Leadership Overview
Minnesota State University, Mankato has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, human resources, administrative services, and academic leadership.
Committed to academic excellence and real-world research, Minnesota State University, Mankato delivers diverse degree programs to prepare students for professional success through strategic community partnerships and innovative hybrid learning models.
Committed to academic excellence and real-world research, Minnesota State University, Mankato delivers diverse degree programs to prepare students for professional success through strategic community partnerships and innovative hybrid learning models.
Leadership Roles at Minnesota State University, Mankato
Haley Foster - Chapter President
Haley Foster, the Chapter President at Minnesota State University, Mankato, leads student-driven initiatives that enhance the campus experience and foster professional networking. Foster organizes events and programs that connect students with industry leaders, directly supporting the university's goal of preparing graduates for their chosen fields. By overseeing the chapter's operations, the Chapter President ensures that all activities align with the institution's mission of academic excellence and community involvement. Haley Foster facilitates collaboration between student members and faculty, creating opportunities for real-world research and professional development. This leadership role involves managing the chapter's budget and coordinating outreach efforts to expand the organization's impact. Through the promotion of leadership skills and career readiness, Foster helps students transition successfully into the workforce. The Chapter President maintains a focus on building a vibrant community that reflects the university's commitment to student success and professional education, ensuring that members gain valuable experience that complements their academic studies.
Hailey Schwieger - President, Construction Management Women's Association
Hailey Schwieger, the President, Construction Management Women's Association at Minnesota State University, Mankato, directs efforts to empower women within the construction management field through mentorship and professional development. Schwieger organizes workshops and industry panels that bridge the gap between academic training and real-world application. By overseeing the association's strategic initiatives, the President, Construction Management Women's Association ensures that members gain the skills necessary to excel in their careers. Hailey Schwieger facilitates partnerships with local businesses, providing students with internship opportunities and professional networking access. This leadership role involves managing the association's resources and promoting inclusivity within the construction industry. Through the coordination of educational events, Schwieger supports the university's mission of preparing students for their chosen fields. The President, Construction Management Women's Association drives the growth of the organization, ensuring that members are well-equipped to contribute to the industry while maintaining the high standards of academic excellence expected at the university.
Ellen Steck - Foundation Board President
Ellen Steck, the Foundation Board President at Minnesota State University, Mankato, leads the philanthropic efforts that support the university's academic and research programs. Steck oversees the management of endowment funds and charitable contributions, ensuring that resources are directed toward initiatives that enhance student success. By collaborating with the board, the Foundation Board President secures the financial stability necessary for the university to offer over 130 undergraduate and 78 graduate degree programs. Ellen Steck facilitates strategic partnerships with donors and community leaders to advance the institution's mission. This leadership role involves overseeing the foundation's governance and ensuring transparency in all financial activities. Through the promotion of the university's impact, Steck drives fundraising campaigns that support scholarships and professional education. The Foundation Board President plays a critical role in sustaining the university's long-term growth, ensuring that the institution continues to provide high-quality academic opportunities and real-world research experiences for all students.
Alexandra Generalova - President & Scholars of English Association Graduate
Alexandra Generalova, the President & Scholars of English Association Graduate at Minnesota State University, Mankato, leads the academic community in fostering scholarly research and professional development within the English department. Generalova organizes conferences and seminars that highlight the importance of academic excellence and critical inquiry. By overseeing the association's activities, the President & Scholars of English Association Graduate ensures that graduate students have access to resources that support their research and career goals. Alexandra Generalova facilitates collaboration between students and faculty, creating a supportive environment for intellectual growth. This leadership role involves managing the association's budget and coordinating outreach to the broader academic community. Through the promotion of scholarly work, Generalova contributes to the university's reputation for academic rigor. The President & Scholars of English Association Graduate drives initiatives that prepare students for professional success in their chosen fields, ensuring that the association remains a vital part of the university's academic landscape.
