James Madison University Executive and Leadership Team

Thomas Christopher, the Chief Executive Officer at James Madison University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the organization. Overseeing long-term academic planning, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between university resources and the evolving needs of the student body. This leadership role involves managing complex budgetary frameworks and fostering partnerships that enhance research opportunities across the campus. By prioritizing academic excellence and civic engagement, Thomas Christopher directly impacts the university's reputation as a premier educational institution. Christopher maintains rigorous standards for faculty development and student success metrics, ensuring that the institution remains competitive within the higher education landscape. Through consistent evaluation of institutional performance, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational stability required to support over 70 undergraduate majors and 130 programs, ultimately driving the mission of developing future leaders within the broader community.

David Kirkpatrick, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of at James Madison University, manages the daily operations and administrative workflows within the executive office. Overseeing internal communications and cross-departmental coordination, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of ensures that institutional priorities receive consistent attention from leadership teams. This role involves facilitating high-level decision-making processes and streamlining the execution of university-wide initiatives. By optimizing administrative efficiency, David Kirkpatrick directly supports the university's commitment to a vibrant campus community. Kirkpatrick coordinates closely with various academic departments to ensure that operational support aligns with the broader educational goals of the institution. Through meticulous oversight of executive projects, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of maintains organizational cohesion, allowing the university to focus on delivering a well-rounded educational experience for traditional and non-traditional students alike.

Gracie Shuman, the President, Dance Theatre at James Madison University, directs the artistic vision and operational management of the university's performing arts programs. Overseeing the integration of creative expression into the broader student life experience, the President, Dance Theatre ensures that extracurricular activities remain a cornerstone of the campus culture. This leadership role involves curating performances and managing the resources necessary to support student artists. By fostering a vibrant environment for creative growth, Gracie Shuman directly impacts the well-rounded educational experience provided by the university. Shuman coordinates with faculty to align artistic programming with the institution's commitment to civic engagement and community service. Through the development of high-quality productions, the President, Dance Theatre enhances the cultural footprint of the university, providing students with unique opportunities to engage in research and performance, ultimately contributing to the holistic development of the student body.

James Schmidt, the President at James Madison University, provides executive leadership for the entire university, focusing on institutional advancement and academic integrity. Overseeing the implementation of university-wide policies, the President ensures that the institution maintains its reputation for excellence in research and teaching. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Visitors and external stakeholders to secure the resources necessary for campus expansion and program development. By championing the university's mission, James Schmidt directly impacts the success of the diverse student population. Schmidt drives initiatives that promote civic engagement and community service, ensuring that the university remains a leader in developing future professionals. Through the management of academic and extracurricular programs, the President fosters a supportive environment that encourages student growth, ensuring that the university continues to provide a comprehensive and high-quality educational experience for all students.

Lisa Hess, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of at James Madison University, manages the governance processes and administrative support for the university's governing board. Overseeing the flow of information between the board and the executive leadership, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of ensures that strategic decisions align with institutional bylaws and mission objectives. This role involves organizing board meetings and maintaining the documentation necessary for transparent governance. By facilitating effective communication, Lisa Hess directly impacts the strategic direction of the university. Hess coordinates with the President's office to ensure that board directives are executed efficiently across all departments. Through the management of governance-related tasks, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of provides the structural foundation required for the university to pursue its goals of academic excellence and community service, ensuring long-term institutional stability.

Kristi Shackelford, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs at James Madison University, architects the messaging strategy for all academic programs and research initiatives. Overseeing public relations and internal information dissemination, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs ensures that the university's commitment to academic excellence reaches key stakeholders. This leadership role involves managing the narrative surrounding the 130 programs offered, highlighting the achievements of faculty and students. By crafting targeted campaigns, Kristi Shackelford directly impacts the visibility of the university's research output and civic engagement efforts. Shackelford collaborates with academic deans to promote the diverse educational opportunities available to the student body. Through strategic media engagement, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs strengthens the institutional brand, ensuring that the value proposition of the university remains clear to prospective students, alumni, and the wider community, thereby supporting the overall mission of fostering future leaders.

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. Overseeing the medical staff and clinical operations, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician ensures that all students receive high-quality care that supports academic and athletic performance. This leadership role involves managing health protocols and coordinating with the athletic department to maintain the safety of student-athletes. By prioritizing the physical well-being of the campus community, Joseph Volpi directly impacts the overall student experience. Volpi implements wellness initiatives that align with the university's commitment to a well-rounded education. Through the oversight of medical resources, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician ensures that the university remains equipped to handle the health needs of a diverse student population, thereby supporting the institution's broader mission of fostering a healthy and vibrant campus environment.