Marshall University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Marshall University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, finance, technology, operations, human resources, and athletics.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Marshall University provides diverse degree programs, fostering student success and contributing to the educational landscape from its Huntington, West Virginia headquarters.

Leadership Roles at Marshall University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Nicolas Karagosian
  • Chief Financial Officer - R. Anderson
  • Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator - Niesha Campbell
  • Co-Director, President's Commission On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Kelli Johnson
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Larry Dial
  • Chief of Staff - Sharrod Everett
  • Chief Technology Officer - Allen Taylor
  • Senior VP, Operations & Chief of Staff - Brandi Jacobs
  • Interim Chief Human Resources Officer - David Vernon
  • Chief People Officer - Dennis Meadows
  • Nicolas Karagosian - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Nicolas Karagosian, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Marshall University, directs the overarching strategy and executive leadership for the institution. Karagosian guides the university's academic mission, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive graduate and undergraduate degree programs. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities and fostering an environment conducive to educational advancement and research. Overseeing all major university initiatives, Karagosian ensures alignment with the institution's commitment to serving students in Huntington, West Virginia. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the university's vision, impacting its market position within the higher education sector. Nicolas Karagosian's executive oversight extends to all facets of university operations, solidifying its standing as a public university dedicated to student success and academic rigor.

    R. Anderson - Chief Financial Officer

    R. Anderson, the Chief Financial Officer at Marshall University, directs all financial operations, fiscal planning, and resource management for the institution. Anderson oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and investment strategies to ensure the fiscal health and sustainability of the university's academic and operational endeavors. This critical role involves managing financial risks and optimizing resource allocation to support the delivery of graduate and undergraduate programs. The Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and provides strategic financial guidance to university leadership. By maintaining robust financial controls and driving fiscal responsibility, R. Anderson directly supports the long-term viability of Marshall University. This leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to advance the university's educational mission.

    Niesha Campbell - Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator

    Niesha Campbell, the Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator at Marshall University, oversees the operational and administrative functions of the university's athletic department. Campbell manages budgets, facilities, and personnel to ensure the successful execution of athletic programs and events. This multifaceted role involves strategic planning for athletic initiatives, ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations, and supporting student-athlete welfare. The Chief Operating Officer role within athletics focuses on optimizing departmental efficiency and resource utilization. By driving operational excellence and strategic oversight, Niesha Campbell directly contributes to the success and integrity of Marshall University's athletic endeavors. This leadership ensures the smooth functioning of a vital component of the university community.

    Kelli Johnson - Co-Director, President's Commission On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

    Kelli Johnson, the Co-Director, President's Commission On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Marshall University, leads initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable campus environment. Johnson collaborates with university leadership to develop and implement strategies that promote diversity across all facets of the institution. This role involves advocating for policies and programs that support underrepresented groups and ensure fair treatment for all members of the university community. The Co-Director works to embed principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion into the university's culture and operations. By driving these critical efforts, Kelli Johnson directly contributes to creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere at Marshall University. This leadership is vital for advancing social justice and institutional progress.
    Kelli Johnson

    Larry Dial - Chief Marketing Officer

    Larry Dial, the Chief Marketing Officer at Marshall University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance the university's brand visibility and student recruitment efforts. Dial oversees all promotional activities, digital campaigns, and public relations initiatives designed to communicate the value of Marshall University's diverse degree offerings. This leadership position involves analyzing market trends and student demographics to refine outreach programs. The Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent messaging across all platforms, highlighting the university's strengths in graduate and undergraduate education. By driving innovative marketing approaches, Larry Dial directly supports enrollment growth and strengthens the university's reputation. This role is critical in articulating the institution's mission and impact to prospective students, alumni, and the broader community.

    Sharrod Everett - Chief of Staff

    Sharrod Everett, the Chief of Staff at Marshall University, provides strategic support and operational coordination to the President's office, ensuring efficient execution of institutional priorities. Everett manages key projects, facilitates communication across departments, and advises leadership on critical matters impacting university operations. This role involves streamlining administrative processes and enhancing interdepartmental collaboration to support the delivery of graduate and undergraduate degrees. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, ensuring that strategic objectives are translated into actionable plans. By optimizing workflow and resource allocation, Sharrod Everett directly contributes to the effective functioning of the university. This position is vital for maintaining operational momentum and supporting the overall mission of Marshall University.

    Allen Taylor - Chief Technology Officer

    Allen Taylor, the Chief Technology Officer at Marshall University, leads the strategic development and implementation of all information technology infrastructure and services. Taylor oversees the university's technology roadmap, ensuring robust digital platforms support academic programs, research, and administrative functions. This role involves managing cybersecurity, data management, and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance the educational experience for graduate and undergraduate students. The Chief Technology Officer ensures that technology investments align with institutional goals and provide a competitive edge. By driving technological advancement and operational efficiency, Allen Taylor directly enhances the university's capacity to deliver cutting-edge education. This leadership is fundamental to modernizing operations and supporting the university's evolving needs.
    Allen Taylor

    Brandi Jacobs - Senior VP, Operations & Chief of Staff

    Brandi Jacobs, the Senior VP, Operations & Chief of Staff at Marshall University, directs critical operational functions and provides high-level strategic support to university leadership. Jacobs oversees key administrative departments, ensuring efficient resource management and the seamless execution of institutional policies. This role involves enhancing operational workflows and driving process improvements across the university. The Chief of Staff component of this position ensures alignment between strategic objectives and day-to-day operations. By optimizing operational efficiency and providing strategic counsel, Brandi Jacobs directly contributes to the effective functioning and advancement of Marshall University. This leadership ensures that the university's infrastructure effectively supports its academic mission.

    David Vernon - Interim Chief Human Resources Officer

    David Vernon, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Marshall University, leads the human resources department, overseeing all aspects of employee relations, talent management, and organizational development. Vernon ensures the implementation of effective HR policies and programs that support the university's faculty and staff. This role involves managing recruitment, compensation, benefits, and professional development initiatives to foster a productive and engaged workforce. The Interim Chief Human Resources Officer provides strategic guidance on workforce planning and employee engagement strategies. By championing employee well-being and development, David Vernon directly contributes to a positive and effective work environment at Marshall University. This leadership is essential for attracting and retaining top talent.

    Dennis Meadows - Chief People Officer

    Dennis Meadows, the Chief People Officer at Marshall University, champions the development and implementation of strategies focused on employee engagement, talent acquisition, and organizational culture. Meadows oversees initiatives designed to attract, retain, and develop a high-performing workforce, ensuring alignment with the university's mission and values. This role involves fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for all faculty and staff. The Chief People Officer provides strategic leadership in areas of workforce planning, employee relations, and professional growth. By prioritizing the university's human capital, Dennis Meadows directly enhances the overall effectiveness and employee satisfaction at Marshall University. This leadership is integral to building a strong and motivated team.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Marshall University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Marshall University?
    Marshall University is led by Nicolas Karagosian (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as R. Anderson (Chief Financial Officer) and Niesha Campbell (Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator).
    Who is part of Marshall University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Marshall University includes leaders such as Nicolas Karagosian (President & Chief Executive Officer), R. Anderson (Chief Financial Officer), Niesha Campbell (Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Marshall University have?
    Marshall University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Marshall University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Marshall University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Administrator, Co-Director, President's Commission On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Chief Marketing Officer.