Ball State University Executive and Leadership Team

Hannah Neal, the Chief Financial Officer at Ball State University, directs all internal fiscal operations and budgetary planning. Overseeing the allocation of university resources, the Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with long-term academic goals and research initiatives. This leadership role involves managing complex funding streams for undergraduate majors and doctoral programs across the Muncie campus and satellite facilities. By optimizing operational expenditures, Hannah Neal directly impacts the financial health of the institution. Furthermore, the Chief Financial Officer collaborates with academic deans to prioritize investments in high-growth pre-professional programs. Through rigorous oversight of institutional assets, Neal secures the necessary capital to maintain state-of-the-art research infrastructure. This financial discipline supports the broader mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student body while maintaining fiscal sustainability across all regional operations.

Stephen Wachtmann, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Ball State University, manages the investment portfolio and debt obligations of the institution. Overseeing the treasury functions, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures liquidity for capital projects and facility expansions in Fishers and Indianapolis. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to execute long-term financial strategies that support the university's research mission. By monitoring market trends and endowment performance, Stephen Wachtmann mitigates institutional risk while maximizing returns on university assets. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer also directs the audit and compliance departments to maintain transparency in all fiscal reporting. Through strategic management of the university's balance sheet, Wachtmann provides the economic foundation required for academic growth. This role remains vital for sustaining the institution's competitive position within the higher education landscape of Indiana.

Geoffrey Mearns, the President at Ball State University, architects the overarching strategic vision for the entire academic community. Overseeing the implementation of university-wide initiatives, the President ensures that all undergraduate and graduate programs meet rigorous standards of excellence. This leadership role involves engaging with external stakeholders, government officials, and industry partners to expand the university's research footprint. By fostering a culture of innovation, Geoffrey Mearns drives the development of new pre-professional programs that align with evolving workforce demands. The President also coordinates with the executive cabinet to streamline operations across the Muncie, Fishers, and Indianapolis locations. Through consistent advocacy for student success, Mearns elevates the reputation of the institution on a national scale. This executive position requires balancing immediate operational needs with the long-term goal of maintaining a premier public research university status.

Tina Nguyen, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest at Ball State University, directs the specialized curriculum and mentorship pathways for students pursuing legal careers. Overseeing the pre-professional development programs, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest ensures that participants gain the necessary analytical skills for law school admission. This leadership role involves building partnerships with regional legal organizations to provide internship opportunities and practical experience. By refining the academic advising framework, Tina Nguyen improves student outcomes and placement rates in top-tier legal programs. The Group President, Pre-Law Interest also collaborates with faculty to integrate interdisciplinary coursework that prepares students for the complexities of the modern legal field. Through targeted outreach and resource management, Nguyen strengthens the university's reputation as a hub for pre-law excellence. This role directly supports the institution's mission to provide comprehensive academic opportunities that lead to successful professional outcomes.

Blaine Brownell, the President at Ball State University, leads the administrative efforts to enhance the university's research capabilities and academic infrastructure. Overseeing the integration of new technology into the classroom, the President ensures that faculty and students possess the tools required for modern research. This leadership role involves managing the university's relationships with academic consortia and research partners to facilitate collaborative projects. By promoting interdisciplinary studies, Blaine Brownell drives the expansion of doctoral programs that address critical societal challenges. The President also monitors the effectiveness of academic policies to ensure they support the diverse needs of the student population. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, Brownell maintains the university's commitment to high-quality public education. This executive function focuses on sustaining the institution's growth and ensuring that all academic departments remain aligned with the core mission of research and discovery.

Bobby Woods, the Vice-President- Men at Ball State University, directs the student engagement initiatives and support services for the male student population. Overseeing the development of leadership programs, the Vice-President- Men ensures that students have access to resources that promote personal and professional growth. This leadership role involves coordinating with student affairs to foster an inclusive campus environment that encourages academic participation. By implementing mentorship programs, Bobby Woods helps students navigate the challenges of university life while preparing for future careers. The Vice-President- Men also collaborates with campus organizations to organize events that build community and school spirit. Through active engagement and advocacy, Woods supports the university's goal of providing a holistic educational experience. This role remains essential for maintaining a supportive campus culture that empowers students to achieve their full potential during their time at the institution.

Ethan Craven, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota at Ball State University, directs the operations and membership development of the organization. Overseeing the chapter's adherence to university policies, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota ensures that all activities align with the values of academic excellence and community service. This leadership role involves managing the chapter's budget, organizing philanthropic events, and facilitating professional development workshops for members. By fostering a culture of accountability, Ethan Craven drives the chapter's success in both academic and social spheres. The President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota also serves as a liaison between the organization and the university administration to ensure compliance with institutional standards. Through effective leadership and strategic planning, Craven strengthens the chapter's impact on the campus community. This role supports the broader mission of the university by promoting student involvement and leadership development.