George Mason University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

George Mason University has 10 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, technology infrastructure, operational management, strategic planning, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, George Mason University advances workforce development and economic growth through rigorous degree programs and collaborative partnerships across the National Capital Region.

Leadership Roles at George Mason University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Khurram Malik
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP - Daniel Stephens
  • Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer - Julie Zobel
  • Founder & President - Sueda Erdogan
  • President - Avery Shippen
  • SKY Campus Happiness President - Fanshu Li
  • Chapter President - Chloe Miller
  • President - Kassandra Drachman
  • Chief Technology Officer - Raj Murthy
  • Executive VP, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff - Whitney Owen
  • Khurram Malik - Chief Financial Officer

    Khurram Malik, the Chief Financial Officer at George Mason University, directs all fiscal planning and budgetary allocations for the institution. Malik manages the university's complex financial portfolio, ensuring resources support diverse academic disciplines and research initiatives. By overseeing long-term capital investments, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the economic stability necessary for institutional growth. Malik collaborates with academic deans to align funding with strategic priorities in cybersecurity and biotechnology. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of public funding and private grants to maximize operational efficiency. Through careful analysis of revenue streams, Khurram Malik secures the financial health of the university. The Chief Financial Officer also monitors compliance with state regulations, ensuring transparent reporting across all departments. Ultimately, Malik drives the fiscal strategy that enables the university to provide high-quality education to a diverse student population while fostering innovation throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

    Daniel Stephens - Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP

    Daniel Stephens, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP at George Mason University, manages the immediate financial operations and administrative oversight of the institution. Stephens directs the allocation of resources to support undergraduate and doctoral programs across various schools. By overseeing the integration of financial reporting with senior leadership goals, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP ensures fiscal accountability during periods of transition. Stephens collaborates with the Board to refine budgetary strategies that sustain research and student services. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of diverse academic departments with the university's broader economic objectives. Through meticulous management of institutional assets, Daniel Stephens stabilizes the financial foundation required for ongoing expansion. The Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP also coordinates with external stakeholders to maintain strong partnerships in the National Capital Region. Ultimately, Stephens drives the financial continuity that allows the university to fulfill its commitment to workforce development and academic rigor.

    Julie Zobel - Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer

    Julie Zobel, the Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer at George Mason University, directs the daily operational functions and campus services that sustain the university environment. Zobel manages facilities, housing, and athletics, ensuring these services align with the needs of a diverse student population. By overseeing the logistical execution of campus-wide initiatives, the Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer maintains an environment conducive to learning and research. Zobel collaborates with academic leadership to optimize the use of physical space for classrooms and laboratories. This leadership role involves streamlining administrative processes to improve efficiency across all schools and colleges. Through the coordination of student services and campus operations, Julie Zobel supports the overall well-being and success of the student body. The Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer also monitors the impact of operational decisions on the university's long-term sustainability goals. Ultimately, Zobel drives the operational excellence that enables the institution to thrive as a major research university.

    Sueda Erdogan - Founder & President

    Sueda Erdogan, the Founder & President at George Mason University, directs the vision and foundational growth of specific student-led organizations within the university ecosystem. Erdogan manages the development of programs that promote student well-being and community engagement. By overseeing the expansion of these initiatives, the Founder & President ensures that students have access to extracurricular activities that complement their academic studies. Erdogan collaborates with university administration to integrate these programs into the broader student services framework. This leadership role involves building a culture of inclusivity and support for a diverse student population. Through the creation of new opportunities for student involvement, Sueda Erdogan fosters a vibrant campus life that contributes to overall student success. The Founder & President also mentors student leaders to ensure the long-term sustainability of these organizations. Ultimately, Erdogan drives the development of community-focused initiatives that enrich the educational experience and prepare students for active participation in society.

    Avery Shippen - President

    Avery Shippen, the President at George Mason University, directs the overarching mission and strategic direction of the entire institution. Shippen manages the university's relationships with government, industry, and research partners to advance the institution's reputation as a leader in public education. By overseeing the academic and research agenda, the President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of innovation in fields like biotechnology and social sciences. Shippen collaborates with the Board and senior leadership to set the tone for institutional excellence and workforce development. This leadership role involves representing the university in the National Capital Region to secure support for research and student programs. Through the promotion of a culture of inquiry and discovery, Avery Shippen inspires faculty and students to achieve their full potential. The President also monitors the university's impact on the regional economy. Ultimately, Shippen drives the strategic vision that positions the university as a premier destination for higher education and research.

