Arizona State University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Arizona State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and academic administration.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and research, Arizona State University fosters innovation and community impact across its metropolitan campuses, shaping future leaders through comprehensive educational programs.

Leadership Roles at Arizona State University

  • President and Chief Executive Officer - Michael Crow
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Dean Parrish
  • Past-President - Kerri Rittschof
  • President - Sarah Saavedra
  • President - Madeline Laughlin
  • President of Sport Clubs - Rachel Marsh
  • President of WE CARE At ASU - Arya Lukka
  • President, Herberger Institute For The Design & The Arts Alumni - Emma Garcia
  • Chief of Staff - Barbara Dickerson
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Leah Norgren
  • Michael Crow - President and Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Crow, the President and Chief Executive Officer at Arizona State University, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for one of the nation's largest public research universities. Crow leads the institution's commitment to innovation, access, and societal impact, driving its mission to be a New American University. This leadership role involves guiding academic expansion, fostering groundbreaking research initiatives, and enhancing the university's global standing. By championing interdisciplinary collaboration and embracing technological advancements, Michael Crow ensures Arizona State University remains at the forefront of higher education. The President's strategic acumen is fundamental to the university's continued success and its role in addressing complex societal challenges.
    Michael Crow

    Dean Parrish - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Dean Parrish, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Arizona State University, manages the comprehensive operational framework supporting the university's academic and research endeavors. Parrish oversees a vast array of functions, including finance, human resources, information technology, and campus infrastructure, ensuring robust support for over 100,000 students and faculty. This executive role is pivotal in driving fiscal responsibility and operational excellence across all five Phoenix metropolitan area campuses. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining administrative processes, Dean Parrish directly contributes to the university's capacity for growth and innovation. The strategic oversight provided by Parrish is essential for maintaining the university's operational integrity and advancing its educational mission.

    Kerri Rittschof - Past-President

    Kerri Rittschof, the Past-President at Arizona State University, provides historical perspective and strategic counsel based on prior leadership experience. Rittschof's involvement ensures continuity and leverages past insights to inform current university objectives. This advisory capacity is valuable for maintaining institutional memory and guiding long-term planning. By contributing expertise gained from previous presidential responsibilities, Kerri Rittschof supports the ongoing development and strategic evolution of Arizona State University. The role emphasizes the importance of sustained leadership and the integration of historical context into future university endeavors.

    Sarah Saavedra - President

    Sarah Saavedra, the President at Arizona State University, leads specific academic or administrative divisions, driving their strategic objectives and operational performance. Saavedra oversees key programmatic areas, ensuring alignment with the university's broader mission and commitment to academic rigor. This leadership position involves managing departmental resources, fostering faculty development, and enhancing student success within their designated sphere of influence. By championing innovation and excellence, Sarah Saavedra contributes significantly to the university's reputation and its impact on the academic landscape. The President's focus is on advancing the specific goals of their unit while upholding the high standards of Arizona State University.

    Madeline Laughlin - President

    Madeline Laughlin, the President at Arizona State University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for a distinct segment of the university's extensive operations. Laughlin is responsible for advancing the objectives of their specific unit, ensuring it contributes effectively to the institution's overall mission. This executive function involves overseeing departmental initiatives, managing budgets, and fostering an environment conducive to academic and research excellence. By driving performance and innovation within their purview, Madeline Laughlin plays a crucial role in the continued growth and success of Arizona State University. The President's leadership ensures that their area of responsibility meets and exceeds institutional expectations.

    Rachel Marsh - President of Sport Clubs

    Rachel Marsh, the President of Sport Clubs at Arizona State University, oversees the comprehensive management and strategic development of the university's diverse sport club programs. Marsh ensures that these clubs provide valuable extracurricular experiences for students, promoting physical activity, teamwork, and leadership development. This role involves coordinating with club leaders, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with university policies and safety standards. By fostering a vibrant and supportive environment for student athletes, Rachel Marsh enhances the overall student life experience at Arizona State University. The dedication to student engagement through sport clubs is a key component of the university's commitment to a well-rounded education.

    Arya Lukka - President of WE CARE At ASU

    Arya Lukka, the President of WE CARE At ASU at Arizona State University, leads initiatives focused on community engagement and social responsibility. Lukka directs programs designed to foster a culture of care and service among students, faculty, and staff, aligning with the university's public service mission. This leadership position involves developing and implementing outreach strategies, managing volunteer efforts, and promoting awareness of critical social issues. By galvanizing the university community towards positive action, Arya Lukka significantly contributes to Arizona State University's role as a force for good. The commitment to service underscores the institution's dedication to making a tangible difference in society.

    Emma Garcia - President, Herberger Institute For The Design & The Arts Alumni

    Emma Garcia, the President, Herberger Institute For The Design & The Arts Alumni at Arizona State University, spearheads efforts to engage and support alumni from the Herberger Institute. Garcia fosters connections between the institute, its graduates, and the broader university community, promoting professional development and networking opportunities. This role is crucial for maintaining a strong alumni network that contributes to the institute's ongoing success and reputation. By organizing events and initiatives, Emma Garcia strengthens the bond between alumni and their alma mater, facilitating mentorship and philanthropic support. The active engagement of alumni is vital for the continued growth and influence of the Herberger Institute.

    Barbara Dickerson - Chief of Staff

    Barbara Dickerson, the Chief of Staff at Arizona State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the university's extensive network. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Dickerson ensures seamless execution of presidential directives and facilitates interdepartmental collaboration. This leadership position involves managing key projects that advance the university's mission of research and public service. By coordinating efforts between academic units and administrative offices, Barbara Dickerson enhances the overall effectiveness of university operations. The role demands a keen understanding of higher education dynamics and a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring that Arizona State University maintains its position as a leading research institution.

    Leah Norgren - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Leah Norgren, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Arizona State University, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic priorities and managing daily operations. Norgren assists in coordinating high-level projects, facilitating communication between university leadership and various departments, and ensuring the efficient flow of information. This role is critical in maintaining the operational momentum of the university's administrative functions. By providing dedicated support to key initiatives, Leah Norgren contributes to the seamless functioning of the President's office and the broader university administration. The Deputy Chief of Staff's efforts are integral to upholding the university's commitment to excellence and innovation in higher education.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

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

    Who leads Arizona State University?
    Arizona State University is led by Michael Crow (President and Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Dean Parrish (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and Kerri Rittschof (Past-President).
    Who is part of Arizona State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Arizona State University includes leaders such as Michael Crow (President and Chief Executive Officer), Dean Parrish (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), Kerri Rittschof (Past-President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Arizona State University have?
    Arizona State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Arizona State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Arizona State University includes roles such as President and Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Past-President, President, President.