Eastern Michigan University Executive and Leadership Team

Laura Wilbanks, the Chief Financial Officer at Eastern Michigan University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Wilbanks directs budget planning, resource allocation, and financial reporting to ensure the university maintains its capacity to offer diverse undergraduate and graduate degrees. Overseeing the financial department, the Chief Financial Officer monitors revenue streams and capital expenditures to support ongoing campus infrastructure projects. Laura Wilbanks collaborates with academic leaders to align funding with strategic educational priorities, ensuring that resources reach critical areas of research and instruction. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and optimizing financial performance to sustain institutional growth. By implementing robust fiscal controls, Wilbanks secures the necessary capital to advance the university's mission. The Chief Financial Officer remains focused on maintaining transparency and accountability in all financial operations, ultimately strengthening the institution's market position within the competitive higher education landscape.

Suzie Staley, the Chief of Staff to the President at Eastern Michigan University, manages the executive office and facilitates communication between the President and key stakeholders. Staley directs the flow of information and coordinates high-priority projects that impact the university's strategic direction. By overseeing the President's schedule and administrative tasks, the Chief of Staff to the President ensures that leadership remains focused on core institutional objectives. Suzie Staley collaborates with the Board of Regents and senior administrators to implement policies that support the university's mission of academic excellence. This role involves managing sensitive institutional matters and ensuring that executive decisions align with the long-term vision for the Ypsilanti campus. Through meticulous coordination of executive functions, Staley enhances the effectiveness of the leadership team. The Chief of Staff to the President remains a central figure in maintaining organizational cohesion, supporting the delivery of high-quality education across all professional and scientific disciplines.

Patrick Barry, the President at Eastern Michigan University, provides overarching leadership and sets the strategic vision for the entire educational institution. Barry directs the implementation of academic policies, research initiatives, and community engagement efforts to ensure the university remains a leader in higher education. By overseeing the executive team, the President ensures that all departments align with the mission of providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate degrees. Patrick Barry represents the university to external stakeholders, including government officials and industry partners, to secure support for institutional growth. This role involves managing complex academic and financial challenges while fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. Through the execution of long-term strategic plans, Barry drives the university's impact on the arts, sciences, and professions. The President remains committed to student success, ensuring that the institution continues to provide valuable educational opportunities for a diverse student body in Ypsilanti and beyond.

Donald Pearson, the President at Eastern Michigan University, leads the institution's academic and administrative functions to advance its mission of excellence in higher education. Pearson directs the development of new degree programs and research initiatives that address the evolving needs of students in the arts and sciences. By overseeing the university's strategic planning, the President ensures that resources are effectively utilized to support faculty and student achievement. Donald Pearson collaborates with the Board of Regents and academic leaders to maintain the university's reputation for professional training and scholarly research. This role involves managing institutional partnerships and promoting the university's value to the broader community. Through the execution of comprehensive academic policies, Pearson fosters an environment of intellectual growth and professional development. The President remains dedicated to enhancing the university's impact, ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Susan Martin, the President Emeritus and Professor of Accounting at Eastern Michigan University, provides historical perspective and academic expertise to the institution. Martin directs advanced accounting instruction while serving as a mentor to faculty and students within the business department. By leveraging extensive experience as a former leader, the President Emeritus and Professor of Accounting contributes to strategic discussions and academic policy development. Susan Martin maintains a focus on rigorous financial education, ensuring that students gain the necessary skills for professional success in the accounting field. This role involves balancing teaching responsibilities with advisory duties that support the university's long-term goals. Through the integration of practical industry knowledge and academic theory, Martin enhances the quality of the university's professional degree programs. The President Emeritus and Professor of Accounting remains a vital contributor to the intellectual life of the campus, supporting the institution's commitment to academic excellence and student achievement.

Aaron Becker, the Club Baseball President at Eastern Michigan University, directs the operations and organizational activities of the club baseball program. Becker manages team logistics, scheduling, and recruitment to ensure the program remains a competitive and engaging experience for students. By overseeing the club's administrative functions, the Club Baseball President fosters a sense of community and teamwork among participants. Aaron Becker collaborates with university student organizations to secure funding and resources necessary for team success. This role involves coordinating travel, equipment procurement, and game-day operations to maintain the program's viability. Through the execution of effective management strategies, Becker supports the athletic and personal development of student-athletes. The Club Baseball President remains dedicated to promoting the sport within the university, ensuring that the program contributes to the vibrant campus life and provides students with opportunities for physical activity and leadership development outside of the classroom.

Ebony Walls, the President Elect at Eastern Michigan University, prepares for the transition into the primary leadership role by engaging with current strategic initiatives and institutional goals. Walls directs preliminary planning and stakeholder outreach to ensure a seamless transition of executive responsibilities. By overseeing specific transition projects, the President Elect gains deep insight into the university's academic and administrative operations. Ebony Walls collaborates with the current leadership team to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the institution in the arts, sciences, and professions. This role involves developing a vision for future growth and identifying key areas for institutional improvement. Through the execution of preparatory leadership tasks, Walls ensures that the university remains focused on its mission of student success. The President Elect remains committed to maintaining the institution's high standards, preparing to lead the university toward continued excellence and innovation in the higher education sector.

Leigh Greden, the Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, directs high-level administrative operations and coordinates strategic initiatives across the institution. Greden manages complex internal communications and facilitates alignment between executive leadership and various academic departments. By streamlining organizational workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional goals remain prioritized during daily operations. Leigh Greden also oversees the implementation of university-wide policies, maintaining operational efficiency within the Ypsilanti campus environment. This role requires constant collaboration with the Board of Regents to address evolving educational requirements and administrative challenges. Through rigorous oversight of institutional projects, Greden supports the broader mission of providing high-quality degree programs. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the structural integrity of the university, fostering an environment conducive to academic growth and professional development for all students and faculty members.

Curtis Ellis, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Eastern Michigan University, architects talent management strategies and oversees workforce development for the entire institution. Ellis directs recruitment, employee relations, and benefits administration to attract and retain top-tier faculty and professional staff. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and professional growth, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university maintains a high standard of academic and administrative excellence. Curtis Ellis manages complex labor relations and policy implementation, aligning human capital initiatives with the broader goals of the university. This role involves close coordination with department heads to address staffing needs and organizational development requirements. Through the execution of comprehensive HR programs, Ellis supports the operational efficiency of the Ypsilanti campus. The Chief Human Resources Officer remains dedicated to enhancing the workplace experience, ensuring that all personnel contribute effectively to the success of students pursuing doctoral, specialist, and certificate degrees.

Jeffrey Collett, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, directs the operational logistics and recruitment strategies for the athletic department. Collett manages the coordination of football operations, ensuring that all administrative and logistical requirements are met to support student-athlete success. By overseeing recruiting processes, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff identifies and attracts talent that aligns with the university's competitive standards. Jeffrey Collett collaborates with coaching staff and university administrators to integrate athletic programs with the broader institutional mission. This role involves managing budgets, travel logistics, and compliance requirements to maintain the integrity of the football program. Through the execution of efficient operational strategies, Collett supports the growth and visibility of the university's athletic presence. The Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff remains focused on optimizing performance, ensuring that the football program contributes positively to the overall student experience.