Auburn University Executive and Leadership Team

Madison Dutton, the President at Auburn University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. This executive role involves setting the vision for academic excellence, research innovation, and student development, ensuring Auburn University fulfills its educational mission. Dutton's responsibilities encompass fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external stakeholders, while overseeing financial health and operational efficiency. By championing the university's core values and strategic goals, Madison Dutton drives initiatives that enhance educational services, promote interdisciplinary research, and cultivate enriching undergraduate experiences. The President guides Auburn University toward continued growth and distinction in higher education.

Makenzie Bahr, the President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors at Auburn University, leads student engagement and alumni relations initiatives. This executive role focuses on strengthening the connection between current students, alumni, and the university, fostering a lifelong community of support. Bahr's responsibilities include overseeing student-led programs, organizing alumni events, and advocating for student interests within the university governance structure. By promoting active participation and engagement, Makenzie Bahr enhances the student experience and cultivates vital support networks that contribute to Auburn University's ongoing success and its mission of providing comprehensive educational services. The President & Alumni Association Student & Board of Directors champions student and alumni involvement.

Ichhya Shrestha, the President, The Research Club at Auburn University, leads initiatives focused on promoting and facilitating student involvement in research activities. This executive role aims to foster a vibrant research culture, encouraging undergraduate participation in scholarly endeavors and interdisciplinary projects. Shrestha's responsibilities include organizing research workshops, connecting students with faculty mentors, and showcasing student research achievements. By empowering students to engage in scientific inquiry and discovery, Ichhya Shrestha directly supports Auburn University's commitment to providing advanced educational experiences and driving impactful research. The President, The Research Club cultivates a passion for academic exploration and innovation among students.

James O'Connor, the Chief Information Officer at Auburn University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, O'Connor ensures the seamless integration of digital tools and platforms that support educational delivery, research initiatives, and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management systems, and network services critical to the university's daily operations. By optimizing technological resources, James O'Connor enhances the learning environment and supports the university's mission of providing cutting-edge educational services and interdisciplinary research opportunities. The Chief Information Officer's strategic vision drives technological advancement across campus, ensuring Auburn University remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

Bradley Larrondo, the Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff at Auburn University, manages critical operational aspects of the athletics department, with a specific focus on football. This executive role involves coordinating team logistics, strategic planning support, and ensuring efficient departmental operations to enhance athletic performance and student-athlete well-being. Larrondo's responsibilities extend to managing budgets, overseeing staff, and facilitating communication between coaching staff, administration, and external stakeholders. By streamlining processes and providing essential support, Bradley Larrondo directly contributes to the success of Auburn's athletic programs, aligning with the university's broader commitment to holistic student development and excellence in all endeavors. The Associate Athletic Director and Football Chief of Staff ensures the football program operates at peak efficiency.

Richard Swift, the Chief Marketing Officer, Ath at Auburn University, spearheads the marketing and branding strategies for the university's athletic programs. This executive position drives fan engagement, ticket sales, and corporate partnerships, enhancing the visibility and financial health of Auburn Athletics. Swift's leadership encompasses developing innovative marketing campaigns, managing digital presence, and overseeing promotional activities that resonate with alumni, students, and the broader community. By cultivating a strong brand identity, Richard Swift supports the university's mission to provide exceptional student experiences and maintain a competitive edge in collegiate sports. The Chief Marketing Officer, Ath ensures robust market presence and revenue generation for athletic endeavors.

Karla McCormick, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Auburn University, directs comprehensive human capital strategies and operations. This executive role oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and HR policy implementation across the university. McCormick's leadership ensures a supportive and productive work environment, aligning HR functions with Auburn's educational and research objectives. By fostering a culture of excellence and compliance, Karla McCormick plays a vital part in attracting and retaining top talent, essential for delivering high-quality educational services and advancing interdisciplinary research. The Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer champions employee well-being and organizational growth.

Leslie Meadows, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Auburn University, leads the strategic direction and execution of human resources initiatives. This executive position focuses on cultivating a positive and efficient workplace culture, managing employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and university policies. Meadows' responsibilities include overseeing talent management, performance appraisal systems, and professional development programs designed to empower the university's workforce. By prioritizing employee engagement and organizational development, Leslie Meadows directly supports Auburn University's mission to provide outstanding educational experiences and foster groundbreaking research. The Chief Human Resources Officer drives initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.

Forrest Watson, the Executive Chief of Staff at Auburn University, provides strategic counsel and operational support to senior leadership, ensuring alignment across key university initiatives. This executive role involves managing high-priority projects, facilitating communication between departments, and optimizing administrative processes to enhance institutional effectiveness. Watson's responsibilities include coordinating executive meetings, preparing strategic reports, and driving the implementation of key university policies and programs. By streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, Forrest Watson directly contributes to Auburn University's mission of delivering exceptional educational services and advancing interdisciplinary research. The Executive Chief of Staff ensures efficient execution of the university's strategic vision.

James Locke, the Professor and Head at Auburn University, directs academic programs and faculty within a specific department, contributing to the university's educational and research mission. This leadership role involves curriculum development, faculty recruitment and mentorship, and fostering an environment conducive to scholarly inquiry and student learning. Locke's responsibilities extend to managing departmental resources, overseeing research projects, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational services. By guiding academic excellence and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, James Locke significantly enhances the student experience and contributes to Auburn University's reputation for rigorous scholarship and innovation. The Professor and Head champions academic rigor and faculty development.