Ball State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ball State University has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, leadership, and academic programs.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Ball State University provides diverse educational opportunities, fostering intellectual growth and preparing students for impactful careers through its comprehensive undergraduate and graduate offerings.

Leadership Roles at Ball State University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Hannah Neal
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Stephen Wachtmann
  • President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota - Ethan Craven
  • Group President, Pre-Law Interest - Tina Nguyen
  • President - Geoffrey Means
  • President - Blaine Brownell
  • Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President - Gabby Mirise
  • Litigation Paralegal - Younique Jones
  • Hannah Neal - Chief Financial Officer

    Hannah Neal, the Chief Financial Officer at Ball State University, directs the institution's financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all university departments. Neal oversees the allocation of resources to support academic programs, research initiatives, and campus development. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards the university's assets and promotes long-term financial stability. This position is critical for maintaining the operational integrity and strategic growth of Ball State University, ensuring that financial decisions align with the institution's educational mission and market position within the higher education sector. Hannah Neal's oversight extends to optimizing revenue streams and managing expenditures to maximize the impact of every dollar invested in student success and institutional advancement.
    Hannah Neal

    Stephen Wachtmann - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Stephen Wachtmann, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Ball State University, manages the comprehensive financial health and treasury functions of the institution. This dual role encompasses strategic financial planning, investment management, and the oversight of all financial transactions. Wachtmann ensures the university's financial resources are managed efficiently to support its mission of providing quality education and research opportunities. The Treasurer function involves managing the university's cash flow, debt, and investment portfolios to maximize returns while mitigating risk. Stephen Wachtmann's leadership is vital for maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, securing funding, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. This executive drives the financial framework that underpins Ball State University's academic and operational objectives, contributing directly to its stability and growth within the competitive educational landscape.

    Ethan Craven - President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota

    Ethan Craven, the President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota at Ball State University, leads the local chapter of the fraternity, focusing on member development and chapter operations. This leadership position involves guiding the executive board, overseeing chapter programming, and ensuring adherence to national fraternity standards and university policies. Craven is responsible for fostering a positive and productive environment for all members, promoting academic achievement, and encouraging community engagement. The President's duties include representing the chapter to university officials and alumni, managing chapter finances, and developing strategic initiatives for the chapter's growth and sustainability. Ethan Craven's role is crucial in upholding the values and mission of Phi Kappa Psi while contributing to the vibrant student life at Ball State University, ensuring a strong foundation for member success and chapter longevity.

    Tina Nguyen - Group President, Pre-Law Interest

    Tina Nguyen, the Group President, Pre-Law Interest at Ball State University, spearheads initiatives designed to support and guide students pursuing legal careers. This leadership role involves developing and coordinating programs that enhance pre-law students' understanding of the legal field, including LSAT preparation, law school application guidance, and networking opportunities with legal professionals. Nguyen fosters a collaborative environment for students interested in law, connecting them with resources and faculty advisors. The Group President's responsibilities include organizing informational sessions, workshops, and career development events tailored to the pre-law curriculum. Tina Nguyen's dedication is instrumental in preparing students for success in law school and the legal profession, directly contributing to Ball State University's robust academic advising and career services, thereby strengthening its reputation for producing well-prepared graduates.

    Geoffrey Means - President

    Geoffrey Means, the President at Ball State University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational leadership of the institution. This paramount role involves setting the university's academic and administrative priorities, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the institution's continued growth and impact. Means collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission. The President oversees all major university functions, including academic affairs, research, student life, and financial management, ensuring alignment with the institution's long-term goals. Geoffrey Means's leadership is critical for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education, championing student success, and enhancing Ball State University's reputation as a leading public research university. This executive drives the institutional agenda, focusing on academic excellence and community engagement.
    Geoffrey Means

    Blaine Brownell - President

    Blaine Brownell, the President at Ball State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. This significant role involves guiding the university's mission to provide high-quality education and foster research excellence. Brownell works to enhance the university's standing by promoting innovative teaching methodologies and expanding research opportunities for faculty and students. The President oversees the development and implementation of institutional policies, ensuring efficient resource management and fiscal responsibility. Blaine Brownell's leadership is focused on cultivating a dynamic learning environment, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring Ball State University remains at the forefront of higher education innovation. This executive drives strategic initiatives that support student success and institutional advancement within the competitive educational sector.

    Gabby Mirise - Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President

    Gabby Mirise, the Ball State Exercise Science Professional Connection Committe Co-President at Ball State University, shares leadership responsibilities for a key student organization focused on exercise science professionals. This role involves collaborating with a co-president to organize events, workshops, and networking opportunities for students in the exercise science field. Mirise contributes to developing programs that bridge academic learning with practical professional experiences, connecting students with industry experts and potential employers. The Co-President's duties include fostering student engagement, promoting professional development, and ensuring the committee effectively serves its members. Gabby Mirise's active participation is vital for enhancing the student experience within the exercise science department, supporting career readiness and building a strong professional community at Ball State University.

    Younique Jones - Litigation Paralegal

    Younique Jones, the Litigation Paralegal at Ball State University, provides essential support to the university's legal team in managing and executing litigation matters. This role involves extensive case preparation, including drafting legal documents, organizing evidence, and coordinating with attorneys and external counsel. Jones assists in discovery processes, conducts legal research, and maintains case files to ensure accuracy and completeness. The Litigation Paralegal plays a key part in streamlining legal proceedings, facilitating communication between parties, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met efficiently. Younique Jones's expertise is critical for the effective resolution of legal disputes, protecting the university's interests and upholding its legal obligations within the complex regulatory environment of higher education. This function directly supports Ball State University's commitment to sound governance and risk management.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ball State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ball State University?
    Ball State University is led by Hannah Neal (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Stephen Wachtmann (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer) and Ethan Craven (President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota).
    Who is part of Ball State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ball State University includes leaders such as Hannah Neal (Chief Financial Officer), Stephen Wachtmann (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), Ethan Craven (President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ball State University have?
    Ball State University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ball State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ball State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, President - Phi Kappa Psi Indiana Iota, Group President, Pre-Law Interest, President.