Indiana State University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Indiana State University has 7 executives leading key functions including institutional operations, information technology, financial management, and academic leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, Indiana State University fosters student success through rigorous research initiatives and inclusive educational programs designed to prepare graduates for global professional landscapes.

Leadership Roles at Indiana State University

  • Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Seth Hinshaw
  • President - Pavel Terpelets
  • President - Christine Pace
  • President - Michael Godard
  • President - Deborah Curtis
  • Chief of Staff - Ardell Sanders
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Barley
  • Seth Hinshaw - Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Seth Hinshaw, the Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Indiana State University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the institution. Hinshaw oversees the allocation of resources to support academic programs, facility maintenance, and research expansion. The Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer directs long-term financial forecasting to ensure the university maintains a sustainable economic foundation. Seth Hinshaw collaborates with the executive team to optimize operational expenditures and identify new revenue streams that bolster the university's market position. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, the Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer safeguards the institution's assets while promoting growth. This leadership role involves constant monitoring of economic trends to guide strategic investments, ultimately ensuring that the university possesses the necessary capital to fulfill its mission of providing high-quality education to a diverse student population.
    Seth Hinshaw

    Pavel Terpelets - President

    Pavel Terpelets, the President at Indiana State University, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for the university's academic and research programs. Terpelets drives initiatives that enhance the institution's reputation as a leading doctoral research center. The President manages relationships with external stakeholders, including government agencies and private partners, to secure funding and support for campus development. Pavel Terpelets oversees the implementation of policies that promote student retention and academic achievement across all departments. By fostering a culture of innovation, the President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of higher education. This leadership role involves balancing the immediate needs of the campus with the long-term goals of the institution. Through consistent engagement with faculty and staff, the President maintains a focus on excellence, ensuring that the university continues to provide impactful educational opportunities for students.

    Christine Pace - President

    Christine Pace, the President at Indiana State University, directs the expansion of community outreach and regional partnerships to increase the university's societal impact. Pace oversees the development of programs that connect academic research with practical applications in the local and regional economy. The President manages the university's public relations strategy, ensuring that the institution's mission resonates with prospective students and community leaders. Christine Pace coordinates with academic deans to align curriculum development with the evolving demands of the workforce. By prioritizing inclusive growth, the President ensures that the university serves as a catalyst for regional development. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while maintaining the university's commitment to public service. Through strategic advocacy, the President strengthens the institution's influence, ensuring that the university remains a vital contributor to the intellectual and economic vitality of the region.

    Michael Godard - President

    Michael Godard, the President at Indiana State University, focuses on the optimization of student services and the enhancement of the campus living-learning environment. Godard oversees the integration of support systems that improve student well-being and academic success. The President manages the university's internal culture, promoting values of diversity, equity, and inclusion across all student-facing departments. Michael Godard coordinates with the faculty senate to ensure that academic standards remain high while providing the necessary resources for student development. By prioritizing the student experience, the President drives initiatives that increase graduation rates and student satisfaction. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of campus facilities and student programs to ensure they meet modern expectations. Through dedicated leadership, the President ensures that the university provides a supportive and challenging environment that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.

    Deborah Curtis - President

    Deborah Curtis, the President at Indiana State University, leads the strategic planning efforts to elevate the university's national research profile. Curtis oversees the recruitment of top-tier faculty and the development of advanced research facilities that attract significant grant funding. The President manages the university's long-term capital campaigns, ensuring that infrastructure projects support the institution's growth objectives. Deborah Curtis coordinates with the Board of Trustees to establish institutional priorities that align with the university's historical mission. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the President drives innovation in research and teaching. This leadership role involves representing the university on a national stage, advocating for policies that benefit higher education. Through visionary leadership, the President ensures that the university remains a competitive and respected institution, consistently delivering high-quality research and education that addresses the complex challenges of the modern world.

    Ardell Sanders - Chief of Staff

    Ardell Sanders, the Chief of Staff at Indiana State University, coordinates high-level administrative workflows and facilitates communication across the executive cabinet. Sanders manages the strategic alignment of university initiatives with the broader mission of the institution. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff ensures that departmental goals remain synchronized with long-term academic objectives. Ardell Sanders maintains oversight of critical projects that impact the operational efficiency of the campus environment. This role involves frequent collaboration with the Board of Trustees to refine governance policies and institutional standards. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff supports the university in maintaining its status as a premier research institution. The office functions as a central hub for policy implementation, ensuring that all administrative actions contribute to the overall growth and stability of the university community.

    Robert Barley - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Barley, the Chief Information Officer at Indiana State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy for the entire campus. Barley oversees the implementation of secure network systems and advanced data analytics platforms that support both faculty research and student learning outcomes. The Chief Information Officer manages the integration of emerging educational technologies to enhance the digital classroom experience. Robert Barley coordinates with academic departments to ensure that information systems remain robust, scalable, and aligned with the university's research-focused mission. By prioritizing cybersecurity and data integrity, the Chief of Staff for technology maintains a safe environment for all digital assets. This leadership role drives the modernization of campus-wide communication tools, ensuring that the university remains competitive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape while supporting the diverse needs of the student body.

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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 Seth Hinshaw (Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Pavel Terpelets (President) and Christine Pace (President).
    Who is part of Indiana State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Indiana State University includes leaders such as Seth Hinshaw (Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Pavel Terpelets (President), Christine Pace (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Indiana State University have?
    Indiana State University has 7 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 Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, President, President, President.