Arkansas State University Executive and Leadership Team

Csstorm Csstorm, the Chief Financial Officer at Arkansas State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Overseeing the allocation of funds for math, science, and nursing programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources directly support academic growth. Csstorm Csstorm directs long-term investment strategies to maintain the university's competitive position within the regional education market. By monitoring revenue streams and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary stability for ongoing research and student services. This leadership position involves frequent reporting to the Board of Trustees regarding fiscal performance and risk management. Through careful financial stewardship, the Chief Financial Officer secures the capital required for campus infrastructure and faculty development. The Chief Financial Officer maintains a focus on sustainable growth, ensuring that every dollar spent advances the educational mission of the university.

Russ Hannah, the Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Arkansas State University, manages the physical and administrative assets of the campus. Overseeing facilities management and human resources, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the university environment supports the delivery of behavioral science and nursing classes. Russ Hannah directs the procurement processes and administrative policies that govern daily operations. By optimizing the use of campus resources, the Chief Financial Officer improves operational efficiency and reduces overhead costs. This leadership role requires close coordination with the President to align administrative functions with the university's strategic vision. Through the management of large-scale administrative projects, the Chief Financial Officer supports the growth of the university's physical footprint. The Chief Financial Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that all administrative services contribute to the success of the student body.

Harrison Herget, the President at Arkansas State University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Leading the university through complex academic and administrative challenges, the President ensures that all departments remain focused on the core mission of providing quality education. Harrison Herget directs the engagement with external stakeholders, including government officials and community partners, to secure support for the university's initiatives. By fostering a culture of academic excellence, the President drives the development of new programs in math, science, and nursing. This leadership role involves setting the tone for the university's values and long-term goals. Through the implementation of strategic plans, the President enhances the reputation of the university within the region. The President remains committed to student success, ensuring that the institution continues to provide valuable educational opportunities for all learners.

Dena Prior, the President-Elect at Arkansas State University, prepares for the transition of leadership while currently overseeing key academic initiatives. Working closely with the current administration, the President-Elect evaluates the effectiveness of existing behavioral science and nursing programs. Dena Prior directs the development of future-focused strategies that will guide the university into the next decade. By analyzing market trends in higher education, the President-Elect identifies opportunities for growth and innovation. This role involves building relationships with faculty and staff to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. Through the assessment of current institutional performance, the President-Elect prepares to implement new policies that will enhance the university's impact. The President-Elect remains focused on maintaining the high standards of the university, ensuring that the transition period results in continued progress and academic success for all students.

Alex Young, the President & S Ambassadors Chancellor at Arkansas State University, leads the university's outreach and ambassador programs to strengthen community ties. Overseeing the recruitment and engagement of student ambassadors, the President & S Ambassadors Chancellor ensures that the university's mission is effectively communicated to prospective students. Alex Young directs the development of programs that highlight the university's strengths in math, science, and nursing. By fostering partnerships with local organizations, the President & S Ambassadors Chancellor expands the university's influence across the region. This leadership role involves representing the university at public events and academic conferences. Through the promotion of the university's values, the President & S Ambassadors Chancellor drives enrollment and community support. The President & S Ambassadors Chancellor remains dedicated to enhancing the university's public profile, ensuring that the institution continues to attract top-tier talent and resources.

Eugene Smith, the President at Arkansas State University, manages the academic integrity and research output of the institution. Overseeing the faculty development programs, the President ensures that the university maintains high standards in behavioral science and nursing education. Eugene Smith directs the implementation of new academic policies that support student learning and research productivity. By collaborating with department heads, the President fosters an environment of innovation and scholarly achievement. This leadership role involves managing the university's accreditation processes and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Through the promotion of academic excellence, the President drives the university's reputation as a center for learning. The President remains focused on the long-term success of the student body, ensuring that the university provides the necessary tools for professional development and academic growth in a competitive global market.

Philip Jackson, the President at Arkansas State University, oversees the strategic partnerships and external relations that support the university's mission. Managing the development of corporate and philanthropic relationships, the President secures the funding necessary for new math and science facilities. Philip Jackson directs the university's efforts to engage with alumni and industry leaders to create internship and career opportunities for students. By aligning the university's goals with the needs of the regional economy, the President ensures that graduates are prepared for the workforce. This leadership role involves representing the university in legislative discussions and public policy forums. Through the cultivation of external support, the President drives the university's growth and sustainability. The President remains committed to the university's role as a catalyst for regional development, ensuring that the institution continues to provide significant value to the community.

Lane Schmidt, the Chief of Staff at Arkansas State University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across all academic departments. Managing high-level administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures alignment between university leadership and the broader institutional mission. Lane Schmidt optimizes internal processes to support the delivery of behavioral science and nursing curricula. By streamlining cross-functional projects, the Chief of Staff enhances organizational efficiency and supports the long-term goals of the university. This role requires constant collaboration with the President and other senior leaders to maintain operational excellence. Through rigorous oversight of administrative initiatives, the Chief of Staff drives the university toward its strategic objectives. The Chief of Staff remains focused on fostering a productive environment that benefits students and faculty alike, ensuring that all institutional resources support the core educational mission of the university.

Christopher Boothman, the Distance Education Vice Chancellor & Chief Information Officer, Technology at Arkansas State University, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for modern learning. Managing the expansion of online education platforms, the Chief Information Officer ensures that students access high-quality math and science courses remotely. Christopher Boothman directs the integration of advanced technology into the classroom, enhancing the overall student experience. By overseeing cybersecurity and network reliability, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional data while supporting the university's digital transformation. This role involves collaborating with academic deans to implement software solutions that improve learning outcomes. Through the deployment of scalable cloud systems, the Chief Information Officer drives innovation across the campus. The Chief Information Officer remains dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional education and digital accessibility, ensuring that the university remains a leader in technological integration.