Ohio University Executive and Leadership Team

Candice Casto, the Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at Ohio University, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Casto oversees the investment portfolio, debt management, and budgetary allocations to ensure the university maintains a stable financial foundation. By directing the financial strategy, the Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of research facilities and academic programs. Candice Casto also collaborates with the board to ensure transparency and accountability in all fiscal reporting. This role involves mitigating financial risks while identifying opportunities for revenue growth across the university. Through the implementation of robust financial controls, the Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are directed toward the most impactful educational initiatives. By maintaining fiscal discipline, Casto secures the future of the university as a premier public research institution.

Deborah Shaffer, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance at Ohio University, directs the administrative and financial operations of the university. Shaffer oversees the procurement, human resources, and facilities management departments to ensure that the institution operates with maximum efficiency. By managing the financial reporting and administrative policies, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance supports the university's ability to invest in new academic programs and infrastructure. Deborah Shaffer also coordinates with the board to ensure that all administrative practices comply with state and federal regulations. This role involves balancing the operational needs of the campus with the long-term financial goals of the institution. Through the oversight of administrative services, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance ensures that the university remains a stable and effective environment for learning and research.

Elizabeth Maxon, the Chief Operating Officer at Ohio University, directs the daily administrative functions and operational infrastructure of the institution. Maxon oversees the integration of campus services, ensuring that facilities and support systems align with the broader research mission of the university. By optimizing resource allocation across various departments, the Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of efficiency for the entire campus community. Elizabeth Maxon also coordinates with other executive leaders to implement long-term strategic initiatives that support institutional growth. Through the management of complex logistical frameworks, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates a productive environment for faculty and students alike. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of operational performance metrics to ensure that the university remains competitive within the higher education landscape. Ultimately, Maxon drives the operational excellence necessary to sustain the academic reputation of the institution.

John Ackison, the Union President at Ohio University, represents the interests of the labor force and advocates for fair working conditions across the campus. Ackison negotiates collective bargaining agreements that define the relationship between the university administration and the staff. By facilitating dialogue between union members and leadership, the Union President ensures that the needs of the workforce are considered in institutional decision-making. John Ackison also monitors the implementation of labor policies to ensure compliance with established contracts. This role involves resolving grievances and promoting a collaborative environment that values the contributions of all employees. Through the representation of the workforce, the Union President supports the overall stability and productivity of the university. By maintaining open lines of communication, Ackison ensures that the university remains a supportive and equitable place for all staff members.

Dr Hill, the President, Society of Alumni and Friends at Ohio University, leads the engagement efforts for the global network of graduates and supporters. Hill oversees the development of programs that foster lifelong connections between alumni and the university, encouraging philanthropic support for academic initiatives. By directing the activities of the society, the President, Society of Alumni and Friends ensures that the university maintains a strong presence in the professional and social lives of its graduates. Dr Hill also coordinates events and networking opportunities that facilitate mentorship between alumni and current students. This role involves managing the relationship between the society and the university administration to ensure that alumni interests are represented in institutional planning. Through the cultivation of a vibrant alumni community, the President, Society of Alumni and Friends drives the long-term success and reputation of the university.

Rachael Crouch, the Chief of Staff at Ohio University, manages the executive office operations and facilitates communication between the president and various university stakeholders. Crouch coordinates high-level projects that require cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that institutional goals receive consistent attention. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff enhances the decision-making capacity of the senior leadership team. Rachael Crouch also monitors the progress of strategic initiatives, providing critical updates to the board and executive council. This role involves managing sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of institutional policies. Through the oversight of executive communications, the Chief of Staff ensures that the vision of the university remains clear and actionable across all levels of the organization. By fostering alignment among diverse administrative units, Crouch supports the overall mission of the university to provide a world-class educational experience.

Amy Trout, the Associate Chief of Staff at Ohio University, supports the executive office by managing internal projects and facilitating administrative coordination. Trout assists in the execution of strategic priorities, ensuring that departmental activities remain consistent with the overarching mission of the university. By analyzing operational data, the Associate Chief of Staff provides actionable insights that inform executive decision-making processes. Amy Trout also manages relationships with key internal stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes institutional efficiency. This role involves drafting policy documents and coordinating meetings that drive the university forward. Through the careful management of administrative tasks, the Associate Chief of Staff allows the senior leadership team to focus on long-term academic and research goals. By maintaining rigorous standards for project management, Trout ensures that the university achieves its objectives while upholding the values of the institution.

Edward Carter, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Ohio University, directs the digital infrastructure and information technology strategy for the campus. Carter oversees the implementation of secure network systems, cloud computing resources, and data management platforms that support academic research and administrative functions. By modernizing the technological landscape, the Interim Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge digital tools. Edward Carter also manages cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive institutional data from emerging threats. This role involves coordinating with academic departments to integrate technology into the classroom experience. Through the strategic deployment of IT resources, the Interim Chief Information Officer drives innovation across the university. By maintaining a reliable and scalable digital environment, Carter supports the mission of the university to provide a technologically advanced learning experience for the entire community.

Cary Frith, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost at Ohio University, manages the administrative operations of the academic affairs division. Frith coordinates the implementation of faculty policies, curriculum development initiatives, and academic planning processes. By facilitating communication between the provost and the deans of various colleges, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost ensures that academic goals remain aligned with the strategic vision of the university. Cary Frith also oversees the management of academic budgets and resource allocation for research programs. This role involves preparing reports for the board and managing the daily workflow of the provost's office. Through the effective coordination of academic leadership, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost supports the university's commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarly research.

Lisa Wannamaker, the Chief Communications Officer at Ohio University, directs the public relations, branding, and internal communication strategies for the institution. Wannamaker manages the university's reputation by crafting messaging that highlights academic achievements, research breakthroughs, and community impact. By overseeing the digital and traditional media channels, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the university's mission reaches a broad audience of prospective students, alumni, and donors. Lisa Wannamaker also coordinates crisis communication efforts to maintain institutional stability during challenging times. This role involves working closely with the president and other executive leaders to ensure that all public messaging aligns with the core values of the university. Through the strategic management of the university's brand, the Chief Communications Officer drives engagement and fosters a strong sense of community among all stakeholders of the institution.