James Madison University Executive and Leadership Team

Luke Kazi, the Chief Financial Officer at James Madison University, directs all fiscal planning and budgetary oversight for the institution. Managing the university's endowment and operational funding, the Chief Financial Officer ensures long-term financial sustainability for research initiatives and campus infrastructure. Kazi coordinates with the Board of Visitors to align capital expenditures with the strategic goals of the university. By optimizing resource allocation across academic departments, the Chief Financial Officer maintains fiscal discipline while supporting growth in student services. Luke Kazi monitors economic trends to mitigate risks associated with public funding fluctuations. Through rigorous auditing and transparent reporting, the Chief Financial Officer upholds the integrity of the university's financial systems. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with administrative heads to balance immediate operational needs with the broader mission of providing high-quality public education within the competitive landscape of higher education.

David Kirkpatrick, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of at James Madison University, manages the daily operations of the executive office and facilitates communication between the President and the broader university community. Coordinating high-level strategic projects, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of ensures that institutional priorities receive consistent attention from all administrative divisions. Kirkpatrick aligns departmental goals with the overarching vision of the university to maintain operational cohesion. By managing complex stakeholder relationships, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of supports the President in executing long-term academic and research objectives. David Kirkpatrick oversees the implementation of university-wide policies that govern campus life and institutional conduct. This leadership role requires balancing immediate administrative demands with the long-term strategic planning necessary to sustain the university's reputation as a leading public research institution in the United States.

Russell Murphy, the President of Society of Entrepreneurs at James Madison University, leads student-driven initiatives focused on business innovation and startup development. Cultivating a culture of professional growth, the President of Society of Entrepreneurs organizes workshops and networking events that connect students with industry leaders. Murphy drives the expansion of entrepreneurial resources, ensuring that participants gain practical experience in venture creation and market analysis. By facilitating partnerships with local business incubators, the President of Society of Entrepreneurs bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Russell Murphy manages the society's budget and membership outreach to maximize impact across the student body. This leadership role involves mentoring aspiring founders and fostering a collaborative environment where creative ideas translate into viable business models. Through these efforts, the President of Society of Entrepreneurs strengthens the university's role as a hub for economic development and professional leadership in the region.

Phillip Wishon, the President at James Madison University, provides the primary strategic vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Directing the university's academic mission, the President oversees the development of research programs and the expansion of educational offerings to meet evolving market demands. Wishon collaborates with the Board of Visitors to set institutional policy and secure the resources necessary for long-term growth. By representing the university to external stakeholders and government bodies, the President ensures that the institution maintains its standing as a premier public research university. Phillip Wishon fosters an inclusive campus culture that prioritizes student success and faculty excellence. This leadership role involves managing complex administrative structures and ensuring that all departments align with the core values of the university. Through decisive action and long-term planning, the President guides the institution toward achieving its goals of academic distinction and community impact.

Ethan Okun, the President - Men's Club Water Polo at James Madison University, manages the operational and competitive logistics for the club sports program. Coordinating team travel, practice schedules, and tournament participation, the President - Men's Club Water Polo ensures that student-athletes maintain high standards of performance and sportsmanship. Okun drives recruitment efforts to sustain team membership and competitive viability within regional leagues. By managing the club's finances and equipment procurement, the President - Men's Club Water Polo maintains the resources required for consistent athletic success. Ethan Okun facilitates communication between the team and university athletic administration to ensure compliance with safety and conduct policies. This leadership role involves fostering team cohesion and promoting the values of discipline and physical fitness among participants. Through these efforts, the President - Men's Club Water Polo contributes to the vibrant extracurricular life that defines the student experience at the university.

Kohle Nash, the 2027 Class President at James Madison University, represents the interests of the undergraduate cohort and facilitates student engagement initiatives. Organizing class-specific events and advocacy programs, the 2027 Class President ensures that student voices reach university administration. Nash drives efforts to build community and school spirit among the class of 2027 through collaborative projects and social programming. By serving as a liaison between students and faculty, the 2027 Class President addresses concerns regarding campus life and academic support services. Kohle Nash manages the class budget and coordinates with student government to implement initiatives that enhance the overall student experience. This leadership role requires active listening and the ability to mobilize peers toward common goals. Through consistent communication and proactive representation, the 2027 Class President strengthens the sense of belonging and institutional pride among the student body at the university.

Gracie Shuman, the President, Dance Theatre at James Madison University, oversees the artistic direction and administrative management of the student dance organization. Coordinating rehearsals, choreography workshops, and public performances, the President, Dance Theatre ensures that the group maintains a high level of artistic excellence. Shuman drives marketing and outreach efforts to increase audience engagement and promote the performing arts across the campus community. By managing the organization's budget and production logistics, the President, Dance Theatre secures the necessary resources for successful stage productions. Gracie Shuman collaborates with faculty advisors to align performance themes with the university's broader commitment to creative expression and cultural enrichment. This leadership role involves mentoring student dancers and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages artistic growth. Through these efforts, the President, Dance Theatre contributes significantly to the cultural vibrancy and creative output of the university's performing arts programs.

G. Miller, the President at James Madison University, leads specific institutional initiatives focused on academic advancement and community outreach. Directing the implementation of strategic programs, the President ensures that departmental goals align with the university's mission of public service and research excellence. Miller manages cross-functional teams to execute projects that enhance the university's regional impact and academic reputation. By fostering partnerships with external organizations, the President expands the reach of the university's educational resources and research capabilities. G. Miller oversees the allocation of project-specific funding to ensure that initiatives remain sustainable and effective. This leadership role involves coordinating with other executive leaders to maintain institutional cohesion and drive progress on key strategic objectives. Through rigorous oversight and proactive management, the President supports the university's commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering innovation within the Commonwealth of Virginia and beyond.

Robin Bryan, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at James Madison University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern research and academic delivery. Overseeing campus-wide network security and data management, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of educational technology into the classroom experience. Bryan drives digital transformation initiatives that enhance administrative efficiency and student connectivity across the institution. By implementing robust cybersecurity protocols, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer protects sensitive research data and institutional records from emerging threats. Robin Bryan collaborates with faculty to deploy advanced computing resources that facilitate complex data analysis and collaborative learning. This role involves managing large-scale software implementations that streamline enrollment and student support services. Through strategic investment in hardware and cloud solutions, the Chief Information Officer maintains the technological edge necessary for a premier public research university to thrive in a digital-first academic environment.

Joseph Volpi, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician at James Madison University, directs the health and wellness services provided to student-athletes. Overseeing injury prevention programs and rehabilitation protocols, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician ensures that all athletes receive high-quality medical care. Volpi manages the medical staff and coordinates with athletic trainers to maintain the physical readiness of university sports teams. By implementing evidence-based health policies, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician mitigates risks and promotes long-term wellness for the student population. Joseph Volpi collaborates with university administration to ensure compliance with health regulations and safety standards in all athletic facilities. This leadership role involves providing expert medical guidance during high-stakes competitions and managing the recovery processes for injured athletes. Through these efforts, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician supports the university's commitment to the health, safety, and peak performance of its student-athletes.