Georgia Southern University Executive and Leadership Team

Justin Janney, the Associate Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Georgia Southern University, directs the fiscal health and budgetary planning of the institution. Overseeing financial operations, the Associate Vice President & Chief Financial Officer manages resource allocation to support academic programs, research initiatives, and campus infrastructure. This leadership role involves developing long-term financial strategies that ensure the sustainability of the university while maintaining affordability for students. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditure patterns, Justin Janney provides the data-driven insights necessary for informed decision-making by the board and executive leadership. The Associate Vice President & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with department heads to optimize budget utilization and improve operational efficiency across all campuses. Through rigorous financial oversight and strategic planning, Janney secures the economic foundation of the university, allowing the institution to continue its mission of providing high-quality education and fostering innovation within the region.

Ryan Hall, the Executive Deputy AD and Chief Operating Officer at Georgia Southern University, directs the operational logistics and strategic development of the athletic department. Overseeing facility management, budget administration, and personnel coordination, the Executive Deputy AD and Chief Operating Officer ensures that athletic programs align with the university's standards of excellence. This role involves managing the day-to-day operations of sports teams and supporting the overall student-athlete experience through improved infrastructure and resource allocation. By driving operational efficiency, Ryan Hall enables the athletic department to compete at a high level while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The Executive Deputy AD and Chief Operating Officer works with university leadership to integrate athletic success into the broader institutional mission. Through strategic oversight of athletic operations, Hall fosters a culture of performance and community engagement, ensuring that the university's sports programs contribute positively to the overall reputation and spirit of the campus.

Harley Smith, the Deputy Chief of Staff To the President at Georgia Southern University, manages the daily operations and executive priorities within the Office of the President. Facilitating communication between the president and various university departments, the Deputy Chief of Staff To the President ensures that strategic objectives receive proper attention and resources. This role involves coordinating high-level meetings, preparing executive briefings, and overseeing special projects that impact the entire institution. By maintaining a pulse on campus-wide initiatives, Harley Smith supports the president in navigating complex academic and administrative challenges. The Deputy Chief of Staff To the President works to streamline decision-making processes, allowing for rapid responses to emerging opportunities in the higher education sector. Through diligent oversight and organizational support, Smith enables the president to focus on long-term vision and institutional growth, ensuring that the university remains a leader in academic excellence and community engagement.

Kamya Hyatt, the Club President at Georgia Southern University, directs the activities and membership engagement of the student organization. Overseeing the planning of events and community outreach, the Club President ensures that the organization provides meaningful opportunities for student involvement and personal development. This leadership role involves coordinating with university administration to secure resources and align club activities with the broader mission of the institution. By fostering a collaborative environment, Kamya Hyatt encourages student participation in hands-on experiences and campus life. The Club President manages the internal structure of the organization, ensuring that all initiatives support the academic and social goals of the student body. Through proactive leadership and effective communication, Hyatt builds a vibrant community that enhances the overall student experience, contributing to the university's commitment to fostering a deep connection between students and the region they serve.

Angelica Vega, the President at Georgia Southern University, directs the overarching vision and strategic direction of the institution. Overseeing all academic, administrative, and research functions, the President ensures that the university remains a leader in public education and community engagement. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, managing relationships with the board and external stakeholders, and championing the university's commitment to academic excellence. By fostering a culture of innovation, Angelica Vega guides the institution through the evolving landscape of higher education, ensuring that undergraduate and graduate programs meet the needs of a diverse student body. The President works to secure the resources necessary for long-term growth and sustainability, while maintaining the traditional values that define the university. Through visionary leadership and strategic decision-making, Vega drives the university forward, solidifying its position as a premier research institution dedicated to the success of its students and the region.

Thomas Jones, the President Emeritus at Georgia Southern University, provides historical context and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Serving as a senior advisor, the President Emeritus supports the university's mission by offering insights gained from years of institutional experience. This role involves participating in key university events and representing the institution in various community forums to maintain strong regional ties. By sharing knowledge of the university's evolution from a modest agricultural school to a leading research institution, Thomas Jones helps preserve the core values that guide current strategic initiatives. The President Emeritus acts as a bridge between the past and the future, ensuring that the university's long-term goals remain grounded in its foundational principles. Through continued engagement and mentorship, Jones contributes to the stability and ongoing success of the university, supporting the current administration in its efforts to foster academic excellence and innovation.

Kendree Gardner, the President of Eagles Against Sex Trafficking at Georgia Southern University, directs the advocacy and awareness initiatives of the student organization. Overseeing educational campaigns and community outreach, the President of Eagles Against Sex Trafficking ensures that the organization effectively addresses critical social issues while aligning with the university's commitment to community engagement. This leadership role involves coordinating with campus departments to host events and provide resources that empower students to take action. By fostering a culture of awareness, Kendree Gardner encourages students to participate in meaningful service and research opportunities. The President of Eagles Against Sex Trafficking manages the organization's internal operations, ensuring that all activities support the broader mission of the university to foster a vibrant and socially responsible learning environment. Through dedicated leadership and proactive advocacy, Gardner strengthens the university's impact on the region, promoting safety and awareness within the campus community.

Ron Stalnaker, the Chief Information Officer at Georgia Southern University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the institution. Overseeing enterprise-wide systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures robust cybersecurity protocols and seamless connectivity across all campuses. This leadership role involves modernizing academic software and administrative databases to enhance student engagement and faculty research capabilities. By aligning technology investments with the broader mission of the university, Ron Stalnaker optimizes operational efficiency and data integrity. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leadership to integrate advanced digital tools into the classroom, facilitating a forward-thinking educational environment. Through the management of complex network architectures, Stalnaker maintains the technological backbone necessary for a leading public research institution to thrive in a competitive digital landscape, ultimately supporting the long-term growth and connectivity of the entire university community.

Kimberly Martin, the Administrative Coordinator & Chief Information Officer at Georgia Southern University, manages the intersection of administrative workflows and information technology systems. Coordinating cross-departmental processes, the Administrative Coordinator & Chief Information Officer streamlines internal communications and data management protocols to improve institutional agility. This role focuses on optimizing the administrative burden through automated digital solutions, allowing faculty and staff to prioritize academic excellence. By bridging the gap between operational logistics and technical infrastructure, Kimberly Martin ensures that university resources remain accessible and secure. The Administrative Coordinator & Chief Information Officer works closely with campus leadership to implement scalable software solutions that support the diverse needs of undergraduate and graduate programs. Through meticulous oversight of administrative data, Martin enhances the overall efficiency of the university, ensuring that institutional operations remain aligned with the core mission of providing high-quality education and research opportunities.

Annalee Ashley, the Vice President, External Affairs & Communications & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff at Georgia Southern University, directs the public image and strategic partnerships of the institution. Managing external relations, the Vice President, External Affairs & Communications & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff cultivates deep connections with regional stakeholders and community leaders to bolster the university's market position. This leadership role involves architecting communication strategies that highlight academic achievements and research breakthroughs to a broad audience. By aligning strategic initiatives with the university's long-term goals, Annalee Ashley ensures consistent messaging and institutional growth. The Vice President, External Affairs & Communications & Strategic Initiatives Chief of Staff coordinates with the president to execute high-level projects that expand the university's influence. Through proactive engagement and clear communication, Ashley strengthens the bond between the institution and the region, driving community support and enhancing the overall reputation of the university.