Grand Valley State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Grand Valley State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, information technology, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to teaching and public service, Grand Valley State University advances equity through active scholarship and community engagement, shaping future leaders from its Allendale, Michigan base.

Leadership Roles at Grand Valley State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Patrick Fishback
  • Chief Financial Officer - Martha Moore
  • Founder & Chief Operating Officer - Richard Ewing
  • President, Office of The Support Services Part-Time - Dale Witczak
  • President-Elect - Lauren Hogikyan
  • Founder & President - Owen Kirkpatrick
  • President - Alexander Kolar
  • GVSU Exercise Science Club- President - Ella Chene
  • Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Susan Korzinek
  • Patrick Fishback - Chief Executive Officer

    Patrick Fishback, the Chief Executive Officer at Grand Valley State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional advancement. Fishback guides the university's mission of teaching, active scholarship, and public service, ensuring alignment with evolving educational landscapes. This leadership role involves fostering key relationships with stakeholders, including government bodies, industry partners, and alumni, to secure resources and enhance the university's reputation. Overseeing the institution's long-term planning, Patrick Fishback ensures Grand Valley State University remains at the forefront of higher education innovation and accessibility. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to driving initiatives that promote equity and advance the university's public service commitments across Michigan and beyond.

    Martha Moore - Chief Financial Officer

    Martha Moore, the Chief Financial Officer at Grand Valley State University, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Moore oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's economic stability and growth. This critical function involves managing investments, debt, and revenue streams to support academic programs and infrastructure development. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other senior leaders to optimize financial performance and maintain transparency in all fiscal matters. Martha Moore's leadership ensures that Grand Valley State University can effectively fund its commitment to teaching, scholarship, and public service, driving sustainable operations across its Michigan campus.

    Richard Ewing - Founder & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Ewing, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Grand Valley State University, oversees the daily operational efficiency and strategic execution of university functions. Ewing manages administrative services, campus infrastructure, and resource management to support the core academic mission. This role involves optimizing processes across departments to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that the university's physical and administrative resources are leveraged to their fullest potential, supporting teaching, scholarship, and public service initiatives. Richard Ewing's operational oversight is fundamental to the smooth functioning of Grand Valley State University, enabling its continued impact in Allendale, Michigan.

    Dale Witczak - President, Office of The Support Services Part-Time

    Dale Witczak, the President, Office of The Support Services Part-Time at Grand Valley State University, leads the strategic direction and operational management of part-time support services. Witczak focuses on optimizing the deployment and effectiveness of part-time staff to enhance university operations and student support. This role involves developing policies and procedures that ensure efficient resource utilization and high-quality service delivery. The President of Support Services Part-Time collaborates with various departments to identify needs and implement solutions that align with the university's mission. Dale Witczak's leadership ensures that part-time support functions contribute significantly to Grand Valley State University's overall success.

    Lauren Hogikyan - President-Elect

    Lauren Hogikyan, the President-Elect at Grand Valley State University, prepares to assume leadership responsibilities, focusing on strategic planning and transitional oversight. Hogikyan engages with current leadership to understand institutional priorities and future challenges, ensuring a seamless transition. This preparatory role involves deep dives into academic programs, operational frameworks, and financial health to inform future decision-making. The President-Elect works to build consensus and foster collaboration among stakeholders, setting the stage for continued institutional growth and mission fulfillment. Lauren Hogikyan's focus is on ensuring Grand Valley State University's ongoing commitment to teaching, scholarship, and public service.

    Owen Kirkpatrick - Founder & President

    Owen Kirkpatrick, the Founder & President at Grand Valley State University, established and now leads the institution with a vision for transformative education. Kirkpatrick guides the university's strategic growth, academic excellence, and commitment to public service. This foundational role involves shaping the university's culture and ensuring its core values are upheld across all operations. The President works to foster an environment of active scholarship and equity, driving innovation in teaching methodologies. Owen Kirkpatrick's enduring leadership ensures Grand Valley State University continues to fulfill its mission of advancing knowledge and serving the community effectively.

    Alexander Kolar - President

    Alexander Kolar, the President at Grand Valley State University, directs the comprehensive strategic direction and operational execution of the institution. Kolar champions the university's mission of teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to enhance the university's impact. The President oversees academic innovation, campus development, and financial sustainability, ensuring Grand Valley State University remains a leader in higher education. Alexander Kolar's vision guides the institution's growth and its commitment to serving the Allendale, Michigan community and beyond.

    Ella Chene - GVSU Exercise Science Club- President

    Ella Chene, the GVSU Exercise Science Club- President at Grand Valley State University, leads student initiatives focused on exercise science and related fields. Chene organizes club activities, promotes student engagement in academic and professional development opportunities, and represents the club's interests. This role fosters a community for students passionate about exercise science, encouraging networking and skill-building. The President works to enhance the student experience within the department, supporting the university's broader mission of teaching and scholarship. Ella Chene's leadership contributes to the vibrant academic environment at Grand Valley State University.

    Susan Korzinek - Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Susan Korzinek, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Grand Valley State University, directs the university's technology strategy and infrastructure. Korzinek oversees all aspects of information technology, including network systems, data management, and digital learning platforms, to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership position ensures the secure and efficient operation of technology services, enabling teaching, research, and public service. The Chief Information Officer champions innovation in technology adoption, enhancing the student and faculty experience. Susan Korzinek's strategic guidance ensures Grand Valley State University leverages technology effectively to advance its educational mission and operational goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Grand Valley State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Grand Valley State University?
    Grand Valley State University is led by Patrick Fishback (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Martha Moore (Chief Financial Officer) and Richard Ewing (Founder & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Grand Valley State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Grand Valley State University includes leaders such as Patrick Fishback (Chief Executive Officer), Martha Moore (Chief Financial Officer), Richard Ewing (Founder & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Grand Valley State University have?
    Grand Valley State University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Grand Valley State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Grand Valley State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Founder & Chief Operating Officer, President, Office of The Support Services Part-Time, President-Elect.