Avila University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Avila University has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, interim leadership, academic governance, and marketing.

Driven by accessible education, Avila University is dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment through individualized instruction and community service, impacting students across undergraduate and graduate levels.

Leadership Roles at Avila University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Bookmeyer
  • Interim President - Andy Jett
  • Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating - Ellen Martin
  • Chief Marketing & Communications Officer - Karen Baum
  • Paul Bookmeyer - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Bookmeyer, the Chief Financial Officer at Avila University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Paul Bookmeyer 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, the Chief Financial Officer provides critical insights to support strategic decision-making and institutional growth. Paul Bookmeyer's oversight extends to managing institutional aid and ensuring the accessibility of education without limits, aligning fiscal prudence with Avila's core mission. The Chief Financial Officer's work directly supports the university's commitment to providing high-quality education across its online and on-campus programs, reinforcing its standing as a top private college.

    Andy Jett - Interim President

    Andy Jett, the Interim President at Avila University, provides strategic direction and executive leadership during a transitional period. Guiding the university's overall mission and operational continuity, Andy Jett ensures that Avila University maintains its commitment to accessible education. This critical role involves overseeing all university departments, fostering relationships with stakeholders, and upholding the institution's Catholic values. By navigating current challenges and opportunities, the Interim President works to maintain momentum in academic excellence and student support. Andy Jett's leadership ensures the university continues its focus on individualized instruction and community service, supporting over 60 degree programs. The Interim President's tenure is focused on preserving the supportive learning environment Avila is known for, reinforcing its reputation among online education providers and private institutions.

    Ellen Martin - Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating

    Ellen Martin, the Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating at Avila University, manages critical governance functions and committee leadership. Overseeing the secretary role for the executive committee, Ellen Martin ensures proper documentation and communication of board decisions. Chairing the Academic Committee, the Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating drives academic policy and curriculum oversight, directly impacting the quality of over 60 degree programs. This leadership position also involves spearheading the VPAA and President Search Committees, identifying and recruiting top-tier administrative talent to advance the university's mission. Ellen Martin's role is central to maintaining Avila University's commitment to accessible education and a supportive learning environment. The Nominating function ensures the continued strength and strategic alignment of the university's leadership bodies.

    Karen Baum - Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

    Karen Baum, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Avila University, directs all branding, marketing, and public relations initiatives. Overseeing the strategic communication of Avila's commitment to accessible education without limits, Karen Baum enhances the university's visibility and reputation. This role involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns across digital and traditional channels to attract a diverse student body, including international students. By managing internal and external communications, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer ensures consistent messaging that highlights the university's strengths, such as individualized instruction and community service. Karen Baum's leadership supports the enrollment goals for both online and on-campus programs, reinforcing Avila's standing as a best private college and a top online education provider. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer's efforts are vital in conveying the supportive learning environment Avila provides.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Avila University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Avila University?
    Avila University is led by Paul Bookmeyer (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Andy Jett (Interim President) and Ellen Martin (Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating).
    Who is part of Avila University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Avila University includes leaders such as Paul Bookmeyer (Chief Financial Officer), Andy Jett (Interim President), Ellen Martin (Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Avila University have?
    Avila University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Avila University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Avila University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Interim President, Executive Comm (Secretary). Chair, Academic. VPAA and President Search Committees. Nominating, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer.