Appalachian State University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Appalachian State University has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, financial oversight, operational management, and institutional leadership.

Rooted in the distinctive mountain landscape of North Carolina, Appalachian State University advances academic excellence and sustainable development by preparing students to become engaged global citizens through rigorous teaching, scholarship, and service.

Leadership Roles at Appalachian State University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Brad Cooper
  • Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer - Jonathan Reeder
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Matthew (Matt) Dull
  • Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer - J.J. Brown
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer - Thomas Van Gilder
  • President Appalchian State Club Baseball - Elijah Pomeroy
  • President - Paul Funderburk
  • ASU Scrapbook Club Founder and President - Chloe Brania
  • Club President - Shyann Powell
  • Chief of Staff - Lorin Baumhover
  • Brad Cooper - Chief Financial Officer

    Brad Cooper, the Chief Financial Officer at Appalachian State University, directs the fiscal strategy and budgetary health of the institution. Cooper oversees the allocation of financial resources to support teaching, research, and campus infrastructure. By managing the university's complex financial portfolio, the Chief Financial Officer ensures long-term stability and compliance with state-level mandates. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to optimize funding for academic programs and student services. Brad Cooper collaborates with the Board and other executive leaders to align fiscal policies with the university's mission of sustainability and academic excellence. Through rigorous financial planning and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer protects the institution's assets while fostering growth. This position requires balancing immediate operational needs with future capital investments, ensuring that every dollar spent contributes directly to the success of the student population and the broader university community.
    Brad Cooper

    Jonathan Reeder - Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer

    Jonathan Reeder, the Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer at Appalachian State University, manages the financial health and operational logistics of the athletic department. Reeder oversees budget development, revenue generation, and resource allocation for all sports programs. By ensuring fiscal responsibility within the athletic division, the Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer supports the university's broader commitment to student-athlete success and institutional reputation. This role involves coordinating with university leadership to align athletic funding with academic priorities. Jonathan Reeder drives financial growth through strategic partnerships and efficient management of athletic facilities. Through careful oversight of expenditures and revenue streams, the Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer maintains the sustainability of the athletic program. This position requires a focus on balancing competitive excellence with the financial realities of a major university, ensuring that the athletic department contributes positively to the overall mission of the institution.

    Matthew (Matt) Dull - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew (Matt) Dull, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Appalachian State University, manages internal operational scaling and campus infrastructure projects. Dull focuses on optimizing the physical and digital environments that support the university's academic mission. By overseeing facility maintenance and campus development, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer ensures that the physical space reflects the institution's commitment to sustainability. This role involves coordinating with various departments to improve service delivery and operational efficiency across the campus. Matthew (Matt) Dull drives initiatives that enhance the student experience by refining logistical processes and resource management. Through proactive problem-solving and cross-functional leadership, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards required for a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. This position requires a strategic approach to campus operations, ensuring that all infrastructure supports the evolving needs of students, faculty, and staff.

    J.J. Brown - Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer

    J.J. Brown, the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at Appalachian State University, directs the overarching operational strategy for the entire institution. Brown oversees the integration of academic and administrative functions to ensure a cohesive campus environment. By leading large-scale initiatives, the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer aligns university operations with the mission of preparing students for purposeful lives. This role involves managing complex organizational structures and fostering collaboration between diverse academic departments. J.J. Brown drives institutional growth by implementing policies that enhance efficiency and service quality. Through strategic oversight of campus-wide operations, the Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university remains a leader in the North Carolina system. This position requires a focus on long-term sustainability and the continuous improvement of the educational experience, ensuring that all operational activities support the core goals of teaching, scholarship, and service.
    J.J. Brown

    Thomas Van Gilder - Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer

    Thomas Van Gilder, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer at Appalachian State University, architects the digital infrastructure and operational systems that power the university. Van Gilder manages the integration of advanced technology into the academic and administrative workflows to improve data accessibility and security. By overseeing the digital transformation of campus services, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer ensures that students and faculty have the tools necessary for modern scholarship. This role involves aligning information technology strategies with the broader operational goals of the institution. Thomas Van Gilder drives innovation by implementing scalable solutions that support the university's mission of global citizenship and sustainability. Through the management of complex technical systems, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer enhances the overall efficiency of the university. This position requires a deep commitment to technological advancement and operational excellence, ensuring that digital resources remain robust and reliable.
    Thomas Van Gilder

