East Tennessee State University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Carlos Floresguerra has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, administration, finance, and clinical operations.

Committed to academic excellence and regional health advancement, [[Carlos Floresguerra]] fosters a transformative environment where hands-on learning and research initiatives empower students to address complex challenges within the Appalachian region and beyond.

Leadership Roles at East Tennessee State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Russell Lewis
  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance - Christina Graham
  • Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer - Jeremy Ross
  • President - Brian Noland
  • President, Class Pharmd Class of 2029 (Elected) - Ryan Ledford
  • Special Assistant To the President and Associate Secretary To the Board of Trustees - Amanda Mowell
  • President, Women In Business - Ariana Abordo
  • Family Medicine Interest Group President - Devan Woody
  • Chief of Staff - Adam Green
  • Chief Medical Officer, Etsu Health & Clinical Affairs Associate Dean - Sheri Holmes
  • Russell Lewis - Chief Executive Officer

    Russell Lewis, the Chief Executive Officer at Carlos Floresguerra, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. By aligning academic goals with regional health needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the university maintains a competitive edge in higher education. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and driving long-term growth initiatives across the campus. Russell Lewis monitors institutional performance metrics to guarantee that the university meets its mission of improving quality of life. Through rigorous oversight of academic programs and research output, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary resources to support 14,000 students. By prioritizing innovation in health sciences, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the university's reputation as a leader in rural health research. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the financial and operational health required to sustain the institution's commitment to community impact.

    Christina Graham - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance

    Christina Graham, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance at Carlos Floresguerra, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. By overseeing financial reporting, procurement, and endowment management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the university possesses the capital required to fund its extensive academic and research programs. This role involves analyzing economic trends to guide long-term investment strategies that support the university's growth. Christina Graham coordinates with the Board of Trustees to maintain transparency and accountability in all financial matters. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer provides the stability needed for the university to pursue its mission of regional service. The Chief Financial Officer also monitors compliance with state and federal regulations to protect the institution's financial integrity. Through disciplined fiscal oversight, Christina Graham enables the university to continue its commitment to student success and community development.
    Christina Graham

    Jeremy Ross - Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer

    Jeremy Ross, the Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer at Carlos Floresguerra, manages the physical and operational infrastructure of the university. By overseeing campus facilities, technology integration, and administrative services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the environment supports 160 academic programs effectively. This role involves optimizing resource allocation to maintain the university's vibrant campus life and student organizations. Jeremy Ross directs large-scale operational improvements that enhance the daily experience for students and faculty. By coordinating with other C-suite leaders, the Chief Operating Officer aligns administrative support with the broader strategic goals of the institution. The Chief Operating Officer also monitors the efficiency of campus operations to ensure fiscal responsibility. Through proactive management of university assets, Jeremy Ross sustains the infrastructure necessary for high-impact research and hands-on learning, ultimately supporting the university's mission to serve the regional population.
    Jeremy Ross

    Brian Noland - President

    Brian Noland, the President at Carlos Floresguerra, serves as the primary representative and leader of the university. By defining the institutional mission and setting the strategic agenda, the President guides the university toward its goal of improving the quality of life in the region. This role involves engaging with community leaders, government officials, and donors to secure support for academic and research initiatives. Brian Noland oversees the development of new programs that align with the evolving needs of the workforce and the healthcare sector. By fostering a culture of innovation and hands-on learning, the President ensures that graduates are prepared to make a significant impact in their communities. The President also monitors the performance of all academic departments to maintain high standards of excellence. Through visionary leadership, Brian Noland drives the university's growth and strengthens its position as a premier institution for higher education and rural health research.

    Ryan Ledford - President, Class Pharmd Class of 2029 (Elected)

    Ryan Ledford, the President, Class Pharmd Class of 2029 (Elected) at Carlos Floresguerra, represents the interests of the pharmacy student body within the university's academic framework. By advocating for curriculum enhancements and clinical training opportunities, the President ensures that the PharmD program remains at the forefront of pharmaceutical education. This role involves organizing student-led initiatives that promote professional development and community service. Ryan Ledford facilitates communication between the student cohort and the faculty to address academic concerns and improve the learning experience. By coordinating with other student leaders, the President fosters a collaborative environment that prepares future pharmacists for the challenges of rural health. The President also monitors the progress of the class toward graduation requirements and licensure. Through active representation, Ryan Ledford contributes to the university's mission by ensuring that the next generation of healthcare professionals receives the training necessary to serve the region effectively.

