Catawba College Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Catawba College has 5 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, regional strategy, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to enriching student experiences, Catawba College prepares individuals for meaningful lives through over 70 academic programs, fostering personal and academic growth within a supportive environment dedicated to education, sustainability, and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Catawba College

  • Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance - Robert Wallett
  • Director, Operations & President, Office of - Kimberly Pauley
  • State President - Courtney Foster
  • President - David Nelson
  • Chief Information Officer - Cayce Will
  • Robert Wallett - Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance

    Robert Wallett, the Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance at Catawba College, manages the financial health and operational business functions of the institution. This executive oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Wallett's purview extends to managing college investments, optimizing resource allocation, and developing financial strategies that support long-term institutional goals. The Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance also guides key business operations, ensuring efficient administrative processes and compliance with financial regulations. By maintaining strong financial oversight, Robert Wallett safeguards the college's assets and supports its mission of providing quality education and fostering community engagement. This critical role ensures the financial stability necessary for continued academic and programmatic development.

    Kimberly Pauley - Director, Operations & President, Office of

    Kimberly Pauley, the Director, Operations & President, Office of at Catawba College, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for key administrative functions. This leadership position involves overseeing the day-to-day management of critical campus operations, ensuring efficiency and alignment with the college's overarching mission. Pauley's responsibilities include optimizing resource utilization, managing departmental workflows, and implementing policies that enhance the overall student and staff experience. The Director, Operations & President, Office of also serves as a key liaison, facilitating communication and collaboration between various college departments and external stakeholders. By driving operational excellence, Kimberly Pauley supports the college's commitment to sustainability and community engagement, ensuring that administrative processes effectively contribute to academic success and institutional advancement. This role is vital for maintaining seamless campus functionality.

    Courtney Foster - State President

    Courtney Foster, the State President at Catawba College, spearheads initiatives and strategic partnerships within the state to advance the college's mission and reach. This executive role focuses on expanding the college's influence and impact through targeted outreach and collaboration with state-level entities, educational bodies, and community organizations. Foster's responsibilities include identifying opportunities for growth, fostering key relationships, and representing the college's interests at the state level. The State President drives strategic planning for regional engagement, ensuring that the college's programs and values resonate within the broader community. By cultivating these vital connections, Courtney Foster enhances the college's reputation and supports its commitment to community engagement and educational advancement across North Carolina. This position is crucial for broadening the college's societal contribution.

    David Nelson - President

    David Nelson, the President at Catawba College, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This paramount role involves setting the overarching vision, mission, and goals, guiding the college toward fulfilling its commitment to enriching student experiences and preparing individuals for meaningful lives. Nelson oversees all major institutional initiatives, including academic program development, campus expansion, and community engagement efforts. The President works closely with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students to foster a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. By championing the college's core values, David Nelson ensures that Catawba College remains a leader in higher education, dedicated to cultivating a better world through education and service. This leadership is fundamental to the college's continued success and impact.

    Cayce Will - Chief Information Officer

    Cayce Will, the Chief Information Officer at Catawba College, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. This leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic and administrative functions. Will's responsibilities include managing the college's digital resources, implementing innovative technological solutions, and maintaining the integrity of data across campus. The Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation initiatives, enhancing the learning environment and operational efficiency. By aligning technology with the college's mission, Cayce Will ensures that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge tools and support, facilitating academic excellence and institutional growth. This position is critical for maintaining the college's competitive edge in higher education through advanced technological integration.
    Cayce Will

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Catawba College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Catawba College?
    Catawba College is led by Robert Wallett (Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance), along with executives such as Kimberly Pauley (Director, Operations & President, Office of) and Courtney Foster (State President).
    Who is part of Catawba College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Catawba College includes leaders such as Robert Wallett (Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance), Kimberly Pauley (Director, Operations & President, Office of), Courtney Foster (State President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Catawba College have?
    Catawba College has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Catawba College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Catawba College includes roles such as Interim Vice President, Business and Chief Financial Officer, Finance, Director, Operations & President, Office of, State President, President, Chief Information Officer.