Ashland University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ashland University has 5 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, human resources, choral arts, administrative continuity, 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 comprehensive private education.

Leadership Roles at Ashland University

  • Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor - Shawn Orr
  • President, The Chorus - Andrea Lohr
  • Immediate President - John Schaly
  • President - John Peede
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Michelle Neville
  • 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, manages complex administrative workflows and academic oversight. This multifaceted role requires balancing high-level executive support with the direct management of non-traditional learning programs. Orr architects strategic communication frameworks that align institutional goals with faculty requirements. By supervising professional studies, the Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor ensures that curriculum development meets modern workforce demands. Shawn Orr maintains rigorous standards across all departments, fostering an environment where academic excellence thrives. Through constant collaboration with the Board, the Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor drives operational efficiency and supports the broader mission of the university in the competitive higher education landscape.

    Andrea Lohr - President, The Chorus

    Andrea Lohr, the President, The Chorus at Ashland University, leads all artistic programming and choral performance initiatives. Directing the creative vision for the music department, the President, The Chorus ensures that students receive world-class training in vocal performance and ensemble management. Lohr coordinates regional and national tours, expanding the reach of the university's artistic influence. By fostering partnerships with professional musical organizations, the President, The Chorus provides students with unique opportunities to perform in diverse settings. Andrea Lohr manages the financial and logistical requirements of the choral program, ensuring that all performances meet the highest standards of excellence. This leadership role involves mentoring student performers and preparing graduates for careers in the arts. Through the promotion of musical integrity, the President, The Chorus enhances the cultural reputation of the university, contributing significantly to the vibrant campus life and the broader community engagement efforts.

    John Schaly - Immediate President

    John Schaly, the Immediate President at Ashland University, provides critical continuity and strategic guidance for institutional operations. Overseeing the transition of key administrative projects, the Immediate President ensures that long-term goals remain on track during periods of leadership evolution. Schaly advises the current executive team on historical context and operational best practices, facilitating seamless decision-making processes. By maintaining strong relationships with alumni and donors, the Immediate President secures the financial resources necessary for ongoing campus development. John Schaly supports the university's commitment to integrity by upholding established academic standards and institutional values. This leadership role involves managing high-stakes projects that require deep institutional knowledge and a focus on sustainable growth. Through the application of extensive experience, the Immediate President drives the university's mission forward, ensuring that the institution continues to provide a transformative learning experience for all students across the national landscape.

    John Peede - President

    John Peede, the President at Ashland University, serves as the primary architect of the institution's strategic vision and academic mission. Directing all university operations, the President ensures that the campus remains a hub for transformative learning and professional development. Peede oversees the implementation of long-term growth initiatives, focusing on expanding the university's influence in both national and global communities. By collaborating with the Board of Trustees, the President aligns institutional resources with the goal of fostering integrity and service among the student body. John Peede manages the executive leadership team, driving accountability and excellence across every department. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, including government agencies and private partners. Through the execution of a clear, mission-driven strategy, the President secures the future of the institution, ensuring that the university continues to provide high-quality education that prepares graduates for success in a complex world.

    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 human capital strategy, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that faculty and staff remain aligned with the core mission of providing a transformative learning experience. Neville implements comprehensive benefits programs and professional development pathways that attract top-tier educators to the institution. By optimizing internal policies, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of integrity and service across the campus. Michelle Neville manages complex labor relations and compliance requirements, ensuring that the university operates within all regulatory frameworks. This leadership role involves building a robust workforce capable of supporting the diverse needs of students. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the long-term operational stability of the university, directly impacting the quality of education delivered to the student body.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ashland University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ashland University?
    Ashland University is led by Shawn Orr (Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor), along with executives such as Andrea Lohr (President, The Chorus) and John Schaly (Immediate President).
    Who is part of Ashland University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ashland University includes leaders such as Shawn Orr (Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor), Andrea Lohr (President, The Chorus), John Schaly (Immediate President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ashland University have?
    Ashland University has 5 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 Chief of Staff & President & To The Senior Advisor & President, Non & Traditional Learning Dean & Eashland Professional & Communication Studies Instructor, President, The Chorus, Immediate President, President, Chief Human Resources Officer.