Deenna Latus - President
Deenna Latus, the President at Minnesota State University, Mankato, provides the overarching strategic vision for the institution, ensuring that all academic and administrative functions align with the university's mission. Latus oversees the delivery of over 130 undergraduate and 78 graduate degree programs, maintaining a focus on academic excellence and real-world research. By leading the executive team, the President coordinates the efforts of various departments to support student success across on-campus, online, and hybrid models. Deenna Latus fosters strategic partnerships with businesses and community organizations to enhance the university's impact and provide professional education opportunities. This leadership role involves managing institutional resources and representing the university to external stakeholders. Through the implementation of long-term strategic plans, Latus drives the growth and development of the institution. The President ensures that the university remains a leader in higher education, providing students with the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Richard Knowlton - Chief Information Officer
Richard Knowlton, the Chief Information Officer at Minnesota State University, Mankato, directs the digital infrastructure supporting over 130 undergraduate and 78 graduate degree programs. Knowlton manages the secure integration of online and hybrid course delivery models, ensuring seamless access for students across diverse geographic regions. By architecting robust network solutions, the Chief Information Officer facilitates real-world research initiatives and maintains the technological backbone required for academic excellence. Richard Knowlton collaborates with faculty to implement advanced learning management systems that enhance the educational experience. This leadership role involves optimizing data security protocols to protect institutional assets while supporting the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. Through continuous evaluation of emerging educational technologies, Knowlton drives the digital transformation necessary to keep the institution competitive in the modern academic landscape, ultimately fostering an environment where students thrive through reliable and innovative digital resources.
Joseph Kmiech - Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer
Joseph Kmiech, the Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer at Minnesota State University, Mankato, oversees the strategic alignment of enterprise technology with institutional goals. Kmiech manages the deployment of scalable cloud infrastructure to support the university's extensive online program offerings. By coordinating with academic departments, the Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures that technological investments directly improve student outcomes and research capabilities. Joseph Kmiech leads the modernization of campus-wide communication systems, facilitating effective collaboration between faculty, staff, and community partners. This role requires constant monitoring of cybersecurity threats to safeguard sensitive academic data. Through the implementation of efficient IT governance frameworks, Kmiech optimizes resource allocation across the university. The Vice President, Technology & Chief Information Officer maintains a focus on long-term digital sustainability, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of educational technology while providing a seamless, high-performance environment for all learners.
Becky Barkmeier - Chief Human Resources Officer
Becky Barkmeier, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Minnesota State University, Mankato, manages talent acquisition and professional development for the university's diverse workforce. Barkmeier designs comprehensive recruitment strategies to attract top-tier faculty and staff capable of delivering high-quality instruction across 130 undergraduate and 78 graduate programs. By overseeing performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all personnel remain aligned with the institution's commitment to academic excellence. Becky Barkmeier facilitates organizational growth by fostering a culture of inclusivity and professional advancement. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor relations and implementing policies that support the well-being of the university community. Through the administration of competitive benefits and training programs, Barkmeier strengthens the institution's ability to attract and retain experts who contribute to real-world research. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a vital role in maintaining the operational stability required to support the university's mission and its strategic partnerships with regional businesses.
Sheri Sargent - Chief of Staff & Vice President, Administrative Services
Sheri Sargent, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Administrative Services at Minnesota State University, Mankato, coordinates executive operations and oversees the efficient management of administrative functions. Sargent directs the integration of business services that support the university's academic mission and community engagement efforts. By managing cross-departmental initiatives, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Administrative Services ensures that institutional resources are allocated effectively to support student success. Sheri Sargent facilitates communication between the leadership team and external stakeholders, strengthening strategic partnerships with businesses and community organizations. This role involves overseeing operational budgets and ensuring compliance with university policies. Through the optimization of administrative workflows, Sargent enhances the overall efficiency of the institution. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, Administrative Services provides the necessary support to maintain the university's reputation for academic excellence, ensuring that all administrative processes contribute to a productive environment for students, faculty, and staff across all delivery models.
Jill Frederickson-Kratzke - Chief Human Resources Officer & Director, Human Resources)
Jill Frederickson-Kratzke, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Director, Human Resources) at Minnesota State University, Mankato, leads the development of human capital strategies that support the university's academic and research objectives. Frederickson-Kratzke manages the implementation of equitable compensation structures and professional development initiatives for the entire campus community. By overseeing the human resources department, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Director, Human Resources) ensures that all hiring and retention practices align with the institution's commitment to excellence. Jill Frederickson-Kratzke facilitates the creation of a supportive work environment that enables faculty to focus on delivering high-quality education to students. This leadership role involves managing complex personnel policies and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. Through the strategic management of human resources, Frederickson-Kratzke supports the university's ability to maintain strong partnerships with community stakeholders. The Chief Human Resources Officer & Director, Human Resources) drives initiatives that promote employee engagement and long-term institutional success.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Minnesota State University, Mankato Top Executives and Leadership Team
