Michigan State University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Michigan State University has 10 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, financial management, athletic operations, and presidential administration.

Committed to academic excellence and global research, Michigan State University fosters innovation through diverse degree programs and comprehensive athletic initiatives to empower students worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Michigan State University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Bradley Kline
  • Chief of Staff, Office of the President - Michael Zeig
  • President - Megan Darragh
  • President - Grace Kendra
  • Chief of Staff - Angela Moore
  • Chief of Staff, Football - Jacob Schmidt
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Player Personnel - Michael Porter
  • Chief of Staff for Auxiliary Enterprises - Ken Horvath
  • Associate Director, Coordination Planning & Rehs Chief of Staff - Natisha Foster
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Basketball Operations - Garrett Briningstool
  • Bradley Kline - Chief Financial Officer

    Bradley Kline, the Chief Financial Officer at Michigan State University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budgetary planning, the Chief Financial Officer directs capital investments and financial reporting to ensure compliance with institutional standards. This role involves analyzing market trends to optimize revenue streams while maintaining affordability for students. By implementing robust financial controls, Kline safeguards the assets of the university, supporting the expansion of research facilities and academic programs. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with leadership to allocate resources effectively across various departments, ensuring that financial decisions align with the core mission of the university. Through disciplined fiscal management, Kline secures the necessary funding to sustain global operations and academic excellence, ultimately strengthening the financial foundation of the entire institution.

    Michael Zeig - Chief of Staff, Office of the President

    Michael Zeig, the Chief of Staff, Office of the President at Michigan State University, manages the executive agenda and strategic priorities for the university leadership. Overseeing the flow of information to the President, the Chief of Staff, Office of the President ensures that all administrative functions align with the vision of the institution. This role involves facilitating communication between the President and various stakeholders, including faculty, students, and external partners. By coordinating high-level meetings and policy initiatives, Zeig supports the effective governance of the university. The Chief of Staff, Office of the President monitors the implementation of strategic goals, ensuring that the university remains focused on its mission of academic and research excellence. Through careful management of executive operations, Zeig enables the President to lead the institution toward long-term success.

    Megan Darragh - President

    Megan Darragh, the President at Michigan State University, directs the overall vision and strategic direction of the institution. Overseeing academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement, the President ensures that the university remains a leader in higher education. This role involves collaborating with the Board of Trustees and executive leadership to advance the mission of the university. By fostering an environment of innovation and inclusivity, Darragh drives the growth of the institution across global markets. The President represents the university in public forums, advocating for the importance of research and education in society. Through decisive leadership and long-term planning, Darragh shapes the future of the university, ensuring that it continues to provide exceptional value to students and the broader community while maintaining its status as a premier research institution.

    Grace Kendra - President

    Grace Kendra, the President at Michigan State University, manages the institutional culture and external partnerships that define the university impact. Overseeing the development of new academic initiatives, the President ensures that the university adapts to the changing needs of the global workforce. This role involves engaging with alumni, donors, and government officials to secure resources for research and infrastructure projects. By promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, Kendra fosters a culture of excellence that permeates all levels of the institution. The President monitors the performance of key departments, ensuring that all activities align with the strategic goals of the university. Through visionary leadership and a commitment to academic integrity, Kendra guides the university toward sustained growth, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of innovation and discovery in the modern era.

    Angela Moore - Chief of Staff

    Angela Moore, the Chief of Staff at Michigan State University, coordinates high-level administrative workflows across the institution. Managing complex internal communications, the Chief of Staff ensures alignment between departmental goals and broader university objectives. This role involves facilitating cross-functional collaboration to streamline operational efficiency within the academic environment. By optimizing resource allocation, Moore supports the university mission of providing world-class education and research opportunities. The Chief of Staff maintains rigorous standards for project execution, ensuring that all administrative initiatives contribute to the long-term success of the institution. Through proactive problem-solving and strategic oversight, Moore drives institutional progress while maintaining the integrity of university operations. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining organizational cohesion across the diverse landscape of the university.

