Brenau University Executive and Leadership Team

Wayne Dempsey, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Brenau University, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Overseeing budget allocations, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources support the growth of graduate and undergraduate programs. This role involves directing financial reporting, auditing, and investment strategies to sustain the university's liberal arts foundation. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Wayne Dempsey secures the capital necessary for campus infrastructure and technological advancements. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the board to align financial policies with the strategic vision of the university. Dempsey maintains rigorous oversight of all fiscal operations, ensuring compliance and transparency. Through prudent financial management, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of educational offerings, ultimately strengthening the institution's market position within the competitive higher education landscape.

John Burd, the President at Brenau University, provides the primary vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Directing the academic and administrative trajectory, the President oversees the implementation of the liberal arts mission across all campuses. This role involves engaging with stakeholders, donors, and the community to advance the university's reputation and reach. By fostering a culture of academic excellence, John Burd ensures that the institution meets the evolving needs of students in both graduate and undergraduate programs. The President works closely with the board and other executive leaders to define long-term strategic goals and institutional priorities. Burd represents the university in regional and national forums, advocating for the value of a comprehensive education. Through decisive leadership, the President maintains the university's commitment to student success and institutional growth, ensuring that the core values of the institution remain central to every decision made at the executive level.

Jeff Pierce, the Museum President at Brenau University, directs the cultural and educational programming of the university's museum assets. Overseeing collections, exhibitions, and public outreach, the Museum President integrates artistic and historical resources into the broader academic experience. This role involves managing the museum's operations to ensure that exhibits align with the liberal arts focus of the institution. By curating diverse collections, Jeff Pierce enhances the cultural footprint of the university within the region. The Museum President collaborates with faculty to provide students with unique research and learning opportunities through museum resources. Pierce manages the financial and administrative aspects of the museum, ensuring sustainability and growth. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, the Museum President elevates the profile of the university's cultural offerings. This leadership role ensures that the museum remains a vibrant center for education and public enrichment, directly contributing to the university's mission of fostering intellectual and creative development.

Edward Schrader, the President Emeritus at Brenau University, provides historical context and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Offering guidance based on extensive experience, the President Emeritus supports the continuity of the university's mission and long-term objectives. This role involves advising on institutional legacy and maintaining relationships with key alumni and community partners. By sharing insights from past leadership, Edward Schrader helps navigate complex challenges and opportunities for growth. The President Emeritus remains a vital resource for the board and executive staff, ensuring that current initiatives respect the foundational values of the institution. Schrader contributes to the university's ongoing development by fostering connections that bridge the past and future. Through this advisory capacity, the President Emeritus strengthens the institutional culture and supports the strategic vision of the university. This role ensures that the wisdom gained from years of service continues to inform the decision-making processes that shape the future of the university.

Jody Wall, the Chief of Staff at Brenau University, coordinates high-level administrative operations to ensure alignment with institutional goals. Managing complex workflows, the Chief of Staff facilitates communication between the president and various academic departments. This role involves overseeing internal projects that support the liberal arts mission and the residential Women's College. By streamlining organizational processes, Jody Wall enhances operational efficiency across the Gainesville campus and broader regional initiatives. The Chief of Staff monitors progress on strategic objectives, providing critical data to the executive leadership team. Through meticulous planning and cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief of Staff maintains the integrity of university governance. Wall drives initiatives that improve institutional performance, ensuring that all administrative functions support the overarching educational objectives of the university. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the cohesive functioning of the entire academic community.

Chip Andrews, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Brenau University, architects the digital infrastructure required for modern academic delivery. Overseeing network security, data management, and instructional technology, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty across residential and online platforms. This role involves implementing scalable software solutions that enhance the learning experience and administrative productivity. By modernizing digital systems, Chip Andrews supports the university's commitment to innovation in education. The Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leaders to integrate technology into the curriculum, facilitating effective remote and in-person instruction. Andrews manages cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional data and student privacy. Through strategic technology investments, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation, ensuring that the university remains competitive and technologically agile in a rapidly evolving educational environment.