Drury University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Drury University has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and personal growth, Drury University provides comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, empowering students to achieve their full potential through a liberal arts foundation and career-focused education.

Leadership Roles at Drury University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Debbie O'Neal
  • Interim Chief Operating Officer - Aaron Jones
  • President - John Beuerlein
  • President - Timothy Cloyd
  • President - Rian Mulherin
  • President - Jeffrey Frederick
  • Orginization President - Isabelle Woidela
  • President - Alanis Ballester
  • Debbie O'Neal - Chief Financial Officer

    Debbie O'Neal, the Chief Financial Officer at Drury University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, O'Neal ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Debbie O'Neal directly supports the university's mission of providing accessible and high-quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing institutional debt, securing funding for capital projects, and providing critical financial analysis to inform strategic decision-making across all university departments. O'Neal's expertise is vital for navigating the complex financial landscape of higher education and driving institutional growth.

    Aaron Jones - Interim Chief Operating Officer

    Aaron Jones, the Interim Chief Operating Officer at Drury University, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and administrative functions. Overseeing campus services, facilities management, and information technology, Jones ensures seamless support for academic and student life. This critical role involves optimizing resource utilization, streamlining processes, and implementing best practices across operational departments. By driving operational excellence, Aaron Jones directly contributes to a conducive learning environment and supports the university's strategic objectives. The Interim Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include overseeing procurement, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring the effective functioning of all non-academic infrastructure. Jones's leadership focuses on enhancing the university's operational capacity and supporting its mission of delivering exceptional educational experiences.

    John Beuerlein - President

    John Beuerlein, the President at Drury University, sets the overarching strategic direction and vision for the institution. Leading the executive team, Beuerlein champions academic excellence, fosters innovation, and guides the university's growth and development. This pivotal role involves engaging with stakeholders, cultivating philanthropic support, and ensuring the university's mission and values are upheld. By steering institutional policy and long-term planning, John Beuerlein directly impacts the university's standing and its ability to serve students effectively. The President's responsibilities encompass external relations, community engagement, and advocating for the university's interests within the broader educational landscape. Beuerlein's leadership is instrumental in advancing Drury University's commitment to liberal arts education and preparing graduates for impactful careers.

    Timothy Cloyd - President

    Timothy Cloyd, the President at Drury University, drives the strategic vision and institutional advancement of the university. Leading all facets of university operations, Cloyd focuses on enhancing academic programs, fostering research initiatives, and expanding the university's reach. This executive position involves cultivating relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to secure resources and support for institutional goals. By championing educational innovation and student success, Timothy Cloyd directly strengthens Drury University's commitment to its liberal arts tradition. The President's oversight includes strategic planning, faculty development, and ensuring the university remains at the forefront of higher education. Cloyd's leadership aims to elevate the university's profile and its impact on students and society.
    Timothy Cloyd

    Rian Mulherin - President

    Rian Mulherin, the President at Drury University, directs the strategic initiatives and operational framework of the institution. Overseeing key university functions, Mulherin focuses on advancing academic quality, fostering a vibrant campus community, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. This leadership position involves collaborating with faculty, staff, and external constituents to achieve institutional objectives. By implementing forward-thinking strategies, Rian Mulherin directly supports Drury University's mission of providing transformative educational experiences. The President's responsibilities include guiding curriculum development, promoting student engagement, and enhancing the university's reputation. Mulherin's tenure emphasizes institutional growth and the continued pursuit of excellence in higher education.

    Jeffrey Frederick - President

    Jeffrey Frederick, the President at Drury University, spearheads the strategic vision and comprehensive leadership of the institution. Guiding all academic and administrative functions, Frederick is dedicated to enhancing the student experience and advancing the university's mission. This role involves fostering a culture of innovation, promoting scholarly activity, and strengthening community partnerships. By championing educational excellence and student development, Jeffrey Frederick directly contributes to Drury University's legacy of liberal arts education. The President's purview includes overseeing strategic planning, resource management, and ensuring the university's responsiveness to evolving educational needs. Frederick's leadership focuses on empowering students and faculty to achieve their highest potential.
    Jeffrey Frederick

    Isabelle Woidela - Orginization President

    Isabelle Woidela, the Orginization President at Drury University, leads strategic planning and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing key projects and cross-functional teams, Woidela ensures alignment with the university's core mission and objectives. This position involves driving operational improvements and fostering a collaborative environment across departments. By implementing effective organizational strategies, Isabelle Woidela directly enhances the university's capacity for growth and innovation. The Orginization President's responsibilities include managing stakeholder relations, evaluating program effectiveness, and championing institutional advancement. Woidela's focus is on strengthening the university's structure and its ability to deliver exceptional educational outcomes.

    Alanis Ballester - President

    Alanis Ballester, the President at Drury University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Overseeing academic affairs and student services, Ballester is committed to fostering an environment of intellectual growth and personal development. This leadership role involves cultivating strong relationships with faculty, staff, and the wider university community. By championing innovative educational approaches, Alanis Ballester directly supports Drury University's commitment to providing a comprehensive liberal arts education. The President's responsibilities include guiding curriculum enhancements, promoting student success initiatives, and ensuring the university's continued relevance and impact. Ballester's leadership aims to empower students for future success.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Drury University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Drury University?
    Drury University is led by Debbie O'Neal (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Aaron Jones (Interim Chief Operating Officer) and John Beuerlein (President).
    Who is part of Drury University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Drury University includes leaders such as Debbie O'Neal (Chief Financial Officer), Aaron Jones (Interim Chief Operating Officer), John Beuerlein (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Drury University have?
    Drury University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Drury University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Drury University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Operating Officer, President, President, President.