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 this public research university. Christopher manages high-level academic initiatives and ensures alignment between university goals and state-level educational mandates. By overseeing long-term financial planning and resource allocation, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the fiscal health necessary for sustained research output. Thomas Christopher collaborates with the Board of Visitors to implement policies that enhance the reputation of the institution across the United States. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while promoting a culture of academic rigor and student success. Through the coordination of diverse administrative departments, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of providing high-quality education. Ultimately, Christopher secures the future of the university by fostering partnerships that expand the reach and impact of the institution within the broader academic community.

David Kirkpatrick, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of at James Madison University, manages the daily operations and strategic workflow of the executive office. Kirkpatrick coordinates communication between the president and various university stakeholders to ensure seamless administrative execution. By overseeing internal processes and policy implementation, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of maintains organizational stability and operational focus. David Kirkpatrick facilitates high-level meetings and manages special projects that support the core mission of the university. This leadership role involves translating institutional goals into actionable plans for various departments. Through the optimization of administrative functions, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of enhances the efficiency of the executive team. Ultimately, Kirkpatrick supports the long-term strategic objectives of the university by ensuring that the office functions as a cohesive unit dedicated to academic and research excellence.

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 board. Hess coordinates the flow of information between the board and the executive leadership to ensure transparent decision-making. By overseeing the preparation of board materials and meeting logistics, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of facilitates effective oversight of university affairs. Lisa Hess maintains the records and documentation necessary for regulatory compliance and institutional accountability. This role involves interacting with various stakeholders to ensure that board directives align with the strategic goals of the university. Through the management of governance-related communications, the Board of Visitors Support Specialist & President, Office of strengthens the relationship between the board and the administration. Ultimately, Hess ensures that the governance structure supports the long-term mission and stability of the institution.

Gracie Shuman, the President, Dance Theatre at James Madison University, directs the artistic vision and operational management of the dance program. Shuman oversees the production of performances and the development of curriculum that prepares students for professional careers in the arts. By managing the resources and facilities dedicated to dance, the President, Dance Theatre ensures that students have access to high-quality training environments. Gracie Shuman coordinates with faculty to integrate creative practice with academic research, fostering a unique interdisciplinary approach. This role involves promoting the dance program to regional and national audiences to increase the cultural impact of the university. Through the oversight of artistic projects and performances, the President, Dance Theatre supports the mission of fostering creativity and expression. Ultimately, Shuman drives the growth of the dance department by maintaining high standards of excellence and expanding the reach of the program.

Robin Bryan, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology at James Madison University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern research and pedagogical needs. Bryan oversees the deployment of secure network systems and data management protocols across the campus. By integrating advanced technological solutions, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology ensures that faculty and students access essential digital resources for academic inquiry. Robin Bryan manages the transition toward cloud-based services to improve operational efficiency and data accessibility. This role involves coordinating with academic departments to align technology investments with the evolving requirements of a public research university. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity frameworks, the Chief Information Officer, Emeritus & Assistant VP, Information Technology protects institutional assets and sensitive information. Ultimately, Bryan drives the digital transformation necessary to maintain the competitive edge of the university in an increasingly connected global landscape.

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 the clinical operations and medical staff responsible for maintaining the physical well-being of the university community. By implementing evidence-based health protocols, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician ensures that students receive high-quality care. Joseph Volpi manages the integration of medical services with university safety policies to create a secure campus environment. This role involves coordinating with athletic departments to provide specialized care for student-athletes, ensuring peak performance and injury prevention. Through the oversight of health clinics and medical resources, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician supports the overall mission of student success. Ultimately, Volpi drives the development of comprehensive wellness programs that address the diverse health needs of the university population.

Kristi Shackelford, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs at James Madison University, directs the messaging and public relations strategies for the academic division. Shackelford oversees the dissemination of information regarding research achievements and educational programs to internal and external audiences. By crafting compelling narratives, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs enhances the visibility and reputation of the university. Kristi Shackelford manages the communication channels that connect faculty and students with the broader community. This role involves aligning academic messaging with the overall brand identity of the institution to ensure consistency across all platforms. Through the development of strategic communication plans, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs supports the recruitment and retention efforts of the university. Ultimately, Shackelford drives the engagement of stakeholders by highlighting the impact of academic work and the value of the educational experience provided by the university.