Baylor University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Baylor University has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, human resources, and presidential support.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and Christian values, Baylor University advances its mission as an interdisciplinary research institution, fostering intellectual growth and spiritual development for students across Texas and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Baylor University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kristin Bell
  • Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp - Hattie Black
  • Chief Operating Officer - Dovalee Dorsett
  • Director, Board Presidential Operations & To The Assistant & President, S & Chief of Staff - Judith Carpenter
  • President - Bill Clinton
  • Class President - Alanis Meza
  • Bear Tracks Co-president - Katelyn Severance
  • Chief of Staff - Saphiana Zamora
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Jim Johnson
  • Executive Assistant To Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Samantha Siverly
  • Kristin Bell - Chief Financial Officer

    Kristin Bell, the Chief Financial Officer at Baylor University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and oversight. Bell directs all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term financial health. This role is critical in supporting Baylor University's mission by securing and managing resources for academic programs, research initiatives, and campus development. The Chief Financial Officer analyzes financial performance, identifies opportunities for revenue enhancement, and mitigates financial risks. Bell's leadership ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting standards, maintaining transparency and accountability. By providing strategic financial guidance, Kristin Bell enables the university to pursue its educational and research goals effectively. The financial stewardship under Bell's direction is fundamental to sustaining Baylor University's operational capacity and its commitment to its students and faculty.

    Hattie Black - Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp

    Hattie Black, the Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp at Baylor University, directs the financial operations and strategic investments for the institution. Black oversees the fiscal health of the university, managing budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation to support academic and research endeavors. This dual role involves not only traditional CFO responsibilities but also specific leadership within the Amp initiative, driving its financial strategy and operational execution. The Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director ensures fiscal integrity, compliance, and the efficient deployment of capital to achieve institutional objectives. Hattie Black's financial acumen and leadership in the Amp program are crucial for Baylor University's growth and innovation. By providing robust financial oversight and strategic direction, Black enables the university to pursue its mission effectively and sustainably. The financial management and investment strategies implemented by Hattie Black are integral to Baylor University's continued success.

    Dovalee Dorsett - Chief Operating Officer

    Dovalee Dorsett, the Chief Operating Officer at Baylor University, directs the institution's operational framework, ensuring efficient resource allocation and the seamless execution of administrative functions. Dorsett oversees campus infrastructure, facilities management, and auxiliary services, aligning these critical areas with the university's strategic objectives. This leadership role involves optimizing daily operations to support academic and research endeavors, fostering an environment conducive to learning and innovation. By managing the university's physical and operational assets, Dorsett ensures that Baylor University maintains its standing as a leading research institution. The Chief Operating Officer's purview extends to enhancing operational efficiencies across all departments, directly contributing to the university's long-term sustainability and growth. Dovalee Dorsett drives the implementation of best practices in operational management, reinforcing the university's commitment to excellence in higher education.

    Judith Carpenter - Director, Board Presidential Operations & To The Assistant & President, S & Chief of Staff

    Judith Carpenter, the Director, Board Presidential Operations & To The Assistant & President, S & Chief of Staff at Baylor University, manages critical operational and administrative functions supporting the university's highest leadership. Carpenter oversees the coordination of board presidential operations, ensuring seamless execution of duties related to the President and the Board of Trustees. This multifaceted role involves strategic project management, executive support, and ensuring operational alignment across key presidential initiatives. Judith Carpenter's responsibilities include facilitating communication, managing schedules, and supporting the strategic objectives of the university's leadership. By providing comprehensive operational oversight and executive assistance, Carpenter directly contributes to the effective governance and strategic advancement of Baylor University. The meticulous management and operational expertise provided by Judith Carpenter are vital for the efficient functioning of presidential and board-level activities, reinforcing the university's commitment to excellence.

    Bill Clinton - President

    Bill Clinton, the President at Baylor University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Clinton is responsible for setting the university's overarching mission, guiding its academic and research endeavors, and fostering its growth as a leading Christian research university. This role involves engaging with stakeholders, including faculty, students, alumni, and the Board of Trustees, to advance Baylor University's objectives. The President oversees all major institutional decisions, ensuring alignment with the university's core values and strategic plan. Bill Clinton's leadership is instrumental in shaping the university's future, driving innovation, and enhancing its national and international reputation. By championing academic excellence and spiritual formation, Clinton ensures Baylor University continues to fulfill its unique mission. The comprehensive leadership provided by Bill Clinton is fundamental to the sustained success and impact of Baylor University.

