Grand Valley State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Grand Valley State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, 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 - Evan Breuker
  • Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Gregory Sanial
  • Founder & Chief Operating Officer - Richard Ewing
  • Pre-Optometry Club President - Ashley King
  • President - Thomas Haas
  • President, Partners, Leadership Training - Rich Mehlerr
  • President - Brody Zondervan
  • Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Susan Korzinek
  • Team Captain - Marcus Mesman
  • 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, equity, and public service, ensuring alignment with evolving educational landscapes. This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance the university's reputation and impact. Overseeing critical decision-making processes, Patrick Fishback ensures operational efficiency and long-term sustainability for the institution. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on cultivating an environment conducive to academic excellence and community contribution, directly supporting Grand Valley State University's core objectives.

    Evan Breuker - Chief Financial Officer

    Evan Breuker, the Chief Financial Officer at Grand Valley State University, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Breuker oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the university's financial health and stability. This critical position involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. Evan Breuker's expertise supports the university's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to developing financial models that sustain institutional growth and support academic programs. Through diligent financial oversight, Evan Breuker safeguards the university's assets and facilitates its mission of public service.

    Gregory Sanial - Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Gregory Sanial, the Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Grand Valley State University, leads financial administration and fiscal management. Sanial oversees the university's financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions, ensuring fiscal integrity and compliance. This position involves managing budgets, financial controls, and the allocation of resources to support strategic initiatives. Gregory Sanial's financial acumen is vital for sustaining the university's operational capacity and academic programs. The Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial policies and procedures that promote efficiency and accountability. Through strategic financial oversight, Gregory Sanial supports Grand Valley State University's mission of teaching and public service.

    Richard Ewing - Founder & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Ewing, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Grand Valley State University, directs the operational framework and institutional effectiveness. Ewing oversees the day-to-day management of university functions, ensuring seamless execution of academic and administrative processes. This role involves optimizing resource utilization and driving operational efficiencies across departments. Richard Ewing's leadership supports the university's core mission by creating a robust infrastructure for teaching and scholarship. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing facilities, logistics, and support services, contributing directly to the student and faculty experience. By ensuring operational excellence, Richard Ewing underpins Grand Valley State University's commitment to advancement and public service.

    Ashley King - Pre-Optometry Club President

    Ashley King, the Pre-Optometry Club President at Grand Valley State University, leads student initiatives focused on pre-professional development in optometry. King organizes educational events, networking opportunities, and community outreach programs for aspiring optometry students. This role fosters collaboration among students and faculty, enhancing the academic and career preparation within the pre-optometry track. Ashley King's leadership cultivates a supportive environment for students pursuing advanced studies in vision care. The Pre-Optometry Club President's activities directly contribute to the university's mission of advancing student success and public service through specialized academic support. By guiding student engagement, Ashley King promotes active learning and professional growth.

    Thomas Haas - President

    Thomas Haas, the President at Grand Valley State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Haas oversees the university's academic mission, operational management, and community engagement efforts, ensuring alignment with its core values. This significant role involves fostering a culture of innovation, equity, and scholarly excellence. Thomas Haas's leadership guides the university's growth and its commitment to public service. The President's responsibilities encompass external relations, fundraising, and long-term institutional planning. By championing the university's vision, Thomas Haas drives Grand Valley State University's impact on education and society.

    Rich Mehlerr - President, Partners, Leadership Training

    Rich Mehlerr, the President, Partners, Leadership Training at Grand Valley State University, spearheads initiatives focused on partnership development and leadership education. Mehlerr directs programs designed to cultivate effective leadership skills among students, faculty, and external partners. This role involves building strategic alliances and designing training curricula that promote organizational growth and development. Rich Mehlerr's expertise enhances the university's capacity for impactful leadership training. The President, Partners, Leadership Training's focus is on fostering collaborative relationships and delivering high-quality educational experiences. By advancing leadership capabilities, Rich Mehlerr supports Grand Valley State University's mission of public service and professional advancement.

    Brody Zondervan - President

    Brody Zondervan, the President at Grand Valley State University, exercises leadership in guiding student organizations or specific university initiatives. Zondervan directs the activities and strategic objectives of the assigned group, ensuring effective operations and member engagement. This position involves fostering collaboration and promoting the goals of the student body or specific program. Brody Zondervan's leadership contributes to the vibrant campus community and the university's educational mission. The President's role is crucial in developing student leaders and facilitating their contributions to the university. By driving student-led efforts, Brody Zondervan supports Grand Valley State University's commitment to active scholarship and community involvement.

    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 information technology services, ensuring robust digital platforms support teaching, research, and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity, data management, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions. Susan Korzinek's vision enhances the university's capacity for active scholarship and efficient operations. The Chief Information Officer's focus is on leveraging technology to advance equity and improve the overall university experience. By ensuring reliable and secure IT systems, Susan Korzinek empowers Grand Valley State University to meet its educational and public service goals.

    Marcus Mesman - Team Captain

    Marcus Mesman, the Team Captain at Grand Valley State University, leads a specific student team, fostering collaboration and driving performance. Mesman coordinates team activities, motivates members, and ensures adherence to team objectives and university standards. This position involves developing leadership skills and promoting a strong sense of camaraderie among participants. Marcus Mesman's role contributes to the development of well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges. The Team Captain's responsibilities often include strategic planning for team events and representing the team within the university community. Through dedicated leadership, Marcus Mesman supports the university's commitment to student development and active engagement.

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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 Evan Breuker (Chief Financial Officer) and Gregory Sanial (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial 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), Evan Breuker (Chief Financial Officer), Gregory Sanial (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Grand Valley State University have?
    Grand Valley State University has 10 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, Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer, Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Pre-Optometry Club President.