Auburn University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Auburn University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, administration, technology, marketing, athletics, human resources, and institutional governance.

Committed to academic excellence and interdisciplinary research, Auburn University delivers transformative educational experiences and scholarships to students while fostering a culture of innovation and community impact.

Leadership Roles at Auburn University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Nick Sellers
  • President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors - Makenzie Bahr
  • President - Shirley Kim
  • President - Madison Dutton
  • President - Gabriela Comulada
  • Chief of Staff - Richard McGlynn
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - James O'Connor
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Ath - Richard Swift
  • Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff - Brad Larrondo
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Leslie Meadows
  • Nick Sellers - Chief Operating Officer

    Nick Sellers, the Chief Operating Officer at Auburn University, directs the daily administrative functions and operational efficiency of the institution. Overseeing campus infrastructure and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that all departments align with the broader mission of providing high-quality educational services. Sellers manages complex logistical frameworks to support interdisciplinary research initiatives and undergraduate programs. By optimizing internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer drives sustainable growth across the university landscape. This leadership role requires constant coordination with academic deans and financial officers to maintain fiscal health. Through rigorous oversight of campus facilities and support services, Nick Sellers strengthens the operational foundation of the university. The Chief Operating Officer remains focused on enhancing the overall student experience by streamlining administrative workflows and improving service delivery across all regional operations.

    Makenzie Bahr - President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors

    Makenzie Bahr, the President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors at Auburn University, represents student interests and facilitates engagement between the student body and the alumni network. Overseeing initiatives that bridge the gap between current students and graduates, the President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors ensures that alumni resources support student success and career development. Bahr coordinates with the board of directors to advocate for student-centered policies and institutional improvements. By fostering connections through networking events and mentorship programs, the President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors strengthens the university's community ties. Makenzie Bahr manages the communication channels that keep alumni informed about campus developments and research breakthroughs. This role involves active participation in governance to ensure that student perspectives influence institutional decision-making. Through dedicated leadership, the President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors enhances the long-term value of the university experience.

    Shirley Kim - President

    Shirley Kim, the President at Auburn University, directs the overall strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing the university's research portfolio and educational programs, the President ensures that the institution maintains its commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship. Kim manages relationships with external stakeholders, including government agencies and private donors, to secure funding for campus initiatives. By setting the tone for institutional culture, the President drives innovation in undergraduate experiences and interdisciplinary research. Shirley Kim collaborates with the board of trustees to establish long-term goals that advance the university's reputation. This role involves navigating the complexities of higher education to ensure financial sustainability and academic growth. Through decisive leadership, the President guides the university toward achieving its mission of providing high-quality education and fostering a vibrant community of scholars and students.

    Madison Dutton - President

    Madison Dutton, the President at Auburn University, focuses on the expansion of student services and the enhancement of campus life. Overseeing the implementation of new scholarship programs and student support initiatives, the President ensures that the university remains accessible and inclusive. Dutton manages the development of extracurricular activities that complement the academic curriculum. By promoting a culture of service and leadership, the President drives student engagement and personal development. Madison Dutton works closely with faculty to improve the quality of undergraduate educational experiences. This role involves representing the university in regional and national forums to advocate for higher education funding and policy reform. Through a commitment to student-centered growth, the President strengthens the university's impact on the community and prepares graduates for success in their professional lives. The President remains dedicated to maintaining the institution's high standards of academic achievement.

    Gabriela Comulada - President

    Gabriela Comulada, the President at Auburn University, directs the university's efforts in global research partnerships and international academic collaboration. Overseeing the expansion of interdisciplinary research projects, the President ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of scientific and social discovery. Comulada manages the integration of global perspectives into the undergraduate curriculum to prepare students for a diverse workforce. By fostering partnerships with international institutions, the President drives the university's global reach and influence. Gabriela Comulada coordinates with research directors to secure grants and support for innovative studies. This role involves balancing the needs of various academic departments to ensure a cohesive and forward-thinking research strategy. Through strategic leadership, the President enhances the university's capacity to address complex global challenges and provides students with unique opportunities for intellectual growth and cross-cultural engagement.