    Alanis Meza - Class President

    Alanis Meza, the Class President at Baylor University, represents the student body and advocates for student interests within the university governance structure. Meza leads initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience, organizing events, and fostering a sense of community among peers. This leadership position involves collaborating with university administration and student organizations to address student needs and concerns. The Class President plays a key role in bridging communication between students and university leadership, ensuring student voices are heard. Alanis Meza's dedication to student welfare and engagement contributes to a vibrant campus life. By leading student-focused programs and initiatives, Meza actively supports the university's commitment to holistic student development. The representation and advocacy provided by Alanis Meza are integral to the student experience at Baylor University.

    Katelyn Severance - Bear Tracks Co-president

    Katelyn Severance, the Bear Tracks Co-president at Baylor University, leads a key student organization focused on enhancing campus engagement and student life. Severance collaborates with fellow co-presidents and university staff to develop and implement programs that support student success and community building. This role involves coordinating activities, managing resources, and promoting participation in Bear Tracks initiatives. The Bear Tracks Co-president is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all students, aligning organizational goals with the university's broader mission. Katelyn Severance's leadership contributes to the vibrant student experience at Baylor University by organizing impactful events and activities. By actively engaging students and promoting campus spirit, Severance strengthens the university community. The commitment and organizational skills demonstrated by Katelyn Severance are vital to the success of student-led programs at Baylor University.

    Saphiana Zamora - Chief of Staff

    Saphiana Zamora, the Chief of Staff at Baylor University, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the university's executive leadership. Zamora facilitates the effective functioning of the President's office and collaborates closely with other senior administrators to advance institutional priorities. This role involves managing key initiatives, overseeing special projects, and ensuring alignment across various departments. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of communication, streamlining information flow and enhancing decision-making processes. Saphiana Zamora's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, coordinating board relations, and driving strategic planning efforts. By managing complex projects and ensuring operational synergy, Zamora directly supports the university's mission and its commitment to academic excellence. The strategic counsel and operational management provided by Saphiana Zamora are vital to the effective governance of Baylor University.

    Jim Johnson - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Jim Johnson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Baylor University, leads the comprehensive human capital strategy for the institution. Johnson oversees all aspects of employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, and professional development for faculty and staff. This critical role ensures that Baylor University attracts, retains, and develops a high-caliber workforce dedicated to its mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer champions a positive and inclusive work environment, fostering employee engagement and organizational effectiveness. Jim Johnson's strategic direction supports the university's commitment to its people, aligning HR policies with institutional goals and values. By managing the employee lifecycle and promoting a culture of continuous improvement, Johnson contributes significantly to the university's operational success and its reputation as an employer of choice. The human resources framework developed under Jim Johnson's leadership is essential for Baylor University's sustained growth and academic achievement.

    Samantha Siverly - Executive Assistant To Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Samantha Siverly, the Executive Assistant To Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Baylor University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the HR leadership. Siverly manages complex scheduling, coordinates meetings, and facilitates communication between the Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer and other university stakeholders. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth functioning of the human resources department, enabling efficient execution of HR strategies and initiatives. Samantha Siverly handles confidential information with discretion and supports the development and implementation of HR policies and programs. By managing administrative tasks and providing proactive support, Siverly enhances the productivity and effectiveness of the HR leadership. The organizational skills and dedication demonstrated by Samantha Siverly are critical to the operational efficiency of Baylor University's human resources functions, directly contributing to the support of faculty and staff.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Baylor University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Baylor University?
    Baylor University is led by Kristin Bell (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Hattie Black (Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp) and Dovalee Dorsett (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Baylor University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Baylor University includes leaders such as Kristin Bell (Chief Financial Officer), Hattie Black (Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp), Dovalee Dorsett (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Baylor University have?
    Baylor University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Baylor University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Baylor University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director, Amp, Amp, Chief Operating Officer, Director, Board Presidential Operations & To The Assistant & President, S & Chief of Staff, President.