Indiana State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Indiana State University has 9 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Indiana State University fosters intellectual growth and community engagement through research and comprehensive educational programs.

Leadership Roles at Indiana State University

  • Chief Operating Officer - Hailey Tonsor
  • President - Christine Pace
  • President of Administrative Affairs - Christian Walker
  • President - Deborah Curtis
  • President - Michael Godard
  • President - Janet Piechocinski
  • President - Pavel Terpelets
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Barley
  • Chief of Staff - Ardell Sanders
  • Hailey Tonsor - Chief Operating Officer

    Hailey Tonsor, the Chief Operating Officer at Indiana State University, oversees the comprehensive operational framework of the institution. Managing facilities, campus services, and resource allocation, Tonsor ensures efficient and effective delivery of university functions. This leadership role involves optimizing daily operations to support academic excellence and student success across the Terre Haute location. By driving operational efficiencies and strategic resource deployment, Hailey Tonsor directly impacts the university's ability to achieve its educational and research objectives. Ultimately, Tonsor maintains the physical and administrative infrastructure essential for institutional growth.

    Christine Pace - President

    Christine Pace, the President at Indiana State University, provides overarching strategic direction and executive leadership for the institution. Guiding academic innovation and institutional development, Pace champions the university's mission of public service and research excellence. This critical role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, including faculty, students, alumni, and the broader Indiana community. By setting the vision and ensuring fiscal responsibility, Christine Pace directly advances the university's standing and impact. Ultimately, Pace leads Indiana State University toward its long-term goals of educational leadership and societal contribution.

    Christian Walker - President of Administrative Affairs

    Christian Walker, the President of Administrative Affairs at Indiana State University, directs the financial and administrative functions supporting the university's mission. Overseeing budgeting, human resources, and procurement, Walker ensures sound fiscal management and operational integrity. This leadership role involves developing and implementing policies that promote efficiency and compliance across all administrative departments. By managing institutional resources effectively, Christian Walker directly enables the academic and research endeavors of the university. Ultimately, Walker secures the financial stability and administrative capacity necessary for sustained institutional growth.

    Deborah Curtis - President

    Deborah Curtis, the President at Indiana State University, provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. Championing educational advancement and research initiatives, Curtis cultivates an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and student development. This pivotal role involves engaging with the university community and external partners to advance institutional priorities. By steering strategic planning and fostering a culture of excellence, Deborah Curtis directly enhances the university's reputation and impact. Ultimately, Curtis guides Indiana State University in fulfilling its commitment to higher education and public service.

    Michael Godard - President

    Michael Godard, the President at Indiana State University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic distinction. Directing university-wide initiatives, Godard emphasizes innovation in teaching, research, and community engagement. This executive position involves fostering collaboration among faculty, staff, and students to achieve institutional objectives. By driving forward key strategic priorities, Michael Godard directly contributes to the university's mission of providing accessible and high-quality education. Ultimately, Godard ensures Indiana State University remains a leader in higher education and a vital contributor to the state's development.

    Janet Piechocinski - President

    Janet Piechocinski, the President at Indiana State University, provides executive leadership and strategic vision for the university's continued development. Overseeing academic programs and institutional advancement, Piechocinski focuses on enhancing student learning outcomes and research opportunities. This leadership role involves cultivating a dynamic campus environment and strengthening external partnerships. By guiding strategic initiatives and ensuring operational excellence, Janet Piechocinski directly supports the university's commitment to its students and the broader community. Ultimately, Piechocinski drives Indiana State University's mission forward through dedicated leadership and forward-thinking strategies.

    Pavel Terpelets - President

    Pavel Terpelets, the President at Indiana State University, directs the strategic trajectory and operational effectiveness of the institution. Leading academic and administrative functions, Terpelets champions advancements in research, teaching, and student support services. This executive role involves fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring the university meets its educational mandates. By implementing strategic plans and overseeing resource management, Pavel Terpelets directly advances the university's mission and its contribution to society. Ultimately, Terpelets guides Indiana State University in its pursuit of academic excellence and community impact.

    Robert Barley - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Barley, the Chief Information Officer at Indiana State University, directs all technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing the university's IT operations, Barley ensures robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems. This leadership role involves implementing innovative technological solutions to support academic research and administrative functions across the Terre Haute campus. By optimizing network performance and digital resources, Robert Barley directly enhances the learning and operational environment. Ultimately, Barley drives technological advancement to meet the evolving needs of the university community.

    Ardell Sanders - Chief of Staff

    Ardell Sanders, the Chief of Staff at Indiana State University, manages strategic initiatives and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. Overseeing key projects and interdepartmental communications, Sanders ensures alignment with the university's mission and strategic goals. This leadership role involves facilitating effective decision-making and driving the execution of critical campus-wide programs. By streamlining administrative processes and advising senior leadership, Ardell Sanders directly supports the efficient functioning of the university. Ultimately, Sanders enhances institutional effectiveness and strategic implementation across all university operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Indiana State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Indiana State University?
    Indiana State University is led by Hailey Tonsor (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Christine Pace (President) and Christian Walker (President of Administrative Affairs).
    Who is part of Indiana State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Indiana State University includes leaders such as Hailey Tonsor (Chief Operating Officer), Christine Pace (President), Christian Walker (President of Administrative Affairs) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Indiana State University have?
    Indiana State University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Indiana State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Indiana State University includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President, President of Administrative Affairs, President, President.