Grand Valley State University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Grand Valley State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational management, information technology, and academic leadership.

Committed to public service and the advancement of equity, Grand Valley State University fosters active scholarship and teaching excellence to drive meaningful societal impact across the region.

Leadership Roles at Grand Valley State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Patrick Fishback
  • Chief Financial Officer - Evan Breuker
  • Founder & Chief Operating Officer - Richard Ewing
  • Pre-Optometry Club President - Ashley King
  • President - Melanie Scram
  • Pre Med Club President - Evan Sidebotham
  • President - John Hall
  • President-Elect - Lauren Hogikyan
  • President, Partners, Leadership Training - Rich Mehlerr
  • 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 for this public institution. Fishback architects long-term academic goals while ensuring the university maintains high standards in teaching and public service. By aligning institutional resources with the core mission of equity and scholarship, the Chief Executive Officer drives growth across all departments. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine educational outcomes and expand the university's influence within the North American higher education landscape. Patrick Fishback monitors institutional performance metrics to guarantee operational excellence. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Executive Officer secures the university's reputation as a premier center for learning. Ultimately, Fishback strengthens the connection between academic research and community engagement, ensuring the institution remains a vital resource for students and the public alike.

    Evan Breuker - Chief Financial Officer

    Evan Breuker, the Chief Financial Officer at Grand Valley State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for the entire institution. Breuker oversees complex financial planning, ensuring that capital investments support the university's commitment to teaching and active scholarship. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability required for long-term growth. Evan Breuker coordinates with department heads to allocate funding toward equity initiatives and public service programs. This role demands precise analysis of economic trends to safeguard the university's assets against market volatility. Through the implementation of robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures transparency and accountability in all fiscal matters. Breuker directs the development of sustainable funding models that empower the university to expand its educational reach. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary for the institution to thrive in a competitive academic environment.

    Richard Ewing - Founder & Chief Operating Officer

    Richard Ewing, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer at Grand Valley State University, executes the daily operational strategies that sustain the university's public service mission. Ewing architects efficient workflows across campus departments to enhance the delivery of educational programs and scholarship opportunities. By streamlining administrative processes, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer ensures that faculty and students possess the necessary infrastructure to succeed. Richard Ewing manages the integration of new technologies and physical resources to support the university's expansion. This leadership role involves constant coordination with internal stakeholders to maintain high operational standards. Through the optimization of campus services, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer directly impacts the quality of the student experience. Ewing monitors performance indicators to identify areas for improvement and innovation. Ultimately, the Founder & Chief Operating Officer drives the operational excellence that allows the university to fulfill its commitment to equity and academic advancement.

    Ashley King - Pre-Optometry Club President

    Ashley King, the Pre-Optometry Club President at Grand Valley State University, leads student-driven initiatives focused on professional development within the field of optometry. King architects programs that connect aspiring students with clinical opportunities and academic resources. By organizing workshops and networking events, the Pre-Optometry Club President fosters a community dedicated to the advancement of eye care education. Ashley King coordinates with faculty advisors to ensure that club activities align with the university's broader mission of public service and scholarship. This leadership role involves managing student outreach and promoting awareness of optometry as a vital healthcare profession. Through the facilitation of peer-to-peer learning, the Pre-Optometry Club President enhances the academic preparation of members. King monitors student engagement levels to refine club programming and maximize impact. Ultimately, the Pre-Optometry Club President drives the professional growth of students, preparing the next generation of healthcare providers for success in their chosen field.

    Melanie Scram - President

    Melanie Scram, the President at Grand Valley State University, provides high-level leadership for the university's academic and community-facing programs. Scram architects initiatives that promote equity and public service, ensuring the institution remains a pillar of the local community. By overseeing the development of academic policies, the President drives the university's commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship. Melanie Scram collaborates with external partners to expand the university's influence and secure support for key research projects. This leadership role involves representing the institution in public forums and advocating for the value of higher education. Through the strategic alignment of academic goals with societal needs, the President ensures that the university produces graduates ready to contribute to the workforce. Scram monitors institutional progress to maintain high standards of academic integrity. Ultimately, the President drives the vision that sustains the university's reputation as a leader in public education.