    Fanshu Li - SKY Campus Happiness President

    Fanshu Li, the SKY Campus Happiness President at George Mason University, directs programs focused on student mental health and emotional well-being. Li manages workshops and activities designed to reduce stress and promote mindfulness among the student body. By overseeing the implementation of these wellness initiatives, the SKY Campus Happiness President contributes to a supportive campus environment. Li collaborates with student services to ensure that mental health resources are accessible to all students. This leadership role involves organizing events that foster community and connection, helping students balance the rigors of academic life. Through the promotion of happiness and resilience, Fanshu Li enhances the overall student experience and academic performance. The SKY Campus Happiness President also advocates for the importance of holistic health in the university's educational mission. Ultimately, Li drives the development of wellness programs that support the personal growth and success of students as they navigate their educational journeys.

    Chloe Miller - Chapter President

    Chloe Miller, the Chapter President at George Mason University, directs the activities and membership engagement of specific student-led chapters within the university. Miller manages the planning of events, professional development sessions, and networking opportunities for members. By overseeing the chapter's operations, the Chapter President ensures that students gain valuable experience and connections in their chosen fields. Miller collaborates with other student organizations and university departments to maximize the impact of chapter activities. This leadership role involves fostering a sense of belonging and professional growth among the student membership. Through the coordination of experiential learning opportunities, Chloe Miller helps students bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. The Chapter President also represents the chapter's interests to the university administration. Ultimately, Miller drives the success of the chapter by creating a dynamic environment that prepares students for their future careers and contributes to the university's vibrant campus culture.

    Kassandra Drachman - President

    Kassandra Drachman, the President at George Mason University, directs the leadership and operational focus of specific academic or student-focused divisions within the university. Drachman manages the strategic goals of these divisions, ensuring alignment with the university's broader mission of research and education. By overseeing the implementation of specialized programs, the President facilitates academic success and student engagement. Drachman collaborates with faculty and staff to develop initiatives that address the needs of a diverse student population. This leadership role involves managing resources and personnel to achieve high standards of performance in academic and extracurricular areas. Through the promotion of excellence and innovation, Kassandra Drachman enhances the quality of education and the overall student experience. The President also engages with stakeholders to support the division's objectives and contribute to the university's reputation. Ultimately, Drachman drives the success of these divisions by fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment that supports the university's commitment to academic rigor.

    Raj Murthy - Chief Technology Officer

    Raj Murthy, the Chief Technology Officer at George Mason University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting research and academic excellence. Murthy manages the deployment of advanced cybersecurity systems and high-performance computing resources across all campuses. By overseeing the integration of online learning platforms, the Chief Technology Officer ensures accessibility for distance learners and working professionals. Murthy collaborates with faculty to implement innovative technology solutions in biotechnology and climate change research. This leadership role involves securing the university's data networks against evolving threats while facilitating seamless digital collaboration with government agencies. Through the modernization of campus-wide IT systems, Raj Murthy enhances the overall student experience and operational productivity. The Chief Technology Officer also evaluates emerging technologies to maintain the institution's competitive edge in the National Capital Region. Ultimately, Murthy drives the digital transformation that supports the university's mission of preparing students for careers in a technology-driven global economy.

    Whitney Owen - Executive VP, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff

    Whitney Owen, the Executive VP, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff at George Mason University, architects the implementation of long-term institutional goals and cross-departmental projects. Owen manages the strategic alignment of academic programs with the university's mission of innovation and public service. By overseeing the execution of high-priority initiatives, the Executive VP, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff ensures that leadership objectives translate into tangible outcomes. Owen collaborates with the President and other C-suite leaders to foster partnerships with government agencies and private sector organizations. This leadership role involves facilitating communication across the university to maintain focus on core priorities like cybersecurity and public policy. Through the management of strategic planning processes, Whitney Owen enhances the university's market position in the National Capital Region. The Executive VP, Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff also coordinates internal task forces to address emerging challenges. Ultimately, Owen drives the strategic momentum that supports the university's growth and commitment to experiential learning.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding George Mason University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads George Mason University?
    George Mason University is led by Khurram Malik (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Daniel Stephens (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP) and Julie Zobel (Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of George Mason University’s executive team?
    The executive team of George Mason University includes leaders such as Khurram Malik (Chief Financial Officer), Daniel Stephens (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP), Julie Zobel (Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does George Mason University have?
    George Mason University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in George Mason University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of George Mason University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Senior VP & Chief Operating Officer, Founder & President, President.