Ball State University Executive and Leadership Team

Hannah Neal, the Chief Financial Officer at Ball State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for the institution. Neal directs the allocation of resources toward research initiatives and academic infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the long-term financial goals of the university. By overseeing the financial reporting processes, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and accountability across all departments. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to optimize funding for undergraduate majors and pre-professional programs. Hannah Neal collaborates with the board to secure sustainable revenue streams that support the expansion of satellite facilities in Fishers and Indianapolis. Through rigorous financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates operational risks while maximizing the impact of public research funding. The financial strategies implemented by Neal directly support the university mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body.

Stephen Wachtmann, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Ball State University, governs the treasury operations and investment strategies for the university. Wachtmann manages the endowment funds and capital assets, ensuring the financial stability required for doctoral degree programs and research projects. As the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Wachtmann executes complex financial modeling to forecast future revenue needs and expenditure requirements. This role involves coordinating with external auditors and internal stakeholders to maintain compliance with state and federal regulations. Stephen Wachtmann oversees the liquidity management of the university, providing the necessary capital for facility maintenance and technological upgrades. By optimizing the investment portfolio, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer generates consistent returns that fund scholarships and academic development. Wachtmann ensures that the fiscal policies of the university remain robust, supporting the overarching goal of academic excellence and regional growth across the Indiana campus network.

Geoffrey Mearns, the President at Ball State University, architects the strategic vision and academic mission for the entire institution. Mearns leads the executive team in advancing the university reputation as a premier public research entity. As the President, Mearns fosters partnerships with industry leaders and government officials to enhance the value of undergraduate and graduate degrees. This leadership role involves setting the agenda for campus-wide initiatives, including the development of new pre-professional programs and the expansion of satellite operations. Geoffrey Mearns drives the cultural and academic growth of the university, ensuring that faculty and students have the resources to excel in a competitive global market. By championing innovation in research and teaching, the President secures the future of the institution. Mearns maintains a focus on student outcomes, ensuring that every academic program aligns with the evolving needs of the workforce and the broader community.

Gabby Mirise, the Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President at Ball State University, coordinates professional development opportunities for students within the exercise science department. Mirise facilitates networking events and workshops that bridge the gap between academic theory and clinical practice. As the Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President, Mirise organizes seminars featuring industry experts to provide students with insights into career paths in health and wellness. This leadership role involves managing committee resources and promoting engagement among undergraduate majors interested in pre-professional programs. Gabby Mirise drives the mission of the committee by creating a supportive environment for professional growth and skill acquisition. By fostering connections with local healthcare providers and research facilities, the Co-President enhances the practical experience of students. Mirise ensures that the committee activities contribute to the overall success and career readiness of the exercise science student body.

Ethan Craven, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota at Ball State University, directs the operations and community engagement efforts of the fraternity chapter. Craven oversees the membership development programs and ensures adherence to university policies regarding student organizations. As the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota, Craven manages the chapter budget and coordinates philanthropic initiatives that benefit the local community. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence and personal growth among members. Ethan Craven facilitates communication between the chapter and university administration to ensure alignment with institutional values. By organizing leadership training and service projects, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota promotes the development of well-rounded students. Craven drives the chapter toward achieving its goals of service and brotherhood, contributing to the vibrant campus life that defines the university experience for many undergraduate students.

Blaine Brownell, the President at Ball State University, provides high-level guidance on institutional governance and academic policy. Brownell supports the development of research frameworks that enhance the university standing in the academic community. As the President, Brownell advises on the integration of new degree programs and the expansion of academic offerings. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty and administrative leaders to refine the educational mission of the university. Blaine Brownell drives initiatives that improve student retention and graduation rates through targeted academic support services. By analyzing institutional data, the President identifies opportunities for growth and improvement in the delivery of undergraduate and graduate education. Brownell ensures that the university remains committed to its core values of excellence and innovation. Through strategic oversight, the President contributes to the long-term success of the institution and the professional development of the student population.

Bobby Woods, the Vice-President- Men at Ball State University, manages programs and initiatives focused on the development and support of male students within the university community. Woods coordinates outreach efforts and mentorship programs that encourage academic success and personal growth. As the Vice-President- Men, Woods facilitates workshops and discussions that address the unique challenges faced by students in various undergraduate majors. This leadership role involves collaborating with student services to provide resources that enhance the overall student experience. Bobby Woods drives the mission of the organization by fostering an inclusive environment that promotes leadership and community involvement. By organizing events that encourage networking and professional development, the Vice-President- Men helps students prepare for their future careers. Woods ensures that the initiatives under this role align with the broader goals of the university, contributing to a supportive and engaging campus culture for all students.

Tina Nguyen, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest at Ball State University, leads the organization dedicated to supporting students pursuing legal careers. Nguyen coordinates LSAT preparation resources, law school application workshops, and networking opportunities with legal professionals. As the Group President, Pre-Law Interest, Nguyen manages the group activities and ensures that members have access to the information necessary for success in pre-professional programs. This leadership role involves organizing guest speaker series and panel discussions that provide insights into the legal field. Tina Nguyen drives the mission of the group by creating a collaborative environment where students can share experiences and resources. By fostering relationships with law schools and legal organizations, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest enhances the competitive edge of students. Nguyen ensures that the group remains a vital resource for those navigating the path to law school, contributing to the academic and professional success of the student body.