Elmhurst University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Elmhurst University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Elmhurst University fosters an inclusive environment where students develop versatile skillsets for enduring career success, reflecting its comprehensive profile as a higher education institution.

Leadership Roles at Elmhurst University

  • Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Kurt Ashley
  • President - Timotheus Lehmann
  • President & Mathematics Professor - Troy VanAken
  • Chief of Staff - Britney Heald
  • Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Patricia Ferraro
  • Kurt Ashley - Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Kurt Ashley, the Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Elmhurst University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Ashley oversees all aspects of financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support the university's growth and academic objectives, aligning resources with institutional priorities. Kurt Ashley's leadership ensures compliance with financial regulations and best practices, safeguarding the university's assets. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes managing investments, securing funding, and optimizing financial performance to support educational programs and campus development. Ashley's expertise is essential for maintaining the financial integrity of Elmhurst University.
    Kurt Ashley

    Timotheus Lehmann - President

    Timotheus Lehmann, the President at Elmhurst University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Lehmann is responsible for setting the university's vision, fostering academic excellence, and ensuring the institution's financial stability and growth. This executive role involves engaging with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external partners to advance the university's mission and enhance its reputation. Timotheus Lehmann's leadership guides institutional development, including the expansion of academic programs and the enhancement of student experiences. The President's duties encompass overseeing all university operations, championing innovation, and ensuring the university remains a leader in higher education. Lehmann's commitment is central to Elmhurst University's ongoing success and its dedication to providing a versatile skillset for students.

    Troy VanAken - President & Mathematics Professor

    Troy VanAken, the President & Mathematics Professor at Elmhurst University, leads the institution with a dual focus on strategic governance and academic engagement. VanAken directs the university's overall mission, fostering an inclusive community where faculty and students collaborate on scholarly pursuits. This leadership position involves setting institutional priorities, overseeing academic and administrative functions, and ensuring the university's financial health and long-term viability. Troy VanAken's role as a Mathematics Professor also grounds the presidency in the core academic mission, emphasizing the development of versatile skillsets for students. The President's responsibilities include advancing educational programs, enhancing research opportunities, and strengthening the university's connection with national and international communities. VanAken's leadership drives Elmhurst University's commitment to comprehensive higher education.

    Britney Heald - Chief of Staff

    Britney Heald, the Chief of Staff at Elmhurst University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across academic and administrative departments. This leadership role ensures the seamless execution of university-wide objectives, supporting the President and other senior leaders in achieving institutional goals. Heald's oversight extends to managing key projects and facilitating communication channels to foster a cohesive and efficient operational framework. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include enhancing internal processes and driving the implementation of new policies that support the university's mission. Britney Heald's strategic input is vital for navigating complex challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the higher education landscape. This position requires a deep understanding of university operations and a commitment to advancing the institution's strategic vision.

    Patricia Ferraro - Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Patricia Ferraro, the Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Elmhurst University, provides comprehensive administrative support to the technology leadership. Ferraro manages complex scheduling, coordinates meetings, and handles confidential information, ensuring the smooth operation of the CIO's office. This role is crucial for facilitating communication between the technology department and other university stakeholders. Patricia Ferraro's organizational skills are key to maintaining efficient workflows and supporting the strategic implementation of information technology initiatives across campus. The Executive Secretary's duties include preparing reports, managing correspondence, and assisting with special projects that advance the university's digital infrastructure and services. Ferraro's dedicated support enables the Vice President and Chief Information Officer to focus on driving technological innovation and enhancing the university's IT capabilities.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Elmhurst University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Elmhurst University?
    Elmhurst University is led by Kurt Ashley (Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Timotheus Lehmann (President) and Troy VanAken (President & Mathematics Professor).
    Who is part of Elmhurst University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Elmhurst University includes leaders such as Kurt Ashley (Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Timotheus Lehmann (President), Troy VanAken (President & Mathematics Professor) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Elmhurst University have?
    Elmhurst University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Elmhurst University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Elmhurst University includes roles such as Interim Vice President, Business Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, President & Mathematics Professor, Chief of Staff, Executive Secretary To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer.