LSU Health Sciences Center Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

LSU Health Sciences Center has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, information technology, finance, human resources, clinical affairs, and education.

Driven by a commitment to advancing health and wellness, LSU Health Sciences Center educates the majority of Louisiana's health care professionals, offering a comprehensive range of degree and certificate programs across its six professional health schools.

Leadership Roles at LSU Health Sciences Center

  • Chief Executive Officer - Donald Varnado
  • Chief Financial Officer - Chad Thompson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Glenn Craig
  • President, Chapter, Education & Workforce Development - Jamie Terrell
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Kevin Sittig
  • Chief Information Officer - Kenneth Brown
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Jill Fragoso
  • Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, Chief Medical Officer - Jayne Weiss
  • Donald Varnado - Chief Executive Officer

    Donald Varnado, the Chief Executive Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the institution. Varnado guides the organization's mission to educate health care professionals and advance medical knowledge. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities and ensuring alignment with the educational and research goals of the university. Overseeing all major strategic initiatives, Donald Varnado ensures the continued growth and development of LSU Health Sciences Center. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering key relationships with stakeholders and driving the institution's impact on healthcare in Louisiana and beyond. Varnado's strategic direction shapes the future of health sciences education and practice within the region.

    Chad Thompson - Chief Financial Officer

    Chad Thompson, the Chief Financial Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, directs the institution's financial planning, management, and reporting. Thompson oversees budgeting, financial analysis, and investment strategies to ensure the fiscal health and sustainability of the university. This executive position involves managing financial resources to support academic programs, research endeavors, and operational needs. Leading the finance division, Chad Thompson ensures adherence to financial regulations and best practices. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models, managing revenue streams, and optimizing expenditures. By providing sound financial oversight, Thompson supports the long-term strategic objectives of LSU Health Sciences Center.

    Glenn Craig - Chief Operating Officer

    Glenn Craig, the Chief Operating Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, manages the day-to-day operational functions of the university. Craig oversees the efficient allocation of resources and the smooth execution of institutional processes across various departments. This leadership position involves optimizing operational workflows to support the educational and research missions. Directing operational efficiency, Glenn Craig ensures that administrative and support services effectively enable academic excellence. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to facilities management, strategic planning implementation, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. By streamlining operations, Craig enhances the overall productivity and effectiveness of LSU Health Sciences Center.

    Jamie Terrell - President, Chapter, Education & Workforce Development

    Jamie Terrell, the President, Chapter, Education & Workforce Development at LSU Health Sciences Center, drives initiatives focused on educational advancement and workforce preparedness. Terrell leads programs designed to enhance learning opportunities and develop a skilled health care workforce for Louisiana. This position involves strategic planning for educational curricula and fostering partnerships that support professional development. Overseeing education and workforce development, Jamie Terrell ensures alignment with industry needs and institutional goals. The President's focus includes expanding access to quality education and creating pathways for career growth within the health sciences sector. By championing innovative educational strategies, Terrell strengthens the future of healthcare professionals educated at LSU Health Sciences Center.

    Kevin Sittig - Chief Marketing Officer

    Kevin Sittig, the Chief Marketing Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, spearheads all marketing and communications efforts. Sittig develops and executes comprehensive strategies to enhance the institution's brand visibility and reputation. This role involves managing public relations, digital marketing, and external communications to reach prospective students, faculty, and the broader community. Overseeing the marketing department, Kevin Sittig ensures consistent messaging across all platforms. The Chief Marketing Officer's focus includes promoting the university's diverse academic programs and research achievements. By driving innovative marketing campaigns, Sittig supports student recruitment and institutional growth, solidifying LSU Health Sciences Center's position as a leading health education provider.

    Kenneth Brown - Chief Information Officer

    Kenneth Brown, the Chief Information Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, leads the institution's information technology strategy and infrastructure. Brown is responsible for developing and implementing robust IT systems that support academic, research, and administrative functions. This critical role involves ensuring data security, managing technological advancements, and providing reliable IT support to faculty, staff, and students. Overseeing the IT department, Kenneth Brown drives innovation in digital learning and research capabilities. The Chief Information Officer's mandate includes enhancing the technological environment to foster collaboration and efficiency. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Brown ensures LSU Health Sciences Center remains at the forefront of digital health sciences education.
    Kenneth Brown

    Jill Fragoso - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Jill Fragoso, the Chief Human Resources Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, leads all aspects of human capital management. Fragoso develops and implements HR strategies that support the university's mission, focusing on talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive work environment. This role involves overseeing compensation and benefits, employee relations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Directing HR initiatives, Jill Fragoso cultivates a skilled and engaged workforce essential for academic and research success. The Chief Human Resources Officer's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth is paramount. By championing effective HR practices, Fragoso strengthens the human infrastructure of LSU Health Sciences Center.

    Jayne Weiss - Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, Chief Medical Officer

    Jayne Weiss, the Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, Chief Medical Officer at LSU Health Sciences Center, holds multifaceted leadership responsibilities. Weiss oversees the clinical operations and strategic direction of the Department of Ophthalmology, while also serving as the Chief Medical Officer for the institution. This dual role involves ensuring the highest standards of patient care, medical education, and clinical research. Directing clinical affairs and ophthalmology services, Jayne Weiss integrates academic excellence with patient-centered healthcare delivery. The Chief Medical Officer's focus extends to advancing medical practice and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across health sciences. Weiss's leadership ensures the quality and effectiveness of clinical services offered by LSU Health Sciences Center.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding LSU Health Sciences Center Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads LSU Health Sciences Center?
    LSU Health Sciences Center is led by Donald Varnado (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Chad Thompson (Chief Financial Officer) and Glenn Craig (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of LSU Health Sciences Center’s executive team?
    The executive team of LSU Health Sciences Center includes leaders such as Donald Varnado (Chief Executive Officer), Chad Thompson (Chief Financial Officer), Glenn Craig (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does LSU Health Sciences Center have?
    LSU Health Sciences Center has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in LSU Health Sciences Center’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of LSU Health Sciences Center includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chapter, Education & Workforce Development, Chief Marketing Officer.