AT Still University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

AT Still University has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, strategy, operations, and campus leadership.

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, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU - Ted Wendel
  • Class President - Christine Beeson
  • Sigma Sigma Phi Upsilon Chapter President - Carly Chellman
  • Missouri Campus President - Gaylah Sublette
  • 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 role involves aligning academic programs with the university's mission of preparing competent professionals and upholding osteopathic heritage. Podmanik oversees the integration of inter-professional education and community health initiatives, ensuring a cohesive approach to whole-person healthcare. By coordinating efforts across various departments, Joni Podmanik drives the effective execution of educational strategies and fosters an environment of diversity and inclusion. The Chief Executive Officer, Program & Coordinator's focus remains on enhancing the learning-centered experience and expanding the university's reach to under-served populations.

    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 securing funding and managing financial risk across all university initiatives, directly impacting the institution'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, manages daily operations and provides comprehensive legal counsel. This dual role ensures operational efficiency while safeguarding the university's legal interests. Heeren oversees administrative functions, risk management, and compliance, supporting the institution's commitment to academic excellence and its osteopathic heritage. By directing operational strategies, Matthew Heeren enhances the university's capacity to deliver whole-person healthcare education and serve diverse communities. The Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel's expertise is vital in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and optimizing resource utilization across all campuses.

    Austin Jones - President

    Austin Jones, the President at AT Still University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. This executive role involves guiding the university's mission to prepare competent professionals and championing its commitment to osteopathic heritage and whole-person healthcare. Jones oversees institutional advancement, fosters inter-professional education, and promotes diversity and inclusion across all academic programs. By driving strategic initiatives, Austin Jones ensures the university effectively serves under-served populations and maintains its position as a leading health and science institution. The President's vision shapes the future of education and community health engagement.

    Ted Wendel - President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU

    Ted Wendel, the President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU at AT Still University, directs campus operations and strategic growth in Arizona and California. This leadership position focuses on enhancing the learning-centered environment and expanding access to health and science education in these key regions. Wendel oversees the implementation of academic programs, ensuring alignment with the university's commitment to osteopathic heritage and whole-person healthcare. By fostering community partnerships and promoting inter-professional education, Ted Wendel strengthens the university's impact on local populations and under-served communities. The President, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU drives institutional excellence and student success across these vital campuses.

    Christine Beeson - Class President

    Christine Beeson, the Class President at AT Still University, represents the student body and advocates for academic and extracurricular initiatives. This role involves fostering a strong sense of community among students and ensuring their voices are heard within the university structure. Beeson collaborates with faculty and administration to enhance the learning experience and support the university's mission of preparing competent professionals. By organizing student-led events and programs, Christine Beeson contributes to a vibrant campus culture that embraces diversity and inter-professional collaboration. The Class President's dedication supports the overall student journey and the university's commitment to whole-person development.

    Carly Chellman - Sigma Sigma Phi Upsilon Chapter President

    Carly Chellman, the Sigma Sigma Phi Upsilon Chapter President at AT Still University, leads the chapter's activities and promotes its values within the academic community. This leadership role focuses on upholding the standards of the honor society and fostering professional development among its members. Chellman oversees chapter operations, organizes educational events, and encourages engagement with the university's broader mission of whole-person healthcare and osteopathic heritage. By coordinating chapter initiatives, Carly Chellman enhances the student experience and supports the development of future healthcare leaders. The Sigma Sigma Phi Upsilon Chapter President champions academic excellence and community service.

    Gaylah Sublette - Missouri Campus President

    Gaylah Sublette, the Missouri Campus President at AT Still University, directs campus operations and strategic initiatives within Missouri. This executive role focuses on enhancing the educational environment and expanding the university's reach in the region, supporting its mission of preparing competent professionals. Sublette oversees the implementation of academic programs, ensuring alignment with the university's commitment to osteopathic heritage and whole-person healthcare. By fostering strong community ties and promoting inter-professional education, Gaylah Sublette strengthens the campus's impact on local populations and under-served communities. The Missouri Campus President drives institutional excellence and student success at the Missouri location.

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    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 8 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, AZ and CA Campuses, ATSU.