Erin Thumann Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Erin Thumann has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and community engagement.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Erin Thumann fosters a vibrant learning environment dedicated to advancing knowledge and preparing students for impactful careers in a dynamic global landscape.

Leadership Roles at Erin Thumann

  • Chief Executive Officer - Addison Bryant
  • President - Maddie Crawshaw
  • President, Public Health Society - Jorja Jersek
  • President, Alumni Association - Elizabeth Colbert-Busch
  • President - Glenn McConnell
  • President and Founder of the Neuroscience Organization - Elizabeth Barnes
  • President - Christopher O'Neal
  • Minorities In Healthcare Co President - Akanksha Patwardhan
  • Addison Bryant - Chief Executive Officer

    Addison Bryant, the Chief Executive Officer at Erin Thumann, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Bryant's leadership ensures alignment with the core mission of providing comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education in the liberal arts and sciences. This executive guides the development of new academic programs and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across departments. Bryant oversees resource allocation and strategic partnerships, driving institutional growth and enhancing the university's reputation. The Chief Executive Officer's role involves cultivating a culture of innovation and academic rigor, ensuring Erin Thumann remains at the forefront of higher education. Bryant's strategic direction impacts all facets of the university, from student success initiatives to faculty development and research endeavors. This leadership position is pivotal in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and securing long-term institutional sustainability. Addison Bryant's influence extends to shaping the university's engagement with the Charleston community and beyond.

    Maddie Crawshaw - President

    Maddie Crawshaw, the President at Erin Thumann, spearheads the daily operational execution and academic administration of the university. Crawshaw's focus centers on ensuring the seamless delivery of educational programs and fostering a supportive environment for students and faculty. This leadership role involves managing departmental operations, optimizing resource utilization, and implementing strategic initiatives approved by the Chief Executive Officer. Crawshaw works closely with academic deans and administrative staff to uphold the university's standards of excellence in liberal arts and sciences education. The President's responsibilities include overseeing campus infrastructure, student services, and faculty support systems. By driving operational efficiencies, Maddie Crawshaw contributes directly to the university's ability to achieve its educational and research objectives. This position is critical for translating strategic goals into tangible outcomes, ensuring the smooth functioning of all university activities and enhancing the overall student experience at Erin Thumann.

    Jorja Jersek - President, Public Health Society

    Jorja Jersek, the President, Public Health Society at Erin Thumann, leads initiatives focused on advancing public health education and research within the university community. Jersek's role involves organizing events, fostering student engagement, and promoting awareness of critical public health issues. This leadership position supports the university's commitment to specialized graduate programs by enhancing the visibility and impact of public health studies. Jersek collaborates with faculty advisors and student members to develop programming that addresses contemporary health challenges. The President, Public Health Society's efforts contribute to building a strong network of future public health professionals. By championing student-led projects and research, Jorja Jersek cultivates practical experience and leadership skills essential for careers in public health. This role is vital for enriching the academic experience and extending the university's influence in the public health sector.

    Elizabeth Colbert-Busch - President, Alumni Association

    Elizabeth Colbert-Busch, the President, Alumni Association at Erin Thumann, directs efforts to engage and support the university's extensive network of graduates. Colbert-Busch's leadership focuses on strengthening the bond between alumni and the institution, fostering lifelong connections, and encouraging continued support for Erin Thumann's mission. This role involves developing programs and initiatives that facilitate networking, professional development, and philanthropic contributions from alumni. The President, Alumni Association works to mobilize the alumni community as advocates and partners in the university's ongoing success. By cultivating strong relationships, Elizabeth Colbert-Busch enhances the university's reach and impact. This position is crucial for leveraging the collective experience and resources of alumni to advance academic programs and institutional goals, ensuring sustained growth and influence for Erin Thumann.

    Glenn McConnell - President

    Glenn McConnell, the President at Erin Thumann, oversees key strategic operations and institutional development initiatives. McConnell's leadership is dedicated to enhancing the university's academic offerings and expanding its research capabilities in the liberal arts and sciences. This executive role involves driving forward critical projects that support the university's long-term vision and financial stability. McConnell collaborates with other senior leaders to ensure that Erin Thumann continues to provide high-quality education and foster a dynamic learning environment. The President's responsibilities include managing significant institutional partnerships and exploring new avenues for growth and innovation. By guiding strategic planning and resource management, Glenn McConnell plays a vital role in the university's continued success and its contribution to higher education. McConnell's efforts are instrumental in maintaining Erin Thumann's standing as a leading institution.

    Elizabeth Barnes - President and Founder of the Neuroscience Organization

    Elizabeth Barnes, the President and Founder of the Neuroscience Organization at Erin Thumann, establishes and directs the strategic agenda for neuroscience research and education. Barnes's pioneering work involves building a robust academic community dedicated to exploring the complexities of the brain. This leadership position cultivates interdisciplinary collaboration among students and faculty interested in neuroscience. The President and Founder of the Neuroscience Organization spearheads initiatives to secure funding for research projects and develop specialized academic pathways within the field. By fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, Elizabeth Barnes advances the university's capabilities in specialized graduate programs. Barnes's vision is critical for positioning Erin Thumann as a hub for neuroscience innovation and discovery, contributing significantly to the institution's research profile and academic excellence.

    Christopher O'Neal - President

    Christopher O'Neal, the President at Erin Thumann, directs critical administrative functions and operational strategies that support the university's academic mission. O'Neal's leadership ensures the efficient management of resources and the effective implementation of institutional policies. This executive role focuses on optimizing departmental performance and fostering a collaborative work environment across the university. The President works closely with various stakeholders to enhance student services and faculty support systems. Christopher O'Neal's contributions are vital for maintaining the high standards of education and research at Erin Thumann. By overseeing key operational areas, O'Neal ensures that the university can effectively pursue its goals in liberal arts and sciences education and continue its legacy of academic achievement. This leadership ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations.

    Akanksha Patwardhan - Minorities In Healthcare Co President

    Akanksha Patwardhan, the Minorities In Healthcare Co President at Erin Thumann, co-leads initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within healthcare-related academic programs. Patwardhan's role involves fostering a supportive community for minority students pursuing careers in healthcare and advocating for equitable opportunities. This leadership position collaborates with university administration and faculty to develop programs that address the unique challenges faced by minority students in healthcare fields. The Minorities In Healthcare Co President works to enhance recruitment, retention, and mentorship for underrepresented groups. By championing inclusivity, Akanksha Patwardhan contributes to building a more diverse and representative future healthcare workforce. This role is essential for enriching the educational experience and advancing the university's commitment to social responsibility in specialized graduate education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Erin Thumann Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Erin Thumann?
    Erin Thumann is led by Addison Bryant (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Maddie Crawshaw (President) and Jorja Jersek (President, Public Health Society).
    Who is part of Erin Thumann’s executive team?
    The executive team of Erin Thumann includes leaders such as Addison Bryant (Chief Executive Officer), Maddie Crawshaw (President), Jorja Jersek (President, Public Health Society) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Erin Thumann have?
    Erin Thumann has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Erin Thumann’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Erin Thumann includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, Public Health Society, President, Alumni Association, President.