Hamline University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hamline University has 5 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, financial administration, fiscal oversight, external relations, and academic leadership.

Rooted in a commitment to liberal arts excellence, Hamline University fosters intellectual growth and community engagement through rigorous academic programs and a dedication to student success across diverse disciplines.

Leadership Roles at Hamline University

  • Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Tressa Ries
  • Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Susan Kerry
  • Chief of Staff & President, S Office - Elizabeth Radtke
  • President, External Easu - Ayan Ibrahim
  • President - Mayme Hostetter
  • Tressa Ries - Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Tressa Ries, the Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Hamline University, directs the comprehensive fiscal strategy and budgetary planning for the institution. Ries manages the allocation of financial resources to support academic departments and campus infrastructure projects. As the Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer, Tressa Ries ensures the long-term economic sustainability of the university through rigorous auditing and risk management practices. This leadership role involves overseeing the endowment and investment portfolios to maximize returns for future development. By optimizing operational budgets, Ries maintains the financial health required for institutional expansion. The Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the board to present transparent financial reports that reflect the commitment to fiscal responsibility. Through strategic oversight of administrative services, Ries supports the broader mission of providing high-quality education while maintaining a stable financial environment for students and faculty.

    Susan Kerry - Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Susan Kerry, the Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Hamline University, focuses on the optimization of internal business processes and capital expenditure management. Kerry oversees the procurement and facilities management divisions to ensure cost-effective operations across the campus. As the Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Susan Kerry implements advanced financial tracking systems that improve departmental accountability. This role requires constant monitoring of revenue streams and expense reports to maintain balanced budgets. By streamlining administrative support services, Kerry enhances the overall efficiency of the university infrastructure. The Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer works closely with campus stakeholders to align resource distribution with strategic academic priorities. Through meticulous oversight of financial data, Kerry provides the necessary insights for informed executive decision-making. This leadership function ensures that the institution remains agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the student body and the broader academic community.

    Elizabeth Radtke - Chief of Staff & President, S Office

    Elizabeth Radtke, the Chief of Staff & President, S Office at Hamline University, manages the daily operations of the executive office. Radtke coordinates communication between the president and the board of trustees to ensure alignment with institutional goals. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff & President, S Office facilitates efficient decision-making processes across the campus. Elizabeth Radtke oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives that support the liberal arts mission of the institution. This role requires constant collaboration with department heads to maintain operational excellence. Through careful management of executive priorities, Radtke advances the long-term vision of the university. The Chief of Staff & President, S Office also monitors internal policy compliance to uphold academic standards. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, Radtke strengthens the administrative foundation necessary for sustained growth within the competitive higher education landscape of the upper Midwest.

    Ayan Ibrahim - President, External Easu

    Ayan Ibrahim, the President, External Easu at Hamline University, leads the development of strategic partnerships and community engagement initiatives. Ibrahim manages the outreach programs that connect the university with regional stakeholders and alumni networks. As the President, External Easu, Ayan Ibrahim drives the fundraising efforts and donor relations that support scholarship programs and campus development. This role involves representing the institution at public forums to enhance the visibility and reputation of the university. By cultivating relationships with corporate and non-profit partners, Ibrahim expands the professional opportunities available to students. The President, External Easu coordinates with the communications team to ensure consistent messaging regarding the institutional mission. Through proactive engagement with the broader community, Ibrahim secures the resources and support necessary for academic innovation. This leadership position focuses on building a robust network that sustains the long-term growth and influence of the university within the regional educational sector.

    Mayme Hostetter - President

    Mayme Hostetter, the President at Hamline University, defines the overarching academic vision and strategic direction for the institution. Hostetter oversees the faculty senate and academic deans to ensure the delivery of high-quality liberal arts education. As the President, Mayme Hostetter champions the core values of the university while fostering an inclusive environment for students and staff. This leadership role involves setting the tone for institutional culture and driving initiatives that promote student success and research excellence. By collaborating with the board of trustees, Hostetter aligns the long-term goals of the university with the changing demands of the higher education market. The President also represents the institution in national academic associations to advocate for the importance of liberal arts. Through decisive leadership and a commitment to academic integrity, Hostetter guides the university toward achieving its mission of preparing students for meaningful lives and professional success in a complex global society.
    Mayme Hostetter

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hamline University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hamline University?
    Hamline University is led by Tressa Ries (Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Susan Kerry (Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and Elizabeth Radtke (Chief of Staff & President, S Office).
    Who is part of Hamline University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hamline University includes leaders such as Tressa Ries (Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), Susan Kerry (Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Elizabeth Radtke (Chief of Staff & President, S Office) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hamline University have?
    Hamline University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hamline University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hamline University includes roles such as Senior VP, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer, Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff & President, S Office, President, External Easu, President.