Arkansas State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Arkansas State University has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, technology, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible and comprehensive education, Arkansas State University provides a diverse range of courses in education, behavioral science, math, science, and nursing, impacting students across Arkansas and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Arkansas State University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Csstorm Csstorm
  • Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Russ Hannah
  • President-Elect - Dena Prior
  • President - Philip Jackson
  • President - Harrison Herget
  • President & S Ambassadors Chancellor - Alex Young
  • Chief of Staff - Lane Schmidt
  • Distance Education Vice Chancellor & Chief Information Officer, Technology - Christopher Boothman
  • Csstorm Csstorm - Chief Financial Officer

    Csstorm Csstorm, the Chief Financial Officer at Arkansas State University, directs the institution's financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all university departments. The Chief Financial Officer oversees revenue generation, expenditure control, and investment management to support the university's educational mission and long-term sustainability. Csstorm Csstorm's oversight extends to financial reporting, compliance with regulatory standards, and the development of financial policies that align with institutional goals. This position is critical for maintaining the financial health of Arkansas State University, enabling continued investment in academic programs and infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other senior leaders to allocate resources effectively, driving operational efficiency and supporting strategic initiatives. This executive ensures that financial decisions directly contribute to the university's growth and its capacity to serve its student body.

    Russ Hannah - Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Russ Hannah, the Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Arkansas State University, leads the comprehensive financial and administrative functions of the institution. This dual role encompasses strategic financial planning, budget management, and the oversight of administrative services essential for university operations. The Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer ensures robust fiscal health, managing resources to support academic excellence and institutional growth. Russ Hannah's purview includes financial reporting, compliance, and the development of policies that govern the university's financial activities. This executive also directs administrative departments, ensuring efficient service delivery and operational effectiveness across campus. This leadership position is fundamental to the stability and advancement of Arkansas State University, enabling strategic investments and operational improvements. Hannah drives financial stewardship and administrative excellence, supporting the university's mission.
    Russ Hannah

    Dena Prior - President-Elect

    Dena Prior, the President-Elect at Arkansas State University, prepares to assume leadership of the institution, focusing on strategic planning and operational readiness. This transitional role involves deep engagement with university operations, academic programs, and stakeholder relations to ensure a smooth transfer of authority. The President-Elect works closely with current leadership to understand the institution's challenges and opportunities, formulating strategies for future growth and development. Dena Prior's responsibilities include familiarizing with financial structures, administrative processes, and the overall mission of Arkansas State University. This position is crucial for continuity and the proactive advancement of the university's objectives. Prior's preparation is geared towards driving innovation and enhancing the educational experience for students. This executive's focus is on building upon the university's strengths and guiding its future trajectory.

    Philip Jackson - President

    Philip Jackson, the President at Arkansas State University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational leadership of the institution. This paramount role involves guiding academic excellence, fostering research initiatives, and ensuring the university's financial stability and growth. The President oversees all university functions, from academic affairs and student services to external relations and community engagement. Philip Jackson's responsibilities include setting institutional priorities, advocating for university needs, and cultivating a dynamic campus environment that supports student success and faculty achievement. This executive is the chief representative of Arkansas State University, responsible for its reputation and its impact on the region and beyond. Jackson drives the university's mission forward, championing innovation and ensuring that educational offerings remain relevant and competitive in a global landscape.

    Harrison Herget - President

    Harrison Herget, the President at Arkansas State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's comprehensive operations. This role encompasses the oversight of academic programs, research endeavors, and the overall administrative framework designed to support student learning and faculty advancement. The President is responsible for championing the university's mission, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring fiscal health and operational efficiency. Harrison Herget's duties include engaging with stakeholders, securing resources, and advancing the university's position within the higher education landscape. This executive serves as the primary advocate for Arkansas State University, driving its strategic initiatives and enhancing its community impact. Herget's leadership focuses on sustainable growth and the continuous improvement of educational quality.

    Alex Young - President & S Ambassadors Chancellor

    Alex Young, the President & S Ambassadors Chancellor at Arkansas State University, leads the institution with a dual focus on executive management and the strategic direction of ambassadorial programs. This comprehensive role involves overseeing all university operations, academic planning, and fostering student engagement through dedicated ambassadorial initiatives. The President & S Ambassadors Chancellor ensures that the university's mission is advanced through effective leadership and the cultivation of a strong campus community. Alex Young's responsibilities include driving institutional strategy, managing financial resources, and enhancing the university's outreach and public relations efforts. This executive is instrumental in shaping the student experience and promoting the university's values. Young's leadership aims to strengthen Arkansas State University's reputation and its capacity to serve its students and the broader community.

    Lane Schmidt - Chief of Staff

    Lane Schmidt, the Chief of Staff at Arkansas State University, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the university's leadership. This role involves managing key initiatives, facilitating communication across departments, and ensuring the efficient execution of presidential directives. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact for various stakeholders, streamlining operations and enhancing organizational effectiveness. Lane Schmidt's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, preparing reports, and advising on policy development to advance the university's objectives. This position is vital for maintaining alignment between strategic goals and day-to-day operations, ensuring that the university functions cohesively. The Chief of Staff works closely with the President and other senior administrators to drive institutional priorities and manage complex challenges. This executive's focus is on optimizing administrative processes and supporting the overall mission of Arkansas State University.

    Christopher Boothman - Distance Education Vice Chancellor & Chief Information Officer, Technology

    Christopher Boothman, the Distance Education Vice Chancellor & Chief Information Officer, Technology at Arkansas State University, spearheads the university's technological infrastructure and distance learning initiatives. This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust systems, cybersecurity, and digital innovation to support academic and administrative functions. The Distance Education Vice Chancellor & Chief Information Officer, Technology drives the strategy for online education delivery, expanding access to courses and programs for a wider student population. Christopher Boothman's responsibilities include managing IT resources, implementing new technologies, and ensuring the seamless operation of digital platforms. This executive is pivotal in enhancing the university's technological capabilities and its capacity to deliver high-quality distance education. Boothman ensures that technology serves as a catalyst for educational advancement and operational efficiency at Arkansas State University.
    Christopher Boothman

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

    Who leads Arkansas State University?
    Arkansas State University is led by Csstorm Csstorm (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Russ Hannah (Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer) and Dena Prior (President-Elect).
    Who is part of Arkansas State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Arkansas State University includes leaders such as Csstorm Csstorm (Chief Financial Officer), Russ Hannah (Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer), Dena Prior (President-Elect) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Arkansas State University have?
    Arkansas State University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Arkansas State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Arkansas State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration & Chief Financial Officer, President-Elect, President, President.