders to align IT strategy with institutional objectives, ensuring technology investments yield maximum impact. Munson's focus is on empowering the university community through advanced technology.

Matthew Bennett, the Vice President & Chief Communications Officer at American University, leads all internal and external communication strategies. Directing the communications department, Bennett crafts and disseminates key messages, enhancing the university's brand reputation and stakeholder engagement. This role involves managing public relations, media relations, digital communications, and crisis communications, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging. By developing strategic communication plans, Matthew Bennett supports institutional goals and promotes a positive public image. The Chief Communications Officer collaborates closely with university leadership to articulate the institution's vision and achievements effectively. Bennett's expertise ensures clear, compelling communication across all channels, strengthening American University's voice.