Leadership Overview
Ashland University has 7 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, human resources, institutional operations, and academic leadership.
Committed to providing a transformative learning experience, Ashland University shapes graduates who work, serve, and lead with integrity across local, national, and global communities through its comprehensive private education model.
Committed to providing a transformative learning experience, Ashland University shapes graduates who work, serve, and lead with integrity across local, national, and global communities through its comprehensive private education model.
Leadership Roles at Ashland University
Marc Pasteris - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Marc Pasteris, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ashland University, manages the entire fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing budgetary allocations, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources align with the long-term academic mission of the university. This role involves rigorous oversight of endowment funds, operational expenditures, and capital investments necessary for maintaining campus infrastructure. By implementing robust financial controls, Marc Pasteris secures the economic stability required for institutional growth. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the Board to evaluate fiscal risks and opportunities within the higher education sector. Through precise financial planning, Pasteris supports the expansion of academic programs and student services. This leadership position demands constant vigilance over revenue streams and cost-efficiency measures to sustain the university's competitive position in the national landscape while fostering a culture of fiscal responsibility across all departments.
Shawn Orr - Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor
Shawn Orr, the Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor at Ashland University, coordinates complex administrative workflows and academic programming. Overseeing the integration of non-traditional learning pathways, the Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor ensures that professional studies align with current industry demands. This role involves managing high-level communications, facilitating board interactions, and directing the curriculum development for communication studies. By bridging the gap between administrative strategy and classroom instruction, Shawn Orr enhances the overall educational impact of the institution. The Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor drives innovation in adult education, expanding the reach of the university to diverse learner populations. Through this multifaceted leadership, Orr strengthens the connection between academic theory and professional application.
John Schaly - Immediate President
John Schaly, the Immediate President at Ashland University, provides continuity and strategic guidance for institutional initiatives. Overseeing the transition of leadership projects, the Immediate President ensures that long-term goals remain on track during periods of organizational change. This role involves advising the executive team on historical context and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders across the national community. By leveraging deep institutional knowledge, John Schaly supports the implementation of core university values in daily operations. The Immediate President collaborates with various departments to refine the strategic vision and ensure alignment with the mission of providing a transformative learning experience. Through consistent engagement with the campus community, Schaly fosters stability and promotes a culture of integrity. This leadership position focuses on sustaining the momentum of ongoing projects while preparing the institution for future challenges. By providing steady guidance, the Immediate President ensures that the university continues to serve its students effectively and maintains its reputation for academic excellence.
John Peede - President
John Peede, the President at Ashland University, defines the overarching strategic vision and institutional mission. Overseeing the global and national positioning of the university, the President ensures that all academic and administrative functions support the goal of shaping graduates who lead with integrity. This role involves representing the institution to external partners, donors, and the broader public. By setting the tone for campus culture, John Peede drives the commitment to a transformative learning experience. The President collaborates with the Board and executive leadership to navigate the complexities of the higher education landscape. Through decisive action, Peede manages the university's growth and ensures that resources are directed toward high-impact programs. This leadership position requires a focus on long-term sustainability and the continuous improvement of educational outcomes. By championing the values of service and academic rigor, the President secures the future of the institution as a leader in private education.
JoAnn Watson - President
JoAnn Watson, the President at Ashland University, focuses on the operational execution of the university's academic mission. Overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives, the President ensures that the institution meets its goals for student success and community engagement. This role involves managing internal governance structures and fostering collaboration between faculty and administrative staff. By prioritizing the development of innovative learning environments, JoAnn Watson drives the university's commitment to excellence. The President works closely with the leadership team to address the evolving needs of the student body and the demands of the global community. Through careful oversight of institutional policies, Watson maintains the integrity of the educational experience. This leadership function involves balancing the immediate requirements of campus operations with the long-term vision for growth. By promoting a culture of service and academic achievement, the President ensures that the university remains a premier destination for students seeking a transformative education.
Andrea Lohr - President, The Chorus
Andrea Lohr, the President, The Chorus at Ashland University, directs the artistic and organizational strategy for the university's choral programs. Overseeing the recruitment of talent and the production of high-quality performances, the President, The Chorus ensures that the arts remain a central component of the transformative learning experience. This role involves managing budgets, coordinating regional tours, and fostering partnerships with local and national cultural organizations. By elevating the profile of the choral department, Andrea Lohr enhances the university's reputation for excellence in the performing arts. The President, The Chorus collaborates with academic departments to integrate musical education into the broader curriculum. Through dedicated leadership, Lohr provides students with opportunities to perform and serve within their communities. This leadership position requires a focus on artistic innovation and operational efficiency to sustain the program's growth. By championing the arts, the President, The Chorus contributes significantly to the vibrant campus culture and the holistic development of the student body.
Michelle Neville - Chief Human Resources Officer
Michelle Neville, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ashland University, directs all talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing the workforce strategy, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that faculty and staff possess the necessary support to deliver a transformative learning experience. This role involves designing comprehensive benefits packages, managing performance evaluation systems, and fostering an inclusive campus culture. By aligning human capital with the broader institutional goals, Michelle Neville drives operational excellence across the university. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with academic leadership to recruit top-tier educators who embody the values of integrity and service. Through strategic workforce planning, Neville optimizes staffing levels to meet the evolving needs of the student body. This leadership function remains critical for maintaining high morale and professional standards, ultimately ensuring that the university attracts and retains the talent required to excel in the competitive higher education market.

Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution based in Manchester NH. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in addition to certificates and doctoral level degrees including business, education, liberal arts, social sciences and STEM.
Company Leadership BM
AR
GS
AL
The University of Saskatchewan is a public research institution located in Saskatoon, Canada, recognized for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, innovation, and addressing global challenges through research and education. It is known for leadership in areas such as water and food security, vaccine development, and health sciences, supported by advanced research facilities and collaborative academic environments. The university offers a broad range of academic and professional programs and fosters a diverse, inclusive community that integrates teaching, discovery, and outreach while preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society and global development.
Company Leadership AF

TL
The Department of Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences at the University of Florida focuses on research and education in soil, water, and environmental sciences across urban, agricultural, and natural ecosystems. They offer a range of degree, certificate, and extension programs both on-campus and online, contributing significantly to Florida's agricultural productivity and ecosystem protection. Their program areas include water quality management, soil health, ecosystem ecology, hydrology, and biogeochemistry. The department serves students, researchers, and professionals interested in sustainable practices and resource management.
Company Leadership GP
EA
MA
SP
The University of Pittsburgh, founded in 1787, is a public research university based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs and is known for its contributions to research and innovation.
Company Leadership

AR
JC