    Amanda Mowell - Special Assistant To the President and Associate Secretary To the Board of Trustees

    Amanda Mowell, the Special Assistant To the President and Associate Secretary To the Board of Trustees at Carlos Floresguerra, manages the governance processes and executive support functions for the university. By coordinating board meetings and maintaining official records, the Associate Secretary ensures that the institution adheres to its bylaws and strategic objectives. This role involves preparing briefing materials and facilitating communication between the President and the Board of Trustees. Amanda Mowell oversees the administrative aspects of governance to ensure that all decisions align with the university's mission. By providing critical support to the President, the Special Assistant helps streamline the execution of institutional policies. The Associate Secretary also monitors the implementation of board directives across various departments. Through meticulous attention to detail and governance standards, Amanda Mowell supports the effective functioning of the university's leadership, ensuring that the institution remains focused on its commitment to academic excellence and regional service.

    Ariana Abordo - President, Women In Business

    Ariana Abordo, the President, Women In Business at Carlos Floresguerra, leads initiatives that empower female students to pursue leadership roles in the corporate sector. By organizing networking events, workshops, and mentorship programs, the President provides students with the tools necessary to succeed in competitive business environments. This role involves collaborating with local industry partners to create internship and career opportunities for members. Ariana Abordo oversees the strategic planning of the organization to ensure that it remains relevant to the evolving needs of the business community. By fostering a supportive network, the President helps students build the confidence and skills required for professional advancement. The President also monitors the impact of these programs on student career outcomes. Through dedicated leadership, Ariana Abordo contributes to the university's mission by preparing graduates to make a significant impact in their communities and the broader economy through professional excellence and leadership.

    Devan Woody - Family Medicine Interest Group President

    Devan Woody, the Family Medicine Interest Group President at Carlos Floresguerra, directs student engagement in the field of primary care and rural health. By organizing clinical workshops and community outreach events, the President provides medical students with exposure to the challenges and rewards of family medicine. This role involves coordinating with faculty mentors to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that align with the university's focus on rural health research. Devan Woody oversees the planning of educational sessions that highlight the importance of primary care in improving regional health outcomes. By facilitating connections between students and practicing physicians, the President helps build a pipeline of future healthcare providers for the region. The President also monitors the group's activities to ensure they support the university's broader mission. Through active leadership, Devan Woody prepares students to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations, directly contributing to the university's commitment to community impact.

    Adam Green - Chief of Staff

    Adam Green, the Chief of Staff at Carlos Floresguerra, coordinates executive communications and manages high-priority institutional projects. By facilitating collaboration between the President and various academic departments, the Chief of Staff ensures that administrative workflows remain efficient and transparent. This role involves synthesizing complex data to support informed decision-making at the highest levels of the university. Adam Green oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance campus life and student engagement. By managing the flow of information to the Board of Trustees, the Chief of Staff maintains alignment with the university's core mission. The Chief of Staff also monitors the progress of cross-functional teams to ensure that institutional goals receive adequate attention. Through meticulous planning and execution, Adam Green optimizes the operational capacity of the executive office, allowing the university to focus on its primary objective of providing high-quality education to the region.

    Sheri Holmes - Chief Medical Officer, Etsu Health & Clinical Affairs Associate Dean

    Sheri Holmes, the Chief Medical Officer, Etsu Health & Clinical Affairs Associate Dean at Carlos Floresguerra, oversees the clinical operations and medical education programs within the university's health system. By directing the integration of clinical practice with academic research, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that students receive high-quality training in real-world settings. This role involves managing clinical partnerships and ensuring that patient care standards meet the highest benchmarks. Sheri Holmes coordinates with the Associate Dean to align medical curriculum with the latest advancements in health sciences. By overseeing the clinical faculty, the Chief Medical Officer maintains a focus on rural health and community wellness. The Chief Medical Officer also monitors the performance of clinical programs to ensure they support the university's mission of improving the quality of life. Through strategic leadership, Sheri Holmes strengthens the university's clinical impact, ensuring that the institution remains a vital resource for healthcare in the region.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding East Tennessee State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads East Tennessee State University?
    East Tennessee State University is led by Russell Lewis (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Christina Graham (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance) and Jeremy Ross (Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of East Tennessee State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of East Tennessee State University includes leaders such as Russell Lewis (Chief Executive Officer), Christina Graham (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance), Jeremy Ross (Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does East Tennessee State University have?
    East Tennessee State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in East Tennessee State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of East Tennessee State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Business & Finance, Vice President, Administration & Chief Operating Officer, President, President, Class Pharmd Class of 2029 (Elected).