Emory University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Emory University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, finance, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Emory University fosters a vibrant research environment and delivers comprehensive educational programs across diverse disciplines, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge globally.

Leadership Roles at Emory University

  • Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center - Ronnie Jowers
  • President - G. Haygood
  • President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association - Yolanda Li
  • President - Eric Kovarsky
  • President, Allied Health Council - Sieway Hunt
  • Co President - Yutong Hu
  • President, OUTLaw - Jacob Davis
  • Chief Information Officer - Dana Haggas
  • Chief of Staff - Karen Salisbury
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Kevin Moody
  • Ronnie Jowers - Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center

    Ronnie Jowers, the Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center at Emory University, directs the financial strategy and operational management for the health sciences division. Overseeing significant financial resources, Jowers ensures fiscal responsibility and drives economic growth within the Woodruff Health Sciences Center. This critical leadership position involves managing budgets, optimizing revenue streams, and implementing financial controls to support the center's research, clinical services, and educational programs. By guiding financial planning and resource allocation, Ronnie Jowers underpins the sustainability and expansion of Emory's healthcare initiatives and academic endeavors. The Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer's strategic financial acumen is essential for advancing medical innovation and maintaining Emory's standing as a premier health sciences institution.
    Ronnie Jowers

    G. Haygood - President

    G. Haygood, the President at Emory University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Guiding the university's mission and vision, Haygood oversees all academic, research, and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This paramount leadership role involves setting the strategic agenda, fostering a culture of innovation and inquiry, and representing Emory University to internal and external constituencies. By driving institutional growth and academic distinction, G. Haygood ensures Emory remains at the forefront of higher education and research. The President's responsibilities encompass fostering strong relationships with faculty, students, alumni, and the broader community, thereby advancing the university's reputation and impact on a global scale.

    Yolanda Li - President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association

    Yolanda Li, the President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association at Emory University, spearheads the planning and execution of events designed to support aspiring educators. Directing programming initiatives, Li ensures that association events provide valuable learning opportunities and networking platforms for students interested in education careers. This leadership role involves coordinating event logistics, engaging speakers, and developing content that addresses current trends and challenges in the education sector. By organizing impactful events, Yolanda Li fosters professional development and community building within the future educators' network at Emory. The President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association's efforts contribute to nurturing the next generation of educational leaders and enhancing the association's reach and influence.

    Eric Kovarsky - President

    Eric Kovarsky, the President at Emory University, exercises significant leadership in guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational effectiveness. Overseeing key university functions, Kovarsky ensures the successful implementation of academic and research initiatives. This executive position involves fostering collaboration across departments, driving innovation, and maintaining the university's commitment to excellence in higher education. By championing strategic priorities, Eric Kovarsky contributes to Emory's reputation as a leading research university. The President's role is instrumental in advancing the university's mission, managing resources effectively, and cultivating an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and student success, thereby reinforcing Emory's standing in the global academic landscape.

    Sieway Hunt - President, Allied Health Council

    Sieway Hunt, the President, Allied Health Council at Emory University, leads initiatives focused on advancing the fields of allied health professions. Directing the council's activities, Hunt promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development among allied health practitioners and students. This leadership position involves organizing educational programs, advocating for best practices, and fostering connections within the allied health community at Emory. By steering the Allied Health Council, Sieway Hunt enhances the quality of allied health education and practice, contributing to improved patient care and health outcomes. The President, Allied Health Council's strategic guidance supports the growth and recognition of allied health disciplines within the university and beyond.

    Yutong Hu - Co President

    Yutong Hu, the Co President at Emory University, shares leadership responsibilities in guiding the institution's strategic objectives and operational execution. Collaborating with fellow leadership, Hu contributes to setting the university's vision and ensuring the effective management of its diverse programs. This role involves fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation, supporting faculty and student success. By working collaboratively, Yutong Hu helps drive Emory's commitment to excellence in research and education. The Co President's influence extends to promoting institutional growth and enhancing the university's reputation, ensuring that Emory continues to be a leader in higher education and a hub for groundbreaking discoveries.

    Jacob Davis - President, OUTLaw

    Jacob Davis, the President, OUTLaw at Emory University, leads the organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ students and allies within the law school community. Directing the association's activities, Davis champions inclusivity, advocates for legal rights, and organizes events that foster community and professional development. This leadership role involves coordinating outreach efforts, planning educational programming, and representing the interests of OUTLaw members to university administration and the broader legal community. By guiding OUTLaw, Jacob Davis enhances the support network for LGBTQ+ individuals in the legal field and promotes a more equitable and understanding environment at Emory Law. The President, OUTLaw's commitment strengthens the university's dedication to diversity and social justice.

    Dana Haggas - Chief Information Officer

    Dana Haggas, the Chief Information Officer at Emory University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Haggas ensures the seamless integration of digital tools and platforms that support academic research, student learning, and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data governance, and the development of innovative technological solutions to enhance operational efficiency and user experience across the university. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Dana Haggas strengthens Emory's position as a leading research institution, enabling cutting-edge discoveries and fostering a connected campus environment. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to managing significant technology budgets and guiding the university's long-term technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with Emory's strategic objectives and academic mission.
    Dana Haggas

    Karen Salisbury - Chief of Staff

    Karen Salisbury, the Chief of Staff at Emory University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the university's senior leadership. Managing key initiatives and facilitating cross-departmental collaboration, Salisbury ensures the effective execution of institutional priorities. This role involves coordinating executive communications, streamlining administrative processes, and serving as a liaison between various university divisions and external stakeholders. By driving operational excellence and fostering efficient workflows, Karen Salisbury enhances the productivity and strategic alignment of the university's leadership team. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include project management for critical institutional projects and advising on policy development, directly contributing to the smooth functioning and strategic advancement of Emory University. Salisbury's influence supports the president's agenda and ensures cohesive leadership action.

    Kevin Moody - Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kevin Moody, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Emory University, leads the comprehensive human resources strategy for the institution. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture, Moody ensures a supportive and productive work environment for all faculty and staff. This executive role involves designing and implementing policies that foster employee engagement, promote diversity and inclusion, and align with Emory's overarching mission. By championing human capital initiatives, Kevin Moody drives workforce excellence and supports the university's strategic goals. The Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is pivotal in attracting and retaining top talent, managing compensation and benefits, and cultivating a positive organizational climate essential for academic and research success at Emory University.
    Kevin Moody

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Emory University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Emory University?
    Emory University is led by Ronnie Jowers (Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center), along with executives such as G. Haygood (President) and Yolanda Li (President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association).
    Who is part of Emory University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Emory University includes leaders such as Ronnie Jowers (Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center), G. Haygood (President), Yolanda Li (President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Emory University have?
    Emory University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Emory University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Emory University includes roles such as Vice President, Health Affairs & Chief Financial Officer, Woodruff Health Sciences Center, President, President, Event Programming Emory Future Educators Association, President, President, Allied Health Council.