Furman University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Furman University has 6 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, choral arts, student governance, indigenous advocacy, academic leadership, and campus operations.

Committed to academic excellence and experiential learning, Furman University empowers students through rigorous liberal arts programs and innovative research institutes to achieve long-term professional success.

Leadership Roles at Furman University

  • President - Elizabeth Olmsted Davis
  • President. Furman Singers - Charles Sanderson
  • President - Hope Cook
  • President, Native American and Indigenous Peoples Association - Jason Levitt
  • President - Alyssa England
  • President - Andrew Wilkerson
  • Elizabeth Olmsted Davis - President

    Elizabeth Olmsted Davis, the President at Furman University, directs the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing the integration of liberal arts curricula with real-world research opportunities, the President ensures alignment between faculty initiatives and student outcomes. This leadership role involves managing complex university operations while fostering an inclusive campus environment that supports diverse academic programs. By cultivating partnerships with external stakeholders and the alumni network, Elizabeth Olmsted Davis drives institutional growth and enhances the reputation of the university within the competitive higher education landscape. Davis maintains a focus on high job placement rates, ensuring that the academic framework remains responsive to evolving professional demands. Through consistent engagement with the Board and administrative leadership, Davis secures the financial and operational stability necessary for long-term success in the private education sector.
    Elizabeth Olmsted Davis

    Charles Sanderson - President. Furman Singers

    Charles Sanderson, the President. Furman Singers at Furman University, manages the artistic direction and operational logistics of the premier choral ensemble. Overseeing performance schedules and repertoire development, the President. Furman Singers ensures that the ensemble maintains a high standard of musical excellence while representing the university at regional and national events. This leadership role involves coordinating rehearsals, managing ensemble recruitment, and fostering collaborative relationships with the music department faculty. By promoting the cultural impact of the arts, Charles Sanderson elevates the visibility of the university within the broader community. Sanderson facilitates student engagement through rigorous training and performance opportunities, contributing to the vibrant campus life that defines the institution. Through meticulous planning and artistic vision, Sanderson secures the continued success and prestige of the choral program as a cornerstone of the university experience.

    Hope Cook - President

    Hope Cook, the President at Furman University, leads specific administrative initiatives focused on student support services and campus inclusivity. Overseeing the implementation of programs that enhance student well-being, the President ensures that the university environment remains conducive to personal and professional growth. This leadership role involves collaborating with various departments to streamline student resources and improve access to academic support systems. By championing initiatives that foster a sense of belonging, Hope Cook strengthens the campus community and supports the university mission of holistic education. Cook monitors the effectiveness of student-facing services, adjusting strategies to meet the changing needs of the diverse student body. Through proactive engagement with student organizations, Cook drives improvements in campus life, ensuring that every student benefits from the robust support network provided by the institution.

    Jason Levitt - President, Native American and Indigenous Peoples Association

    Jason Levitt, the President, Native American and Indigenous Peoples Association at Furman University, directs advocacy efforts and educational programming related to indigenous history and contemporary issues. Overseeing the development of campus events and research initiatives, the President, Native American and Indigenous Peoples Association ensures that the university community engages deeply with diverse cultural perspectives. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty and student groups to promote inclusivity and awareness across the institution. By facilitating dialogue and providing resources for academic exploration, Jason Levitt enhances the intellectual diversity of the campus. Levitt manages the association budget and outreach strategies, ensuring that the mission of the organization aligns with the broader goals of the university. Through dedicated leadership, Levitt fosters an environment where indigenous voices are recognized and integrated into the academic and social fabric of the university.

    Alyssa England - President

    Alyssa England, the President at Furman University, manages specialized academic outreach and community engagement projects. Overseeing the coordination of research-based initiatives, the President ensures that students gain practical experience through partnerships with local and regional organizations. This leadership role involves aligning project goals with the university commitment to hands-on learning and real-world application. By facilitating connections between students and industry professionals, Alyssa England supports the development of career-ready skills. England monitors the progress of community-focused programs, ensuring that each initiative contributes to the overall impact of the university in the surrounding region. Through strategic planning and effective resource management, England drives the success of these programs, reinforcing the reputation of the institution as a leader in experiential education and community-based research.

    Andrew Wilkerson - President

    Andrew Wilkerson, the President at Furman University, directs operational efficiency and infrastructure development for campus facilities. Overseeing the maintenance and expansion of university resources, the President ensures that the physical environment supports the academic and extracurricular needs of the student body. This leadership role involves managing capital projects and optimizing the use of campus space to accommodate the diverse array of student organizations. By prioritizing sustainability and functional design, Andrew Wilkerson enhances the overall quality of the campus experience. Wilkerson collaborates with administrative teams to align facility management with the long-term strategic goals of the university. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets and project timelines, Wilkerson secures the necessary infrastructure to maintain the high standards of the institution, ensuring that the campus remains a vibrant and effective hub for learning and growth.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Furman University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Furman University?
    Furman University is led by Elizabeth Olmsted Davis (President), along with executives such as Charles Sanderson (President. Furman Singers) and Hope Cook (President).
    Who is part of Furman University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Furman University includes leaders such as Elizabeth Olmsted Davis (President), Charles Sanderson (President. Furman Singers), Hope Cook (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Furman University have?
    Furman University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Furman University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Furman University includes roles such as President, President. Furman Singers, President, President, Native American and Indigenous Peoples Association, President.