    Jacob Schmidt - Chief of Staff, Football

    Jacob Schmidt, the Chief of Staff, Football at Michigan State University, manages the daily operations and administrative logistics for the football program. Coordinating team schedules, the Chief of Staff, Football oversees recruitment support and internal communications to ensure the program functions at a high level. This role involves managing relationships with athletic department leadership to align football operations with university standards. By streamlining logistical processes, Schmidt enhances the efficiency of the coaching staff and support personnel. The Chief of Staff, Football monitors compliance with athletic regulations, ensuring that all activities support the development of student-athletes. Through meticulous planning and operational oversight, Schmidt contributes to the competitive success of the football program, fostering an environment conducive to excellence on and off the field.

    Michael Porter - Chief of Staff & Director, Player Personnel

    Michael Porter, the Chief of Staff & Director, Player Personnel at Michigan State University, manages the strategic acquisition and development of athletic talent. Overseeing scouting operations, the Chief of Staff & Director, Player Personnel evaluates prospective athletes to ensure alignment with the competitive goals of the university. This role involves coordinating with the coaching staff to build a roster that reflects the values and performance standards of the institution. By managing the personnel pipeline, Porter ensures that the athletic program maintains a consistent level of excellence. The Chief of Staff & Director, Player Personnel also handles administrative duties related to team development, ensuring that all processes support the growth of student-athletes. Through data-driven recruitment strategies, Porter strengthens the competitive position of the university within the national landscape.

    Ken Horvath - Chief of Staff for Auxiliary Enterprises

    Ken Horvath, the Chief of Staff for Auxiliary Enterprises at Michigan State University, manages the operational efficiency of non-academic services that support the campus community. Overseeing housing, dining, and retail operations, the Chief of Staff for Auxiliary Enterprises ensures that these services meet the needs of students and faculty. This role involves optimizing business processes to enhance the quality of campus life while maintaining financial sustainability. By coordinating with various service departments, Horvath ensures that auxiliary operations align with the broader goals of the university. The Chief of Staff for Auxiliary Enterprises monitors service delivery standards, implementing improvements that foster a positive environment for the entire campus population. Through effective management of these essential services, Horvath supports the overall mission of the university by providing a high-quality living and learning experience.

    Natisha Foster - Associate Director, Coordination Planning & Rehs Chief of Staff

    Natisha Foster, the Associate Director, Coordination Planning & Rehs Chief of Staff at Michigan State University, manages the integration of residential and housing services with broader institutional planning. Overseeing coordination efforts, the Associate Director, Coordination Planning & Rehs Chief of Staff ensures that residential programs support the academic and personal development of students. This role involves aligning housing policies with university-wide initiatives to create a cohesive campus experience. By managing administrative workflows within the residential services department, Foster enhances operational efficiency and service delivery. The Associate Director, Coordination Planning & Rehs Chief of Staff collaborates with other departments to address the evolving needs of the student body. Through strategic planning and operational oversight, Foster contributes to the creation of a supportive living environment that reflects the values of the university.

    Garrett Briningstool - Chief of Staff & Director, Basketball Operations

    Garrett Briningstool, the Chief of Staff & Director, Basketball Operations at Michigan State University, manages the logistical and administrative framework for the basketball program. Overseeing team travel, scheduling, and budget management, the Chief of Staff & Director, Basketball Operations ensures that the program operates smoothly throughout the season. This role involves coordinating with athletic department leadership to support the needs of the coaching staff and student-athletes. By streamlining daily operations, Briningstool allows the team to focus on competitive performance and academic success. The Chief of Staff & Director, Basketball Operations monitors compliance with university and athletic regulations, ensuring that all activities uphold the standards of the institution. Through meticulous attention to detail and operational planning, Briningstool supports the continued success of the basketball program within the national collegiate landscape.

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

    Who leads Michigan State University?
    Michigan State University is led by Bradley Kline (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Michael Zeig (Chief of Staff, Office of the President) and Megan Darragh (President).
    Who is part of Michigan State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Michigan State University includes leaders such as Bradley Kline (Chief Financial Officer), Michael Zeig (Chief of Staff, Office of the President), Megan Darragh (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Michigan State University have?
    Michigan State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Michigan State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Michigan State University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Office of the President, President, President, Chief of Staff.