    Elijah Pomeroy - President Appalchian State Club Baseball

    Elijah Pomeroy, the President Appalchian State Club Baseball at Appalachian State University, leads the organizational and operational activities of the club baseball program. Pomeroy manages team logistics, scheduling, and member engagement to ensure a successful competitive season. By fostering a culture of teamwork and discipline, the President Appalchian State Club Baseball supports the university's mission of student development and community involvement. This role involves coordinating with university administration to secure resources and maintain compliance with club sports policies. Elijah Pomeroy drives the growth of the program by recruiting new members and organizing outreach events that connect the team with the broader campus community. Through effective leadership and organizational management, the President Appalchian State Club Baseball ensures that the team remains a vibrant part of the student experience. This position requires a dedication to student-led initiatives and a commitment to representing the university with integrity in all competitive environments.

    Paul Funderburk - President

    Paul Funderburk, the President at Appalachian State University, provides the primary leadership and strategic vision for the entire institution. Funderburk directs the university's mission of preparing students to lead purposeful lives as engaged global citizens. By overseeing all academic, financial, and operational functions, the President ensures that the university fulfills its role as a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. This role involves engaging with the Board, faculty, and the broader community to advance the university's commitment to sustainability and academic excellence. Paul Funderburk drives institutional progress by setting long-term goals that honor the heritage and geography of the mountain region. Through decisive leadership and a focus on student success, the President maintains the university's reputation for high-quality teaching and scholarship. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of the higher education landscape and a dedication to fostering an environment where students can thrive and contribute to a sustainable future.

    Chloe Brania - ASU Scrapbook Club Founder and President

    Chloe Brania, the ASU Scrapbook Club Founder and President at Appalachian State University, manages the creative and administrative operations of the student organization. Brania coordinates club meetings, workshops, and community projects that promote artistic expression among the student body. By establishing the club, the ASU Scrapbook Club Founder and President has created a space for students to document their experiences and build connections within the university. This role involves managing membership, organizing events, and ensuring that the club aligns with the university's values of community and engagement. Chloe Brania drives participation by creating inclusive environments where students can share their stories and develop new skills. Through effective leadership and organizational planning, the ASU Scrapbook Club Founder and President ensures that the club remains a valuable resource for students seeking creative outlets. This position requires a commitment to student life and a passion for fostering a sense of belonging on campus.

    Shyann Powell - Club President

    Shyann Powell, the Club President at Appalachian State University, leads the daily operations and strategic direction of the student organization. Powell manages member recruitment, event planning, and internal communications to ensure the club meets its objectives. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Club President supports the university's mission of student engagement and personal growth. This role involves coordinating with university departments to secure funding and support for club activities. Shyann Powell drives the success of the organization by implementing initiatives that enhance the student experience and promote active participation. Through effective leadership and organizational management, the Club President ensures that the group remains a positive force on campus. This position requires a focus on building community and providing opportunities for students to develop leadership skills outside the classroom, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the university environment and the success of its student body.

    Lorin Baumhover - Chief of Staff

    Lorin Baumhover, the Chief of Staff at Appalachian State University, coordinates high-level administrative initiatives to support the core academic mission. Baumhover manages internal communications and facilitates alignment between executive leadership and university departments. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional goals remain focused on student success and sustainable growth. This role involves managing complex projects that span across the university system, requiring constant collaboration with various campus stakeholders. Lorin Baumhover maintains operational efficiency by prioritizing resource allocation and strategic planning. Through meticulous oversight of administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff strengthens the university's ability to serve the student body effectively. This position demands a deep understanding of the academic environment and a commitment to the long-term vision of the institution, ensuring that all administrative functions support the broader educational objectives of the university.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Appalachian State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Appalachian State University?
    Appalachian State University is led by Brad Cooper (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Jonathan Reeder (Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer) and Matthew (Matt) Dull (Deputy Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Appalachian State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Appalachian State University includes leaders such as Brad Cooper (Chief Financial Officer), Jonathan Reeder (Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer), Matthew (Matt) Dull (Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Appalachian State University have?
    Appalachian State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Appalachian State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Appalachian State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer.