Liberty University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Liberty University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, operational management, athletics administration, and academic leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and Christian values, Liberty University provides diverse undergraduate and graduate degree programs while fostering a global community of scholars and professionals.

Leadership Roles at Liberty University

  • Chief Executive Officer Summit African President - Ikenna Nwobu
  • Chief Financial Officer - Robert Ritz
  • Chief Operating Officer - Byron Mathe
  • President - Dondi Costin
  • President - Hannah Murai
  • President - Grace Shipman
  • Class President - Tiana Elisara
  • President Emeritus and Board Member - Jerry Prevo
  • President, Accounting Society - Grace Jarman
  • Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff - Chelsea Mangino
  • Ikenna Nwobu - Chief Executive Officer Summit African President

    Ikenna Nwobu, the Chief Executive Officer Summit African President at Liberty University, directs strategic initiatives across the African continent to expand educational access. Nwobu manages partnerships with regional academic institutions to align curriculum standards with international requirements. By overseeing cross-border collaborations, the Chief Executive Officer Summit African President ensures that degree programs reach diverse student populations effectively. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty to integrate specialized certificate programs into local markets. Ikenna Nwobu drives growth by identifying emerging educational needs and tailoring institutional resources to meet those demands. Through consistent engagement with international stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer Summit African President strengthens the global footprint of the university. Ultimately, Nwobu secures long-term academic partnerships that enhance the reputation of the institution within the African educational landscape.

    Robert Ritz - Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Ritz, the Chief Financial Officer at Liberty University, directs all fiscal operations and budgetary planning for the institution. Overseeing the allocation of capital for undergraduate and graduate programs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with long-term financial sustainability goals. This leadership role involves managing endowment funds and optimizing revenue streams from certificate programs to support campus infrastructure. By implementing rigorous financial controls, Robert Ritz directly impacts the ability of the university to provide high-quality education. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic trends to mitigate risks associated with non-profit operations. Through precise financial reporting, Ritz maintains transparency with the Board and external stakeholders. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the fiscal health necessary for the university to continue delivering comprehensive degree minors and academic services to students.

    Byron Mathe - Chief Operating Officer

    Byron Mathe, the Chief Operating Officer at Liberty University, directs the daily administrative functions and campus operations. Overseeing the integration of academic services with physical infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that students receive seamless support across all degree programs. This leadership role involves managing facility maintenance and logistical support for the diverse certificate programs offered by the institution. By streamlining operational workflows, Byron Mathe improves efficiency across all departments. The Chief Operating Officer coordinates with academic leadership to ensure that campus resources meet the evolving needs of the student body. Through proactive management of institutional assets, Mathe supports the overall mission of providing a robust educational environment. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the operational excellence required to sustain the university as a premier private non-profit institution.

    Dondi Costin - President

    Dondi Costin, the President at Liberty University, directs the overarching academic and spiritual vision of the institution. Overseeing the development of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, the President ensures that all curricula reflect the core mission of the university. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board to set long-term strategic goals for institutional growth. By fostering a culture of academic excellence, Dondi Costin drives the university toward higher standards of research and teaching. The President coordinates with faculty and administrative leaders to expand certificate programs and degree minors. Through consistent communication with the student body and alumni, the President strengthens the community impact of the institution. Ultimately, Costin secures the future of the university by maintaining a focus on faith-based education and rigorous academic preparation for all students.
    Dondi Costin

    Hannah Murai - President

    Hannah Murai, the President at Liberty University, directs specific initiatives focused on student engagement and campus culture. Overseeing the implementation of student-led programs, the President ensures that the campus environment supports the holistic development of the student body. This leadership role involves collaborating with student organizations to enhance the quality of life for those pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. By fostering inclusive community activities, Hannah Murai drives student satisfaction and retention. The President coordinates with administrative departments to align student services with the broader mission of the university. Through active participation in campus events, the President strengthens the connection between the student body and the institution. Ultimately, Murai secures a vibrant campus experience that complements the academic rigor of the degree programs offered at the university.

    Grace Shipman - President

    Grace Shipman, the President at Liberty University, directs specialized outreach programs designed to connect the university with external professional communities. Overseeing the development of industry-aligned certificate programs, the President ensures that graduates possess the skills required for modern career paths. This leadership role involves building partnerships with corporate entities to create internship opportunities for students in various degree programs. By facilitating these connections, Grace Shipman drives the professional success of the student body. The President coordinates with academic departments to refine degree minors based on current market demands. Through strategic networking, the President enhances the visibility of the university in the professional sector. Ultimately, Shipman secures valuable career pathways for students by bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application in the workforce.

    Tiana Elisara - Class President

    Tiana Elisara, the Class President at Liberty University, directs student advocacy efforts to represent the interests of the current graduating cohort. Overseeing the planning of class-specific events and initiatives, the Class President ensures that students feel supported throughout their academic journey. This leadership role involves acting as a liaison between the student body and university administration to address concerns regarding degree programs and campus life. By organizing forums and feedback sessions, Tiana Elisara drives improvements in the student experience. The Class President coordinates with other student leaders to promote unity and school spirit. Through consistent engagement with peers, the Class President strengthens the sense of community within the university. Ultimately, Elisara secures a positive and memorable experience for the graduating class by advocating for their needs and celebrating their academic achievements.

    Jerry Prevo - President Emeritus and Board Member

    Jerry Prevo, the President Emeritus and Board Member at Liberty University, directs long-term governance and strategic oversight for the institution. Overseeing the preservation of the core mission, the President Emeritus and Board Member ensures that all new degree programs remain consistent with the foundational values of the university. This leadership role involves providing historical context and guidance to the current executive team during major decision-making processes. By participating in Board deliberations, Jerry Prevo drives the strategic direction of the university. The President Emeritus and Board Member supports the expansion of certificate programs by advocating for resources that align with institutional goals. Through mentorship of current leaders, the President Emeritus and Board Member strengthens the continuity of the university. Ultimately, Prevo secures the legacy of the institution by maintaining a focus on its original purpose and mission.
    Jerry Prevo

    Grace Jarman - President, Accounting Society

    Grace Jarman, the President, Accounting Society at Liberty University, directs professional development activities for students specializing in financial studies. Overseeing the organization of workshops and networking events, the President, Accounting Society ensures that members gain practical insights into the accounting field. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty to provide resources that supplement the core degree programs. By facilitating connections with industry professionals, Grace Jarman drives the career readiness of accounting students. The President, Accounting Society manages the internal operations of the society to ensure consistent value for all participants. Through active engagement with the student body, the President, Accounting Society fosters a collaborative learning environment. Ultimately, Jarman secures professional growth opportunities for students by bridging the gap between classroom learning and the demands of the accounting profession.

    Chelsea Mangino - Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff

    Chelsea Mangino, the Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff at Liberty University, directs administrative coordination within the athletics department. Overseeing the alignment of athletic programs with institutional academic standards, the Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff ensures that student-athletes maintain high performance levels. This leadership role involves managing internal communications and supporting the executive team in executing strategic initiatives. By optimizing departmental processes, Chelsea Mangino enhances the efficiency of athletic operations. The Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff facilitates collaboration between coaching staff and academic advisors to promote student success. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, Mangino supports the broader mission of the university. Ultimately, the Assistant Athletics Director and Chief of Staff secures the operational stability necessary for the athletics department to thrive within the competitive collegiate landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Liberty University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Liberty University?
    Liberty University is led by Ikenna Nwobu (Chief Executive Officer Summit African President), along with executives such as Robert Ritz (Chief Financial Officer) and Byron Mathe (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Liberty University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Liberty University includes leaders such as Ikenna Nwobu (Chief Executive Officer Summit African President), Robert Ritz (Chief Financial Officer), Byron Mathe (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Liberty University have?
    Liberty University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Liberty University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Liberty University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer Summit African President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, President.