Florida State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Florida State University has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, finance, operations, and student leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge across diverse disciplines, fostering critical thinking and liberal arts traditions to shape future leaders and innovators.

Leadership Roles at Florida State University

  • Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer - Joshua Turner
  • Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer - James Beck
  • President of Make Medicine Human - Evelyn Allen
  • Senior Class Council President - Melanie Mitchell
  • President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete - Azariah Rusher
  • MAAPPA President - Lauryn Klostreich
  • President & Founder - Charles Clark
  • President - Richard McCollough
  • Chief of Staff - Lezlee Richerson
  • Support Executive & Assistant - Kathleen Wolff
  • Joshua Turner - Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer

    Joshua Turner, the Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer at Florida State University, manages the financial health and operational oversight of the athletics department. Overseeing all fiscal operations, Turner ensures robust financial planning, budgeting, and reporting to support athletic programs and student-athlete welfare. This critical role involves strategic financial management and resource allocation to drive competitive success and institutional compliance. By implementing sound financial controls and exploring revenue-generating opportunities, Joshua Turner directly contributes to the sustainability and growth of Florida State University athletics. The Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing departmental budgets, investments, and financial risk mitigation.

    James Beck - Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer

    James Beck, the Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer at Florida State University, spearheads the operational framework for graduate policy initiatives. Overseeing the strategic implementation of graduate education policies, Beck ensures alignment with the university's research and academic objectives. This leadership position involves managing program logistics, resource deployment, and operational efficiency to enhance the graduate student experience. By driving process improvements and fostering collaborative environments, James Beck directly supports the expansion of knowledge within specialized academic fields. The Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer's focus includes optimizing graduate program delivery and policy adherence across the institution.

    Evelyn Allen - President of Make Medicine Human

    Evelyn Allen, the President of Make Medicine Human at Florida State University, leads initiatives focused on advancing humanistic principles within medical education and practice. Overseeing program development and outreach, Allen champions the integration of empathy and ethical considerations into healthcare delivery. This role involves fostering collaborations with medical professionals and students to promote patient-centered care. By driving educational programs and advocacy efforts, Evelyn Allen directly contributes to shaping compassionate future healthcare providers. The President of Make Medicine Human's work emphasizes the critical importance of human connection and ethical conduct in the medical field.

    Melanie Mitchell - Senior Class Council President

    Melanie Mitchell, the Senior Class Council President at Florida State University, represents the interests and concerns of the senior undergraduate student body. Overseeing student-led initiatives and advocacy efforts, Mitchell ensures effective communication between students and university administration. This leadership position involves organizing senior-year events and programs designed to enhance student engagement and celebrate academic achievements. By championing student welfare and fostering a sense of community, Melanie Mitchell directly contributes to the vibrant campus life at Florida State University. The Senior Class Council President's role is pivotal in shaping the final year experience for graduating students.

    Azariah Rusher - President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete

    Azariah Rusher, the President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete at Florida State University, bridges student leadership with athletic governance and advisory roles. Overseeing initiatives that impact both student life and athletic policy, Rusher ensures student-athlete perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes. This multifaceted role involves advocating for student needs and contributing to the strategic direction of athletic programs. By fostering communication and collaboration, Azariah Rusher directly supports the holistic development of student-athletes. The President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete's responsibilities encompass representing student interests and contributing to the advisory committee's objectives.

    Lauryn Klostreich - MAAPPA President

    Lauryn Klostreich, the MAAPPA President at Florida State University, leads initiatives for the Master of Applied American Politics and Policy program. Overseeing program advocacy and student engagement, Klostreich represents the interests of MAAPPA students and fosters professional development opportunities. This leadership position involves coordinating events, facilitating networking, and ensuring the program's continued success. By championing the goals of the MAAPPA community, Lauryn Klostreich directly contributes to the academic and professional growth of its members. The MAAPPA President's focus is on enhancing the student experience and promoting the program's visibility.

    Charles Clark - President & Founder

    Charles Clark, the President & Founder at Florida State University, established and directs a key initiative within the university's framework. Overseeing the strategic vision and operational execution of this founding endeavor, Clark drives its mission forward. This leadership role involves setting organizational goals, managing resources, and fostering innovation to achieve impactful outcomes. By spearheading the development and growth of this initiative, Charles Clark directly contributes to the university's broader objectives of knowledge dissemination and societal impact. The President & Founder's commitment is central to the sustained success and evolution of the established entity.

    Richard McCollough - President

    Richard McCollough, the President at Florida State University, holds a significant leadership position overseeing key institutional operations. Directing strategic planning and resource management, McCollough ensures the effective advancement of the university's academic and research missions. This executive role involves guiding departmental initiatives and fostering an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and innovation. By driving operational excellence and strategic alignment, Richard McCollough directly contributes to Florida State University's standing as a premier educational institution. The President's leadership is instrumental in navigating the complexities of higher education and achieving institutional goals.

    Lezlee Richerson - Chief of Staff

    Lezlee Richerson, the Chief of Staff at Florida State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key university departments. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Richerson ensures seamless execution of the President's agenda and facilitates interdepartmental collaboration. This leadership role involves managing high-priority projects and advising on policy development to advance the university's mission. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining communication channels, Lezlee Richerson directly supports the institution's commitment to preserving and expanding knowledge. The Chief of Staff's purview extends to enhancing institutional effectiveness and fostering a productive environment for faculty and staff.

    Kathleen Wolff - Support Executive & Assistant

    Kathleen Wolff, the Support Executive & Assistant at Florida State University, provides critical administrative and operational support to key university functions. Overseeing essential logistical tasks and coordinating departmental activities, Wolff ensures the smooth execution of daily operations. This role involves managing schedules, facilitating communication, and supporting executive decision-making processes. By maintaining efficient workflows and providing reliable assistance, Kathleen Wolff directly contributes to the overall effectiveness of the university's administrative structure. The Support Executive & Assistant's dedication ensures that essential support services are consistently delivered.

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

    Who leads Florida State University?
    Florida State University is led by Joshua Turner (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as James Beck (Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer) and Evelyn Allen (President of Make Medicine Human).
    Who is part of Florida State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Florida State University includes leaders such as Joshua Turner (Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer), James Beck (Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer), Evelyn Allen (President of Make Medicine Human) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Florida State University have?
    Florida State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Florida State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Florida State University includes roles such as Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Financial Officer, Senior Graduate Policy Program Chief Operating Officer, President of Make Medicine Human, Senior Class Council President, President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete.