Ohio University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ohio University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, finance, human resources, and communications.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and research, Ohio University fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and discovery, shaping future leaders and contributing to societal advancement.

Leadership Roles at Ohio University

  • Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance - Deborah Shaffer
  • Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer - Candice Casto
  • Chief Operating Officer - Elizabeth Maxon
  • 23-24 President - Emma Brookman
  • Chief Information Officer - Brian Phillips
  • Chief of Staff - Rachael Crouch
  • Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost - Cary Frith
  • Associate Chief of Staff - Amy Trout
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Lewis Lewin
  • Chief Communications Officer - Lisa Wannamaker
  • Deborah Shaffer - Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance

    Deborah Shaffer, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance at Ohio University, directs the university's financial strategy and fiscal management. Overseeing all financial planning, budgeting, and accounting operations, Shaffer ensures the institution's financial health and sustainability. This executive position involves managing investments, revenue streams, and expenditures to support academic programs and strategic growth. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and fostering fiscal responsibility, Deborah Shaffer directly safeguards the university's assets and resources. Shaffer's expertise guides financial decision-making, ensuring alignment with the university's long-term objectives and operational needs.

    Candice Casto - Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer

    Candice Casto, the Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at Ohio University, manages the university's treasury functions and financial operations. Overseeing cash management, debt financing, and investment strategies, Casto ensures the prudent management of institutional funds. This leadership role involves developing financial policies and executing strategies that support the university's growth and stability. By optimizing financial resources and mitigating financial risks, Candice Casto directly contributes to the university's long-term economic viability. Casto's financial acumen guides strategic investments and ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations.

    Elizabeth Maxon - Chief Operating Officer

    Elizabeth Maxon, the Chief Operating Officer at Ohio University, oversees the comprehensive operational framework of the institution. Managing facilities, campus services, and administrative operations, Maxon ensures the efficient delivery of essential university functions. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation and driving operational efficiencies across all non-academic departments. By enhancing campus infrastructure and service delivery, Elizabeth Maxon directly supports the student experience and faculty research endeavors. Maxon's leadership focuses on maintaining a high standard of operational excellence, ensuring the university's physical and administrative resources effectively support its educational mission.
    Elizabeth Maxon

    Emma Brookman - 23-24 President

    Emma Brookman, the 23-24 President at Ohio University, leads the student government association, representing student interests to university administration and the broader community. Overseeing student initiatives and advocating for campus improvements, Brookman ensures student voices are heard in institutional decision-making. This leadership role involves coordinating student-led projects and fostering a vibrant campus community. By championing student welfare and engagement, Emma Brookman directly contributes to the overall student experience. Brookman's presidency focuses on enhancing student life and promoting a positive and inclusive campus environment.

    Brian Phillips - Chief Information Officer

    Brian Phillips, the Chief Information Officer at Ohio University, directs all technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing the IT department, Phillips ensures robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems are in place to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance the university's operational capabilities and research endeavors. By optimizing network performance and digital resources, Brian Phillips directly supports the university's mission of accessible education and cutting-edge research. Phillips drives the integration of advanced technologies across campus, fostering a connected and secure digital environment for students, faculty, and staff.

    Rachael Crouch - Chief of Staff

    Rachael Crouch, the Chief of Staff at Ohio University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to key university initiatives. Managing critical projects and facilitating communication across departments, Crouch ensures alignment with executive priorities. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts between various administrative offices and academic units to drive institutional effectiveness. By streamlining processes and enhancing interdepartmental collaboration, Rachael Crouch directly contributes to the efficient functioning of the university. Crouch also plays a vital role in advancing the strategic agenda set forth by university leadership, ensuring seamless execution of complex organizational goals.

    Cary Frith - Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost

    Cary Frith, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost at Ohio University, provides critical strategic and operational support for academic leadership. Managing key initiatives and facilitating communication between the Provost's office and academic departments, Frith ensures effective execution of educational strategies. This role involves coordinating academic planning, policy implementation, and faculty affairs to advance the university's scholarly mission. By enhancing the efficiency of academic administration, Cary Frith directly supports faculty success and student learning outcomes. Frith's efforts are instrumental in driving academic innovation and maintaining the integrity of the university's educational offerings.

    Amy Trout - Associate Chief of Staff

    Amy Trout, the Associate Chief of Staff at Ohio University, supports the executive leadership team in executing strategic priorities and managing key projects. Working closely with the Chief of Staff, Trout facilitates interdepartmental collaboration and ensures operational alignment across various university functions. This position involves coordinating administrative processes and driving initiatives that enhance institutional effectiveness. By streamlining workflows and supporting executive decision-making, Amy Trout directly contributes to the smooth operation of the university. Trout's role is crucial in advancing the university's mission through efficient project management and strategic support.

    Lewis Lewin - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lewis Lewin, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ohio University, leads the strategic direction for all human capital management initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, Lewin ensures a supportive and productive work environment for all university personnel. This critical role involves developing and implementing HR policies that align with the university's mission and values. By fostering a culture of engagement and professional development, Lewis Lewin directly contributes to the retention and growth of the university's workforce. Lewin's leadership ensures that human resources functions effectively support the academic and operational goals of the institution.

    Lisa Wannamaker - Chief Communications Officer

    Lisa Wannamaker, the Chief Communications Officer at Ohio University, directs the university's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. Overseeing media relations, internal communications, and digital engagement, Wannamaker ensures consistent and effective messaging across all platforms. This leadership position involves shaping the university's public image and enhancing its reputation among stakeholders. By managing external and internal communications, Lisa Wannamaker directly supports the university's outreach and engagement goals. Wannamaker's strategic communication initiatives are vital for building strong relationships with alumni, prospective students, and the broader community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ohio University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ohio University?
    Ohio University is led by Deborah Shaffer (Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance), along with executives such as Candice Casto (Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer) and Elizabeth Maxon (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Ohio University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ohio University includes leaders such as Deborah Shaffer (Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance), Candice Casto (Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), Elizabeth Maxon (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ohio University have?
    Ohio University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ohio University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ohio University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance, Amp Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, 23-24 President, Chief Information Officer.