    Evan Sidebotham - Pre Med Club President

    Evan Sidebotham, the Pre Med Club President at Grand Valley State University, directs student efforts to prepare for medical school and healthcare careers. Sidebotham architects mentorship programs and clinical shadowing opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application. By organizing seminars with medical professionals, the Pre Med Club President provides members with essential insights into the healthcare industry. Evan Sidebotham coordinates with university departments to ensure that club activities support the institution's focus on scholarship and public service. This leadership role involves managing club resources and fostering a collaborative environment for aspiring physicians. Through the promotion of academic excellence and community involvement, the Pre Med Club President prepares students for the rigors of medical training. Sidebotham monitors member progress to ensure that all participants receive the guidance needed for success. Ultimately, the Pre Med Club President drives the professional development of future healthcare leaders.

    John Hall - President

    John Hall, the President at Grand Valley State University, manages the internal governance and administrative culture of the institution. Hall architects programs that enhance faculty collaboration and student support services, ensuring a cohesive academic environment. By overseeing the implementation of university-wide initiatives, the President drives the advancement of equity and public service across all campuses. John Hall coordinates with the leadership team to address operational challenges and improve institutional efficiency. This role involves fostering a culture of innovation that encourages active scholarship and teaching excellence. Through the strategic management of university resources, the President ensures that the institution meets the evolving needs of the student body. Hall monitors academic performance and community impact to guide future planning. Ultimately, the President drives the organizational health of the university, ensuring that the institution remains a vibrant and effective center for higher learning and public engagement.
    John Hall

    Lauren Hogikyan - President-Elect

    Lauren Hogikyan, the President-Elect at Grand Valley State University, prepares for the transition into primary leadership by evaluating current academic and operational strategies. Hogikyan architects future-focused plans that align with the university's mission of equity and public service. By engaging with faculty and student leaders, the President-Elect identifies opportunities for growth and innovation in teaching and scholarship. Lauren Hogikyan participates in high-level decision-making processes to gain a comprehensive understanding of the university's institutional needs. This role involves analyzing current performance metrics to develop a roadmap for future success. Through the assessment of existing programs, the President-Elect ensures that the transition will maintain the university's commitment to excellence. Hogikyan coordinates with the current leadership to ensure continuity in strategic initiatives. Ultimately, the President-Elect drives the preparation necessary to lead the institution toward its long-term goals of academic advancement and community impact.

    Rich Mehlerr - President, Partners, Leadership Training

    Rich Mehlerr, the President, Partners, Leadership Training at Grand Valley State University, directs the development of professional training programs for external partners and internal staff. Mehlerr architects curricula that emphasize leadership skills, public service, and equity, reflecting the university's core values. By overseeing the delivery of these training modules, the President, Partners, Leadership Training ensures that the university provides valuable resources to the broader community. Rich Mehlerr coordinates with industry leaders to tailor training programs to current market demands. This role involves managing partnerships that extend the university's reach and influence. Through the implementation of effective training strategies, the President, Partners, Leadership Training drives professional growth and organizational development. Mehlerr monitors the impact of these programs to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality. Ultimately, the President, Partners, Leadership Training drives the university's mission by equipping leaders with the tools needed to succeed in their respective fields.

    Susan Korzinek - Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Susan Korzinek, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Grand Valley State University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the institution. Korzinek architects secure, scalable network solutions that support advanced research, teaching, and administrative functions. By overseeing the deployment of cutting-edge software and hardware, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of educational technology. Susan Korzinek manages cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive academic data and institutional assets. This role involves collaborating with faculty to integrate digital tools into the curriculum, thereby enhancing the learning experience. Through the strategic management of IT resources, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer drives efficiency across all campus operations. Korzinek monitors emerging technological trends to anticipate future needs and maintain a competitive edge. Ultimately, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer secures the digital foundation necessary for the university's continued success.

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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 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), Evan Breuker (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 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, Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Pre-Optometry Club President, President.