James Madison University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

James Madison University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, technology, medical affairs, communications, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to research and education, James Madison University fosters an environment of academic excellence and community engagement, impacting the educational landscape through its dedicated faculty and comprehensive programs.

Leadership Roles at James Madison University

  • Chief Executive Officer - James Smith
  • Chief Financial Officer - Luke Kazi
  • Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of - David Kirkpatrick
  • Academic President's List - Elizabeth Woolard
  • President - Men's Club Water Polo - Ethan Okun
  • President - Connor Rice
  • President - G. Miller
  • Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Robin Bryan
  • Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician - Joseph Volpi
  • Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs - Kristi Shackelford
  • James Smith - Chief Executive Officer

    James Smith, the Chief Executive Officer at James Madison University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional advancement. Overseeing all university operations, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the core mission of providing a high-quality research and coeducational experience. This leadership role involves fostering academic innovation and enhancing the university's standing within the educational sector. By driving strategic initiatives, James Smith directly impacts the university's growth and long-term sustainability. Ultimately, Smith secures the institution's financial health and operational efficiency.

    Luke Kazi - Chief Financial Officer

    Luke Kazi, the Chief Financial Officer at James Madison University, manages all fiscal operations and financial planning. Overseeing the university's budget, investments, and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support academic programs and institutional growth across Virginia and beyond. By optimizing resource allocation, Luke Kazi directly impacts the university's ability to fund research and educational initiatives. Ultimately, Kazi safeguards the financial integrity of James Madison University.

    David Kirkpatrick - Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of

    David Kirkpatrick, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of at James Madison University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership. Managing key initiatives and ensuring seamless communication across departments, the Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of facilitates the execution of institutional goals. This position involves coordinating high-level projects and advising on policy development to advance the university's mission. By streamlining administrative processes, David Kirkpatrick directly enhances the efficiency of university operations. Ultimately, Kirkpatrick ensures the effective functioning of the President's office and supports broader institutional objectives.

    Elizabeth Woolard - Academic President's List

    Elizabeth Woolard, the Academic President's List at James Madison University, represents academic excellence and achievement among the student body. This designation highlights outstanding scholarly performance and dedication to educational pursuits within the university's rigorous academic framework. The role involves embodying the highest standards of learning and contributing to the intellectual vibrancy of the campus community. By maintaining exceptional academic standing, Elizabeth Woolard directly exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering high-achieving students. Ultimately, Woolard serves as a benchmark for academic success at James Madison University.

    Ethan Okun - President - Men's Club Water Polo

    Ethan Okun, the President - Men's Club Water Polo at James Madison University, leads the student-run athletic organization, fostering teamwork and athletic development. Overseeing team operations, recruitment, and event coordination, the President - Men's Club Water Polo ensures the club's success and engagement within the university's extracurricular offerings. This role involves managing budgets, scheduling competitions, and promoting a positive team culture. By guiding the water polo club, Ethan Okun directly contributes to student life and athletic participation. Ultimately, Okun enhances the student experience through dedicated leadership in collegiate athletics at James Madison University.

    Connor Rice - President

    Connor Rice, the President at James Madison University, spearheads key initiatives and represents student interests within university governance. Overseeing specific student-led projects and advocating for campus improvements, the President ensures student voices are integrated into institutional decision-making processes. This role involves collaborating with university administration and fellow students to enhance the overall campus experience. By driving student-focused programs, Connor Rice directly contributes to a dynamic and responsive university environment. Ultimately, Rice champions student welfare and engagement at James Madison University.

    G. Miller - President

    G. Miller, the President at James Madison University, leads critical organizational functions and strategic planning efforts. Overseeing specific departmental operations and driving key projects, the President ensures the effective execution of university objectives and fosters a culture of excellence. This position is essential for advancing the institution's mission through focused leadership and operational oversight. By managing departmental initiatives, G. Miller directly contributes to the university's ongoing development and success. Ultimately, Miller enhances the operational capacity and strategic direction of James Madison University.

    Robin Bryan - Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Robin Bryan, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at James Madison University, leads the strategic direction and implementation of all information technology systems. Overseeing the university's digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology services, the Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures robust and secure IT operations supporting academic and administrative functions. This role is pivotal in driving technological innovation across campus, enhancing research capabilities and student learning experiences. By managing IT resources effectively, Robin Bryan directly supports the university's commitment to cutting-edge education. Ultimately, Bryan ensures the technological advancement and operational resilience of James Madison University.
    Robin Bryan

    Joseph Volpi - Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician

    Joseph Volpi, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician at James Madison University, directs the comprehensive healthcare services and medical policies for the university community. Overseeing student health, athletic medicine, and wellness programs, the Chief Medical Officer & Head Team Physician ensures the highest standards of care and preventative health strategies. This position is crucial for supporting the well-being of students, faculty, and staff, particularly within athletic programs. By implementing effective health protocols, Joseph Volpi directly contributes to a safe and healthy campus environment. Ultimately, Volpi safeguards the physical health and medical needs of the James Madison University population.

    Kristi Shackelford - Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs

    Kristi Shackelford, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs at James Madison University, directs strategic communication initiatives for the academic division. Overseeing messaging, public relations, and internal communications, the Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs ensures clear and consistent dissemination of information regarding academic programs and achievements. This position is vital for enhancing the university's reputation and engaging stakeholders across academic and external audiences. By crafting effective communication strategies, Kristi Shackelford directly supports the visibility and impact of academic endeavors. Ultimately, Shackelford strengthens the narrative and outreach of James Madison University's academic mission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding James Madison University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads James Madison University?
    James Madison University is led by James Smith (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Luke Kazi (Chief Financial Officer) and David Kirkpatrick (Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of).
    Who is part of James Madison University’s executive team?
    The executive team of James Madison University includes leaders such as James Smith (Chief Executive Officer), Luke Kazi (Chief Financial Officer), David Kirkpatrick (Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does James Madison University have?
    James Madison University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in James Madison University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of James Madison University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of, Academic President's List, President - Men's Club Water Polo.