Ohio University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ohio University has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, information technology, financial management, and human resources.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, Ohio University fosters a transformative learning environment that prepares students for global leadership while advancing knowledge through rigorous scholarly inquiry and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Ohio University

  • The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer - Candice Casto
  • Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance - Deborah Shaffer
  • Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Mark Heil
  • Chief Operating Officer - Elizabeth Maxon
  • Chief of Staff - Rachael Crouch
  • Chief Information Officer - Brian Phillips
  • Associate Chief of Staff - Amy Trout
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Lewis Lewin
  • Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost - Cary Frith
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Edward Carter
  • Candice Casto - The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer

    Candice Casto, the The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at Ohio University, manages the financial assets and investment strategies for the university foundation. Casto oversees the endowment portfolio and ensures that philanthropic funds support institutional growth and student scholarships. The The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer monitors fiscal compliance and provides transparent reporting to donors and stakeholders. Candice Casto directs the allocation of capital to maximize long-term returns while mitigating financial risk. This role involves collaborating with the investment committee to align financial activities with the university's broader strategic vision. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, the The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer secures the resources necessary for academic expansion. Casto ensures that the foundation remains a stable and reliable partner in the university's ongoing success.

    Deborah Shaffer - Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance

    Deborah Shaffer, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance at Ohio University, leads the comprehensive financial planning and administrative functions of the institution. Shaffer oversees the annual budget process and ensures fiscal responsibility across all academic and support units. The Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance manages revenue streams and cost-containment strategies to maintain the university's financial health. Deborah Shaffer directs the administrative teams responsible for procurement, payroll, and financial reporting. This role involves providing data-driven insights to the president and board to guide major capital investments. By ensuring accurate financial oversight, the Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance supports the university's ability to invest in research and student success. Shaffer maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and fiscal transparency.

    Mark Heil - Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Mark Heil, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Ohio University, directs the overall financial strategy and treasury operations for the institution. Heil manages the university's debt portfolio, cash flow, and long-term financial planning to ensure institutional stability. The Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer oversees the audit process and ensures compliance with all financial regulations. Mark Heil provides strategic guidance to the board regarding major financial commitments and resource allocation. This role involves analyzing economic trends to inform the university's growth strategy and investment decisions. By maintaining strong financial oversight, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer supports the university's ability to fund research and academic initiatives. Heil ensures that the institution remains fiscally sound while pursuing its mission of excellence in education and community service.

    Elizabeth Maxon - Chief Operating Officer

    Elizabeth Maxon, the Chief Operating Officer at Ohio University, oversees the daily business operations and facility management of the institution. Maxon coordinates the maintenance of campus infrastructure and ensures that physical resources support the academic mission. The Chief Operating Officer manages large-scale logistical projects to improve campus safety and accessibility. Elizabeth Maxon drives efficiency in auxiliary services, ensuring that student-facing operations function at peak performance. This role involves working closely with the board to align operational expenditures with the university's financial health. By optimizing service delivery models, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the overall experience for students and faculty. Maxon maintains a focus on sustainable growth and operational resilience, ensuring that the university remains a premier destination for research and learning in the region.
    Elizabeth Maxon

    Rachael Crouch - Chief of Staff

    Rachael Crouch, the Chief of Staff at Ohio University, manages high-level administrative workflows and coordinates strategic initiatives across the institution. Crouch facilitates communication between the president and various academic departments to ensure alignment with university goals. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enhances operational efficiency and supports the execution of long-term institutional priorities. Rachael Crouch monitors progress on key projects, providing critical oversight to maintain organizational momentum. This role involves collaborating with senior leadership to address complex challenges and optimize resource allocation. Through meticulous planning and cross-functional coordination, the Chief of Staff strengthens the university's ability to deliver on its mission. The position requires constant engagement with diverse stakeholders to maintain institutional stability and drive progress across the campus community.

    Brian Phillips - Chief Information Officer

    Brian Phillips, the Chief Information Officer at Ohio University, directs the technological infrastructure and digital strategy for the entire campus. Phillips oversees the implementation of secure data systems and advanced computing resources to support research and academic activities. The Chief Information Officer manages the integration of modern software solutions to improve student services and administrative productivity. Brian Phillips ensures that the university maintains robust cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive institutional information. By modernizing network capabilities, the Chief Information Officer enables seamless digital collaboration across regional campuses. This leadership role involves evaluating emerging technologies to keep the institution at the forefront of educational innovation. Through strategic investment in IT assets, the Chief Information Officer provides the foundation for digital transformation and operational excellence throughout the university.

    Amy Trout - Associate Chief of Staff

    Amy Trout, the Associate Chief of Staff at Ohio University, supports the executive office by managing special projects and facilitating internal communications. Trout coordinates the scheduling and preparation for high-level meetings to ensure leadership remains focused on strategic priorities. The Associate Chief of Staff assists in the development of policy initiatives and monitors their implementation across various departments. Amy Trout acts as a liaison between the executive team and faculty leadership to foster collaboration and transparency. This role involves analyzing operational data to identify areas for improvement and efficiency. By managing the flow of information, the Associate Chief of Staff ensures that the executive office functions effectively. Trout contributes to the overall success of the university by providing essential support for administrative decision-making and institutional planning.

    Lewis Lewin - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lewis Lewin, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ohio University, directs the talent management and workforce development strategies for the entire institution. Lewin oversees recruitment, benefits administration, and employee relations to ensure a productive and inclusive work environment. The Chief Human Resources Officer manages the implementation of professional development programs to support faculty and staff growth. Lewis Lewin ensures compliance with labor regulations and promotes policies that enhance workplace culture. This role involves collaborating with department heads to align staffing needs with the university's academic goals. By fostering a supportive environment, the Chief Human Resources Officer helps attract and retain top-tier talent. Lewin focuses on building a resilient workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of a public research university. The position remains central to maintaining organizational health and employee engagement.

    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, manages the academic administrative operations and supports the provost in executing educational strategy. Frith coordinates the review of academic programs and ensures that faculty initiatives align with the university's research mission. The Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost facilitates communication between the provost's office and the various colleges to streamline decision-making. Cary Frith monitors academic performance metrics and provides analysis to support curriculum development. This role involves managing complex projects that impact student learning outcomes and faculty productivity. By providing essential administrative support, the Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Provost enables the provost to focus on long-term academic excellence. Frith ensures that the university's educational goals remain a top priority.

    Edward Carter - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Edward Carter, the Interim Chief Information Officer at Ohio University, manages the immediate technological needs and digital operations of the university during this transition period. Carter oversees the maintenance of critical IT systems and ensures that students and faculty have reliable access to digital learning tools. The Interim Chief Information Officer directs the technical support teams to resolve infrastructure challenges and improve service delivery. Edward Carter evaluates current software and hardware assets to ensure they meet the university's evolving research requirements. This role involves maintaining continuity in digital security and data management protocols. By providing steady leadership, the Interim Chief Information Officer ensures that the university's technological environment remains stable and functional. Carter works closely with other administrative leaders to support the ongoing digital transformation of the campus and its various academic programs.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ohio University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ohio University?
    Ohio University is led by Candice Casto (The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Deborah Shaffer (Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance) and Mark Heil (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer).
    Who is part of Ohio University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ohio University includes leaders such as Candice Casto (The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), Deborah Shaffer (Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance), Mark Heil (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer) 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 The Foundation Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & & Amp Administration Vice President, Finance, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff.