Blackboard Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Blackboard has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, information technology, and product development.

Driven by a commitment to educational advancement, Blackboard focuses on delivering innovative software solutions and comprehensive online program management to enhance learning experiences globally.

Leadership Roles at Blackboard

  • Chief Executive Officer - Antwain Baker
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Richard Dangel
  • Chief Financial Officer - Judy Versea
  • Chief Operating Officer - Ann Bartnik
  • Founder & President - Mike Belvin
  • Chief Information Officer - Ed Russell
  • Global Chief Information Officer - Jins Varghese
  • Antwain Baker - Chief Executive Officer

    Antwain Baker, the Chief Executive Officer at Blackboard, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Baker guides the enterprise's trajectory, ensuring alignment with market demands for education software solutions and online program management. This leadership role involves fostering innovation across departments, from product development to student services, to maintain Blackboard's competitive edge. Baker's oversight extends to optimizing enterprise-wide performance and driving sustainable growth within the education technology sector. The Chief Executive Officer ensures that all business units operate cohesively to deliver maximum value to educational institutions and learners. By championing a forward-thinking approach, Antwain Baker solidifies the company's position as a leader in transforming educational delivery.

    Richard Dangel - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Richard Dangel, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Blackboard, spearheads the company's strategic direction and executive leadership. Dangel drives the vision for Blackboard's education software solutions and online program management services, ensuring robust market penetration and client satisfaction. This executive position involves cultivating strategic partnerships and overseeing the integration of new technologies to enhance the learning ecosystem. Dangel's responsibilities include guiding the company's expansion efforts and ensuring operational excellence across all global initiatives. The President & Chief Executive Officer champions initiatives that advance Blackboard's mission to improve educational outcomes through innovative technology. Richard Dangel's leadership ensures the company remains at the forefront of educational technology innovation.

    Judy Versea - Chief Financial Officer

    Judy Versea, the Chief Financial Officer at Blackboard, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Versea oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation, ensuring robust financial stability for Blackboard's software solutions and online program management services. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support long-term growth and profitability, while also managing investor relations and compliance. Versea's expertise guides investment decisions and risk management across the enterprise. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to drive innovation and operational efficiency. Judy Versea's diligent financial stewardship underpins the company's ability to execute its ambitious growth plans.

    Ann Bartnik - Chief Operating Officer

    Ann Bartnik, the Chief Operating Officer at Blackboard, oversees the company's day-to-day operational functions and process optimization. Bartnik drives efficiency and effectiveness across all departments, ensuring seamless delivery of Blackboard's education software solutions and online program management services. This executive role involves managing cross-functional teams, implementing operational best practices, and enhancing service delivery to meet client expectations. Bartnik's focus is on streamlining workflows and improving resource allocation to support scalable growth. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that operational strategies align with the company's mission and contribute to overall business success. Ann Bartnik's leadership ensures that Blackboard's operations consistently meet high standards of performance and reliability.
    Ann Bartnik

    Mike Belvin - Founder & President

    Mike Belvin, the Founder & President at Blackboard, established the company's foundational vision and continues to guide its strategic growth. Belvin's enduring influence shapes Blackboard's commitment to innovation in education software solutions and online program management. This executive position involves providing high-level strategic counsel and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and client-centric development. Belvin's deep understanding of the education technology landscape informs key decisions regarding market expansion and product evolution. The Founder & President plays a pivotal role in maintaining the company's core values and long-term strategic direction. Mike Belvin's legacy is integral to Blackboard's ongoing mission to transform education.

    Ed Russell - Chief Information Officer

    Ed Russell, the Chief Information Officer at Blackboard, directs the company's information technology strategy and infrastructure. Russell oversees the development and implementation of robust IT systems that support Blackboard's education software solutions and online program management operations. This leadership position involves ensuring data security, system reliability, and technological innovation across the enterprise. Russell's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, leading technology teams, and aligning IT initiatives with overall business objectives. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology infrastructure effectively supports client needs and enhances operational efficiency. Ed Russell's strategic IT management is crucial for maintaining Blackboard's technological advantage.

    Jins Varghese - Global Chief Information Officer

    Jins Varghese, the Global Chief Information Officer at Blackboard, leads the company's worldwide information technology strategy and execution. Varghese is responsible for architecting and maintaining the global IT infrastructure that underpins Blackboard's education software solutions and online program management services. This role involves ensuring cybersecurity, system scalability, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies across international operations. Varghese's purview includes managing global IT teams, optimizing technology investments, and ensuring compliance with international data regulations. The Global Chief Information Officer drives technological advancements that enhance Blackboard's global service delivery and competitive positioning. Jins Varghese's strategic IT leadership is vital for supporting Blackboard's international expansion and operational integrity.
    Jins Varghese

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Blackboard Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Blackboard?
    Blackboard is led by Antwain Baker (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Richard Dangel (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Judy Versea (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Blackboard’s executive team?
    The executive team of Blackboard includes leaders such as Antwain Baker (Chief Executive Officer), Richard Dangel (President & Chief Executive Officer), Judy Versea (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Blackboard have?
    Blackboard has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Blackboard’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Blackboard includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Founder & President.