Kansas State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kansas State University has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, human resources, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Kansas State University provides a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering innovation and critical thinking within its educational framework.

Leadership Roles at Kansas State University

  • President - Mackenzie Riffel
  • President - Anthony Ring
  • Board President and Professor In Accounting - Johanna Lyle
  • President - Kalpit Patel
  • President - Tyler Whetstone
  • President-International Coordinating Council - Indira Lakkakula
  • President - Megan Lutz
  • Chief of Staff To the Provost - William Everroad
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Grant Hill
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Shanna Legleiter
  • Mackenzie Riffel - President

    Mackenzie Riffel, the President at Kansas State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This role involves overseeing all academic, research, and administrative functions, ensuring the university fulfills its mission of education and discovery. Riffel guides institutional planning, resource allocation, and external relations, fostering partnerships that advance the university's goals. The President is responsible for championing the university's vision, promoting a culture of innovation, and ensuring financial stability and growth. Mackenzie Riffel's leadership extends to engaging with stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community, to enhance the university's impact and reputation. This presidential role is central to the strategic advancement and operational integrity of Kansas State University.

    Anthony Ring - President

    Anthony Ring, the President at Kansas State University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the university. This leadership position involves comprehensive oversight of academic programs, research endeavors, and administrative services, ensuring alignment with the institution's core mission. Ring drives initiatives focused on enhancing student success, faculty development, and institutional growth. The President is instrumental in fostering a dynamic campus environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and innovation. Anthony Ring's responsibilities include managing university finances, cultivating philanthropic support, and representing Kansas State University in national and international forums. This executive leadership ensures the university maintains its commitment to excellence in higher education and research.

    Johanna Lyle - Board President and Professor In Accounting

    Johanna Lyle, the Board President and Professor In Accounting at Kansas State University, provides dual leadership across governance and academic instruction. As Board President, Lyle guides the strategic direction and oversight of the university's governing board, ensuring fiduciary responsibility and adherence to institutional mission. Concurrently, as a Professor In Accounting, Lyle contributes expertise to the academic curriculum, fostering student learning and scholarly inquiry in the field. This dual role requires balancing high-level governance responsibilities with direct engagement in educational delivery. Johanna Lyle's leadership ensures that the board effectively supports the university's strategic objectives while maintaining academic rigor. This unique position is vital for connecting institutional governance with the practical realities of academic life at Kansas State University.

    Kalpit Patel - President

    Kalpit Patel, the President at Kansas State University, spearheads the university's strategic planning and operational management. This executive role encompasses the oversight of all academic departments, research initiatives, and administrative functions, ensuring the university's continued advancement. Patel is dedicated to fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation, supporting faculty research and student learning experiences. The President drives efforts to enhance the university's standing, secure necessary resources, and expand its reach through strategic partnerships. Kalpit Patel's leadership focuses on strengthening the university's commitment to its educational mission and its role within the broader community. This presidential capacity is fundamental to the ongoing success and development of Kansas State University.

    Tyler Whetstone - President

    Tyler Whetstone, the President at Kansas State University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic distinction. This executive position involves comprehensive management of university operations, including academic affairs, research programs, and student services, all aligned with the university's foundational mission. Whetstone champions initiatives that promote cutting-edge research and enhance the educational journey for all students. The President plays a crucial role in securing funding, building community relationships, and advancing the university's reputation. Tyler Whetstone's leadership is dedicated to ensuring Kansas State University remains a leader in higher education, adapting to evolving academic landscapes and societal needs. This presidential oversight is key to the university's sustained excellence.

    Indira Lakkakula - President-International Coordinating Council

    Indira Lakkakula, the President-International Coordinating Council at Kansas State University, directs global engagement and international academic initiatives. This leadership role involves fostering collaborations with international institutions, managing global partnerships, and overseeing programs that support international students and faculty. Lakkakula works to expand the university's global footprint and enhance cross-cultural understanding within the academic community. The President-International Coordinating Council is responsible for developing strategies that promote international research, study abroad opportunities, and global learning outcomes. Indira Lakkakula's efforts are critical in positioning Kansas State University as a globally connected institution, enriching the educational experience through international perspectives and collaborations.

    Megan Lutz - President

    Megan Lutz, the President at Kansas State University, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the university's comprehensive operations. This executive role encompasses guiding academic excellence, advancing research frontiers, and ensuring efficient administrative functions to support the institution's mission. Lutz is committed to cultivating an environment that fosters innovation, student success, and faculty achievement. The President drives key initiatives aimed at enhancing the university's impact, securing vital resources, and strengthening its connections with stakeholders. Megan Lutz's leadership focuses on upholding the highest standards of education and research, ensuring Kansas State University continues to thrive as a leading institution of higher learning.

    William Everroad - Chief of Staff To the Provost

    William Everroad, the Chief of Staff To the Provost at Kansas State University, directs administrative operations supporting the Provost's strategic initiatives. This role involves coordinating key projects, managing communications, and ensuring efficient workflow across academic departments. Everroad facilitates the implementation of institutional policies and supports the Provost in advancing the university's educational and research missions. The Chief of Staff To the Provost oversees the operational execution of academic planning, working closely with deans and faculty to align departmental goals with university-wide objectives. This leadership position is critical for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of academic governance, ensuring that resources are allocated strategically to support student success and faculty development. William Everroad's oversight extends to critical administrative functions that underpin the university's academic endeavors.

    Grant Hill - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Grant Hill, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Kansas State University, supports the Chief of Staff in managing the administrative and operational functions of the Provost's office. This position requires a deep understanding of university processes and the ability to execute complex projects. Hill assists in the development and implementation of strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the university's mission. The Deputy Chief of Staff plays a vital role in streamlining operations, enhancing communication channels, and fostering collaboration among various academic and administrative units. Grant Hill's responsibilities include overseeing specific initiatives, analyzing operational data, and providing recommendations for process improvements. This leadership function is essential for the effective functioning of the Provost's office, contributing to the overall academic and administrative efficiency of Kansas State University.

    Shanna Legleiter - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shanna Legleiter, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Kansas State University, leads all aspects of human capital management for the institution. This executive directs the development and execution of HR strategies, encompassing talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development. Legleiter ensures that HR policies and practices support the university's mission and foster a positive and productive work environment for faculty and staff across all campuses. The Chief Human Resources Officer oversees the administration of comprehensive HR services, driving initiatives that enhance employee engagement and retention. Shanna Legleiter's strategic vision guides the university's approach to workforce planning, diversity and inclusion, and compliance with labor laws. This critical role ensures that Kansas State University attracts, develops, and retains a high-caliber workforce essential for academic and research excellence.

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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 Mackenzie Riffel (President), along with executives such as Anthony Ring (President) and Johanna Lyle (Board President and Professor In Accounting).
    Who is part of Kansas State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kansas State University includes leaders such as Mackenzie Riffel (President), Anthony Ring (President), Johanna Lyle (Board President and Professor In Accounting) 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 President, President, Board President and Professor In Accounting, President, President.