Emory University Executive and Leadership Team

Tiara Ward, the Chief Operating Officer at Emory University, manages the day-to-day operational functions and administrative services that underpin the university's academic and research excellence. This executive role involves optimizing resource allocation, streamlining business processes, and ensuring the efficient delivery of essential services across campus. Ward's responsibilities include overseeing facilities management, auxiliary services, and operational planning to support the university's strategic objectives. By driving operational improvements, Ward enhances the overall effectiveness and sustainability of the institution. This leadership function is vital for maintaining a high-performing environment that supports faculty research and student learning. Tiara Ward ensures that the university's operational infrastructure robustly supports its mission.

Christine D'Amour, the Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer at Emory University, directs critical operational and administrative functions essential for the university's success. This executive leadership role involves overseeing complex operational strategies, resource management, and the efficient deployment of services across various university divisions. D'Amour's responsibilities include driving operational excellence, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and supporting the strategic growth objectives of the institution. By optimizing operational frameworks, Christine D'Amour enhances the university's capacity to deliver on its academic and research missions. This leadership is fundamental to maintaining a high-functioning environment that supports faculty, staff, and students.

Ella Ferguson, the Hall Council President at Emory University, leads student governance initiatives within residential life, advocating for student needs and fostering community engagement. This leadership position involves organizing events, managing council operations, and representing student interests to university administration. Ferguson's focus is on enhancing the residential experience and promoting a vibrant campus environment. By championing student welfare and community building, Ella Ferguson plays a key role in shaping the student experience. This role demonstrates proactive leadership in student affairs, contributing to a positive and supportive campus atmosphere.

Manuella De Senna Guerra, the President, Spark Mentorship Group at Emory University, directs a vital student-led initiative focused on providing guidance and support to peers. This leadership role involves overseeing mentorship programs, coordinating volunteer efforts, and expanding the group's reach to benefit a wider student population. Guerra's strategic direction ensures the effective delivery of mentorship services, fostering academic and personal development among students. By driving the growth and impact of the Spark Mentorship Group, Manuella De Senna Guerra enhances the student support ecosystem. This executive function is crucial for empowering students and promoting a culture of mutual support within the university community.

Tina Piltner, the President of Emory ProgramHers at Emory University, leads a significant student organization dedicated to empowering women in technology and related fields. This executive role involves guiding the organization's strategic vision, managing its operational activities, and fostering a supportive community for its members. Piltner's leadership focuses on developing programming that enhances professional skills, promotes networking opportunities, and encourages leadership development among female students. By driving the initiatives of Emory ProgramHers, Tina Piltner champions gender diversity and inclusion within STEM disciplines. This leadership function is instrumental in cultivating future female leaders and innovators within the technology sector.

April Carswell, the Chief of Staff at Emory University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key university departments. This leadership position involves managing high-priority projects and ensuring seamless communication between executive leadership and various academic and administrative units. Carswell's oversight extends to optimizing internal processes and supporting the implementation of institutional goals. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of university operations to drive efficiency and facilitate strategic decision-making. By coordinating efforts across diverse teams, Carswell ensures that the university's mission is effectively supported through robust operational frameworks. This executive function is critical for maintaining institutional momentum and achieving long-term objectives within the academic landscape.

Terry Decker, the Chief Technology Officer at Emory University, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive technology strategy. This involves overseeing all aspects of information technology infrastructure, digital transformation, and cybersecurity to support academic, research, and administrative functions. Decker drives innovation in technology solutions, ensuring that Emory University remains at the forefront of digital advancements in higher education. The role encompasses managing IT operations, developing scalable technology platforms, and fostering a secure digital environment for students, faculty, and staff. By aligning technology investments with institutional priorities, Decker enhances operational efficiency and supports cutting-edge research initiatives. This leadership ensures robust technological capabilities are available to advance the university's educational and scientific missions across its global reach.

Patricia Benson, the Chief of Staff & Associate Dean at Emory University, provides strategic leadership and operational support, bridging executive management with academic and administrative units. This dual role involves managing key initiatives, facilitating interdepartmental collaboration, and ensuring the effective execution of strategic plans. Benson's oversight extends to enhancing administrative processes and supporting the Dean's vision for academic advancement and research growth. The position requires a deep understanding of university governance and operational dynamics to drive institutional effectiveness. By coordinating critical projects and communications, Patricia Benson ensures alignment with the university's core mission. This executive function is essential for advancing the university's strategic priorities and fostering a cohesive operational environment.

James Leonard, the Associate Chief Information Officer at Emory University, supports the Chief Technology Officer in managing the institution's information technology infrastructure and services. This role focuses on the operational delivery of IT solutions that empower academic research, teaching, and administrative functions across the university. Leonard oversees the implementation and maintenance of critical IT systems, ensuring reliability, security, and scalability to meet evolving institutional needs. By driving technological advancements and operational efficiencies, James Leonard contributes to enhancing the university's digital capabilities. This executive function is crucial for providing robust technological support that underpins Emory University's commitment to innovation and academic excellence.

Drew Homa, the Research Administration Chief of Staff at Emory University, provides critical support and strategic coordination for the university's extensive research enterprise. This role involves streamlining research administration processes, facilitating communication between researchers and administrative bodies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Homa's oversight focuses on optimizing the operational framework that supports groundbreaking scientific discovery and innovation. By enhancing the efficiency of research support services, Drew Homa directly contributes to the advancement of Emory University's research agenda. This executive function is vital for enabling faculty to focus on their scientific pursuits and securing the necessary resources for impactful research.