Creighton University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Creighton University has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, operations, research, and student leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Creighton University fosters a dynamic learning environment dedicated to educating students for leadership and service in their professions and communities.

Leadership Roles at Creighton University

  • Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Barbara Leonard
  • President, S Faculty Research Fund - George Haddix
  • Inter-Fraternity Council, President - Jack Efaw
  • President - Grace Pund
  • President - Timothy Lannon
  • President - Adam Dilla
  • President - William Graft
  • GSG President - Dallys Medali
  • Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Administration Dean - Jeffrey Zelda
  • Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Operations - Klaus Thaler
  • Barbara Leonard - Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Barbara Leonard, the Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Creighton University, manages the institution's daily operations and ensures the effective execution of its strategic plan. Leonard oversees a broad range of departments, including facilities, finance, and human resources, driving operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility. This executive role involves developing and implementing policies that support the university's academic and research objectives. Leonard's leadership ensures that the university's infrastructure and resources are optimized to support student success and faculty innovation. By directing operational strategies, Barbara Leonard contributes significantly to the university's stability and growth, maintaining a focus on service excellence across all campus functions.

    George Haddix - President, S Faculty Research Fund

    George Haddix, the President, S Faculty Research Fund at Creighton University, champions and directs the allocation of resources for faculty research initiatives. Haddix is responsible for fostering an environment that encourages scholarly inquiry and innovation across all academic disciplines. This leadership role involves evaluating research proposals, securing funding, and promoting the dissemination of research findings. Haddix works to ensure that faculty research aligns with the university's strategic priorities and contributes to advancements in their respective fields. By guiding the Faculty Research Fund, George Haddix plays a pivotal part in enhancing Creighton University's reputation as a center for impactful research and academic discovery.

    Jack Efaw - Inter-Fraternity Council, President

    Jack Efaw, the Inter-Fraternity Council, President at Creighton University, leads the governing body for fraternities on campus, promoting positive fraternity culture and member development. Efaw oversees council operations, coordinates interfraternal events, and advocates for the interests of fraternity members. This student leadership position involves fostering collaboration among fraternity chapters and ensuring adherence to university policies and standards. Efaw's responsibilities include developing programming focused on leadership, academic achievement, and community service for fraternity members. By guiding the Inter-Fraternity Council, Jack Efaw contributes to the vibrant student life and the development of responsible leaders within the Creighton University community.

    Grace Pund - President

    Grace Pund, the President at Creighton University, holds a significant leadership position within the institution, driving strategic direction and operational oversight. Pund's responsibilities encompass guiding key university initiatives and ensuring alignment with Creighton's mission of academic excellence and service. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students, to foster a dynamic and supportive campus environment. Pund's leadership focuses on enhancing the student experience and advancing the university's academic programs. Through dedicated leadership, Grace Pund contributes to the continued growth and success of Creighton University, reinforcing its commitment to educating leaders for life.

    Timothy Lannon - President

    Timothy Lannon, the President at Creighton University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational framework of the institution. Lannon's leadership is central to advancing Creighton's academic programs, research endeavors, and community engagement efforts. This executive role involves fostering strong relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to support the university's growth and impact. Lannon oversees the implementation of key institutional priorities, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to achieve educational and research excellence. By steering the university's direction, Timothy Lannon plays a crucial role in upholding Creighton University's commitment to Jesuit values and preparing students for meaningful contributions to society.

    Adam Dilla - President

    Adam Dilla, the President at Creighton University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic development and operational effectiveness. Dilla's leadership guides the university's efforts to provide high-quality education and foster a vibrant academic community. This executive position involves overseeing critical university functions and ensuring that strategic goals are met. Dilla works to enhance the student experience and support faculty in their teaching and research pursuits. By driving key initiatives, Adam Dilla contributes to Creighton University's mission of educating students for leadership and service, reinforcing its standing as a distinguished academic institution.

    William Graft - President

    William Graft, the President at Creighton University, spearheads the institution's strategic direction and operational management. Graft's leadership is instrumental in advancing Creighton's academic mission, fostering research innovation, and strengthening community ties. This executive role involves guiding the university's growth and ensuring its continued commitment to Jesuit values. Graft oversees the allocation of resources and the development of programs designed to enhance student success and faculty development. By directing institutional priorities, William Graft plays a vital part in maintaining Creighton University's reputation for academic excellence and its dedication to preparing students for impactful careers and lives of service.

    Dallys Medali - GSG President

    Dallys Medali, the GSG President at Creighton University, leads the Graduate Student Government, advocating for graduate student interests and enhancing their academic and campus experience. Medali oversees council operations, organizes events, and represents graduate students in university governance. This student leadership role involves fostering a supportive community for graduate students and addressing their unique needs and concerns. Medali's responsibilities include promoting professional development opportunities and facilitating communication between graduate students and university administration. By guiding the GSG, Dallys Medali contributes to a more inclusive and effective environment for all graduate students at Creighton University.

    Jeffrey Zelda - Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Administration Dean

    Jeffrey Zelda, the Chief of Staff & Senior Associate & Administration Dean at Creighton University, directs administrative functions and supports strategic initiatives across the university. Zelda oversees key operational processes, ensuring efficient resource allocation and effective implementation of administrative policies. This leadership position involves close collaboration with deans and department heads to align departmental goals with the university's overarching mission. Zelda's role is critical in managing internal communications and facilitating high-level decision-making. By optimizing administrative workflows, Jeffrey Zelda enhances the overall operational capacity of the university, supporting academic and research endeavors.

    Klaus Thaler - Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Operations

    Klaus Thaler, the Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Operations at Creighton University, directs the clinical operations and medical strategy for the university's health sciences programs. Thaler oversees the delivery of patient care, ensuring high standards of medical practice and patient safety across all affiliated healthcare facilities. This executive role involves managing medical staff, developing clinical protocols, and integrating educational objectives with patient care services. Thaler's leadership is crucial in advancing medical research and innovation, aligning clinical activities with the university's academic mission. By optimizing medical operations, Klaus Thaler significantly contributes to Creighton University's role in educating future healthcare professionals and advancing health outcomes.
    Klaus Thaler

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Creighton University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Creighton University?
    Creighton University is led by Barbara Leonard (Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as George Haddix (President, S Faculty Research Fund) and Jack Efaw (Inter-Fraternity Council, President).
    Who is part of Creighton University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Creighton University includes leaders such as Barbara Leonard (Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), George Haddix (President, S Faculty Research Fund), Jack Efaw (Inter-Fraternity Council, President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Creighton University have?
    Creighton University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Creighton University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Creighton University includes roles such as Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, President, S Faculty Research Fund, Inter-Fraternity Council, President, President, President.