Blackboard Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Blackboard has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, information technology, and founder relations.

Driven by a commitment to advancing education, Blackboard empowers institutions worldwide with innovative software solutions and comprehensive support, shaping the future of learning through technology.

Leadership Roles at Blackboard

  • Chief Executive Officer - Antwain Baker
  • Chief Financial Officer - Judy Versea
  • Chief Operating Officer - Ann Bartnik
  • Founder & President - Mike Belvin
  • Chief Information Officer - Ed Russell
  • 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 its mission to develop cutting-edge education software solutions. This leadership role involves overseeing all departments, fostering innovation, and driving growth across the global education technology market. Baker's focus remains on enhancing the value Blackboard delivers to educational institutions through its comprehensive suite of services, including online program management and student support systems. The Chief Executive Officer's mandate includes cultivating strategic partnerships and expanding market reach, solidifying Blackboard's position as a leader in the edtech sector. By championing a culture of continuous improvement, Antwain Baker ensures the company consistently meets the evolving needs of students and educators worldwide.

    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 resource allocation, ensuring robust financial controls and compliance. This executive position involves developing financial strategies that support Blackboard's expansion in the education software market and its online program management services. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing investor relations and securing capital to fuel innovation and operational scaling. Versea's expertise is critical in navigating the financial complexities of the edtech industry, optimizing profitability, and driving sustainable revenue growth. By meticulously analyzing financial data, Judy Versea provides key insights that inform executive decision-making and safeguard the company's long-term financial stability.

    Ann Bartnik - Chief Operating Officer

    Ann Bartnik, the Chief Operating Officer at Blackboard, orchestrates the company's day-to-day operational efficiency and service delivery. Bartnik oversees the execution of strategic initiatives across all functional areas, ensuring seamless integration of software development, platform consulting, and student services. This critical role involves optimizing internal processes to enhance the delivery of education software solutions and managed hosting services. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing global operations, driving process improvements, and ensuring the highest standards of service quality for educational institutions. Ann Bartnik's leadership focuses on streamlining operations to support Blackboard's mission of empowering learning environments through technology. By fostering collaboration and implementing best practices, Bartnik ensures operational excellence and supports the company's sustained growth in the edtech landscape.
    Ann Bartnik

    Mike Belvin - Founder & President

    Mike Belvin, the Founder & President at Blackboard, provides foundational leadership and strategic direction for the company's long-term vision. Belvin's role involves guiding the enterprise's mission to revolutionize education through innovative software and comprehensive support services. This executive position focuses on fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring the company's continued impact on educational institutions globally. The Founder & President's influence extends to shaping strategic partnerships and championing the core values that define Blackboard's approach to online program management and student services. Mike Belvin's enduring commitment to advancing educational technology drives the company's pursuit of excellence and its dedication to empowering learners and educators worldwide. Belvin's leadership ensures the company remains at the forefront of the edtech industry.

    Ed Russell - Chief Information Officer

    Ed Russell, the Chief Information Officer at Blackboard, leads the company's technology infrastructure and information security strategy. Russell oversees the development and maintenance of robust IT systems that support Blackboard's education software solutions and online program management platforms. This executive function involves ensuring the integrity, availability, and security of all company data and digital assets. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include driving technological innovation, managing enterprise-wide IT projects, and implementing advanced cybersecurity measures to protect against evolving threats. Ed Russell's strategic direction is vital for maintaining the operational backbone of Blackboard, enabling seamless service delivery and supporting the company's commitment to providing reliable and secure educational technology. Russell ensures that technology investments align with business objectives, enhancing efficiency and user experience.

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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 Judy Versea (Chief Financial Officer) and Ann Bartnik (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Blackboard’s executive team?
    The executive team of Blackboard includes leaders such as Antwain Baker (Chief Executive Officer), Judy Versea (Chief Financial Officer), Ann Bartnik (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Blackboard have?
    Blackboard has 5 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, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Founder & President, Chief Information Officer.