Kansas State University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kansas State University has 10 executives leading key functions including human resources, finance, chief of staff, technology, information systems, and presidential leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and research, Kansas State University fosters innovation and community engagement, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge across diverse fields.

Leadership Roles at Kansas State University

  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources - Patrick Splichal
  • President - Tyler Whetstone
  • President - Ashwin Bhat
  • President - Shohei Sato
  • President - Kalpit Patel
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Shanna Legleiter
  • Chief of Staff To the Provost - William Everroad
  • Deputy Chief Technology Officer - Robert Wirtz
  • Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Thomas Bunton
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Grant Hill
  • Patrick Splichal - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources

    Patrick Splichal, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources at Kansas State University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and resource allocation. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and fiscal reporting, Splichal ensures the university's financial health and sustainability. This critical role involves strategic financial decision-making to support academic programs, research endeavors, and campus infrastructure development. By driving fiscal responsibility, Patrick Splichal enables the university to achieve its educational and research goals effectively. The Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources also guides investment strategies and manages financial risk, ensuring robust oversight of all fiscal activities. This executive's leadership ensures that financial resources are aligned with the university's mission and strategic priorities, fostering growth and operational excellence.

    Tyler Whetstone - President

    Tyler Whetstone, the President at Kansas State University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, research, and administrative functions, Whetstone champions the university's mission and fosters an environment of academic excellence and innovation. This paramount role involves engaging with stakeholders, securing resources, and setting the overarching goals for the university's future growth and impact. By driving institutional advancement, Tyler Whetstone ensures Kansas State University remains a leader in higher education. The President also represents the university externally, building partnerships and enhancing its reputation on a national and international scale. This executive's commitment to student success and faculty development is central to the university's enduring legacy.

    Ashwin Bhat - President

    Ashwin Bhat, the President at Kansas State University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution across all university divisions. Bhat oversees the advancement of academic programs, research initiatives, and student development, ensuring alignment with the institution's core mission. This leadership position involves fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation among faculty, staff, and students. By driving institutional excellence, Ashwin Bhat enhances the university's standing and impact in higher education. The President also manages key relationships with external partners, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations. This executive's dedication to academic rigor and community engagement is fundamental to the continued success and growth of Kansas State University.

    Shohei Sato - President

    Shohei Sato, the President at Kansas State University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic distinction. Sato oversees the development and implementation of university-wide policies, ensuring operational efficiency and the pursuit of cutting-edge research. This executive role involves cultivating a dynamic learning environment that empowers students and faculty to achieve their full potential. By driving institutional progress, Shohei Sato strengthens Kansas State University's commitment to excellence. The President also champions initiatives that enhance the university's global reach and community impact. This leadership is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and maintaining the university's competitive edge.

    Kalpit Patel - President

    Kalpit Patel, the President at Kansas State University, provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for the entire organization. Patel directs the university's mission to advance knowledge through teaching, research, and service, fostering an environment conducive to discovery and innovation. This critical role involves guiding institutional planning, resource allocation, and the development of academic programs. By driving strategic initiatives, Kalpit Patel ensures Kansas State University meets the evolving needs of its students and society. The President also serves as the primary liaison with external constituencies, building strong relationships and advocating for the university's interests. This executive's commitment to academic integrity and student success is paramount to the university's ongoing achievements.

    Shanna Legleiter - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shanna Legleiter, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Kansas State University, directs all human capital management strategies. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, Legleiter ensures a robust framework supporting the university's academic and research missions. This leadership role involves developing policies that foster a positive and productive work environment for faculty and staff across all departments. By optimizing HR processes, Shanna Legleiter drives operational efficiency and supports the institution's long-term strategic objectives. The Chief Human Resources Officer also champions diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, reinforcing the university's commitment to a welcoming campus culture. This executive ensures compliance with all labor laws and regulations, safeguarding the university's interests while promoting employee well-being and professional development.

    William Everroad - Chief of Staff To the Provost

    William Everroad, the Chief of Staff To the Provost at Kansas State University, provides strategic support and operational leadership to the Provost's office. Managing key initiatives, coordinating cross-departmental projects, and facilitating communication between the Provost and various university stakeholders, Everroad ensures efficient execution of academic priorities. This role involves advising on policy development, overseeing special projects, and streamlining administrative processes to enhance the Provost's effectiveness. By driving strategic alignment, William Everroad supports the advancement of the university's academic mission and research agenda. The Chief of Staff To the Provost also acts as a liaison, fostering collaboration among deans, faculty, and administrative units. This executive's focus on operational excellence and strategic planning is vital for the continued success and growth of Kansas State University's academic endeavors.

    Robert Wirtz - Deputy Chief Technology Officer

    Robert Wirtz, the Deputy Chief Technology Officer at Kansas State University, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the university's technology infrastructure. Overseeing key IT operations, network management, and system security, Wirtz ensures reliable and secure technology services for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership position involves implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance teaching, learning, and research capabilities across campus. By driving technological advancement, Robert Wirtz contributes to the university's competitive edge and operational efficiency. The Deputy Chief Technology Officer also plays a crucial role in managing IT projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget. This executive's expertise is essential for maintaining a robust and forward-thinking technology environment at Kansas State University.

    Thomas Bunton - Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Thomas Bunton, the Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Kansas State University, leads the comprehensive information technology strategy and operations. Overseeing all aspects of IT infrastructure, enterprise systems, cybersecurity, and digital transformation initiatives, Bunton ensures technology effectively supports the university's academic, research, and administrative functions. This executive role involves developing and implementing long-term IT roadmaps, fostering innovation, and managing a significant technology budget. By driving digital excellence, Thomas Bunton enhances the university's operational capabilities and student experience. The Associate Vice President & Chief Information Officer also champions data governance and ensures the security and integrity of university information assets. This leadership is pivotal in positioning Kansas State University at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education.

    Grant Hill - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Grant Hill, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Kansas State University, provides critical support to the Chief of Staff and senior leadership in executing strategic initiatives. Managing day-to-day operations, coordinating special projects, and facilitating communication across university departments, Hill ensures seamless workflow and efficient decision-making. This role involves analyzing complex issues, developing recommendations, and implementing action plans to advance the university's objectives. By driving operational effectiveness, Grant Hill contributes significantly to the smooth functioning of the university's administrative and academic endeavors. The Deputy Chief of Staff also assists in preparing reports, presentations, and briefings for executive review. This executive's dedication to strategic execution and organizational efficiency is fundamental to the continued success of Kansas State University.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kansas State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kansas State University?
    Kansas State University is led by Patrick Splichal (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources), along with executives such as Tyler Whetstone (President) and Ashwin Bhat (President).
    Who is part of Kansas State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kansas State University includes leaders such as Patrick Splichal (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources), Tyler Whetstone (President), Ashwin Bhat (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kansas State University have?
    Kansas State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kansas State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kansas State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Vice President & Director, Amp, Natural Resources, President, President, President, President.