Emporia State University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Emporia State University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, and academic operations.

Committed to academic excellence and workforce readiness, Emporia State University fosters student success through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and modern facilities designed to prepare graduates for competitive global markets.

Leadership Roles at Emporia State University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jason Drummond
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jason McClelland
  • President & President, S Office - Matthew Baker
  • Interim President - Taylor Kriley
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Raymond Lauber
  • Jason Drummond - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jason Drummond, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Emporia State University, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Drummond manages the alignment of academic programs with regional workforce demands, ensuring that the university maintains high standards of educational value. By overseeing the integration of new facilities and student resources, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives institutional growth and long-term sustainability. Jason Drummond collaborates with the Board to secure funding and expand community partnerships across the state. This leadership role involves navigating complex administrative challenges while maintaining a focus on student-centered outcomes. Through the implementation of innovative career services, the President & Chief Executive Officer enhances the professional prospects of the diverse student body. Ultimately, Drummond secures the university's reputation as a premier public institution in Kansas, fostering an environment where academic rigor meets practical application for every student enrolled.

    Jason McClelland - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jason McClelland, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Emporia State University, architects the operational framework for international student engagement and global outreach. McClelland focuses on expanding the university's footprint by cultivating relationships with international partners and diversifying the campus population. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, McClelland monitors the effectiveness of student life activities and alumni engagement programs to ensure a cohesive campus culture. Jason McClelland drives initiatives that integrate global perspectives into the undergraduate and graduate curricula, preparing students for success in an interconnected economy. By optimizing administrative processes, the President & Chief Executive Officer improves operational efficiency across all departments. This leadership role requires constant coordination with faculty and staff to maintain high levels of student involvement. Ultimately, McClelland strengthens the university's position as a destination for international scholars, ensuring that the institution remains competitive and relevant in the evolving landscape of higher education.

    Matthew Baker - President & President, S Office

    Matthew Baker, the President & President, S Office at Emporia State University, manages the executive office operations and internal communications. Baker coordinates the flow of information between the administration and the various academic departments, ensuring that strategic goals remain transparent and actionable. As the President & President, S Office, Baker oversees the execution of special projects that enhance the university's physical and digital infrastructure. Matthew Baker drives the alignment of administrative policies with the institution's commitment to hands-on learning and student success. This leadership role involves facilitating high-level meetings and ensuring that the university's mission remains central to all decision-making processes. By streamlining internal workflows, the President & President, S Office improves the overall efficiency of the executive team. Ultimately, Baker supports the university's long-term growth by maintaining a focus on operational excellence and clear communication across all levels of the institution.

    Taylor Kriley - Interim President

    Taylor Kriley, the Interim President at Emporia State University, directs the immediate strategic priorities and maintains institutional continuity during this transition period. Kriley manages the daily operations of the university, ensuring that all academic and student services continue to function without disruption. Overseeing the implementation of current campus initiatives, the Interim President ensures that the university remains focused on its core mission of providing value to students. Taylor Kriley drives collaboration between the administration and community partners to sustain the university's regional impact. This leadership role involves addressing urgent administrative needs while preparing the institution for future growth. By maintaining stability and fostering a supportive environment, the Interim President ensures that students continue to receive high-quality education and career preparation. Ultimately, Kriley secures the university's ongoing success by upholding the standards of excellence that define the institution's role within the Kansas public education system.

    Raymond Lauber - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Raymond Lauber, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Emporia State University, directs all talent acquisition and workforce development strategies. Lauber manages the recruitment of high-caliber faculty and staff, ensuring that the university maintains a robust academic environment. Overseeing the implementation of professional development programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all employees remain aligned with the institution's mission of workforce readiness. Raymond Lauber drives organizational culture initiatives that promote inclusivity and community engagement across the campus. This leadership role involves managing complex labor relations and benefits administration to support the university's diverse workforce. By optimizing human capital management, the Chief Human Resources Officer directly impacts the quality of instruction and student support services. Ultimately, Lauber secures the operational stability of the university by fostering a productive, engaged, and highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving needs of students and the broader Kansas community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Emporia State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Emporia State University?
    Emporia State University is led by Jason Drummond (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jason McClelland (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Matthew Baker (President & President, S Office).
    Who is part of Emporia State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Emporia State University includes leaders such as Jason Drummond (President & Chief Executive Officer), Jason McClelland (President & Chief Executive Officer), Matthew Baker (President & President, S Office) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Emporia State University have?
    Emporia State University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Emporia State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Emporia State University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, President & President, S Office, Interim President, Chief Human Resources Officer.