Indiana State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Indiana State University fosters intellectual growth and community engagement, shaping future leaders through research and comprehensive education.

Leadership Roles at Indiana State University

  • Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Seth Hinshaw
  • President - Deborah Curtis
  • President - Christine Pace
  • President - Pavel Terpelets
  • President - Michael Godard
  • President of Administrative Affairs - Christian Walker
  • President - Janet Piechocinski
  • 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, directs the university's financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial planning, Hinshaw ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of the institution. This leadership position involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and controlling expenditures to support academic and research endeavors. By implementing robust financial controls and transparent reporting, Seth Hinshaw provides critical insights for strategic decision-making. Hinshaw also leads efforts to secure funding and manage financial risks, ensuring the university's long-term economic stability and growth.
    Seth Hinshaw

    Deborah Curtis - President

    Deborah Curtis, the President at Indiana State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, research, and administrative functions, Curtis champions the university's mission and vision. This pivotal role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting innovation, and engaging with external stakeholders to enhance the university's reputation and impact. By setting institutional priorities and guiding policy development, Deborah Curtis ensures alignment with educational goals and community needs. Curtis also leads fundraising efforts and cultivates partnerships, securing resources to support student success and institutional advancement.

    Christine Pace - President

    Christine Pace, the President at Indiana State University, drives strategic initiatives and operational excellence across the university. Overseeing key administrative and academic functions, Pace ensures the effective implementation of institutional policies and goals. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration among departments and advancing the university's commitment to student success and scholarly research. By guiding strategic planning and resource management, Christine Pace supports the university's mission and enhances its competitive standing. Pace also cultivates relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to promote institutional growth and community engagement.

    Pavel Terpelets - President

    Pavel Terpelets, the President at Indiana State University, leads the strategic vision and operational execution for the university. Overseeing academic programs and administrative services, Terpelets ensures the delivery of high-quality education and research opportunities. This executive role involves fostering an environment of innovation and academic rigor, supporting faculty development, and enhancing student learning experiences. By guiding institutional planning and resource allocation, Pavel Terpelets advances the university's mission and strengthens its position in higher education. Terpelets also engages with community leaders and industry partners to expand the university's reach and impact.

    Michael Godard - President

    Michael Godard, the President at Indiana State University, directs the overall strategic direction and operational management of the institution. Overseeing academic affairs, research initiatives, and student services, Godard ensures the university fulfills its educational mandate. This leadership role involves fostering a dynamic learning environment, promoting faculty scholarship, and enhancing student outcomes. By championing institutional values and guiding policy decisions, Michael Godard strengthens the university's commitment to excellence. Godard also cultivates partnerships and advocates for the university, securing support for its continued growth and success.

    Christian Walker - President of Administrative Affairs

    Christian Walker, the President of Administrative Affairs at Indiana State University, oversees the comprehensive administrative functions supporting the university's operations. Directing departments such as finance, human resources, and facilities management, Walker ensures efficient resource utilization and operational integrity. This role is critical in maintaining the infrastructure and support systems necessary for academic and research excellence. By implementing effective administrative policies and procedures, Christian Walker enhances institutional effectiveness and fiscal responsibility. Walker also collaborates with other university leaders to align administrative services with strategic objectives, ensuring smooth and productive campus operations.

    Janet Piechocinski - President

    Janet Piechocinski, the President at Indiana State University, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the university's academic and administrative endeavors. Overseeing the development and implementation of institutional policies, Piechocinski ensures alignment with the university's mission and values. This executive position involves fostering a collaborative environment that supports faculty research, student success, and community engagement. By guiding strategic planning and resource allocation, Janet Piechocinski enhances the university's educational offerings and operational efficiency. Piechocinski also champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the campus.

    Ardell Sanders - Chief of Staff

    Ardell Sanders, the Chief of Staff at Indiana State University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Overseeing critical projects, Sanders ensures efficient execution of administrative policies and supports the President's agenda. This leadership role involves coordinating interdepartmental communications and managing key stakeholder relationships to advance the university's mission. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining administrative processes, Ardell Sanders directly contributes to the effective functioning of the institution. Sanders also facilitates the implementation of institutional goals, ensuring all operational facets support academic and research objectives.

    Robert Barley - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Barley, the Chief Information Officer at Indiana State University, architects and manages the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Barley ensures the security, reliability, and scalability of university systems, supporting academic, research, and administrative functions. This role involves driving innovation in educational technology and enhancing digital learning environments. By implementing advanced IT solutions and cybersecurity measures, Robert Barley safeguards institutional data and improves user experience for students, faculty, and staff. Barley also leads digital transformation efforts, aligning technology investments with the university's long-term strategic vision and operational needs.

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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 Deborah Curtis (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), Deborah Curtis (President), Christine Pace (President) 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 Administration Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, President, President, President, President.