Elmhurst University Executive and Leadership Team

Kurt Ashley, the Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Elmhurst University, directs the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Ashley oversees budgeting, resource allocation, and financial reporting to ensure the university maintains the necessary capital for academic growth and infrastructure development. Kurt Ashley evaluates investment opportunities and manages institutional assets to support the diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs offered. By analyzing market trends and internal financial data, the Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer provides the strategic guidance required for sustainable expansion. This role involves close coordination with the Board and other executive leaders to balance fiscal responsibility with the mission of providing high-quality education. Ashley implements rigorous financial controls that protect the university endowment while funding new partnerships. Through disciplined management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation required for enduring institutional success.

Timotheus Lehmann, the President at Elmhurst University, defines the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire academic community. Lehmann leads the institution in its mission to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for success in a globalized world. Timotheus Lehmann engages with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to promote the liberal arts and applied sciences programs that define the university profile. By fostering an inclusive environment, the President ensures that the institution remains a hub for scholarly collaboration and professional development. This leadership role involves navigating the complexities of higher education to secure the future of the university through innovative partnerships and curriculum expansion. Lehmann drives initiatives that enhance the reputation of the institution across the nation and around the world. Through consistent advocacy and strategic decision-making, the President maintains the academic integrity and institutional growth that characterize the university experience.

Troy VanAken, the President & Mathematics Professor at Elmhurst University, balances executive leadership with a commitment to academic instruction. VanAken guides the university toward its goal of becoming a premier institution for liberal arts and applied sciences while maintaining a direct connection to the classroom. Troy VanAken oversees the development of new academic programs and partnerships that expand the reach of the university to students across the nation. By integrating mathematical rigor into the institutional culture, the President & Mathematics Professor promotes a focus on analytical thinking and problem-solving. This dual role allows for a unique perspective on student needs and faculty requirements, ensuring that administrative decisions support the core mission of teaching and research. VanAken drives the strategic vision that enables the university to adapt to changing educational landscapes. Through this leadership, the President & Mathematics Professor ensures that the institution continues to provide a versatile and high-quality education.

Britney Heard, the Chief of Staff at Elmhurst University, coordinates high-level administrative initiatives to ensure operational alignment across the institution. Heard manages complex projects that bridge the gap between executive leadership and academic departments, facilitating efficient communication throughout the campus. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff supports the university mission of providing a comprehensive education in the liberal arts and applied sciences. Britney Heard monitors institutional performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in organizational effectiveness. This role requires constant collaboration with the President and other senior leaders to execute long-term strategic goals. Through meticulous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff maintains the stability necessary for faculty and students to thrive. Heard ensures that administrative resources remain focused on the core objective of student success, ultimately strengthening the reputation of the university within the competitive higher education landscape.

Patricia Ferraro, the Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Elmhurst University, manages critical administrative workflows for the information technology division. Ferraro organizes complex scheduling, documentation, and communication protocols that allow the Chief Information Officer to focus on digital infrastructure and technological advancement. Patricia Ferraro facilitates seamless interaction between the IT department and other academic units, ensuring that technological resources support the broader educational goals of the institution. By maintaining rigorous standards for data management and office operations, the Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer enables the successful implementation of campus-wide digital initiatives. Ferraro coordinates meetings and project timelines that directly impact the efficiency of university services. This position requires precise attention to detail to support the technological evolution of the university, ensuring that all administrative functions align with the strategic vision of the leadership team.