James Madison University Executive and Leadership Team

Luke Kazi, the Chief Financial Officer at James Madison University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for this public research institution. Kazi directs long-term financial planning, ensuring resources align with the core mission of providing high-quality education. By overseeing capital investments and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the economic stability required for institutional growth. Kazi collaborates with the Board of Visitors to ensure transparency and accountability in all monetary matters. This leadership role involves analyzing complex economic data to support strategic decision-making across the university. Through rigorous oversight of endowment funds and state funding, Luke Kazi secures the financial foundation necessary for academic success. The Chief Financial Officer continuously evaluates cost-efficiency measures to optimize resource distribution, ultimately strengthening the university's competitive position within the higher education landscape of Virginia and beyond.

David Kirkpatrick, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of at James Madison University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication between the President and various university departments. Kirkpatrick manages the administrative workflow of the Office of the President, ensuring that strategic initiatives receive proper attention and execution. By aligning departmental goals with the broader institutional vision, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of drives organizational efficiency. Kirkpatrick facilitates high-level meetings and manages complex projects that span multiple academic and administrative units. This role requires constant interaction with the leadership team to resolve operational challenges and advance university priorities. David Kirkpatrick maintains the integrity of institutional processes while fostering a collaborative environment. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of supports the university's commitment to research and public service across the regional landscape.

Elijah Caires, the President at James Madison University, provides the primary strategic vision and leadership for this public research institution. Caires directs the university's academic mission, ensuring that research initiatives and educational programs meet the highest standards of excellence. By engaging with stakeholders, the President fosters partnerships that expand the university's influence and impact. Caires oversees the administrative structure, guiding the institution toward long-term sustainability and growth. This leadership role involves representing the university in public forums and advocating for policies that support higher education. Elijah Caires collaborates with the Board of Visitors to define institutional goals and monitor progress toward achieving them. Through a focus on student success and faculty development, the President drives the university's reputation as a premier center for learning. Caires ensures that the institution remains responsive to the needs of the community and the broader academic landscape.

Lisa Hess, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of at James Madison University, manages the administrative functions and communication protocols for the university's governing body. Hess facilitates the coordination of board meetings, ensuring that all documentation and procedural requirements are met with precision. By supporting the Office of the President, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of ensures that governance activities align with the strategic objectives of the institution. Hess maintains records and manages correspondence, providing the necessary infrastructure for effective board oversight. This leadership role involves navigating complex administrative tasks to support the university's mission and regulatory compliance. Lisa Hess collaborates with executive leadership to ensure that board decisions are communicated and implemented effectively. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of strengthens the governance framework that guides the university's long-term success.

Ethan Okun, the President - Men's Club Water Polo at James Madison University, directs the operations and strategic development of the student athletic organization. Okun manages team logistics, including scheduling, travel arrangements, and budget oversight for club activities. By fostering a culture of teamwork and discipline, the President - Men's Club Water Polo ensures that student members achieve both athletic and personal growth. Okun coordinates with university recreation departments to secure facilities and resources necessary for competitive play. This leadership role involves recruiting new members and promoting the club's presence within the university community. Ethan Okun maintains compliance with institutional policies while driving the organization's success in regional competitions. Through effective management and dedication, the President - Men's Club Water Polo enhances the extracurricular landscape of the university, providing students with valuable opportunities for leadership and physical engagement in a collegiate setting.

Connor Rice, the President at James Madison University, leads specific student-focused initiatives and organizational governance within the university framework. Rice directs the planning and execution of programs designed to enhance student life and community involvement. By overseeing the administrative functions of the organization, the President ensures that all activities align with the university's core values of service and academic excellence. Rice coordinates with faculty advisors and student leaders to implement projects that foster personal development and campus engagement. This leadership role involves managing resources and facilitating communication to achieve organizational goals. Connor Rice maintains a focus on inclusivity and student success, driving the impact of the organization across the campus. Through proactive leadership and strategic planning, the President supports the university's mission to provide a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for all students within the diverse academic community.

G. Miller, the President at James Madison University, manages the operational and strategic direction of a key student-led organization. Miller directs the development of programs that promote professional growth and academic collaboration among the student body. By overseeing the allocation of resources and the coordination of events, the President ensures that the organization contributes positively to the university's vibrant campus culture. Miller facilitates partnerships with other student groups and university departments to maximize the impact of organizational initiatives. This leadership role involves mentoring members and fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. G. Miller maintains high standards of accountability and transparency in all organizational activities. Through dedicated leadership and a commitment to the university's mission, the President enhances the extracurricular opportunities available to students, supporting their overall development and success within the broader academic and research environment of the institution.

Gracie Shuman, the President, Dance Theatre at James Madison University, directs the artistic and administrative operations of the university's dance organization. Shuman manages performance schedules, production logistics, and the creative vision for the theatre's seasonal offerings. By overseeing the recruitment of dancers and the coordination of rehearsals, the President, Dance Theatre ensures that all productions meet high artistic standards. Shuman collaborates with the university's arts department to secure performance spaces and technical support. This leadership role involves managing the organization's budget and promoting its events to the wider campus and local community. Gracie Shuman fosters a collaborative environment that encourages artistic expression and technical skill development among members. Through effective management and creative direction, the President, Dance Theatre enhances the cultural landscape of the university, providing students with a platform to showcase their talents and contribute to the institution's reputation for excellence in the arts.

Robin Bryan, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology at James Madison University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern research and academic instruction. Bryan oversees the implementation of secure network systems and data management protocols essential for university operations. By directing the integration of advanced educational technologies, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology enhances the learning experience for students and faculty. Bryan manages large-scale IT projects that improve connectivity and digital accessibility across the campus. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to ensure technology solutions meet evolving research requirements. Robin Bryan maintains robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect institutional data and intellectual property. Through strategic planning and technical oversight, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology ensures that the university remains at the forefront of digital innovation within the competitive higher education sector.

Joseph Volpi, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician at James Madison University, directs the health and wellness services provided to the student body and athletic programs. Volpi oversees clinical operations, ensuring that medical care meets rigorous safety and quality standards. By managing the team of physicians and healthcare staff, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician maintains a robust support system for student-athletes and the general campus population. Volpi coordinates with university administration to implement health policies that promote a safe and productive environment. This leadership role involves diagnosing complex medical issues and providing expert guidance on injury prevention and recovery. Joseph Volpi integrates evidence-based practices into the university's medical services, enhancing the overall well-being of the community. Through dedicated clinical oversight, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician supports the university's commitment to holistic student development and athletic excellence.