Ball State University Executive and Leadership Team

Kenne Crocker, the Chief Financial Officer at Ball State University, directs all fiscal planning and budgetary oversight for the institution. Managing the allocation of university resources, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that academic departments receive necessary funding to support research initiatives and student programs. This leadership role involves monitoring long-term financial health while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. By optimizing operational expenditures, Kenne Crocker directly impacts the university's ability to expand its research capabilities and infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the Board to align financial strategies with the broader mission of providing high-quality education. Through rigorous analysis of revenue streams and cost-saving measures, Crocker secures the financial stability required for sustained growth across the Muncie campus and satellite facilities in Fishers and Indianapolis, ultimately strengthening the institution's market position within the competitive landscape of public higher education.

Stephen Wachtmann, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Ball State University, manages the investment portfolio and capital assets of the institution. Overseeing the treasury functions, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer ensures liquidity and effective management of endowment funds to support long-term academic goals. This role involves coordinating with external auditors and financial institutions to maintain transparency and fiscal integrity. By implementing robust risk management frameworks, Stephen Wachtmann protects the university's assets against market volatility. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer provides critical data to the administration, enabling informed decision-making regarding campus expansion and facility upgrades. Through the strategic oversight of debt management and cash flow, Wachtmann supports the university's mission of delivering comprehensive undergraduate and doctoral programs. This leadership position remains essential for maintaining the financial foundation that allows the institution to thrive as a premier public research university in the Midwest.

Tina Nguyen, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest at Ball State University, architects the strategic direction for students pursuing legal careers. Overseeing the development of pre-professional programs, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest ensures that undergraduates gain access to essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty to refine curriculum standards that align with law school admission requirements. By facilitating workshops and guest speaker series, Tina Nguyen enhances the academic preparation of the student body. The Group President, Pre-Law Interest drives initiatives that connect students with legal professionals, fostering a robust pipeline for future legal scholars. Through the continuous improvement of pre-law advising services, Nguyen supports the university's commitment to academic excellence and career readiness. This role remains vital for maintaining the institution's reputation for producing highly qualified graduates who excel in competitive professional environments across the nation.

Geoffrey Mearns, the President at Ball State University, directs the overall strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing the university's administrative operations, the President ensures alignment between faculty research, student success, and community engagement. This leadership role involves representing the university to state legislators and external stakeholders to secure funding and support for academic growth. By fostering a culture of innovation, Geoffrey Mearns drives the expansion of undergraduate and doctoral programs across the Muncie, Fishers, and Indianapolis locations. The President collaborates with the Board and executive leadership to implement policies that enhance the university's national standing. Through the promotion of inclusive excellence and academic rigor, Mearns secures the long-term viability of the institution. This executive position remains central to the university's ability to adapt to evolving educational demands while maintaining a commitment to high-quality research and public service.

Gabby Mirise, the Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President at Ball State University, directs the engagement efforts for students within the exercise science department. Overseeing the coordination of professional development events, the Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President ensures that students connect with industry leaders and gain practical insights into the field. This leadership role involves organizing seminars and networking sessions that bridge the gap between academic theory and clinical practice. By facilitating these connections, Gabby Mirise enhances the career prospects of students pursuing health-related degrees. The Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President collaborates with faculty to identify emerging trends in exercise science, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant. Through the active promotion of professional standards, Mirise supports the university's mission of preparing graduates for success in the competitive healthcare and wellness sectors, ultimately contributing to the institution's reputation for excellence.

Blaine Brownell, the President at Ball State University, executes the long-term institutional strategy and academic development plans. Overseeing the university's diverse academic departments, the President ensures that research initiatives and degree programs meet the highest standards of quality. This leadership role involves managing relationships with academic partners and overseeing the implementation of university-wide policies. By driving initiatives that promote interdisciplinary collaboration, Blaine Brownell enhances the educational experience for students across all campuses. The President works closely with the executive team to allocate resources effectively, supporting the university's mission of providing accessible and impactful higher education. Through the continuous evaluation of academic performance and institutional goals, Brownell maintains the university's competitive edge in the research landscape. This leadership position remains essential for guiding the institution through complex academic challenges while ensuring that the university continues to serve the needs of students and the broader community.

Bobby Woods, the Vice-President- Men at Ball State University, directs the organizational activities and student engagement initiatives for men's collegiate groups. Overseeing the operational management of these organizations, the Vice-President- Men ensures that all activities align with university policies and promote a positive campus culture. This leadership role involves coordinating events, managing membership growth, and fostering a sense of community among students. By facilitating leadership training and service projects, Bobby Woods enhances the personal and professional development of the student body. The Vice-President- Men collaborates with other student leaders and university administrators to address the needs of the student population. Through the effective management of organizational resources, Woods supports the university's mission of creating a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. This role remains vital for maintaining the social and extracurricular infrastructure that complements the academic experience at the university.

Ethan Craven, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota at Ball State University, directs the internal operations and external relations for the chapter. Overseeing the adherence to university and national fraternity standards, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota ensures that all members uphold the values of academic excellence and community service. This leadership role involves managing chapter finances, organizing philanthropic events, and facilitating communication between the fraternity and university administration. By promoting a culture of accountability, Ethan Craven enhances the reputation of the organization within the campus community. The President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota drives initiatives that support the personal growth of members, preparing them for future professional success. Through the effective coordination of chapter activities, Craven contributes to the overall student life experience at the university, ensuring that the fraternity remains a positive force for student development and institutional engagement.