Eastern Michigan University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Eastern Michigan University has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Eastern Michigan University provides diverse degree programs across arts, sciences, and professions, shaping future leaders and innovators.

Leadership Roles at Eastern Michigan University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Valdes
  • Chief of Staff to the President - Suzie Staley
  • Co-President - Diane Parfitt
  • President - Donald Pearson
  • Club Baseball President - Aaron Becker
  • Kappa Delta Pi President - Emilie Singelyn
  • President - Patrick Barry
  • Chief of Staff - Douglas Dowdy
  • Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff - Jeffrey Collett
  • Team Captain - Willy Fink
  • Michael Valdes - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Valdes, the Chief Financial Officer at Eastern Michigan University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Valdes oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's financial health and sustainability. This role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and controlling expenditures to support academic and operational goals. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other senior leaders to align financial resources with the university's mission of providing quality education. Valdes's leadership ensures fiscal responsibility across all departments, supporting the institution's long-term growth and stability. By implementing robust financial controls, Michael Valdes safeguards the university's assets and enhances its capacity for future development and student success.

    Suzie Staley - Chief of Staff to the President

    Suzie Staley, the Chief of Staff to the President at Eastern Michigan University, provides direct strategic and operational support to the university's highest leadership position. Staley manages the President's agenda, coordinates high-level meetings, and ensures the effective implementation of presidential directives. This role involves navigating complex institutional challenges and facilitating communication across all university stakeholders. The Chief of Staff to the President is instrumental in advancing the university's strategic vision and maintaining operational continuity. Suzie Staley's expertise in organizational management and strategic planning is crucial for the President's office. By ensuring efficient operations and strategic alignment, Suzie Staley significantly contributes to the university's leadership effectiveness and mission fulfillment.

    Diane Parfitt - Co-President

    Diane Parfitt, the Co-President at Eastern Michigan University, shares leadership responsibilities for a key organizational unit, driving its strategic direction and operational execution. Parfitt collaborates with fellow leadership to set objectives, manage resources, and foster an environment conducive to academic and organizational success. This role involves overseeing specific departmental functions and ensuring alignment with broader university goals. The Co-President position requires strong leadership acumen and the ability to manage diverse teams and initiatives effectively. Diane Parfitt's contributions are vital to the unit's performance and its impact on the university community. By working collaboratively, Diane Parfitt helps advance the unit's mission and enhance its overall effectiveness.

    Donald Pearson - President

    Donald Pearson, the President at Eastern Michigan University, provides ultimate leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Pearson sets the vision, guides institutional policy, and represents the university to external constituencies. This role demands comprehensive oversight of all academic, administrative, and operational functions, ensuring the university fulfills its educational mission. The President is responsible for fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Donald Pearson's leadership is critical in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and securing the university's future. By championing strategic initiatives and fostering strong relationships, Donald Pearson drives the university's growth and impact.

    Aaron Becker - Club Baseball President

    Aaron Becker, the Club Baseball President at Eastern Michigan University, directs the operations and strategic planning for the university's club baseball program. Becker manages team activities, coordinates schedules, and oversees budget allocation to ensure the program's smooth functioning. This role involves fostering team spirit and promoting participation among student athletes. The Club Baseball President is key to maintaining the program's vitality and supporting student engagement in athletics. Aaron Becker's leadership ensures the club provides valuable opportunities for student development and athletic pursuit. By effectively managing resources and team dynamics, Aaron Becker enhances the club baseball experience.

    Emilie Singelyn - Kappa Delta Pi President

    Emilie Singelyn, the Kappa Delta Pi President at Eastern Michigan University, leads the university's chapter of the international honor society in education. Singelyn oversees chapter activities, promotes academic excellence among members, and organizes events that support professional development for future educators. This leadership role involves fostering a strong sense of community and upholding the society's values. The Kappa Delta Pi President is crucial for engaging members and advancing the society's mission within the university. Emilie Singelyn's commitment to education leadership enhances the chapter's impact. By guiding chapter initiatives, Emilie Singelyn supports the growth and success of aspiring educators.

    Patrick Barry - President

    Patrick Barry, the President at Eastern Michigan University, provides leadership for a specific organizational entity, guiding its strategic objectives and operational execution. Barry oversees the entity's functions, ensuring alignment with broader university mandates and fostering a productive environment for its members. This position requires adept management of resources and personnel to achieve defined goals. The President role is vital for the entity's success and its contribution to the university's overall mission. Patrick Barry's leadership ensures the entity effectively serves its purpose and community. By driving strategic initiatives, Patrick Barry enhances the entity's impact and operational effectiveness.

    Douglas Dowdy - Chief of Staff

    Douglas Dowdy, the Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, manages the operational efficiency and strategic execution of the university's leadership initiatives. Dowdy coordinates key projects, facilitates communication between departments, and supports the President's office in advancing institutional priorities. This position requires a deep understanding of university operations and the ability to drive complex initiatives forward. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact for critical matters, ensuring seamless workflow and effective decision-making. Dowdy's role is vital in translating strategic vision into tangible outcomes, enhancing the university's overall effectiveness. By streamlining processes and fostering collaboration, Douglas Dowdy contributes significantly to the university's mission and operational excellence.

    Jeffrey Collett - Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff

    Jeffrey Collett, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, manages critical aspects of both football operations and strategic administrative functions. Collett oversees recruiting processes, ensuring compliance and effectiveness in attracting top talent for the football program. Simultaneously, as Chief of Staff, Collett supports senior leadership in executing institutional strategies and operational improvements. This dual role demands exceptional organizational skills and a comprehensive understanding of athletic department dynamics and broader university objectives. Jeffrey Collett's contributions are essential for enhancing both athletic performance and administrative efficiency. By integrating recruitment strategies with operational oversight, Collett drives success across multiple critical areas of the university.

    Willy Fink - Team Captain

    Willy Fink, the Team Captain at Eastern Michigan University, leads a specific athletic team, fostering camaraderie and driving performance. Fink motivates teammates, coordinates on-field strategies, and serves as a liaison between the team and coaching staff. This leadership position requires strong communication skills and a deep understanding of team dynamics. The Team Captain role is essential for building team cohesion and achieving competitive success. Willy Fink's dedication and leadership inspire the team to perform at its best. By embodying commitment and sportsmanship, Willy Fink significantly contributes to the team's spirit and achievements.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Eastern Michigan University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Eastern Michigan University?
    Eastern Michigan University is led by Michael Valdes (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Suzie Staley (Chief of Staff to the President) and Diane Parfitt (Co-President).
    Who is part of Eastern Michigan University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Eastern Michigan University includes leaders such as Michael Valdes (Chief Financial Officer), Suzie Staley (Chief of Staff to the President), Diane Parfitt (Co-President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Eastern Michigan University have?
    Eastern Michigan University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Eastern Michigan University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Eastern Michigan University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff to the President, Co-President, President, Club Baseball President.