Ashland University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ashland University has 6 executives leading key functions including human resources, finance, presidential operations, and academic 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
  • Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor - Shawn Orr
  • President - JoAnn Watson
  • Immediate President - John Schaly
  • President, The Chorus - Andrea Lohr
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Michelle Neville
  • Marc Pasteris - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Marc Pasteris, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ashland University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Pasteris oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical role involves developing financial models that support the university's long-term objectives and operational needs. By directing financial operations, Marc Pasteris ensures that resources are effectively deployed to enhance the transformative learning experience and support academic programs. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing endowments, capital expenditures, and financial reporting, providing transparency and accountability to stakeholders. Pasteris's leadership drives financial stability, enabling Ashland University to continue its mission of shaping graduates who lead with integrity.
    Marc Pasteris

    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, provides strategic support and operational oversight across key presidential initiatives. Orr manages the coordination of presidential activities, facilitates communication between departments, and drives the execution of strategic projects. This multifaceted role involves advising senior leadership on operational efficiencies and ensuring the seamless integration of non-traditional learning pathways. By orchestrating key administrative functions, Shawn Orr supports the university's mission to deliver a transformative learning experience. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include streamlining processes, enhancing interdepartmental collaboration, and advancing the strategic vision for professional and communication studies. Orr's leadership ensures that Ashland University effectively serves its diverse student body and community.

    JoAnn Watson - President

    JoAnn Watson, the President at Ashland University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Watson guides the university's mission to deliver a transformative learning experience, fostering an environment where students develop integrity and leadership skills. This executive role involves overseeing all academic and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with the university's core values and long-term goals. By championing educational innovation, JoAnn Watson drives initiatives that enhance student success and community engagement. The President's responsibilities include representing Ashland University to external stakeholders, cultivating partnerships, and ensuring the fiscal health and operational excellence of the university. Watson's leadership is central to shaping graduates who work, serve, and lead effectively in their communities.

    John Schaly - Immediate President

    John Schaly, the Immediate President at Ashland University, provides continuity and strategic guidance during leadership transitions. Schaly ensures the sustained execution of the university's mission, focusing on maintaining academic standards and operational integrity. This role involves close collaboration with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to uphold the institution's commitment to providing a transformative learning experience. By overseeing critical university functions, John Schaly supports the development of graduates prepared to serve and lead with integrity. The Immediate President's responsibilities include safeguarding the university's strategic direction and fostering a stable environment for academic and administrative operations. Schaly's leadership ensures that Ashland University continues to thrive and fulfill its educational objectives.

    Andrea Lohr - President, The Chorus

    Andrea Lohr, the President, The Chorus at Ashland University, leads the university's esteemed choral program, fostering artistic excellence and student development. Lohr directs all aspects of the choral ensembles, including rehearsals, performances, and repertoire selection, contributing to the vibrant cultural life of the university. This leadership position involves nurturing the musical talents of students and promoting a passion for vocal performance. By guiding the choral program, Andrea Lohr enhances the educational experience, offering students opportunities for creative expression and collaborative artistry. The President, The Chorus's responsibilities extend to managing the program's operations, engaging with the university community, and representing the program at various events. Lohr's dedication cultivates a high standard of musical achievement within Ashland University.

    Michelle Neville - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Michelle Neville, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ashland University, directs all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Neville oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits programs, ensuring alignment with the university's mission to foster a supportive and productive work environment. This leadership role involves cultivating a culture of integrity and service, directly impacting the university's ability to attract and retain top talent. By managing comprehensive HR operations, Michelle Neville ensures that university staff are empowered to contribute to the transformative learning experience provided to students. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities extend to implementing policies that support employee well-being and professional growth, thereby reinforcing the university's commitment to its community.
    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 Shawn Orr (Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor) and JoAnn Watson (President).
    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), Shawn Orr (Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor), JoAnn Watson (President) 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, Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor, President, Immediate President, President, The Chorus.