Ashland University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ashland University has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Ashland University provides a transformative learning experience, shaping graduates who work, serve, and lead with integrity in their local, national, and global communities.

Leadership Roles at Ashland University

  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Marc Pasteris
  • President - John Peede
  • President, The Chorus - Andrea Lohr
  • President - JoAnn Watson
  • Immediate President - John Schaly
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Michelle Neville
  • Marc Pasteris - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Marc Pasteris, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ashland University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Pasteris oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By analyzing financial data, Pasteris provides critical insights to support institutional decision-making and strategic growth initiatives. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer also collaborates with other senior leaders to align financial objectives with the university's educational mission. Marc Pasteris drives fiscal responsibility across all departments, safeguarding university assets and enhancing operational efficiency. This position is central to maintaining the university's accreditation and its capacity to deliver a high-quality educational experience.
    Marc Pasteris

    John Peede - President

    John Peede, the President at Ashland University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Peede guides the university's mission, vision, and values, ensuring academic excellence and institutional integrity. This executive role involves fostering relationships with stakeholders, including alumni, donors, and community partners, to advance the university's objectives. By setting the institutional agenda, the President oversees all academic and administrative functions, driving innovation and growth. John Peede is responsible for championing the university's commitment to providing a transformative learning experience that shapes graduates for impactful careers. This leadership position is fundamental to maintaining Ashland University's reputation and its capacity to serve its students and broader community effectively.

    Andrea Lohr - President, The Chorus

    Andrea Lohr, the President, The Chorus at Ashland University, leads the specific operational and strategic initiatives for the university's choral programs. Lohr directs the artistic vision, performance schedules, and ensemble management for The Chorus, ensuring a high standard of musical excellence. This leadership role involves coordinating rehearsals, selecting repertoire, and fostering the development of student vocalists. Andrea Lohr collaborates with the music department faculty and university administration to integrate The Chorus into the broader academic and community life of Ashland University. By championing the artistic contributions of The Chorus, Lohr enhances the university's cultural offerings and student engagement. This specialized leadership position is dedicated to advancing the legacy and impact of the university's choral arts.

    JoAnn Watson - President

    JoAnn Watson, the President at Ashland University, provides essential leadership and strategic oversight for key institutional functions. Watson directs initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and institutional advancement, aligning operational efforts with the university's core mission. This executive role involves fostering collaborative relationships across departments and with external partners to achieve strategic objectives. By guiding specific university priorities, the President ensures effective resource utilization and program development. JoAnn Watson is committed to upholding the transformative learning experience that Ashland University offers its students. This leadership position contributes significantly to the university's ongoing commitment to academic rigor and community impact.

    John Schaly - Immediate President

    John Schaly, the Immediate President at Ashland University, provides critical transitional leadership and strategic continuity. Schaly oversees ongoing university operations and ensures the seamless execution of established institutional priorities during a period of leadership transition. This executive role involves maintaining stakeholder confidence and supporting the university's mission-driven objectives. By facilitating effective communication and decision-making, the Immediate President ensures that academic and administrative functions continue without disruption. John Schaly is dedicated to upholding the standards of excellence that define Ashland University's educational commitment. This leadership position is vital for maintaining institutional stability and momentum towards future goals.

    Michelle Neville - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michelle Neville, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ashland University, leads all human capital management strategies and initiatives. Neville directs talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and professional development programs. This role is crucial for fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the university's mission. By developing and implementing HR policies, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion across the workforce. Michelle Neville collaborates closely with university leadership to align HR strategies with institutional goals, supporting faculty and staff retention and engagement. Overseeing the employee lifecycle, Neville ensures that Ashland University attracts, develops, and retains top talent essential for academic and administrative success. This leadership function is vital for cultivating a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
    Michelle Neville

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ashland University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ashland University?
    Ashland University is led by Marc Pasteris (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as John Peede (President) and Andrea Lohr (President, The Chorus).
    Who is part of Ashland University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ashland University includes leaders such as Marc Pasteris (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), John Peede (President), Andrea Lohr (President, The Chorus) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ashland University have?
    Ashland University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ashland University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ashland University includes roles such as Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, President, The Chorus, President, Immediate President.