James Madison University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

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

Leadership Roles at James Madison University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Luke Kazi
  • Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of - David Kirkpatrick
  • President - Men's Club Water Polo - Ethan Okun
  • President - G. Miller
  • Founder & President - Sumu Vadrevu
  • President - Connor Rice
  • Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Robin Bryan
  • Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs - Kristi Shackelford
  • Team Captain - James Hunting
  • University Program Board - Corey Swanson
  • Luke Kazi - Chief Financial Officer

    Luke Kazi, the Chief Financial Officer at James Madison University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Kazi ensures the university's economic stability and growth. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. By analyzing financial data, Luke Kazi provides critical insights to support institutional decision-making and long-term sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing university endowments and securing funding to advance academic and research initiatives across Virginia.

    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, orchestrates strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key university departments. This multifaceted role involves managing high-priority projects, advising senior leadership, and ensuring seamless execution of the university's strategic vision. Overseeing the Office of the President, Kirkpatrick facilitates communication and collaboration among stakeholders, driving progress on critical institutional goals. The Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of's leadership ensures alignment with the university's mission of academic excellence and research innovation. David Kirkpatrick's strategic oversight supports the advancement of educational programs and institutional development throughout Virginia.

    Ethan Okun - President - Men's Club Water Polo

    Ethan Okun, the President - Men's Club Water Polo at James Madison University, directs the operations and strategic development of the men's club water polo program. This leadership position involves overseeing team management, athlete recruitment, and competition scheduling, ensuring the program's success and growth. The President - Men's Club Water Polo's responsibilities include fostering team cohesion, managing budgets, and representing the program within the university's athletic framework. Ethan Okun's dedication supports student-athlete development and promotes a competitive spirit within the university's extracurricular offerings. This role contributes to the vibrant student life and athletic diversity at James Madison University.

    G. Miller - President

    G. Miller, the President at James Madison University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This executive role involves guiding the university's mission, vision, and long-term goals, ensuring academic excellence and operational effectiveness. Overseeing all university operations, Miller collaborates with senior leadership to foster innovation, promote research, and enhance the student experience. The President's responsibilities include representing the university to external constituencies, managing key relationships, and ensuring financial stability. G. Miller's leadership is pivotal in advancing the university's reputation and impact within the higher education landscape.

    Sumu Vadrevu - Founder & President

    Sumu Vadrevu, the Founder & President at James Madison University, established and now leads a significant initiative or organization within the university framework. This dual role encompasses visionary leadership in founding the entity and ongoing executive management to ensure its sustained success and growth. Overseeing all aspects of the organization, Vadrevu drives its strategic objectives, operational execution, and resource development. The Founder & President's responsibilities are critical to the entity's mission and its contribution to the university's broader goals. Sumu Vadrevu's foundational work and continued leadership are instrumental in the organization's impact and development.

    Connor Rice - President

    Connor Rice, the President at James Madison University, directs the strategic operations and administrative functions of a specific division or major entity within the university. This leadership position involves setting departmental goals, managing resources, and ensuring alignment with the university's overall mission. Overseeing key initiatives and teams, Rice drives performance and fosters a culture of excellence. The President's responsibilities include stakeholder engagement, policy implementation, and the advancement of departmental objectives. Connor Rice's executive guidance is crucial for the effective functioning and strategic progress of the assigned area within 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 infrastructure and services. Overseeing network operations, cybersecurity, and digital transformation efforts, Bryan ensures robust and secure technological support for academic and administrative functions. This critical role involves managing IT budgets, evaluating emerging technologies, and fostering innovation to enhance the university's digital landscape. The Assistant VP, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer's expertise drives efficiency and supports cutting-edge research and learning environments. Robin Bryan's leadership ensures James Madison University remains at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education.
    Robin Bryan

    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 university's academic divisions. This leadership role involves developing and implementing comprehensive communication plans to enhance the visibility and reputation of academic programs and research. Overseeing messaging, content creation, and media relations for academic affairs, Shackelford ensures clear and consistent communication with internal and external stakeholders. The Chief Communications Officer, Academic Affairs's expertise supports faculty achievements, student success stories, and the university's overall academic mission. Kristi Shackelford's strategic communication efforts bolster the institution's standing in higher education.

    James Hunting - Team Captain

    James Hunting, the Team Captain at James Madison University, provides leadership and direction for the designated athletic team. This role involves motivating teammates, coordinating on-field strategies, and serving as a liaison between the team and coaching staff. The Team Captain's responsibilities include fostering a positive team culture, ensuring adherence to team rules, and leading by example in performance and sportsmanship. James Hunting's influence extends to enhancing team morale and driving competitive performance. This leadership position contributes significantly to the team's overall success and the spirit of athletic participation at James Madison University.

    Corey Swanson - University Program Board

    Corey Swanson, the University Program Board at James Madison University, contributes to the planning and execution of student-focused events and activities. This role involves collaborating with peers to develop engaging programming that enhances the campus experience and fosters community. The University Program Board's responsibilities include organizing events, managing budgets for activities, and promoting student involvement across various initiatives. Corey Swanson's efforts support the vibrant student life and extracurricular opportunities available at James Madison University. This contribution aids in creating a dynamic and enriching environment for the student body.

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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 Luke Kazi (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as David Kirkpatrick (Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of) and Ethan Okun (President - Men's Club Water Polo).
    Who is part of James Madison University’s executive team?
    The executive team of James Madison University includes leaders such as Luke Kazi (Chief Financial Officer), David Kirkpatrick (Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of), Ethan Okun (President - Men's Club Water Polo) 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 Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief of Staff & President, Office of, President - Men's Club Water Polo, President, Founder & President.