    Richard McGlynn - Chief of Staff

    Richard McGlynn, the Chief of Staff at Auburn University, coordinates strategic initiatives and facilitates communication between the executive leadership team and the board. Managing the flow of information and policy development, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional priorities receive proper attention and execution. McGlynn oversees the implementation of university-wide projects that support educational classes and research goals. By aligning departmental objectives with the long-term vision of the institution, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational cohesion. Richard McGlynn monitors the progress of key academic programs and administrative mandates to ensure accountability. This role involves navigating complex governance structures to advance the university's standing in the higher education sector. Through proactive management of executive workflows, the Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to focus on critical decision-making processes that define the future of the institution.

    James O'Connor - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    James O'Connor, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Auburn University, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for modern academic research and student learning. Overseeing cybersecurity, data management, and campus-wide network connectivity, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures that technological resources support the university's educational mission. O'Connor drives the adoption of advanced software solutions to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and administrative efficiency. By modernizing digital platforms, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer secures the integrity of institutional data and improves access to online educational tools. James O'Connor collaborates with faculty and staff to integrate technology into the classroom experience. This leadership role focuses on scaling digital capabilities to meet the evolving needs of the student body. Through strategic investment in IT systems, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer maintains the university's competitive edge in the digital age.
    James O'Connor

    Richard Swift - Chief Marketing Officer, Ath

    Richard Swift, the Chief Marketing Officer, Ath at Auburn University, directs the branding and promotional strategies for the athletic department. Overseeing media relations, fan engagement, and sponsorship development, the Chief Marketing Officer, Ath ensures that the university's athletic programs maintain a strong public presence. Swift manages marketing campaigns that highlight student-athlete achievements and institutional values. By leveraging digital media and community outreach, the Chief Marketing Officer, Ath expands the reach of athletic initiatives to a national audience. Richard Swift coordinates with internal stakeholders to align athletic branding with the broader university identity. This role involves analyzing market trends to optimize revenue generation and fan participation. Through innovative storytelling and strategic partnerships, the Chief Marketing Officer, Ath elevates the profile of the university's sports programs, contributing to the overall success and visibility of the institution in the competitive collegiate landscape.

    Brad Larrondo - Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff

    Brad Larrondo, the Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff at Auburn University, manages the internal operations and logistical support for the football program. Overseeing team scheduling, travel coordination, and administrative compliance, the Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff ensures that the football staff operates with maximum efficiency. Larrondo facilitates communication between the coaching staff and university administration to support student-athlete development. By streamlining daily operations, the Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff allows the coaching team to focus on performance and recruitment. Brad Larrondo monitors adherence to institutional policies and athletic regulations. This role requires precise coordination of resources to support the football program's competitive goals. Through diligent management of team logistics and administrative tasks, the Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff contributes to the stability and success of the university's high-profile athletic operations.

    Leslie Meadows - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Leslie Meadows, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Auburn University, directs talent acquisition, employee relations, and professional development programs. Overseeing the workforce strategy, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts and retains top-tier faculty and staff to support its educational mission. Meadows manages compensation structures, benefits administration, and performance management systems. By fostering an inclusive and productive work environment, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational health and employee engagement. Leslie Meadows collaborates with department heads to align staffing needs with the university's long-term research and teaching goals. This role involves implementing policies that promote equity and professional growth across the campus. Through strategic management of human capital, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the university's ability to deliver high-quality educational experiences and maintain excellence in all academic and administrative functions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Auburn University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Auburn University?
    Auburn University is led by Nick Sellers (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Makenzie Bahr (President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors) and Shirley Kim (President).
    Who is part of Auburn University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Auburn University includes leaders such as Nick Sellers (Chief Operating Officer), Makenzie Bahr (President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors), Shirley Kim (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Auburn University have?
    Auburn University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Auburn University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Auburn University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors, President, President, President.