AT Still University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

AT Still University has 7 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, strategy, and campus administration.

Driven by a commitment to whole-person healthcare, AT Still University prepares competent professionals through academic programs, upholding osteopathic heritage and focusing on community health, inter-professional education, diversity, and serving under-served populations.

Leadership Roles at AT Still University

  • Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator - Joni Podmanik
  • Chief Financial Officer - Elizabeth Russell
  • Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel - Matthew Heeren
  • President - Austin Jones
  • President of Missouri Campus - Gaylah Sublette
  • President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU - Ted Wendel
  • Class President - Christine Beeson
  • Joni Podmanik - Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator

    Joni Podmanik, the Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator at AT Still University, spearheads strategic program development and overall institutional coordination. This executive position involves guiding the university's academic and programmatic direction, ensuring alignment with its mission and values. Podmanik directs the implementation of new initiatives and oversees the effective coordination of various departments and stakeholders. By fostering collaboration and driving program innovation, Joni Podmanik enhances the university's educational offerings and community impact. The Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator's responsibilities include strategic planning, resource management for programs, and ensuring the seamless execution of institutional objectives, thereby advancing the university's commitment to whole-person healthcare.

    Elizabeth Russell - Chief Financial Officer

    Elizabeth Russell, the Chief Financial Officer at AT Still University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Russell ensures the university's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. By analyzing financial data, Elizabeth Russell provides critical insights to support institutional growth and operational efficiency. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing institutional risk and securing funding for academic and research initiatives, directly impacting the university's capacity to serve its mission.

    Matthew Heeren - Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel

    Matthew Heeren, the Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel at AT Still University, oversees the university's operational framework and legal affairs. This dual role encompasses managing daily operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing strategic legal counsel. Heeren directs administrative functions, facilities management, and risk mitigation strategies across all university campuses. By integrating operational efficiency with legal oversight, Matthew Heeren safeguards institutional assets and promotes a secure environment for students and staff. The Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel's purview includes contract negotiation, policy development, and advising leadership on legal implications of institutional decisions, thereby supporting the university's mission and long-term stability.

    Austin Jones - President

    Austin Jones, the President at AT Still University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. This role involves guiding the university's vision, fostering academic excellence, and ensuring the fulfillment of its mission. Jones directs institutional advancement, external relations, and strategic partnerships to enhance the university's reach and impact. By championing innovation and upholding the university's core values, Austin Jones drives institutional growth and strengthens its position in health sciences education. The President's responsibilities include overseeing all major university functions, engaging with governing bodies, and cultivating a culture of learning and service, thereby advancing the university's commitment to osteopathic heritage and community health.

    Gaylah Sublette - President of Missouri Campus

    Gaylah Sublette, the President of Missouri Campus at AT Still University, leads the strategic operations and academic administration for the Missouri location. This position involves overseeing campus development, student affairs, and faculty engagement to ensure a robust learning environment. Sublette directs initiatives that enhance the campus's contribution to the university's overall mission, focusing on community health and osteopathic heritage. By fostering strong relationships within the Missouri region, Gaylah Sublette strengthens the campus's impact and outreach. The President of Missouri Campus's responsibilities include managing campus resources, promoting inter-professional education, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs that serve under-served populations.
    Gaylah Sublette

    Ted Wendel - President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU

    Ted Wendel, the President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU at AT Still University, directs the strategic vision and operational management for the Arizona and California campuses. This executive role involves overseeing academic programs, campus infrastructure, and student services across multiple locations. Wendel drives initiatives to expand the university's reach and impact in these key regions, ensuring alignment with the core mission of preparing competent healthcare professionals. By fostering a culture of scholarship and inter-professional collaboration, Ted Wendel enhances the educational experience and community engagement. The President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU's responsibilities include resource allocation, strategic planning for growth, and ensuring the delivery of exceptional education that upholds the university's commitment to diversity and whole-person healthcare.

    Christine Beeson - Class President

    Christine Beeson, the Class President at AT Still University, represents the student body and advocates for student interests within the university structure. This leadership position involves facilitating communication between students and university administration, ensuring student voices are heard in decision-making processes. Beeson coordinates student-led initiatives and events, fostering a sense of community and engagement among peers. By championing student welfare and academic support, Christine Beeson contributes to a positive and productive learning environment. The Class President's role is crucial in promoting student involvement in areas such as diversity, inter-professional education, and community health outreach, reflecting the university's dedication to whole-person healthcare.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding AT Still University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads AT Still University?
    AT Still University is led by Joni Podmanik (Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator), along with executives such as Elizabeth Russell (Chief Financial Officer) and Matthew Heeren (Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel).
    Who is part of AT Still University’s executive team?
    The executive team of AT Still University includes leaders such as Joni Podmanik (Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator), Elizabeth Russell (Chief Financial Officer), Matthew Heeren (Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does AT Still University have?
    AT Still University has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in AT Still University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of AT Still University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel, President, President of Missouri Campus.