Eastern Michigan University Executive and Leadership Team

Mike Valdes, the Chief Financial Officer at Eastern Michigan University, manages the entire fiscal health of the institution. Valdes directs long-term budgetary planning, ensuring resources align with the educational mission of the university. By overseeing capital investments and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability required for academic growth. Valdes monitors revenue streams from tuition, state funding, and research grants to optimize institutional efficiency. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board of Regents to present transparent financial reports. Through rigorous auditing and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer protects the assets of the university. Mike Valdes implements cost-saving measures that allow for increased investment in student services and faculty development. Ultimately, Valdes secures the economic foundation necessary for the university to thrive within the competitive higher education landscape of the United States.

Suzie Staley, the Chief of Staff to the President at Eastern Michigan University, manages the executive agenda and presidential priorities. Staley coordinates high-level outreach to external stakeholders, including government officials and community leaders. By overseeing the daily operations of the President's office, the Chief of Staff to the President ensures that institutional goals receive consistent focus. Suzie Staley facilitates collaboration between the President and the Board of Regents to advance the strategic vision of the university. This role involves drafting policy recommendations and managing sensitive communications that impact the reputation of the institution. Staley monitors the progress of key academic initiatives, ensuring that all departments remain aligned with the core mission. Through proactive problem-solving, the Chief of Staff to the President supports the leadership team in navigating complex educational challenges. By maintaining organizational focus, Staley enables the President to effectively represent the university on a national scale.

Ebony Walls, the President Elect at Eastern Michigan University, prepares for the transition into the primary leadership role of the institution. Walls engages with faculty, students, and alumni to understand the current needs of the university community. By analyzing existing academic programs, the President Elect identifies opportunities for future growth and innovation. Ebony Walls collaborates with the current administration to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities. This leadership role involves developing a strategic vision that addresses the evolving demands of the higher education market. Walls evaluates institutional performance metrics to determine areas for improvement in student outcomes. Through extensive research and stakeholder engagement, the President Elect builds the foundation for upcoming policy changes. By focusing on long-term sustainability, Walls prepares to guide the university toward increased academic prestige. This transition period allows the President Elect to establish the priorities that will define the future direction of the institution.

Patrick Barry, the President at Eastern Michigan University, provides the overarching strategic direction for the entire institution. Barry oversees the academic, financial, and operational health of the university. By setting institutional priorities, the President ensures that all departments contribute to the success of students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Patrick Barry represents the university to external partners, including state legislators and industry leaders. This leadership role involves managing the Board of Regents and ensuring that university policies align with the mission of the institution. Barry drives initiatives that enhance the quality of research and professional programs. Through consistent engagement with the campus community, the President fosters an environment of academic excellence. By balancing fiscal responsibility with the need for innovation, Barry secures the long-term viability of the university. Ultimately, the President leads the institution in its commitment to providing high-quality education to a diverse student body.

Aaron Becker, the Club Baseball President at Eastern Michigan University, manages the operations and competitive schedule of the club baseball program. Becker directs the recruitment of student-athletes and coordinates team logistics for regional competitions. By overseeing the budget for equipment and travel, the Club Baseball President ensures the sustainability of the program. Aaron Becker facilitates communication between the team and university administration to maintain compliance with student organization policies. This leadership role involves organizing practice schedules and managing the development of players. Becker fosters a culture of teamwork and athletic discipline among the members. Through effective management, the Club Baseball President enhances the extracurricular experience for students. By promoting the program to the campus community, Becker increases participation and support for the team. Ultimately, the Club Baseball President contributes to the vibrant student life at the university by providing opportunities for competitive engagement and personal growth.

John Porter, the President at Eastern Michigan University, leads the strategic development of academic and professional programs. Porter oversees the implementation of curriculum standards that prepare students for careers in the arts and sciences. By managing the faculty and administrative staff, the President ensures that the university maintains high educational quality. John Porter directs the expansion of research initiatives that contribute to the regional economy. This leadership role involves navigating the complexities of higher education funding and student enrollment management. Porter collaborates with community partners to create internship opportunities for students. Through a focus on student-centered learning, the President drives improvements in graduation rates and academic performance. By maintaining a clear vision for the future, John Porter guides the university through changing market conditions. Ultimately, the President ensures that the institution remains a leader in providing accessible and high-quality education to students across the state.

Ozlem Akdogan, the President Of Emu Chapter at Eastern Michigan University, leads the local branch of the organization to support student professional development. Akdogan directs the planning of events, workshops, and networking opportunities for members. By overseeing the chapter budget and membership recruitment, the President Of Emu Chapter ensures the continued growth of the organization. Ozlem Akdogan facilitates collaboration with faculty advisors to align chapter activities with academic goals. This leadership role involves managing internal communications and ensuring that all members remain informed about professional opportunities. Akdogan represents the chapter in university-wide student government meetings. Through effective coordination, the President Of Emu Chapter fosters a community of learning and professional growth. By organizing initiatives that bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice, Akdogan prepares students for success in their chosen professions. Ultimately, the President Of Emu Chapter enhances the student experience by providing valuable resources and networking connections.

Jessica Smith, the President at Eastern Michigan University, manages the institutional strategy for student success and academic excellence. Smith directs the development of new degree programs that meet the needs of the modern workforce. By overseeing the allocation of resources across various departments, the President ensures that the university maintains its competitive edge. Jessica Smith engages with alumni and donors to secure funding for campus infrastructure and scholarship programs. This leadership role involves leading the university through accreditation processes and ensuring compliance with educational standards. Smith fosters a culture of innovation by supporting faculty research and creative projects. Through strategic partnerships with local businesses, the President creates pathways for student employment. By maintaining a focus on the core mission of the institution, Jessica Smith guides the university toward long-term growth. Ultimately, the President provides the leadership necessary to sustain the reputation of the university as a premier educational institution.

Douglas Dowdy, the Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, coordinates administrative workflows across the executive office. Dowdy manages internal communications and ensures that strategic initiatives receive proper attention from university leadership. By facilitating meetings between department heads, the Chief of Staff streamlines decision-making processes. Douglas Dowdy oversees the implementation of institutional policies, ensuring compliance with academic standards and state regulations. This role requires constant interaction with the President to address emerging challenges in the higher education sector. Dowdy organizes high-level projects that enhance the operational capacity of the university. Through effective project management, the Chief of Staff drives organizational alignment and supports the broader mission of the institution. By maintaining clear channels of communication, Dowdy ensures that all administrative functions support the academic goals of the university while fostering a productive environment for faculty and staff members.

Jeffrey Collett, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff at Eastern Michigan University, manages the logistical framework for athletic recruitment. Collett directs the identification and acquisition of talent to strengthen the football program. By coordinating with coaching staff, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff ensures that recruitment efforts align with university athletic standards. Jeffrey Collett oversees the daily operations of the football office, managing schedules and travel logistics for prospective student-athletes. This leadership role involves balancing athletic performance goals with the academic requirements of the institution. Collett implements strategies to enhance the visibility of the football program across the region. Through meticulous planning, the Ad For Football Operations Recruiting Associate & Chief of Staff supports the competitive success of the university. By optimizing recruitment workflows, Collett contributes to the overall growth and reputation of the athletic department.